Mr. Griscom to Mr. Hay.

No. 61.]

Sir: I have the honor to confirm your telegram received on the 16th instant in relation to the neutrality of China.

Immediately upon receipt of your telegram I embodied the information it contained in a note to the minister for foreign affairs and presented it to him in person. He expressed to me his high appreciation of the efforts of the Government of the United States in this matter and his gratification at the successful outcome, so important in the interest of peace and order in China.

The note of the Imperial Government in reply to that of this legation has now been received, and copies of both are transmitted herewith.

I have, etc.,

Lloyd Griscom.
[Inclosure 1.]

Mr. Griscom to Baron Komura.

Mr. Minister: I have the honor to inform your excellency that Mr. Conger, minister of the United States at Peking, has informed the Department of State at Washington that the Chinese Government, grateful for the friendly interest shown by the United States, is resolved to maintain an attitude of strict neutrality, and that provocation will not be offered either belligerent.

I avail, etc.,

Lloyd Griscom.
[Inclosure 2.]

Baron Komura to Mr. Griscom.

Mr. Minister: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your excellency’s note of the 16th instant respecting the neutrality of China.

In reply I hasten to assure your excellency that the Imperial Government, desiring that the present war may be confined to the original belligerents, and being, moreover, extremely solicitous regarding the effect of the conflict upon the Chinese Government and people, were highly gratified to learn of the successful issue of the efforts of the United States in the interest of peace and order in China.

I avail, etc.,

Baron Komura Jutaro.