(No. 39.)

Yokohama, December 18th, 1864.

Sir,

Enclosed I forward to you for general circulation copies of two Conventions recently entered into by my colleagues and myself with the Japanese Authorities, the first having reference to certain improvements and arrangements for the extension of the Foreign Settlement, which have been agreed to by the Japanese Government; and the second to the allotment agreed upon in respect to all land here after to be acquired for Foreign occupation and private use within the limits specified.

One of the main objects of the Representatives of the Four Treaty Powers, has been to put an end to all national rivalries and attempts to secure exclusive advantages in the appropriation of land. And also as regards individuals, perfect equality and fairness of distribution irrespective of nationalities, of whatever land may be available. As the present extension has certainly not been obtained for the purpose of encouraging a traffic in land, or monopoly of eligible lots for the advantage of a few and the prejudice of the many, but to secure to all now unprovided, and others hereafter to come, the necessary accommodation for the transaction of business, I think it desirable that no time should be lost in giving publicity to the arrangements entered into with that view.

I have the honor to be, Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant,

RUTHERFORD ALCOCK.

To Charles A.. Winchester, Esq., &C., &C., &C.,

Sir Rutherford ALCOCK, K.C.B., H.B.M's Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary in Japan, to their Excellencies THE MINISTERS OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS.

Many difficulties having hitherto been experienced in the allotment of ground for the nations having treaties with Japan the Representatives of Great Britain, France, the United States of America and the Netherlands, have thought it desirable to act in concert in this matter, and lay down certain principles to serve as a basis for any future allotments, whether at Yokohama or any other open port, and as regards their own countrymen, to insist upon their observance.

These bases being intended to secure perfect equality and impartiality in the distribution of lots for all foreigners, the subjects of Treaty Powers, and to remove by anticipation any ground for future complications and embarrassment both, to the Japanese Authorities and Foreign Representatives have now been reduced to a clear and practical shape.