China: A Collection of Correspondence and Papers Relating to Chinese Affairs 1857

CORRESPONDENCE RESPECTING THE REGISTRATION OF COLONIAL VESSELS AT HONG KONG.

Presented to both Houses of Parliament by Command of Her Majesty.

1857 .

LONDON :

PRINTED BY HARRISON AND SONS .

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LIST OF PAPERS .

No. Page

1. Governor Sir J. Bowring to Sir G. Grey March 9, 1855 1

2. Lieutenant -Governor Caine to Sir G. Grey March 10, 1

Inclosure

Ordinance, dated March 3, 1856 .. 2

3. Mr. Booth to Mr. Merivale .. June 11 , 4

4. Lord J. Russell to Governor Sir J. Bowring June 22 , 5

5. Governor Sir J. Bowring to Lord J. Russell September 4, — 5

Inclosures

1. The Acting Attorney -General to the Colonial Secretary . August 29 , 6

2. Extract relating to the Working of Ordinance No. 4 of 1855 ,

from the Colonial Treasurer's Memorandum on Estimates, . 7

6. Mr. Booth to Mr. Merivale .. November 30, 7

7. Mr. Labouchere to Governor Sir J. Bowring December 12 , 8

8. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon November 22 , 8

Inclosures

1. Acting Vice - Consul Morrison to Sir J. Bowring . November 15, 8

2. Sir J. Bowring to Commissioner Yeh November 21 , 9

9. The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring March 22 , 1856 10

10. Governor Sir J. Bowring to Mr. Labouchere June 5, 10

Inclosure

Ordinance, dated May 29, 1856 .. 11

11. Mr. Farrer to Mr. Merivale.. August 20 , 12

12. Mr. Labouchere to Governor Sir J. Bowring August 27 , 12

Correspondence respecting the Registration of Colonial

Vessels at Hong Kong.

No. 1 .

Governor Sir J. Bowring to Sir G. Grey.

Sir, Hong Kong, March 9, 1855 .

THE Lieutenant-Governor will in the due order of correspondence send

you an Ordinance No. 4 of 1855, for the regulation of registers granted in the

Colony for vessels under the British flag .

The question presents grave difficulties; a vessel no sooner obtains a register

than she escapes Colonial jurisdiction ; carries on her trade within the waters of

China ; engages probably in every sort of fraudulent dealings, and may never

appear again to render any account of her proceedings, or to be made responsible

for her illegal acts.

The Imperial Act which now regulates the conditions upon which registers

are to be granted, affords in these regions no adequate security against the

unlawful use of the British flag, and the object of the Ordinance is, as far as

possible, to provide such local guarantees as appeared compatible with the general

regulation of Parliamentary authority , and are necessitated by the peculiar

condition of public affairs in China.

I take the liberty of forwarding this short explanation on a matter in which

my functions as Superintendent of British Trade in China required special atten

tion to the subject from the Governor and Legislative Council of Hong Kong.

I have, &c .

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

No. 2.

Lieutenant-Governor Caine to Sir G. Grey.

Sir, Victoria, Hong Kong, March 10, 1855 .

I HAVE the honour to forward the usual number of copies of Ordinance

No. 4 of 1855 , entitled “ An Ordinance to establish a proper system of Regis

tration for Colonial Vessels."

His Excellency Sir John Bowring, who presided over the Legislative

Council while this Ordinance was discussed and passed, has already written a

despatch in explanation.

I have, &c.

( Signed ) W. CAINE .

[ 120 ] B 2

Inclosure in No. 2 .

Ordinance.

HONG KONG .

ANNO DECIMO OCTAVO VICTORIE REGINA .

No. 4 of 1855 .

By his Excellency Sir John Bowring, Knight, LL.D. , Governor and Commander

in -chief of the Colony of Hong Kong and its dependencies, and Vice

Admiral of the same, Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary and Chief Superin

tendent of the Trade of British subjects in China, with the advice of the

Legislative Council of Hong Kong.

Title . An Ordinance to establish a proper system of Registration for Colonial Vessels.

[March 3, 1855. ]

Preamble . WHEREAS many illegal acts have resulted from the improper use of

registers granted at Hong Kong under the provisions of the Imperial Acts to

vessels employed solely in trading with the mainland of China, and it is neces

sary that legal trading should be protected and illegal trading prevented :

No British vessel I. Be it therefore enacted and ordained by his Excellency the Governor of

without either an Hong Kong, with the advice of the Legislative Council thereof, that from and

ImperialorColonial

after the passing of this Ordinance no ship or vessel whatsoever owned by a

waters of this British subject, shall be at liberty to trade in any of the harbours of this Colony,

Colony. unless, in the case of an outward trading ship or vessel, she be provided with a

certificate of registry in conformity with the Imperial Acts of Parliament on that

behalf; and in the case of a China trading ship or vessel she has in all respects

complied with the requirements of this Ordinance.

Declarations neces- II. And be it further enacted and ordained, that henceforward when any

sary for obtaining person or persons shall be desirous of obtaining a register for a ship or vessel in

this Colony, it shall be necessary for such person or persons to forward to the

Colonial Secretary a declaration, in writing, stating whether the ship or vessel

for which such register is sought, is intended to be employed solely in trade with

China, or on more distant voyages, and that according to such statement a

prescribed by the Imperial Acts in that behalf, or a Colonial register, as laid

down in this Ordinance : Provided always, that should such declaration be false,

or the ship or vessel to which it relates not be employed in conformity with it,

the register thereby obtained, whether Imperial or Colonial, shall ipso facto

become null and void.

Documents neces

III. And be it further enacted and ordained, that a Colonial register shall

sary previous to be given under the hand of the Governor, Lieutenant-Governor, or officer

grant of Colonial

documents :

The harbour-master's certificate, as hereinafter provided by section VII .

A declaration of ownership, with proof thereof to the satisfaction of the

Colonial Secretary .

A joint and several bond of the owner, and two sureties binding each and

every of the several obligees under a penal sum of one thousand dollars, to

comply with all the provisions of this Ordinance and with all the laws binding

on British

subjects with regard to trade with China.

Name of Colonial V. nd be it further enacted and ordained , that it shall not be lawful for

registered ship. the owner or owners of any Colonial registered ship or vessel to give her any

name other than that of her registry, and such owner or owners before such

ship or vessel shall after registry take in any cargo or leave this Colony, are

required to paint or cause to be painted in white oryellow letters, not less than

four inches long, her name upon some conspicuous part of her stern, in a distinct

and legible manner, and both in Roman and Chinese characters, and shall so

keep and preserve the same, upon pain on breach of the provisions of this

section, in addition to any other pains, and penalties, and forfeitures, in this

Ordinance contained, to a penalty not exceeding five hundred dollars.

V. And be it further enacted and ordained, that the register of every Production of

Colonial-master

Colonial registered ship or vessel shall be produced once at least every six harbour

months to the harbour-master, who shall endorse the date of such production every six months.

on such register, upon pain on failure of such production of the forfeiture of

such register, unless satisfactory cause for such non-production be shown to the

Colonial Secretary .

VI . And be it further enacted and ordained , that it shall be lawful for Chinese Crown

Chinese residents within this Colony to apply for and obtain Colonial registers, hold

lesseesColonial

entitled to

provided the person or persons applying as owners be registered lessees of registers.

Crown lands within this Colony, and that such owner or owners tender as

securities for the due performance by them of all the requirements of this Ordi

nance two other Crown lessees , and that such owners and such lessees be

severally reported by the Registrar-General to the satisfaction of the Colonial

Secretary to be each worth two thousand dollars in this Colony, and should such

owner or owners be member or members of any shop or partnership that the

seal ofowner

such shop or partnership be also affixed to the security to be given by

such .

VII. And be it further enacted and ordained , that the certificate to be Harbour-master's

granted by the harbour-master do specify the proper measurement of the ship certificate..

or vessel requiring a Colonialregister, and that such ship or vessel has proper

anchors and chains, canvas sails, her bottom sheathed with metal, and that her

master is a British subject or a person conversant with the English language .

VIII . And be it further enacted and ordained, that aa fee of twenty-five dollars Fees payable.

be paid on the granting of the harbour-master's certificate, and that on the issue

of every Colonial register a further fee of twenty - five dollars shall be paid to the

Colonial Secretary, and that these two sums shall include all charges necessary

for the issue of a Colonial register.

IX. And be it further enacted and ordained, that upon any change of Change of. owner

ownership in any Colonial ship or vessel registered under this Ordinance , such or master.

change as aforesaid shall be indorsed upon her register, under the hand of the

Governor, Lieutenant-Governor, or officer administering the Government, upon

the paymentof a fee of twenty -five dollars to the Colonial Secretary, the requisite

declaration of ownership and bond hereinbefore in this Ordinance mentioned and

directed being first duly made and executed : Provided always, that any change

of master be indorsed upon the Register by the Colonial Secretary, and that a

fee of five dollars be charged for the said indorsement.

X. And be it further enacted and ordained , that any Colonial register Duration of Colo

granted under this Ordinance shall be in force and effect for one year from the nial register.

date of such register and no longer, and that such register be renewable by

endorsement on the same, under the hand of the Governor, Lieutenant-Governor,

or officer administering the Government, on the payment of a fee of ten dollars :

Provided always, that such register be deposited in the ottice of the Colonial

Secretary one week before the expiration of the year for which the register has

been granted, or if the registered ship or vessel be at sea, then on her return to

the waters of the Colony.

XI. And be it further enacted and ordained, that any infringement of the Penalty for viola

provisions of this Ordinance shall render the Colonial register ipso facto void, tion of Ordinance.

and shall render the ship or vessel sailing under such register forfeit to the

Crown, in addition to the penalty of the bonds hereinbefore set forth.

XII. And be it further enacted and ordained , that all fees payable or Application of fees.

penalties imposed under this Ordinance shall be paid into the Colonial Treasury,

and shall be recoverable in a summary manner before any magistrate or Justice

of the Peace .

XIII . And be it further enacted and ordained, that nothing in this Ordi. boats

Registration of

not interfered

nance contained shall be held to annul or interfere with the registration of boats with.

as established under Ordinance No. 7 of 1846.

( Signed ) JOHN BOWRING.

Passed the Legislative Council of Hong Kong, this 3rd day of March, 1855.

(Signed) L. D'ALMADA E Castro ,

Clerk of Councils.

No. 3.

Mr. Booth to Mr. Merivale .

Office of Committee of Privy Council for Trade,

Sir , Whitehall, June 11, 1855.

I AM directed by the Lords of the Committee of Privy Council for Trade

to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 30th May, transmitting, for the

consideration of this Board, an Ordinance of the Legislature of Hong Kong,

entitled “ An Ordinance to establish a proper system of Registration for Colonial

vessels,” and, in reply, I am to request you to point out to Lord John Russell

that the Ordinance in question provides for the granting of two kinds of

registers of vessels, the one called an Imperial register, and the other a Colonial

It provides (section 2) that any person desirous of obtaining a register for

a vessel in the Colony must forward to the Colonial Secretary a declaration in

writing stating whether the vessel in question is intended to be employed solely

in trade with China, or on more distant voyages, and that according to such

statement a register should be granted to such vessel, either an Imperial register

as prescribed by the Imperial Acts , or a Colonial register as laid down in the

present Ordinance.

It then enacts (in section 6) that Chinese residents within the Colony may

obtain Colonial registers, provided the persons applying as owners be registered

lessees of Crown lands within the Colony, and that such owners tender as

securities for the due performance by them of all the requirements of the

Ordinance, two other Crown lessees.

There is nothing in the Act providing that the Chinese residents to whom

Colonial registers may be granted should be British subjects, nor are any local

limits assigned within which the register is to be in force ; and if it be intended

that the grant of a Colonial register shall confer on the vessel the rights and

privileges attaching to a British vessel, it appears to my Lords extremely

questionable whether this depaature from the Merchant Shipping Act ( 17 & 18

Vict. cap. 104), according to which British ownership is an essential condition

(and , in fact, the only condition) of British registry, should be sanctioned by

Her Majesty .

It alsoappears to my Lords deserving of consideration whether, looking to

the effect of registry on the titles to ships,it is desirable to apply to sea -going

Colonial ships owned by British subjects a system of registry different from that

which is provided for in the Imperial Act.

I am , however, to point out to you that by section 547 of the Imperial Act,

theLegislative authority ofany British Possession is empowered by any Act or

Ordinance, confirmed by Her Majesty in Council, to repeal wholly or in part

any provisions of that Act relating to ships registered in such Possession, but

no such Act or Ordinance is to take effect until such approval has been

proclaimed in the Possession , or until such time thereafter as may be fixed by

the Act or Ordinance for the purpose.

The Ordinance in question does not appear to have been passed in exercise

of the power given by the clause of the Imperial Act just cited, and unless it

should appear to Lord John Russell that there are any special circumstances

such as to justify the departure from the policy of the Imperial Act as to ownership

in the case of vessels registered at Hong Kong, it appears to my Lords that Her

Majesty's approval cannot properly be given to the present Ordinance.

I have, &c.

( Signed ) JAMES BOOTH .

No. 4.

Lord J. Russell to Governor Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Downing Street, June 22, 1855 .

HAVING referred the Ordinance passed by the Legislature of Hong Kong,

' to establish a proper system of Registration for Colonial Vessels,” for the

consideration of the Lords of the Committee of Privy Council for Trade, I

transmit,for your information , the copy of their Lordships' reply ;* and I have to

request that you will transmit to me any observations which you may have to

the objections entertained by their Lordships to some of the provisions

offer onOrdinance.

of this

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. RUSSELL.

No. 5 .

Governor Sir J. Bowring to Lord J. Russell.

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, September 4, 1855 .

I THOUGHT it right to lay before the Acting Attorney -General, your

Lordship's despatch dated 22nd June, with its inclosure, on the subject

of Ordinance No. 4 of 1855, having reference to registers granted in this colony

to vessels bearing the British flag, and have now the honour to inclose

Mr. Bridge's observations on the subject-matter.

The necessity oflegislation was pressed irresistibly on my attention, not

only as Governor of Hong Kong , but as Chief Superintendent of British trade

in China, in consequence of multitudinous abuses which had grown up, and which

were aggravated by the disorganized state of China, and the confusion produced

by all those discordant elements in which I had been directed by Her Majesty's

Government to preserve a strict neutrality as between political belligerents,

while it was frequently impossible to distinguish the marauder and the pirate

from those who claimed to be rebels seeking only to overthrow the Manchou

Government. And the population of this colony, from its very nature and from

the universality of secret associations, could not fail of being engaged in partisan

ship likely to compromise the British name and the British flag. The difficulty

of deciding who is, and who ought, either by right or expediency, to be deemed

a British subject in a colony, a large part of whose population is constantly

shiiting, and in which we have been established only a few years, is aa difficulty

not only embarrassing as regards the right to claim the British flag, but which

presents itself in many other intricate shapes where Chinamen are concerned.

After much conversation with the Acting Attorney -General, and fully aware

of the great difficulties of legislation, I instructed him to prepare an Ordinance

in which , keeping distinctly in view the provisions of Acts of Parliament, he

would propose such measures as were likely to meet the most obvious local

requirements of the case. The Ordinance was elaborately discussed in the Legis

lative Council, and, with the full concurrence of the unofficial commercial

members, was unanimously passed ; and I am happy to say , its practical opera

tion has been undoubtedly beneficial, and I have no complaints of its enactments

except as regards the payment of fees for surveys to non -officials ; an evil I have

at present no means of remedying - the duty devolving on the harbour-master,

who professes his inability to discharge it.

In reference to the operation of this Ordinance, I beg to submit to your

Lordship’s consideration some observations which have been submitted to me by

the Colonial Treasurer, and which are well worthy of attention ; for while, on the

one hand, it is no doubt desirable that the privileges of hoisting the British flag

should not be conceded without proper securities, it is very desirable that

Chinamen settled in this colony should be able to appreciate the advantages of

their position in the substantial benefits it confers.

I have, &c.

(Signed ) JOHN BOWRING.

* No. 3.

Inclosure 1 in No. 5 .

The Acting Attorney -General to the Colonial Secretary.

Sir, Hong Kong , August 29, 1855 .

I HAVE the honour to acknowledg the receipt of your communication

inclosing a despatch from the Secretary of State for the Colonies, on the

subject of Ordinance No. 4 of 1855.

Three defects are pointed out by the Home Authorities, in that Ordi

nance :

1. The granting of Registers to Chinese, not legally British subjects.

2. The absence of local limits within which the Register is to be in force.

3. The application of a system of registry to sea-going colonial ships,

different from that provided for in the Imperial Act .

On referring to the date of the Ordinance, which passed the 3rd of March,

1855, it will be observed that of Section 547 of the Merchant Shipping Act

1854, advantage could not be taken , as that Act did not come into force until 1st

May, 1855 .

I am glad to observe that the objections of the Committee of Trade are

made subject to the existence of special circumstances,justifying, in this instance ,

the departure of the Colonial Legislature from the Imperial policy ; for it was

only owing to extremely special circumstances, and to prevent abuses which

might lead to dangerous consequences, that this Ordinance was enacted .

The Colony of Ilong Kong, with a Chinese population exceeding, at the

present time, 60,000, hardly contains ten Chinese who can legally be called British

subjects, for it has not been deemed advisable to naturalize the Chinese here, and

the recent settlement of the Colony prevents the possibility of their having become

subjects by birth. The great proportion of the respectable part of this popula

tion have, however, constituted themselves bondi fide British subjects, by becoming

Crown tenants of leaseholds for long terms of years ( a tenure of which an alien

is incapable ), and by permanent settlement have evinced the clearest intention

of perfecting themselves, in the persons of their descendants, British subjects

secundum leges, as well as de facto. I, therefore, as Law Adviser to the Crown,

deemed it my duty to advise the granting of registers to such Chinese as had, by

becoming Crown tenants, so far as in them lay made themselves British subjects,

and whose discharge of the obligation taken upon them could be guaranteed by

other Crown tenants. But there had been serious complaints from the naval

Commander-in -chief, and from the Consular and Chinese Authorities, of the

abuse by small craft carrying the British flag, of the Treaty Regulations, and as

the prosperity of this Colony (so much increased of late) depends entirely, so far

as regards the native population , upon the coasting trade, which is carried on in

vessels ranging between 20 and 100 tons, it was deemed advisable by the Colonial

Government, that an Ordinance should be passed, which, in no way interfering

with the granting of Imperial registers to long sea -going ships, should yet facili

tate the obtaining of English papers of a certain description by Colonial craft,

and should also give the Colonial Government means which it could not possess

under an Imperial register, of punishing violations of the Treaty with China. It

was not thought necessary to fix the local limits within which the Colonial

registers, and the objects of the local trade, l'ender it a matter of the utmost

improbability that a Colonial registered vessel could go anywhere else than along

the coast of China ; and as the Colonial register is obtained on the strength of a

declaration that the vessel is solely to be employed in trade with China, and a

falsifying of that declaration involves the penalties of the bond which accompanies

the Register, it was hardly deemed necessary to specify any geographical boun

daries.

It will be observed that the utmost care was taken not to interfere with any

provisions of the Imperial Act touching long sea-going ships, and as the property

in these Colonial registered vessels is vested almost entirely in Chinese (whose

affairs, made complex by the various ramifications of their peculiar partnerships,

and use of several names for the same individual , it would be almost impossible

to subject to the Imperial provisions for registry, as regards title to ships), the

attention of the Colonial Legislature was not directed to this branch of the

ownership of ships: ; for the more our Chinese residents are left to their own

management of their commercial matters, the more they appear to prosper.

This Ordinance has now been in force for several months, withthe most

beneficial effects, and I most earnestly and respectfully deprecate any alteration

of it, as it is only those actually residing in this Colony, and practically acquainted

with its most peculiar population and their mode of conducting business, who can

be aware of its adaptation for existing exigencies.

Finally, I would again distinctly point out that this Ordinance in no way

interferes with the Imperial Act, but has solely a local application .

I have, &c.

(Signed) W. T. BRIDGES.

Inclosure 2 in No. 5 .

Extract relating to the Working of Ordinance No. 4 of 1855, from the Colonial

Treasurer's Memorandum on Estimates.

59. IF anything has been, and will be, pre -eminently beneficial to this

Colony, it is that very system of granting Colonial registers , particularly to

respectable Chinese settled here, or , as the Ordinance says, “ Chinese Crown

lessees entitled to hold Colonial registers , ” since it has already added to, and

still tends to increase, the coasting -trade in goods the manufacture of Great

Britain, or the produce of India, such as cotton, opium , &c.; and on the other

hand, brings tothis Colony more of the produce of China for export to Europe

and India, or transshipment to other parts of the coast of the Empire.

60. I do not know the laws respecting the granting of ships' registers to

Chinese in the Straits' Settlements and Java ; but I do know that vessels are

frequently arriving in this Colony under the British and Dutch flags, which are

the property of Chinese in Java, or one of the Straits' Settlements ; and only

yesterday, two fine lorchas passed through this harbour under the Portuguese

flag, the owner of which, as also of a square-rigged vessel, is a Chinese at

Macao.

No. 6 ..

Mr. Booth to Mr. Merivale..

Office of Committeeof Privy Council for Trade,

Sir, Whitehall, November 30, 1855.

I AM directed by the Lords of the Committee of Privy Council for Trade

to state to you, forthe information of Her Majesty's Secretary of State for the

Colonies, that my Lords, having had under their consideration the despatch of

the Governor of Hong Kong, and the report of the Attorney-General of that

Colony, transmitted in your letter of the 23rd instant, on the subject of the

Ordinance passed by the Legislature of that Colony, No. 4 of 1855, “ to establish

a proper system of registration for colonial vessels ,” are of opinion that, in the

peculiar circumstances of the Colony of Hong Kong, the Ordinance may properly

be left to its operation.

I am at the same time to suggest, for the consideration of Mr. Secretary

Labouchere, whether, as some doubts may be entertained as to the lawfulness of

the use of the British flag in vessels registered in the name of Chinese residents,

as provided by the Ordinance , it might not be desirable that an Ordinance

should be passed, under the authority of section 547 of the Imperial Act,

declaring that, notwithstanding anything in the Imperial Act, the vessels in

question, if possessing a Colonial register, and whilst being navigated within the

proposed limits, should be entitled to use the British flag.

I have, &c.

( Signed ) JAMES BOOTH .

No. 7.

Mr. Labouchere to Governor Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Downing Street , December 12, 1855.

I HAVE to acknowledge your despatch of the 4th September on

the subject of the Ordinance passed by the Legislature of Hong Kong, No. 4

of 1855, “ to establish a proper system of registration for Colonial vessels.'

Her Majesty's Government having considered your observations and the

report of the Attorney -General of the Colony, are of opinion that in the peculiar

circumstances of Hong Kong, the Ordinance may properly be left to its opera

tion, and I have accordingly to convey to you Her Majesty's confirmation of the

Ordinance in question.

I inclose, however, for your information and guidance an extract of a letter

from the Lords of the Committee of Privy Council for Trade,* suggesting that,

as doubts may be raised as to the lawfulness of the use of the British flag in

vessels registered in the name of Chinese residents, it might be desirable to pass

a further Ordinance providing for that contingency .

I have, &c .

(Signed) H. LABOUCHERE.

No. 8.

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon.— (Received February 4, 1856.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, November 22, 1855.

A LONG and fruitless correspondence having taken place between

Mr. Consul Alcock and the Imperial Commissioner in reference to lorchas

bearing the British flag, seized within the port of Canton for smuggling salt,

which Iorchas the Chinese authorities had refused to surrender on the requisition

of the Consul, I thought it necessary , in order to prevent a repetition of an

obvious breach of Treaty, to request the aid of the naval authorities, and to

rescue the vessels so improperly detained.

I have the honour to forward copy of a letter from Mr. Acting Vice -Consul

Morrison, announcing that Her Majesty's steam-sloop “ Rattler ” has taken

possession of the lorchas.

I also forward copy of a communication I have made to the Imperial Com

missioner, which I trust will be approved by your Lordship .

As I have alwaysshown every disposition to prevent Her Majesty's subjects

and shipping from violating the laws of China and the engagements of Treaties,

and every determ nation to punish such violations (and I have in this instance

directed the Acting Attorney -General to proceed against the parties for breach

of the Colonial Ordinance under which the registers were granted ), I cannot

allow the Chinese authorities to encroach upon my jurisdiction, however little

sympathy I may feel for those who disregard the conditions on which the pro

tection and privilege of the British flag have been accorded to them .

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure 1 in No, 8.

Acting Vice- Consul Morrison to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir , Canton, November 15, 1855 .

I HAVE the honour to inform your Excellency that, in accordance with

your instructions conveyed in your despatch of 7th November, a boat's crew

from HerMajesty's ship “ Rattler” yesterday took possession of Hong Kong

lorchas, No. 9, belonging to William Anderson, and No. 14, belonging to a

* No. 6.

Chinese resident of Hong Kong, which had been seized on the 25th of Augus

last by the Chinese police. I await your Excellency's further orders as to how

they are to be disposed of. As soon as I can obtain from the owners a state

ment of the tackle and appurtenances taken from the lorchas, which had been

completely dismantled, I will communicate the same to your Excellency.

I duly acquainted the Chinese Imperial Commissioner with the resumption

of the above-mentioned lorchas, and the reasons for the proceeding.

I have, &c.c

(Signed ) M. C. MORRISON .

Inclosure 2 in No. 8 .

Sir J. Bowring to Commissioner Yeh.

Sir, Hong Kong , November 21 , 1855.

MR . CONSUL ALCOCK has forwarded me copies of his correspondence

with your Excellency regarding the seizure and detention by the Canton

Customs of certain British lorchas alleged to have been engaged in salt

smuggling

It is provided by Article XII of the Supplementary Treaty that, if any

British vessel be detected smuggling, the Chinese authorities shall be at liberty

to “ seize and confiscate all goods, wbatever their nature or value, that may

have been so smuggled ; and may also prohibit the ship from trading further,

and may send her away, as soon as her accounts are adjusted and paid.”

Such being the course prescribed by Treaty, the Canton Customs, in

seizing and dismantling the lorchas in question , exceeded their authority, and

committed a breach of Treaty.

The Consul applied to your Excellency, and was told that the vessels were

pseudo lorchas owned by Chinese, and that British subjects were in no way

concerned. Your Excellency seems not to be aware that Hong Kong being a

British possession, all persons, English , Chinese, or other there'residing, may

procure registers for boats owned by them , on complying with Colonial

Ordinance No. 4 of 1855 , of which I inclose a translation . The most important

of its conditions, as your Excellency will see, is the giving of a bond by which

the owner and two sureties bind themselves, under a penal sum of 1,000 dollars ,

to comply with all the provisions of the Ordinance affecting registered vessels,

and with all laws binding on British subjects with regard to trade in China.

The allegation of smuggling having been made within the port, the smuggled

cargo alone was seizable. Over the vessels the British Consul alone had juris

diction; and his appeal to your Excellency was made, no less with a view to the

due punishment of the parties offending, than in consideration of those interests

which it is his duty as Consul to protect.

I have applied to our naval authorities to recover the vessels unlawfully

detained by the Canton Customs. They have retaken them , and I shall now

proceed to punish the guilty parties for their breach of the Ordinance.

I trust that your Excellency will instruct your subordinates to be more

cautious in examining the papers of vessels they may have occasion to board .

Vessels bearing the British flag, and in any way offending against Chinese law

within the five ports, must be complained of to the Consuls. Those found to

be carrying it out without authority are liable to serious penalties ; but where

they are entitled to fly it, the British Navy is instructed to resent unauthorized

interference with it as an act of piracy.

Your Excellency will understand that I am simply maintaining the integrity

of British jurisdiction. I have no sympathy with the smuggler ; and of this,

the support I have given to the system which ensures the full payment of all

dutiesat Shanghai should be sufficient evidence. I await but your Excellency's

cooperation to introduce the system at all the ports to which we have access.

I have, &c .

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

No. 9 .

The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Foreign Office, March 22 , 1856.

I HAVE received your despatch of the 22nd of November last, reporting

the steps which you took in consequence of the refusal of the Chinese authorities

at Canton to surrender, when required to do so by Her Majesty's Consul,

two lorchas bearing the British flag, and which had been seized by them on a

charge of being engaged in smuggling salt ; and I have to state to you that

having consulted the Law Officers of the Crown, Her Majesty's Government are

of opinion that you acted properly in calling in the aid of the naval authorities

and in rescuing the vessels soimproperly detained .

I am , & c.

(Signed ) CLARENDON .

No. 10 .

Governor Sir J. Bowring to Mr. Labouchere.

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong , June 5, 1856.

I HAVE the honour to forward authenticated copy of Ordinance No. 9

of 1856 , entitled an “ Ordinance to explain certain enactments relating to

Shipping.”

The first clause is inserted in accordance with instructions conveyed in

your despatch of 12th December, 1855 .

The second is intended to apply to the Colonial Registry Ordinance,

No. 4 of 1855, the privilege secured to the Registrar of Shipping by clause 107

of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1851. By this the attendance of the Registrar

(here the Colonial Secretary ) before a court of justice was rendered unnecessary

in the case of an Imperial register, and it is not only reasonable, but advisable,

to provide a like exemption in the case of a Colonial register.

Clause 3 meetsthe case of a Chinese passenger-ship, representing herself

as about to clear for Macao, a voyage under seven days' duration, and there

fore not coming under the Chinese Passengers Act, while in reality she is about

to make a nominal voyage thither, and proceed elsewhere with her coolies or

emigrants.

This clause of course can only affect British ships wherever going, and

foreign ships bound to a British colony.

The last clause renders the Ordinance inoperative until the sanction of Her

Majesty's Government shall have been received.

I beg therefore to hope that this Ordinance, No. 9 of 1856, may meet your

approval, and that you may be enabled to lay it before Her Most Gracious

Majesty for confirmation .

I have, &c.

( Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure in No. 10 .

Ordinance.

HONG KONG .

ANNO DECIMO NONO VICTORIA REGINÆ.

No. 9 of 1856 .

By his Excellency Sir John Bowring, Knight, LL.D. , Governor and Com

mander-in -Chief of the Colony ofHong Kong and its Dependencies, and

Vice-Admiral of the same,Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary and Chief Super

intendent of the Trade of British Subjects in China, with the advice of the

Legislative Council of Hong Kong.

An Ordinance to explain certain Enactments relating to Shipping.

[May 29 , 1856.]

WHEREAS by “ The Merchant Shipping Act, 1854,” and “ The Chinese Preamble. Recites

Passengers Act, 1855," the power to amend the said Acts in their application “ The Merchant

to this Colony is, under certain conditions, reserved to this Legislature, and it Shipping

,” Act,

“

is desirable to exercisethe aforesaidpower inmanner hereinafter appearing:Be Chin

1954.eseapdo

PassenThe

gers'

it enacted and ordained by his Excellency the Governor of Hong Kong , with Act, 1855. "

the advice of the Legislative Council thereof, as follows :

1. The British flag may be lawfully used by any Chinese resident within Chinese residents

the meaning of Ordinance No. 4 of 1855, on board of any ship or vessel regis. may use the British

tered in this Colony in the name of the said resident under the Ordinance regis

flag intered

Colonially

vessels.

aforesaid .

II . Every register, certificate, endorsement, declaration , or bond authorized Colonial registers,

or required by the said Ordinance , may be proved in any Court of Justice , or &c. , may be proved

before any person having bylaw or by consent of parties authority to receive by production of

originals or copies.

evidence, either by the production of the original, or by an examined copy

thereof, or by a copy thereof purporting to be certified under the hand of the

Colonial Secretary, or other person who for the time being shall happen to

have charge of the original, which certified copy he is hereby required to furnish

to every person applying at a reasonable time for the same, and paying therefor

the sum of 1 dollar for every such certified copy ; and every document, when so

proved as aforesaid, shall be received as prima facie evidence of all the matters

therein recited, stated , or appearing.

III. Any Chinese passenger-ship clearing outor proceeding to sea from any Definition of a

port in this Colony , or in China, or within 100 miles of the coast thereof, on voyage ofmorethan

any voyage or voyages to any other port or ports, for the purpose of commencing seven days' dura

at or from any such port or ports as last aforesaid , a voyage of more than seven tion.

days' duration, shall be deemed to have cleared out or proceeded to sea upon

the said last-mentioned voyage, from the said first -mentioned port, within the

meaning of the “ Chinese Passengers Act, 1855.”

IV . This Ordinance shall not come into operation until Her Majesty's Ordinance not to

confirmation thereof shall have been proclaimed in this Colony by his Excel. come into operation

lency the Governor. until confirmed and

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING . proclaimed.

Passed the Legislative Council of Hong Kong, this 29th day of May, 1856 .

(Signed) L. D'ALMADA E Castro ,

Clerk of Councils.

CHINA.

Registration

CorresPONDENCE of

respecting

the

Colonial

Vessels

Hong

at.

Kong

Comby

Parliament

Houses

both

Presentedto

1857

Majesty

Her

of.

mand

LONDON:

CORRESPONDENCE

RESPECTING

INSULTS IN CHINA.

Presented to the Houseof Lords by Command of Her Majesty, inpursuance of

their Address of February 12, 1857.

LONDON

PRINTED BY HARRISON AND SONS.

CORRESPONDENCE

RESPECTING

Ι Ν CHINA..

INSULTS IN

Presented to the House of Lords by Command of Her Majesty, in pursuance of

their Address of February 12 , 1857 .

LONDON :

PRINTED BY HARRISON AND SONS.

998.227P

LLEGE

AR D CO

HARV

UCI 9 1919

L13RARY

HP. Moral

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auto ay

LIST OF PAPERS .

No. Page

1. Sir H. Pottinger to the Earl of Aberdeen December 20, 1842 1

Nine Inclosures .

2. Sir H. Pottinger to the Earl of Aberdeen December 23, 10

Two Inclosures.

3. The Earl of Aberdeen to Sir H. Pottinger Avril 4, 1843 12

4. Sir H. Pottinger to the Earl of Aberdeen February 5, 1844 13

One Inclosure.

5. Mr. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen January 10, 1845 14

Four Inclosures.

6. Mr. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen ..

January 16, 18

One Inclosure.

7. Mr. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen April 4,

Five Inclosures.

8. The Earl of Aberdeen to Sir J. Davis August 8, 23

9. Mr. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen April 24 , 23

Four Inclosures.

10. The Earl of Aberdeen to Sir J. Davis September 23, 27

ll . Mr. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen August 23, 28

Four Inclosures.

12. Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen .. October 27 , 34

One Inclosure .

13. The Earl of Aberdeen to Sir J. Davis November 24, 36

14. The Earl of Aberdeen to Sir J. Davis January 24, 1846 36

:::

15. Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen February 24, 37

Five Inclosures.

16. Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen February 25, 41

Two Inclosures .

17. The Earl of Aberdeen to Sir J. Davis April 24 , 43

23 , 43

18. Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen April

Two Inclosures.

19. Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen May 8, 47

Two Inclosures.

20. Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis .. August 1, 51

21. Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen June 17, 51

22. Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen June 22,

Six Inclosures.

23. Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis September 12, 59

24. Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen .. 59

July 1,

Two Inclosures .

15 ,

25. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston October 62

One Inclosure .

26. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston 30 , 1847 63

April

Three Inclosures.

27. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston .. May 8, 64

One Inclosure.

: ..

28. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston 22, 65

May

Four Inclosures.

23 , 68

29. Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis .. July

30. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston May 31 ,

Four Inclosures.

31. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston June 14, 70

Two Inclosures.

32. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston

July 1,

Two Inclosures .

33. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston .. June 14, 73

One Inclosure.

29 ,

34. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston June 74

Three Inclosures.

35. Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis October 12, 76

36. Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis October 12, 76

37. Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis October 12, 77

38. Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis October 12, 77

39. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston August 20 , 77

Six Inclosures.

iv LIST OF PAPERS .

No. Page

40. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston August 28, 1847 81

Three Inclosures.

41. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston September 10, .

Three Inclosures.

42. Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis November 23 , 85

43. Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham .. .

January 3 , 1849 85

44. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston .. February 6, 86

One Inclosure .

45. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston

February 29 , 87

One Inclosure .

46. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston March 4, - 88

Two Inclosures.

47. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston March 13, 89

One Inclosure .

: ..

48. Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston March 18, 90

Two Inclosures.

49. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .. March

25, 92

| |

Twenty -eight Inclosures.

50. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston ,, March 29, 122

Two Inclosures.

51. Viscount l'almerston to Mr. Bonham .. May 29 , 123

52. Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham May 29 , 124

53. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston April 10, 124

Four Inclosures.

54. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston April 12 , 126

Twenty -six Inclosures.

55. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .. April 12 , 179

One Inclosure,

56. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .. April 24 , 151

Eight Inclosures.

57. Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham .. July 1, 168

58. Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham July 5, 169

59. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston April 28 , 170

One Inclosure.

60. Mr. Bonhamn to Viscount Palmerston . May 4, 171

One Inclosure .

61. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston May 6, 172

One Inclosure.

62. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston Vay 11 , 175

Two Inclosures.

63. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston June 10 , 178

Three Inclosures.

64. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .. July 26 , 179

One Inclosure .

65. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston July 31 , 181

Three Inclosures.

66. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .. July 31 , 183

One Inclosure.

67. Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham August 7, 185

68. Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham September 19, 185

69. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston November 2, 185

Three Inclosures.

70. Mr. Bonham to Mr. Hammond November 30, 189

71. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston December 29 , 189

72. Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham February 17, 1819 190

73. Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham March 5, 190

74. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston January 24, 190

Three Inclosures.

75. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston February 3, 194

One Inclosure.

76. Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham May 12, 195

77. Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston . March 5, 195

78. Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham June 1, 197

79. Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham October 23 , 1851 197

80. Sir S. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston December 24 , 1849 197

One Inclosure.

81. Dr. Bowring to the Earl of Malmesbury May 17 , 1852 198 .

Two Inclosures.

82. The Earl of Malmesbury to Dr. Bowring July 21 , 200

83. Dr. Bowring to the Earl of Malmesbury October 25 , 201

One Inclosure.

84. Dr. Bowring to the Earl of Malmesbury November 13, 202

Two Inclosures .

85. Lord J. Russell to Sir S. Bonham January 20, 1853 207

86. Acting Consul Elmslie to Mr. Hammond June 19, 1854 208

Two Inclosures .

87. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon July 6, 211

88. The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring September 25 , 212

89. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon July 3, 1856 212

Four Inclosures .

LIST OF PAPERS . V

No. Page

90. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon July 8, 1856 214

Three Inclosures.

91. The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring September 8 , 216

92. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon :: i July 17, 217

Three Inclosures .

19 ,

93. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon July 219

One Inclosure.

94. The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring September 25 , 220

95. The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring .. September 29, — 221

One Inclosure.

96. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon September 3, 221

Five Inclosures .

97. The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring November 1 , 224

98. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon . October 8, 224

Five Inclosures.

December

99. The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring : 8, 228

Cases referred to in the following Papers .

Page

1. Disturbances at Canton , and burning of factories 1

2. Chinese boy accidentally wounded at Shanghae 13

3 Persecution of some Chinese in British employ at Amoy 14

4. Assault on Mr. Vice -Consul Jackson , and Messrs . Martin and Staunton, at Canton.

Question of entrance into the city 18

5. Aggressive conduct of Chinese at Foo-chow 28

6. Attack on Mr. Parkes at Foo-chow 33

7. Attack on Captain Giffard and other officers at Whampoa .. 37

8. Disturbance at Foo-chow -foo, and attack on British hongs 43

9. Ill - treatment of a Malay sailor at Canton 65

10. Disorderly conduct of Chinese near the factories 68

11. Stones thrown at an English boat near Canton 70

12. Firing on an English party, by villagers, near Canton 81

13. Murder committed at Woosung by a Manilla man . 86

14. Affray at Whampoa between Americans and Chinese 89

15. Attack on Missionaries at Shanghae 90

16. Attack on Messrs . Bowman and Johnson 168

17. Attack on Mr. Parish at Foo-chon- foo 185

18. Attack on Mr. Meadows by pirates, near Canton 189

19. Execution of French missionary in Cochin China ( subsequently referred to) 197

20. Interference with native teachers in the service of Mr. Walker, missionary at Foo -chow -foo . 199

21. Attack on Messrs. Dent, Oakley, Macgregor, and Anderson, by pirates, in the Canton river 201

22. Cutrage committed on Lieutenant de Lisle, R.N., and Mr. Curling, at Kow-loon 202

23. Outrage on Mr. Seth, at Canton 208

24. Incendiary placard against foreigners, published at Canton 212

25. Attack on Messrs . Johnston and Whittall, at Canton 214

26. Affray at Foo -chow -foo, and death of Mr. Cunningham, a citizen of the United States 217

27. Murder of M. Chapdelaine, a French missionary, in the Province of Kwang-se .. 219

28. Case of Mr. Burns, a missionary 224

Cases referred to in Papers previously presented to Parliament.

Riot at Canton in 1846, and the proceedings against Mr. Compton.

( Presented to Parliament, 1847 )

Assaults on two British seamen , p. 1 .

Assault on Lieutenant-Colonel Chesney and others, p. 8.

(Correspondence relating to Operations in Canton river. Presented to Parliament, 1817.)

Murder of six Englishmen in the neighbourhood of Canton, in December 1847.

Cases of Piracy on the boat of English vessel the “Shah Allum ," p. 4.

Outrage near Canton on Messrs. Morrison , Macgregor, and Small, p. 8.

Shot fired from aa fort at Canton on Vice-Consul Elmslie, p. 9.

Stones thrown at Consul Macgregor, Captain Mc Dougall, and others, p. 17 .

(Correspondence respecting Murder of Six Englishmen . Presented to Parliament, 1848. )

Serious riot at Amoy, 32.

( Correspondence respecting Emigration. Presented to Parliament, 1853.)

Return to an Address of the House of Lords, dated February 12, 1857 ;

for

“ Copies or Extracts of any Reports made to Her Majesty's Government of

Insults offered by British Residents at Canton to Natives of that place,

since the conclusion of the Treaty of Peace between this Country and China

in 1842 ; also of any Reports of Insults offered by Chinese to Foreigners .”

No. 1 .

Sir Henry Pottinger to the Earl of Aberdeen .— (Received March 13.)

(Extract.) Macao, December 20, 1842 .

HAVING arranged with Rear Admiral Sir Thomas Cochrane, that Her

Majesty's steam -frigate “ Vixen," is to reach Bombay in time for the overland mail

of the 1st of February next,I avail myself of the opportunity to make your Lordship

acquainted with the particulars, so far as I have had time and means to investigate

them , of a recent disturbance at Canton, during which considerable damage was

done ; three of the factories (including that one called the English factory) burned,

and the lives and property of many of Her Majesty's subjects, and apparently of

other foreigners, placed for a time in considerable jeopardy.

The first intelligence which reached me at Ilong Kong of these excesses, was

on the 10th instant, by an express boat conveying a variety of private notes which

a friend at this place had received from different persons interested in the matter,

and which he was so good as to forward for my satisfaction. From those notes it

appeared that there had been a violent popular outbreak, which was stated (by

some) to have had its origin in an affray between certain lascars ( Indian sailors)

and lower classes of Chinese, and which had been allowed to go on the whole day.

It further appeared that the Chinese mob, after having been driven back during the

day, assembled in greater force, and at 10 P.M. on the 7th, set fire to three buildings

(the Creek, Dutch, and English factories), in one of which the lascars had been

allowed to take refuge, and that aa marked feeling of animosity towards the English

had been evinced by the rioters. The whole of these notes, however, agreed in

saying that quiet had been restored, although some of the writers stated that a good

deal of excitement continued, and expressed apprehension of a renewal of the

outrages .

I now submit, for your Lordship’s notice, copies of the following documents :

Of aa letter to the Governor-General of Canton , dated 13th instant.

Of a letter, dated 13th instant, to my address, from Lieutenant-General

Sir Hugh Gough.

Of a letter addressed , on the 13th, by Sir Hugh Gough to Her Majesty's

Principal Secretary of State for the War Department, forming Inclosure

to No. 1 .

Of a letter addressed to me by certain British merchants, dated at Canton

on the 13th instant.

Of a letter addressed by the same merchants to Lieutenant-General Sir

Hugh Gough on the 12th instant.

Of the reply made by Sir Hugh Gough to the said merchants, under date

the 13th instant .

Of my reply to the merchants, dated the 16th instant.

Of my reply to Lieutenant-General Sir Hugh Gough, dated the 17th instant.

Of the answer to my letter from his Excellency the Viceroy.

Exclusive of the fact of nearly 200 lascars having gone to Canton without any

apparent control, I have learned that there were several European or American females

there ; that some of them had walked about the outskirts of the city, and had even

crossed the river to Honan , -an exposure which is at total variance with ideas of

decorum and propriety amongst the better orders of Chinese, and which, I have

heard, subjected them to the hootings and insulting indecencies of the rabble. I have

also been told that different persons had publicly talked of selecting spots for their

future country residences in the neighbourhood of Canton ,and had avowedly crossed

the river to Honan for that purpose, which are all indiscretions calculated to give

offence and cause ill -will.

Inclosure 1 in No. 1 .

Sir Henry Pottinger to the Governor -General of Canton .

Hong Kong, December 13, 1842.

SIR Henry Pottinger, Baronet, Her Britannic Majesty's Plenipotentiary, has

the honour to inform his Excellency the Governor-General of Kwang-tung and

Kwangse, that he reached Hong Kong, after visiting the several provinces along the

coast, on the 2nd instant.

It was the Plenipotentiary's purpose quietly to await here the arrival of the

High Commissioner Elepoo, and then to proceed to Canton, where he anticipated

the pleasure of a personal meeting with the Governor -General.

But on the 8th instant, while thus waiting here, he learned, with a degree of

surprise and regret which will hardly permit nim to remain quiet, that several

thousands of lawless people had, on the preceding day, collected about the foreign

factories at Canton, and proceeded to plunder and set fire to the foreign residences,

and that the local authorities were unable to suppress and disperse them , or to save

the factories from being burned .

Having regard to the Peace lately concluded between the two countries, the

Plenipotentiary feels that for him to adopt any military steps for the due punish

ment of these rioters would be neither calculated to sustain the pacific relations

thus established nor consistent with the respect due to the authority of the Emperor

of China. And, therefore, while he has had troops in readiness for the defence of

the mercantile community he yet sees it right first to communicate with the

Governor-General, in the hope that his Excellency will seize and severely punish the

offenders, that such misconduct may be nipped in the bud. Should the Governor

General not have force adequate to this object, the Plenipotentiary will immediately,

on the expression of such a wish by his Excellency, send troops to his assistance ;

but, otherwise it will be needless for him to do so.

The losses, however, suffered by merchants from the plunder of the mob are

considerable ; and the Plenipotentiary imagines that the understanding and sense of

justice of the Governor-General will lead his Excellency to give commands for their

full remuneration .

Further, the Plenipotentiary, when at Amoy, having learned the melancholy

intelligence that the authorities in Formosa had cruelly massacred the British

people cast on their shores, deemed it right to issue distinct proclamations on the

subject, and to address a communication to the High Commissioner Elepoo, with the

hope that due retribution might be inflicted . His communication to the High

Commissioner is now forwarded to the Governor-General , with the request that it

may be duly transmitted ; and the Plenipotentiary has at the same time the honour

to forward for his Excellency's perusal copies of the two proclamations.

(Signed) HENRY POTTINGER .

Inclosure 2 in No. 1 .

Lieutenant -General Sir Hugh Gough to Sir Henry Pottinger.

( Extract.) Canton, December 13, 1842.

I HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Excellency's information , copy of my

letter of this date to Her Majesty's Principal Secretary of State for the War

Department, acquainting his Lordship with some of the circumstances of the riot of

the 7th instant, as stated to me by gentlemen who were present.

Inclosure 3 in No. 1 .

Lieutenant -General Sir Hugh Gough to Lord Stanley.

(Extract.) Canton, December 13, 1842.

I HAVE the honour to acquaint your Lordship, that having given my final

orders at Hong Kong regarding the force to return to India, I went over to Macao,

pending their fulfilment, and was proceeding thence in the steamer “ Proserpine” to

Canton, with a view to seeing, before leaving China, the new forts that have been

erected on the banks of the river above Whampoa, when, upon our reaching that

place on the night of the 8th instant, several boats pushed off from the ships at the

anchorage with the news of the tumult of the preceding day.

I immediately wrote to Sir Henry Pottinger, ordering at the same time a body

of troops to be held in readiness to move on his Excellency’s requisition ; and

having dispatched my letters by a fast boat, determined to proceed at once to

Canton, as I was informed that great excitement prevailed, and renewed outrage

was to be apprehended. We were obliged to anchor within a mile of the city,

about 3 o'clock on the morning of the 9th, on account of the darkness of the night,

and the vast crowd of boats in the river ; but weighing again at daylight, soon

reached the factories. The mob had by this time retired, and all was quiet ; but I

am sorry to say that we found the whole range of factories east of Hog lane one

mass of ruins.

It appears, from the best information I could collect from the different

merchants who were present, that the riot commenced on the morning of the 7th, in

a trifling dispute between a party of lascars, who, to the number of 170, had come

up on liberty from the ships at Whampoa, and some Chinese fruit-venders, in which

one of the latter was wounded. A tumult arose, two of the lascars were killed, and

others conveyed away, and the mob soon got the upper hand, drove off the Chinese

soldiers who had arrived on the application of the merchants to the local authorities,

entered the factories, plundered the treasuries, and, carrying out furniture, placed it

round the British flag -staff, which was opposite to the old Company's factory, and

set fire to it. Fire was also carried into this building, which was under repair by

the Chinese Government for the reception of the British Plenipotentiary at the

approaching Conferences, for carrying out the details of the Treaty ; and the flames

soon broke out in all directions. The wind being from the west, the factories west

of Hog lane escaped the fire, and they also escaped from plunder, as the mob,

satisfied with the outrage achieved, retired on the renewed appearance of the

Chinese troops.

It is stated that this mob was composed of people of the lowest order, belong

ing not so much to the city as to the neighbourhood, that many were armed with

short swords, and that, although the dispute with the lascars was the immediate

occasion of the outbreak, the rioters wereevidently acting upon a preconcerted plan

under the instigation of influential persons, and were headed by individuals who,

from their dress, appeared to be of the better order.

Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary will have ampler means of ascertaining the

facts ; and the subject belongs more to him than to me, but being upon the spot, I

think it right to observe, that although the Government may have been in the first

instance wanting in activity and decision, it does not seem to be borne out that the

Mandarins connived at the riot. I found, upon my arrival, a guard of Chinese

soldiers under their own officers over the factories ; and this guard, which was soon

afterwards increased to about 500 men, has been since continued, is visited dailyThe

officer of rank, and conduc ts itself in the most quiet and orderl y manne r.

events of the last few days, however , bave confirmed the opinion which I adduced as

a ground for leaving an imposing force in China, that there is an influential body at

this place opposed, froin self-interest, to the stipulations of the Treaty .

The arrival of the steamer on the morning of the 9th, being supposed to be

consequent upon intelligence of the riot, occasioned much sensation, and the Hong

merchants soon after waited upon me. I explained to them, that I had not come

in an official capacity, but had sent a despatch to the British Plenipotentiary, who

would, I had no doubt, take immediate measures for demanding reparation, and

for future security. I recommended to them to use their influence with the

Government and the people to maintain tranquillity, and observed, that the steamer

would, if required, afford protection to the factories. The Quang-heep, a Mandarin

of high rank, called afterwards, but as I considered it inexpedient that I should

meet any Government officer of less rank than the Viceroy, I deputed Lieutenant

Colonel Mountain to receive him, with directions to repeat what I had said to the

Hong merchants. The Quang-heep stated in reply, that the Government was

exceedingly sorry for the outrage that had been committed, and was prepared to

give full consideration to the subject of reparation ; and he concluded with a request

that the steamer might be sent down to Whampoa. He grounded this request upon

the excitement of the populace, observing, that since the news of the Peace the

Government bad discharged its stoutest soldiers and was unable to control the mob ;

but he gave up the point on being told, that it was out of the question pending the

receipt of an answer from Hong Kong to the letters already dispatched .

Since the 9th, alarming rumours have been afloat of excitement amid the

populace, and collections of armed men in the neighbourhood.

Inclosure 4 in No. I.

British Merchants at Canton to Sir Henry Pottinger.

Sir,

WE take the liberty of waiting on your Excellency with the annexed copy of a

letter which we yesterday addressed to Sir Hugh Gough, together with a copy of his

reply, by which you will perceive that he has consented, in consequence of the recent

attack on the foreign factories,, to allow the steamer “ Proserpine ” to remain off

Canton for the present, for the protection of the British community.

It is unnecessary to trouble your Excellency with the statements, in detail , of

the parties who were eye -witnesses of the riot, or the inquiries which were sub

sequently made, but the result may be stated in a few words :

1. That there appears no doubt of the fact that the attack on the foreign

factories had been determined on for some time previously to its occurrence, and

that the parties employed in it were regularly organized.

2. That although an affray between some Lascars and Chinese was the

ostensible cause of its commencement at that particular time, the attack would have

taken place, sooner or later, had no such circumstance occurred.

3. That the local authorities were unable or unwilling to afford efficient

protection in time to prevent a considerable sacrifice of life and property, and the

causes which occasioned such a result are liable at any moment to recur.

4. That there is spirit of hostility to the English very general among certain

orders in Canton, and that the common people are guided and influenced by parties

who have means and ability of giving effect to their operations in a more systematic

manner, tban could be expected from an ordinary mob.

As no machinery exists at present for carrying on the trade, except by actual

residence in Canton, and, as it is unlikely any change can be made in time for

the management of the present season's business, we consider it of the utmost

importance that the British community should be enabled continue for the present

to reside in their factories, as their withdrawal would, in the existing state of affairs,

necessarily throw the business into the hands of the Americans and others, who,

from their political position and other cause, are not likely to suffer from the

hostility of the Chinese .

The recent occurrences having shown that life and property are insecure under

the protection of the local Government, we beg leave respectfullyto submit to your

Excellency our conviction that the British community cannot with safety remain in

Canton, unless protection be afforded on the spot by our own Government

authorities, and we venture, therefore, to hope chat your Excellency will take into

consideration their urgent request, that their Excellencies the naval and military

Commanders-in -chief may be moved to place such a force for their defence in

Canton as may seem expedient.

Canton, December 13, 1842.

We have, & c.

(Signed) Dent and Co. J. A. Hulbert.

Turner and Co. Framjee Jamsetjee.

Gibb, Livingston, and Co. Pestonjee Cowasjee.

Charles Compton. Hormajee Framjee.

Wm . Fryer . Pestonjee, Merwajee, & Co.

ppro. Bell and Co., J. Mackrill Smith . Jummoojee Nasservanjee.

E. A. Staple . Ruttunjee Framjee.

D. Potter. Burjoorjee Sorabjee.

W. C. Le Geyt.

Inclosure 5 in No. 1 .

British Merchants at Canton to Lieutenant-General Sir Hugh Gough.

Sir,

THE undersigned, British merchants in Canton, having met to deliberate on

their present position, beg leave respectfully to submit, that inquiry of the Chinese

leads them to believe that the recent attack on the foreign factories was the result

of a pre-arranged determination of the mob, assisted and influenced, it is supposed,

by parties averse to apprehended foreign innovation ; and as the local authorities

were avowedly unable for a considerable time to quell the disturbance and did not

in fact succeed in doing so until after a considerable loss of life and property, we

are forced to the conclusion that the British community cannot be considered safe

in their houses in Canton, without efficient protection from their own Government

on the spot .

Although the local authorities have placed a considerable number of soldiers to

guard the factories, we do not consider that they can be depended upon in case of

another rising of the people; and others represent considerable bodies of men to be

still assembled in the city and neighbourhood of Canton, from whom another attack

may at any moment take place.

Under these circumstances, we beg leave respectfully to solicit your Excellency

to allow the steamer “ Proserpine ” to remain in front of the factories, should such

an arrangement be possible, at any rate until some communication may be received

from Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary, affording information to the British merchants

of his intentions for their future security.

Canton, December 12, 1842.

We have, &c.

(Signed ) Dent and Co. Dirom and Co., p. W. Potter.

Turner and Co. Bell and Co. ,, p. J. M. Smith.

Gibb, Livingston, and Co. C. S. Compton .

Lindsay and Co. , p. Wm. Fryer . Henry Gribble .

Fox, Rawson, and Co., p. E. A. Staple .

Inclosure 6 iu No. 1 .

Lieutenant-General Sir Hugh Gough to British Merchants at Canton.

Gentlemen , Canton, December 13, 1842.

IN reply to your letter received last night, I beg to assure you that I sensibly

feel the critical situation in which you stand .

It is from reluctance to leave you in uncertainty that, although anxious to

return to the head-quarters of the force, I have remained here five days, and am still

waiting in hourly expectation of an answer to the communication which I despatched

to Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary on the 8th instant.

I will accede to your request in regard to leaving the steamer where she is, and

I would decide to remain myself in any event, but I do not apprehend any

immediate further outbreak, and feel that I can be individually of little use here.

Whereas my presence is required with the force. It would be a great satisfaction

to me to hear from Sir Henry Pottinger before I leave you, and I shall delay my

departure as long as possible with that view.

I received through the Quang-heep, on the 9th instant, an assurance that the

Chinese Government is very desirous to maintain tranquillity, and though their

power may be doubtful, I believe the assurance to be sincere. I will take this

occasion to recommend you to be upon your guard, and carefully to forbear from all

that may tend to collision with the populace, pending the result of the measures

upon which the Plenipotentiary, with whom the decision rests, may determine.

I have, &c.

(Signed) H. GOUGH.

Inclosure 7 in No. 1 .

Sir Henry Pottinger to British Merchants at Canton .

Gentlemen, Hong Kong, December 16, 1842 .

I HAVE this day received your letter of the 13th instant, including copies of

one which you had addressed to Lieutenant-General Sir Hugh Gough, and of his

Excellency's reply on the subject of the late disturbances at Canton.

I observe that you assume,

1st. That the disturbance originated in a preconcerted plan ; 2nd, that it would

have taken place sooner or later without the immediately exciting cause of an

affray between certain lascars and the Chinese ; 3rd, that the local authorities were

either unable or unwilling to afford the necessary protection ; and 4th , that there

is a spirit of hostility towards the English amongst certain classes in Canton, who

guide and influence the rabble in their operations.

You proceed to observe that it is not possible to carry on your commercial

pursuits at Canton except by actual residence. You add that your withdrawal

would throw the trade into the hands of Americans and others, who are not likely

to suffer from the hostile feelings of the Chinese ; and you conclude by requesting

that I will move the naval and military commanders-in - chief to place such a force

for your defence and protection in Canton as may seem expedient,

I propose to have the honour of replying to the various points of your letter

in the order in which you have arranged them ; and, in doing so, I hope and believe

that it is not necessary for me to assure you of the unfeigned solicitude which I feel

to promote your interests and welfare, as well as to provide for your comfort and

safety, by every means in my power consistent with the views which my judgment

has led me to form, after the deepest and most anxious reflection on the questions

which those points involve in connexion with the momentous trust which has been

confided by Her Majesty's Government to my guidance .

With respect to the first point. I am obliged to distinctly avow, that no single

fact has come to my knowledge that authorizes me to concur in the opinion you have

expressed on it. On the contrary, the accounts that have reached me show that

a large body of lascars (Sir Hugh Gough states no less than 170) had been allowed

to go up to Canton on leave from the ship “ Fort William ” (and other vessels),

without any apparent control, or any person to look after them ; that they had been

fighting " the whole day” with the Chinese, whom they drove back and kept in

check until towards the evening, when the Chinese assembled in large bodies, and

overpowered the lascars, who were, in their turn , driven back, and allowed to take

refuge in one ofthe hongs that was subsequently burned ; and that only then the

attack on the buildings commenced.

I cannot convey to you my sentiments on this ( first) point more clearly and

simply than by here quoting a portion of a private letter which I wrote on the 13th

instant to Lieutenant-General Sir Hugh Gough, in in answer to one which I had had

from his Excellency on the 11th : - “ I hope the riots at Canton are over, and that

our merchants there will profit by their experience. It seems quite clear that the

crew of the “ Fort William ” and other ships were the originators of the disturbance ;

and, before I make any demand for repayment of the losses from the local Govern

ment, I must be satisfied that some attempt was made to control the lascars. I hold

that not even a boat's crew should be allowed to land without a responsible officer

or person with them ; and if merchants will not enforce some regularity and order

in their ships, they must take the consequences."

The second point is in a great measure disposed of by the preceding remarks ;

and I shall also have occasion to advert to its tenor in considering the fourth one.

I shall, therefore, only here say, that, viewed abstractedly, it is based on mere

surmise, which is by no means admissible in discussions like the present, and in

which all statements adduced ought, I conceive, to be strictly limited to matter that

is susceptible of clear proof.

I think that the insinuated unwillingness (referred to in the third point) of the

local authorities to afford protection is, in no degree, borne out by any of the details

that have reached me up to this moment ; and it not only appears to me to be

disproved by what those authorities have since done with the object of affording

protection, but is likewise at total rariance with the information and opinions that

I have obtained from many different quarters as to the anxiety which both the

provincial officers and the Hong merchants had displayed up to the day in which

the disturbance took place, to avert, as far as they could, the injury to the local

trade and prosperity of Canton , which the late Treaty is calculated to inflict ; and

which anxiety they evinced by a variety of conciliatory arrangements and conces

sions which are too well known to call for particularization in this letter.

As to the alleged inability of the local authorities to afford protection , that

I can only, as at present informed, contemplate in the light of a conjecture. We all

know what an unmanageable thing an exasperated mob is in every part of the

world. Many instances of this truism could be adduced, within all our recollections,

in England and other of the most civilized nations of Europe ; and, before I subscribe

to the correctness of this allegation , I must learn that proper and timely application

was made to the local officer, which, I regret to add, I have strong reasons for

believing was not the case. It may, however, be true that the Chinese authorities

had not the power immediately at hand to restore order when the riot became

serious ; and it may even be hereafter unhappily verified , that they do not possess

the means of preserving the peace for the future ; but, with respect to the first of

these suppositions, it is just and proper, in looking at it, to inquire why our lascars

-one of whom , I am informed, began the riot by stabbing a Chinese were not

restrained by those whose business it was to look after them ; and, as regards the

second supposition, if we admit that it is possible, and investigate the cause, we are

obliged to revert to occurrences which took place before I came to China.

None of you, Gentleman, will suppose me capable for a moment of palliating

the base and barefaced perfidy of the officers of the provincial government in the

progress of events which terminated in the city of Canton being left at the mercy of

Her Majesty's arms in May, 1841 ; but I believe I am quite justified in saying that, up

to that time, there was no general popular feelings of ill-will or antipathy towards the

British nation on the side of the people. It is true that we had, from the earliest

period of our intercourse with this empire, submitted (with a very few memorable

exceptions) to constant contumely and indignity from the Chinese Government

officers; but, so far as the mass of the population were concerned, they were, I have

understood, as civil and as well disposed as I have invariably found them in all

parts of the empire which I have had occasion to visit since the peace was concluded.

It thence follows that the change which at that time came over the people, and

which has gradually led to their present state of exasperation and excitement, must

have been brought about by ourselves, —that is, partly by mismanagement, and

partly by ill-treatment; and I believe both these causes to have had a share in

bringing matters to their present crisis.

The fourth point is so mixed up with those that precede it, that, in examining

it, I might repeat many of my foregoing observations ; but I will spare you the

repetition, and will content myself by asking you collectively and individually,

whether,—with your admitted knowledge of the hostile feeling of certain classes at

Canton, coupled with the influence which you declare you believe those classes to be

able to exercise over the people, and also bearing in mind your recorded belief that,

sooner or later, an outbreak would take place,—you, to whom this letter is particu

larly addressed, as well as all other foreigners, whether subjects of England or not,

can stand forward and conscientiously assert that you have studied the complexion

of the times; that you have in any single iota or circumstance striven to aid me in

iny arrangements as the humble but zealous instrument of the Government whose

protection has been extended to you in an unparalleled degree, and which, I may

add, you are always ready to claim and expect, by endeavouring to dissipate and

soothe the very excitement and irritation of which you so loudly complain ? I may

even ask whether you have not thrown serious difficulties and obstacles, if not

positive risk, in the way of the very arrangements and measures which you so

earnestly desire to see perfected, and which, next to the assertion of Her Majesty's

dignity and honour, have been the leading object of my public actions for the last

eighteen months ? It is needless to occupy your time and swell this letter by

detailing circumstances; but I presume that you will now be ready to allow that it

would have been better had you gone on, as in past times, quietly and unobtrusively

with your mercantile pursuits, until it was announced to you that the provisions of

the recent Treaty were to be considered in full force. Even in the most civilized

parts of the globe such a course would have been equally advisable and expedient;

and how much more so dlo they appear with a jealous, arrogant, and unapproachable

government like that of China, which we bare for ages allowed, and almost

encouraged, to revile and treat us as human beings of a lower grade.

I have now arrived at the consideration of your present position and future

prospects and wishes, as set forth in your letter ; and, with respect to the advantages,

if not necessity, of actual residence at Canton, as well as the probable consequences

that would attend on your being forced to withdraw from that place, I need only

remark that I am fully apprised of those facts, and that I should, and shall very

truly, regret the loss and inconveniences to which you would be exposed by the

latter step becoming indispensable. I trust, however, that it will yet be averted

through the measures which I have in view. But adverting to the closing request of

your communication, I must at once, finally, most explicitly, and candidly, acquaint

you that no conceivable circumstances should induce me to place ller Majesty's

Government in so false and undignified a posture, as I should consider it to be

placed in, were I to send troops and ships-of-war to Canton in opposition to the

request and wishes of the local government, in order that you might carry on your

trade under the protection of such troops and ships -of-war. Such an arrangement,

irrespectively of the conclusive objection to it which I adduce above, would inevitably

lead to further ill-will, heart-burning, and violence, and its only result must be

disappointment, and, in all likelihood, a renewal of hostilities between the Govern

ments of England and China — a calamity which, I feel certain, you will one and

all cordially unite with me in earnestly deprecating.

In conclusion, I have in this letter entered atmore length into an exposition of

my sentiments than may have seemed to you to be called for by the one which you

addressed to me ; but, even before the Canton riots took place, I had imbibed many

of the impressions which I now communicate to you ; and, as a copy of this letter

will be transmitted to Her Majesty's Government, in explanation of the course which

I have decided upon following, I am desirous that the grounds of that decision

should be clearly known to all of you. I had hoped before this time to have had it

in my power to intimate to you the purport of the reply as to late events which

I am expecting from the Viceroy at Canton ; but, owing to circumstances beyond

my control, I am disappointed You shall be made acquainted with it shortly ; and

in the meantime, as it seems to be quite certain that the presence of the small

steamer at Canton is merely a source ofirritation, whilst, in truth, if there be any

danger, she can in no shape ward it off, I have given my ready assent to Rear

Admiral Sir Thomas Cochrane's suggestion, that she should be recalled.

I have, &c.

(Signed) HENRY POTTINGER .

Inclosure 8 in No. 1 .

Sir Henry Pottinger to Lieutenant-General Sir Hugh Gough .

Sir, Hong Kong, December 17, 1842 .

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt yesterday of your Excellency's

letter of the 13th instant, with its enclosed transcript of one to Lord Stanley, and,

at the same time, I had a communication from a number of British merchants at

Canton, giving cover to copies of one which the same gentlemen had addressed to

your Excellency on the 12th instant, and of your reply of the following day.

I have given the whole of these documents my most careful reflection, and have

likewise compared the accounts which they give of the late disturbances at Canton,

with those which have reached me from a variety of quarters. The result is, that

I see no cause whatever for thinking that the Provincial Government had any

participation or connivance with the rioters, but I am sorry to add, that I see

reason for believing that the lascars, who had gone to Canton on leave, were under

no control, and that the absence of it on this occasion, has been the immediately

exciting cause of the outbreak.

I have, in my reply, expressed this opinion to the merchants, and have also

informed those gentlemen that it is quite out of my power to send troops and ships

to Canton for their protection, contrary to the wishes of the Chinese local authorities,

as such a step would only lead to serious collision and possibly to a renewal of

hostilities.

Under these circumstances it does not seem to me to be necessary that I should

ask your Excellency to make any alteration in the number or disposition of the

troops who are to be left at this settlement, and I accordingly request that you will

be pleased to give effect to the present arrangements.

I have, &c.

(Signed) HENRY POTTINGER.

Inclosure 9 in No. 1 .

The Governor - General of Canton to Sir Henry Pottinger.

KE- KUNG, of the Chinese Empire, a Guardian of the Crown Prince, a

President of the Board of War, and Governor -General of Kwangtung and Kwangse ,

makes this communication :

On the 15th instant, the Governor-General received the Honourable Pleni

potentiary's communication, stating that, on the 7th of the month , “ several

thousands of lawless people had collected about the foreign factories at Canton , & c . ”

[The remainder of the Plenipotentiary's letter of the 13th is here quoted ,

entire .]

The Governor-General finds that, on the 7th, at about 4 P.M., he suddenly

beard of the populace at the foreign factories being engaged in contest with

certain black -faced foreigners, when blows were inflicted on either side. The local

authorities, civil and military thereon repaired with speed to the spot, to suppress

the riot, and found that it originated in a dispute about the purchase of fruit.

Having inquired into the matter, they seized some individuals, and the populace

were gradually dispersed.

But, of a sudden , at about 9 P.M., an inner set of apartments in the foreign

factories was seen to be on fire, and burning very furiously ; whereupon the

Governor -General proceeded in person, accompanied by many civil and military

officers of all grades, and attended by fire-engines and hose, to endeavour to

extinguish the fire. But being in the depth of night, and in a confined situation, it

was impossible at once to extinguish it. And the people collected to put out the

fire being very many, lawless ones mingled themselves among them, and took occasion

to rob and plunder. The government troops were therefore ordered to fire on them ,

and to apprehend offenders. High civil and military officers were also deputed (the

death -mandate having been reverently applied for) to repair to the spot, and

suppress the riot. Upwards of ten plunderers were in consequence successively

seized, when the rest of the lawless people fled and dispersed.

Every day since, troops have been on duty, keeping watch day and night, and

all has remained in perfect quiet.

These are the real facts regarding the events of the last few days, seen and

known by all, both the native and foreign, merchant people.

Seeing that it is now the gracious pleasure of the Great Emperor that peace.

and friendly commercial intercourse should subsist between the native and foreign

merchants, the Governor -General, looking with the same regard on one as on the

other, will assuredly not fail to afford the utmost protection in his power. And he.

hopes that the Honourable Plenipotentiary will transmit orders to the Consular:

Officer residing at Canton rigorously to restrain the black -faced foreigners, that they

may not be allowed again to create disturbance, and give rise to such affrays. The

Governor-General, on his part, will also faithfully search after the plunderers, inves

tigate their cases, recover the stolen property, and punish their offences. Each thus

guided by justice, and engaged to repress the bad, quiet freedom from disturbance

will be the natural result. The Honourable Plenipotentiary may set his mind at

perfect rest, and need not send hither any troops.

As regards the money and property plundered from the merchants, the amount

has not yet been clearly ascertained. When, in obedience to liis orders, the Ilong

merchants, in personal conjunction with the merchants of the honourable country,

shall have accurately ascertained the real amounts, the sums shall be sererally

recovered and repaid. The Governor-General being charged with the direction of

the people's affairs, will act with rigid regard to justice ; his desire being that

natives and foreigners shall be united together in sincere good faith, and remain for

ever in quiet — he will not allow that the merchants of the various countries, who

come over such vast seas to trade here, should be involved in loss and embarrass

ment.

The communication sent for the High Commissioner Elepoo, shall be immediately

sent by express, inquiring for his Excellency on the way.

A most necessary communication .

Taoukwang, 22nd year, 11th month, 14th day. ( 15th December, 1842. )

No. 2 .

Sir Henry Pottinger to the Earl of Aberdeen.- (Received March 13 , 1813. )

( Extract.) Macao, December 23, 1812 .

I HAVE received from the merchants a reply to my letter to them of the

16th instant, the original of which I have the honour to transmit to your Lordship,

there not being time for a copy to be taken . I also forward a copy of the

rejoinder which I directed to be given.

Inclosure 1 in No. 2 .

British Merchants at Canton to Sir Henry Pottinger.

Sir,

WE have the honour of acknowledging receipt of your Excellency's letter of

16th instant, and although we are well aware it would be unsuitable for us

unnecessarily to occupy your Excellency's time by further observation on the subject

to which it refers, we trust to be excused for adverting to some points which appear

to call for reply.

Your Excellency is pleased to say that our opinions “ being based on mere

surmise, are not admissible in such discussions as the present ;" but we may be

allowed respectfully to observe, that if the opinions of parties, most of whom were

present in Canton before, during, and after the riot, are deemed unworthy of

attention, we hope they may at any rate not be considered of less value than

reports which have accidentally reached your Excellency at IIong Kong, a place

remote from the scene of action. What ever information your Excellency may

have received leading to a different opinion, we beg respectfully to assure your

Excellency that all evidence which we have since collected,tends only to strengthen

and confirm the views expressed in our former letter.

Even were it admitted, as appears to be assumed by your Excellency, that the

irregular conduct of certain lascars led to the riot, we may venture to observe that

the practice of allowing seamen of all nations to proceed to Canton on liberty, has

been of long standing, and that if, as appears to be the opinion of your Excellency,

such custom was calculated to lead to difficulties, the remedy could not possibly be

considered as resting with the British merchants, who never have had authority to

make regulations for the controlof seamen, nor the power to impose penalties for

the breach of any that it might be deemed expedient to frame.

As your Excellency appears to doubt that timely notice was given to the

authorities of the serious character which the riot had assumed , we shall have the

the honour to forward to your Excellency authenticated statements, showing that

repeated applications were made in vain, through the Hong merchants, for

protection ; and that it is understood the messenger from the Viceroy, who waited

on his Excellency Sir Hugh Gough in Canton, distinctly admitted that such

applications were made, but could not for a considerable time be attended to, in

consequence of aa force not being available.

The most important paragraph of your Excellency's letter remains to be

noticed ; it is the grave charge which your Excellency is pleased to bring against

the English and foreign merchants in the following words, which we extract at

length : “ I will content myselfby asking you, collectively and individually, whether

with your admitted knowledge of the hostile feelngs of certain classes at Canton,

coupled with the influence which you declare you believe those classes to be able to

exercise over the people, and also bearing in mind your recorded belief that sooner

or later an outbreak would take place,-you, to whom this letter is particularly

addressed, as well as all other foreigners, whether subjects of England or not, can

stand forward and conscientiously assert that you have studied the complexion of the

times—that you have in any single iota or circumstance striven to aid me in my

arrangements as the humble but zealous instrument of the Government whose

protection has been extended to you in an unparalleled degree, and which, I may

add, you are always ready to claim and expect,—by endeavouring to dissipate and

soothe the very excitement and irritation of which you so loudly complain ? I may

even ask whether you have not thrown serious difficulties and obstacles, if not

positive risk , in the way of the very arrangements and measures which you so

earnestly desire to see perfected, and which, next to the assertion of Her Majesty's

dignity and honour, have been the leading object of my public actions for the last

eighteen months ?”

In reference to these strong observations, we take the liberty of most respect

fully recalling to your Excellency's recollection, that since your Excellency's arrival

in China, ncarly a year and a half ago, the letter of 13th instant is the first and

only address which has been submitted to your Excellency by the British merchants

individually or collectively, either seeking for information or asking for protection .

That your Excellency's proclamation, dated 12th August, 1841 , distinctly stated

that the mercantile community must carry on their trade at Canton, entirely on

their own risk and peril. That such proclamation was in some measure indirectly

rescinded by one, dated “ Chusan, 14th November, 1842 " allowing the trade at

Canton to continue, although no Government proteetion was even then actually

promised or afforded ; and that during the progress of such trade no protection has

directly or indirectly been afforded or claimed within the port of Canton, at a time

when warlike operations and seizures of Chinese property have been carried on along

the whole coast, and even in the Canton river itself.

We conceive therefore we may be allowed in some degree to dissent from the

opinion of your Excellency that “ the protection of the Government has been

extended to us in an unparalleled degree ;” and considering the serious risk of

person and property which we have incurred, without one word of complaint or

remonstrance, during the whole time that your Excellency has had charge of affairs

in China, we submit that an insinuation that we are over-ready to claim such

protection, is not altogether in accordance with the actual circumstances of the case.

We may be allowed further to observe that none of us are aware of any

occasion on which your Excellency has thought it desirable to seek for our opinions

or co -operation in any way ; the only information which we have received of your

Excellency's views or wishes, being found in certain proclamations made public

during the progress of hostilities ; and we can conscientiously assert that none of us

have erer to our recollection thrown risk or difficulty in the way of your Excellency.

During the past sixteen months we may observe, that the trade in Canton,

although carried on without any protection or control on the part of the British

authorities, has been managed by fewer parties, and in as peaceable and unob

trusive a manner as at any period since the abolition of the Company's Charter ; and

we feel justified in most solemnly denying that the charge ofill-treatment of the

Chinese can with justice be cast upon the foreign merchants. We may safely assert,

that the merchants generally have endeavoured to carry on their mercantile pursuit

in Canton in accordance with former custom ; and in the only case, we believe,

where innovation has taken place, the residence of ladies in Canton, the verylimited

number who have taken advantage of the permission formally granted by the local

authorities, and with the implied , if not expressed sanction, of your Excellency, have

been accider til vi itörs, not the wives of resident merchants. We may add, that no

intimation was, be believe. conveyed to any one, that your Excellency disapproved of

these proceedings, although the circumstances were generally known, untilafter the

attack on the factories.

We beg leave to assure your Excellency that we have been , and are, one and

all, ready and anxious to conform to all arrangements which may be made for the

regulation of our trade and other matters by the officers of our Government, when

duly informed of them ; but we respectfully submit that severe public censure should

not indiscriminately be cast on all the foreign merchants, in consequence of outrages

assumed to have been occasioned by the acts of a few , especially when such acts may

be considered rather the result of the absence of understood regulations, than of pre

meditated irregularity.

As your Excellency have been pleased to lay a copy of your Excellency's letter

before the Home Government, we beg leave to request the ssme course may be pur

sued with our reply.

Macao, December 23 , 1842 .

We have, &c.

(Signed) Dent and Co. Fox, Rawson , and Co.

Turner and Co. p. Dirom and Co., W. W. Dale.

Gibb, Livingstone, and Co. Henry Gribble.

Lindsay and Co. W. C. Le Geyt.

p . Bell and Co., Alfred Wilkinson . D. and M. Rustomjee and Co.

Inclosure 2 in No. 2 .

Mr. Woosnam to British Merchants at Canton .

Gentlemen, Macao, December 24, 1842.

I AM directed by Sir IIenry Pottinger to acknowledge the receipt of your

letter of yesterday's date, and to inform you that a copy of it will be transmitted

(with the other correspondence) to Her Majesty's Government by the steamer now

under dispatch .

His Excellency further directs me to take this opportunity to mention to you

that the Viceroy at Canton has, in reply to the letter which was addressed to him ,

declared his great anxiety, as well as perfect ability, to protect all foreigners, and

has also expressed his readiness to repay such losses as may have been incurred

during the late riots after they shall have been correctedly ascertained and submitted

through Her Majesty's Government.

I have, &c.

( Signed ) RICHARD WOOSNAM ,

Acting Secretary.

No. 3 .

The Earl of Aberdeen to Sir Henry Pottinger.

Sir, Foreign Office, April 1 , 1843.

I HAVE received your despatches of the 20th and 23rd of December, respect

ing the disturbances which took place at Canton on the 7th of December , and

inclosing your correspondence on that subject with Lieutenant-General Sir Hugh

Gough and with certain British merchants.

Deeply as Her Majesty's Government regret an occurrence which was calculated

to put in jeopardy the amicable relations so lately concluded between the two

countries, they have nevertheless derived no small satisfaction from the anxiety

shown by the Chinese authorities at Canton to put a stop to the tumult, and to

repress the excesses of the Chinese populace. Her Majesty's Government entirely

approve of your having declined toact upon the suggestion which wasmade to you,

to employ Her Majesty's forces for the protection of the factories at Canton against

the violence of the populace, which the British merchants apprehended might again

lead to scenes of confusion and destruction . There is sufficient evidence to show

that the outbreak of the Chinese mob was, in the first instance, and in all proba

bility exclusively provoked by the negligence of the master of a British vessel, in

allowing his seamen to go on shore without efficient control. Her Majesty's

Government trust that the excesses of those seamen , when thus emancipated from the

restraints of discipline, will prove a salutary lesson to British merchants engaged in

the trade with China, and that they will acquire the conviction that the security of

their persons and property must in no small degree depend upon themselves ; for

Her Majesty's Government cannot hold themselves responsible either for the pro

tection or indemnification of parties who, by their own misconduct, or by their

culpable negligence in omitting to restrain those whom it is their duty to control,

shall render themselves obnoxious to the Chinese Government or people.

I am, & c

(Signed ) ABERDEEN .

No. 4 .

Sir H. Pottinger to the Earl of Aberdeen.—(Received May 5.)

(Extract.) Victoria, Hong Kong, February 5, 1844 .

I HAVE the honour to forward for your Lordship’s information, copy of a

letter which I have addressed to Captain Balfour, Her Majesty's Consul at

Shanghae .

Captain Balfour reported in his letter to which the inclosure is a reply, that

some person who had gone out to shoot about a mile and a half from the

shipping, had fired through a hedge (by which all the farm -houses in that part

of China are surrounded ), and severely wounded two boys, who were brought to

the temporary Consulate some hours after in a very dangerous state, and that it

was believed by Dr. Hale that one would be blind for life.

The Intendant and District Magistrate had each addressed very strong, but

very proper, letters to Captain Balfour on the subject, and he took such steps as

occurred to him at the time to discover the offender, but he (Captain Balfour)

says he was not assisted as he might have been in his search by the local

authorities, who could, he thinks, have had no difficulty in tracing the Chinese

boatmen who took the offender on shore from his ship, as well as two China

men who were stated to have been in company with him when the boys were

wounded .

I have since heard by rumour that the offender's name is now known, and

should it prove so when I next hear from Captain Balfour, and I find he

)

belonged to the ship “ Valparaiso ,” I shall call on , and oblige, the firm of

Messrs. Dent and Co. to pay all expenses of the wounded boys, and to provide

for their future support, should that become necessary from either or both

having sustained permanent injury.

Inclosure in No. 4.

Sir H. Pottinger to Consul Balfour.

Sir, Government House, Victoria, January 16 , 1844 .

I RECEIVED and perused with great concern your letter of the

2nd ultimo, and its accompaniments, connected with two boys having been

(accidentally) wounded near Shanghae by some person who had gone from one

of the vessels to shoot in the country.

I consider this accident (even admitting it to have been purely such) most

unfortunate at the outset of the trade, and I wish it had occurred to you to

request Commander Vyner, of Her Majesty's ship “ Wolf, ” to call on the

masters of the vessels then at Shanghae to declare on oath whether any, and

what, persons had landed from their vessels for the purpose of shooting on that

particular day on which the accident occurred, and not to have allowed any

vessel to quit the port till the offender was discovered.

I should have deemed any measures you might have adopted on such an

occasion, however strong they might have appeared, to have been quite justified,

and they would have had my full sanction and support.

It is now , however, too late to look to any such step, and I have therefore only

to express my hope that the two boys who were wounded have been taken every

care of, and that they have recovered under Dr. Hale’s professional attention.

I shall be prepared, on hearing from you , to sanction any present (or in

case of permanent injury, such as the loss of eyesight, any small monthly

stipend) you may see fit to recommend for the sufferers, and with this view Í

shall await your further report before I bring the affair to the notice of Her

Majesty's Government. In the meantime, I have but to add that any restric

tions you may think it advisable to adopt in concert with the local authorities

will have my hearty concurrence.

I have, & c.

(Signed ) HENRY POTTINGER .

No. 5 .

Mr. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen .- (Received May 6.)

(Extract.) Victoria, Hong Kong, January 10, 1845.

I HAVE the honour to forward, for your Lordship’s information, copy of

a despatch from Mr. Alcock , at Amoy, on the subject of a seizure and robbery,

committed on the persons of several Chinese in the British service at

Koo -lang -soo.

Mr. Alcock states (as I have heard from other quarters ), that “ this act of

violence is believed to have been committed with the connivance of the manda

rins, the parties attacked having been marked men , from their having been

actively employed by the British during the war.”

I accordingly thought it my duty to bring the subject to the notice of his

Excellency the Imperial Commissioner, by the inclosed letter, considering, as

Mr. Alcock justly remarks, that “ if the Chinese in the service of the British

residents or authoritiesare not protected from injury, but, on the contrary, are

allowed to feel that they are singled out for persecution and annoyance, great

prejudice must result to British interests generally, and to our consideration and

nfluence at each port .”

I received Inclosure No. 3 from Keying, in reply, informing me that he had

sent a “ flying despatch ” to the Provincial Government of Fokien on the subject;

and I trust that the result may be the punishment of the aggressors.

With reference to this subject of persecution, I regret to observe that

Article IX of the Treaty of Nanking, by which the Emperor agreed to publish ,

" under his Imperial sign -manual and seal, a full and entire amnesty and act of

indemnity to all subjects of China , ” &c. , has never been fulfilled.

I have found, in the archives of my office, a Chinese paper which

completely embodies the vindictive spirit that has actuated the Government of

the country , from the first , towards those of its unfortunate subjects who adhered

to us during the war ; and, at the same time, clearly explains and accounts for

all that has happened at Ningpo, Chusan, and Amoy, as well as Shanghae, where

Captain Balfour successfully interposed in favour of a persecuted Chinese in our

service. The paper in question was addressed,, in 1842, to the Emperor, by the

Governor ofChe-keang, and I think it too important not to forward it to your

Lordship as Inclosure No. 4 .

The Emperor enjoins his Ministers to transact this business " secretly ;" and

the reply of the Governor proves that a fitter instrument could not have been

selected for any work involving perfidy and deceit. He recommends that

inquiries should be made whether “ the said traitorous natives have not, at a

previous period, been put down as villains ; and if there is any evidence of their

wickedness, the said constables ought to bring the case forward, and on their

guilt and transgression being proved, they should be prosecuted for their old

crimes. "

No wonder, then, that the chief authority of Che -keang addressed Sir

Henry Pottinger: “ The honourable Plenipotentiary now further makes it his

request that the amnesty should be formally promulgated by the Emperor.

But by the established rules of China, only the great ordinances of gracious

pardons, the remission of taxes and tribute, and such like matters, are promul

gated to the Empire under the formal authority of the Emperor ; no other

matters are thus formally printed and promulgated by the Imperial authority,

and on the present occasion it is difficult to break through this rule.”

To his translation of the above, Mr. Morrison adds this note : “ The manner

in which a formal promulgation of Imperial commands is made, is by printing

the letter of the commands on yellow paper (with a dragon border), vouched

by the names of the high officers of each Province where they are published, at

the end. Even were such promulgation not expressly stipulated for in the

Treaty, there are two very obvious arguments (for insisting on it) :

ist. That what is demanded is A great Ordinance of gracious pardon .'

“ 2nd . That the Emperor's ' denunciations against us have been thus

promulgated , and it is therefore the more imperative that his assent to

peace with

us should be promulgated in the same manner . ”

Notwithstanding these good reasons, the Treaty in this respect has been

completely evaded and set at nought, although Sir Henry Pottinger observes :

“ The Emperor must publish an amnesty to all Chinese subjects in the same

form he promulgates his edicts ; this is also provided for expressly by Treaty .”

Nothing of the kind has ever been done, and the consequences to some of

our former adherents were disastrous . Mr. Gutzlaff observed, in a private note

to myself : “ Fortunately for the poor Chinamen , Thom took Suh-ming's part,

and Balfour, as well as Campbell , that of the other unfortunate fellows ; for

otherwise the proscriptions, and the handing over to the tender mercies of the

mandarins, would have been without end . The tragedy is now concluded . Two

men paid with their lives Captain Bamfield's surrender ; the policemenwere all

liberated ; the Taekosan Mandarin (a great persecutor) retired from office ; and

your Excellency's orders have for ever put a stop to handing over the Chinese

in our employ to their own authorities.”

Without very good and sufficient reasons, and a strict previous inquiry,

this is certainly most carefully to be avoided, for the native Government has

shown its disposition to wound us through the sides of its own people.

Inclosure 1 in No. 5.

Consul Alcock to Mr. Davis .

Sir, Amoy, December 13, 1844.

I HAVE the honour to forward the inclosed copies of correspondence in

reference to an attack made by Chinese villagers, as it is alleged, on two persons,

also Chinese, employed under the orders of the Commissariat, in bringing

supplies for the troops. The village of Foh-kia or Cho-ke, where the attack

and robbery took place, is situated about two miles from Amoy, on the opposite

side of the bay. One of the men in charge of the boat was severely wounded,

and the other carried away and detained .

On receiving Major Haldan's letter, inclosing Mr. Power's statement, I

addressed a letter to the Taoutae, calling upon him to take immediate and

effective steps for the apprehension and trial of the offenders, the release of

the prisoner, and the restoration of the property, or its full value.

The Taoutae in his answer informs me that the village of Cho -ke is not

in his district, and that he has therefore communicated with the Intendant of

Circuit for Chan - chow - foo, in whose jurisdiction the village in question is,

that he may set the prisoner at liberty, and seize and prosecute the offenders.

On the 11th instant I called upon the Taoutae, who informed me that he

had not received any answer, and I much fear that no prompt redress can be

obtained ; I have, however, urged the Taoutae to press for an immediate report

on thecase, stating, also, that if a satisfactory answer were not shortly received ,

I should deem it my duty to make a communication to your Excellency.

I am informed this act of violence is believed to have been committed with

D 2

the connivance of the mandarins, the parties attacked having been marked men ,

from their having been actively employed under the British during the war.

This of course does not admit of proof, otherwise, as a direct infraction of

the Treaty, it would be easily met ; I shall not fail, however, to press firmly

for redress to the persons injured, and especially for the liberation of the man

detained . It is obvious that if the Chinese in the service of British residents

or authorities are not protected from injury, but, on the contrary, are allowed

to feel that they are singled out for persecution and annoyance, great prejudice

must result to British interests generally, and to our consideration and influence

at each port.

I have, &c.

( Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 2 in No. 5 .

Mr. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

Victoria , Hong Kong , December 22, 1844 .

I REGRET to state to your Excellency that Mr. Consul Alcock, at Amoy,

has written to inform me as follows:

“ Robbery and violence have been perpetrated by certain Chinese at the

village of Foh -ke or Cho-ke, in the Hae -tang district, about two miles (six le) from

Amoy, on the opposite side of the bay, upon certain other Chinese employed by

the British authorities of Koo-lang-soo to purchase stores for the troops. One

man has been wounded ,another made prisoner, the latter being still detained in

the village. Some wood, the property of the British authorities, has also been

seized . "

This coming before me , the Plenipotentiary, & c. , it becomes my duty

immediately to request that your Excellency will give stringent orders to the

local authorities for the punishment of the offenders, the release of the prisoner,

and the restoration of the property thus wrongfully and violently taken. It is

an established principle among us, that any attack made upon persons in the

service of Her Majesty's Government, is an injury which should immediately be

redressed by a friendly Power, such as China now is in relation to England. It

is also in conformity to the Treaty of Peace and Friendship, which can only be

maintained by the observance of this rule .

As Mr. Consul Alcock informs me that the local authorities showed a

disposition to delay or evade the redress for which he had applied, and that he

feared these persons were punished , contrary to the Treaty, for having served us

during the war, I have directed him to report further to me upon the subject,

and in the meanwhile have the honour to send this communication to your

Excellency, requesting that immediate steps may be taken on this occasion, in

order that I may report to my Government.

With sentiments of the highest consideration, I have, & c.

(Signed ) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 3 in No. 5 .

Commissioner Keying to Mr. Davis.

(Translation.)

KEYING , High Imperial Commissioner, Member of the Imperial Clan,

and Governor -General of Kwang -tung and Kwang -se, &c ., sends the following

answer.

I just now received the communication from you , the Honourable Envoy,

respecting the Amoy affair (here follows the purport of the despatch , dated

22nd December, 1844) .

It appears to me a very regular thing, that the natives of that place (Amoy)

should be hired to buy provisions. Why then, should, just now , robbers plunder

and seize them ? This matter ought to be investigated, and then it can be

properly managed. I have, therefore, addressed a flying despatch to the metro

polis of Fokien, that the local officers might be directed to investigate the matter.

Whilst, therefore, with all severity recovering the plunder and seizing the

robbers, they will give the particulars of this case in their report, and, at the

same time, set the prisoners immediately at liberty, and after having obtained

the robbed articles, send them to the Consul of your honourable nation, that he

may receive the same.

An affair like this, however, requires much writing backward and forward, as

well as inquiry, and will take, as I apprehend, some time. You , the honourable

Envoy, have now already ordered the said Consul to send in a clear detail of all

the circumstances in order to arrive at the truth, and I hope you will commu

nicate the same to me to manage the affair properly.

Whilst, therefore, giving this previous reply, I wish you endless happiness, &c.

Taoukwang, 24th year , 11th month, 21st day. (December 30, 1844. )

Inclosure 4 in No. 5 .

The Governor of Che -keang to the Emperor .

ON the 16th day of the 9th month ( 1842) , your slave received a

letter from the Great Ministers of the Privy Council, stating that, on the 9th

day of the 9th month , an Imperial edict had been issued to the following

effect :

“ These barbarians that have been captured ought wholly to be set at liberty ;

and, as for those traitorous natives that have been taken by force, it is not convenient

that we should kill them , but, if we release them without making minute inves

tigations, it is hard to say that they will not again, at some subsequent period,

play off their old tricks, and thus give rise to future calamities. Therefore, their

names ought severally to be entered on a list, and let a strictrestraint be put

upon them, and measures be taken to guard against them . We, furthermore,

direct the said General and others to apply their whole minds to the proper

management of this affair, and let them carefully and secretly transact this

business, &c. Respect this.

From this I can perceive the all -pervading sacred anxieties in noticing most

trivial things. In order to remove evil your slave has, in obedience to your

wishes, made inquiries, and as these traitorous natives have received sacred

favours they shall not be killed ; but if they are set at liberty, without regula

tions having been made for keeping an eye over them , it will certainly fall out

as is stated in your Majesty's sacred commands, that “ it is hard to say, that

they will not again, at some subsequent period, play off their old tricks, and thus

give rise to future calamities . ” Therefore I , your slave, whilst commanding the

said officers to draw up a list of all the traitorous natives, and to take security

for them on liberating them , have at the same time directed that good regula

tions should be made, and measures be taken for guarding against them .

Now, according to the statement contained in the report of Tseang -wan

king, the Judge of the Che-keang, he has determined upon taking a memo

randum of the names of the traitorous natives, and then sending them back to

their homes, and he has also directed their mandarins to put a strict restraint

upon them , and to take a bond from the constables of the place, and their

neighbours and relations, and then to hand in an account of their names.

Thus we shall act just in the same manner as the law respecting convicts that

are to be transported ordains, and we expect that the said local mandarins will

manage this matter, and the abodes of all those that do not arrive at the stated

season ought to be traced. Moreover, the mandarins should make inquiries

whether they indeed act lawlessly, and punish them with all due severity , and

likewise visit their crimes on their neighbours and relations that originally stood

security for them . Supposing attheir native places someofthem have no relations

or neighbours to stand security for them , the local mandarius are responsible for

instituting true investigations, whether or not the said traitorous natives have

not, on a previous period, been put down as villains, and if there is any evidence

of their wickedness, the said constables ought to bring the case forward , and on

their guilt and transgression being proved, we shall direct that they be,

according to truth, prosecuted for their old crimes .

I, your slave , have minutely looked over the regulations that have been

arranged by the said Judge, which I consider very apposite ; and besides

directing him to manage this business, in accordance with the resolutions agreed

upon , and to communicate these orders to the local officers, that they may do

their duty, and institute inquiries, without gradually getting remiss, I hereby

annex this postscript to my report, which I respectfully present for perusal.

No. 6 .

Mr. Davis to the Eurl of Aberdeen.- ( Received May 6.)

My Lord , Victoria, Hong Kong, January 16, 1845.

WITH reference to my despatch of the 10th instant, I have the satisfac

tion to inclose copy of a letter from Consul Alcock at Amoy, reporting that the

Chinese who had been seized were restored to liberty, and the plundered property

returned .

I have every reason to believe that this was the result of the remonstrance

addressed by me to Keying, on the proceeding of the Amoy mandarins, forming

Inclosure No. 2 in despatch above mentioned .

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS.

Inclosure in No. 6 .

Consul Alcock to Mr. Davis .

Sir, Amoy, January 10, 1845.

IN reference to my letter dated 3rd January, 1845, I have the honour to

inform you , that on the 8th instant I received an official communication from

the Taoutae, a copy of which I inclose, stating that the Chinese prisoner had

been liberated, and the wood restored, and further assuring me that the man had

not suffered any ill-treatment, as had been reported .

It does not appear that the parties who thus took the law into their own

hands by seizing Keang-yin have been punished ; but, under the circumstances,

the redress afforded, although tardy, is so far satisfactory, that it is aa distinct

admission on the part of the authorities of my right to claim protection for any

Chinese in the employment of the British from unmerited aggression ; this being a

point which the Intendant was disposed in the first instance to dispute.

I have, &c.

( Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK.

No. 7 .

Mr. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen .— (Received August 2.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, April 4, 1845.

I REGRET to have to forward to your Lordship the inclosed documents

relating to a most aggravated assault by some of the people of Canton, on

Mr. Vice -Consul Jackson and Messrs. Martin and Stanton, as these gentlemen

were inoffensively walking on the outside of the city.

The condition of the English at the provincial capital is such as to call

for a permanent remedy, wereit only to prevent the chances ofsome breach in

our amicable relations with China. The insolence of the people is very much

promoted by our degrading exclusion from the interior of the city, in which my

predecessor acquiesced, under an assurance from the Imperial Commissioner that

it should be only temporary.

I accordingly felt myself called upon to address the Inclosure No. 3 to

Keying, drawing his attention to the provisions of the very first Article of the

Treaty, and calling for the condign punishment of those persons who had so grossly

violated it. As the evident desire of the Chinese Government is to render the

exclusion from the city of Canton permanent, under the convenient plea of the

people's wishes, it would be highly satisfactory to me to be furnished with your

Lordship's views as to the degree of weight which I should be justified in

attaching to the removal of this old and degrading distinction between Chinese

and foreigners.

I regret to say that a circumstance well calculated to encourage the

ill - conduct of both the local authorities, and the people of Canton , is to see our

naval squadron in China reduced to two sailing vessels, and one effective steamer

its actual amount; while the minimum force mentioned by Sir William Parker

himself consisted of five sailing vessels and a steamer.

Inclosure No. 4 was the reply returned by the Governor of Canton tothe

Consul's representation concerning the late outrage, and I have since received

from Keying Inclosure No. 5. He readily promises the punishment of the

criminals ; but the old argument is repeated for excluding foreigners from the

city, viz., the disposition of the people. I have succeeded in defeating the

adoption of this plea at Foo -chow - foo, and with the sanction of Her Majesty's

Government I would undertake to do the same at Canton, where I hesitate only

on account of the acquiescence of Sir Henry Pottinger, on the ground, as before

observed, of the exclusion being only temporary, according to Keying's own

assurance to that effect.

I have, &c.

(Signed ) J. F. DAVIS.

Inclosure 1 in No. 7 .

Consul Macgregor to Mr. Davis.

Sir, Canton, March 19, 1845..

I HAVE the honour to lay before your Excellency the copy of a repre

sentation addressed to me conjointly by Mr. Montgomery Martin, the Rev. V.

Stanton, and Mr. Jackson, detailing theparticulars of anoutrage and robbery

committed upon them whilst walking for exercise in these suburbs. From the

violent gesticulations and behaviour of the rabble, who were aided and

encouraged by those on the rampart, it appears evident that, but for the extreme

forbearance practised by the complainants, the most serious results must have

ensued, some of the robbers being armed with two-handed swords and daggers,

and others with heavy sticks. I am preparing a statement of the affair for his

Excellency Hwang, who is now raised to the rank of Lieutenant-Governor, and,

in the meantime, have requested the attendance of Woo for the purpose of

informing him of it verbally, that no time may be lost in tracing out the indi

viduals concerned in the robbery and violence, and in endeavouring to recover

the property stolen .

I have, &c.

(Signed) FRANCIS C. MACGREGOR.

Inclosure 2 in No. 7.

Messrs. Martin, Jackson, and Stanton to Consul Macgregor.

Sir, Canton , March 18, 1845 .

ABOUT 7 o'clock this morning, while walking for exercise along the

north wall , on the outside of the city, we were attacked by several Chinese, who

had been following us, and increasing in numbers from the building known to

foreigners as the five-storied Pagoda. At first they commenced with throwing

stones, whichendangered our lives, and by some of which we were struck. This

attack was aided and encouraged by a number of Chinese, who followed us along

the top of the city wall, hurling large stones, which , if they had struck, would

have killed those at whom they were aimed .

Mr. Jackson was first attacked by men brandishing swords and daggers, his

arms pinioned , and his gold chain snatched from his neck. The Rev. Mr.

Stanton and Mr. Martin, perceiving that Mr. Jackson was not following,

returned to aid him , and were themselves seized ; one of the assailants thrust a

dagger at Mr. Martin's breast, two endeavoured to throw him on the ground ,

and while struggling with them his pockets were rified. The same course was

pursued with Mr. Jackson and Mr. Stanton . The latter lost his watch, the

former still retained his, but everything else was taken . The assailants then leſt

us, but the persons on the wall followed us for some time, hurling large stones

and using menacing gestures and opprobrious language.

Proceeding southward, beneath the wall, to reach the river side, we were

again followed and attacked by another party ; Mr. Jackson received a violent

blow on his chest, and a roof was torn up to furnish large sticks to the assailants.

In this attack Mr. Jackson was deprived of his watch ; our clothes were torn ,

and at one time the people were disposed to strip us. No resistance was offered ,

it was hopeless to have attempted it, not only by reason of the numbers and

weapons of the multitude, but also on account of the attack on us from the

watch -tower and along the walls.

The outrage was entirely unprovoked ; our own official character and the

presence of a minister of religion was a guarantee for peaceful conduct; and had

his presence not restrained Mr. Jackson and Mr. Martin , bloodshed might

probably have ensued . Reaching a more populous part of the suburbs, we

rested a moment, and then proceeded home, but not unfrequently hearing

opprobrious epithets, mingled with cries of “ Kill them , kill them .”

From no nation in Europe would British subjects suffer this treatment ;

there can be no excuse for tolerating a continuance of such conduct towards us

in China, and we think that there cannot be a doubt that the Chinese Govern

ment have it in their power effectually to put a stop not only to the personal

insults which the English daily experience, but also to prohibit effectually the

repetition of the injuries we have experienced. By our prohibition to enter the

city of Canton, the lower classes of the Chinese are encouraged to regard us as

inferiors , and to treat us with marked contumely. No measures that we are

aware of have everbeen taken by the authorities to prevent the constant insults

to which the British community are subjected, and which, instead of diminishing

by time, or being subdued by acts of kindness, seem to become more frequent

and more virulent.

Anxiously desirous tomaintain peace and to promote amity, we make this

l'epresentation, believing that unless the Chinese authorities remedy the evils

complained of, the most serious consequences must inevitably, and ere long,

ensue .

We have, &c.

(Signed) R. M. MARTIN, Treasurer at Hong Kong,

and one of Her Majesty's Council in that

Colony.

R. B. JACKSON , Her Britannic Majesty's

Vice- Consul at Canton .

VINCENT STANTON , Her Britannic Majesty's

Chaplain at Hong Kong.

Articles of which the Restitution is required .

A watch, capped with brass, and double cased in gold. Cost 85 dollars.

A watch, capped with brass, and double cased in silver. Valued at 45

dollars.

A gold chain and gold seal, with armorial bearings. Cost 15 dollars ,

A gold pencil-case, Cornelian top.. Cost 12 dollars.

A bunch of keys , and two small keys.

A silver -mounted walking -cane. Value 5 dollars .

A silk purse studded with steel beads.

Inclosure 3 in No. 7.

Mr. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

Victoria, Hong Kong, March 22, 1845.

I HAVE the honour to inform your Excellency that I have received a

despatch from Mr. Consul Macgregor at Canton, detailing a most atrocious

outrage and insult committed by some of the Chinesc people against Her

Majesty's Vice- Consul and two other official gentlemen. The Consul inform.s

methat he has addressed his Excellency Governor Hwang, requiring reparation

against the miscreants who were guilty of the unprovoked attacks on those

gentlemen ; but this is so serious a national question, and connected with

such momentous considerations, that I am obliged to take it up myself.

The very first Article of the Treaty provides that the subjects of Her

Majesty the Queen, and His Majesty the Emperor of China, “ shall enjoy full

security and protection for their persons and property within the dominions of

each other." This attack at Canton was not only against British subjects, but

official persons , one of them the Vice -Consul. I have therefore to call upon

your Excellency to display your sincere desire to preserve good faith and main

tain the terms of the Treaty, by dealing such punishment upon the guilty

persons as the law of China awards against those who attack and wound officers

of Government. The property taken is of very little comparative consequence,

though it will easily lead to the conviction of the offenders. What I have prin

cipally to call for is the condign punishment of the ruffians who made the

cowardly and barbarous attack on three unarmed gentlemen, and I cannot deem

myself satisfied unless they are publicly punished, and unless Mr. Consul

Macgregor has full personal cognizance of their punishment.

This event, and the daily insults to which British subjects at Canton are

exposed, are mainly the consequences of their being still excluded very improperly

from the city of Canton, by which therabble are led to despise foreigners as a

proscribed or inferior people. I am fully persuaded that my Government will

not allow me to acquiesce long in this state of things, which your Excellency on

the 9th July, 1843, informed my predecessor, Sir Henry Pottinger, should be

only temporary. However exemplary the moderation and forbearance hitherto

displayed by the great nation which I have the honour to represent, those princi

ples of equality and of mutual rights which were established in 1842 must be

maintained, and it would be idle to expect continued harmony on any other

terms .

I have directed Mr. Consul Macgregor to keep me fully informed of the

progress of this business from day to day , and I hope that your Excellency will

see the necessity of satisfying me in my just demands for public reparation.

I take this opportunity of renewing to your Excellency the expressions of

my high consideration .

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS.

Inclosure 4 in No. 7 .

Declaration .

(Translation .)

HWANG , Governor of Kwang -tung and á Vice-President of the Board of

War, hereby makes a declaration in reply .

I have received a statement from the Consuls concerned, of the various

particulars (relative to) the English officers, Martin and others, three persons,,

having been robbed of their (foreign) watches and other articles, and having had

their clothes torn, been beaten and insulted by (certain) Chinese of the lower

orders, from the perusal of which (the matter appears) exceedingly worthy of deep

felt indignation. On examining into this case, I find, that I had already heard

of it. I find, on examination , that a representation of the District Magistrate

of Pwan -yu has been received, stating that he " has apprehended one of the

robber vagabonds, Chin -a -gan, whom he is now vigorously interrogating about

his companions, in order that they may be apprehended upon proof according to

their names, and the stolen property recovered and given to the custody (of the

proper parties) , & c .,” which is on record.

Now, having received the Consul's statement, 1 have again given strict

ordersto the said District Magistrate, to depute additional and able runners, who

must, in conjunction with the soldiers of the (proper) military station, seize, (and

bring before) the tribunal, the vagabonds who robbed, beat, and insulted the

English officers, for correction according to the laws, in order to be a warning

for the future, and also recover and return to the original owners the articles

lost.

Besides communicating with Ke, the High Imperial Commissioner, (that he

may) , in like manner, give orders for the apprehension (of these vagabonds ), it is

fitting that as a preliminary step, I make a declaration in reply to the said

Consul to be communicated by him to the three English officers, that they may

may make themselves acquainted therewith .

An especial declaration .

March 21 , 1845 .

Inclosure 5 in No. 7 .

Commissioner Keying and Governor Hwang to Mr. Davis.

( Translation .)

KEYING, High Imperial Commissioner, &c.; Hwang, Lieutenant-Governor

of Kwang-tung, &c. , send the following answer :

We just received a letter from you , the Honourable Envoy, in which you

complain about the insult and injury done by the natives to the Vice-Consul and

two English officers, and request that these villains should be severely punished

according to the Chinese laws.

This case has already been represented by Consul Macgregor, and I , the

Lieutenant-Governor, immediately gave directions to the district military to

dispatch the most able soldiers for seizing (those ruffians) , and recovering the

plunder, and to punish them most severely as soon as they were apprehended .

The soldiers then reported that they had already seized one villain, Chin -aton,

who on being put to toiture would not betray his associates. Some of the

plunder, however, is recovered, viz., a gold - cased watch , which an official

messenger transmitted to the Vice -Consul to identify the same, and he having

found it to be the original article, has taken ( the watch ), as is on record.

We, the Great Minister and Lieutenant Governor, perceive that it is very

lawless for natives to wish to beat English officers, and rob them of their watches

and other articles ; fortunately, however, the British functionaries defended

themselves well, and thus were not wounded , which consoles us, the Great

Minister and the Lieutenant-Governor , in some measure. These villanous

natives ought to be seized and punished with severity, in order to deter others

from imitating their bad examples.

We have therefore again strictly ordered the local, civil, and military autho

rities, to adopt means for the seizure of those villains, that they may be punished

according to Chinese laws, and at the same time likewise take measures for

recovering the lost articles ; and as soon as they are obtained , they will be sent

to the Vice -Consul to examine and receive them . This is the previous answer

we forward to you, the Honourable Envoy.

Respecting the entering into the city, we, the Great Minister and Lieutenant

Governor, have again and again with your predecessor Pottinger consulted and

expressed ourselves very explicitly. We also suppose that you, the Honourable

Envoy, are fully acquainted with this circumstance. We, the Great Minister

and Lieutenant-Governor, entertain no other view in this affair, but that (dictated )

by the disposition of the Canton populace, which renders it impossible, and it is

not necessary to reiterate the same (argument).

If you , the Honourable Envoy, will give directions to the Consul and others,

to make inquiries with the Chinese merchants and linguists in the neighbourhood,

you will be convinced that this is the cause.

Whilst wishing you an increasing happiness, we address this important com

munication, &c.

month,, 22nd

Taoukwang, 25th year, 2nd month day. (March 29 , 1815.)

22nd day.

No. 8 .

The Earl of Aberdeen to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Foreign Office, August 8, 1845.

I HAVE read much concern the particulars of the assault on Mr. Vice

Consul Jackson and his companions at Canton, as reported in your despatch

of the 4th of April ; but it is satisfactory to find that the Chinese authorities

exerted themselves for the detection and punishment of the offenders,

It would certainly be desirable to obtain free access to the city of Canton,

and I am prepared to sanction your attempts in that respect. Much prudence,

however, will be required in dealing with the question , and probably there is

more ground for the apprehensions of the Chinese authorities with regard to the

difficulty of controlling the populace at Canton than experience has shown to

have been the case at Foo- chow-foo . But those authorities seem to have the

power, when they have the inclination, to keep the people in order ; and when

they are made to perceive that the responsibility of any breach of the peace

committed by the people will fall upon themselves, they may be expected to

take effectual measures to prevent such an occurrence.

On the other hand, at all events in the outset, it would be incumbent on

British subjects, in gaining access to Canton, to avoid, as much as possible,

placing themselves in situations which might give occasion to disturbance.

With these observations, then , I leave the matter in your hands, merely

cautioning you to conduct any discussion with Keying on the subject with the

utmost temper, and on every account to avoid pushing matters to the extremity

of interrupting the free course of trade in the Canton waters.

I am , &c.

(Signed ) ABERDEEN .

No. 9 .

Mr. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen.— (Received August 21.)

My Lord , Victoria, Hong Kong , April 24, 1845.

IN continuation of the subject of my despatch of the 4th instant, I

have the honour to inclose a reply to the joint letter of the High Commissioner

and Governor, in which they continued to refuse the privilege of ingress to

the city of Canton, on the ground of the people's will .

I show that the impediments in question were solemnly promised to Sir

Henry Pottinger by Keying to be removed within a reasonable time. Nearly

two years have now elapsed during which this invidious and mischievous

distinction between foreigners and natives has existed, placing the former under

the ban of the latter, with the sanction of the Local Government. The people

of Canton deridingly defy the Europeans to enter the city as the latter pass the

gates, and this of course feeds and keeps up the insolence of the Chinese, and

perpetuates the degradation of the strangers Nothing of the kind exists at any

other port ; and it will not be easy to find a sufficient inducement for the

Chinese Government to remove a bar which they silently approve, should its

removal be deferred until after the restoration of Chusan. I only require the

sanction of Her Majesty's Government, for which there is abundant time, and

will pledge myself tocarry the point if supported by that sanction . Article XII

of the Treaty of Nanking expressly stipulates as one condition of the restoration

of Chusan, that “ the arrangements at the ports shall be completed,” which can

E 2

scarcely be deemed to be the case as long as this important point is unsettled at

Canton .

In a memorandum which I furnished to the Foreign Office in December

1842, I foretold that much difficulty was to be apprehended in establishing

desirable relations at Canton, where " old established habits have to be subdued.

and old feelings combatted ;” and this difficulty was enhanced by the forbearance

of Sir Hugh Gough to the armed multitude, which (as already observed by me

to your Lordship ) hung on his rear during his occupation of the heights, causing

them most absurdly to attribute that forbearance to fear.

The mischievous effects of the exclusion from the city are so universally

obvious to every one in this country, that the American Consul has used the

strongest remonstrances in his power, but without any means of gaining his

point, or chance of being attended to.

Inclosure No. 2 is a communication from Keying, which I shall publish,

conveying the satisfactory information that six of the natives who had assaulted

Vice -Consul Jackson and his companions had been duly punished. In acknow

ledging this by Inclosure 3 , I took occasion to notice a very improper draft of a

proclamation to the people of Canton by the District Magistrate (Inclosure 4), a

copy of which was sent to me by Consul Macgregor, with some just remarks as

to its false and derogatory statements, representing the Vice-Consul and his

companions as traders, and putting them altogether on a footing with the rabble

by whom they were attacked. I inform the high officers of my conviction that

they could not have authorized a paper of such evil tendency, and request them

to cause a viore fitting notice to be issued .

I am subjected to much obloquy on account of the moderation of my

measures by a party of the English in this country, and require all the open

support of Her Majesty's Government to make my position such as it

should be.

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 1 in No. 9 .

Mr. Davis to Commissioner Keying and Governor Hwang.

Victoria, Hong Kong, April 7, 1815.

I HAVE had the honour to receive your Excellencies' joint despatch on

t'ie subject of the outrage on three English officers. It is satisfactory to learn

that some of the robbed articles have been recovered, but this is trifling compared

with the exemplary punishment of the criminals. The watches, &c. , having

been found , it will not be difficult to trace the robbers, of whose punishment

your Excellencies promise to inform me hereafter, for which I feel much

indebted.

With regard to entering the city of Canton, both my predecessor and

myself have led our Government to understand that the exclusion was only

temporary in 1843. The Imperial Commissioner thus wrote to Sir Henry

Pottinger: “ The High Commissioner has now, in conjunction with the Governor

General and Governor, commanded all local magistrates and other officers to

adopt measures for inculcating a better spirit ; and he only waits until the port

is opened and commerce in progress , when all parties settling into a state of

quiet , shall meet together to consult within the city, whenever business may call

them thither. If there be the slightest falsehood in this, may the Highest

regard it.” This was a very solemn declaration, and I cannot for a moment

suppose that his Excellency the Imperial Commissioner was otherwise than

sincere. The peace having now been concluded more than two years, the time

must soon arrive when no objection can exist. The natural disposition of the

people of Canton is towards commerce and mutual intercourse, and if not

purposely encouraged and led astray, as before the war, it is plain that they

will act like the people at Shanghae, Ningpo, and other places.

But admitting that some portion of the ignorant rabble are disposed to act

disorderly, it would not be right to impair the friendly feeling of the two nations

on their account. The Treaty of Peace and Friendship must be observed on

the part of the Chinese Government in deed as well as in word, or your Excel

lencies cannot, with propriety, quote, or bring it to my notice. It cannot be at

once violated on one side, and expected to be observed on the other. To look

for the continuance of friendship, without friendly treatment, is contrary to

human nature .. It is therefore very desirable that the invidious and highly

objectionable exclusion of foreigners from the city of Canton be removed as

speedily as possible .

The High Commissioner very correctly remarked, in his official commu

nication to Sir Henry Pottinger : “ The two nations are now at peace,, without

the slightest ground for jar or altercation. What difference, therefore, can there

be between the inside and the outside of the city ? When , too, Ningpo,

Foo-chow, Shanghae, &c., may be entered , why should Canton be solitary in

this respect ? ”

I quite agree in these just sentiments of his Excellency, and it is m

anxiety to promote the continuance of friendly intercourse that dictates the

present despatch.

With sentiments of high consideration, I have, &c.

(Signed ) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 2 in No. 9 .

Commissioner Keying and Governor Hwang to Mr. Davis.

( Translation .)

KEYING, High Imperial Commissioner, &c. , Hwang, Lieutenant Governor

of Kwang- tung, & c ., send the following answer.

We have made ourselves fully acquainted with the contents of a letter from

you, the Honourable Envoy, respecting the robbery committed upon some British

officers.

To settle this case , we had given orders to the local military and civil

authorities to dispatch soldiers , who have now seized the villains, Kwo-a -shun,

Fang -a- kei, Chin-a-gan , Chang-a -shing, Laou- a-yang, and Chow -a-teem , six in

number. They also recovered a gold watch , one gold chain, one seal , one silver

pencil case, and one whip, which have been handed over by a deputed officer to

the Vice -Consul Jackson, who identified them as being the stolen articles, and

received them back , which is on record .

The six villains that were apprehended have now stood their trial . The

two, Kwo-a-shun and Fang-a-kei , have confessed that they stole the gold watch

and other articles. Laou - a -yang, and the other three, acknowledged that they

had taken up stones and pelted (the English officers), and did by no means deny

the fact.

The two accomplices in the robbery, Chin -a-kwei and Leatih, have not yet

been taken, nor have we found means for getting back the silver watch and

restoring the same. Such is the statement of the Pwan -yu magistrate.

I , the High Commissioner, and I, the Lieutenant Governor, perceive that

the established laws of China award 100 blows, and banishment for three years,

to those who have stolen any articles . Kwo-a -shun, therefore, and Fang-a -kei,

who stole the watch and other things, will receive 100 blows, have their faces

marked , and be sent into banishment.

As for the others who engaged in strife, but did not inflict any wounds, the

established Chinese laws would merely punish them with 30 blows. But Laou -a

yang and the others, three in number, were violent and added insult by throwing

stones. Although not inflicting any wounds, still they acted very ruthlessly,

and it would therefore be very improper only to beat them . We have, therefore,

sentenced them to the more heavy punishment of receiving 80 blows, to be

commuted into banishment .

We have, moreover, given very strict orders to apprehend with great severity,

Chin - a -kwei and the other, and to recover the silver watch , which could not yet

be found . As soon as Chin-a-kwei and the other are taken , and this case is

fullyarranged, we shall instantly issue a perspicuous proclamation, warning the

people of Canton never again to commit themselves in this manner.

With regard to going into the city, I, the Great Minister, distinctly stated

to your predecessor, Pottinger, that as soon as the trade was open , and every

thing on both sides quiet, there could be no reason for refusing or rejecting the

proposal, whenever necessary, to enter the city, for holding a consultation, by

joint consent. However, up to the present year, I have found it impossible for

foreigners to go into the city, both from my conversation with the gentry and an

inquiry into the disposition of the people. I, the Great Minister, and I , the

Lieutenant-Governor, have repeatedlyordered the loeal Mandarins to use persua

sion , yet the public is strongly opposed to it, and will not yield . Thus we, the

High Commissioner and Lieutenant-Governor, cannot so easily grant this permis

sion. There are, morcover, respecting this, many other particulars which it is

difficult to enumerate.

From the moment that I , the High Commissioner, and I, the Lieutenant

Governor, transacted the commercial affairs of every nation, we have in all

instances afforded protection and strenuously endeavoured to uphold friendship

and harmony. Should we therefore refuse and prevent this single thing, viz .,

to enter into the city ? Not alone is God our witness that there exist difficul.

ties in this matter, but you , the Honourable Envoy, will also, as we hope,

perceive the dilemma.

We also received an official note from you, the Honourable Envoy,

respecting duties on coarse china -ware and piece-goods, and the manner of levying

those duties on them at Amoy. Having addressed ourselves to the Superinten

dant of Maritime Customs at Canton to investigate the matter, and report it

impartially, we shall give you the result in our answer.

In the meanwhile wishing you every happiness at the spring season , we

send this important document.

Taoukwang, 25th year, 3rd month , 12th day. (April 18, 1845.)

Inclosure 3 in No. 9 .

Mr. Davis to Commissioner Keying and Governor Hwang.

Victoria , Hong Kong, April 24, 1815 .

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellencies' joint

communication, in which I am informed of the punishment of six among those who

committed the assault on the English officers. It is highly satisfactory to find

that these ruflians have not escaped punishment, and I trust that the remaining

two will be apprehended .

With regard to entering into the city, I have already stated the necessity

for Canton being placed on the same footing as the other ports in this respect.

Until this is done, the Treaty arrangements for opening all the ports cannot be

considered as concluded. I have referred the question to my Government, and

shall await their decision .

Mr. Consul Macgregor informs me that the District Magistrate of Pwan -yu

had prepared a notice in which the English Vice- Consul and other officers are

falsely represented as persons who trade and enjoy profits with the common

people . It is also stated that these “ three people went on shore,” &c. If English

Officers are thus fallaciously in a public document placed on a level with the

populace of Canton , it can only lead to the generation of bad feeling and the

production of trouble . As your Excellencies have often informed me that you

are sincerely desirousof the continuance of peace and friendship, I am convinced

that you did not authorize such a mischievous document, and that you will

cause a proper one to be published in lieu of it. As everything is preserved on

record, and transmitted to Her Majesty's Government, such a paper as the one

in question would prove in case of future discussions that the people had been

taught by the officers of Government, since the peace as before, to despise the

English . This surely could not be approved by your honourable nation's

Emperor.

I beg your Excellencies to accept the assurances of my high consideration .

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 4 in No. 9.

Proclamation by the Magistrate of Pwan-yu.

( Translation .)

A PERSPICUOUS PROCLAMATION .

CANTON is a mercantile emporium for all nations, and foreigners as well

as Chinese ought to live quietly and endeavour together to enjoy the profits of

trade. The Chinese must not be overbearing, and because being natives insult

strangers .

On the 11th day, 2nd month of the present year (18th March, 1845), the

British Vice-Consul Jackson and others , altogether three people, came on shore

and were walking about, when the villains, Kwo-a-shun and Fang-a-kei, robbed

them, of a gold watch and other articles, and took up stones to pelt them, with

out, however, inflicting a wound. This is a shameless hankering after lucre, and

contempt of the law, which cannot be overlooked . We have therefore sentenced

Kwo -a -shun and Fang-a-kei, according to our law against robbery, to banishment

for the full (period), and condemned the criminals Chin -a -gan and others to a

severe bastinado.

We therefore make known this lucid proclamation , and if in future native

villains dare to seek strife, insult, fight, and beat inoffensive strangers who mind

their business and observe the law, or on seeing their property form a plan for

robbing them to obtain booty, they shall be most severely brought to trial as

soon as they are discovered. Respect this implicitly. A special proclamation .

No, 10 .

The Earl of Aberdeen to Sir J. Davis,

Sir, Foreign Office, September 23 , 1845.

