William H. Seward to Eli T. Sheppard, August 26, 1874

Mr. Seward to Mr. Sheppard.

Sir: You will understand the situation at Foochow from the inclosed letter from Mr. De Lano and the inclosed copies of the agreement between the provincial authorities and the Great Northern Telegraph Company. I now, on behalf of the company and in the interests of progress and civilization, place these documents in your hands with a view to secure your aid for the company. It has been thought by Mr. Dreyer and me that the aid of the viceroy at Chihli might be useful. It is thought that there is nothing to be gained by Mr. Giguel’s plan, which would not be sooner and more economically effected by the telegraph company, while, if at last, Mr. Giguel’s plan is to be adopted, the provision for the purchase and sale of the line would make such course easy. I conceive moreover that it is exceedingly desirable that telegraphs shall be introduced into China in such manner as to be in a degree independent of Chinese surveillance. Having the highest opinion of your discretion I write to you in the matter, giving you, with Mr. Dreyer’s consent, the fullest discretion to introduce the subject to the viceroy or not, as may seem wise to you, and if you do introduce it, to invite his aid with the government at Peking or otherwise.

You will notice that Mr. Geoffroy’s proposal for the establishment of an inspector of telegraphs probably looks to the scheme foreshadowed at Foochow by the imperial commissioner, Shên.

I have, &c.,