John A. Bingham to Willie P. Mangum, March 15, 1876

Mr. Bingham to Mr. Mangum.

Sir: In November last I received a communication from Thomas B. Glover, esq., representing the municipal council of Nagasaki, of date October 21, 1875, setting forth your neglect to notice a complaint made to you by the council against one Smith, an alleged American citizen, for the non-payment by him (Smith) of license-fees assessed under the Nagasaki municipal regulations.

I desire, under instructions, to acquaint the Department fully in regard to the complaint, and also in regard to the origin or source of the municipal regulations sought to be enforced by the council before you as American consul, and, therefore, request that you advise me fully of your views and the reason for your alleged refusal to entertain or take official action upon the complaint of the council.

It has always seemed to me that municipal regulations within this empire could only be made under and by virtue of express authority from the government.

Without entering upon any further expression of my views, I especially desire to know upon what authority and by whom the regulations were originally adopted, and what corporate powers have been conferred upon the Nagasaki council, and to be fully advised of your views, not only as to these several inquiries, but as to the whole matter of the complaint and your action in the premises.

You will please address and forward your reply directly to me under Revised Regulation 42.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,