Granville to Robert C. Schenck, June 7, 1872

Earl Granville to General Schenck.

Sir: In a telegram, which I have this morning received from Sir Edward Thornton, he remarks, with reference to the first of the two passages which, in my letter to you of the 5th instant, I stated that Her Majesty’s Government proposed to insert in the article in lieu of the amendments last proposed by them, that Mr. Fish had frequently, in conversation with him, objected to the use of the word “belligerent,” and wishes that indirect claims arising out of acts committed by persons other than recognized belligerents, as well as belligerents, should be agreed to be not admissible for the future.

If Mr. Fish should still entertain the same opinion, Her Majesty’s Government would he quite content that the passage in question should run thus:

“The remote or indirect losses mentioned in this agreement, being losses arising remotely or indirectly, and not directly, from acts of war.”

I have the honor to be, with the highest consideration, sir, your most obedient, humble servant,