The Secretary of State to Minister Conger.

No. 518.]

Sir: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your dispatch No. 938, of March 7 last, inclosing a copy of the amendments to the rules of the mixed court at Shanghai, as agreed upon by all the members of the consular body except the British consul-general, who, on account of sickness, was absent from the meeting at which they were considered.

The department’s telegram of April 15, confirmed in instruction of April 17, informed you that the department approves the proposed amendments, and directed you to urge their adoption.

I am, sir, etc.,

John Hay.