Mr. Hitchcock to Mr. Hay.
St. Petersburg, January 12, 1899.
Count Mouravieff yesterday handed to the representatives of the foreign powers additional circular note on the peace conference, reciting that the warm welcome of almost all foreign powers fully justifies the Russian Government in having issued its invitation. Notwithstanding the generally favorable opinion the political prospect has changed recently, and several of the powers have proceeded to increase armaments, in the presence of which uncertain situation it might be asked whether the powers consider the moment opportune for international conference on the lines of the circular of August last. However, the Russian Government believes it is possible to proceed at present with the exchange of ideas on, first, the investigation without delay of means to limit progressive development of military and naval armaments; second, to prepare for the discussion on the question of possibility of preventing armed conflicts by pacific means of diplomacy. In case the powers deem the moment favorable for the meeting of the conference on the basis of the August and present circular, the following themes are suggested for discussion: First, agreement not to increase for fixed term the existing military and naval forces nor war budgets, with a view to their future diminution. Second, interdiction of new arms and explosives and of more powerful powder than is used at [Page 551] present. Third, limitation of use in field operations of existing powerful explosives and prohibition of throwing bombs from balloons. Fourth, interdiction of submarine torpedo boats and similar destructive engines. Fifth, adaptation to naval warfare of the stipulations Geneva conference of 1868. Sixth, neutralization, in the similar manner, of life-saving craft. Seventh, revision of the laws of war as formulated by Brussels conference and not yet ratified. Eighth, acceptance in principal of the employment of good offices, mediation, and arbitration to prevent war, with a view to establish uniformity in their employment. It is understood that all political questions and status established by treaty shall be absolutely excluded from the deliberations. I am requested to ask instructions of my Government, and say that the Emperor of Russia suggests that the conference should not be held at any great capital where it might be affected by political influences. Place to be selected later. A copy of circular will be sent by next mail.