If possible. If the occasion of the opening of the Korean ports to the Japanese government – which is said to occur in May – would not be as opportune time for me to make the effort of negotiating with the government of Korea.
I intend to be in Japan some time during May for the purpose of proceeding to the Korea, if by so doing I can forward the interests of our country.
I feel sure that such advice and assistance as you may feel justified in affording as reform our arrival in Japan, would be of very great service towards the successful execution of this mission.

I have the honor to be.
Very respectfully.
Your observant.

Commodore U.S.A.