The Acting Secretary of State to the Japanese Minister.
Washington, April 4, 1905.
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note No. 14 of the 3d instant, pointing out the difference in the treatment of prisoners of war held by the Japanese and Russian Governments, respectively, and requesting that the matter be brought to the attention of the Russian Government with the view of inducing it to accord to the officers and men of the Japanese prisoners the treatment due to their respective ranks, in accordance with the provisions of article 7 of the regulations respecting the laws and customs of war on land.
In reply I have the honor to inform you that a copy of your note has been sent this day to the American ambassador at St. Petersburg, with instructions to bring the matter to the attention of the Russian Government and to express to that government the pleasure it would afford to him and, through him, to the Government of the United States, to be instrumental in bringing about a satisfactory understanding in this important regard.
Accept, etc.,