Mr. Baldwin to Mr. Baker.

No. 470.]

Sir: I inclose herewith copy of a note from the Chinese minister at Washington, who asks, in consequence of the absence of any treaty relations of China with Nicaragua and Salvador permitting China to appoint consular representatives, that you and our consular officers may be allowed to exercise your and their good offices in behalf of the Chinese subjects living in those Republics.

Your efforts are to be confined to the friendly intervention in case of need for the protection of the Chinese in their person and property from unjust and harsh treatment. You are not to hold any representative character or function as respects the Chinese Government, and are to act informally. Before taking any steps in the matter, however, you should represent to the Governments of Nicaragua and Salvador, respectively, the wish of the Chinese Government and the willingness of your [Page 426] Government to accede thereto, as herein indicated, provided the assent of the authorities of Nicaragua and Salvador is entirely favorable.

Their decisions upon the subject should be reported to the Department.

I am, etc.,

W. Woodward Baldwin,
Acting Secretary.