SHORTLY after my instruction of the 8th August, on the subject of the

free access of English subjects to Canton, was dispatched to you, your further

despatch of the 24th April, on that subject, was received at this office, during

my absence in Germany, in attendance on Her Majesty.

In that despatch you speak with such confidence of your power to obtain

from the Chinese authorities the concession of the free access of British subjects

to all parts of Canton , provided Her Majesty's Government will sanction your

efforts, that I am induced to give you the authority which you desire.

By our Treaty with China, we unquestionably possess the right to require

that the five portsnamed therein should be opened, without reserve, to British

subjects and lawful British trade. Canton alone, of those ports, has not yet been

thus opened.

When my despatch of the 8th ultimo was written, it still appeared ques

tionable to Her Majesty's Government how far we could, with prudence and in

good policy, insist, with the Chinese authorities, on the full and immediate

execution of the treaty stipulations with respect to Canton ; and I , accordingly,

conveyed to you a cautionary power on that point, leaving much to your own

discretion .

The observations, however, contained in your despatch of the 24th April,

above mentioned , and especially those bearing on the approaching restoration of

Chusan to the Emperor, have placed the matter in such a light as to show

clearly the expediency of requiring, and , if necessary, of compelling, the full

execution of the Treaty, both with respect to Canton , and to any other point in

which that execution may, possibly, be still incomplete, while we have yet the

means of compulsion in our power .

It is obvious that when Chusan is once given up, we shall lose much of the

weight and authority which we now possess.

On the receipt of this despatch, you will, accordingly, consider yourself

fully empowered to renew ,with urgency, your application for the free admission

of English subjects and dependents to every part of Canton ; and you will, at >

the same time , intimate that, when thus admitted , conformably to Treaty , the

Chinese Government will be held by us responsible for the good treatment of

such British subjects by the people of Canton. We , on our part, bind ourselves,

at the same time, to employ every means at our command to ensure the good and

orderly conduct of our own countrymen , when thus placed in the full enjoyment

of the right to which they are legally entitled.

In the first instance, you will do well to prefer this demand, as now, for the

first time, founded on the express and specific orders of your Government, in an

earnest and temperate tone, and rather as an appeal to the rectitude and good

judgment of the Chinese local authorities and Government. But should such

arguments fail, within a reasonable time, to produce the required effect, you will

then clearly state to the Chinese High Commissioner that, by Treaty, British

subjects have as full a right to free admission into Canton, as the Chinese

Government has to the restitution of Chusan , at the stipulated period, by the

English ; and that, unless the Emperor carries out his engagement with respect

to Canton, the British Government will be justified in withholding the execution

of theirs with regard to Chusan . And you may add, that contingent instructions

have already been conveyed to you to delay the evacuation of Chusan until

Canton shall have been fully opened to Her Majesty's subjects.

Should any other point exist , towards the period of the stipulated restora

tion of Chusan, on which the Chinese Government should exhibit a disposition

to act in opposition to their treaty engagements, you will consider it discretionary

with you to adopt the same means of enforcing compliance, as you are above

authorized to do in the matter of Canton. And in case of non -compliance with

your requisition, you will equally hold yourself empowered to suspend the

evacuation of Chusan by our troops.

But such suspension must be founded on a clear and palpable case of non

execution , or wilful delay of fulfilment, of treaty engagement on the part of the

Chinese. Should they execute the Treaty faithfully, it is our bounden and

imperative duty to perform , with equal fidelity, our engagement to restore

Chusan, without delay or hesitation , to the Emperor.

I am , &c.

(Signed ) ABERDEEN .

No. 11 .

Mr. Daris to the Earl of Aberdeen .— (Received October 25.)

(Extract.) Victoria, Hong Kong, August 23 , 1845 .

HAVING received strong and repeated representations from Mr. Consul

Alcock as to the aggressive conduct of the populace at Foo-chow -foo, with the

intimation of an opinion that the same was connived at by the authorities of the

place, I deemed it right to address (Inclosure No. 1 to Lew) the Governor

General of Fokien and Che-keang, calling upon him in urgent terms to observe

the first Article of the Treaty of Nanking, in giving proper protection to British

subjects.

It appeared desirable in order to save time, as well as to add to the effect of

the remonstrance, that the “ Medusa " steamer should proceed straight to

Foo -choiv -foo with my despatch , which she did on the 4th instant, while I

inclosed a copy of the same, with a few explanatory lines, to the Imperial

Commissioner at Canton .

I shortly afterwards received the inclosed satisfactory despatch from Keying

and Hwang, which convinced me that they would do all on their part to influence

Governor Lew.

The “ Medusa ” returned yesterday from Foo -chow -foo, bringing the

inclosed despatch from Mr. Consul Alcock, which is satisfactory in leading to the

expectation that the local authorities will at last take steps to abate the evils

complained of ; but the impression still remains with Mr. Alcock, as well as with

myself, that fair play and candour have not been observed throughout by the

local authorities, the Governor Lew being known to belong to the illiberal or

anti - intercourse faction of the Chinese Government .

The inclosed reply (No. 4) from that functionary is civil and specious,

attributing everything to the curiosity of the people ; but this cannot account

for the gross acts of personal violence , and the flagrant insults (even to being

spit upon ) which some of the English have experienced. I feel convinced,

however, that my timely remonstrance has been attended with a good effect, and

that we shall have a different account in future of the conduct of the populace,

as well as of the general treatment of the English at Foo - chow -foo.

Inclosure 1 in No. 11 .

Mr. Davis to the Governor -General of Fokien and Chekeang.

Victoria, Hong Kong, August 4, 1845.

I HAVE the honour to acquaint your Excellency that I hear very general

complaints, officially confirmed by Her Majesty's Consul, of the ill-conduct of

the populace of Foo-chow-foo to British subjects residing at that place, and

who, confiding in the strict observance of the Treaty, and believing that they

were in a civilized country, have not yet thought it necessary to carry arms

about them for their protection .

I consider this so grave and important a matter that I have purposely

dispatched a steam-vessel with this letter to your Excellency. My disposition

is to be very open and straightforward on all occasions, and not to act without

first declaring my views and intentions.

Now the very first Article of the Treaty concluded at Nankin, expressly

provides that the subjects of England and China respectively should “ enjoy full

security and protection for theirpersons and property within the dominions of

the other."

It is well known to every one that at Amoy, Ningpo, and Shanghae, where

the people experienced all the horrors of war entailed on them bythe miscon

duct of Lin Tsih - seu, they have nevertheless been uniformly well conducted

towards the English since the peace, being properly controlled by the local

officers. How is it, then, that the populace of Foo -chow , who have hitherto

been exempted from the same calamities, should show an unfriendly disposition,

and be inclined to assault unarmed strangers ? Doubtless some ill-disposed

persons, not daring to show their hate openly, have instigated and deceived the

ignorant populace, who are still unaware of the power of my Government to

protect its subjects.

I therefore address this important despatch to your Excellency, requesting

you to put a speedy and effectual stop to the causes of complaint in question.

I have been deputed by the Sovereign of the great nation whom I have the

honour to represent, for the express purpose of watching over the proper

observance of the Treaty, and I am determined to fulfil my duty in every

particular.

The Imperial Commissioner, Keying, being at Canton , and the communica

tion very slow overland , I address this urgent note directly by the steamer, which

will arrive in two or three days, but a copy will be sent to his Excellency Keying ;

though this is not my first communication on the subject. How much preferable

is it that your Excellency should control the people of Foo-chow, thus demon

strating the power of the Chinese Government over its subjects, than that the

British inhabitants should be obliged to be protected by their own authorities,

while avessel is sent to the Peiho with aa letter to the Minister at Peking, complain

ing of the infraction of the first Article of the Treaty. It is also desirable, as the

time for evacuating Chusan approaches, not to complicate matters by such

unpleasant discussions.

It will give me great satisfaction to learn from the Consul, as I anticipate,

that British subjccts can move about Foo - chow -foo without molestation .

1 take thisopportunity to convey to your Excellency the expressions of my

highest consideration.

I take, &c.

(Signed ) J. F. DAVIS.

Inclosure 2 in No. 11 .

Commissioner Keying and Governor Hwang to Mr. Davis.

( Translation.)

KEYING, High Imperial Commissioner, &c . , Hwang, Governor of Kwang

tung, &c., send the following reply.

We received your despatch respecting the Custom -house regulations (here

follows an extract from that paper) , and likewise one respecting the insults,

which the English have frequently experienced at Foo -chow , on the part of

the natives. At this we are extremely surprised. Our two countries are now

at peace with each other, and no difference exists between (our) people and

(your) merchants, who ought, therefore, to regard each other with kindness.

This ought still more to be the case, since your honourable nation did not

commit the slightest hostilities at the metropolis of Fokien. Instead, as they

are doing at present, of insulting you, the inhabitants ought to show you the

deepest respect ; their behaviour, therefore, is inexcusable.

On perusing the despatch of you the Honourable Envoy, we were con

vinced that every word was true and very just. Now , as this affair might

interfere and occasion trouble, whilst the time for restoring Chusan is approach

ing, you , the Honourable Envoy, forwarded this most important document, with

the greatest haste to its destination. This proves still more the strength of

your good faith , which equals rock and steel ; and we are under the highest

obligation.

The restoration of Chusan concerns the good faith and justice of both

nations, but if this, on account of a trifling matter, should be delayed, all nations

would presume that the Treaty and oath of our two Empires was not to be

depended upon . We both are High Commissioners, and how could we thus, as

Great Ministers, remain in our situation, and reply (to the inquiries) of friendly

nations ? But you , the Honourable Envoy, anticipated this, and since the way

by land is distant, you dispatched a steamer to Fokien , in order to convey infor

mation on these matters. Surely your penetration is not of an ordinary quality,

but of the most exalted and refined nature.

We, the High Imperial Commissioner and Governor, have also dispatched

this official letter, with the speed of 600 le per day, that Lew , the Governor

General of Fokien and Che-keang, might peruse the same at the Provincial city.

As he is an intelligent, clever, and true man , imbued with a high sense of

justice, we therefore expect that he will restrain (the people) with severity, and

not allow the ignorant rabble to insult strangers, and injure our peace, harmony,

and friendship

Whilst sending this reply, we wish you the utmost degree of happiness, and

address this important letter.

Taoukwang, 25th year, 7th month , 7th day. (August 9, 1845.)

Inclosure 3 in No , ll .

Consul Alcock to Mr. Davis.

Sir, Foo - chow -foo, August 15, 1845.

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency's

despatch of August 4, together with its inclosures, on the 11th instant, per

" Medusa ."

I lost no time in acquainting the Governor-General Lew, that I was directed

to deliver a letter from your Excellency in person, and the following day I

received a reply, appointed the 14th at 12 o'clock for my visit. As in my letter

to the Governor-General, and his Excellency’s reply, reference is made to the

subject matter of your communication , I have inclosed copies. It will be seen

that in recapitulating the contents of my letter, the Governor -General overlooks

the fact I had stated, of the complaints of the merchants themselves, who had

been aggrieved, having reached you . He then proceeds to assume that the

ground of complaint is the curiosity of the people, which might not be altogether

inexcusable, and finally proposes as a remedy for the evil , that notice should

always be given, when an Englishman wishes to leave his vessel, to District

Magistrates, that he might be encumbered, under plea of protection , with Chinese

police.

In my interview , therefore, which took place yesterday , a minute of which

is herewith inclosed , I deemed it important to keep these three points clearly in

view, for the purpose of rectifying the erroneous ideas his Excellency appeared to

entertain .

I am bound to state that a gradual but marked improvement has taken

place, since the last serious remonstrance, made when General D’Aguilar and other

visitors were here ; nevertheless, occasional acts of very gross rudeness still occur,

and, not very unfortunately, two signal instances came under my notice the day

after the arrival of the “ Medusa,” which gave me a favourable opportunity of

proving to demonstration that more effective measures were yet required , and

that no Englishman was free from the risk of exposure to the most wanton and

unprovoked attacks.

In reference to the proposed measure of placing the English under the

irksome, and in every way objectionable, surveillance of the Chinese police,

which has been already more than once proposed as a favourite panacea, I cannot

doubt but that your Excellency will concur with me in thinking that such liberty

of movement as this would allow little worth having, even were it not to be

anticipated that the worst would be made of the manifest confession and tolerance

of a sense of insecurity, which constitutes a direct infringement of the first, if

not the most important, Article of the Treaty. I pointed out that such ameasure

was at least as impracticable as it was inadmissible, and suggested that they

should distribute their police along the line of route to the Consulate, and ,

moreover, make the shopkeepers in each ward responsible for the discovery and

seizure of any aggressor .

The Governor-General did not dissent, and gave instructions to the attendant

magistrates to make arrangements somewhat analogous.

I did not fail to seize this favourable opportunity of bringing under his

Excellency's notice certain facts strongly tending to prove that there is a general

indisposition to deal on any fair or friendly terms with the British , and that

many had not scrupled to allege as the grounds of their conduct, the fear of

incurring the displeasure of the authorities by any different mode of proceeding.

The inference was not very palatable, and I only pressed it with reserve and

delicacy ; but I strongly insisted upon these facts, as abundantly demonstrating

the existence of a very general feeling that the authorities , if not hostile to us,

were indifferent to any acts which might compromise our interests or security.

The more unfounded such an opinion might be, the more essential was it that

his Excellency should take such decided steps as could leave no doubt whatever

on the minds of the inhabitants, that so far from courting favour, they would

incur the most serious displeasure, and risk punishment , byacting upon opinions

so erroneous .

I did not hesitate to urge upon the Governor-General , that this general

impression lay at the root of the evil, and that no measures promised a successful

result which did not remove this first stumbling- block and obstacle to all friendly

intercourse or commercial transactions. To this, I stated , might, in my opinion,

be attributed all the insults and acts of rudeness which had taken place, and the

total failure of the vigorous efforts recently made to open the trade of the port by

English merchants.

Although his Excellency would not admit even of the existence of such an

impression, he very promptly, and with some earnestness, assured me that every

step should be taken calculated to prove the friendly disposition of the autho

rities, and his own sincere desire to see a flourishing foreign trade established at

this port, that he might remit a large Custom-house revenue to the Emperor.

He finally concluded by declaring I might fully rely upon the authorities to put

the most effectual stop to any further acts of rudeness and insult.

In reference to your Excellency's letter, he hinted at the inexpediency of

any public discussion of its contents, and stated his intention of forwarding his

answer addressed to yourself.

Nothing could be more courteous than his Excellency's bearing, nor more

friendly andapparently sincere than his assurances of a desire to cultivate the

most amicable relations, and to repress everything calculated to disturb

F 2

the

peace and security of the British ; but by the results alone, I fear, can the good

faith which dictated the manner and matter be determined. I cannot doubt that

it is in his power to impress the whole population with a salutary conviction that

the very worst mischief they can engage in , is to molest or insult one English

man ; and this once effected, I believe all ground of complaint will be removed .

In order the better to place before your Excellency the dexterous mode in

which the redress of such grievances is shuffled off, delayed, and frittered away,

if not fina ly lost, I beg to inclose four letters of correspondence not yet concluded,

between myself and the District Magistrates, originating in aa complaint from two

of my servants that they had been beaten and robbed, and met on the part of the

Chinese by a counter -charge, seeking to involve two Englishmen, as well as some

Canton servants, the only men in this district found capable of rendering the

slightest domestic service beyond carrying a bucket of water. The whole of the

proceedings appear on the face of the documents, and are too transparent to

render it necessary that your Excellency's time should be occupied by explanation

or comment.

I cannot conclude without expressing my grateful sense of the ready and

effective assistance which your Excellency has, without solicitation , afforded.

With the gradual improvement I have marked in the behaviour of the people

generally, and the comparatively rare occurrence of any very gross act of violence,

I should indeed have hesitated to make at this moment a further report. I am

very sensible , however, of the importance of such a demonstration as the arrival

of 'the “ Medusa,” with your Excellency's remonstrance addressed to the

Governor-General ; and I venture to hope signal benefit may result from the

measure .

I have, & c .

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 4 in No. 11 .

The Governor -General of Fokien and Che -keung to Jr. Davis.

(Translation .)

LEW, Governor -General of Fo -kien and Che -keang, &c., sends the

following answer to a despatch from yourself, the Honourable Envoy and Great

Minister, received by the steamer, which Consul Alcock personally handed in on

the 12th day, 7th month, 25th year of Taoukwang ( August 14, 1845) .

In this you state that the British residents at Foo - chow make frequent

complaints about the insults received from the natives, and request that an

immediate and effectual stop be put to all future annoyance , & c.

On receiving the above, I, the Governor, found, on examination , that the

people of Foo -chow have not the slightest cause for ill-will against the merchants

of your honourable country, nor an intention of treating them with contempt.

But the merchants of your honourable country have only recently arrived at

Foo-chow, and their dress differs from the native, and the people of Foo -chow

are not yet as accustomed to this sight as the inhabitants) of Amoy and the

three other ports . The streets at Nan-tae are, moreover, very narrow, and

people from every quarter crowd there. At the arrival of the merchants of your

honourable country, it was natural that there would be a large number of

spectators, and amongst them also some idle vagabonds and ignorant boys,

who being unable to obtain a sight, jostled and made a noise . When last year

Consul Lay first arrived, I , the Governor, felt some anxiety about this, and

directed two troops of the magistrates' police to protect Consul Lay. He,

however, said that he was acquainted with the customs of the Celestial Empire,

and could take care of himself, and that there was no need of sending constables.

In the spring of the present year, when Consul Alcock first reached Woo -shih

shan , there were hundreds and thousands of people who came to look at him .

Whilst I , the Governor, therefore ordered Treasurer Sew to issue an order,

severely prohibiting this, I at the same time dispatched soldiers from five

battalions, who should, in the neighbourhood, by turns put (the crowds) down ;

and the runners of the two magistrates were only withdrawn after having more

than twenty days been there on guard .

When , subsequently, the Honourable General D’Aguilar came to Foo-chow,

and had an interview with me, the Governor, the people of Nan -tae quite

surrounded and pushed him . I , the Governor, then instantly ordered the two

magistrates to make inquiries ; to seize the fellows that were crowding around

them , whilst issuing an order severely prohibiting it . The magistrates of Foo

chow , on a subsequent occasion, when a quarrel arose between Foo - chow people

and some individuals of your honourable nation, seized the former and punished

thein , as a warning (to others), with the cangue.

There is at present a vessel of your honourable country, which ran ashore

in the river, and became leaky, and has therefore been obliged to unload, and

repair her damages. I, the Governor, instantly commanded the magistrate of

Foo -chow to procure above twenty lighters to receive the cargo,and the merchant

put his goods in a temple. As I, however, feared that some villains might come

to steal, I ordered the local force to dispatch quickly some soldiers and runners,

to cruize about, day and night, for their protection. Consul Alcock will be

thoroughly acquainted with the above circumstances.

Not a moment elapsed during which I did not exert myself to afford protec

tion , both for the sake of strengthening the place, as well as showing the

friendship of a host to his guests . This, however, the more so, because we are

now one family, and there cannot be the most distant idea of insulting foreigners.

Having now received the communication from you , the Honourable Envoy

and Great Minister, I shall redouble my endeavours for control, to insure lasting

tranquillity. As, however, the offices of all the authorities are in the city, I am

apprehensive that their attention can scarcely be bestowed everywhere, and have

therefore held a consultation with the Acting Lieutenant-Governor Seu , to

choose three civilians and three military officers, who, at different places, from

Woo -shih -shan to Nan -tae, should always have their stations, with a party of

soldiers, for quelling (disturbances), and going their rounds. But if any native

villains insult the merchants of your honourable country , they will instantly be

seized, chained, and delivered over to the magistrate, to be punished severely,

without the slightest show of mercy.

I also hope that you, the Honourable Envoy and Great Minister, will order

Consul Alcock to enjoin upon the merchants of your honourable country that

may come to Foo-chow, to endeavour, each and all of them , to carry on their

commerce quietly, and not create any disturbance with the natives. If we, on

both sides, restrain the people of our two respective nations, good feelings will

spring up in course of time, and the trade will become flourishing.

Ī, the Governor, think, that Foo -chow , being a new port, where the market

has only recently been opened, the goods are not easily sold . When the first

merchantman, an American vessel , arrived last year, I ordered Treasurer Seu to

issue a proclamation, ordering the native merchants to keep their goods in

readiness, and be just in their dealings. At the arrival of a ship of your

honourable country at this port, I have, in conjunction with the Acting Lieute

nant -Governor Seu promulgated an exhortatory address to the richer shops and

merchants, to procure suitable goods for the trade, that both parties may reap

the benefit. A copy of this I forwarded for the perusal of Consul Alcock.

Thus the trade will perhaps increase from small to greater importance, and

extend far and wide. As the merchants will derive essential advantages, the

duties will also be gradually increased, which is what you, the Honourable Envoy

and Great Minister, as well as myself, fervently hope .

I send this answer with the return of the steamer to Kwang-tung, for the

consideration of you, the Honourable Envoy and Great Minister, and wish you

abiding happiness .

This important document is addressed to his Excellency Her Britannic

Majesty's Plenipotentiary, Davis, &c. , with two Proclamations.

Taoukwang, 25th year, 7th month . ( August 1845.)

No. 12 .

Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen.—(Received December 23.)

My Lord, Victoria , Hong Kong, October 27, 1845.

I HAVE great satisfaction in inclosing to your Lordship the annexed copy

of a despatch from Mr. Consul Alcock , in which that zealous and able officer

details the negotiations by which he obtained signal reparation for a wanton and

barbarous attack made by certain individuals of the Tartar garrison on

Mr. Parkes, the interpreter to the Consulate .

The inclosures to Mr. Alcock's despatch being voluminous, and the matter

of them embodied in his letter, I do not trouble your Lordship with details.

I caused an extract from Mr. Alcock's report to be published in the “ China

Mail ” of the 23rd instant, and have since signified to him my entire approval of

his proceedings.

The severe punishment of the aggressors, concerning which the Consul

satisfied himself by ocular proof, will no doubt have a salutary effect. I am

glad, at the same time, to add that a trade is gradually being established at

Foo -chow, and that another ship has this day left Hong Kong with a cargo for

that port. I shall probably find it advisableshortly to transfer Mr. Vice- Consul

Layton from Ningpo, where he has little to do, and add him to the establishment

of Mr. Alcock , who has applied to me for such assistance .

I have, & c .

(Signed ) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure in No. 12 .

Consul Alcock to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Foo -chow -foo, October 8, 1845 .

I HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Excellency's information, copies

of a correspondence which has taken place since the 4th instant with the Tartar

General and the Governor-General, originating in a violent and unprovoked

attack made in the Manchow division of the city upon Mr. Parkes, while

pursuing his walk on the walls.

As that gentleman had been for some distance hooted, pursued , and finally

pelted with dirt and stones, some of which might very easily have inflicted most

serious injury ; and this outrage was persisted in , notwithstanding his remon

strance and warning that their conduct would be reported to the Tartar General ;

and the fact that he was recognised and addressed by name as the interpreter of

the Consulate ; I felt it essential to demand full and prompt satisfaction from

the Tartar General himself , in whose exclusive jurisdiction the assault had taken

place. It appeared to me so clear that if this were denied, or any delay or

shuffling permitted, neither peace nor security could be looked for in F'oo -chow,

nor any prosperous prosecution of British trading interests continued, that I was

fully prepared , in the event of failure, to refer the circumstances to your

Excellency, for such assistance as might be deemed adequate to attain that

object.

My first letter, therefore, to the Tartar General, stated plainly and without

disguise, in commentupon the particulars of the outrage, that I considered such

an attack a flagrant violation of the subsisting Treaties , and unless it were met,

on the part of the authorities, by the most prompt and energetic measures for the

apprehension and severe punishment of the offenders, it would be my duty to

refer the whole of the circumstances to your Excellency without delay.

I also inclosed a copy of this letter to Governor-General Lew, calling upon

him to take measures, in concert with the Tartar General , to avert the difficulties

such an outrage was calculated to raise.

On the following day, Sunday, a Colonel of the Tartar army, formerly the

Haekwang at Amoy, and with whom it was known I had friendly relations, was

dispatched to me by the Tartar General, conveying an apology for the insult

offered, making inquiries after Mr. Parkes , and promising that due inquiry

should be made ;; consequently it was hoped there would be no necessity for my

reporting the affair to your Excellency .

The inclosed copy of the minute of this interview, and one which took place

on the following day, shows the usual diplomacy of the Chinese to have been

brought into play, and for some time my visitor persisted in considering the

assailants as a set of idle boys . Having begged him to disabuse the Tartar

General's mind of all idea that this was a mere affair of idle boys and their

rudeness, or that I should fail to make the most serious representation to my

Government, if satisfaction were not afforded within two days, he took his leave;

and the following day I received a second visit from the same officer, from the

Prefect and two District Magistrates, and as they were approaching, a letter

from the Tartar General and a copy of his proclamation were placed in my

hands.

The magistrates brought inquiries after Mr. Parkes from the Governor

General, and information to me, that his Excellency 'had , in company with the

Lieutenant-Governor, lost no time in proceeding to the residence of the Tartar

General to consult with him as to the most expedient measures for the severe

punishment of the offenders ; that several had already been seized by the Tartar

General's officers, and were about to be handed over for heavy punishment. The

Tartar General's officer brought me information of what further had taken place.

Six men had been traced and seized on the information obtained from one who

had confessed ; three of these, being young, had been severely beaten with

bamboos and sent home ; three older had been reserved for the cangue, a

punishment from which it was the peculiar privilege of a Tartar to be exempt,

and they were now posted one at each of the three gates, viz . , the South, the

East, and Hot-spring Gates, with a placard stating their offence. After the

period of confinement had elapsed, they would then receive the additiona

punishment of the bamboo. The Tartar General having thus condemned these

men , contrary to their own laws, to a degrading punishment unusual among

them , to prove his detestation of the offence committed, the officer was instructed

to say that he trusted this would be considered quite satisfactory, and that I

should no longer deem it necessary to make reference on the subject to Hong

Kong .

Shortly after their departure I received an answer from the Governor

General. Translations of these documents are inclosed .

This morning I determined to proceed to the Hot-springs, to make aa further

examination of one of them , as I should thus pass through the various gateways

where the prisoners were stationed , and the quarter of the city where the

disturbancetook place, and without seeming to exult over the punished men , by

making them a principal object, yet find an opportunity of ascertaining whether

Mr. Parkes could verify them as the real offenders, and forming my own opinion ,

from personal observation, as to the temper of the people after these

punishments, which I understood to have excited much attention, and to be the

talk of the place. Three Tartars in the cangue, and for an assault on an English.

officer !

Mr. Parkes was enabled, he informs me, to verify one, and he believes a

second. On the cangue is written their offence, as above described. When near

the gate I could not get free from two or three police, who had obviously orders,

armed with their whips, to take care their superiors had no further complaint from

me. Swent on to the walls,and walked over the same ground intervening between

the Hot-spring and the East Gate) where Mr. Parkes had been molested. I did

not perceive any evidence of feeling beyond that of interest and curiosity at

seeing me there, probably increased by associating it with the late attack and the

signal punishment of the men. Several of the proclamations were noticed by the

interpreter in different parts of the Tartar city.

Having thus ascertained, tolerably to my satisfaction, that the authorities

had acted with good faith , and not attempted to amuse me with fictitious

punishments, proclamations, & c., I have to -day written a reply to the Tartar

General , and another to the Governor-General, copies of which are herewith

inclosed. To the former I thought it right to say, in answer to a letter which

speaks of such a gross and even dangerous kind of outrage, as a mere breach of

good manners that I conceived his proclamation would have been more

satisfactory to Her Britannic Majesty's Government had he, the Tartar General,

more justly characterized an outrage so flagrant, as a violation of the laws and á.

breach of treaties subsisting between the two nations. Nevertheless, as he had

sufficiently and distinctly denounced the offence, and threatened severe punish

ment in future, I ventured to hope it might secure the desired end , and under

these circumstances the redress obtained appeared to me satisfactory, and would

no doubt be so considered by your Excellency.

To the Governor-General I had the more pleasing and easy task of simply

expressing the high sense I entertained of the earnestand friendly terms in which

he had referred to the outrage, and the prompt and effective steps taken to afford

the necessary redress. I ventured to add, in conclusion, that I could not doubt

the proofs of cordial goodwill to the English nation , and a determination to

insure respect for the laws and a faithful observance of the Treaty, afforded on

the present occasion by his Excellency, and expressed in his letter to me, would

cause it to be read with great satisfaction by Her Britannic Majesty's Minister

Plenipotentiary, to whom I should forward a copy .

I have thought it prudent at this time to address a few lines of advice and

instruction to the gentlemen attached to this Consulate, to serve for their

guidance in their intercourse with the Chinese and British at the port. Feeling

as I do, that the ground we occupy is not so firm but that acts of indiscretion,

or passionate resistance, might, often repeated on the part of the English,

seriously embarrass our relations here ; and it often requires no ordinary share

of temper to treat some of the Chinese with the patience and tolerance which

their rudeness and determination to impose demand . I have written , assuming

the possibility, without strict watch , of some such impatience or indiscretion .

must, in justice to those gentlemen , therefore assure your Excellency that

nothing is farther from my intention than to make a charge of this nature.

their power,

in their

I believe them , on the contrary , anxious and ready , in every way in

to second my efforts to insure respect for the Consular Establishment, and

promote a friendly and good understanding with all classes — Chinese and

English.

I have only to trust that the steps I have taken in this , at first, very

menacing and troublesome-looking affair, and the result obtained, which I have

accepted as perfectly satisfactory, may be sanctioned by the view your Excellency

may take on perusal of the inclosed documents.

I have , & c.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

No. 13.

The Earl of Aberdeen to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Foreign Office, November 24, 1845 .

I HAVE received your despatch of the 23rd of August, inclosing

copies of your correspondence with the Chinese authorities, respecting the

disorderly conduct of the populace at Foo -chow -foo, and I have to acquaint you

that I approve of your having called upon those authorities to prevent British

subjects from being aggrieved by the outrages of the people at that place.

I am, &c.

( Signed ) ABERDEEN .

No. 14 .

The Earl of Aberdeen to Sir J. Davis.

Sir , Foreign Office, January 24, 1846.

I HAVE received your despatch of the 27th of October, inclosing

copy of a despatch from Mr. Consul Alcock, reporting the measures which he

adopted for the purpose of obtaining from the authorities of Foo-chow -foo

reparation for an attack made by certain individuals of the Tartar garrison at

that place on Mr. Parkes, the Interpreter to the Consulate ; and I have to

instruct you to acquaint Mr. Alcock that Her Majesty's Government entirely

approve of his proceedings in this matter.

I am , & c .

(Signed) ABERDEEN .

No. 15.

Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen .— ( Received April 20.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong , February 24, 1846 .

WITH reference to several of my previous despatches, dwelling on the

unsatisfactory treatment of British subjects within the port of Canton ,in which

no improvement whatever has taken place since the peace, II have the honour to

forward some additional correspondence on the same subject.

Earlyin this month Mr. Consul Macgregor reported to me an unprovoked

attack on Commander Giffard, and other officers of the navy, who had landed in

the vicinity of Whampoa, for the purpose of exercise and shooting. They had

prudently retired , after advancing about a mile on their way, upon seeing the

people collecting to oppose their further progress. Notwithstanding this,

however, or rather perhaps in consequence of this, a number of the villagers

intercepted the party as they were quietly returning on board, and wantonly

assailed them with stones, Commander Giffard displayed the greatest modera

tion ; and though the party were well armed , and could have taught a severe

lesson to their aggressors , he would not allow a shot to be fired in self

defence .

When Mr. Consul Macgregor represented the subject to Keying, he received

the reply inclosed in the accompanying despatch to myself. This puts such a

construction on Keying's own version of the Vith Article of the Supplementary

Treaty, which he contrived to substitute for Mr. Thom's translation, as would

place us at the mercy of the rabble in any part of the country, and confine our

people to their ships, even within the authorised ports of trade.

Such annoyances as those experienced within the Canton river, are unknown

at the other ports, and I have frequently observed to your Lordship that the

non -admission into the city is only a part of the grievance which must be

redressed before the Treaty can be considered as duly observed .

Before the receipt of Mr. Macgregor's despatch I had been applied to by

the Rear-Admiral on the subject of the assault on Captain Giffard , and accord

ingly addressed the inclosed to Keying.

He replied by the annexed note, in which he alluded to his answer to

Mr. Macgregor, and promised to send me a further communication on the

subject.

I considered this aa favourable opportunity to point out to Keying the extra

ordinary contrast between the ill-treatment of our regular traders, and even the

officers of Her Majesty's ships, within the legalised port of Canton, and the

perfect freedom and immunity enjoyed by the opium smugglers at Namoa and

Kumsingmoon—places interdicted by the Treaty. Here houses are built, roads

are made, and the most perfect security enjoyed, with the connivance of the

Government authorities ; while at no place within the Canton river can the

more respectable portion of British subjects move about unmolested.

In the inclosed note I point out to Keying this glaring inconsistency, and

call to his recollection my previous remonstrances concerning the evils arising

from the actual condition of the opium trade, and my advice that it should be

legalised with a duty.

I consider that the present negotiations relating to Canton afford a favourable

occasion for pushing this argument, and that could the true state of the case be

made known to the Court of Peking, it would present the strongest motive to

legalise the opium trade.

I have heard from Mr. Consul Macgregor that some authorities were sent

down to investigate the affair at Whampoa, but have not yet received Keying's

promised report.

I have, &c.

( Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 1 in No. 15 .

Consul Macgregor to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Canton, February 10, 1846 .

REFERRING to my despatch, in which I communicated to your Excellency

a letter, and its inclosure, which I had received from Captain Lyster, of Her

Majesty's ship “ Agincourt,” relative to an unprovoked attack on a shooting

party, consisting of Commander Giffard and other officers of Her Majesty's

ships, in the vicinity of Whampoa, I have now the honour to inclose

translation of his Excellency Keying's reply to my representation, in which I

demanded an investigation, and the summary punishment of the offenders.

In this reply, the Imperial Commissioner quotes the VIth Article of the

Supplementary Treaty , under which he endeavours to excuse the conduct of the

villagers on the occasion, and insinuates, notwithstanding the recent procla

mation permitting foreigners to make excursions into the interior, that they

have no right to avail themselves of it . Such an assumption, if allowed, would

render nugatory all that has been done on the subject, and were the people of

the surrounding villages encouraged by such an interpretation, it is to be feared

their violence would rather be increased than checked .

The high tone the Chinese Authority has assumed in this communication

induces me to refer the matter to your Excellency, whose notice of it will,

doubtless, have more weight than a rejoinder from myself, more especially as it

was intimated to me by the officer bearing the despatch that it was considered

not to require an answer from me.

I have addressed a copy of Keying's letter to Captain Lyster for his

information and guidance.

I have, & c.

(Signed ) FRANCIS C. MACGREGOR .

Inclosure 2 in No. 15.

Commissioner Keying to Consul Macgregor.

( Translation .)

KE, Imperial Commissioner, Governor -General of the Two Kwang, &c.,

hereby makes a communication in reply.

I have received your communication stating (here follows an abstract of

Her Majesty's Consul's letter to the Imperial Commissioner, dated 5th February,

1846, respecting Captain Giffard and his party having been attacked near

Whampoa ).

In consequence of this I have instituted an examination , and find that the

VIth Article of the Supplementary Treaty states, “ The English merchants

permanently residing at the Five Ports, Canton and the others, or occasionally

resorting thither, may not, either the one class or the other, go in aa disorderly

manner amidst the villages, nor suit their own ideas in walking and wandering

about for amusement. If any Englishman should, violating this regulation, go

in an unauthorized manner into the interior of the country, and wander far about

for amusement, no matter to what class they may belong, it shall then be lawful

for the people of the country to seize and deliver them over to the English

Consul to be by him punished according to the circumstances. The people

may not, however, in an unauthorized manner, themselves beat and wound them

so as to injure the existing harmony."

On this occasion, Captain Giffard having landed , taking with him people to

assist in the pursuit of game, carrying fire -arms, and their going in an

unauthorized manner to the neighbourhood of the village of Shik-tow-tsuy , at

the distance of one mile from the ship , to wander about for amusement and in

pursuit of game, is a violation of the regulation, and the people of the said

village in preventing them from proceeding have acted in strict accordance with

the Treaty that has been concluded ; as, further, no one was wounded in the

attack made by throwing stones , it becomes a matter of difficulty suddenly to

seize and punish them, whereby the minds of all would be caused to rebel,

However, since I have received your communication, if you will wait for the

time being, I will order the local authorities to restrain the people of the village,

directing them that if it should hereafter happen that any Englishmen go in a

disorderly manner amidst the villages, wandering and walking about for amuse

ment, they, the people of the said village, ought to take their measures in

obedience with the Treaty concluded on, and that they may not suddenly beat

and wound them so as to injure the existing harmony.

You also (should) immediately bring this Article of the Treaty to the

knowledge of the naval officers in question , that all may actin obedience thereto,

and for ever give due weight to friendship and kind feeling, which is of the

greatest importance. For this reason, I now make you a communication in

reply for your information . A necessary communication in reply.

February 8 , 1856 .

Inclosure 3 in No. 15.

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

Victoria, Hong Kong, February 9 , 1846 .

I BEG to acquaint your Excellency, that no sooner had I written my

despatch, in which I dwelt on the ill -conduct of the people about Canton, than

I received aa letter from the Admiral , reporting an unprovoked attack on some

officers belonging to Her Majesty's steamer Vixen ,” which conveyed your

Excellency from and back to Canton .

The Commander and others were on shore, near Whampoa anchorage, for

the purpose of walking about and shooting birds, when they were assailed by a

crowd of people, with stones, urged on by the “ Tepos,” or heads of the village.

Having arms, they could easily have destroyed their assailants, but displayed a

forbearance which does them great credit.

The name of the village is Shik -tow -tsuy, and Consul Macgregor can

obtain any further information that may be required. The aggressors ought to

be punished in sight of the Consul or the Commander.

I must observe to your Excellency, that if the Commanders of Her Majesty's

ships find the laws of the country cannot or will not protect them , they will,

very naturally, be inclined to do themselves justice, and the chance of such

occurrences should be guarded against.

This is one more instance of the evil disposition of the Canton (Kwang -tung)

people, which must be now corrected, in order to prevent future troubles.

I beg your Excellency will accept the renewed assurances of my highest

consideration , &c .

I have, &c .

( Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 4 in No. 15 .

Commissioner Keying to Sir J. Davis .

( Translation .)

KEYING , High Imperial Commissioner, &c. , sends the following answer

to a despatch about an attack upon Captain Giffard (here follow the contents of

that paper), which he received from you, the Honourable Envoy, and attentively

perused.

I find, on examination , that Consul Macgregor, in a previous despatch,

stated that the said naval officers took with them fowling -pieces and pistols, when

they went on shore and approached the village Shik -tow -tsuy, at a distance of

three “ le” from their vessel, where they were attacked with stones by more

than 1,000 people, and returned to their boat immediately, without being

wounded. To this I sent an answer, in conformity to the existing Treaty.

I moreover gave orders to the local mandarins, that they might restrain the

villagers of the said place, and not allow them , of their own accord , to engage

in strife and inflict injury, so as to disturb the existing harmony and goodwill.

Having sent some officers to investigate the affair, I addressed my orders

to the civil and military authorities entrusted with this business , on receiving

your note, to examine minutely into this affair, and manage it satisfactorily. As

soon as I have received their report, I shall forward to you a reply.

Whilst transmitting this answer, I wish you happiness.

Taoukwang, 26th year, Ist month, 19th day. (February 14, 1846.)

Inclosure 5 in No. 15 .

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

Victoria, Hong Kong, February 21 , 1846.

SINCE I received your Excellency's note of the 14th instant, declaring that

you would write again on the subject of the attack on Captain Giffard , I have

been waiting for some information .

The ill conduct of the inhabitants within the port of Canton is a very serious

matter, and must be corrected, or it will lead to great confusion .

The lawful and regular traders of my country, and even the officers of Her

Majesty's ships, cannot proceed on shore within the port of Canton without

being attacked. On the outside of the port, however, at Namoa and Kumsing

moon , the lawless smugglers of opium have formed settlements on shore, and

built houses, and made good roads. This is all by the connivance of the lower

mandarins, who receive forty dollars on every chest. Thus, while lawful and

regular traders within the port are maltreated, the smugglers of opium violate

the Treaty in going to forbidden places on the coast, where they live on shore

unmolested ; and , if attacked by Chinese, they shoot and kill them at their

pleasure.

Your Excellency will perceive that this state of things is very mischievous.

The regular traders, seeing that they have no protection from the Chinese

Government, will either become outside smugglers, or they will go ashore in

numbers and carry arms with them , and, if wantonly attacked, they will be

inclined to do themselves justice.

I have already declared to the outside smugglers of opium , that I cannot

protect them at Namoa and Kumsingmoon. If the mandarins continue to allow

them to reside there, while regular traders and official persons are maltreated

within the port of Canton, this is manifestly to offer encouragement to smugglers

and pirates, and to discourage honest and respectable persons who conform to

the Treaty .

I have before repeatedly addressed your Excellency on the impolicy of

allowing the irregular trade in opium , by which the lower mandarins are enriched,

and both natives and foreigners are taught to smuggle. Were the trade legalized

with a duty, a large revenue would accrue to the Emperor, and smuggling would

altogether cease.

Were the Emperor to know that opium smugglers are allowed to build

houses and make roads at Namoa and Kumsingmoon , while regular traders are

not only forbidden to enter Canton , but maltreated everywhere in the neighbour

hood , His Majesty, seeing that this must excite the indignation of foreigners,

would probably take measures for correcting so glaring an abuse.

I avail, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

No. 16 .

Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen .-- (Received April 20.)

My Lord, Victoria , Hong Kong , February 25, 1846 .

WITH reference to my despatch of yesterday's date, I have since

received the promised statement from Keying of his measures relating to the

aggressive villagers at Whampoa, and forward it as an inclosure herewith.

The colour given by the villagers to their own statement of the transaction

might have been expected, but no doubt can exist of the harmless nature of

Captain Giffard's excursion on shore, and the consequent absence of any justify

ing cause for the attack .

I hope that even what has been done may tend to restrain the people in

that neighbourhood, but much reformation is needed in the general condition

and treatment of British subjects within the port of Canton .

As the present state of things is the obvious and admitted consequence of

those evil lessons which were formerly taught to the people by their own

Government, and as the opium smugglers on the outside of the port are tolerated

in all their irregularities, forming settlements on shore, and securing impunity to

themselves by their own force, while the more respectable portion of Her

Majesty's subjects, within the limits of the Treaty at Canton, meet with all

manner of ill-treatment and obloquy, the Chinese Government may justly be

held responsible for the application of an effectual remedy.

I have addressed the inclosed reply to Keying, repeating my previous

arguments on this strong point.

I have, & c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 1 in No. 16 .

Commissioner Keying to Sir J. Davis.

( Translation .)

KEYING, High Imperial Commissioner, &c . , sends the following reply.

From a despatch of Consul Macgregor it appeared that some officers of the

steamer had gone on shore (here follow the contents of that letter). I therefore

sent orders to the local officers to keep the villagers of that place under proper

constraint, as is on record.

On the receipt of a communication from the Honourable Envoy, I directed

some mandarins to proceed thither and investigate the affair. These officers

subsequently reported, that they had hastened to Whampoa accordingly, but

previously had an interview on board his vessel with the officer, Mr. St. Croix,

and others. From them they learned that several officers had, with some men,

gone on shore to obtain birds, to which the villagers were opposed. The officers

then brought a linguist, and proceeded with the deputed mandarins to that

village to institute inquiries . This proved to be the territory of Shik -tow -tsuy,

about ten le distant from Whampoa , and from the anchorage of the steamer

three le. There are in that neighbourhood about seventeen villages and hamlets

adjoining each other, and the popnlation is very dense. They went on shore at

the entrance of the canal of Shik-tow-tsuy, to the eastward of Leih -shating, and

the officers pointed out the great street of three villages of about five le,down

to the lower village of Pih-tang, saying that this was the place where stones had

been thrown at them by the inhabitants, who had pursued and driven them

away . This being ascertained , the officers returned to their vessel .

The deputed officers then ordered the elders and gentry of the village to

assemble to institute an investigation. They stated that there were constantly

people who came on shore from the foreign vessels, that were at anchor near

Whampoa, to walk about, but they never went far, nor entered the villagers.

Hence mutual quietness had reigned for a considerable time . But on the 9th

day of the present month (4th February) there came all on a sudden above ien

English officers and men with fowling -pieces, and advanced to the eastward of

Shating, the large street of Pih -tang and other villages. They traversed every

place, and frightened the women in the villages to the great regret of every one.

Being apprehensive of some disturbance they (the elders) expelled them , whilst

some took up stones and threw at them , to inspire fear, without, however,

hurting any one. They, on their part, kept (the multitude) in check, prevented

them (from doing mischief), and dispersed the crowd . Such was the evidence

given .

One of the Articles of the Supplementary Treaty stipulates, that the English

should not go at random to villages, and walk about at their pleasure. Now the

officers took many people with them , carrying fire -arms, and venturing the

distance of five le , from the entrance of the Shik -tow -tsuy canal to Pih-tang and

other villages, wandering everywhere about, terrifying the women of the villages,

and causing universal regret, and they were therefore stopped to prevent

mischief; but the stones were merely thrown to frighten them , and not to

inflict injury. Still this was wrong, and the elders and gentry were, therefore,

ordered to do their duty in restraining the populace with all rigour. If, in future,

any Englislımen enter into the villages , the former ought to act in conformity to

the Treaty, and must not wantonly throw stones to affect the existing harmony

and good feeling.

On receiving the report, and examining the case, we agreed that the

suggestions of the said deputed officers, being the result of their clear investi

gation , should be carried into effect. Severe orders are now issued to the local

officers to keep the villagers in check .

You , the Honourable Envoy, ought likewise to command the British officer

to exercise control over English subjects . Thus the Treaty will be strictly

observed on both sides, and we shall live together in undisturbed harmony and

friendship.

Whilst forwarding this answer, I wish you every happiness.

Taoukwang, 26th year, 1st month, 26th day. ( February 21 , 1846. )

Inclosure 2 in No. 16 .

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keyiug.

Victoria, Hong Kong, February 25, 1846 .

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency's

despatch, stating that officers had been deputed to Whampoa concerning the

attack on Captain Giffard .

I regret that your Excellency should have had so much trouble about this

business, but at the same time must think that, the assailants not having been

punished, there is no security against the recurrence of similar attacks.

}

The

officers of Her Majesty's ship went ashoremerely for their amusement in shooting

wild birds, and gave no molestation to the people. In no friendly country are

they obliged to confine themselves to their ships.

I have already addressed a note to your Excellency, showing that while

the lawless smugglers of opium on the outside of the port form settlements at

Namoa and Kumsingmoon, upon the Chinese territory, building houses and

making roads, the respectable British subjects who enter the authorized port

are exposed to all kinds of ill treatment and obloquy, and the offenders are not

punished.

Your Excellency speaks of living together in undisturbed harmony and

friendship, and my wish is exactly the same. But my countrymen are not

accustomed to ill usage, either in their own country or in any other. When

they see that the Government of China cannot or will not protect them from

wanton molestation, they will naturally be inclined to right themselves, and

inevitable disorder will be the result .

They see the opium smugglers allowed to form settlements ashore on

the outside of the port, while within the port, and within the limits settled by

Treaty , they themselves enjoy neither freedom of movement nor security of

person.

I have often repeated to your Excellency that the illicit trade in opium,

under the connivance of the mandarins, is the source of innumerable evils .

Were the trade legalized, the whole of the foreign ships would be collected

within the five ports, under the control of the Consuls. They would all pay

tonnage dues, and about 2,000,000 dollars would easily be collected on the

opium .

At present this profit is obtained by corrupt officers of Government, the

ships wander to all parts of the coast, and the smugglers form settlements on

shore. While this is openly connived at, I cannot interfere ; but, were the

trade legalized, I could secure the due control of all the vessels. Since commo

dities could then be given in exchange for opium , Sycee silver would no longer

flow out of the country, and a mutual good understanding would be for ever

preserved.

I renew, &c .

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

No. 17 .

The Earl of Aberdeen to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Foreign Office, April 24 , 1846.

I HAVE read with some regret the account contained in your despatches

of the 24th and 25th of February, of the correspondence in which you have

been involved with the Chinese authorities, in consequence of the attack

made upon Captain Giffard and his party by some villagers near Whampoa. I

am far from being satisfied that the Chinese authorities might not have retorted

upon you, by a complaint that Captain Giffard had rendered himself amenable

to reproof for having wandered into the country, contrary to the spirit, if not to

letter, of the Treaty, which prescribes limits to the excursions of British subjects

at the five ports ; and at all events I cannot coincide in the line of argument

which you appear to have used , that because the Chinese Government oflicers

allow in some instances British subjects to disregard the Treaty , by settling in

parts of the country other than those specified in theTreaty, British subjects in

other quarters may find in that negligence a sufficient justification for over

steppping the bounds prescribed to them in the Treaty.

I consider it extremely important, especially at the present moment in the

vicinity of Canton, that British subjects should be cautioned to use the utmost

circumspection in all their proceedings, and although it would certainly be very

desirable, on every account, that greater freedom of intercourse with the interior

should be allowed to British subjects than they at present enjoy , I still conceive

that it would be better to submit to some temporary inconvenience, rather than

provoke the jealousy of an ignorant populace, by aiming at more than we are

strictly entitled by Treaty to exact.

I am, & c.

( Signed ) ABERDEEN .

No. 18 .

Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen.— (Received June 23.)

My Lord , Victoria, Hong Kong, April 23 , 1846 .

I HAVE the honour to forward, herewith , to your Lordship, two despatches

which I have received from Mr. Consul Alcock , at Foo - chow - foo, detailing the

circumstances of a serious riot which took place in the suburbs of that town,

and in which some Englishmen and some Canton Chinese were concerned.

It is well known that the Canton and Fokien Chinese are almost different

races, unable to understand each other's spoken language, and that they seldom

meet together without unpleasant collision. They are at the same time

remarkable as being the most turbulent and ungovernable of Chinese subjects.

For these reasons, it is unfortunate that so many Canton men should have

accompanied British residents to that place, being, of course, useful as the only

Chinese at present acquainted with the English language, or accustomed to

serve them as cooks, & c.

At the time of the disturbance, Her Majesty's ship “ Dædalus ” was in the

river, but Mr. Alcock had so little apprehension regarding either himself or

the other residents that he allowed her to sail with Inclosure No. 1 to my

address, informing me that he had written for Her Majesty's brig “ Espiègle

from Amoy .

In the same despatch your Lordship will observe Mr. Alcock states, as bis

opinion, that there is “ no hostility whatever against the English, save in so far

as they identify themselves with a rabble of Canton men of the worst character

hanging about the suburbs, and with acts of aggression or altercation originating

with their Canton servants — the cause of the disturbance in the presentinstance,

as far as I can ascertain ."

Mr. Alcock seemsto have acted with great prudence throughout, and he

speaks in high terms of the Chinese authorities , who were no doubt alarmed for

the general peace..

In his second despatch, dated five days later, the Consul states that a band

of Chinese plunderers, who as usual took advantage of the disturbance, attacked

the residence of two Englishmen in their absence, and effectually cleared it of

all property. Many of these criminals had been seized by the authorities, with

about 2,700 dollars of the plunder. The principal offenders would be decapi

tated, and full indemnity for the whole of the plundered property was promised

by the Chinese Government.

As no lives were lost, these occurrences are unfortunate chiefly as they may

operate against Foo -chow -foo as a place of residence and trade , and add to the

prejudices already existing. In the meanwhile it is satisfactory to reflect that

the greatest reliance may be placed on the prudence and firmness of the Consul ,

who seems, by the inclosures in his despatch, to be on the best terms with the

Local Government, and cooperating by their desire, at the time he last wrote, in

the investigation of the evidence on both sides.

I have, &c .

( Signed ) J. F. DAVIS.

Inclosure 1 in No. 18.

Consul Alcock to Sir J. Davis.

Sir , Foo- chow -foo, April 1 , 1846 .

I HAVE the honour to inclose a despatch I have felt it necessary to address

to the officer commanding Her Majesty's ship “ Espiègle ," at Amoy, calling upon

him to afford such support to Her Majesty's Consul at this port, as the presence

of a brig of war is calculated to give. I am unable to furnish your Excellency

with any details to be depended upon , until further investigation has been made,

but I trust in a few days to be better informed, when I shall dispatch an express,

in duplicate, by Amoy and Canton. In the meantime, although I am bound to

state there is great excitement — the shops in the suburbs having been closed,

and still continue so, partially — and the English residents in the suburbs are

greatly alarmed, and about to leave for the vessels at the mouth of the river, I

consider these fears exaggerated, and have no apprehension for my own security

here, nor that of the members of the Consular establishment at Nan-tae. I

cannot give a stronger, or, to me, a more satisfactory, proof of the accuracy of

this opinion, than the fact that Mr. Walker has come up to the Consulate this

morning, and was unconscious of the existence of any scrious disturbance, until

informed on his arrival here. He found a crowd round Mr. Glen's hong, but

met with no interruption . I am satisfied that there is no hostility whatever

against the English, save in so far as they identify themselves with a rabble of

Canton men of the worst character, hanging about the suburbs ; and with acts

of aggression or altercations originating with their Canton servants — the cause

of the disturbance in the present instance , so far as I can ascertain. It is satis

factory to me to state, that the authorities have been in constant communication

with me, and have shown the strongest desire to maintain order, and to ensure

the safety of Mr. Glen and his establishment, against whom the popular clamour

is directed,

Mr. Glen , I learn with regret, requires surgical assistance, and was about to

leave for the Woo -foo -mun Pass, against which step , depriving me of the means

of duly examining into the affair, the authorities have very reasonably remon

strated . I have, in consequence, laid my injunctions upon Mr. Glen not to

leave the port, and have, moreover, offered him asylum here, where alone he

can obtain surgical assistance ; and the magistrate undertakes to accompany him

here, and secure him from all molestation. I have also directed Mr. Glen to

send away all his servants who are implicated in the fracas, to wait further

orders at the Woo-foo-mun Pass; and the authorities will put an officer in

charge, and be responsible for the safety of his goods. I trust these measures

may be approved by your Excellency.

I have, & c.

(Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 2 in No. 18 .

Consul Alcock to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Foo -chow -foo, April 6, 1846.

REFERRING to my despatch of the 1st of April, written during the

prevalence of great excitement on the part of the Chinese population and the

British residents in the suburbs, I have now the satisfaction of reporting to your

Excellency that order has been restored without loss of life, although personal

injuries have been received, and some loss of property has ensued , from the

sacking of a hong inhabited by two British subjects.

The inclosed copies of notifications addressed to the British community of

Foo- chow , of three proclamations issued by the Governor-General and the

Lieutenant-Governor, and of correspondence between the latter officer and

myself, will place the whole of the circumstances, so far as they are yet known ,

before your Excellency, and at the same time correctly explain the present state

of affairs .

On the 7th instant I shall proceed to take evidence, in reference to the part

taken by the British and the members of their respective establishments, imme

diately prior to the outbreak of popular feeling, and during the prevalence of

overt acts of hostility. On the following day I purpose proceeding with the

Lieutenant-Governor and the District Magistrates to examine the evidence

brought forward by the Chinese on the opposite side. In a short time,

therefore, I may reasonably hope to be enabled to communicate such further

information as may seem needful clearly to explain whatever may now be

doubtful.

As some anxiety may, however, be experienced at Hong Kong, if any report

may have preceded this despatch, I consider it expedient to put your Excellency

at once in possession of the more important intelligence, that all is quiet, and no

further cause of alarm exists .

I will merely observe by way of comment, that this series of disturbances,

whiclı, during the 31st March and 1st April, assumed a very formidable aspect,

seem to have taken their origin from such trivial causes, that I cannot but

conceive feelings of irritation and hostility must have previously existed, and for

a long period. The recent events have, however, only served to confirm my

opinion that to the English themselves, the people of Foo -chow are not hostile.

Even during the highest excitement, after blows had been struck on both sides,

and blood had flowed , for several hours Messrs. Roper and Hacket traversed the

crowd repeatedly during the night, first to gain Mr. Glen's hong, and subse

quently in search of two missing scrvants, and they were not molested. The

following morning, three hours before an attack was made upon Mr. Glen's hong,

and the residence of the parties above mentioned was sacked and plundered,

Mr.Walker passed through thecrowd and traversed the whole of the suburbswithout

insult or interruption. A day later, after fire-arms had been used by Canton

men forcing their way to Mr. Glen's hong, and two of the crowd had been

wounded, Mr. Meredith , in a similar manner, camefrom Nan - tae to the Consulate

in the city. These facts furnish , I think , the most conclusive evidence in

support of the opinion I have expressed . On the evening of the 1st April, the

Governor -General, communicating to me the measures he had taken and had in

view for the protection of property and restoration of order, politely intimated

his intention of sending a guard to the Consulate, which I immediately declined,

stating, that I was satisfied the people of Foo -chow entertained no hostile feelings

to the members of Her Majesty's Consulate, and that I held myself perfectly

secure from molestation, and was otherwise unwilling to give such evidence of

a want of confidence I did not feel. The result fully justified this course, during

the whole of the period ;while the most alarming accounts were being brought in

hourly from Chinese and British, no intruder appeared at the Consulate.

As regards the authorities, I have much satisfaction in stating that they

have given every proof of a friendly spirit, and a determination not only to put

down the disturbances with a strong arm , but to the utmost of their ability to

protect the British in their persons and their property . Several of the inferior

officers and soldiers received injuries in defending Mr. Glen's hong after the two

men had been shot by the Canton servants . After the first émeute, in which

Mr. Glen received his injury, 300 men were ordered down, and these seeming

insufficient to disperse the mob, the force was promptly increased to 1000. If

the hong of Messrs. Roper and Hacket was not equally defended, I believe it

must be attributed to a disbelief on the part of the authorities that it was in any

danger, for all the morning that part of the suburb had been undisturbed , and

even an hour before it was reduced to a shell, the two residents passed through

the streets with Mr. Glen unmolested, for some distance, to gain their boats.

Finally, the evil not having been prevented, the officiating Lieutenant -Governor

promptly assured me that compensation should be inade for property lost. On

this point I cannot omit calling your Excellency's attention to the honourable

and disinterested assistance which two of the neighbouring shopkeepers gave to

Mr. Hacket's shroff, by receiving and keeping in safe custody a box of 3,000

dollars, a trait which I think suffices to redeem the people as a population from

any sweeping condemnation. I have indeed a strong suspicion that the attack

on the hong in question may be attributed to the knowledge the more worthless

of the population may have acquired of the fact, that treasure to a considerable

amount was to be found there , and who deemed the opportunity favourable,

under the cloak of popular hostile feeling, for appropriating such a valuable

booty. In the apprehension of the offenders , and the recovery of stolen property,

the authorities seem to have exerted the utmost diligence, and besides several

minor articles, 2,700 dollars have been seized in the hands of the plunderers or

their accomplices.

It having been my painful duty to bring under your Excellency's notice

occurrences, not more untoward in their aspect than injurious, I fear, to the

future prospects of the port, I am glad that it should nevertheless be placed in

my power , within six dàys, to give so favourable aa report of the existing state of

affairs, and the perfectly satisfactory nature of our relations with the authorities

of the place. Nor indeed are my apprehensions of the injurious effect of these

disturbances upon the prosperity of the port in the slightest degree founded

upon any impression of insecurity to life and property hereafter as the result,

but simply upon the conviction, that some time may elapse before confidence is

entirely restored even in the minds of the British residents here ; and at Hong

Kong and the other ports, recent events will in all probability serve to confirm

strong prejudices already of old date, and exercising the worst influence.

bemNotwithstanding all that is disheartening in these circumstances, it will still

earnest endeavour to extract some good from these evils, and if full

compensation can be obtained for injury sustained, friendly relations be re -estab

lished between the parties injured and the population, and signal punishment

be inflicted upon the chief actors in the scenes of riot , I shall feel that additional

security has been gained.

It is possible that the experience of the last few days may have taught both

English and Chinese a needful lesson of mutual consideration and forbearance,

may have shown to the former the impolicy and danger of too great readiness

to assume intentional offence and to resent it by unequivocal violence ; and to

the latter, the determination of their own authorities not to uphold them in acts

of wanton aggression.

results can be obtained there will be little left to regret, since no

If these

life has been lost, and our own relations, friendly and commercial , will rest upon a

basis infinitely broader and firmer than they have heretofore done at this port.

Rome To this end my best efforts are now directed, and if successful, I am sure

the result will be hailed by your Excellency with much satisfaction .

I have, &c .

(Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

No. 19 .

Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen.-(Received July 23.)

( Extract.) Victoria, Hong Kong, May 8 , 1846 .

REFERRING to my despatch of 23rd April, I have the honour to report

further upon the subject of thelate riots at Foo - chow -foo.

On the 5th instant I received the inclosed from Mr. Consul Alcock, in

which he reports upon his proceedings in consequence of those unfortunate

disturbances, particularly with reference to compensation for losses sustained, of

which the schedule is subjoined to his letter.

The prospects of trade have been sufficiently unfavourable from the first

occupation of the port, and the late occurrences have rendered them much worse.

To the physical difficulties, arising from the nature of the river, and the

impossibility of approaching the city with ships of war for the protection of the

trade ( as can be effectually done at the other new ports) , are now to be added

them oral obstacles which have lately arisen.

It is clear that the two points absolutely indispensable are, first, the

exemplary punishment of the plunderers in the late riots ; and, secondly,

compensation from the Government for the actual losses sustained by British

subjects in the plunder of their residences.

It is to be hoped that real and tangible losses may be recovered without

difficulty ; but claims of a speculative nature, like those made by Mr. Glen >

under the head of “ inconvenience,” and of “ injury to commercial prospects,"

which at Foo -chow - foo have never been very promising, require to be more

considerately dealt with . He has, moreover, greatly vitiated such claims, if he

has quitted the port, as I understand, contrary to the Consul's advice and

invitation to remain .

Mr. Glen seems to have obtained a very incorrect version of the American

case at Canton, on which he founds his speculative claim for the sum of 50,000

dollars. The party in question , after making up an account for 10,261 dollars,

immediately added 100 per cent. for “ suffering and inconvenience " arising from

the losses specified, and which are usually supposed to be put an end to by the

restoration of the value.

The local authorities were so notoriously remiss on the late occasion, that

compensation for positive losses by the plunder of treasure and other effects

must, if necessary, be urged in the strongest manner ; and I shall be glad to

receive any instructions that your Lordship may deem it right to address to me

on the subject.

Inclosure 1 in No. 19.

Consul Alcock to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Foo -chow - foo, April 29, 1846.

I HAVE the honour to inclose various documents for your Excellency's

information, referring to the recent disturbances at this port, the claims for

compensation arising out of these events, and the present aspect of affairs

here :

The proceedings of the Consular Court, held on the 7th instant, embodying

the depositions of British subjects and servants on their respective establish

H 2

ments ; the evidence of the Chinese witnesses before their own authorities ; the

comments I thought it necessary to make in an official communication to the

Acting Lieutenant-Governor upon the chief facts elicited by the evidence adduced

on both sides ; and lastly , the reply of the officiating Lieutenant-Governor to

my observations, relative to the acts of violence which took place from the

28th March to the 1st April.

In my communication to the Lieutenant-Governor, I deemed it necessary

to call his attention to many circumstances of an unsatisfactory nature connected

with the events and the evidence. It was so clear that untrue statements had

been made by the Chinese witnesses, and great remissness been manifested by

the authorities during the disturbances, that I felt it incumbent upon me

strongly to express my opinion on these points. The inadequate and tardy

measures taken by the authorities for the protection of the persons and property

of British subjects, must be considered the more unpardonable after messages

from the Governor -General and officiating Lieutenant -Governor, and visits from

the subordinate authorities, hour after hour, during the prevalence of the popular

excitement, showed that they were fully alive to the serious nature of the riots

and the evil results threatened . As I had given full credit to the authorities

for good faith in the promises of vigilance and energy, and the assurances I

received of adequate steps having actually been taken , I believed myself the

more fully warranted in forcibly pressing upon the officiating Lieutenant

Governor the manifest discrepancy of the unchecked course of events, and those

reiterated reports of measures adopted to avert such mischief.

The charges against the British are limited to two of a trivial character :

1st, against some sailors of the “ Dædalus” for taking provisions without due

payment, and by force ; and 2ndly, against an English servant for striking a

Chinese porter impeding his passage. In each of these cases, parties on both

sides seem to have been blameable. The grounds of complaint against the

Chinese consist of several counts, extending from the 28th March to the 1st

April, and involve distinct charges of extreme violence and robbery on the

persons of three servants to British residents, personal injury to an English

merchant , and loss of property by the plundering with force and arms in open

day, of two hongs occupied by British subjects.

His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor, in reply, sends a private commu

nication, in which he confesses that the first case of Captain Miln's servant had

not been investigated, concurs in the equitable view taken of the reparation to

be made to the Chinese who had shown cause of complaint against the English,

and deprecates the connecting these events with the inore serious disturbances

which took place on the 31st March and 1st April. The apprehension of the

party of Canton men who fired and wounded two of the crowd, and which I had

urged upon him , is slurred over, as they have been allowed to escape, and he

concludes by regretting Mr. Glen’s departure, admitting that it is very natural,

but disclaiming, on the part of the population, any feeling of hostility, and hints

at the inexpediency of writing officially during the investigation.

Since this correspondence but little progress has been made in terminating

these discussions, by the punishment of the offenders, and the settlement of the > >

claims for compensation . I fear the sudden departure of the “ Torrington "

without entering the port will not allow me to inclose copies of various letters

and documents connected with these points, but the earliest opportunity shall

be taken to place them before your Excellency. In the meantime I beg to

inclose a summary of all the claims, except Mr. Glen's, some of the details of

which are still under investigation : the amount claimed by Messrs. Hacket,

Miln , and Roper, is about 37,000 dollars, while the claim of Mr. Glen for actual

Josses, appears likely to exceed 34,000 dollars, making a total of some 70,000

dollars .

Looking to the importance of a speedy settlement of the bulk of these

claims on the spot, I have declined submitting to the local authorities demands

for compensation under any other head than that of obvious and defined losses,

actually incurred during the disturbances, or as their immediate consequence,

reserving to Her Majesty's Government the right, at any later period , of pressing

further claims under the head of personal injury and inconvenience, and injury

to commercial undertakings. The inclosed correspondence will inform your

Excellency, that Mr. Glen has preferred a claim to a large amount under each

of these heads. Under the first he claims 50,000 dollars, the sum understood

to have been paid to an American merchant, under the authority of Captain

Elliott, Her Majesty's Chief Superintendent of Trade at that period, for personal

injuries and inconvenience, and under the second, 140,000 dollars.

In Mr. Glen's letter of the 8th of April, he requested my advice and opinion

on his right to claim, under the heads of loss sustained on the spot by property

destroyed, &c., and of injury to prospects and loss on commercial undertakings,

and in his letter of the 9th, he made this latter claim in form . In reply, I stated,

as my opinion, that he was fully entitled to compensation to the extent of the

loss incurred , and expressed my readiness to present a claim of this nature to the

authorities for adjustment. In reference to the claims under the second head ,

I conceived the time had not arrived for deciding what consequences might

follow the late disturbances, and that the event, as related to the interests of

foreign trade at the port, might in a great measure be influenced by the view he

himself took, and the steps he might take. Any claim of this nature I con

sidered, therefore, premature, and that it could only be equitably sustained if

the result should hereafter realize his worst fears, notwithstanding his best

exertions to secure a more favourable issue . In which event, it would be com

petent to Her Majesty's Government, to take such steps as inight seem expedient

in prosecution of a claim under this head .

Having declined entering into any discussion with the local authorities upon

claims under these two heads,* it is unnecessary to occupy your Excellency's

time by observations on the amount specified. As claims of this nature cannot

be based upon any distinct series of facts, by which an actual loss or injury to a

certain and definite amount can be proved , they are always open to question,

and can only be satisfactorily arranged when there are plenary powers for nego

tiation , and when the relations of the two countries, as well as the circumstances

affecting individual interests, can be kept in view.

In reference to the schedules furnished by the claimants for losses sustained,

I have pointed out to his Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor that they have

been made out with as much minuteness as could , under the circumstances, be

required ; and , from the total loss of property (including books and papers) ,

little collateral evidence could be expected , or reasonably insisted upon. The

amount of treasure , together with the articles in possession at the time when the

hongs were forcibly entered and plundered, having been sworn to, this, under

the circumstances, appeared to be the only evidence to be depended upon, and

to afford that guarantee for the truth and accuracy of the statements which the

law of England provides in the acknowledged impossibility, without fault of the

claimants , of obtaining any other.

I will merely observe, in this place, that the amount has appeared to me

large; but, upon.careful examination of each claim and the various items, I

have not considered that valid objection could be taken to any of them on the

ground of overcharge, or improbability of such objects and treasure being in

possession (in the absence of any evidence to the contrary), and in the hongs at

the time of their being forcibly entered by a mob of plunderers. On the other

hand, it is rare that a compensation in money, for the loss incurred in a distant

country by the total destruction of property, can make adequate amends for the

serious prejudice and inconvenience which result ; and it would have been so

possible, and was so imperative upon the authorities to prevent these outrages,

that there might have been cause of regret had the authorities escaped without

feeling seriously the embarrassment of such claims.

I anticipate much difficulty in obtaining a satisfactory settlement of these

claims ; and should there be any decided indication of unwillingness to proceed

to a final adjustment, it may be expedient and necessary to inform the authorities

that I shall refer the claims to your Excellency, and report my inability to obtain

the necessary settlement at Foo -chow .

I trust these views, and the steps I have taken in accordance with them ,

may meet with your Excellency's approval. The serious nature of the riots, and

the embarrassing character of claims which cannot be substantiated by collateral

evidence, arising from the violence of a mob, and the inadequate measures taken

by the authorities, render a prompt and easy solution of the difficultiesthat

surround the whole business, all but impossible.

I have, & c.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Personal loss and inconvenience, and injury to commercial undertakings,

Inclosure 2 in No. 19 .

Abstract of Claims made by British Subjects for Losses incurred during the Riots

at Foo -chow -foo, on the 31st of March and 1st of April.

William Hudson Roper.

Treasure 10,526 72

Household Furniture 390 0

Clothing 946 50

Silver Plate, & c . 262 0

Miscellaneous 762 70

Expenses of House and Fittings 350 0

Cost of putting in original state 500 0

Shroft's and servants' account 648 50

Loss of accounts and valuable papers 1,500 0

$ 15,886 42

Charles Hacket.

$ C.

Treasure 9,052 82

Wearing apparel • O 1,500 0

Household furniture 184 0

Silver plate and stores 1,036 0

Miscellaneous 4,125 50

Shroffs ’, linguists', and servants’account, money, clothes ,& c. 3,189 0

$ 19,087 33

William Hacket .

$ c.

Clothing 771 0

Miscellaneous .. 1,1300

$ 1,901 0

James Miln .

$ c.

For Chinese servant being robbed and maltreated 100 0

Portuguese servant robbed and severely injured 150 0

$ 250 0

Summary .

$ C.

W. H. Roper 15,886 42

Charles Hacket 19,087 33

William Hacket 1,901 0

James Milm 250 0

Total . $ 37,124 75

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK , Consul.

Note.—In addition to the above Mr. Glen claims about 34,000 dollars.

No. 20.

Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis.

Sir , Foreign Office, August 1 , 1846 .

WITH reference to your despatches of the 23rd of April and 8th of May,

respecting riots which had occurred at Foo-chow-foo , and which had been

attended with the destruction of a considerable amount of British property ,

I have to state to you that it is very right that you should claim from the

Chinese authorities such compensation for the British sufferers as they may ,

under all the circumstances of the case , be fully entitled to receive ; but, of

course, you will not prefer, or allow Her Majesty's Consular Authorities to

support, any claim , either on the present or any other like occasion, which you

shall not have satisfied yourself to be perfectly just in its amount.

I am , & c.

(Signed ) PALMERSTON .

No. 21 .

Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen.- (Received August 21.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, June 17, 1846 .

WITH reference to your despatch of April 24, I trust that more recent

despatches received from myself will have removed the impression from your

Lordship’s mind that I had appeared, in the case of the attack on Captain

Giffard at Whampoa, to use the following line of argument: That because the

Chinese Government officers allow in some instances British subjects to disregard

the Treaty, by settling in parts of the country other than those specified inthe

Treaty, British subjects in other quarters may find in that negligence a sufficient

justification for overstepping the bounds prescribed to them by Treaty.

My sole object was to point out to Keying the inconsistency between the

freedom and the immunity actually allowed to persons who carried on an illegal

trade without the permitted ports, and the very opposite condition of those who

conformed to the Treaty by repairing to Canton. I conceived that in no manner

could I more forcibly impress on him the evils of the opium smuggling system, >

as it now exists, with the express connivance of the Government.

My despatch of February 24 runs thus :- -“ I point out to Keying this glaring

inconsistency, andcall to hisrecollection my previous remonstrancesconcerning

the evils arising from the actual condition of the opium trade, and my advice

that it should be legalised, with a duty. I consider that the present negotiations

relating to Canton afford a favourable occasion for pushing the argument, and

that could the true state of the case be made known to the Court of Peking, it

would present the strongest motive to legalize the opium trade.”

The utmost extent of my intention was to argue that lawful traders should,

consistently with reason and justice, be as well treated as unlawful ones, and

that

but the permitted irregularities of the latter werea bad example to the former ;

so far was I from meaning that the opium smugglers afforded any

justification to those who infringed the Treaty, or from undervaluing the

importance of the utmost circumspection on the part of our people within the

Canton river, that I often called Keying's noticeto the stringent proclamations

and injunctions which I had lately issued for the restraint of British subjects, and

which had generally answered their purpose.

These discussions have long since been reported as concluded ; but I have

thoughtit rightto explain toyour Lordshipmy realmotiveinthe contrasted

picture which Ihad exhibited to Keying, as it seems to me to be one of those

arguments against the corrupt opium system which might advantageously be

broughtforward in our future endeavours to expose its evils.

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

No. 22 .

Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen . “ (Received August 21.)

( Extract .) l'ictoria, Hong Kong, June 22, 1846 .

REFERRING to my despatch of May 8, on the subject of claims for

loss sustained from plunder at Foo-chow -foo, I have now the satisfaction to

report that those claims have been fully satistied by the Chinese Government.

Having waited patiently in the hope that a due sense of justice would lead

the local authorities to come to a speedy settlement with Mr. Alcock, and

encountering nothing but evasion , I dispatched the “ Pluto ” steamer from this

on the 2nd instant, with instructions to the Consul to make a demand for

immediate payment of those reduced amounts at which he had arrived after a

careful scrutiny of the claims of the several parties, and in case of refusal to

report again to me.

I yesterday received the inclosed letter from Mr. Alcock , forwarding ten

inclosures, with which it is the less necessary that I should trouble your

Lordship , as the just claims for loss by plunder are fully satisfied .

The total sum paid by the Chinese Government amounts to 46,163 dollars

77 cents, in the following proportions of reduced claims : --

Dollars. c.

W. Glen .. 17,388 97

W. Roper 12,872 55

C. Hacket 14,602 25

W. Hacket 1,200 0

J. Miln 100 0

46,163 77

In addition to the comparatively speedy recovery of this large amount, the

remaining point, which I stated as indispensable in my former despatch , viz .,

the condign punishment of the guilty, is reported by Mr. Alcock as provided for.

Exclusively of those real and positive losses on the part of British subjects

which I directed Mr. Alcock to urge with due vigour, I informed your Lordship

in despatch of May 8 that there was another description of claims on the part of

Mr. Glen, of aa much less indisputable character, and whose mere bulk was primai

facie evidence of their want of solidity . These, which were before stated at

50,000 dollars, have now swelled to 150,000 dollars.

It is needless for me to observe that we should be extremely careful to

avoid any line of proceeding which might tend to invest us, in the eyes of the

Chinese Government, with a grasping and extortionate character. I was glad of

an opportunity to vindicate ourselves from this suspicion in the negotiations as

to Chusan ; and until we can fairly convince the Chinese that our power will

never be used as an instrument of unjust gain , we cannot hope for that

confidence on their part which must be the foundation of a more intimate and

beneficial intercourse.

That Mr. Glen should be compensated for his positive losses, is one thing ;

but that he should seek to obtain from the Chinese Government those profits

which he might have made in a successful course of trade, is another.

Mr. Alcock's report of the prospects of the place was not calculated to

raise any sanguine expectations; to which must be added, that Mr. Glen

is not driven from Foo - chow - foo, but quits it contrary to the invitations

of the Consul and the Local Government to remain . Were he to receive a

large amount of money on account of speculative losses upon this occasion ,

it would be a most dangerous inducement to others to promote troubles

in order to turn them to profit. I say nothing here of the imputed charges

of misconduct on the part of Mr. Glen towards the Chinese, because I

am willing that the respectable testimony of Mr. Alcock should plead in his

favour .

This testimony is conveyed in the inclosed despatch from the Consul ; and

in order that your Lordship may be in full possession of Mr. Glen's case , I

forward at the same time copies of his three letters to Mr. Alcock . In the first

of these he dwells on the condition of affairs at Foo - chow , and urges his claim

for compensation on account of loss of business . In the second , he sets forth

the justness of his claims for loss of prospects, time and money expended in

opening the trade of the port , and adds a summary of the amount. In the third

he declares his intention to leave the port, and his consequent losses. It appears

to me that in 1839 , when so many of our inerchants were driven out of Canton,

and did not quit it of their own accord, they might with more justice lave urged

claims of the same nature, in addition to their positive losses in opium .

Mr. Alcock , though he seems inclined rather to advocate Mr. Glen's preten

sions, has at least abstained from bringing them forward to the Chinese Govern

ment without authority. I now refer them to your Lordship for the decision of

Her Majesty's Government, and shall be prepared strictly to carry out any

instructions that I may receive upon the subject.

In the meanwhile, it is satisfactory to reflect that in the payment of these

large sums the Local Government has been furnished with aa pretty strong induce

ment to control its own people, and to protect foreign residents in future.

Inclosure 1 in No. 22 .

Consul Alcock to Sir J. Davis .

Sir, Foo -chow - foo, June 15 , 1846 .

REFERRING to your Excellency's previous despatches, I have the

satisfaction to report , that the well - timed arrival of the steamer has enabled

me with success to insist upon immediate and full reparation for the injuries

inflicted by the populace upon British subjects during the disturbances of the

31st March and 1st of April.

Having already demanded an interview with his Excellency the Governor

General, previous to the receipt of your instructions , I lost no time subsequently

in addressing the inclosed communications both to the Governor and the Trea

surer, intimating the necessity for an immediate settlement, and glancing at the

necessary consequences of the refusal or postponement of compensation.

On the 10th instant I waited upon the Governor-General by appointment,

and remained closeted with his Excellency in discussion for several hours . The

following day, as had been arranged, the Treasurer of the Province was received

at the Consulate, when, after a further lengthened conference, the terms of

settlement were finally agreed upon.

The inclosed official report from the Treasurer furnishes a list of the sen

tences passed upon twenty-four prisoners convicted of participation in the riots

and the plundering of the English hongs. The punishments, I believe, are in

accordance with the Chinese laws. One has been sentenced to death, another

has died in prison, while several are condemned to receive 100 blows of the

bamboo, and exiled for various terms of years. The local authorities now await

the confirmation of these sentences by the Board of Punishments at Peking. If

these punishments be duly inflicted, there can be no doubt that a serious

example of the evil consequences of such outrages on British subjects will have

been given to the people at this port.

I have further received this morning, in accordance with the terms agreed

upon by his Excellency the Treasurer and myself, and recorded in the inclosed

correspondence, 46,163 dollars 77 cents in salt duty sycee — custom -house weights,

and at the rate of 720 taels per 1,000 dollars, in full and complete satisfaction

for all and every claim for loss of property incurred on the spot, the only claims

I deemed it right to entertain .

I inclose the receipts of the British subjects on whose behalf the claims

were made , for the respective sums finally decided to be due to them, amounting

collectively to the above specified sum .

It cannot be necessary that I should enter at any length into a detail of the

difficulties which have attended the settlement of these claims . Conflicting and

uncertain testimony as to the nature and extent of the losses, made it imperative

upon me to scrutinize very closely every item in the claims, and erase whatever

seemed in any degree improbable or unreasonable ; while, on the other side, the

worthlessness of the evidence brought forward on the Chinese side to set up a

negative case, made it not less compulsory to disregard, in many instances, the

most urgent remonstrances and objections on the part of the authorities.

I content myself, therefore, with inclosing copies of communications addressed

to Mr. Glen and Mr. Hacket, together with the inclosures to each of the claim

ants, consisting of a memorandum clearly stating the deductions made in each

claim . In the inclosing letters I made them acquainted with the principle upon

which the various reductions had been made..

The amount paid , it will be seen, falls nearly as far short of the amount

originally claimed, as it exceeds the estimate which the Treasurer, even in the last

conference, contended could alone be justly admitted . I have the full conviction

that the compensation arbitrated is, under all the circumstances, fair and

reasonable, and therefore just, as regards both parties. The claimants lave

noted a protest against the receipts I required them to sign as a compensation in

full for all claims for loss of property incurred on the spot, but they have been

made aware that this settlement must be considered final , the sums paid having

been accepted on the part of Her Majesty's Consul, as the representative of his

Government, in complete satisfaction for all demands of that nature on behalf of

British subjects.

I will only observe in reference to these protests, made probably to cover

their responsibility in reference to their principals and constituents, that the

claimants have, in my opinion, much reason to rejoice at a result which, within

two months from the presentation of their claims, has given to them a compen

sation of 46,000 dollars, in sycee, bearing a premium at Canton -- a large sum , it

must be allowed, for this provincial Treasury to make good at once. In this

view I can entertain no doubt your Excellency will concur, deeming it a happy

conclusion to very embarrassing questions, arising as they did , from a most

untoward series of popular outrages. The result will not be less acceptable, I

hope, from the circumstance that my success has been mainly due to the

influence of your representations to the Imperial Commissioner, and the

most opportune arrival of the “ Pluto ” steamer, bearing your Excellency's

instruction s.

I am reluctant to close this report without the distinct admission of much

that was fair and liberal in spirit, on the part of his Excellency the Treasurer, in

our final arrangements ; and I should regret greatly if, as I fear may be probable,

he incurred blame for his conduct in this business. Nor can I omit to make

known to your Excellency the sense I entertain of the very efficient services I

have witnessed in Mr. Parkes the interpreter ; he has not only been indefatigable

and zealous during the whole of these negotiations , but his ready fluency in

Chinese, and his general knowledge of the forms of business, both Chinese and

English, while they entail additional duties upon him , very frequently enable

him to render valuable assistance where it could not strictly be expected or

required.

I have, &c.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 2 in No. 22.

Consul Alcock to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Foo- chow - foo, June 13, 1846 .

I HAVE the honour to inclose copies of three letters received from

Mr. Glen dated respectively the 8th , 10th, and 12th of June, requesting me

to urge upon the consideration of Her Majesty's Government his further

claims for loss of commission on goods, shipped to him but not landed, in

consequence of his fears for their security, for loss of papers, and finally, for

outlay , loss of time, and injury to commercial prospects. His claim to com

pensation for personal injury he has left blank, leaving the amount to be fixed

as may seem just upon the consideration of his case.

In his letter of the 8th June, he complains of a continued sense of

insecurity, and exposure to annoyance and insult when he leaves his house, and

the consequent impossibility of his attempting to continue or to carry out his

commercial undertakings, freedom in his movements being impossible. He also

incloses a letter from the head of a firm in China, with whom he states arrange

ments had been made to buy extensively the tea produce this season, and in

which the writer certainly very unequivocally expresses a disinclination to enter

into further transactionsat Foo -chow, and an unfavourable opinion generally of

the prospects and capabilities of the port. Mr. Glen argues , and I think with

much truth, that this opinion is general, owing to recent events, and, therefore,

that his own prospects of support, and the means of profitable trade on a large

scale, are entirely destroyed, and not by fault or failure of his, but as a necessary

consequence of the outrages committed by the populace.

In Mr. Glen's letter of the 10th June, written after I had put him in

possession, in the course of conversation, with the general tenour of your

remarks upon his claim and prospects, and the nature of the disadvantageous

reports which had reached your ears in reference to his behaviour described as

violent and intemperate to native Chinese, he mentions several circumstances

tending to show that it was not likely the views and prospects of a merchant

settled in a new place would be generally known, since it was his interest to

keep them private, until he had taken the necessary measures for their success.

He further proceeds to show that but for the disturbances he would have,

probably, had more than one cargo of new teas loaded here for England at a

reduced rate of 25 per cent., by which alone he must have netted a considerable

sum . To gain this position he states his outlay had been , during the last year,

13,000 dollars.

In reference to the rumour of violent and unconciliatory conduct, he begs

me to make you acquainted with the favourable terms in which their Excel

lencies the Governor-General and Officiating Lieutenant-Governor expressed

themselves to me in reference to the good character he bore among the people

as a man of “ liberal and humane disposition," and which in a written commu

nication, immediately after the riot, they requested me to make known to him ,

together with their regret at the insults and injury offered to him by the

populace.

I bear willing testimony to this fact, as I have already done to the not less

important circumstance that in no one instance, since his arrival at Foo -chow ,

has any complaint reached me, officially or otherwise, against him . That he is

of liberal and kindly disposition I have every reason to believe, and fair and

honourable in all his dealings with the Chinese he has ever been, I am satisfied ,

from all I have heard . I do not think, and I doubt not your Excellency will

agree with me, that, against the weight of negative evidence, any idle rumour to

his prejudice should be allowed injurous influence on his claims, more especially

in a community where uncharitable inferences are but too often lightly circu

lated.

As to his prospects, I had founded much of my hopes for the port upon his

successful operations during this season . I had much confidential communica

tion with him , was well informed both as to his plans and the means upon

which he counted for carrying them out, and it is but justice to him and to the

boldness and energy with which he was disposed to apply the whole of his

resources to the development of a large trade here, to express my opinion, now

that recent events have flung down all his hopes, as strongly and as unhesitat

ingly to your Excellency as I did three months ago to him for his guidance

and encouragement, when he came to give me the means of forming a judgment

and to ask my advice . I have no doubt in my own mind that but for these most

unfortunate occurrences happening at the worst possible moment, a large supply

of tea fit for the European markets would have been obtained, brought to this

market from the neighbouring tea districts, that a demand equal to the supply

was placed in Mr. Glen's power, from whence profit to him and advantage to the

port could scarcely fail to accrue. That these opinions were entertained by me in

February last,my report sufficiently proves :whether they were formed upon

insufficient grounds or not, I will not here inquire ; but Imay state that they

were the result of long and careful observation, very earnestly directed to the

attainmentofa correctestimateof the capabilities and resources of the port.

I think the time has now arrived when Mr. Glen may safely leave Foo-chow

I 2

without injury either to his own prospects or those of the port : both are, for a

time at least, reduced so low that little remains to be lost ; and it now becomes

my duty, therefore, to submit these further claims for your Excellency's

consideration, and to withdraw all opposition to Mr. Glen's departure, which I

have accordingly done.

I have, &c .

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK.

Inclosure 3 in No. 22 .

Mr. Glen to Consal Alcock.

Sir, Foo -chow - foo, June 8, 1846 .

I REFER you to your communication to me, dated 11th of April .

A considerable period has now elapsed, and I speak advisedly when I

inform you that neither myself nor any one of the mercantile community can

leave our houses without incurring the risk of coming into collision with the

populace, from the jostling and insults with which we are assailed.

I have no doubt that you will agree with me, that until matters are different,

merchandise brought in by me or any other foreigner cannot meet with justice

in its sale , from our complete ignorance of existing stocks or of existing wants ;

and although my intention to leave Foo-chow ' was formed immediately after

the riots, nothing has induced me to change it. I now abandon all hope of

any good being done here for a long time, and abandon an idea which I subse

quently formed, of leaving a representative to try and carry on business.

Freedom in our movements being impossible, the linnited trade which may be

done will not pay an establishment which must be of some extent to merit the

confidence of respectable firms in India and England , or be attended with profit.

I beg to lay before you a letter from the head of a firm who buy more teas

and sell more English productions than any other house in China, with whom I

had made arrangements to enable me to buy all the produce that might be laid

on this market, on reasonable terms. In conjunction with this house I had

arranged a very feasible plan , by which I expected to export of tea crop 1816

any quantity procurable in the tea country , at a cheaper rate than current in

Canton : the deas entertained by this house are, I am sorry to inform you,

general in Canton ; the letter speaks for itself,and a copy is at your disposal

if you wish it.

I think the time has now come when an accurate conclusion on the subject

of my claim for the ruin of my business , may be come to .

In the hope that something good might have taken place here, even after

the unfortunate riots from the turn of matters at Shanghae, I have been most

careful in my correspondence to calm the minds of my friends regarding this

place.

The opinion of the mercantile community being, that property is not safe

here, and the expenses of an establishment in China being so heavy that even

the wealthiest firmsare glad of commission business being given them , I humbly

beg to urge my claim to compensation for my being deprived of all business of

this nature ; and my own opinion being still that neither life nor property is safe,

from the want of protection from the authorities, I cannot be expected to entrust

to this quarter my own stock in trade.

In regard to the amount claimed, I have not the smallest doubt that from

the crop of tea of 1846 I could have netted , for commissions and profit, in

operations in the herb in this place, more than 10,0001. sterling.

I humbly beg that you will bring this to the consideration of his Excellency

Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary, as well as the magnitude of the enterprise, and

the time and money which I have spent on it, and the time that I must lose

before I can establish myself in trade again .

I am, & c .

(Signed) WILLIAM GLEN .

Inclosure 4 in No. 22 .

Mr. Dudgeon to Mr. Glen .

My dear Sir, Canton, May 8 , 1846.

I HAVE received your letter of the 19th ultimo. We have as yet received

no detailed accounts of the riots at Foo -chow , and are very anxious to hear

further particulars. What amount of property has been destroyed; if we are

likely to receive compensation ; when it is to be paid , & c., — these particulars

you will no doubt give us due notice of. I think you are most certainly entitled

io additional compensation for your wounds, and for loss which you actually

sustain in consequence of these riots interfering with your business, preventing

you landing goods, &c .

I am afraid that Foo-chow is finished, as a place of business ; the populace

have shown themselves so violent, and the authorities seem so little able to keep

them in order, that people will not feel inclined to trust their lives or property

there ; we certainly shall not until our confidence in the place is quite restored ,

which it will take a long time to do, I should imagine. Prompt measures must

be used by our Government in the first instance, but there are no available

men - of-war at present here to send up. I hardly know what they can do ; there

is no doubt that the longer they are of settling the matter, the more difficult

they will find it to settle. There is no news here.

Believe me, &c.

(Signed) PAT. DUDGEON .

Inclosure 5 in No. 22 .

Mr. Glen to Consul Alcock .

Sir, Foo-chow-foo, June 10, 1846 .

IN our interview to-day, you were kind enough to put me in possession of

the views entertained by his Excellency Sir John Davis, respecting part of my

claims. It is to be regretted that he should have been led to believe me charge

able with turbulent or unconciliatory conduct towards the people of Foo-chow .

To exculpate me, I request that you will make his Excellency aware of the

feeling of satisfaction at my deportment, spontaneously expressed to you by the

Chinese authorities, and the desire that I have that an inquiry should be made,

amongst my neighbours and coolies, to discover if any cause liad been given for

the reports which have reached his Excellency the Governor regarding me and

my servants.

In reference to the amount claimed for inconvenience, bodily injury, and

peril to life, I leave the sum to be fixed by Her Majesty's Government. I

was robbed of all my clothes, and every convenience of life ; I suffered severe

bodily injury, and under which I still labour ; and I with difficulty escaped from

an infuriated mob , who, without any provocation, pursued me, over the roofs

of houses, with stones and missiles, and forced me from a roof twenty feet

high.

My letter to you of the 8th current, and its inclosure, show what my

constituents think of the security of British property here. The claim which I

made for ruin to my trade, from want of that security, is not more than, being

here alone, I should have realized from the present and next year's crop of teas .

You informed me that his Excellency thinks that my prospects never were very

bright at Foo-chow. I would reply, that neither would they, in all probability,

seem to be, in the case of the merchant who may first establish himself in

Nankin or Pekin, as mercantile men in such circumstances keep their views

and prospects private, until their own purposes are served. But as any state

ment of mine may, with some justice , be considered as made to secure an object,

I can only refer

Government .

to the reports on trade made by Her Majesty's Consul to the

Had the late riots not taken place, I would have had more than one cargo

of new teas already loaded here for England, being close to the place of growth,

while none had arrived at Canton at the date of my last advices. I would have

gained by the start 25 per cent ., in addition to the difference in price at which

tea can be procured here.

I have spent a year to gain the position which I held before the riots ; and,

in conjunction with the most extensive house in China, was ready to buy teas

Jargely with silver, cloth , and opium , and had made arrangements for being

supplied with tca with native merchants on the spot.

To gain this position has cost me

Of outlay for house -rent, salaries, servants' wages $

and charges 8,000

Since the month of March , and on account of the

riots, I have sent away , of goods ordered by me,

to the port, as per bili of lading deposited with

you , the value of 70,000 dollars, thereby losing

of commission .. 3,500

And as all my constituents write me to ship off what

property remains from the plundering of the

mob, I lose of further commissions .. 1,800

By these riots, I have, therefore, lost a year's time, and about 14,000

dollars besides ; must lose some time, and be at some expense , before I can

establish myself in any other trade. I hope that Her Majesty's Government may

take a favourable view of my case, and allow my claim made for loss of

prospects, loss of time, and loss of money laid out by me to open up tue trade

of this port.

I beg to inciose a summary of the amounts 1 conceive myself , at this date,

justly entitled to claim , in further compensation for losses, exclusive of those

claims which you have already admitted for immediate settlement.

1 have, & c .

( Signed) WILLIAM GLEN .

Summary.

For loss of commission on goods not sold 5,300

Loss of papers 5,000

Outlay, loss of time, and commercial

prospects 140,000

$ 150,000

For personal injury , &c.

Foo-chow.foo, June 10, 1846 .

( Signed) WILLIAM GLEN .

Inclosure 6 in No. 22 .

Mr. Glen to Consul Alcock .

Sir, Foo - chow - foo, June 12 , 1846.

AS I am about to leave this port on account of my health and the ruin to

my trade caused by the late riots, I beg to inform you that I have been obl ged to

dispose of some cargo at a great loss to the owners of the said goods, Messrs.

Turner and Co., of Honz Kong, and as I cannot remain in this country to

prosecute this claim for these genlenen , JI beg to bring to your knowledge that

I have yesterday sold to the “ Chan - san Hong” 318 67 piculs of cotton , at the

low price of 11 dollars per picul. I could not obtain more, and as the usual

price of such ( Shanghae) cotton is nearly double this figure, I reckon it my duty

to put Messrs . Turner and Co. in possession of the materials necessary to form

a claim for this loss, unless you can insist on a compensation on the spot for this

sacrifice of their property from its being forced on the market at the present 1

unfavourable time.

I am, &c.

(Signed) WILLIAM GLEN.

No. 23 .

Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis .

Sir, Foreign Office, September 12 , 1846 .

I HAVE had under my consideration your despatch of the 22nd of 3

June last, respecting the satisfactory adjustment by the Chinese authorities of

the claims for losses sustained by British subjects during the late riots at

Foo - chow - foo .

Her Majesty's Government have learnt with much pleasure that the just

claims for compensation in this case have been fully satisfied , and that a suitable

punishment has been inflicted on the persons convicted of participation in the

riots, and in the plundering of the property of British subjects.

With respect to the claim which has been put forward by Mr. Glen, for

compensation for the loss of the contingent profit which he supposes that he

would have made by trade had he remained at Foo -chow -foo, I cannot authorize

you to make any demandi upon the Chinese Government. The departure of

Mr. Glen from Foo - chow -foo appears, from your despatch, to be the result of his

own choice, and seems to have been determined upon by him contrary to the

advice of the British and Chinese officers on the spot, who assured him that if

he remained at Foo - chow -foo he would be protected . The only maintainable

claim which can be advanced by Mr. Glen is that arising out of personal injury

and loss of his papers, though it does not appear, from the papers inclosed in

your despatch, what the papers are which Mr. Glen has lost, whether the value

which he fixes on them is just, or what would be the proper amount of

compensation for his bodily injuries.

I have accordingly to instruct you to determine, at your own discretion, the

proper value of these two items of claim , and to demand of the Chinese

Government such an amount of compensation for wir . Glen, under this head, as

may seem to you , after due consideration of the circumstances, to be just.

I am , &c .

(Signed ) PALMERSTON .

No. 24 .

Sir J. Davis to the Earl of Aberdeen.-(Received September 23. )

My Lord , Victoria, Hong Kong, July 1 , 1846 .

WITH reference to my despatch of the 22nd June, on the subject

of compensation received for loss of property by plunder at Foo -chow -foo, I

have the honour to inform your Lordship that I received with no small surprise

the inclosed letter from Messrs. Gilman and Co. , expressing themselves not

entirely satisfied with the adjustment of their Agent Mr. Roper's claims.

I could scarcely do otherwise than consider Mr. Consul Alcock's arrange

ments, together with the receipts of the several parties, as final and conclusive,

and have informed Messrs . Gilman and Co., by the inclosed reply, that I cannot

concur in their claims for additional compensation, though I would at the same

time forward their letter for your Lordship’s consideration .

I have, &c .

(Signed) J. F DAVIS.

Inclosure 1 in No. 24.

Messrs. Gilman and Co. to Sir J. Davis .

Sir , Canton, June 23, 1846 .

IN common, we believe, with all the parties interested, we feel so grateful

for your Excellency's vigorous interference in demanding from the Chinese

Government compensation for the losses arising out of the outrages at Foo

chow -foo, that we are very unwilling to trouble you again on the subject, but

we are compelled to do so.

From the papers which we have the honour of transmitting, your Excel

lency will perceive that a partial settlement of our claims has been made, but

not one, we respectfully submit, which does us justice.

Your Excellency will see that Mr. Consul Alcock, in the first instance,

proposed to arrange our claim in the following manner :

Claim . Deductions. Admitted .

c. $ $

Treasure

10,526 72 10,526 72

Accounts and Papers 1,500 0 1,500

Household Furniture 390 0 99 291 0

Servants' effects .. 648 50 • 648 50

Wearing Apparel 946 50 150 796 50

Silver Plate and Stores 262 0 262 0

Miscellaneous Articles 1,612 70 136 1,476 70

$ 15,886 42 $ 1,885 $ 14,001 12

The propriety of the rejection of the claim for accounts and papers we frankly

admit; it was made without our knowledge, and we at once informed Mr. Roper

that it could not be sustained .

The trifling deductions made from Mr. Roper's claim for furniture and

personal effects,, we presume, are grounded on the following passage in Mr.

Alcock's letter : ---" That where claims are unsupported by valid and conclusive

evidence, a Government cannot equitably be called upon to make good the loss

of any property not strictly in keeping, both as to its kind and value, with the

position and calling of the claimant.”

We venture to think that the port of Foo -chow -foo having been formally

appointed as a place of trade and residence, all property is alike entitled to

protection, nor can we perceive that the trifling articles of luxury disallowed

Mr. Roper, were at all out of keeping with his position and calling.

Passing by these particulars, Sir, however, we find that at the final settle

ment , the sum of 14,001,42 dollars originally admitted, is still further reduced

by the following deductions :

dols . ct.

Servants' accounts 48 50

Miscellaneous 27 70

Treasure 1,052 67

We find no reasons assigned for the first and second deduction ; but in

regard to the third and very serious one, Mr. Consul Alcock makes the follow

ing observation :

“ In reference to the further deductions subsequently made in conference

with his Excellency the Treasurer, I have merely to say that while he contended

his information afforded the strongest presumption that not a third of the

amount of treasure stated to have been plundered, was in the hong at the time

of the riot, and the presumption on your side ( for this claim rested on nothing

stronger ) was in favour of the larger amount specified, I am clearly of opinion a

deduction of 10 per cent. upon the sum claimed was, under those circumstances,

both moderate in amount and just in principle.”

We beg to observe to your Excellency that the Chinese Government could

know nothing whatever of the amount of money in Mr. Roper's possession at

the time of the outrage.

The evidence of the plunderers can be of no value as to the amount they

stole , in a scene of tumult and confusion ; and were it otherwise, the character

of the parties forbids its reception. And yet, Sir, it has been held sufficient to

gainsay the solemn affidavit of a man of character, and who holds a highly

responsible situation. We submit, that if the assertion of his Excellency the

Treasurer, " that his information afforded the strongest presumption that not a

third of the amount of treasure stated to have been plundered was in the hong

at the time of the riot,” deserved any consideration, that much greater weight

ought to have been given to it.

If Mr. Roper has perjured himself by swearing that he lost three times the

amount of treasure actually in his possession, we cannot see why his claim should

have been admitted at all, and the deduction of 10 per cent. , therefore , while in

allowing it , on such grounds, Mr. Consul Alcock asperses the character of a

highly respectable man, and does the Chinese injustice, if their assertions are to

be received , and deprives us of the full compensation which your Excellency

was pleased to declare you would obtain for us, if our agent's affidavit is to be

credited .

We would further remark to your Excellency, that as a period of consider

ably more than two months has elapsed since the occurrence of this outrage,

we think we are entitled to claim interest for the time , and we are informned

Her Majesty's Consul repeatedly said interest would be allowed.

We should not have thought it necessary to call your Excellency's attention

to this point, had our other claim been satisfied ; but being obliged to address

you on the subject, we have the honour that your Excellency will

nour of soliciting that

take such measures as you see fit, to recover for us the amounts , 150 dollars,

136 dollars, and 99 dollars, originally deducted, should your Excellency deem them

admissible, as well as the secondary deduction of 27 dollars 70 cents, 48 dollars

50 cents, and 1,052 dollars 67 cents, which, with all respect, appear to us

wholly unwarrantable; and that interest at a fair rate be allowed to us.

We have, &c.

(Signed ) GILMAN & CO.

Inclosure 2 in No. 24.

Mr. Johnston to Messrs. Gilman and Co.

Sirs, Victoria, Hong Kong, June 29, 1846.

I AM instructed by his Excellency Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary, & c., to

acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 23rd instant, which he has

attentively considered .

The mass of details forwarded to his Excellency by Mr. Consul Alcock, on

the subject of these claims for compensation, are aconvincing proof of the pains

and diligence bestowed by that energetic officer in their adjustment, in accordance

with the principles of justice to both parties. The proportion of the whole

claims recovered, and the short time in which this has been effected, without it

may be added) any expenses whatever of litigation, are such as could not easily

be paralleled in any other country; and his Excellency, on a due consideration

of the items in your letter, is sorry that he cannot concur in the reasoning with

which you advance aa claim for additional compensation.

As he wishes , however, that you should have the benefit of a reference to

Her Majesty's Government, I am desired to add that a copy of your representa

tion will be forwarded to the Earl of Aberdeen .

I have, &c.

(Signed) A. R. JOHNSTON .

No. 25.

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston .— (Received December 29.)

(Extract.) Victoria, Hong Kong, October 15, 1846 .

I HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Lordship’s sanction, areport from

Mr. Consul Balfour at Shanghae, as to a grant of 200 dollars to a Chinese boy,

entirely deprived of eyesight, in consequence of the discharge of a fowling-piece

by a British subject who could not be identified. The Consul made this grant

under instructions contained in a despatch from my predecessor, dated

January 16 , 1844, forming an inclosure in despatch of February 5 , 1844 .

Inclosure in No. 25 .

Consul Balfour to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Shanghae, September 28 , 1846.

IN reference to despatch dated 16th January, 1844, from his Excellency

Sir H. Pottinger, Bart., G.C.B. , in reply to my letter of the 2nd December,

1843, I have the honour to inclose a medical certificate from the Consulate

surgeon , wherein it will be observed that one of the two boys who unfortunately

met with a gun -shot accident, has been finally examined, and is now declared

totally blind.

In pursuance of instructions contained in the fifth paragraph, I have deemed

it advisable to expend the sum of 200 dollars onhis behalf, and have accordingly

handed over that amount to the Taoutae, with the view to purchase him a piece

of land . I beg to solicit your Excellency's approval of this outlay.

The necessary vouchers will be forwarded with the quarterly accounts.

I have , &c.

( Signed) G. BALFOUR .

No. 26 .

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received July 21.)

(Extract.) Victoria, Hong Kong, April 30, 1847.

I HAVE the satisfaction to transmit, inclosed , a very stringent proclamation

issued by Keying soon after the settlement of the late questions at Canton , in

which he calls on the populace in peremptory terms to attend to their occupa

tions, and not create disturbance, threatening severe punishment in case of

disobedience.

The observation of the American Consul, that a marked improvement had

taken place, since the late events, in the tone of all , “ from the Imperial Commis

sioner down to the lowest of the rabble, " seems to be sufficiently proved up to

the present time.

In returning to Keying, according to agreement, the witness whom he sent

down against certain persons accused of piracy,* I urged him to inform me of

the punishment of the aggressors on the seamen in October last, when they had

been discovered .

I received the inclosed reply, in which he informs me of the apprehension of

one of the culprits in that case, and of three who threw some stones on a late

occasion, and promises to report further.

In answering Keying's note, I took occasion to remark, that it is aa rule

with the nations of the west to consider any injury to the meanest of their

subjects as an injury to themselves ; and in proof I adduced the late occurrence

at Cochin-China, originating as it did in the maltreatment of the French

missionary bishop, of which some intelligence had before reached China.

* Correspondence relating to Operations in Canton River, 1847, p. 1 , et seq.

Inclosure 1 in No. 26.

Proclamation .

( Translation .)

KEYING, Governor-General of the Two Kwang, &c. , issues the following

proclamation.

Affairs in the provincial city have again taken their ordinary course, and

there is not the least chance of any unforeseen calamity. The shop - keepers may,

therefore, with all the other inhabitants, quietly and cheerfully follow their

pursuits . If, however, any villains create disturbance, or excite and delude the

multitude with false rumours, they will for aa certainty, as soon as it is known,

be seized and punished with all severity.

None must disobey this special proclamation.

Taoukwang, 27th year, 2nd month, 22nd day. (April 7, 1847. )

Inclosure 2 in No. -26 .

Commissioner Keying to Sir J. Davis .

( Translation .)

KEYING, High Imperial Commissioner, &c. , sends the following reply to

a letter of the Honourable Envoy on sending back Chow- tsew-che and making

inquiry about the punishment of the aggressors in October last (here follows the

substance of that despatch), which he fully perused.

The prisoner Chow -tsew -che has arrived under the escort of our officer at

Canton, and will be punished most severely for this as well as the other crimes

he has committed .

The magistrate of Nanhae has succeeded in apprehending Chow-a-ching,

one of the villains who in October last wounded the sailors of your honourable

country. This ruffian, though for days together examined by torture, has

nevertheless cunningly evaded confession . The moment, however, we obtain

sure proofs and acknowledgments of the guilt, as well as a revelation of the

accomplices, I shall state to you the manner in which they have been punished.

According to the official communications of Consul Macgregor of the 2nd

month, 26th and 29th day (11th and 14th April), some villains at Luhpoo and

Honan threw stones at the English , and I , the Great Minister, am , on account of

it, highly indignant. I ordered , therefore, the local authorities to institute strict

inquiry and seize (the aggressors). They have in consequence apprehended

Lea -tih, Woo -a-san , aud Muh-a-san, three in number, and I have given orders that

they should be punished according to law.

Whilst communicating the above, I wish you every happiness.

Taoukwang, 27th year, 3rd month, 10th day . (April 24, 1847.)

Inclosure 3 in No. 26 .

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

Victoria, Hong Kong, April 28 , 1847. .

YESTERDAY I had the honour to receive your Excellency's despatch,

informing me, with reference to the villains who wounded the two sailors in

October last, that one ruffian had been seized and examined, and that as soon

as proofs and acknowledgments of guilt, and the discovery of the accom

plices, had been obtained, you would state the manner in which they had been

punished.

K 2

I shall hear with much satisfaction of the punishment of these persons, who

had the cruelty to maltreat so severely two unarmed men. When I have

received your Excellency's account of the penalties inflicted, a report shall

immediately be made to Viscount Palmerston .

It is a rule with the nations of the west to consider any injury to the

meanest of their subjects as an injury to themselves. In this respect there is

no distinction made between high or low, rich or poor. I have just received a

letter from Captain Lapierre, Commander-in -chief of the French squadron in

these seas . He proceeded to Cochin - China to protect a French missionary who

had been maltreated . The Cochin -Chinese having collected ships and troops to

oppose him , he destroyed all the ships, five in number, burning some and sinking

others, and dispersed the troops. The missionary is at Singapore.

When I have heard of the punishment of Lea-tih , Woo -a -san and Muh -a -san,

I will report this also to Viscount Palmerston for the information of Her

Majesty's Government.

Accept, & c.

( Signed ) J. F. DAVIS .

No. 27.

Sir J. Daris to Viscount Palmerston .— (Received July 21.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, May 8 , 1847.

WHAT remonstrances from myself, and even communications from your

Lordship, failed to effect , has been happily brought about by the strong course

which I felt myself driven to adopt on the 2nd of April.

The inclosed note from Keying is an official announcement of the punish

ment of the ruffians who maltreated the two seamen in October last, and the

particulars forwarded to me by Mr. Consul Macgregor confirm this account.

The public example which I caused to be made (before I quitted Canton) of the

aggressors on Colonel Chesney served as an additional warning to the populace *

and the proclamation from the local magistrates proves that these are at last in

earnest.

It is just one month to-day since I quitted Canton with Major-General

D’Aguilar, and not a semblance of popular commotion has occurred from that

time to this. The silly anonymous placards (however contemptible in them

selves) are mischievous in tendency , and Keying has opened his eyes to the

necessity of suppressing them , as appears froma proclamation issued by him.

I am inclined to consider his proceedings partly as the result of instructions

from Peking, which have not transpired of course, but which I have no difficulty

in surmising have cautioned him against the chance of a serious rupture with us,

at his peril .

I have, &c.

( Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure in No. 27 .

Commissioner Keying to Sir J. Davis .

( Translation .)

KEYING , High Imperial Commissioner, &c. , sends the following reply

to an official letter of the Honourable Envoy, respecting the punishment of

some criminals who assaulted two English sailors in October last here follows

the substance of that despatch ).

The Nan-hae Magistrate reported respecting this affair , that he had, after

making inquiry, apprehended Chow-a-ching, and I ordered him to obtain his

* See Correspondence relating to Operations in Canton River, 1847, p. 14, et seq.

true deposition, and ascertain who were his accomplices, that they might

be seized with all rigour and prosecuted. The said magistrate stated subse

quently that he had interrogated him by torture for several days, and Chow

a - ching then confessed, that he was 24 years of age, living in Nan -hae district,

Yew-lan street, and a pedlar by profession. He was on the 28th day of the

8th month (October 1846) last year in Kaoute alley, when he saw two

foreigners followed by an immense crowd. Whilst he was looking on, he availed

himself of this opportunity to beat these foreigners with his fists. At that

moment, a man whose name and surname he does not know, took a club, and

knocked a foreigner down ; but the soldiers and police came to the rescue, and

they then ran away and dispersed : and words to that effect.

( The magistrate) then sent his police -runners to seize others, and they

apprehended one Leang-a-kew, who stated that he was 22 years of age,

and belonging to Haou -pwan street, and selling pork in Kaoute street. On the

28th day of the 8th month (October 1846) last year, two foreigners came

there followed by a crowd, and he being apprehensive that his stall might be

thrown down by the throng, struck those foreigners with a club.

This evidence being true and agreeing with the confession of Chow - a-chiug,

this man as well as Leang -a -kew received each forty blows, for though the law is

not severe in such cases, their punishment ought to be more comprehensive.

As, however, Leang-a -kew had shown greater ferocity on this occasion, it was not

expedient to be lenient towards him, and he was therefore imprisoned with fetters

for five months, in order to deter others . The above details are forwarded for

examination .

As it is apparent that Chow-a- ching and Leang-a-kew without any cause beat

those sailors—an act very detestable — the said magistrate seized and examined

them, and having ascertained the above, punished them severally with the

bastinado and imprisonment, in order to strike terror.

I therefore send this reply to you the Honourable Envoy, and would trouble

you to examine into this matter, whilst I wish you every happiness .

Taoukwang, 27th year, 3rd month, 18th day. (May 2, 1847.)

No. 28 .

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston .— (Received July 21.)

My Lord , Victoria, Hong Kong, May 22, 1847.

ON. the 16th instant, I heard from Mr. Consul Macgregor, that a Malay

sailor employed on board an English boat had been robbed and severely ill-used

in one of the streets of Canton .

I immediately sent off the inclosed note to Keying, calling for the immediate

punishment of the guilty, in order that I might report it by the present mail.

În three days I received the annexed reply, informing me that the robber and

assailant was condemned to the bamboo and Chinese pillory. This was confirmed

by a separate despatch from Consul Macgregor.

In acknowledging this, I deemed it right to communicate the purport of

your Lordship's despatch regarding Mr. Compton,* and the punishment that

would await any British subjects guilty of killing Chinese, otherwise than justi

fiably in self-defence, or by accident.

As Keying, in one of his notes had observed, that “ British subjects, who

came to Canton, only required factories and warehouses, ” I thought it expedient

to reply to him , by the inclosed, that at Canton , they had not as yet had even

these in sufficient plenty. It became necessary to add , at the same time, that

besides factories and warehouses, they required very essentially the “full security

fortheirpersons and property, ” which formed the very first Article of the Treaty

of Nanking.”

I have, &c.

(Signed ) J. F. DAVIS .

* See Correspondence relating to the Riot at Canton in July 1846, and the proceedings taken

against Mr. Compton , 1847.

Inclosure 1 in No. 28.

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

Victoria , Hong Kong, May 16, 1847.

I BEG to inform your Excellency that I have received a despatch from

Mr. Consul Macgregor , stating that another brutal assault has been committed

on a Malay sailor, belonging to an English lorcha, who was robbed and savagely

beaten, when found, by himself, unarmed, at a distance from the foreign factories.

I write immediately to request that the perpetrators of this outrage may be

punished according to your promise, lately received, that you would faithfully

restrain the Chinese of Canton. I before communicated a message from my

Government, that if acts of outrage on British subjects were not prevented, ii

would become necessary to punish the innocent with the guilty . The mail will

be dispatched in nine days to England, and I wait to report the punishment of

the criminals .

Accept, &c.

(Signed ) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 2 in No. 28.

Commissioner Keying to Sir J. Davis.

( Translation .)

KEYING, High Imperial Commissioner, &c . , sends the following reply to

a letter of the Honourable Envoy, respecting the assault on the lascar (here

follows the substance of that note ).

Consul Macgregor wrote to me that one Saptu, an English subject, went on

the 28th day, 3rd month ( 12th May ), into the streets at Tesanpoo, to purchase

some articles, and was there beaten and robbed . He therefore requested that I

might issue orders to punish (the aggressors) with severity.

Whilst I was on the point of ordering an investigation of this affair, the

Nan-hae magistrate reported, that he had seized the criminal Woo - a -luh, who had

beaten and robbed a British subject , and recovered one dollar, stolen from him .

When judicially examined, he confessed that he was a workman and native of

Nan-hae. Hewent out on the 28th day of the 3rd month ( 12th May) to look

for some employ, and came to the ward of Tesanpoo, where he found a great

crowd in the street, and, looking about, he perceived a British subject in the

midst of it . He then took a flat bamboo, which is used for carrying things ,

and wounded him with it, and on observing some money in his purse, he availed

himself of this opportunity to snatch a dollar from him . Just when he was on

the point of running away, he was apprehended by the police and municipal

constable, and delivered over to justice ; and a similar statement .

It thus appears that Woo-a-luh committed an atrocious assault on a British

subject, and snatched away some money, which was extremely vile, and he

ought therefore to receive his sentence according to law. We consider bim in

the light of having assaulted another for the sake of seizing some property, and

he ought therefore to be punished two degrees more severe than the amount of

the robbery would demand. He who steals less than a tael receives sixty

strokes, but when two degrees are added to it, they will amount to eighty,

commuted into thirty, laid on with a large bamboo, and he is moreover sentenced

to wear the cangue a month , in order to strike terror into others. The money

recovered was handed over to Consul Macgregor, to restore it to the owner.

Such is the report presented for my perusal, and from the above it would

appear that Woo -a -luh, without any cause , beat and wounded an English sailor,

and moreover robbed him of money, which is very detestable. The sentence

pronounced by the magistrate, that he should receive the bastinado, and wear

the cangue, is sufficiently severe to deter others ( from similar acts), and the

money has been, through Consul Macgregor, returned to the owner.

I thought it my duty to communicate the above to you, the Honourable

Envoy, and request you to peruse the same, and writing this answer, wish

you every happiness, &c .

Taoukwang, 27th year, 4th month, 3rd day. (May 16, 1847.)

Inclosure 3 in No. 28.

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

Victoria, Hong Kong, May 19, 1847.

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge your Excellency's note, informing me

that Woo -a-luh, who assaulted and robbed a Malay sailor, has been punished

with the bamboo and cangue .

It being highly necessary to restrain both Chinese and English, I have

received a despatch' from Viscount Palmerston , severely reprehending Compton.

Should Compton be guilty of another offence, he must be removed from Canton.

But the fear of punishment will now restrain him . By the English law, should

a British subject maliciously kill a Chinese (not being compelled to do so in

defence of his person or his property) , he will be tried, and being found guilty of

murder, will suffer death .

I tender, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 4 in No. 28.

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

Victoria, Hong Kong, May 20, 1847.

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency's note,

in which it was stated that “ the British merchants who come to Canton only

require factories and go -downs .” Your Excellency is well aware that they have

not yet had sufficient factories and go-downs for their goods, and it has therefore

been necessary to seek a location at Honan , as well as a place for a church,

according to the Treaty.

But besides factories and go -downs, it is absolutely necessary that British

subjects be not maltreated by the rabble . According to the first Article of the

Treaty of Nanking, they must “ enjoy full security for their persons and property

within the dominions of China." Your Excellency's great intelligence will

perceive that unless the first Article of the Treaty is maintained, all the rest is

useless. Viscount Palmerston has already stated that unless the rabble of

Canton is restrained , hostilities against the city with a military and naval force

may become necessary, and then the innocent will be involved with the guilty.

The whole subject is included in these words— “ Restraining the rabble. ” At

the other four ports, commerce and peace are uninterrupted .

Since Canton is not very well adapted to European trade, itmaybe expected

that the trade will gradually proceed to other ports; but this should be allowed

to take place gradually and safely, and not by the violence of the rabble,

producing national quarrels.

I tender, & c .

( Signed ) J. F. DAVIS .

No. 29.

Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Foreign Office, July 23, 1847.

I HAVE received your despatch of the 22nd of May, respecting the

ill -treatment, at Canton, of a Malay sailor employed in a British lorcha, and the

subsequent punishment of the party who injured him.

I have to instruct you to state to Keying that Her Majesty's Government

have learnt with great pleasure the promptitude with which he has done justice

on this occasion by punishing the offender.

You will further say , that the British Government most earnestly desire

that peace and friendship shall be maintained between England and China, and

they are sure that this is also the wish of Keying, and of the Emperor; and if

Keying will continue thus vigorously to use the power which the Emperor has

granted him , and will employ that power to prevent and punish all acts of

violence and injustice on the part of Chinese towards British subjects, the British

Government, on its part,will take care that British subjects shall act with justice

and kindness towards the Chinese ; and thus peace and goodwill shall long

continue to be maintained between the two nations, for the equal advantage of

both .

I am, &c.

(Signed) PALMERSTON .

No. 30.

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received September 25.)

My Lord, Victoria , Hong Kong , May 31 , 1847.

SOME time since, the conduct of the Chinese vagabonds in the neighbour

hood of the foreign factories seemed calculated to giveus trouble, but I am glad

to report that the difficulties appear, at length, surmounted.

On the 26th I received the inclosed note from Keying, contained general

assurances of protection from the rabble ; but as Consul Macgregor informed

me, at the same time, that the Chinese guard at the Consoo-house was altogether

remiss and inefficient, it became necessary for me to address the annexed strong

remonstrance to Keying.

I also deemed it right to convey instructions to the Consul, in the inclosed

despatch , as to what should be done to repel the violence of the rabble should

they resort to throwing missiles — a practice which they have fortunately discon

tinued, confining the exhibition of their temper to attacks upon certain boat

sheds by the river-side, and dispersing immediately on the sight of our people.

The inclosed satisfactory reply from Keying to my previous note has put

me more at ease as to the efficiency of his provisions for the preservation of

order, and late accounts from the Consul intimate that tranquillity has been

restored .

I have, &c.

( Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure l in No. 30 .

Commissioner Keying to Sir J. Davis.

(Translation .)

KEYING , High Imperial Commissioner, &c. , sends the following reply to

a letter of the Honourable Envoy about restraining the lower orders.

It is the duty of me, the Great Minister, to protect the foreigners who

come to China for the sake of trade. I have, therefore, given very strict orders

to the local authorities to seize and punish every villain who, without any cause,

commits an outrage on a British subject, and repeatedly stated this in my replies

to you , as is on record.

I trust that the Honourable Envoy is perfectly convinced that, in every

matter which concerns foreign nations, II alwaysproceed according to the Treaty,

and am unwilling to act contrary to my instructions.

Whilst forwarding this answer I wish you much happiness .

Taoukwang, 27th year, 4th month, 11th day. (May 24, 1847. )

Inclosure 2 in No. 30 .

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

Vicloria, Hong Kong, May 26, 1847 .

I HAVE just received a note from your Excellency stating that youwill

always do what is requisite for restraining the lower orders of the Chinese from

acts of violence .

I have had a despatch from Consul Macgregor, stating that the officer at

the Consoo House does nothing to disperse the rabble who crowd about the

factories. Is this restraining the lower orders ? The vagabonds about the

factories have endeavoured to burn or pull down the boat-sheds near the river.

Thus, it is plain that the rabble is not restrained, although your Excellency tells

me it is. I again purposely dispatch this notice.

I had before to inform your Excellency that new troops were coming to

relieve or change the garrison of Hong Kong. It was originally intended to

send away the old troops when the new arrived ; but if your Excellency allows

the rabble every day to make disturbances about the factories, it will be neces

sary to keep the old troops also, in order to protect our people ; and my

Governmentmay require that of your honourable nation to pay for this additional

expense.

Accept, &c.

(Signed ) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 3 in No. 30 .

Sir J. Davis to Consul Macgregor.

Sir, Victoria, Hong Kong , May 28, 1847.

I HAVE received your despatch concerning the disorderly conduct of

the Chinese vagabonds about the foreign factories. On this subject I will

cite the following passage from a communication which Viscount Palmerston

instructed me to make publicly to Keying, and which was made as long ago as

as the 30th January last : “ You will request the Chinese authorities to bear in

mind that, if they shall be unwilling or unable to keep order ,the British subjects

will defend themselves, and the greater the violence of the mob the greater will

be the loss of life inflicted on them ."

It appears that the efforts of the rabble have been confined to attempting the

destruction of a boat- shed by the river side, the source of much irritation ; but

that they have not assailed our people with stones as formerly . If so assailed,

self -defence becomes a necessary measure, and forbearance might encourage the

mob to worse acts . I have repeatedly called upon Keying to preserve order, and

received from him assurances that he will. As it appears from your letters that

little or nothing has yet been done by the guard at the Consoo House, you

should never neglect an occasion of protesting against such remissness to Keying.

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS.

Inclosure 4 in No. 30.

}

Commissioner Keying to Sir J. Davis.

