The Italian Chargé to the Secretary of State .

[Translation.]

Mr. Secretary of State: In continuation of my notes Nos. 378 and 407, dated, respectively, February 27 and March 7 last, respecting certificates of origin, I have the honor to inform your excellency that on the 1st of March last, upon the inauguration of the customs administration flowing from the enforcement of the new treaties of commerce, the olive oils and kinds of salt fish named in the first of the said circulars came under the general tariff. These products, therefore, need no longer be accompanied by a certificate of origin, since they will not hereafter enjoy any conventional treatment.

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The various existing provisions governing certificates of origin remain nevertheless in force, among others that which stipulates that in the case of merchandise coming from non-European countries beyond the canal of Suez and the Straits of Gibraltar the presentation of the original through bills of lading for Italy will be accepted in lieu of certificates of origin.

Accept, etc.,

G. C. Montagna.