APPENDIX TO CASE OF GREAT BRITAIN. 921 
He observed that it was now quite certain that the arbitration would 
not be concluded for many months, and no time, therefore, should be 
lost in devising another modus vivendi, to take effect from the expira- 
tion of the present one. 
In answer to his inquiry as to the power of Her Majesty’s Govern- 
ment to put in force any Regulations which might temporarily be agreed 
upon, I stated that for such purpose it would be necessary to have 
recourse again to Parliament. 
He then requested me to invite your Lordship’s immediate attention 
to the importance of taking immediate powers for that purpose, as the 
sealing fleets were already reported to be clearing out. 
I have, &e. 
(Signed) JULIAN PAUNCEFOTE. 
The Marquis of Salisbury to Sir J. Pauncefote. 
[Telegraphic.] 
FOREIGN OFFICE, February 16, 1892. 
The draft Convention, inclosed in your despatch of the 5th instant, 
for referring to arbitration the questions at issue between Her Majesty’s 
Government and that of the United States in connection with the seal 
fisheries in Behring’s Sea, has been referred to the Law Officers of the 
Crown, who have been asked to furnish a Report on its terms at their 
earliest convenience. 
Her Majesty’s Government cannot express an opinion upon Mr. 
Blaine’s proposal for a fresh modus vivendi during the present year until 
they are further informed as to what the provisions of the modus vivendi 
are to be. It does not seem to be at all necessary for the preservation 
of the fur-seal species that sealing should be entirely prohibited. 
No. 215. 
Sir J. Pauncefote to the Marquis of Salishury.—( Received February 18.) 
[Telegraphic. ] 
WASHINGTON, February 17, 1892. 
With reference to your Lordship’s telegram of the 16th instant, Mr. 
Blaine presses that the question of the modus vivendi should be con- 
sidered and reported on by the Joint Commission. I have informed 
him that, in my opinion, it has no power to do so under its present 
mandate. Will your Lordship inform me whether you are willing that 
the necessary authority shall be given to the Commission, provided 
that no obligations will be imposed upon either Government by its 
report? 