(Translation .)

KEYING, High Imperial Commissioner, & c., sends the following reply to

a letter of the Honourable Envoy respecting the late occurrences near the

factories, and the retention of the old soldiers. (Here follows the substance of

that despatch .)

I have already given orders to the magistrate to seize the ruffians who fired

the shed . The officers and soldiers stationed the Consoo House have been

degraded and flogged, as a warning to others. If these military officers prove

again negligent, they will for a certainty be denounced with all severity, and not

the slightest forbearance shown to them . I , the Great Minister, have moreover

appointed an additional garrison at the station near the foreign factories, to patrol

about there. The expenditure for rations and other necessaries will thus be

considerable .

Your old soldiers need not to be retained for the protection of (British)

merchants and people, so as to entail aa rast expense on your honourable country.

But if you say, that a demand for the payment of the same will be made on

China, I presume that the existing friendly relations between us will prevent this,

and suppose that your honourable country will never bring forward such a claim .

Whilst sending this answer I wish you every happiness.

Taoukwang, 27th year , 4th month , 15th day. (May 28 , 1847.)

No. 31 .

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston .- (Received September 25.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong , June 14, 1847.

I RECEIVED , some time back , from Mr. Consul Macgregor, a report of

stones having been thrown from the shore, at an English boat on the river,

containing tive persons, on the 28th ultimo.

Having waited some time without hearing of anything as to the punish

ment of the aggressors, I wrote the inclosed note to Keying, on the 7th instant .

I have since received, through the Consul, the annexed report of the exami

nation and chastisement of the culprits .

I have, &c .

( Signed ) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 1 in No. 31 .

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

Victoria, Hong Kong, June 7, 1847.

I HAVE to acquaint your Excellency that Consul Macgregor has not

informed me that any reparation whatever has yet been given for the stones

thrown at an English boat, containing five persons, upon the river, on the

28th of May .

I before communicated to your Excellency a message from Viscount

Palmerston, that, “ if the Chinese authorities will not, by the exercise of their

own power, punish and prevent such outrages, the British Government will be

obliged to take the matter into their own hands, and it will not be their fault

if, in such case , the innocent are involved in the punishment which may be

sought to be inflicted on the guilty .” I hope to be able soon to report to

Viscount Palmerston the punishment of those who threw the stones.

Accept, &c.

(Signed ) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 2 in No. 31 .

District Magistrate Le to Consul Macgregor.

( Translation .)

LE, Acting District Magistrate of Pwan -yu , hereby makes a communica

tion .

I have received your letter, stating (here follows an abstract of the letter

from Her Majesty's Consul to the District Magistrate, dated June 9, 1847,

regarding the proceedings in the case of an assault upon Mr. Murrow ).

On this reaching me I referred to the records, and find that the two

criminals, Koo -a - ching and E-a-paou , on being interrogated , both deposed alike,

that on that day they saw a foreign boat near the shore, moving about for

amusement ; that the children of the neighbourhood , being alarmed , picked up

and threw tiles; and that they also, immediately afterwards, picked up broken

bricks, which they threw into the water ; and that there was really no intention

to strike any one.

As it seemed to me that if there had really been an intention to throw

stones, they would, under the circumstances, have wounded some one or struck

the boat, their deposition — that it was on account of being alarmed , and by no

means intentional — was credible ; and the sentence, that they should each be

beaten with the lesser bamboo, was of itself severe, there being a difference

between this case and the actual infliction of wounds . The two criminals were

then, on the 1st of June, and in the Second Hall of my office, separately

severely beaten , and liberated, in accordance with the sentence.

As is fitting, I now give you another communication, that you may make

yourself acquainted with it, and send in a statement ( to Her Majesty's Pleni

potentiary). A necessary communication.

June 11, 1847.

No. 32 .

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston .- (Received September 25.)

My Lord . Victoria , Hong Kong, July 1 , 1847

I HAVE received from Mr. Consul Macgregor the annexed translation of a

proclamation from the Prefect and District Magistrates of Canton, enjoining on

the people a proper behaviour towards foreigners. Though the paper is

addressed to the people themselves, I have to observe that the obnoxious word

“ barbarian " is not once used in it — a punctilio which has formerly been almost

entirely confined to documents addressed directly to ourselves . This, therefore, is

an improvement.

The notification dwells on the importance of preserving peace by an

abstinence from all aggressive acts . It is now generally known that my coercive

measures in April last were for the express purpose ofprocuring satisfaction for

attacks on British subjects ; and your Lordship will perceive, from the inclosed

proclamation , that the gentry and elders have become convinced of the necessity

of repressing those under their control.

I addressed the inclosed letter to Mr. Consul Macgregor with reference to

this subject.

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 1 in No. 32 .

Proclamation .

(Translation .).

WANG , Prefect of Kwang -chow , with his subordinates, Chang, District

Magistrate of Nan -hae, and. Le, District Magistrate of Pwan -yu, hereby issue,

with fervent earnestness, a notification in repetitionn ::

I. 2

Whereas we, as servants of the Emperor in this province, regard the people

subject to our authority all as our own children, and settle all local affairs, no

matter whether great or small, in accordance with the principles of common

reason, with the view of maintaining general peace ; how shallwe be willing to

harbour the slightest degree of selfishness tending to partiality and oppression ?

Now the foreign merchants who cross the seas from a distance to come to

Kwang -tung to carry on trade, are certainly not so unreasonable as to desire to

have difficulties with the natives, and thereby hinder their business. Hence, as

they, when they land to wander about for amusement, or go along the sides of

the river in boats, do not make any disturbance, you , if you would display

equity and justice, ought on such occasions all to attend quietly to your own

duties .

We, the District Magistrates of Nan -hae and Pwan -yu, having some time

ago jointly issued a perspicuous proclamation on this subject, the merchants,

people, and literati haverecently come to perceive in some measure the reason

of it ; and we learn that the intelligent literary gentry of the surrounding

country have laid down rules with reference to this matter, and given injunc

tions to their sons and younger brothers accordingly ; in consequence of which

there has for a month past been great quiet and no trouble. This conduct

adequately records the high purposeof the high authorities to cherish and show

kindness to all alike. But in the midst of quiet. we ought still more to look

forward to a perpetual absence of suspicion and jealousy , in order to attain

(continual) peace ; and it is therefore proper that we issue, with fervent earnest

ness , a notification in repetition.

For this reason we hereby issue a proclamation to the people within our

jurisdiction for their full information . Hereafter, when it occurs that foreigners

wander quietly about for amusement, it is absolutely necessary that you treat

them in accordance with the principles of common reason . Let fathers lay their

injunctions on their sons, and elder brothers admonish the younger, and quiet

will exist for a length of time. Should it happen that ignorant people assail the

foreigners with bricks or stones, or make use of bad language to then , the Te-paou

( constables), & c ., must exert themselves sincerely in remonstrating with and

stopping them , with the view of avoiding the provocation of disturbances, and

the mutual infliction of injuries, and of removing for ever the line of

distinction .

That all may enjoy the blessing of universal tranquillity is really what we

greatly hope for. Do not oppose this special proclamation.

June 22 , 1847.

Inclosure 2 in No. 32 .

Sir J. Davis to Consul Macgregor .

Sir, Victoria, Hong Kong, June 29 , 1847.

I HAVE received your despatch of the 25th instant, inclosing translation of

a joint proclamation from the Prefect of Canton and the District Magistrates,

calling on the people to conduct themselves properly towards foreigners.

This is the most satisfactory document of the kind that has appeared yet,

more particularly as it states that the gentry and elders have taken a part with

the Government in favour of foreigners, and have made it their care to repress

all attempts at aggression, as already hinted at in the last address from Honan .

This is infinitely more likely to be effective than the unassisted efforts of the

mandarins. If foreigners on their part are duly restrained by penalties, adequate

in amount and certain in execution , I doubt if there has ever been so little

prospect of disturbances as at present.

I have, & c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS.

No. 33 .

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston.— (Received September 25.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, June 14, 1847 .

I HAVE the satisfaction to announce that the site for a church at Canton

has been finally secured, as announced in the inclosed despatch from Consul

Macgregor. But besides the church , this includes the most important object of

blocking up the obnoxious thoroughfare of Hog Lane, and obtaining all the

space between that and the river - the great source and seat of all mobs and

tumults at the foreign factories . The plan transmitted with my despatch

of the 7th instant, will show the position in question ; and I may add that

were this the only result of my visit to Canton two months ago, it was well

worth the pains.

To my “ Declaration ” conveyed through the Consul to the gentry and

elders of Honan (as transmitted in despatch of 31st May) I have since

received , through the same channel, the inclosed most respectful reply. Your .

Lordship will perceive the entire revolution in the former style of communication,

and it appeared to myself that the first steps should be encouraged. As they can

now have no sort of doubt as to our power, ( indeed the altered style of their

addresses is the best proof of it,) we need scarcely scruple to show them our

reasonableness and moderation ; and if this ( coming after the first) has not a

favourable effect, the human nature of the Chinese must be an exception to all

others.

I have thought it right to publish both of the foregoing documents, with

the annexed notice . Two warehouses have already been offered at Honan , on

the other side of the river ; but there are, in my opinion, on the same side of the

river with the British factories, and contiguous to them, greatly preferable ware

houses and sites for building which belonged to the late hong-merchants, an

which may now be had by our commercial people .

I have received the inclosed note from Keying, informing me of the final

settlement of the church site and adjoining open space, and of the progress of

negotiations for warehouses, &c .

It is satisfactory to find that the names of six of the vazabonds who

attacked the boatsheds are specified as having been captured , and I make no

doubt of their being summarily punished , as the Chinese themselves dread the

consequences of such acts. Keyirg likewise announces the appointment of

efficient officers and men at the Consoo House (the previous cnes having lee :

punished for their remissness ), and I entertain little doubt of order being at

length preserved.

But the chief ground of expectation that we shall have quiet for the future

is the stoppage of the old thoroughfare called Hog Lane, and the conversion of

a portion of the space to a church site, according to my agreement of 6th April.

I have, &c.

( Signed ) J. F. DAVIS.

Inclosure in No. 33.

Commissioner Keying to Sir J. Davis.

( Translation .)

KEYING , High Imperial Commissioner, &c., sends the following com

munication.

I received the note of the Honourable Envoy on the subject of the ground

which the merchants of your honourable country requested to rent, in order to

build houses on. There are wanted six shops at the south end of Hog Lane ;

and, according to the statement of Consul Macgregor, the open space at the

landing-place, between the two flower gardens, is likewise required.

Having dispatched my deputed officers to arrange this matter, in conjunc

tion with the local authorities and the old hong merchant, Woo -e-ho, and

others, they reported that the title - deeds of the owner of the four shops within

the railing (gate), at the south -end of Hog Lane, had been handed over to

Consul Macgregor for examination. The two shops outside the railing (gate)

were erected by the whole community of Suh -yo Street , and let by their agent,

together with the remaining ground at the landing -place, the proceeds of the

rent being applied to provide incense and candles for the Hwa-kwang temple.

There are no title- deeds.

Woo - e -ho being, on the 25th day of the 4th month (7th June) , invited

to a conjoint consultation, it was settled by the parties in person with Consul

Macgregor, that the price of the four shops within the railing (gate) should be

paid according to (the amount mentioned in ) the title -deeds , and for the two

outside the railing (gate), 375 taels , to make good the costof building them ;

but, besides this , no shop -rent was to be charged . The ground -rent, both

outside as well as inside the railing (gate), together with the free space between

the two flower gardens, is to be three cents per square foot, English measure

ment. The moment the houses are pulled down, and the ground accurately

measured, an agreement will be drawn up for the payment of the money , which

W00 - e -ho will receive .

Respecting the ground to be rented for building warehouses on it, which

cannot be speedily procured, Consul Macgregor remarked, that if there were any

finished warehouses to the east of the Consoo Hong, the British merchants

might rent them ; and words to that effect. On inquiry, it appears that there

are the Kwang -le, Tien -paou, Tung-shun, E -sang, and Tung-fow packhouses,

five in number, and at Honan two others, belonging to Woo , which all may be

rented . A list of them has now been given to Consul Macgregor, that he may

manage this affair,but it is not yet settled.

1, the Great Minister, find, on examination, that my deputed officers and

others, settled about the shops in Hog Lane, and the free space outside the

railing, with Consul Macgregor, and that this matter is finally brought to a

conclusion . There are, moreover, warehouses at several places, all ready, to be

let, where merchants may take up their abode. I therefore request the Honour

able Envoy to direct Consul Macgregor to state in his reply whether or not

these buildings , as specified in the list of my deputed officers, are available, so

that this affair may be managed properly.

The military of the district have already seized some of the villains who set

fire (to the shed ), viz. : Wana-keuen, Le -ashing, Le-alung, Heua -hwuy, Leang

a-seay, and Shih -ashwuy, six in number, who will, for a certainty, most severely

be punished as soon as the evidence at their examination proves conclusive ; and

we shall not show the slightest mercy towards them .

I have also increased the military force at the Consoo House by two

officers, to co -operate with the civil and military mandarins previously appointed,

and to patrol day and night. The precautionary measures for affording security

are now, therefore, more effective than before . If any disturbance arises , there

will be no difficulty in apprehending the ruffians, and the rabble will henceforth

know to keep away .

Whilst sending this communication, I wish you every happiness.

Taoukwang, 27th year, 4th month, 28th day. (June 10 , 1847.)

No. 34.

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston.- (Received September 25.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, June 29, 1817.

WITH reference to my despatch of the 14th instant, forwarding a note

from Keying in which I was informed that six of the vagabonds implicated

in the attempt to destroy the boatsheds had been seized , and most severely

punished as examples, I have the honour to report that Consul Macgregor has

announced to me that three of them have been condemned to eighty blows with

the greater bamboo, with the cangue in perpetuity, which is in fact a lingering

death, and the other three to one month of the cangue, and eighty blows on

being released.

The Consul was perplexed by the term “ impropriety,” the title of the

Chinese law under which these culprits were condemned ; but it is in fact a most

sweeping and summary law ,, intended to comprehend all possible cases where

any doubt may be entertained as to the existence of a particular law to meet a

particular case ; and I apprehend that, where foreigners are concerned, the

Chinese magistrates may suppose that such is frequently the fact.

At all events, we can have nothing to object on this occasion to the mildness of

the sentence, which is severe enough, and that is what chiefly concerns us. It

so happens that the very law in question against “ impropriety ” was the subject

of my own observations some years ago, and I have drawn the Consul's attention to

its real nature and tendencies in the inclosed letter and extract.

I have, & c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS ,

P.S. — Since the above was written, Consul Macgregor has reported] the

punishment by the Chinese authorities of an additional prisoner in a case of

assault , which occurred as long ago as the 17th of May. This voluntary act on

theirpart, on an occasion when other culprits had already been chastised, is a

proof that the Chinese Government is in earnest, and that we may expect less

trouble at Canton for the future . The present is another instance of the

(so -called) law of “ mpropriety,” and corroborative (as I have observed to the

Consul) of my conclusions respecting the law in question .

J. F. D.

Inclosure 1 in No. 34.

Sir J. Davis to Consul Macgregor.

Sir, Victoria , Hong Kong, June 18, 1847 .

I HAVE received your despatch regarding the punishment of the six

persons implicated in attempting to fire the boat-sheds by the water -side.

The point that principally concerns us is the amount of punishment inflicted,

which seems severe enough , as three of the culprits are in addition to the

infliction of the heavy bamboo) to be cangued in perpetuity, which is, in fact,

equivalent to death .

It is difficult for us to enter fully into the notions entertained by the Chinese

as to the moral relation between intention and effect. They may differ from us

as much on this point as on many others, and provided that the aggressors are

severely punished, I do not see that the question greatly concerns us, unless it

were made a plea for insufficient reparation . With regard to what you observe

concerning the Chinese law against “ impropriety," I feel convinced that the

sweeping statute under that name is adopted by the Chinese Government as the

most summary in cases where foreigners are concerned, when they consider that

no other existing law has made due provision for punishment.

The inclosed extract from my work on China remarks the very law in

question.

I have, &c .

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 2 in No. 34.

Extract from Sir J. Davis' Work on China, relative to the Chinese Law against

“ Impropriety .”

A THIRD defect is the occasional manifestation of a jealous fear, on the

part of the Government, lest in the execution of its enactments the judge

should ever find himself hampered or impeded by too great clearness of definition ,

or the subject derive too much protection from the distinct statement of crime

and punishment. Hence those vague generalities by which the benefits of a

written code are in a great measure annulled. The following enactment is a

specimen : “ Whoever is guilty of improper conduct, and such as is contrary to

the spirit of the laws, though not a breach of any specific article, shallbe punished

at the least with forty blows, and when the impropriety is of a serious nature,

with eighty blows. "

Inclosure 3 in No. 34.

Sir J. Davis to Consul Macgregor.

Sir, Victoria, Hong Kong, June 21 , 1847.

I HAVE received your despatch , with its inclosure, relative to the

punishment of another of the aggressors on Messrs. Burbank and Edwards on

the 17th May. It plainly confirms the opinion I many years ago formed as to

the intention of the comprehensive and general law concerning “ Impropriety,"

namely, that it is intended to sweep within its range any offences that might be

too lightly punished under any particular law . The manner in which this case

has been followed up with thepunishment of an additional prisoner, augurs well

of the sincerity of the Local Government in its wish to do us right.

I have, & c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS.

No. 35.

Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Foreign Office, October 12, 1847.

I HAVE to acquaint you that Her Majesty's Government consider the

proclamation of the magistrates at Canton, inclosed in your despatch of

the 1st of July, to be very satisfactory, as proving not only that the magistrates

themselves are resolved to take effectual measures to enforce the proper treatment

of foreigners by the Canton populace, but also that they have reason to rely

upon the cooperation of the respectable portion of the community for that

purpose.

I am , &c.

( Signed ) PALMERSTON .

No. 36 .

Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis.

Sir , Foreign Office, October 12, 1847.

I HAVE received your despatch of the 19th of June, reporting that

six persons concerned in the attempt to burn the boat-sheds near the

factories in the month of May last, had been sentenced to be severely punished ;

and that another person engaged in an assault committed in the same month on

two British subjects , had also been punished.

I have to instruct you to state to the Chinese High Commissioner that Her

Majesty's Government are much gratificd by the spirit of justice on the part of

the Chinese Government , which has been proved by their proceedings in these

cases ; and Her Majesty's Government cannot doubt that the punishments

inflicted on these offenders will tend to deter others from similar crimes, and wil

thus prevent any interruption of the friendly relations which Her Majesty's

Government are so desirous of seeing maintained, and, if possible , even improved,

between Great Britain and China.

With regard, however, to the men who have been sentenced to the perpetual

cangue, however just and well-deserved by them that punishment must be

considered as being, yet Her Majesty's Government would be glad that in a case

where the outrage was committed on British property, the offenders might be

treated with some small degree of indulgence more than they deserve, in order

that the Chinese people may see that the British Government demands

punishment not so much from feelings of vengeance against the offenders, as

in order that the example may prevent similar acts by other persons, and that

thereby British subjects in China and their property may be safe from molestation

and violence. Therefore, as these men have been punished by the bamboo, and

will , when this despatch reaches China, have undergone several months of the

punishment of the cangue, Her Majesty's Government would consider it as a

favour to themselves if these men were then at once to be pardoned and

released.

I am , &c.

(Signed) PALMERSTON .

No. 37.

Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Foreign Office, October 12 , 1847.

I HAVE received your despatch of the 14th of June, reporting that

two Chinese who had thrown stones at a party in an English boat on the

Canton river had been punished ; and I have to state to you, with reference to

this matter, that it will be desirable , in future, that the British Consul, or some

person authorised by him, should be present at any punishment inflicted on

Chinese for assaults or outrages on British subjects, because the mere assertion

of the Chinese officers that such persons have been punished cannot, of itself,

be considered as sufficient and satisfactory proof that any punishment has been

inflicted .

IΙ am,, &c.

( Signed ) PALMERSTON .

No. 38 .

Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Foreign Office, October 12, 1847.

I HAVE received your despatch of the 31st of May, inclosing, among

other papers, copies of a note which you had addressed to Keying relative

to the inefficient measures adopted by the Chinese authorities for restraining the

Canton mob ; and of an instruction which you had given to Mr. Consul

Macgregor, prescribing the line of conduct to be observed by him if the mob

should resort to acts of violence against British subjects : and I have to acquaint

you that I approve of those papers..

I am, &c.

(Signed ) PALMERSTON .

No. 39.

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston.-(Received October 21.)

(Extract.) Victoria, Hong Kong, August 20, 1847.

THE want of protection from the Government has led to the maintenance,

at a considerable expense, of what are called " village braves,” a species of

irregular militia, who (as might have been expected in China) have proved not

only expensive, but often troublesome to their employers. The people have

publicly expressed their desire and intention to pay this irregular militia out of

the taxes due from them to the Government, finding, as I expected they would,

that they a great burthen upon themselves.

Such is the present state of things in the Canton province.

Having noticed to Keying that the continuance of the irregularities of this

undisciplined militia must endanger the public peace, I received from him the

inclosed reply. He admits the fact, and explains it partly in the manner above

stated, adding, that they had “ carried things too far," and must be controlled,

which, I fear, is beyond his power .

On the 12th instant I received the despatch from Consul Macgregor which

is transmitted herewith .

Some Englishmen and other Europeans went, on the 8th , in two Chinese

boats, up the river, two or three miles above Canton. A party of the village

militia were exercising on shore with guns, &c . , and the Chinese boatmen soon

betrayed an anxiety to return, which was increased on three guns being fired,

though, as it appeared, with powder only. It was declared, however, that the

guns were, at least, pointed at them .

Mr. Elmslie, the Vice - Consul himself, having, soon after, passed in an

English boat without the least molestation, I am inclined to think the three

guns were a part of the exercise , and it happens, moreover, to be the invariable

number of every Chinese salute for mandarins, & c. As every meeting of the

kind, however, is a mere disorderly moh , it is just possible that the thing was

meant as an insult.

Immediately on the receipt of Mr. Macgregor's information, I addressed, on

the same day , the inclosed to Keying, desiring an explanation of the matter, or

the punishment of the parties.

As the Consul, to my surprise, did not state that he had taken up the

question on the first complaint to himself, I wrote him the inclosed despatch,

making the inquiry. According to his own representation of the case, it called

for his immediate exertions on the spot.

Mr. Macgregor excused his remissness by the inclosed reply, in which he

refers to a private note from myself some time before this occurrence, and bearing

no allusion to it. In applying to him by that note for information, I certainly

did not intend to furnish the Consul with an excuse for making no exertion

whatever on behalf of the complainants at the Consulate .

In my annexed reply, therefore, I pointed this out, and added that Keying

must naturally suppose that a matter on which neither himself nor the local

magistrate heard anything from the Consul, could not be very serious . The

Chinese Minister could receive nothing from me under a week , at the distance of

ninety miles, twice traversed. This at once loses valuable time, and weakens the

effect of my remonstrances.

I have received a short note from Keying, stating that he will certainly

inquire and punish the parties, if guilty, and inform me of the result ; but I do

not expect his report before the departure of the mail.

Inclosure 1 in No. 39 .

Commissioner Keying to Sir J. Davis.

(Translation.)

KEYING , High Imperial Commissioner, &c., sends the following reply to a

communication of the Honourable Envoy, respecting the assemblage of an armed

crowd at Shih -wei-tang. (Here follows the substance of that letter.)

It appears that the territory of the provincial city swarms with robbers,

who often combine in great numbers to attack and plunder. The villagers have,

therefore, for their own protection assembled trained bands ; but their real object

is to defend themselves against robbers and vagabonds, without any reference to

the foreigners. They have not only done so at Shih -wei-tang, but at many other

places .

I have also heard that the villagers thereabout assembled in armed multi

tudes, and coming together hold debates. This is carrying things too far, and

those who see and hear it are frightened and terrified. I , the Great Minister, have

therefore ordered the local authorities to issue a proclamation, and prohibit it ;

as is on record .

Having stationed additional troops at the foreign factories, with their officers,

who incessantly patrol day and night, and are busy with keeping a careful guard,

the protective measures will prove effective, and the Honourable Envoy may rest

satisfied on this point, and harbour no anxiety.

Whilst forwarding this reply, I wish you every happiness , & c.

Taoukwang, 27th year, 6th month , 28th day. (August 8, 1847.)

9 Inclosure 2 in No. 39.

Consul Macgregor to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Canton , August 10, 1847.

I HAVE the honour of transmitting to your Excellency the inclosed copy

of a letter I received yesterday from several British subjects and others who ,

during an excursion on the river on Sunday morning, and having arrived

opposite a village the name of which is stated to be Wong -chuk -kay, situate in

a north -west direction from Canton on the river, and about two or three miles

from the factories, were received with shouts and yells and other tokens of

defiance by the natives who were tumultuously collected in great numbers on

shore. This was almost immediately succeeded by the discharge of three pieces

of ordnance, which were pointed directly at them , in consequence of which their

boatmen were intimidated to such a degree that they refused to go any further

in that direction.

find, on inquiry, that the guns fired were loaded with powder only, and

that they belong to the militia, which was established some time ago in the

rural districts at the expense of the landholders and gentry, under the appella

tion of the “ village braves,” now assembled in that quarter for the purpose of

being exercised in the use of firearms.

It appears, however, extremely improper that contrary to the stipulation of

the Agreement of the 6th April, “ that British subjects shall not be molested on

their excursions,” these villages braves by the display and discharge of artillery on

shore should attempt to intimidate and prevent foreigners from enjoying the only

recreation which is left them , namely, that of sailing on the river, and I therefore

humbly conceive that the facts submitted to your Excellency would form a

proper subject of remonstrance to the Governor -General in order that similar

demonstrations may in future be avoided .

I have, &c.

(Signed) FRANCIS C. MACGREGOR . .

Inclosure 3 in No. 39 .

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

Victoria, Hong Kong, August 12, 1847.

I RECEIVED a note from your Excellency, dated the 8th instant, in which

you informed me that, as the territory of the provincial city “ swarmed with

robbers, the villagers had provided trained bands for their defence ; but , as they

assembled in armed multitudes, and came together to hold debates, this was

carrying things too far, and you had therefore ordered the local authorities to

prohibit it , ” &c.

On the very day your Excellency's note is dated , the Consul informs me

that some Englishmen and other Europeans in boats on the river, near a place

called Wong-chuk -kay, were wantonly assailed by one of these assemblages, and

that three guns were apparently discharged at them , though said to be with

powder only

Your Excellency is fully aware, that by the Treaty, as well as by the Special

Agreement of the 6th of April, “ British subjects shall be at liberty to go a day's

journey, as at Shanghae , without molestation, and that, if malicious Chinese

assail them , they shall be immediately punished .”

Now, as the persons who committed the outrage on this occasion were what

your Excellency calls trained bands, or village militia, and as they apparently

discharged three guns at the foreigners, there can be no difficulty in detecting

and punishing them , according to Treaty. I , therefore, immediately write to

demand their punishment, or an explanation of the facts.

M 2

My Government will expect their chastisement, in the same manner as in

the cases of October 17 and March 12 .

I have already, before, said so much concerning outrages of this kind , that

it is not necessary to repeat it here.

Accept, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 4 in No. 39.

Sir J. Davis to Consul Macgregor.

Sir, Victoria, Hong Kong, August 12, 1847.

I HAVE just received your despatch of the 10th instant, concerning the

outrage on some British subjects and others at a place called Wong -chuk -kay,

on the 8th instant, and I have lost no time in immediately addressing Keying on

the subject.

As Her Majesty's Government will of course expect that, on an occasion so

peculiarly calling for instant and energetic exertion at the Consulate, you applied

to the local Government for redress without delay , I have to request that you will

forward to me a copy of any document you sent in upon the occurrence being

reported to you . I should wish also to have the names of the persons in the two

Chinese boats.

I have, &c ,

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 5 in No. 39.

Consul Macgregor to Sir J. Davis .

Sir, Canton, August 14, 1847.

I HAVE to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency's despatch of the

12th instant , and in reply, II beg to refer you to your letter of the 5th instant, in

which you are pleased to direct,in consequence of having been informed of some

preparation to molest foreigners going up the river or landing at Fah-ti , that, not

being able to proceed without authentic information from myself of something like

an overt act, you would be glad to have it, in order that you might make the

necessary communication to Keying on the subject.

It was in conformity with those directions that I obtained the letter from

Mr, Balkwill and his friends, which I forwarded to your Excellency without

delay, and judging that you must have good reasons for wishing to make the

necessary remonstrance to the Imperial Commissioner yourself, I of course

refrained from addressing a complaint to his Excellency on the subject in this

particular instance, although I should not have failed to do so in the ordinary

course of things, in accordance with various of your Excellency's despatches.

I beg to inclose a list of the foreigners that were in the two boats in

question .

I have, &c.

( Signed) FRANCIS C. MACGREGOR .

List of Foreigners who were molested during an Excursion up the Canton River,

on the 8th August , 1847.

H. Balkwill.

James Whittall.

Sept. Maitland.

William Rutter.

R. McGregor.

S. K. Brabner.

Wm . K. Snodgrass .

Juls. Kreyenhagen .

Inclosure 6 in No. 39 .

Sir J. Bowring to Consul Macgregor .

Sir , Victoria, Hong Kong, August 17, 1847.

IN reply to your despatch of the 14th instant, stating why you had not

taken any measures at the Consulate, or made any application to the local

authorities on the appeal of the several persons on the 8th instant, I must

observe that my private note (to which you refer ) in applying to you for

information , did not absolve you from performing your own part on the spot,

nor do away with the injunctions I had several times repeated to you in official

despatches, to use every exertion when necessary. Keying must naturally

believe that a matter on which neither himself nor the local magistrates bear

anything from the Consul , and concerning which he can receive nothing from

me in much less than a week from its occurrence, is not considered as very

serious. This at once loses valuable time, and weakens the effect of my

remonstrance at the distance of ninety miles. My interposition, in general,

should only be on the failure of your own..

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

No. 40.

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston.- ( Received November 22.)

My Lord, Victoria , Hong Kong, August 28, 1847.

WITH reference to my despatch of the 20th instant, I addressed

the inclosed note to Keying on the 21st, informing him that I awaited the

fulfilment of his engagement to make examples of those who wantonly fired

when some Englishmen and other foreigners were passing on the Canton river in

Chinese boats.

I took occasion to observe that it was generally rumoured that the Canton

Government was powerless in its attempts to control the village militia, which

had grown out of the disorganized state of the province, and that the people

added that,

moreover refused to pay their taxes to Government. I added that, of course, if

this should prove to be true ,he could not be surprised if the British Government

took the necessary measures to protect its own subjects.

I very soon received the annexed favourable reply, announcing the appre

hension and trial of the offending individuals , and engaging to forward an official

notice of their punishment.

Keying repeats his explanation of the origin of the village militia, which the

history of the past year or two, in fact, confirms, though such disorderly and ill

organized associations are dangerous to the weak Government of the province.

He repudiates, however, the idea of their being beyond his control, and adds that

the villages pay their taxes.

In my reply to this, as subjoined, I took occasion to observe, that if the

peoplewere under control, they ought not to be permitted to interfere with the

due fulfilment of Treaty engagements, some of which had been delayed under

various pretexts, and that British rights at Canton must and should be main

tained .

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 1 in No. 40.

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

Victoria, Hong Kong, August 21 , 1847.

I HAVE received a reply from your Excellency, in which you state that

you consider it a very detestable proceeding on the part of the Hwang-chuh-che

villagers who wantonly fired when some Englishmen and other foreigners were

passing: in Chinese boats, on the river.

I shall therefore look for an early communication, stating the names, trial,

and punishment, of the offenders, that I may report the same to my Govern

ment. It is stated that the Canton authorities are not able to control the

village militia, and that the people refuse to pay their taxes, &c. If this proves

to be true , your Excellency will not be surprised should the British Government

immediately take measures to protect its own subjects.

Accept, &c.

(Signed ) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 2 in No. 40.

Commissioner Keying to Sir J. Davis.

( Translation .)

KEYING, High Imperial Commissioner, & c ., sends the following reply to

a despatch from the Honourable Envoy, respecting the firing of the Hwang

chuh - che villagers. (Here follows an extract of that letter.)

The Hwang-chuh -che villagers, by wantonly firing (on foreigners), committed

an act worthy of detestation . The Nan -hae magistrate has, therefore, in conse

quence of my orders, seized two of the aggressors , viz . , Lo - a -che and another.

They confessed that they were exercising small guns (ginjalls) at that place, and

were not aware that any foreigners were passing in a boat ; nor had they any

intention of firing at them .

Such being the evidence, I was afraid that not the whole truth had been

told, and apprehensive that there might have been others on the same spot who

assisted in the firing, I therefore again directed the magistrate to elicit, by torture,

the real facts , and seize the whole band, with all severity. As soon as the

criminals shall have been successively taken , true evidence obtained by judicial

inquiry, and they have suffered severe punishment, I shall again address an

official letter to you .

I , the Great Minister, act vigorously in punishing the natives when they

have injured the merchants and people of other countries. I have, for instance,

in the case of piracy committed in the neighbourhood of Amoy) on vessels of

your honourable nation, seized many of the guilty, who have all been severally

sentenced and executed. When the Swiss merchant, not long ago, was robbed

on the Canton river, I apprehended more than ten criminals, and recovered some

of the plunder. The district military is still engaged in making the strictest

search for the seizure, prosecution, and punishment of these native ruffians, in

order to protect effectually the merchants and people of every country. For

this reason I would not trouble the Honourable Envoy to adopt additional

protective measures .

The trained bands and village braves were raised with the view of protecting

their villages and farms against robbers and vagabonds, who have recently

become very numerous. Their assemblies for noisy debate have been prohibited ;

they now fulfil their duties, observe the laws , and likewise pay taxes . One

ought, on no account, to give easy credence to rumours in circulation.

Whilst sending this answer, I wish you every happiness.

Taoukwang, 27th year, 7th month , 14th day. (August 24, 1847.)

Inclosure 3 in No. 40 .

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keying .

Victoria, Hong Kong, August 23, 1847 .

I HAVE received your Excellency's note, in which you inform me that

when the Hwang-chuh-che criminals have been severely punished , you will

acquaint me with the particulars. I await the receipt of this announcement, that

I may transmit the same to my Government, who, together with the whole

British public, are already justly indignant at the conduct of the Canton people .

Your Excellency observes that the “ trained bands and village braves were

raised with the view of protecting their villages and farms against robbers and

vagabonds, who have recently become very numerous. Their assemblies for

noisy debate have beenprohibited ; they now fulfil their duties, observe the laws,

and likewise pay taxes.”

It is, nevertheless, publicly notorious that they have combined for the

purpose of preventing the allotment of building ground and cemeteries, and even

now, a burial-ground cannot be procured at Whampoa. The two officers, Tung

and Ning, have so often deceived Consul Macgregor, that I have ordered the

Consul to communicate in writing only, that proofs may be on record . I have

ascertained that the Parsees do not wish to build a wall, and that they have

chosen a waste spot without any graves. Still they cannot succeed !

When I find that the Treaty is still evaded and set at nought, and that

moderation only produces bad faith, my Government will perfectly approve of

my doing everything that is necessary to maintain the Treaty and uphold the

rights and dignity of the great nation I serve. It will soon be necessary to fix

a date for the fulfilment ofthe Agreement of April 6ih. I previously make this

important communication .

Accept, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

No. 41 .

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston .- (Received November 22.)

My Lord , Victoria, Hong Kong, September 10 , 1847.

WITH reference to my despatch of the 28th of August, I have the

honour to inclose copy of a very satisfactory note from Keying as to the

punishment of certain Chinese who insulted a party of Europeans on the

river.

The penalty inflicted on this occasion is sufficiently severe , being not only

an allotment of thirty blows to each, but (what is still better calculated to

operate as a warning) the being paraded in the heavy wooden pillory for one

month about the foreign factories, with their names and offence inscribed . The

tendency of this mode of punishment is so obviously salutary, that I shall require

it on future occasions of importance.

The conduct of Keying on this occasion has been so praiseworthy, that I

deemed it only just to address him the annexed reply , declaring that we had no

other motive in insisting on such examples than the repression of disorder and

the maintenance of peace, and that the chastisement of Chinese aggressors came

much more fitly from their own authorities than from us .

I requested Consul Macgregor by the inclosed despatch to ascertain the

exhibition of the three culprits in the neighbourhood of the factories, and have

been glad to learn that the sentences were duly carried out.

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 1 in No. 41 .

Commissioner Keying to Sir J. Davis.

( Translation .)

KEYING, High Imperial Commissioner, &c . , sends the following commu

nication respectingthe case of the Hwang -chuh -che villagers wantonly firing on

Europeans, when in a boat upon the river.

In consequence of my previous orders, the Nan --hae magistrate seized

Lo -a -che and a second aggressor, and on reporting the circumstance to me, I,

the Great Minister, communicated it to the Honourable Envoy ; as is on

record.

The Nan -hae magistrate now again informs me, that he subsequently

apprehended Fang-a-ching , another aggressor. Lo-a-che stated, that he was

43 years of age, and with Lo-a-nang, who is 32 years old, a native of Nan-hae

district, on the 26th day, 6th moon, of the present year ( 6th August) hey

tried some small guns ( ginjalls) which they had had in their possession for a

long while, by firing powder without shot, on the river's side , at Hwang-chuh

che. Fang -a - ching, an old acquaintance of theirs, came thither to look on and

assist in the firing. Just at that time a boat was passing with foreigners on

board of her. As they had only loaded with blank cartridge they did not turn

aside, but did not fire at them intentionally, nor wound anybody. There were

at that time many spectators, but none of them engaged in firing the guns.

The above confession is true.

Fang-a-ching said , that he was 34 years old, and belonged to the same

district. On the 26th day, 6th moon, of the present year (6th August), he

was passing the road at Hwang-chuh -che, when he perceived his old acquaint

ance Lo-a-che and the other, who were trying some small guns by firing blank

cartridges, without putting any balls into them . He went up to them and

assisted in discharging the pieces. This was true, and the remainder of the

evidence agreed with Lo -a-che's and the other's statement.

It appears, therefore, that Lo -a -che and the others were trying some small

guns, by firing powder without shot. They truly aver that they had no inten

tion of firing at the foreigners, but of their own accord were discharging the

pieces quite heedlessly, when the boat was passing. Though they did not

wound anybody, still theirs was a very wanton act. Lo-a-che , Lo-a-nang, and

Fang -a -ching, therefore, shall together, according to the rigorous tenour of the

law , in open Court receive, each , thirty strokes, and be paraded around the foreign

factories for one month, wearing the cangue, in order to deter others (from

similar acts ) .

On receiving the above details, I find that Lo - a -che and the others,

although discharging their pieces with blank cartridge and not loading them with

shot, still very improperly showed no caution when the Europeans were passing

in the boat. Their not having wounded any man gives rise to some indulgent

consideration. They ought, therefore, to receive the strokes, and be paraded

with the cangue about the factories, in order to strike terror and repress (such

aggressors ).

Whilst giving orders that it may be done accordingly, I address this letter

for the consideration of the Honourable Envoy , and wish you every happiness.

Taoukwang, 27th year, 7th month, 18th day. (August , 28, 1847.)

Inclosure 2 in No. 41 .

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

Victoria, Hong Kong, August 31 , 1847 . .

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge your Excellency's note just received

concerning the punishment of those who wantonly and mischievously discharged

ginjalls loaded with powder on the Canton river. I thereby learn that the three

criminals will receive thirty strokes, and be paraded about the foreign factories

in the cangue for one month.

This is an extremely just and wise proceeding on the part of your Excel

lency, and proves that you have the power of controlling the populace.

The only object of my nation in wishing for their punishment is to deter

others from committing the like offence, and therebyensure perpetual peace.

It is also more fit that the people should be punished by the Chinese Govern

ment than by foreign force.

I will immediately inform Consul Macgregor of the purport of your note,

and desire him to ascertain that the District Magistrate parades the men

according to your Excellency's order.

Accept, &c.

( Signed) J. F. DAVIS .

Inclosure 3 in No. 41 .

Sir J. Davis to Consul Macgregor.

Sir, Victoria , Hong Kong, August 31 , 1847 .

I HAVE to inform you that I have just received a note from the Chinese

Minister, acquainting me ihat three criminals, Lo -a- che, Lo -a-nang, and Fang

a-ching (convicted of pointing ginjalls loaded with powder at two Chinese boats

having Europeans on board ), have been sentenced each to receive thirty blows

with the bamboo, and to be paraded in the cangue about the factories for one

month.

The names of the criminals are added in the margin in Chinese, and you

will have no difficulty in ascertaining that they are really so paraded by the

Nan -hae Magistrate.

A copy of Keying's original note is annexed to this.

I have, &c .

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS.

No. 42 .

Viscount Palmerston to Sir J. Davis.

Sir , Foreign Office, November 23, 1847.

WITH reference to your despatches of the 28th August and 10th September,

inclosing your correspondence with Keying, respecting the punishment of some

Chinese who had insulted a party of Europeans on the river above Canton, I have

to state to you that I approve of the note which you addressed to Keying on

the 31st August, in acknowledging the receipt of his notification of the punish

ment to be inflicted on the guilty parties .

I am , &c.

(Signed ) PALMERSTON .

No. 43.

Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham .

( Extract.) Foreign Office, January 3, 1818.

YOU will state to Keying that Her Majesty's Government entertain the

highest respect for him personally, and that they sincerely trust that he will continue

to show the same friendly disposition in treating with you , which he has evinced

in his intercourse with your predecessors ; that Her Majesty's Government are

sensible that he may sometimes have difficulties to contend with in controlling

the unruly populace of Canton, but that it will be your duty to lighten those

difficulties as much as possible, by preventing British subjects from provoking

collision with the Chinese, and by bringing a Britisli force to Canton whenever

necessary to assist him in keeping the populace in order. But you will say that

Her Majesty's Government cannot comprehend why the authorities at Canton

should not be able to exercise over the people of that city, the same degree of

control which is exerted by the authorities at the other four ports, over the

people in those cities ; neither does there appear to be any sufficient reason why

the people at Canton should be more hostile to foreignersthan the people at the

other ports are . But you will say that, at all events, Her Majesty's Government

cannot allow their Treaty rights to be defeated, and that although nothing

would be more painful to them than to be again involved in angry discussion

with China, they are fully resolved to maintain in every respect , and at all

times, every privilege which has been conceded to them by Treaty , and will

shrink from no measures, however painful, which may be necessary for the

maintenance and enforcement of British rights,

I must not conceal from you , however, that Her Majesty's Government are

not without apprehension as regards the conduct of British subjects in China.

Peace between the two countries has more than once been put in jeopardy by the

reckless conduct of individuals , members of the British community . I trust

that the warning which Sir John Davis, by my direction , addressed to the British

community in China after the riots in Canton in July 1846, may have made a

due impression ; but, at all events, it will be your duty to exert, when necessary ,

the powers entrusted to you for maintaining order among Her Majesty's subjects

in China.

No. 44 .

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston.- (Received April 22.)

(Extract.) Victoria, Hong Kong, February 5, 1848.

THE inclosed despatch from Consul Alcock, at Shanghae, reports the

murder of aa Chinese by a Manilla man in British employ. It appears that the

offender has escaped, and the Chinese authorities display their usual apathy as

to his apprehension .

Inclosure in No. 44 .

Consul Alcock to Sir J. Davis .

Sir , Shanghae, January 22 , 1848.

I HAVE the honour to inclose a communication I recently addressed to his

Excellency the Intendant, on a report reaching me that a Chinese had been

mortally wounded at Woo -sung by a Manilla man, who was believed to belong to

one of the ships lying at that anchorage. i also transmit for your Excellency's

information the report I received from the Vice-Consul, whom I immediately

dispatched with the Interpreter to investigate the circumstances, and if possible

secure the apprehension of the offender.

It appears the Manilla man in question is clearly identified as a late servant

of a Dr. Murray, who attends the shipping at Woo -sung. The man had lately

been discharged his master's service , and was placed on board the “ Snipe,” to

prevent his getting into mischief on shore, until a passage down to Hong Kong

could be procured for him , and since the unfortunate affray he has not been

seen .

The responsibility of finding and arresting him , since it has been ascertained

that he is not on board a British vessel, rests with the Chinese authorities, who

do not seem disposed to give themselves much trouble. I thought it right,

however, to take the initiative, and show both the inhabitants at Woo -sung and

the Chinese authorities , that so far from seeking to screen any person connected

with or guilty of such an act, it was my anxious desire to prevent his escape,

and bring him to justice.

For this and all other outrages of a mischievous character, which from time

to time occur at Woo - sung, I hold the local authorities especially responsible ;

they have been repeatedly urged by me to take energetic measures to disperse

the Canton men and others of lawless character, who have gathered round the

opium ships, and to prevent the location of such persons at Woosung. They

not only entice and harbour men from our ships, but afford a place of conceal

ment and refuge for the Canton men generally, who commit any crime in

Shanghae, and are in danger of being apprehended, and from thence at this time

the British community is threatened with a night attack, for the purpose of

firing and plundering their premises.

I have, &c.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK.

No. 45.

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston .— (Received May 24.)

(Extract.) Victoria, Hong Kong, February 29, 1848 .

IN my despatch of February 5, I mentioned the circumstance of aa Chinese

native having been murdered by a Manilla man at Woo -sung, the anchoring

place of the smuggling ships, about twelve miles below Shanghae.

I have since received the annexed despatch from Consul Alcock . It

appears that the Chinese authorities , after neglecting to apprehend the man,

who had escaped ashore from the ships, have since applied to the Consul for his

punishment, and expressed their apprehension that, if he escapes altogether, the

people of the neighbourhood will have the same feeling against foreigners that has

actuated those of Canton .

Inclosure in No. 45.

Consul Alcock to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Shanghae, February 19, 1848.

REFERIN to my despatch of the 22nd January, I have the honour to

inclose, in translation , a communication recently received from the Taoutae,

conveying the purport of a letter addressed to that officer by the Governor

General, and my reply thereto .

The attempt to fasten upon British authorities and subjects the responsibility

of an offence committed by aa native of Manilla (not serving under the British

flag ), and of the apprehension of the offender, is too clearly untenable in justice

or reason to require comment. The motive for making this occurrence a pretext

of complaint for unredressed violence and loss of life in the present instance is

very obvious, by the reference made to the murders at Canton and the danger of

popular tumult. I believe the Manilla man in question was on shore after the

homicide, when the authorities took no pains to find him, and the report of a

black man having been found dead, apparently from cold and starvation , some

distance from Woo-sung, tends to confirm the suspicion.

I did not, however, deem it expedient to allude to this report, lest it should

seem that I was offering a defence somewhat too analagous to their own

subterfuges in similar cases. I may mention to your Excellency, however, that

the spontaneous offer of a reward of 100 dollars, for the apprehension of the

offender, by the masters of all the vessels at Woo-sung, and themutual agreement

entered into among them, that if he were found in any ship the master of that

vessel should pay the whole amount, would seem to render it highly improbable

that he either found shelter or place of concealment on board any British vessel

at that anchorage.

The tone which the Governor-General adopted, especially in reference to

Her Majesty's Vice- Consul and Interpreter, of whom he speaks as persons, and

alludingto their report as of doubtful veracity, and the intimationthat similar

events to those at Canton were to be contemplated if the criminal were not

apprehended, appeared to me to require a prompt and uncompromising answer.

I have,& c.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

N 2

No. 46 .

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston .— ( Received May 24.)

(Extract.) Victoria , Hong Kong, March 4, 1818.

MY despatches of the 5th and 29th of February reported the circumstances

attending the murder of a Chinese by a Manilla man , at the smuggling station

at Woo -sung

I have since received the inclosed from Keying, applying for the punish

ment of the alleged murderer as a British subject, under the Treaty. In my

annexed reply I have informed the Chinese Minister that the man in question

was a Manilla man , and that the place where the homicide occurred is a

professed opium station, like so many others on the coast, which exist with the

perfect connivance of the Chinese Government.

Inclosure 1 in No. 46 .

Commissioner Keying to Sir J. Davis.

( Translation .)

KEYING, High Imperial Commissioner, & c . , sends the following com

munication .

I received an official note from Le , the Governor -General of Keang -nan and

Keang-se, to the following effect.

The Intendant of Soo-choo, Taet- seang, and Sung -keang, reported that the

magistrate of Paou -shan had written to him saying , that on the 11th instant

(January 16) towards evening, Seu -chang -paou, a villager, carried some fish along

the street, when a drunken black foreigner gave Seu -chang -paou a mortal blow

with a sword , on the left side of his body. That black man went then instantly

on board his vessel , in a boat. The brothers of the deceased immediately

reported the circumstance to the magistrate, who went, in conjunction with the

Vice-Consul Robertson , on board the ship , but could not discover the black man

who was the murderer . There are , however, many merchant vessels in the

harbour. And the Vice -Consul having made search only in a single one,

instantly said, that there was no murderer. I therefore request you to manage

this matter.

On the receipt of the above, it appeared to me, the Great Minister, that a

murderer has forfeited his life , according to the foreign as well as Chinese laws.

The black man in question inflicted aa mortal wound on the villager Seu -chang

paou, and must, in conformity with the existing Treaty, be found out and suffer

death .

When this letter reached me, I thought it therefore my duty to address the

Honourable Envoy on this subject, with the request to examine into the matter,

and order the Shanghae Consul, Alcock , to find out the black man who is the

murderer, and punish him according to the Treaty. This is of great importance.

Whilst sending this communication, I wish you much happiness.

Taoukwang, 28th year, 1st month , 25th day. (February 29, 1848.)

Inclosure 2 in No. 46 .

Sir J. Davis to Commissioner Keying.

(Extract.) Victoria, Hong Kong, March 3 , 1848 .

I HAVE received your Excellency's note concerning the death of a

Chinese named Seu-chang -paou at the hands of a black man in Paou -shan

district.

It has been ascertained that this black man was a Manilla man Lin

sung.jin ), and that Woo-sung, where the event occurred, is an anchorage for

smuggling opium , like Kumsingmoon and Namoa, in Canton , Chimmo Bay, in

Fokien, and Kintang near Ningpo.

No. 47.

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston .- (Received May 24.)

My Lord, Victoria , Hong Kong, March 13, 1848 .

I HAVE received from Mr. Consul Macgregor, at Canton, the inclosed

report from Mr. Bird , ConsularAgent at Whampoa, of an affray at that place

between some Americans and Chinese, in which two of the latter were wounded

with firearms.

I have directed the Consul to inform Mr. Bird that I entirely approve of

his referring the parties concerned in this affair to the American Consul .

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. F. DAVIS.

Inclosure in No. 47.

Mr. Bird to Consul Macgregor.

Sir, Whampoa , March 9, 1848 .

I HAVE the honour to report , for your information, the following circum

stances, and have to state that in future I shall be more punctual in bringing any

unusual occurrence under your notice .

About half-past 5 o'clock on the evening of the 6th instant, the master of

the “ Menzies " called upon me with his upper lip cut, saying there was a very

serious affray in the neighbourhood of the billiard -room , in which Mr. Hunt

had shot two Chinese . I immediately went towards the spot, and on the way

was informed Mr. Hunt wished to see me at his aesidence. I called upon him ,

when I learned the affray was terminated , and that the following were the

particulars of it.

During the night of the 5th instant, some gunpowder was stolen from a

magazine belonging to Messrs . Hunt and Tobey ; the Chinese in charge of it

in endeavouring to trace out the robbers on the following day was attacked by

Mr. Ross' carpenters, and had his head severely cut. Mr. Hunt on learning

this , with several Americans and one Englishman (the master of the “ Menzies” ),

who were dining with him , went on shore, and having seized one individual who

they supposed had perpetrated the outrage, were stoned by about thirty Chinese

and obliged to swim to their boats, which were put off from the shore. Mr. Hunt

reached a boat in which he found a gun and fired it over the heads of the

Chinese, now increased to about sixty, but this producing no change fired a

second time amongst them . The foreigners having escaped, in a short time

returned with firearms, and found only two or three Chinese remaining on the

ground, and showing a disposition of revenge, at whom they fired .

It was supposed three Chinese had been killed ; but it was subsequently

ascertained only one was wounded in the mouth , and another in the left

thigh .

I declined interfering in the matter, and recommended Mr. Hunt to make

a report to the American Consul .

Trusting I have taken a proper view, I have, &c.

(Signed) ALEXR . BIRD .

No. 48 .

Sir J. Davis to Viscount Palmerston.- (Received May 24.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, March 18, 1848 .

I HAVE the honour to transmit herewith copy of a despatch from Mr.

Consul Alcock at Shanghae, detailing certain consequences resulting from some

thousands of junk men , hitherto employed in transporting grain on the canal,

being thrown out of employ.

Mr. Gutzlaff had drawn my attention to the fact of the increasing shallow

ness of the canal having obliged the Government, against its will, to transmit

grain to Peking by sea and the route of the Peiho. It now appears that the

great numbers of men long employed in the inland navigation, and, from their

serving in Government vessels , accustomed to domineer over the ordinary

people, are now loose in large numbers about the neighbourhood of Soo -chow

and Tsing-poo, not far distant from Shanghae. “ I understand,” says the

Consul , some 13,000 men , at least, of turbulent character and with just cause

of discontent, are left to create disorder and commit every species of depredation

upon the peaceable inhabitants ; ” while the Government authorities are discus

sing the amount of bounty to enable them to follow some lawful occupation,

when they are driven from their homes, the grain junks.

The Consul goes on to state that on the 8th instant, a party of three

missionaries went on a journey to Tsing -poo, about thirty miles from Shanghae,

for the purpose of distributing tracts. It would seem that, without any provo

cation on their part, they were involved in a disturbance with a party of these

junk men , which terminated in the violent maltreatment of the missionaries,

who were ultimately rescued by some Chinese police, and escorted back to

Shanghae.

The Consul has in consequence issued the annexed notice to British

subjects, calling their attention to the temporary disorder occasioned by these

disbanded junk men, and very properly recommending that, while the evil

continues, they should abstain from distant journeys into the interior. He

concludes his despatch by stating that he has demanded the apprehension and

punishment of the ringleaders, and insisted upon their being brought to Shang

hae for identification .

I have , &c.

(Signed ) J. F. DAVIS.

Inclosure 1 in No. 48 .

Consul Alcock to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Shanghae, March 10, 1848.

I HAVE the honour to inclose a notification I have thought it prudent to

issue for the guidance of British subjects, enjoining them for the present to

refrain from any extended excursions into the country, more especially in the

neighbourhood of Tsing-poo -heen and Sung-keang -foo, where the large granaries

are situated, and near which are collected in large numbers the men hitherto

employed in the grain junks, with whose services the Chinese authorities have

endeavoured to dispense, omitting the necessary precaution of first satisfying the

men's claims, and providing for their location in a manner calculated to prevent

their becoming a source of danger and difficulty .

Throughout the circuit of the three departments of Soo -chow -foo, Sung

keang -foo, and Taet -sang - chow , I understand some 13,000 men at least, of

turbulent character, and with just cause of discontent, are left to create disorder

and commit every species of depredation upon the peaceable inhabitants, while

the Government authorities are discussing ways and means, and haggling about

the amount of bounty to be given on their dismissal, to enable them to settle

with their families, and follow some lawful occupation when they are driven from

their homes, the grain junks.

This state ofthings has now existed for some months, with a continually

increasing sense of insecurity, extending from Soo-chow to Woo-sung, wherever

these grain -junk men make their appearance .

The course adopted by the Chinese Government to get rid of the expense

entailed by the services of so large a body of able-bodied men, employed for

generations in conveying the grain collected from these maritime departments, by

inland navigation, to Peking, without any well-concerted measures for equitably

settling their claims upon the Government, in whose employment they have

been broughtup, or means at hand for repressing the disorders consequent upon

such acts, unfortunately only too aptly illustrates the mixture of imbecility and

arrogance which so frequently characterize the acts of Chinese officials.

Nevertheless, unless some remedy is applied, and that promptly, not only

greatmischief must ensue to their own people, but our security is endangered.

This has been brought home to the authorities by the narrow escape of

their lives which three of our missionaries have had in one of their excursions.

On Wednesday the 8th March, a party, consisting of Messrs. Medhurst, Lock

hart, and Muirhead, went on a journey to Tsing-poo, about ninety-six le from

Shanghae, for the purpose of distributing tracts. I'wo of them had visited that

city several times previously , and it being within the distance that could be

reached, and the return to Shanghae effected in the prescribed time, it was

considered, and justly so, within the limits assigned by the port regulations.

While engaged in distributing tracts and conversing with the shopkeepers,

it appears a number of Shan-tung men , who navigate the grain junks, then

lying off Tsing -poo, came behind, pushing, and striving to get a larger number

of the books than would come to their share, and also throwing stones. In

order to prevent any disturbance, the party very properly determined on leaving

the city, and returning to their boats ; but one of the grain -junk men , in pushing

past Mr. Lockhart, who, with his back to the crowd, was endeavouring to keep

his companions from being pressed on, accidentally scratched the face of one of

the most forward, with the end of his stick-a trivial circumstance, of no other

importance than that it seems, in the sequel, to have been made the pretext,

founded possibly upon exaggerated reports, for a murderous attack by another

party of junkmen .

They had not got above half-a-mile from the city when they heard a

number of people hooting after them , and threatening to beat them ; the party

consisting of a fresh set of men from the grain junks.

Armed with poles , iron bars, swords, and one among the rest with a heavy

iron chain, apparently the ringleader, stripped of his upper garments, began to

attack and beat the objects of their anger and cupidity, for plunder and murder

seemed equally in their contemplation.

After being struck down, their heads laid open with blows from clubs and

hoes, and otherwise cruelly maltreated and plundered of watches, & c ., the

ruffians determined on taking them to the grain junks , and there either holding

them to ransom , or taking their lives, as they repeatedly vociferated . When

approaching the city, it appears a number of police runners, and others, mingled

with the party, and at the city gates finally succeeded in separating the mission

aries from the grain-junk men, and conducted them to the Che-heen ,who received

them with courtesy , and provided them with chairs, and an escort to their boat,

some five miles distant, and thence to Shanghae, where they arrived in safety,

at 6 o'clock the following morning, but covered with bruises .

It is quite clear that the same lamentable loss of life as recently occurred

at Canton , and under circumstances of equal atrocity , but for providential causes

must have taken place at Tsing-poo.

- I attribute much to the rare example of

Christian forbearance and temper which seems to have marked the conduct of

these missionaries from first tolast. This, added to the power they fortunately

possessed, from fluency in the language, of remonstrating and parleying with

their assailants, seems to have been the means of their preservation. There can

be no doubt that had they attempted resistance, or had any act of theirs caused

blood to flow , they would have been beaten to death on the spot.

I have demanded the apprehension and punishment of the ringleaders, and

insisted upon their being brought to Shanghae for identification . I will, by the

first opportunity, communicate further with your Excellency on this subject, and

report the steps taken to obtain redress, and prevent a recurrence of scenes as

disgraceful to the Chinese as they are dangerous to us.

I have, & c.

( Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK.

Inclosure 2 in No. 48 .

Notification.

Shanghae, March 10, 1848.

HER Majesty's Consul has to regret the occurrence of a most unprovoked

outrage on the part of some junkmen, placing the lives of a party of mission

aries visiting Tsing-poo in the greatest jeopardy. While engaged in earnest

efforts to secure the apprehension of the ringleaders and provide for adequate

measures being taken by the Chinese authorities to prevent the recurrence of

acts alike dangerous to life and injurious to our interests in China, Her

Majesty's Consul deems it necessary to urge in the strongest manner upon

all British subjects the prudence of abstaining for the present from any

lengthened excursions into the country.

Some 13,000 grain -junk men are scattered between Soo -chow and Paou-shan,

hitherto in the employment of the Chinese Government, but about to be

dismissed without satisfactory or final arrangements having yet been made to

provide them with means of finding other homes, and in the meantime they

remain at Tsing -poo and other places, a terror to the peaceable inhabitants,

whom they plunder and maltreat with impunity.

The danger of such a state of things to British subjects has been so fully

shown by the recent attack upon three inoffensive missionaries, who seem

greatly to have owed their lives to the praiseworthy forbearance they exhibited,

that it must be obvious no one, with common prudence, can at present visit the

neighbourhood of these grain -junk men .

( Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK, Consul.

No. 49.

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .- (Received May 24. )

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, March 25, 1848 .

IN continuation of my predecessor's despatch of the 18th instant,

I have now the honour to submit to your Lordship’s information copies of two

despatches from Mr. Consul Alcock, detailing further proceedings that he had

adopted, in order to compel the Chinese authorities at Shanghae to bring to

trial and punishment such of the persons implicated in the assault on the

missionary gentlemen as could be identified. The despatches and disclosures

are so extremely voluminous, that I have been unable to forward copies of

the latter, which perhaps, indeed, the comprehensive nature of the former

renders unnecessary .

Having been only one day in office when these despatches reached me, I

thought it my duty to show them to my able and experienced predecessor, and

to explain to him my own views on the subject; and Sir John Davis, after fully

considering the matter, entirely concurred with me in the necessity of preventing,

if possible, any rupture with the Chinese Government ; and as it appeared to me

the Consul's proceedings and demands were calculated to disturb the friendly

relations heretofore existing with the Chinese authorities at Shanghae, I wrote

to that gentleman my sentiments on the subject.

The substance of that communication will inform your Lordship that I

conceived Mr. Alcock had exceeded the just limits of his authority, while at the

same time I fully admit that every allowance should be made for the trying and

embarrassing position in which he has found himself placed.

It is satisfactory to observe that this outrage on British subjects was not

committed by the ordinary inhabitants of Shanghae, or of its vicinity, but by

certain mariners belonging to some grain junks at a distance of thirty miles

from the Consulate. Indeed, it would appear that the injured gentlemen met

with the sympathy of the inhabitants, and also received, perhaps, as much

protection fromthe officers of police as it was in their power to afford.

The Consul on the spot has, doubtless, much better means of judging of

the temper and intentions of the Taoutae at Shanghae than I can possibly

possess with my very limited experience, and at this distance from the scene of

action, but I confess I am disposed to think it may be more difficult than he

supposes for the authorities to apprehend ten of the principal culprits, who are

alleged to form a part of a body of some 13,000 men at least, described to be of

a turbulent character, at all times reckless, without any fixed abode, and at

present in a state of desperation, arising from causes already reported in

Sir John Davis's despatch of the 18th instant.

Under these circumstances, should this matter not have been brought to a

conclusion before my letter reaches Shanghae, I am in hopes that Mr. Alcock

will, on its receipt, take steps for its peaceable adjustment, until I can receive

your Lordship’s instructions in reply to my predecessor's letters on the subject

of the Hwang-chu-ke affair, from the tenor of which I may probably be able

to form some idea of what your Lordship's views are likely to be relative to the

occurrences and proceedings now reported.

Your Lordship will be aware, from Sir John Davis's despatch of

January 28,* that had I the disposition, I am peremptorily forbidden from

taking any measures of an offensive nature against the Chinese, without the

previous sanction of Her Majesty's Government.

I have, &c .

( Signed) S. G. BONHAM .

P.S. - Since writing this despatch, I find I have time to have copied the

two inclosures of Mr. Consul Alcock's latest despatch, dated the 18th instant ,

and therefore forward them for your Lordship’s information . S. G. B.

* Sir John Davis to Viscount Palmerston.— ( Received March 25.)

( Extract.) Victoria , Hong Kong, January 28, 1848.

On the receipt by the mail just arrived of the inclosed despatch from Earl Grey, it was a great

satisfaction to me to reflect that the anxiety and readiness which Keying hari evinced to do what was

right, would not render necessary any measure of coercion. In this despatch I am told that Her

Majesty's Government peremptorily forbid any further offensive operations to be undertaken without

their previous sanction .I have accordingly recalled the application before made by me to Lord

Hardinge at Major -General d'Aquilar's suggestion, for an Europeau regiment.

Inclosure .

Earl Grey to Sir John Davis.

Sir, Dorning - street, Norember 24, 1847.

I HAVE received from the Governor of Ceylon, a despatch dated the 22nd of September last,

communicating to me an application which had been made to the Major-General Commanding Her

Majesty's Forces in that island, by Major-General D'Aquilar, for a reinforcement of half a company

of Artillery, with two guns, and a proportionate supply of ammunition, to be held in readiness to

be forwarded to Hong Kong, should circumstances render it necessary to undertake any further

military operations at Canton.

I have desired the Governor of Ceylon not to send to Hong Kong the detachment for which

application has been made by Major-General D'Aquilar, and I have now to signify to you that Her

Majesty's Government peremptorily forbid any further offensive operations to be undertaken against

the Chinese, without their previous sanction. Her Majesty's Government are satisfied that, although

the late operations in the Canton River were attended with immediate success, the risk of a second

attempt of the same kind would far overbalance any advantage to be derived from such a step. If

the conduct of the Chinese authorities should , unfortunately, render another appeal to arms inevitable,

it will be necessary that it should be made after due preparation, and with the employment of such

an amount of force as may afford just grounds for expecting that the objects which may be proposed

by such a measure will be effectually accomplished without unnecessary loss.

I have, &c.

( Signed ) GREY .

Inclosure 1 in No. 49 .

Consul Alcock to Sir J. Davis.

Sir , Shanghae, March 17 , 1848.

REFERRING to my despatch of the 10th instant, I have the honour

to inclose a mass of documents, which have rapidly accumulated in the pro

secution of negotiations for prompt and full redress.

The inclosure marked No. 2 gives the evidence of the three Missionaries

who were attacked, and in danger of being murdered , in the immediate neigh

bourhood of Tsing - poo. These depositions clearly establish the fact, that from

the first arrival of these British subjects in the city, a band of turbulent and

dissatisfied grain junk men sought to create a disturbance, that they might

have a pretext for setting upon, and afterwards robbing, if not killing, the

foreigners, more or less obnoxious as such to all Chinese .

The evidence further abundantly confirms my first report, that the outrage

was wanton and wholly unprovoked, and the attack which finally took place

some time after they left the city, was characterized by all the features of

savage atrocity which seem to have marked the fatal catastrophe at Canton,

when six British subjects actually lost their lives ;* and that in this instance their

escape is to be attributed to no absence of murderous or evil intention on the

part of the assailants, but to various incidental and unforeseen circumstances of

a seemingly providential nature.

I have already reported how they finally escaped such imminent danger,

and the part played in the rescue by police runners and the Che-heen.

While the officers were yet in Shanghae who had accompanied them, I saw

the Taoutae, forcibly represented to him the dangerous character of the outrage,

and urged him by every consideration of interest and obligation to take the

most prompt and energetic measures to guarantee British subjects from a

recurrence of such lamentable scenes, by the apprehension of the chief

criminals. This he promised to do ; but I have strong grounds for believing

that he took no effective steps whatever for many days.

The attack took place on the 8th instant. On the 9th, early in the

morning, he was fully cognizant of all the details. On the 10th, to my

surprise, Mr. Medhurst handed me the letter marked No. 3, received the

previous evening from the Taoutae . His Excellency writes, that although very

sorry for what has happened, he was of opinion that the party in going to

Tsing -poo had infringed the regulations, and congratulating him on his

fortunate escape ; he then explains the dangerous nature of a visitation from

these junk men to all the inhabitants, and assures Mr. Medhurst that he had

directed the district Magistrate, in communication with the officers of the

fleet, “ to apprehend and severely punish the murderous sailors.”

The motive of thus endeavouring to open a communication with the

injured parties direct, and without the intervention of the Consul, could not be

doubtful. To affix blame on the injured parties, and cajole them into acqui

escence in the policy of letting the affray pass over, he evidently conceived

possible, if the Consul could be put aside, and the affair be treated as a private

or personal matter of interesi between the Taoutae and Mr. Medhurst.

In my communication addressed to the Taoutae the same day, I returned

the letter, as one which he was not authorized to send and Mr. Medhurst was

equally precluded from receiving, and rebutied the charge conveyed in it, of the

party injured having infringed the regulations. I also insisted upon the right

by Treaty, of all British subjects within similar limits, to full and entire protec

tion . Prompt redress was again demanded , and I remonstrated against the

danger entailed upon British subjects by the ill -advised measures of the

Chinese Government, in letting loose a body of 13,000 disbanded malcontents

on the surrounding country; and urged the necessity for some efficient means

being adopted, to remedy the evil .

The Taoutae, in his answer marked No. 5, made a lame apology for his

deviation from the regular course in addressing Mr. Medhurst, and in a con

cluding paragraph stated he had again written to the grain intendant “ to

institute strict inquiries after the grain junk sailors and give them up."

* See “ Papers relative to Murder of Six Englishmen in the neighbourhood of Canton, in the

month of December 1847," presented 1848.

The following day, 12th instant, I deemed it necessary again to address the

Taoutae, inclosure No. 6, and inquire if the offenders had been seized, pointing

out thatseveral days had elapsed, and considering that the parties implicated

were numerous and must be personally known to the policemen who assisted

in the rescue, that they were all men in the employment of the Government,

the appearance of hesitation and delay in their apprehension was a subject of

deep regret and anxiety, lest a further denial of prompt justice and full redress,

should compromise our friendly relations ; delay in such a case being tanta

mount to a denial of justice.

It had now become quite evident that there was no disposition to take any

effective or energetic steps to meet these demands, and that the outrage was

treated as an affair which would eventually be got over, without the disagree

able necessity of putting forth all their powers to seize from the midst of these

turbulent sailors the guilty parties ; or if at the worst, the British Consul was

not to be pacified by promises, that a declaration of inability to afford redress,

would only lead to his referring the matter to your Excellency, whence it must

go to Keying, who having taken a similar line of argument, and having on his

hands a worse case , so far as the catastrophe was concerned, might not be

disposed very severely to blame other authorities in similar circumstances. At

all events time would be gained ; the grain junk men might be dispersed in a

few weeks, the offenders be out of reach irretrievably, and effective redress be

thus rendered palpably impracticable and impossible.

I had already felt it imperative to issue a notification, inclosed in my

former despatch , warning British subjects of the danger of any lengthened

excursions, the first consequence having been thus virtually to narrow the

limits to the immediate vicinity of Shanghae — a result too consonant with the

wishes of the authorities to be regarded otherwise than with satisfaction, and as

an advantage cheaply gained by a little embarrassment and trouble, from the

unavailing remonstrances of the British Consul.

It became, therefore, at once a serious question what further steps could be

taken to enforce attention to my just demands for redress, and thus avoid the

pernicious limitation, the sense ofinsecurity rendered compulsory. Beyond this,

lay another, and still more important question, of vital moment to our interests,

and deeply affecting our local and political position at this port. A plea of

inability on the part of the Chinese authorities to redress our injuries, is in

other words a plea of irresponsibility for any outrage to British subjects within

the Chinese dominions, and forms too facile an answer to every complaint of

violated Treaty Rights, ever to be laid aside, if once admitted as a valid argu

ment. Without protection, in the midst of a population which regards us

generally with more or less of dislike, and often with aa feeling of active hostility,

there can be no security for life or property, and without prompt and full redress

for injury, insult, or violence is to be obtained, there is no protection. If the

obligation to afford this can be evaded on any frivolous plea or pretext, more

especially on the large and ever ready ground, of inability to control or seize

their own people, the Treaty is valueless as waste paper, for its most important

provisions are virtually null and void. Accordingly our resistance to this plea,

and the difficulty of enforcing responsibility for the protection of life and

property, form the chief features of our intercourse since the peace, and the

efforts of the Chinese on the one hand, to establish the nullifying clause of

inability, and our determination to enforce the opposite principle of responsi

bility, as the essential condition of the Treaty, and of all Treaties, is the whole

question at issue with the Imperial Commissioner Keying, and one which seems

at the present moment to threaten the necessity for recourse to active

hostilities .

I trust I shall be excused if I dwell upon conclusions so obvious ; but they

are all -important, and require, especially at this distance from superior autho

rities, to be ever kept in view, and acted upon unhesitatingly and firmly by the

officer charged with the responsible duties of Consul. For theft and loss of

property the plea of inability is generally so plausible from the nature of the

circumstances , as to be in almost every instance effective. Rarely, indeed, are

any efforts on the part of the Consul to recover stolen goods, or to procure the

discovery and seizure of the offenders,followed by success, when either the one

or the other depends upon Chinese authorities and their underlings. This is an

evil of some magnitude; vigilance and care, however, on the part of the British

may keep it within some moderate limits ; but let the same rule be applicable to

acts of violence, or outrage to British subjects, in open day and frequented

places, and a residence in China must be limited to the range of our own guns,

and prove fatal to all hopes of improved commercial intercourse and prosperity

in this country .

These considerations were all forcibly impressed on my mind by the tone

of the Taoutae, and the character of supineness and indifference which marked

his proceedings. An outrage of the most aggravated , and, indeed , murderous

character, had been offered in broad day to three perfectly inoffensive British

subjects (one an aged man , whose hair is grey ), in the vicinity of a large city.

The deplorable state to which they had been reduced by the brutality of their

assailants, was seen by many thousands. They had been led through the

crowded streets covered withi blood, after they had been trampled in the mud,

and their clothes torn off. This outrage, in all its revolting details, had become

known to the whole country round, between Tsing -poo and Shanghae.

My urgent and reiterated efforts to obtain justice were equally known , and

their inutility canvassed by the population which immediately surrounds us.

What would be the probable effect of the ultimate escape of these criminals, and the

refusal of all redress at the hands of the local authorities ? I do not think there can

be a doubt in the mind of any one who has ever been in China, that such a result

was calculated , and that promptly , to exercise the most disastrous influence

upon our position at this port. To restrict our limits within the narrowest

bounds ; to expose us to similar outrage, if these were ever exceeded ; to subject

us to the insults and molestation of those by whom we are surrounded, from

which the fear of consequences, and the prestige of our power alone protect us,

even at Shanghae ; and, in a word, to strip the port of all its advantages as a

place of residence for foreigners, and convert it into a second Canton. These

were among the first and more apparent of the consequences which impunity to

the offenders, and triumph to the authorities in their miserable policy must

bring.

To avert, if possible, the menaced danger to our best interests, and preserve

unimpaired all the advantages hitherto legitimately engaged, it was evident that

neither ordinary exertions, nor the usual course of proceeding would suffice, and,

above all, to leave the matter in abeyance during several weeks while reference

was made to Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary for specific instructions, was to play

the game ofthe authorities, and lose certainly, if not irretrievably, all the advan

tages it was my duty to maintain , by every means at my disposal.

Under these circumstances, I have not hesitated to enter upon a course of

action, for which no instructions could have provided, so unforeseen are the

circumstances, and exceptional the position in which our interests are placed.

The measures taken I am convinced, are calculated, if not to insure success by

the apprehension and punishment of the offenders, yet effectually to prevent

any deterioration in our position ( unavoidable by any other means that

suggested themselves ), and to enable me to hold the vantage ground unimpaired

until your Excellency shall have the opportunity of giving full consideration to

all the circumstances, and determining upon such measures as may appear best

adapted to meet the difficulty.

On the 13th instant, five days after the attack had taken place, the Taoutae

had obviously done nothing ; he said he had written and had sent chai-yuh, or

policemen, but had received no information, and scarcely expected any.

Finding remonstrance and entreaty equaliy fruitless, I announced to him my

conviction that nothing effective had been done or attempted, and urging in the

strongest terms upon his attention the serious prejudice to British interests

which resulted. I notified to him that I would stop all payment of duties

for British ships, until full satisfaction should be obtained ; that no grain junk

should leave the river in the meantime, and that if in forty-eight hours

the chief offenders were not apprehended, I would adopt such other measures

asthe due enforcement of our Treaty Rights might seem to demand. This I

subsequently communicated to him in writing in my official communication

marked No. 7 , and immediately issued the notification inclosed, marked

No 8, announcing the untoward progress of the negotiations, and the stoppage

of the ships' duties. I communicated at the same time the steps taken to the

other foreign Consular Agents, as will be seen by inclosure No. 9, and to

Captain Pitman, commanding Her Majesty's Ship “ Childers,” in the inclosed

letter No. 10, placing before him the gravity of the questions involved, and

requesting his active co- operation to enforce any demands for justice and

redress.

I believe this, after mature deliberation, to be the only course of action

adequate to the exigencies of the case, and felt at the same time that, having

entered upon it, to retrace my steps or falter in the way, would be impossible,

without wholly compromising British interests at this port.

I was not, however, prepared, having consulted or communicated with no

one, for the general and unanimous concurrence of opinion spontaneously

conveyed to me by the inclosed letters marked 11, 12, and 13, from the

principal British residents, the foreign Consular Agents, and the commander

of Her Majesty's Ship “ Childers,” who had fortunately arrived the previous

evening with his ship.

My answer to the letter of the British residents, marked 14, placed before

these parties the chief grounds for the measures taken , and the cordial manner

in which these were approved, as regarded their respective interests, by the

foreign Consular Agents (further recorded in the minute No. 15), gave

me satisfactory assurance that the course adopted would at least furnish no

subject of complaint to other powers..

While these communications were taking place, I received a joint private

letter from the Sub -prefect and District Magistrate, inclosure No. 16 ,

adverting to my interview with the Taoutae, on the morning of the 13th instant,

the chief purport of which was, no doubt, to intimidate me by fears of a

popular tumult, intimating their inability to protect me, knowing full well,

of course, my exposed and isolated position, living with my family in the

centre of the city , ostensibly they treated all that had passed with the Taoutae,

as the ebullition of anger , and proposed coming the next day to talk the matter

over with me . To this letter, the tone and the tenor of which were alike

unsatisfactory, I made no reply, but sent my card with a message that I was

engaged, and could not receive them .

The foreign Consuls at Shanghae the following day called upon me in

a body, to inform me that the Acting Consular Agent of the United States had

been waited upon by a Wei- yuen from the Taoutae, to represent the

impossibility of his causing the offenders to be seized in the short limit of forty

eight hours, and to request that they would use their joint influence, that

it might be extended to a period of ten days.

The foreign Consular Agents repudiated any extension for so long a

period, and I consented to waittwenty-four hours longer, on condition that his

Excellency himself made the request at the Consulate, and would undertake to

produce the offenders at the expiration of this prolonged period. The minute

already referred to, marked No. 15, was drawn up on the spot, as a record of the

perfect unanimity of the whole Consular corps.

This being notified to the Taoutae by the French Consul and his colleagues,

I received the visit of his Excellency the following morning, and Mr. Parkes the

officiating Intrepreter, having been dispatched up the river in the direction of

Tsing -poo, to obtain some needful information in reference to ulterior steps,

the Reverend Mr. Medhurst was requested to officiate as Interpreter, and his

services were rendered with great good temper and effect.

The inclosed minute, marked No. 17, will show that the only plea of

the Taoutae was inability to comply with my demand. He stated that he could

only call upon others to act, and if they did not do so, there was no remedy.

He declined entering into any promise, even if the time of ten days, which he

had indicated as necessary, were conceded, that the chief offenders would

be forthcoming, adding he had done, and would do his best, but could

undertake nothing further. He had not yet heard from Tsing-poo, in answer

to his letters, or by his messengers, probably because it was found difficult

or impossible to do anything. In reference to the measures already taken or

in contemplation by the Consul, his Excellency stated that he was but the

Taoutae here, and whether the duties and the grain junks were stopped, or

expenses entailed for detention of ships of war, or any other measure of

this nature were taken, it was a matter for his Government, he could say

nothing and do nothing to decide the question at issue..

I contented myself with enforcing by every argument the justice and

moderation of my demand, and the imperative necessity for redress being

afforded. It was very obvious that remonstrance and argument were alike

useless. I therefore merely notified that I should hold him as the chief

authority and representative here, responsible for any expense, loss, or damage,

that might ensue by the detention of vessels, or other causes incident to his

denial of redress ; and adverting to the joint letter of the Sub - Prefect, and

Che heen , commented briefly upon the bad taste of their menaces, and my

determination to remain with my family in the city, satisfied that I might do

so without fear or danger, and well assured that the consequences of any

outrage upon Her Majesty's Consul in his position, would be too immediately

and seriously felt by the inhabitants and city of Shanghae, for any such acts to

be contemplated

Although I had distinctly stated that I would seek to enforce my just

demand by no acts of violence, I repeated the communication made to him on

the 13th instant, that if any insult, injury, or molestation was offered to a

British subject, I would immediately summon all the armed vessels at Woosung

to the upper anchorage, and if violence were offered, it should be promptly met

and resisted from whatever quarter it came, and for the consequences his

Excellency would be responsible.

Nothing could be more unsatisfactory than this interview , and I took leave

of him with a painful impression of his impracticability, a question arising as

to what part of this might, under the circumstances, be put on for the occasion ,

as the most baffling policy.

Something of this no doubt there was, for the evening had not passed

before I received a communication , marked No. 18, announcing the non - arrival

of information from Tsing -poo, and the dispatch of the Sub -prefect, the civil

officer next in rank to himself, with orders to proceed in all laste to that place ,

and in conjunction with the local authorities seize the offenders.

Either he had therefore some hope of seizing these men , or this step,

which I had suggested, was merely taken as a blind for the purpose of gaining

time. The result will show , but I am far from sanguine. I believe that the

proceedings of the whole of the authorities of this province have been so

impolitic, not to say unprincipled, that they have raised in these junk men a

band of malcontents so formidable by their number ( some 20,000 I am assured ),

that until they are themselves threatened with destruction by the evil they have

created , no adequate effort will be made to relieve the peaceable inhabitants

from the terrible penalty of being plundered by these marauders with impunity ,

for they are at open feud with all the authorities. On the contrary , if my

information be correct, they coolly contemplate allowing these lawless bands to

feed upon the country, and if they muster in large enough bands, to sack

villages and towns for a period of eight months, at the end of which time they

will again take them into their employment and transport the grain as here

toforeby the same expensive process inland, as the only compromise they can

devise .

The only doubt thrown upon the accuracy of this estimate of the actual

state of things seems to be a report, that not long ago when clamouring for pay,

or a bounty on dismissal, larger than the authorities were prepared to give,

these junk men threatened to murder the treasurer at Soo -chow , upon which

the Lieutenant- Governor sent out, and seizing the first twenty, had their heads

struck off without delay. If a strong -handed measure of this nature has lately

been taken, then have they miserably played with us in respect to these

offenders whom I have demanded .

The truth seems more probably to be midway. The Taoutae cannot compel

the Military Commandant here, who is not immediately under his orders, to

proceed to Tsing-poo, and the task being one of difficulty and danger, the

latter is very unlikely to volunteer his services. Precisely the same difficulty

exists at Tsung -keang -foo, in which district Tsing -poo is situated, and therefore

under the more immediate jurisdiction of the authorities of that place. The

Che- heen again at Tsing-poo, is without any very large physical means, and as

to seize junk men for an outrage offered to foreigners, is a peculiarly obnoxious

and unpopular duty, he falls back upon his superiors for assistance, and says he

has not the means.. In the interval, the junk men not only escape with impunity,

but probably feel that if the opportunity occurred again to -morrow to repeat

their brutality, they would not fail to profit by it - only taking better care to

leave no one alive to give any evidence, or stir up the British authorities

against them.

The Lieutenant-Governor may have the means of moving a force adequate

to the duty of seizing the offenders among the division of junks at Tsing-poo

(consisting of thirty-seven junks , and probably mustering some 700 men , as

Mr. Parkes by personal observation has acertained ), but to report this affair in

all its details to the superior authority, and involve that officer in the

disagreeable necessity of a hostile collision with this formidable class of junk

men , who, as it is, are a serious cause of anxiety to all the local authorities,

would probably cost the Taoutae his office and his baton , and therefore as this

is about the worst that can happen, he will at least defer the evil day, if it is to

come, and face as he best may any coercive means I may have at my disposal

here .

I am very thoroughly persuaded that this is a close approximation to the

truth ; and looking at our chances of redress, or security from renewed outrage,

under this aspect, I come to the conclusion that neither the one nor the other

are attainable through the present Taoutae. If he were removed, another

might succeed in obtaining the culprits, because, having no responsibility for

the origin of the difficulty, he might employ all his means with energy,, and

apply to his superiors for more, with hope of reward if he succeeded. The only

danger he could incur would be from want of success . With the present incum

bent it is just the reverse ; the responsibility rests upon him for the first occur

rence of difficulty, and the more he moves in it the greater is the chance of it

reaching the ears of higher authorities, and the more imminent the danger to

him of a loss of office. His policy in these circumstances is to endeavour to ride

out the storm by a declaration of helplessness and inability either to resist the

measures of Her Majesty's Consul, or to remove the provocation by seizing the

offenders.

If this view of his position and plans be, as I imagine, correct, even the

pressure of the strong measures already adopted may fail in obtaining the

punishment of these junk men, and without this, or some signal act of reparation

on the spot, our position is so deeply compromised, and our security from

further and continued molestation so slight, that, I repeat, Shanghae will be no

better than Canton in an incredibly short period.

Too many incidental circumstances have been generally observed in the

demeanour and acts of the people and authorities, since the last catastrophe at

Canton, for those who have them daily under their eyes to avoid the conviction ,

that our position at that port has exercised a most material and prejudicial

influence upon the minds of both people and authorities. I have long been

fully convinced, from the result of my observationsat all the three ports where

I have resided , that Canton and our relations there have the most serious effect

upon our position at all the other ports, and our standing, with the authorities

at least, throughout the empire.

The negotiations upon which I have entered, and the compulsory measures

taken to support them , can scarcely rest where they are, without a compromise

of security .

The policy of the Taoutae being to avoid appeal for assistance or

support from his superior authorities, it should very obviously, I conceive, be

ours to carry the affair beyond him, either to his next immediate superior, the

Lieutenant-Governor at Soo - chow , or still further to the chief authority of the

province, the Governor-General at Nanking, where the presence of a brig of

war, having a messenger and letter from the Consul at Shanghae, demanding

redress for an outrage on British subjects, must be well calculated to rouse

attention to the facts, and to compel some energetic steps on the part of the

Governor -General to put an end to all just cause of complaint, either by the

seizure of some of the chief offenders, and their punishment after identification,

or the dismissal with disgrace of the local authority, whose bad management or

inability allowed the outrage to pass unpunished, and the criminals to escape.

Nothing short of this can possibly meet the exigency of the case, or afford

adequate security to our interests at this port . At the present moment, this

would seem to be the best line of conduct to prevent immediate mischief, and

the loss of the advantageous position hitherto maintained .

After mature examination of the present aspect of affairs, the hopelessness

of advancing further with the Taoutae, who, I am well satisfied, is acting under

100

the worst advice of some subordinates who were with him at Canton , and the

necessity for attaining the end in view — redress — in whatever of the two forms

it may come, I am disposed, if no satisfactory intelligence is received in a few

days, to contemplate the expediency of intimating to the Taoutae my intention,

in accordance with clauses both in the American and French Treaties, to address

myself to the Governor-General at Nanking, putting him in possession of all the

facts by letter, of which the Interpreter should be the bearer, and claiming that

redress which I found it impossible, by any pacific measures, to obtain at the

hands of the Taoutae. One of the two results so indispensable to our security

may thus be facilitated or attained ; and failing this it will then only remain for

Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary to take such other measures as the total exhaus

tion of all local pacific efforts may suggest.

By the IVth clause of the American and French Treaties, it seems to have

been distinctly recognized, on the part of the Chinese Government, that a right

of appeal against the local authorities, by direct communication with the

supreme authorities of the Province, should be reserved to the foreign

Consuls, and although it may not have been contemplated that a foreigner, or a

ship of war would be the bearer of the representation, when the most important

of our Treaty Rights are trampled under foot, and our security at this port

compromised, it does not appear to me that there is need for much hesitation

in taking the most direct and only sure means of arriving at the legitimate

object in view. Before taking any further step in advance, however, I shall

most carefully weigh all the circumstances, and if I move in the direction I

have intimated, it will only be in the entire conviction that our interests

imperatively demand such a step.

I trust very earnestly that the measures already taken in this most

harassing and anxious negotiation, may meet with your Excellency's approval,

and be ultimately sanctioned by Her Majesty's Government. Too distant to

refer for instructions, I have been compelled, without delay or hesitation to do

all that seemed possible with the means at my disposal, and conducive to the

important end in view. If fear of responsibility had deterred me,, I

conscientiously believe, that long before your Excellency's better judgment

could have been brought to bear upon the circumstances, our position would

have been materially deteriorated, and our security seriously endangered.

This, it is evident, is the earnest conviction of every foreign resident, and of

all the Consular Agents of other Powers, and the Naval officer on the station ,

Captain Pitman , fully coincides in the same opinion.

Under any circumstances, should it appear to your Excellency that I have

unnecessarily exceeded my powers by the steps adopted to protect British

interests at this port, I still very earnestly hope, that the imperative necessity

of continuing to insist upon reparation of a public and satisfactory character,

may be the policy adopted. by whatever means carried out, and that its whole

influence may be so shaped, that it shall be felt and recognized throughout the

whole of this province .

The outrage, and the measure taken to obtain such reparation, I must

repeat, are canvassed wherever Chinese meet ; and nothing could be more fatal

to our prestige and intluence here, if negotiation were dropped without redress

having been obtained . I must trust your Excellency will do me the justice to

believe, that had I consulted my own safety or personal interests in this affair,

I should have avoided the heavy responsibility entailed by the course adopted ;

but with the conviction that this freedom would be purchased possibly at the

expense of life and property, and certainly by the loss of advantages our

interests render indispensable , I cannot feel that I had any alternative.

The inclosures numbered 19, 20 and 21 , will put your Excellency in

possession of the precautionary measures taken to hold our ground, and guard

against any disposition on the part of the authorities, to excite trouble or

disturbance to our injury.

I also thought it right to obtain information as to the general result of the

excursions of the Missionaries into the country, more especially in reference to

the chances incurred by their preaching, and distribution of tracts, of collecting

disorderly crowds, thus endangering the peace, or otherwise giving just cause of

complaint to the Chinese.

Mr. Medhurst's answer is, I think, very satisfactory, and I am bound to

state, that all the information which has reached me tends to the same

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conclusion, that not the slightest ground for alarm or complaint has ever been

observed on either side.

It is true, that without reference to the Missionaries, whose knowledge of

the language, and familiarity with the people, must generally be a great

protection from annoyance , others, as your Excellency has been informed, have

not been quite exempt from injury ; and if all the circumstances of the last six

months are brought together and weighed in connection, the menace of a night

attack by the Canton men and junk men — the stoning and pursuit of two

gentlemen — the Lieutenant-Governor's letter from Soo - chow, holding out

something very like a menace of similar occurrences as at Canton, if the

Manillaman was not seized - keeping in view also recent events at Canton, I

feel it cannot be doubted that there is a growing tendency to mischief, and I

confess my own impression is that it comes from the authorities in the first

instance.

Here, there is, unfortunately, no doubt that Canton influence is most

injuriously brought to bear. Sam - qua, the Canton merchant and Mandarin,

who has been here for some time, with no official post, nor any very ostensible

object, has, I know from good authority, been in close communication with

the Taoutae, and his influence, as far as it extends, bodes no good, but may

tend to embroil us with both people and authorities.

Under these circumstances I would venture to suggest the expediency of a

steamer being sent up with your Excellency's despatches, to remain if required

for a time, until the termination of this affair can be more clearly seen .

I have, &c .

(Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 2 in No. 49.

Declaration .

ON Wednesday, 8th March, a party of Missionaries, consisting of Messrs.

Medhurst, Lockhart, and Muirhead, went on a journey to Tsing -poo, about 96 le

from Shanghae, for the purpose of distributing tracts. Messrs . Medhurst and

Lockhart had visited that city several times before ; and it being within the

distance that could be reached, and the return to Shanghae effected in twenty -four

hours, it was considered within the limits assigned by the Consular Regulations.

On their arrival at the city, they proceeded, as their custom was, to distribute

tracts, which is generallydone from house to house among those persons who

appear able to read. While thus engaged, a number of Shan -tung men, who

navigate the grain junks belonging to Tsing-poo, came behind the Missionaries,

pushing and striving to get a larger number of the books than would fall tó

their share, and also throwing stones. In order to prevent any disturbance or

interruption, Mr. Lockhart proposed to the other two, to go forward a few paces

and distribute the tracts generally to the shopkeepers, while he kept the crowd

from pressing forward so as to incommode them . In order to effect this, he

had to stretch out both his hands, which (with a walking -stick he held in one

hand) reached right across the street. In this manner he moved forward, with

his back to the people and his face toward the other Missionaries, and succeeded

in keeping back all but a few boys, who crept underneath and passed him . One

of the men , not satisfied with this restriction, endeavoured to push by, and

through inadvertence on the part of Mr. Lockhart (for he could not see behind

him ) received a slight blow on the face. Upon this the other navigators of the

grain junks began to make a noise and throw more stones, threatening further

mischief. Mr.Medhurstthen turned round, and facing the mob, asked them

what they meant by making such a disturbance, desiring to be informed who

the ringleaders were, that they might be sent to the Magistrate ; upon this the

whole multitude became still,and moving to each side of the street, left a free

passage for the Missionaries to go back theway by which they came. Several other

streets of the city were then traversed in quietness, and a sufficient number of

books having been distributed, the Missionaries passed out at the East Gate on

their return home. They had not got above half a-mile from the city, however,

before they heard a number of people hooting after them and threatening to

beat them. On coming up, it appeared that the party consisted of a fresh set

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of men from the grain junks, who had not been seen in the city, and who had

probably become excited and influenced by overstrained reports of what had

taken place ; these came on with the most infuriated looks and gestures, and

armedwith poles ,bars, swords, and other weapons ; among the rest was onewith

a heavy iron chain, apparently the ringleader, who immediately stripped off

his upper garments in order to enable him to act the more freely ,and who was

brandishing his chain ready to beat the objects ofhis fury. TheMissionaries then

began to talk quietly with the men, and asked them what they wanted, when

without further parley, each of them was attacked in a most furious manner by

the men just referred to . Finding it impossible to make head against such

numbers thus armed, Messrs. Medhurst and Muirhead being free from their

grasp , ran for their lives. Mr. Lockhart, however, was soon found not to be

with them, and the two above -named returned to endeavour to rescue their

companion. In the meantime the mob had thrown Mr. Lockhart on the ground,

and were beating him with the heavy chain above described, the blows of which

were heard to some distance. Happily Mr. Lockhart was enabled to get again

upon his legs, and joining his companions, they all ran as fast as they could

with the mob after them . The chase was continued for more than a mile in the

direction of the boat which had been left five miles from the city, that the boat

men might take rest while the Missionaries went to the city and returned.

Being unable to run any farther, the Missionaries were overtaken by their

pursuers, who now came on with redoubled fury, and in increasing numbers,

cutting off all chance of retreat and surrounding the victims of their attack .

Here another attempt was made to reason , but in vain. The pursuers

approached nearer and nearer, with long poles, heavy hoes, having teeth like

rakes (the iron part of which weighs generally six pounds), and murderous

weapons in abundance. While warding off the blows from one of these, as well

as he could, Mr. Medhurst was struck from behind on the crown of the head,

with the back of one of the above -named heavy hoes, the blow of which

immediately stunned him, and he fell flat on the ground. The assailants then

came up and struck him a number of times with clubs, whilst lying on his face.

Among therest one gave him a severe blow with a blunt sword on the side of

the knee. The other Missionaries were equally ill-treated, Mr. Muirhead being

so much beaten about the legs that he was scarcely able to walk , and

Mr. Lockhart received a severe wound on the back of the neck which bled

profusely. After having beaten them until all powerof resistance was subdued,

the marauders proceeded to plunder them of their watches, spectacles, caps,

and clothes , with whatever else they could lay their hands on . This showed

that the main object of the attack was to disable the Missionaries so far that

they could not resist, and then to rob them. It was a great mercy , however,

that they were not murdered in the process, as any one of the blows so profusely

dealt out, was sufficient, if rightly directed , to have caused death. After the

Missionaries were pillaged, they were forced to proceed back towards the city,

and when the least unwillingness was manifested , fresh blows were dealt out.

Messrs . Medhurst and Lockhart being acquainted with the language, endea .

voured as they were led along, to remonstrate with their captors, and sought to

move them by appealing totheir feelings or sense of justice, but gotonly

blows in return. On seeing any respectable looking people by the road side, if

the Missionaries appealed to them for help, they got additional blows, and if

any strangers approached too near, they received blows also . In the meantime

the men urged the Missionaries along,declaring that they would convey them

aboard the grain junks, and not let them gowithout the payment of 5,000

dollars a-head. The man that held Mr. Lockhart was somewhat softened when

he heard that he was a surgeon, and had previously healed gratuitously several

of the grain junk men in Shanghae. The others also, as they approached

nearer the city, became less ferocious, and gradually the party was joined by

others of a different class, who, though they kept fast hold of the Missionaries,

did not ill -use them . It was supposed that some of these were from the

Magistrates' office. When within sight of the city, the escort came to .a halt,

the one party wishing to detain the Missionaries there, or carry them off in a

different direction,while the other pressed them to go into the city ; the latter

party prevailed. On arriving at the gate of the city, several respectable people

came out and endeavoured to assure the Missionaries of their safety, and

persuade them to go to the office for protection : indeed, throughout the whole

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affair, the inhabitants of the place manifested the utmost sympathy with them ,

and sorrow at what had occurred, and though the square before the office was

filled with people, not one of them showed the least disposition to insult or

injure them . By the time the escort reached the city gates, the grain junk

men had one by one slunk away, and the Missionaries were left entirely in the

hands of the office servants. These conducted them to the magistrate, who

soon appeared, invited them into the visitors'apartment, and after asking them

to sit down, inquired into the affair. Being informed of the circumstances

from beginning to end, he promised that the stolen articles should be restored,

and that the men who committed the outrage should be punished. Having

then provided chairs and boats to convey the Missionaries back to their own

boat, ħe dispatched two military and two civil officers to escort and protect them

from further harm. In this way they reached their boat, and finally their

home in safety, thankful for the preservation of their lives, but smarting

severely under the wounds and bruises they had received .

We, Walter Henry Medhurst, senior, William Lockhart, William Muirhead,

do solemnly and sincerely declare— (Here follows the usual form ).

( Signed) W. H. MEDHURST .

W. LOCKHART.

WM . MUIRHEAD.

Thus declared in due form of law, &c.

( Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK, Consul.

In addition to the above general statement, the following is an account of

what happened to myself :

At the bridge in front of the small temple where the assault first began, I

asked the men what they wanted : they said we had killed a man in the city, and

they would now kill us. Then they attacked me, and beat me violently with a

heavy iron chain, and finally threw me down, when I was trodden upon by two or

three persons. I struggled forcibly, and , getting free, fled along the bank of the

canal.

When in the field, where the second assaulttook place, after I had been

struck several times, one man , who was very violent, and had a short broad

sword, took hold of me while I was being beaten by others, and said he would

kill me . He then took me by the hair, and tried to pull me to the ground,

while another tripped up my legs. I thought at this time he was going to cut

off my head, and mentally bade farewell to my family, supposing I should

instantly be killed. I was thrown down, but struggled and got on my feet,

and resisted to the utmost of my strength their efforts to throw me down á

second time. I felt convinced, if I was thrown down, that I should not rise

again. While this was going on, a man struck me from behind a violent blow

on the head with a club, which inflicted a wound, and almost felled me, but I

recovered myself, and eluded a second blow that was aimed at me. This was

the last severe injury I received, for the wound bled profusely, and, as I wrung

the blood from my hair, and showed the man who had hold of me my hands full

of blood, he prevented others from striking me on the head, though I got

several blows on the legs and body afterwards. On the way back to the city,

the men around me were consulting as to where we should be taken to. I also

asked where we were going, and what they were intending to do with us. At first

they said they should takeus to the bridge by the temple, and kill us all there .

They then said we should be taken to the grain junks; and, finally, there was

a dispute among them whether we should be taken to the grain -junks or to the

Magistrate of the city, but the opinion of the majority seemed to be in favour

of going to the junks. This discussion continued till we arrived at the bridge

over the city moat or ditch, when the policemen took us from the hands of our

icio us assailants, and escorted us to the Magistrate's office.

I, William Lockhart, do solemnly and sincerely declare—(Here follows the

usual form of declaration ).

(Signed ) W. LOCKHART.

Thus declared in due form of law , & c .

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK, Consul.

104

In addition to Mr. Medhurst's general statement, the following is an

account of what happened to myself, to the best of my recollection :

At the time we were finally attacked, Mr. Medhurst, having been beaten in

the manner he has described, one of the party came up to me, and gave me a

severe blow on the legs with a bamboo club, which brought me to the ground.

While in that state, a number of persons came round me, and began to use

their various weapons in aa threatening manner, so as to make me apprehensive

of the worst. Fearing that they would take immediate advantage of my

position, I attempted to rise, but they forcibly insisted on my kneeling, and

performing several acts of obeisance to them . I then got up and walked aa few

yards nearer Messrs. Medhurst and Lockhart, when I was beaten as before by

other assailants, who pulled me down, and, searching my pockets, plundered me

of their contents, together with various articles of dress. With these they

appeared satisfied, and their anger was so much abated that, though I received

one or two blows afterwards with a heavy club , they kept others from injuring

me to the extent they threatened and attempted to do. Indeed, when the latter

came up, it was evident that their main object was to rob me, as they were

greatly appeased by the assurance from myself and my captors that I had no

more available property. After lying on the ground for sometime, I was ordered

to rise, and proceed back to the city . There was no alternative between doing

this and suffering severer treatment. I thought it better, therefore, at once to

comply ; and with two or three, who kept firm hold of me, I walked back,

Messrs . Medhurst and Lockhart following. While returning, I observed a

number of the grain junk men coming towards us, all armed as the others, and

with most infuriated looks and gestures. When close upon me, and in some

instances with their weapons wielded to strike, several of those who had been

with us from the first ran forward, beseeching them not to injure us, and had

often, in a violent manner , to wrest the instruments of destruction from their

hands. I could not understand the many things they said to me on the way

back, but their appearance was such as to assure me I had little mercy to expect

from them .

I, William Muirhead, do solemnly and sincerely declare— (Here follows the

usual form of declaration ).

(Signed) WM . MUIRHEAD ,

Thus declared in due form of law, &c .

( Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK, Consul.

At Her Britannic Majesty's Consulate at Shanghae, March 14, 1848 .

Inclosure 3 in No. 49.

The Taoutae to Mr. Medhurst.

A COMMUNICATION from Heen the Intendant.

I learn with astonishment, from a report of the Tsing-poo Magistrate,

that Mr. Medhurst, with two other gentlemen, Lockhart and Muirhead, had

been attacked by some grain boatmen ,when proceeding to Tsing -poo, to circulate

good books. Whilst being extremely surprised at this, I consider that your

taking a trip to Tsing -poo is not in accordance with the provisions of the

Supplementary Treaty.

The grain boat sailors are men of the most violent and ruthless disposition,

and pay no respect to laws. Since the time that orders have been issued to send

the tribute of rice furnished by Soo -choo, Sung-keang, and Taet-seang, by way

of the sea , these men are out of employ.

We are just about furnishing them with the necessaries of life, to send them

back to their homes, that they may pursue a trade, and not collec there in

crowds,, and create disturbance, and shall engage them next year to carry the

rice (to the capital ).

Whilst taking measures to rid ourselves of them , they made an attack upon

you before they dispersed . It is fortunate that you, influenced by your superior

105

knowledge, did not offer resistance, and that the Magistrate suppressed the riot,

and in due time afforded you protection. If, howerer, youths of a volatile

temperament enter upon a mutual contest, this would produce incalculable

mischief; and even if the local authorities acted with the utmost e ergy to put

it down, I am apprehensive they would not succeed . When I reflect upon this,

my mind is filled with anxietyon that account, and I feel exceedingly disquieted.

I think of you very much , and hope that you are now recovered.

I have already ordered the Tsing-poo Magistrate to direct, without a

moment's delay, his assistants to institute a strictinvestigation respecting the

sailors who made this murderous attempt, and bring them to justice, that they

may be punished most severely ; and I shall not allowthis to bedeferred a single

moment .

Whilst writing this to you, I wish you happiness, and likewise send my

compliments to Messrs. Lockhart and Muirhead .

Inclosure 4 in No. 49 .

Consul Alcock to the Taoutae.

ALCOCK, Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at Shanghae makes this

communication .

I learn with exceeding surprise , that you, the Honourable Taoutae, have

addressed a communication to Mr. Medhurst, on the business which I officially

brought before you on the 9th instant. Not only is this wholly unprecedented

and irregular on your Excellency's part, but an act of discourtesy to

myself as the Representative of Her Majesty's Government and the English

nation at this port.

It must be known to you , the Honourable Taoutee, that by Article II of

the Treaty of Nanking, it is expressly provided, that Her Majesty the Queen of

Great Britain shall appoint Superintendents or Consular Officers to reside at

each of the five ports , to be the medium of communication between the Chinese

authorities and British subjects. Her Majestyhas seen fit to appoint me in that

capacity at Shanghae, and your Excellency iswholly unwarranted by custom,,

the usages of official intercourse in China, and by Treaty, to enter into commu

nication with any British subjects on matters of business, except through the

medium of Her Majesty's Consul. Your Excellency must permit me further to

observe, that no proceeding can be more fraught with mischief to the Chinese

authorities, and injury to the mutual interests of the two nations, than such a

departure from the course laid down by the Treaty, and always hitherto strictly

acted upon by your predecessor and your Excellency with advantage.

I have now the honour to return the communication so irregularly addressed

by your Excellency to a British subject under my jurisdiction, as one which you,

the Honourable Taoutae, were not authorized in accordance with the Treaty to

send to Mr. Medhurst, and he was equally precluded from receiving, by the

allegiance he owes to his own Sovereign.

In reference to the purport of this communication , it cannot be necessary

for me to remind your Excellency, that His Majesty the Emperor of China has

by Treaty renounced all jurisdiction over British subjects ; if Mr. Medhurst,

therefore, has infringed the port regulations, or any Article of the Treaty by

exceeding the limits agreed upon by the Chinese and British local authorities in

his excursion, he is accountable to Her Majesty's Consul, and not to you, the

Honourable Taoutee.

But your Excellency must be perfectly aware, since we together discussed

the question the day before yesterday, that the three Missionaries in question

infringed no regulation by going to Tsing-poo. They left Shanghae early on

Wednesday morning,as they are prepared to prove, and would have returned by

10 o'clock the same night, but for the murderous attack made upon them by a

mob of miscreants from the grain junks. They had a perfect and unquestionable

right to extend their excursion to Tsing -poo, or any similar distance, and may

do so again as often as they see fit, the responsibility of any evil that may

happen to them , in the enjoyment of thistheir undoubted privilege as British

subjects, rests upon the authorities of the country, and from them extends

upward to His Majesty the Emperor of China, who is bound by solemn Treaty

106

with Her Majesty the Queen of Great Britain to secure all British subjects in the

full exercise of their rights and privileges, and free from molestation. By the

first Article of the Treaty, the Emperor of China engages that they shall enjoy

full security and protection for their persons and property within his dominions.

How is good faith kept, if peaceable and inoffensive Missionaries, in broad day,

giving no provocation whatever, are hustled and pelted in a large city, and within

two miles are followed and surrounded by Chinese subjects (whom , I repeat,

they never offended ), and most cruelly and barbarously wounded and plundered,

with manifest danger to their lives ?

Your Excellency stated to me the day before yesterday, that there were a

large number of these junk men , whom the Government sought to dismiss, but

had not yet arranged the terms, furthermore, that by reason of their number, and

turbulent character, the authorities could exercise no efficient control over their

actions.

This explanation caused me both regret and surprise. How is it possible

that the Government should determine upon throwing out of employment some

13,000 able -bodied men before they finally arranged satisfactory terms, or

provided efficient means to repress the crimes and irregularities, surely to be

anticipated from such રીa body of disbanded malcontents ?

So long as the disorders and atrocities of these men were confined to the

Chinese, I, the British Consul, could not presume to interfere ; but now that the

.lives of Englishmen have been perilled by them , and that you, the Taoutae ,

| express fears of inability to protect my countrymen from similar outrages of

these lawless junk men , it is my duty as Representative of Her Majesty's Govern

ment here, to inform you, that the Emperor of China, and, therefore, all his

servants in authority, are under solemn obligation to afford full and complete pro

tection to Her Majesty's subjects within the Chinese dominions, and that, failing

this, the Treaty is virtually annulled. Finally, that whether this absence of

protection arise from bad faith , or weakness, the result is the same, and that no

Government can claim exemption from Treaty obligations on the plea of

inability to control their own subjects, and at the same time require the Power

in alliance with them to observe any of the conditions of such Treaty.

I, therefore, call upon you, the Honourable Taoutae, to afford full and

prompt redress for the grievous injury inflicted upon three British subjects, by

causing the chief criminals to be apprehended , and brought to Shanghae that

they may be identified, tried, and punished according to law ; and, further, to

take such effective measures for the better protection of Her Majesty's subjects,

residing within your circuit, as shall afford ample guarantee that similar outrages

shall not recur.

Permit me to add, in conclusion , that your Excellency's responsibility, and

the obligations of His Majesty the Emperor of China, render it imperative that

there should be no further delay in finally and satisfactorily settling with, and

dispersing these junk men to their respective destinations ; and that if it be a

question of money, risk is imminently incurred by every day's delay, I say it

with sincere regret, of such injury to British subjects and property as may entail

demands for reparation far more costly to the treasury than the payment of these

discontented and disorderly sailors.

I make you this communication to which I beg you will give your careful

consideration, and send me an early answer.

March 11 , 1848 .

Inclosure 5 in No.49.

The Taoutae to Consul Alcock.

HEEN, by Imperial appointment, Superintendent of Maritime Customs,

Intendant of Circuit, & c., makes this communication in reply.

I have just received the official communication of you, the Honourable

Consul, requesting me to seize the grain junk sailors of Tsing-poo, and inform

ing me that I ought not to have addressed a note to Mr. Medhurst, &c .

Upon a careful perusal of your letter, it appears to me that you, the

Honourable Consul, in your views of official matters, indeed carry your care

107

fulness to a great extreme. My motives, however, for addressing Mr. Medhurst

were the following:

In the 23rd year (1843), when I, the Intendant, was at Shanghae assisting

in the arrangement of commercial affairs, I had constant communication with

Mr. Medhurst on official matters, and thus in some measure formed his

acquaintance. Subsequently, in consequence of my appointment to the

Intendancy of Chin -keang -foo, and Chang- chow - foo , a separation of several

years ensued, when last year, on my return to Shanghae, Mr. Medhurst paid me

a visit at my office ; but as he was no longer an Assistant Officer, and therefore

there being no communication to be held between us, fearing that inconveniences

might arise therefrom , I never returned his call. When, however, I heard

the other day, that he had been attacked and wounded by the sailors of the

grain junks, firstly, in consequence of our old acquaintance, and secondly,

because the outrage was committed in my jurisdiction, I felt exceedingly

anxious onhis account, and deemed it only proper to send a messenger to make

inquiries after him. But then fearing again that some mistake might be made

in delivering the message,, I added to it a note, and thus conveyed my inquiries

after him. But I had not the least idea of having any underhand communica

tion with him on official matters, and in future will never again address him a

note on any subject.

With regard to the grain junk sailors, I, the Intendant, yesterday again

wrote officially to the Grain Intendant, requesting him to give strict orders to

the officer of the addition of junks to institute immediate inquiries after them,

and give them up.

A necessary communication .

Taoukwang, 28th year, and month, 7th day. (March 11, 1848.)

Inclosure 6 in No. 49 .

Consul Alcock to the Taoutae.

ALCOCK, Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at Shanghae makes this commu

nication in reply.

I have received your Excellency's reply to my communication of the 11th

instant. I am surprised and concerned to learn that as late as yesterday

evening, the criminals had not arrived. Considering that when you, the

Honourable Taoutae, wrote to me, three whole days had elapsed since the

outrage was committed, that the parties implicated were seen by hundreds, and

must be known to the policemen who assisted in the release of the British

subjects so cruelly maltreated, and finally, that all the junk men are employed

in the service of the Chinese Government, I cannot but remark this appearance

of hesitation and delay in their apprehension with deep regret and anxiety, lest

a further denial of prompt and full redress should compromise our friendly

relations, I must remind your Excellency that delay in such circumstances is

tantamount to a denial of justice. I write again, therefore, to know if the

chief criminals have been seized, and the property stolen recovered, and request

that your Excellency will send me an immediate reply.

I take this opportunity of reporting to you the arrival of Her Majesty's

ship “ Childers, ” and further acquainting you that the arrival of Her Majesty's

ship “ Espiègle” may be shortly expected from Ningpo.

A necessary communication in reply.

March 12, 1848 .

10S

Inclosure 7 in No. 49 .

Consul Alcock to the Taoutae.

ALCOCK , Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at Shanghac, makes this

communication .

The ringleaders in the late unprovoked and murderous attack upon British

subjects, I am informed , have not yet been seized .

I repeat that delay under these circumstances can only be considered as a

denial of justice, and refusal to afford reparation for an injury of the gravest

nature. It is now , therefore, my duty to inform your Excellency, that between

nation and nation it is a recognized law when an injury is inflicted, for which

reparation is refused, the nation aggrieved may do itself justice when it cannot

otherwise be obtained .

The course you, the Honourable Taoutae, have adopted, leaves me no

alternative but to see the highest interests of my nation sacrificed, or to

act upon this rule, and take such measures as this unforeseen conjuncture may

render necessary to protect Her British Majesty's subjects from the consequences

with which they are threatened by the impunity hitherto enjoyed by these

criminals.

If ten of the ringleaders are not in Shanghae within forty - eight hours from

noon this day, for trial and punishnent, I am prepared to take other steps to

obtain that reparation you, the Honourable Taoutae, will have refused.

In the meantime, and until full justice has been obtained, no payment of

duties for British ships can take place to the Custom -house, nor can it be per

mitted that the grain junks now in the river leave the port ; and I trust you,, the

Honourable Intendant, may see the prudence of forbidding them to make the

attempt. I am compelled to adopt these extreme measures from the serious

danger which your denial of justice entails upon British life and property, and

the urgent necessity for immediate and full redress.

If your Excellency's plea of inability were accepted , there is an end to all

responsibility on the part of the Chinese Government and authorities for any

outrage or atrocity that might be committed, and no guarantee afforded by the

Treaty could be of the slightest value.

I entreat you the Honourable Intendant while it is yet time , to put an end

to this most untoward state of affairs, by producing the criminals : but if this

be not done, it only remains for me to announce to you, the Honourable

Intendant, my firm determination to spare no means at my disposal, to redress

the injury inflicted, and should further insult, molestation, orinjury, be offered

to British subjects, I will summon every British ship within reach, to the

anchorage, and if violence to life or property be offered, it shall be resisted,

and the consequences rest on your Excellency's head, whose acts have been

the cause of all that may follow .

A necessary communication.

March 13, 1848 .

Inclosure 8 in No. 49 .

Notification.

Shanghue, March 13, 1848.

THE refusal of the Chinese authorities to afford redress for the murderous

assault upon three British subjects, by the scizure of the chief offenders, leaves

Her Majesty's Consul no alternative but to adopt extreme measures, or permit

the security of his countrymen , and the interests of the nation, to be seriously

compromised .

Every amicable means, therefore, having failed , Her Majesty's Consul has

given his Excellency the Taoutae forty -eight hours from this day, at noon, to

produce ten of the ringleaders in the attack , failing which , such other steps will

be taken as may appear expedient, to compel the reparation required. In the

meantime, and until full satisfaction has been obtained, it has been notified to

109

the authorities, that no Custom -house duties will be paid for British ships; the

consignees, or other parties, will in each case be called upon to enter into an

undertaking at the Consulate, to pay the amounts respectively due, whenever

called upon by Her Majesty's Consul.

Security to life and property, and the best interests of the commerce of

Western nations generally, with Shanghae, are at stake, and if no redress

be obtained for so brutaland unprovoked an outrage upon peaceable foreigners,

all the great advantages hitherto enjoyed at this port may be lost at once,

Her Majesty's Consul accepts the responsibility of his present course , therefore,

in the firm conviction that whatever danger or inconvenience may attend

the measures he is compelled to adopt, greater still must overtake the

community if either timidity or hesitation be shown.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK ,

Her Britannic Majesty's Consul.

Inclosure 9 in No. 49.

Circular .

Shanghae, March 14, 1848.

REFERRING to the circumstances of a daring outrage upon British

subjects, which I brought under your notice yesterday the 13th instant, I have

now the honour to inclose a copy of the official communication addressed to the

Taoutae of that date, in which the chief offenders are peremptorily demanded

within forty -eight hours, and such further measures as the circumstances

render necessary, are notified, to warn his Excellency of all the consequences he

may draw upon himself by his refusal to afford redress for so grave an injury.

It has afforded me much satisfaction to find that, on the view taken of the

consequences to be apprehended from a tame acquiescence in this infraction of

our Treaty, and the course upon which I have entered to vindicate our

guaranteed rights to compel the Chinese authorities to afford reparation, there

is no dissentient opinion among the representatives of foreign Powers at

Shanghae.

This to me is the more satisfactory, being well assured that it is not only

British subjects who are interested in the steps taken, but that a question

is involved, affecting the security of all foreign residents at this port, and their

immunity not only from outrage and insult, but robbery and murder.

I have, &c.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 10 in No. 49.

Consul Alcock to Commander Pitman.

Sir, Shanghae, March 14, 1848.

IN reference to the subject of our verbal communications of yesterday,

I have now the honour to inclose for your information and guidance copies of

certain documents bearing upon the late serious outrage experienced by three

inoffensive British subjects.

By the inclosed declaration from the parties attacked, it will no doubt be

obvious to you that the wanton and wholly unprovoked attack was charac

terized by all the features of savage atrocity which seem to have marked the

fatal catastrophe at Canton when six of our countrymen were murdered ; that in

this instance they escaped with their lives can only be regarded as one of those

providential occurrences by which men are sometimes saved, contrary to all

probability. The immediate instruments of their rescue, after they had for

more than an hour incurred all the chances of murder, and during which they

were repeatedly struck down, wounded and cruelly beaten, appear to have been

some of the police of the place, who managed toseparate them from the grain

junk men , their assailants.

110

The only difference to be traced between the two cases is, fortunately for

our countrymen, the escape from death, repeatedly menaced, and perhaps the

absence of any peculiar local cause for hostile animus. A difference very

important in reference to its bearing upon our interests and security at this

port, and coupling the circumstances of this assault in broad day, with the attack

upon the whole settlement so lately menacel, and the bad faith or imbecility

shoirn by the authorities in seizing the offenders, men well known, under a

responsible officer and in the pay of the Government, I am strongly impressed

with the conviction that, unless redress be obtained by the immediate seizure

and punishment of the ringleaders, our best security for that immunity from

molestation, which has hitherto been so valuable and important in its influence

upon all our interests, will be lost. Security to life and property seem to me

imperatively to require justice, should be obtained , and if need be, enforced

with a strong hand. Keeping in view the unsatisfactory state of our relations

at Canton, rendering this port, in every sense, doubly valuable to us, I see no

alternative but to adopt such measures as may seem best calculated to compel

reparation, or see Shanghae in a few weeks, or months, become a second

Canton to all foreign residents. Time will not permit me at the present

moment to furnish you with all the grounds for this opinion ; but it has long

been my deliberate and matured conviction that our immunity from injury and

enjoyment of personal advantages here were held upon no better tenure than

the fear of consequences, our means of inflicting punishment enabled us to

maintain : timidity orhesitation, in the present instance, therefore, would inevit

ably bring down upon us worse evils than I conceive likely to follow any display

of force to do ourselves that justice we cannot otherwise obtain . With these

views, having also had the satisfaction of learning that I might count upon

your co -operation and effective assistance, you will see by the inclosed copy of

å letter to the Taoutae, dated the 13th instant, that I peremptorily demanded

the seizure of ten of the ringleaders within forty - eight hours, and notified the

stoppage of all duties on British ships, and my intention to prevent the sailing

of a large fleet of grain junks in the pay of the Government conveying rice to

Pekin, until full justice had been obtained.

As you were yourself witness to the unanimity which the Representatives

of all the foreign Powers who have Consalar Agents at Shanghae manifested

in cordially expressing their entire concurrence in the necessity of these

measures, I need not enter into further details. I will merely add that so far

as I am informed there is a very general feeling among the foreign community

that their best interests are at stake, and can only be efficiently protected at

the present moment by firm and determined measures. I inclose copy of my

notification of yesterday's date.

I have, &c.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 11 in No. 46.

Letter from British Residents at Shanghae .

Sir, Shanghae, March 14, 1848.

ADVERTING to the notification issued yesterday afternoon from

the British Consulate, respecting the recent brutal outrage upon three

unoffending British subjects, the Undersigned, impressed with the importance

of this indication on the part of a lawless set in the employ of the Chinese

Government, and the marked significance lent to this event by the recent

melancholy occurrence in Canton, so much vaunted by the ill-disposed in this

neighbourhood, cannot refrain from giving expression to their satisfaction at

the energetic measures adopted to obtain plenary redress from the Chinese

authorities, and to assure you of the entire confidence with which they find

their interests placed underyour guardianship.

Under the firm conviction that the tranquillity hitherto enjoyed at this

port would be eminently emperilled by permitting the Chinese authorities to

evade the fulfilment of their duty on this occasion, we would respectfully offer

you such support as the assurance may afford you of oậr readiness to submit to

111

any inconvenience which, in the energetic protection of our permanent interests,

you may find yourself compelled to demand of us .

We have, &c.

( Signed ) K. R. MACKENZIE. ADAM SYKES .

J. G. LIVINGSTON . RD , ASPINALL .

A. F. CROOM . RT. B. ULLETT .

HENRY H. KENNEDY. T. PYKE .

WM . HUTCHISON. D. SILLAR .

WM . HOGG . H. M. M. GRAY.

JOHN STEWART. ( 'RAVEN WILSON .

JAS. WHITE . GEORGE URMSON .

THOMAS PLATT . ED . H. LEVIN .

A. BOWMAN . J. WILKS, Jun .

F. P. WATSON , J. R. WILDMAN .

WM . WARD BROWN. W. G. ASPINALL.

W. PYKE . WM . THORBURN .

D. POTTER . WM . HARGREAVES.

THOS. MONCRIEFF . JOHN SCARTH .

C. D. MACKENZIE . GEO F. GREEN .

GEO. F. HUBERTSON .

Inclosure 12 in No. 49 .

The Consuls of Foreign Powers at Shanghae to Consul Alcock.

Shanghae, le 12 Mars, 1848 .

A LA suite de l'entrevue à laquelle vous nous avez fait l'honneur de nous

convoquer ce jourd'hui, pour nous donner connaissance de l'attentat commis en

plein jour par les Chinois, contre trois honorables et paisibles sujets de Sa

Majesté Britannique, qui dangereusement blessés, n'ont echappés à la mort que

par une sorte de miracle, et des démarches que vous aviez faites pour en

obtenir une prompte et entière satisfaction ;

Nous avons cru devoir nous réunir, à l'effet : 1, de nous concerter sur la

gravité des circonstances que vous nous avez soumisess ;; 2 , de répondre à votre

communication.

