Page:The New Far East (1906).djvu/342

Rh "Article IV.—The stipulations of all treaties and agreements existing between Japan and Korea, not inconsistent with the provisions of this agreement shall continue in force.

"Article V.—The Government of Japan undertake to maintain the welfare and dignity of the Imperial House of Korea.

"In faith whereof the undersigned duly authorized by their Governments have signed this agreement and affixed their seals.

"November 17, 1905.

"(Signed) HAYASHI GONSUKE, "H. I. J. M.'s Envoy Extraordinary and "Minister Plenipotentiary. "(Signed) PAK CHE SOON, "H. I. K. M.'s Minister for Foreign Affairs."

The following letter is in response to an inquiry by the author as to the present status of diplomatic relations between the United States and Korea:

DEPARTMENT OF STATE, WASHINGTON

January 31, 1906.

THOMAS F. MILLARD, Esquire, New York City. Sir:—In compliance with the request made in your letter of the 26th instant, I send you herewith enclosed a copy of the agreement signed on November 17, 1905, by the plenipotentiaries of Japan and Korea, by which Japan becomes the medium for conducting the foreign relations of Korea, and the subjects and interests of Korea in foreign countries are entrusted to the charge of the diplomatic and consular representatives of Japan.

As a result of that agreement the American Legation to Korea has been withdrawn, and all correspondence concerning the relations of the United States and Korea will be carried on between this Government and that of Japan.

I am, Sir, Your obedient servant, ALVEY A. ADEF

Enclosure: Second Assistant Secretary. Agreement above described.