Office of the Historian

Mr. Hay to Mr. Day.

American Embassy,
London, June 25, 1898.
No. 438.]

Sir: I received your instruction relative to the Suez Canal this morning and at once asked for an interview with the Marquis of Salisbury, which he granted me at 1.30 to-day. In accordance with your instruction, I assumed that no objection would be made to our use of the canal for the passage of our war ships, and merely asked whether there had been any modification of the convention of 1888, which would go to place the nonsignatory powers on any different footing from those signing the convention. He said there had been none, and I gathered from his remarks that he had no idea that any power would make any protest against our use of the canal, nor that any protest would bold if it were made. The attitude of the British Government is that we are unquestionably entitled to the use of the canal for war ships.

I presume you already have a copy of the convention, but in case you have not I inclose one in this dispatch. I also inclose a copy of your instruction and of my reply.

I am, etc.,

John Hay.
[Inclosure 1.—Telegram.]

Mr. Day to Mr. Hay.

Department of State,
Washington, June 25, 1898.

We desire to send war ships through the Suez Canal. Mention the matter to the minister for foreign affairs; and, while discreetly assuming that no objection will be made, ascertain probable source of objection, if any, and attitude of the Government of Great Britain thereon. Prompt action is important.

Day.
[Inclosure 2.—Telegram.]

Mr. Hay to Mr. Day.

American Embassy,
London, June 25, 1898.

Had an interview with Lord Salisbury. The convention of 1888 guarantees free navigation of Suez Canal to ships of all powers, belligerent or otherwise. Lord Salisbury thinks it improbable that any power should object, as there will be no ground for objection, if we should send war ships through the canal. I send by mail copy of convention.

Hay.