Après avoir attentivement examiné les conséquences inévitables d'une

pareille infraction aux Traités, et le danger dans lequel serait à l'avenir la vie

des étrangers en Chine, si elle n'était promptement redressée par une éclatante

et entière satisfaction ,c'est-à -dire, la sévère punition des coupables ;

Après avoir, M. le Consul, bien pesé votre longanimité et l'extrême

prudence de vos démarches et réclamations près de son Excellence le Taoutae,

et les fins de non recevoir, l'indifférence, de cette autorité ;

Considérant, que l'attentat commis contre MM . Medhurst, Lockhart, et

Muirhead, avait été précédé d'une menace, faite il y a deux mois, d'attaquer et

de piller les maisons Européennes ; que cette tentative de meurtre est d'ailleurs

de la même nature, et la conséquence naturelle des meurtres de Canton ;

Considérant, que cet attentat, commis aujourd'hui sans aucune provocation ,

contre des sujets de Sa Majesté Britannique, peut l'être demain, contre d'autres

résidents étrangers à Shanghai; que, par conséquent, il y a danger pour tous, et

que c'est une cause commune que vous défendez, M. le Consul, avec tant

de prudence et d'honorable énergie ;

Considérant, d'ailleurs, que ce n'est qu'après cinq jours de démarches et de

vaines réclamations près de son Excellence le Taoutae, que vous vous êtes vu

dans l'alternative, ou de laisser échapper les coupables, et par conséquent

l'outrage impuni, ou de fixer comme dernier ultimatum un délai de quarante -huit

heures pour leur arrivée à Shanghai et leur mise en jugement.

Nous avons cru de notre devoir, M. le Consul, non -seulement de donner

par ces présentes notre pleine et entière approbation à vos actes dans

cette déplorable affaire, mais encore de confirmer cette approbation, en nous

transportant en corps, chez son Excellence le Taoutae, pour la lui signifier, lui

faire comprendre lasolidarité du danger qui résultait pour tous nos nationaux

de l'impunité de ce crime, et l'avertir par nos énergiques représentations de la

gravité des conséquences, dont il prenait seul la responsabilité, en n'accordant

Q 2

112

pas le juste châtiment des coupables, que vous réclamiez depuis cinq jours, par

des démarches non avenues et sans aucun résultat.

Nous souhaitons sincèrement, M. le Consul, que notre franche et

loyale approbation, ainsi quenos efforts près de son Excellence le Taoutae, vous

aident dans la noble cause-le droit des gens que vous défendez avec tant de

prudence et d'énergie, et que les bons rapports qui existaient entre vous et les

autorités Chinoises soient promptement rétablis.

( Signed) C. DE MONTIGNY,

Consul de France à Shanghae.

E. W. BATES,

United States of America Consular Agent .

JOHN STEWART,

Consul de Belgique à Shanghae, Chine.

Inclosure 13 in No. 49 .

Commander Pitman to Consul Alcock .

Sir, “ Childers,” Shanghae, March 14, 1848.

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of this date,

with inclosures, and in reference to it, and the verbal communications of

yesterday, I hasten to assure you that I most fully concur in all the steps you

have taken to obtain full redress for the most unprovoked and savage attack

on the three English Missionaries at Tsing-poo.

I cannot for a moment suppose the authorities will allow such a gross

outrage on British subjects to pass, without giving immediate reparation by

bringing the ringleaders to Shanghae for punishinent. Should such not be the

case, I am quite ready to act with the force that I may have at my disposal, in

any way that may be considered for the safety of the foreign community, and

for the honour of the British flag and interest. From all that has taken place,

and the evident reluctance on the part of the Taoutae to cause the perpetrators

of this outrage to be apprehended, I have deemed it my duty, under existing

circumstances, to order Her Majesty's sloop “ Espiègle ” to this anchorage, to

co -operate with me, if necessary. Having been witness to the unanimity of the

other Consular Agents at this port, that they most cordially agree in the

necessity of the measures adopted by you, I most sincerely congratulate you,

not only that you had their full concurrence, but also that of all the foreign and

British subjects at this place, and that the steps you have taken are for their

safety and best interests.

I have made all the necessary arrangements in my power to move up the

river with Her Majesty's sloop, under my command, should it be necessary to

take such urgent measures, but I trust I shall not be called upon to do so, and

you may rely upon my warm support in co-operation with you in every way.

I have, &c.

(Signed) F. C. PITMAN .

Inclosure 14 in No. 49 .

Consul Alcock to the British Residents at Shanghae.

Gentlemen, Shanghae, March 15, 1848.

I HAVE received with great satisfaction and pleasure your letter of the

14th instant. Under the circumstances of peculiar difficulty in which we are

placed, it cannot fail to be gratifying to me to know that you see and feel

with me the paramount importance of a firm and determined stand being made

to obtain that justice , which the Chinese authorities have hitherto shown them

selves so averse to render.

There can be no security for life or property where the authorities either

will not or cannot punish those who put both in peril. The plea of inability to

seize the offenders in the present instance, if admitted, at once relieves the

Chinese authorities of all responsibility for any outrage or violence that may

113

be offered foreigners, and the same argument first used to limit our excursions,

would suffice, if carried out to its legitimate conclusion, to confine every foreign

resident to his own house, without providing for his safety even there.

I do not know what immediate loss or inconvenience may follow the steps

I see myself reluctantly compelled by the weakness and blindness of the local

authorities to adopt, in defence of our Treaty Rights, but I am truly glad to

learn that you are prepared to encounter these contingencies cheerfully in so

good a cause, and are confident in my earnest desire to act firmly and justly

for the proiection of British interests.

You may also be confident I am assured that reparation will eventually be

exacted by Her Majesty's Government should loss ensue, and with this conviction

I will not shrink from the responsibilities of my present course, which, whatever

may be the first results, I believe upon mature reflection, to be the best adapted

to avert greater evils than any temporary injury to our commercial interests at

this port.

I thank you very sincerely gentlemen for the cordial expression of your

sympathy and confidence.

I have, &c.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 15 in No. 49.

Minute.

M. DE MONTIGNY, the Consul of France, E.W. Bates , Esq ., the Acting

Consular Agent of the United States of America, and John Stewart, Esq.,

Agent Consulaire de Sa Majesté le Roi des Belges, having called upon

Rutherford Alcock, Esq ., Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at Shanghae, and

communicated to him an application from the Taoutae, for their influence to

induce the said British Consul to extend the time for the production of the

offenders in the case of assault at Tsing -poo upon three British subjects ; and

the above-mentioned representatives of France, the United States and

Belgium, desiring to the utmost of their power, consistent with the attainment

of the object in view , to promote the amicable adjustment of the question at

issue, requested Her Britannic Majesty's Consul to take into his consideration

how far it would be compatible with the interests he defended, to allow a further

term to the Taoutae. The said representatives, repudiating any lengthened

delay, such as the Taoutae had suggested, of ten days, submit a period of

twenty -four hours as a reasonable limit, provided Her Britannic Majesty's

Consul should conceive himself warranted in deviating from the time already

specified.

Her Britannic Majesty's Consul, willing to give a last proof of his

reluctance to proceed to any ulterior measures, and ofthe high consideration

in which he holds his colleagues, whose frank and loyal support he fully

appreciates, consents to the extended time of twenty-four hours, after to-morrow

at noon, provided that his Excellency, the Taoutae himself in person, shall urge

the request at Her Majesty's Consulate, before noon on the 15th instant, and

is prepared to undertake, that within this extended time the criminals in

question shall be in Shanghae, and produced for identification and trial .

The said Representatives of France, the United States of America and

Belgium , fully concurring in the spirit and tenor of this concession, undertake

to communicate the same to his Excellency the Taoutae.

In witness whereof, we the Undersigned affix our signatures, this 14th day

March, 1848, at Her Britannic Majesty's Consulate , Shanghae.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK ,

Her Britannic Majesty's Consul.

C. DE MONTIGNY,

Consul de France.

E. W. BATES ,

United States of America Consular Agent.

JOHN STEWART,

Agent Consulaire du Roi de Belges.

114

Inclosure 16 in No. 49.

The Sub - Prefect, a District Magistrate, to Consul Alcock.

March 14, 1848 .

TO -DAY we had an interview with his Excellency the Intendant, who told

us that at 10 o'clock in the morning, you, the Honourable Consul, had expressed

yourself in angry terms, on account of the offending sailors of the grain junks,

who had caused the disturbance at Tsing-poo not having yet been seized, that

you insisted upon their being apprehended and produced by 11 o'clock

to -morrow, and in case of this not being effected, that you would stop the rice

junks and allow none of them to leave the port, and also that you would level

Shanghae to the ground, and words to that effect.

We are of opinion that this could only have been the angry speech of the

moment. For we find that since the commencement of the commerce here,

five years ago,, the people of Shanghae have behaved peaceably and properly on

every occasion, and no fears or doubts of any nature have ever existed on either

side . But the suspicions of the people will now be roused , if they find that on

account of the disturbances at Tsing -poo, you would wish to trample down and

destroy them , and the consequences might tend to seriously involve our

commercial and other interests .

It is fortunate that what is uttered within the office of the Intendant,

cannot be known outside, for should the intelligence once get abroad, the evil

dis: osed and disorderly characters among the people, would as soon as they

heard of it , incite and move the people therewith , and how should we the Sub

prefeet and District Magistrate be able then to control them ? We fear

indeed that your plan is not tended to promote or preserve the existing friendly

relations.

As regards the sailors of the grain junks, in consequence of their

employment being stopped by the transportation (of the grain) by sea, they

have lit upon the idea of attempting to obstruct these measures, thus therefore

if you,, the Honourable Consul, in your endeavour to seize the sailors, are the

first to stop the rice vessels of Shanghae, not only do you thereby interfere

with cur amicable relations, but you likewise coalesce with the wishes of the

sailors.

Already has the Intendant this moment dispatched a special deputy to

convey with all possible haste to the Magistrate of Tsing-poo his orders for the

apprehension of the criminals; but it is impossible that they can be here by

11 o'clock to -morrow , as ten days inust at all events be required for this purpose.

For suppose that a Chinese subject have been beaten by a sailor of your

honourable nation , we should address you, the lionourable Consul, officially on the

subject ; but in consequence of our being ignorant at the time of the name

or surname of the individual, you would require to proceed to examine every

vessel, before you could take steps for settling the affair. More especially

then , in ihe case of Tsing -poo, where the sailors are very numerous, and have

chiefs among them who entertain no fear of death . Therefore, in proceeding

to apprehend any of them , if proper plans be not adopted, a serious outbreak

woull be the result, and further, through Tsing -poo and its vicinity lies one of

the most important thoroughfares for the Chinese merchants, it follows

therefore that if this be obstructed the trade (of Shanghae) must also suffer.

To sun up the whole, if the criminals be seized and punished according to

law, within ten days, the utmost speed will have been employed, and no delay

whatever been shown in affording redress to the Rev. Mi. Medhurst and the

other gentlemen .

Our original intention was to have called upon you in person, but the

rainy weather having stopped our visit, we first proceed to send you this letter.

Should you, the Honourable Consul, have anything to say, you can make us a

reply, and to -morrow , at ten o'clock, we will come to you in person to talk over

the matter .

Whilst writing this, we beg to present our wishes for your increasing

welfare .

115

Inclosure 17 in No. 49.

Minute.

Minute of a Conference, held this 15th day of March , 1848, at Her Britannic

Majesty's Consuiate at Shanghae, between his Excellency Heen, the

Taoutae, and Rutherford Alcock , Esq ., Her Majesty's Consul, at which

Brooke Robertson, Esq., Her Majesty's Vice -Consul, Captain Pitman,

commanding Her Majesty's ship “ Childers,” and the Rev. W. H. Medhurst

assisted.

HIS Excellency Heen the Taoutae, having sent to request an interview

with Her Britannic Majesty's Consul, on the morning of the 15th inst., was

received according to appointment at the Consulate, when the Consul inquired

if the ringleaders in the assault upon three British subjects had been appre

hended .

The Taoutae replied in the negative, and entered into various details to

show that he had written several times, and sent off a Wei-yuen to the

Magistrate at Tsing-poo, urging him to use ail diligence and dispatch to seize

the offenders ; but up to the present time he had received no answer. By to

morrow, probably, something definite would be known, and in the meantime, he

trusted and believed that every exertion was being made, and that the absence of

news merely indicated the difficulty the Magistrate experienced in carrying out

his orders. That these were affairs which required time to manage, and that

it was impossible for him to say the criminals should certainly be seized by the

next day.

The Consul inquired, if the ten days which the Taoutae had mentioned to

the Consuls of other foreign Powers, as the time required for the seizure of the

offenders, were conceded , whether he was prepared to guarantee that at the end

of that period they should be produced.

The Taoutae answered in the negative, urging that all he could undertake

was to do his best to secure their apprehension, but it was a work of time, and

full of difficulty.

The Consul replied that this was most unsatisfactory, and gave him so

little assurance of the determination of the Taoutae to repair the injury

inflicted , by the delay already experienced in apprehending the perpetrators of

an assault threatening the lives of British subjects, that he had no alternative

but to persevere in the measures already taken of stopping the payment of

duties, the sailing of the grain junks, and to reserve to himself the right of

taking such other measures as might seem at any moment expedient to compel

prompt satisfaction and redress.

The Taoutae reiterated his inability to guarantee the apprehension of the

offenders within any fixed period .

The Consul answered that the plea of inability now set up was neither more

nor less than a plea of irresponsibility for any injury or violence that might be

offered to the British by Chinese subjects. It must be clear to the Taoutae,

that there could be no security to life or property compatible with impunity to

those who put them both in peril ; and if the Chinese Government or

authorities could at any time plead the difficulty of controlling their own 1

people as a sufficient answer to a demand for prompt redress by the seizure and

punishment of offenders, the most important provisions of the Treaty of

Nanking were violated , and the Treaty itself became a mockery.

The Taoutae repeated that all he could do had been done, and that there

were difficulties he could not help.

The Consul stated that it only further remained for him to give distinct

notice that he held the Taoutae as the Representative of the Chinese Govern

ment , and the officer at whose hands justice could not be obtained, as

responsible for the expenses entailed by the detention of two brigs of war in

the port, and for any other loss, expense, or injury, which accrue as a

consequence of the measures taken to obtain justice. That for the present, he,

the Consul, would proceed to no act of violence for the enforcementof his just

demands, and if any were offered on the part of Chinese subjects to the British,

he would instantly order into the anchorage, all the armed vessels at Woosung,

and detain them at the Taoutae's cost and expense, until these negotiations

116

should be satisfactorily determined. The Consul further observed that the

Hae -fang and Che -heen had written the Consul a letter on the preceding day,

in which they had the bad taste to menace him with danger from the people, to

which he had returned no answer ; but he would now state to the Taoutae that

he, the Consul, and his family, would continue where they were in the midst of

the city, without fear, and he was satisfied without danger, the conse

quences of any injury to Her Majesty's Consul in this position, he was

well assured would be too serious, and too immediately and certainly felt by the

inhabitants and city of Shanghae for any such outrage to be contemplated.

The Consul added , in conclusion, that it could scarcely be necessary for

him to state to the Taoutae, that while violence would be met and promptly

resisted from whatever quarter it came, any overt acts of this nature might lead

to the Consul's striking his flag, and withdrawing with his countrymen from the

port, an act under such circumstances which could only be regarded as the

forerunner of worse evils, and the beginning of war .

The conference broke up after a few not very relevant observations from

the Taoutae on the necessity of doing what could be done, and preserving

a good understanding.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 18 in No. 49 .

The Taoutae to Consul Alcock.

( Translation .)

A COMMUNICATION, up to four o'clock .

I have neither heard anything of the Wei -yuen, nor of the police, and

others whom I sent to Tsing -poo. I am now, therefore, again sending,

and have this time deputed the Sub -prefect Chin to proceed in person with

all possible despatch to Tsing -poo, and there, in concert with the District

Magistrate and the officer of the division of junks, who will be both under his

command, to take rigorous measures for the apprehension and punishment

of the sailors who caused the disturbances.

I beg to communicate this for your especial information .

March 15, 1848 .

Inclosure 19 in No. 19 .

Notification.

Shanghae, March 16, 1848 .

THE delay experienced in obtaining redress from the Chinese authorities

for an assult upon three British subjects, from which they only providentially

escaped with their lives, after having been wounded and treated with the

greatest brutality, by a band of grain junk men, none of whom have yet

been seized, has rendered necessary measures on the part of Her Majesty's

Consul, which may require to be enforced by all the means at his disposal.

In this untoward state of affairs, which Her Majesty's Consul sincerely

deplores, as contrary to the best interests of both nations, it is necessary to be

prepared for all contingencies ; and the better to enforce our just claims to prompt

and full reparation , it may be expedient to call upon all Masters commanding

vessels under the British flag, within the jurisdiction of Her Majesty's Consul at

this port, to hold themselves in readiness to leave their anchorage, and support

him as the representative of Her Majesty's Government, in protecting British

interests at this port.

For any detention , loss, or injury, which may accrue to them , should their

services be required in defence of the public interests, Her Majesty's Consul

has notified to his Excellency the Taoutae, that the Chinese Government will be

held responsible .

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK, Consul.

117

Inclosure 20 in No. 49 .

Notification.

Shanghae, March 16, 1848 .

A NOTIFICATION issued this day to the masters of all merchant

vessels under the British flag, within the jurisdiction of Her Majesty's Consul,

calling upon them to be prepared on his requisition to leave their anchorage

for the protection of British interests at this port, is annexed for the infor

mation of the British community.

This is merely a measure of precaution called for under the circumstances,

but one which Her Majesty's Consul sees strong reason to hope it may not be

necessary to act upon. His Excellency the Taoutae has this morning dispatched

the Haefang — the next civil officer in rank to himself — to Tsing-poo. The

Consul having been informed last night that his Excellency had deputedthat

officer to proceed in all haste and, in concert with the Che-heen of that place,

seize the offenders. This is the first evidence wrung from the authorities by the

stringency of the measures adopted, of any determination to meet the just

demands of Her Majesty's Consul for reparation, and he trusts it may be the

forerunner of complete satisfaction .

In the meantime, as a translation of the annexed notification has been

transmitted to the Taoutae, with a letter signifying the consent of Her

Majesty's Consul to wait a short and definite period for the result of the Hae

fang's exertions, there can be little doubt it will suffice to satisfy his Excellency

that this concession of time is not due to any want of determination on the part

of Her Majesty's Consul to follow out to the end the course upon which he has

entered, in defence of Treaty Rights and the best interests of commerce.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK , Consul.

Inclosure 21 in No. 49 .

Consul Alcock to the Consuls of Foreign Powers at Shanghae.

March 16, 1848 .

THE Undersigned, Her Britannic Majesty's Consul, has the honour to

acknowledge the receipt of theofficial communication, signed by M. de Montigny,

Consul de France, E. W. Bates, Esq., United States, America, Consular Agent,

and John Stewart, Esq., Consul de Belgique, and begs to convey to them his

grateful sense ofthe ready andanxious desire theyhave manifested to lend

that support to Her Majesty's Consul in a difficult and embarrassing position,

which the concurrence and full approval of his colleagues on the spot cannot fail

to supply.

The Undersigned does himself the honour of transmitting copy of a

minute of conference with his Excellency the Taoutae, on the 15th instant ,

and he is happy at the same time to state that notwithstanding the apparently

very unsatisfactory result of the interview , the subsequent act of his Excellency

in dispatching the civil officer next in rank to himself to Tsing -poo to

co -operate with the Che-heen of that place, and seize the offenders, would seem

to prove that he had at least been moved to act, with what better success

remains to be seen .

This step, which should bave been taken on the day after the assault took

place, that is on the 9th instant, is the first evidence afforded of any desire or

intention on the part of the authorities to afford reparation, and must be held

conclusive evidence that the measurestaken to compel exertion were imperiously

required by the supineness of the Chinese authorities. L'p to last night no

answer had been received by the Taoutae from the Che -heen of Tsing-poo, and

it is tolerably certain that nothing has hitherto been done.

The Undersigned takes this opportunity of inclosing copies of two

notifications, this day issued respectively to the masters of British vessels and

to the British community. It will, no doubt, be readily understood by the

118

representatives of other nations. at this port, that this step, on the part of

Her Britannic Majesty's Consul, communicated to the Taoutae in a letter,

announcing a further concession of time, will speak to his Excellency in terms

not to be misunderstood, and prevent his drawing any erroneous conclusions

from the facility with which delay has been admitted . If he should have

contemplated sending the Haefang, merely as a blind to gain time, it may

cause him to alter his intention , and convert a feint into a sustained and

successful effort to execute his duty,, if any real or effective power is in his

hands . In all cases, as a large number of war junks and others filled with

Chinese soldiers have been collected at Woosung to convoy the grain junks, in

the immediate vicinity of some twelve or fourteen merchant vessels at that

anchorage, it has appeared to the Undersigned a necessary measure of precaution.

Should it even prove certain that, without reference to higher authorities, which

fear of disgrace will probably prevent his making, his Excellency the Taoutae

has no adequate means of executing justice upon the grain junk men,

circumstances of danger from inroads of these malcontents, in numbers to

make them formidable, only emboldened by impunity in such an outrage, may

at any moment menace the foreign residents with the most serious perils, their

wealth holding out a strong inducement to attack, even at the risk of hard

blows. In this point of view it has seemed expedient to be prepared for all

contingencies.

The Undersigned avails himself of this occasion to convey to the Consular

authorities who have done him the honour to communicate their sentiments,

and tender the support of their cordial concurrence in the present conjuncture,

the expression of his highest consideration and esteem .

( Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK.

Inclosure 22 in No. 49 .

Consul Alcock to the Taoutae.

ALCOCK , Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at Shanghae, makes this

communication .

I received your Excellency's note of the 15th instant last night, and learn

that, no answer having been received from Tsing -poo, you had deputed the Sub

prefect (Haefang) to proceed immediately in person to Tsing -poo, and in

conjunction with the District Magistrates of thatplace, and the officer of the

division of junks, to make strict seizure of the sailors who attacked and nearly

murdered three British subjects, and bring them here for punishment.

This step on your Excellency's part II accept as an evidence , and the first

hitherto offered, of your determination really to cause these offenders to be

apprehended . At the same time, the result of the Wei-yuen’s mission confirms

me in the belief that nothing effective has hitherto been done, or attempted, by

the District Magistrate of Tsing-poo.

As a proof of my continued and earnest desire to show the utmost patience

and forbearance compatible with the interests it is my duty to defend, I will

wait a short time to learn the results of the Sub-prefect's mission. If he exerts

himself as the gravity of the circumstance and the importance of the interests

at stake imperatively require , it is impossible that, in three days at the farthest,

he should not succeed in apprehending the chief offenders. I have to request,

therefore, that you, the Honourable Intendant, will, from day to day, keep me

informed of the steps taken by that officer to carry into prompt execution the

orders he has received, that I may show some justification to my own Govern

ment for assenting to any further delay. If no letters containing satisfactory

evidence of the energy and success of his proceedings are received, I must, then,

reluctantly conclude that he, like the District Magistrate, is following out the

bad policy hitherto adopted of doing nothing .

Desiring to act in perfect good faith towards you,, the Honourable Intendant,

I think it right to inform you that I have this day issued a notification to all

masters of vessels under the British flag, within my jurisdiction, to hold them ,

119

selves and their vessels prepared to leave their anchorage, and support me, as

the Representative of Her Majesty's Government, in protecting British interests

at this port .

A necessary communication .

March 16, 1848 .

Inclosure 23 in No. 49 .

Consul Alcock to the Rev. W'. Medhurst.

Sir , Shanghae, March 14 , 1848 .

UNDER present circumstances, it seems very desirable that Her Majesty's

Government should have full and correct information on the chances incurred

of creating crowds to the detriment of the public peace, by Missionaries

engaged in distributing tracts, and preaching to the Chinese in the villages or

towns within the limits of a day's excursion .

Whether such asssemblages of Chinese as are likely to collect round a

Missionary can be regarded as wholly without danger of disturbance or other

inconvenience to the public, of whichthe local authorities might justly complain ,

is chiefly to be determined by practical experience of what has hitherto taken

place under similar circumstances ; and as your experience has been great,

and I am satisfied your testimony will be conscientious, I beg to refer to you

for such information as it may be in your power to afford .

I have, &c.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK.

Inclosure 24 in No. 49.

The Rev. W. Medhurst to Consul Alcock.

Sir, Shanghae, March 15, 1848 .

IN reply to your communication of yesterday's date, II beg leave to state,

that for the last three or four years II have been in the habit of preaching to

large numbers of the Chinese, first in my own house, and latterly in a chapel

built for that purpose in the city of Shanghae, in which have sometimes been

assembled about 500 people, and I have never observed anything but the

greatest decorum and stillness during the service, and when the exercises have

been concluded, the people have invariably dispersed in the greatest order and

quietness to their respective homes.

I have also been in the habit of preaching in the various towns and cities

within the limits of a day's journey from Shanghae, at which places I have

often given notice of my approach a day or two previously ,by means of notices

stuck up on the walls ; and have found the people assembling by hundreds to

hear, in some square or open place, where passengers could not be incom

modated, and at the conclusion of the service they have either quietly

have never,,

dispersed, or opened a way through the crowds for me to retire. I have

on these occasions, met with the slightest insult or interruption ; on the

contrary, the people have been disposed to treat me with respect, and to approve

generally of what I advanced for their instruction.

As to the distribution of tracts, I have invariably found them to be eagerly

received, and the only trouble has been the too great anxiety of the people to

obtain them ; so that we are compelied to distribute them carefully from shop

to shop to those who seem able to read, and cannot attempt to give them away

in the face of a crowd, for fear of the tracts being pulled in pieces through the

eagerness of the people to obtain them .

As it regards the visit to Tsing-poo, on the 8th instant, I may further

observe, that no preaching was attempted on account of the turbulent

disposition manifested by the grain junk men, who from the first moment of

our arrival there, sought to create a disturbance that they might have some

pretext for setting upon us afterwards and robbing us.

120

I may add, that this disposition of the grain junk men to insult and annoy

us, on the occasion above alluded to, must have been the result of the

dissatisfied and reckless state of their minds this year, as being now out of

employ, with their claims upon the Chinese Government still unadjusted ; for

we have in a former year distributed tracts among the same class of men on

their own junks at Tsing - poo, and have been received with the greatest

cordiality and good will .

I have, Sici

(Signed ) W. H. MEDHURST .

Inclosure 25 in No. 49 .

Consul Alcock to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Shanghae, March 18, 1848.

I HAVE the honour to inclose copy of a communication received last

night from the Taoutae and my reply thereto. The reported seizure of two of

the grain junk men implicated, and the escape of the chief offenders is of course

worthy of no credence . It is merely the excuse for an experiment to see how far

his Excellency may venture to send down the grain junks, which I have warned

him not to attempt .

I do not think his Excellency will push his experiments far enough to be

dangerous, nor is it at all likely that he will find either the owners or the crew

of the junks disposed to run the slightest risk . II am still disposed to believe

that if the Taoutae chose to exert himself, he could find means of producing

the chief criminals .

I have, &c .

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 26 in No. 49 .

Mr. Bonham to Consul Alcock.

Sir, Victoria , Hong Kong, March 23 , 1848.

I HAVE this instant received your despatches of the 17th and 18th

instant with their respective inclosures.

Considering the instructions with which you have been furnished from the

Foreign Office, dated December 18, 1846, and the limited power and duties of

a Consul, I cannot but express my regret that you should have taken the steps

you have seen fit to do, without previous reference to Her Majesty's

Plenipotentiary, as undoubtedly under the peremptory orders recently received

from Her Majesty's Government, I should not have considered myself

warranted in sanctioning any acts of an aggressive nature, whereby the

peaceable relations at present existing between Her Majesty's and the Chinese

Governmentcould be by possibilityendangered, and it cannot be concealed,

that if the Taoutae of Shanghae, cannot or will not apprehend the principal

offenders engaged in this transaction, and the Chinese grain boats attempt to

uphold their undoubted right of pursuing their ordinary avocations, and of

proceeding on their intended voyage, that arupture must ensue.

From the Taoutae's note, however, of the 17th instant, it appears that two

of the culprits implicated in this transaction have been apprehended and

punished, and that further steps are in progress to apprehend others . I am in

hopes, therefore, that before this despatch reaches you , such redress may have

been afforded on behalf of the Chinese authorities, as will enable you without

compromise to allow the grain junks to leave the river.

You will gather from this communication that I am particularly desirous

that this question, as respects the Taoutae and yourself, should be brought to a

speedy conclusion, when I shall take such further steps in conjunction with the

Imperial Commissioner as may appear desirable for its final adjustment.

In the meanwhile, however, I feel that it would be extremely impolitic to

make any retrogade movement, which would no doubt be viewed by the Chinese

121

authorities as a concession on our part. I am therefore, reluctantly compelled

t abstain from giving you any positive directions for your conduct on this

emergency, as I fear, should I attempt it, that I might probably add to the

difficulties and embarrassments with which you are already beset

As I only took charge of this office yesterday, I have considered it proper

to show my able predecessor this despatch , and he has authorized me to say he

perfectly agrees in the sentiments it contains.

I have, &c.

(Signed) S. G. BONHAM,

Inclosure 27 in No. 49 .

The Taoutae to Consul Alcock.

( Translation .) March 17, 1848.

AT six o'clock to -day, a special messenger arrived from the Sub -prefect,

Chin, bringing a letter to the effect that two of the sailors implicated in the

disturbance had already been seized, who being examined by the District

Magistrate of Tsing -poo, deposed that they had asssisted the riot, but still were

not the principal parties concerned in it ; they have now been put in the cangue

and flogged.

It is reported thatthe principal offenders have allescaped to other places,

and the officer of the division hasalready proceeded himself in pursuit, in order

that they may be seived with rigour. The Sub -prefect, Chin, will still stay at

Tsing-poo, as it is imperative that they be apprehended and severely punished .

This shows that measures are really and sincerely being taken for the adjust

ment of the affair, and I may therefore request that you, the Honourable Consul,

will set your mind at rest about it.

With regard to the rice vessels who are transporting the grain by sea,

several hundred of them have now been collected, and in the course of one or

two days they will weigh and proceed. I must trouble you, the Honourable

Consul, not on any account, to obstruct them, as this step might involve our

amicable relations.

While writing this, II present my wishes for your unceasing prosperity, and

await your answer.

13th day ( 17th March), 8 P.M.

Inclosure 28 in No. 49.

Consul Alcock to the Taoutae.

ALCOCK, Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at Shanghae, makes this com

munication in reply.

You, the Honourable Taoutae, inform me that two of the sailors implicated

in the disturbance at Tsing -poo had already been seized, that they confessed to

having assisted the riot, but still were not the principal parties concerned in it,

and that they have been put into the cangue and flogged.

You also inform me that it is reported the principal offenders have all

escaped, but that the officer of the division has been sent in pursuit.

Nothing can bemore unsatisfactory than the whole statement. It appears,

notwithstanding the inability to seize these grain junk men hitherto professed,

that you, the Honourable Taoutae, when you really determine to do so, can

apprehend them, since you have at last caused the seizure of two of their

number. It is quite evident then, that the chief offenders might also have been

seized from the first,had your Excellency caused rigorousand prompt measures

to be taken . Now if it be true that they have been allowed to escape, they

must be followed and apprehended . But I repeat, that unless brought down

to Shanghae, where they can be identified and punished in the presence of one

of my officers, no adequate redress will have been afforded , and I consider any

reported seizures or punishments at Tsing -poo as of no account.

When I see any of the ringleaders actually here, who can be identified, I

122

shall be satisfied that measures are really and sincerely being taken for the

adjustment of the affair in a satisfactory manner, and not until then .

With regard to the rice junks, I have already officially notified to you that

the commanding officer of Her Majesty's ships had peremptory orders to stop

any grain junk attempting to pass down the river, and if they would not turn

back on being warned, or if they resisted, to fire into them. I strongly

recommend you not to try the experiment of forcing the passage for these

junks, or they will find to their cost and peril that these orders will be most

thoroughly andeffectually carried out. When you have afforded redress by

seizing the chief offenders, guilty of a murderous assault upon peaceable British

subjects, and brought them here , then I will give different orders.

In the meantime, I have only again to repeat that the grain junks shall

not leave this river until I have obtained justice for the committed outrage. I

have reported the steps taken to Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary, and if you, the

Honourable Taoutae, are rash enough to risk collision with our armed vessels

before I can receive his Excellency's instructions, the consequences of any mischief

that may ensue be upon your head and not mine. I am most anxious to avoid

any act of violence, but if you compel me to resort to it, the fault is yours, and

I warn you in the strongest terms, that no grain junk will be permitted to leave

the river at the present time.

A necessary communication .

March 18, 1848 .

No. 50 .

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .—( Received May 24.)

My Lord, Victoria , Hong Kong, March 29, 1848 .

MY last despatch on the subject of Shanghae affairs was dated the 25th

instant, since which a vessel has arrived from that port, without bringing me

any despatches from the Consul, and I have therefore requested the Senior

Naval Officer to permit Her Majesty's steamer “ Fury ,'' to proceed to Shanghae,

for the purpose of carrying my despatches, and, by her appearance, of strength

ening Mr. Alcock's position, by affording him countenance and support.

Having reperused Mr. Alcock's despatch of the 17th instant, and

more fully considered the matter, the more am I satisfied that I should incur

your Lordship’s displeasure were I to permit the peaceable relations existing

between the two nations to be compromised on this occasion ; and, I trust, my

second letter of the 27th instant will convince the Consul of the propriety of

bringing the present misunderstanding to a speedy and satisfactory conclusion,

Mr. Alcock appears to conceive that the Missionary gentlemen had not

exceeded their limits by proceeding to Tsing-poo, but, by reference to the

inclosed sketch, your Lordship will perceive that this place is half -way between

Shanghae and the large city of Soo -chow -foo, and ninety -six le, or thirtymiles,,

from the former place; it certainly , therefore, seems to me doubtful whether

it was ever intended that British subjects should perform journeys of this sort

the original intention of defining the time that they should be permitted to be

absent from their respective Consulates, being simply to enable them to enjoy

exercise and recreation within a moderate distance of their port or place of

residence .

With this view of the case, I have it in contemplation to instruct the

Consuls, in conjunction with the Chinese authorities, to endeavour, if possible,

to define the limits allowed for the purposes of recreation and exercise by space

or boundary, instead of by time, as at present, which will tend to the prevention

of misapprehension and abuse.

The “ Fury ” will leave this harbour in an hour.

I have, &c.

(Signed) S. G. BONHAM.

123

Inclosure 1 in No. 50.

Mr. Bonham to Consul Alcock.

Sir, Victoria, Hong Kong, March 27, 1848.

THE brig “ Denia,” having arrived from Shanghae, which place she left on

the 20th instant, without bringing me any further communications from

yourself on the state of affairs at your Consulate, I am led to believe that

matters are much in the same state as when your despatch of the 18th instant

was written .

I have, since my letter of the 23rd instant, had further time for the

consideration of your despatches, and under all the circumstances of the case,

and pending the receipt of replies from tlie Foreign Office to my predecessor's

letters respecting the Hwang -chu -ke catastrophe, I feel more strongly than ever

the necessity of discouraging any offensive operations being taken against the

Chinese, which may embroilthe two nations in hostilities, without the previous

sanction of Her Majesty's Government.

From the Taoutae’s note to you, forming an inclosure in your letter

of the 18th instant, two of the principal parties concerned in this transac

tion are reported to have been punished. It would undoubtedly have been

more satisfactory if these persons had been punished at Shanghae, or in the

presence of some constituted British authority, but, as matters now stand, all

I can countenance is for you to continue to call on the Taoutae to punish any

others of these criminals he can apprehend, for I again repeat that from recent

instructions from Her Majesty's Government, I am strictly forbidden from

engaging in any offensive operations against the Chinese authorities .

Under these circumstances you will, as early as you possibly can, bring this

question between the Taoutae and yourself to a close, and you will, of course,

abstain from making any further representation to any of the higher authorities

alluded to in your letter, which I consider to be one which must be finally

arranged between the Imperial Commissioner and myself.

I forward this and my other despatch by Her Majesty's steamer “ Fury,”

and as her presence may possibly tend to induce the Chinese authorities to

bring this question to a satisfactory conclusion, I have no objection to your

requesting Captain Wilcox to remain with you for aa few days, if you should be

of opinion that she will have the effect suggested ; otherwise, you will inform

that officerhe can return to Hong Kong as soon as he sees fit, as I have it in

contemplation to request her services to convey me to an interview with the

Chinese High Commissioner at an early period.

I have, & c.

(Signed) S. G. BONHAM.

Inclosure 2 in No. 50.

Sketch showing the Position of Tsing -poo.

No. 51 .

Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham .

Sir , Foreign Office, May 29, 1848.

IN reply to Sir John Davis's despatch of the 13th of March, I have to

acquaint you that Mr. Bird was quite right not to interfere with reference

to the affray which occurred between some Americans and Chinese at Whampoa,

on the 6th of that month .

I am , &c.

( Signed ) PALMERSTON.

124

No. 52 .

Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham .

Sir, Foreign Office, May 29, 1848.

I HAVE to acquaint you that I approve of the answer returned by

Sir John Davis, as reported in his despatch of the 4th of March, to the

note from Keying , of the 29th of February, calling for the punishment of a

man from Manilla, accused of having committed murder at Woosung.

I am, &c.

( Signed ) PALMERSTON .

No. 53.

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston.— (Received June 21. )

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, April 10, 1848.

ON the 1st instant, the Acting Consul at Canton reported to me that an

unprovoked assault had been committed by some Chinese on Messrs. Bowman and

Johnson, two British subjects, while proceeding up a creek on the side of the river

opposite to Canton, and within aa mile of the factories. This morning I had the

gratification to receive the inclosures Nos. 1 and 2, by which your Lordship

will perceive that the matter has been promptly arranged, and the culprits

punished.

The Imperial Commissioner having, in the correspondence with Mr. Elmslie,

made some attempt to defend the aggression, on the ground of the English

gentlemen not having been accompanied by policemen and linguists, I

addressed a letter to bis Excellency on the subject, of which I inclose a copy,

and of the reply that I received thereto.

It is satisfactory to observe that redress has, in this instance, been afforded

by Seu, the Acting

occasion

Imperial Commissioner, more speedily than on any former

similar nature.

of aa

I have, &c .

(Signed) S. G. BONHAM.

Inclosure 1 in No. 53 .

Acting Consul Elmslie to Mr. Bonham .

Sir, Canton, April 8 , 1848.

I HAVE the honour to inform your Excellency that two culprits, alleged to

have been concerned in the assault on Messrs. Bowman and Johnson, were

yesterday morning brought to this Consulate, wearing the cangue, having

the nature of their offence written upon it.

The offenders were conveyed up the river in a boat, landed at the garden

steps, paraded through the British factory and back streets, and finally set

down in the largest suburban thoroughfare ( opposite the Consoo House), where

they remained exposed inthe cangue till sunset.

That the people at Honan may know of the punishment inflicted on the

two delinquents, I insisted upon their being taken to the bridge to -day, where

the assault was committed, and there exposed in the cangue till evening ; this

demand was positively refused, on the ground that the people there were

exceedingly “obstinate and ferocious.” Your Excellency's despatch, however,

to the Imperial Commissioner arrived very opportunely, and I was thus enabled

to carry the point.

By the inclosed note from the Imperial Commissioner, your Excellency

will learn the sentences passed on the offenders. Mr. Meadows and myself

visited them yesterday at different periods, and found they were undergoing the

punishment awarded.

125

I requested Mr. Meadows to proceed to Honan this morning, for the

purpose of ascertaining the fact as to the punishment of the culprits being

inflicted as promised, and have much satisfaction in forwarding to your

Excellency that gentleman's report.

I have, &c.

(Signed) ADAM W. ELMSLIE.

Inclosure 2 in No. 53.

Report by Mr. Meadows. :)

Canton , April 8, 1848 .

I FOUND the two men, Chin -a - te and Le-a-lae, in cangues, under

the charge of the police, in an open space about fifty yards from thebridge, the

scene of the assault on Messrs . Bowman and Johnson .

The labels on the cangues stated distinctly that they were undergoing

punishment for having “ assaulted foreigners.”

I found them surrounded by a number of onlookers , and neither from

them, nor from any other persons in the street which I had to walk down for

about 100 yards, did I experience any molestation . I also passed twice under

the bridge without suffering the leastinsult or annoyance .

(Signed) THOS. TAYLOR MEADOWS .

Inclosure 3 in No. 53 .

Mr. Bonham to Commissioner Seu .

Victoria, Hong Kong, April 5, 1848.

I SOME days since received a despatch from the Consul at Canton,

stating that a very violent assault had been committed by some Chinese on two

British subjects, who were passing on their lawful avocations up the Kee-ya

Creek, and that he had called on your Excellency to investigate the matter, and

to cause the offenders to be punished.

I confess that I expected to have heard that your Excellency had at once

done what was so obviously requisite—that the culprits had been seized at once

and punished, and that the matter had been thus properly settled.

But I have this day received a second letter from the Consul, inclosing me

a copy of your Excellency's letter to him, dated 3rd April, wherein you ask, if

the two Englishmen were accompanied by policemen and linguists, to enable

you to examine and to deal with the case.

Now, I would bring to your Excellency’s notice that,whether these British

subjects were or were not attended by a policeman and linguist, I consider it

the duty of the Chinese Government toafford them protection against acts of

gross violence of the description complained of ; and if such protection be not

afforded, and miscreants punished who commit such acts, a second catastrophe

similar to that which lately took place at Hwang-chu-ke may be expected..

If such acts of violence and bloodshed are again committed, will not the

harmony and good feeling which ought to exist between our respective Govern

ments be endangered ;; and may not hostilities ultimately ensue ?

I have already observed, that I conceive whenever British subjects are

wantonly assaulted or insulted they have a right to expect redress, whether

attended by linguists or otherwise. In this instance I am not aware that they

were so accompanied; and if not, it assuredly was not necessary that they should

be guarded by police to proceed about half aa mile from their place of residence ;

and had not your Excellency mooted the question, I should have considered it

an insult to your nation to suppose that the authorities under your Excellency

cannot afford protection to a couple of peaceable foreignerswithin a mile of

their residence,without their beingaccompanied by policemen.

If, moreover, it were necessary to be so accompanied on occasions like the

present, where people were not going into the interior for recreation or exercise,

but were engaged in mercantile pursuits, it will shortly be also requisite for

126

English merchants going to China merchants and shopkeepers in the neigh

bouring streets to be similarly guarded. Under such circumstances it is clear

the trade of the two nations could not exist .

It is necessary, to prevent ultimate misapprehension, that we should clearly

understand one another, and I hope to hear, in reply, that your Excellency has

caused the Chinese, who wantonly assaulted two British subjects in a manner

which might have easily caused their death, to be publicly punished in an

exemplary manner , and in the presence of British subjects.

Accept, &c.

(Signed) S. G. BONHAM.

Inclosure 4 in No. 53.

Commissioner Seu to Mr. Bonham.

(Translation.)

SEU, High Imperial Commissioner, &c., sends the following reply to a

communication of the Honourable Envoy, respecting the outrage committed by

some Chinese on Johnson and Bowman, two British subjects, and the appoint

ment of policemen to accompany them for their protection, which he fully

perused .

When Consul Elmslie informed me of this case, that Johnson and another

had been wounded with stones, which some Chinese threw at them , I ordered

the Pwan -yu Magistrate to proceed against the aggressors. He subsequently

seized two, Le-a-lae and Chin -a -te, who confessed that they were propelling a

grass -boat on the river,near the Hwang -choo bridge, and, being pressed by the

vessels astern, a quarrel ensued . Lee-a-lae took up and threw at them stones,

and in this manner happened to wound the foreigners, which he could not deny.

Le -a- lae and Chin -a -tae will therefore wear the cangue, at the spot where

the offence occurred, as a warning to the multitude ; and when their time expires

they will be beaten, and thus be disposed of.

I, the Great Minister, communicated the above for the information of

Consul Elmslie, as is on record .

If any foreigners wish in ordinary cases to go to the streets in the neigh

bourhood , or to the warehouses, it would be perfectly useless to insist upon the

attendance of linguists and policemen. Only when they are making excursions

for their recreation, policemen and linguists should be sent to follow them , and

afford protection, according to the regulations that have been established, in

order to avoid any disagreeable consequences. As Consul Elmslie did not state

to me the object of Johnson's and his companion's going out, nor whether they

had a linguist and policeman with them, I made inquiries to that effect. This

I did with the intention to ascertain whether the runners had done their duty,

or shown themselves careless, and never hinted that foreigners ought to be

attended by policemen to the nearest streets.

Whilst forwarding this answer, I wish you much happiness .

Taou -kang, 28th year,, 3rd month, 5th day. (April 8, 1848. )

No. 54 .

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .- ( Received June 21.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, April 12, 1848.

IN continuation of my despatches of the 25th and 29th ultimo, I have

now the honour to submit for your Lordship’s information two further

despatches from Mr. Consul Alcock of the 25th and 31st ultimo, detailing

his further proceedings to ensure redress for the violence committed on the

three Missionaries at Tsing -poo.

Mr. Alcock’sletter of the 31st ultimowill convey to yourLordship the gratifying

intelligence that all his demands on the Chineseauthorities have been complied

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with, and that everything at Shanghae has at present a peaceable appearance,

and I have little doubt that the Consul’s energetic demonstration on the occasion

will tend materially not only to ensure the peaceable relations hitherto existing

at that port between the two Governments, but at the three other northern

ports likewise.

As Mr. Alcock had commenced his negotiation with the Chinese authorities,

previously to my relieving Sir John Davis, and has since, as far as I can judge,

brought it to a most successful termination, without any possible intervention

on my part, I have no particular remark to make which could be of any service,

in addition to those already set forth in that gentleman's very voluminous and

able reports .

But there is one point to which I would beg to invite your Lordship’s

attention . In Mr. Alcock's letter of 31st March, he says, 6“ that from the

proceeds of the ship's duties, which have been kept back during the fifteen

days' embargo, he purposes to liquidate certain claims alleged to be due to

British subjects,” &c.

This intention on the part of the Consul seems to be open to very serious

objections, from the opportunity it affords of enabling the Chinese authorities

to misrepresent the real facts of this case, and likewise to be calculated to

impair the high position he has so successfully assumed throughout the whole of

this controversy, and I have therefore thought it my duty to acquaint

Mr. Alcock with my views on this subject, which I hope may prove to be in

unison with your Lordship’s.

Complete redress having been afforded on this occasion, on the part of the

Chinese authorities, through the able negotiation and strenuous exertions of

Mr. Alcock, it may perhaps appear invidous in my alluding to my former letters

to that gentleman, wherein I stated I thought he had exceeded the authority

intended to have been reposed in the Consuls generally. I, nevertheless, think

it my duty to advert to them, as probably Mr. Alcock's success on this occasion

may embolden less competent gentlemen to follow in his steps, should

circumstances of a similar nature arise at their Consulates, which may from

various causes probably not result in the same satisfactory manner ; and hence

I am desirous of receiving your Lordship's views and orders on this subject

generally, that I may not unnecessarily interfere with the Consuls, if it be

intended that they should exercise the extended powers acted onby Mr. Consul

Alcock on this occasion, and at the same time become aware of the extent of

my own responsibilities.

I have, &c .

(Signed) S. G. BONHAM.

Inclosure 1 in No. 54 .

Consul Alcock to Sir J. Davis.

Sir, Shanghae, March 25 , 1848.

REFERRING to my despatch of the 17th instant, I have the lionour

to inclose a further correspondence with the Chinese authorities, and minutes

of a conference, which will inform your Excellency of the progress of the

negotiations up to the present date.

On the 18th instant, finding that the Taoutae had issued a public

Proclamation to the grain junk owners on the 15th instant (after he had seen

me in the morning and disclaimed all intention of moving the junks), calling

upon them at once to sail out by twos and threes, and that a number of junks

were actually prepared to start by the next tide, I issued a Notice, copy of

original and translation is inclosed, marked No. 2, and took care that it was

circulated throughout the grain junks, warning the owners and sailors that no

Government grain junks would be allowed to pass Her Majesty's ship

“ Childers” in the lower anchorage. I took this step with great reluctance,

but the bad faith of the Taoutae, and the necessity, as far as possible,

of averting any collision, seemed to me both to justify and make it

imperative.

This was well received by the junk men, and appeared to be not only

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thoroughly understood but acquiesced in. I received aa visit from the Che-heen

shortly afterwards, urging me to let the first detachment of junks sail, lest the

Taoutae should be seriously compromised . This seems to indicate the belief of

the authorities, for the first time, that the course of action adopted would be

carried through until the end was attained, and that serious consequences to

themselves must follow .

The succeeding morning, the 19th instant, at a very early hour, the

Taoutae came to the Consulate, apparently with the view of appealing to my

feelings. I assured him that I bore no personal ill will in the matter ; but

satisfied that British interests, and life and property were compromised by the

neglect manifested in the seizure of the offenders, I could not for a moment

contemplate abandoning the position taken to enforce such just demands .

Evidently nothing but subterfuge and delay was now to be expected from

the Taoutae ; and the time appeared to have arrived for carrying an appealto a

higher authority, and by that means provide for the withdrawal, within a short

and limited period, of the embargo on the grain junks, the indefinite

prolongation of which was to be avoided, if possible, lest injury to the junk

owners might ultimately create a bad feeling among the people, who, I had

reason to believe, hitherto regarded my demands as just in themselves, and

the whole affair a question with the authorities in which they were little

interested .

I therefore determined , without further delay, on sending a statement

(copy of which is inclosed marked No. 3) addressed to the Governor -General

at Nanking, with the whole of the Chinese correspondence, claiming that redress

which I could not obtain from the Taoutae, and requesting that a delegate of

rank might be sent down to institute the necessary inquiries on the spot, and

take the most rigorous and effective measures to seize the ringleaders.

In my letter, marked No. 4, to the Senior Naval Officer, Captain Pitman,

requesting that a passage to Nanking might be afforded the Vice -Consul and

Interpreter in one of Her Majesty's ships, I explain fully the grounds upon

which I held such a measure expedient.

Captain Pitman's answer, No. 5, placing Her Majesty's sloop “ Espiègle ”

at my disposal conveys his full concurrence in the expediency of the measure,

and his conviction of its importance for the protection of British interests at

this port.

Mr. Vice - Consul Robertson's instructions are marked No. 6. lle is

therein directed to deliver my statement to the Governor-General in person ,

and if possible to secure the dispatch of a delegate of rank before the

“ Espiègle ” returned.

Any further delay I conceived would only complicate matters. The arrival

of men to personate the offenders was to be expected; and in the event of mis

chievous efforts on the part of the authorities to stir up the junk owners and

others to force the passage of the river for the grain boats, impatient under the

idea of an indefinite period of delay, I felt the dispatch of the brig would give

me the means of arresting any proceedings of the nature indicated, both on

the part of the authorities and the people, by announcing a reference to

Nanking and the speedy arrival of an answer from the Governor -General.

These expectations have been fully realized . On the 21st instant I

received, inclosure No. 7, a letter from the Taoutaeannouncing the return of

the Haefang with two of the ringleaders. My reply, No. 8, informed him that

I would bring the three parties who had beenattacked to identify the prisoners

the following day:

The inclosed minute of the interview , No. 9, will show the silly imposition

attempted. One man was certainly not the party he pretended to be ; and in

all probability the other merely personated for a certain sum one of the real

offenders.

The week since the departure of the “ Espiègle ” has been one continued

struggle on the part of the authorities, by every kind of subterfuge and

maneuvre, to extricate the grain junks, at the same time that they officially

coinmunicated to me the absence of all efforts or intention on their part. At

first some of the junks already laden were sent down, when these were turned

back, junks partially laden with grain, and covered over with cotton or bricks

tried to pass; finally, a number of empty junks were dispatched, and these

being allowed to pass, the next tide brought down from twenty to thirty small

129

boats covered over with bricks, &c., but laden with grain , for the purpose of

loading the empty junks in the reach below.

The duty of stopping such a number of boats and junks is of course

harassing, and some few no doubt may have escaped, but the number is so

small that, compared with the large fleet of some 500 now ready for sea, the

Taoutae's position cannot have been improved. No collision or injury has

resulted from these attempts, which are simply wearisome.

On the 23rd instant I received a deputation from the junk owners and

others, who desired to represent to me that further detention would be injurious

to them , and Itook the opportunity of pointing out to them that the outrage

offered in the first instance, and the subsequent impunity of the offenders, was

so far from being a small affair, as I had understood some of them represented

it in comparison with the detention of 1,000 junks, that a repetition of such

injuriesmust tend to a renewal of hostilities, which, as a grievous calamity to

them , I was very anxious to avert by the much milder measure of detaining

for a time, until redress was afforded, the Government grain in the river.

Having learned the evening before that intelligence had been received at

the Taoutae's office of the sailing up the Yang-tsze -keang of an European

vessel, I no longer felt any hesitation, considering also that aa four days' start

had been obtained, in relieving the minds of the junk holders, by informing

them that in a few days a ship from Nanking would return , bringing I presume

the answer of the Governor -General, to whom the whole matter had been

referred, at which they expressed the most unequivocal satisfaction, anticipating

the certain termination of all further difficulty as a necessary result , and

apparently the removal of the Taoutae suggested itself to their minds, as a

further subject of congratulation.

An hour previously I had given the same information to the Taoutae

(No. 10), who replied on the 24th (No. 11), agreeing that it was necessary to

at patiently the results of my communication to the Governor -General, and

tempting to persuade me that all the vessels and boats daily proceeding

down the river with grain formed no portion of that which was destined for

Peking.

I learn that the Nea-tae , or Provincial Judge, has arrived from Soo -chow

at Tsing -poo, and he reports that he has actually apprehended two of the chief

offenders , while the Canton merchant, known as Sam - qua, has made his

appearance here, and tells me he has been sent in haste by the Lieutenant

Governor at Soo-chow, to assure me that the Lieutenant -Governor regards with

great displeasure the Taoutae’s conduct in the recent affair, and to invite

me, in communication with the Nea- tae, to devise some equitable mode of

adjustment.

As Sam -qua is not accredited by any letter or document addressed to me

from the Lieutenant-Governor, I can only consider him , notwithstanding his

purchased official rank, as unauthorized to enter into any official communication.

His object appears to be to obtain the sailing of the grain junks, upon the

production of two offenders, under guarantee of the Provincial Judge, that the

remainder shall be seized within a given time, while he also affirms that as soon

as the affair has ceased to attract so much attention, the Taoutae will be

removed .

For such a termination I am prepared to treat, as probable the best attain

able, and if even two of the real offenders can be identified and punished, the

object I had in view, when I first insisted upon redress, will have been accom

plished. An example of the serious consequences of injury to British subjects,

with refusal of redress will have been made, which, taking into consideration all

the attendant circumstances, must, I am satisfied, have the best effect, both at

Shanghae, and in the country.

The bulk of the people, as I have previously stated, are peaceably enough

disposed while the fear of consequ nces is over them : but it was necessary to

prove to the ill-disposed among them , and to the junk population more espe

cially, that no difficulty would be allowed to stand in the way of redress for such

an outrage as British subjects had suffered in this instance, and that even if the

local authorities were disposed to hold back , means would be found, through

their own superior officers, of enforcing more rigorous measures.

I see much reason to believe that this will be attained without injurious

collision or loss, either to the foreign community or the Chinese at this port,

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and, in that case, I am sanguine in the hope that permanent benefit may be

the result.

I have, &c.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK.

Inclosure 2 in No. 54 .

Notification .

( Translation .)

ALCOCK, Her Britannic Majesty's Consul, notifies the following to all the

owners of rice junks now at anchor in the Hwang - poo, and others, for their full

information .

Three British subjects were lately murderously attacked and plundered at

Tsing-poo by a number of grain junk men ; the authorities have delayed from day

to day, merely looking idly around them , neither prosecuting nor adjusting the

matter according to the laws, I , the Consul, am , therefore, obliged to compel

them to afford redress, and, therefore, none of the above vessels can leave the

port with rice until the affair has been satisfactorily arranged.

But as I would not wish that any injury be intlicted upon the good people,

I first make this known by notification . From the date of this notice let none

of you, junk owners, or others, move your vessels. Should you offer any opposi

tion, then the vessel of war of my nation, now in the river, will open her great

guns , and you will be involved in misery of your own seeking. Say not that I

gave you not timely notice.

A special notification .

Dated 14th day of the 2nd month of the Woo -shin year. (March 18, 1848.)

Inclosure 3 in No. 54.

Consul Alcock to the Governor- General of Nanking.

ALCOCK , Consul, & c . , makes this statement :

On the Sth instant three British subjects, Mr. Medhurst, Mr. Lockhart,

and Mr. Muirhead, Missionaries of the English nation, were on an excursion to

Tsing-poo , within the limits assigned at this port, and while peaceably distri

buting their tracts to those who desired to have them , were assailed with stones,

and pressed upon by some grain junk men . Seeing that these men were

disposed to seek some pretext for creating a disturbance , my countrymen, very

properly, determined on immediately leaving the city, that no injury might arise

to any one ; and, being able to speak the language, they remonstrated with the

men, and were allowed to pass through the crowd, and out of the city, without

molestation,

When on their way to the boat by the side of the canal, they heard behind

a number of men shouting, and on turning saw some twenty or thirty grain junk

men armed with swords, chains, clubs, hoes, &c . , who, as they approached,

threatened with furious gestures to kill them .

My countrymen being but three in number, and, moreover, peaceable and

inoffensive, desiring above all things to avoid violence to themselves or others,

seeing these men too excited to listen to reason, ran for their lives in the hope

of regaining their boat.

This was soon found to be impossible , and they accordingly stood still ;

and, when their pursuers came up, it was found that they were another set of

grain junk men, and not those with whom they had remonstrated in the city.

They were asked why they thus pursued and threatened peaceable foreigners,

and were answered that one of the grain junk men had been killed in the city,

and they would now kill the foreigners.

With no better pretext than this miserable falsehood, the ruffians fell upon

my countrymen with all their weapons, felled them to the ground, wounding two

of them in the head, and severely injuring all, without regard to the white hairs

of the most aged of the party, whom they beat, kicked, and trampled on with

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the greatest barbarity. Not a blow was struck by the British ; and in return

for all the ill -treatment they received, believing their lives would be taken with

the same atrocity as had been displayed at Canton so recently, they merely

endeavoured, by entreaty and remonstrance, to soften the hearts of their

assailants. One man several times, armed with a sword, attempted to drag

Mr. Lockhart down, threatening to cut off his head ; but, fortunately, Mr. Lockhart

struggled, and kept his feet.

When they had been completely crippled, and disabled from offering, if

they had desired, the slightest resistance, they were plundered of watches,

spectacles, and whatever they had about them, including part of their clothes ;

and when nothing more was to be obtained, the junk men consulted whether

they should kill them on the spot, or take them to the grain junks on the other

side of the city, and there hold them prisoners for a large ransom .

As Mr. Medhurst and Mr. Lockhart understood their language, all this

was clearly heard.

The majority appeared to decide on taking them to the grain junks, and

when on their way, and near to the city, some of the Che-heen's men mingled

with them ; and when the party arrived at a bridge leading to the eity gate, a

difference of opinion existing among the grain junk men whether their prisoners

should be taken through the city, or round on the outside, the latter, aided by

the police runners, and surrounded by a number of peaceable citizens, managed

to escape to the other side, and so entered the city. They were taken through

the streets, covered with blood, their clothes rent, and their bodies covered with

contusions. They were seen in this pitiable state by thousands of the well

disposed inhabitants, who could not help expressing sympathy and sorrow for

those who had suffered such unprovoked violence.

On arriving at the Che -heen's, that officer received them with civility,

promised immediately to have the guilty parties apprehended, and the stolen

property restored ; and after they had somewhat recovered, he sent them to

their boat, and on to Shanghae, with an escort, where they arrived, and aid

their complaint before me, with all the evidence of the murderous nature of the

attack .

After careful examination, it is quite certain that the only shadow of

provocation for any angry feeling was a slight scratch oa the face, received from

the end of Mr. Lockhart's stick, who with his back to the crowd, in stretching

out his arms trying thus peaceably to prevent the crowd of junk men, who were

pressing forward and hustling him , froin injuring his more aged companion in

front, inadvertently grazed the cheek of a sailor.

But the party who attacked were not even the same men, and nothing can

be more certain than the fact that these ruffians, without any plea or pretext

whatever, determined to fall upon the defenceless foreigners for the purpose of

either plundering or murdering them , or both .

Before the officers returned to Tsing -poo on the 9th instant, I saw his

Excellency the Taoutae, and bringing before him the enormity of the crime

committed, and the certain insecurity to British life that must result, if so

grievous an outrage, seen by thousands, were allowed to pass without full and

immediate redress, I urged the necessity of the most prompt and vigorous

measures being taken to seize a few of the principal offenders without delay,

that they might be brought here to be identified, and afterwards punished

according to law.

It is now twelve days since the outrage was committed, and not one of

these criminals have been seized.

Perceiving that redress was not afforded, that all my remonstrances failed

in procuring the seizure of the offenders, I called upon his Excellency the

Taoutae on the 13th instant ( the 5th day after the occurrence ), pointed out to

him that delay, under such circumstances, could only be looked upon as a

denial of justice, and was not only calculated to exercise the most disastrous

influence upon our relations at this port, but directly to compromise both life

and property. Finding that really nothing had, up to that time, been effected,

I reluctantly notified the necessity I was under of stopping the payment of all

duties on British ships, and the sailing of the grain junks, until ten of the chief

offenders had been seized and brought down to Shanghae.

His Excellency the Taoutae has pleaded his inability to comply with my

requests within any definite or reasonable period . But this ple of inability,

132

becomes, in fact, a plea of irresponsibility for anyinjury or outrage that may be

offered a British subject, and were it once allowed, would invalidate the Treaty.

I, therefore, in accordance with the 4th Clause of the American Treaty, to the

privileges of which we are entitled, address myself direct to your Excellency

and claim that redress at your hands, which cannot be obtained from the local

authorities.

It will be very evident to your Excellency, that without the efficient

protection of the Chinese authorities , no foreigners can enjoy that security for

life and property, and freedom from molestation, solemnly guaranteed by the

Emperor of China to all British subjects within his dominions, by the Treaty

of Nanking, not less clear is it that when criminals who put life and property

in peril by brutal outrage, as in this instance, in open day and the vicinity of a

populous city, are not promptly seized and punished, there is in fact no

protection, and the most important provisions of the Treaty are violated.

It is impossible that Her Britannic Majesty should permit the lives of her

subjects, wherever they are permitted by Treaty to reside, to be thus perilled,

without protection or redress being offered by the Chinese authorities, and to

avert the consequences of a continued denial of justice at this port, I have to

request that your Excellency will be pleased , without delay, to appoint and

dispatch a delegate of rank, authorized to institute the necessary inquiries on

the spot, and to take the most rigorous and effective measures at once to seize

the ringleaders in this murderous outrage.

It is of course my duty to report the whole of the circumstances to Her

Majesty's Plenipotentiary, and request his Excellency's instructions, but as

considerable time must elapse before these can be received, or any steps can be

taken here, in consequence of communication with the Imperial Commissioner

at Canton, I have deemed it imperative to prevent, if possible, the bad effects

of any further delay, by sending this statement to the chief authority of the

Province .

Her Majesty's Vice -Consul Robertson, second officer at this port, is the

bearer of this statement to your Excellency, to whom he is directed to deliver

it in person, and he is accompanied by the interpreter Parkes, that he may

afford any further information your Excellency may desire. He is fully cognizant

of all the circumstances. For the better attainment of this object, I also send

the whole of the correspondence between his Excellency the Taoutae and

myself , and I trust that your Excellency will see the absolute necessity for

quickly complying with my request, that a great wrong in the violation of our

Treaty Rights may be redressed , and the great scheme of commercial inter

course , and the maintenance of friendly relations, between the two countries

ensured .

Her Majesty's Vice -Consul will wait with the ship of war, that he may

bring me back information of the departure of the officer I have requested

might be sent, and your Excellency's answer to this important statement.

Inclosure 4 in No. 54 .

Consul Alcock to Commander Pitman .

Sir, Shanghae, March 19, 1848.

SIX days have now elapsed since I notified to his Excellency the Taoutae

my determination to stop the payment of duties on British ships, and the

sailing of the fleet of Government grain junks now in the river (amounting to

more than a thousand in number), and further to adopt whatever means might

be in my power to compel prompt redress for the grievous outrage offered to

British subjects six days previous to such notification. Nevertheless the chief

offenders, demanded on the 9th instant, the day after the attack took place, have

not yet been seized .

The Taoutae, who has been with me this morning, with a view to induce

me to take off the embargo on the grain junks, gives me no reasonable ground

to hope that the criminals willshortly or certainly be seized. On the contrary,

if any credence is to be attached to the statements of the local authorities,

they have been allowed to escape from Tsing - poo, necessitating, I fear, both a

133

long and doubtful pursuit ; whether effective measures have even now been

taken to insure their ultimate apprehension is at the best uncertain, and yet

I have abundant evidence that the obstructive measures adopted, have greatly

alarmed the Taoutae , and that he at last sees and feels Her Majesty's Consul

has, at this moment, both the power and the will to involve him in the most

serious difficulties.

There is a very general impression among the Chinese, that in the first

instance the chief parties implicated, or a few of them might have been seized —

whatever difficulty may now be experienced is to be attributed to the dilatory

proceedings of all the local authorities, immediately after the occurrence of the

outrage. Having maturely weighed all the circumstances, and the unsatisfactory

aspect of the negotiations, I am satisfied the time has now come to advance à

step further, and carry the claim for redress to Nanking, where the Governor

General of this Province resides . It has been found impossible by any coercive

but pacific measures, to obtain justice here, and in such cases it has been

provided by the 4th clause of the French and American Treaties, that the

Consul, shall, if he see fit, communicate with the superior authority of the

Province .

Such a step, therefore, is sanctioned by Treaty, and it is further calculated,

I conceive, to afford aa lesson of salutary influence hereafter to the local autho

rities of this port, by showing them that unredressed injury to British subjects

residing within their jurisdiction, may at any time be carried before the superior

authority of the Province, in a manner so unacceptable by the presence of

a ship of war, as seriously to compromise their position with their own

Government.

There cannot be the slightest doubt that, but for the fortuitous circum

stance that a large fleet of grain junks laden for Pekin , and ready to be

dispatched by sea, was in the river-an event that has never happened before,

and the chance which brought on the instant, as it were, two of Her Majesty's

ships into the port, to support the demands of the Consul, these, however

pressing, would up to the present moment have received little attention. When

it is further considered, that with these unusual advantages, it has been found

impossible either to obtain redress, or any satisfactory guarantee that it will be

aiforded even after longer delay, it must be evident that a stronger measure still

is required to attain that end, and one I repeat that will if possible leave behind

it a strong and permanent impression of the immediate danger to the local

authorities of any conduct calculated so seriously to compromise our best

interests, and our security at Shanghae.

It only remains for me, therefore, to beg that you will be pleased

to afford passages in one of Her Majesty's ships to Nanking, to Brooke

Robertson , Esq., Her Majesty's Vice-Consul, and H. Parkes, Esq., the officiating

Interpreter, together with a Chinese Clerk and two official messengers.

The Vice -Consul will be the bearer of an official communication to

the Governor -General, detailing all the facts, and demanding redress . As the

Taoutae has, I conceive, wholly failed in the discharge of this part of his duty,

I shall request that an officer of rank be sent down to take more effective

measures, and it appears to me desirable that a discretionary power should

be left with the commanding officer of Her Majesty's ship in communication

with the Vice - Consul, to defer his return for a period not exceeding six days, in

in order that Mr. Robertson may have the opportunity of thus enforcing

my request, that an officer of rank shall be dispatched befor the ship leaves.

The Vice-Consul's instructions are to deliver the official communication of

which he is the bearer, to the Governor-General in person, and to him alone.

If the Governor -General refuse to afford the opportunity of doing so, the

Vice- Consul will report the same to the commanding officer, and the ship

should , in that case, return without delay.

I have, &c .

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

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Inclosure 5 in No. 54 .

Commander Pitman to Consul Alcock.

Sir, Shanghae, March 19, 1848.

IN reply to your letter of this day's date, I beg leave to acquaint you that

I have placed Her Majesty's sloop “ Espiègle ” ai your disposal, and that she

will be ready to sailatdaylight to-morrow morning. I have ordered a passage

for B. Robertson, Esq ., Her Majesty's Vice-Consul, and others, who are the

bearers of your official despatch to the Governor-General of this Province at

Nanking, and I have directed Commander Campbell to carry out your wishes.

As a period of eleven days has elapsed since the violent outrage was

committed on the English Missionaries, and his Excellency the Taoutae not

having afforded that redress, which it appears he had quite in his power at first,

but now may have some difficulty in doing, I consider under these circumstances

you have adopted the only measures to obtain redress and a satisfactory answer ;

had such not been done I am fully persuaded that our best interests would have

been compromised at this port.

Being quite aware of the great responsibility you have taken upon yourself,

of which I bear a share, but in my own opinion the time has arrived to show

the Chinese Government that English subjects cannot be so shamefully treated

under the immediate eyes of their own officers, without bringing punishment

upon the offenders ; and I do hope that Iler Majesty's Plenipotentiary and

Government will see the necessity of the steps that have been adopted by you,

in which I most cordially agree, and have tendered mybest support.

It is calculated, I conceive, to teach the authorities here that such

atrocious acts cannot go unpunished, and it will further tend, I trust, for

the better protection of Her Majesty's subjects, and of the English flag from

insult.

I have, & c.

( Signed) J. C. PITMAN .

Inclosure 6 in No. 54 .

Consul Alcock to Vice - Consul Robertson .

Sir, Shanghae, March 19, 1848.

HER Majesty's ship “ Espiègle ” will leave the anchorage at daybreak

to-morrow for Nanking, and I have to request that you will proceed with her to

that city and be the bearer of the inclosed communication to the Governor

General of the province.

On your arrival you will take the necessary steps to make known to his

Excellency that you are instructed to deliver to him in person, a statement

from Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at this port , and you will use your

best endeavours, taking care to avoid anything that may compromise your

own position or that of the Consul, to effect this the principal object of your

mission .

You will see by the inclosed letter to the Senior Naval Officer, Captain

Pitman, the instructions I have requested might be given to the Commander of

Her Majesty's ship “ Espiègle. ”

He will, no doubt, be authorized, in communication with you, to exercise a

discretionary power to delay his return for a period of six days, should you

conceive the presence of the “ Espiègle ” may expedite the departure of a

delegate from the Governor-General, which I consider an object of great

importance.

Whenever this be announced within the above period, you will , of course,

signify to Captain Campbell that the return of his ship need not be further

delayed. And should you see occasion to do so, in any interview with the

Governor-General, you are authorized to intimate that the period of departure

must, in some degree , be contingent upon that of a delegate for Shangliae. In

my official letter to his Excellency, I have referred him to you should he desire

135

any further particulars respecting the recent outrage at Tsing -poo, and my

communications with the Taoutae . The whole of the correspondence has been

inclosed.

Mr. Parkes, a writer, and two official messengers, will be under your

orders and accompany you, and should any unforeseen contingencies render

communication with me desirable before your return, the messenger can be

dispatched inland, I presume with safety, and should it appear necessary, means

will be found of sending you an answer by the same short route.

I have, &c .

(Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK ..

Inclosure 7 in No. 54 .

The Taoutae to Consul Alcock.

( Translation .)

HEEN, by Imperial Appointment, ' Military Intendant of Circuit of

Soo - chow -foo, Sung- Keang-foo and Taetsang -chow , makes this communication .

This morning, at about 8 o'clock, the Sub-prefect Chin, returned from

Tsing-poo, having seized two grain junk sailors, ringleaders in the late affray,

named Lew Juhfa, and Wang Juhshan, together with an iron spade and a

rattan stick ; accordingly on their arrival, I, the Taoutae, together with the

Sub.prefect and Magistrate, summoned the vagabonds before us us for

interrogation . They confessed in their evidence, having struck and wounded

the British subjects , and it is most evident and clear that they are the

ringleaders , without a doubt. I, therefore, make this communication to you ,

the Honourable Consul, and beg that you will depute people to my office, in

order that they may be clearly and truly identified and punished as the law

directs . It will be fortunate if there is not the slightest delay.

A necessary communication .

Taoukwang, 28th year,, 2nd month, 17th day: (21st March , 1848.)

Inclosure 8 in No. 54 .

Consul Alcock to the Taoutae.

March 21 , 1848.

I HAVE just received your communication which I have thoroughly

understood, to the effect that two of the ringleaders of the grain junk sailors

engaged in the late affray had been seized, and requesting me to depute people

to your office in order that they might be truly identified, &c .

I, the Consul, will in person, accompanied by the three British subjects,

proceed to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock to your honourable office, in order 1

that they may be clearly identified.

I send this reply, wishing you joyful days.

21st March, 1848 .

Inclosure 9 in No. 54.

Minute.

Minute of conference with his Excellency the Taoutae, held at the Taoutae's

residence on the 22nd instant ; present the Hae-fang and Che-heen ; and

accompanying Her Majesty's Consul, Captain Pitman , RN . , F. Harvey,

Esq., and Messrs. the Rev. W. H. Medhurst, Muirhead, and W. Lockhart.

THE Taoutae having in his note of the previous day acquainted the

Consul that the Hae-fang had returned from Tsing-poo, bringing with him two

of the ringleaders in the late outrage, who confessed to have been actively

T 2

136

engaged in stirring up their companions and assaulting the foreigners. The

Consul had replied that at 10 o'clock this morning he would be with the

Taoutae and bring the injured parties to see if they could identify the

prisoners.

The two prisoners having been brought forward, were examined by Messrs.

Medhurst, Lockhart, and Muirhead, but they severally affirmed, without a

moment's hesitation, that these men had not been among the more active of

their assailants, and that they did not recognise them in the least as of the

party. The flower-spade of Mr. Lockhart, and the walking - stick of Mr.

Medhurst produced, were certainly not taken from them by these men, the first

having been thrown away in the field by Mr. Lockhart himself, and the latter

was seized by some other party.

The Taoutae contended that these articles proved the identity of the men

as ringleaders or principals in the assault —that the prisoners themselves

confessed their active participation, the one stating himself to be the junk man

whom Mr. Lockhart had wounded in the face .

This man on being asked whether that occurrence took place at the east

or the west gate, replied at the south gate, the accident having taken place in

the centre of the city. Moreover, he pointed to his forehead as the place where

he received the scratch, Mr. Lockhart distinctly deposing to its having been his

cheek and not his forehead . He is quite assured this is not the man , whom he

could easily recognise, and , moreover, if it were him , he was not among the

number of their assailants, consequently was not one of the parties demanded

as the ringleader in the assault.

Any discussion as to these being the principals seemed, after this palpable

attempt at imposture, superfluous . The Consul contented himself, therefore,

with pointing out the manifest falsehood involved in the evidence, and stating

that acting from no personal or vindictive feeling, but from a firm conviction

that the security of British subjects and the maintenance of peaceful relations

were dependent upon redress being obtained for such serious outrages, he had

taken the strong measures which the occasion seemed to demand, and must

continue in the same course until adequate satisfaction should be obtained .

These two prisoners could at best only be considered as the forerunners of those

principal offenders whose apprehension had been insisted upon and promised

from the beginning, and he should sincerely rejoice to see these unpleasant

nogotiations terminated by such redress being afforded as could not be denied

without injustice and a violation of treaties.

The Taoutae replied that the authorities were most anxious to do all in

their power ; that the Leang -taou, or Superintendent of the Grain Department,

and the Judge of the Province had been dispatched to Tsing -poo to proceed

against and seize the offenders, which abundantly proved the willingness of the

authorities to afford redress.

The Consul stated that he looked upon these measures as the first evidence

that had been afforded of a desire that justice should finally be done, and he

rejoiced therefore to learn that such steps had been taken.

The Taoutae observed that the Consul must bear in mind the Chinese rule

for managing such affairs was first to use small means, and proceed by degrees

to call into play stronger and more ample powers. They had accordingly done

so in this instance, and no doubt more of the offenders would be seized, but he

feared that after all they might not be identified, as in the hurry and excite

ment it was probable the injured parties paid little attention to the countenances

of their assailants .

The Consul said no doubt it might be difficult for the parties who for so

long a time were brutally maltreated and put in peril of their lives to recognize

the faces of all their assailants, but it could hardly be that among the twenty

or thirty of the more active of these men , in whose hands Mr. Medhurst and

his companions remained for probably an hour or more , there should not be

many whom the latter could at once and distinctly recognize if they saw them .

The Taoutae must also bear in mind, as suggested by Mr. Lockhart, that many

of the parties whose apprehension the Consul demanded, had been under the

eyes of, and in close contact for a considerable period, with ten or twelve of the

Che -heen's policemen, and they must if they chose be able to identify the

more guilty of the plunderers. Ile repeated that if these men escaped with

impunity, such deplorable scenes must be expected to recur with a frequency

137

and danger to life which could not fail to embroil the two countries. In

firmly pressing for justice in the present instance, therefore, Her Majesty's

Consul looked beyond the immediate results, and was in truth trying to

avert still greater calamities, of a nature to be deplored by both nations .

The Taoutae admitted in general terms the justice of these remarks, but

regretted the extreme difficulty of complete success in their efforts to apprehend

a number of the principal offenders, there being men who hang on to the

junks as it were, who do not properly belong them ; they are not therefore

duly registered , nor are the officersof the junks responsible for their actions.

With these remarks the interview ended .

( Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK, Consul.

Inclosure 10 in No. 54 .

Consul Alcock to the Tuoutae.

ALCOCK, Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at Shanghae, makes this

communication .

Notwithstanding your Excellency has been informed that, until redress

has been afforded for the late outrage, the Government grain junks will not be

allowed to leave the river, the attempt is being daily made pursuant to your

orders of last week , and by threes, fours, and fives, they sail down to the ship

of-war, and are then turned back , incurring all the risk of a collision, which

could only complicate the affair in a degree that must be prejudicial to all

parties; and now, to -day, a new attempt has been made by sending down

small boats laden with rice, that large and empty junks below may take it in,

which is against all reason .

I have now sent a ship -of-war to Nanking, with a statement of all that

has passed, to the Governor-General, claiming at his Excellency's hands that

justice I have been unable to induce you, the IIonourable Taoutae, to afford .

Many days cannot elapse before the answer of his Excellency will be here, and

in the meantime I must beg you to consider well, that a collision between the

man -of-war of my nation and the grain junks is of more serious importance

than the temporary delay of these junks, and I again repeat to your Excellency

that all the consequences of any such collision must rest upon your Excellency's

head, and not upon mine. I therefore make this communication, and beg that

you will give it your best consideration.

A necessary communication .

March 23, 1848 .

Inclosure 11 in No. 54 .

The Taoutae to Consul Alcock.

( Translation .)

HEEN , by Imperial appointment, Superintendent of Maritime Customs

in Keang -soo, Military Intendant of Circuit of Soo -chow -foo, Sung-keang -foo,

and Taetsang -chow, makes this communication in reply.

I have received a communication from you, the Honourable Consul, stating

( Here follows an extract of Mr. Consul Alcock's letter, of 23rd March ).

On receiving this, I find that with regard to the late outrage uopn certain

British subjects by the grain junk men, I, the Taoutae, recently petitioned the

high officers on the subject, and have now heard that they have deputed officers

of high rank to proceed in haste to Tsing -poo and there direct the local,

civil, and military officers, together with the officers in charge of the junks, to

make strict seizures of the vagabonds, who will now be seized and brought

down in a few days.

The Honourable Consul, having now deputed a man -of-war to proceed to

Nanking, with a statement of all the circumstances, we must wait until the

138

Governor -General, Le, has made himself aquainted with the whole of the

circumstances, when he can settle the affair. But I find that with regard to

the grain junks they all carry a tlag, and are easily recognized ; moreover, they

are all anchored in the middle of Hwang -poo river. That which the small

boats carry, however, is the rice that is brought from various places to put

into the large junks, not intending at this time to go out of the port. I must,

therefore, beg the Honourable Consul to examine clearly into the affair, when

he will find it to be so . At present we can only wait quietly untill the high

officers have made seizure of the vagabonds, or until the reply of the Governor

General, Le, is received, when we can again proceed towards settling this affair.

A necessary communication .

March 24 , 1818 .

Inclosure 12 in No. 54 .

Consul Alcock to Sir J. Daris.

Sir, Shanghae, March 31 , 1818 .

I HAVE the honour to report the successful termination of my efforts to

obtain the apprehension and punishment of the ringleaders in the Tsing -poo

outrage.

Immediately after the sailing of Her Majesty's sloop “ Espiègle ” up the

Yang -tze-keang was known at Soo -chow , the Nee -tae (or Provincial Judge) was

dispatched to Tsing-poo with peremptory orders to seize the offenders, while

Sam -qua, a Salt Commissioner , was sent down to Shanghae from the Lieutenant

Governor, to inform me that this step had been taken. On the 29th instant

the Nee- tae arrived, and having paid me a visit , a meeting was arranged

at the Che -heen's, in order that the prisoners he had brought might be

identified .

The same afternoon, accompanied by Captain Pitman, of Her Majesty's

sloop “ Childers,” and the three British subjects who had suffered the injury, I

met the whole of the local authorities at Che -heen's residence, and on the ten

prisoners being produced , two were immediately identified, the one as having

wielded with the most vindictive violence an instrument of torture, formed like a

chain with an iron tongue at the end, and the other a sword, while he made

several attempts to drag Mr. Lockhart to the ground. Several of the remainder

were recognized as having been among the assailants.

On being thus assured that the real criminals, whom I had demanded , were

now produced, I expressed my satisfaction, and they were all placed in the cangue

on the spot, sentenced to this punishment for one month , and to be exposed in

front of the new Custom -house daily, after which their further punishment or

liberation remained to be determined according to law, and in communication

with Her Majesty's Consul.

This full and complete reparation left nothing to be desired , and at the

request of the Nee-tae, I immediately relieved the grain junks of the embargo,

and consented to the resumption of payment of the maritime duties.

Shortly afterwards the Nee-tae and the local authorities of Shanghae, with

the officers and gentlemen who had accompanied me, returned to the Consulate

and partook of some refreshment, thus giving to the people a ready proof of

restored amicable relations.

The following day I paid a visit of ceremony to the Nee-tae with Captain

Pitman, and the former returned in the cutter of the “ Childers ” with us, in

order to pay a visit on board Her Majesty's sloop “ Childers," and to see some

European houses ; after which, at my suggestion, he visited Mr. Medhurst, to

examine the printing-press, and Mr. Lockhart , to see the Chinese hospital under

his charge, which had all the grace of a special attention to the parties who

had suffered the outrage.

These movements of the Nee-tae of couse attracted much attention among

the Chinese, and seemed well calculated to inspire confidence in the perfect

restoration of harmony between the authorities of both nations.

At the Nee-tae’s request, I issued the inclosed notice to the junk owners

and sailors, acquainting them , that justice having been obtained by the seizure

139

and punishment of ten of the ringleaders, no further obstacle existed to the

sailing of the grain junks.

On the same day, it had been agreed between his Excellency, the Nee-tae,

and myself, that he should address to me an official communication, reporting

the seizure of ten of the principal offenders, their punishment in the cangue, and

subsequent amenability to the laws of the country ; any further punishment,

or their liberation, only taking place in communication with Her Majesty's

Consul.

The official note came on the 30th : but so obviously calculated to misrepre

sent the facts, give a false colouring to the outrage, and leave the power in the

hands of the authorities to make the punishment merely nominal, that it was

forthwith returned with a verbal remonstrance, and such suggested alterations as

would defeat the purpose thus clearly manifested.

His Excellency gave evident signs of confusion and reluctance on being

called upon to make the document in accordance with the agreement entered

into the day previous, when at his request, and trusting to his good faith, I

instantly removed the embargo on the Government grain junks. After some

hesitation the required alteration was made, as the inclosed copy (in original

and translation) will show . A copy and translation of the returned letter are

annexed, in which the outrage is described as a quarrel and affray ; while the

robbery is suppressed, together with all reference to the period during which the

men were sentenced to the cangue.

Much was urged verbally by his Excellence, as to the necessity and expe

diency of leaving out the robbery, since that inight entail a capital punishment;

but warned by this last act of bad faith , and the report current among the

Chinese, that these men had been produced under promise of escape from any

serious punishment, and of a compensating bribe in money, something of the first

part having even been hinted at by the Nee-tae, it scemed to me in perative to

Jisten to no suggestions of this nature ; but simply to insist upon the whole truth

being distinctly placed on official record . Without this, there was obviously

no guarantee that the best fruit of the anxious efforts made to obtain reparation

might not be lost, and the offenders eventually escape with a reward instead of

a punishment for the murderous assault of which they had been guilty, while the

omission of the robbery reduced it to a mere quarrel, in which the blame might

be shared by both parties.

To render such a result impossible, I not only insisted upon an official

communication from the Nae-tae and Taoutae properly worded, but sent a

reply (copy in original and translation inclosed, No.16) claiming the property of

which the British subjects had been robbed, and requiring that the ten prisoners

should be daily visible in front of the new Custom-house.

Thus the difficulties which for some time threatened the most serious

consequences, have happily terminated, and there is good reason to hope that

the authorities will not again lightly venture upon a similar denial of justice, in

any case of outrage upon British subjects for which redress may be demanded.

No doubt the coercive measures adopted to effect this beneficial result were

stringent, and involved an amount of responsibility which I beg your Excellency

to believe weighed beavily upon me.I have already, in vindication of those

measures, stated fully the reasons which led me to accept so grievous a

burden, in my two previous despatches, it only remains, therefore, that

I should now state my conviction, that although some hazard of a serious

collision was unavoidable, there were many probabilities against it and in favour

of a satisfactory settlement of the important question at issue,and , finally, that

no alternative remained but to sit down under a denial of justice, disastrous to

our position here, and a long delayscarcely less prejudicial in its immediate

effects, or to take upon myself, on the spot, all the responsibility of coercive

measures .

I saw reason to conclude, and the event leaves no doubt of the correctness

of my inference, that the will not the power was wanting, and I believed the

means were in my hands, at the moment before the sailing of the grain junks,

of making it the interest of the authorities, as the lesser of two evils, to afford

the fullest reparation . Means which I conceived might be employed in strict

accordance with the best established principles of international law, without

incurring greater risk than the interests at stake would justify.

Of compulsory measures three were at my command , each progressively

140

more severe in their pressure upon the local authorities, but all of which seemed

to me from the very beginning so essential, as mutually supporting each other,

that I scarcely hoped for a successful issue by the employment of even the first

two.

To stop the payment of duties on British ships, was a measure which

prodluced no inconvenience that might not easily be borne for weeks or months,

it would not, therefore, prevent delay. The embargo on the fleet of 1,000

government grain junks, on the point of sailing for Peking, 10 a certain extent

supplied the means of compelling instant attention, but with the authorities

1 here it only led to miserable subterfuges,attempts at personation of criminals,

&c . The danger and embarrassment to them was no doubt serious,but so long

as they could entertain a hope that the detention of the junks would not reach

the ears of the superior authorities, or that their own garbled statement would

alone be received and credited, no effective measures were taken. The sailing

of a ship of war for Nanking at once dispelled all illusory hopes of this nature,

and no sooner was this known at Soo - chow , as I have stated, than the Nee-tae's

departure thence left nothing further to be done or desired.

The final result, beneficial as regards our immediate security and interests

here, may, I trust, exercise a wider and a permanent influence by counteracting

the effect of any hostile collision at Canton, and guarding the daily increasing

trade of this port from interruption or injurious reaction, pending the adjust

ment of similar but more embarrassing questions at the former. In this view I

felt much was to be risked, and that the immediate and prospective importance

of Shanghae alike made it imperative npon the Consul not to shrink from any

personal responsibility to secure so great an advantage.

A large fleet of the junks sailed to -day, and there is at this moment a

general feeling of satisfaction throughout Shanghae, I believe, that such a

crisis has been passed without bloodshed or injury to a single individual.

As ships' duties to some amount were kept back during the fifteen days

embargo, II purpose from the proceeds to liquidate the claims of British subjects

on certain assets of the bankrupt Foqua, made away with under the present

Taoutae's authority, respecting which I received your Excelleney's instructions,

and the Attorney-General's opinion in despatch of 5th July, 1847, taking care

to inform his Excellency of the steps taken, and the grounds for thus doing

ourselves justice before the balance of duties is paid up.

I cannot conclude this despatch without bringing specially under the notice

of Her Majesty's Government the able, zealous, and cordial support I have

received throughout these harassing negotiations from Captain Pitman, com

manding Her Majesty's sloop “ Childers.” The responsibility of the measures

adoptedmust of coursebe chiefly mine, while the merit of happily carrying out

the blockade is that officer's; and the execution of this arduous task by the

officers and men under his command was worthy of all praise .

To the perfect temper, judgment, and decision invariably displayed in a

partial blockade of fifteen days of peculiar difficulty, I attribute the absence of

all bad feeling, and the escape from hostile collision during the whole period,

upon which the final success ofmyefforts to obtain full and complete satisfaction,

without resorting to actual violence, essentially depended .

For your Excellency's further information on the details of these transac

tions, I beg to forward the inclosed copies of documents and correspondence,

viz . :

Notification to British subjects on the satisfactory termination of the

difficulties-marked No. 17 .

Official letter to Captain Pitman, acquainting him with the cessation of the

embargo on the Government grain junks - No. 18 .

Official letter of Captain Pitman in reply – No. 19 .

Official communication from the Consular Representatives of foreign Powers 1

at Shanghae, offering their congratulations --Inclosure No. 20.

Official communication in reply thereto - No. 21 .

Letter of thanks from the three British subjects who suffered the outrage

at Tsing -poo - Inclosure No. 22.

Letter in reply thereto - No. 23.

Resolutions of a public meeting of foreign residents, conveying their

thanks and congratulations, inclosed in a letter from the Chairman-No. 24 .

Letter in reply thereto - No. 25 .

141

Her Majesty's sloop “ Espiègle” has not yet returned, but I have ascer

tained that information reached the Governor -General before her arrival at

Nanking, and that he had issued orders that they should meet with no obstruction

or incivility.

I have, at the Nea -tae's request, written a despatch, which his Excellency

undertook to send inland , at speed, for the return of the “ Espiègle,” with Her

Majesty's Vice -Consul, without delay.

I have, &c.

( Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 13 in No. 54 .

Notification.

ALCOCK, Her Britannic Majesty's Consul, hereby notifies :

On the 18th instant I, the Consul, warned all the junk owners and others,

that the junks conveying the Government grain could not sail until the ring

leaders in a murderous assault on my countrymen at Tsing-poo had been seized

and punished .

His Excellency the Nea -tae having now arrived, and ten of these ringleaders

having been seized and punished, nothing further is desired ; justice has been

obtained, and no obstruction will be offered to the sailing of the grain junks from

this date of the war-ship of my nation ; and thus, mutualharmony and confidence

will be restored.

Taoukwang, 28th year, 2nd month,, 24th day. ((March 28, 1848.)

Inclosure 14 in No. 54 .

The Criminal Judge and the Taoutae to Consul Alcock.

( Translation .)

NE, Imperially appointed Criminal Judge in Commission of the Province

of Keang-soo, in the Chinese Empire, also having charge of the transmission

of official despatches, raised ten steps, recorded ten times;

Heen , Imperially appointed Military Intendant of Circuit of Soo - chow -foo,

Sung -keang -foo, and Taetsang-chow, in Keang-nan Province, in the Chinese

Empire, assisting in the general charge of the naval defences and the trans

mission of salts, raised ten steps, recorded ten times ;

Make this communication :

We have recently received the Honourable Consul's communication regard-

ing the case of three British subjects who were assaulted and robbed at Tsing

poo by the grain junk sailors.

We, the Criminal Judge and Taoutae, have already seized ten of the

criminals, and put them publicly in the cangue at the new Custom-house, for

the full period of one month ; after which it will be deliberated , in communica

tion with the Honourable Consul, as to those who are to be separately punished

or liberated, according to law.

Taoukwang 28th year, 2nd month, 26th day. (March 30, 1848.)

Inclosure 15 in No. 54 .

The Criminal Judge and the Troutae to Consul Alcock .

( Translation .)

NE, Imperially appointed Criminal Judge in Commission of the Province

of Keang -soo,in the Chinese Empire, also having charge of the transmission of

official despatches, raised ten steps, recorded ten times;

Heen , Imperially appointed Military Interdant of Circuit of Soo -chow -foo,

142

Sung -keang-foo, and Taetsang - chow, in Keang-nan Province, in the Chinese

Empire, assisting in the general charge of the naval defences and the trans

mission of salts, raised ten steps , recorded ten times ;

Make this communication :

We liave recently received the Honourable Consul's communication regard

ing the case of the quarrel and fight between three British subjects and sailors

of the Tsing -poo -heen.

We, the Criminal Judge at Taoutae, have already seized ten of the cri

minals, and put them publicly in the cangue, at the new Custom-house. When

the time has expired they will be separately punished or liberated, according to

law .

Taoukwang, 28th year, 2nd month. ( March 1848.) (No date . )

Inclosure 16 in No. 54 .

Consul Alcock to the Criminal Judge and the Taoutae.

ALCOCK, Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at Shanghae, makes this

communication .

I have received the official communication of you, the Honourable the

Nea - tae and the Taoutae, stating that, in reference to the case of the assault and

robbery committed on three British subjects at Tsing-poo by the grain junk

sailors, your Excellence had seized ten of the offenders, who had been sentenced

to be cangued publicly at the new Custom -house, for the full period of one

month , after which, in communication with me, the Consul, further steps would

be taken for their separate punishment or lberation, according to law. “ All this

I have understood, and find it so far proper and suitable.

But at the time that these British subjects were assaulted, they were

likewise robbed of several articles, a list of which was on the day of the robbery

delivered to Kin, the Che -heen of Tsing -poo. A list of the same is likewise

annexed to this letter, and I beg that you will examine the same, and cause

restitution of the property to be made.

I have also to request that ten men now in the cangue be each day

exposed at the new Custom -house from morning to night, where they may be

seen by everybody ; in this manner due warning will be given to the evil

disposed, and the ends of justice will be attained .

With regard to ulterior steps, as soon as the month has expired, the

Honourable the Nea-tae and the Taoutae will, in communication with me, the

Consul, consult and determine upon their punishment according to law, and thus

wind up and complete this affair.

Sent March 30, 1848 .

List of Articles stolen .

2 Watches.

1 pair Gold Spectacles.

1 Gloves.

3 Handkerchiefs.

A Cashmere Overall.

2 Caps.

1 Spade.

1 Silver-mounted Walking-stick, (the silver weighing one tael.)

The two last articles are at the Taoutae's office, but not the silver,

mounting

143

Inclosure 17 in No. 54.

Notification .

Shanghae, March 28, 1848 .

HER Majesty's Consul has much pleasure in stating, for the information

of the British community, that the coercive measures he saw himself compelled

to adopt fifteen days ago have been followed by complete success. The ten

ring leaders in the outrage at Tsing-poo, demanded on the 13th instant, have

this day been produced by the Wei -tae or Provincial Judge of the province.

Two of the most vicious and dangerous were at once distinctly identified by the

parties who had suffered from their violence, and several of the remainder were

recognised as having been among their assailants .

These ten offenders, in the presence of Her Majesty's Consul, the injured

parties, all the local authorities, and a large number of assistants, were put in

the cangue, on the spot, to which punishment they are sentenced for one

month , prior to any further proceedings against them , and they will be exposed

every day during that period in the public thoroughfares as a warning to all

whoare in like manner evil disposed.

The fullest satisfaction and redress having thus been afforded, it only

remains for Her Majesty's Consul to announce that the embargo on the grain

junks has been removed, and that from this date all duties will be paid as

heretofore. In reference to those remaining due for ships already cleared,

communications will be made from the Consulate to the parties interested in

due time .

This peaceful, and in every sense happy termination of difficulties, which

at one time threatened to compromise British interests at the port, is most

satisfactory. Her Majesty's Consul, remembering the unanimity and cheer

fulness with which the community signified their readiness to meet any

inconvenience the necessity for coercive measures might entail, rejoices that

the end has been attained without loss or sacrifice, and the cordial support

received from the Consular Representatives of foreign Powers at Shanghae,

who at once identified themselves with the measures taken as for a common

cause , has not, it may safely be assumed, failed in its effect.

How much is due to the judgment and decision with which a partial blockade

of peculiar difficulty has been maintained during fifteen days, by Captain

Pitman, of Her Majesty's ship “ Childers,”” must be known to the whole com

munity, who have daily witnessed the unwearied vigilance and good temper

evinced by the officers and men under his command. This task has been

accomplished, not only without injury to the large Chinese traffic on the river,

but without hostile collision or any bad feeling having been excited, a result on

which they may well be congratulated.

Security to life and property which , for a moment seemed endangered, it

is hoped is now more firmly established than before the outrage, and with

prudence and forbearance, such as his countrymen have already manifested,

and which he fully counts upon whenever their excursions may lead them to

a distance from Shanghae, Her Majesty's Consul is sanguine that they will no

longer be exposed to dangers or molestation from those whom impunity might

otherwise have emboldened. RUTHERFORD ALCOCK, Consul.

(Signed)

Inclosure 18 in No. 54.

Consul Alcock to Commander Piiman.

Sir , Shanghae, March 28, 1848 .

THE full and complete satisfaction afforded bythe authorities this day, of

which you were yourself a witness, in the seizure and instant punishment of ten

of the ringleaders in the late outrage, leaves nothing more to be demanded.

Justice, which was denied to entreaty and remonstrance, has at last been

obtained by coercive measures. There is now , therefore, no further motive for

U 2

144

keeping up an embargo on the Government grain junks, and I have informed

the Provincial Judge that from this date it should cease.

In congratulating you upon the successful termination of the difficulties

which threatened , in the most serious degree, to compromise our security at the

port, I must be permitted to convey to you the deep sense I entertain of the

service you have rendered by the firmness, vigilance, and temper, with which a

very harassing duty has been performed . To maintain a blockade during

fourteen days , applying only to a certain class of junks, undistinguishable from

the rest except by actual search, in a Chinese river crowded with boats and junks

of every kind, carrying on a large and uninterrupted traffic, and effect this com

pletely without injury to the interests of those not included in the embargo, and

without hostile collision even with those who attempted to elude your search by

the most harassing manouvres, is an achievement of which the officers and men

under your command may justly be proud.

To yourself it must be a source of great satisfaction to know that not only

the important end in view has been most completely accomplished ; but events

show that the same end could not have been attained except by such means as

were adopted. Our position , when you arrived some days ago, was most critical,

and during that period a struggle has been maintained for redress , with a full

consciousness of hazard involved by such efforts to the very interests I desired to

protect, not only less perilous than the alternative of sitting down with a denial

of justice. Thanks, I repeat, to your very efficient aid, the cordial manner in

which you met my views, and the position you enabled me to maintain , there is

nothing left to desire but that our restored friendly relations and security at

this port may be as permanent as they are satisfactory.

I have, &c .

( Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 19 in No. 54 .

Commander Pitman to Consul Alcock.

Sir, Shanghae, March 29, 1848.

I BEG leave to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of yesterday's date,

and to acquaint you that orders were given last evening to allow the Govern

ment grain junks to depart.

The redress so fully afforded by the arrival of the Provincial Judge , with

ten of the ringleaders in the late outrage at Tsing-poo, must be a great satisfac

tion to you, and most sincerely do I congratulate you upon the succesful ter

mination of your late harassing negotiations, which , from the obstinacy of the

authorities here, were so likely to place you in great difficulties.

Accept my sincere thanks for the flattering manner in which you have

conveyed to me your thanks for the service which has been rendered by the

officers and crew of Her Majesty's sloop under my command during the blockade

of fourteen days, a service most annoying at all times, but more particularly so

in this instance, where we had only one class to detain out of so many descrip

tions of vessels as are employed in this river, therefore necessarily obliging us

to board them all ; and I am proud to say that such service has been performed

with good feeling, and without a single instance of collision .

I consider that in supporting and carrying out your views I have only done

my duty, and unto you it must be a great satisfaction to see your just demands

so fully accomplished.

Allow me again to thank you for the handsome way in which you have

alluded to the service it has been in my power to render you in the present

instance, by which our friendly relations and security at this port have been so

fully restored.

I have, & c.

(Signed ) J. C. PITMAN .

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Inclosure 20 in No. 54 .

The Consular Representatives of Foreign Powers at Shanghae to Consul Alcock.

M. le Consul, Shanghae, le 29 Mars, 1848 .

NOUS Soussignés, Consuls de France, d'Amérique, et de Belgique,

venons avec un vif plaisir vous féliciter de votre brillant succès, et vous

remerèier au nom de nos nationaux de la sécurité que votre conduite pleine

de prudence et de fermeté vient de leur assurer pour longtemps.

Il est certain que si vous eussiez tardé d'un seul jour à exiger et obtenir

la punition exemplaire des misérables qui s'étaient rendu coupables du lâche

attentat dont vos nationaux ont été les victimes, la vie et les propriétés de

tous les étrangers étaient sérieusement compromises . Vous avez eu, M. le

Consul, les plus grandes difficultés à vaincre, et il n'a fallu rien moins que vos

promptes, sages, et coercitives mesures, pour contraindre les autorités de

Shanghae à se départer enfin de la conduite pleine de mauvais vouloir dont

elles nous ont donné le triste exemple.

Ce fut une bien heureuse occurrence pour vous que de pouvoir en même

temps mettre un embargo sur la flotte des jonques de grain du Gouvernement

chargées pour Pekin , et envoyer un brig de guerre à Nankin avec une demande

de réparation.

Le cours des événements et le résultat obtenu prouvent que ces deux

mesures étaient indispensables. Car même une semaine après votre embargo

sur les jonques de grain , aucune demande n'avait été faite par les autorités

pour saisir les vrais coupables; au contraire, elles avaient constamment employé

les plus honteux subterfuges pour éviter la nécessité de faire opérer leur

arrestation .

Nous savons parfaitement à présent que le Nea-tae n'a pas quitté Soo-chow

avant que la nouvelle du passage du brig de guerre à plus de quinze lieues dans

l'intérieur du Yang -tsze -keang ne fût arrivée dans cette ville . Nous sommes

aussi assurés par la conclusion de l'affaire, que les autorités de Shanghae

avaient bien le pouvoir de saisir et produire les coupables, mais qu'elles n'en

avaient nullement la volonté . Nous sommes donc bien convaincus de la

justesse de toutes vos mesures et l'insigne mauvaise foi des autorités

Chinoises .

Nous considérons donc que c'est une question d'intérêt général que vous

arez si noblement défendue, et si heureusement amenée à bonne fin ; et nous

vous remercions sincèrement de la tranquillité que vous nous assurez pour long

temps .

Permettez-nous de ne pas terminer cette lettre sans vous exprimer notre

sincère admiration pour la conduite, à la fois pleine de modération et de fermeté,

du brave commandant du brig de Sa Majesté Britannique, le “ Childers ;" avec

un faible equipage, et très peu de moyens à sa disposition, il a pu arrêter, sans

apporter pour cela aucun empêchement au commerce général, la circulation des

jonques de grain du Gouvernement.

Un seul coup de fusil tiré mal à propos eût pu amener une collision

générale et des malheurs incalculables. Nous devons donc aussi nos félicita

tions au Commandant Pitman et à ses officiers, pour avoir par leurs seules

manœuvres, pu repousser, nuit et jour, toutes les nombreuses tentatives des

jonques, et faire, sans effusion de sang, respecter l'embargo.

Nous sommes heureux, M. le Consul, de vous donner cette dernière preuve

de toute notre approbation pour votre belle conduite dans toute cette difficile

et perplexe affaire.

Nous avons, &c.

( Signé) C. DE MONTIGNY,

Consul de France à Shanghae.

E. W. BATES,

United States of America

Consular Agent

JOHN STEWART,

Consul de Belgique.

146

Inclosure 21 in No. 54 .

Consul Alcock to the Consular Representatives of Foreign Powers at Shanghae.

Shanghae, March 31, 1848 .

THE Undersigned , Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at Shanghae, has the

honour to acknowledge the receipt of an official communication of the

29th March, signed by M. de Montigny, Consul de France, E. W. Bates, Esq .,

United States, America, Consular Agent, and John Stewart, Esq ., Consul de

Belgique, conveying congratulations on the happy termination of the difficulties

occasioned by the supineness and bad faith of the Chinese authorities, in

reference to the apprehension of the criminals in the Tsing-poo outrage.

The want of good will on the part of the authorities offered so serious an

obstacle, that no doubt can be entertained of the necessity for strong coercive

measures, in order to extort redress, which no milder course of negotiation could

obtain . Even when the offenders were already in the cangue, the Nee - tac

afforded a convincing proof of the disposition to make the punishment merely

nominal, and to misrepresent the facts by writing an official letter, omitting all

reference to the duration of the punishment, and calling the assault and robbery

a quarrel between foreigners and grain junk men, thus essentially altering the

character of the outrage .

This has been remedied ; the Undersigned having felt it his duty to insist

upon this letter being withdrawn, and another sent, couched in proper terms,

but it has left a strong impression that the justice obtained has been extorted

by force — that it would certainly have been denied but for the powerful means

of compulsion employed, and that no good faith is to be looked for from any

of the local authorities in similar cases, except in so far as the fear of similar

consequences may operate to teach them the danger of a denial of justice. To

this conclusion the Undersigned has been unavoidably led, by the whole course

and result of their negotiations.

It is very gratifying to the Undersigned that the judgment, decision, and

temper with which a partial blockade, of peculiar difficulty , was made effective

by Captain Pitman and the officers and men under his command, without the

slightest injury to the general commerce, has been observed by the Consular

representatives of foreign Powers at Shanghae, and he will not fail to make

known to the commanding officer of Her Majesty's ship “ Childers,” the

flattering expressions in which this important service to the general interests of

the port is referred to in their communication.

It only remains for the Undersigned to renew his sincere thanks to his

colleagues at Shanghae for the spontaneous and cordial support they tendered

him while the issue was yet uncertain, and to assure them that this renewed

expression of their confidence and sympathy derives additional value from the

proof already afforded of a generous determination to identify themselves with

the responsible measures adopted.

( Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK , Consul.

Inclosure 22 in No. 54.

Messrs. Lockhart, Muirhead, and Medhurst to Consul Alcock.

Sir, Shanghae, March 29, 1848.

THE case of the outrage lately committed on us at Tsing-poo, having

been so vigorously taken up by you, and notwithstanding the vacillation and

delays of the Chinese officers, successfully brought to a conclusion, we beg

leave to address our thankful acknowledgments to you for the promptitude with

which youtook up the affair, for the stringent measures adopted , when lenient

ones seemed of no avail,and for the steady determination displayed in persevering

to the end, until these measures were crowned with the desired success.

Convinced as we are that no policy will avail with the officers of the Chinese

Government but that of strict justice and unflinching resolution, we rejoice

that you have been led to adopt that line of conduct, and fully anticipate that

147

the Chinese officers have been taught such a lesson thereby, that they will not

again attempt to trifle with matters which seriously affect the interests of

British subjects; while the people will learn that aggressions which involve

themselves and their officers in so much trouble must not be lightly

ventured on .

Hoping that you may be long spared to enjoy the fruit of the just and

determined course of conduct lately pursuedby you .

We remain, &c.

(Signed) W. ROCKHART.

WM . MUIRHEAD .

W. H. MEDHURST.

Inclosure 23 in No. 54 .

Consul Alcock to Messrs. Lockhart, Muirhead, and Medhurst.

Gentlemen, Shanghae, March 30, 1848.

I HAVE to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 29th instant

and rejoice with you that the efforts made to obtain justice have been so

entirely successful.

For the permanent maintenance of our improved position and security, I

trust nothing more is now required than prudence and moderation on our own

part. Triumphant, we can well afford to be forbearing ; and, strong in the

recent manifestation of power to exact rigorous justice, we need not fear that

conciliating conduct will be mistaken for weakness or pusillanimity.

The tendency of these remarks cannot fail to be appreciated by those who,

under Providence, owe their lives to the exemplary forbearance and prudence

manifested for more than an hour, while exposed to the most brutal violence ;

but I trust that the example and the benefits which have resulted will have been

strongly impressed on the minds of all our countrymen by recent events. To

your safety, and the consequent power of identifying your assailants, the

community are indebted for the attainment of the only redress that can be

perfectly satisfactory in such cases, the punishment of the real criminals.

I have, &c.

(Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 24 in No. 54 .

Resolutions.

AT a meeting of the foreign residents of Shanghae, held at the Victoria

Hotel, on Friday, 31st March, 1848

Present :-Messrs . C. A. Ferron, T. Moncreiff, C. S. Matheson, H. H. Gray,

D. Sillar, Rev. W. C. Milne, J. C. Smith, W. Hogg, R. Aspinall, W. Pike,

H. H. Kennedy, A. F. Croom , G. F. Hubertson, J. P. Watson , J. White,

Dr. Bridgman, Rev. E. Syle, E. Webb, C. Waters, C. Wilson , W. G. Aspinall,

Rev. Dr. Medhurst, C. Wills, J. Grant, S. Maitland, W. W. Brown, R. P. Saul,

D. Potter, J. Stewart, Dr. Lockhart, K. R. Mackenzie, J. G. Livingston,

W. Hutchison, A. W. Potter.

On the motion of J. G. Livingstone, Esq ., seconded by Rev. Dr. Medhurst,

K R. Mackenzie was unanimously called to the Chair.

1st Resolution.- Proposed by A. F. Croom, Esq ., seconded by Rev.

W. C. Milne

That the cordial congratulations and best thanks of this meeting be given

to Rutherford Alcock, Esq., Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at this port, for his

successful adoptionof an energetic and decided policy with the Chinese autho

rities, when our Treaty Rights as foreigners resident in this Empire were

temporarily compromised.

Carried unanimously.

148

2nd.- Proposed by J. Stewart, Esq . , seconded by J. G. Livingstone, and

carried unanimously

That the warm thanks of this meeting be offered to Captain J. C. Pitman ,

R. N., for his hearty co-operation with Her Majesty's Consul in the protection

of British interests, and in the efficient but temperate enforcement of the

embargo placed upon the Government grain junks, without detriment to the

large Chinese traffic on the river, or giving rise to hostile collision, or any bad

feeling

3rd.—Proposed by James White, Esq . , seconded by G. F. Hubert-on, Esq .,

and carried unanimously

That the best thanks of this meeting be offered to M. de Montigny, and to

the other Consular Representatives of foreign Powers at Shanghae, for the frank

and cordial support given to Her Majesty's Consul, by at once identifying

themselves with the measures he was compelled to adopt for the due fulfilment

of international rights.

4th . – Proposed by W. Hutchison , Esq., and seconded by T. Moncreitf, Esq .,

and carried unanimously

That copies of the foregoing resolutions be respectively forwarded by the

Chairman to Her Majesty's Consul, Captain Pitman , R.N., and to M.de Montigny

and the other Consular Representatives of foreign Powers at Shanghae, and that

the whole be published in the Hong Kong newspapers .

5th . — Proposed by J. P. Watson, Esq ., seconded by G. F. Hubertson, Esq.,

and carried unanimously

That the best thanks of this meeting are due to K. R. Mackenzie, Esq., for

his efficient conduct in the Chair.

(Signed ) K. R. MACKENZIE , Chairman .

Shanghae, March 31 , 1848 .

Inclosure 25 in No. 54 .

Consul Alcock to Mr. Mackenzie.

Sir, Shanghae, April 1 , 1848.

I HAVE to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 31st ultimo,

transmitting by direction of a meeting of the foreign residents at Shanghae, a

copy of the resolutions unanimously passed by the gentlemen present, and to

beg you will convey to the foreign residents who have done me the honour thus

publicly, to record their congratulations and satisfaction at the successful main

tenance of our Treaty rights, my best thanks..

This expression of interest derives additional value from the manner in

which they hastened to identify themselves with the coercive measures adopted

while the issue was yet uncertain. The confidence manifested by the British

community in the beginning was not I conceive, more flattering to me than

honourable to those who, with large personal interests at stake, renounced

without hesitation any advantage the power of disclaiming all participation in

the acts and responsibilities of Her Majesty's Consul, in the event of failure

and loss might confer.

Happily success is likely to prove in this as in most cases, that a disin

terested and generous principle of action may be the best and most advantageous

in the end ; but the result cannot affect the character of steps taken before it

could even be predicted with safety.

I heartily and earnestly desire that permanent benefit to our position and

commercial relations at this port may follow the vindication of the most

important of our rights, freedom from molestation, and security to life and

property. In this I shall find full reward for the anxious efforts it has cost

during the last month to prevent their violation .

The zealous and effective assistance II received from the commander of

Her Majesty's ship “ Childers,” and the frank support of the Consular Represen

tatives of foreign Powers at Shanghae, well merited the thanks which I rejoice

to see have been tendered by the foreign residents. Any satisfaction the

document you have placed in my hands might afford, must indeed hare been

incomplete, had these gentlemen not shared it with me, in the fullest manner.

149

I have to thank youpersonally for the obliging expression of your gratifi

cation in being the medium of communication on the present occasion, and

remain , &c.

(Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 26 in No. 54 .

Mr. Bonham to Consul Alcock.

( Extract .) Shanghae, April 12, 1848 .

THERE is one point, however, on which I must remark, lest my silence

may be construed into approval, viz ., your desire to liquidate the claims of

British subjects out of the money due to the Chinese Government, kept back

during the fifteen days' embargo on vessels in your port.

This question has been for some time under discussion , and without going

into its merits, I must simply observe that in your notification of the 13th

ultimo it is notified that no Custom -house duties will be paid by British ships

until satisfaction had been obtained for a breach of Treaty rights . That

satisfaction has now been afforded by the Chinese Government, and I am

therefore of opinion that it has a just claim to the revenue of which it has been

temporarily deprived .

It also appears to me to be highly inexpedient to mix up a very important

political question with one entirely commercial, whereby an opening is afforded

for our acts and intentions to be both misinterpreted and misrepresented .

No. 55 .

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .— (Received June 21.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, April 12, 1848 .

AS it may have appeared to your Lordship that my despatches to

Mr. Alcock have displayed a disposition towards a timid policy being observed

in the late misunderstanding between the British and Chinese authorities

at Shanghae, I think it proper to inclose, for your Lordship's information, copy

of a report made by Commander Pitman, of Her Majesty's sloop “ Childers,”

to Captain Campbell of Her Majesty's ship “ Melampus," and senior officer on

this station , reporting the particulars of the duties he was called on to perform ,

in the execution of the requisition made on him by the Consul, by which it

would seem that, had any one of the 1,400 grain junks, or 50 war junks, fired

a shot, or attempted to put to sea , collision would have inevitably ensued .

In fact, it appears that a strict blockade of the river was in force, and that

all vessels of every description, grain junk or otherwise, which attempted

to leave it, were of necessity stopped, and that had the crews of any of these

vessels , emboldened by their own numbers, or instigated by the local

authorities, attempted to put to sea, or to dispute the right of search,and

which the presence of only one small brig was certainly not calculated to

prevent, I, in all probability , should have had to report the termination of the

affair in a manner very different from that which I have had the great

satisfaction of doing.

Your Lordship will, I am satisfied, not fail to observe the very

embarrassing circumstances under which Commander Pitman has been acting,

as well as the zeal and discretion which that officer has displayed throughout

the whole of this important question.

I have, &c.

(Signed) S. G. BONHAM .

天

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Inclosure in No. 55 .

Commander Pitman to Captain Campbell.

Sir, Shanghae, April 4, 1848.

IT is with great satisfaction that I am able to report to you that most

complete and full redress has been afforded by the authorities; his Excellency

the Nea-tae, or Provincial Judge, arrived here on the 28th ultimo, with ten of

the ringleaders concerned in the late outrage at Tsing -poo. The same afternoon I

went with Her Majesty's Consul, accompanied by Messrs. Medhurst , Lockhart,

and Muirhead, to the Che-heen's public office, for the purpose of seeing whether

the criminals could be identified, which was immediately done by the

above-named gentlemen, and the prisoners were punished on the spot by being

put in the cangue; as the demand was acceded to, the Government grain junks

were allowed to depart that night.

I have felt most anxious for the result of the late negotiations, when I

briefly state that 30,000 of these lawless vagabonds from the north, in the

Government employ, were within a few miles of the city, setting all laws

at defiance ; in addition to which, we had 1,400 grain junks above us in

the river, and 50 war junks below , such a powerful force might have

overwhelmed us by numbers at any moment, notwithstanding that we had

twelve armed vessels ready to repair to this anchorage fromWoosung at a

moment's notice .

After a most harassing blockade of fifteen days, which applied to only one

of the many classes of vessels engaged in traffic on this river, and which

necessarily obliged us to board them all, I am proud to say that this arduous

service has been performed by the officers and men under my command in

perfect good feeling, and in no one instance has a hostile collision taken place,

and the trade of this port has not been interrupted.

It has been a trial of strength up to the last moment, between Her

Majesty's Consul and the authorities, and the recent events clearly show

that the coercive means adopted were forced upon us, and we might have

been in the same position at this day's date, as we were on the 9th ultimo, had

it not been in my power to send Her Majesty's sloop “ Espiègle ” to Nanking,

as four days after her departure, when the Lieutenant -Governor at Soo - chow

was made acquainted that a vessel of war had gone to Nanking with a

despatch of the late disturbance, and to demand that prompt steps might be

taken to bring the guilty parties to punishment, he instantly sent his

Excellency the Provincial Judge, whose rank is far above the Taoutae's, to

Tsing -poo, with orders to have the ringleaders immediately apprehended and

to take effective measures to have this affair instantly settled.

I am fully aware that I, in conjunction with Her Majesty's Consul, have

taken upon myself great responsibility, but seeing our critical position on my

arrival here, and the circumstances connected with this murderous attack on

three British subjects, I considered I was called upon to take most urgent

measures to obtain redress, and by so doing to prevent a recurrence of such

outrages. Waiting for orders from Hong Kong would have been to have

played the part the authorities wished us to do. I believe it is the first

instance in China where we have been able to identify the guilty parties.

Justice has been completely obtained , and our friendly relations and security

again established at this port, and I have every reason to hope it may be

permanent.

On the 29th ultimo I went with Mr. Alcock to visit his Excellency the

Provincial Judge, who afterwards returned with us on board the “ Childers,”

and on his leaving I saluted him . He left this place on the 30th ultimo, much

pleased that all had been so cordially arranged, and with entire satisfaction to

all parties.

I have the honour to inclose you copies of letters sent me by Her Majesty's

Consul, by which you will see the opinions of the foreign community, who

consider all that has been done here is for their best interests and future

security to life and property.

Her Majesty's sloop “ Espiègle” has not returned yet, although hourly

xpected, the wind for the last forty -eight hours has been entirely against

151

her. On her arrival here I shall immediately dispatch her to the station at

Ningpo .

I cannot close this letter without reporting to you how highly I am pleased

with the conduct and exertions of the officers and men under my command ,

who have carried out my orders so efficiently as to prevent any act of hostility,

and I do trust that his Excellency the naval Commander -in -chief, as well as

yourself, will approve what has been done.

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. C. PITMAN .

No. 53.

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston.— (Received June 21.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, April 24, 1848 .

SINCE I had the honour to address your Lordship on the 12th instant ,

Her Majesty's steam sloop of war “ Fury ” has returned from Shanghae, bringing

me despatches from Mr. ConsulAlcock of the 10th and 12th instant, respectively,

which, with their inclosures, I now transmit for your Lordship's information .

Mr. Alcock's letter of the 10th announces the return of Her Majesty's

brig “ Espiègle” to Shanghae, and incloses Mr. Robertson's report of his

proceedings on his mission, which, as it appears entirely satisfactory in every

respect, renders it unnecessary for me to make any remarks on it, and thereby

to add to the voluminous correspondence which has already passed on this

question. I may, however,perhaps be permitted to congratulate your Lordship

on the entire success of this mission , opening as it has done the gates of

Nanking and of the Yamun of the Viceroy for the first time since our inter

course with China commenced.

Mr. Alcock's letter of the 12tb is simply an explanation of the reasons that

induced him to proceed to the length he considered it proper to do without

previous reference to theChief Superintendent. It is, indeed, very satisfactory

to observe the talent and ability displayed by that gentleman, and the result

of his operations and negotiations clearly show that he did not enter on the

responsible position he assumed without duly weighing the chances of success,

and likewise the means within his power of a dignified withdrawal, should by

accident his views have proved erroneous as to the probable proceedings on the

part of the Chinese under the circumstances, or the steps adopted by him to

ensure his object prove ineffective ; and I confess therefore I shall be happy to

hear that this negotiation, which has been so ably conducted and successfully

terminated, may meet your Lordship’s approval.

But, my Lord,I would remind you that, being a comparative stranger in

this country, I did feel on the receipt of Mr. Alcock's first despatches, which

reached me the day after my arrival here, not a little anxious as to the results

of his measures, and in which I thoroughly saw that my able and experienced

predecessor participated. Mr. Alcock's acknowledged talent and ability has

brought the question in this instance to a very successful termination, and it

has, moreover, been thoroughly proved that he judged rightly as to the probable

result of his measures, still I am of opinion that it could scarcely have been

intended that theConsuls generally should be invested with the power that has

been assumed, although onthis occasion, under the explanation afforded by Mr.

Alcock, it may have been advisable.

My limited residence of only one month in this colony, has prevented my

becoming acquainted with any of the other four Consuls, I can therefore only

say, that it will be cause of congratulation to your Lordship, and of great

comfort to myself, to find in these officers, the same high qualifications and

activity, clearly possessed by Mr. Alcock ; but, as this may not be the case, it

may still be doubted if it would have been prudent, on my part, to have allowed

this matter to have passed unnoticed, and thereby to have given countenance to

a similar course of action on their part, and which they would naturally be

desirous of following, whenever opportunity might offer.

X 2

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If I only studied my own convenience, or to hold myself irresponsible, I

should naturally advocate the Consuls being entrusted with very enlarged

powers ; but I am not unconscious of the arduous and delicate duties that your

Lordship has seen fit to entrust to me, and of the confidence that Her Majesty's

Government has been pleased to honour me with , and I am therefore particularly

desirous that I should be instructed whether the views that I have taken on this

occasion, are correct, or otherwise.

I have, &c.

(Signed) S. G. BONHAM .

Inclosure 1 in No. 53 .

Consul Alcock to Mr. Bonham .

Sir , Shanghae, April 10, 1848.

MY despatch of the 31st March will have already made your Excellency

acquainted with the successful termination of the negotiations connected

with the Tsing -poo outrage, by the seizure and punishment of the chief

offenders..

The return of Her Majesty's ship “ Espiegle ” on the 7th instant, enables

me to report the further results attained by the Vice -Consul's mission to

Nanking

The inclosed report from that officer furnishes a detailed account of his

proceedings. It will be seen that the Vice-Consul, as the bearer of my official

statement, was received with every mark of courtesy and distinction by the

Viceroy in person, in the city of Nanking, and that its perusal was followed

by the expression of his Excellency's dissatisfaction at the remissness of the

Taoutae, and acquiescence in the reasonable nature of the representation I had

found it necessary to make.

My request for the dispatch of a delegate of rank was conceded, and the

Viceroy, of his own accord, has afforded a more signal satisfaction by the

removal of the Taoutae ; a successor ad interim having been at once named, as

the inclosed copy of an acting appointment conferred on Woo, will show.

The Vice-Consul brought the inclosed reply, information having been

conveyed at the time of its delivery into his hands, that the Treasurer of the

Province had already been dispatched from Nanking, to Shanghae. On the

6th instant, the late Taoutae Heen announced the resignation of the Seals of

Office to his successor ; the District Magistrate of Tsing-poo, as a matter of

course will also be removed .

On the last day a party of the officers, under the escort of Mandarins,

deputed by the Viceroy, visited the Porcelain Tower, and it appears on their

return, through a vast concourse of people, some stones were thrown at the

party indiscriminately. The next morning at day -break fourteen prisoners were

abreast the ship in the cangue, and his Excellency sent an officer to express his

regret at the occurrence, and to state that he had instantly caused the offenders

to be seized and punished. I attach no other importance to the circumstance

than as it affords аa further proof of the desire of the highest authority of the

Province to prevent all just cause of complaint.

As an incidental advantage gained, I may mention, that accurate

information has been obtained of important alterations, in what appeared

the bed of the Yang -tze-keang when the expedition sailed up, the river

having at the time overflowed its banks by the melting of the snow from the

mountains, so that deep water lay for a considerable distance on each side over

the surrounding country, and in many places shoals are marked on the charts

drawn at the time, far beyond the river's bed.

