Majesty’s Chargé d’Affaires and Acting Consul General in Japan to Robert H. Pruyn, June 27, 1862

Col. Neale to Mr. Pruyn

Sir: It is with deep regret I have to inform you that this legation has passed through the ordeal of another murderous assault on the part of Japanese assassins. About midnight, last night, the sentry at my bedroom door was suddenly attacked and desperately wounded, his life being despaired of. The corporal, going the rounds at the same moment, was murderously assailed a short distance off, but he managed to reach my door, and there he fell and died. The British escort and guard from her Majesty’s ship Renard being now mustered, remained under arms the rest of the night within my drawing-room. The number of the assailants cannot precisely be ascertained: possibly there was only one; but, to the unaccountable disgrace and utter want of vigilance of the Japanese guards, which the Japanese government has taken credit for having posted in such numbers for our protection, the assassin or assassins passed through their lines and effected the murderous acts I have described.

I shall necessarily address the Tycoon’s ministers in terms suited to the gravity and intolerable atrocity of the event which has transpired, and shall do myself the honor of transmitting to you a copy of my remonstrance upon the occasion.

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