M.C. Perry and Japan (XII)

The discussion lasted for about three hours and the Governor left the vessel at 1 pm in order to consult his senior authority.1 In the afternoon the Governor returned with his two interpreters and held discussion for over two hours. During this meeting Perry agreed to be received by a Japanese high officer from Yedo who held a rank corresponding to that of Admiral in the US. Perry was told that no discussion would take place when he met this official on shore. Knowing that a quick reply was not possible, Perry disclosed that he would left Japan for a few months before returning to get a reply.2 When the meeting was over, the Japanese politely accepted the refreshment offered by the Americans. They seemed to relish in particular the whisky and brandy.3 In the eyes of the American they were educated: they could speak Dutch and Chinese, they know the world's geography. When they saw a terrestrial globe, they could quickly focus their attention on the United States and knew the location of Washington and New York. They also knew the locations of England, France, Denmark, and some other European countries.4 After finishing the refreshment, the Governor and his interpreters were invited to tour around the ship. They were amazed at the big guns and the the engines. They departed at about 7 pm. The next day, July 13, the governor visited again at 4 pm. The governor showed Perry a letter written by the Emperor of Japan to his highness, Toda, Prince of Izu who was appointed to receive Perry's letters on shore. It was agreed that the next day, July 14, Perry would land on shore between 8 - 9 am. In order to prepare for any possible treachery on the part of the Japanese, Perry ordered that his squadron should anchor in line in front of the place of reception early next morning.5 (to be continued)

Notes:
1. Perry, Matthew Calbraith ed. by Sidney Wallach. Narrative of the Expedition of an American Squadron to the China Seas and Japan. NY: Coward-McCann, 1952, page 62.
2. Ibid., page 66
3. Ibid., page 67
4. Ibid., page 68
5. Ibid., page 73