Wakisaka Nakatsaka No Tayu to Robert H. Pruyn, July 2, 1862

[Untitled]

We received your letter, No. 84, dated the 27th June, 1862, and fully understood all you stated in relation to the accident that happened at the English legation.

As for your communication that the repetition of such an accident will lower us in the opinion of the civilized world, we are aware of this; but this accident proceeded from the unsettled state of the national feeling, owing to our people, as has often been communicated to your excellency, being fond of the ancient custom. We hope to regulate this national feeling gradually, however, and change it so as to remove the apprehension of the foreigners.

But it is a shame to us that the present accident is owing to one of the subjects of the Prince charged with the protection, although the perpetrator already committed suicide; yet it is quite true that he was very criminal, and we shall sentence to suitable punishment for neglect of duty the officers who were there for protection.

While we were recently enabled to punish two more of the persons engaged in the attack on the British legation in the 5th month of last year, (July, 1861,) as you stated to us, which made us feel somewhat easier, this accident again took place, for which our regret is a hundred times deeper than that of your excellency.

We have given strict orders to increase the protection, and have taken strict measures therefor. It is therefore desirable that you will take our feelings into due consideration. Which we have to state in reply to your letter, with respect and esteem.