Mr. Adee to Mr. Herdliska.

[Circular telegram.]2

The Chinese minister has communicated telegrams from Earl Li Hung. Chang, dated 19th and 21st August. The first recites that as the relief forces have rescued the legations their declared purpose is accomplished. The second says that Pekin is occupied, the Boxers dispersed, and fighting stopped. They accordingly ask suspension of hostilities, withdrawal of troops, and appointment of envoy to negotiate.

The following answer has been made to the Chinese minister to-day: While the condition set forth in the memorandum delivered to the Chinese minister August 12 has not been fulfilled, and the powers have been compelled to rescue their ministers by force of arms unaided by the Chinese Government, still this Government is ready to welcome any overtures for a truce, and invite the other powers to join, when security is established in the Chinese capital and the Chinese Government [Page 303] shows its ability and willingness to make on its part an effective suspension of hostilities there and elsewhere in China. When this is done, and we hope it will be done promptly, the United States will be prepared to appoint a representative to join with the representatives of the other similarly interested powers, and of the authoritative and responsible Government of the Chinese Empire, to attain the ends declared in our circular to the powers of July 3, 1900.

You will communicate this to the minister for foreign affairs. It is presumed he has received similar communications. If so, we would be pleased to be informed of his reply.

Adee, Acting.
  1. The above telegram also sent to the representatives of the United States at Berlin, London, Paris, Rome, St. Petersburg, and Tokio.