VAN VALKENBURGH, Minister Resident of the United States in Japan to J. B. Creighton , Senior United States Naval Officer, Hiogo, February 8, 1868

Mr. Van Valkenburgh to Commander Creighton.

Sir: I have the honor to communicate to you a copy of the resolution just arrived at by all the foreign representatives now in Hiogo, after a conference held this afternoon with the minister for foreign affairs appointed by the Mikado, viz:

“Hiogo, February 8, 1868.

“Present, the representatives of France, Great Britain, Italy, the Netherlands, Prussia, and the United States of America.

“In view of the assurances received this day by the undersigned from Hegashi Kuse, envoy of the Mikado, as to the ability and willingness of the government of the Mikado to insure the protection of the persons and property of all foreign subjects and citizens at this port, and to give effect to the treaties concluded between foreign powers and Japan, consider that they should mark their confidence in these assurances by requesting the respective naval commanders who have been charged with the defense of this port since the attack made upon the foreign community by the Japanese on the 4th instant, to withdraw their forces as soon as may be convenient to them to do so, and also to release all the Japanese steamers detained by authority of the undersigned.

“LEON ROCHES.

“HARVEY S. PARKES.

“CTE. DE LA TOUR.

“R. B. VAN VALKENBURGH.

“M. VON BRANDT.

“D. DE GRAEFF VON POLSBROEK.”

You will please, therefore, consult with the commanding officers of the English and French vessels of war in port who have acted with you, and in concert with them take measures to withdraw the forces on land and to deliver up to the Japanese the steamers which were detained.

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant,