No. 158.
Mr. Avery
to Mr. Fish.
Peking, May 30, 1875. (Received July 24.)
Sir: Referring to my No. 47, of April 8th, in which were given the facts as to a question raised between the Japanese chargé d’affaires and the Tsung-li Yamen concerning the political status of the Lew Chew [Page 332] Islands, I have now the honor to inform you of the following additional facts:
Mr. Tei tells me that his government has instructed him not to pursue the matter, for the reason that it will be taken up and definitely settled at Yedo.
He gives me to understand that the complete jurisdiction of Japan over the islands will be asserted, that provision will be made for governing them in all respects like the rest of the empire, and that then the Lew Chewans, instead of purchasing a limited periodical trading-privilege with China, by paying tribute and obeisance, will be entitled to trade regularly with this country on an equal footing with other subjects of Japan, under the protection of Japanese consuls.
Doubtless you will be more fully and accurately informed on this subject by our minister at Yedo; but it seemed to me proper to send this brief statement of the views expressed by Mr. Tei.
I have, &c.,