Mr. Buck to Mr. Hay.

Sir: I have the honor to inclose a copy of a communication from the minister for foreign affairs in response to the note, a copy of which accompanied my dispatch of the 26th ultimo, on the subject of the steps taken by the Japanese navy to assist the transport Hancock.

In acknowledging the expressions of thanks for the sending of vessels to the Hancock’s assistance, the minister for foreign affairs’ note is to the effect that the minister of the navy, while appreciating the quartermaster’s desire to reimburse the expenses involved, states that the expenses for the vessels are not expected to be refunded.

The quartermaster has been informed accordingly.

I have, etc.,

A. E. Buck.
[Inclosure.—Translation.]

Mr. Komura Jutaro to Mr. Buck.

Mr. Minister: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your excellency’s note dated the 20th ultimo, expressing through me to the minister for the navy your high appreciation and thanks for two Japanese vessels having been dispatched to the assistance of the United States transport Hancock, aground near Moji, and at the same time desiring that the bill of expenses for the two vessels be made known.

Having at once communicated to the minister for the navy upon the subject, I am now in receipt of a reply from him requesting me to state that he profoundly appreciates your excellency’s courtesy, but that the expenses for the said vessels are not expected to be refunded.

I avail, etc.,

Komura Jutaro,
Minister for Foreign Affairs.