John Russell Young to Chester Holcombe, December 20, 1883

Mr. Young to Mr. Holcombe.

Sir: You are well informed of the circumstances under which it has become necessary for me to request you to proceed to Chinaufoo in order to effect a settlement of a case of the destruction of a chapel, the property of certain American missionaries? which occurred there in July, 1881.

It is understood that a compromise is to be effected under which the missionaries interested are to receive other property in lieu of that destroyed. You should, therefore, he careful in your negotiations with the Chinese authorities to secure the following points:

• That the property furnished in exchange he so located as to be available for the purpose of a chapel.
• That it be equivalent in value to that destroyed, or, failing this, that any deficiency be made good.
• That proper deeds of the premises furnished in exchange be given to the missionaries.
• That any prosecution begun by Chinese local officials against Chinese subjects because of their connection with the purchase of the original premises be abandoned.

You will conduct your negotiations with as much speed as may consist with securing a satisfactory issue, and return as promptly as possible to this legation.

I am, &c.,