893.51/4709

The British Ambassador ( Howard ) to the Secretary of State

No. 1006

Sir: I have the honour to inform you that His Majesty’s Government have learnt that the Canton Government are again threatening to seize the Customs House and to declare Canton a free port.

I am directed by my Government to express the earnest hope that you will authorize the United States Representative at Peking to concert with His Majesty’s Representative in arranging for a renewal of the naval demonstration.

I have [etc.]

Esme Howard