FISHER, United States Consul to A. L. C. Portman, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim in Japan, September 4, 1865

Mr. Fisher to Mr. Portman

Sir: As the season is rapidly advancing, and will soon draw to a close for the business of silk-worm eggs for this year, you will excuse me for recalling your attention to my No. 250, (enclosure No. 1,) of the 14th ultimo, in relation to the interference of custom-house officials in the purchase and sale of silk-worm eggs at this port, and request, if possible, that you will give me information in the course of this week as to what information you have obtained in relation thereto from the government at Yedo, that I may, without further delay, conclude what steps had best be taken in regard to the interests of American merchants and traders in that relation.

I have further to advise you that the American house of Messrs. Schultze, Reis & Co., of this port, have made the same complaint to me in regard to interferences and necessity for custom-house permits as Messrs. Walsh, Hall & Co. and Messrs. Allmand & Co.

I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,