Anson Burlingame to Frederick , Sayn de Wittgenstein, July 1, 1863

Mr. Burlingame to Prince Wittgenstein

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your very kind despatch of June 30, in which you desire to know what are the chances of securing a declaration from the Chinese government in favor of a permanent Prussiaa legation at Peking, and whether I think it advisable to elicit at once a declaration on the subject, even at the risk of its being unfavorable. With regard to the first branch of your inquiry, I have to say that from several interviews with the Chinese, on your behalf, I have learned from them that while, personally, the members of the government would have no objection to waive the time stated in the treaty for the advent of a Prussian minister into Peking, they are so much subject to forms, and fear so much the criticisms of the anti-foreign party, that they shrink from any declaration on the subject.

I think if they were pressed for a declaration now, it would be in the negative; and this brings me to the second branch of your inquiry, as to whether I think such a step as you had intended advisable? I answer most unhesitatingly that I think it would not be advisable. You would thus close the door to that success for which your admirable diplomacy has prepared the way. If you leave the question where it is, I feel confident that in a short time the Chinese themselves will concur with my colleagues and myself in the propriety of anticipating the time for the permanent residence of a Prussian minister at Peking.

I have not yet received any answer to the memorandum you mention, but will hasten to inform you if any shall arrive. I will be happy also to place in your hands a copy of it as soon as it can be prepared.

Complimenting you for the manner in which you have thus far conducted your negotiations, and proffering my services for any future efforts you may desire to make,

I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, sir, your most obedient servant,