Dévéria to a communication received October 19, October 22, 1878

Memorandum from the Tsung-li Yamên in response to a communication received October 19, 1878.

It is evident that in all the stipulations of these rules the interests of the port and approaches of Shanghai are kept in view, but that they are no doubt susceptible of some modification, if on rigorus application any local obstacles are met with.

We have received from the northern and southern superintendents of trade a rêsume of the discussion which the intendent of customs and the several consuls have had on the subject. They are not at all of the same opinion.

We have written to the inspector-general of customs, in order that he might make his comments upon the proposed modifications to the rules.

The inspector-general advises us to reply negatively to the interpretation given by the consuls to article II, as overstepping the limits fixed by the regulations.

We have instructed the two superintendents to reach some definite arrangement, whereby the rule may become susceptible of perpetual application.

True translation.