Mr. Denby, chargé,
to Mr. Gresham.
Legation of the United States,
Peking
,
July 31,
1894
. (Received September 12.)
Sir: Much misapprehension seeming to exist in
the minds of the U. S. consuls in China as to the scope of their duties
as to the protection of Japanese subjects in China, in case of war, and
application having been made to me for further instructions on the
subject, I have considered it desirable to inform them, somewhat, more
in detail than was done in my circular of the 26th instant, of what
would be expected of them. I inclose herewith a copy of a circular which
I have this day mailed to the consuls at the various ports.
I have, etc.,
[Page 97]
[Inclosure.—Circular.]
Mr. Denby,
chargé, to U. S. consular officers in
China.
Legation of the United States,
Peking
,
July 31, 1894
.
Confidential.]
Sir: This legation having been requested to
state more specifically what will be the duties of the U. S. consuls
as to the protection of Japanese in case of war, I have the honor to
give you further instructions as follows:
In such an event, on receipt of notice from this legation, you will
exert your good offices for the protection of Japanese subjects in
your vicinity, such action on your part to be as consul of the
United States, and in no respect as representing Japan, and to be
strictly confined to such acts as are proper for a consul of a power
friendly to and at peace with China. You may, if requested, become
custodian of the Japanese consulate and take charge of the archives.
It will not, however, be proper to raise the American flag on such
buildings. It will not be necessary to make any official
announcement of your attitude toward the citizens of Japan. Such
notice will be given through the proper authorities at Peking. Your
duties will be confined to the protection of Japanese subjects only;
you will not be charged with any Japanese consular functions or
authority.
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,
Chas. Denby, Jr.,
Chargé d’Affaires ad
interim.
