Compact by King and Chiefs of Lagos, 1854

Commodore Mayo Commander in Chief of the United States Naval Forces on the West Coast of Africa, having arrived off this port, desires to salute the King of Lagos.

The United States have for a long time maintained a Squadron on the Coast of Africa, to protect the persons and property of American Citizens, engaged in lawful commerce; and to arrest and bring to justice all persons who may endeavour to prosecute the Slave trade under the cover of the American Flag. The Commodore has heard with much satisfaction that the King of Lagos has done all in his power to suppress the African Slave trade, and that he affords every facility to vessels that come to his territory for the purpose of lawful traffic. He would be much gratified by receiving from the King and Chiefs of Lagos some formal and written assurance that Citizens of the United States, may always trade freely with the people of Lagos in all ports, places and rivers, within their territory; and some pledge that the King and Chiefs will show no favor, and give no privilege to the Ships and traders of other countries, which they do not show to those of the United States, and that all Citizens of the United States shall, under all circumstances, be placed upon the same footing with the Citizens of the most favored Nation.

Commodore Mayo requests the King to receive the assurance of his high respect and consideration.

Docemo, King of Lagos, with his Chiefs and Councellors having carefully considered and discussed the propositions contained in the foregoing letter, do on the part of themselves and of their country, hereby assent to all the aforesaid propositions, and solemnly promise and guarantee to all Citizens of the United States, every right, and privilege which may at any time be granted to the most favored nation with whom the King and Chiefs of Lagos have already, or, may hereafter, form a treaty, or conclude an agreement.