Sir M. H. Herbert to Mr. Hay.
Sir: On the 5th March last you suggested to me verbally that, in order to save trouble and the waste of time involved by two journeys across the Atlantic, the purpose of the second article of the Alaska convention, signed on the 24th January last, might be considered as complied with by the appointment on each side of the commissioners, and the presentation, of the respective cases and even of the counter cases, without an actual meeting in London.
I have the honor to inform you that the Marquis of Lansdowne agrees to your suggestion, and proposes the following arrangements [Page 498] shall be considered as fulfilling the provisions contained in the second paragraph of Article II of the convention.
The delivery on May 2 (May 3, the correct date, falling on a Sunday) of the British case at the United States embassy in London for the American members of the tribunal and the American agent.
The delivery on May 2 of the American case at the British embassy in Washington for the British members of the tribunal and the British agent.
Lord Lansdowne further suggests that the members of the tribunal might, later on, themselves arrange the date of meeting after the presentation of the counter cases and printed arguments.
I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,