A. L. C. Portman to Their Excellencies the Gorojin, February 24, 1868

Mr. Portman to the Gorojin.

I have this day learned that by a recent proclamation his Majesty the Tycoon has announced his intention to abdicate, and to nominate Kee Tshünangong, Dono Prince of Kishu, as his successor. Firmly believing that his Majesty Stotsbashi is the first sovereign of Japan who has adopted a fixed foreign policy—that of promoting friendly intercourse with the treaty powers—and of judiciously encouraging foreign trade so as to render it an active agent in furthering the interests of his people, I do not hesitate to assure your excellencies, as the consistency and wisdom of your government have been fully appreciated, no less than the great difficulties by which your sound and liberal policy has been surrounded, that the abdication of his Majesty the Tycoon, should it unfortunately take effect, will be sincerely regretted by the government of the United States. And I can only hope that your excellencies will soon have it in your power to announce that his Majesty has been able to reconsider his intention, and will remain the chief of the government of Japan.

With respect and esteem,