Mr. Rockhill to Mr. Hay.
(Mr. Rockhill reports that the diplomatic corps at a meeting this date again voted on Russian proposal regarding the eventual raising of the tariff. British minister submitted compromise, as reported by telegraph on the 16th instant, but no representative opposed Russian proposal. Hopes this will help break deadlock. Four hundred and fifty million taels indemnity and 4 per cent interest formally accepted, Japan waiving any preferential treatment. A plan of amortization also agreed upon. Russian minister inquires whether United States accepts scheme prohibition of arms (inclosure to Mr. Rockhill’s dispatch No. 67). He has voted in favor of two years’ limit, but has expressed no opinion on mode of enforcement. Formal surrender of Peking to Chinese authorities is to take place on August 14.
Mr. Rockhill will remain until August 15 to endeavor to finish work.)