William H. Seward to Wm. M. Evarts, November 1, 1879

No. 130. Mr. Seward to Mr. Evarts.

Sir: Recurring to my dispatch No. 482, and to the statement made therein that my colleagues had committed to a committee, consisting of myself (as chairman) and the representatives of England, Germany, Peru, and Russia, the consideration of questions growing out of the extraterritorial system, I have now the honor to place before you a report which has been agreed upon by the committee, together with two memoranda, prepared by myself, and which form addenda to the report.

It is hoped that the diplomatic body at large will be able to consider the subject at an early moment.

The committees appointed to consider the commercial and intercourse questions have not yet concluded their deliberations. The duty of the former committee has been found even more difficult than was anticipated. I think, however, that both committees will report soon.

I was added to the committee on commercial matters soon after its formation, and have attended all of its sittings excepting the first one.

I have, &c., &c. &c.,