Granville to Robert C. Schenck, June 3, 1872

Earl Granville to General Schenck.

Sir: In reply to the question which you put to me this morning, I have to state to you that Her Majesty’s Government consider that the Arbitrators must no doubt meet on the 15th of June, but the fifth Article of the Treaty, though it contemplates the delivery of written arguments on that day, does not make the further prosecution of the arbitration impossible, if, on that day, neither party presents any written argument. The Arbitrators have full power to adjourn, and they have also full power to call, after the 15th, for any further statements or arguments, written or oral, from time to time, as they may think fit. If, therefore, both parties agree not to present any argument till a later day than the 15th, requesting the Arbitrators to adjourn, and if the Arbitrators should, on any day to which they may have adjourned, accept the argument which both parties may then wish to tender to them, this will be quite within their power.

I have, &c.,