To George F. Seward to To George F. Seward, March 13, 1877

No. 66. Mr. Seward to Mr. Fish.

Sir: I have the honor to hand to you here with translation of a dispatch received from the foreign office, announcing that four new ports will be opened to foreign trade upon the 1st of April next, and my response.

This action on the part of the Chinese Government is in fulfillment of the stipulations of the Chefoo convention. No advices, so far as I am informed, have been received as to the course which the Government of Great Britain has decided to take in regard to that instrument.

I have requested our consuls at the several ports to give the proper notice to American merchants within their jurisdiction.

I have, &c.,

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

In regard to the four ports of Ichang, Wuhu, Wea-Chow, and Pakhoi, the office of foreign affairs memorialized the throne, suggesting the 1st of April next as the date of opening them to foreign trade, and that a dace for opening the six landing-places upon the Yangtze River should he announced after proper regulations had been determined.

Upon the 11th instant an imperial rescript was received so ordering. This decision of His Majesty is, therefore, respectfully communicated to your excellency, in common with the other representatives of the several powers.