Prince Kung to William H. Seward, November 18, 1877

Prince Kung to Mr. Seward.

Prince Kung, chief secretary of state for foreign affairs, herewith makes a communication.

Referring to the subject of Chinese laborers in Cuba, this government has hitherto been the recipient of the thoughtful assistance of their excellencies the ministers of the several powers in efforts toward an adjustment.

This office has now agreed with his excellency Señor de España, the minister for Spain, upon certain articles of a convention, which were duly signed and sealed upon the 17th instant, being thus attested.

This business has called forth repeated expressions of interest from the ministers of the several powers, for which this office begs leave to express its deepest gratitude.

I have the honor to hand to your excellency herewith a copy of the convention for your consideration, and to request that your excellency will inform your government of its contents, and request your government to instruct its consular officers in Cuba to assist the consular officers which this government will hereafter send to reside in that island, in case questions affecting Chinese laborers shall arise, to the end that there may be no failure to carry out the provisions of this convention, as a proof of sincere friendship.

This Yamên desires most sincerely this good office on the part of your government.

His Excellency George F. Seward, &c., &c., &c.