Careful observation appears also to have been made of the fortifications

raised on the banks since the fleet anchored off Nanking. On these points the

inclosed copy of Captain Campbell's reports to the senior officer, will be found

to give interesting details. )

The outrage took place on the Sth March, the “ Espiègle ” returned on

the 7th instant. Within a month, therefore, complete reparation has been

obtained, and the transaction of business with a British officer in the official

163

residence of the chief authority of the Province, within the walls of the second

Imperial city in the Empire, the distinction with which the Vice -Consul was

received, and the reiterated courtesy which marked his Excellency's return visit

on board the man -of-war, cannot, I conceive , fail to exercise a salutary and

permanent influence upon our relations with all local authorities, and to

establish our position in popular estimation on a higher and better footing than

had previously been found attainable.

Nor must I omit to solicit your Excellency's attention to the fact, that the

last results, obtained from the peaceful mission to Nanking, were gained without

painful insisting upon rights and claims : of course no advantage is ever gained

in China without an attempt on the part of the authorities to withhold or give

less than may be desired, but the incidental and preliminary discussions,

necessarily arising from this disposition, were conducted with every mark of

respect to the high authority to whom Her Majesty's Vice-Consul was

accredited, and the points raised were finally conceded , in every instance ,

gracefully and courteously on the part of the Viceroy, as the resultof his own

free will and conviction .

For the tact, good judgment, and ability, shown in the conduct of this

delicate negotiation for privileges and concessions, which could not be insisted

upon, however reasonably and advantageously they might be urged in preli

minary discussions on points of etiquette with the delegates of the Viceroy,

Mr. Vice-Consul Robertson deserves great praise, and looking to the long tried

services of this officer, it affords me much satisfaction to bring his successful

exertions upon this occasion under your Excellency's especial notice.

He reports that he was very happily seconded, as I had no doubt he would ,

by Mr. Interpreter Parkes, whose employment at Foo -chow, where more than

once not very dissimilar affairs had to be discussed with the Viceroy of the

Province, gave him peculiar advantage.

I have, &c.

( Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 2 in No. 56 .

Vice - Consul Robertson to Consul Alcock .

Sir , Shanghae, April 7, 1848.

IN accordance with the instruction contained in your letter of the 19th

ultimo, directing me to proceed to Nanking, obtain an interview with the

Viceroy, and deliver a letter to his Excellency from you , relative to the attack

lately made at Tsing-poo on the Missionaries Messrs. Medhurst, Lockhart, and

Muirhead, I have the honour to report, that on the evening of the same day, I

went on board Her Majesty's ship " Espiègle," at anchor off this city, accom

panied by Mr. Interpreter Parkes, a Chinese writer, and two policemen .

At daybreak on the 20th, wegot under weigh, dropped down to Woosung,

and at 2 o'clock, P.m , had reached Point Harvey in the Yang-tze -keang, when

the vessel took the ground, but fioated again on the following morning. In the

evening of the 21st we again grounded on the north bank of the river, a little

below Keashan, and there remained until the morning of the 23rd, when the

vessel was hove off. On the morning of the 24th, we made the best of our

way up the river, with light and partialwinds, and a strong current against us,

and on the 25th anchored under Choo -shan.

Here we were boarded by a military Mandarin surnamed Chin, of the rank

of lieutenant -colonel, intrusted with the command of the defences in this

neighbourhood, who came off to make inquiries as to the object of our visit.

I told him I was on my way to Nanking on business with the Viceroy. He said

that the people were alarmed at our presence, and that the gates of Chin

Keang -foo had been closed. I told him that there was no causefor alarm , that

my mission was a peaceful one, and doubtless would speedily be arranged at the

interview I required with the Viceroy. In reply to his inquiry as to whether

we intended to land elsewhere, I acquainted him that such was not my

intention ; that my business was at Nanking alone, and nowhere else. He

appeared satisfied with this explanation and took his leave.

154

On the following morning, the 26th, the Che -heen or Magistrate of Tantoo,

the district in which we then were, and in which the city of Chin -keang- foo is

situated, came on board , as he said, to pay his compliments and offer his

services. He asked, in effect, the samequestions as the lieutenant-colonel did,

and I answered them accordingly, declining his services on the plea of the

trouble it would givehim , but eventually parting with every expression of good

will and courtesy on both sides.

We then got under weigh and run up for a couple of miles, but were

compelled to anchor from the breeze failing us. No sooner had we done this

than we were boarded by various other Mandarins, who proved to be the Prefect

of Chin -keang-foo, accompanied by the above-mentioned Magistrate, and

lieutenant- colonel, with another military officer of inferior rank. Being

convinced that the best way to obtain an audience with the Viceroy would be

keep the objects of my mission as private as possible, I had previously

determined upon declining any further interviews with the subordinate

authorities, and this party was accordingly received by Captain Campbell and

Mr. Parkes only.. This had the good effect of shortening their stay, as when

the main subject was referred to by them , Captain Campbell had only to say,

that it was a matter in which he was nowise concerned, to put an immediate

stop to their inquires, and to banish any hopes they entertained of prevailing

upon me to go no further,and to transact my business with the Viceroy through

them . Their offers to afford us assistance or to furnish us with supplies, were

renewed on their departure.

The next morning we were again under sail, and about 12 o'clock had

passed Chin -keang -foo, and anchored four miles above Golden Island. Here

we were boarded by the district Magistrate, and lieutenant -colonel command

ing at Eching, a city a few miles further up the river. These officers, either

from fear or diffidence had at first much difficulty in assigning a reason for

their visit, but afterwards stated, that they had been directed by the Viceroy, to

learn from us the cause of our appearance. They then of themselves produced

as their authority the sealed instructions of his Excellency, but Mr. Parkes

perceiving on looking over this document, that we were therein spoken of as

barbarians, it was at once returned to them , and they were immediately requested

to leave the ship.

Shortly after another boat ran alongside, having on board a military

Mandarin surnamed Chang, of the rank of major. Mr. Parkes saw this officer

and told him in answer to his inquiries, that I was on board on a visit to the

Viceroy at Nanking. He said that as we were resolved to go there, it would

be well to make some arrangements previously, in order that the Viceroy

mightbe prepared to give me an interview , admitting that he had been sent

down for that purpose. On Mr. Parkes reporting this to me, I requested him

to tell the officer, that when we reached Nanking, I should be prepared to

make any arrangements that were requisite , but that I saw no necessity for

entering into these matters beforehand. This was the last visit paid us by the

Mandarins on our way up, who finding that they could gain nothing by their

inquiries, thought it useless to make further attempts.

Finally, after some further delay, owing to our having made an ineffectual

attempt to go through a shorter but narrower channel, we anchored off Nanking

on the evening of the 29th .

Early the next morning the Lieutenant-Colonel Chin, and the Major

Chang, came off, and I then declared that the object of my visit was to have

an interviewwith the Viceroy, for the purpose of delivering to him a letter from

Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at Shanghae, and requested them to take our

cards,and arrange for a meeting as soon as convenient. They at once admitted

the willingness of the Viceroy to give one, and proposed to have it held at the

Temple outside the city, where Sir Henry Pottinger had met the Commissioners

in 1842. But to this I demurred ; and I may here perhaps state myreasons for

objecting to this arrangement .

In the first place, I had advanced so farin the negotiation as to have the

interview fixed : that point therefore was settled, and the next question was as

to the spot where it should be held. Being led to infer from the conversations

that had taken place with the authorities on our way up the river, and many

other little circumstances which came under my observation,that I could safely

take a strong position, and execute the mission with which I was intrusted, in

155

the manner most creditable to the Consul, and most advantageous to British

interests, I then told these officers that I had come to Nanking on a matter of

public business, that the only fit place to transact this was at the Yamun or

official residence of the authority to whom I was sent, and that I could not

think of giving the Viceroy the trouble of coming out of the city to see me,

when it was my duty, in deference to his rank , to wait upon him, I therefore

requested that they would communicate to his Excellency my sentiments on this

subject, and beg him to name a time for my visit..

They urged that if I was resolved upon entering the city, the meeting

should be held at the Literary Hall, and not at the Yamun of the Viceroy, on

the plea that the Hall was the place at which Sir Henry Pottinger was received

by the Imperial Commissioners at the interview which he held with them inside

the city ; but to this I objected, on the grounds, that the cases were by no

means of a parallel nature, as my business lay with the Viceroy of the Province,

and not with any authorities who were only temporary residents there, and that

if any other place but his Yamun were fixed upon, his Excellency might as

well come out of the city at once.

They then said they must receive the instructions of the Viceroy on

this head, as also with regard to the various ceremonies that were to be observed

during the meeting, and took their leave to return again in the afternoon .

This they did at 6 P.m., andinformed me that the Viceroy considered my

reasons for seeing him at his Yamun conclusive, and had named noon on the

following day, as the time when he would receive me. The various ceremonial

points (though after much discussion ), had also been most satisfactorily

arranged, his Excellency having acceded to all that I had required. The three

large gates were to be opened, we were to leave our chairs after passing through

the second one, and walk to the third, where the Viceroy would meet and

conduct us to the Hall of Audience, I was also to receive the usual salute of

three guns .

On the following morning, the 31st, the two officerscame on board to take

us on shore. Captain Campbell, with three of his officers , Mr. Parkes, and

myself, went in the ship's boats, and on landing were placed in sedan-chairs,

with four bearers each, and accompanied by a military escort and numerous

police-runners, set off for the city, passedthrough the gates, at which I observed

à strong guard, and after a ride of an hour and forty minutes — such is the

immense area within the walls — we reached the Viceroy's Yamun, and were

received by him in the manner previously arranged.

We then sat down in the form of a half- circle, his Excellency placing me

in a seat at the top next to himself. Refreshments were brought in , and after

some general conversation, I entered on the object of my visit, and getting up

presented him with your letter, which he received standing and bowing. Having

opened and read it, he said that it was a very reasonable letter, and that, doubt

less, the Taoutae at Shanghae had been very remiss in not taking more active

measures for securing the punishment of the delinquents ; but that since we

had left the Judge of the Province had been sent from Soo -chow, who, he

thought, would speedily arrange everything. II pointed out to him that one

object of my mission was to obtain the appointment by his Excellency of a

Delegate from Nanking, his own Court, to proceed to Shanghae, to effect an

adjustment of the matter; and impressed upon his Excellency the necessity of

this step, from the moral effect it would have on both the local authorities and

the people ; that hereafter, under similar circumstances, the one would act with

promptness, to avoid appeal to the higher authority, and the other would see

that foreigners were not to be molested with impunity, or offenders escape the

punishment due to their acts, by declaration of incompetency to seize them on

the part of these local authorities.

His Excellency admitted the truth of this, but declared that the fittest

person had already been sent. Mr. Parkes and Ihadprovided for this objection

by previous conversation on the subject. I was therefore prepared, and at once

named the Treasurer of the Province as the most proper officer that he could

send for the purpose. As I expected, he objected to this, asserting many rea

sons, all of which were met and refuted; but, deeming that the interview was

sufficiently prolonged, and that if a second and more private one could be

obtained I should be able to act more effectually in the matter, I signified my

wish to take my leave, urging on his consideration what I had said, and express

156

ing my conviction that my arguments would have due weight with bis

Excellency.

I then expressed a wish to see him again on the morrow , to which he

assented ,and mentioned the Temple outside the city as a convenient place for

all parties. Captain Campbell took this opportunity to ask whether he would

like to visit the “ Espiègle.” His Excellency signified the satisfaction it would

give him to do so, remarking that “ it would afford him an opportunity of

returning our visit, which it was only proper that he should do so, ” and he then

fised upon the next day to come on board .

I may mention that a repast was served up of which the Viceroy partook

with us, his Excellency and another Mandarin, late Taoutae at Ningpoo, Captain

Campbell, Mr. Parkes, and myself, sitting at one table, and the naval officers

at another table, with Lieutenant -Colonel Chin . After having dined we took

our leave, the same ceremonies being observed on our departure as on our

arrival.

The following day, the 1st of April, turned out wet and stormy. The

Viceroy came down to the beach, but it blew too heavily for him to come off to

the ship. Mr. Parkes went on shore, and arranged for his Excellency to pay

his visit on the next day, the 2nd , which he did , and was received with yards

manned and due honours. He inspected the brig, and partook of luncheon ..

Mr. Parkes settled that we should go on shore, and have an interview at the

Temple, as I was of opinion that the matters under discussion could be more

properly be entered into there than on board the brig, where he was paying

only a visit of ceremony. Accordingly I followed him when he left, and Mr.

Parkes, who had gone on shore to receive him , accompanied him back to the

beach .

On reaching the Temple we found his Excellency waiting to receive us,

and after being seated entered at once into the business before us, taking up

the question of the expediency of sending the Provincial Treasurer to Shanghae,

which, from conversations Mr. Parkes had with various of the authorities in

passing to and fro from the ship during the morning, we were led to believe the

Viceroy had made up his mind to do. His Excellency began by expressing his

conviction of the obligation of preserving the good relations existing between

the two countries, and how anxious he was to do all in his power to further that

ohject. He regretted the necessity he felt for degrading Heen-ling, the Taoutae

of Shanghac, who had clearly been most remiss in the performance of his duty,

and insinuated the difficulty you, the Consul , would hereafter experience in

meeting him after what had occurred ; and that he deemed his removal from

office at Shanghae essential .

Mr. Parkes and I, in anticipation of such a result, had had some conversa

tion previously together on the subject, and I in the end instructed him , that in

the event of such a question arising, to decline passing an opinion upon it. My

reason for taking this ground was my knowledge that Sam -qua, the late Hong

merchant at Canton, had been long hanging about Shanghae, open to employ

ment, and evidently with his eye on that port, as its future Taoutae, in the

event of the removal of Heen-ling from office. To acquiesce with the Viceroy

in the justice of his remark, would cause , I feared , a termination of Heen -ling's

tenure of office, and Sam -qua would, in all probability, step into the vacancy.

Not to acquiesce with his Excelleney, would put us in the position of bringing a

serious charge of negligence against the Taoutae Heen -ling, for which he deserved

degradation, and yet when that degradation was all but offered, to support him

after condemning him , thus entailing a doubt as to the soundness of our case,

most inexpedient to have incurred . I had, therefore, determined, as far as we

were concerned, to leave it an open question, trusting to have an opportunity of

giving the Viceroy to understand that Sam -qua would not suit us at Shanghae in

any way, and thus put a stop to any intention that may have been entertained

of presenting him with the appointment. Moreover, I conceived that if the

Taoutae Heen ling was to be removed, it had better be the simple act of his own

Government, and unconnected with any influence of ours, as I imagined that

the Viceroy would be well pleased to assign our resquest as a conclusive reason

for his removal , and thus throw upon us the onus of the step. Besides the

appointment of аa delegate of superior rank to the Taoutae Heen-ling to adjust the

affair at Shanghae, constituted of itself aa virtual suspension, and it was to obtain

157

this that I heldout so firmly for the appointment of an officer of so high a

standing as the Treasurer.

Under these circumstances, in answer tothe Viceroy's insinuation respecting

the removal of the Taoutae Heen -ling, Mr. Parkes made answer, “ that it was a

question which must rest with his Excellency alone to decide.”

As I had expected, the opportunity to check the employment of Sam-qua

soon offered, by the Viceroyshortly after observing, that he had appointed

another officer of the rank of Taoutae, and here he mentioned Sam -qua'sname,

to assist in arranging the business. I instructed Mr. Parkes to hint to his Excel

lency, that there was no necessity whatever for the interference of Sam-qua in

our affairs, and, I believe Mr. Parkes urged this in so pointed a manner, that the

Viceroy well understood our feeling upon the subject.

Finally, after some discussion as to the difficulties that existed respecting

the employment of the Provincial Treasurer, his Excellency signified his inten

tion ofdispatching that functionary immediately to Shanghae, as a delegate, in

compliance with your request for one, there to act with the Provincial Judge in

bringing matters at Shanghae to aa satisfactory conclusion .

I have not detailed the various manœuvres and arguments made use of by

the authorities with whom these negotiations were entered upon, from the

Viceroy downwards, to put us off, and get the business closed in accordance

with their views of the case, although I am bound to say, that every disputed

point was eventually conceded by them with the best possible grace, and with

an evident intent to satisfy our demands. At one time the discussion relative

to the appointent of Provincial Treasurer assumed a curious position, being a

close argument between the Viceroy and Mr. Parkes as to the stated impossi

bility of employing him, on the plea that that officer could never be detached

from his office, nor even be employed on any other but his financial affairs. But

Mr. Parkes adduced precedents to prove thecontrary, which doubtless materially

tended to gain the object in view, for the Viceroy was obliged to relinquish this

line of argument, and fall back, first upon the propriety of the prior appointment

of the Provincial Judge, and, lastly, to appealing to me as to whetherI thought

he would not act in good faith, and with good intentions ? My answer to this

was,that such a doubt could not exist in my mind after the courteous reception

he had given us at Nanking, which was the best proof of his intention ; but that

the appointment of the Provincial Judge had not emanated from his Excellency,

nor bad he been dispatched from Nanking, he having been deputed by the

Lieutenant-Governor, and sent from Soo- chow only, which we might have

obtained by going at once to that city, instead of travelling this long distance to

Nanking, or troubling his Excellencyat all on the subject. He then urged that by

reiterating the orders for the dispatch of the Judge he made the appointment

virtually his own, and deemed that that would be found sufficient. I , in answer,

acknowledged the sufficiency of the appointment, but objected to it on the

ground that the moral effect which it conveyed, would not be the same as if

some officer of high rank were sent direct from the Viceroy himself; that my

instructions were to wait upon his Excellency, and after presenting your letter,

receiving an answer, and being informed that a delegate from Nanking

had been appointed to proceed to Shanghae, my mission was concluded, and I

hoped that he would, as speedily as possibly, place me in a position to return

and report that the request of Her Britannic Majesty's Consul had been

acceded to by His Excellency.

The interview Mr. Parkes and I had with the Viceroy at the Temple on

the 2ndinstant, was attended with marked courtesey and politeness on the part

of his Excellency. He expressed openly and freely in condemnatory terms, his

opinion of the event at Shanghae, that had caused our visit, and his regret

at the occurrence. On our leaving he mentioned his intention of dispatching the

Treasurer as soon as possible, which would either be on the following day,

or early on the morning after, and stated that he should give me notice of the

departure of that officer, at the same time that he should me send an answer

to your letter, in order that we might return to Shanghae without further

delay.

Seeing that we should thus have to remain another day off Nanking, I

took the opportunity of requesting the permission of his Excellency for the

officers of the brig to visit the Porcelain Tower, begging that if the least

objection existed to the trip, he would say so, as it was only wished for as

158

a means of passing the time while waiting for his Excellency's answer to the

Consul's letter to be sent on board. Before Mr. Parkes had concluded making

mention of my request, his Excellency turned round to Lieutenant-Colonel

Chin, and Major Chang, and directed them to attend the following day to take

the party up to visit the Tower, and on my again stating that I should regret

if my request caused any trouble or inconvenience, he answered me that

such would by no means be the case, and that he was happy to give us the

opportunity of seeing the edifice. We then, after having partaken of some

refreshment with his Excellency, took our leave and returned on board.

The next day, the 3rd instant, the Lieutenant-Colonel Chin and

Major Chang, came off at 8 o'clock in two boats. We reached the landing

place on the south side of the city at about 2 o'clock, and there found several

Mandarins of rank, with attendants and chairs awaiting us, but the distance to

the Pagoda being but short we walked up, and though followed by a large

crowd, had not to complain of the slightest molestation. After viewing

the Tower we adjourned to a dinner in one of the adjoining buildings, and then

proceeded on our return to the boats. As we advanced through the square in

which there many thousands of people collected, some stones were thrown at us

from far behind, which struck indiscriminately both us and the Mandarins and

attendants. Wetook no notice of this assault, and walked out of the square

into the street, where the stoning ceased, and we reached our boats in safety.

Proceeding down the canal a few more stones were thrown at the boats,

but beyond this, no obstruction or any appearance of ill-will was shown,

and considering the immense concourse of people, among whom must always be

idle and ill disposed, I am not inclined to attach any importance to this

incident, but regard it merely as a casualty I am bound to mention.

On our return an officer came on board with the Viceroy's answer to your

letter, and with notice that the Treasurer would leave at 8 o'clock the following

morning, the 4th, for Shanghae.

On the following morning at daylight, fourteen men were seen abreast of

the ship kneeling in the cangue, and the Lieutenant -Colonel Chin accompanied

by Major Chang, and another officer came off with a list of their names, having

been sent by the Viceroy to express how deeply annoyed and grieved his

Excellency felt at our having been molested, as also his intentions to use

his utmost endeavours to severely punish the offenders. At the same time, he

reported to me that the Treasurer had already commenced his journey, taking

leave of this officer, sail was made, and we immediately left the city of

Nanking on our return ,

I have now the pleasing duty to convey my deep sense of the services

rendered during this mission by Mr. Parkes,to whose exertions, tact, and zeal,

its successful termination is chiefly due, and I only hope that ifin the course of

my career in the public service in China, I am again placed in communication

with the authorities on matters of a similar nature , I may have the benefit

of his valuable assistance. It is easy to speak well of the exertions of an

officer in a general way, but it is not so easy to express the particular

opinion you may entertain of the way in which those services are rendered, and

above all, of the tact and good sense brought to bear on the occasion. I beg,

therefore, you will take my simple assertion that, if our communications

with the Viceroy at Nanking have been effected in a manner worthy of

our position in China, to Mr. Parkes chiefly is due the success attending

my endeavours on that point .

I have also to express my sense of the kindness I experienced from

Commander Campbell, during our protracted voyage up the Yang-tze-keang.

I have, &c.

(Signed ) B. ROBERTSON .

159

Inclosure 3 in No. 56 .

Declaration .

(Translation.)

Le, a Chief Guardian of the Crown Prince, a Director of the Board of War, and

Governor -General of Keang -nan and 'Keang-see ;

Luh, a Vice -president of the Board of War, and Lieutenant -Governor of the

Province of Keang-soo, declare the following directions for an acting

appointment :

HEEN, the Intendant of Circuit for the departments of Soo -chow -foo,

Sung-keang -foo, and Tae-tsang - chow, having in the management of affairs

acted erroneously, and failed in the performance of his duty, has now been

removed, leaving his office vacant. We learn that Woo (Sam-qua), an unat

tached Intendant, is possessed of ability sufficient to temporarily conduct the

affairs of that office ; and we now, therefore, do at once declare his appoint

ment to the same . Let the said Intendant, immediately on receipt of this his

authority, and in obedience to the orders therein made known, proceed to

officiate in that office, and let him duly report to us for our information the

date of his arrival at his post.

Disobey not. A special declaration.

Taoukwang, 28th year, and month, 28th day. (April 1, 1848.)

Inclosure 4 in No. 56.

The Governor -General Le to Consul Alcock.

( Translation .)

Le, of the Tatsing Empire, one of the Chief Guardians of the Crown Prince, a

Director of the Board of War, and Governor-General of the two Keang

Provinces, makes known the following :

ON the 27th day of the second month (31st March ), Mr. Vice - Consul

Robertson and Mr. Interpreter Parkes came to the provincial city, where, as in

duty bound, I gave them an interview and a courteous reception. They

delivered to me your statement, from which I learn that the Missionaries,

Mr. Medhurst and others, had been assaulted and wounded by certain sailors

at Tsing -poo, but that after a protracted delay none of the offenders had yet

been seized or punished, and that therefore in accordance with Treaty Rights

you had proceeded to lay your complaint before me.

I find with regard to this case that the Intendant of Circuit for Soo-chow

foo, Sung -keang -foo, and Tae-tsang-chow (Taoutae of Shanghae), and others,

had previously reportedthe matter to me,upon which I, the Governor-General,

in concert and communication with Luh, Lieutenant -Governor of the Province

of Keang-soo, deputed E > acting judge for that Province, and Woo (Sam -qua),

an unattached Intendant, to proceed with all haste, and with the Magistrate of

Tsing -poo, and other officers under his command, to seize many of the criminals

principals and accomplices, and forward them to Shanghae for trial and

both

punishment.

By this time the affair has been finally adjusted, but a question now

remains as to whether the Intendant of Circuit for Soo- chow -foo, Sung-keang

foo, and Tae-tsang - chow, has not acted wrongly in the matter and failed in the

performance of his duty. I, the Governor -General, have therefore deputed

Chuen, the Treasurer of Nanking, and Chin, an unattached Intendant, to pro

ceed overland to Shanghae, and in concert and communication with E the

acting judge of Keang-soo, and Woo, the unattached Intendant, to thoroughly

examine into and arrange this point. These mcasures will prove how desirous

I am to afford you protection.

The maritime duties should now be paid as heretofore, and the rice junks

be allowed to quietly proceed to sea , and British subjects should continue to

confine the extent of their excursions to the limits that were originally laid

down and fixed upon, in the hope that by both nations adhering to the esta

Y 2

160

blished regulations the Treaty of perpetual peace and friendship may be

cemented .

It is my duty to make the above known to you.

month. 29th day. ( April 3, 1848. )

Taoukwang, 28th year, 2nd month,

Inclosure 5 in No. 56.

Commander Campbell to Commander Pitman.

Sir, Woosung, April 8 , 1848 .

I BEG to inclose a list of the remarks made on board HerMajesty's sloop

under my command,, on her passage up the Yang-tze-kiang to Nanking.

I have, &c .

( Signed ) FRED. CAMPBELL .

Remarks made on board Her Majesty's sloop “ Espiègle,” on her passage up the

Yang -tze- kiang to Nanking, from the 20th March to 7th April, 1848.

IN proceeding up the Yang-tze-kiang from Woosung, the banks of the

river present a sameness that renders the navigation, otherwise simple, very

precarious and difficult .

The Blonde Shoal is the first difficulty met with, to avoid which, at low

water, I think it advisable to keep as near as possible in your own draft

(two and a-half fathoms) on the southern bank, as by deepening to three

fathoms we grounded on it. There was only then two feet water on its shoalest

part. It appears to be composed of a bed of rocks covered with mud .

The whole of Tsing-ming to Point Harvey is the same low unremarkable land.

The broad opening, five or six miles to the south -eastward of Point Harvey, shows

plainly, and several small junks appeared passing through it. On nearing

Point Harvey, it is particularly necessary to observe its appearance, and fix on

some particular object, some house, or tree, to keep on a south -east by east

bearing, until some distance from it, then shaping a course to the westward.

When abreast of Point Harvey it is very difficult, from the appearance of the

land, without taking this precaution, to fix on any particular part as the point,

and a vessel unwarned, and running up with a fair wind and fresh tide, will

probably, by a few moments? hesitation, be set on shore on the banks to the

northward ; the tide appearing to set in that direction with considerable

velocity .

Single Tree, on the south bank, appears withered at this season. The

main trunk separates into two large limbs, about half its whole height from the

ground, and has thus a forked appearance. Close along side it is another tree

of lesser height, having the same withered appearance.

Great Bush is a cluster of tall trees, and with thick foliage, presenting the

appearance of a large round bush .

Mason Island appears placed too far north on the chart.

Between Plover Point and Foo -shan we had shoal water (three- and - a- quarter

fathoms), with Lang -shan Pagoda bearing northerly, east half -east, and the

second hill from the eastward at Foo -shan west quarter -north . It shoaled more

by hauling to the northward, and we deepened by steering directly towards the

south shore. The above bearings point this shoal part out as directly in

mid-channel .

Lang -shan Pagoda will be easily known. It is on the summit of one of

three hills, which, when seen from the south - eastward, appear nearly as one.

The whole of the surrounding country, as far as the eye can reach, is one

unbroken flat.

At Foo -shan there are four very low remarkable hills. The easternmost is

the smallest, and at a distance not easily made out . The second hill, the next

westward of it, is higher, and there are some houses on it. This hill, together

with Lang -shan Pagoda, are excellent marks for passing over to the other side

161

of the river. This is called the Foo -shan Crossing. A difference in the depths

found, and those on the chart is to be expected, but having worked across, I am

of opinion, by close attention to the cross -bearings, the banks may be easily

avoided .

On reaching the north bank, from thence westward , past Kea -shan, the

navigation is rather troublesome from the great breadth of the river (the south

bank not being visible ), the want of any leading marks, and the channel being

much contracted. In going up we grounded on the north side, having shoaled

suddenly from twelve and a half fathoms to one- quarter less two fathoms.

In hauling off we deepened to twenty-two fathoms. Kea-shan bearing south

west by west quarter-west ; Lang-shan Pagoda south - east by east half-east;

small patch to the southward (east end) south half-west.

Kea -shan will be easily known, it will first appear from the eastward, like a

small round nob of land of moderate elevation ; allthe land in its vicinity is very

flat and low.

In coming down this part of the river, it fortunately happened to be low

water, the banks on both sides being uncovered in very many places to the

height of from six feet to nine feet, and the channel being contracted in one

part, where Kea-shan bore to the south-westward of us to less than three - fourths

of a mile . To avoid getting on shore it is, therefore, necessary to use great

caution . The right bank, after leaving the crossing at Too -shan, may be kept

pretty close on board, you will, however, have several fathoms less water that

what is marked on the chart . When Kea - shan bears west south-west, increase

your distance from the north bank, and I think it would be proper to borrow

towards the south side of the channel until you are past Kea -shan .

Koo -shan is a small low hill with some houses on it, not easily distinguished

if the weather is at all hazy.

All the hills marked on the chart on the south bank as far as Keang- yin

heen will be easily made out. The low one forming to the point of the river

opposite to the south point of Yin shan, kept on a south -west by west quarter

west bearing (though a distant), is a good leading mark for passing between the

Cornwallis Shoal and the banks to the northward . A cross -bearing of Koo-shan

will let you know when approaching and when past it. Leading between the

Cornwallis Shoal and the other banks, there are other hills to the eastward of

Keang-yin -heen, which when recognised are useful leading marks.

Cornwallis shoal is the small bank on the south side of the channel, marked

with one and a half fathoms on each end of it, bearing from Koo - shan cast

south-east nearly. It was completely uncovered when we passed it.

Proceeding up the river the south end of Starling Island, and Hwang -shan

hill will become visible. By keeping the latter not quite on with the south end

of Starling Island, but rather to the southward of it, it will lead you right up if

to it, clear of the banks, which project from the north side of the channel.

Starling Island is long, exceeding low and flat, the southern part is

wooded and inhabited,but the northern half is an extremely narrow low slip of

and that will in all probability be swept away at the first time of any unusual

swelling of the river. The north extremity for about a mile has already

disappeared, which I proved by transit bearings of the north extreme of the

island and Hwang-shan hill, both in going up and returning down. The present

bearing being east by north half north, and instead of there being twelve

fathoms closeto it, it is rather shoal, and should be given a berth at low water

of at least half a cable. The rest of the island, from its south point upwards,

we found bold too .

When abreast of the eastern entrance to the Sha -yaou river it appears

difficult to proceed, the chart showing a blank without any soundings, and

instead of one small island only appearing on the right hand, there are actually

three visible with houses and numbers of rush huts thickly studding them all

over. They extend as far north as an east north-east, bearing from thenorth

point of the entrance to the Sha-yaou river. On the chart, deep water (thirteen

fathoms) is marked near the north pointof the Sha -yaou river, but wefound it

shoal , having only four fathoms. We deepened by hauling more towards the

islands above mentioned .

After passing this place keep towards the right bank of the river (taking

the precaution not to come too near the northern extremity of these islands,

in the event of any spit growing up in a northerly direction ), until Choo-shan

162

Pagoda, which will soon be seen over the land and recognised, bears nearly west,

when the left bank must be immediately crossed over to, you will then be to the

westward of the long shoal marked with quarter fathoms on it, but which was

visible to us full six feet above the water for nearly a mile. This shoal is

called after the “ Jupiter," who grounded on it.

Proceeding onwards there are apparently no obstructions to the navigation

of the river until past the western entrance to the Sha - yaou river. In the

channel, nearly due west from Chooshan Pagoda, a sunken rock is marked on

the chart. It was visible to us about seven feet above the water, and had a

pole fixed on it. It lies about a cable's length from the eastern shore, and

under a small hill on that side .

Seaow -sha Island is extremely low and flat, without trees or habitation of

any kind on it, and I should think frequently inundated. To the southward ,

and abreast of its eastern extremity, there is, I believe, a shoal, extending

from the southern shore to within two cables ' length of this point of the island,

and on which Her Majesty's ship " Calliope" grounded. It is said there is only

nine feet water on it.

Silver Island. We passed up and beat down to the southward of this

island. Less water than marked on the chart will be found, and the depths

very irregular. In going up, the point on the left bank may be rounded close,

but just within it, abreast of the island, it shoals. Borrowing to this side, to

weather the west end of Silver Island , we shoaled to three and a -half fathoms

for several casts.

Off the west end of Ta -sha is a bank which we shoaled on in working

out.

Marion Rock. Proceeding on past Golden Island there is a sunken rock ,

marked on the chart close over to the northern shore. It lies, however, directly

in midchannel, and in a direct line between the west point of the creek on the

south bank and the most elevated and most remarkable part of the bank on the

north shore. It has been built on by the Chinese, and now shows four or five feet

above the water. I observed a whitewashed mark on the rocks below the

Pagoda on Golden Island, and after passing the rock we brought the Pagoda

and this mark in one, it then appeared in a direct line over and on with the

rock, and appears intended as a mark for it . On our return down, by keeping

the Pagoda open to the right of the mark, we passed clear to the southward

of it .

Pih -sin - chow Island. Midway between the eastern point of this island

and the north shore is a bank , uncovered, three or four feet above the water,

with apparently a navigable channel, used by the junks, on either side of it .

We stood near it, and tacked in fifteen fathoms water, not far from it.

Along the south - east side of this island are several banks, which uncover at

low water. They lie parallel to the shore, a short distance from it, and are

steep too.

After passing E -ching, there are some remarkable hills. First, a range

marked on the chart as stretching to the north -west, but also to the north-east ;

next, westward of them , are two conical-shaped hills, with some table-land at the

back ; a very little further west is a remarkable table hill. Westward of the

creeks at E -ching, there are some shoal patches near the north shore, on the

edge of one of which we anchored during the night, the wind having failed us.

The weather next morning was too hazy to observe any bearings to get our

position exactly, but I sounded during the night, and found four fathoms about

half cable from the shore, rocky bottom . Off the mouth of the creek, on the

north shore, and south -east by south from the two hills, we had some shoal

casts over a rocky bottom, extending southward one -third the way across the

river.

We tried to pass through the creek which leads to the south of Tsaou -heae

hea Island, but after advancing about one-third of the distance, were obliged to

retrace our steps, finding only half the depth of water marked on the chart. It

is a very narrow channel ; a longer vessel than ourselves would have been

obliged to have returned the best part of the way stern foremost.

Off the north -east side of Tsaou -heae-hea Island, a shoal extends full one

third of the way across the river. Its northern edge uncovers for about three

cables' length in a direction parallel to the shore. When abreast of the centre

part, Ning- yan -shan pagoda bore north north - east, quarter east.

163

We observed a rock uncovered near the western shore, about a mile to the

northward of Ping - shan pagoda .

(Signed) E. H. GARWOOD, Master.

Inclosure 6 in No. 56 .

Commander Campbell to Commander Pitman.

Sir, Shanghae, April 7, 1848.

I HAVE the honour to acquaint you, for the information of his Excellency

the Commander-in -chief, that Her Majesty's sloop under my command anchored

off Nanking on the evening of the 29th March .

During the passage up we grounded three times on soft muddy bottom,

but sustained no injury, though a delay of 48 hours off Lang- shan Pagoda

from the difficulty of getting off, and which was not accomplished without

starting the water and lightening her of six guns, five tons of shot, chain cables,

bower -anchors, and the spare spars.

Between Choo-shan and Nanking we were visited by several Mandarins,

who came off and inquired the object of our visit, which , however, I deferred

acquainting them with, until our arrival at Nankin .

On the 31st March, after several interviews with the Mandarins on board,

1, with several of the officers, accompanied Brooke Robertson , Esquire, Her

Majesty's Vice- Consul at Shanghae, and H. Parkes , Esquire, officiating Inter

preter at that port, into the city of Nanking, when Her Majesty's Vice -Consul

presented his despatches to the Viceroy.

On the 2nd April, the Viceroy visited Her Majesty's sloop, and was

received with all honours .

On the evening of the 3rd instant, Her Majesty's Vice-Consul reported to

me that the object of his mission was concluded, but as it was nearly dark, I

did not deem it advisable to weigh until the following morning.

Inclosed is a list of batteries, with their strength and position, erected by

the Chinese since the last war ; also a few remarks upon the navigation of the

river, which is very different from what it was in the autum of 1842, as it was

then very broad and deep with a current of from three to four miles per hour

setting down, At present the current does not make stronger than from one

halfto two miles per hour, some parts of the river are little more than half the

breadth they were then, with from two to three fathoms less water.

The Mandarins said it was in consequence of the snows not having yet

melted in the interior.

The Viceroy and Mandarins were most polite and attentive, and assisted

us in procuring supplies, but evidently most anxious for our departure, and

much annoyed at our having come up.

On the morning of the 3rd instant, the Viceroy sent Mandarins and boats

for those officers who wished to avail themselves of seeing the Porcelain Tower,

most of whom took advantage of it. On leaving, the people had collected in

thousands, and a few in the rear commenced throwing brickbats, making no

distinction between Englishmen or Mandarins . The Mandarins, with their

attendants and some soldiers, did all in their power to prevent them , but

without success. Fortunately none of the party were much hurt, and the

following morning shortly before our departure fifteen of the culprits were

brought down in front of the ship, with the cangue round their necks. The

Viceroy expressed the deepest regret at the occurrence, and was doing all in

his power to discover the offenders.

Whilst proceeding down the Yang - tze-kiang this day, Her Majesty's sloop

again took the ground on the Blonde Shoal, where she remained an hour.

I have, &c.

(Signed) FRED . CAMPBELL .

164

Inclosure 7 in No. 56.

Commander Campbell to Commander Pitman.

Sir, Shanghae, April 7, 1848.

I HAVE the honour to acquaint you , for the information of his Excellency,

the Commander -in -chief, that on my way up the Yang -tze -keang river to

Nanking, in Her Majesty's sloop under my command, I discovered the following

batteries, which have been crected since 1812 .

At Yin -shan, on the point directly opposite Kiang-yin -heen, is a solitary

battery mounting thirty-five guns, built in a west-south -west and east-north-east

direction, the face of it being in a small degree convex . Opposite, immedi

ately below the hills, in the openings between them , are three batteries. The

first or westernmost mounts nineteen guns, which chiefly point in a north -north

west direction : the face of this battery is slightly convex . The second mounts

seventeen guns, which point north -north -east.

The third and easternmost mounts fifteen guns, which point north -west.

The second and third almost join each other.

On passing Starling Island, preparations appeared to be making for the

erection of batteries on the north -west and south -east ends.

Passing Keun -shan, or Choo -shan, on the north bank of the river, and com

manding the entrance to the Sha -yaou or IIall's Cut, is a battery mounting fifty

guns, which point in an east-by -south direction .

On the opposite side, after passing Hall's Cut, at the foot of the Choo-shan

Hills, is a chain of batteries,mountingthirty -eight guns, which chiefly point in a

north - north -west direction .

On the north bank of the river, aa little to the westward of Silver Island, is

a battery mounting fifty guns, pointing in a south -east direction across the river;

and further to the westward, and nearly opposite Joss House Hill, Chin-keang-foo,

is a battery of twenty - five guns, all levelled in a south -south -east direction.

On the south bank, just above the hill to the southward of Silver Island,

are three batteries close together.

The 1st mounts 14 guns.

2nd > 34

3rd 12 ‫ور‬

The whole of these guns, as placed in the embrasures, point north - by -east

across the river.

On the north bank of the river, on the point opposite the Yue-tsze -ke Hill , is

a battery mounting thirty guns, built in a straight east -by -south and west-by

north direction, the embrasures opening at right angles, nearly directly across

the river. The embrasures were observed to open on a north-west-by-west, and

close on a north -east -by -north bearing.

I observed that the whole of these batteries had a line of embrasures close

in the rear, parallel to and corresponding with the front ones, evidently intended

for reversing the guns in the event of being attacked in the rear.

The batteries are built of mud, and open at each end ; and the one on the

north bank, opposite the Yeu -tsze -ke Hills, could be raked by any vessel coming

up the river, without being able to return a shot.

The guns were all housed over, therefore I am unable to give their calibre ;

but the Mandarin who commanded the batteries of Choo-shan told me that their

calibre was from twenty to fifty - eight pounds.

I have, & c.

(Signed) FRED. CAMPBELL , Commander.

Espiègle ” at Woosung, April 7, 1848 .

RESPECTING the tides in the Yang-tze -kiang, our passage up and down

was so hurried, that nothing can be said further than that after passing the

western entrance to the Sha -yaou -ho, or Hall's Cut, we never experienced any

upward stream of tide, although there was what I supposed to be the usual rise

and fall of a few feet. We generally had from thence a constant stream against

us, varying from one and a half to two knots. I am of opinion there is full

fifteen feet less water in the river at this season than at the time the survey was

taken .

(Signed) E. H. GARWOOD , Master.

165

Inclosure 8 in No. 56 .

Consul Alcock to Mr. Bonham .

Sir, Shanghae, April 12, 1848.

SIMULTA NEOUSLY with the arrival of Her Majesty's ship “ Espiègle ”

from Nanking, on the 7th instant, Her Majesty's steam -sloop “ Fury ” entered

the river from Hong Kong, bringing me your Excellency's despatches

of the 23rd and 27th ultimo, in reply to my first report of the Tsing - foo

outrage of the 8th ultimo, an unusually quick return, six to eight weeks

generally intervening as the shortest period for answers to be received from

Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary.

I refer to it more especially because this circumstance necessarily exercised

some influence in deciding upon the course to be pursued, when the authorities

clearly manifested a disposition to allow the offenders to escape with impunity,

and to refuse all redress.

In reply to the two despatches I have had the honour to receive, conveying

your Excellency's regret, that with the limited power and duties of a Consul, I

had taken the steps reported, without previous reference to Her Majesty's

Plenipotentiary, and stating that under the circumstances, your Excellency

would not have considered yourself warranted in sanctioning the measures

adopted, I can only trust, that the measures taken to provide for an unforeseen

emergency may be regarded without disapproval, now that the whole progress

of events with the result are known.

My previous despatches must, I conceive, have afforded satisfactory

evidence that the danger to our interests was great, and that any measures

short of those taken , must have failed in attaining the end in view , without

which we could no longer count upon freedom from molestation . How far

undersuch circumstances, Her Majesty's Consul may be warranted, in an isolated

and distant port, like Shanghae, in taking vigorous steps upon his own

responsibility, to avert a great evil , is a question of the utmost importance to

British interests. In the conviction that he would be held justified, if his

measures, dictated by the exclusive desire to discharge a public duty, were

found neither to be wanting in temper or discretion, nor ill-adapted to effect

their object, I did not hesitate to overstep the ordinary limits of a Consul's

power and duties, trusting to the assurancealready conveyed to Her Majesty's

servants in China, that the best construction will always be put upon their

efforts to uphold and defend the interests confided to them .

I felt the more confident in this course, from aa reference to the general tenor

and spirit of the instructions accompanying my commission for this port, to

which your Excellency refers ; for although I am expressly directed, in any

discussions of a disagreeable character, to avail myself of the advantage of

suspending controversy for a time, by referring the matter to the Chief

Superintendent, I am also directed steadily to maintain the rights and privileges

of British subjects,

The instruction to suspend a controversy, by referring to the Chief Super

intendent, is, moreover, grounded upon the inference, that in most cases an

intimation to that effectwould probably have a salutary influenceon the persons

or authorities with whom I might come in collision. But, in the present

instance, as I have explained in former despatches, so far from such a course

exercising a salutary influence, it was calculated to defeat the ends of justice,

and to ensure the success of the injurious policy adopted by the Chinese

authorities. It was counting upon my hesitation to act without instructions,

and the delay and ultimate inutility of a reference, that emboldened them to

turn a deaf ear to all remonstrance.

In departing, therefore, from the letter of my instructions in this instance,

I conceived and hoped I should best act up to their spirit, and I shall deeply

regret, if, in the opinion of Her Majesty's Government, I have erred in my

judgment.

I do not plead the success which has followed, in extenuation of an officer

exceeding his powers, because an advantage may be dearly purchased by the

sacrifice of a principle, or a due subordination of powers. I am equally far from 1

urging, that success is any proof of the abstractexpediency and fitness of the

166

measures taken, since no one can more fully than myself admit, that the event

forms no just criterion of the merit of measures, which,when ill-devised,

may be followed by success, as certainly as failure may attend the best directed

efforts.

The blame or approval of your Excellency in the first instance, and of Her

Majesty's Government subsequently, must rest upon the justifiability under the

circumstances of the case, or in any unforeseen emergency , of the Consul at

Shanghae upon his responsibility, anticipating instructions which cannot be

received in time to avert a menaced danger ; and secondly, upon the fitness

and expediency in relation to the object in view, of the course actually adopted,

without reference to its ultimate result.

In reference to the first, it is not for me to argue the question. I am

prepared to receive with all submission, the decision that may be conveyed to

me by the Representative of Her Majesty's Government. II may, however, be

permitted to observe, that circumstances may arise where an officer is at a

detached port, in which a close adherence to instructions, would be destructive

to the interests which they were framed to protect, and when these can only be

successfully defended by overstepping the limits assigned for their better security

and guardianship. In such circumstances I conceive I was placed, when all

redress for an outrage of aggravated and atrocious character was refused,

under a false plea of inability to seize the perpetrators .

I need not, I trust, occupy your Excellency's time, in connection with this

part of the subject, by offering any justification of my motives for the respon

sible course taken . Within the limits and letter of my instructions I was safe,

whatever evil befel British interests. The moment I endeavoured, disregarding

the express tenor of those instructions, to seize their spirit, I put myself on

trial before Her Majesty's Government for an unauthorized assumption of

powers. There are circumstances in which the danger or injury attending

failure may be equally balanced in the minds of those engaged, by the hope of

reward in the event of success ; but it required little penetration from the

beginningto see that I was not in this position ; on the contrary, any advantage

which might accrue must be a benefit to the public interests exclusively, since

it would, in all probability, be held too dangerous a precedent for unqualified

approbation to mark a result even as complete as that which has now been

attained . I dismiss, therefore, all care upon this head, and am chiefly anxious

to show that the measures themselves, considered apart from the result, though

aggressive and coercive, were not in effect, as they may well have appeared at

a distance, offensive in a sense calculated to embroil the two nations in hos

tilities, or to endanger the peaceable relations at present existing between Her

Majesty's and the Chinese Government; whereas I had, in common with the

whole foreign community and foreign Consuls here, an intimate persuasion that

if prompt redress were not obtained, outrages and insecurity would follow, so

certainly and rapidly, that danger to our friendly and peaceable relations must

inevitably accrue, whatever subsequent measures might be taken to remedy the

evil.

As this, in reference to our future relations, is by far the most important

feature of the case , I trust your Excellency will pardon my entering into details,

some of which are not unknown to you , yet all bearing so distinctly upon my

position, and so necessary to a clear appreciation of the circumstances, that I

feel bound, in justice to myself and the interests which were at stake, to state

them consecutively .

The measures adopted were devised with especial reference to local circum

stances, and my experience of the people and the authorities with whom I had

to deal. Separated from their connection with these, and their consequent

adaptation to the end, their eligibility and expediency, and, still more, the

safety of their adoption, may seem even now , to any one at a distance, very

doubtful.

I had a well-grounded confidence in my own coercive powers, and the

weakness and false position of those I had to contend with . The Taoutae, as

your Excellency with some alarm anticipated, either could not, or would not,

apprehend the principal offenders, even to the last moment, when his own

interests and his position as a public officer were alike menaced by the steps

announced to him . Yet, in despite of his impracticability, I believed Her

Majesty's Consul had the means at his command of obtaining the most full and

167

ample redress in the power of a Government to afford, and this without any act

of violence, without collision with the people or injury to their interests, and

consequentlywithout giving riseto the slightest manifestation of popular feeling

or ill-will . On the 12th of March, that is, I believed he had the means ; but on

the 20th they would have been no longer his, nor within the reach of Her

Majesty's Government ; and the earliest possible communication with Her

Majesty's Plenipotentiary could not be counted upon under a month .

The chief element of strength for the Consul lay in the large fleet of

Government grain junks on the eve of departure for Peking, at that moment

lying ready laden in the anchorage above Her Majesty's ship “ Childers.”

Their prompt departure was so important a matter to the Taoutae, and extending

from him upwards to the Lieutenant-Governor at Soo -chow, and the Governor

General at Nanking, that their detention would ensure not only prompt atten

tion, but whatever satisfaction it was in the power of the authorities of the

Province to grant .

The only question, therefore, was the possibility, for a very limited and

short period of two or three weeks, of maintaining an embargo, without involving

hostile collision and a rupture.

After consultation with the senior naval officer, Captain Pitman, as to the

means at his disposal for carrying out such a measure, and his opinion of its

feasibility without serious risk, I felt quite satisfied that I should be wholly

unjustified if, shielding myself behind the letter of my instructions, I abandoned

to certain injury our best interests at this port.

The result, I may be permitted to say, or rather the whole progress of the

events from the first day of the embargo to the punishment of the offenders, has

gone far to prove that in this estimate of means of coercion and chances of

collision there was neither error of judgment nor miscalculation .

I certainly hoped, and was inclined to believe, that the Taoutae, finding his

official position menaced in so serious a manner, would have adopted, as the

lesser of two evils, the alternative open to him until the twelfth day after the

outrage, of putting forth all his means, and arresting the offenders. In this I

was mistaken . With a singular ineptitude, he vasted time, so precious to him,

in mere subterfuges and miserable attempts to extricate his junks by trick and

evasion! ; and the last thing he thought of was really and honestly to exert

himself to put an end to his difficulties, by seizing the criminais - a clear proof

how hopeless must have been the efforts, by any diplomacy, to have extorted

redressfrom such an officer.

It was matter of some surprise to me that so many days elapsed before

news, official or incidental, reached the Lieutenant-Governor at Soo -chow , the

immediate result of which I anticipated must be the dispatch of a superior

officer to supersede the Taoutae in the affair, a nd communicate with me.

I was quite prepared, if it seemed otherwise expedient, or any risk of

collision threatened, in negotiation with such delegate from Soo - chow, to take

off the embargo, on his assurance that prompt redress should be afforded,

whether by the apprehension of the offenders or the removal of the Taoutae,

retaining the embargo on the maritime duties until the attainment of the end .

This mode of proceeding, I felt, would in no degree compromise our position,

while it would at once relieve me of the burden of a responsible and anxious

coercive measure .

Finding this desired result delayed, I dispatched the brig to Nanking, as

a certain means of affixing a limit to such an exceptional state of affairs , and

this was immediately followed, as your Excelleney is aware, by all that I had

anticipated or could indeed have desired .

That there was not a certain amount of risk, I am far from affirming ; but

that it was remote, and by no means of a character to deter an officer of sound

discretion from following out, to its legitimateconclusion, a line of policy on

which so much depended, having carefully provided a means of retreat without

a compromise of our position, I trust will be manifest. I counted with great

confidence upon the inertness or indifference of the mass of the population (the

grain junk men, against whom my efforts were directed, being in truth a most

unpopular class of ruffians, whom all the surrounding country feared and

detested ), the hesitation of the authorities, from fear of personal consequences

direct and remote, to try the issue of an actual struggle; the guarantee which

the jeopardy any collision would place the property of the junk owners

Z 2

168

themselves in , furnished against any effort to force the passage of the river for

these vessels, the only ones affected, I counted upon all these as clements of

strength to myself and of weakness to the Chinese, as pledges of good augury

for peaceful relations being undisturbed under the pressure of the embargo.

There were beyond these other strong guarantees for ultimate success

without violence ; the practical assertion of conscious strength , of the absence

of fear as to the result, and of the efficacy of the means at my disposal,

afforded by my continued residence in the city, isolated from all Europeans,

and surrounded by the Chinese population, beyond hope of escape if violence

were to be attempted, was no doubt of great and beneficial intluence. It gave

them assurance that no hostile measures were contemplated by myself injurious

to persons or property, beyond the mere stoppage of the grain junks, which

chiefly affected the authorities and not the people, and must have tended to

calm people's minds, notwithstanding the circulation of absurd and mischievous

reports, rumours and alarms, which my daily walk through the length and

breadth of the city, and the passage of the ladies of my family, must alone

have sufficed to neutralize without an effort on my part. Even a despatch of

one of the two men -of-war in the midst of the blockade, told in our favour, for

much more was gained in the moral effect of such a palpable evidence of

security and sufficient force, than was lost in physical means of resistance or

aggression.

The result, and the whole progress of the negotiations, step by step, being

now before your Excellency, I trust that it will be seen that however bold or

aggressive the measures taken may have seemed, they were at no time attended

with any serious danger to our relations, with less, I firmly believe, than must

have been the result of a successful denial of justice. In boldness and decision,

in truth, lay their safety. I was closely watched, no point was left untried, and

there can be little doubt that the slightest indication of indecision or vacillation

would have caused the very danger which a contrary course effectually

averted.

I will not trouble your Excellency further with explanations which I

venture to hope may be suggested by a careful consideration of all the

circumstances , but I venture to hope that the whole of my despatches and

inclosures on this subject may be forwarded by the next mail for Viscount

Palmerston's information, that his Lordship's judgment may be formed with full

knowledge of the facts.

I have, & c.

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

No. 57 .

Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham.

Sir, Foreign Office, July 1 , 1848.

I OBSERVE , with satisfaction , in your despatch of the 10th of

April, that you succeeded in obtaining from the Acting Chinese Commissioner

prompt redress for an unprovoked assault committed on two Britishsubjects,

Messrs. Bowman and Johnson ; and I have to acquaint you that I entirely

approve of your havingat once resisted the pretension advanced by the Chinese

Commissioner, that unless British subjects are accompanied by linguists or

policemen, they cannot expect redress for outrages and insults committed upon

them by the Chinese.

I am, &c.

(Signed ) PALMERSTON .

169

No. 59 .

Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham .

Sir, Foreign Office, July 5, 1848 .

I HAVE to acknowledge the receipt of Sir John Davis s despatch

of the 18th of March, and of your despatches of the 25th and 30th

of March, and the 12th and 24th of April, respecting an assault com

mitted by some Chinese junkmen on three British subjects, Messrs. Medhurst,

Lockhart, and Muirhead , who had gone, for missionary purposes, to a town

named Tsing-poo, situated at some distance from Shanghae. The inclosures

forwarded with these despatches, give an account of the measures taken by

Mr. Consul Alcock to obtain redress for this outrage, and it has been a great

satisfaction to Her Majesty's Government to find that those measures have been

so entirely successful.

I have to state to you, in reply, that under all the circumstances of the

case, Her Majesty's Government approve of the decision taken, and of the course

pursued by Mr. Alcock, who, by promptly availing himself of the means of

coercion which the peculiar circumstances of the moment placed within his rcach,

has been enabled to bring to a speedy and satisfactory settlement amatter which,

if aa longer delay had taken place, might, perhaps, not have been adjusted without

greater and more costly efforts.

Her Majesty's Government do full justness to the ability and firmness with

which Mr. Alcock carried out the measures which he had resolved upon ; and

they are sensible that it was owing to the manner in which he conducted the

business at Shanghae, and especially to the decided step which he took of

dispatching Mr. Vice-Consul Robertson to Nanking, that the matter was

brought to a satisfactory and honourable conclusion. And I am glad to be able

to add, that Mr. Robertson and Mr. Interpreter Parke, appear to have executed

in a very able and judicious manner, Mr. Alcock's instructions. It is my inten

tion to acquaint the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty , that the conduct of

the officers commanding Her Majesty's ships “ Childers ” and “ Espiègle,"

appears to me to have been such as to entitle them to coinmendation .

But although Her Majesty's Government approve of Mr. Alcock's conduct

on this recent occasion , yet this case must be considered as an exception to a

rule, and not as a precedent for future guidance . And Mr. Alcock will, there

fore, no doubt, on any occasion of difference which may hereafter arise between

himself and the Chinese authorities, conform strictly to the instructions which he

and the other Consuls in China have received for their guidance in such matters.

Moreover, as it appears that on this late occasion the Missionaries, although

they were not, strictly speaking, transgressing the limits of the regulation, yet

from ignorance, or want of presence of mind ,omitted to take steps which might,

perhaps, have saved them from the assaults to which they were exposed, it is

desirable, that Mr. Alcock and all the other Consuls in China, should strongly

impress upon the British residents within their district, that whenever, in the

course of their excursions in the country they find themselves likely to be

exposed to insult or violence from a mob, they should endeavour to place them

selves immediately under the protection of the nearest Chinese Magistrate,

unless they should be so close to their boat, or to any other place of safety,

that it would be easier for them so to escape from danger than by seeking out a

Chinese magistrate .

I am, &c .

(Signed ) PALMERSTON .

170

No. 59 .

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston.- (Received July 25.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, April 28, 1843 .

ADVERTING to my despatch of the 24th instant, I think it proper

to inclose, for your Lordship's information, copy of a letter that I have

this day addressed to Mr. Consul Alcock , in reply to his of the 10th and 12th

instant, explanatory of the reasons that induced him to incur the grave respon

sibility that he has seen fit to do in his late proceedings at Shanghae, without

previous communication with, or reference to, Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary.

I have, &c.

( Signed ) S. G. BONHAM .

Inclosure in No. 59 .

Mr. Bonham to Consul Alcock.

Sir, Victoria , Hong Kong, April 28, 1848 .

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letters of the

10th and 12th instant , which, with their inclosures, have been forwarded by this

mail for the information of Her Majesty's Government.

Adverting to your first despatch , I feel sure that the successful result of

Mr. Vice -Consul Robertson's mission to Nanking cannot but prove most grati

fying to Iler Majesty's Government. I fully concur with you in your appro

bation of the conduct of that gentleman, who appears to have shown much tact

and ability in the discharge of the delicate duty with which you intrusted him ;

and I hope that his services,as well as those of Mr. Parkes, who has borne in

this afrair a conspicuous and creditable part, will be duly appreciated by Lord

Palmerston .

As regards the arguments advanced in your letter of the 12th instant, I

have only to repeat my admiration of the able manner in which you have,

throughout, conducted the negotiation, and assure you of the pleasure afforded

me by its successful termination. The reasons you assign for proceeding to so

great a length , are forcible , and fully entitled to consideration ; neither am I

unwilling to admit, that had the grain junks been permitted to put to sea, the

means of coercion would have been lost, or, in other words, that had you not

travelled out of the ordinarycourse, the matter would not, in all probability,

have been brought to so satisfactory a conclusion as it has been. But I must,

at the same time inform you , that I was assured by my predecessor that this

was the first instance of the assumption, by any Consul, of so grave a position,

and I need scarcely to a gentleman of your penetration observe, that although

in the present case the power you assumed was most judiciously exercised, a

general practice of departing, however great the apparent necessity, from the

prescribed rule of proceeding, would be inevitably attended with very serious

inconvenience.

In conclusion, I can only say that it will be to me a source of great happi

ness to find that the fearless energy with which, when you had accepted so great

a responsibility, you acquitted yourself in obtaining for the subjects of Her

Majestythe redress to which they were entitled, has been as warmly appreciated

by Her Majesty's Government as by myself.

I have, &c .

( Signed ) S. G. BONHAM .

171

No."60.

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston . (Received July 25.)

(Extract) Victoria, Hong Kong, May 4, 1848 .

IN conformity with that part of your Lordship’s instructions contained in

your despatch of 11th January, I have now the honour to report that, on

,' to

Saturday the 29th instant, I proceeded in Her Majesty's steamer “ Medea,”

Hoo -mun -chae, for the purpose of having an interview with Seu, the Actilig

Imperial Commissioner, who, as your Lordship has been informed by my prede

cessor, succeeded to this office, as also to that of Acting Governor-General of

the Provinces of Kwang -tung and Kwang-se on the departure of Keying, who

left Canton for Peking on the 16th March.

As Seu is entirely unknown to Europeans, and I believe never saw , and

certainly never spoke to one until my interview with him , I considered it expe

dient to make a certain amount of display on the occasion, and in consequence

took with me the Major-General Commanding the Forces, the Secretary to the

Superintendency, my private Secretary, the Chinese Secretary, Mr. Gutzlaff,

and four other military officers, who, together with the Grenadier company of

the 95th Regiment , made a very respectable cortége .

As Her Majesty's steamer “ Medea ” could not, by reason of her draft of

water, proceed up the creek to Hoo -mun -chae, the Senior Naval Officer had,, at

my request, ordered down the “ Pluto ” from the Factories to Anson's Bay, to

receive us there, and we embarked on board her and proceeded to the place that

had already been agreed upon . This is the same that was used on Sir John

Davis being introduced to Keying, and where Sir Henry Pottinger's Supple

mentary Treaty was signed.

On the “ Medea ” passing the Bogue Forts, she was saluted by all of them ,

and all the ramparts were manned ; these compliments were repeated on our

return with the Imperial Commissioner on board, although, at that time, the

commanders of the different forts were entirely ignorant of his being there ; it

was , therefore, clear that orders had been given to the different forts on the

river to treat us with every respect, and this order was most fully carried out.

On our arrival at Hoo -mun - chae, we were received with marked respect , and

immediately sat down to a table to partake of refreshment, when I conversed

with Seu .

Seu is somewhat taciturn, and made but few remarks ; he said he did not

know if Keying would return or not to Canton , but that he himself was deter

mined to carry out the provisions of the Treaty, as far as in him laid, by making

no distinction between the central and outside people, so long as the foreigners

were properly restrained. He added, that there were numerous wicked pe ple

in the Province, and that since his accession to office as Deputy-Governor oi ihe

two Provinces, which is about a year ago, he had been compelled to execute

upwards of 500 persons .

During our conversation I asked Seu if he had heard of the late misun ' er

standing at Shanghae, arising out of the cruel assault on the Missionary ge! !e

men, and as he replied he had not , Mr. Gutzlaff was requested to acquaint w.m

with the particulars . His only reply was, that equal justice should be adminis

tered to the natives of the central nation as well as those of outer ones, meaning 1

thereby, of course, Chinese and foreigners.

After aa general conversation of this description, I invited his Excellency to

return with us in the steamer “ Pluto ," to see the “ Medea,” to which he forth

with assented, and after aa visit of a couple of hours' duration, we proceeded to

that vessel . On our arrival on board the “ Medea," in Anson's Bay, he was

saluted with seventeen guns and received by the Grenadier company of the

95th Regiment, and after partaking of a slight refreshment kindly offered by

Captain Mason, and inspecting the vessel, he returned in the “ Pluto ” to Hoo

mun - chae, accompanied by Mr. Gutzlaff .

Seu was attended on his part by Lae-gan-tseo, an Admiral ; Chaou-chang

ling, a Salt Inspector ; Kwan -show ( a Manchoo ), Adjutant to the Governor ;

and Jung-ling (also a Manchoo ) , a candidate for a a Prefecture, and as far as I

could judge, was well pleased with all that passed on the occasion . From his

172

personal demeanour and cast of contenance, I judge him to be a stern, uncom

promising man , and one who would go to some length to obtain any object he

had in view .

Your Lordship should be informed that this meeting was arranged between

the Imperial Commissioner and myself so long ago as the 28th March ; at that

time he said nothing of his intending to visit and inspect the forts in the vicinity

of the Bogue; but on his leaving Canton, on the 27th instant, such was the

reason assigned to the people of Canton, as will be seen by the inclosure.

Whether or not Seu originally intended to inspect the Boguc Forts, and

others in the vicinity at the time he arranged for meeting me at Hoo-mun-chae, is

uncertain ; but the inclination ofmy opinion is, that such was not the case, and

that his doing so on the occasion , was a mere pretence to account for his absence

from Canton , as perhaps he feared the violence of the mob if it was known that

he had left the city for the purpose of holding a conference with the British

authorities ; and that such was the case when Keying had a meeting with Sir

John Davis, in April 1816, is abundantly evident by his considering it neces

sary to issue a proclamation on the subject.

On the whole, it is not improbable that Seu, thinking that the Canton

populace would consider the meeting to be in some way connected with the

proposed entry into the city in Ipril next, issued this proclamation for the

purpose of deceiving them as to the real cause of his absence from the city ; but

it shows that his position is such , that he is by no means prepared to act as he

sees fit, and that he is compelled to stoop to evasion with the populace on any

occasion when, from circumstances he may be compelled to act in any way

which he conceives may be obnoxious to popular feeling.

Inclosure in No. 60

Proclamation .

( Translation .)

SEU, Governor-General of Kwang -tung and Kwang -se, hereby issues a

proclamation.

Whereas I have fixed upon the 27th instant to start from Canton, in order

to repair to the Bogue for the purpose of inspecting the forts, I have ordered

the acting Licutenant-Colonel, Commander of the provincial troops garrisoning

Canton, to receive at my Yamun all the daily despatches arriving at my address,

as is on record, which I have now to make known by proclamation.

For this reason, I hereby issue a proclamation ordering the soldiers and

runners at the different post stations along the various routes to Canton, to

repair, in obedience to my commands, to my Yamun , and deliver the despatches

to the said officer.

Do not disobey. A special proclamation .

April 27, 1848.

No. 61 .

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .— (Received July 25.)

My Lord, Victoria , Hong Kong, May 6, 1848.

I HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Lordship’s information, translation

of a memorial from Le-sing- yuen , Viceroy of the two Keang Provinces, and Yu,

Tartar General of the Province of Keang -nan, to the Emperor, reporting the late

visit of Her Majesty's sloop “ Espiègle ” to Nanking.

173

Your Lordship will observe that the outrage which caused the visit of Her

Majesty's sloop to Nanking is described as a quarrel or fight, and that the

Missionaries' visit to Tsing -poo is alleged to be a violation of the treaty ;

nevertheless the Viceroy did not deem it prudent to deal with the Consul's

demand for redress otherwise than as having a just and proper claim to his

attention .

The Viceroy complains of the demand for redress having been made direct

to him from the Consul at Shanghae, “ just as if there was no great minister

( Seu ) appointed to the whole control and superintendence of the Five Ports.

Člauses IV in the American and French Treaties respectively distinctly provide

for this contingency, and should complaint be made to me on this subject by

the Imperial Commissioner, I shall, until I receive your Lordship’s instructions,

simply reply that the British Consuls at the Five Ports have the same right of

appeal to the superior officers of the Chinese Government as is conceded by

Treaty to similar functionaries of the French and American Governments

respectively . This power of appeal, considering the distance of Hong Kong

from someofthe open ports, appears to me to be very important, and a salutary

check on the local authorities .

The Viceroy refers to the raising of the blockade on the grain junks, from

which it would seem that some previous report on this subject had been made

to the Emperor. He also omits all mention of his having paid a visit to the

“ Espiègle."

The document, on the whole, appears to me of some importance, throwing,

as it does, considerable light on the policy by which the Chinese rulers are

actuated, in their communications with foreign States.

I have, &c.

(Signed) S. G. BONHAM.

Inclosure in No. 61 .

Memorial from Le-sing -yuen, Viceroy of the two Keang Provinces, and Yu,

Tartar General of the Provinceof Keang -nan, regarding the late visit of Her

Majesty's sloop “ Espiègle ” to Nanking .

(Translation .)

A MEMORIAL reporting the visit of the barbarian chiefs to the provincial

city, to make an accusation and complaint, but who neither demanded nor

presumed to do anything beyond this ; as also the appointment of the Treasurer

and an Intendant of Circuit to proceed with all despatch to examine further

into the matter ; all the particulars of which are now drawn up in due form of

memorial, and sent by express to His Majesty, with an uplifted prayer that the

sacred glance may fall thereon .

Itwas reported to your Ministers by Heen, Intendant of Circuit for the

departments of Soo-chow -foo, Sung-keang-foo, and Tae-tsang -chow , that on

the 4th day of the second month (March 8) three English barbarians, Medhurst

and others, having gone in defiance of Treaty regulations to the district city of

Tsing -foo to distribute books, they there had a quarrel and fight with the head

men and sailors in charge of the few remaininggrain junks, from whom they

received some trifling wounds; that the Magistrate of the said district had

seized two of the offenders, whom he had put in the cangue and flogged, and

had also forwarded Medhurst and the others back to Shanghae; but that in

consequence of many of the criminals not having been seized , Alcock, the

Consul of that port, had appointed a barbarian chief to proceed in a small

barbarian vessel by way of the great river ( Yang-tsze -keang) to the Yamun

(or official court or residence) of your Minister Le (the Viceroy) to make

accusation and complaint, &c.

On learning the above particulars, yourMinisters immediately appointed

E -leang -yaou, the officiating Judge of the Province of Keang-soo, and Woo

keen -chang, an unattached Intendant of Circuit, to proceed with all haste to

Shanghae to severally examine and arrange these affairs. And we also sent

flying instructions to all the military commanders and District Magistrates

along the river, enjoining them to keep up the strictest guard, and to make

known to the inhabitants by distinct proclamation, that there was no cause for

surprise or alarm . And we further appointed Chin - peh -ling, the Colonel com

2 A

174

manding the right wing at the entrance of the Grand Canal, and Chang

pan-lung, acting as major in command of the regiment at Kaou-tsze (near

Nanking ), both ofwhom , from past experience, are well versed in the barbarian

affairs, to proceed with Chin -heen, the Prefect of Chin -keang -foo, down the

river to meet them (the English ), and mutually to devise plans for obstructing

or stopping their further progress.

They found on examination that the vessel was a small one with two

masts, and that she was followed by no other ships. On board of her they met

Parkes, an interpreter, of the said nation, who understood the Chinese language,

and from the inquiries they put to him they learned that it was in consequence

of Medhurst and the others having been assaulted, and the Intendant of Circuit

for the departments of Soo -chow -foo, Sung-keang -foo, and Tae-tsang-chow

having delayed to arrange the matter according to regulations, that they

just as if there was no great Minister (Keying) appointed to the whole control

and superintendence of the Five Ports — were proceeding direct to lay a com

plaint before the high authorities at the provincial city ; that they had started

from Shanghae on the 16th day of the second month (20th March ), having first

closed the gun ports, and placed the guns laterally along; that the Vice - Consul

Robertson was on board, and thatall the crew numbered altogether upwards of

fifty men ; also that nobody had been allowed to land all the way along, or to

have any communication whatever with the people.

Chin -pch -ling and the others then acquainted them that the high

authorities at the provincial city had already deputed the Judge and an

Intendant of Circuit, to go down to examine into and arrange the matter, and

to seize many of the ofienders, who should be sent in custody to Shanghae;

that by that time the affair must be already adjusted and concluded , and as to

any document they might have to present, the Colonel and others would forward

that for them , whilst they themselves, as the Colonel directed them , should

immediately return . But Parkes stated that they had been deputed by Alcock

to have a personal interview with the Viceroy, and that he would certainly

blame them if they failed in gaining one.

Moreover, in consideration of the peace that has now so long existed on

both sides, and also that this was but a solitary vessel that had come to state a

grievance, the officers and soldiers in garrison at the various forts were all of

them unwilling to attack her with their thundering cannon . Thus, therefore,

she came steadily on, both parties awaiting for the proper time to arrive, and

indeed, froin first to last, they (the English ) were exceedingly respectful.

In consequence of the ship having repeatedly got on shore, and been

otherwise delayed on the way, they did not arrive in the neighbourhood of

Nanking before the 20th day (30th March ), when they anchored in the river off

the Pat-sze Creek, beyond which they did not further advance .

On the 27th day (31st March ), your Minister, Le, called them to an

interview when they handed me a statement, the purport of which I found to

agree with the report made by Chin -peh -ling

- and the others. On my personally

inquiring of the said interpreter Parkes concerning the matter, he only

requested that the Treasurer might also be appointed besides the Judge, to

proceed to Shanghae, where, conjointly with that officer, he might examine and

arrange matters, but begged for nothing else. Your Minister Le had happened

to have just received private advices from your Minister Luh (Lieutenant

Governor at Soo -chow ), informing me that the officiating Judge E -leang -yaou,

immediately after his arrival at Shanghae, had apprehended the sailors who had

created the disturbance, and had at once examined and punished them ; that

the said Consul Alcock had nothing further to object to, and that all obstruction

to the departure of the rice junks engaged to transport the grain by sea had

been removed. Therefore, addressing myself to Parkes and the others, I

informed them of these particulars, and enjoined them upon their attention in

the strongest possible manner. But Parkes and the others, although they

expressed themselves obliged for what had been done, and commended the

measures, still persisted in urging that Alcock had not yet acquainted them

with anything of the kind . They further stated that the appointment of a

delegate of higher rank than an Intendant of Circuit, was one of the primary

objects of their visit, and was in fact à most necessary step, to secure which

they did not mind the troubles of the journey.

Being of opinion from what I learned, that Heen -ling the Intendant

175

of Circuit for the departments ofSoo -chow -foo,Sung -keang -foo, and Tae -tsang

chow, in the steps he took for managing this affair had been wanting in

proper fear and promptness, and that it was necessary that he should be

temporarily removed from office until it could be ascertained whether it was

not in consequence of his erroneous mode of proceeding, and through failure

in the performance of his duty, that had occasioned their coming so far to make

a statement of the case. I therefore appointed Foo -shing -heun, the Treasurer

of Nankin, to go and make further inquiry into the matter, and learn the true

particulars : and hearing that Chin -che-kee, an unattached Intendant of the

Province of Chih -le, was then on leave at his native district (Nanking ), and who,

from having formerly held the office of Intendant of Circuit for the depart

ments of Ning- po -foo, Shaou -hing-foo, aud Tae- chow -foo, in the Province of

Che-keang, understood well the disposition of the barbarians. I also appointed

him to go down, in order that, conjointly with the Judge E -leang-yaou , they

might so thoroughly examine everything and arrange matters so firmly, as

would tend to thepreservation of mutual quiet. At the same time I gave them

(the English ) a reply, and bestowed upon them some provisions, at which the

said chiefs were all rejoiced and satisfied, and Chin-peh-ling and others were

again deputed to immediately escort them out of the port.

The particulars of how they left the river and went out again to sea,together

with the appointment of Woo -keen -chung (Sam -qua ), temporarily to officiate as

Intendantof Circuit for the Departments of Soo -chow - foo, Sunk-keang -foo, and

Tae -tsang -chow, shall be duly reported in another memorial ; but in the mean

time we beg respectfully to inclose for His Majesty's perusal, copies of Alcock's

statement, and the declaration of your Minister Le in reply thereto. And

being exceedingly apprehensive that the appearance of the barbarian chiefs at

the provincial city to make accusation and complaint, may have caused

anxiety in the sacred breast, your Minister Le, conjointly with your Minister

Yu, the Tartar General of Nanking, beg now to send by swift express this

memorial, in which will be found all the particulars of how they have arranged

the matter, upon which they humbly pray the sacred glance of the Emperor

may fall, and that His Majesty's instructionst hereon may be made known to

them .

A respectful memorial.

True translation,

(Signed) HARRY S. PARKES.

Note. - In the copy of the memorial furnished me, the date has been

omitted , but it must have been written on the 2nd or 3rd of April.

(Signed ) H. S. P,

No. 62.

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .-- (Received July 25. )

(Extract ) Victoria, Hong Kong, May 11, 1848.

IN reference to the late proceedings at Shanghae, which led to the

discussion between the local authorities and the Consul, I have the honour to

inclose for your Lordship’s information , translation of a communication which

I have recently received from Seu, the Imperial High Commissioner, with a

copy of the reply which I have this day addressed to his Excellency.

Your Lordship will observe that I have left the questions mooted by the

Commissioner as open ones, insisting only, as was really the case, that the whole

subject matter which induced Mr. Consul Alcock to address the Governor

General at Nanking ,and take other measures to ensure effectual redress, arose

from the gross negligence and intention of the Taoutae, and other inferior

officers of the Chinese Government.

2 A 2

176

I would here also beg to remark, that I cannot but consider the

Missionaries' visit to Tsing -poo as being beyond the reasonable limits to which

it was intended by the British and Chinese authorities to restrict them . British

subjects resident at Shanghae, have now a right to ramble about all day, but

must sleep in their houses at nights. Shanghae is thirty miles distant from

Tsing-poo, or thereabouts, and it would be idle, therefore, for the Missionaries

to advance that, had they been unmolested, they could have acted in conformity

with the existing regulations.

Inclosure 1 in No. 62.

Commissioner Seu to Mr. Bonham .

(Translation.)

SEU , High Imperial Commissioner, &c., sends the following communication .

I just received an official letter from Le, the Governor-General of

Keang-nan and Keang-se, in which he states, that Medhurst and other

Englishmen were wounded in an affray with some sailors in Tsing-poo district,

Robertson, a British officer, with several others, proceeded in consequence, to

Nanking to represent the case, which has now been duly settled.

It was at first agreed upon that foreigners at Shanghae, who proceeded on

an excursion in the morning should be back in the evening, and not be allowed

to pass the night abroad. Now, however, the various foreigners set about and

proceed in their rambles to the nearest districts. Computing the distance of

the road, it will be found that they cannot return within the space of one day.

Medhurst and the others in this instance, went in direct defiance of the existing

Treaty to Tsing-poo, a distant place.

Though it is one of the provisions of the Treaty, that the Consuls of the

various ports have the rightof addressing themselves, in case of any injustice,

to the high authorities of the provincial city, still Robertson and others, on

ascending a considerable distance the Yang-tze river to the metropolis, to

make known the complaint, frightened the people and gave rise to rumours.

One might also apprehend that they would meet on their voyage with some

mishap, and this would be still worse.

I thought it therefore my duty to ask the Honourable Great Minister to

request the envoys of the various nations to send a circular to the Consuls at

the emporiums, with the intimation, that in future all foreigners at Shanghae

ought, when going on an excursion in the morning, to return in the evening ;

and not be allowed to pass the night abroad, and make this a standing rule.

For if this is not done, the local authorities will be unable to direct their

attention to every spot, and our native subjects are very numerous, and the bad

are mixed up with the good. Should thus any trouble arise, our good under

standing would be disturbed.

If the Consuls and others have to represent any matter to the high autho

rities at the provincial city, they may prepare a statement, and hand this sealed

to the local Mandarins for transmission, and wait for the decision. They ought

on no account to proceed to the metropolis to deliver it in person, and thus

occasion alarm , and giverise to sundry reports, and expose themselves to

unforeseen calamities . (Here ends the despatch from Le, the Governor

General.)

On examining the above, I find that these suggestions are well calculated

to ensure for ever mutual tranquillity, peace, and friendship. I the reforesubmit

the same to the Honourable Envoy, with the request, that you may order the

Shanghae and other Consuls to carry this accordingly into effect.

Wishing you much happiness, &c.

Taoukwang, 28th year, 4th month, 2nd day. (May 4, 1848.)

177

Inclosure 2 in No. 62 .

Mr. Bonham to Commissioner Seu ..

Victoria , Hong Kong, May 11 , 1848.

I HAVE received your Excellency's official letter of the 4th May , informing

me that you had received from Le, Governor-General of Keang-nan and Keang -ze,

a communication, in which he states that Medhurst and others were wounded

in an affray with some sailors at Tsing -poo, and that in consequence,

Robertson , a British officer, with several others, proceeded to Nanking to

represent the case , which has been now duly settled. This letter further

suggests that Medhurst and others being at Tsing-poo , were beyond the

distance allowed by Treaty for foreigners to ramble from Shanghae, and also,

that if Consuls have occasion to represent any matters to the higher authorities

at the provincial city, it should be made by å sealed statement to be handed to

a Mandarin for transmission , and that the Consuls ought not to proceed in

person to deliver it. In these suggestions I understand your Excellency to

concur .

In reply, I must remind your Excellency that what is termed by the

Governor-General an affray, was nothing of the kind, it was a violent and

murderous attack upon three ministers of religion, one an aged man, which

was wholly unprovoked by them . It was an attack made for the purpose

of robbery, as is clear by the culprits having, after throwing the Missionaries

down to the ground, absolutely robbed them of their watches, spectacles,

caps, and clothes, a stick with a silver head, and whatever else they could find,

for which offence by the laws of China, I believe, these culprits to be liable to

be put to death, and I am surprised that a public officer of the Governor

General's high rank and position should have misrepresented the transaction to

your Excellency, as he must be fully aware of the facts of the case, and

the robbery that accompanied the murderous assault. This question, however,

as well as the final disposal of the culprits, is now under the consideration of

the Governor -General, and I trust that I shall hereafter be able to report to

my Government that the same punishment has been inflicted on the culprits as

if the injured people had been Chinese.

I shall address the Consul on the subject of the Missionaries being at

Tsing-poo, but I believe it has always been customary for them to proceed

there, and that their right to do so has heretofore been unquestioned ; if I

find they have no right to go to Tsing -poo, they will be restrained .

Under ordinary circnmstances,I am quite satisfied that the Consul would not

have sent his deputy to convey his letter of complaint to the Governor -General,

and indeed, had the Taoutae Heen only done his duty and seized on the culprits,

and had them properly punished, there would have been no necessity forhis making

any complaint at all; if, therefore, Mr. Robertson's appearance at Nanking can be

considered irregular, the Taoutae, and the other Chinese officers, from their

refusing any attention to the just demands of the Consul for redress, must be

held to blame, and this is indeed acknowledged by the Governor -General, from

his having the Taoutae removed from office . I must also remind your Excellency

that, as the letter of remonstrance, sent by the Consul to the Governor-General,

contained a complaint against the Taoutae for neglect of duty, it was by

no means improbable that the letter would never have reached the Governor

General.

I can assure your Excellency I will do all in my power to restrain my

countrymen within due bounds, but that in cases like the present, when old and

harmless men have been nearly murdered by robbers, and no redress has been

afforded by the local authorities, I cannot direct the Consul to refrain

from pursuing the only course by which it seemed possible for him to obtain it ;

in fact, had he not taken the steps he has done, the grain junks to which the ruffians

belonged, would have sailed away, and these guilty men have been unpunished.

Your Excellency bears a character of firmness, and at our late interview at

Hoo -mun -chae, yourself told me that equal justice should be administered to the

central and outside people. If your Excellency will only insist on your subordi

nate officers acting on this just principle no misunderstanding ought to take

place ; but in this instance there can be no doubt that the Taoutae Heen, the

178

Magistrate of Tsing -poo, and the officers in charge of the junks, have been

grossly deficient in the discharge of the duties entrusted to them , and that

unless some stringent orders be issued by your Excellency to your subordinate

officers to enforce the stipulated rights guaranteed by your Emperor, serious

and painful results must inevitably ensue.

I have been instructed to do all in my power to maintain the peace happily

existing between our nations, but my Government will not uphold me in doing

so at the sacrifice of its honour and dignity; but of this your Excellency will

be aware , and it is therefore unnecessary to add more than that I am actuated

by the best feelings to your Excellency, and I trust you will reciprocate these

feelings by insisting on your subordinate officers faithfully fulfilling their

duties. It is to their neglect that this occurrence at Shanghae may be attri

buted, as well as others of a more painful nature, to which at present I am

indisposed to particularly refer.

(Signed ) S. G. BONHAM .

No. 63 .

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received Auyust 21.)

My Lord , Victoria, Hong Kong, June 10, 1848.

IN continuation of my despatch of the 12th April, I have now the

satisfaction to forward a copy of communication from Mr. Alcock, of the 20th

ultimo, with its inclosures, reporting the punishment of the ten criminals who

committed the assault on Mr. Medhurst and two other Missionaries at Tsing - poo.

I have, & c.

(Signed ) S. G. BONHAM .

Inclosure 1 in No. 63 .

Consul Alcock to Mr. Bonham.

Sir , Shanghae, May 20, 1848 .

I HAVE the honour to inclose, in original and translation, copy of an

official communication from Woo, officiating Intendant here, making known the

sentence passed upon the ten prisoners, sent to Soo - chow for trial for the

Tsing -poo outrage.

The admission of a robbery, as well as assault, is distinctly made, and it

was for this I contended in vain with the Nea-tae while he was here. The

degree of punishment awarded I consider of minor importance , and whether the

sentences be strictly in accordance with the evidence adduced and with their

laws or not, is a question which I conceive it would be bad policy to raise, and

could be followed by no good result.

I have therefore simply acknowledged the receipt of the communication,

and expressed satisfaction at the termination of the trials.

I have, &c.

(Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 2 in No, 63 .

The Officiating Taoutae to Consul Alcock.

(Translation .)

WOO, holding by Imperial authority the rank of Salt Commissioner, and

officiating as Superintendent of Maritime Customs for the Province of

Keang -nan, and Intendant of Circnit, & c., makes this communication.

On the 16th day of the 4th month of the present year (18th May) , I

received a communication from the Provincial Judge to the following effect :

179

In the case of the Englishmen who were assaulted and robbed at Tsing - poo

by Wang -ming -foo and others, I, the otiiciating Judge, have now had the

criminals brought before me and put them to arigorous trial. Wang -ming -foo

has confessed in his evidence that because the Englishmen did not give him any

of the books that they were distributing, he with E -wanneen assaulted and beat

them, and afterwards robbed them of various articles. (He affirmed) this to be

the real truth, and on being confronted with E -wanneen, their evidence was

found to agree . Wang-ming- foo has, therefore, according to the law for

“ assault with robbery of property,” been sentenced to receive one hundred

blows and be banished perpetually to a distance of three thousand le. E -wanneen

has been sentenced to a lighter punishment of one degree, and will receive one

hundred blows and be transported for three years. With regard to the cight

remaining men , Lew -yuh- fa, Sung -fang, and others, it appears from the evidence

that they were only on the spot assisting the others, and will therefore be

flogged as the law provides.

Besides reporting these particulars for the information and consideration

of the Viceroy and Lieutenant-Governor, in order that they may memorialize

His Majesty on the subject, I, the Judge, have also to make you (the Intendant)

acquainted with the same through the medium of this communication.

I, the Intendant, having received the above, consider it my duty to address

you, the Honourable Consul, on the subject, and I therefore now make you this

communication, and request that you will be pleased to examine into the

same .

Taoukwang 28th year, 4th month, 17th day. (May 19, 1848. )

Inclosure 3 in No. 63.

Consul Alcock to the Officiating Taoutae.

ALCOCK , Consul, &c . , makes this communication .

I have received your Excellency's official commiunication , informing me of

the trial and conviction of the grain junk men , in the case of the Englishmen

who were assaulted and robbed by the prisoners at Tsing -poo, together with the

Sentences passed .

Having felt it my duty to call for the strict execution of the Treaty by the

trial and punishment according to law of the ringleaders in this outrage, I am

glad to learn that the officiating Provincial Judge has duly administered justice

by a rigorous trial of the offenders, and reported the proceedings to the Viceroy

and Lieutenant-Governor, that they may memorialize His Imperial Majesty,

which I shall not fail to communicate to Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary f r the

Satisfaction of Her Majesty's Government .

A necessary communication.

May 20, 1848.

No. 64.

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .- (Received October 27.)

My Lord , Victoria , Hong Kong, July 26, 1848 .

I HAVE the honour to inclose for your Lordship’s information , copy of a

despatch from Mr. Consul Alcock , giving an account of ashort excursion made

by himself,the French Consul, M.de Montigny ,and Commander Pitman, into

theinterior from Shanghae,and reporting the favourable treatmentthathe met

with

to from the people of the country generally . Mr. Alcock, however, appears

conceive that at the large and more populous towns, an immunity from moles

tation is by no means secured .

I have, & c.

(Signed ) S. G. BONHAM.

180

Inclosure in No. 64 .

Consul Alcock to Mr. Bonham .

(Extract .) Shanghae, May 20, 1848 .

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of despatches, and for

the flattering terms in which your Excellency has been pleased to express

approval of my efforts to obtain redress from the local authorities, I am most

grateful. Of the general inadmissibility of a departure from instructions, or

an assumption of powers not contemplated in them , I need not repeat my

conviction, and consequent entire concurrence in the views communicated for

my guidance in these despatches. It shall be my carnest endeavour to avoid

all causes of difficulty or collision with the local authorities, so far as it may be

possible to do so , without compromise to our interests.

I may state in connection with this subject, that I recently made an

excursion in the interior to some hills , distant about twenty -two miles, in

company with M. de Montigny, the French Consul, Captain Pitman, the

Interpreter, and Mr. Harvey . I had never left Shanghae before, and was

induced to do so now that I might judge for myself of the temper and

demeanour of the people, as it is chiefly to these hills, which are within the

twenty -four hours' limits, thatall parties seekingrecreation direct their steps.

In the country and the villages I saw no indication of a disposition to give

offence ; on the contrary, they were ready to offer civility, afford information,

show their work or sell their goods, as might be desired . At Sze-king alone, a

small town extending about a mile along the banks of the canal where there is

a larger population, a crowd pressed upon the heels of the party which had

landed, and were otherwise disposed to be troublesome and offensive, shouting

opprobrious epithets.

It was at this place that the two gentlemen to whom I referred in despatch

of 22nd January, were pelted out of their boats and pursued ; and here I found

evidence of the habitual bad faith of Heen , the late Taoutae, who, contrary to

his express assurances, that he had caused a Proclamation which I disapproved

of to be exchanged for another, had left the unobjectionable one undisturbed.

I returned on the morning of the third day, having made arrangements

with the Taoutac's full consent, to prolong my absence beyond the usual period.

I am disposed to think, from what I observed , that we hold our immunity from

molestation in the larger towns on somewhat insecure tenure. I am bound, on

the other side, to state that Mr. Medhurst has casually mentioned to me his

impression of an improved bearing in the people of the surrounding country

since the last affair.

For my own part, I believe the Chinese people have no feeling of respect

for our nationality, nor can it well be otherwise while foreigners, as the best

information leads me to infer, are invariably spoken of by the rulers of the

land in terms of opprobrium and contempt ; and in all public documents, not

immediately addressed to us, we are placarded by every authority, from the

Emperor to his meanest servants, as “ Barbarians,” contrary to their own more

ancient usage. Our acquiescence in restrictions, confining us to certain narrow

limits, as a race of barbarians who may not be securely trusted with the liberty

of free and responsible moral agents, of course further tends to affix upon ail

foreigners a stamp of inferiority to those who can impose such conditions. I

cannot think it matter of surprise that under such circumstances the Chinese

population should have little scruple in offering insult or annoyance, and have as

little hope that this will be amended until political changes shall remove us

from this derogatory and humiliating position. The conviction from time to

time of isolated offenders can indeed do little, even as a palliative, and the true

source of all the danger and mischief with which our relations are incessantly

menaced remains wholly untouched by any such measures. I cannot hope my

convictions on this subject will have much weight, but it appears to me a duty

to submit them as the result of personal observation, derived from a residence

of some duration at different ports.

181

No. 65.

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .-— ( Received October 27.)

My Lord, Victoria , Hong Kong, July 31 , 1848.

I HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Lordship’s information , copy of a

letter to myaddress from Mr. Consul Alcock, giving cover to translation of a

letter he had received from Keying, and of his reply thereto, on the subject of

the Tsing-poo affair.

I have intimated to Mr. Alcock my approval of his reply to Keying.

I have, & c.

( Signed) S. G. BONHAM .

Inclosure 1 in No. 65 .

Consul Alcock to Mr. Bonham .

Sir, Shanghae, June 6, 1848 .

I HAVE the honour to inclose copies (original and translation) of a

declaration received from his Excellency Keying, and my statenient addressed

to the Imperial Commissioner in reply.

That Keying should regard with displeasure and distaste the course adopted

to obtain redress was to be anticipated, but it appears to me his Excellency has

taken a step not less unusual and without precedent, in addressing his comments

to me personally, instead ofcommunicating with Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary.

I did not think it expedient to enter into any discussion as to the mooted

question of limits, in reference to the excursion to Tsing-poo, but thought I

might be permitted, by referring to Article IV of the American Treaty, to

show the inaccuracy of his Excellency's inference, that Her Majesty's Consul

was not authorized by Treaty in conveying his complaint of unredressed

grievance to Nanking.

His Excellency Keying having scrupulonsly adopted all the forms of the

Cha -hing Declaration , with much of the imperative tone which this particular

form of communication by Chinese custom sanctions, though always carefully

avoided by the Viceroy at Foo -chow , as by the same high authority at Nanking,

in their official letters to me, I felt bound to inform his Excellency that I could

only receive and act upon instructions from the Representative of my own

Sovereign, lest it should be assumed by the Chinese high officers, when address

ing Her Majesty's Consuls, that under the mandatory form of a Chinese Cha

hing they might revert to the old style of prohibition and command, with a

concluding admonition to “ disobey not.”

I have, &c .

(Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

Inclosure 2 in No. 65.

Commissioner Keying to Consul Alcock.

(Translation .)

KE, Imperial High Commissioner, a Guardian of the Crown Prince, an

Assistant Minister of State, Governor-General of the Two Keang Provinces,

and of the Imperial House, makes the following declaration :

I, the Great Minister, have received His Majesty's orders to attend at

Pekin, and on passing through Kang-nan on my way thither, I learned that

Vice-Consul Robertson and others of your honourable nation , had come in a

ship, and made accusation and complaint at the official residence of the

Governor -General of the two Keang Provinces, which proceeding has caused me

me, the Great Minister, much amazement and surprise . For in the French

commercial regulations it is provided that in the event of affairs being unsatis

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182

factory or disturbed, the said Consuls and others may straightly make

complaint to the Great Minister superintending the Five Ports, and in case of

there being no superintendent of the Five Ports, they may complain to the high

provincial authorities, who will inquire into and manage their affairs for them .

The Great Minister superintending the Five Ports here referred to is the igh

Imperial Commissioner who resides at Canton .

I, the Great Minister, having now been ordered by His Majesty to repair

to Peking, the office of High Imperial Commissioner has, by the command of

the Great Emperor, been delivered over into the charge of Seu, officiating

Governor-General of the two Keang Provinces, as is on record. It may

be that the said Consul (Mr. Alcock) has not yet heard of this, and

that it was the want of this information that caused him to convey his

complaint to the provincial city. For the future, in all cases of this nature,

complaints must be made in obedience to Treaty to the High Imperial

Commissioner, and must await his management. But should the Great Emperor

hereafter see fit no longer to appoint a High Imperial Commissioner to super

intend the Five Ports, then may appeal of course be made to the various high

provincial authorities in accordance with the terms of treaty. If it be said that

at Shanghae there is no High Imperial Commissioner, on the other hand, at

Hong Kong alone does his Excellency the Envoy of your honourable nation

reside, and similar appointments cannot severally be made at each of the ports.

This principle, therefore, is very clearly established .

With regard to the places to which British subjects at Shanghae may make

excursions, it was formerly determined by the Envoy Davis, in conjunction with

Kung, Intendant of Circuit for the departments of Soo-chow.foo, Sung

kcang-foo, and Tae-tseang -chow, that they might be allowed to purchase or

hire for this purpose boats, horses, or sedans, and that they might go about

either by water or land, but that they could not be permitted to pass the

night out . Consul Balfour's official reply to the Intendant of Circuit for

Soo -chow - foo, Sung -keang -foo; and Tae -tseang-chow, is at present preserved

on record . Now I , the Great Minister, find on inquiry that Tsing -poo is

ninety le distant from Shanghae. To go there and return would therefore be

180 le, but no matter whether this could be performed in a day or not, as our

two nations are to cement the perpetual peace and friendship existing between

us, the merchants and subjects of your honourable nation must not on any

account make distant excursions, in order that disturbances and trouble may

be avoided.

As regards the people of the various localities, I, the Great Minister, have

already communicated with the Governor -General of the two Keang Provinces

and the Lieutenant-Governor of Keangsoo on the subject, and desired them to

give strict orders to the various Prefects of departments, and Magistrates of

districts, to use their utmost endeavours to keep them under restraint, in order

that any trivial occurrences may not be allowed to injure the peace.

To sum up the whole, if the authorities and subjecst of our two nations do

firmly adhere to Treaty engagements, the blessing of the Supreme Ruler without a

doubt will assuredly aid us in our endeavours. I, the Great Minister, know and

feel that Consul Alcock, Vice -Consul Robertson , and Interpreter Parkes, have

hitherto borne the reputation of being clear -sighted able men, and I therefore

now make this special and distinct declaration for their information, which I

think will afford them cause for rejoicing. I , the Great Minister, have already

left for Peking .

A necessary declaration .

Taoukwang , 28th year, 4th month, 12th day. ( 14th May, 1848. )

Sealed with the seal of the Governor-General of the two Keang Provinces,

lent for the occasion.

183

Inclosure 3 in No. 65.

Consul Alcock to Commissioner Keying.

ALCOCK, Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at Shanghae, makes this

statement.

I have to acknowledge the receipt of the High Imperial Commissioner's

Declaration, dated 14th May, 1848, referring in terms of disapprobation to the

mission of Mr. Vice-Consul Robertson to Nanking. Your Excellency states

that this measure was taken contrary to Treaty, and directs me in future, in all

cases of this nature, to make my complaints of the local authorities to the

High Imperial Commissioner, and await his management.

Reference to the American Treaty, Article IV, will, I conceive, distinctly

show that Her Majesty's Consul at Shanghae, having the same privileges as the

American Consuls, enjoys by Treaty the undoubted right, if he see fit, to make

representation of any local grievance to the "superior officers of the Chinese

Government,” without limitation as to the Superintendent of the Five Ports.

As to the measures it may be necessary to adopt at any time when the

security and interest of my countrymen at this part are at stake, your

Excellency must be aware that it is not competent for me, as Her Majesty's

Consul, to receive or act upon any directions not emanating from the

representative of my own Sovereign, to whose authority I owe exclusive

obedience.

The whole of my proceedings in the late affair of assault and robbery at

Tsing -poo, having been duly reported to Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary in

China, for the information of Her Majesty's Government, and his Excellency's

instruction , it only remains for me in like manner to forward without delay

the declaration now received from the Imperial High Commissioner, for the

said Envoy's consideration, which I trust will also be satisfactory to your

Excellency.

A necessary statement.

May 30, 1848.

No. 66 .

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .- (Received October 27.)

My Lord, Victoria, Ilong Kong, July 31, 1848.

WITH reference to that portion of my despatch of the 12th April ,

wherein I informed your Lordship of Mr. Consul Alcock’s intention of

liquidating certain claims, alleged to be due to British subjects, from the

proceeds of the ships' duties kept back during the fifteen days' embargo on the

grain junks and duties in his port, in consequence of the Tsing-poo affair, I

have the honour to inclose copy of a despatch from that officer, reporting that,

previously to the receipt of my instructions on the subject, payment had been

made to the creditors in question, and setting forth the reasons which induced

him to adopt the course he has seen fit to do on theoccasion. The Consul at

the same time reports that he has received from the Chinese authorities the

Value of the property stolen from the Missionaries at Tsing-poo, and paid the

amount, 200 dollars, over to the injured individuals.

I have informed Mr. Consul Alcock that I shall forward copy of his

despatch for your Lordship's information .

I have, &c.

(Signed) S. G. BONHAM .

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184

Inclosure in No. 66.

Consul Alcock to Mr. Bonham .

Sir, Shanghae, June 26, 1848 .

THE Chinese authorities having reported their inability to recover the

property of which the Missionary gentlemen were robbed at Tsing -Poo, and

tendered the estimated value of the articles amounting to 200 dollars, that sum

has been received, and paid over to the injured parties.

In connection with this affair and your Excellency's despatch of the

12th April, disapproving of a liquidation of the claims of British subjects

upon the estate of Foqua, out of the proceeds of Custom-house duties, payme

had unfortunately been made to the creditors when the despatch in question

was received .

The inclosed official communication, addressed to the acting Taoutae and

announcing the payment, was delayed for some time in the hope of inducing

that functionary or his predecessor to enter into some amicable and equitable

arrangement, the individual responsibility of the latter for the safe custody of

the bales of longcloth being undeniable. Upon this ground, chiefly, I sought

to enforce a demand for settlement before the Taoutae's accounts were closed .

Having more than once made these claims aa subject of reference to Her

Majesty's Plenipotentiary and the Attorney-General , and each time received in

reply opinions rendering it incumbent upon me to prosecute them to a final

settlement ; having, moreover, failed in my best efforts, extending over a period

of many months, to make the slightest impression upon his Excellency Heen,

rendered doubly impracticable, no doubt, by the consciousness that the goods

upon which the liquidation depended had been disposed of while in his custody,

it did appear to me desirable to profit by the opportunity made by his bad faith

in another affair, to close this vexed question, and terminate at once the useless

and irritating discussion bequeathed to me by my predecessor in office. The

hopelessness, moreover, of effecting this by any other means than the stoppage

of duties in transitu, to the value of the goods, had, I conceive, been made

sufficientiy manifest to establish the expediency and justice of the measure.

The view taken by your Excellency would probably hive suggested itself to

me, had I not looked upon the late Taoutae as personally responsible for the

goods made away with during his administration, and held it, moreover, quite

certain, that not the Chinese revenue, but Heen, the Superintendent of the

Customs, the officer responsible for the collection of the duties, would be the

only party affected by this compulsory liquidation. Justice seemed, under

these circumstances, to require that he should not be allowed to escape from

pecuniary responsibilities, entailing loss and injury upon British subjects, which

could no longer be transferred to successors, since the goods which came with

it to us from our predecessors had disappeared by his mismanagement or

consent.

The political question connected with the stoppage of duties I considered

finally settled when the prisoners were produced, and the embargo on the grain

junk's and the duties ceased as the immediate result . The paying up the

arrears of duties accruing during the stoppage I regarded as a mere matter of

detail (the right of the Chinese authorities to payment having once been

admittedl) upon questions which might arise with the executive officers as to the

amount to be paid, as in the payment of duties upon any other occasion , but

involving in no way the previous question.

I can only express my sincere regret, if the steps taken under this view

shall finally appear to your Excellency to have mixed up, in a manner highly

inexpedient, an important political question with one of a commercial and

insigoificant character.

I have, & c.

(Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .

185

No. 67.

Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham.

(No. 69.)

Sir, Foreign Office, August 7, 1848.

I HAVE received and laid before the Queen your despatches to the 24th

of May inclusive.

I have to acquaint you that I approve of the despatch which you addressed

to Mr. Consul Alcock on the 28th of April, and of which a copy is inclosed in

your despatch to me of the same date, in reply to his despatches of the

10th and 12th of that month, respecting his late proceedings at Shanghae in

the matter of the attack on the three Missionaries near that place.

I also approve of the answer which you returned to the Chinese Com

missioner's representation respecting Mr. Alcock’s proceedings, and of which

a copy is inclosed in your despatch of the 11th of May.

I am , &c.

(Signed ) PALMERSTON .

No. 68.

Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham .

Sir, Foreign Office, September 19, 1848.

I HAVE received your despatch of the 10th of June, in which you

report the punishment inflicted on the ten criminals who committed the

assault on Mr. Medhurst and the Missionaries at Tsing -poo, and I have to

acquaint you that the punishments in this case are quite sufficient,but that in

all cases of punishment awarded to Chinese, for wrongs done to British subjects,

some British officer ought to be present to witness the infliction of the

punishment.

I am, &c.

(Signed ) PALMERSTON .

No. 69.

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .- (Received January 20, 1849. )

Extract) Victoria, Hong Kong, November 2 , 1848.

I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith, copy of a despatch which I have

received from Mr. Consul Jackson, at Foo -chow -foo, reporting that Mr. Parish ,

the Assistant attached to that Consulate, was assailed bya mob of persons with

insulting language, when riding in the neighbourhood of theConsulate, and that

they eventually went the length of hurling large stones at him , many of which

struckhim , though providentially without doing any serious injury.

Mr. Jackson addressed a letter to the Governor-General of the Provinces,

in which he called his Excellency's attention to the revived spirit of hostility

and insult which has lately been observable in the bearing of the rabble towards

himself and the officers of his establishment ; and demanded the apprehension

and severe punishment of the foremost amongst Mr. Parish's assailants.

I have since received the inclosed report from the Consul, forwarding

further correspondence with the local authorities as to the measures adopted

for the apprehension of the criminals in the present instance, and the prevention

of such occurrences in future. From this it appears that two of the rioters have

been apprehended and sentenced to be beaten with the bamboo, and to a month's

exposure in the cangue, in which they have been seen by the Chinese writer

attached to the Consulate, with the nature of their offence inscribed on their

186

wooden collars. The authorities further state that they will use every means to

apprehend the four remaining offenders, implicated by the confession of those

already under sentence.

As to the preventive measures adopted by the authorities, I consider that

the notice issued by the Chief Magistrate (translation of which is annexed ) is

well calculated to prevent a recurrence of such outrages, and ought to be

attended with beneficial results ; it has been posted at the principal avenue

leading to the place where the outrage was committed.

In my reply to the Consul's despatches above referred to, I have approved

of the measures adopted by him to secure the punishment of the offenders, but

although the fact of the Chinese writer having seen the delinquents in the

present instance exposed in the cangue may be considered satisfactory, still I

deemed it advisable to call Mr. Jackson's attention to the desirability of the

British Consul, or some person authorized by him , being present at the

punishment of any Chinese who may in future commit aggressions on British

subjects.

Inclosure 1 in No. 69.

Consul Jackson to Mr. Bonham .

Sir, Foo-chow , September 5, 1848 .

I REGRET having to acquaint your Excellency that I have again been

obliged to complain to the local authorities of the insolent bearing of the rabble

toward myself and the officers of my establishment.

Lately it has been much more observable than usual, though I am ignorant

of anything having occurred to account for it. There is not an individual among

us by whom they are treated otherwise than with kindness, or from whom they

are not constantly obtaining relief in some way or other. Nevertheless we

more often meet with sullen looks and insulting expressions, than any other kind

of notice. Having myself continually, and for a length of time, been molested

with hootings and scurrilous language in passing a place just within the city walls,

and finding private remonstrance unavailing, I at length called on the Magistrate

of the District to put an end to it. Only three days afterwards Mr. Parish,

my first assistant, complained to me that he had been grossly insulted and

stoned by aa crowd of about 150 persons, from whom he escaped with difficulty,

and, as I judge from his account , most providentially, without more injury than

some heavy blows on his head and body. This happened on the evening of the

30th ultimo on the Parade Ground, just beneath the city walls, and little more

than half a mile from this Consulate.

Considering this a matter for more serious notice, I sent in a report of the

particulars to the Governor -General. The affair had already become known to

some of the authorities, who, on sending here for information, stated that diligent

search was being made for the offenders, and that on their apprehension, they

should be rigorously punished.

Owing to Mr. Morrison's continued indisposition, my letter to the Governor

General did not reach his Excellency till the 3rd instant ; but he was

previously made acquainted verbally through Suh Taoutae, with all that had

happened.

Though it now appeared from Mr. Parish's statement, that he had often

before been similarly treated in the same place, it had never been made known

to me ; and although his keeping quiet so long is evidence of his forbearance, I

cannot but regret that he did not before mention it to me on one of the many

occasions when I have inquired of him, concerning the reception he experienced

during his rambles about the neighbourhood ; for it is to be feared that

too much passiveness may be misconstrued by those of mean and dastardly

natures.

On receipt of my letter, the Governor-General sent his card with a message,

hat on hearing of the occurrence he had lost no time in issuing orders, and that

187

he was still urging the subordinate authorities to activity in bringing the offenders

to punishment.

The following day his Excellency sent an Aide-de- camp to make inquiries

after Mr. Parish's health , desiring him to mention at the same time, that the

place being now full of low people from distant quarters, in attendance on the

candidates for examination , he hoped all noisy places would be avoided, or that

police from the magistracies would be sent for to accompany those going out, as

this was the only plan he could think of for securing protection .

Though, perhaps, well meant, I could not, of course, encourage such a

system , which would be little else than placing us publicly under surveillance, and

putting constraint upon our footsteps. At the same time, I think his Excellency's

advice, to avoid noisy places, likely to be frequented by the class of people he

indicates, deserving ofattention, and have expressed my wishes in accordance to

the officers of my establishment.

I hopethatmy report to his Excellency may be productive of good effect.

The authorities all appear sincere in their anxiety to restrain the mob, but their

power to do so effectually may be doubted ,

I hear the Te-pa-ou, a constable of the place where the assault was com

mitted, has twice received forty blows of the bamboo to aid him in discovering

some of the rioters.

The Fuh-kien people are a sullen and savage set. They have a rooted

antipathy to foreigners, which is vented mostly in filthy expressions and offensive

manners as we pass them . The authorities wish it to be believed that these

expressions are mere expletives, with which the common people are accustomed

to interlard their sentences, whether addressed to friend or stranger but

the manner of emitting them renders this explanation hard to believe .

I shall not cease to urge activity in this matter, and shall hope soon to

acquaint your Excellency of its satisfactory termination in the apprehension

and punishment of some of the ruffians, as an example and warning to

others.

In the meantime, I beg to inclose a copy of my letter to the Governor

General, as it contains particulars of the assault.

I have, &c.

(Signed) R. B. JACKSON.

Inclosure 2 in No. 69 .

Consul Jackson to Mr. Bonham.

Sir, Foo -chow , September 23, 1848.

MY last despatch gave your Excellency particulars of an assault on

Mr. Parish of this Consulate, and inclosed copy of an official letter I had

addressed in consequence to the Governor -General Seu.

I have now the honour to forward for your Excellency's further informa

tion on the subject, copy and translation of communication made to me by the

Ex. Intendant Luh, by command of his Excellency, in which are set forth the

steps said to have been taken for the apprehension and punishment of some of

the assailants. This communication I presume to have been elicited by one I

addressed to Luh by way of reminder, and for the purpose of urging him and

the officers placed under his direction for the occasion by the Governor-General,

but which letter he does not allude to.

I beg leave to inclose a copy of it, and likewise of another which I found

it necessary to address to the same officer, in consequence of the ambiguous

wording of the Min-heen's report to him, embodied in his letter, appearing

to me as intended to convey doubt as to the disturbance having originated with

the Chinese. These papers, with the one inclosed in my preceding despatch to

your Excellency, comprise all the documentary correspondence had as yet on

the subject.

On receipt of the Intendant's letter I caused inquiry to be set on foot in

order to ascertain whether the sentences were being carried out in good faith ,

as well as the other measures for preventing future disturbances.

The proclamation, inclosed in copy and translation , was found to be posted

188

at the principal avenue to the place where the outrage was committed. Its

terms are better adapted to the system of Chinese coercion and the under

standing of the common people than such warnings usually are.

As to the infliction of the bamboo, we must be content to take the assur

ance of the Min-heen's subordinates that it was duly administered.

But, with regard to the punishment of the cangue , to which the two men

are said to be sentenced, after allowing time for it to be entered upon, I

dispatched an individual to ascertain the fact, to whom it was pretended, on his

finding they were not at the place indicated, that after being exposed a couple

of days they were taken ill, and it became necessary to remove them to the

gaol of the district Magistracy ; but that being then nearly recovered , their

sentences would be carried into effect. Regarding this as a subterfuge for a

breach of the faith, and unwilling to be duped, I caused the Chinese writer to

be again dispatched to make inquiry, and to intimate that I was not unmindful

of what was going on . On his return he reported that he had seen the men in

the cangue, and having examined their sentences , as inscribed on these wooden

collars, found them to be in due form , as for creating aa disturbance.

He added that they would be brought here for inspection if required.

Having no reason to question the veracity of the writer—an old and steady

servant of this establishment - I contented myself with his assurance, in the

belief that the Magistrate, who prides himself on being a descendant of Con

fucius, whose name he bears, would not incur further risk of a charge of

duplicity against himself.

Though continually urging the apprehension of the other four implicated

by the confession of those under sentence, I have not heard anything respect

ing them , and I fear they will be allowed to escape, for which there is no

remedy beyond empty denunciations, against which the consciences of the

Mandarins seem to be tolerably proof.

I have, &c.

(Signed) R. B. JACKSON.

Inclosure 3 in No. 69 .

Proclamation .

( Translation .)

KUNG, Chief Magistrate of the Department of Min, &c., hereby issues

plain instructions.

It being now permitted to foreign nations to trade at the port ofFoo -chow,

when foreigners pass about the city and its suburbs, it behoves the natives of

the land tomaintain towards thema friendly deportment, that so due effect may

be given to the existing peace .

Having heard a report that on the 3rd day of the present month

(August 31 ), as an English officer was riding on the South Parade Ground, a

disturbancewas raised by a crowd of ignorant people, who assailed him with

stones, conduct which was disorderly in the extreme, besides dispatching

runners to search out and seize the offending parties, that they may be tried and

punished I now proclaim these urgent instructions, and look to the people fully

to know them .

Hereafter, you must keep in order the youths and children of your

families.

When foreigners pass backwards and forwards, let them not rush in front

of, or crowd after them ; nor let them either address them in abusive terms, so

as to bring about disturbances.

If they again dare to act as in times past, they shall assuredly be taken and

punished . The elder members of their families shall likewise be punished for

not keeping them in order ; and the Te-paous, if they do not look after and

restrain them, shall be dealt with in the same manner. No mercy shall be

shown to them .

Do not oppose. A special proclamation.

Taoukwang, 28th year, 8th month, 5th day. (September 2, 1848.)

189

No. 70.

Mr. Bonham to Mr. Hammond .- (Received January 20 , 1849.)

( Extract .)

November 30 , 1848, 11 P.M.

LATE last night, I received a despatch from Canton , giving an account

of a piratical attack on Mr. Meadows, when returning from Whampoa.

It appears that Mr. Meadows had gone to Whampoa on business, in

company with an officer of the High Commission, for the purpose of examining

an English vessel that had been run into by a junk, and that, on their return,

their boat was boarded by a large pirate boat full of men, two of whom ,

Mr. Meadows is of opinion , he shot. The pirates, nevertheless, put on board

Mr. Meadows' boat, when he took to the water, and managed to get ashore,

but not until he had received a severe spear wound in his hand.

This affair took place close to the Barrier, about eight miles from Canton,

at the same spot where the Shah Allem's boat was similarly attacked last year.

As this isa mere act of piracy, I have no doubt that Seu will, if he can catch

them, make an example of the miscreants, more especially, as some of his

own people were present, and, it is reported , were wounded. In other respects,

everything is quiet ; but this little affair shows the limited powers either Seu

or any one else has over the Canton mob.

No. 71 .

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Pulmerston.—(Received February 22, 1849.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, December 29, 1848 .

I HAVE the honour to report to your Lordship, that in the night of the

27th ultimo, Mr. Meadows, Interpreter to the Canton Consulate, was assailed by

pirates in the Canton River, and only escaped with his life by jumping into the

river and swimming ashore, after having shot two of his assailants.

Mr. Meadows was on his way from Whampoa, where he had been deputed

by Mr. Consul Elmslie upon public business, in company with one of Seu's

officers, and when close to the barriers, about 10 P.M., a piratical craft, containing

about thirty men, dashed alongside and obtained possession of Mr. Meadows'

boat, but not until that gentleman had shot dead one of the pirates and

wounded another, when he jumped into the river, and arrived, wounded and in

an exhausted condition, at the Consulate, at 1 o'clock in the morning.

Both the Consul and myself have been in communication with Seu

regarding this ruffianly attack. His Excellency has succeeded in apprehending

four of the parties connected with the transaction, and promises to do his

utmost in seizing the remaining criminals. A question has arisen as to the

degree of punishment to be awarded to these four. Seu states transportation

for life to be the legal punishment, but as this appears to me doubtful from

several other precedents, it is my intention to address that officer further upon

the point, and in the meanwhile I have thought it necessary that your Lordship

should be made acquainted, as early as possible, with the principal facts

connected with this attack.

Mr. Meadows has forwarded a list of articles stolen, and other losses, the

whole of which he estimates at 352 dollars 74 cents. I have called on Seu to

recover the articles plundered, or failing this, to make good Mr. Meadows' claim .

2 C

190

I regret, however, to state'that my applications have up to the present moment

proved unsuccessful. Seu declines making any restitution whatever, on the

grounds of its being inconsistent with Chinese law to do so. Under the

peculiar circumstances of Mr. Meadows' case, and bearing in mind that that

gentleman was attacked and robbed whilst in the performance of his public

duties, I have not hesitated in authorizing Mr. Elmslie to pay this sum out of

the Consulate chest, and rely upon your Lordship in approving of this

expenditure.

I propose, by next mail, further addressing your Lordship upon this

subject ; in the meantime I may observe that the attack on Mr. Meadows

appears to me to have been made without any reference to the party plundered

being a British subject.

I have, & c.

(Signed) S. G. BONHAM.

No. 72 .

Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham .

Sir, Foreign Office, February 17, 1849.

I HAVE received your despatch of the 2nd of November, respecting

an assault committed on Mr. Parish at Foo - chow -foo ; and I have to

acquaint you that I concur with you in approving the manner in which

Mr. Consul Jackson required and obtained redress from the local authorities for

this outrage, and that I also approve of your having reminded him of the

necessity of some person being delegated by him on any future occasion to

witness the infliction of any punishment which may be awarded by the Chinese

authorities to persons guilty of assaults on British subjects.

I am , & c.

( Signed) PALMERSTON .

No. 73.

Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham .

Sir, Foreign Office, March 5, 1849.

I HAVE to acquaint you that I approve of the steps which you have taken ,

as reported in your despatch of the 29th of December, with reference

to the attack made on Mr. Interpreter Meadows, on his way from Whampoa to

Canton in the night of the 27th of November ; and considering that Mr. Meadows

was at the time in the execution of his public duties, I approve of your having

directed the sum of 352 dollars 74 cents to be paid to him as compensation for

the value of the property which he lost on that occasion.

I am, &c.

( Signed) PALMERSTON.

No. 74 .

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .-- (Received March 21.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, January 24, 1849.

IN continuation of my despatch of the 29th December, on the

subject of the piratical attack made on Mr. Meadows in the Canton River, I

have the honour to acquaint your Lordship that thirteen of the parties implicated

in that transaction have been apprehended by the Chinese authorities , of whom

five have been sentenced to transportation for life, and eight to decapitation.

191

The Imperial Commissioner having in the first instance only announced the

apprehension of the five first named, and stated that they would be transported,

I thought it right to impress on his Excellency the necessity of making a most

striking example of the culprits, and addressed a letter to him to that effect,

referring to four cases where persons convicted of similar offences had been

executed, and reminding him that Mr. Meadows was an officer in the discharge

of a public duty, and that if a stop were not put to such violent proceedings,

and outrages of this nature were permitted to be carried on between Canton and

Whampoa, no public officer could safely travel between those places.

To this Seu rejoined, insisting that the punishment to which the culprits

had been sentencedwas in conformity with the laws of China, but at the same

time informed me that eight additional culprits had been apprehended, and that

as they had been engaged in other malpractices of a like nature, they would be

decapitated, and their heads stuck up on poles.

In acknowledging the receipt of the last communication, I informed the

Imperial Commissioner thatI was not altogether satisfied with the result of this

affair, as it appeared to me that had the eight criminals not been proved tohave

been guilty of offences against Chinese, they would not have been capitally

punished ; but as the matter stood, I requested to be informed when and where

the men would be executed .

I have not yet received a reply to this communication , and as this is the

first day of the Chinese new year ,when and for some days to come no public

business is transacted, I do not anticipate hearing again from the Commissioner

before the mail of this month is dispatched. I think it right, however, tostate

that from what has passed between the Acting Consul at Canton and the

Imperial Commissioner, with reference to this subject, I do not think Seu will

acquiesce in any British officers being present at their execution, which I am

in some measure disposed to attribute to his fearing their presence might give

rise to a popular commotion, which at this particular juncture might terminate

in their being ill-used by the mob .

I have, &c.

( Signed ) S. G. BONHAM .

Inclosure 1 in No. 74.

Commissioner Seu to Mr. Bonham.

( Translation .)

SEU, High Imperial Commissioner, &c., sends the following answer to a

communication from the Honourable Envoy, which he received on the 12th

instant (6th January) in which several precedents are quoted, which he carefully

perused.

In a previous answer, I, the GreatMinister, stated, that as Heaven was

concerned in human life, only criminals worthy of death should suffer the

penalty of the law.

According to the evidence of the criminal Han-Hoo-Leen and others,

they only robbed once, and did not board the boat. These are extenuating

circumstances in the eyes of the law, and they will therefore not suffer death,

but be transported. This is in accordance with the provisions (of the code)

23rd chapter , page 33 .

The criminals now taken, are denounced as principals, and different from

accomplices, as much as a man who transgresses for the first time, differs from an

old offender , and as there is likewise a difference between those who search for

plunder, and those who receive the stolen articles.

In cases which involve life and death , one ought to be very careful in these

matters. The precedents quoted in your communication, I find do not refer to

criminals who only once offended, but who had to be punished severely. You

also remark in your letter, that the criminals mentioned in this case, are all

principals, whilst there is only one of them to whom this applies ; for what

reason should all be principals ?

The Magistrate now reports, that in Mr. Meadows, the Interpreter's case,

he has successively seized the following runaway criminals :Lew-a-keang,

2 C 2

192

Lew-a-tih, Lew -a -wang, W00 -a -tsing , Lew - a -chin , Yer-tsew-kwei , llwang

king-yu, Woo-a -tseang, in all eight. It was ascertained , as a matter of fact,

that all these had boarded the boat, and it was likewise found out, that they had

robbed the packet, Saou -tan, the rice boat Le- yuh -yang, the pawnbroker's shop

of Lo-kang -borough, and the cotton junk of Chin - a -show . Hence it is proved,

that they have repeatedly committed robberies ; these various instances having

been brought home to them, they have thus been sentenced to decapitation, and

that their heads be stuck up. Being impartially dealt with in conformity to the

letter of the law, not the least forbearance nor lenity has been shown towarıls

robbers.

Whilst sending this reply, I wish you much happiness

Taoukwang, 28th year, 12th month , 21st day. ( January 15, 1819.)

Inclosure 2 in No. 74 .

Mr. Bonham to Commissioner Seu.

Victoria, Hong Kong, January 20, 1849 .

I HAVE received your Excellency's communication of the 15th instant,

in reply to mine of the 3rd instant, relative to the punishment of the persons

concerned in the piratical attack on Mr. Meadows.

In this letter, your Excellency asks me why all the parties concerned in

the attack on Mr. Meadows are principals, to which I reply, that after the death

of their leader, Leu -a -sze, the remainder of the boat's crew , by their violence,

compelled Mr. Meadows to jump into the water to save his life, and that they

then forcibly seized his boat and property,

were all engaged in one common , unlawful which they made away with — they

act, which caused loss of life and

was attended with robbery ; they ought, therefore, in reason, to be considered

all equally guilty

Your Excellency now informs me that eight more criminals connected with

this murderous outrage on Mr. Meadows have been apprehended , and as they

have been found guilty of other offences they will be decapitated. This

proceeding is, however, not altogether satisfactory to me, as it appears that, had

it not been discovered that these culprits had committed robberies in other

instances, they would not, for the piratical attack on Nr. Meadows, have suffered

capital punishment. I have already quoted instances of execution following

offences of this nature, and this outrage on a public officer, in the discharge of

his official duties, seems to me to demand, at your Excellency's hands, the utmost

penalty of the law .

As the case now stands, I beg of your Excellency to acquaint me when and

where these men will be executed, as I have instructions from my own Govern

ment to depute persons to witness all punishments which may be inflicted by

the Chinese Government on persons for misconduct to British subjects, as was

the case in the instance of the execution of the murderers of the crew of the

French merchant vessel “ Navigateur,” and more recently in the unfortunate

affair at Hwang -chu-ke, when four Chinese were executed for the murder of my

countrymen.

Accept, &c.

(Signed ) S. G. BONHAM .

Inclosure 3 in No. 74 .

Mr. Bonham to Commissioner Seu .

Victoria, Hong Kong, January 3, 1849 .

