Frederick F. Low to Prince Kung, December 23, 1871

Mr. Low to Prince Kung.

In pursuance of the intimation contained in my unofficial note of the 29th ultimo, I have now the honor to inform your imperial highness that the Government of the United States proposes to avail itself of the provision contained in the several treaties by which the port of Kiungchow, on the Island of Hainan, is declared open to foreign residence and trade, and I have, most respectfully, to request that you will, without delay, issue the necessary orders to the provincial officers within whose jurisdiction the before-mentioned port is, and also instruct the inspector-general of customs to make the necessary arrangements to meet the requirements of trade.

With assurances of my high consideration, I have the honor to be, &c,