New-York tribune. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 1894-03-26
Made by Colgate & Co.,
Used by the best families,
1906 Laundry Soap.
PUTTING OFF AN UNDERSTANDING con-
CERNING BEHRING SEA.
NO DISPOSITION TO CARRY OFT THE DECISION
or THE PARIS ARBITRATORS-A CHANCE
FOR CANADIAN POACIlERs-TIIE UNITED
STATES MAY HAVE TO DO
BY TELEGRAPH TO THE TRIBUNE


,GY TELEGRAPH TRIBUNE
Washington March 25.-Some interesting in
formation from an official source was obtained
to-day as TO the pending negotiations between
this country and England to make operative the
decree of the Paris arbitrator in the Behring
Sea case. 1t is apparent that Great Britain does
not intend to act with anything like promptness
in the matter. No agreement between Secretary
Gresham and Sir Julian Pauncefote has been
reached. and there is no prospect Of one in the
near future. There good reasons for believ-
ing that Engands procrastnation is for the
deliberate purpose OF allowing Canadian poach-
ers to reap the greatest possible harvest III the
sealing grounds before the arrival in those
waters of the naval vessels Of this country.
The Trbune's informant in speaking of the
subject to-day said: "Engand's diplomacy in the
Behring Sea matter is governed by clamors from
Canada In view Of the conditions. her past and
present course is discreditable | see no other
alternative than for this country TO go ahead
and by force If necessary, assert our rights In
Behring Sea-.
An inspection Of Englands course from the
time that the Paris decree was made 10 the pres
ent shows that that country has resorted TO all
the arts of diplomacy 10 prevent the carrying
into effect Of the decree. Fully three months
ago Secretary Gresham made overturcs TO the
English Ambassador to conclude an agreement
under which the terms Of the decree OF aroiira-
ton could with the least possible detrment 10
the interests of the United States or Great
Britain, be made operative. y formal propo-
stion was submitted by Secretary Gresham AT
this time. the effect Of which was that the pam
meaning of the arbitrators be embodied in law by
Congress and Parliament. Pending legal enact
ment it was suggested by Secretary Gresham
that regulations to govern the vessels OF poti
countries engaged in the work of protecting the
seals during the closed season should be drawn
up and signed ,.,.
Apparently the State Departments proposition
was acceptable to England's diplomatic repre-
sentative. Time for full consideration OF ls
meaning was requested, however. Receiving 10
reply from the English Ambassador. after a con-
siderable time had elapsed the state Depart
ment formally requested an answer 10 .s suS
gestions. Sr Julian Pauncefote then Salu 'na.
Ilpon further reflection he had become convinced
that q ratification OF the Paris decree by con-
gress and Parliament was absolutely necessary
before the regulations could be maze plhulhs
on either the United States or Great britain
This view of the case was, after some discussion,
agreed to by Secretary Gresham. AS the sug-
gested action would require time penang us
being put in force the English Ambassador was
urged TO agree to a revival of the modus VlNendi
II the necessary laws were not passed Dy CoH-
gress and Parliament in season TO permit pioici
Sir Julian Pauncefote stated. In reply 10 TINS
suggestion that authority or necessity Tor the
modus viyendi did not exist in view OF the pro-
visions of the Paris decree. and that his Gov
ernment could not with propriety or in justice
IN ito own interests consent to the re-establish-
noent Of the agreement OF last year Subse-
o,leDtly Sir Julian suggested a modined nlouus'
but its conditions were so unsatisfactory 10 tnis
country that the proposition could not be enter
tanned. ,.,,.
This is the present status OF the ncgo dtons.
Nothing has been accomplished, and thc!e IS no
probability Of any practical result being reached
Great Britain has gained much time by debera-
ton and discussion. Advantage OF the deldys
has been taken by owners Of English and Ca
madam poaching vessels. The State Depart
rnent has been advised that a number of vessels
from British Columbia and English poris have
already started for the seating grounds Some
of these ships are sailing craft and others steam
ers Further advices show that three poaching
steamers have started from London for Behrng
Sea They are proceeding by way OF the SueZ
Canal Poachers from China have also gone
TO the sealing grounds 1t Is assumed that the
Chinese vessels are in the employ of English
traders As the closed season does not begin
until May 81. these marauding craft Will make
a considerable catch O. seals before the patrollnB
ships of this country arrive at the grounds.
State Department officials will not longer walt
for England in preparing Instructions to be issued
TO the naval officers who will command the
Behring Sea fleet II Is practically certain that
England does not intend 10 cooperate with this
country this season, and that all the work or
oveihauling poachers must be done b. United
States ships. While observing more or less dis
erection in speaking on the subject. II IL evident
that the authorities. are in no pleasant frame Of
mind about Engand's present attitude.