Sir Julian Pauncefote to Mr. Day.
New London, Conn., July 12, 1898.
Sir: With reference to your note No. 1066, of the 25th ultimo, assenting to the return of the exiled chief, Mataafa, to Samoa, I have the honor to bring before you, by desire of the Marquis of Salisbury, a matter which, in the opinion of Her Majesty’s Government, calls for consideration of the treaty powers.
Her Majesty’s consular representative in Samoa, Mr. Maxse, has reported that the health of the present King, Malietoa, is very unsatisfactory, and, in view of the possibility of his early demise, it is suggested that the treaty powers should consider the arrangement to be made for the selection of a successor.
I am desired by Her Majesty’s Government to inquire what view the United States Government take of the matter.
I have, etc.,