Mr. Conger to Mr. Hay.
Referring to your instruction 223 and my dispatch No. 316, missionary troubles still spreading. The situation very critical. The ministers of England, France, Germany, Italy, and the United States to-day sent foreign office second identical note demanding publication of strong imperial decree without delay. If Chinese Government absolutely refuse and the situation does not materially improve, I advise naval demonstration by war vessels of each Government should be made in North China waters. My colleagues have telegraphed their Government similarly.