§ MR. CLAYasked the Under Secretary for Foreign Affairs what progress has been made in the negotiations for the relief of the ships of this Country from the Stade Dues?
MR. S. FITZGERALDsaid, the hon. Gentleman would see on consideration that it was impossible for him to give a satisfactory answer to the question. The very form of it inferred that the matter was still in an unsettled condition, and he could not, therefore, give any information with respect to it but such as might mislead parties interested, and embarrass the negotiations. In compliance with the recommendations of the Committeee of last Session, notice had been given for the termination of the existing treaty. Communications had since passed between the two Governments, but had led to no results. The question was one of great difficulty, but the Government had given and were giving serious attention to it.