Frederick F. Low to the American missionaries, July 22, 1873

Mr. Low to the American missionaries.

Gentlemen: I have received your letter of the 17th instant, in which you express in highly complimentary terms your appreciation and approval of my course as the representative of the United States in China.

You refer specially to the adjustment of some difficulties in connection With the missionary interest, and the peaceful and proper settlement of the audience question, as among the more important questions with which it has been my fortune to deal.

In reply, I have to say that as the representative of the United States it has been my constant aim and endeavor to secure to all our citizens, irrespective of their calling or profession, every right which an honest construction of the treaties and the well-settled principles of public law would warrant, at the same time doing what I could to promote a better understanding between the Chinese government and those of the West. To what extent my efforts have been successful I leave for others to judge.

Your letter, coming as it does from those whose residence is in and near the capital, whose opportunities have been and are good for gaining a fairly accurate knowledge of the bearing of the various questions which have come up for discussion, and are therefore able to estimate properly the loss or gain to foreign interests by what I have been able to do, either individually or acting jointly with my colleagues, is to me very gratifying.

That the recent public recognition by the Emperor of China of the equality of western nations will have the effect to improve relations I cannot for a moment doubt. Whether the results will be all that we hope for, or even expect, time alone can determine.

In leaving, this city I shall carry with me the remembrance of your unvarying courtesy and kindness, and this recollection will add to my interest in your future welfare and happiness, and the cause to which your lives are dedicated.

I reciprocate most cordially your expressions of personal regard and esteem.

I am, &c.,