For the minister, ARTONI to Mes, June 12, 1871

Gentlemen: The tariff bill, providing for imposing a duty of five francs on crude petroleum, and raising the duty on refined petroleum from six to nine francs, is still pending before the Italian senate. It is believed it will pass before the close of the session.

If passed, it is to take effect at a date to be fixed by royal decree, and I am informed at the foreign office that a reasonable time will-be allowed to save the rights of bona-fide shippers.

I am, gentlemen.