Mr. Hay to Mr. Goodnow.
Washington, August 1, 1900.
I do not think it expedient to submit! the proposition of Earl Li to the other powers. Free communication with our representatives in Pekin is demanded as a matter of absolute right, not as a favor. [Page 261] Since the Chinese Government admits that it possesses the power to give communication, it puts itself in an unfriendly attitude by denying it. No negotiations seem advisable until the Chinese Government shall have put the diplomatic representatives of the powers in full and free communication with their respective Governments and removed all danger to their lives and liberty. We would urge Earl Li earnestly to advise the Imperial authorities of China to place themselves in friendly communication and cooperation with the relief expedition. They are assuming a heavy responsibility in acting otherwise.