I HAVE recently received several communications from the Consul at

Canton, relative to the piratical attack made on Mr. Meadows, on which subject

I have already had occasion to address your Excellency. From the corre

spondence that has passed between the Consul and your Excellency, I gat

that the four ruffians who have been apprehended , are not to be capitally

punished ou the grounds of their not being principals, but simply accomphices.

103

The Consul has fully brought the true state of the case to your Excel

lency's notice, and reminded you that heretofore, when pirates have been taken

and convicted, they have been executed, and he mentions cases wherein the full

sentence of the law has been carried out.

Your Excellency, in reply ,assigns reasons why these pirates should not be

executed, and states that “ as Heaven itself is concerned in human life, crimes

punishable by death, must be committed before such punishment can be

inflicted .” To the latter part of your observation I fully agree; and if I were

satisfied that the parties implicated in the piracy were not liable to the punish

ment of death by the law of China, I would not now address your Excellency

on the subject.

The Chinese Code of Laws distinctly states, in the 23rd chapter, 57th page,

that “ Those who, on the sea-coast or along rivers, commit piracy by boarding

vessels in search of plunder, shall all, in case they have obtained possession of

any goods, be sentenced to decapitation, and instantly receive doom . Nothing

is to be pleaded in their excuse .'

There are, moreover, four precedents within my own knowledge to prove

that the law in this respect has been carried into effect :

1. In Mckinlay's case, the pirates were executed, according to a letter of

the late Governor-General Kekung, dated 20th December, 1843.

2. The execution of several pirates who attacked a party of our soldiers

near Chek-chu, who were conveying treasure to that place, as stated by Keying

in a despatch dated 17th December, 1844.

3. The capital punishment of some pirates who attacked two opium-vessels

in the Bay of Shimmob, according to a letter of Keying, dated 9th August,

1847, and

4. The case of the pirates implicated in the attack on the boat of the

merchant ship “ Shah Allum ,” as made known to Consul Macgregor by Keying,

in a communication dated 17th October 1847.

Your Excellency does not deny that the men who have been apprehended

are guilty of the piracy, but states that, as the principal man , Low -a-sze, was

shot and died, and his associate, Kan -a-mow, severely wounded , the remainder

of the boat's crew are only accessaries, and can only be banished for life to

Tartary .

Bit it is clear, from the evidence, that after Lew-a-sze was killed, and

Kan-a -mow was wounded, that the remainder of the crew plundered the boat ;

and part of the plundered property has been found on the persons of the prisoners,

hence it is obvious, that they are principals in the piracy, and in the wounding

of Mr. Meadows.

The case of Mr. Meadows is analogous, in every respect, with the four

cases above quoted , where those found guilty were executed.

Mr. Meadows fortunately escaped with his life ; but the guilt of the pirates

remains the same. It is natural enough for the remaining criminals to endea

vour to throw the most heinous part of the crime upon a man who is dead to

exculpate themselves, but surely such a defence is not to be deemed worthy of

any consideration when the facts are so clear that the guilt of the parties cannot

be doubted by any reasonable person).

I trust, therefore, that your Excellency will see that these prisoners be

rigorously punished, and the remaining criminals apprehended and punished also,

otherwise it will be impossible for public officers to travel between Canton and

Whampoa, which must end in great detriment to the trade of our respective

nations.

Accept, &c.

( Signed ) S. G. BONHAM .

194

No. 75 .

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston.— (Received April 18.)

My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, February 3, 1849.

REFERRING to my despatch of the 24th January, wherein I reported

the sentences passed on thirteen of the criminals concerned in the piratical

attack on Mr. Meadows, I have the honour to transmit herewith, an

extract of the Imperial Commissioner's reply to my letter in which I applied

for information as to when, and where , the eight persons sentenced to

decapitation, would be executed, to enable me to depute an officer to witness

the infliction of the punishment.

Your Lordship will observe that the criminals had already been executed

previously to the receipt of my communication above referred to, and that Seu

expressly states that they were not sentenced to death for the piratical attack on

Mr. Meadows alone, so that had they not been proved to have been engaged in

former acts of violence, it may be inferred that they would only have been

transported, such, according to Seu's statement, being the sentence of the law

of China on occasions of this sort.

Your Lordship will likewise observe that the Commissioner makes no

remark on my desire that an English functionary should be present on the

occasion of the execution. In this instance the presence of such a person

would have been useless, as Mr. Meadows could not recognise the criminals

had he seen them, and I confess that at present I think it doubtful if it be

in the Commissioner's power, to insure the safety of the gentleman who might

have been employed on this mission .

It is right also that your Lordship should be informed that the Imperial

Commissioner observed to the Consul, when that officer took occasion to

notify to his Excellency that it was the wish of Her Majesty's Governmentthat

some officer deputed by him should be present to witness the infliction of the

punishment, that “ The Treaties provide for Chinese criminals being dealt with

by China, and foreign criminals by the foreign countries, neither side

concerning themselves with the proceedings of the other. What need is there

then to appoint an officer ? ”

Under these circumstances, I have allowed this part of the question

to remain in abeyance, being satisfied that with the temper which at present

exists at Canton against foreigners, any attempt on the part of a Consulate

officer to witness an execution, would, unless he were strongly guarded by

Chinese troops, most assuredly expose him to personal insult and violence, and

indeed might cost him his life.

I have, &c.

(Signed) S. G. BONHAM .

Inclosure in No 75 .

Commissioner Seu to Mr. Bonham .

(Extract.)

THE principal in Mr. Meadows, the Interpreter's case, isLew -a-sze, who,

for his crime, ought to have been sentenced to decapitation. Having, however,

been shot, he fell into the water, and met with his death. The remaining

criminals have only once committed robbery, and ought, according to law,to

be transported. The eight others whosuccessively were taken have all repeatedly

committed acts of robbery, and, as the various cases have been brought home

to them, they suffered decapitation for their heavy crimes, on 19th day of the

12th month ( 13th January), ( with others ) altogether forty -six in number

I trust that you, the Honourable Envoy, have already heard that I, the

Great Minister, manage matters with the utmost justice, and it would only be

troublesome to enter upon minutiæ .

January 27, 1849.

195

No. 76.

Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham.

Sir, Foreign Office, May 12, 1849.

I HAVE received your despatch of the 3rd of February, reporting

the execution of several persons concerned in the attack on Mr. Interpreter

Meadows; and I have to acquaint you that I approve of your having let the

question about the attendance of a British officer to witness the execution, to

remain without being further pressed.

With regard to the transaction itself, it is, of course, absolutely necessary

that outrages committed, or attempted, on British subjects, should be punished

in such a manner as to deter the Chinese from attempting a repetition of such

offences; but, at the same time, I cannot but observe that the extent to which

capital punishment seems to be inflicted in China, is not in harmony with the

feelings of the British nation on such matters ; and it is not desirable that you

should press for the decapitation of offenders, except in cases in which such

examples may really be required for the protection of British subjects, and by

the gravity of the committed offence.

I am , & c.

(Signed ) PALMERSTON .

No. 77 .

Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .— (Received May 24.)

(Extract .) Victoria , Hong Kong, March 5, 1849.

IN despatch dated December 19, 1848, your Lordship observes that in

all cases of punishment being awarded to Chinese for wrongs done to British

subjects, some British officer ought to be present to witness its infliction.

These instructions were duly communicated to the Consuls, but I regret to state

that it has been found impossible to have them carried out.

Two cases have recently occurred at Canton, wherein Chinese have been

punished for wrongs done to British subjects, and in neither have the authorities

seen fit to permit British officers to witness the punishment.

The first case was that of Mr. Meadows, who was attacked by pirates in

the Canton river, as reported to your Lordship in my despatches of the

29th December last, and of the 24th January and 3rd February respectively.

The second was a case wherein a servant of an English gentleman robbed

and fired the house of his master, within the factories. In this instance

one person has been convicted and put in the cangue for two months. The

HighCommissioner was requested tosend the culprit to undergo part of his

punishment on the spot where the crime was committed. This he declined

acceding to, on the ground that another person whom the Chinese authorities

allege to have been an accomplice had not been taken, and who,they considered,

had been concealed by the owner of the house from the police runners sent

to apprehend him : but your Lordship will have observed from my despatch

of the 3rd February, that the Commissioner directly stated in reference to

Mr. Meadow's case that “the Treaties provide for Chinese criminals being

dealt with by China, and foreign criminals by the foreign countries, neither

side concerning themselves with the proceedings of the other. What need is

there then to appoint an officer ? ” And I am not aware , under these circum

stances, by what means I can compel him to meet the directions contained in

your Lordship’s despatch now underconsideration.

At Foo-chow -foo, in the case of an assault committed by certain villagers,

wherein Captain Johnston , of Her Majesty's sloop “ Scout ,” Lieutenant

Wodehouse and Mr. Parish were pelted and hooted while peaceably walking for

exercise, on Mr. Consul Jackson intimating his intention of deputing an

officer to witness the punishment of the parties apprehended, the Chinese

196

authorities objected on the ground that no such practice was provided for by

the Treaties, and that they had received no instructions from the Imperial

Commissioner on the subject.

At Shanghae I am not aware of any aggression on British subjects having

taken place since the case where the Missionary gentlemen were assaulted and

ill-used by the junk men , but in reference to this subject generally Mr. Alcock,

writes as follows :

“ As regards the practicability and expediency of verifying the punishment

of any Chinese offender by the presence of a British officer, when a sentence is

carried into execution, the instructions received could only have been partially

applicable to the Tsing-poo offenders had it been earlier received, for the most

serious punishment was banishment to a penal settlement in Tartary.

“ But the whole subject is one of peculiar difficulty, nor can any hope be

entertained of submitting in this place a satisfactory solution. It has long

been felt that of all the provisions of the two Treaties, that which provided for

the due administration of the laws on Chinese offenders was the most nugatory.

The chief difficulty consists in a British officer being present at all during a

trial in a Chinese Court. Assuming the right were to begranted by Treaty,

by torture, and a process utterly

where the ordinary mode of questioning is sense

repugnant to our notions of justice and our of what is due to humanity

and truth, are we by our presence to sanction and to be made parties to such

proceedings, or are we to interfere and insist upon justice being administered,

not according to their usages, but ours ? The objection to both courses seems

equally valid , and yet without the presence of an efficient officer there is no

guarantee whatever for the due alministration of justice.

“* As regards the presence of an Officer of Punishments, unless he is in a

position to identify the criminals, which must often from the circumstances of

the case be impossible, it may be questioned whether our national character is

not in danger of being compromised, without the real object of such risk being

attained . Nothing could more effectually tend to lower us in the opinion of

the Chinese than to be imposed upon by the jugglery of a substituted criminal,

or the punishment of an innocent man at our instigation, or even the illegal or

excessive punishment of a real offender. Yet to all these we are exposed, when

we take upon ourselves to watch the course of justice and verify the execution

of the sentences. It may finally be observed that there are punishments

recognized in the Chinese Code revolting for their brutality, which an English

officer could scarcely sanction with his presence without discredit to our national

feeling. A lesser objection exists in the frequency of minor punishments for

theft and petty misdemeanours, so that an Interpreter would be required for

this duty alone.”

In the conclusions come to by Mr. Alcock I generally concur, and on the

whole, therefore, as in many cases from the nature of the punishment it will be

impossible for a Consular officer to witness its infliction, and in others that it

will be attended with great difficulty, and that the presence of an European

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gentleman on such occasions may give rise to misapprehension in respect to the

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object in view , I beg respectfully to submit the question for your Lordship’s

reconsideration .

In the meantime I have directed the Consuls to consider the instructions

that I have given them on this subject in abeyance, but at the same time to

satisfy themselves, as far as they have the means, that any punishments awarded

under the circumstances referred to are carried into execution ,

197

No. 78 .

Viscount Palmerston to Mr. Bonham .

( Extract.) Foreign Office, June 1, 1849.

I HAVE to state to you, in reply to your despatch of the 5th of March ,

that on consideration of the circumstances adverted to in that despatch,

I think it may be best not to press for the presence of aa British officer at the

punishment of Chinese convicted of offences against British subjects, unless in

special cases, in which such presence may be thought by you, or by the Consul

on the spot, to be useful .

No. 79 .

Viscount Palmerston to Sir S. Bonham .

Sir , Foreign Office, October 23, 1851 .

I TRANSMIT to you herewith a statement which has been published in

the 6“ Times ” newspaper, and which appears to be founded upon a letter said to

have been addressed from Hong Kong to the “ Univers ” French newspaper,

relative to the alleged execution of a Missionary named Schoffler ; and I have

to instruct you to furnish me with any particulars you can obtain respecting this

transaction .

I am, &c.

(Signed ) PALMERSTON .

No. 80 .

Sir S. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .- (Received February 16, 1852. )

(Extract.) Victoria, Hong Kong, December 24, 1849 .

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Lordship’s

despatch of the 23rd October, transmitting to me a statement which has

been published in the “ Times” newspaper, relative to the alleged execution of

aMissionary named Schoffer, and instructing me to furnish any particulars that

I can obtain respecting this transaction.

In obedience to your Lordship’s orders, I directed Mr. Woodgate, the

second assistant, to wait on M. Libois, Procureur-Général des Missions

Etrangères, and having shown and explained to him the statement, to request

he would furnish me with any information he might possess on the subject.

I have now the honour to transmit to your Lordship, copy of a letter from

M. Libois to Mr. Woodgate, giving a detail of all that has come to his

knowledge respecting this transaction .

Your Lordship will have the goodness to observe, that the execution of the

Missionary is stated to have taken place at a town or city called Son-tay, which

I find from the maps, is in Cochin China, and situated in 21° of north latitude,

and 105° of east longitude.

Until the receipt of your Lordship's despatch, the circumstances detailed

in the “ Times ” had not come to my knowledge, nor can I discover that any

other person, save the RomanCatholic priests, had ever heard of them .

The present Tudouc or King of Cochin China, came to the throne about

2 D

198

two years ago, and is tributary to the Emperor of China, but I imagine, except

on the subject of succession and tribute, is entirely independent of the

authority of the Emperor.

Inclosure in No. 80 .

M. Libois to Mr. Woodgate.

Mon cher M. Woodgate, Victoria, le 10 Décembre, 1851 .

J'AI examiné l'article du “ Times ” relatif au martyre de M. Scehffler,

que vous m'avez communiqué de la part de son Excellence M. le Gouverneur.

Je le trouve parfaitement conforme aux pièces officielles que j'ai reçues du

Tong-king sur le même sujet etque j'ai envoyées à MM. les Directeurs de

notre Séminaire des Missions Etrangères à Paris. Seulement nom du

martyr est Shæffler et non pas Shofller, et il a été mis à mort à Son -tay au

Tong -king, non pas le 4, mais le 1 Mai dernier. Je vous envoie un journal

où vous trouverez quelques détails qui pourront peut- être vous intéresser.

M. Shæffler, du diocèse de Nancy, entré au Séminaire des Missions

Etrangères, à Paris, en 1846, il en partit en 1847, et arriva à Hong Kong le

28 Avril, 1848 ; le 9 Juin suivant, il partait pour le Tong-king Occidental, afin

d'y exercer le Ministère Apostolique de cette Mission . C'est dans l'exercice

de ces saintes fonctions qu'il a été arrêté par les Mandarins, le 1 Mars, 1851 .

Jugé et condamné à mort par le grand Mandarin de la Province, pour avoir osé

venir prêcher la religion Chrétienne dans ce pays, la sentence a été de suite

ratifiée par le Roi Tou -duc, et exécutée le 1 Mai dernier. Depuis vingt ans

environ, douze Européens, dont huit Français, trois Espagnols, et un Italien,

ont eu le même sort et pour le même sujet, dans le Royaume Annamite. Si

vous désirez quelques détails à ce sujet, vous les trouverez dans une petite

brochure que je vous envoie. Vous distinguerez facilement, en lisant la table,

les noms Européens des noms Annamites, &c. Les deux derniers martyres,

MM . Duclos et Shæffler, n'y figurent pas, parceque leur mort est plus récente.

Je vous envoie aussi une carte très détaillée du Royaume Annamite, que vous

n'avez peut- être pas, afin que vos renseignements soient plus complets. En

donnant ces renseignements à son Excellence M. le Gouverneur, veuillez

l'assurer de mon respectueux et entier dévouement, et recevoir, &c.

(Signé) N. F. LIBOIS,

Procureur Général des Missions Etrangères.

No. 81 .

Dr. Bowring to the Earl of Malmesbury.— (Received July 16.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, May 17, 1852.

CIRCUMSTANCES are constantly occurring at the different ports of

China, and especially at Foo -chow, which, next to Canton, is the place where

the greatest amount of ill-will is exhibited towards foreigners, which serve to

show the unfriendly disposition of the Chinese authorities, and their desire to

discourage the establishment of amicable relations with Her Majesty's Govern

ment and the British people.

It appears that two teachers employed by the Church Missionary, Mr.

Welton, have lately been bastinadoed by order of the Chinese Mandarins, on

account of their connection with the mission, and that Mr. Vice -Consul Walker

199

has in consequence made a representation to, and sought an interview with, the

Governor -General of the Province.

I could not but approve of any amicable intervention or becoming remon

strance made in the interests of humanity by the Consular authority ; but I am

not quite satisfied with the strong language used by Mr. Vice -Consul Walker,

in his written communications with the Lieutenant- Governor of the Province,

which he had requested the Captain of Her Majesty's sloop “ Lily” to support,

by immediately visiting the Min. I have the honour herewith to accompany

copies of this letter, and of the despatch I have written to the Vice-Consul in

consequence .

I have, &c .

( Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure 1 in No. 81 .

Vice - Consul Walker to the Lieutenant-Governor of Fokeen .

I HAVE received , with great astonishment and regret, from the English

Missionary, the Rev. W.Welton , who resides at the Taon-shan -kwan , a com

plaint against the authorities of this city for having renewed their interference,

in a most unwarrantable manner, and stopped him in the pursuit of his avoca

tions. He informs me that he had engaged a teacher to assist him in the

formation and duties of a school, but that this person had been deterred from

entering upon his engagement by the threats of the Mandarins, conveyed

through the medium of the Tepaoa of the district. A more flagrant violation

of privileges, admitted and secured by the solemn sanction of Treaties, has

never been attempted by the direct and open measures of the authorities; but

the fact is placed beyond the possibility of denial by the audacity of persons in

official employ, who have visited several United States' citizens with the avowed

intent of ascertaining by whom the teacher engaged was recommended to

Mr. Welton's service, and by such means to terrify the Chinese in their employ

ment. The local Government has thus distinctly violated Article I of the

Treaty of Nanking. You have violated and annulled the provisions contained in

Articles XXII and XXIV ofthe French Treaty, and openly contravened and set }

at nought the right secured by Article XVIII of the Treaty with the United

States of America.

With a sincere desire to promote and maintain , by principles of equity

and truth, an honourable and beneficial intercourse between the two nations, I

cannot too strongly urge upon your Excellency the necessity for enforcing upon

the local authorities a more exact observance of the rights and privileges to #

which we are indisputably entitled than they have of late been disposed to yield .

Their proceedings, for a long time past, have created in my mind the painful 1

impression that a course of policy has been entered upon so directly in opposition

to the spirit it was the special object of the Treaties to encourage and perma

nently determine, that, if persisted in , cannot fail to terminate the harmony and

quiet intercourse which , for the last ten years, has happily existed. Whilst the

British Government has throughout adhered , with scrupulous fidelity, to the

engagements contracted by the Treaties, the authorities of this place have lately

manifested a desire, upon every possible occasion , to break through and disregard

them .

The present instance offers to your Excellency a favourable occasion for

decisive interposition, by directing the local authorities to withdraw their oppo

sition, and to make known to the people, by public proclamation, the free

permission they have to afford their services to all foreigners in the peaceable

and lawful pursuit of their occupations. This measure is essential to the

reassurance of the public mind, which is seriously disturbed by the unjust and

notorious conduct of the Magistrates. Otherwise , I shall be compelled to

represent the matter for the grave consideration of the British Plenipotentiary, 1

2 D2 1

200

and to declare the effect of the late proceedings as an arbitrary and deliberate

violation of our rights, sanctioned and confirmed by the high authorities of the

Province.

I have, &c.

April 14, 1852.

Inclosure 2 in No. 81 .

Dr. Bowring to Consul Walker .

Sir, Hong Kong, May 17, 1852.

I HAVE received your despatch of the 26th ultimo, with its inclosures,

giving an account of the cruel treatment to which two teachers in the service of

Mr. Welton have been exposed .

It has been decided by the Law Officers of the Crown, that the circumstance

of Chinamen being engaged in the service of subjects of Her Majesty does not

remove them from the jurisdiction of the native authorities. In cases similar to

the present, the utmost that can be done is, after the fullest examination into

the facts, to make an earnest representation and friendly remonstrance to the

Chinese officials, showing that such proceedings are not in accordance with

those amicable sentiments which should direct the conduct of a Government

connected with our own by Treaties of peace and friendship.

In this state of things, I am sorry not to be able to approve of the very

strong language employed in your letter to the Vice-Governor of the Province.

Its vehemence was probably the cause of its not being acknowledged. It was

right, in your failing to obtain attention from the District Magistrate, to seek

an interview with the Superordinates, and to point out the unfavourable impres

sion which any injuries done to Chinamen , because of their connection with the

subjects of Her Majesty, could not fail to make upon the British Government,

and you should then have referred the matter to me.

I am very desirous, as far as I am able, to support the authority of Her

Majesty's Consuls, and, by friendly co-operation with the superior officers of

Her Majesty's Navy in these seas, to show the Chinese that a vigilant eye is

kept upon the proceedings of unfriendly Mandarins. But when Her Majesty's

Forces are put in requisition , the case must be so strong as to secure the

approval of the senior officer here, and of the Admiralty at home.

I am , &c.

( Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

No. 82 .

The Earl of Malmesbury to Dr. Bowring.

(Extract.) Foreign Office, July 21 , 1852.

I HAVE to acquaint you , in reply to your despatch of the 17th of May,

that I entirely approve of the letter which you wrote to Mr. Vice-consul

Walker, with reference to the intemperate tone adopted by him in his com

munication to the Lieutenant Governor of Fokeen, respecting the interference of

the Chinese authorities with two native teachers in the service of Mr. Welton.

The statements contained in your despatch and its inclosures are not

sufficiently detailed to enable me to form an opinion in regard to the merits of

the case ; but Her Majesty's Government can never approve of the use of violent

201

and intemperate language, and the less so, inasmuch as such language is

calculated to defeat rather than to promote the object sought to be attained

by it.

I am , &c.

(Signed ) MALMESBURY .

No. 83.

Dr. Bowring to the Earl of Malmesbury .— (Received December 20.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, October 25, 1852.

I HAVE the honour to report to your Lordship that on the 17th instant

a China boat, with four of Her Majesty's subjects, Messrs. John Dent, Horace

Oakley ( first Assistant to the Canton Consulate), R. McGregor, and G. Anderson,

was attacked by apiratical Chinese craft, near Tiger Island, at the entrance of

the Bogue; but the Englishmen , being well armed, were enabled to defend

themselves, and to kill and wound a number of the Chinese. I have the honour

to inclose a copy of their representation to Her Majesty's officiating Consul

Elmslie, in charge at Canton, who, with great promptitude, requested the senior

naval officer there to dispatch a steamer in pursuit of the pirates, while he at

the same time advised the Imperial Commissioner of what had taken place, and

requested His Excellency would lend the needful co -operation, and give the

needful instructions for the capture and punishment of the guilty: I am sorry

to say that the Honourable Company's steamer“ Semiramis, having (with Mr.

Oakley on board ) made every effort to discover the offenders, by visiting the

shores and ascending the creeks in boats,has returned to Whampoa without

having succeeded . The Imperial Commissioner has replied to Mr. Officiating

Consul Elmslie, that he had given immediate orders to the Chinese Admiral

commanding at the Bogue to take the necessary steps for tracing and securing

the pirates ; but as the district where they no doubt are dispersed is one where

the government authority has been of late somewhat relaxed, it is doubtful

whether we shall hear anything farther on the subject.

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure in No. 83.

Messrs. Dent, Oakley, McGregor, and Anderson to Consul Elmslie.

Sir, Canton, October 19, 1852.

WE have the honour to inform you of the particulars of an attack made

upon us by a large ladrone boat on the evening of the 17th instant.

The fast boat in which we were, was anchored within Tiger Island, and

about 8 o'clock we were suddenly, and without warning from our crew ,

run on board by a large boat full of men, who immediately commenced a

discharge of stink pots and spears, throwing a number of the former into the

cabin , a large party of them coming over our stern for that purpose. One of

us, Mr. Oakley, narrowly escaped a severe wound, a spear burying itself in the

stock of his gun. On being thus assaulted, we instantly resorted to our fire

arms, and after a constant fire on them for about twenty minutes, they sheered

off, and judging from the short distance we fired from , and the number of men

we saw fall, we have every reason to believe that their loss must have been

severe. They, however, succeeded in carrying off their wounded and dead,

with the exception of one body, which the fast boatmen threw overboard

without our knowledge. We regret to inform you that one of our servants,

Mr. Dent's, was missing after the affray was over, and there are various reports

as to his unfortunate fate .

We have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN DENT.

R. McGREGOR.

HORACE OAKLEY.

G. ANDERSON.

202

No. 84 .

Dr. Bowring to the Earl of Malmesbury.-- (Received January 17, 1853.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, November 13, 1852.

! ON the 10th instant soon after midnight, I was aroused by Captain Massie,

the Senior Naval Officer in China, who had just returned from the Chinese

coast opposite this island, where he had been engaged for several hours in the

unsuccessful search for Lieutenant De Lisle, R.N., the Admiralty Agent, who

was left wounded after having been attacked and robbed by a body of Chinese

vagabonds, as reported by his companion, Mr. Curling, an officer in the service

of the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company, who had escaped,

though severely injured, to the boat which had conveyed both to the Chinese

shore.

Captain Massie stated his intention, if I did not object, to proceed at

daybreak to the town of Kowloon, the nearest place where any Chinese officers

are to be found, in order to induce, orif necessary, to compel the Mandarins to

assist in the search for Lieutenant De Lisle, the capture of the robbers, and the

recovery of the stolen property. Captain Massie requested that the Chinese

secretary might accompany him . I therefore instructed Mr. Medhurst to

proceed on board the - Cleopatra,” and to take with him Mr. Lay, who is

acquainted with the local dialect. I stated to Captain Massie, and the event has

justified my anticipation , that I had the highest confidence in the energy,

prudence, and knowledge of Chinese character, possessed by Mr. Medhurst, to

whom I communicated my opinions that, though coercive measures might

become necessary, and justifiable in case the authorities refused their

co-operation, great forbearance and self-control were required .

I have now the honour to inclose copies of Captain Massic and

Mr. Medhurst's reports, which will, I doubt not, be deemed satisfactory by your

Lordship, I also forward copy of my reply to Captain Massie.

Your Lordship will observe that I have not thought it compatible with

Her Majesty's dignity to comply with Captain Massie's suggestion that I should

make a complaint to his Excellency the Imperial Commissioner of the rudeness

shown to the officers in Her Majesty's service by a low Mandarin , surrounded

by a number of ill-bred Cantonese people. The Mandarin in command was

absent, and the official representing him has received a lesson, a salutary lesson

on the spot. While questions of considerable importance are in so unsatis

. factory a state , and so little attention is paid to representations on graver

subjects, I hope your Lordship will approve of my hesitation and reluctance,

especially at a moment when the attention of the high authorities in China is

distracted by the embarrassments of civil war and the alarming progress of the

insurrection from one Province to another.

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING ,

19th November.--As the promise made had not been fulfilled by the

officer at Kowloon , that the depositions of the persons arrested for the

***

outrage committed on Lieutenant De Lisle and Mr. Ourling should be sent on

board the “ Cleopatra," I thought it desirable, after consulting with Captain

Massie, that Her Majesty's steamer “ Hermes ” should be dispatched to

Kowloon ; and I have the pleasure to state that the result has been in every

respect satisfactory : the higher Mandarin was found at his office ; a humble

apology was obtained for the rudeness of his subordinate to Her Majesty's

officers; the promised depositions were furnished, and, it is believed, proper

exertions will be made for the recovery of the lost property.

I beg to inclose copy of Mr. Medhurst's report. – J. B.

27th November.—I have just received a very satisfactory communication

from the Kowloon Mandarin, informing me that most of the property stolen

had been recovered . - J . B.

203

Inclosure 1 in No. 84.

Captain Massie to Dr. Bowring.

Sir, “ Cleopatra, ” at Hong Kong, November 12, 1852.

AFTER having in vain searched the greater part of the peninsula of

Kowloon, with almost the whole of my ship's company, for the person of

Leutenant De Lisle, Admiralty Agent , who had been reported to me with

another agent of the “ Singapore," as having been seriously wounded by

robbers, on the evening of the 9th, in accordance with that resolution which

I had verbally mentioned to your Excellency at midnight of the same day - on -

the morning of the 10th , it being a perfect calm, with the assistance of the

" Hong Kong ” steamer, kindly procured through the influence of Mr. Dent,

I proceeded to Kowloon, and anchored within good gun-shot of that fortress, at

8 A.M.

Soon after an armed boat with Lieutenant Price and Mr. Medhurst, Chinese

Interpreter, landed to require from the Mandarins their co -operation in a more

minute search of the country and the houses.

Immediately on reaching the beach these officers were met by the chief

superintendent of the Hong Kong police, who gave them the information of

Lieutenant De Lisle having been found in a dreadfully wounded stao by some

officers of the “ Pottinger ” steam vessel.

So far that question was set at rest; but as the assaila ts were still

undiscovered, as well as the property taken down from the gentlemen,

Mr. Medhurst proceeded to the interview .

Before entering on further detail, I must here mention the exceeding

incivility, indeed I may add the insulting manner, contrary to all Chinese

usages, with which these officers were received . No chairs were given them ,

the attendants tried to repel them from the receiving room, and when the

Mandarin presented himself he was in an undress, without any marks of his

office. These insults were very properly and firmly resented by the officers, and

the Mandarin, on being rebuked for the insolence of his men , his own

discourteous behaviour and conduct, as instanced by the time he kept the

officers waiting, as well as appearing in his dressing -gown, which by the way he

was made to exchange, behaved in the most abject and cringing manner.

I would here suggest to your Excellency, most respectfully, whether such

conduct should not be brought to the notice of the Commissioner at Canton,

that such indignities may not be offered to officers of Her Majesty's service in

the execution of their duties, those officers being fully authorized, and supported

in a manner to show they were so authorised.

To prevent such wanton insolence in the interviews which afterwards took

place , a guard of marines was sent, but although the Mandarin and his

attendants were frightened into better behaviour, the same disposition to insult

was evident.

Referring to the first interview , Mr. Medhurst explained it was my

instructions immediate steps should be taken to secure the culprits and their

plunder, and if that was not done without delay, he was desired to add , that I

was prepared to take ulterior and severe measures, the consequences of which

would remain upon the Mandarins' heads. This was promised, as well as that a

proclamation should be issued to the inhabitants of Kowloon on the subject of

these disgraceful attacks upon harmless and peaceful gentlemen . In the same

evening some stones were produced covered with blood, which marked the

locality of the place, and the parties concerned, and in an interview of the

morning of the 11th, it was intimated that five of the assailants were in

custody, and it was confidently affirmed the whole would be seized and the

property recovered, in which case, that, and the depositions of the prisoners

would be forwarded to me in Her Majesty's ship “ Cleopatra .”

In the last interview which took place , and which was principally to desire

the Mandarin should send for the ten prisoners, taken on the night of the 9th ,

with pikes, upon one of which were evident fresh marks of blood. ( This he

was to do within a certain time, or the prisoners, with an account of his conduct,

would be forwarded to Canton .) Mr. Medhurst took the opportunity, by my

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desire, of intimating to the Mandarin , that dissatisfied with his insolent and

shuffling conduct, I should send a steamer to his superior Mandarin near to

Fo - tow -moon, and with an explanation of all that had occurred from him,

demand an even more thorough satisfaction .

Mr. Medhurst, however, was assured that all should be done, and an officer

having been sent for the prisoners by the specified time, as it appeared nothing

further could then be gained by my presence, in the afternoon I weighed and

proceeded to this anchorage to await the course of events ; indeed, the Mandarin,

apparently disgusted at having been taken to task in his own garrison, had put

on a dogged appearance, and it was perhaps better to let the matter rest so.

I cannot conclude this despatch, which circumstances and explanations

have drawn out to an unusual length, without bringing to your Excellency's

notice the high sense I entertain of the firmness, good sense, and energetic

discretion displayed by Mr. Medhurst throughout the whole of the business

painful as it was to my officers and himself to bear the insults of the

Mandarin and his rascally attendants. I have also to thank Mr. Lay for his

ready attention .

I am sure I need not mention to your Excellency the satisfaction I

experienced at witnessing the alacrity and zeal of the officers and this ship’s

company under Lieutenant Price in the cause of humanity . Almost the whole

of the ship's company were employed searching through the Peninsula of

Kowloon, from 7 P.M. of the 9th, until nearly 8 A.M. of the 10th, through a

most intricate country, intercepted by ravines and stone quarries.

I have, &c.

(Signed) S. L. MASSIE ,

Captain of Her Majesty's ship “ Cleopatra,"

and Senior Officer in China.

Inclosure 2 in No. 84 .

Mr. Medhurst to Dr. Bowring.

Sir, Chinese Secretary's Office, November 12, 1852.

IN obedience to your Excellency's instructions, received at midnight of

Tuesday, the 11th instant, I forthwith embarked on board Her Majesty's ship

“ Cleopatra ,” to accompany Captain Massie to Kowloon, but being told that

he should not leave the anchorage till break of day I returned ashore, and

rejoined the ship between four and five o'clock the following morning, accom

panied by Mr. Horatio Lay, whose services your Excellency had likewise desired

to be placed at Captain Massie's disposal, on account of his acquaintance with

the official and local dialects.

The vessel having anchored oft Kowloon about 9 A.m., I proceeded on

shore, in company with Lieutenant Price, for the purpose of communicating with

the authorities regarding the murderous assaultupon Lieutenant De Lisle and

Mr. Curling, and securing co -operation towards the discovery of the former

gentleman,then reported to be missing. On our way to thebeach we met Mr.

May, Superintendent of Police , who informed us of Mr. De Lisle’s safety ; but

thinking it advisable, nevertheless, to see the authorities, and not only urge

them to apprehend the robbers and recover the stolen property, but impress

upon them likewise the necessity of preventing the recurrence of such outrages,

we proceeded towards the town. When we entered the gate of theNaval Com

mandant's official residence, which is situated within a small citadel, some

attendants came forward, and denied us admittance, on the plea of the absence

of that officer ; telling us, at the same time, that there was a naval officer,

styled Too -sze, left in charge of the garrison, whose residence was in the

suburbs. Being aware that no other official residence existed in the place, we

walked into the outer court, and requested the bystanders to procure seats, and

apprise the Too -sze of our presence . The attendants (mostly natives of

Canton ), instead of conducting us, as is customary, into the reception-room,

which is always separated from the outer court by folding-doors, kept these

closed, and commenced jeering at and ridiculing us , placing first aa kitchen

bench before us, and when that was pushed aside, substituting for it one broken

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bamboo chair, which was thrown down with a joke that elicited a roar of laughter

from the surrounding crowd . Finding them inclined to be thus insolent, I

assumed a more authoritative tone, which had the effect of bringing the Too -sze

to us . He appeared, however, in plain clothes, a mode of reception so deroga

tory in the eyes of the Chinese to the visitor, that I was obliged to refuse to

have any communication with him until he appeared in proper costume. He

thereupon retired, and returned correctly dressed, the attendants still joking

and laughing as before. Having been treated with so much rudeness, this

interview was necessarily occupied with angry discussion upon the nature of our

reception ; but before leaving I requested the officer to hasten to take the

necessary steps for the apprehension of the thieves, and the recovery of the

property, and to issue a proclamation forbidding similar outrages in future.

This he promised to do, after repeated attempts to make light of the whole

affair. I likewise asked him to send on board a written application for ten

prisoners, whom Captain Massie had captured the previous night, during the

search for Mr. De Lisle ; a suggestion with which he also promised at once to

comply.

In the evening of the same day we paid a second visit to the shore, to

ascertain what had been done. On this occasion the attendants received us in

silence, but with a most annoying dilatoriness in producing chairs, and obtaining

for us the presence of the Tov-sze. Upon his making hisappearance, and being

asked what had been done, he produced two chips of granite, besmeared with

blood, which he said he had himself picked up, after a fatiguing walk on the peak

of a hill, and which had thus afforded him aa clue towards the identification of the

spot where the attack took place. He had also, he assured me, dispatched

spies to make inquiries . The description which he gave of the locality,

however, made it evident that he had not, as he stated, examined it in person, and

as he had failed to forward the application for the prisoners in our hands, he was

told that unless he showed more readiness to assist us, Captain Massie would be

under the necessity of taking stronger measures than any which had yet been

adopted. He then begged that three days' grace might be allowed him , in

order that if successful he might produce the culprits within that period , and he

assured me that the letter for the prisoners was ready if I would receive it ; but,

as it was evident that he had as yet done nothing, and as the letter proved to

be addressed to the Police Magistrate of Hong Kong, I refused to accept it,

and left him with a warning that his negligence should be represented in the

strongest terms to Captain Massie, who would no doubt adopt other measures

the following morning.

In the forenoon of the ensuing day, no message having been received from

the shore in the meanwhile, I suggested to Captain Massie the advisableness of

having another interview with the officer, to inform him, that the slighting

manner in which our complaint had been entertained by him, had made it

necessary for us to ignore him altogether as regarded the seizure of the robbers,

and despatch a steamer to communicate with his senior officer at Ta -pang, and

that as regarded the prisoners on board , it was requisite for him to fetch or send

for them before noon of that day, on pain of their being delivered over his

head to the supreme authorities at Canton. Captain Massie having approved

of my suggestion, we landed again, and proceeded to the same office as before.

On this occasion, however, they kept us standing in the sun so long, and my

reiterated applications for the Too -sze were so ineffectual, that I resolved to go

in search of him myself. Taking a serjeant with me for protection, I walked into

the adjoining room, where I supposed him to be, but not finding him there, I

proceeded without the city walls, to a mean shop, indicated to me as his

residence. After waiting a short time at the door, he made his appearance

ready dressed , and I thereupon reproached him severely, in the presence of a

crowd of people, for his increasingly uncourteous behaviour, and required him

to accompany me to the other office, which he sulkily did. After we were

seated, he informed me of his having effected the capture of five men concerned

since our last visit whom , however, he had not, as he said, had leisure to

examine. He also renewed the proffer of the letter before refused. As these

five men had been taken the previous evening, and they had had abundant time

to question them with a view to recover the property, I delivered Captain

Massie's message without further parley, adding, that any further exertions the

Too-sze might make, would, of course , be useful towardsaverting the necessity

2 E

206

of carrying out his threats, the letter I again refused, desiring him to send an

officer for the prisoners. We then returned on board. In the course of the

forenoon an officer came alongside with a properly worded receipt for the ten

prisoners, and they were delivered into his charge. We afterwards weighed,

and came away .

Since my return to Hong Kong I have learnt from authentic sources , that

the Commandant was at Kowloon , during the whole of our stay in the bay :

the fact of there having been no notice of his absence hung up at the gate ( a

formality always observed) confirms me in the belief, that he was actually in the

back apartments during each of our interviews with his subordinate. I can only

account for the really uncourteous reception given us, by the fact that the

Chinese authorities in their intercourse with foreign officers, are ever ready,

where they suppose the latter ignorant of their rules of etiquette, to receive

them in a manner at once indicative of their own national superiority, and calcu

lated to lower us in the estimation of their own people ; a propensity which has

not been sufficiently checked in the case of the Kowloon officials, who, perhaps,

have not been sufficiently informed of the rank or position of the persons with

whom they have had to deal. This course they hoped to pursue unopposed in

our case, and it was only by peremptory demands upon our part, that we suc

ceeded in procuring even the little attention that was at last unwillingly afforded,

an attention scarcely worth the name, seeing that in every instance we were

kept standing in the sun for some time to await appearance of our host, and

then seated in the outer court, where criminals are examined, both of these

modes of reception thoroughly repugnant to Chinese ideas of courtesy.

In need only add, in conclusion, that Captain Massie treated both Mr. Lay

and myself with the kindest consideration throughout, and afforded us every

facility for promoting the object, in effecting which we were sent by your

Excellency:

I have, & c.

( Signed) W. H. MEDHURST:

Inclosure 3 in No. 84 .

Dr. Bowring to Captain Jassie.

Sir, Hong Kong, November 13, 1852 .

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge your despatch of yesterday's date,

and congratulate you on the result of the visit of Her Majesty's ship

“ Cleopatra ” to Kowloon. I shall send a copy of your communication to Her

Majesty's Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs.

I beg you will accept yourself, and convey to Lieutenant Price and the

officers and ship's company, who so ably seconded your efforts, my thanks for

the energy and prudence which have been exhibited on this occasion.

With reference to your suggestion that I should address his Excellency the

Imperial Commissioner, on the subject of the indignities to which the officers

in Her Majesty's service have been subjected, I am disposed to think, in the

present state of our relations with the Chinese, that I shall better consult the

Queen's dignity by refraining from sending to the high authorities an official

complaint of the rudeness of a petty functionary and his surrounding attendants,

who have already received a lesson which may teach them better manners for

the future .

I have, &c.

(Signed ) JOHN BOWRING .

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Inclosure 4 in No. 84.

Mr. Medhurst to Dr. Bowring.

Sir, Chinese Secretary's Office, November 19, 1852.

IN obedience to your Excellency's instructions I accompanied Captain

Fishbourne in Her Majesty's steamer “ Hermes, ” to procure an interview with

the Brigadier in command of the Tapang Brigade, either at his residence at

Kowloon, or at his head-quarters in the city of Tapang in Bias Bay, for the

purpose of ascertaining from him what steps had been taken towards affording

proper redressfor the robbery committed upon Messrs. Curling and De Lisle.

We found the Brigadier at Kowloon , where he gave us a ceremonious and

very courteous reception. He informed us that five of the robbers had actually

been apprehended, one of whom , he said, had confessed to having been a party

to the robbery, and assault, and he offered us a copy of the depositions taken ;

the stolen property, he told us, had not as yet been recovered, although he had

spared no pains to secure it ; he was very sanguine nevertheless of eventually

being able to trace it. When reminded of the unconrteous manner in which

the former deputation had been received by his subordinate, he apologised again

and again for the offence, and begged that it might be overlooked ; but as his

verbal excuses were not deemed a sufficient reparation, he was requested to

send an official written apology to Captain Massie's address, on board , before

the evening, which he promised faithfully to do. The depositions we declined,

with a suggestion that they should be conveyed in an official letter to the same

address.

In the afternoon he sent, by an officer, a private note of apology inclosed

in an official envelope, and another note conveying the depositions to my

address ; these we returned at once, accompanied by a repetition of our demand..

In the evening the officer returned with two official letters as requested, but as

neither of them proved to be satisfactory, II proceeded (with Captain Fishbourne's

assent) , on shore myself, accompanied by Lieutenant Price of the “ Cleopatra,”

and Mr. Lay, to dictate the form of letter required . This the Brigadier allowed

us to do, and attached his seals to two letters which were written under our

supervision. Having succeeded in securing these, we returned on board , and

Captain Fishbourne then weighed and came away. The Brigadier at parting

assured us that he would exert himself to the utmost to recover the stolen

property as speedily as possible, but he declined to give us a more detinite

promise, not being sufficiently certain of success to warrant him in doing so.

I have, &c . .

(Signed) W. H. MEDHURST.

No. 85 .

Lord J. Russell to Sir G. Bonham .

(Extract.) Foreign Office, January 20, 1853 .

I HAVE to acquaint you that Her Majesty's Government approve of the

steps taken by Dr. Bowring,as reported in his despatch of the 13th of November,

with reference to the attack made on Lieutenant De Lisle and Mr. Curling

by some Chinese vagabonds at Kowloon.

No. 86 .

Acting Consul Elmslie to Mr. Hammond.— (Received August 14. )

Sir , Canton, June 19 , 1854 ..

HER Majesty's Plenipotentiary being absent from Hong Kong, I think it

my duty to communicate to you, for the information of Her Majesty's Secretary

of State for Foreign Affairs, the details of a late occurrence, of which exaggerated

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208

or untrue accounts might otherwise reach the Foreign Office. This was the

abduction of a British subject by a party of Chinese claiming a sum of money

from him ; who, after a confinement of a few hours' duration, was released

through the intervention of the Chinese authorities.

The particulars of the case were briefly as follows:

Mr. Seth, an Armenian of Bombay (the object of the outrage), had , about

the 29th March, agreed with a certain Chinese broker to provide within a

fortnight a vessel for the conveyance of 400 emigrants to California ; and as

bargain money he had received 1,000 dollars, for which he gave an acquittance.

Being unable to fulfil the contract, the broker demanded restitution of the

bargain -money, which Mr. Seth promised to refund on his receipt being delivered

back to him , but the broker failed to produce the receipt. Mr. Seth maintains

that no further application was made for the money , and that the matter there

rested : but I believe he alterwards, at various intervals , promised, if some

delay were granted him , to procure a vessel for the original purpose of the

contract.

On the 15th instant, the broker, named Chow Keao -shing, was seen to run

into Mr. Seth's house pursued by a mob of Chinese . He entered a room in the

lower part of the house, the door of which was immediately bolted ; when the

mob, supposing he was intentionally concealed, rushed up stairs into Mr. Seth's

office and took possession of it , creating a great disturbance. Mr. Seth, after

some time, dispatched a messenger with a letter to me, requesting that I would

afford him protection ; and I accordingly sent Mr. Morrison to inquire into the

matter He informed the leaders that if they had any complaint against

Mr. Seth , they would obtain justice by a proper application at the British Con

sulate ; and making a memorandum of their statements, he, after a short parley,

succeeded in dispersing them .

The various parties, with the exception of the broker, attended before me

the next morning at 11 o'clock , when I ascertained that the persons who now

brought the complaint, were the real contractors with the emigrants for providing

a vessel ; but that, being ignorant of the English language and strangers in

Canton, they had engaged the broker Chow Keao -shing as their agent.

The emigrants had parted with all their effects in preparation for departure,

at the time first stipulated for ; and had paid certain advances to the persons

undertaking to secure their passage, repayment of which they now claimed.

Mr. Seth declared that he was unacquainted with the parties present; that he

had received the 1,000 dollars from the agent Chow Keao -shing, and had given

the receipt to him on the document containing the agreement. The complainant

admitted that this had come into his possession ; but he had destroyed it on

suspicion of its being invalid.

It subsequently transpired that Chow Keao -shing had absconded during the

previous day, but I was then ignorant of the circumstance ; and as his evidence

was necessary, I directed the principal plaintiff to accompany the messenger of

the Consulate sentto summon him ; and at thesame time I perinitted Mr. Seth

to leave the Consulate till again required. Within a few minutes afterwards, an

American gentleman came to the Consulate and informed me that he had seen

Mr. Seth being dragged away from the factories by about twenty-five Chinese ;

the five or six so-called soldiers stationed at the entrance gate of the factories not

attempting to rescue him , and the shopkeepers in the street through which he

was taken shutting their doors . The gentleman himself being single-handed,

could not render effective assistance ; but his residence was close by, and he sent

servants to follow the party and ascertain the place to which Mr. Seth was

carried. The latter has since informed me that he was hustled along and

frequently thrown to the ground , until, after proceeding a mile and -a -half, he and

his conductors arrived at a small house , situated in a narrow and tortuous lane in

a secluded part of the suburbs immediately under the city wall.

On learning the facts above- mentioned, I at once sent intimation of them

by a messenger to the nearest police office (that of the sub-magistrate of the

district), and then wrote to the District Magistrate requesting him to adopt the

proper steps for Mr. Seth's release, and also to the Imperial Commissioner

informing his Excellency of the circumstances of his capture. Having learnt

before the letters were closed the place of Mr. Seth's confinement, I was enabled

to indicate it to those officers. My messenger who had been dispatched to

ascertain the state of affairs and afford any possible assistance, reported that the

209

lane and all the approaches to it were filled with a vociferous crowd, and that

the shops in the neighbourhood were closed, and the street barricades put up, so

as to leave a passage for the exit of the mob only at one point. The messenger

was not admitted to the house, but was driven away with a threat that if he

remained, he likewise should be put in confinement . Mr. Seth's servants,

however, were allowed access to him , and they discovered that he was not

subjected to any maltreatment . Under these circumstances I considered it

unadvisable for any foreigner to interfere, lest excitement might be produced

which should result in greater mischief.

The day advancing, and as I could not learn precisely what steps the

authorities proposed to take, at 3 P.m. I wrote to request a visit from the

District Magistrate, intending to propose to him to proceed with Mr. Morrison

to the place of Mr. Seth's confinement, and try the effect of his authority and

persuasion. He was then in attendance at the Governor -General's, and as by

5 P.m. he had not arrived at the Consulate, Mr. Morrison started , accompanied

by a Chinese to communicate with the people in the local dialect, and I sent

another verbal message to the magistrate requesting him to go direct to meet

him .

At aa short distance from the place, Mr. Morrison met Mr. Seth escorted by

a party of police, and accompanied by a friend who had joined him a few

minutes before his liberation. The crowd of the morning had hy this time

greatly decreased, and the police had with little difficulty taken into custody

Mr. Seth , together with his captors . Mr. Morrison followed them to the office

of the sub.magistrate, situated in that neighbourhood , where the magistrate had

already arrived . He requested Mr. Morrison to wait with Mr Seth till he should

(in a different room) hold an inquiry into the matter. In about an hour he

came to Mr. Morrison and delivered Mr. Seth into his charge, stating that he

had not completed the investigation, and would write to the Consulate next day

on the subject, communicating the result. I inclose a copy of the letter which I

accordingly received from him .

On the 17th instant I addressed letters to the Imperial Commissioner and

District Magistrate, thanking them for the assistance they had afforded, and

transmitting a detail of the circumstances of which I was cognizant. I stated

that I would pay into the hands of the proper authority the one thousand dollars

bargain -money, which I should require Mr. Seth to deposit in this office, to

dispose of as they might think proper, upon their informing me or the penalty

to be inflicted upon the abductors, and the amount of compensation to be made

to Mr. Seth for his illegal imprisonment.

The occurrence caused considerable sensation amongst the foreign com

munity, especially in the early part of the day, when the result could not easily

be foreseen . I communicated immediately with Commander Fellowes, of Her

Majesty's sloop “ Comus," at this port, who was in readiness to send a party

ashore should circumstances have unfortunately called for such a step . It is a

subject for extreme congratulation that the matter was peaceably concluded , as

in the present disposition of a large mass of the inhabitants , the consequences of

any commotion might have been disastrous to an incalculable extent . Similar

considerations may probably account for the comparative promptness with which

the Chinese authorities effectively interfered ; for the disturbed state of the

country occasions them, at this moment , much embarrassment .

Were the employment of force at any time necessary for the protection of

the foreign community, I cannot feel confident that there are sufficient means at

disposal to ensure perfect immunity from danger.

To the means employed by myself for obtaining Mr. Seth's release, the

United States' authorities added their representations to the officers of the Local

Government upon the peril to which the foreign residents would be exposed if

violent acts of aa lawless mob were tolerated ; and many Chinese, whose interests

were jeopardised by the chance of a disturbance, exerted themselves to obtain a

quiet settlement.

Mr. Seth , while in confinement, was several times urged to give a bond for

the amount claimed ; but he declined to do so on the grounds which dictated his

refusal of the money in the first instance.

The above statement of the facts of this unpleasant affair will enable the

Earl of Clarendon to form a judgment of the critical position in which the

210

British community at this port are situated, with respect to the security of their

persons and property .

I annex a copy of a letter received from Mr. Seth, submitting his complaint,

with his claim for indemnity.

I have, & c.

( Signed) ADAM W. ELMSLIE .

Inclosure 1 in No. 86 .

The Prefect Le to Acting Consul Elmslie.

( Translation .)

LE, Brevet Prefect and Acting Chief Magistrate of the Nan -hae District, &c.

makes a communication in reply.

I beg to acknowledge the receipt of a letter from you, the Honourable

Consul, stating that a person named Chin -tang -chuen had assembled a mob, and

carried away Mr. Seth, a British subject, and requesting that I should dispatch a

sufficient force of police to effect his rescue.

On receipt of this letter, I sent out a party of police to search for the

person named, and subsequently lie was found ; and Chin -tang -chuen being at

the same time taken into custody, both were brought before me.

Chin -tang -chuen, on being questioned, stated that Mr. Seth owed to the

people of his village 1,000 dollars, which had been paid him as bargain -money

for a ship, and would not repay it ; and that he besides barboured the agent

Chow -keao- shing, and refused to give him up . The villagers had therefore

carried Mr. Seth away , to discuss the affair with him .

Mr. Seth being interrogated by the linguist Heu -lan , said that it was true

he had received the bargain -money from Chin -tang - chuen, for the vessel ; but

he had declined to repay it except to the agent Chow -keao-shing.

It appeared, therefore, to me that both deponents concurred as to the fact

of the debt ; but Chow -keao-shing has absconded, and it will be necessary to

procure his appearance before deciding on the case.

On Mr. Seth's whereabouts being discovered , I had him conveyed under

escort to your office, and directed the Te-pao (head -man of the quarter) to detain

Chin -tang-chuen for further examination .

Before instituting other proceedings, I address you, the Honourable Consul,

to inform you of what has already been done .

Heenfung, 4th year, 5th month , 22nd day. (June 17, 1854.)

Inclosure 2 in No. 86 .

Mr. Seth to Acting Consul Elmslie.

Sir, Canton, June 17 , 1854.

AFTER leaving the Consulate yesterday noon , and on my way home, I

was attacked just within three or four yards of the hong gate of my hous e a

considerable number of Chinese, headed by the four strangers, also Chinese,

unknown to me by name, but the same persons that I saw in the Consulate

yesterday, and theydragged me most unmercifully through the Old China-street,

and then to the back streets, and took me a long way down to a narrow lane,

where they lodged me in a house, and kept close watch with the door closed . I

continued in this miserable position - with my clothes wet by rain , and covered

with dirt and filth, as they threw me down several times on their way — until

about 6 P.M., when I was taken out by the assistance of your good self, as Her

Britannic Majesty's Consul, and by the instrumentality of the local authorities,

and conveyed to a Mandarin Station, where a higher mandarin arrived, and, by

assistance of Mr. M. C. Morrison, I found my way to your hospitable roof, and

latterly home, at about 8 o'clock in the evening. During my shameful carriage,

I was plundered of a gold ring forced out of my finger, which was very amiable

211

and valuable to me , and in case of its not forthcoming, I beg you to claim 100

dollars, and a silk umbrella valued 3 dollars.

I have also to beg your assistance to have the four Chinese head ringleaders

arrested and secured, and handed over to the authorities to undergo their trial

and punishment, for the most unwarrantable, atrocious, and shameful acts

committed in a broad daylight, and on a public lighway. And I beg, in addition

to this, to make aa claim , through your kind assistance, a sum of 10,000 dollars

from the parties that have taken the law into their hands, and so shamefully

discredited and treated me, as compensation for the wrong done to my credit,

person , and character, thereby causing great injury to my present and future

prospects in China and elsewhere, and driven me to the utmost shameful

position in life amongst my other foreign and Chinese acquaintances and

dealers, with whom I have a good deal of business , either directly and

indirectly .

And the last thing I have to beg of you is, to persuade and compel the

Chinese authorities to give you an indemnity of a large amount, say 25,000

dollars, binding themselves and their subjects interested in my present affairs, to

keep peace for a length of time, which I leave to your own judgment to name :

if not, I suspect I shall very often be put to such unpleasant and dangerous

circumstances, to the annoyance of the whole foreign community in Canton , and

injury and consequences thereof, and especially I could not be considered safe

out of doors, but what my life will be in danger.

I am, &c .

(Signed ) S. A. SETH ,

No. 87.

Sir J. Bouring to the Earl of Clarendon .—(Received Sepiember 18.)

(Extract.) Shanghae, July 6 , 1854.

MR. ACTING CONSUL ELMSLIE has sent me the copy of a despatch

addressed to Mr. Under-Secretary Hammond, dated the 19th ultimo, on the 11

subject of violence committed on the person of Mr. Seth, a native of British

India.

Mr. Elmslie does not inform me whether he proposes to take any, and what,

ulterior measures in reference to this case, should the mandarins refuse to listen

to his proposal of making a money compensation to Mr. Seth ; and I send to

your Lordship copy of my letter to Mr. Elmslie, recommending much caution in

his proceedings .

Inclosure in No. 87 .

Sir J. Bowring to Acting Consul Elmslie .

Sir, Shanghae, July 6, 1854.

I HAVE received your despatch dated 23rd June, in which you

inform me that you have communicated directly with the Under-Secretary of

State on the subject of an outrage committed on the person of Mr. Seth ; and

you send me copy of your communication, and of Mr. Seth's letter to yourself,

in which he puts forward aa claim of 10,000 dollars “ from the parties that have

taken the law into their own hands,” and requests you will “persuade and

compel ” the Chinese authorities to give you an indemnity of 25,000 dollars to

keep the peace .

You do not state what course you intend to pursue should the mandarins

refuse to make a money-compensation to Mr. Seth, but I doubt not you will has

felt the necessity of much caution.

It appears pretty clear that Mr. Seth got hold of 1,000 dollars from a China

man, which he did not return to him when he had failed to perform the contra:

for which the money was paid.

The contract was in itself an illegal one ; and, though Her Majesty's subjecis

212

are entitled to every protection while engaged in the prosecution of their lawful

business, when honourably conducted, the amount and the character of our

interference must be influenced by a consideration of the whole of the attendant

circumstances .

I am happy to observe, by your despatch of June 27, that the general state

of Canton is satisfactory.

I have, & c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

No. 88.

The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Foreign Office, September 25 , 1854.

MR . ELMSLIE'S report respecting the violence committed at Canton on

the person of Mr. Seth reached me some weeks ago ; and I have now to acquaint

you that I approve of the instruction which you gave to Mr. Elmslie on that

matter, and of which a copy is inclosed in your despatch of the 6th of July .

I am , &c.

(Signed) CLARENDON .

No. 89 .

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon .- (Received August 30.)

(Extract.) Hong Kong, July 3, 1856.

I HAVE the honour to inclose copy of a despatch I have received from

Mr. Consul Parkes, dated Canton, July 2 , on the subject of an incendiary placard

which has been circulated in that city ; and conveying copy of a communication

Mr. Parkes had made to the Imperial Commissioner.

As your Lordship will perceive by my reply, I have approved of Mr. Parkes'

conduct in this matter.

Inclosure 1 in No. 89 .

Consul Parkes to Sir J. Bowring .

Sir, Canton , July 2, 1856.

I HAVE the honour to report to your Excellency that, shortly after my

arrival here, I heard of rumours being current among the Chinese that the

foreigners had again demanded entrance into the city of Canton , and that prepa

rations were being made at Hong Kong to enforce this demand , in the event of

the Governor-General refusing to admit it .

From the universality of these rumours, and other circumstances, there

appeared grounds for the supposition that they had been spread abroad, in the

first instance, through the instrumentality of the authorities ; probably with the

view of strengthening the latter in the sympathies of the people at a time when

they seem to stand in need of their pecuniary and moral support.

Some talk was heard as to enrolling volunteer corps, similar to those assem

bled in 1849, when it was understood that the British Government intended to

assert the right of entry, and foreigners passing through the streets were taunted

with the futility of all their attempts , present or future, to secure the desired

right .

- 213

The excitement this awakened, which had at no time assumed a serious

aspect, appeared, however, to be subsiding, when, the day before yesterday, it

came to my knowledge that a printed paper, menacing foreigners with death if

they continued to extend their excursions into the country,was extensively

circulated in the city and suburbs ; and, after satisfying myself, by inquiries in

various directions, that such wasthe case, I thought I could not omit to bring it

to the notice of the Imperial Commissioner. I therefore addressed him the

inclosed letter, giving cover to one of these obnoxious documents, copy of which

I now forward to your Excellency.

I did not think it necessary to make any allusion to the excursions therein

declaimed against, as the right of foreigners to the enjoyment of this freedom

should not admit of question, and has been safely and temperately exercised,

without let or hindrance, for some time past ; and , from all I can glean on the

subject , I am led to believe that this public expression of hostility proceeds

rather from the Government than the people, and is chiefly to be deprecated as

tending to awaken old feelings of animosity, which the lapse of time and the

altered circumstances of the country appeared to have, in a great measure,

allayed.

I have, &c.

( Signed) HARRY S. PARKES.

Inclosure 2 in No. 89.

Hand - Bill.

( Translation .)

THE absence of interruption to the peace of the country is of the same

vital importance, in our opinion, as the maintenance of regularity in the

avocations of its inhabitants. We now call public attention to the fact, that

in the province of Canton, from the earliest to the present times, barbarians

have never been allowed to go into the villages . Recently, however, a set of

unprincipled vagabonds have been met with, who, without any fear of shame

or exposure, carry on a secret intercourse with the barbarian dogs, and combine

with them in a number of ways for working out their crafty schemes. Night

and day we see them entering the villages, and occasioning so much trouble by

their irregularities, that gods and men must unite in detestation of their

practices. To judge of the extent of the evil to which our provincial metropolis

is thus exposed, we have only to look to Shanghae and Hong Kong, and take

note of the iniquities that are there committed.

Hereafter, therefore, whenever any barbarian dogs come within our limits,

we ought, by calling together our families, to maintain the dignity of our city

(or province), and, bravely rushing upon them, kill every one. Thus may we,

in the first place, appease the anger of Heaven , in the second give evidence of

our loyalty and patriotism , and in the third restore peace and quiet to our

homes . How great would be the happiness we should thus secure !

Inclosure 3 in No. 89.

Consul Parkes to the Imperial Commissioner.

Canton, July 1 , 1856.

I HAVE learned that a printed paper in the form of a hand-bill, containing

menacing language against foreigners in general, has been extensively circulated

during the last few days, in the streets of this city. A vulgar vaunt of this

description can only be viewed with utter contempt by the parties against whom

it is directed, but the local authorities cannot mark too strongly their disapproval

of behaviour so extremely lawless, since it is calculated, by exciting the minds of

the ill-disposed, to provoke a collision on some future occasion .

I consider it my duty, therefore, to bring this paper, copy of which I beg to

2 F

214

forward herewith, to the notice of your Excellency , and to request that the subordi

nate authorities may receive from your Excellency directions to put a stop to this

flagrant offence ; such a course being requisite to preserve, in the first place, the

reputation of the Chinese Government, to avert from it,in the second place, the

danger that might otherwise ensue , and, in the third place, to enable the local

authorities to acquit themselves of the responsibilities and the duties of their

position .

I have, &c .

(Signed) HARRY S. PARKES.

Inclosure 4 in No. 89.

Sir J. Bowring to Consul Parkes.

Sir , Hong Kong, July 3, 1856 .

I HAVE received your despatch dated yesterday, bringing me copy of an

anonymousincendiary placard, which has been circulated in the streets of Canton,

menacing the lives of foreigners who may visit the neighbouring villages.

I quite approve of the communication you have made in consequence to the

Imperial Commissioner, and wait with some anxiety his reply, in order to

determine whether it is desirable I should make any representation or take any

further measures in this matter.

It would be important, if possible, to ascertain with whom the offensive

document originated , and by what agency it has been circulated .

I have, & c.

(Signed ) JOHN BOWRING .

No. 90 .

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon .— (Received August 30 )

My Lord, Hong Kong, July 8 , 1856 .

REFERRING to my despatch dated 3rd instant , I have now to forward

a further communication from Mr. Consul Parkes, containing evidence of

the ill -will which has been excited among the vagabond Cantonese by the

publication of the incendiary placard to which my despatch referred. I approve

of the energetic remonstrance of Mr. Parkes to the Inperial Commissioner, and

am glad to learn that the local magistrate is instituting an inquiry for the

purpose of discovering who attacked Messrs. Johnson and Whitta.l.

I have, &c .

( Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure 1 in No. 90.

Consul Parkes to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Canton, July 5, 1856 .

I HAVE the honour to state in reply to your Excellency's despatch of

the 3rd instant, that careful and protracted inquiry brings me little additional

information respecting the authorship of the late placard. It has been suggested

to me by several Chinese, that it may have emanated from a commission of the

gentry, elected among themselves, with the approval of the Government, for the

enrolment and drill of volunteer corps. Other grounds, I think, exist for

supposing it to have proceeded from the inhabitants of the Great West street, the

route usually taken by foreigners on their riding excursions to the back of the

city. To these excursions the people of this quarter are said to object, and it

215

would only be following a native mode of proceeding for them to give expression

to their objections or their threats in the names of other persons, or to incite the

inhabitants of the villages to which these excursions are taken to join them

in their schemes of hostility .

If it did not originate with the Government, as is also not uncommonly

believed, the local authorities appear to have taken no steps für the suppression

of this inflammatory placard, or the attendant excitement; but at present I do

not anticipate any more serious results than what have already occurred . I

regret to report to your Excellency that the ill-will of the people has manifested

itself in an attack on two English gentlemen, particulars of which are given in the

accompanying affidavit of the parties assailed . The affray, I should observe, took

place in the quarter of the town above-mentioned, and though neither of the

gentlemen sustained injury, I thought the outrage, viewed in connection with

previous circumstances, called for no milder tone ofreinonstrance than that which

I adopted in the inclosed letter to the Imperial Commissioner.

I have, &c.

(Signed) HARRY S. PARKES .

Inclosure 2 in No. 90.

Affidavits.

FRANCIS BULKELEY JOHNSON, duly sworn , states :

On the afternoon of the 2nd instant I was riding out with Mr. James

Wbittall . We went a little way beyond Sam - yuen - lee. We met with no moles

tation going, but on our return, as we were riding down the Long Street, which

is a continuation of Curiosity Street ( Te-sze-poo ), and , as it was getting rather

dark , we observed the people much more uncivil than they usually have been

of late . When we were a little on this side of the West Gate, I was struck with

a stone, on the back . The stone was held by the man, in his hand, and only

dropped after the blow was given. I turned round sharp on the man, but he

ran away, up a street or lane, and disappeared, so that I could not get hold of

him During the rest of our ride we were hooted at , and pelted with stones

and bricks, at various times, until we arrived at the factories . We were riding

slowly , at a walking pace. We injured no one during the ride, and gave no

offence to any one .

(Signed) F. B. JOHNSON.

Sworn before me, at the British Consulate, Canton , this 4th day of July,

1856 .

(Signed) CHARLES A. Winchester , Vice - Consul.

JAMES WHITTALL , duly sworn , states :

I was riding out with Mr. F. B. Johnson ; when on this side of the West

Gate he said to me, “ I have been struck with a stone." I was riding first.

I had previously noticed a good deal of ill-feeling on the part of the people.

While I was speaking to Mr. Johnson about what had occurred , a second brick

was flung at me , which fell in front of my pony. As we continued our ride

home, several more stones were flung at us, and the people hooted and cried at

us . We were riding quite inoffensively, at a walking pace, and troubled no one.

(Signed) JAS. WHITTALL .

Sworn before me, at the British Consulate, Canton, this 4th day of July,

1856 .

(Signed) CHARLES A. WINCHESTER , Vice -Consul.

2 F 2

216

Inclosure 3 in No. 90.

Consul Parkes to the Imperial Commissioner.

Canton , July 4, 1856 .

THE British merchants Johnson and Whittall have formally represented

to me that, on the afternoon of the 2nd instant, they took one of their usual rides

in the direction of San -yuen -lee, outside the north gate of the city, and met with

no molestation either on going or returning, until it began to grow dusk , and

they had arrived within the Te-sze-poo (the fourth ward near the west gate ), on

their way home, when they noticed that the people were much more uncivil

than they have usually been of late, and one man among them , grasping a stone

in his hand, struck Johnson with it in the back, but avoided arrest by imme

diately escaping. The said gentlemen were riding at the timeonly at a walking

pace : the people continued to pelt them with stones and bricks, and to hoot at

them until they reached the factories.

In bringing this unprovoked attack to the notice of your Excellency I have

to state my conviction that the ill-willwhich occasioned it, has been awakened by

the very reprehensible placard which I forwarded to your Excellency in my letter

of the 1st instant, and greatly, indeed, do I regret that the fears I then expressed

should so soon have proved well founded ; that the authorities should have

apparently lent their sanction to so wrong and dangerous a proceeding by

permitting the sale of the placard in the public streets. As far as I have been

able to learn, the people in the villages know nothing of its having been issued,

and it is only the inhabitants of this city and suburbs that commit the acts of

violence of which I now complain .

If these are to continue, and foreigners should defend themselves, as they

cannot be expected to avoid doing, when thus assailed, where are these evils to

end ? Will the Chinese Government, bound both by Treaties and by their

obligations as the constituted authorities of the country, protect them , or are

foreigners themselves to devise means for their safety ?

The measures which your Excellency sees fit to adopt in reference to the

two complaints I have now had to submit to you, may afford a solution of this

inquiry

It cannot be difficult for your Excellency, with the powerful means at your

disposal, to trace the offenders in both these instances, and prevent a repetition of

such offences ; and I need not add, that the exercise of good faith on your

Excellency's part will be most cordially appreciated by his Excellency "Her

Majesty's Plenipotentiary, to whom it is my duty to report these particulars.

I have, & c.

(Signed ) HARRY S. PARKES ,

No. 91 .

The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Foreign Office, September 8, 1856.

I HAVE to instruct you to convey to Mr. Parkes my approval of the

letters which he addressed to the Imperial Commissioner, and of which copies

are inclosed in your despatches of the 3rd and 8th of July last, upon the subject

of the incendiary placard which had been circulated in Canton, tending to

exasperate the Cantonese against foreigners.

I am , & c.

( Signed) CLARENDON.

217

No. 92 .

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon .- (Received September 15.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, July 17 , 1856 .

I HAVE to report to your Lordship that Mr. Cunningham , a citizen of

the United States, has died in consequence of a wound received in a riot which

took place at Foo-chow on the 3rd instant. Particulars of the event will be

found in the despatch , dated 4th instant , from Mr. Vice-Consul Hale, of which I

inclose a copy, as well as of my reply.

Mr. Consul Medhurst was absent at Shanghae when this sad event

occurred . I am happy to say he has now returned to his post , and writes to me

that his health is greatly improved ; so that I hope he will no longer wish to

leave China for the present.

Your Lordship will observe that I quite concur with Mr. Vice-Consul Hale

in his opinion as to the dangers to the public peace, and to the interests of

commerce, which are associated with the presence of the lawless population of

Canton wherever they introduce themselves.

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure 1 in No. 92 .

Vice - Consul Hale to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Foo -chow - foo, July 4 , 1856 .

IN the absence of Mr. Consul Medhurst it is my painful duty to report to

your Excellency the particulars of a most lamentable affray which took place

yesterday afternoon at Nan -hạe, and in which Mr. Cunningham , a citizen of the

United States, received his mortal wound, under the following distressing

circumstances :

Whilst Messrs. Augustine Heard and Co., an American firm established at

this port, were removing furniture, &c. , to their new bungalow , aa few potatoes

were dropped on the road from one of the packages , which a Foo - ch: w lad

picked up, and was carrying them away, when a Canton man belonging to

Messrs. A. Heard and Coi's hong, and the private servant of Mr. Cunningham ,

struck the boy and secured him by the tail. The lad explained that “ he had

picked them up , and did not steal them ." The Canton man, however, kept 1

hold of him, and was dragging him to the hong, when the inhabitants made a

rush and rescued the lad . The Canton boy made for Messrs. A. Heard and

Co.'s house, and again came out armed with a double s'vord . The crowd , seeing

this, retired , pursued by the Canton boy, who seized the first man he found

running. This person,, with his uncle, were in a necessary house, and hearing

the rush and disturbance attempted to get out of the way, but the Canton man

dragged the nephew into Messrs. A. Heard and Co.'s house, followed by his

uncle, who represented that they were both peaceful citizens and were in no way

concerned with the disturbance , and prayed the release of his nephew . The

Canton man, however, likewise seized the uncle, and had them both tied in the

house. The mob outside cried out at the injustice, and, arming themselves,

made aa rush to rescue these two men, when the Canton man took up a double

barrelled gun and advanced outside the gate ; the crowd retired before him ; he

fired , and wounded two men ; the crowd thereupon immediately turned, finding

that the musket was discharged, surrounded and seized him , at the same time

severely beat him .

Somewhere about this time, Mr. Comstock , the resident partner of

Messrs . A. Heard and Co. , passed by , and observing the Canton boy attached

to his hong being maltreated, went to inquire the cause, and placing his hand on

one of the ringleader's shoulders, asked him to desist and let the boy go free ;

whereupon Mr. Comstock was knocked down, and on rising was knocked down

a second time ; he then appears to have thought it prudent to make his escape

218

from an infuriated mob, and took to luis heels, amidst the yells, and shouts, and

pelting of the surrounding people, and made the best of his way to the United

States' Consul to seek redress.

In the meanwhile, notice having been conveyed to Mr. Cunningham that

his servant had been taken by the mob, he seized his revolver and ran to the

spot, followed a short time after by Mr. Vaughan, a tea -taster to the samehong,

who, on reaching the place,found Nr. Cunningham prostrate on the ground, with

a severe stab in his side, and surrounded by many of the mob, who were beating

him over the abdomen with heary bamboos. Mr. Vaughan then drew his sword.

cane and made a thrust at one man ; he then made a point at another, when the

sword broke short off at the hilt ; this, however, was sufficient to rescue

Mr. Cunningham , who, getting up, ran towards the gate of the new bungalow

(about sixty yards from where he was wounded ), but just before reaching the

door he fell to the ground from loss of blood , and was carried into the hong by

Mr. Taughan and others.

At this time all the shops in the neighbourhood were closed ; and at

3 o'clock P.M., Mr. Jones, the United States' Consul, returned with Mr. Comstock,

accompanied by several American citizens, who were armed with rifles, revolvers,

and cutlasses. Mr. Jones likewise enlisted into his service, without any reference

to me or Captain Barnard, some few seamen who were lent for the purpose of

decorating his rooms for the 4th July festivities, and to whom swords were

supplied. At about half -past 3 o'clock, whilst sitting in my office, one of the

seawen came into the room , stating that he was desired by Mr. Jones to present

his compliments to me, and bey that I would immediately send him any

assistance in my power, as he was in great danger : this was the first intimation

I received of the matter. I immediately proceeded, in company with Captain

Barrard and Mr. Gingell, to the scene of action, and Captain Barnard ordered

his boat's crew to supply themselves with sticks, and to accompany us . On

arriving at the place we found Mr. Jones standing on the spot where it is

believed Mr. Cunningham was stabbed, as there was a large pool of blood close

by. The street was kept clear for about 200 yards by some twelve or fifteen

Americans, and four or five seamen of the “ Racehorse" without arms; the mob

numbering some hundreds, and in a very excited state . On inquiring I found

that Mr. Jones had sent for the Hae-tang, who arrived in about half-an -hour

aiter ourselves. He was told by the United States' Consul what had taken

place, and that most ample redress would be required from the hands of the

authorities, as one of his countrymen had been seriously wounded . the temples

Some marks of blood having been traced to the gate of one of

in the immediate vicinity, the Americans, believing Mr. Cunningham's Canton

servant-boy might possibly have been murdered and taken inside, as it was

known that he had been seized by the mob , urged on Mr. Jones to have the

gaie opened . Many applications were made to the Hae-fang on the subject, but

without effect; at length some one saw through the chinks of the door what

appeared to be two dead bodies stretched out. Mr. Jones gave orders for the

gate to be forced open , which was found to be strongly barricaded, and the two

still bleeding bodies presented a horrible spectacle, the one having been wounded

with small shot, and the other, almost lifeless, with his head most frightfully

disfigured. The whole matter was then left in the hands of the Chinese

authorities for investigation, and all the foreigners present returned to their

homes .

It is now my sad duty to inform your Excellency that the wound received

by Mr. Cunningham proved fatal last night, about ten hours after its infliction ;

the poor fellow wished to be raised in his bed for a particular purpose, and in

five minutes afterwards, being placed in a recumbent position, he died without

pain and without a struggle, I presumefrom severe internal hæmorrhage. This,

of course , has cast a most melancholy gloom over the place.

I do not apprehend any further disturbance, but as there is still much

excitement prevailing, and fearing that British subjects might, by their sympathy,

mix themselves up in the affair, I deemed it prudent to circulate the inclosed

notification for their guidance, which , I trust, will receive your Excellency's

approval; and I am very thankful to report that this is purely an American

atlair, and that no Englishman was present, or in any way implicated in the

matter, excepting Mr. Vaughan, who is attached to an American firm , and who

rescued Mr. Cunningham from being killed on the spot.

219

I cannot close this despatch without reference to the number of idle Canton

vagabonds who are now settled Foo -chow without employment ; and as these

men are detested by the natives of the place, I venture to offer, as my humble

opinion, that if some steps are not immediately taken for their removal, there

will be endless quarrels among the populatio , which will certainly endanger the

safety of foreign property .

I have, &c .

(Signed ) FRED. HOWE HALE .

Inclosure 2 in No. 92 .

Notification.

British Consulate, Foo -chow -foo, July 4 , 1856 .

AS much excitement continues among the native population , consequent

on the lamented death of one of the foreign meinbers of this community , which

may occasion a further collision , Her Majesty's Vice- Consul in charge hereby

notifies to all foreign residents at Foo -chow -foo, that the Commander of Her

Britannic Majesty's naval force, stationed at this port, will protect them to the

utmost of his power . But at the same it is his duty to caution all British

subjects that he cannot be responsible for any undue interference on their part,

which may embroil them , and trusts they will see the propriety of refraining

from any act that may lead to more melancholy consequences.

(Signed) FRED. HOWE HALE ,

Vice - Consul in charge.

Inclosure 3 in No. 92 .

Sir J. Bowring to Consul Medhurst.

Sir, Hong Kong, July 17, 1856.

I HAVE to acknowledg the receipt of Mr. Vice- Consul Hale's despatch

dated 4th instant , giving an account o the unhappy tumult during which

Mr. Cunningham , a United States' citizen, lost his life.

I have to express my approval of the steps taken by Mr. Hale, in reference

to this unfortunate affair.

My experience leads me quite to concur with Mr. Hale in opinion that the

presence of the loose Cantonese population in all the ports is a source of danger

and disorder, and I should be glad to find the authorities more alive to the perils

which are associated with their presence.

I have, &c .

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

No. 93.

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon.— (Received September 15.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, July 19, 1856 .

SIR GEORGE BONHAM was instructed, in a despatch from the Foreign

Office, dated 23rd October, 1851 , to make inquiry into and report on the fate

of aa Roman Catholic missionary, named Schofiler, who was put to death by the

mandarins in the Province of Tonquin, particulars of which were forwarded in

despatch of 24th December, 1851.

Having received from the Procureur -Général of the French Missions in

China an account of the murder of a French missionary, named Chapdelaine,

220

in the Province of Kwang -se, which is immediately under the jurisdiction of the

Imperial Commissioner at Canton, I have the honour to forward a copy of

M. Libois' letter for your Lordship’s information .

I have, &c.

(Signed ) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure in No. 93.

Mr. Libois to Sir J. Bowring.

Mon cher M. Bowring, Hong Kong, 12 Juillet, 1856.

JE viens d'apprendre que M. Chapdelaine, missionnaire Français, de notre

société, a été mis à mort le 29 Février dernier, par le mandarin de Si-lin , hien

situé à l'ouest de Quang -si, près des frontières du Yunnan . Arrêté le 24 Fevrier,

il fut de suite conduit au tribunal: le mandarin commença par lui faire donner

100 soufflets avec une semelle de cuir ; il lui ordonna ensuite de se coucher

sur le ventre et lui fit appliquer 300 coups de rottin. Comme pendant ce double

supplice, M. Chapdelaine n'avait proféré aucune plainte, ni fait entendre aucun

soupir, le mandarin , attribuant sa patience à la magie, fit égorger un chien et

ordonna d'asperger de son sang le pauvre patient, pour rompre le prétendu

charme. Le inandarin ayant appris le lendemain que M. Chapdelaine pouvait

encore marcher, il ordonna de le frapper jusqu'à extinction de forces ; quand

il fut bien constaté qu'il ne pouvait plus se remuer, on lui mit une espèce de

can gue à ressort qui le tenait conime sous un pressoir ; puis on le suspendit dans

cet état Enfin, quand on le vit sur le point d'expirer, on le décapita. Sa tête

fut suspendue à un arbre, mais bientôt les enfants la détachèrent à coups de

pierres, et elle fut dévorée par les chiens et par les pourceaux. Pour le corps, ,

les uns disent qu'il a été enterré, d'autres qu'il a été jeté à la voirie ; niais

a ' paravant il fut ouvert pas les bour aux pour en arracher le cœur ; ils le

coupèrent par morceaux, le firent cuire avec de la graisse, puis ils s'en régalèrent .

Deux des néoplıytes ont été décapités avec lui, pour avoir refusé de renoncer à

hur religion ; quartorze ou quinze autres étaient encore dans les prisons de

cette ville à cause de leur religion .

Voilà, mon cher monsieur, comment s'observent les Traités en Chine, et

comment se conduisent les chefs d'une nation que l'on entend quelquefois

vanter comme l'une des plus policées du monde.

Je suis, &c.

(Signé) N. F. LIBOIS .

P.S. - Au départ du courrier, les rébelles commençaient à se montrer du

côté de Si -lin .

No. 94.

The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Foreign Office, September 25, 1856 .

I HAVE received your despatch of July 17 , and its inclosures, reporting

the death of a citizen of the United States, from a wound received in a riot

which took place in the streets of Foo-chow ; and I have to instruct you to

convey to Mr. Vice -Consul Hale my approval of the steps which he took on that

occasion, in order to prevent the undue interference of British subjects in any

further disturbances that might result therefrom .

I am, &c.

( Signed) CLARENDON .

221

No. 95.

The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Foreign Office, September 29, 1856 .

WITH reference to your despatch of the 19th of July last, I transmit to

you , herewith , for your information, a copy of a despatch from Her Majesty's

Ambassador in Paris, stating that the French Government are determined to

exact ample reparation for the murder of M. Chapdelaine, a French missionary

in China .

I am , &c.

(Signed) CLARENDON .

Inclosure in No. 95 .

Lord Cowley to the Earl of Clarendon.

Extract.) Paris, September 28, 1856.

IN the course of conversation, yesterday, Count Walewski alluded to the

murder of a French missionary in China. He said that the French Chargé

d'Affaires in China had stated his intention of taking up the matter very

warmly - an intention which the Imperial Government highly approved. It was

their firm determinationto obtain ample reparation for this cruel murder, and, if

the French Chargé d'Affaires did not succeed by negotiation , and had not other

sufficient means at his command , an expedition would be sent from hence.

Nothing, however, would be settled before the arrival of the next mail from

China, but in case measures of coercion were found to be necessary, Count

Walewski did not doubt that both Her Majesty's Government and that of the

United States would join them in avenging the slaughter of unoffending

Christians .

No. 96 .

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon.- (Received October 30.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, September 3 , 1856 .

REFERRING to my despatches of the 3rd and 8th of July respectively ,

I have the honour to forward copies of further correspondence with Mr. Consul

Parkes, on the subject of the issue of the incendiary placard, and the

assault on two British subjects (Messrs. Johnson and Whittall), in the neigh

bourhood of the factories at Canton . Stones were thrown (an event of

common occurrence, though much less common than formerly ), but as no

serious injury was inflicted, and as the placard complained of has been with

drawn, I have concurred with Mr. Parkes in thinking that no benefit would

accrue from any further interposition .

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure 1 in No. 96 .

Consul Parkes to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir , Canton , August 23 , 1856.

I HAVE the honour to forward to your Excellency translation of a letter

received by me from the Imperial Commissioner in answer to my representations

of the 1st and 4th of July, relative to the circulation of an incendiary placard,

2 G

222

and the assault of Messrs. Johnson and Whittall, copies of which have

been submitted to your Excellency in my despatches of the 2nd and

5th July respectively. His Excellency's reasoning does not alter my opinion

that the placard in question is not to be considered as an exhibition of aa malevo

lent feeling on the part of the village population, as it emanated, in my belief,

from parties in the city, on the occasion of the late rumour becoming current

that the foreign Governments had it in contemplation to force an entry into the

city .

I have endeavoured in my reply to the Imperial Commissioner, copy of

which I also inclose, to refute his account of the authorship of the placard , and

to protest in terms which I trust your Excellency will consider the circumstances

of the case deserves, against the unsatisfactory nature of his proceedings, but as

all excitement on the subject seems to have died away, and the placard has been

withdrawn from circulation, it appears to me scarcely necessary to appeal to

your Excellency's intervention for more complete redress.

I have, &c.

(Signed) HARRY S. PARKES .

Inclosure 2 in No. 96 .

Commissioner Yeh to Consul Parkes.

( Translation .)

YEH, Imperial High Commissioner, Governor-General of the Two Kwang

Provinces, & c ., makes this declaration in reply .

On the 1st and 4th days of the 6th month (2nd and 5th July), I received

the two statements addressed me by the Consul, with which , and the printed

placard in one of them, I made myself fully acquainted, and thereupon directed

the local authorities to examine into and interdict (its circulation ).

In their reports made me upon the subject they state that your honourable

countrymen in traveling to and fro between Hong Kong and Canton have

hitherto invariably adopted the water passage ; but recently it has been stated

that some foreigners have travelled overland by way of the north road. This

road, the officers observe, is not frequented by foreigners, and the people of the

villages thereabouts having never seen them cannot lay aside the doubts and

fears which their presence occasions, and have, therefore, printed and published

this placard.

Such are the reports of the officers, and in connection therewith I (the

Commissioner) learn that on the 1st day of the 5th month (3rd June) a foreign

merchant rode out on horseback to San - yuen -lee, outside the north gate, and

on passing through Looking -Glass Street on his return , he happened to meet a

workman from one of the shops, who being unable to get out of the way was

trampled on by the horse and hurt. It is possible that this circumstance may

have led to the sale or distribution of the placard.

I, the Great Minister, have already directed the local authorities to discover

the parties who cut the block , and I have also to call upon the Consul, as I do

in this declaration , to make known among all the merchants and the people on

board the ships that in future they must travel as they formerly did by way of

the water passage, and must not again commit the irregularity of taking the

land route, which leads them into the north road, such a course being calculated

to excite doubts and fears among the village population, which might, it is to be

feared , occasion trouble at some future period. In this case, the Chinese

Government have, indeed , rendered you efficient protection. I earnestly charge

you to act in the above -mentioned manner.

Heen -fung, 6th year, 7th month, 28th day. (August 20, 1856.)

223

Inclosure 3 in No. 96.

Consul Parkes to Commissioner Yeh .

Sir, Canton, August 23, 1856.

ON the 20th instant I received your Excellency's declaration , acknow

ledging two representations I lately addressed you, the one under date ist July

bringing to your Excellency’s notice the publication of an incendiary placard,

menacing the lives of foreigners in this neighbourhood ; the other reporting, on

the 4th July, an unprovoked attack made by certain people armed with stones

upon two of the English merchants of this community, while riding through the

street known as Te -sze-poo, near to the West Gate .

Your Excellency now informs me in the declaration under acknowledgment,

that having inquired into the cases, you learn from the reports made to you by

the subordinate officers that “ British subjects, in travelling to and fro between

Hong Kong, have hitherto invariably adopted the water passage, but recently it

has been stated that some foreigners have travelled overland, by way of the

north road . ' Your Excellency then goes on to observe, that “ on the 3rd June

last a foreign merchant rode out on horseback to Sau- yuen -le, outside the North

Gate, and on passing through Looking-glass Street on his return he happened

to meet a workman from one of the shops, who, being unable to get out of the

way, was trampled on by the horse and hurt ;" and the conclusion drawn by

your Excellency is, that the placard may have had its origin in the above circum

stances .

With reference to the cases thus adduced , I should remark that I have

never heard of the journey to Hong Kong being made by way of the north

road ; and if your Excellency considers the position of Hong Kong, that it is an

island situated in the outer waters , and lying to the south -east of Canton , you

will , I can scarcely doubt, at once perceive that it cannot be reached by persons

travelling hence by land in a northerly direction . I may add that the placard is

without any local allusion suggestive of the inference that it originated among

the population of the villages on the north road.

As to the unfortunate occurrence in Looking-glass Street, presuming this

to be the same case that formed the subject of a correspondence between this

office and the Pwan -yu Magistrate at the close of May , I have to observe that

the misconduct on the part of the foreigner complained of, was wholly accidental,

and not designed. Similar casualties are not of uncommon occurrence in great

thoroughfares, as your Excellency is,

, I presume, aware . The sufferer was not

seriously injured, and was at once taken to the hospital, where he remained until

he recovered from the hurt, and on being sent away, received five dollars as a

gratuity. But if this treatment were insufficient to remove all feelings of ill will

in the case, it is clear from the accident having occurred in a street of the city,

and not among the villagers, in whose name the placard is issued , that no con

nexion can have existed between the one and the other.

I am constrained to say, therefore, that these counter-statements, having

reference to matters altogether distinct from the serious one on which I

addressed your Excellency , have been furnished you , with the view of diverting

attention from the real case at issue, and imparting to it a colourirg not

warranted by facts .

Wherever there may exist, on either side, grounds for complaint, either as

to foreigners passing in their journeys the limits assigned to them, or in any

other matter, the provisions and penalties of the Treaties and Laws prescribe

the course to be pursued, and the redress to be obtained . How , then, can the

national authorities suffer their people to follow the bent of their own inclina

tions, when these prompt them to commit acts of violence and wrong ? In the

matter now complained of, the highly criminal language of the placard elicits

from your Excellency no word of condemnation. You simply observe, that you

have directed the local authorities to find out the parties who cut the blocks on

which it was printed ,—with what effect may be learned from the fact that eight

weeks have elapsed without their being discovered ; and the stoning of two

2 G 2

224

British merchants is passed over by your Excellency without a single obser

vation .

Can it be said that proceedings such as these constitute the efficient pro

tection which your Excellency, speaking in the name of the Chinese Government,

states that you have herein rendered ?

I have, &c.

(Signed) HARRY S. PARKES .

Inclosure 4 in No. 96.

Sir J. Bowring to Consul Parkes.

Sir, Hong Kong, August 25, 1856.

I HAVE received your despatch dated the 23rd instant, accompanying your

correspondence with the Imperial Commissioner, on the subject of the attack

upon Messrs. Johnson and Whittal. I approve of the steps you have taken,

and shall forward the correspondence to the Secretary of State ; and I agree

with you that further interference on my part is scarcely necessary or desirable.

I have , &c .

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

No. 97 .

The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Foreign Office, November 1 , 1856 .

I HAVE received your despatch of the 3rd of September, inclosing copies

of Mr. Parkes' correspondence respecting the issue of an incendiary notification

and the assault on Messrs. Johnson and Whittall , and I have to state to you

that I approve of Mr. Parkes' proceedings, and of the opinion he has expressed

that no benefit would result from any further interposition in this matter.

I am , &c.

( Signed) CLARENDON .

No. 98.

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon.- (Received December 1.)

(Extract.) Hong Kong, October 8, 1856 .

I HAVE the honourto forward to your Lordship copies ofcorrespondence with

Mr. Consul Parkes, on the subject of the arrest and conveyance to Canton of a

missionary, Mr. Burns, from a district beyond treaty limits, in which he has

lately been engaged.

Mr. Burns is a most zealous person ; and having heard that it was his

purpose to return to the district from which he has been just sent away, I have

thought it necessary to instruct Mr. Parkes to caution him against so doing.

The caution is all the more necessary from the disturbed state of the locality.

225

Inclosure 1 in No. 98.

Consul Parkes to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Canton, October 6 , 1856.

I HAVE the honour to report that the Rev. Wm . C. Burns, known to have

been lately apprehended by the authorities of Chaou-chow, whilst engaged in a

missionary tour in that department of this province, was handed over to me by

the Imperial Commissioner on the 30th ultimo, the local authorities having in

this instance pursued the course prescribed by Treaty, and forwarded Mr. Burns

as a prisoner to Canton. On the following day, I received from the Imperial

Commissioner the letter of which I herewith inclose translation, detailing the

circumstances under which Mr. Burns was apprehended, and simply requiring

me toverify the account given by that gentleman of his own proceedings, and to

place him under some degree of restraint.

The Imperial Commissioner has shown commendable moderation in not

calling upon me to take more stringent notice of this infraction of the Treaty.

Perhaps it is, that being satisfied of the harmless character of Mr. Burns' pur

suits, his Excellency considers forty days ' confinement, ten days of which were

passed at Chaou - chow , and thirty on the route thence to Canton, as a sufficient

penalty for the indiscretion ; or it may be that his Excellency, having some

knowledge of the liberty so long allowed by the local authorities of Chaou - chow

to foreigners at Swatow , justly deems it anomalous to call for the punishment of

Mr. Burns for breach of Treaty, when he knows his own officers to be similarly

implicated , but to a far higher degree. Not only is a foreign trade amounting

annually to several millions of dollars, carried on openly at Swatow, as your

Excellency is doubtless well aware, in vessels under all flags, which either lie in

ordinary or visit that port at will, but the local authorities have been known to

seek , and in more than one case, I believe, to obtain , the aid and alliance of these

foreign visitors in their operations against insurgents or powerful marauders.

Such being the case, it is almost surprising that the authorities of Chaou

chow should have considered themselves bound to incur the trouble and expense

of forwarding Mr. Burns to Canton, instead of dismissing him with a caution not

to appear again in that vicinity.

From what Mr. Burns could gather during his confinement, it would appear

that this was their first intention, as they applied to certain native merchants at

Swatow to give bail both for Mr. Burns and his Chinese associates ; and these

merchants, with remarkable generosity, at once came forward with the security

required. Subsequently, however ,this course was altered, by the advice, as

Mr. Burns believes, of Wan, late Prefect of Kea-ying-chow, who is at present

at Chaou -chow waiting for employment, an officer already notorious to foreigners

by the persecution he set on foot in August 1850 , against the Christians in his

district, but whose acts in this respect were repudiated by the Imperial Commis

sioner Seu , at the instance of the French Minister.

Mr. Burns was arrested on the 19th August, but did not leave Chaou - chow

until the 1st of September. The route traversed in his way to Canton lay up

the Han river, across Chaou -chow and Kea-ying departments to that of Shwuy

chow, and down the East river to Canton ; a more direct road which passes

through the latter department only, not being considered practicable, on account

of the disturbed state of the country.

The inconvenient consequences of this expedition will, I think, effectually

deter Mr. Burns, as he himself indeed assures me, from visiting large cities in

future. He had no intention , he informs me, of staying at Chaou-chow ; it

happened to lay in the route he was pursuing, and he was arrested almost on

the moment of arriving under its walls .

I beg to inclose copy of the reply which I forwarded on the 3rd instant to

the letter of the Imperial Commissioner ; and, considering that under the

circumstances I should be justified in making some appeal in favour of the

two native colporteurs who accompanied Mr. Burns, I applied for their release,

and have this morning received the inclosed acknowledgment from the Imperial

Commissioner, which gives, I am glad to say, promise of their liberation without

the imposition of any punishment.

I have, &c.

(Signed) HARRY S. PARKES.

226

Inclosure 2 in No. 98 .

Commissioner Yeh to Consul Parkes.

( Translation .)

YEH, High Imperial Commissioner, Governor-General of the Two Kwang

Provinces, & c., addresses this declaration to H. S. Parkes, Esquire, Her Britannic

Majesty's Consul at Canton .

I have before me an official report from Wang-ching, Chief Magistrate of

the district of Hae-yang, in the department of Chaou -chow , which contains the

following statements :

It being the duty of your subordinate to act with Le-seuen -fang, the Major

commanding at this city (Chaou -chow ), in the inspection of the defences of the

place, we suddenly observed , whilst engaged in tliis service, three persons seated

in a boat on the river, whose appearance had something in it that was unusual.

We found in their boat, and took possession of, seven volumes of foreign books,

and three sheet tracts ; but these were the only things they had with them .

On examining the men themselves, we observed that they all of them had

shaven heads, and wore their hair plaited in a queue, and were dressed in

Chinese costume. The face of one of them , however, had rather a strange look ;

his speech in respect to tone and mode of expression being not very similar to

that of the Chinese. We, therefore, interrogated him carefully, whereupon he

stated to us that his true name was Pin -wei.lin (William Burns) , that he was an

Englishman, aged 42 years, and , as a teacher of the religion of Jesus, had

been for some time past engaged in exhorting his fellow -men to do good deeds.

In 1817 , he left his native land and travelled to China, and took up his residence

first at Victoria, where he lived two years, and aiterwards in the foreign factories

at Canton, where he remained for more than one. Subsequently, he visited

Shanghae, Amoy, and other p !aces, and there spent several years ; wherever he

went he made himself acquainted with the languages of the Chinese, and by this

means he delivered his exhortations to the people, and explained to them the

books of Jesus, but without receiving from any one the least remumeration.

In 1854 he embarked in a steamer from Amoy, on a visit to his native home ;

and in December 1855 , joined himself to one of his countrymen , surnamed Tae,

who was going to Shanghae to trade. I accompanied him thither,” said

Burns, " in his vessel ; but from Shanghac, Tae returned home again, whilst I

remained there and engaged myself in the distribution of Christian books. In

the 6th month of the present year (July) I left Shanghae, and took passage in

a foreign sailing- vessel to Shan -tow (Swa-tow) , in the district of Ching-hae.

There I fell in on the 12th day of the 7th month (August 12) with Le -a -yuen

and Chin - a -seun , the two Chinese who have now been seized with me. I called

upon them to be my gnides, and we proceeded in company to Yen -fan , and from

thence came on to this city, where we had it in comtemplation to distribute

some of our books. Scarcely, however, had we arrived at the river's bank on

the 19th day of the 7th month ( 19th August ), when to our surprise we found

ourselves under surveillance, and deprived of our liberty. We entertained,

however, no other views or intentions than those which we have stated, and >

declare that these statements are strictly true.”

Such is the account given by the missicnary William Purns, who, together

with his seven volumes of foreign books and his three sheet tracts, was given

over into the charge of an officer, and brought in custody to this office .

Having examined the above report, I (the Imperial Commissioner) have to

observe thereon that the inland river of the city of Chaou -chow is not one of the

ports open to (foreign) commerce ; and it has never on that account been

frequented by foreigners. I cannot but look upon it , therefore, as exceedingly

improper, that William Burns (admitting him to be an Englishman ), should

change his own dress, shave his head, and , assuming the costume of a Chinese,

penetrate into the interior in so irregular a manner. And, although , when

closely examined by the magistrate, hie firmly maintained that religious teaching

and the distribution of books formed his sole object and occupation , it may

certainly be asked why does William Burns leave Shanghae and come to

Chaou-chow, just at a time when Kiang-nan and the other provinces are the

scene of hostilities ? Or, can it be that a person dressed in the garb, and

227

speaking the language of China is really an Englishman,or may he not be falsely

assuming that character to further some mischievous ends ?

I have directed Heu, the assistant Nan-hae magistrate, to hand him over to

the Consul of the said nation, in order that he may ascertain the truth respecting

him , and keep him under restraint ; and I hereby, by means of this declaration,

make known to him (the Consul) the above particulars.

William Burns, seven volumes of foreign books, and three sheet tracts,

accompany this declaration.

Heenfung, 6th year, 9th month, 2nd day. (September 30, 1856.)

Inclosure 3 in No. 98.

Consul Parkes to Commissioner Yeh .

Sir, Canlon , October 3, 1856.

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge your Excellency's letter, received on

the 1st instant, communicating the circumstances under which the Rev. William

Burns, an English missionary, and two Chinese associates, were arrested at

the city of Chaou -chow, in this province, and sent in custody to Canton, and

desiring me to ascertain whether Mr. Burns, who, as directed by your Excellency,

had already been delivered over to me by the assistant magistrate, Heu , is, as he

claims to be, an English subject, and whether the account of his travels and .

occupation given by him to the magistrate of Hae-yang be indeed correct.

I have carefully examined all the statements contained in the report of the

magistrate of Hae -yang, and am able, without hesitation, to assure your

Excellency that they are true in every respect. Mr. Burns is , as he has

represented himself, aa British subject, and is well known in China as a Protestant

missionary, who for upwards of eight years has endeavoured to do good to the

Chinese by religious teaching, as well as by gratuitously administering to their

bodily wants. While others of his missionary brethren have remained stationary

in one place, studying the sacred writings of the Chinese, and preparing transla

tions of their own, Mr. Burns has inoved about from one place to another that

he might have wider opportunity for preaching and distributing books.

In doing so, however, he has hitherto confined himself to the five ports

open to foreign commerce, and in reply to my inquiry why he on this occasion

proceeded to Chaou -chow , which is not one of these ports, he stated to me that

he purposed simply to pay the place a passing visit; and having no intention

of staying there, would have left again immediately, had the authorities desired

or allowed him to do so. They, however, being unaccustomed to see foreigners

in a native dress, mistook him , I conclude, for a suspicious character, and

thought it necessary to arrest him ; and, serious as the consequences of this step

may be to Mr. Burns , it must be admitted that he has subjected himself to them

by his own deviation from what was right.

As to thecircumstance ofhisadopting the Chinese costume, your Excellency,

who knows full well how liable foreigners are to be molested , even at the five

ports open to trade, by Chinese crowding round them to stare at their strange

dress, will readily understand that Mr. Burns did this in order to escape the

annoyance to which he must otherwise have been subjected ; and I may mention

here, that the practice of wearing Chinese attire is now not uncommon to the

foreign missionaries, whose profession naturally takes them among the native

population.

Mr. Burns is now suffering from sickness , brought on by the fatigues of

the journey from Chaou -chow , protracted by the delays encountered on the way,

to the unusual length of upwards of thirty days. He expresses himself, however,

very grateful for the kind treatment he has received ; but is anxious on account

of Le -ah -yuen and Chiun -ah -seun, the two Chinese who were seized with him,

and are to him as brothers.

Seeing, therefore, that your Excellency will now be perfectly assured both

of the harmless character of Mr. Burns, and i he entire innocency of these two

men, I venture to request that the Prefect of Chaou - chow may be directed by

your Excellency to grant them their release ; and, further, that I may be

228

informed by your Excellency of the dispatch of any orders which your Excellency

may be pleased, in compliance with this request, to issue.

I have, &c .

( Signed) HARRY S. PARKES.

Inclosure 4 in No. 98.

Commissioner Yeh to Consul Parkes.

(Translation . )

YEH, Imperial High Commissioner, Governor-Generalof the Two Kwang

Provinces, & c ., makes this declaration to H. S. Parkes, Esq . , Her Britannic

Majesty's Consul at Canton .

On the 5th day of the 9th month (3rd October ), I received your statement

( relative to the Rev. W. C. Burns and his Chinese associates ), which I have

attentively perused ; and I should inform you in reply, that at the time when

the Chief Magistrate of the District of Hae-yang forwarded Mr. Burns, in the

charge of a special officer, to Canton, to be given over, as has already been done,

into your charge and control , he further stated , in his official report on the

subject, that having examined the two Chinese, Le-ah-yuen and Chin -ali-seun,

who were arrested with Mr. Burns, the one being a native of Ching -hae district,

the other of Chaou - yang, and found that they had not associated themselves

with Mr. Burns for any illegal purpose , he had already sent them back to their

respective homes, where security will be taken for their behaviour (upon which

they will be released from custody).

Heenfung, 6th year, 9th month , 8th day. (October 6, 1856. )

Inclosure 5 in No. 98.

Sir J. Bowring to Consul Parkes.

Sir,

5 Hong Kong, October 8 , 1856 .

I HAVE received your despatch dated the 6th instant, reporting the circum

stances connected with the detention ofMr. Burns, and his delivery over to you ;

and sending me the correspondence connected with the subject, between the

Imperial Commissioner and yourself.

I have to express my thorough satisfaction with your proceedings in this

matter .

You will inform Mr. Burns that, after the representations of the Imperial

Commissioner, I should deem it imprudent and improper that he should return

to the district from which he has been sent away.

I have, &c .

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING ,

No. 99 .

The Earl of Clarendon to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Foreign Office, December 8, 1856.

I HAVE to instruct you to inform Consul Parkes that I entirely approve

his proceedings, as reported in his despatch to you of the 6th of October

last, and of which a copy is inclosed in your despatch of the 8th of that

month , upon the occasion of the arrest and conveyance to Canton of the

Rev. W. Burns, and the two persons by whom he was accompanied to the city

of Chaou-chow .

I am, &c.

(Signed ) CLARENDON .

CORRESPONDENCE

RESPECTING

INSULTS IN CHINA .

Presented to the House of Lords by Command of Her Majesty, in pursuance of

their Address of February 12, 1857 .

LONDON

PRINTED BY HARRISON AND SONS,

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FURTHER PAPERS

RELATIVE TO THE

PROCEEDINGS

HER MAJESTY'S NAVAL FORCES

CANTON .

Ceo 1552

Presented to both Houses of Parliament by Command of Her Majesty.

1857.

LONDON :

PRINTED BY HARRISON AND SONS.

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OCT.9 1919

LIBRARY

LIST OF PAPERS.

No. Page

1. The Secretary to the Admiralty to Mr. Hammond February 21 , 1857 1

One Inclosure.

2. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon December 17, 1856 3

Eleven Inclosures .

3. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon December 27, 10

Twelve Inclosures.

4. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon December 30, 16

One Inclosure .

5. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon December 30 , 16

One Inclosure .

December 31 ,

6. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon 17

One Inclosure .

7. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon January 3, 1857 18

Six Inclosures.

8. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon January 13, 23

Two Inclosures .

9. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon January 14, - 23

One Inclosure .

10. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon January 14 , 24

11. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon January 15 , 25

Two Inclosures .

12. Consul Robertson to Sir J. Bowring January 27

13. The Secretary to the Admiralty to Mr. Hammond March 27 1

Six Inclosures. 1

14. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon January 24, 32

Two Inclosures .

5. The Secretary to the Admiralty to Mr. Hammond March 18, 33

Three Inclosures.

Further Papers relating to the Proceedings of Her

Majesty's Naval Forces at Canton.

No. 1 .

The Secretary to the Admiralty to Mr. Hammond.-(Received February 21.)

Sir , Admiralty, February 21 , 1857 .

I AM commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to transmit

to you, for the information of the Earl of Clarendon , a copy of a letter from

Rear -Admiral Sir Michael Seymour, reporting the destruction of the factories

at Canton and his subsequent proceedings .

I am, &c.

( Signed) R. OSBORNE .

Inclosure in No. 1 .

Rear- Admiral Sir M. Seymour to the Secretary to the Admiralty .

Sir, “ Niger ,” at Canton, December 29 , 1856.

IN my letter of the 15th instant , I made aa hurried report of the, at that:

time, partial destruction by fire of the factories at Canton. I now furnish a

more detailed account of their total destruction, and subsequent proceedings, for

the information of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty.

Soon after 11 o'clock P.M. , on the 14th instant, simultaneous fires broke out

in several parts of Thirteen Factory -street, which was a Chinese street, situated

immediately at the back of the factories. The houses had been partially destroyed

some time since by the late Captain Cowper, R.E., to prevent any fire from

spreading from the suburbs, and would, in time, have been entirely cleared away,

but our labour had been employed on the more pressing work of removing Hog

Lane , extending at a right angle from Thirteen Factory Street, into the heart of

the Factory . At this time, that necessary work had been most effectually

accomplished.

Working parties were quickly on the spot, with engines and all available

means for extinguishing fire ; but owing to the inflammable materials of the

houses and the scarcity of water — the tide being low — the flames soon reached

Old China Street and the back premises of Messrs. Dent and Co., whilst the

sparks set fire to the matting over several of the houses in the contiguous

hongs. The strong current of wind up the vaulted passages, or hongs, over

which the houses were constructed, caused the fire to spread with amazing

rapidity and fierceness.. Each hong became a furnace, and it was utterly impos

sible, from the extreme heat and the masses of burning material which were

continually falling, to remain in the neighbourhood of thefire. It was soon felt

that all endeavours to save what were called the “ Foreign Factories” would be

in vain , and that our only hope was in Hog Lane cutting off the fire from the

British Factory. The corner house in the contiguous block being in dangerous

proximity, it was most successfully and completely blown down about noon on ;

[ 194] B 2

the 15th , which greatly raised our hopes of the ultimate safety of the remaining

portion of the factories.

By this time the flames had entirely consumed Old and New China Streets,

and the whole of Minqua's hong down to the river side, at the other end of the

factories, and it was only by the most strenuous exertions that we were able to

save the club -house, occupied as barracks and stores.

At about 3 o'clock P.M., flames burst out most suddenly and furiously from the

ruins of the house which had been blown down, and though both officers and men

vied with each other, for two hours, in their exertions to extinguish them , smoke

was then seen to issue from the roof of the Oriental Bank, a large building

surrounded by a wooden verandah , and situated in the middle of the British

factory. All hopes of saving any portion of the factories were then abandoned ,

and after eighteen hours of unremitting labour the people were withdrawn. The

sick were embarked from the temporary hospital, as well as a portion of the

force, guns, ammunition, & c.; and arrangements made for holding the gardens

duringthe night. The following morning a heap of smoking ruins was all that

remained of the factories -one house excepted .

There can be no doubt that the fire was preconcerted by the Chinese autho

rities. People were seen running into the houses in Thirteen Factory Street, with

lighted brands, who were fired on by our pickets ; and so complete were the

arrangements for the security of the Chinese, that the fire was confined to the

streets immediately surrounding the factories ; large bodies of firemen being

held in readiness , with fire-engines, to check the advance of the flames in their

direction .

The great importance of holding our position at Canton being evident, and

the church and barracks having been preserved, I determined to intrench a

portion of the factory gardens.

On the 17th the works were commenced, at which seamen , marines, and

our small detachment of Royal Artillery, fell to with that zeal and good temper

which has characterised them throughout. A ditch has been run the whole

length across the gardens , taking in the church, and outside a portion of the

wall at the western end to the club -house, with a breastwork behind, defended

by field -pieces which enfilade the ditch. The position is now complete, and with

our small garrison of 300, composed of equal numbers of seamen, marines, and

a detachment of the 59th Regiment, I have every hope of maintaining it till I

receive the instructions of Her Majesty's Government for my future guidance.

I inclose a plan of our intrenchment drawn by Commander Bate of the

" Actæon ."

Regarding our position afloat, severalattempts have been inade to explode

small sampans with powder, but they are hardlyworthy of notice.. A boom of

spars, strengthened with chains, is extended both above and below our steam

vessels, which will prevent any attempts by fire-rafts on a large scale, of which

we hear rumours. All Chinese boats are kept outside the booms, and the

creeks within the booms have been blocked up. Our main dependence down

the stream is in the Dutch Folly, about 1,200 yards below the “ Niger.” It is in

charge of Commodore the Honourable C. Elliot ; is strongly armed, and

garrisoned by 140 blue jackets. The Folly being only 400 yards from the

city wall, renders it a most important position for offensive operations.

As one of the small river steamers was proceeding to Hong Kong on the

night of the 22nd instant, with a lorcha in tow, she was attacked near the second

bar by a large fleet of Mandarin junks. The master of the steamer was obliged

to cast off the lorcha, after saving the crew , and gallantly pushed through and

escaped, having sustained a loss of three men killed and two wounded. On the 9

intelligence being communicated to me, I lost no time in sending the “ Hornet

and “ Barracouta ” to capture or destroy the junks, but they had concealed

themselves up one of the numerous creeks which intersect this fat country like

a net-work, up which our steamers cannot follow them . The arrival of the

gunboats will tend to obviate this difficulty. I now employ a steam -sloop

patrolling the river to keep the navigation open.

Onthe 20th and 24th ,CaptainHall destroyed thirteen largeGovernmentjunks

nearly ready for sea, and on the 27th, that officer, in the “ Coromandel, " with

the boats of the squadron in company, proceeded up Hamilton Creek , where it

was said a large number of Mandarin junks had assembled, but saw nothing of

them ,

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would willingly come to terms with us, but this party is domineered over by the

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nearly ready for sea, and on the 27th, that officer, in the “ Coromandel," with

the boats of the squadron in company , proceeded up Hamilton Creek, where it

was said a large number of Mandarin junks had assembled, but saw nothing of

them ,

I have had no communication with the Imperial High Commissioner. A

few shot and shell are occasionally fired into the city by the Dutch Folly.

There is no change in the disposition of the squadron .

I have, &c .

(Signed) M. SEYMOUR .

No. 2 .

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon .— (Received March 1 , 1857.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, December 17, 1856.

IN continuation of my despatch dated yesterday, I regret to have to

announce to your Lordship that the hopes of saving the British Consulate

and a considerable portion of the factory have been frustrated, and that with

the exception of a portion of two houses, one belonging to the United States'

citizens (Messrs. Russell & Co.) , and another to a British subject (Mr. Fischer,

the agent of the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company), the

factories are a heap of ruins. I wait to be advised by the Admiral as to the

steps he proposes to take now that he has decided on withdrawing his forces

from the factories, there being now nothing left to protect, and doubt not that

they will be commensurate with the exigencies of the case.

I have the honour to inclose copy of my reply to Admiral Sir M. Seymour's

letters of the 15th and 16th instant; the former formed inclosure in my despatch

of 16th instant, the latter I now annex .

I forward also copy of Mr. Vice-Consul Winchester's despatch of yesterday,

which announced the death of Mr. 0. T. Lane, second assistant of the Con

sulate, in consequence of the fall of a house . I deeply lament the lossof a pro

mising young man, whose good conduct recommended him to the confidence of

his superordinates, and of whom the Admiral writes to me in terms of marked

approbation.

Hong Kong, December 19.

I have this day received a despatch from Mr. Vice - Consul Winchester ,

dated 16th instant, stating that it was not the purpose of his Excellency the

naval Commander-in-chief to occupy the garden in front of the factories, and

inclosing a circular issued to the Canton community. This despatch did not

reach me till this morning, in consequence of the confusion attendant on the

conflagration of the factories, and it was accompanied by a despatch from

Mr. Consul Parkes, dated yesterday, informing me that Sir Michael Seymour, >

finding itpracticable to maintain his position in the garden , had decided to do

So. I quite concur in Mr. Parkes 'opinion that his presence may be exceedingly

useful to the Admiral, and have therefore requested him to remain, at all events

for the present, in Canton .

To -day I have received from the Admiral a despatch, dated 18th instant,

advising me thatlooking to the desirableness of maintaining a position in the

factory gardens, his Excellency had commenced works for that important pur

pose. am satisfied that this measure is prudent and farsighted, and will

greatly assist our future proceedings. I doubt not that Her Majesty's Govern

ment will insist on full compensation to British subjects for the losses and

damages entailed on them by the acts of the Imperial authorities. Large claims

are already coming in, and will be referred to your Lordship in due time.

Hong Kong, December 20.

I have received from Mr. Chinese Secretary Wade, the translation of a

public declaration, said to emanate from the gentry and people of Canton , and

which has been circulated in that city. I believe the document pretty accurately

represents the feeling of the population towards us , and fully exhibits the incen

iary and reckless spirit which led to the destruction of the factories. The declara

tion seems to confirm the opinion that there is in the city an influential party that

would willingly come to terms with us, but this party is domineered over by the

fierce and turbulent mob, which has been collected from the villages in the neigh

bourhood of Canton , “ the rural population ” as they are called in this document,

and who care little about the fate of the city itself. As to the averment that women

were ravished at the village of Lieh -teh (taken by the United States' forces ), I

am assured by Captain Foote that there is no ground for such a statement.

Hong Kong, December 22 .

The despatch received from Mr. Consul Parkes brings down the history of

events to the 20th instant. It would appear that the destruction of Chinese

property has been great , especially in the quarters where those traders are located

who carried on business principally with foreigners. No signs of surrender on

the part of the Imperial Commissioner have as yet been exhibited .

The Peninsular and Oriental Company's steamer“ Formosa” brought accounts

down from the northern ports to the 16th instant. They are rather consola

tory as to apprehensions of reaction of the occurrences at Canton, at Shang

hae and other places open to foreign trade ; the authorities being still disposed to

consider the Canton question as one of a local character, to be settled by the

parties whom it specially concerns. There is a general concurrence of opinion

that unless the Emperor, by Imperial rescript, order “ the extermination of

foreign barbarians,” they will be allowed at the other ports to remain at peace.

It is believed that Yeh has represented to the Emperor his ability to hold the

city of Canton, and that he will be encouraged to do so. I need not say, how

ever, that Chinese purposes and policy may at any time undergo a sudden change,

for which we ought to be prepared . Mr. Lay writes that the increase of the

native trade at Shanghae is marvellous, and that no less than 10,000 Chinese

junks will have arrived in that port in the year 1856 . This gives us some

security for the present and a strong hold upon the future.

Her Majesty's Government will, no doubt, take into early consideration our

present position in China.. As regards the Canton question, it appears to me

that our course must be decided by two principal considerations.

First, the obtaining indemnity for injuries done, and always holding the

Imperial Government responsible) it is desirable that the burden of the sacrifice

should fall upon Canton itself.

Secondly, the securing for usa future position in Canton, by the appropria

tion of aa considerable addition to the factories, sufficient to furnish our merchants

with warehouses within the precincts, and the whole secured from future attacks

of robbers or incendiaries.

These two objects accomplished, we shall not have to regret the perverse

ness on the part of the Viceroy which has brought about results so desirable.

And their bearing upon our future relations will be most important, for I

am quite persuaded that an absolute triumph at Canton will be the very best

initiative to successful negotiations elsewhere; and it appears to me that these

negotiations must be carried on elsewhere, for the Viceroy of Canton is, of all

men, the least fitted for negotiation, and the locality of Canton would be, of all

places in the empire, the least desirable .

I have, &c.

( Signed ) JOHN BOWRING .

P.S. - December 23. I have received nothing official from Canton to-day.

On Saturday, a respectable old man was kidnapped at Whampoa and has not yet

been recovered. have been taken by the

Three of the principal inhabitants

Consul, and are at present held as hostages. Howqua has been communicated

with, and promises that no effort shall be wanting and no money spared to obtain

the restoration of Mr. Cowper to his fainily. The most contradictory reports are

spread as to the opinion of the Court of Pekin on Canton affairs. I presume

nothing of an official character has reached the Viceroy.

J. B.

Inclosure 1 in No. 2 .

Rear- Admiral Sir M. Seymour to Sir John Bowring.

Sir, Niger,” at Canton, December 16, 1856.

I HAVE the honour to inform your Excellency that after the departure of

my letter of yesterday the fire again resumed the ascendancy, and notwithstanding

the persevering and laborious efforts of bothofficers and men, theEnglish Factory

was entirely consumed. With the exception of two houses, those of Messrs.

Sturgess and Fischer, the factories are now a heap of ruins.

Imentioned , yesterday, my intention of holding the British Factory, under

the impression, at that time, of its safety ; but as there is nothing left to protect,

I shall withdraw the force, and carry on future operations from on board ship.

I sent the gun -lascars to Hong Kong this morning, their services being no

longer required.

I have, &c.

(Signed) M. SEYMOUR.

Inclosure 2 in No. 2.

Sir J. Bowring to Rear - Admiral Sir M. Seymour.

Sir, Hong Kong, December 17, 1856.

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge your Excellency's despatches

dated 15th and 16th instant, by which I am sorry to learn that, notwith

standing the most persevering and laborious efforts of the officers and men in

Her Majesty's service, the whole of the factories have been destroyed by Chinese

incendiaries.

I note that it is the purpose of your Excellency to withdraw your forces

from the factories, and that future operations, which I doubt not will meet the

requirements of our position, will be carried on from on board ship,

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING.

Inclosure 3 in No. 2 .

Vice- Consul Winchester to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, “ Coromandel," of Canton, December 16, 1856.

I DEEPLY regret to inform your Excellency that the exertions of the force

to save the British factories were unsuccessful. The arduous struggles to save

the block in which the Consulate is situated were almost crowned with success,

when a fire broke out in the Oriental Bank building, and it became evident that

no efforts could save the factory.

It is now my melancholy duty to inform your Excellency of the sad catas

trophe which deprived this establishment of Mr. O. T. Lane. Mr. Lane, who

had been very active during the whole fire, and had distinguished himself by

admirable zeal and disinterestedness, was standing, about 2 P.M., near the back

corner of Dr. Marjoribank's house, when the wall of the parsonage fell and

crushed him. The Admiral and myself were in his immediate vicinity and

almost enveloped in the same ruin .

The nature of the injuries sustained were so crushing that he only survived a

few seconds after being carried into the hospital. His remains will proceed to Hong

Kong under charge of Mr. Sampson , the constable at Whampoa, who has also

under his care the records of this office, for the safe custody of which, in the

meantime, I beg to move that your Excellency will issue directions.

The destruction of the factories is most complete ; not a single house has

been spared. The nature and determination of this act may be judged from the

circumstance that not half-a - dozen native houses have been injured.

I have, &c.

(Signed) CHARLES A. WINCHESTER .

Inclosure 4 in No. 2.

Vice- Consul Winchester to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Niger,” off Canton, December 16, 1856.

I HAVE the honour to report to your Excellency thatsince I wrote this

morning I have issued a circular to the members of the British community left

in Canton by direction of his Excellency the naval Commander -in -chief; copy

inclosed. Your Excellency will gather from its terms that it is not his Excel

lency's present intention to occupy the garden as a military position. The

object for which the force was quartered has now ceased, or will shortly cease,

to exist : owing to the vast ruin by which the garden is surrounded, it would

require nearly as large a force to maintain it, the church and reading-rooms, as

were previously necessary for the defence of the whole Foreign Settlement. I

understand everything which has been saved will be removed in the course of

to -morrow . Already the débris is infested by plunderers who would, if not

checked, soon become a dangerous mob . Numerous bodies of troops were

observed on the south-west angle of the city wall both yesterday and to -day.

In my report of this morning I over-estimated slightly the amount of

destruction in calling it complete. Three houses are so little injured that under

ordinary circumstances they might be considered as saved ; the front hongs

respectively occupied by Messrs. Russell & Co., and Fischer, and the whole

block belonging to W. H. Wardley & Co.

The loss of property , chiefly furniture and stores, has been very great. The

hopes of saving the British factory were apparently so well founded that fewer

articles were removed from the houses in it than from those evidently doomed to

perish. Of the effects in the Consulate belonging to the officers, I regret to say

very little has been saved. In many cases large quantities of stores, which

might have been removed, were voluntarily left to perish, rather than expose

the men engaged in such arduousduty to temptations destructive of discipline.

After the untimely fate of Mr. Lane I received from Mr. John Lyon, R.N.,

of the Calcutta,” clerk in the Admiral's office, the most zealous and timely

assistance in the removal of the records of the office, a service which your

Excellency will duly appreciate.

There are various rumours afloat that attempts to destroy the ships by fire

rafts and vessels, chained together in large numbers, are contemplated .

I have, &c .

(Signed) CHARLES A. WINCHESTER ,

Inclosure 5 in No. 2 .

Circular.

THE Undersigned has to inform the British community, by direction of his

Excellency the Naval Commander-in -chief, that in consequence of the destruction

of the factories by fire, his Excellency does not consider it expedient to occupy

the garden .

Every assistance and protection will be rendered to those engaged in

removing the property in the church, garden, and elsewhere ; but his Excellency

deems it desirable to urge the use of all convenient dispatch.

As, after the evacuation of the garden, the factories and their neighbourhood

can no longer be considered a safe resort for foreigners and their servants, his

Excellency is desirous to afford every facility for their embarkation .

British Consulate, Canton, December 16, 1856 .

