Itakura Ega No Kami to R. B. Van Valkenburgh, May 10, 1867

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We have heard that recently there was war in Corea with the French, and that a merchant vessel of the United States was treated with great cruelty in the country.

Corea being the neighbor of Japan, with which friendly relations have been maintained so long, the Tycoon feels much grieved at learning, in view of the sincere friendship subsisting between Japan and the United States, that a wrong has been perpetrated upon American citizens, and he will not fail therefore to tender friendly advice to Corea and to endeavor to induce that country, with due regard to the friendship which should govern the intercourse between neighbors to mend its course in future.

A letter on the subject will be sent to the king of that country, and Hirayama Diurho No Kami and Koga Kingitshero will be directed to address him in accordance therewith.

And if, on reflection of the wrong that has been committed and through our influence, he should sue for peace, we hope that the flag of the United States will return; that retaliation will be abandoned and the means for friendly intercouse be found.

We now request your excellency to communicate the foregoing to your government.

We have only to add, that it is of course uncertain whether the Coreans will be dissuaded from persisting in their course. Yet it is the wish of the Tycoon that no effort should be left untried, with the object of promoting peace in this part of the world, and we further request your excellency to use your best endeavor in the same direction.