No. 132

Department of State
Washington
Nov 14, 1881

Chester Holcombe Esquire Peking

Sir,

You are aware that Commodore Shufeldt was detailed for special duty at the legation in Peking, with a view first to a renewal of the negotiation in Corea, should that be deemed judicious and second to afford him the opportunity to make certain arrangements with the Chinese authorities for his temporary employment in their naval service.
Instructions in relation to the first subject have been sent him by this mail, with copies of which you will be furnished.
As to the second, while this government took no active part in the contemplated arrangement, it was willing in a spirit of friendship to the Chinese Government, to permit one of its distinguished and experienced officers to render such assistance as in terms of peace, he could properly offer in the organization of the Chinese Navy.
Mr. Angell was informed that if the Chinese Government made or desired to make an application to this effect, he was authorized to say that this government would reserve it favorably. But that if the appointment was simply one in the service of the Viceroy of Chih-Li, it would be a matter of arrangement between Commodore Shufeldt and the Navy Department not one in which this department would deem it proper to interfere but that even in that case [_____] would be granted by the secretary of the Navy to the Commodore, to undertake the service.
As we are now informed the service will be rendered to the Viceroy and in virtue of a personal agreement between him and Commodore Shufeldt. But we are, also, informed that some of the Foreign Legation at Peking especially the French have manifested great unwillingness that such an arrangement should be made and have earned their influence with the Yamen to prevent its accomplishment.
As the request is not from the Chinese Government to the Government of the U. S. you cannot with propriety intervene, officially, in the matter. But if upon investigation you should come to the conclusion that there has been diplomatic intervention at Peking, you are authorized and desired unofficially to counteract any misrepresentations as to the position and purposes of this government, which may have been made and to let it be understood that any arrangement between the Viceroy and Commodore Shufeldt would be acceptable to this government and that any diplomatic interference to prevent it, will, it is to be hoped, meet with proper rebuke from the Chinese Government which is entirely capable of judging of its own interests and duties and can rely with confidence upon any act of friendly service or advice on the past of the United States, which may be desired, either by the Government itself or any of its departments.

I am sir
James G. Blaine