Li, guardian general of Fu-Ping prefecture, Corea, makes a communication in reply. I have received and read the dispatch handed upon the sea-shore, viz, that which was to be forwarded to his excellency the authority of Kang-Hoa. Your honorable ships, coming with professions of friendliness and amity, delayed our military plans and caused us consequent loss. His excellency the magistrate of Kang-Hoa, has already incurred our court’s severe reprimand. He already is under punishment, but is retained at his post. He is calling out and selection soldiers and braves, and is steadily preparing picked and keen (men and material) with the purpose of satisfying in the fullest degree his anger; I therefore do not dare to forward your communication for his perusal. The question as to whether or no our soldiers taken prisoners shall be released and returned rests alone with you for decision. At the beginning of the breach between us, the joining of battle was first from your honored pact. How then do you now say “joining battle will not be allowed?” (See note). If you shall come to join battle, then with battle will we meet you, and there’s and end (of the discussion). He therefore makes this reply.
　A necessary reply is above communicated to his excellency the American imperial commissioner, Tung-Chih, 10th year, 4th moon, 27th day, (June 14, 1871).

NOTE.
　He takes the passage of Mr. Drew’s dispatch stating that a condition of the release of the prisoners would be a promise that they shall not again take up arms against us, and making the phrase apply generally to call Corean soldiers, asks “Since fighting was at first upon your own motion, with what propriety do you now say “joining battle will not be allowed?”