PORTMAN, Chargé d’Affaires to George S. Fisher, August 4, 1866

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Sir : I received two communications from the Gorogio, in quick succession, informing me that the forces of this government are now closing in upon Choshu, and urging, with a view to avoiding complications, the immediate issue of a notice requesting American shipmasters to give the coasts of Suwo and Nagato a wide berth pending those military and naval operations. In compliance with the desire expressed I have now to request you to make the foregoing known to all American citizens within your consular jurisdiction.

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