Legation of the United States
Peking

My dear Commodore: ――

If Li insists on putting in something in reference to China’s connection with Corea, could you not insert the following of which I enclose also the Chinese text: ― “Chosen, in accordance with the advice of the Emperor of China, being desirous to establish permanent relations of amity and good will with the U.S.” etc. etc. I don’t see any objection on our part to such a phrase.
How do you get on. I have had nothing from you since I reached home.

Yours hurriedly,
Chester Holcombe