Leagation of the United States
Peking. Jan’y 31, 1867

Hon. William H. Seward
Secretary of State

Sir :
　In the Spring or early Summer the French will probably make a demonstration against Corea, which will result in a treaty and the opening of the country to commerce. Sir Rutherford Alcock, the British Minister, informs me that he shall probably represent his country on that occasion, and be present with the British Admiral to look after British interests. Mr. Vlangaly, the Russian Minister, agrees with me that our countries by contiguity and future prospects are as much interested in the questions involved, as are the English and French.
　We have therefore agreed to request from our respective Governments full power to act as may be best for their interests. We shall strive to prevent bloodshed, and to establish amicable relations with the Coreans who command by position one of the principal passes for our future trade.
　The Chinese will be much pleased to have us present. We are on the spot and have full knowledge of the questions to be considered. Admiral Bell, who has sufficient force, will be in the gulf of Petcheli in the Spring, and we can in a few hours go over to Corea. He has already sent Captain Shufeldt with the Wachusett to enquire for and bring away those who may possibly survive the massacre on board of the General Sherman. In the absence of a Russian war vessel I have taken the liberty to write Mr. Vlangaly, the Russian Minister, to accept of the United States’ hospitality, and go with me.
　If you approve of this dispatch and confer the power requested, be so kind as to confide a telegram stating the facts to the Russian Government to be communicated to me and also send one by the way of California ; and at the same time give the necessary instructions to our Naval Officers in China.
　It will be well to send a duplicate of your full dispatch in reply to this, as the mails are not certain between Shanghai and Peking.

I have the honor to be, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Anson Burlingame