(Signed) CHARLES A. WINCHESTER ,

Her Britannic Majesty's Vice - Consul.

Inclosure 6 in No. 2 .

Consul Parkes to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Canton, December 18, 1856.

MR. VICE-CONSUL WINCHESTER , who proceeded to Hong Kong

yesterday, will have reported to your Excellency my return to Canton at

daylightthe same morning.

I found on my arrival that the conflagration which had laid the factories in

ruins was then entirely extinct ; but a fresh outburst which had occurred during

the night of the 16th, and subsequent to Mr. Winchester's last despatch , had

involved in the general destruction the premises of Messrs. Russell and Co., and

Mr. Fischer, and thus the house occupied by Messrs. Wardley and Co., which,

from its situation in the centre of the ruins, had also to be abandoned, is the

only one that remains standing of the several ranges of buildings, both old and

new.

The whole of the property saved from the fire was embarked yesterday, and

I am happy to report that his Excellency Sir Michael Seymour now considers

it practicable to maintain his position in the garden by throwing up a field -work

across it, which will inclose the church and boat-house, and the major portion of

the open space. This defence, consisting of a deep ditch and substantial breast

work , was commenced yesterday, and, through the admirable exertions of the

officers and men, promises to be completed in the course of two more days.

Under these circumstances your Excellency will, I trust, approve of my

remaining, for a time at least , in Canton , where I trust I may be of use to his

Excellency the Naval Commander-in - chief, and I can reside, as I may find most

convenient, either in the church or in a boat I have already obtained and

moored within the garden stakes. The whole of the community had left the

place, with the exception of two members, who still hope to recover a few of

their goods ; but I believe that none of the British residents at Whampoa have

yet commenced to remove their property, though I shall advise them to do so,

as far as is possible .

I have, & c .

(Signed) HARRY S. PARKES .

Inclosure 7 in No. 2 .

Sir J. Bowring to Consul Parkes.

Sir , Hong Kong, December 19, 1856.

I HAVE received your despatch of yesterday, advising me that his

Excellency the Naval Commander -in -chief, finding it possible to maintain his

position in the garden, had determined to do so, a determination which is very

satisfactory to me.

I have no doubt that your presence will be most useful to the Admiral, and

thank you cordially for the willingness with which you have offered to remain at

Canton-at all events for the present.

You will convey to Mr. Lyon, R.N., and the other gentlemen who have

so kindly assisted in the removal of the records of the Consulate, and of other

property from the factories, my thanks for their valuable services.

I have, &c .

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure 8 in No. 2.

Rear -Admiral Sir M. Seymour to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir , Niger," at Canton , December 18, 1856 .

SINCE my despatch of the 16th instant, reporting the total destruction of

the factories, and that I should embark the force, and conduct future operations

from on board ship, I have had in view the importance of holding a portion of

the factory gardens, to include the church and boat - house, and I am now

employing working parties in digging a trench and throwing up a rampart for

defence, in combination with theother points in our position ,which I hope to be

able to maintain till the matters in dispute with the Imperial High Commissioner,

to which will now, I presume, have to be added the losses sustained by the

conflagration, shall be brought to a satisfactory termination.

I have, & c.

(Signed) M. SEYMOUR.

Inclosure 9 in No. 2 .

Sir J. Bowring to Rear -Admiral Sir M. Seymour

Sir , Hong Kong, December 20, 1856.

I HAVE to acknowledge your Excellency's despatch of the 18th instant,

and concur most cordially in the opinion that the maintenance of a position in

the factory gardens may materially assist us in the furtherance of those ulterior

objects which will undoubtedly occupy the attention of Her Majesty's Govern

ment, especially in connection with the losses inflicted on British subjects by

the late incendiary conflagration.

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure 10 in No. 2 .

Public Declaration of the Gentry and People of the City and Hamlets of Canton .

( Translation )

UNTIL the parricide* be cut off, there will be no peace in (men's) dwellings.

When blood -thirstiness and vicious perversity rebel with violence (against the

rule of right), a virtuous indignation should be manifested by all in common .

The English barbarians having commenced a quarrel without a cause,

imputing to us their own offence against what is proper (or decorous) , have

destroyed our forts, have assaulted our city, have burned the lowly dwellings of

the people , have sacked their villages ; merchantt vessels and passage-boats

have been plundered , the wayfarer and the travelling-merchant have been

assassinated .I At the village of Lieh-teh (by the Barrier Forts), three women

were ravished,ý and for shame have destroyed themselves. Such is their brigand

soul , such their wolfish nature ; woe be to the city of Canton if they be suffered

to dwell there long !

It behoves us to raise a force of sons and brothers to exterminate them,

ere we eat our morning meal, to gather together the population of the villages

and the city, and sweep away this fiendish pestilence . It is now determined

that, on a day to be appointed, there shall be a meeting at Fat-ling Shi (north

east of the city) , for purposes of general deliberation . Every inhabitant of the

villages near thecity , from sixteen yearsof age to sixty, shall take his place in

the ranks ; a rate shall be levied on lands for their subsistence ; the more

remote districts shall aid to swell the cry. These barbarians must be exter

minated, and the port closed to them ; nor must they ever again be allowed to

trade at Canton ; that men's hearts must be satisfied, and the calamities of after

time be prevented.

Even were the high authorities resolved to be gentle and considerate, and

* The word is compounded of the name of aa bird that devours its mother, and aa beast that eats

its father; and is used here to signify, par excellence, an atrocious monstrosity.

+ Lit., Silk vessels.

I Have suddenly suffered wounds and death .

Ś There was an idle rumour that some women were violated near the Barrier Forts, when they

were taken by the Americans. The circumstances of that capture considered, there is very small

ground indeed for crediting a report which has been for years past the inseparable companion of every

narrative of barbarian misdoings.

|| The proverb says, “ that of such should be formed the force that hunts the tiger, or that goes

to battle .”

1 Lit., The wharf must be destroyed .

in this spirit mercifully tolerant of these dogs and mice, they could not go

against the resolution of the rural population , hundreds of thousands in number,

they could not thrust aside the common feeling of the people. Yet there has

been of late a rumour to this effect; while these barbarians have been destroying

the Lien -hing and other streets—acts which it was as much to be assumed

would have roused the virtuous indignation of the inhabitants of the western

suburbs, as it was not to be assumed that they would have tacitly assented to

them , allowing the silkworm thus to eat (its way) : a report has been notwith

standing current in the street and on the highway, which goes the length of

asserting that the substantial and wealthy merchants of the western suburb, who

have so many years traded with the rebellious barbarian, some because they

have business establishments abroad, some because they have shares in foreign

vessels, are tenderly regarding their personal interests, while they ignore the

sentiment ofpatriotism ; that they have some time since made a secret compact

(with the barbarian) , that neither party shall molest the other ; and that this is

the reason why they are composedly looking on, as if nothing extraordinary were

taking place.

A tale like this, told in public places,* were doubtless not to be greatly trusted ;

but with such noise and frequency is it passing from man to man, that it has,

indeed, astounded those who hear it ; and it is but too probable that the

western snburb will , in the end, find to its sorrow that it is become the point on

which popular indignation has concentrated itself.

If duly mindful of their duty to their homes, of the abundant bounty in

which they have been steeped by dynasty after dynasty, they will pillow them on

their arms determined, and unite with us in our patriotic movement, let them,

sharing with us our animosity, and treating as foes those whom we hate, grasp

one and all the ear of the ox,t and join our confederacy.

Inclosure 11 in No. 2 .

Consul Parkes to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Canton, December 20 , 1856.

I SHOULD inform your Excellency that the United States' corvette

Levant,” left Canton yesterday morning, as was at first understood, to relieve

the “San Jacinto ” at Whampoa, but I hear to-day that the former vessel has

passed that anchorage, and the latter still remains there. The American Consul

has also left Canton , not having hoisted his flag since the night of the fire.

A close inspection which I have made of the ruins adjacent to the factories

shows that the fire has not been altogether limited to the latter, but has involved

in destruction about 400 or 500 Chinese shops.

A village near to French Island, just above theWhampoa anchorage, was taken

yesterday morning, by the force calling themselves rebels, which remain in that

vicinity in consequence of the refusal ofthe villagers to pay a demand previously

made for a ransom of 300 taels. They appear to receive no accession to their

strength, and fear to retire down the river lest they should be cut off by the

Mandarins.

With great labour thirty -two pieces of heavy artillery, found in store near

the site of the factories, have been destroyed by direction of his Excellency the

Naval Commander-in-chief, and sunk in the river. The entrenchment in the

gardenprogresses very favourably.

I have lately seen Howqua and several of the principal hong merchants, but

though professing regret for the destruction of the factories and condemnation of

the measure, they have nothing of note to communicate, and appear to consider

that the Imperial Commissioner is as firmly bent as before upon opposition .

I have, & c.

(Signed) HARRY S. PARKES .

* Lit., In the markets and by the wells.

+ In the time of the Fighting States — the Confucian era — when a league was to be formed an

ox was sacrificed to heaven, and his ear beingcut off by the senior of the contederacy, the blood from

it was drunk in wine by the members of the alliance.

No. 3 .

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon .-- (Received February 16, 1857.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, December 27, 1856.

IN continuation ofmy despatch dated 17th - 23rd instant, I have to advise

your Lordship, that having received accounts of an attack by the Mandarin

fleet upon the steamer “- Thistle," and of the capture of the lorcha “ Anonyma,

which she was engaged in towing, I wrote to the Naval Commander- in -chief on

the 23rd and 24th instant. I have to-day received a despatch from Mr. Consul

Parkes, dated 23rd instant, on the same subject; and a reply from Sir Michael

Seymour, dated 25th instant. Having seen the manager of the post -boats, I have

reason to hope that the service will be resumed under the persuasion that the

passage will be kept free by the patrol of Her Majesty's steamers.

I have also received a despatch from Mr. Parkes, dated 24th instant, giving

an account of a visit to the rebel forces who have burnt the greater part of a

village in the neighbourhood of Blenheim Reach.

Another despatch dated 25th instant, reports the destruction of a number

of Mandarin junks on the stocks, in the Macao Passage, in the neighbourhood

of Canton.

Hong Kong, December 30.

I have no later official news from Canton. A report is pretty generally

circulated , and which has reached us from the north , that the Emperor has nomi

nated a Commissioner who is toproceed to Canton ,and that he is instructed to

come to terms with us . Our letters from Shanghae are as late as the 26th

instant, and there was then no reason to apprehend any interruption of trade or

disturbance of public tranquillity .

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING.

P.S.—I have now received from the hands of Mr. Consul Parkes, who has

just arrived here from Canton , the despatches of which I have the honour to

inclose copies. They will give your Lordship the latest intelligence I possess.

J. B.

Inclosure 1 in No. 3.

Mr. Edger to Mr. Woodgate.

Sir, Hong Kong, December 23, 1856.

I BEG leave to inform you , for the information of his Excellency Her

Majesty's Plenipotentiary, that as the postal steamer “ Thistle ” was passing

Second Bar about half-past 11 o'clock last night on her way to this place, she

was attacked by two large fleets of mandarin junks, fronı which vessels a brisk

fire was kept up on the steamer and the lorcha “ Anonyma,”” which was in tow

of the steamer, for upwards of an half-an - hour.

The “ Thistle ” had one of her Chinese crew killed , and two wounded, one

mortally. Also one Chinese passenger killed, and another wounded.

The British lorcha “ Anonyma,” with a valuable cargo on board ,was in tow

of the steamer at the time of the occurrence : the crew of the lorcha got on

board of the “ Thistle ” to save their lives , and she was cast off and abandoned.

Notice was given of what had occurred to the officers of Her Majesty's

ship “ Nankin,” in order that steamers passing up the river in the night might

be warned.

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. F. EDGER.

Inclosure 2 in No. 3 .

Sir J. Bowring to Rear - Admiral Sir M. Seymour.

Sir, Hong Kong, December 23 , 1856 .

I HAVE the honour to forward to your Excellency copy of a letter from

Mr. Edger, reporting the attack by mandarin junks on a British steamer, the

“ Thistle .”

We have also had representations from the owners of goods per “ Anonyma,”

which was in tow of the “ Thistle,” and was abandoned by her.

Similar representations have been made to the Colonial authorities here,

but nothing more is needed than to call your Excellency's attention to the

necessity of clearing the river of these sources of molestation.

I have, & c .

( Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure 3 in No. 3 .

Sir J. Bowring to Rear-Admiral Sir M. Seymour.

Sir, Hong Kong, December 24, 1856 .

IN continuation of my official communication of yesterday to your Excel

lency's address, I now have the honour to forward copy of a letter from

Mr. Mackenzie, informing me of the loss of merchandize stated to have been on

board the lorcha “ Anonyma,” which was cut off on the night of the 22nd

instant on her passage from Canton to Hong Kong, by a fleet of Chinese junks.

I have, & c .

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure 4 in No. 3 .

Mr. Mackenzie to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Hong Kong, December 23, 1856.

I REGRET having to inform you that the British lorcha “ Anonyma ” on

her passage from Canton to this port, was cut off last night, between Second Bar

and the Bogue, by a fleet of Imperialist war junks. I had on board the lorcha at

the time 170 bales of merchandize, as undernoted, of the value of about 20,000

dollars, the whole of which I am afraid are totally lost .

These goods were brought from Canton with the sanction of the Admiral,

who lent boats, and rendered my agent there every assistance in his power in

their removal. As á farther precaution the lorcha was accompanied by a

steamer, and was actually in tow of the British steamer “ Thistle ” when the

attack took place.

As this affair has occurred in consequence of the operations now going on

between the British and Chinese authorities, I bring the circumstance to your

notice and trust you will do what you can to recover the property or its value.

I have, &c ,

(Signed) S. MACKENZIE .

Particulars of goods shipped from Canton , per lorcha “ Anonyma, ” on

account S. Mackenzie.

Bales .

Μ Η

Woollens (С PH) 6

Woollens 1

Cotton yarn ` T (SM) V 132

Cottons 31

Total Bales 170

Inclosure 5 in No. 3.

Consul Parkes to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Canton, December 23, 1856 .

THE “ Queen ” steamer, which left Canton last evening, returned at 4 A.M.

this morning to report that while passing in the night the Second Bar she was

attacked at about 11 o'clock by a fleet of mandarin junks, and obliged to put

back. From the nature of the report fears may be entertained for the safety or

the English steam post-boat “ Thistle,” which, the British lorcha “ Anonyma

in tow, had preceded the “ Queen ” about half-an-hour, and must have been

attacked by the same fleet, as the “ Queen ,” some time before she drew near to

the junks, could see that the “ Thistle ” was engaged by them, but owing to the

darkness of the night was unable to ascertain the result.

His Excellency the Naval Commander-in -chief has this morning dispatched

the “ Hornet ” and “ Barracouta ” to the spot, and though it is to be feared that

the fleet in question will have withdrawn before those vessels can arrive at the

scene of the attack, your Excellency will be glad to learn that it is the intention

of the Admiral so to dispose his vessels that, by having one of them constantly

patrolling the river, the passage may be kept safe for our private steamers, upon

which we are greatly dependent for our communications.

I have, & c.

(Signed) HARRY S. PARKES .

Inclosure 6 in No. 3.

Rear-Admiral Sir M. Seymour to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Niger ,” at Canton, December 25, 1856.

IN reply to your Excellency's letters of the 23rd and 24th instant,

relative to the attack on the steamer “ Thistle,” on the night of the

22nd instant, by mandarin junks, and the capture by them of the lorcha

Anonymna , ” which was in tow of the steamer, I have the honour to inform

your Excellency that no time was lost on the morning of the 23rd in dispatching

Her Majesty's steam -sloops “ Barracouta ” and “ Hornet” to the scene of action ;

but I regret to state without seeing any of the junks, which had doubtless

retired up the creeks from whence they came, whither the steamers could not

follow .

The “ Barracouta ” has since patrolled the river between the Second Bar

and the Macao Barrier, and I shall continue to keep the river patrolled as

constantly as possible by one or other of Her Majesty's ships.

I have, &c.

( Signed) M. SEYMOUR .

Inclosure 7 in No. 3.

Consul Parkes to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Canton , December 24, 1856 .

I SHOULD inform your Excellency that the Chinese calling themselves

rebels, who infest this river, attacked on the 21st the village in Blenheim Reach,

which formed the old haunt of Ho -a -luk's faction in 1854-55 , and burnt the

greater part of ,it. They then returned to their usual anchorage near First

Bar.

I passed through this force in a private steamer at the time they were thus

engaged, and was struck with its mean and contemptible appearance . It

numbered nine or ten fishing boats, ånd about seventeen Hong Kong harbour

boats. All appeared to me to be very poorly equipped. Many of themen wore

yellow turbans or patches of cloth of that colour on their heads. One of the

chiefs is said to have served Ho - a- luk as a boatman . They state that they are

expecting considerable reinforcements, and to-day I am told, by an observer, that

they have been joined by a number of other boats.

I have, &c .

(Signed ) HARRY S. PARKES .

Inclosure 8 in No. 3.

Consul Parkes to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir , Canton , December 25 , 1856 .

I HAVE the honour to report to your Excellency that I, yesterday, accom

panied Her Majesty's steam-tender “ Coromandel," and a division of boats, on an

expedition undertaken with the view of destroying a number of Imperial junks

known to be lying in a Government dockyard near the French Folly.

A short time ago I was able to point out to the Admiral four war-junks on

the stocks in the Macao Passage, and these, with the exception of one retained

as a gunboat, were destroyed by direction of his Excellency on the evening of

the 20th instant. The dockyard near the French Folly contained twice that

number, which were also on the stocks, and fired, like the former ones , without

difficulty. While the force was thus engaged, I learnt from a native found in

the dockyard, of there being other war- junks in the same neighbourhood

screened from observation . A search discovered to us one old and four new

ones, which we also destroyed ; the latter were launched and masted , and would

shortly have been armed and made ready for sea ; the former mounted seven

guns of small calibre.

During the remaining portion of the day all the accessible reaches of the river

between Canton and Whampoa were examined by the same force, but no other

boats or junks belonging to the Chinese Government could be discerned .

mention that, on the evening of the 23rd, and again this morning ,

I may

small boats containing powder have been sent down upon Her Majesty's ships.

One of them exploded , but without doing any injury.

I have, &c.

(Signed) HARRY S. PARKES.

Inclosure 9 in No. 3 .

Consul Parkes to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Canton, December 28, 1856 .

I HAVE the honour to inform your Excellency that, by the desire of his

Excellency Sir Michael Seymour, I accompanied a reconnoitering expedition,

consisting of Her Majesty's steam -tender “ Coromandel,” and boats, undertaken

yesterday for the purpose of examining several unfrequented branches of the

river, in one of which upwards of 100 junks, supposed to be war-boats, had been

observed. Though the whole day was occupied in the search , we returned

without meeting any of the junks we had gone in quest of, which are able at all

times to find easy and secure shelter in the numerous shallow creeks that are

inaccessible to our vessels .

In another direction , but at the close of the day, we sighted, at a con

siderable distance, eight boats, which I ascertained to be war-junks, but their

position at that time of the day effectually protected them from attack .

I have, &c.

(Signed) HARRY S. PARKES .

Inclosure 10 in No. 3.

Consul Parkes to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Canton , December 29, 1856 .

I HAVE the honour to inclose copy of a letter I addressed yesterday to

Mr. Vice -Consul Bird, desiring him to do all in his power to refute certain state

ments recently made by the rebels at Whampoa, that they have been taken into

our employ.

These outlaws, who are in far too small a force, and men of far too low an

order, to contend successfully with the Mandarins if the latter were not engrossed

with our affairs, wish , for very obvious reasons, to ally themselves to our interests.

They have, therefore, sought for opportunities of visiting our ships at Whampoa,

and have, on various occasions, volunteered information, of little value it may be

observed, relative to the movements of Imperial troops or boats. Their leader

has also had the effrontery to write to Sir Michael Seymour, employing a form

and style of letter betokening terms of equality, and proposing to cooperate with

our forces in their attacks on the Imperialists. The real object of the commu

nication , however, is to ascertain , under the guise of offers of service, whether

the Admiral would interfere to prevent the rebels attacking Bamboo Town and

Whampoa—two places which it is to our interest to protect, apart from the

consideration that, owing to the presence of our ships of war, they are wholly

deserted by their own authorities, and would become to their invaders an easy

and a valuable prey .

Sir Michael Seymour, however, has issued orders which will effectually

defeat these expectations. No communication between Her Majesty's ships and

the rebel fleet will henceforth be allowed ; the letters of the chief are to be returned

without reply, and he will be informed that Her Majesty's ships will not shield

or countenance piracy, by whomsoever committed .

The rebels have improved their position by taking, yesterday, Kwan-shan, a

village situated at a narrow pass in the river about four miles above the Whampoa

anchorage, and between that and Blenheim - leach Barrier.

I have, &c.

(Signed) HARRY S. PARKES.

Inclosure | 1 in No. 3 .

Consui Parkes to Vice - Consul Bird .

Sir , Canton , December 28 , 1856.

I HAVE to acknowledge the receipt, last evening, of two despatches

from you, the latter inclosing a letter from Mr. Blanchard, the United

States' Vice -Consul at your anchorage, informing you that the armed Chinese

boats commonly spoken of among foreigners as rebels , which have been lurking

near Whampoa during the past few weeks, engaged in the pillage and destruction

of villages in that vicinity, have now given out that they are in the employ of

the English , and that this is the only reply returned by them to Mr. Blanchard

upon his seekingfrom them explanation for an act of violence committed by

them on certain Chinese in his employ.

You will of course have learned, on the occasion of Whampoa becoming

the scene of insurrectionary ravages in the winter of 1854-55, that in the

opinion of Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary, the British Government would never

countenance and still less connect itself with any such proceedings, and this

opinion should serve to guide you in the present instance. I quite approve,

however, of your having reported to me the circumstance brought to your

notice by Mr. Blanchard, as I have communicated it to Rear -Admiral Sir

Michael Seymour, and have been instructed by his Excellency to desire you to

take every opportunity of refuting the false and wholly unwarrantable assump

tion of the so -called “ rebels,” as to their being employed by the English.

I have, &c.

(Signed ) HARRY S. PARKES.

Inclosure 12 in No. 3.

Consul Parkes to Sir J. Bowring.

(Extract .) Canton, December 29 , 1856 .

MY interviews with Howqua and with Kingqua have been frequent during

the last few days. The capture of Mr. Cowper has furnished an assignable

reason for my constantly inviting them ; and on each occasion I have willingly

discussed with them the present position of affairs.

They are, undoubtedly, anxious—far more than they at first were— for a

speedy adjustment of the difficulties, but nothing that they told me showed that

this anxiety was shared by the Imperial Commissioner ; and I conclude, there

fore, that it proceeds solely from the deep concern they naturally feel at the

loss or ruin which a protraction of the struggle will bring upon themselves, their

families, and their city.

Their arguments differ, however, but little from those which they have

already so often and so vainly employed, and less by reasoning than by entreaty

they seek to persuade us to vary our demands for personal communication with

the authorities within the city , which they admit to be just, but which Yeh , on

account of antecedents, is as firmly determined as ever to refuse. Not, they

now state, from the opposition of the people, which has hitherto been urged as

the chief and unconquerable obstacle, and which Howqua now says exists only

among a portion of the gentry who are beneficially interested in our exclusion,

whu ivou upuu uuu vaprani anu 'uice , mus

wenn man uupuusah --- -farge Imieni

passengers, and, as I am informed, after setting the ship on fire, departed for

Canton with the heads of their victims.

I inclose copy of a letter I have just received from the agent of the steamer,

which I have immediately communicated to the Naval Commander-in -chief.

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING.

Inclosure in No. 6.

Mr. Edger to Mr. Woodgate .

III vy WSUIT , UIT UTIUU wc tam tata TOI TITIS poi

He cares not to speculateupon the numbers we might eventually bring against

him, and, until these shall really appear, he will persist in forming his opinions

and regulating his movements by those he sees opposed to him.

Howqua admits, too, the danger with which Canton may be menaced by

rebels who may be expected to advance from three or four directions; or, rather,

he laments the injury and destruction they will inflict upon the towns in the

neighbourhood, to which many of the city families , owing to the fears we

occasion them , are fast retiring. The city itself, he believes, would always be

able tohold out against these assailants,defended, as it would be, by Manchoos

and militia taken from villages that proved themselves in the last insurrectionary

dangers to be violently inimical to the insurgents.

At the same time, Howqua acknowledges the militia to be a most ill

disciplined and ineffective force when opposed to our troops. They are engaged

at a nominal rate of pay of seven dollars per month , but fully one-half of this

allowance is appropriated by the gentry, who have the credit of embodying them .

Those gentry, who take a prominent part in marshalling the militia against

foreigners, are in few cases, Howqua alleges, men of property, or members of

the merchant class. They are generally connexions of the Government, without

information on foreign matters , and , being entrusted with the payment of the

braves they embody,and perhaps command, from funds supplied them from the

public treasury, they contrive to gain profit as well as reputation by their show

of patriotism . It is not an easy matter, however, for them to keep their men in

order when once assembled, and it would be almost impossible for different

bodies of them to act in concert with each other. Several very serious quarrels

have lately occurred among those now in Canton, and the people suffer greatly

from their insubordination and license.

No. 4 .

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon .— ( Received February 16, 1857.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, December 30, 1856 .

THE accompanying notification from the United States' Legation has

appeared this morning inthe “ Hong Kong Register ,” by which it appears that

the relations of the United States ' Commissioner with his Excellency Yeh are

in a most unsatisfactory state.

I have, &c.

(Signed ) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure in No. 4.

Notification .

Legation of the United States, Macao,

December 27, 1856.

To the Merchants and other Citizens of the United States.

HIS Excellency Peter Parker, Commissioner of the United States of America

to China, & c. , &c ., & c . , referring to the notice of the 9th instant , hereby makes

and a valuable prey.

Sir Michael Seymour, however, has issued orders which will effectually

defeat these expectations. No communication between Her Majesty's ships and

the rebel fleet will henceforth be allowed ; the letters of the chief are to be returned

without reply, and he will be informed that Her Majesty's ships will not shiel

or countenance piracy, by whomsoever committed .

The rebels have improved their position by taking, yesterday, Kwan -shan, a

village situated at a narrow pass in the river about four miles above the Whampoa

anchorage, and between that and Blenheim -reach Barrier.

I have, &c.

(Signed ) HARRY S. PARKES .

By order ,

( Signed ) S. WELLS WILLIAMS ,

Secretary of United States ' American Legation.

No. 5 .

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon .- (Received February 16, 1857.)

My Lord, Hong Kong , December 30, 1856 .

AFTER closing my letters I receive from Foo -chow a despatch dated 23rd

instant from Mr. Consul Medhurst, of which, it being calculated to remove much

anxiety as regards the other ports, I have the honour to forward a copy.

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure in No. 5 .

Consul Medhurst to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Foo- chou - foo, December 23, 1856

A REPORT having reached me that a gentleman had seen several large

junks with ammunition being landedhurriedly, and with every appearance of a

wish to escape observation, at the “ Rin -pae Pass,” I mentioned the matter to

Captain Barnard, who thereupon sent an officer to take a quiet look at all the

fortifications on both banks of the river. I am happy to say he noticed no

change, nor even a sign of any intended increase of force or armament. The

result of the officer's observation has, I believe, been reported for the informa

tion of his Excellency the Naval Commander -in -chief.

In connection with this I may remark that yesterday the newly arrived

Prefect, a native of Canton , volunteered a call on me, and behaved in a most

friendly and courteousmanner. In answer to an inquiry I made regarding the

news from Canton, he assured me it was the Viceroy's wish that our amicable

relations here should be in no way affected by the unfortunate state of affairs in

the south, and I cordially reciprocated the sentiment.

I have, &c.

(Signed) W. H. MEDHURST .

No. 6.

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon .— (Received March 1 , 1857.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, December 31 , 1856.

I AM sorry to have to report to your Lordship one of those acts of

treacherous surprise which have been too often successfully practised by the

Chinese, and which , indeed, cause us more anxiety and apprehension than any

open hostilties.

The postal steamer “ Thistle was yesterday on her way from Canton to

Hong Kong. She took in, it seems, a number of Imperialist soldiers in disguise,

who rose upon the captain and crew , murdered the captain, mate, engineers, and

passengers, and, as I am informed, after setting the ship on fire, departed for

Canton with the heads of their victims.

I inclose copy of a letter I have just received from the agent of the steamer,

which I have immediately communicated to the Naval Commander -in -chief.

I have, &c.

( Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure in No. 6.

Mr. Edger to Mr. Woodgate.

Sir , Hong Kong, December 31 , 1856, 8 P.M.

I HAVE the honour of addressing you, for the information of his Excellency

Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary, on a lamentable occurrence in the Canton river,

which has just come to my knowledge.

About noon yesterday, as the postal steamcr “ Thistle ” was on her passage

from Canton to this port, with a large number of Chinese passengers and a cargo

of considerable value, near Second Bar, some of the Chinese passengers, in

number said to be seventeen, who were Imperialist soldiers in disguise, and had

taken their passage for Hong Kong in the usual way, suddenly rose, killed an

English soldier who was a passenger, and at the same moment the captain was

cut down . The first engineer hearing a scuffle came out of the engine-room ,

when he was instantly put to death ; the second engineer was then also killed.

The mate took refuge in the after- cabin . The crew , consisting of four Manilla

men, a passenger, who was a Spaniard, and two others, in all eleven souls, were

murdered ,

The Imperialist soldiers then obliged the firemen to proceed with the vessel

under steam a considerable distance up an adjacent creek, where, after the heads

of the victims were cut off, the same were tied up and carried away,.

The Chinese passengers were then set free, and the steamer was destroyed

by fire, without any regard on the part of the captors for the valuable cargo she

contained .

I should have stated that the mate of the steamer defended himself for

some time, but was compelled by a stinkpot to jump overboard, and was

drowned .

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. F. EDGER, Receiver in Chancery,

D 2

No. 7.

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon .-- (Received March 1.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, January 3, 1857.

I HAVE the honour to forward to your Lordship copies of two communi

cations, dated the 30th ultimo and 2nd instant, from Mr. Chinese Secretary

Wade, with their inclosures, which are remarkable and characteristic exhibitions

of the animus which I am afraid too generally prevails among the people of the

province of Kwang -tung.

The declaration addressed to foreigners on the subject of the conflagration

of the factories does not venture to state that they were burnt down by the

English , but it probably intended to convey such an insinuation for the purpose

of being forwarded to Pekin.

I have, &c.

( Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure 1 in No. 7.

Mr. Wade to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir , Chinese Secretary's Office, December 30, 1856.

A COPY of the placard of which the inclosed is a translation was

brought me to-day by Mr. Genaehr, a German missionary, who has long resided

in the immediate vicinity of the city at which it purports to have been published.

The close of it is really important.

Mr. Genaehr understands it to be the work of a Tsinsze , or graduate of the

doctorial degree, who has paid a visit to Canton, and is said to have returned with

full authority to promote hostility by every means in his power. The influence

of this man is such that Nam -ton, a turbulent market -town closely adjoining

the city of San-on , where the population were most unwilling to abandon aa trade

of great advantage, he succeeded in overbearing theiropposition to the interdict

against supplying Hong Kong with provisions. Mr. Genaehr had farther

intelligence that a Ken-jiu , or graduate of the Master's degree, was to bring to

Kowloon 2,000 braves, for some hostile purpose. I had myself heard of a

considerable reinforcement of the Kowloon garrison being in contemplation.

A gentleman in the habit of visiting the coast of San - on toll me to-day

that he had been informed by a Chinese, at whose house he had often rested,

and whom he had been questioning as to the practicabilty of an excursion at the

present moment, that the whole country was full of placards prohibiting the

sale of provisions to foreigners, and that a high reward (he said 10,000 dollars)

was pasted for the destruction of Victoria. It is with this project, I hear, that

ruinour connects the expected reinforcement of Kowloon.

The magistrate of the San -on district, Mr. Genaehr had heard, was

unwilling to call on residents at Hong Kong, officially, to return home, lest the

large intlux of people might produce disturbance ; the direction of it being

certain to be against the authorities if it were by a Government proclamation that

they had been compelled to leave their trade at Hong Kong. I have heard to

day, however, that several of the Chinese of Sai-heung, a town situated near

San -on city, and one of the chief supports of our market, have returned

home.

Mr. Genaehr seemed to think the people of San -on emboldened by the

belief that we had exhausted our efforts at Canton . I have little doubt that this

is the case, and that if the opinion be allowed to confirm itself that we are

powerless against the interdict now promulged, it will be enforced at all the

places specified in the inclosed placard, and our supply market will be seriously

jeopardised.

The great preventive against this and all other evils natural to our position,

would be, without doubt, the reduction -- I do not mean the destruction - of

this

Canton , as yet believed by the multitude to be impregnable. But short of th

measure, which the limit and character of our present resources forbid us to

regard as within our reach, it is certainly in our power to inflict such a blow on

the city of San-on , should we find it in earnest in its attempt on our supplies,

as would not only deter other towns from following its example almost with

equal inconvenience to us, but might be productive of salutaryeffect upon the

provincial capital itself.

I have, &c.

( Signed ) THOMAS WADE.

Inclosure 2 in No. 7 .

Notice.

NOTICE (purporting to be) issued by the whole district of Sin -gan (San -on )

peremptorily prohibiting the supply of provisions to the English barbarians.

Whereas the English outlaws, running riot in rebellion , bearing themselves

contumaciously and insolently to China, bad, during a series of years, committed

more crimes than hairs can be plucked from the head to number, our Govern

ment was pleased, when they treated for peace, to extend to them extraordinary

favour, to forgive them their past offences, and to allow them to trade at

Keun-tae-loo ( Victoria) and other parts of Hong Kong, a place in our district.

It behoved them , one would have thought, to live peaceably, to meditate on

and repent them of their faults ; but a heart of mischief lay within ; their

cupidity was insatiable. The English authorities, with the self-importance of

petty power, after seducing our well -ordered people to Hong Kong, lawlessly

tyrannised over them . With right reason they were unacquainted, language

they did not understand, for interpretation they were entirely dependent on one

or two Chinese traitors . If these were bribed, notorious pirates were acquitted ;

if they were not bribed, honest folk were unjustly subjected to oppressive

penalties. They befooled the English officials, on whom they looked as on

images of clay or wood. Thus, for some years past, have they been confounding

right with wrong, accusing the innocent and entrapping the good. In the case

of their severer punishments , transportation or death , the remains (of the

sufferer) return not home; in the case of the lighter, when he is locked up in

prison, or condemned to hard labour (lit. , to carry mud), death presently ensues.

The pernicious injuries that have been done to the people of our district are too

many to be counted, and more painful to record is the additional fact that they

are wrongfully whipped in the streets (of Hong Kong ); that persons behind

hand in sweeping clear the doors of their shops are continually cangued or put

in irons, and that authority vents itself in wanton abuse upon the small dealers

and packmen . Those who are late in lighting their lamps are arrested, and, to

crown all, the quarrelsome drunkard murders, and the murder is quashed ,

without hope of redress. Rape is committed and money extorted, and the

injured (must) be dumb and swallow their complaint. Besides all this, bad

characters are indulgently tolerated , resettors, and pirates. The rebels* make

the English authorities their great wall, and are regarded by the English

barbarians as their teeth and claws. Smuggling is a monopoly , and the vessels

employed in it commit lawless excesses. Then, the export hence (to Hong

Kong) is of food, and the .price of rice is yearly rising in consequence ; the

import thence is of opium, and the riches of the Inner Land are dwindling away.

Treacherous designs manifest themselves in a hundred forms, nor can words

express the harm that has been done us .

And now, in addition to all this, for the sake of the rebels they are

troubling the provincial city. They have attacked anddestroyed ten forts or

more : they have burned upwards of 10,000 shops. Rude as the boar, and

eager as the wolf, they have pushed their rebellion far.

The high authorities of our province, still liberal and indulgent towards

them, would not visit their offence upon them . Their brute nature, neverthe

less, waxing more and more ferocious and perverse, they ventured the length of

scaling the walls and entering the city, and killing our officers. They seized the

fort on the pearl of the river (Dutch Folly), theydestroyed the lives of a number

* “ Tsih fi” may mean any criminal ; the use of the word a little further on as rebels, inclines

me to believe that it means so here.

of people, and besides a raid to Fa-ti, to rifle the passenger-boats, they

have committed various atrocities in the villages all along the river, killing

the inhabitants, destroying their dwellings, carrying off property from their

houses, driving their domestic animals, and ravishing their women. They are

a poison to life ; their crimes have reached the highest point. There is not a

man in the province who does not desire to annihilate them before he eats his

morning meal. In the districts near Canton, the traitorous Chinese in the

interest of the enemy have been rigorously sought for and seized, and strict

prohibitions have been issued against providing them with food , that their

supplies may be cut off. Yet more is it our part in whose district Keun -tae-loo

is situated, and to whom in consequence the evil is nearer than to others, to keep

villains at this crisis, when the nations of all the seas must sympathize with us

in hate, from speculation on profit to be derived from the provisioning of these

wolves and foxes .

There was a meeting of the gentry and literati of the whole district on the

22nd of the 11th moon (19th December ), at the Ming-lun - T'ang, at which, in

token of their patriotism , unanimous feeling, and combination of strength, the

supply of provisions was strictly prohibited.

From the above date ( 19th December ), passsenger-boats that have been in

the habit of running from the different ports of the districts to Keun-tae-loo and

Hong Kong, will be allowed , up to the 10th of the 12th moon (5th January) , to

bring cargo in, but will not be allowed to take any away, and after the 11th

(6th January) no passenger-boat will be allowed to run. If any one, no matter

who he be, shall venture wilfully to contravene (this regulation ), authority is

given for the seizure of his property, one half of which shall go to the captor,

and the other to the public fund ;* and the parties so carrying supplies shall be

brought up to the Committee, and by them handed over to the authorities, to be

severely punished. No mercy whatever will be shown. And if any shall

attenipt to run boats by stealth, or to transport goods (to Hong Kong) for the

supply of the English barbarians - a proceeding even more detestable ( than the

foregoing — they shall certainly be tried and punished with the utmost severity

the moment they are taken .

As regards Chang-chow , Tae Gow -ping -chow, and Kow-loon , which places

are in the vicinity of Hong Kong , as passage-boats running between them and

Hong Kong will be trying all sorts of shifts, they must be similarly limited to

the importation of goods,and must not be allowedto export anything.

Natives of our district having shops at Keun-tae-loo are one and all to

cease from trade and return home within one month from the 22nd of the moon

(19th December), that they may escape contingent embarrassment ; if they do

not so return by the day specified , the gentry or elders of their localities will

denounce them to the Committee by name and surname as Chinese in the

interest of the enemy, to be apprehended in due time. Amongst our simple

youth are some who have been tricked by the devils into a profession of

Christianity, to the misleading of mankind, the delusion of the people, and the

great injury of morals . No time must be lost in burning their heterodox books

and driving out both teacher and disciples.

Any person who does not conform (to the above), will be immediately

brought before the authorities to be punished. The matter is one of the

common interest. Acts must follow words with certainty ; the English devils

must be starved, and the cause of the people's misery cut off before we rest.

December 24, 1856 .

Inclosure 3 in No. 7 .

Mr. Wade to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Chinese Secretary's Office, January 2, 1857.

I BEG to submit to your Excellency two papers, one a notice purporting

to be the complaint of the tradespeople whose houses were destroyed in the fire

which consumed the foreign factories last month, to all foreigners, English of

* The word used is board , or table, or magazine. We might render it Committee, in safety.

course excepted . It is, I have no doubt,the paper of which we had heard some

time ago, spoken of as Yeh’s protest against us for having fired the factories.

Mr. Pereira sent it to the Colonial Secretary as apaper which a Chinese

was posting at Macao.

The other is a paper to the same effect as the public declaration of the San

on people, which I laid before your Excellency on the 31st ultimo. This is

official, and is issued, as you will see, by Yeh's authority.

With reference to the San-on paper, Mr. Lobschied brought a Chinese here

this morning to state that some boats on their way hither with supplies from

Nam - ton , close to San -on, had been stopped.

As regards the Heang-shan proclamation, my servant, who has been many

years in my employ, received, yesterday, a summons from his family, who are

Heang -shan people, to return home. His uncle is an elder ; his cousin, the head

compradore of the club, formerly my servant, is also warned, and both return

home to -morrow .

I have , &c.

( Signed ) THOMAS WADE , Chinese Secretary.

Inclosure 4 in No. 7 .

Statement.

STATEMENT of the people of Thirteen Factory Street, Old China and New China

Street, Danish Hong, Old Clothes' Streets, and other streets, in all twelve,

outside the Tae-ping gate (addressed to foreigners not being English ).

The authors of the statement pray the attention of the gentlemen of

different* nations. We, tradespeople and others resident near the foreign

factories ( " yang low " ), have had peaceful intercourse with foreigners for two

centuries or more. We have had no feud with them . But on a late occasion ,

the English having commenced a quarrel, issued a statement to the effect that it

had no concern with us , on the faith of which we continued , without alarm,

trading as usual where we were. At the beginning of the 10th moon , however,

some of our shops in the vicinity of the Thirteen Factories were demolished by the

English soldiers. Words cannot depict our suffering when we (were obliged to)

move, and trade was undone. After their demolition , English soldiers were

stationed at the spot, and a guard maintained so strictly that even idle observers

could not approach, and for tradespeople it was, of course, equally difficult. On

the 17th of the 11th moon (14th December), however,at midnight, a great fire

broke out in the Thirteen Factories, and the Central Ward, just in the very place

where the English soldiers were on sentry. We humbly bethink us that the

English soldiers have always had the repute of being expert and daring firemen .

But whatever their ability in this way they were not able to put down the fire

in their own case, and when it had extended to our buildings and burned

1,000 and more, the fire-engines of the different streets came to the rescue, but

our people were kept back from assisting by the English soldiers, who fired

upon them and killed several , wounding twenty or more. It is sad that some

hundreds of thousands should have been caught in the stream of calamity and

deprived of a home, that the little subsistence of the widow and orphan should

be utterly destroyed in a -day. The same thing befel the people of the Yeu - lan

and Tsing-hae Streets before. Our woe is now doubled. How is our misery to be

borne ? To whom are we to complain ? Our only resource is to lay before you our

feelings, and we humbly hope that the Consuls and merchants of your honour

able nations will look into the matter that it may be redressed.

May you condescend to glance at our statement.

[ This is without doubt a paper of official origin . It has been some time

reported that Yeh had issued a sort of protest against the English for the

destruction of the factories, and this is in all probability the document.

(Signed) THOMAS WADE, Chinese Secretary .] .

* Addressed as ci honourable nations, " that is, your nat ' ons .

Inclosure 5 in No. 7 .

Proclamation.

KEW, Acting Chief Magistrate of Heang -shan district, makes proclamation.

I have had the honour to receive from his Excellency the Governor -General

the following instructions :

“ The English barbarians having attacked the city of Canton, a large force

has been (or is being) assembled for the defence (ofthe city) and the destruction

(of the enemy) ; and as commercial intercourse with them must be stopped,

orders are to be given to the people of the several districts of the prefecture, who

may be in trade at Hong Kong, or employed in barbarian buildings, or on board

barbarian ships, to return to their homes, and cease from trading with them. No

goods must be carried to Macao, lest they be taken to supply Hong Kong ; and all

vessels running between Macao, Tum -tsei, and Hong Kong, must be taken off

the berth . A beginning has been made in the districts of Tung-kwan and Sin

gan (San-on) , and similar prohibitions must be put in force in Heang-shan) at

once .”

I therefore give notice to the several public committees, and to the gentry

and elders, and it is further my duty to issue a public notice to the military and

people of all degrees belonging to my jurisdiction, to the effect that any of the

district who may be at Hong Kong, in business or employed in barbarian ships

or houses , must be at once written to by the seniors of their families to return

home within five days, and to cease from trading at Hong Kong. The boats

must give up running, and no goods must be taken to Macao , lest they be

carried on for the supply of Hong Kong and Tum -tsei. Those who do not

return or who continue to run boats, will , when seized, be dealt with under the

law affecting traitorous Chinese, and the responsibility of their crime will be laid

also on their fathers and elder brothers. No mercy whatever will be shown , &c.

Heenfung, 6th year, 11th moon , 28th day. (December 25 , 1856.)

Inclosure 6 in No. 7.

Mr. Wade to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Chinese Secretary's Office, January 2, 1857.

I HAVE the honour to inform your Excellency that I have just received a

copy of thedeclaration of the Heang-shan people upon the cessation of trade

with Hong Kong, and withdrawal of the people in our employ. It refers to the

instructions of the District Magistrate, published under authority of the Governor

General, of which I laid a translation before your Excellency this morning.

· It dwells less upon the crimes alleged against us than the San - on decla

ration, submitted to your Excellency on the 31st ultimo, but is more violent

in its denunciation of the Heang -shan people who do not attend to the

summonses . It is computed that 70 per cent. of the servants in Hong Kong are

Heang -shan men, and that a half of the wages paid by foreigners is spent in

that district.

I have, &c .

THOMAS WADE, Chinese Secretary.

P.S. - On re-perusing the paper, I perceive that at the end there is an

importantclause which had escaped my attention to this effect : - “ If any of

those employed in foreign buildings, or on board foreign ships, shall devise means

for the capture or decapitation of rebellious barbarians, they shall certainly be

handsomely rewarded .”

T. W.

No. 8 .

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon .— (Received March 1.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, January 13 , 1857.

I HAVE the honour to forward copy of a despatch from Mr. Consul Parkes,

dated yesterday, with an inclosure from Mr. Vice-Consul Bird, reporting another

act of barbarous assassination at Whampoa on the person of a Bavarian subject

left in charge of the floating residence of an American citizen .

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure 1 in No. 8 .

Consul Parkes to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Hong Kong, January 12 , 1857 .

I HAVE the honour to forward to your Excellency copy of a letter I have

received from Mr. Vice-Consul Bird, reporting another inhuman murder com

mitted by the Chinese, with the view of obtaining the reward for heads offered

by the Imperial Commissioner ; the victim being in this case a Bavarian, and

the outrage having been committed on board a chop , forming the floating

residence of Dr. Ryder, an American citizen .

I have, &c.

( Signed) HARRY S. PARKES,

Inclosure 2 in No. 8 .

Vice - Consul Bird to Consul Parkes.

Sir, Whampoa, January 8 , 1857 .

I HAVE to inform you , during last night, a Bavarian , in charge of the chop

of Dr. Ryder, an American, was murdered, and his head carried off. An

attempt had been made to burn the chop, the property of a Chinese which did

not succeed .

Mr. Gow was cautioned this forenoon by two Chinese to be very careful of

himself, as there are about 100 mandarin long low boats carrying a gun

on their bows, with from fifteen to forty men each, between Canton and

Whampoa.

The lieutenant in command of Her Majesty's ship “ Sybille ” urges me

strongly to obtain the removal of the “ Alligator ” to Hong Kong. He states

most of the crew on board the “ Sybille ” having been at Canton have been sent

down sick . He has very few effective men, and cannot spare a guard ; but

he invites me on board the .“ Sybille ” for safety.

I have, &c.

(Signed ) ALEX . BIRD.

No. 9.

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon.- (Received March 1.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, January 14, 1857 .

I HAVE great satisfaction in sending to your Lordship copy of a despatch

dated Foo - chow, 10th instant, from Mr. Consul Medhurst, giving satisfactory

assurances from the Viceroy that the troubles at Canton would not be allowed to

interfere with our friendly relations at Foochow ; and as Amoy is subject to the

same authority, I hope there is no ground for disquiet as regards the latter place.

I have, &c.

(Signed ) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure in No. 9.

Consul Medhurst to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Foo -chow - foo, January 10, 1857 .

I, YESTERDAY, returned the call of the Prefect, reported in my despatch

of the 23rd ultimo, and, I am happy to say, was received with marked

civility and hospitality. Alluding to the hostilities at Canton, he said he had the

Viceroy's express orders to assure me that it was his earnest desire to maintain

friendly relations with Her Majesty's officials and subjects in this port, notwith

standing the unhappy position of affairs in the south , and that as Viceroy of

Fuh-keen and Che-keang, he was , from his position, in no manner concerned

with the acts of the Canton Viceroy, and certainly did not wish to go out of

his way to interfere, and thereby involve himself and us in similar troubles.

This, the Prefect also told me, was the substance of a letter which the Viceroy

had just addressed to your Excellency in reply to yours, per “ Lady Mary

Wood,” and which I have already dispatched, per courier, to Amoy.

How far these assurances are to be depended on as a gurantee for our future

security here, I leave your Excellency to judge. They are, at any rate, gratifying

as indications of the present feeling of the authorities towards British subjects,

and I sincerely trust we may continue to experience the like goodwill for some

time to come .

To many of the community who have expressed themselves anxious to learn

the sentiments of the authorities, I have made known the result of yesterday's

interview , warning them at the same time not to accept it too confidently as a

presage of continued quiet in the future.

I have, & c.

(Signed) W. H. MEDHURST.

No. 10.

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon.—(Reccived March 1.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, January 14, 1857.

UP to the present moment I have no information of any importance to

convey to your Lordship in connection with the events at Canton.

I have received from the Spanish Consul an application for assistance in

order to enable them to remove a Spanish steamer, the “ Jorge Juan ,” now in

the docks at Whampoa, and which will be imperilled if Her Majesty's ship

“ Sybille ” is removed from that locality. I have, of course, referred the Consul

to the naval authorities .

Father Libois, who is at the head of the French Missions here, requested

me to move the Admiral to allow one of Her Majesty's steamers to tow down

the Catholic floating -chapel from Whampoa ; å service which Sir Michael

Seymour has cheerfully rendered.

The United States' Commodore has called on me to read a letter he had

addressed to Yeh, protesting against the acts of assassination by which his

hostilities have lately been characterized. I do not expect his Excellency will

pay much attention to that or any other representation from Western

barbarians.

The colony continues tranquil. We have arrested some Chinese of whose

intention to fire the city there seems much presumptive evidence .

I expect before the departure of the mail to receive a communication from

the Admiral, in which case I will add a postscript to this despatch.

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING.

No. 11 .

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon .- (Received March 1.)

My Lord , Hong Kong, January 15, 1857 .

I HAVE just received, from the Naval Commander - in -chief, a despatch

dated yesterday, of which I have the honour to inclose a copy, stating that, for

the protection of his vessels, he had found it necessary to burn a portion of the

suburbs of Canton, and that the fire had extended into the New City.

Elucidatory of what has taken place, I forward a narrative written by

Mr. Mongan , whom I sent up to perform the services of interpreter in the absence

Mr. Parkes.

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure 1 in No. 11 .

Rear - Admiral Sir M. Seymour to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir , Niger," at Canton , January 14, 1857 .

IN consequence of the various attempts to destroy our ships, and the throwing

of rockets and stinkpots into the junks which moor the booms, with the ultimate

intention, doubtless , of making an entrance for fire- rafts, I deemed it absolutely

necessary ,for our safety, to burn the suburbs on each side of the Factory Gardens,

from whence these attempts originated, and on the 12th my purpose was carried

into effect. Below the gardens, the houses had, in anticipation, been completely

cleared out. This portion was burnt to the wall of the New City, into which the

fire, aided by a strong breeze, extended for a considerable distance. Above the

gardens, the houses along the river- frontage were also destroyed.. During this

operation, a party of the 59th Regiment, under the orders of Captain Bushe,

came unexpectedly upon an angle of the city -wall, from whence aa fire wasopened

which resulted in two privates being killed, and Ensign Statham (slightly by a

stone from the wall) and two privates wounded.

2. The necessity of maintaining my communication with Hong Kong has

decided me to modify my plan of operations,and to confine myself to keeping the

navigation open until the arrival of reinforcements. I shall , therefore, withdraw

from the Dutch Folly and Factory Gardens, and occupy the Bird's-Nest Fort,

which , with the Macao Fort, will give me a most commanding position. By this

measure I shall release the “ Niger ” and “ Encounter” from aa confined anchorage

where they are in continual danger of being burnt by fire-rafts or by rockets from

either shore, and secure their services for any emergency.

I have, &c.

(Signed ) M. SEYMOUR .

Inclosure 2 in No , 11 .

Memorandum of Operations at Canton from the 5th to the 13th instant.

Canton River, January 14, 1857.

ON Monday, the 5th of January, after the departure of the “ Coromandel ”

for Hong Kong, Captains Hall and Cochrane, accompanied by a party of the

59th, under Captain Bushe, and one of Marines, under Captain Boyle, left the

lines, for the purpose of inspecting the neighbourhood of the ruins, it being

apprehended that from the offensive attitude lately assumed by the Chinese,

they might be constructing some works in the vicinity, with a view of carrying

our position in the garden.

Crossing the trench, we advanced, over mounds of broken bricks, along

what was formerly Old China Street, the Chinese looters flying in all directions

at our approach . The Consoo house, that stood at the further end of this

street, has not been destroyed by the fire, and we found the entrance of it

completely , and, evidently recently, walled up, as was the case also with the

entrances of most of the streets adjoining the scene of the late conflagration.

Having passed the site of New China Street, and turned northward until we

came to where the ravages of the fire had terminated , we entered one of the

streets of the suburb, which, though not walled in, was secured by a strong

wooden -gate, and the presence of the bayonets and red- jackets at one end of

the thoroughfare had the instantaneous effect of making the crowd disappear

towards the other. The reconnoitering party then returned, and, traversing

Thirteen Factory Street, examined the rear of the ruins, until it arrived at the

creek which leads from the city -wall past King -qua's hong, whence it returned

to the garden .

The result of this expedition was satisfactory, the dispositions made by the

enemy indicating rather a fear of attack on our part, than any intention of

operating against us ; Chinese military tactics are , however, of so peculiar a

nature, that it is difficult to calculate on this result, and, doubtless, our position

in the garden , with the small force that at present holds it, is hardly a safe one.

There is a rumour to -day that it is about to be abandoned , and that the Dutch

Folly will also be evacuated . At all events the Bird's Nest Fort was taken

possession of yesterday, and is now occupied by a body of about fifty blue

jackets and Marines, under the command of Lieutenants Nares and Blake ;

whilst the boats of the squadron were engaged all the afternoon in transferring

shot and shell from the Dutch Folly to the above -named fort.

From Tuesday, the 6th , to Saturday, the 10th instant, the operations on

our side consisted chiefly in strengthening the defences of the Macao Fort, in

which four long 32-pounders have been placed ; these guns command the

passage of the Fat-chan creek, by which the fleet of war -junks came down on

Sunday last , when the “ Coromandel ” and boats of the squadron had to retire.

On Wednesday , the 7th instant, a fire-raft exploded , under the bows of

the “ Encounter,” without, however, doing her any damage, and the man who

towed it down the river was captured, and shot. This is the second attempt

that has been made within the last fortnight to blow up the “ Encounter ;” the

machine employed on the first occasion having been constructed- on principles

displaying much mechanical ingenuity - to go off of itself when it should have

come in contact with the ship ; it was, fortunately, however, picked up by one

of her boats, for had the explosion taken place, it might have been attended

with very serious consequences, the powder used having been encased in two

strong waterproof boxes, not thrown loose into a sampan, as bas been the case

in every other instance.

On Monday, the 12th instant, the “ Barracouta,” which had arrived on the

previous Saturday, took up her position at daybreak off the entrance to the

Fa-ti creek, the “ Encounter” lying at the same time off the Sha-meen suburb,

and the “ Niger” at her old anchorage before the factories. At about 6.50 A.M. ,

the boats of the “ Sybille” having put off from the Dutch Folly, the men landed

and set fire in several places to that portion of the suburb which lies east of the

factories, the 59th guard, under Captain Bushe, proceeding at the same time up

Hog Lane with the intention of firing another quarter. A few minutes, however,

had scarcely elapsed , when a sharp firing was heard, and soon after the soldiers

were seen retreating down Hog Lane, in some confusion . It appears that they

had come unexpectedly before the city wall , whence a fire of cannon and jingalls

was poured upon them which told with deadly effect in the narrow street, and

which they were altogether unable to return. The consequence was a precipitate

retreat, two men left dead upon the spot, and ten more, with one officer,

brought back wounded to the garden . Meanwhile, the fires kindled in the

eastern portion of the suburb were bursting forth in various places, dense

masses of smoke and showers of sparks were carried by the wind across the

river towards the Honan side , whilst great sheets of flame burst forth as the

roofs of the different houses fell in with a crash . In the western suburb a

similar result was produced by other landing parties, and by the shot of the

“ Encounter ” and “ Barracouta ; ” and during the greater part of the day so

dense was the smoke, that not only was the latter vessel hidden from the view

of persons in the garden, but the Dutch Folly also was invisible. The firing

from the Folly, however, had been very brisk all the morning, and its efficiency

became manifest about 2 P.M., when , the smoke having cleared away for a short

time, a large conflagration in the New City was disclosed to view.

27 :

At 11:50 A.M., the 59th had again gone forth, and , without suffering any

casualty this time, had succeeded in kindling three fresh fires. The whole

atmosphere was now one mass of smoke, through which the sun appeared like a

large yellow ball, but towards evening the fires to the west of the garden had

been partially got under by the indefatigable efforts of the Chinese , who con

tinued working all day at their fire-engines, despite of shot and shell and Minié

balls, but those on the east raged more furiously than ever. Next morning the

latter also had considerably abated, and yesterday evening the conflagration may

be considered to have subsided, though to -day the fires are still smouldering.

Not a house now remains entire from the ruins of the factories to about

200 yards below the Dutch Folly, whilst in the New City the houses have been

destroyed over a large area, and the western suburb also displays a corresponding

scene of ruin .

(Signed) J. MONGAN ..

No. 12 .

Consul Robertson to Sir J. Bowring.- (Received in London , March 1. )

( Extract.) Shanghae, January 2, 1857.

THE events at Canton have made no sensible impression here. My rela

tions with the authorities continue on the same friendly footing as heretofore,

andas such it will be my earnest endeavour to preserve them .

No. 13.

The Secretary to the Admiralty to Mr. Hammond.— (Received March 5.)

Sir, Admiralty, March 5, 1857.

I AM commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to

transmit to you, for the information of the Earl of Clarendon, copies of a letter

from Rear -Admiral Sir Michael Seymour, and of its inclosures , reporting the

measures he has taken for strengthening his position at Canton, and the particulars

of an engagement with Chinese junks.

I am, &c .

( Signed ) R. OSBORNE .

Inclosure 1 in No. 13 .

Rear - Admiral Sir M. Seymour to the Secretary to the Admiralty.

Sir, Niger,” at Canton, January 14, 1857.

I HAVE the honour to report proceedings since my letter of the

29th ultimo, on which day a most horrible massacre was effected on board

the “ Thistle , ” one of the small steam -vessels which ply on the river. The

“ Thistle ” left Canton early in the morning for Hong Kong, with Chinese

passengers and freight. The passengers were,as usual, searched for concealed

arms, and none being found, no suspicion of treachery was excited. It sub

sequently appeared , however, that some knives had been secreted bya woman

in her clothing. On approaching the Second Bar, a number of Chinese rose

suddenly on the crew, murdered the eleven Europeans (including the Spanish

Vice-Consul at Whampoa),took the vessel up the Second Bar Creek, and set her

on fire, having previously cut off the heads of their unfortunate victims, for the

purpose of obtaining the reward. Before leaving, the murderers, said to have

been seventeen in number, threw off their upper garment and displayed the

uniform of “ braves," or Government militia . The iron hull of the “ Thistle ”

was subsequently found by the “ Barracouta,” and towed to Hong Kong. The

headless bodies were in the hold , half consumed by the fire.

On the 4th instant, a combined and most formidable attack was made by

the Chinese naval forces upon our ships at the Macao Barrier and the Macao

Fort; though happily without success. At about 1 o'clock p.m. heavy firing was

heard from the “ Niger ,” and the signal man reported that the Macao Fort was

attacked .' I immediately went on board the “Coromandel ” steam-vessel , and

with the heavy boats of the ships in tow, proceeded down the river, leaving

directions for the “ Encounter " to follow as soon as possible. A large flotilla of

junks was soon observed stretching across the river, about 1,000 yards below the

fort, and it was also seen that the “ Hornet ” and “ Comus” were warmly engaged

with another large fleet of junks at the barrier. As we approached, a very heavy

and well-directed fire was opened upon the little tender and the boats. The

“ Coromandel ” only mounting a few light boats' guns, I determined to wait the

arrival of the “ Encounter,” but soon after weighing, she signalled, “ ship is on

shore,” which I feared would be the case, owing to the state of the tide. By

this time I had made out over seventy large junks, and thirty boats pulling from

forty to sixty oars, with heavy guns in the bow and stern , all crowded with men.

Dispatching someof the boats to reinforce the small garrison at the Macao Fort,

I remained in the tender, with the other boats, to check the enemy. The

Chinese steadily advanced, but upon getting within 500 or 600 yards of the fort,

a well-aimed fire of musketry had the effect of deterring their further progress,

and the flood tide having began to make, the junks commenced their retreat up

the Fat-chan Creek , followed by the “ Coromandel ” and boats, and harassed by

our fire so long as any remained within shot.

Whilst the enemy engaged us on the above two points, a detachment of

some twenty junks came down Starling Creek , but a few shots from the

“ Encounter ” and “ Niger,” and from the guns in our junks at the boom, kept

them from closing.

I inclose a copy of Commander Forsyth’s letter, reporting the nature of the

attack upon the “ Hornet ” and “ Comus.”

I regret to state that Mr. E. Pearn , master's assistant of Her Majesty's ship

“ Calcutta , ” a gallant and most promising young officer, was killed by a round

shot in a boat alongside the “ Coromandel,” and one scamen was severely burnt

by the accidental explosion of a rocket. The “ Coromandel” was hulled several

times, but without serious injury.

This combined attack was cleverly made at dead low water, when , it was

well known , the draft of our ships was too great to allow of their passing the

Macao Barrier to come up the river, or for the “ Encounter " to cross the flats

to go down

The next day it was discovered that several stone -laden junks had been

sunk between 49th point, Marine Island, and 66th point, in the shallowest

portion of the channel, but the navigation has not been completely closed, and I

have moved the “ Comus ”” up to prevent any further like attempt. I have also

placed heavy guns in the Macao Fort, which reach the Fat-chan Creek across

the low land , above its junction with the main branch of the river.

Some serious attempts have been made to destroy our ships by floating

explosive machines. One of very ingenious construction was seized by the

guard -boat of the “ Encounter, containing 3,000 lbs. of gunpowder in two

tanks, connected by a rope of twenty-five fathoms. Another subsequently blew

up prematurely some distance from the same ship. One of the men conducting

it was captured, and instantly shot. At the same time a third one drifted on

our boom , but did not explode. The two last are supposed to have contained

each about 1,000 lbs . of powder.

On the 6th , I received a despatch from Sir J. Bowring, pointing out the

threatening aspect of affairs at Hong Kong, and the desirability of an early

conference.. Iaccordingly proceeded in the “ Barracouta” on the following day,

and finding the “ Sampson at the Bogue, I caused her to tow the “ Calcutta

to Hong Kong, leaving the protection of that portion of the river to Captain the

Honourable K. Stewart, in the “ Nankin .” I found the colony in a state of

great uneasiness. The respectable Chinese had been ordered away by the

Mandarins, on pain of deaths to all their relatives, and fears were entertained of

incendiarism on the part of the immense population remaining, many being

supposed to be in the pay of the Chinese Government. I met the Governor in

Council on the 9th, and pointed out the great importance of endeavouring to

maintain my position at Canton, as the only method of keeping the river-road

open till reinforcements should arrive, and that I trusted they would not, in their

desire for naval protection, so weaken my forces as to interfere with that object.

When I informed the Governor that it was my intention to leave the “ Calcutta"

in command of my flag -captain , W. R. Hall, at Hong Kong, and that the

Sampson ” would make the island her head-quarters, his Excellency and

Council expressed themselves satisfied with the arrangements. Captain Hall

immediately re-armed the “ Bittern ,” and put some guns in the “ Minden,” and

I returned to Canton the same evening.

Sir John Bowring has hired the “ Eaglet,” a small , well-armed steamer, as

a harbour -guard, and toafford protection to the boats which supply the markets

at Hong Kong, as well as for the necessary service of deporting suspicious

characters, and I have permitted Mr. R. T. Ellis, master in charge of the

“ Minden,” to have the temporary command of her. I contemplate hiring one

or two small vessels for gun -boats, the draft of our own ships rendering them

unable to follow the Chinese war -junks up the numerous shallow creeks where

they have sought refuge, from which they can annoy us by night with impunity.

In consequence of the various attempts to destroy our ships, and the

throwing of rockets and stinkpots into the junks which moor the booms, with

the ultimate intention, doubtless, of making an entrance for fire -rafts, I deemed

it absolutely necessary, for our safety, to burn the suburbs on each side of the

Factory Gardens, from whence these attempts originated, and on the 12th my

purpose was carried into effect. Below the gardens, the houses had, in anticipa

tion, been completely cleared out. This portion was burnt to the wall of the

new city, into which the fire, aided by a strong breeze, extended for a considerable

distance. Above the gardens , the houses along the river-frontage were also

destroyed. During this operation, a party of the 59th Regiment, under the

orders of Captain Bushe, came unexpectedly upon an angle of the city wall,

from whenceaa fire was opened, which resulted in two privates being killed, and

Ensign Statham (slightly, by a stone from the wall) and twoprivates wounded.

The “ Sybille,” being in a very unsafe position at Whampoa, from the

probability of the Chinese blocking up the first bar entrance , between her

anchorage and the main barrier of the river, I have ordered her to the Bogue,

having previously given notice to the British and foreign residents, through

Sir John Bowring ,to remove their property. I have also removed the “ Alligator,"

Vice - Consular residence, and have responded to the demand for assistance on

behalf of two Spanish vessels of war, one a steam-vessel under repair.

The necessity of maintaining my communication with Hong Kong has

decided me to modify my plan of operations, and to confine myself to keeping

the river navigation open until the arrival of reinforcements . I shall, therefore,

withdraw from the Dutch Folly and Factory Gardens, and occupy the Bird's

Nest Fort, which, with the Macao Fort, will give me a most commanding

position. By this measure I shall release the “ Niger ” and “ Encounter ” from

a confined anchorage, where they are in continual danger of being burnt by fire

rafts, or from rockets from either shore, and secure their services for any

emergency

On a consideration of the circumstances herein set forth , I trust their

Lordships will concur in the propriety of my having, in conjunctionwith Her

Majesty's Plenipotentiary, applied to his Excellency the Governor -General of

India for the assistance of 5,000 troops. As, however, the warm weather will be

approaching before any force could be assembled, and the Chinese are active in

their preparations for the defence of their city, it would be expedient to have

such an army as will, by their numerical strength, render a successful result the

more certain .

The Governor of Singapore, having informed Captain Sir William Hoste

that in the event of any necessity at Ilong Kong, hecould spare 500 troops,

Sir John Bowring and I have applied accordingly.

I am happyto report that the squadron is healthy, and that I receive the

most zealous and efficient assistance from every officer and man under my

command.

I have, & c.

( Signed ) M. SEYMOUR.

Inclosure 2 in No. 13.

Commander Forsyth to Rear -Admiral Sir M. Seymour.

Sir, 66

Hornet,” of Hamilton Creek, January 4, 1857.

I HAVE the honour to report, for your information , that at 1:30 P.M. this day

we observed about 180 or 200 junks,accompanied by about the same number

of row -boats, dropping down the Blenheim Passage towards the ships, and

twenty-two

- junks, also accompanied by row -boats, coming down Hamilton

Creek.

When within about 1,500 yards from the ships, they opened fire upon us,

which we immediately returned with shot and shell.

At 2.25 the vessels in Hamilton Creek having taken up position behind

a point within about 1,000 yards, where they imagined our guns could not

touch them , their hulls being hidden from our view , also commenced firing ; the

row -boats, advancing boldly along the bank on the south side of the Creek,

opened a brisk fire.

The Commander's pinnace, uuder the command of Lieutenant George D.

Bevan, senior of that ship, shoved off towards them , when they immediately

retreated.

At 2:45, the junks, having apparently suffered severely from our fire, made

sail in retreat up the river.

I immediately left the ship with the boats named in the margin ,* in the hope

of cutting off some of the enemy. After pursuing them as far as Madaverty

Point , keeping up a fire from the gun -boats and with musketry, they

retreating slowly before us ; the Senior Lieutenant of the “ Comus” having

beer: wounded by the capsizing of the boat's gun, one Marine severely, and the

Hon. Albert Denison, Acting Mate, slightly wounded in my gig, the enemy

being reinforced by the junks retiring from the Macao Fort, the guns in both

boats disabled by the breaking of the slides, I deemed it imprudent to pursue

them further.

During the action , a boat pulled down the north -east bank of the river,

boarded the junk moored at the barrier , and attempted to set her on fire, but

through the activity of Lieutenant A. M. Brock , Senior of this ship, whom I

detached in the cutter, she was driven off before her crew were able to effect

their purpose, although supported by a large number of men behind the bank

on shore, who were dispersed by a few shots from the ships.

The enemy chose a most favourable time for the attack, it being near low

water, which they knew would prevent the ships crossing the barrier : had we

fortunately been able to have done so , we should doubtless have destroyed their

whole fleet.

The enemy appeared to have been armed with guns of a longer range than

usual, as their shot repeatedly flew over and around the ships, two of which

struck the “ Comus's ?" hull .

I consider it most fortunate that no more casualties occurred, as the boats

were enveloped in a perfect storm of shot.

In concluding this report, I beg to bring before your notice the support I

received from Commander Jenkins, of Her Majesty's ship “ Comus,” Lieutenants

A. M. Brock , and Bevan, in the boats, and, in fact, all the officers and men

engaged .

I beg to inclose the returns of killed and wounded.

I have, &c.

(Signed) CHAS. C. FORSYTH .

* “ Hornet's" Gig.- Hon . A. Denison , Acting Mate.

First Cutter . — Lieutenant A. M. Brock .

Pinnace. - Ralph A. Brown, Acting Mate.

Second Cutter.-James Fisher, Master's Assistant.

“ Comus's " Pinnace . - Lieutenant G. D. Bevan ; Mr. Cheek, Midshipman ; Mr. Penfound,

Gunner ; Lieutenant Oakes, Volunteer,

Inclosure 3 in No. 13 .

A RETURN of killed and wounded of Her Majesty's ship “ Hornet,” in

engagement with Chinese war-junks, on the 4th January, 1857, off

Hamilton Creek , Canton River :

George Etheridge, Royal Marines, wound of left

Hon. A. Denison , Acting Mate, wound of hand ( slight).

(Signed) JOHN TERNAN , M.D. ,

Surgeon .

Inclosure 4 in No. 13.

A List of Casualties occurring on board Her Majesty's ship Comus,"

employed against a Chinese Fleet, on January 4 , 1857.

Name. Quality. Nature of Casualty. Present Condition.

G. D. Bevan First Lieutenant A very serere contusion Progressing farourably.

of the right thigh

(Signed) JNO . WARD , Surgeon .

Inclosure 5 in No. 13.

Sir J. Bowring to Rear-Admiral Sir M. Seymour.

Sir, Hong Kong, January 3, 1857.

I HAVE the honour to forward to your Excellency certain resolutions

passed at a meeting of the Executive Council, held this day, and to point out

the desirability of an early conference between your Excellency and the Council

in the presentthreatening aspect of affairs.

The military and police force here stationed seems inadequate to the protec

tion of the colony, and I am the more ready to announce to your Excellency the

' wishes of the Council, after perusal of the following paragraph in a despatch

from Lord Stanley, Secretary of State for the Colonies, to Governor Sir Henry

Pottinger, dated the 15th November, 1843 :

“ Her Majesty's Government concur generally with you in opinion that we

must depend on our naval superiority for the complete security of our

commercial establishment in that island (Hong Kong).”

Though, of course, well aware of the difficult position in which your Excel

lency is placed, I feel myself at length compelled to draw your Excellency's

attention to the condition of Hong Kong.

I am , &c

( Signed ) JOHN BOWRING ,

Inclosure 6 in No. 13.

Extract from the Minutes of the Executive Council of Hong Kong, held on

January 3 , 1857 .

Resolved

THAT the present imperfectly protected condition of the Colony, menaced

as it is by the approach of hostile troops, causes much solicitude, and that his

Excellency the Naval Commander-in - chief be requested, without delay, to

augment the naval forces for its defence.

The attention of the Council having been called by the Military Commandant

to the removal of a considerable number of troops for the defence of the

factories in Canton, he expressed his desire that their return to the Colony

should not be delayed.

That in the opinion of this Council an early conference with his Excellency

the Naval Commander -in -chief, with a view to the security of the Colony, is

desirable .

No. 14.

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon .— -(Received March 16.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, January 24, 1857.

I HAVE the honour to inclose, for your Lordship's information, copy of a

despatch from the Naval Commander -in-chief reporting the change of his

position in the Canton river — a change he has deemed desirable in order to

facilitate and secure the freedom of communication on that river with a view to

future operations. I forward at the same time copy of my reply to Sir Michael

Seymour.

I attach the greatest importance to keeping the Canton river open , as a

successful attempt to stop the navigation might not only imperil the ships now

in the river, but create immense difficulties hereafter in preventing the access of

naval or military forces.

I have , &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING.

Inclosure 1 in No. 14 .

గారి

కాంగ ం

Rear- Admiral Sir M. Seymour to Sir J. Bowring.

-ఉము

కాపు

2కు

Sir, “ Calcutta, ” at Hong Kong, January 23, 1857.

IN continuation of my despatch of the 14th instant, I have the honour to

inform your Excellency, that early on the morning of the 20th , I withdrew

my forces from the Dutch Folly Fort and Factory Gardens, and dropped out of

the Factory Creek in the “ Niger ” without the slightest casualty. The previous

night some row -boats attacked the Folly, but they were received so warmly that

they quickly retreated . Our late positions were immediately taken possession

of, and burnt, by the Chinese.

༧ནས་ ུ་

In my last letter I mentioned that it was my intention to occupy the Bird's

༡༠་ཨ

རས་

Nest Fort, in which I had placed a small garrison and had commenced arming

it, but I found afterwards that it would necessitate the presence of a ship of war

心

forits support ; I therefore fell back to the Macao Fort, which I have garrisoned

。

and now hold as my advanced post. By this measure I shall gain a ship or two

to assist in keeping open the river road, until the arrival of reinforcements,

which I confidently hope to be able to maintain , unless I am compelled by the

state of Hong Kong, or our relations with the northern ports, to withdraw

my ships.

In about a month ( may begin to look for the arrival of some of my

expected steamers and gunboats.

I have, &c.

(Signed) M. SEYMOUR.

Inclosure 2 in No. 14 .

Sir J. Bowring to Rear - Admiral Sir M. Seymour.

Sir,

Hong Kong, January 24, 1857 .

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge your Excellency's despatch dated

yesterday, advising me that, with a view of keeping open the river communication

until the arrival of reinforcements, and of releasing for this purpose one orto

of Her Majesty's ships, you had determined to abandon the Factory Gardens and

Dutch Folly Fort, and instead of retaining the Bird's Nest Fort, to make the

Macao (passage) Fort your advanced position.

I have every confidence in the prudence and foresight which have dictated

thesemeasures, and agree with your Excellency in the paramount importance of

securing a free passage upon Canton, with a view to future operations.

I have, &c .

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

No. 15.

The Secretary to the Admiralty to Mr. Hammond .— (Received March 18.)

Sir, Admiralty, March 18, 1857.

I AM commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to

transmit to you, for the information of the Earl of Clarendon , a copy of aa letter

from Rear -Admiral Sir Michael Seymour, and of its inclosures, reporting his

having withdrawn his forces from the Dutch Folly Fort ; an engagement

between the “ Sampson ” and Chinese junks ; and other particulars relative to

the present state of affairs in China .

I am, &c.

(Signed ) THOS . PHINN .

Inclosure 1 in No. 15 .

Rear- Admiral Seymour to the Secretary to the Admiralty.

Sir, Calcutta,” at Hong Kong, January 30, 1857.

IN continuation of my letter of the 14th instant, I have the honour

to report , for the information of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, that

on the morning of the 20th , I withdrew my forces from the Dutch Folly Fort

and Factory Gardens, and dropped out of the Factory Creek in the “ Niger ”

without casualty. The previous night a number of row -boats attacked the

Folly, but they were received so warmly that they soon retired. Our late

position, and the Factory Church, were immediately taken possession of, and

burnt by the Chinese.

2. I mentioned in my letter of the 14th instant, that it was my intention to

occupy the Birds' Nest Fort . I had placed a small force there, and had commenced

arming it, but I subsequently found that itwould necessitate the presence of aa

ship of war for its support ; I therefore fell back to the Macao Fort, which I

have strongly garrisoned and armed, and now hold as my advanced post. By

this measure, I shall gain a ship or two to assist in keeping open the River road,

which I still hope to maintain , until the arrival of reinforcements, unless I am

compelled by the state of affairs at Hong Kong, or of our relations with the

Northern ports, to withdraw my ships.

3. On the 17th, as the “ Sampson ” was proceeding up the river, a large

fleet of row -boats and war junks boldly advanced out of the Artillery Creek , near

the Second Bar, and opened a heavy fire ; unfortunately, the pilot was soon

mortally wounded. I inclose Captain Hand's report of the affair.

4. A most diabolical attempt was made at Hong Kong on the 15th instant

to poison the European inhabitants, by mixing arsenic with the bread : most

providentially the quantity of poison was so largeas to cause immediate vomiting.

Several parties have been arrested , but it is doubtful if there will be sufficient

evidence to lead aа conviction .

5. I came down to Hong Kong on the 22nd in the “ Sampson,” to confer

with his Excellency and the Council, and to point out the necessity of not

weakening my force in the Canton river by demands for naval cooperation, until

the arrival of some of the ships from England. The judicious arrangements

made by Captain Hall, the establishment of a colonial steam -boat as a harbour

night-guard , and the presence of the French Admiral andAmerican Commodore,

afford good grounds for hope that no attempt will be made to attack the island :

F 2

nevertheless, fear exists of danger in some shape ; incendiarism is what is most

to be dreaded, though every precaution has been taken to guard against such a

calamity.

6. I have late intelligence from the Northern ports, where tranquillity

prevailed . Some apprehension was felt at Amoy, in consequence of a large

number of piratical vessels having appeared in the vicinity ; and his Excellency

Sir John Bowringhaving forwarded to me a representation to that effect, from

the British merchants there resident, I have sent Captain Hand in the

“ Sampson ” to Amoy , to examine the various bays along the coast , and to

destroy any piratical craft he may fall in with .

7. I have received information that the Chinese have destroyed all the

English and American docks at Whampoa, and burnt the houses and other

buildings attached to the respective establishments ; also that the High Com

missioner is preparing large forces in various directions to act against us, and

that rebels, pirates, and fishermen , have been promiscuously enlisted.

8. From what I have stated in this letter, and my previous communica

tions, I trust their Lordships will see the necessity of sending out a further

number of light-drafted steamers to those already on their way, and that Her

Majesty's Government will give directions for the speedy dispatch of a sufficient

body of troops to act against the city of Canton, the only mode of bringing this

business to a satisfactory conclusion, and placing Europeans on a proper footing

in this quarter. Although affairs at present are perfectly tranquil at the

Northern ports, it is impossible to say how long they may continue so, and

there can be little doubt that on theresult of the misunderstanding at Canton

will depend our future position in the Chinese Empire generally.

9. I shall return to the Canton river soon after the arrival of the Royal

mail steam -packet, now overdue. The squadron still continues healthy ; there is

no change in the disposition of the ships.

I have, &c.

(Signed) M. SEYMOUR.

Inclosure 2 in No. 15 .

Sir J. Bowring to Rear-Admiral Seymour, January 24, 1857.

[See Inclosure 2 in No. 14.]

Inclosure 3 in No. 15 .

Captain Hand to Rear- Admiral Seymour.

Sir, Sampson," off Hamilton Creek, January 16, 1857.

IN reporting my arrival here to-day, with sundry stores for the ships, I have

to inform you that in passing the creeks on the left bank of the river, just below

the First Bar Creek, I fell in with a number of junks and armed boats, about

120 or more, which opened a heavy fire upon the ship in passing.

I eased the engines and returned their fire; unfortunately my pilot was

early severely wounded (leg amputated ).

They had some heavy guns, and their shot went considerably over us.

Some ten or twelve hulled us, doing some damage in the wheels and boats.

Three seamen have been slightly wounded by splinters.

I have, &c.

(Signed) GEORGE S. HAND .

CANTON.

Further

Papers

relating

Proceedingsto

the

Majesty's

Her

Naval

Forces

Cantonat.

Presented

both

Housesto

Parliament

Con

mand

ofy.

Her

Majest

1857.

LONDON:

PRINTED

HARRISON

BY.

SONS

AND

4 2

4 IR

CORRESPONDENCE

BETWEEN THE

FOREIGN OFFICE

AND THE

EAST INDIA AND CHINA ASSOCIATION

LIVERPOOL.

1846—1848 .

Presented to the House of Commons by Command of Her Majesty, in

pursuance of their Address of March 6, 1857.

LONDON :

PRINTED BY HARRISON AND SONS .

8d . Spo

***

PARVARD COLLEGE

OCT 9 1919

LIBRARY

LIST OF PAPERS.

No. Page

1. The Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China Association to

Viscount Palmerston October 10, 1846 ' 1

2. Mr. Addington to the Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China

Association October 13, 1

3. The Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China Association to

Viscount Palmerston July 10 , 1847 2

4. Mr. Addington to the Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China

Association July 14, 3

5. The Vice- Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China Association

to Viscount Palmerston ..

August 20 , 5

6. Mr. Addington to the Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China

Association August 26, 7

7. The Vice-Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China Association

to Viscount Palmerston February 22, 1848 8

8. Mr. Addington to the Vice - Chairman of the Liverpool East India and

China Association February 29,8

RETURN to an Address of the Honourable the House of Commons, dated March 6, 1857 ;

for

Copies of any Memorials received by Viscount Palmerston , in 1847 and

1848 , from the East India and China Association of Liverpool,

together with the Answers returned thereto . ”

No. 1 .

The Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China Association to Viscount

Palmerston.- (Received October 12.)

My Lord, Liverpool, October 10, 1846.

AS Chairman of the East India and China Association of Liverpool, I am

requested to call your Lordship's most serious attention to the intelligence

brought by the last China mail, whereby it appears that the lives and property

of the British merchants resident in Canton, were, for several hours, on the

evening ofthe 8th July last, placed in extreme jeopardy, from the violence of a

mob assembled within the boundaries of the foreign factories.

This Association does not doubt that the subject has received your Lord

ship’s usual prompt consideration ; but, deeply interested as its members are in

the China trade, they cannot refrain from expressing their alarm at the unpro

tected state of our commerce at Canton . As all the accounts admit the

ill-feeling of the populace there against Her Majesty's subjects, andthe utter

want of power or inclination of the Chinese authorities to suppress these out

breaks of violence on the part of their own subjects, it is evident that the British

merchants must look to their own Government solely for protection ; and this

Association would strongly urge on your Lordship’s consideration the absolute

necessity of a British naval force being, in future, always stationed close to the

Canton factories, which would prove the most effectual means of preventing

further disturbances.

I have, &c.

(Signed) WILLIAM NICOL .

No. 2 .

Mr. Addington to the Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China

Association .

Sir, Foreign Office, October 13, 1846.

I AM directed by Viscount Palmerston to acknowledge the receipt of the

letter dated the 10th instant, signed by you on behalf of the Liverpool East

India and China Association, referring to the late disturbances at Canton , and

requesting that further protection may be afforded to Her Majesty's subjects

residing at Canton, by the presence of a British naval force stationed near the

factories at that place; and I am to state to you , in reply, that Her Majesty's

Government have already taken such measures in this respect as will insure, so

far as it is in their power, a full protection to the lives and properties of British

subjects.

I am, &c.

(Signed ) H. U. ADDINGTON .

[ 176]

No. 3.

The Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China Association to Viscount

Palmerston.— (Received July 13.)

My Lord, Liverpool, July 10 , 1847.

ON the 10th of October last I had the honour of addressing your Lordship

on behalf of this Association, on the subject of disturbances which had taken

place at Canton aa short time previously, urging upon your Lordship’s considera

tion the absolute necessity of a British naval force being in future always

stationed off the Canton factories for the protection of HerMajesty's subjects ;

and in reply I was honoured with a communication, dated on the 13th of that

month, stating that Her Majesty's Government had already taken such measures

in that respect as would insure, so far as in their power, a full protection to the

lives and properties of British subjects.

Had these precautionary measures been adopted, this Association is of

opinion that the recent hostile proceedings on the part of Sir John Davis at

Canton might have been avoided, and in any event the lives and property of

Her Majesty's subjects would have been protected from the imminent risk to

which both were exposed from an exasperatedmob, for an interval of six hours

which elapsed from the attack in the Bogue Forts being known at Canton until

the arrival of Her Majesty's troops .

The occasional appearance only of an armed steamer . at Canton, in the

opinion of this body, is so far from creating the favourable impression which would

result from the permanent presence of a vessel of war, that it tends rather to

keep alive the exasperation of the populace, and seems calculated to invite acts

of hostility in her absence. A protective force should never, therefore, in the

opinion of this body, be withdrawn from Canton, especially since it has become

evident that it is not any aggression on the part of the Chinese Government

which we have to fear, but the sudden outbreaks of the lawless bands with which

Canton abounds.

The late proceedings must have appeared to them an unprovoked attack in

time of peace,and our immediate retirement a precipitate retreat, which, coupled

with the further exposure of the weakness of their own Government, has

rendered this irritation so strong that we fear it is but too probable an early mail

may bring news of another serious outbreak .

Our earnest desire is to see the Pottinger Treaty fully carried out, but the

late movement will, we apprehend, have retarded rather than facilitated this

object. All the important concessions made in consequence of the recent hostile

demonstrations, were really embodied in the Treaty alluded to ; but their

practical enforcement is rendered more difficult from the increased rancour of

the populace, and the weakening of the moral power of the mandarins over their

own people, by which alone they rule.

As British subjects we would also wish to protest against the unjustifiable

principle of an hostile aggression being made on a part of an empire far removed

from the seat of government, in violation of solemn Treaties, without even the

customary forms which the laws of nations recognize, and the feelings of

humanity demand.

We cannot refrain on this occasion from expressing our regret that there

has not beena more firm , consistent, and dignified policy pursued by Sir John

Davis towards the Chinese during the last three years, and which has now

resulted in an act of aggression as rash and injudicious as the former policy had

been throughout weak and vacillating.

We further avail ourselves of this opportunity to draw your Lordship’s

particular attention to the proceedings of the Hong Kong Government during

the same period, by which the once rapidly -increasing and promising trade at

Hong Kong, instead of being fostered has been entirely driven away, and the

buildings and improvements at Victoria, on which immense sums ofmoney have

been expended , have become valueless.

I am instructed, in conclusion , to urge upon your Lordship respectfully, but

firmly (if in consideration only of the large amount of revenue yielded to the

Crown by this important trade), that British subjects shall be no longer left to

their own resources for the protection of their lives and property, but that a

powerful war -steamer should in future always be stationed in the close vicinity of

the British factories at Canton , and such measures be otherwise adopted , as shall

ensure a more respectful feeling in the minds of the Chinese towards the British

nation .

I have, &c.

( Signed) WILLIAM NICOL.

No. 4.

Mr. Addington to the Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China

Association .

Sir, Foreign Office, July 14, 1847.

I AM directed by Viscount Palmerston to acknowledge the receipt of your

letter of the 10th instant, containing a representation on behalf of the East India

and China Association of Liverpool, of which you are the Chairman, respecting

the late events at Canton.

Lord Palmerston directs me to state to you, in reply, that he is sorry to say

that he is obliged to differ from almost all the opinions which you express in

your letter on behalf of the Association.

With regard, indeed, to the course which Sir John Davis has pursued for

the three years preceding the late transactions, Lord Palmerston considers that

he is not called upon to express an opinion one way or the other. That course ,

whatever it may have been, was prescribed to him by his instructions from the

Home Government, and Lord Palmerston must take for granted that he may

infer, from Sir John Davis having continued in office, that he executed his instruc

tions to the satisfaction of those who were at the time the responsible advisers

of the Crown ; and if the East India and China Association disapproved of that

course, it would have been more practically useful for them to have stated their

objections to it at the time, and to the proper quarter,than to have now conveyed

to Lord Palmerston their retrospective censure of the conduct of a preceding

Administration.

With regard, however, to the conduct of Sir John Davis during the last few

months in pursuance of instructions from Lord Palmerston, or in accordance

with what Sir John Davis conceived to be the spirit of those instructions, as

applicable to the events of the moment, his Lordship has only to say, that the

measures very properly, very promptly, and very successfully taken by Sir John

Davis, were not “ unjustifiable in principle ; " were not “ aa violation of solemn

Treaties ; " were not adopted “ without the customary forms which the laws of

nations recognise, and the feelings of humanity demand ; ” and that they were

neither “ rash ” nor “ injudicious.” On the contrary, there is no principle of

international law more established, and more justifiable, than that which autho

rises the resort to force in order to extort redress which negotiation has failed to

obtain .

The measures carried into execution by Sir John Davis were not “ aa violation

of solemn Treaties, ” but were employed to obtain the execution of solemn Treaties ;

and this the China Association, with a singular forgetfulness of their own asser

tions, and with aa remarkable inconsistency of argument, virtually acknowledge,

by the complaintwhich they make that “ all the important concessions made in

consequence of the recent hostile demonstrations, were really embodied in the

Treaty alluded to." If the demands which were made,, and the concessions

extorted, consisted of things which the Treaty stipulated, the British Government

were justified in demanding them , and it was those who had refused or evaded

those demands, and not those who made them , who were guilty of “ a violation

of solemn Treaties.”

The Association complain that these measures, which they miscall " a hostile

aggression ,” were directed against " a part of an empire far removed from the

seat of Government ; ” but Lord Palmerston is at a loss to understand the parti.

cular force of this objection. The geographical position of Canton with respect to

Pekin is a matter which neither Sir John Davis nor the British Government

have any power to alter. The aggressions were on the part of the Chinese, and

not on the part of Sir John Davis. Redress had been demanded by him, and

his demands had been the subject of protracted but unsuccessful negotiation.

The wrongs were local, and the very distance between the place where they had

happened and the seat of the Imperial Government left Sir John Davis no

alternative but either submission or the employment of force on the spot itself.

He had no means of making any application to Pekin except through the

Governor of Canton, and that Governor had declined to afford redress. Even

the China Association would not, Lord Palmerston concludes, have recommended

that the thousand men who sailed from Hong Kong should have been sent to

Pekin ; and there was nothing left , therefore, for Sir John Davis to do but to

take the steps which he did take, or to sit down quietly under aa denialof justice;

and whatever may be the opinion of the China Association on this matter, Lord

Palmerston thinks that Sir John Davis chose the proper alternative.

The Association, however,, say, that the course was " rash and injudicious . "

If it was rash, its rashness was shared by the mililary and naval officers who

were consulted beforehand by Sir John Davis ; but their high professional

character exempts them from the imputation, thus lightly cast upon them by the

Association, of having exposed the lives of the officers and men under their

command in a " rash and injudicious ” enterprise ; and with all due deference to

the Association , Lord Palmerston may be allowed to think that the opinion of

those military and naval officers, formed on the spot upon a military and naval

undertaking, is entitled to more weight than the judgment which the Commercial

Association, sitting in Liverpool, have passed upon that undertaking. Moreover,

the opinion of those officers was justified by the full and complete success which

crowned the operation. And Lord Palmerston directs me here to observe that,

when the Association object to these measures as repugnant to the feelings of

humanity, they seem to forget that there never was a military and naval opera

tion in which not only the common feelings of humanity, but the still higher

qualities of generous forbearance and noble disinterestedness and self-denial,

were more splendidly displayed by every man engaged, from the highest to the

lowest ; and if the Chinese are not in their moral constitution essentially different

from the rest of the human race, the admirable good conduct of the British

soldiers and sailors on this occasion must produce as forcible an impression on

their minds, as the proofs which have been afforded of the irresistible superiority

of Englishmen in naval and military matters have no doubt created on their

prudential fears.

The Association seem to be dissatisfied that the concessions obtained by

this expedition did not go beyond the full and faithful execution of the Pottinger

Treaty; but they forget that Sir John Davis could have had no warrant, without

fresh and specific instructions from his Government, toinsist upon more, and that

the Governor of Canton could not, of his own authority, have granted anything

which would have been contrary to, or a departure from, the Treaty which had

been ratified by the Emperor.

The Association are of opinion that “ pa owerful war-steamer ” should be

always stationed in the close vicinity of the British factories ; but though they

seem not to be aware of the circumstance, yet the fact is, that there is not depth

of water opposite to, nor in the close vicinity of, the factories for a “powerful

war-steamer. A small steamer, of such size as the depth of water will allow ,

will, from time to time, and whenever necessary, be stationed there ; but, though

Lord Palmerstonis of opinion that the presence of such a ship of war, in that

position, would tend to prevent any attack upon the factories, his Lordship

cannot persuade himself that a steamer so placed would have prevented the mal

treatment of two sailors by the mob in the interior of the town of Canton,

or the outrage committed on Colonel Chesney and his companions at Fuh -shan,

eighteen miles higher up the river.

I am , &c.

( Signed ) H. U. ADDINGTON .

No. 5.

The Vice-Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China Association to

Viscount Palmerston.— (Received August 23.)

East India and China Association,

My Lord, Liverpool, August 20, 1847.

I HAVE had the honour of laying your Lordship’s reply to my letter of

the 10th of July, in reference to the recent proceedings at Canton, before a

meeting of this Association ; and I am desired to submit to your Lordship some

further remarks explanatory of some portions of that letter, which your Lordship

appears to have misunderstood.

In doing so, II beg to express my regret if any part of it should have incurred

your Lordship’s animadversion. Our remarks were dictated by no wish on our

part to reflect upon your Lordship’s, or any former, Administration ; but simply

by a sincere desire to benefit the important trade in which we, and our fellow

merchants at Canton, are so deeply interested ; and I may also add, that the

correspondence between your Lordship and the authorities at Hong Kong and

Canton, published since our letter to your Lordship was written , has, in some

degree, modified some of the views we then expressed.

In asking from your Lordship that a powerful war-steamer might be perma

nently stationed off the factories at Canton, we could not, of course, be supposed

to require impossibilities. We simply wished that the most powerful steamer

which the depth of water.would admit of, should always be stationed there, to

serve as a refuge to British subjects from any sudden outbreak of the populace.

And when we recollect the feet of corvettes and steamers which took their

station off the town, prior to the attack of Captain Elliott in 1841 , we must

confess we are at a loss to understand why there should be any possible obstacle

to a steamer, sufficiently large for the service, being stationed there now.

We must also again repeat to your Lordship , as expressed in our former

letter, our conviction that the merely “ occasional visits ” of a steamer are calcu

lated to irritate , rather than to overawe, the unruly rabble of Canton, and even

to invite an attack upon our countrymen during her absence ; and we are fully

satisfied that, to have the desired effect, a steamer should, at all times, be

stationed off the factories.

To this point, therefore, I am again desired most earnestly toinvite your

Lordship's serious consideration, as forming the only basis upon which, in the

existing state of our intercourse with Canton, the confidence of the British

community there can be restored and maintained.

And , further, the Association believe that, had Sir John Davis, from the

time of his arrival in China, firmly and decidedly insisted upon the Pottinger

Treaty being fully carried out ; and, in particular, that, had the vessel of war,

therein stipulated for, been constantly moored off the factories 3; the populace of

Canton would never so far have outrun the control of their own Government as

to endanger, as recently they have done, our entire trade with that place. We

admit that some acts of aggression might have been perpetrated, but the fear of

immediate chastisement would have prevented any open or general outbreak of

ill -will.

With regard to the late warlike proceedings at Canton, we quite agree with

your Lordship as to the manner in which they were executed, and feel great

pleasure in bearing testimony to the gallant conduct, generous forbearance ,and

noble disinterestedness of the British forces employed in these operations, as

well as to the military skill and courageous energy exhibited by the Commanders

on that occasion .

In characterizing the expedition as “ rash and injudicious,” we alluded to

the imminent jeopardy to which it subjected British life and property at Canton,

and to the inexpediency andinutility of the attack itself as proved by its results,

and not, in any way, to the gallant execution of it. We complained, and, we think,

justly, that the lives and property of our fellow -countrymen at Canton should

have been left for hours totally unprotected from the attacks of the infuriated

rabble of that city. We complained of a want of judgment in the political

conduct of the expedition, inasmuch as, by exposing to the mob of Canton the

weakness of their own Government, it still further diminished the power of the

mandarins to afford protection to our countrymen, without providing for the

presence of any British force to supply its place ; and we complain of its

inutility, as having thus failed in its ostensible object of giving greater security

to life and property at Canton, or in removing any of the practical difficulties to

the execution of the Treaty of Nankin. So far, indeed, from accomplishing

either of these most desirable objects, it seems rather to have retarded their

accomplishment. The Pottinger Treaty stipulated, for instance, that British

subjects should at once have permission to enter the city of Canton. Sir John

Davis stipulates that that permission shall be postponed for a further period of

two years. Notwithstanding that, your Lordship admits that “" he had no

warrant ” to alter the provisions of that Treaty.

It is with much regret, also, that we observe that the opinion expressed

by us in our former letter to your Lordship, as to the probableconsequences of

the expedition, are but too likely to be realised. According to advices received

by the last mail, all trade at Canton had ceased ; the rich “ shroffs,” or bankers ,

having lost all confidence in the good faith and peaceable intentions of the Hong

Kong Government, and fearing further aggressions similar to, and as unexpected

as, the last, had withdrawn their capitalfrom the trade, and it is difficult to

foresee when their former confidence will be restored .

The exasperation of the people is extreme. It appears from their placards

that a conspiracy was being formed, and that active measures were being taken ,

to drive our merchants from the country. The troops left at Canton have

already come into collision with the mob, and, though the presence of the

“ Pluto ” steamer off the factories will probably serve as a refuge to our fellow

countrymen in case of any serious outbreak, it is impossible, without painful

anxiety, to contemplate the probable results of such an occurrence.

With regard to your Lordship’s remark that, “ if the East India Association

disapproved of the course of policy adopted during the last three years by Sir

John Davis, it would have been more practically useful for them to have

stated their objection to it at the time, and to the proper quarter, than to have

now conveyed to your Lordship their retrospective censure ;” I am desired to say,,

that it was impossible for them to complain of the mal-administration of Sir

John Davis before time had been allowed him to prove by his acts whether

he were indeed fitted for the responsible situation in which he had been placed ,

and on no slight grounds should we have thought it right to have made so

serious a charge.

In making our former remarks on this subject, we were but recording, along

with our own , the loudly-expressed opinion of our fellow -merchants in China

we believe, without one exception ; and the commercial bodies of London and

Manchester fully coincide in the opinions which the merchants of Liverpool

connected with the China trade nowfeel bound to repeat to your Lordship.

Cordially as we would approve of all necessary steps being adopted on the

part of the Hong Kong Government to enforce the fulfilment of ourTreaty with

the Chinese, we still think that a firm and consistent course of policy would be

more beneficial than any sudden and capricious aggression.

aggress We feel that though

under particular circumstances a resort to force may be a necessary alternative,

it should be the last.

We admit also that the temporary interruption or interference with com

mercial interests should never be allowed to stand in the way of the enforcement

of the respect due to the British flag ; but we would wish to see every means of

firm and conciliatory policy first proved to be ineffectual, before an appeal to

arms again interferes with the vast interests involved in this important trade.

And we cannot, we must confess, assent to the principle, that because “ wrongs

were local, the very distance between the place where they had happened, and

the seat of the Imperial Government ” left ” no alternative but either submission ,

or the employment of force on the spot itself .” This doctrine, we humbly

submit to your Lordship, might be found extremely inconvenient in practice, if

promulgated and adopted in the civilized world.

The anxiety which we feel for the result of the late events in China may be

accounted for when your Lordship remembers that, besides a very large amount

of property, we have relations and friends exposed to the very serious dangers

the residents in Canton are now incurring whilst engaged in the peaceful fulfil

ment of their commercial duties, and we feel that even should the British

residents escape, the valuable property they would leave behind them would offer

a powerful temptation to the mob to attempt the destruction of the factories ;

the inevitable result of which would be a resumption of former hostilities, and

the consequent interruption of trade for an indefinite period .

In conclusion , webeg leave further to submit to your Lordship, that these

views are not mere idle or impertinent speculations : many of the members of

this Association having resided in China and become personally acquainted not

only with the Chinese character, but with the position of matters generally in

that country, consider themselves to some extent qualified to express an opinion

on our difficulties at Canton. And it is the dread we entertain lest similar

aggressions, equally unexpected by the British community at Canton, and

against which no foresight or prudence on their part could guard, should again

jeopardize their lives and properties, that has actuated us in the firm , but I trust

respectful, expression of the opinions which we have felt it our duty to place

before your Lordship.

I have, &c .

(Signed) CHARLES TURNER.

No. 6 .

Mr. Addington to the Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China

Association.

Sir , Foreign Office, August 26 , 1847.

I AM directed by Viscount Palmerston to acknowledge the receipt of your

letter of the 20th instant, containing a further representation on behalf of the

East India and China Association of Liverpool, in answer to the communication

which I was directed by Lord Palmerston to make to you in my letter of the

14th of July .

I am now to state to you in reply, that differing as Lord Palmerston does

with the Association in the opinions and expectations which they have expressed,

his Lordship is content to leave to time and to events to decide whether the

anticipations of the Association as to the future results of the measures lately

adopted by Sir J. Davis in the Canton river will be verified or not ; but Lord

Palmerston must beg to advert to one fundamental difference between their

reasoning and the principle upon which Her Majesty's Government have acted.

The Association seem to consider the mob of Canton to be the power with which

we have to deal , whose feelings should be deferred to, and whose will must be

considered as paramount. Her Majesty's Government, on the other hand,

consider the Government of Canton to be the authority to be dealt with, whether

negotiation or coercion be required ; and Lord Palmerston cannot think that it

would be wise or becoming to abstain from enforcing rights, or to refrain from

exacting redress for wrongs, out of fear of displeasing the mob of Canton.

The Association are mistaken in imagining that Sir John Davis made, by his

last agreement, any concession in regard to the right given to British subjects to

enter the city of Canton ; but to those who look upon the mob of Canton as the

supreme authority of the city, and who believe that mob to be systematically

hostile to foreigners, it cannot be of much importance at what time a right is to

be conceded which prudential considerations would induce such persons to be

very cautious of exercising.

With regard to the stationing a ship - of -war opposite the factories, the

Association must surely see that it does not follow that the same choice of small

vessels should be at command on the China station, at the present time, as

existed when a large armament was collected in that quarter for warlike operations

on a great scale ; and it appears to Lord Palmerston to be best to leaveit to the

judgment and discretion of the Admiral on the station, in communication with

Sir John Davis, to make such arrangements on this head as may appear to him

most proper .

Lord Palmerston abstains from adverting to other topics in your letter

which suggest very obvious remarks, because there does not appear to his Lord

ship to be any necessity for prolonging this correspondence.

I am , & c.

( Signed ) H. U. ADDINGTON .

No. 7.

The Vice- Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China Association to

Viscount Palmerston -- (Received February 23.)

East India and China Association,

My Lord , Liverpool, February 22, 1848.

IT is with feelings of the most painful description that we now address your

Lordship, in reference to the lamentable occurrences at Canton, of which the

present mail brings advices, affording, as they do, a melancholy and fatal confir

mation of the apprehensions we have from time to time submitted to your

Lordship's attention ; apprehensious which we feel assured your Lordship must

now , equally with ourselves, deeply regret had not been deemed worthy of the

consideration due to the suggestions of parties speaking from practical knowledge

and personal experience .

It cannot now , my Lord, be denied that the exasperation produced by the

late attack on the Bogue Forts, and a retreat which did not overawe, but con

firmed the Chinese in their conviction of their own superiority, have been the

cause of the inhuman torture and subsequent murder of six of Her Majesty's

unoffending subjects ; four of whom at least, there is strong presumptive evidence

to prove, might have been saved had the “ Pluto ” steamer been at Canton .

And we contend, and think the evidence supports us in the assertion , that the

atrocious acts we now deplore might have been prevented had the war- steamer

not have been withdrawn from that station .

In the name of our common humanity, therefore, we make our earnest

appeal to your Lordship’s recognised promptitude and energy to take immediate

steps to prevent the recurrence of such appalling disasters.

I have , &c.

(Signed ) ROBERT C. CROSBIE .

No. 8 .

Mr. Addington to the Vice -Chairman of the Liverpool East India and China

Association .

Sir , Foreign Office, February 29, 1848.

I AM directed by Viscount Palmerston to acknowledge the receipt of your

letter of the 22nd instant, relative to the lamentable intelligence which was

received by the last mail of the murder of six British subjects in the neighbourhood

of Canton.

Viscount Palmerston directs me to state to you, in reply, that he deeply

laments the melancholy event to which you call his attention, but that he does

not see how that event could have been prevented by the presence of a steam

vessel off the factories at Canton .

As the communications between Sir John Davis and the Chinese Govern

ment on this matter were still going on at the date of the last advices received

from China, Viscount Palmerston can say nothing to you as to the course which

Her Majesty's Government may deem it advisable to adopt to prevent the recur

rence of the likedisaster ; but his Lordship cannot refrain from expressing to you

his regret that when the British residents at Canton were,as appears by a commu

nication addressed to him by them, fully aware that considerable danger of insult

and attack would be incurred by any British subjects who might enter Chinese

villages, the leading members of the mercantile body did not use their natural

influence with the young men attached to their establishments to induce them to

desist - at least, for a time — from excursions which were known to be attended

with so much personal risk .

I am , &c.

(Signed ) H. U. ADDINGTON ,

Foreign

Office

and

between

CORRESPONDENCEthe

India

East

the

and

China

Association

Liverpool

1848,

1846,

1847,

and

Presented

House

the

Commons

Command to

in,

pursuance

Majesty

Her

Address

their

March

1857.6,

LONDON:

PRINTED

HARRISON

BY.

SONS

AND

6 37

CORRESPONDENCE

BETWEEN THE

FOREIGN OFFICE

AND THE

COMMERCIAL ASSO CIATION

ASSOCIATION

MANCHESTER.

1846—1848 .

Presented to the House of Commons by Command of Her Majesty, in

pursuance of their Address of May 28, 1857.

LONDON :

PRINTED BY HARRISON AND SONS .

12 d . 8 p . )

COLLEG

ARVARD

OCT 9 1919

LIBRARY

LIST OF PAPERS ,

No. Page

1. The President of the Manchester Commercial Association to Viscount

Palmerston ..

September 25 , 1846 1

2. Mr. Addington to the President of the Manchester Commercial

Association October 1, 1

3. The President of the Manchester Commercial Association to Viscount

IULUI

Palmerston .

July 9, 1847 2

4. Mr. Addington to the President of the Manchester Commercial

Association July 14, 2

5. The President of the Manchester Commercial Association to Viscount

Palmerston March 16, 1848 3

6. The President of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce to Viscount

Palmerston March 23, 4

Inclosure

Memorial March 9, 4

7. Mr. Addington to the President of the Manchester Commercial

Association March 25 , 5

8. Mr. Addington to the President of the Manchester Chamber of

Commerce April 4, 5

9. The President of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce to

Mr. Addington.. April 6, 6

10. The President of the Manchester Commercial Association to Viscount

Palmerston • .

April 7, 7

11. Mr. Addington to the President of the Manchester Chamber of

Commerce April 14, - 7

12. Mr. Addington to the President of the Manchester Commercial

Association April 14, 8

RETURN to an Address of the Honourable the House of Commons, dated May 28, 1857 ;

for

“ Correspondence between the Foreign Office and the Commercial

Association of Manchester, relative to Outrages committed on

British Subjects in China, in 1846, 1847, and 1848.”

No. 1 .

The President of the Manchester Commercial Association to Viscount Palmerston.

(Received September 28.)

Manchester Commercial Association ,

My Lord, September 25, 1846.

THE Directors of this Association, by letters received from China per the

last mail, have been solicited to co-operate in calling the attention of Her

Majesty's Government to the serious outrages which have been recently

committed against the persons and property of British subjects at Canton by

the native population, and to point out the necessity which exists of guarding

against a recurrence of similar disturbances , by the presence of aa British ship of

war in the immediate neighbourhood .

The Association , however, judging from what has already transpired in the

public prints, doubtnot that yourLordship is in possession of full details, and

that the matter receives your careful consideration .

They therefore only deem it necessary, as parties having a deep personal

interest in the subject, to express their anxious hope that Her Majesty's Govern

ment will adopt immediate steps to afford greater security to the lives and

properties of British subjects in the Chinese Empire.

I have, &c .

(Signed ) J. ASPINALL TURNER.

No. 2 .

Mr. Addington to the President of the Manchester Commercial Association.

Sir, Foreign Office, October 1 , 1846.

I AM directed by Viscount Palmerston to acknowledge the receipt of the

letter dated the 25th ultimo , signed by you on behalf of the Manchester

Commercial Association , referring to the late disturbances at Canton, and

requesting that further protection may be afforded to Her Majesty's subjects

residing in China ; and I am to state to you in reply, that Her Majesty's

Government will not fail to take such measures in this respect as will ensure,

so far as it is in their power, a full protection to the lives and properties of

British subjects.

I am , &c.

(Signed) H. U. ADDINGTON .

[227] B

No. 3.

The President of the Manchester Commercial Association to Viscount Palmerston.

Manchester Commercial Association ,

My Lord, July 9, 1847.

ON the 25th September , 1846, I had the honour to address your Lordship

on behalf of the Directors of this Association , with reference to certain disturb

ances which had taken place at Canton, whereby the lives and properties of

British subjects in that part of China had been placed in the utmost peril .

To that communication, and to your Lordship’s most satisfactory reply thereto ,

dated the 1st of the following month , I beg most respectfully to refer your

Lcrdship ; and I regret extremely that the present posture of affairs at Canton

renders it necessary that I should again address your Lordship on the same

subject.

We learn, however, that during the period which has elapsed between the

date of the correspondence above adverted to and the commencement of the

recent hostilities, the British residents at Canton have been obliged to rely

almost solely upon themselves, associated together as armed volunteers , for the

protection of their lives and the large amount of property entrusted to their

charge. The knowledge of this fact has again given rise to the most serious

apprehensions in the minds of several members of this Association having large

interests at stake at Canton , and they are the more alarmed in consequence of

the increased ill-feeling which they are informed has been manifested by the

lower classes of the Chinese population towards the English since the recent

military operations against Canton ; the military force stationed in the neigh

bourhood being, from its 'small numerical strength, quite inadequate to the

magnitude of the duty assigned to it, as would at once appear from the

Commander-in-chief having gladly availed himself of the services of the

volunteers before alluded to.

I would, in conclusion , state that neither the Association which I represent,

nor myself personally, entertain the least doubt that your Lordship’s vigilance

has been directed to this subject, nor that you will take such steps as the

exigencies of the case demand. It would, nevertheless, be a source of the

greatest satisfaction to us, and would tend materially to allay anxiety, should

we learn directly from your Lordship that prompt and decisive measureshad

been adopted by Her Majesty's Government to afford due protection to the lives

and properties of British subjects at Canton .

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. ASPINALL TURNER .

No. 1 .

Mr. Addington to the President of the Manchester Commercial Association .

Sir, Foreign Office, July 14, 1847.

I AM directed by Viscount Palmerston to acknowledge the receipt of your

letter of the 9th instant, representing, on behalf of the Manchester Commercial

Association , of which you are President, the insufficiency of the protection

afforded to British subjects at Canton .

Lord Palmerston directs me to state to you in reply , that if the Association

have been informed that the lower classes of Chinese at Canton have manifested

increased ill-feeling towards British subjects since the successful and brilliant

termination of the recent operations in the Canton river, the information which

has reached the Association is exactly tlıc reverse of that which has been received

by Her Majesty's Government from persons who have the most recent know

ledge of the facts, and on whose accuracy and correctness Her Majesty's Govern

ment place entire reliance .

Her Majesty's Government have reason to believe that at the time when

the last accounts came away from China, the behaviour of the common people

at Canton towards foreigners in general was much improved, and that commerce

was proceeding withoutinterruption and with security.

With regard to the British and other residents at Canton, they are better

protected now than they have been at any time since the withdrawal of our

force after the conclusion of the Treaty of Nankin ; because while, on the one

hand, the Chinese have had a practical proof that the ordinary garrison of

HongKong is able at any time, and without waiting for reinforcements from India,

to enforce, if necessary , at Canton itself a demand for redress ; on the other

hand, various local arrangements have been made at the factories which have

much diminished the causes and chances of collision, and have increased the

means of the residents to make a successful defence ; and while the occasional

presence of a war-steamer opposite the factories must give support to the

residents, the recent expedition will have given the Governor of the town

additional motives for exerting the civil authority and military power which he

possesses in order to keep the lower classes in check, and to prevent those outrages

upon British subjects which would again expose him to receive inconvenient

demands, and to be compelled to make humiliating concessions.

I am, &c.

( Signed ) H. U. ADDINGTON .

No. 5.

The President of the Manchester Commercial Association to Viscount Palmerston.

(Received March 18. )

Manchester Commercial Association,

My Lord , March 16, 1848 .

ON the 25th of September, 1846 , and 9th July, 1847 , I had the honour to

address your Lordship relative to certain disturbances which had taken place at

Canton, and on both occasions, due reference was made to the urgent necessity

which existed, of affording better security for the lives and properties of British

subjects in that portion of the Chinese Empire.

Your Lordship’s reply to my first communication was calculated to tran

quillize the minds of those upon whose behalf it had been my duty to address

your Lordship , inasmuch as adequate protection was promised therein ; and

no doubt was entertained that such had actually been provided, until, the recur

rence of disorders becoming known in England, I was called upon a second

time to apply to your Lordship, and on thatoccasion I ventured to direct atten

tion to the continued insecurity of British interests at Canton, and the increased

ill-feeling with which foreigners were viewed by the Chinese population .

To those statements your Lordship saw fit to take exception, and doubtless

your official information led to the conclusion that this Association had been

misinformed as to the posture of affairs in that quarter.

Unhappily, my Lord, the disastrous and melancholy intelligence conveyed

by the mailof the 30th December last, from China, has fatally realized our worst

apprehensions. Three gentlemen connected with the members of this Associa

tion have been savagely murdered. Officials have been stoned and insulted ,

and the lives and properties of other persons have been placed in imminent

peril. In directing your Lordship's attention to this matter, I would not be

understood as attributing blame either to your Lordship or to any other mem

ber of Her Majesty's Horne Government ; but I respectively submit that Her

Majesty's Representative in China is not wholly free from censure, as I am

informed by correspondence now in the hands of this Association , that there was

not any military or naval force at Canton at the time of the outrages referred to, and

also , that had not considerable delay occurred in rendering assistance, the lives

of four of the parties murdered might, in all probability, have been saved .

In addition to which, I am requested to notice, that when some of the

gentlemen most deeply interested, on the trying occasion alluded to, waited

upon Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary for the purpose of making certain repre

sentations on the subject, they were not only coldly received, but were treated

with positive indignity.

Under these circumstances, the Association again most earnestly solicit your

Lordship’s interference in obtaining adequate protection for British subjects

resident in China, and due consideration for just representations addressed by

them to Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary on that station.

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. ASPINALL TURNER .

No. 6 .

The President of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce to Viscount Palmerston.

(Received March 24. )

Chamber of Commerce and Manufactures,

My Lord , Manchester, March 23 , 1848 .

I HAVE the honour to place in your Lordship's hands aa Memorial relative

to the present position of British subjects and British property at Canton, which

was unanimously adopted at a meeting of the Directors of this Chamber, held

on the 9th instant.

I have, &c .

( Signed ) THOS. BAZLEY.

Inclosure in No. 6 .

Memorial.

To the Right Hon . the Lord Viscount Palmerston, M.P., Her Majesty's Principal

Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, & c.

The Memorial of the Directors of the Chamber of Commerce and Manu

factures at Manchester,

Sheweth,

THAT your memorialists have had communicated to them the details of a

barbarous massacre of six of their fellow -countrymen , in the immediate vicinity

of Canton, on the 5th of December last .

That your memorialists have refrained from troubling your Lordship on

former occasions, when outrages have arisen between the Chinese and British

subjects at Canton, because they could not divest themselves of the feeling that

: the fault was not entirely on one side ; nor did they abandon the hope that time

and more circumspect conduct would eventually soften down existing asperities,

2 and lead to peaceful and profitable intercourse. But the circumstances which

have attended the late atrocities; the organization of bands of murderers, under

the supervision of the village, and in defiance of the superior authorities ; the

open avowal of such organization by placards publicly issued in various adjoining

districts; and the tardiness with which assistance is systematically afforded when

demanded from the Imperial Commissioner ; seem to your memorialists to call

for the prompt exercise of such measures as the accustomed energy of your

Lordship may deem proper, to procure, as far as possible, redress for the past

and rightful security for the future.

That, lamenting the constant growth of ill-feeling between British residents

and the native population in and about Canton, which is singularly conspicuous

there over all the other ports with which we are permitted to trade, and avoid

ing all surmise as to the source from which it springs, your memorialists see in

the actual position of their fellow -countrymen so much danger, and in the

conduct of the Chinese authorities so much supineness, evasion, and want of

truth as, in their opinion , to demand a more constant and visible display of a

determination to protect British life and property than the factories at Canton

have of late possessed.

That the never-failing presence of one or more vessels of war, suitable for

those waters, seems, in the opinion of your memorialists, to be absolutely neces

sary, at least for aa time, in the present posture of affairs ; but not doubting that

all the circumstances relating to the position of British interests at Canton have

already received the due consideration of your Lordship , they prefer with great

respect this expressson of their sympathy and wishes .

By order and on behalf of the Directors of the Chamber

of Commerce and Manufactures at Manchester,

(Signed) THOS . BAZLEY , President.

Manchester, March 9 , 1848 .

No. 7 .

Mr. Addington to the President of the Manchester Commercial Association .

Sir , Foreign Office, March 25, 1848 .

I AM directed by Viscount Palmerston to acknowledge the receipt of the

letter which, as President of the Manchester Commercial Association, you

addressed to him on the 16th instant, with reference to the murder of six British

subjects in the neighbourhood of Canton in the beginning of last December ; and

I am to state to you in reply that this lamentable loss of life did not happen

from the want of any protection which it was possible for Her Majesty's

Government,or for Her Majesty's officers, political, naval, or military, in China,

to have afforded ; but was the consequence of great imprudence on the part of

the unfortunate gentlemen themselves, who exposed themselves unnecesssarily

to a danger of which they seem to have been previously aware; and Lord

Palmerston cannot but regret that the leading resident merchants at Canton did

not exert that influence which they must be supposed to possess over the

younger members of the British community at that station, in order to persuade

them to abstain for a time from excursions into places in the country in the

neighbourhood of Canton, where it was well known to those leading merchants

that peculiar circumstances had for the time created a very hostile feeling

towards British subjects. If the British merchants at Canton, instead of making

unfounded complaints against Sir John Davis, had done what they might have

done in this respect, the lamentable event which forms the subject of your

letter would probably not have occurred .

I am , & c.

( Signed) H. U. ADDINGTON .

No. 8 .

Mr. Addington to the President of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

Sir, Foreign Office, April 4, 1848.

I AM directed by Viscount Palmerston to acknowledge the receipt of your

letter of the 23rd of March , inclosing a memorial from the Directors of the

Chamber of Commerce and Manufactures at Manchester, respecting the murder

of six Englishmen at Canton in the month of December last .

Lord Palmerston directs me to state to you in reply , that Her Majesty's

Government deeply regret the lamentable occurrence which has led to the

Memorial inclosed in your letter. The animosity entertained by the lower

orders of the Chinese in the neighbourhood of Canton against foreigners, is a

subject of the greater concern to Her Majesty's Government, because no precau

tions which they can possibly take can be sufficient to secure British subjects

from the effects of that animosity, unless those British residents who may be

supposed to be in a position to exercise a salutary influence over their fellow

countrymen, and especially over the younger members of the British community,

will exert their influence to prevent them from needlessly exposing themselves

to risk by seeking to penetrate into villages the population of which are known

to be hostile to foreigners.

Since the melancholy occurrence in December last, Her Majesty's Plenipo

tentiary has been unremitting in his exertions to awaken the Chinese authorities

to a sense of the consequences which must inevitably result from any relaxation

of their endeavours to keep their people in order ; and Her Majesty's Govern

ment have seen with pleasure, in the accounts last received from China,

that the Chinese authorities profess themselves anxious to secure foreigners

from molestation, and that the respectable portions of the Chinese inhabitants

are willing to co -operate with their authoritiesfor this purpose, and are exerting

their local influence to repress any acts of violence or ill-will on the part of the

lower orders against foreigners.

Her Majesty's Government trust that the British residents will, on their

part, co -operate with Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary and with the Chinese autho

rities by refraining from any proceedings which may have a tendency to provoke

collision . No military or naval force of such amount as could , with the consent

of the Chinese authorities, be stationed at Canton, could prevent a sudden

outbreak of popular violence against foreigners who might extend their excur

sions into the country at a distance from the factories, and such a force would

be too small to be employed to retaliate upon an offending district. It is, there

fore, to the prudence and forbearance of the British residents themselves that

Her Majesty's Government must principally look ; and the members of the

Chamber of Commerce over whom you preside can render no better service ,

either to their friends in China, or to the general interests of the country as far

as the trade with China is concerned, than by inculcating upon their corre

spondents in that quarter the expediency and the duty of avoiding all occasion

of collision with the native population .

I am , & c.

(Signed ) H. U. ADDINGTON .

No. 9 .

The President of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce to Mr. Addington. -

(Received April 7.)

Chamber of Commerce and Manufactures,

Sir, Manchester, April 6 , 1848 .

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 4th

instant, conveying to ine the reply of Viscount Palmerston to the Memorial

addressed to his Lordship on the 23rd of March by the Directors of this Chamber,

which had for its object to pray for such a visible protection for the lives and

properties of British subjects resident at Canton as the position of the parties,

under existing circumstances, seem to require, namely, by the never -failing

presence, at least for a time, of one or more vessels of war suitable for those

waters.

I have submitted your letter to the Directors of this Chamber this morning,

and I am instructed to convey to you their unanimous concurrence with his

Lordship in the main arguments of your communication, and to say that a copy

of it and of this letter shall be sent to Canton by the first mail.

I am, however, desired to remark that, whilst this Board coincide fully

with his Lordship's views of the duty of British subjects to refrain from every

proceeding which may havea tendency to provoke collision, yet we have seen,

in the despatches of Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary at Hong Kong, such unmis

takeable evidences of apathy and disingenuousness on the part of the Chinese

authorities whenever their intervention has been called for, or redress has been

claimed, as, in our opinion , to call for a more visible manifestation of the power

to protect British subjects than has, of late, been seen about the factories; the

constant presence of which would doubtless serve to keep the mob of Canton in

better check than the contemned power or inertness of the Chinese authorities

appears to be able to do .

We quite agree with his Lordship that the prudence and forbearance of the

British residents ought to form their chief safeguard, and we shall express this

opinion to those who may be supposed to be in a position to exercise a salutary

influence over their fellow -countrymen, and especially over the younger members

of the British community. We shall address ourselves to the Committee of the

British Chamber of Commerce at Canton , and request an energetic exercise of

their influence in support of his Lordship's views ; but at the same time we must

be permitted to intimate our doubts that the conduct of our fellow -countrymen,

however injudicious it may have been on occasions, has, not more than the bad

faith of the Chinese authorities, contributed to that unfortunate state of feeling

under which , in the face of the Pottinger Treaties, British subjects are to be

compelled to spend their lives, whether at business or at recreation , on one spot,

and within most circumscribed limits .

