(No. 82)
The Earl of Derby
Yedo
May 12, 1876

My Lord,

I had the honour this day to address to Your Lordship the following telegram in cypher dated May 12, 3:45 PM.

“I have received the telegram of 5th instant. Am assured by competent Japanese authority that nothing will be effected in Corea by any foreign power unsupported by force, but that presence of adequate force would ensure success and prevent collision. It would be better not to attempt negotiation unless we are prepared to insist on our demands.
The Envoy should be supported by seven or eight ships including four or five gunboats and should endeavor to reach the Capital. Japan, if invited, would probably render friendly assistance by informing Corea of pacific objects of Mission. Both Chinese and Japanese Interpreters would be required.
The sooner such a Mission is sent the better, as the recent Japanese success is not likely to [yield substantial] results and if not followed up by other powers some reaction may occur in Corea. A Corean Envoy is expected to arrive in Yedo on 24th Instant but the objects of his Mission are not known.
The three Governments might act collectively, or as we have force sufficient on the spot the best plan might be to proceed to Corea at once and allow later Expeditions by France and Germany to keep the question open and prevent reaction.”

I have, &c.
Harry S. Parkes
Adams (1876. 5. 12) → Derby