A Telegram from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to Mr. Hu-Wei-te (胡維德), the Chinese Minister at Paris. 29th day, Ist month, 3rd year of the Republic.

With reference to the question of Tariff revision, the French Minister Mr. Conty has replied that his Goverment has instructed him to the effect that if a suitable compensation can be obtained, a modification of the Tariff may be granted and that further negotiation must be delayed until the compensation for losses and damages caused by the Revolution shall have been fairly settled, etc.

The revision of the Tariff is a thing incumbent (upon the High Contracting Parties) according to treaty stipulations, and until now seven countries have replied in the affirmative. France should not take this as an excuse for making other demands.

Besides refuting (this statement) you are requested to declare to the French Government that it should give its assent, in accordance with treaty stipulations, as soon as possible and without any conditions attached thereto. Kindly reply. Wai-chiao-pu.

A Telegram from Mr. Hu-wei-te, the Chinese Minister at Paris, to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 8th day, 2nd month, 3rd year of the Republic.

Your telegram of the 29th regarding the Tariff question was noted.

In my interview with the French Minister of Foreign Affairs I earnestly requested him to consent to the negotiations in accordance with treaty stipulations as soon as possible, stating that if France should begin negotiations with China ahead of all the other Powers, she would show her special friendship towards China, and she should not (lit. how could she) take this as an excuse for extra demands.

He states, he will wholeheartedly assist in the matter, but fears that, with the question of compensations unsettled, the Parliament may raise questions.

I have refuted (his statement) by saying that this (question) is another case and should not be associated (with the Tariff case), and he promised to answer a little later. Hu-Wei-te.