VAN VALKENBURGH, Minister Resident of the United States in Japan to Their Excellencies the, March 30, 1867

[Untitled]

The time is rapidly approaching when the cities of Osacca and Yedo, and the ports of Hiogo and Newgato, are to be opened to foreign commerce and trade, according to the agreement made by the treaty powers with the government of Japan.

Arrangements preparatory thereto are necessary to be made, especially at the ports of Hiogo and Osacca. But nine months now intervene, and your excellencies must be aware that at least that time will be necessary to make those arrangements and to give such notice as would be requisite for the faithful carrying out of the stipulations.

The undersigned is therefore desirous of visiting Hiogo and Osacca, to enable him, by personal observation, more intelligently to enter into the adoption of such regulations as may be necessary upon the opening of those places; and having consulted with his colleagues, will, in concert with them, as soon as is practicable, proceed to Osacca, there to discuss with the government of the Tycoon such necessary provisions and regulations.

With respect and esteem,