PORTMAN, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim in Japan to William H. Seward, September 22, 1865

Mr. Portman to Mr. Seward

Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith, No. 1, copy of a letter received from the Gorogio, in reply to representations made, informing me of the abolition of the regulations concerning the trade in irico, awabi, and sharks’ fins, important articles of commerce, principally at Nagasaki, for the China markets.

I enclose, No. 2, copy of a letter addressed by me to Mr. Mangum, at Nagasaki; similar letters on the subject were addressed to the consul at Kanagawa and commercial agent at Hakodadi.

I can claim no credit for this important concession, which, like the removal of the restrictions on the purchase of silk-worm eggs and cocoons, the subject-matter of my despatch No. 52, of the 13th instant, is the result of prompt and united action under the perfect accord existing among the foreign representatives in this country.

I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant,