Same to To His Excellency W. Raasloff, March 1, 1875

Same to same.

Prince Kung and the ministers of the Tsung li Yamen herewith make a communication:

In the matter of a telegraphic line proposed to be put up between Foo-chow and Amor, in Fuhkien, which has already been fully discussed at the various interviews held with your excellency and your interpreter [Mr. Schultz] at the foreign office, and set forth in your dispatch of the 20th instant, which has been received, we have already sent copies of the correspondence to the high provincial authorities at Foo-chow, instructing them at the same time to examine into the matter with a view to settling it.

The Yamen has now embodied all the circumstances connected with this enterprise of erecting a telegraphic line in Fuhkien in a prepared memorial, which has reverently been handed up to the throne, and accompanied by a request that instructions may be sent down directing the High-Commissioner Shău to act in conjunction with the governor-general and other high officials in Fuhkien, and together carefully consult upon this matter and settle it.

On the 28th instant the imperial rescript was received, as follows: “Let it be managed as requested. Respect this.” We have had, as is proper, this copy made out reverently, and now communicate it for your excellency’s information, and have at the same time sent the same to the high officers in Fuhkien for their obedience.