The “Preble” made the land off Nagasaki on the 17th of April. Japanese boats, which soon came alongside, threw on board a bamboo, in the split of which were papers containing the customary notification to foreign vessels, as to their anchorage, and the conduct they were to observe, and certain questions which they were to answer. These papers (in English, with some Dutch variations) were verbatim as follows: 1. _Warning to respective commanders, their officers and crew of the vessels approaching the coast of Japan, or anchoring near the coast in the bays of the empire._—During the time foreign vessels are on the coast of Japan or near, as well as in the bay of Nagasaki, it is expected and likewise ordered, that every one of the _schip’s_ company will behave properly towards and accost _civillen_ the Japanese subjects in general. No one may leave the _vessle_, or use her boats for cruising or landing on the islands or on the main coast, and ought to remain on board until further advice from the Japanese government has been received. It is likewise forbidden to fire guns, or use other fire-arms on board the _vessle_, as well as in their boats. Very disagreeable consequences might result in case the aforesaid _schould_ not be strictly observed. (Signed.) The Governor of Nagasaki. 2. _To the commanders of vessels approaching this empire under Dutch or other colors._—By express orders of the governor of Nagasaki, you are requested, as soon as you have arrived near the northern Cavallos, to anchor there at a safe place, and to remain until you will have received further advice. Very disagreeable consequences might result in case this order should not be strictly observed. Deshima. (Signed.) The Reporters attached to the Superintendent’s office. (Seal.) Translated by the Superintendent of the Netherlands’ trade in Japan. (Qu. chief interpreter?) 3. (This is addressed like No. 2, and contains the same orders about anchorage. It then proceeds as follows:) “Please to answer, as distinctly and as soon as possible, the following questions: What is the name of your vessel? What her tonnage? What is the number of her crew? Where do you come from? What is the date of your departure? Have you any wrecked Japanese on board? Have you anything to ask for, as water, firewood, etc. etc.? Are any more vessels in company with you bound for this empire? By order the governor of Nagasaki. Translated by the Superintendent of the Netherlands’ trade in Japan. Deshima. UPPER REPORTER. (Seal.)[110] UNDER REPORTER. (Seal.)