I take this opportunity of expressingto his Lordship the regret with which

this Board has lately heard of the refusal of the British authorities at Canton,

under instructions from his Lordship, to hold communication with, or to recog

nize, the Chamber of Commerce there. A representation of the sentiments of

this Board has been already made to the Lords Committee of the Privy Council

for Trade, on a report from whom his Lordship's instructions are said to be

founded, which is now under the consideration of that Department ; and I beg

to be permitted to express the hope of this Board, that, when the reconsideration

of that subject shall come before him, his Lordship may see, in the service which

we now request from that body, and in many other important points in which

such an Association may be useful, both to the general interests of the trade and

to the Government itself, good grounds for the withdrawal of the orders to with

hold confidence and recognition from it .

I have, &c.

( Signed ) THOS. BAZLEY.

No. 10.

The President of the Manchester Commercial Association to Viscount Palmerston.

(Received April 11. )

Manchester Commercial Association,

My Lord, April 7 , 1848.

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Lordship's letter

of the 25th ultimo , with reference to the recent murders at Canton , from which

this Association regret to learn that your Lordship attributes that unhappy

occurrence to the temerity of the British residents rather than to any want of

foresight or precaution on the part of Her Majesty's Representative on that

station .

On this point the Association are reluctantly compelled to differ from your

Lordship ; the correspondence adverted to in my last communication , clearly

stating " that no protection such as had been solicited by this Association on

behalf of the British residents at Canton, and promised by your Lordship, was

at hand at the period of the outrage ; and that had the case been otherwise, the

lives of at least some of the parties referred to might have been saved ; and also

that several days elapsed before any efficient assistance could be rendered.”

These facts appear to have escaped your Lordship’s notice.

With reference to your Lordship's observation as to unfounded complaints

against Sir John Davis, the Association are not aware of any evidence to disprove

the statements made as to his unbecoming demeanour towards those members of

the British community who waited upon him, in his official capacity, on the

occasion alluded to .

In conclusion, my Lord , I have only to repeat the expression of my

sincere regret at the melancholy event which we have so much cause to deplore,

and have, & c .

(Signed) J. ASPINALL TURNER .

No. 11 .

Mr. Addington to the President of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce.

Sir , Foreign Office, April 14 , 1848 .

I HAVE laid before Viscount Palmerston your letter of the 6th instant ;

and in order that the Chamber of Commerce and Manufactures at Manchester

may be fully informed of the measures which have been concerted between the

British and Chinese authorities for the future protection of British subjects at

Canton , I am directed by his Lordship to furnish you with a copy of papers

which have just been presented, by Her Majesty's command, to both Houses of

Parliament, and which contain all the information on that subject which has

reached Her Majesty's Government.

Viscount Palmerston trusts that if the good disposition recently manifested

by the Chinese authorities and other influential people at Canton, should be

duly seconded by the forbearance of the British residents from inviting collision

with the natives, the position of British subjects at Canton will be far more

satisfactory than it has hitherto been ; and his Lordship directs me to add , that

Her Majesty's Government duly appreciate the intention of the Association over

which you preside to inculcate upon their correspondents in China the necessity

of exercising such forbearance.

With reference to the observations in your letter touching the Chamber of

Commerce at Canton, Lord Palmerston directs me to state to you that any

representations which you may wish to make on that subject should be addressed

to the Board of Trade.

I am , & c .

(Signed) H. U. ADDINGTON .

No. 12 .

Mr. Addington to the President of the Manchester Commercial Association .

Sir, Foreign Office, April 14, 1848 .

I AM directed by Viscount Palmerston to acknowledge the receipt of your

further letter of the 7th instant, in answer to mine of the 25th ultimo, on the

subject of the events which occurred at Canton in the early part of December

last ; and I am to state to you in reply, that his Lordship does not admit the

correctness either of the assertions or of the arguments contained in your

letter .

I am , &c.

(Signed) H. U. ADDINGTON .

CoñRESPOND ENCE

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FURTHER PAPERS

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line 57

Presented to both Houses of Parliament by Command of Her Majesty.

1857 .

LONDON :

PRINTED BY HARRISON AND SONS .

20.20pm

FAHVAKO COLLEGE

OCT 9 1919

LIBRARY

LIST OF PAPERS.

No. Pago

1. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon April 14 , 1857 1

Sixteen Inclosures.

2. Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon April 24 ,

Five Inclosures.

Further Papers relating to the Proceedings of Her

Majesty's Naval Forces at Canton .

No. 1 .

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon .- (Received May 31.)

(Extract.) Hong Kong, April 14, 1857.

I SEND your Lordship a report from Mr. Chinese Secretary Wade, giving

an account of sundry documents seized on board a mandarin junk by the

expedition commanded by Commodore Elliott.

These papers seem to connect the Imperial Commissioner, the mandarins,

and the Canton Associations , with the atrocious acts of incendiarism , kidnapping ,

and assassination , which have menaced, and continue to menace, the Colony.

They contain , moreover, satisfactory evidence of the efficacy of the precautions

taken hitherto for the preservation of the persons and property of Her Majesty's

subjects ; precautions which I hope will conduct us safely through our perils.

As there is no time to forward a copy of these documents to the Colonial

Department, may I hope your Lordship will kindly cause this despatch and its

inclosures to be communicated to Mr. Labouchere ?

A digest of the contents of the documents above referred to is under prepa

ration by Mr. Wade, but it is far too voluminous to be forwarded by the present

mail.

Inclosure 1 in No. 1 .

Mr. Wade to Sir J. Bowring.

Sir, Chinese Secretary's Office, Hong Kong, April 14, 1857.

I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Excellency the Memorandum

prepared by your desire of the contents of certain papers recently seized on

board a mandarin junk by a party under the orders of Commodore Elliot.

From the original pile , which was of considerable bulk , I selected between fifty

and sixty papers having reference to recent events in and near this Colony ; of

these I have to lay before your Excellency rough translations of twelve , and in

the accompanying Memorandum will be found ,as nearly in order of time as I

have been enabled to arrange them , all the items of intelligence contained in the

whole collection of papers that appear to me deserving of record .

The papers prove to be the correspondence of Chan-tsze-tin, the younger

brother of Chan -kwei-tsih , President or Chief of the Committee of Hostility in

San-on, the district on the coast of which Hong Kong is situated. The latter is

a graduate of the degree of doctor, and formerly held office as a subordinate

member of the Board of Revenue. His brother is a graduate, and the pupil of

Su-ting-kwei , a member of the Han Lin College , one of the most important of

Canton gentry, and apparently the channel of communication between these

brothers and the Governor -General Yeh ; by whose desire they repaimad to their

[240] B 2

native district towards the end of last year, for the purpose of organizing its

population against us.

Chan -tsze -tin, who was specially invested with the charge of stopping our

supplies , distributed his pickets, as far as I can gather, along the communications

between Cowloon and the district city of San -on, on the left bank of the Canton

river near its mouth. His success, as director of the blockade, has not been

very brilliant, and his braves, in three instances at least, have been recently

involved in collision with the coast population, so scrious as abundantly to

occupy the force at the disposal of the district authoritics. It is remarkable

that on two of these occasions the recusants threatened the braves that they

would surrender them to the British Government.

A rough map , which will be completed tomorrow, will show your Excel

ed to in my Memorandum.

lency the position of the different localities referred

The correspondence establishes, beyond doubt, that the San-on Committee,

under authority, and in some cases at the dictation of the Canton Central

Committee, have been parties to almost every atrocity with which we have been

menaced by report, or of endeavour to perpetrate which we have been apprised.

The great junk attack which was expected, belonged to the forces of the

Heung-shan and Shun - tak districts ; and we find no allusion to undertakings on

so grand a scale. Minor expeditions , most likely with incendiary intent, are

projected. There are two allusions to the great poisoning case, but not as an

event in which the San -on people took any immediate part. The accused,

Cheung -alum , is a native of Heung -shan ; and supposing him guilty, the San-on

Committee would by no means, as a matter of course, have been advised of

his design. There is no great evidence of its concert, in any measure, with

jurisdiction beyond the limits of San-on.

It is clearly made out , however, that incendiary plots and assassinations

were devised by this San -on Committee ; attempted, and, as they believe, effected

by their agents, who, when successful , were rewarded either by the San-on

Coinmittee, or by the Chief Committee of Canton . Attempts known to us to

have been made without success, to fire buildings and steamers, are spoken of,

both before and after the fact. The firing of Mr. Duddell's store, and the seizure

of the “ Queen ” steamer, are maiters of great gratulation ; so, on one occasion,

is the kidnapping of foreigners, and that some must have been assassinated there

can be little doubt ; mention being made of more than one transmission of

heads to Canton, and of the disputes regarding the amount of remuneration to

be awarded the assassin .

The victims ( unless corpses have been disinterred for the sake of their

heads) we must assume to have been Portuguese or Manilla men, as no member

of the British or American community has, to our knowledge, been missing.

That Yeh, whose proclamations of reward for British subjects, dead or alive, feli

into our hands very soon after the beginning of these troubles, is consulted

regarding the disposal of captives, is clear from allusion to his instructions

regarding the imprisonment of the eleven or twelve men surrendered to the

San- on Committee by pirates.

On the expectation that we are about to treat for peace, Yeh has directed

his subordinates to abstain from all more seriously aggressive measures, and to

confine themselves to the stoppage of supplies. My belief is, that the expenses

of his militia drive him to accept this hypothesis, and that he is glad to find an

excuse for disbanding a portion of his troublesome allies.

The whole story must satisfy every one of the expediency ofall precautions

that have yet been taken, no less than, in my humble opinion , of the necessity

of guarding against any relaxation of vigilance. The late expedition to Nam -tan

will do much to check the activity of our zealous neighbour, Chan-kwei-tzih,

but it would be unwise to forget the reflection of his brother, that “ when the

barbarians are tired of watching, a blow may be struck with certainty.”

I have, &c.

(Signed) THOMAS WADE,

Chinese Secretary .

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Inclosure 2 in No. 1 .

Chan - tsze - tin to Chan -kwei -tsih .

( Translation .) Night of the 21st January.

[AFTER describing the route from one station to another, and applying

for arms, &c . , he proceeds :-)

I hear from some of the people of the place (Sha-tin or Cowloon) who

have come back from Victoria, that the English barbarians are in very great

perplexity, that a proclamation is issued every day, and three sets of regulations

come out in two days. People out at night are taken up in aa haste, and let go

in a hurry ; no one is allowed out after 8 o'clock ; the shops forced to take out

tickets at sixtcen dollars each ; the heads of establishments paying five dollars

and the partners threc dollars, and that these are changed every few days .

They say, too, that vessels passing to and fro between Cowloon and Victoria are

not searched. A flour bakery had poisoned several English devils, and had been

closed ; upwards of forty people imprisoned in consequence.

The Heung-shan, San -on, and Tung -kun people in business at Hong

Kong were in great alarm , and thinking of returning home, but the Nam -hoi,

Pun -yu, and Shun -tek men had the perverseness not to be alarmed ; so far from

it, they laughed at those of Heung-shan, San-on, and Tung-kun districts for

standing in awe of their mandarins and gentry.

It is also stated that more passage-boats come from Kong -mun to Hong

Kong than before, and that boats still go and come between it and Macao and

Canton , and that supplies flow in from Kwei-shin, Hoi-fung, and Luk -fung.

A kwei-shin man , by name Wong, of Ha-ching (Oyster Bay) , has started a

lorcha (or some such vessel) , which carries 100 bullocks or more every trip. A

“ tsung ” (thic Peninsular and Oriental Company's compradore) of the bullock

shambles is a traitor in chief. Since the commencement of this business, he has

(or they have) opened a number of devil shops. Several of the Nam -hoi, Shun

tek , Huru-chan and Chin -chan people are also making large ptofits. Steps

should, I think, be taken to bring them to justice, in order to the prevention of

the like for the time to come.

I shall go to Cowloon to -morrow , &c.

Note. - Nam -hoi and Pun-yu are the districts on the conterminous bounda

ries of which stands Canton . Shun -tek is a little lower down the river, on the

west side, as Tung-kun is on the cast. San - on lies east of the mouth, as Heung

shan lies west .

Inclosure 3 in No. 1 .

Chan - tsze-tin to Chan -kuei-tsih.

( Translation .) February 5.

ON the 2nd February, I received the 200 taels for the men's pay.

The ten braves from Kin-ton are arrived and have been placed on iny

strergth. The expedition the braves had been directed to make across the

water on the 31st January, did not succeed. On the 3rd, therefore, I returned

to the camp (at Sha -tin ), and, on consideration , postponed the attempt for a few

days. It appears that the English barbarians are much more on the alert ; they

fire guns at intervals during the night to keep up their spirits. Steamers and

other vessels, to the number of twenty, small and great, cruize day and night

without cessation. In every devil hong is stationed a guard of devil soldiers ;

at sunset they make ready their cannon with great care. The police devils ,

in bands of eighteen, patrol, andwhen they cometo a dangerous place they form

up into large bodies and fire, before they venture to proceed.

The Malays and Indian troops that arrived a few days since drill inces

santly. Such being the doubt and alarm of the English rebels, we must wait

till they tire a little of watching, and a blow will then be sure.

At midnight, on the 4th February, I sent ten braves to patrol along the

Hung -ham Pass of Cowloon ; they found a number of small vessels crossing with

vegetables to Victoria . At the sight of the braves their crews took to the

water and escaped , and they only caught two men , Wong-ang and Li-muk

yeung. They were allowed to plunder the boats of their entirc cargo of

vegetables and other things. They also took a devil's boat and two traitorous

Chinese rowing therein ; three others escaped, and the boat was taken into

Cowloon, and left in charge of the Tipo (the head borough ) ; the oars, anchors,

& c ., were brought in to the camp. I have now sent the braves with the two

traitorous Chinese and these articles to you , and request you will have the

affair judicially looked into and settled .

On the 2nd, at Lik -yun-tai-wei, a man named Wong -tai-muk, dressed in

devil clothes and boots, with a devil fowling. piece in his hand, speaking the

devil language fluently, and also Chinese of the Heung-shan dialect,* came

down thehill-side shooting and up to the tents. His appearance being in every

way suspicious, he was seized by the braves and, on being questioned , admitted

that he had been in barbarian service at Victoria ; also that he had owned there

the Tak-lung pork butchery and the Iliny -lung fish concern ; that about the

middle of January he had gone home from Victoria ; he had come out to shoot

because he had nothing else to do, and was in no way a traitorous Chinese.

The gentry and elders of the Nine Wards have given a bail-bond for him , I was

enabled to deal leniently with the case, and released him with a slight punish

ment (or fine) .

I am in want of the following articles (enumerated ).

Yu - ki-nin says that in the eastern division at Sba -tin, and at Chik- mi, boats

load with bullocks, fowls, ducks, & c . , for the supply of the English rebels. It is

very expedient that iwo vessels should be sent to cruize off those places.

Inclosure 4 in No. 1 . .

Chan -tsze- tin to Chan -kwei-tsih .

(Translation.) February 7 , 1857.

I CAME to Cowloon, where there were three of the parties concerned (in the

plot), all of whom insisted on having some guarantee in writing. You will have

found the details in Yu -ki-nin's note, and I have to request that you will signify

to me what remuneration is to be given for each item (of the proceedings therein

specified) , that I may be enabled to discuss this with (the parties interested ).

The barbarian shipping, however, at Victoria has much diminished in number;

in the last few days one -half seem to have gone. The American devils , I under

stand, sec that, as matters stand, there is risk of danger, and ( their ships) have

therefore gone off.

I hear it said that in the course of a few days the English will be sure to

send to Cowloon for the boat we took a short time ago. This is the talk of the

simple villagers, who are full of alarms and misgivings.. For the present I have

forbidden my braves to go to Cowloon, and shall wait some days until I see how

matters stand, before I think of acting.

A few days ago the Englislı rebels took up seven Chinese in the Sheang.

wan (the west of Victoria ). When I see how utterly broken the barbarians are,

I look on it as certain that they will not venture to disturb Cowloon again ( or to

break into it - present themselves there).

I have this day enlisted ten braves - very secretly without the knowledge of

any man - and to morrow shall get a boat for the undertaking. The other body

of men, who are to be put on rations, when the attempt shall have succeeded,

are people of the place (Hong Kong or Cowloon ). They will probably cross the

water in the course of the day (or a few days).

Y11-ki-nin came in from the Committee to-day, and informs me that

yesterday our braves seized eleven rebellious barbarians and have handed them

up to the Committee. I was delighted to hear this; it is really a fine thing.

If we manage matters thus, the English rebels and the local vagabonds will not

• He was most likely a Portuguese of Macao. - See the Governor's late communication .

be able* to bear one another, and each party will get to suspect the other to the

advantage of the main issue. Who is to be sent with these eleven English

rebels ? The two Kwei- shin men need not, I think , be forwarded to Canton. I

am told that their employer sent some one yesterday to learn how the case

stood, and so I suppose he is going to bail them, &c.

Inclosure 5 in No 1 . 0

Chan -kwei- tsih to Chan - tsze - tin .

( Translation .) February 16.

ON the 14th , Tong-sze brought me an answer from you.

In the first decade of the 12th moon (27th December to the 5th January)

Cheng-tsik was directed by the head committee (Canton) to go to Cowloon to

take steps (or the necessary steps). I am told he had got a number of men

together to fire Victoria. I fear, however, that he was not up to the task , and

that he has failed (or will fail) in consequence.

This person was put forward by the I -san -tong (interlined )—I do not know

who is charged with the superintendence of this (tong) —and was to accomplish

his undertaking within a month. Lin-tsun-ngam has taken bis leave of me as

teacher (in my family),and as there is now no gentleman in charge of his twenty

braves, they had better be disbanded ; or the half of them might be, as there

are ten in charge of Sai-kung.

Wan -hing's nephew has got leave for ten days. Mak -ying -tang's station is

Sha-tin ; he has now come in to head - quarters, and will be desired to go to

Sha-tin. On his arrival he must be desired to go to his camp and remain there,

and not to be staying at any other place that he may choose.

Tse-tung-shan (otherwise styled Tse-tso-ko) came in ( from Canton ) to the

Committee ( Sanon) this morning after breakfast, with 30 gilt mandarin buttons,

and 1,000 dollars weighing 690 taels (interlined ); this is to pay the 300 dollars

for the lorcha, and the 30 taels for every devil's head. He also brought

2,000 taels to pay the men , contributed by Wei which I have

ordered to be handed over to the district magistrate.

Postscript. — The price of devil's heads has been reduced this year.

Inclosure 6 in No. 1 .

Chan - tsze -tin to Chan -kwei- tsih .

(Translation .) February 17 .

I WENT on the 29th January to Sai-kung, to Yu-kia -nin's; and the

non-commissioned officers of the Militia of the six wards of Ho -chung, and the

Sha -kok-mi , all came to meet me . The rolls of their train -bands are now

completed , and will be forwarded shortly.

The train -bands of the nine wards of Sik-un are also on foot, and the

non -commissioned officers want the Committee to send flags, and badges, &c.

Yesterday the Commandant Chung returned to Cowloon ; and I learned

to-day that the English rebels had burned four war-junks at Tung.chung, and

were giving out that to-day they would attack Tung-chung itself. One of my

braves has returned from Victoria, and reports that there is no movement of

the kind . Of late they have been more vigilant at Victoria than ever ; no one

is allowed out after 6 o'clock . Devil soldiers share the duty of keeping watch

with the watchmen , and patrol zealously in bodies . From Tai -ping -shan to

West Point there are devils on guard . After the lamps are lit no one is allowed

to go from the shore to the ships, nor to land from the ships . The seamen

devils act as devil soldiers. In the streets there is little business doing . The

Wing -tai, Wo- shang , and Man -tai, three great rice shops , ceased to do business

some days ago .

* I imagine this to allude to a capture some time since, reported on good authority at Macao,

of two lorchas by pirates, who delivered them up to the Mandarins at Nam -tow .

It is now said that the barbarian merchants of the different nations have

deputed some one to England to denounce the English devil Governor (or

Admiral). .

The devils are, in my opinion , in a bad way, and have made this attack on

Tung - chung because they could not vent their spleen elsewhere. Cowloon is

so close that it is easy to watch them thence, and it will be impossible not to

have everything ready ( for its defence) in good time.

(Applies for arms and ammunition, & c., & c . )

Inclosure 7 in No. 1 .

Chan -tsze-tin to Chan - kuei- tsih.

(Translation.) February 21 .

MAN-HINGʻS * nephew returned to the Committec yesterday to report the

state of things in the camp.

This morning the English barbarians sent a note to the office of Cheung

(Commandant of Tai-pong, residirg at Cowloon ).

At noon a steamer, towing 6 or 7 devil-boats, with 300 devil-soldiers,

brought over several tens of outlaws.

A hundred or more devils, all armed with muskets, and several tens of

traitorous Chinese, came to the beach of Cowloon , but did not venture to enter

the streets. Some of the elderly people of the place spoke to them, and then a

military mandarin went out and conferred with the devils. To him the English

barbarians handed over the outlaws, and they were imprisoned in the fort. There

were also three English devils and two traitorous Chinese who came into the

military station ; what passed with them I do not know. After about two hours'

stay, they went on board and sailed away.

The Cowloon people were in great alarm, expecting that there would be a

fight. The neighbouring villages also made ready, and my braves turned out

and lay in their camp waiting to march out.

In the afternoon, one (or some) of my braves came to report what he had

scen , and I thus knew that the English devils had sailed away . What their

purpose (or meaning) may be, it is indeed difficult for any one to divine.

A man, or men, named came to Sha - tin after breakfast,

and said that the Indian (“ Molo ") devil -soldiers who had come were very

miserable wretches, and unfit for service. They looked as if they were ill. Five

or six -tenths of them have no breeches to put on, and they are all wrapped or

swathed in ragged blankets and coverlids . They are now building mat-sheds on

the parade-ground by the barracks.

It has been said, lately, that 3,000 devil-troops are coming, and for some

days they have been embarking guns and other arms, it is said , first to attack

Nam-ton, and afterwards Canton. The police ( lit. green jacket) devils say that

there is to be this one fight more , by which they are to stand or fall ; if they are

beaten , they will be willing to sue for peace ; if they cannot obtain peace, then

they will go home to England.

He also reports that there are 100 persons or more engaged in supplying Hong

Kong from different points of this (the central) division of the coast, all along

the neighbourhood of Tsin - wan. Six vessels had been seized by the Tsin -wan

braves, and had been ransomed for 72 dollars . I think it would be best to send

an active gentleman to enforce the interdict at Tsin -wan , or the practice of

supplying (Hong Kong) will go farther.

Ki-nin says the Tsin-wan flour-shop has opened again, and advises me to

take a party of braves thither, and shut it up. I request your instructions on

this point .

I shall be obliged to you to give to the two braves, Leung and Wan -a -tsei,

sent herewith, some thirty or forty catties of powder and twenty catties of bullets,

to bring back with them .

* Oiherwise mentioned as Man -tsap -shin , who gave notice beforehand of the destruction of

Duddell's bakery, and had himself undertaken to fire Victoria.-See Inclosure No. 9.

Inclosure 8 in No. 1 .

Man -hing * to Chan - tsze-tin.

( Translation .) February 21 .

I REACHED San-on yesterday evening at 6 , and reported all that you

desired. The General Committee of San-on had desired Tong-tsze -ki, who had

brought in another devil's head, to take it on to Canton and report his service

(i. e.claim his reward ). The head of the devil in question was taken by some

other vessel (not Tong's). She fell in with a devil's boat of Kap -shui-mun Pai

wan (Aberdeen is probably meant) ; the devils took to the land, and so she only

got this one head which was brought to the Committee.

The Canton Committee are giving now only thirty taels for devils taken,

whether dead or alive (interlined ) ; for a devil's head they will perhaps give thirty

dollars, but I am not sure . The San - on Committee (consequently) do not now

much prize devils' heads. The inoney that was sent to reward the captors of the

devils taken some days ago caused several days ' discussion. Tsu -kwei and the

rest then consented to receive it.

If you , my uncle, wish the braves of your camp to set about this service of

taking devils' heads, it would be well that you told them plainly (what they will

get) ; there will be no occasion (I think) to be very eager about it from this time

forth (i.e. because it does not pay) .

My uncle, Chan -kwei-tsih, and Tse-fung are much pleased with the pro.

position to destroy houses (viz. Hong Kong).

A reduction of the braves is contemplated, as there are too many, &c.

Inclosure 9 in No. 1 .

Yu -ki-nin to Chan -tsze-tin .

( Translation .) February 25 .

I WRITE in haste to say that, with reference to the undertaking proposed

by the (San-on) Committee some time since, and which Man-tsap-shin engaged at

your place to carry out on the 23rd February, he has come to me to say that

the attempt was made on the night in question in rear of the Tung -li mat

buildings establishment, but that other persons (?) coming to the rescue it failed.

He therefore begs for more time, and engages between the 3rd and 6th of the

moon to fire all the line of hongs to the left of the police -station at the Kung -sze

in the Ha - wan (Commissariat), or else to try the Canton Bazaar, or both it and

the others . I will inform you of the result, &c,

Inclosure 10 in No. 1 .

Su -ting -kweit to Chan -kwei -tsih and Tse -tsok -ko.

( Translation .) March 4 .

I RECEIVED a letter from you yesterday. Your proposition to reduce

the braves, for the sake of economy, isevidence of your thoughtfulness, which

is grateful to his Excellency.

But as there is a report (or, we have news) that the English barbarians are

going to acknowledge their transgression, and that the different nations are

united in their entreaties for trade ; the net being thus open on one side, attacks

and captures would be inexpedient. It will be better, therefore, to suspend the

execution of your projects of incendiarism and seizure of vessels, and I intimate

as much to you, that we may be on our guard against a struggle such as beasts

make when surrounded, as this would give some trouble to his Excellency the

Governor -General.

* Man-hing, or Man -tsap-shin .-See Note, page 6 .

+ Su-ting-kwei, a subordinate censor, now in Kwang-tung, in mourning ; residing at Canton,

and corresponding with Chan -kwei -tsih, as member of the Chief Committee.

Wei-nan has been here, suggesting that if, while our purpose is in so far

changed, the stoppage of supplies be rigorously enforced, it will cow the rebel

lious barbarians, and so far furnish us with a means of keeping them well in

hand . This measure, therefore, must not be discontinued .

Compliments, &c.

Inclosure 11 in No. 1 .

Chan - tsze - tin to Chan -kwei- tsih .

( Translation .) March 4 .

I HAVE the honour to state that I have received your commands of the

28th February. Regarding the proposition that I should head the subscription to

provide funds to remunerate (the captors of) devils' heads, I immediately applied

to my teacher Kang (qy. Su -ting -kwei ). He says, that the Ruler of the rebels has

written back, blaming the military head of the devils altogether for commencing

the disturbance of last year, and that the Governor -General ( Yeh ) has issued orders

to the different train -bands to suspend offensive operations for the present, and

if these are to be deferred , it is clear that the ſtaking of) heads is a measure

that may be even yet more deferred . As regards the head now in custody,

when this is forwarded to Canton , it had better be stated in the memorandum

forwarded with it , that it was taken by my relation Cheung -chan -mei (that he

may get the credit of it) . The amount to be paid in reward can be carried to

the last year's account of money lent between you and myself. If this, however,

is any great trouble to you, there is no occasion to press it. Cheung-king-san

(a Mandarin distinguished in Kwang -si three or four years ago) has already had

the kindness to recommend my relation Cheung, and if this instance be added to

the former, his credit will be increased .

In addition to the payment made by me on the 13th February into the

District City Fund , for the support of the braves, I made a further payment

of 2,000 dollars on the 24th February, and another of 1,000 dollars on the

2nd March

Inclosure 12 in No. 1 .

Chan -tsce- tin to Chan -kwei -tsih .

( Translation .) March 7, night.

I SENT Man -tsap -shin to you to -day at noon. At 6 this evening, I sent

a man to Victoria to spy: he has returned with information that Duddell's store ,

in the Ha-wan , had been burned with upwards of 1,000 peculs of flour therein ,

several score of casks of biscuits , twenty or thirty barrels of spirits , and other

articles of consumption. A devil was burned to death in this fire, which is not

yet extinguished. There was so much flour that it was difficult to get the

fames under . As soon as the fire broke out, the English devils fired some guns ,

and knocked down the Christian church by the side (of the bakery ). The

barracks to the left of it, and the powder magazine, were guarded by several

hundred devil soldiers , who planted cannon for their protection. The spy) saw

with his own eyes that the building burned was Duddell's store and not the

great devil building (Government House or the ofices ). Ever since the closing

of the Heung -shan man , Cheung -alum's bread -shop, the greater portion of the

devils soldiers' rations have been ordered of Duddell. This is why he had so

much flour in store . The burning of supplies as on this occasion is a more

successful measure than the interdict itself .

It is said that a few days ago three devil men -of-war came in with 1,000

and odd English (red haired) devil soldiers on board, and that yesterday arms

were issued to them . I have not ascertained whether there is any devil design

(in this) or not. Wang-sui-shang's undertaking on the night of The

the res

5tht

March failed , and being discovered , two of his underlings were seized .

escaped to Cowloon . It is a great pity that this enterprise should have failed ,

as it has, through the dilatoriness of Wang -sui-shang.

Yesterday a spy reported that supplies are privily sent from Shui-chun

chung, on account of Ho-tsai-luk of Hong Kong, who has a boat armed with

four muskets . He makes ordinarily 100 dollars on a run to or fro, by the

carriage of bullocks and poultry. This run to and fro now stands him in 120

taels ready money.

Ho -tsai-luk is the head of the villains. The way to take him would be to

send people to lie in wait at the water -side, until his vessel came out ; success

would then be certain , and were this man taken , the supplies would be cut off,

without any interdict being necessary. However , I do not venture to undertake

this on my own responsibility, or until I have represented its expediency. The

supply of provisions from the Sha-yu -chung (Shark's Bay) is increasing. I am

going to detach a vessel from Sha-tin , to cruize off the place. There are

some water-braves in my camp, whom I can detach without inconvenience to

Ch.-k .-chow. It is also a place inland (within my range.)

(Application for powder, &c . )

Inclosure 13 in No. 1 .

Chan -kwei - tsih to Chan -isse -tin .

( Translation .) Morning of the 21st February.

THE proposal respecting the gunpowder * (poison ) is very important. A

reward of from 500 to 600 dollars may be given . Three days will be the time

allowed, and notice is to be given beforehand. If the introduction of the powder

(poison ) is successful , it will be rewarded .

The lists of the train-bands of the sis wards and the nine wards (or confe

deracies) have been forwarded by the hand of Yu-ke-nin . Every camp or

station having now its full complement, a hundred ormore, there is no vacancy

to be filled up. I will write to you separately regarding the proposed reduction

of the braves, and you can act accordingly.

I hear that the rebellious barbarians are spreading a report that between

the 28th of this moon and the 2nd of next (22nd to 25th February ), they will

attack the District City, and I am making arrangements for its defence.

Postscript 1.-The banners for the trainbands, and the circular badges for

their dresses, will be finished in a few days , and shall be sent.

Postscript 2. — I send a jar of rice and one of powder.

Postscript 3. — If among the fifty-six volunteers you propose to disband,

there be any available men, the propriety of retaining some ten or so may be

taken into consideration .

Inclosure 14 in No. 1 .

Tan -chin -yung ( supposed to be a Pa-tsung, or Ensign, of the Cowloon establish

ment) to Chan - han - tsun (supposed to be Chan -tsze-tin ).

( Translation .)

Compliments. March ( ?).

WITH reference to the affair which was to have come off yesterday , they

(the parties) were to have set to work on the 10th (5th March ?) , but there are five

barbarians belonging to the steamer ; and on the evening in question, the

servants (or persons concerned),, after giving them their tea, had gone ashore in

different parties, and having obtained the powder, were approaching the vessel,

when one of the barbarians who was reading in the cabin, and had not drunk his

tea, hearing the boat coming, fired upon her. The party tied to the shore,

and so the matter fell through . The bartarian at once gave information, and

search being immediately made for the people concerned, they are now in prison

awaiting their trial. I do not know what admissions they have made ; when

* The word " yo " ( Cantonese " yeuk ”) may stand either for “ ho yo," powder, or “ yo tsai,”

medicine; and the expression “ fu yo," a liitle farther on , for introduction of one or the other.

The teacher inclines to refer it to powder.

C 2

I do I will let you know . There are still, however, four of the parties at

Cowloon, who, now that the plot has failed, have no ground to stand on .*

They know Victoria well, and have a large number of adherents in whom they

have perfect confidence ( interlined ), all of them persons employed in the steamers

or in barbarian residences.

Should you be contemplating another attempt on the barbarian buildings

with them , there is no objection ; but they want to go to their homes. I have

detained then here (Hong Kong or Cow -loon ), and have desired the four, viz. ,

Lam -fuk -bing, Lam -atak , Lam-aluk , and Wong-atsoi, to go to you (with this note).

If you have any purpose to the achievement of which they may be of service, I

hope you will pay and ration them as braves; that they may have whereupon

to subsist, and be at your disposal for any object you may hereafter wish to

carry out.

Inclosure 15 in No. 1 .

Chan-kwei-tsih to Chan - tsze - tin.

(Translation.) March 24.

I SENT you a letter on the 22nd instant , and a jar of powder which I

presume you will have received .

The District City is well prepared, and forthe last two days there has been

no intelligence of any movement upon it. I am told that in the (enemy's)

attack on Tung -chung, ten or more were killed by the villagers. They (the

enemy) have further brought over to Cowloon seventy -two outlaws (rebels or

pirates), from which it is to be inferred no harm will come to Cowloon ; still

less will (the enemy) venture to come to the District City itself.

On the 21st , a devil's head was brought in . This is the fourth victory

announced .

Fung -chou (the Tse mentioned before) is a man of whom you must be

very careful, &c.

Inclosure 16 in No. 1 .

Chan -kwei-tsih to Chan -tsze- tin .

( Translation .) March 29, night.

ON the 29th March (to-day) I received your letter. I have consulted with

Tse on the proposal made by Tang. I think that the price (of the feat he

proposes) has been reduced at Canton , and I do not know exactly how much it

is at present. But if he succeeds , whatever is allowed by the Government shall

certainly be given , and if the sum be short I will make up the 1,000 dollars for

him , and will also apply for aa Mandarin button for him . I will assuredly keep

my promise. But he must bring ( the vessel) into the shoal water in front of

. -

Sha -tsing (where the writer , Chan -kwei-tsih , resides )-- (interlined ) —— if he can

manage this he need not set her on fire ; and on his making a signal from the

masthead, I will have aa fishing junk (or juuks ) ready to go out to meet her, and

if she coul

to assist in bringing her in (interlined );; fixed

When he has

d be warped up to Man -chou

his time for certain , he must give

it would be better still .

me four days' notice that I may have the fishing junk waiting ready somewhere

above Fuk -yung

The money and merchandise on board shall all go to the captors, but

devils and flags, muskets, telescopes , letters and arms, must be given up (to

Government).

Postscript.---On the 26th they brought in a black devil. I have not yet

reported his capture.

On the 28th I had the twelve devils removed to the Wan -lam pawnshop

there to be kept. This is the Governor-General's idea (or pleasure ).

* i. e ., before the Governor-General , or superiors generally, are ashamed to appear.

No. 2 .

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon.- (Received June 8.)

My Lord, Hong Kong, April 24 , 1857.

I HAVE the honour to forward to your Lordship copy of a Report made

by Mr. Chinese Secretary Wade to the Acting Colonial Secretary, as the inclo

sures which accompany it throw much light on our present relations with the

adjacent Chinese continent.

I forward also copy of a Memorandum made by Mr. Wade, on the

subject of papers seized by the expedition under the command of Commodore

Elliot, to which I referred in my despatch of the 14th instant.

An outline plan of the district of San-on, drawn by Mr. Wade, is also

inclosed herewith .

I have, &c.

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Inclosure 1 in No 2 .

Mr. Wade to the Acting Colonial Secretary ,

Chinese Secretary's Office, Hong Kong,

Sir, April 19 , 1855 .

I HAVE the honour to acquaint you, for the information of his Excellency

the Governor, that I have examined two boxes of papers and a small parcel and

Chinese letter, found in two houses at Stanley by Mr. Caldwell, and by him

forwarded to me.

The boxes contain little of interest. In one, the yellow one, are a number

of letters from Tsang -kwei, who appears to have been serving with the Impe

rialist army at Nankin in 1853-54, to his uncle Tsang-sheung-tat , who I believe

is employed by the Colonial Government in some way at Stanley, and to other

persons residing at Stanley. It is curious that one of these was directed to the

care of Mr. Caldwell himself.

In the other box, the black one, are two caps such as are worn in the

winter by mandarins or their followers, a rude knife or dagger in a leather

sheath, and aá few papers, of which one is certainly Triad, and another apparently

a list of a piratical contederacy , whose rendezvous or point of detachment has

been Tung-chung, on Lan -tao, the spot recently visited by the Honourable East

India Company's steamer “ Auckland.”

There are, besides, in both boxes, a mass of account books, accounts, leases

or mortgages , and similar documents, so far as I can judge of no special

importance.

I inclose translation of the Chinese letter, with such preliminary remarks

as I have deemed it necessary to make ; also translation of a note found with

the articles contained in the small parcel before mentioned .

I have, &c.

(Signed) THOMAS WADE ,

Chinese Secretary.

Inclosure 2 in No. 2 .

Translation of Chinese Document scized at Stanley, in Hong Kong, April 1857.

[ THE Chinese letter forwarded by Mr. Caldwell purports to be from Chan

kwei-tsih, the San -on graduate, several of whose letters to his brother fel linto

the hands of the cupedition commanded by Commodore the Honourable C

Elliot last week . These being in my possession, I compared the writing in five

of them with that of the letter translated below. Of the five, four very much

resemble each other in character ; the fifth differs from the four sufficiently to

produce the impression at first sight that it is by a different pen . The letter

seized by Mr. Caldwell did not seem to me, either in style or character, to

resemble any of the other's exactly ; but it has a postscript which, it struck me,

was in the same hand as the fifth above adverted to ; and after aa little examina.

tion , without, to the best of my belief, any remark of mine to the same effect, a

competent teacher, who had already expressed great doubt as to the identity of

the handwriting in the body of the letter, observed that that of the postscript

was identical with the handwriting of the fifth .

It is to be observed that the postscript is written expressly to explain why

Chan -kwei -tsil's seal is not employed.

On the other hand, the place from which the cover of the letter states it to

have been sent, Sha-tsing, is known to be the residence of Chan -kwei -tsih . It

seems, therefore, singular that he should not have had aa seal within reach, even

supposing him to have been at the city of San -on, where the letters seized last

week show him to pass much of his time as Chief of the Committee of Anti

Barbarian Hostilities. It is also remarkable that the latter is dated the 10th

April, namely , four days after the destruction of his junk fleet by Commodore

Elliot. lle is reported to have collected this with some difficulty, and to be

now much embarrassed by applications from the owners of the vessels destroyed

to replace them : yet he here ofiers to lay an embargo on junks to support his

assassins in the undertaking projected. Lastly, the reward offered is unusually

and almost incredibly large.

The letter is written by some one suficiently accustomed to the use of the

pen, but at the same time so partially educated as to misemploy several charac.

ters . He is probably some dealer or shopman ; not a man of literary pretension .

If Chan-kwei-tsih were cognizant of the letter, and his postscript I confess leaves

me little doubt on this point, it is , I think, to be assumed that it is purposely

written in another hand and sealed with another seal than his, either with a view

to securing himself a retreat, should the doing of the deed, as in the case of

Senhor Amaral, bring after it aa greater train of consequences than its instiga

tors anticipated, or to facilitate his future evasion of a claim which our accounts

of the District Exchequer do not lead to suppose it in a condition to satisfy.

(Signed) THOMAS WADE ,

Chinese Secretary.]

The cover of the letter bears on its front :

“ ( This) important letter is given (to the bearer) to be delivered into the

hands of Chan -a -tsun of the police station at Chik -chu (Stanley).”

On the reverse :

“ The expense of the postage is defrayed at Sha-tsing of San -on . The

name (of the writer) is given within ."

Within :

" The matter (before us) being one of perfect secresy, namely, the projec

tion of measures with hearts in concert and strength united for the death of the

Fan-kwei, superfluous language is not enployed . ( That is to say, the writer

apologises for dispensing with the compliments usual at the beginning of notes

in private correspondence.)

“ I have to state, gentlemen , that as you have undertaken to execute the

measures for the seizure and extermination of the barbarians, considered by you

with the officer deputed yesterday ( or recently) to wait on you, I write this note

to request particularly that you will lose no time about the matter. But you

really have the power, if you could perform the service of taking the heads of

Sam-kwei (Mr. Caldwell) and Kanna-kin (Colonel Caine) you should be recom

pensed with 50,000 dollars, a bution of the sixth grade, and a dark feather.*

The Emperor's edict says, “ Exterminate all the barbarians of Hong Kong. '

Sam -kwei and Akin are the only two in Hong Kong who know all about the

* These words are marked in the original by circles, which correspond to our underlinings.

Chinese, but they have a number of police stationed about who keep so strict a

watch that I should have thought there was a difficulty in cutting them ( Colonel

Caine, &c. ,) off. You say, however, gentlemen, that it is in your power to cut

off Sam-kwei and Akin , ( if which be so) it appears to me that the extermina

tion of all in Hong Kong, were it required, would be as casy as taking anything

out of one's purse by putting one's hand in. Besides, (one of you ) being Ti-po,

(and another') in charge of the devil buildings of the barbarians , you must be had

in great respect by the barbarians, and must have, I assume, access, against

which they take no precaution, to the buildings of the devils. Success would be

certain were your attack made when they were unprepared and not expecting it.

It is said, too, that these men are in the habit of going to Chik -chu (Stanley)

and walking about there for recreation .

“ Besides you and the Ti-po, Shang-hing,* Kam - i, and Tsang -sin are a

company that hang well together, and as to your confederates it has long been

said that, one call from you, a hundred voices will respond, with hearts as one,

with strength united, banded together, making answer to the summons.

“ Make a great effort , gentlemen , and accomplish this very difficult matter

(lit. put forth aa mountain -moving strength, take up on your backs one wall or

city after another) ; if your plans be good , you cannot fail of success. In any

case you must be early active ; you must not delay. If you want junks to

support you , let me know, and I shall immediately lay an embargo on some

which shall go to you for the purpose. There shall be no mistake about it.

“ When you have read this letter, gentlemen, hold it to the fire and destroy it ;

you must not keep it . On no account let its contents get wind . Mind what I

say ! Mind what I say ! Be sure you remember ! Be sure you remember !

“ There is inore to tell you than I write. I specially communicated (thus

much to you) , and wish you wealth and tranquillity.

“ To At-sun, eldest brother of the house (or tribe) , and the rest of the

gentlemen ; and to Tsang -sin, and the rest of the gentlemen of his set or company.

“ 3rd moon, 16th day . (10th April.)

“ Chan -kwei-tsih writes and salutes you.

“ P.S. (in a different hand.) — I have to add that my own seal is at home in

my house. I have not got it with me, and have borrowed this fancy seal

because I found a man on the road (to Hong Kong ?) to whom I am giving this

letter. Pray give it all credit ; on no account have any misgiving about this

fancy seal . Mind what I say ! Mind what I say !"

Inclosure 3 in No. 2 .

Memorandum on Contents of a Parcel seized at Stanley .

IN a small paper parcel containing a four- bladed ivory penknife, a cameo

ring, and two watch keys, of which one is broken, was the following note :

“ A gold watch , a gold chain , a brace of pistols, two rings with stones in

them , saddle shaped, two watch -keys, and a small foreign knife, in all nine

articles ; the price of which, when they are sold, at whatever value, my brother

(the person addressed) may put on them , ( 1) shall be obliged to him to receive.

“ To (my) elder brother At-sun .

“ The year Ting (short for Ting -ki, the present year), the 3rd moon , and

10th day (4th Apirl , 1857 ).

“ A-po's own handwriting.”

(Signed) THOMAS WADE,

Chinese Seeretary.

Shang -hing is , I think , a shop name. The " company that hang well together," taken with

what follows, argues that they have influence over a number of triads, pirates, or the like. The

“ company, & c .,” is a common expression.

Inclosure 4 in No. 2 .

Memorandum of the Information contained in certain Papers seized by a party of

Seamen and Marines engaged under command of Commodore the Hon .

C. J. G. B. Elliot, in the capture of some Junks, on the 4th of April, 1857 .

AMONGST much that was of no importance, therewas taken a tolerably

complete file of the correspondence, some in original and some in copy, of one

of the principal leaders of anti-barbarian agitation in San -on, the districtopposite

Hong Kong .

The letters speak, ' in terms more or less explicit, of the contemplated

destruction of Victoria, the seizure of steamers, and the capture and decapitation

of Englishmen. A large number are devoted to the steps taken , or to be taken ,

for the stoppage of supplies ; a measure which, in two cases, has recoiled, as will

be scen, somewhat seriously on those employed to carry it out. The great

poisoning case is twice alluded to , but not in a manner calculated to implicate

A -lum , who is mentioned, but as “ the Heung-shan man.” If, as has been

generally supposed, he were a principal in that case,he would almost certainly

have received his instructions from the Committee of his own district and not

from San -on . At any rate there are no words in the papers now under review

which can be construed as at all laying the onus of the offence upon him .

They contain , on the whole, a singular mixture of truth and exaggeration,

but are even more remarkable for the misapprehension both of our means and

motives, the standing and opportunities of some of the writers considered.

Chan -kwei-tsil , the agitator -in -chief of the District of San -on, is a man of

distinguished literary eminence : he graduated as a doctor ( “ tsin-sze ' ) in 1841 ,

and was appointed a subordinate of the sixth grade in the Board of Revenue at

Pekin . His age must be between forty and fifty. He resides ordinarily at

Sha-tsing, about two miles from the District City of San-on , but appears to be

found, at present, mostly at the latter place, where he is President of the

Central District Committee of Hostilities.

Chan - tsze -tin, his third brother, may be termed chief of the Executive. It

was his portfolio that was taken , and his letters and papers introduce us to

various names of more or less respectability.

Su -ting -kwei, who corresponds with both brothers from Canton, is a

subordinate consol , now in mourning for a parent, and consequently living in

retirement in Kwang -tung, his native province. lle appears to be Yeh's channel

of communication with the San -on gentry:

There are, beside the above, letters from the nephew of the brother Chan ;

from Man -hing, the nephew of Man -tsap -shin, a gentlemanı, the author of an

unsuccessful project to burn or blow up the City of Victoria, and the probable

agent in the destruction of Duddell's store, of which his nephew is stated in one

letter to have given notice to Chan - tsze -tin, two days before it occurred. A

very active gentleman named Yü -ki-nan, and Wong -sui-shang, chief agent of

an attempt (it is supposed) upon the inerchant-steamer “ Unicorn ,” also figure

in the correspondence. The capture of the “ Queen , ” and the demand of the

Portuguese Government for her , are likewise mentioned ; but the fact of gravest

interest to us, is the announcement that heads, stated to be heads of Englishmen,

had been, on more than one occasion, forwarded to Canton, and that a reward, in

amount so much below the captors' expectation as to cause serious discontent,

was paid for them .

There is, on the whole, indisputable evidence that none of the recent

rumours of impending danger, general or particular, were without foundation ;

that we have been fully justified in every precaution that has been taken ;

and that peril is only to be apprehended in the event of a relaxation of our

vigilance.

The earliest paper of importance is dated the 4th December last. The

Canton Conimittce direct two gentlemen, not of this District, to repair to

Kaulung (Cowloon ), and take measures for its defence.

On the 21st January Chan -tsze - tin , informs his brother that his braves are

so planted at Sha -tive and Tai-wei, in rear of Cowloon , as to command all the

approaches to the latter place, which is separated from the others by the steep

range of bills facing Ilong Kong. Victoria, he hears, is in great perplexity.

“A

A proclamation is issued once a day, and three sets of regulations every two

days. People abroad at night are taken up in haste , and discharged with equal

precipitation .” No one is allowed out after 8 o'clock< ; the shops are forced to

take out tickets (passes ?) and to pay sixteen dollars a ticket, and these have to

le changed every few days. Boats passing to and fro between Cowloon and

Victoria are not searched, but a bakery (it is not here stated whose) had been

closed , and some forty people imprisoned for poisoning a number of English

devils .

We are styled in all the papers, barbarians, devils , barbarian devils, or

rebellious barbarians.

The people of the San-on, Heung -shan, and Tung -kun Districts, the writer

goes on to say, are all alarmed, and meditate a return home ; but those of

Nam -hoi and Pun -yü, on the confines of which Canton is situated, and Shun-tak,

deride the submission of the others to the authority of the officials and gentry.

He closes with a complaint that Hong Kong is drawing supplies from Canton ,

Kong.mun, and Macao.

On the 24th January, he reports an improvement in the working of the

interdict to the eastward, in the region overlooked by his pickets. Two of his

braves have visited Victoria, and counted 110 foreign vessels in harbour, but

declare that there is not one-tenth of the usual quota of native craft belonging

to the province. There are some from other provinces (viz., north and east

coasters). The west end of the city is quite deserted, and the English, by the

unanimous declaration of the Chinese, thoroughly dispirited. All mat and

wooden buildings had been demolished towards East Point. He also reports a

great burglary in the centre of Victoria ; the burglars had escaped with several

thousand dollars over the hills .

The people of Kwei-shin, the district east of San -on, continue perversely to

supply Hong Kong. At the latter place, the English protect the harbour by

cruizing night and day, north and south of the island, but do not venture to land

on the opposite side.

The braves that accompany the writer, Chan-tsze-tin, are only 140 ; but

with the local train -bands, it presently appears,a body , real or nominal , of 1,000,

is assembled in rear of the Cowloon hills .

On the 2nd February a man, calling himself Wong -a -muk , dressed in

devil clothes and boots, armed with a devil fowling -piece , and speaking devil

language fluently, came over the hills by Chan -tsze-tin's position, shooting, and

was made prisoner. He declared that he had been in business at Hong Kong,

had kept the Tak -lung pork -butchery, and the Hing-lung fish-shop. There is

some reason to suppose that this man was a Macaist. Strange to say, he was

bailed out by the gentry of Sai- kung, a place which our data lead us to mark in

the neighbourhood of Hebe Haven, and released with a slight punishment.*

On the 5th February, Chan -tsze -tin writes to his elder brother Chan

kwei-tsih, that an intended expedition of the braves across the water (to Hong

Kong) had failed . The English were too well on their guard. Cannon are fired

by night at intervals, to keep their spirits up . Cruizers constantly sweep the

harbour. The black troops who have come on drill incessantly . “ Such being

the doubt and alarm of the English rebels, we must wait until they tire a little ;

)

a blow will then be sure ."

He had intercepted a large quantity of supplies en route to Hong Kong, and

had seized an English row -boat, with two Chinese of the five in her. She was

left in charge of the headborough of Cowloon. A few days later he expresses

his apprehensions that the English will come to Cowloon to look for the boat,

and had directed his own braves not to go into Cowloon for the time being.

At this time, 7th February, both Chan-kwei-tsih and the District Magis

trate issue orders to the braves to abstain from molesting the people. They are

to be forward in action : to report all seizures to their officers ; not to cut down

trees near the villages ; to be alert on their posts ; and to refrain from insulting

the women .

Chan -tsze -tin has farther news from Victoria . After admitting his misgiv

ings above mentioned, he thinks that we are “ so utterly broken ” that we shall

not venture to disturb Cowloon . The Americans at Hong Kong look on the

present state of things as full of danger, and are sending their ships away.

* There is also a Sai-kung, called by the Nam -tau traders Sai-lu, the western road, or lay ; but

th's is a spot near San-on.

He had hiniself been to Cowloon to meet three of the parties about to

undertake something at Hong Kong. These men insisted on having a written

guarantee of their remuneration . He then enlisted ten braves secretly (it is to

Le presumed , for co -operation in the proposed plot ), and these were to be

supported by another body. They would probably cross the water in a day

or two.

He closes his note with the announcement that eleven English rebels have

been, to his great joy, made prisoners. ( These were probably Portuguese,

belonging to a lorcha seized off' Lan-tao by pirates, and by them exchanged

against one of the piratical body then in the hands of the mandarins; a Chinese

who escaped brought the intelligence to Macao on the 10th February ), and that

pirates, or other outlaws, were the captors is manifest from Chan -tsze -tin's

exultation in the prospect of “ theEnglish rebels and vagabonds of the country

not being able to bear each other, if matters are managed thus ; cach party will

get to suspect the other, to the advantage of the main issue .”

The interdict, he writes on the 13th February, is being more steadily

enforced to the east . On the 16th , a letter from his brother Chan -kwei- tsih ,

evidently in answer to more than one from Chan -tsze -tin , explains that, about

the end of December, a man named Cheng -tsik was directed by the Canton

Committee to go to Cowloon and collect persons together for the purpose of

firing Victoria. The plot had fallen through. After other matters, he states

that Tsé-fung-shan has brought down thirty gilt mandarin buttons and 1,000

dollars, to be distributed in rewards. This Tsé is a gentleman associated with

him in anti- barbarian operations. Either against him , or another Tsé, as a

dangerous man , he warns his brother in a subsequent note . Later still , a Tsé is

dismissed by the younger brother, with his braves, for quarrelling with some one.

The rewards to be disbursed out of the 1,000 dollars, he says, in an inter

rcha, and 30 taels for every devil's head.”"

lineation, “ are 300 dollars for the lorcha,

Then, in a postscript : “ The price of devil's heads has been reduced this

year.

On the 17th February, Chan-tsze-tin writes that Victoria is reported to be

more on the qui vive than ever. No one is allowed out after 6 o'clock . No

communication permitted between the shipping and the shore after dark.

Soldiers and sailors both co -operate with the police.. Three principal rice-shops

had been closed .

He had heard of the destruction of four war -junks at Tung- chung, on

Lan-tao , and presumes that the English had done this to satisfy the feeling of

spite which they could not vent in any other direction.

“ It is now said that the barbarian merchants of the different nations have

deputed some one to England to denounce the English devil-chief (Governor or

Admiral).”

He is sanguine about the safety of Cowloon , and his confidence is strength

ened on the 21st February, when an English steamer brought over seventy -two

pirates and surrendered them to the fort. Cowloon was in great alarm , and the

garrison stood to their arms. The English went away, however, without doing

any mischief . “ What their purpose (or intention ) may be, it is indeed difficult

for any man to divine."

The Indian reinforcement is, at the same time, stated to be in a very mise

rable condition ; sickly and unserviceable : “ five or six-tenths without breeches

to wear, and all swathed in ragged blankets and coverlids. Mat barracks are

being built on the parade-ground for 3,000 men that are expected. Arms are

being embarked, it is believed , for an attack, first on Nam -tau, and then on

Canton.

“ The police (green -jacket devils) say that there is to be this one fight

more ; by it they are to stand or fall. If they are beaten, they will be ready to

sue for peace ; if they cannot obtain peace, they will go home to England ."

Six vessels, with supplies for Hong Kong, had been seized at Tsin -wan (a

small place a little to the west of Victoria Harbour) and ransomed for 72 dollars.

A flour-mill there is said to be working again, and it is recommended that a party

of braves should be sent to close it.

The opening of this shop had been announced in aa letter from Yü -ki-nin,

who also states that the execution of a plot discussed between him and Chan

tsze -tin on the 20th February is deferred. What this was, does not appear.

On the 21st February, Chan-man -sin, nephew of Chan-tsze-tin, writes to

his uncle to inform him that the San- on Committee had forwarded to Canton an

English head , taken from an English cruizing boat (it is believed he means to

say near Aberdeen, on the south side of the island); the rest of the crew escaped

to land . “ The Canton Committee are giving now only 30 taels for devils

taken , dead or alive.” (It will be remembered that Yeh's earlier proclamations

promised 100 taels reward for Englishmen taken alive . He then interlines :)

“ For aa devil's head they may possibly give but 30 dollars ; the San-on Committee

(consequently ) do not now much prize devils' heads.” He then goes on to

mention , that some days had elapsed before the braves had consented to receive

the reward lately sent; requests his uncle, if he is going to employ his own

braves in the getting of heads , to tell them plainly the state of the case ; and ,

finally, recommends him not to be keen in the head-hunting, as it is unremune

rative.

document.

There is some doubt about the date of the next document. It is either of

the 21st February or the 22nd March . Assuming it to be the former, the

proper place of the note in the series is here. In it Chan -kwei-tsih promises

from 500 to 600 dollars if an attempt apparently * to blow up some place,

succeeds. It must be done in three days, and notice is to be given . The bar

barians are spreading a report that they are coming to attack San -on. He,

Chan -kwei-tsih, is preparing to defend it. (The expenses of the braves are

evidently pressing the Committee's exchequer. Reductions of their number are

proposed and effected.)

On the 23rd February, a man whose surname is not given , but whose

name is Yü -nam , writes that (the Representatives of) Portugal and France have

addressed a letter (to Yeh ) to the effect that the rebel vessel seized (evidently

the “ Queen,”) was not English , but Portuguese (interlined) : this is to be kept

very quiet. The inquiries made by the writer or his superiors establish nothing

to their satisfaction one way or the other. Things were not well at Nam -tau,

the trade of which place was suffering much from the interdict on supplies to

the foreigner. This was causing discontent and cavilling. The braves, com

manded by the man before mentioned as dissatisfied with the amount of head

money awarded , were deserting. There was also trouble at Sai-kung.

On the 25th February, Yu ki-nin writes to Chan- tsze-tin to say, that Man

tsap -shin's attempt (at fire-raising) had failed on the 23rd. (He means after

midnight. Our police record an attempt on a shop named Tung-li at the other

end of the town on the 24th .) It was made behind the Tung-li, a mat-building

establishment in the Ha-wan, but was to be renewed again in three or four days

in the shops to the left of the police station by the Commissariat (Webster's

bazaar), when the whole line of hongst in that vicinity could be burned ; or in

the Canton Bazaar, or in both places at the same time . (An attempt was made

on the Canton Bazaar, but on the 19th February.)

On the 26th, Chans-tsze-tin reports to his brother that several of the shops

which had been closed at Hong Kong ( for the new year,) are open again, and

that supplies come in from Macao, Chan -tsun, a place in Shun-tak , well up

the river, and Tai-ping, in Tung-kun, near the Bogue.

Then, he receives news from Tang-chiu-yung that the steamer " Queen "

seized near the Ning Islands, was a passenger-ship ( that is, not a war -steamer) ;

that she had gone up to Canton to Cheung -tak -ngung (a civilian much distin

guished in the troubles of Kwang-si, where he was judge, in 1851-4, and now

Chief, or one of the Chiefs, of the Canton Committee of Hostilities) . He will

report her capture to Yeh. There are other emissaries, adds Chan, at hand, >

who are ready to make another swoop . He had been to Cowloon to confer with

three. Wong-sui-shang's design (against a steamer ) for the execution of which

he was to have received 3,000 dollars, it was thought would fail ; Wong was so

slow. He had written to hurry him . The sum being large, and there being no

“ head and neck ” to produce in proof, he, Wong, was to bring the vessel to a

particular spot, &c .

Ships were few at Victoria. The soldiers before estimated at one thousand

turned out to be a small body . The building of the mat barracks had been

discontinued.

* The word “ yo ” here perplexes the translator. If it stand for “ ho -yo," it means powder ; if

for "yo-tsai " it means medicine, drugs, poison. The former, all things considered, is most likely

what is intended.

+ The Commissariat, Messrs. Fletcher & Co.'s, &c.

D 2

-18

On the 27th February, he reports an increase of vigilance at Victoria .

People are shut up in their houses at 5 o'clock , and, even at noon , ſew seen

about.. He has inspected Cowloon, and finds thirty heavy guns fit for use ,, and

about 110 soldiers in garrison. He complains that the interdict is not rigorously

enforced by the authorities, either civil or military. He would himself plant a

picket on some high ground about two miles from Cowloon , in a place well

suited for purposes of surveillance, but is afraid, if his tents are seen by the

English, that " they will pick a quarrel with him . ” He has seized a junk coming

with supplies from Kwei-shin .

A note express from Tang-chiu- yung, without date, begs him to come to

Cowloon at once to meet five friends, who engage that something shall be under

taken and accomplished at once. ( These are probably the men with whom he

has conferred at Cowloon, according to his note just quoted . The plot was

most likely to destroy the “ Unicorn ." )

The opposition of the people of Wong Kong, who persist in supplying

Hong Kong, now begins to give serious trouble ; but deferring this and other

similar matters to a later period, our next letter is a paper from Su -ting-kwei,

the ex- Censor, who writes from Canton that the English barbarians are said to

be about “ to acknowledge their transgression , and that the different nations are

united in their entreaties for trade." Incendiarism and the seizure of vessels

may therefore be postponed, as it might give some trouble to the Governor

General were similar acts to drive the barbarians “ to such a struggle as beasts

make when surrounded.” The stoppage of supplies is to be as strictly insisted

upon as ever, as this is a means of keeping the rebellious barbarians well in

hand .”

On the same day, 4th March, Chan -tsze-tin (who has been the pupil of

Su- ting-kwei, that is to say, has sat at his feet as bis literary patron ) writes to

his brother that he has heard from Su that “ the ruler of the rebels ( Her Majesty

Queen Victoria) had written back blaming the military devil-head altogether for

commencing the disturbance of last year ,” and that Yeh had issued orders to the

trainbands to suspend offensive operations. The taking of heads, he suggests,

may therefore be let alone with even greater propriety. The credit of taking a

head now about to be forwarded to Canton, he requests may be assigned, in the

memorandum accompanying it, to Cheung -chan -mu, a relative of his own.

On the 7th March , Chan -tsze -tin writes to his brother that he had sent

Man -tsap-shin to him , and reports the burning of Duddell's store on the night

of the 6th ; great destruction of flour, biscuits, and spirits ; and the death of a

black man in the flames. “ As soon as the fire broke out, the English devils

fired some guns and knocked down the Christian Church by the side (of the

flour store).” The barracks and powder-magazine were guarded by several

hundred devil soldiers. The spy “ saw with his own eyes that the building on

fire was Duddell's store, and not the great devil building (Government house or

offices). Ever since the closing of Cheung-alan., the Heung -shan man’s, bread

shop, the greater portion of the devil soldiers' rations have been ordered of

Duddell.” The burning of his store is an excellent measure, ““ of more value

than the interdict itself.” In a separate letter he mentions that Man -hing,

nephew of Man -tsap -shin, had given notice on the 4th March that the deed

was to be done. As there is now no doubt of it, news should be sent post haste

to Canton .

Three ships are believed to have come to Hong Kong with troops ; and

arms have been issued to these, for what purpose is not known ..

He then expresses great regret at the failure of Wong -sui-shang's enter

prise on the night of the 5th March . Two of his underlings had been seized ;

the rest had escaped to Cowloon .

The town of Sam -chun (a little east and below San-on) is denounced for

supplying Hong Kong ; and Ho - tsei-luk, of Wong Kong, is specially mentioned

as the villain - in - chief. We hear more of him in time.

The (Chan ?) Yü- nam before mentioned writes on the 8th March, that the

English wish to treat, and that other foreign nations are giving ( Yeh ) to

understand that they wish (the English ) to confess their fault.

On the same day Chan-tsze-tin writes to the Sai-kung Committee to hold

their hands in respect of the graver acts of aggression, but to continue strict in

stopping the supplies. Also to his brother, congratulating himself on the

prospect of the speedy and satisfactory termination of the campaign that is

before them , now that the English are about to kiss the rod. He proposes

reducing his braves by near half their strength.

In another letter of the same day he alludes to the fact, that the business

was done on the 6th March (evidently the burning of Duddell's store) . About

the same time, Tang-chiu-yung, believed to be an Ensign of the Cowloon

establishment, reports the failure of an attempt to destroy a steamer on the 5th

March. . (This was doubtless the “ Unicorn ;" a man was apprehended, on the

6th March, by Mr. Caldwell, on suspicion of his privity to a plot in contempla

tion against that vessel.) The master had detected the plot, and had seized one

man ; four, however, whose names are given, had made their escape. They

know Victoria well , and have a large number of adherents, who have been, or

are, in foreign employ, either in dwelling -houses or on board ships . They

would be useful in any future incendiary undertaking, and Chan is recom

mended to retain them , on militia rations, as they have no other means of

subsistence .

On the 10th March , he writes that he has been obliged to dismiss Tse, the

man before mentioned ; and, in the same letter, adds, that the rebellious

barbarians do not now look as if they meant to ask for pardon and sue for

peace. Every important place must, therefore, be well guarded ; but if there be

no movement observable before the end of the moon , he will disband ten more

braves. ( The expense of this force very possibly accounts for Yeh's readiness to

believe that we were contemplating a course which would have enabled him to

dispense with them .)

On the 24th of March , Chan -kwei-tsih tells his brother that on the night

of the 19th, he had sent on an English head to Canton . “ This is the fourth

victory announced .” He has understood that in the English attack on Tung

chung (the “ Auckland's ” affair of the 1st April) ten English were killed.

On the 29th March, the elder brother, Chan-kwei- tsih, writes very earnestly

to the younger, Chan -tsze -tin, regarding the capture of a vessel, about to be taken

by Tang -chiu -yung. He fears the amount of remuneration has been reduced at

Canton , but he will himself make up whatever is allowed to 1,000 dollars. He

must have four days' notice , and thevessel must be brought up tothe Mau -chau

shallows, opposite Sha-tsing (a little above San-on, where Chan -kwei -tsih

resides ', in which case he will send out to meet her. Under these circumstances

she need not be set on fire. 66

Any money and merchandize on board her are to

go to the captors, but devils, flags, muskets, telescopes, letters, and arms, must

be given up (to Government).” A black devil was taken on the 28th, and the

twelve devils (whose capture has been noticed before) are removed, by the

Governor -General Yeh's desire, to the Wan-lam pawnshop. ( These are most

likely the Portuguese who, after being two months in durance, have just been sent

back to Macao .)

On the 3rd April, the same authority states, that on the 1st the English

had made another attack on Tung -chung, on the north of the Island of Lan -tao,

and had carried off a fast-boat. Their fire had only killed one man . He hear's

that Tam , a sergeant of the Cowloon garrison, well known as a thief-taker, &c. ,

had been seized in Victoria by Mr. Caldwell in person. He, Chan -kwei-tsih, is

moving a large force on Tsin-wan .

(This was to punish the people of that place for their contumacy ; they

persist in supplying Hong Kong.)

( The remaining papers, with one exception - a list of the shops and

tra esmen in parts of the centre and west of Victoria — all relate to collisions

between the people, and the braves and their superiors, on the same ground, in

the nionth of March .)

At Tsin-wan , which lies on the other side of our bay, although a little west

of the limits of the harbour, the braves, attempting to stop seven supply-boats ,

were beaten off with the loss of a life. Arecreant graduate named Chan -tsik -ün,

led on the rioters, whosurrounded the public meeting-house, tied up the under

graduale in charge of the braves, beat the latter, and robbed them of everything,

and finally threatened that, unless the said under -graduate signed a statement to

the effect that his braves had killed one of their people by mistake, they would

carry the whole party to Victoria, and get a reward for them from the English.

They also extorted 140 dollars ransom .

It is remarkable that in the letter detailing all this ( which is from Chan

tsze-tin, and urges Chan-kwei-tsih to put down these people) there is a detached

slip of paper in a different hand, with the words, “ On no account destroy the

Temple of Jesus of the West, at Tsin-wan . " Reports on the fray at Tsin -wan

come in from various quarters ; and we have now an edict of the District

Magistrate desiring the District Committee to move a force upon Tsin -wan,

Wong Kong, and Sai-kung. In a separate paper are given the names of the

Sub-Committee charged with these operations.

There is a village named Wong Kong about ten miles higher up the

Canton river than the city of San -on ; but this can hardly be the place, which

appears to be not far from Sham-chun, a town higher up the stream on which

San -on stands . As before observed, Sai-kung lies in one of the small bays east

of the headland which forms the eastern side of Hebe Haven .

At the former place boats load for one Ho-tsei-luk, stated to have almost a

monopoly of our supply market. Some braves interfering with these were fired

upon. The village elders were summoned to give up Ho-tsei-luk, but evaded

compliance. The magistrate had himself gone to Wong Kong ; but the people

were assembled by beat of gong, the official was refused admission , and obliged

to fall back on Chik -mi, a place a little east of Sham -chun.

(The dates here are not very clear, but the whole must have taken place

about the beginning of March .)

At Sai-kung, on the 6th March, a salt- boat, passing from Kwei-shin to

Victoria, with fuel, was seized. Information was sent to Victoria , and twenty

salt.boats came to the rescue ; their crews retook the prize, ransacked the public

all, or meeting -house, and threatened the braves that if they continued at Sai

Kung they would hand them and their leader over to the English at Victoria .

( Signed ) THOMAS WADE,

Chinese Secretary.

Inclosure 5 in No. 2 .

Plan of the District of San-on.

CHINA.

Her

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Further

Canton

Nava

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Forces

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both

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Presentedto

of.

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Majesty

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LONDON:

HARRI D.

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IND

SON

PRISTEBY

FURTHER PAPER

RELATING TO THE

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HER MAJESTY'S NAVAL FORCES

CANTON.

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Proceedings of Her Majesty's Naval Forces at Canton.

Sir J. Bowring to the Earl of Clarendon.— (Received June 29. )

My Lord, Hong Kong, May 8, 1857 .

THOUGH I , perhaps , ought to rest satisfied with the prompt , generous,

and unreserved approval with which Her Majesty's Government sanctioned my

proceedings as connected with the recent events in Canton, I feel, after reading

the debates in Parliament, that I owe to the defence of my own character some

observations in reference to the lorcha “ Arrow , ” and to the extent of protection

which , under the flag she bore, she seemed entitled to receive at my hands.

The papers connected with the Ordinance No. 4 of 1855, under which the

flag was granted, having been published, I have to add, in explanation, that one

of the main objects of that Ordinance was to place under periodical revision the

proceedings of vessels enjoying the local privileges conceded under its sanction.

It is not necessary I should re -state the grounds which led to the passing an

Ordinance which was unanimously adopted by the Legislative Body here, inas

much as, after deliberate consideration, it was approved by Her Majesty in

Council. That Ordinance gave to me prompt means of punishing any irregularity,

and the Chinese, who had been made acquainted with its provisions, never

objected to any of them, and were bound to treat with becoming regard any

vessel which bore prima facie evidence of having complied with the conditions

on which the license was granted .

When I discovered the fact that the term for which the license was conceded

had expired, I wrote to the Consul, for his guidance, that the term of protection

had so expired .

But it was not less a question for my consideration whether the fact of the

expiry of the license gave to the Chinese jurisdiction, and authorised the violence

exercised towards the crew of the “ Arrow ."

In my judgment, it did not.

For, first, they were vi holly ignorant that the term of the license had expired,

and never for a moment put forward that excuse for their proceedings. Had

they doneso, had they acted as they were bound to act under Treaty obligations ,

the Consul would, no doubt, have made a special reference of the point to me,

and the Chinese would have had all the advantage of having discovered aa flaw in

the title of the vessel, and their representations would have met with prompt

attention from me.

But, secondly, I had to look at their intentions, as exhibited by their acts.

There was no doubt in my mind that it was their distinct purpose to disregard

the rights, and trample on the privileges, of a British flag - rights and privileges

which I thought it my especialduty to maintain .

Thirdly, the surrender of Chinese subjects, who most undoubtedly believed

they were entitled to the protection of the flag under which they served, to so

bloodthirsty a ruler as his Excellency Yeh , whose frightful sacrifices of human

life probably exceed in numbers and in cruelty anything in the records of history,

would, in ny opinion, have been an unpardonable abandonment of unfortunate

men .

Fourthly, the case of the “ Arrow ” was but one of a succession of wrongs

of which I had to complain , and for which I could obtain no redress. Yeh has

always exhibited a contemptuous disregard not only of my representations, but

of those of the Ministers of other Treaty Powers ; and the affair of the lorcha was

but an accidental incident in a long history of grievances, though it undoubtedly

[296]

brought about the crisis which no man acquainted with Chinese affairs will, I

believe, hold was other than inevitable.

Fifthly, the expiry of the license, the failure of the owners to seek its

renewal, placed the ship under Colonial jurisdiction, and she became responsible

to the Government for the penalties she might have incurred . The Chinese had

no title whatever to interfere with her except through the Consulate . Their

plea that she was a Chinese, and had never been a British vessel , was altogether

without foundation. This was the locus standi on which his Excellency Yeh

chose to base his argument : this was the question between him and me. I

hold that he was altogether wrong, and his wrong warranted my assertion of our

rights.

I repeat, then , that whether the “ Arrow ” was entitled to protection or

not, the Chinese had no jurisdiction ; and their proceedings were unwarrantable,

and to be resented. The expiry of the license did not make the lorcha aa Chinese

vessel, and gave the Chinese no right to interfere, except through the Consul.

She could only be a foreign vessel in their eyes. The papers, whether in order

or not, were deposited at the Consulate, and if they had acted in accordance

with the conditions of Treaty, and had put themselves in communication with

the Consul, there would have been no collision. The papers granted were, I

contend, of undoubted validity against any but British authority — the authority

which alone granted, and which alone was entitled to withdraw , protection .

If, then , the fact of the expiry of the license, of the right of the lorcha to

its renewal, did in no respect concern the Chinese, but the British alone, my

action was a necessity — at all events as far as placing the question in the hands

of the naval authorities when I could obtain no redress.

The after-proceedings of Sir Michael Seymour need no defence from me .

I have, &c .

(Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

CHINA.

Further

Paper

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Proceedings

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Her

Majesty's

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1857.

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LIST OF PAPERS .

No.

Page

1. The Earl of Elgin to the Earl of Clarendon

' ..

December 12, 1857 1

One Inclosure.

2. The Earl of Elgin to the Earl of Clarendon ..

December 22, 2

One Inclosure.

3. The Earl of Elgin to the Earl of Clarendon

.. December 24, 5

One Inclosure.

4. The Earl of Elgin to the Earl of Clarendon

December 26, -

Two Inclosures.

Correspondence with the Chinese High Commissioner Yeh.

No. 1 .

The Earl of Elgin to the Earl of Clarendon.-(Received January 28, 1858.)

( Extract.) Hong Kong, December 12, 1857 .

I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith the copy of a note to the Imperial Commis

sioner Yeh , which is to be delivered at Canton on this day , to any person whom the

Imperial Commissioner may depute to receive it.

Inclosure in No. 1 .

The Eurl of Elgin to Commissioner Yeh .

Hong Kong, December 12, 1857.

THE Undersigned has the honour to apprize the Imperial Commissioner Yeh , &c.,

that he is the bearer of letters of credence, accrediting him as Ambassador Extraordinary

from Her Majesty the Queen of Great Britain to the Emperor of China ; and further, that

he has been specially appointed and deputed by Her Majesty the Queenof Great Britain

as Her Majesty's High Commissioner and Plenipotentiary in China, with full powers under

Her Majesty's Royal Sign Manual and the Great Seal ofthe United Kingdom , to settle the

differences which have unfortunately arisen between certain of the authorities and subjects

of Her Majesty the Queen of Great Britain and certain of the authorities and subjects of

His Majesty the Emperor of China, and to negotiate and conclude with the Minister or

Ministers who may be vested with similar powers and authority by His Imperial and Royal

Majesty the Emperor of China, such Treaties, Conventions , or Agreements, as may obviate

future misunderstandings , and tend to develop commercial relations between the two

countries.

The Government of Her Majesty the Queen of Great Britain , in appointing this

Special Mission , is animated by the sincerest feelings of goodwill towards the Chinese

people and its Government. It has observed with gratification the happy results which

have followed on the enlarged facilities for commercial intercourse between Great Britain

and China provided under the Treaty of 1842. The industrious subjects of His Majesty

the Emperor have derived therefrom increased returns for the products of their labour.

The duties of Customs have supplied timely resources to the Imperial treasury. Free

intercourse has engendered feelings of mutual esteem between natives and foreigners. In

a word , at all the ports of China opened to foreign trade, save one , commerce has

presented itself with its accustomed attendants, national wealth and international

goodwill.

To this favourable picture there is unhappily one exception. By repeated insults to

foreigners, and by the refusal to carry out faithfully the stipulations ofTreaties, the autho

rities of the Province of Kwangtung have frequently, during the period in question,put in

jeopardy the peaceful relations of China with the Treaty Powers. Great Britain , France,

and America have successively been compelled to seek, by menace or by the employment

of force, satisfaction for wrongs wantonly inflicted, until, finally, an insult to the British

flag, followed by the refusal of the Imperial Commissioner to grant adequate reparation, or

even to meet in the city the Representative of Her Britannic Majesty , for the purpose of

effecting an amicable settlement, has forced the officers who are charged with the protec

tion of British interests in this quarter, to have recourse to measures of coercion against

Canton. The contest thus commenced has been carried on by the Chinese authorities in a

manner repugnant to humanity and to the rules of warfare recognized by civilised nations.

[ 154] B 2

Acts of incendiarism and assassination have been promoted by the offer of rewards. Under

the influence of these provocations, innocent families have been plunged into mourning by

the kidnapping of private individuals ; and vessels engaged in the peaceful pursuits of

commerce have been treacherously seized , and the European crews and passengers

barbarously murdered .

The Undersigned thinks it right to remind the Imperial Commissioner that the

Government of Her Britannic Majesty, in its endeavours to terminate a state of affairs

which has led to these deplorable results, has not confined its efforts to representations

addressed to the Imperial officers on the spot . In the year 1819 a communication was, by

the express command of Viscount Palmerston, Her Majesty's Secretary of State for Foreign

A Hairs, transmitted to the Imperial Government at Pekin, warning it of the consequences

that would ensue from the non -fulfilment of Treaty engagements, and terminating in these

words : “ Let the Chinese Government well consider these things, and whatever may

happen in future between the two countries that may be disagreeable to China, let the

Chinese Government remember that the fault thereof will lie upon them .” And again , in

the year 1854, Sir John Bowring, Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary, urged upon the Imperial

Commissioners, who were deputed to conter with him at the mouth of the Peiho, the

necessity of granting to British subjects free access to the city of Canton . These repre

sentations, however, prompted by a spirit of conciliation and humanity, have been

unheeded, and the result has only served to prove that the forbearance of the British

Government has been misunderstood by that of China.

In the conviction that the season for remonstrance is past Great Britain does not

stand alone.. The disregard of Treaty obligations, and the obstinate refusal to redress

grievances which have forced the British authorities to have recourse to arms, have aroused

the just indignation of the Government of His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of the French.

The Governments of England and France are united in their determination to seek, by

vigorous and decisive action, reparation for past, and security against future, wrongs.

Under these circumstances, the Undersigned thinks it his duty to state distinctly to

the Imperial Commissioner that he cannot assume the responsibility of arresting the

progress of hostile operations against Canton, until the following demands of the British

Government are absolutely and unreservedly conceded : the complete execution at Canton

of all Treaty engagements, including the free admission of British subjects to the city ;

compensation to British subjects and persons entitled to British protection for losses incurred

in consequence of the late disturbances.

If these moderate demands, and those preferred on behalf of the Emperor of the

French by His Imperial Majesty's High Commissioner and Plenipotentiary, be frankly

accepted by the Imperial Commissioner Yeh within the period of ten days from this date,

the blockade of the river will be raised, and commerce will be permitted to resume its

course . But the English forces, in conjunction with the forces of the French, will retain

the Island of Honan and the forts on the river as a material guarantee until the terms of a

Treaty for regulating these and all other questions pending between the Government of

Great Britain and that of China shall have been agreed to between the Undersigned and a

Plenipotentiary, of equal rank, appointed by the Emperor of China to negotiate with him,

and until the Treaty so agreed upon shall have been ratified by their respective

Sovereigns.

If, on the contrary, the Imperial Commissioner shall meet these demands by a refusal,

by silence, or by evasive or dilatory pleas, the Undersigned will deem it to be his painful

duty to direct the naval and military Commanders to prosecute, with renewed vigour,

operations against Canton, reserving tohimself the right to make, in that case, on behalf of

the British Government, such additional demands on the Government of China as the

altered condition of affairs may seem, in his eyes, to justify.

The Undersigned, &c. (Signed) ELGIN AND KINCARDINE.

No. 2 .

The Earl of Elgin to the Earl of Clarendon.--(Received February 14, 1858.)

My Lord, Furious,” Whampoa, December 22, 1857.

I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith the copy of a translation of the reply of the

Imperial Commissioner Yeh to the note inclosed in my despatch to your Lordship of the

12th instant.

I have, &c.

(Signed) ELGIN AND KINCARDINE.

Inclosure in No. 2 .

Commissioner Ych to the Earl of Elgin .

( Translation .)

YEH , Imperial Commissioner, Governor -General of the Two Kwang, &c., makes a

communication in reply .

On the 12th instant, I received the letter sent to me the same day , and was

highly gratified to learn that your Excellency had been sent with plenipotentiary powers

to Canton .

By the commercial relations ensuing on the establishmentof the Treaty between our

two countries, the mercantile communities of both have alike been advantaged . The

letter under acknowledgment observes, that “ to the favourable picture presented at the

ports of China, there is one exception.” Now, during more than a century that your

Excellency's nation traded at Canton, its trade was with Canton alone ; no such thing was

known as four other ports. They were first opened by the Treaties of 1842 and 1844 .

Canton had had, it is true, its own ways of trade long established—so far, indeed , it

differed from the other ports; but its commercial intercourse has been throughout

conducted on the same principle as theirs ; nor has there been , any more (at Canton than

elsewhere), any “ insult to foreigners."

As to the question of admission into the provincial city of Canton, no Article whatever

relating to this exists in the Treaties of 1842 and 1844. It was in March 1847 , that the

Plenipotentiary Davis attempted, at a moment's notice, to raise the question . Ile

prescribed a term of two years (within which the right was to .be conceded) ; but before

one year had elapsed, the unsatisfactoriness of his conduct in many particulars had been

complained of by merchants who returned home for the purpose, and he was recalled.

He was replaced by the late Plenipotentiary Bonham , subsequently to whose arrival in

Kwangtung there passed, in 1849, a long correspondence between him and the late

Commissioner Seu. Discussion respecting admission into the city was finally dropped, and

the Plenipotentiary Bonham issued a notice from the Government offices (at Hong Kong),

to the effect that he, the Governor, would not allow foreigners to enter the city. On this,

I myself, then Governor in concert with Seu, then Commissioner, represented to His late

Majesty, canonized as the Perfect, in a memorial, that the English had finally dropped

the question of admittance into Canton, and we had the honour to receive in reply the

following Imperial Decree :

“ The walling of cities is for the protection of the people, to the end that they may

turn their capital to the best account, &c. Respect this.”

It is also reported, on the authorityof an English newspaper, of 1850, that a Royal

(lit., national) letter from the Queen arrived at Hong Kong, to the address of the late

Plenipotentiary Bonham, to the following effect :

“ We are informed of everything regarding Tien-tsin and the five ports of China as

detailed in the representation (of Mr. Bonham). The Governor* in question has, without

doubt, shown great sagacity in the course he has followed. He was aware that Seu,

Governor-General of the Two Kwang, was secretly devising measures in which Yeh,

Governor of Kwangtung, was also taking part, and that they had together moved the

Chinese Government to send from Pekin a secret expedition of the Solont vessels of war

for the defence of Tien-tsin .But though our vessels of war could have been easily

worked (i.e. by pushing and pulling) along the shores (of the Peiho) to fight with these

Bonham, knowing what was becoming his own nation ( or Government), and being well

acquainted with the usages of China, confined the purpose of his visit to the ports of

China, to an observation of the condition of the country, prosperous or otherwise . Were

he to have fought, the Chinese would have said that our people were entirely in the wrong .

It is hence evident that our Governor Bonham has managed matters very satisfactorily ;

by no offence against reason (or right) has he caused us anxiety : he is very much to be loved.

Let Bonham be rewarded with the title of Wei-li-pa. (The Queen) also conferred on him ,

a badge of honour to be borne on his person , very goodly to behold ; and the English

authorities and merchants at Hong Kong went in their dresses of ceremony to offer him

their congratulations .

Thus the merchants of your Excellency's nation (showed that they) thought the

Plenipotentiary Bonham right and the Plenipotentiary Davis wrong. It is doubtless the

duty of your Excellency, who is come here in obedience to your instructions, to imitate the

* " Governor" --great chief of soldiers the term used by the common people at Hong Kong.

+ A Mongol tribe.

Į There is a confusion between Sir G. Bonham's Knighthood of the Bath and his Baronctey. “ Wei-li-pa," a

Chinese suggests, stands for “ Ba -li-mei, ” supposed to be Anglo -Chinese for Baronet. It is not aa Chinesc term .

B 3

conduct of the Plenipotentiary Bonham . It is equally imperative that you should decline

to imitate the conduct of the Plenipotentiary Davis.

With respect to that passage in the letter under acknowledgment which says that,

“ until the terms of a Treaty shall have been agreed to between the Undersigned and a

Plenipotentiary of equal rank appointed by the Emperor of China to negotiate with him ,

& c.," in 1850, the late Plenipotentiary Bonham went in person to Shanghai, and detached

thence an officer to Tien-tsin, to request once more admission into the city. In 1854, the

Plenipotentiary Bowring went himself to Tien - tsin and entreated with instance * to be

admitted into the city ; also that the Treaty should be reconsidered . His Majesty the

Emperor, holding that whereas the Treaties of 1842 and 1844 were ratified by the late

Emperor, canonised as the Perfect, there was not in the agreement so sanctioned by His

late Majesty, and which was to last ten thousand years with a view to the preservation of

a good understanding for evermore, any place for alterations, and that the order of proceed

ing that had resulted in those advantages which , from the time the Treaties were made,

had accrued to Chinese and foreigners alike from commercial intercourse, had been, in no

respect other than what was in accordance with the Treaties, was satisfied that these were

good and sufficient. The cessation of discussions regarding admittance into Canton was

for His Majesty a point on which the fiat of His late Majesty had been received, and as the

Treaty of Peace for ten thousand years had been in like manner ratified by His late Majesty,

it would have been equally improper to alter this. Hence, although on both occasions,

that (officers of ) your Excellency's Government repaired to Tien -tsin, Imperial Commis

sionerst were sent to receive them , no propositions respecting fresh regulations (of trade)

were allowed to be considered . The officers were desired to return to Canton and conduct

business there in obedient conformance to Treaty. (And so) now , no officer of China, be

his rank what it may, could venture to act otherwise than in accordance with the sacred

will (of the Emperor).

Again,, your letter says “ that there must be compensation to British subjects and

persons entitled to British protection for losses incurred in consequence of late disturb

ances.”

The misunderstanding of last October was caused thus :-- The Chinese Government

having arrested some Chinese criminals, Consul Parkes wrongfully gave heed to the unsup

ported testimony of the captain of a lorcha, who asserted that the Government Executive,

when they came on board to seize the guilty parties, hauled down the British ensign. He

was not aware that no flag was scen flying by the executive when they boarded the vessel ;

that, as stated by the sailors seized, the flag was at the time down in the hold, and that it

was consequently plain beyond aa doubt that no flag was flying at all. The lorcha was built

by, and in the employ of, Soo -a -ching, for whom her captain obtained a register. The

crew were consequently all outlaws of the inner land ( i. e. offenders against the laws of

China). The prisoners Le-ming-tas and Liang -hien -fu both pleaded guilty to acts of

piracy on the high seas. To this Wu -a - ching bore witness. It was established that the

criminals before-mentioned were notorious pirates. On the repeated representation of

Consul Parkes (however) I returned the twelve prisoners to him . Feeling $ and justice

were thus alike satisfied ; but Consul Parkes, instead of receiving them , suddenly and

without a cause commenced hostile operations; attacked and destroyed the forts along

the different approaches, for several days in succession bombarded the provincial city, and

on three occasions sent parties of English troops to fire houses and buildings in different

directions. Millions of people were eye-witnesses of these things. There is not a

native of any foreign State who is not aware of them . At the very commencement

every Englishman and every other foreigner, with a sense of justice, did all that in

them lay to dissuade Consul Parkes from proceeding, but he would not listen.

He declared, too, that he would be personally responsible for all the loss they might

incur, and in January last he went to Hong Kong, and made out an account of their losses

with all the merchants who had suffered ; which shows that he was taking their compen

sation on himself. The method of effecting this has long been settled ; with it China has,

in fact, no concern . Her merchants, alas ! have sustained an amount of injury graver

than the losses that have fallen on those of your Excellency's nation . (But) the same

ruleg applies to both . My Court is thronged by the gentry and people of the city and

suburbs , imploring me to write to your Excellency to inquire into the matter, and dispose

* The term is one commonly used in closing petitions. The “ Digest of the Statutes" employs it in speaking

of Russia's solicitations for a Commercial Treaty in 1793.

† There is a little confusion here. An Imperial Commissioner was sent to meet Sir J. Bowring and

Mr. Mac Lane in 1854. None, of course, came to meet Mr. Medhurst in 1850.

# “ Feeling," viz ., the feeling of unwillingness to act discourteously towards the authority of a friendly

Power.

$ That is, each must bear its own losses.

of it impartially. I have not made their petition the subject of a despatch , but if you will

not believe me, I will inclose copies of them in my next reply, for your Excellency's perusal

and guidance. As to Honan, its gentry and people are fierce and energetic.* In April 1847,

when the merchants of your Excellency's nation wanted to lease ground in Honan, the

gentryand people presented a petition, generally signed, to the Plenipotentiary Davis, who

notified to them , in his reply, that the matter should stand where it was. Your letter

talks of a military occupation of Honan and of the forts along the river, but if you could

not proceed once before, even with such a measure as the building and leasing of ware

houses there, how should it be possible to station troops on Honan ? The forts along the

river have been built at the expense of the gentry and people, for their protection against

piracy. An attempt on the part of the troops of your Excellency's nation to occupy these

will, I fear, produce a state of irritation which may grow into aa serious misunderstanding.

(If it do) let it not be said that I did not speak in time, or that I did not do all that in

me lay to provide for your safety.

The propositions brought forward in yourletter have beensuggested, it appears to

me, by some mischievous person at your side ; they are not your Excellency's own concep

tions. I have long heard of your Excellency's great experience and discretion ; of the

universal esteem in which you are held in your own country ; the great trust which you

have come to Canton to discharge, towards your own Government, is naturally the termi

nation of the troubles here existing, not, assuredly, the creation of ( fresh) troubles. Your

Excellency's acts will, I feel sure, anticipate my confidence in your perfect sense of justice

and thorough impartiality.

The words " commerce shall resume its course, ” in your letter, are additional evidence

of your Excellency's sense of justice and practical knowledge. Ever since the Treaty was

made, in all their commercial dealings with foreigners, the merchants of China have

invariably behaved as they ought. It is not from any bindrance interposed by China that

no foreign merchant-vessel has been here since last October. By your Excellency's

declaration now made, that " commerce between natives and foreigners shall resume its

course,” you justify to their complete satisfaction the high estimation in which you are

held by all classes of your own countrymen ; what is more, you enable yourself to meet

the anxious expectations of the commercialists of every other country.

To conclude, our two nations have ever considered themselves as on friendly terms

with each other, and the continuance of trade between native and foreigner on its accus

tomed footing can, of course , be satisfactorily arranged in correspondence between you and

myself.

I accordingly reply to you , availing myself, &c .

A necessary communication.

Heen -ſung, 7th year, 10th moon, 29th day ( 14th December, 1857).

No. 3 .

The Earl of Elgin to the Earl of Clarendon .- (Received February 14 , 1858.)

(Extract.) Furious,” Whampoa, December 24, 1857 .

I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith the copy of a note from me to the Imperial

Commissioner Yeh .

Inclosure in No. 3.

The Earl of Elgin to Commissioner Yeh.

“ Furious, ” Whampoa, December 24, 1857.

THE Undersigned has received the communication which the Imperial Commissioner

Yeh did him the honour to address him , under date the 14th instant.

The Undersigned has failed to discover in this communication, which he has atten

tively perused, any indication on the part of the Imperial Commissioner of a disposition to

accede to the moderate demands which, in his communication to the Imperial Commissioner

of the 12th instant, he preferred on behalf of the Government of Great Britain.

He is, therefore, reluctantly compelled to recall to the recollection of the Imperial

Commissioner the closing paragraph of that communication, which is conceired in the

following terms :

“ If, on the contrary, the Imperial Commissioner shall meet these demands by a

# Intractable.

refusal, by silence, or by evasive or dilatory pleas, the Undersigned will deem it to be his

painful duty to direct the 'naval and military Commanders to prosecute, with renewed

vigour, operations against Canton , reserving tohimself the right to make, in that case , on

behalf of the British Government, such additional demands on the Government of China

as this altered condition of affairs may seem , in his eyes, to justify.”

The Undersigned has now to inform the Imperial Commissioner that he has called

upon the naval and military Commanders to prosecute, with renewed vigour, operations

against Canton, and to add that, in accordance with the terms of the intimation given in

the words above quoted, he formally reserves to himself the right to make, on behalf of the

British Government, such additional demands as the altered condition of affairs, produced

by the Imperial Commissioner's refusal to accede to terms of accommodation, may seem ,

in his eyes, to justify.

The Undersigned, & c .

No. 4 ,

The Earl of Elgin to the Earl of Clarendon .-- (Received February 14, 1858.)

My Lord , Furious," off Canton, December 26, 1857.

I HAVE the honour to inclose copy of the translation of a further communication

which I have received from the Imperial Commissioner Yeh. It makes no concession,

either on the question of indemnity or on that of the right of entrance into the city. I

think it, therefore , better, as the linperial Commissioner has been formally apprized that

the matter is now in the hands of the naval and military authorities, that I should abstain

from replying to it .

I have, & c.

( Signed ) ELGIN AND KINCARDINE

Inclosure 1 in No. 4.

Commisssioner Yeh to the Earl of Elgin.

( Translation .)

YEH , Imperial Commissioner, Governor-General of the Two Kwang, &c ., makes

communication in reply.

On the 24th instant, I received your Excellency's letter of the same date, and

acquainted myself with its contents.

In my answer to your earlier letter I replied to every proposition, point by point,

specifically and minutely; (yet) in the letter under acknowledgment you say that you

have failed to discover in the communication which you have attentively perused, any

indication of aa disposition to accede * to the moderate demands preferred on behalf of the

Government of Great Britain. I shall endeavour to re- state clearly to your Excellency what

I said before.

To go back : in October last year, Mr. Consul Parkes, without any cause , commenced

hostilities, attacked the forts along the different approaches, and thrice sent troops to fire

buildings and dwellings in different directions. The gentry and people had suffered sadly

by this, and on your Excellency's arrival in Kwangtung last July, as I have heard,

presented a petition to you on the subject. No steps having as yet been taken in the

case, crowds of gentry and people have come to my Court discontented, and imploring me

to write to your Excellency to make equitable decision therein ; and because I did not

address your Excellency on the subject, they were going to Hong Kong again to clamour

for redress at your Excellency's place with all their might. By various shifts I have

dissuaded them (from this proceeding), attributing what happens entirely to Consul Parkes'

want of sense on a particular occasion, that your Excellency might be spared this trouble

(or difficulty ). This ( shows) the best disposition on my part to be " conceding .” +

(In the next place) ever since your Excellency's countrymen began to trade at Canton,

the merchants of China have, in every instance, conducted themselves towards them with

propriety. To the proposition in your former letter, " .commerce shall resumeits course,"'

1 gave the fullest assent. How , then, can

can I be charged with “ refusing '

?" I On the

contrary, there is plain proof that I promised » ( to concede what was asked ).

As to the passage in the letter under acknowledgment, “ if the Commissioner shall

See Note 1 . + See Note 2. # See Note 3 . Ś See Note 4.

wed

, 00

1 .

hina meet these demands by silence,” in my last reply I answered every question in its own

order ; in no wise then was I “ silent. ” And as to the other passage, " language of retro

cession and refusal,” * I shall instance my remarks on the late Plenipotentiary Bonham's

abandonment of the discussions respecting admittance into the city. My last reply detailed

21 clearly how , for his satisfactory administration of that question, he was honoured with the

praises ofallclasses of your countrymen ; in no wise then did I use “ language of retrocession

and refusal.”

To conclude, our two nations regard themselves as on friendly terms with each other.

This being the case, there can be nothing which makes it impossible for us to consult

together and arrange satisfactorily by what means, in the words of your Excellency,

“ commerce may resume its course ;" (which declaration madet) what becomes of my

refusal to accede to terms of accommodation .

Pray let your Excellency, who has a sense of justice, and an experience of business,

once more closely examine and carefully re- peruse my last reply.

I accordingly reply to you , availing, &c.

(December 25 , 1857.)

ter Inclosure 2 in No. 4.

Notes by Mr. Wade on Commissioner Yeh's Letter dated December 25 , 1857 .

Note 1 .

“ ACCEDE.” The term by which I had rendered this in Chinese is composed of two

)

E words, — " jang," amicable concession , as opposed to unyielding tenacity, of which strife is

the consequence ; and “ heu,” to promise or undertake performance or compliance.

It will be seen below that, for his own purposes , the Commissioner divides the combina

tion, and deals with each part of it separately.

Note 2 .

See Note above. The Commissioner means : “ Had my intention been the opposite

of conceding, I should not have dissuaded the petitioners from a course which boded

strife .”‫وو‬

Note 3.

The Chinese here quoted is from that part of the Earl of Elgin's letter of the 12th

which was repeated in his Lordship’s letter of the 24th : “ If the Imperial Commissioner

shall meet these demands by a refusal, ” &c.

Note 4 .

This is the second part of the combination referred to in Note 1 .

Note 5 .

The words translated “ retrocession and refusal” are not in the letter sent ; they have

been substituted for those representing “ dilatory and evasive.” The characters Yeh

employs make us accuse him of“ backing out, and definitive refusal.” I am not sure that

much , if anything, is intended by the change.

Note 6.

The Commissioner means to imply : “ and it wasmadeat the close of my first reply,"

the language of which he has employed pretty generally in this.

( Signed) THOMAS WADE.

* See Note 5 . + See Note 6 .

CHINA.

CORRESPOND ENCE

with

the

Chinese

High

Yeh.

Commissioner

Presented

Parliament

Com to

both

Houses

mand

of.

Her

Majesty

1858.

LNCO

PEINTED

ITARRISON

BY.

SONS

AND

HONG KONG, & c.

RETURN

To an Address of the HOUSE OF LORDS, dated 21st June 1858,

FOR

COPIES or EXTRACTS of CORRESPONDENCE between the COLONIAL DEPARTMENT

and the GOVERNOR of HONGKONG, and between the COLONIAL DEPART

MENT and the FOREIGN OFFICE, on the SUBJECT of EMIGRATION from

HONGKONG and from the CHINESE EMPIRE to the British WEST

INDIES and to FOREIGN COUNTRIES and their POSSESSIONS, since the

1st of January 1853.

PART 1.

( The Lord Bishop of Oxford.)

Colonial Office,

CARNARVON ,

Ordered to be printed 220 July 1858.

4844.94 P.

( 250.)

HARVA COLLEGE

Oct 91919

LIBRARY

( iii )

SCHEDULE,

PART I.

CORRESPONDENCE between the COLONIAL DEPARTMENT and the GOVERNOR of

HONGKONG .

No. in Date. From whom . SUBJECT. Page.

Series.

1853.

1 May 17 Acting -Governor Report of circumstances connected with the

Jervois. mortality amongst Chinese passengers per

(No. 35.) “ Emigrant," * bound from Whampoa to Deme

rara 2

Frauds of the Chinese agents 2

The intended voyage of the “ Emigrant " aban

doned and the Coolies sent back to their homes 2

2 Sept. 9 The Duke of New In reply ; forwards copy of Report from the

castle . Emigration Commissioners, dated 19th August

(No. 26.) 1853, upon the above case, containing sugges

tions on the general conduct of Chinese emi

gration , and on the question of space to be

allotted to emigrants under the Passengers’ Act 3

3 Sept. 9 The Duke of New Enclosing Imperial Act, 16 & 17 Vict., cap 84.

castle. empowering the issue of a proclamation for

( No. 25.) allowing 12 feet instead of 15 feet of space in

vessels carrying emigrants from Asia, &c. 5

1854.

4 Jan. 6 Governor Bonham Copy of proclamation, 28th December 1853,

(No. 4. ) issued in conformity with the above Act 6

Length of voyage from Hongkong to various

places declared 6

Facilities for evasion of Passengers' Act by mas

ters sailing their vessels from Chinese ports 6

No immediate prospect of procuring emigrants

for the West Indies 6

5 April 21 Governor Sir John Departure of the West India emigration agent

Bowring. (Mr. White) for England 8

( Extract.) Considerable voluntary emigration from China,

especially towards California and Australia 8

Necessity for strict control. Proposes appoint

ment of the chief magistrate as emigration

agent 8

Proceedings in the case of the Peruvian emigrant

ship “ Libertad .” Excess of numbers embarked 8

6 May 4 Lieut.-Guvernor Steps for enforcing Passengers' Act in ships pro

Caine. ceeding from ports of Hongkong. Statement

( No. 11. ) relative to the magnitude of the Chinese emi

gration and the great abuses prevailing. Great

demand for shipping. Purchase of unseaworthy

vessels. Desertion of emigrants. Wrecks.

Loss of life, &c. 8

Appointment of the chief police magistrate to act

as emigration agent . -

Operation of the proclamation of December 1953

respecting space for emigrants 9

Description of the process of collecting passengers

for the Californian ships. Proceedings of the

ship brokers, &c. 9

7 Aug. 29 Right Hon. Sir G. In reply to the above ; and approving the appoint

Grey , ment of the emigration agent - 10

( No. 22.)

Note. The previous correspondence relative to Chinese emigration to the West Indies will be found in the House

of Commons Paper, No. 986, August 1853. See page 126 of that Paper, relative to the ship “Emigrant."

( 250. ) a 2

iv SCHEDULE .

No. in Date .' From whom . SUBJECT. Page.

Series.

1854.

March 16 The Duke of New . Transmitting a communication from the Emigra

castle . tion Commissioners, 25th February 1854, with

( No. 11.) correspondence with Mr. White,* the West

India agent, on the subject of Chinese emigra

tion to the West Indies 10

Want of shipping for West India emigration.

High rate of freights. Vessels to be taken up

at Namoa 11

Instructions for providingan emigrant depôt 10

Measures for procuring female emigrants for a

money present 11

Want of European surgeons and employment of

native doctors 11

Emigrant depôt at Macao. Proceedings of Mr.

Jorgé in reference to immigrants despatch

ed to Cuba

General observations on existing emigration to

California, Peru , and Australia- 12

9 June 5 Lieut . -Governor Acknowledging the preceding Despatch, and

Caine. stating views with reference to its principal

( No. 23.) topics ; -establishment of depôt ; presents to be

made for female emigrants ; operation of the

Passengers' Act ; services of newly appointed

emigration agent in obtaining emigrants for the

West Indies, &c. 16

1855.

10 March 14 Lieut.-Governor Proclamation and notification , 28th February and

Caine. 9th March 1855, relative to accommodation

(No. 39. ) and dietary for Chinese emigrants 18

11 June 5 Lord John Russell The above proclamation to be recalled for the

( No. 11.) reasons stated. Intention to introduce aa bill

to the Imperial Parliament designed expressly

for the regulation of Chinese emigration 19

12 Sept. 12 Governor Sir John Amended proclamation, 20th August 1855 20

Bowring.

( No. 136.)

13 Nov. 23 Right Hon. H. Conveying approval of same 20

Labouchere.

(No. 3.)

14 Oct. 6 Governor Sir John Return of vessels cleared outwards with Chinese

Bowring . passengers from 1st Nov. 1854 to S0th Sept.

( No. 147.) 1855 - 21

During that period emigration to the West Indies

had ceased 21

Emigration from China generally carried on from

places removed from consularcontrol, in foreign

shipping, and directed by agents, not British

subjects 21

15 Dec. 8 Right Hon. H. Transmitting Imperial Act, 18 & 19 Vict., cap.

Labouchere. 104, for the future regulation of Chinese pas

( No. 11.) senger ships, with general instructions on the

various points to be observed in carrying out

its provisions - 24

Duties of the emigration officer dtfined - 24

The proposed appointment of emigration officers

at other ports in China adverted to 25

1856.

16 | Jan. 22 Right Hon. H. For the present no emigration officer will be

Labouchere. appointed elsewhere than at Hongkong

(No. 27.) British passenger ships to repair, in the first

instance, to Hongkong to obtain clearance

papers

* Note . - The previous correspondence respecting Mr. White's mission as emigration agent for the West Indies is

contained in the Papers presented to Parliament by H.M.'s command, in 1853 and 1855.- Emigration from China ."

SCHEDUL E. V

No. ia Date . From whom . SUBJECT. Page.

Series.

1856.

16 | Jan. 22 Right Hon. H. General duties of the emigration agent in respect

Labouchere. of survey of ships, &c. 25

(No. 27.) Nothing to be done, however, which would throw

unnecessary obstacles in the way of legitimate

trade 25

17 March 7 Right Hon . H. British Consuls abroad to be furnished with copies

Labouchere. of all regulations issued in pursuance of the

(No. 36.) Chinese Passengers' Act O

18 Feb. 5 Governor Sir Jobn | Acknowledging receipt of the Imperial Act, 18 &

Bowring. 19 Vict.,cap. 184, for the regulation of Chinese

(No. 20.) passenger ships, and enclosing copies of Go

vernment proclamation and notification issued

in accordance therewith 26

Requirement for European surgeons for emigrant

ships 26

19 | May 7 Governor Sir John Transmitting copies of various notifications issued

Bowring. under the Chinese Passengers' Act, as required,

( No. 78.) for the information of H.M.'s Consuls abroad - 28

20 April 11 Governor Sir John Reporting thefirst instances of infraction of the

Bowring. Imperial Chinese Passengers' Act, in the cases

(No. 59.) of the ships “ Levant ” and “ General Blanco, "

both sailing under the Hawaian flag 30

Correspondence with the Admiral on the station

on a question raised as to the right of seizure

of the “ General Blanco " on the high seas

21 July 5 Governor Sir John Adjudication by the Vice -Admiralty Court of the

Bowring. case of the ship “ Levant.” Fine of 1001. and

( No. 109.) costs 38

22 July 8 Governor Sir John In continuation of above Despatch, reports final

Bowring. settlement of the case of the “ Levant,” the

( No. 113.) master having endeavoured unsuccessfully to

obtain remission of the decree condemning him

in costs 38

23 11 Aug. - Earl of Clarendon. In reply to Sir John Bowring's despatch, No. 95,

(No. 95.) of the 11th August, 1856 , reporting infraction

of the Chinese Passengers' Act by the ships

“ Levant ” and “ General Blanco ," and referring

to the view taken by the Admiral on the sta

tion as to the extent of interference by the

naval authorities in enforcing the Act in the

case of vessels not British 39

24 | 26 July - Governor Sir John Observations on the subject of Coolie emigration

Bowring.[Extract.] at the public expense from China to the British

(No. 121. ) colonies 40

25 20 Nov. - Right Hon. H. La- In reply to the foregoing, states that unless means

bouchere. can be devised for securing a due proportion of

(No. 132.) female emigrants, it is not contemplated to set

on foot an emigration of Chinese to the Bri

tish colonies at the public expense 41

26 Sept. 25 Right Hon . H. La- Application of the Chinese Passengers' Act to

bouchere. voyages between China and the Phillipines 41

(No. 111.) Copy of Report of Emigration Commissioners

( 15th Sept. 1856) enclosed.

27 Nov. 14 Right Hon. H. La- Calling for a report on the subject of the mor

bouchere. lality amongst the Chinese passengers on board

(No. 130.) the “ Duke of Portland,” and “ John Calvin , "

on the voyage from Hongkong to Havana 42

Letiers from Sir E. Buxton and Reports from

the Emigration Commissioners on the subject

dated 30 Oct. and 6 Nov. 44

a 3

( 250.)

vi SCHEDULE .

No. in Date . From whom . SUBJECT. Page.

Series.

1857.

28 Jan. 7 - Right Hon. H. La- Statement of views on various important questions

bouchere. raised in recentDespatches on the enforcement

(No. 4.) of the Chinese Passengers' Act. Interference

by Her Majesty's cruisers. Application of Act

to vessels proceeding to the Phillipine Islands.

Clearance of vessels from unauthorized ports

( Shanghae and others ) in China, and subse

quent transshipment of emigrants. Reports

of Emigration Commissoners, 31 Oct., 26 Nov.,

and 18 Dec. on the subject

29 March 14 Right Hon . H. La- Transmitting a correspondence with the Board

bouchere. of Trade relative to the mortality on board

(No. 28.) the emigrant ships “ John Calvin”” and “ Duke

of Portland 47

Report from Her Majesty's consul at Havana,

exonerating from blame the master and par

ties connected with the ship.

Report called for on the computation of space for

the passengers, and the number those ships

could legally carry.

30 March 7 Governor Sir John Forwarding communications from the agents and

Bowring. charterers of the “ John Calvin , ” and “ Duke

(No. 46.) of Portland,” relative to the mortality on board

those ships 57

31 June 29 Right Hon. H. La- In reply to the preceding Despatch, and commu

bouchere .) nicating such remarks as the cases of these

(No. 86.) vessels appear to require, 59

32 June 18 Right Hon. H. La- Nature of the instructions to be given to the

bouchere. emigration officer relative to the computation

(No. 83.) of space on the lower decks for passengers in

Chinese emigrant ships 61

33 ) April 6 Right Hon. H. La- Governor Bonham required to report on state

bouchere. ment relative to the discrepancy in the

(No. 41. ) clearance certificate of the “ John Calvin " 61

34 April 27 Right Hon. H. La The master of the “ John Calvin ,” to be com

bouchere. ) municated with in any inquiry instituted at

(No. 52.) Hongkong 61

95 April 10 Governor Sir John Reporting the piratical attempt of certain Chi

Bowring nese emigrants to take possession of the British

(No. 64.) ship “ Gulnare.” The trial of the ringleaders,

and execution of one of them 62

36 June 15 - Right Hon. H.La- Acknowledging Sir John Bowring's despatch,

bouc here. No. 64, on the case of the “ Gulnare ” . 63

( No. 81. )

37 May 20 - Governor Sir John Further report on the cases of the “ John Cal

Bowring. vin ” and “ Duke of Portland,” in reference to

(No. 82.) the questions whether the passengers embarked

were duly inspected, aud the correctness of

their agreements ascertained. Report of emi

gration officer thereon, and on the proportion

of space allotted to each emigrant 63

38 July 17 - Governor Sir John Result of inquiries respecting the master of the

Bowring. emigrant ship “ John Calvin” . 68

( No. 112.)

39 Aug. 18 - Right Hon. H.La- Liability of the parties concerned in the “ John

bouchere. Calvin ." Instructions for putting the bond in

( No. 101.) suit 68

40 Oct 9 Governor Sir John Explanation by Superintendent of Police of his

Bowring. conduct with regard to the despatch of “ The

( No. 148.) Duke of Portland " emigrant ship 68

SCHEDULE. vii

No. in Date . . From whom , SUBJECT. Page.

Series.

1858.

41 | Jan. 2 Right Hon. H. La- In reply ; the foregoing explanation considered

bouchere. satisfactory 70

(No. 1.)

1857.

42 Nov. 11 - Governor Sir John Transmitting an Ordinance, No. 11 , of 1857,

Bowring “ for licensing and regulating Emigration

(No. 161.) Passage Brokers 71

1858.

43 Feb. 16 Right Hon. H.La- Notifying Her Majesty's confirmation of the

bouchere. above Ordinance, No. 11, of 1857 74

(No. 10.)

1857.

44 Dec. 2 O

Governor Sir John Reporting the proceedings of a British ship, “ The

Bowring. Dream ,” employed in the Havana Chinese

(No. 175. ) coolie trade 74

1858.

45 Feb. 25 · Right Hon . H.La- Case of the "Gulnare.”. Forwarding report of

bouchere. the Emigration Commissioners, 16th February

(No. 20.) 1858, and suggesting the institution of certain

inquiries 75

March 16 | Right Hon. Lord Correspondence between the Foreign Office and

Stanley. Emigration Commissioners, respecting the

(No. 7.) great mortality in ships conveying Chinese

Emigrants to Cuba 77

Tabular returns and reports of vessels clearing

under Passengers' Act, &c., to be furnished in

future 78

. 47 March 27 Governor Sir John Report of proceedings to enforce payment of the

Bowring. bond in the case of the “ John Calvin ."

(No. 38.) Recommendation of mitigation of penalty

Observations of Mr. Chisholm Anstey on the

subject of coolie emigration - 79

48 | April 12 Governor Sir John Letter from mercantile firms at Hongkong,

Bowring. praying for remission of the fine inflicted on

(No. 48.) the sureties in the case of the “ John Calvin" 84

( 1 )

PART 1.

Correspondence between the Colonial Department and

the Governor of Hongkong.

( 250 )

( 2 )

HONGKONG .

No. 1 . No. 1 .

Copy of DESPATCH from Acting Governor Jervois to his Grace the Duke

NEW CASTLE .

( No. 35. ) Victoria, Hongkong, May 17, 1853.

(Received August 5, 1853. )

My LORD DUKE, ( Answered, No. 26, September 9, 1853, page 3.)

Nos. * 1 to 4. I have the honour to transmit, for the information of your Grace, the

proceedings of aa Commission which, with the advice of the Executive Council,

I appointed to inquire into the particulars of a serious outbreak of disease,

attended with considerable mortality, amongst the Chinese passengers on

board the ship “ Emigrant," bound from Whampoa to Demerara, and which

had put in here for the purpose of completing her crew .

2. In laying the Report of the Commission, as well as the documents con

nected therewith, before your Grace, I beg respectfully to call attention to the

precautionary measures proposed by the Commission for ensuring the health

and comfortof the Chinese emigrants, as such, I think, ought invariably to be

adopted on future occasions.

3. I would beg to submit, that it is absolutely necessary that all shipments

of coolies should be attended with governmental supervision, and that an

establishment for this purpose should be specially appointed. I am further of

opinion that as much care and caution should be used in shipping coolies from

hence to our colonies as are usually adopted with regard to our own troops,

bearing in mind the prejudices of the coolies, to whom the nature and extent of

their expected voyage, description of diet, and discipline of the ship, should be

especially explained through an efficient interpreter. In the present instance

the majority of the coolies were apparently in a state of utter ignorance on

these points, and were grossly imposed upon by the brokers ( their own country

men ) in a most fraudulent manner.

4. The proceedings fully show the kind and liberal intentions of the

shippers, Messrs. Turner and Co. , for contributing to the best of their ability

in providing everything they considered necessary for the well-being and

comfort of the emigrants; but the great error has been in appointing agents

to see measures carried out which require close and minute European super

vision . In fact, such supervision is absolutely necessary for the cause of

humanity, for not only would it prove beneficial to the coolies, but would

greatly tend to establish that feeling of confidence on the part of the emi

grants towards our people which is so essentialin such cases.

5. The Commission have in their able reports embraced everything of im

portance, and therefore any further remarks from me are almost superfluous.,

Í shall therefore conclude by hoping that the labours of this Commission may

meet with the approval of your Grace, and their zealous observations tend to

the embodying of rules and regulations for the guidance of all shippers of

coolies to the colonies, so as to guard against a recurrence of the tragedies

which have so very recently occurred on board of several vessels, and which

are too fearful to contemplate.

6. Your Grace will perceive that happily the intended voyage of the “ Emi.

grant,” has been abandoned, and the surviving coolies sent back to their homes

by the agents of the vessel, Messrs. Turner and Co.

7. Trusting that the steps taken by me on the important question of the

Chinese emigrants will meet with the approbation of your Grace.

I have, &c.

His Grace the Duke of Newcastle, ( Signed ) W. JERVOIS .

& c. &c . & c.

* These documents being extremely voluminous are not printed, but a full statement of their

contents will be found embodied in the Emigration Commissioners Report, dated August 19,

1853, and printed at page 3.

( 3 )

No. 2 . No. 2.

Copy of DESPATCH from his Grace the Duke of NEWCASTLE to Governor

Sir GEORGE BONHAM.

( No. 26. )

SIR, Downing Street, September 9, 1853.

I have carefully considered your despatch, No. 35,* of the 17th of May * Page 2.

last, accompanied by the proceedings of a Commission which you had ap

pointed to inquire into the particulars of an outbreak of disease on board

the ship “ Emigrant,” bound with Chinese passengers from Whampoa to

Demerara.

Having also called upon the Emigration Commissioners for a Report on this

subject, I enclose a copy of their reply, and have to acquaint you that I

concur, generally, in the conclusions at which they have arrived. August 19, 1853.

With regard , however , to the measures to be taken for encouraging Chinese

emigrants to the West Indies to make Hongkong their place of departure,

andwith reference more particularly to the question of, with this view, limiting

the allowance of space to 12 feet for each passenger, I shall have occasion to

address you in a separate despatch .* * See Page 5.

I have, &c.

Governor Sir G. Bonham , ( Signed ) NEWCASTLE.

&c . &c .

Enclosure in No. 2 . Encl. in No. 2 .

Colonial Land and Emigration Office,

SIR, August 19, 1853.

We beg to acknowledge your letter of the 11th instant, enclosing a despatch from

the Governor of Hongkong respecting the sickness and mortality which occurred on

board the ship “ Emigrant,” carrying Chinese from Whampoa to Demerara, and the

ultimate abandonment by that ship of her voyage.

2. The 6 Emigrant " was chartered by Messrs. Turner and Co., under directions from

Messrs. Hyde, Hodge,and Co., not, as supposed, by the authorities at Hong Kong, under

agreement with this Board,but in order to obtain the bounty promised by a colonial

proclamation to the importers of Chinese labourers.

3. She left Whampoa in the afternoon of the 24th of April, with (as far as can be

ascertained ) 350 coolies on board. At 7 a.m. on the next day the mate was informed

that one of the passengers was dead ; and the medical officer found, on examination, that

the man had apparently died of fever, and that there were on board several cases of a

remittent type, and some of a typhoid character. Before reaching Hong Kong on the

27th of April the number of cases had increased to 30, and shortly after arrival two

more died. An inquiry was immediately instituted ; the sick were taken to hospitals on

shore; and on the 9th of May it would seem that 70 persons had been thus sent to

hospital, of whom 63 were fever cases, and six had terminated fatally. Up to the 14th

the number of patients was increasing, and the disease becoming more malignant; and

on that day ten new cases were sent to hospital. The coolies were becoming very much

discontented and excited, as well ( it may be supposed ) from this cause as because many

of them were deprived of their customary use of opium , and ( as they stated) had been

misinformed as to the terms of the contract, which they ( or some persons for whom they

had been substituted ) had signed. Under these circumstances it appeared that the

voyage could not be safely prosecuted, and it was accordingly abandoned

4. A searching inquiry, however, had meanwhile been instituted into the treatment

which the emigrants had received both before and after their embarkation. The com

mittee of inquiry was composed of the chief magistrate, the harbour master, the

colonial surgeon, and two other medical men , and a number of the emigrants were

examined by the official interpreter, Mr. Caldwell.

5. Although the arrangements were, in some respects, defective, and the officers appear

not to have enforced cleanliness and order with sufficient vigour, the committee state,

that Messrs. Turner and Co., the charterers, " appeared to have been very desirous that

nothing should be wanting on their part to secure the health and comfort of the

passengers.” The Governor observes, upon their “kind and liberal intentions," and

they appear to have acted frankly and at once on all the suggestions of the authorities.

( 250. ) A 2

( 4 )

The case, therefore, may be considered merely as it furnishes a guide for the future

conduct of the emigration .

6. The sickness is ascribed by the committee to the crowded state of the ship, the

want of suflicient ventilation , the uncleanliness of the coolies, the omission to bring the

people from time to time on deck , the change of air (which is said frequently to produce

fever in vessels leaving Whampoa ), and of diet, and finally, among those who were

addicted to opium eating, the sudden discontinuance of that indulgence ; and on these

opinions the committee found various suggestions applicable some merely to the

case of the “ Emigrant,” some generally to the conveyance of Chinese.

7. The examination of the coolies also elicited the fact, that several of them were

unfit for emigration, and that many if not all had been more or less cheated and deceived

by the Chinese agents employed to collect them ; and on this point it is evident that

some precautions will be necessary on the renewal of emigration.

8. First, as to the conveyance of the emigrants. At the present moment the most

important, or at least the most pressing question raised by the Committee, respects the

space allowed for the passengers. The space actually allowed was 12 feet ; but the com >

mittee express their opinion, that, “ bearing in mind the unfavorableness of the season ,

(the south -west monsoon having then commenced ), “ and the probable length of the

“ voyage in consequence, the space allotted for each cooley should not be less than 13 15

“ superficial feet." As Dr. Morrison elsewhere expresses his opinion, that the space

allowed was too small, and as the sickness is ascribed in part to overcrowding, this raises

a doubt whether the Governor of Hong Kong could properly be instructed to give effect

to the Act of Parliament, which enables him to reduce the space required for orientals

sailing from that port to 12 feet per adult.

9. We think, however, that the present case does not afford sufficient reason for enforcing

the larger allowance of space. Considering that several cases of fever broke out before the

vessel had been 24 hours at sea , it appears impossible to suppose that the crowded state

of the vessel hal anything to do with the commencement of the disease ; and it is remark

able that the disembarkation of a large number of the emigrants had no sort of effect in

checking its progress. It is indeed true that the history of last year's emigration at one

time appeared to indicate that the larger space was requisite, the “Australia” (where that

space was allowed) having been the first ship which reached the West Indies without a

great loss of life. But since that time two Chinese ships have arrived in Trinidad in

which 12 feet only was allowed ,—the · Lady Flora Hastings ” and the “ Clarendon .” In

the former the mortality was not extraordinary, and in the latter it was remarkably

small, being even less than in the “ Australia.” Finally, we have already observed that

although, from the continual recurrence of cholera, considerable loss of life has occurred

in many of the Calcutta cooley ships, yet the health of the emigrants constantly improved

during the voyage from that port showing

( that no continuing cause of disease was at

work) ; while in the Madras emigration, in which no such exceptional cause of mortality

occurred, the average amount of deaths was no more than 2:31 per cent.

10. For these reasons, we are disposed to believe that the allowance of 12 feet, with

proper precautions as to ventilation, cleanliness, and exercise, would be sufficient during

any period of the year, and certainly that it should be at present allowed during the

prevalence of the north -east monsoon.

11. On this point we should be most anxious to receive the Duke of Newcastle's

instructions,as his Grace's decision will very materially affect the rate at which we may

be able to take up vessels, or indeed might make it impossible to charter any on terms to

which the West India colonies would consent.

12. The other points suggested by the committee in respect to the conveyance of

emigrants are principally matters of detail. Omitting those that have reference to the

special case of the “ Emigrant,” they are to the effect that ships leaving China during the

south -west monsoon should be provisioned for six months ; that various arrangements of

convenience should be made in the fittings, and provision made, by the appointment of

headmen and cooks and barbers, for the discipline of the people, for their washing, for

airing themselves and their beds, cleaning the decks, and cooking tea and other provisions ;

that the regulations, scale of provisions, &c., be posted up in Chinese; and that the

captain should be instructed as to the treatment of the emigrants, and (if necessary ) their

punishment, through their countrymen.

13. With regard to the selection of emigrants, the committee consider it inevitable (as

it clearly is) that this should be carried on through Chinese agents. Nor would it be

possible to guard against a certain amount of abuse in transactions between parties of

whom each is probably anxious to overreach the other ; the agent, by intercepting part of

the payments due to the emigrant ; the emigrant, by absconding when he has received

any part of his advances. In the present case it would seem ( if the statements of the

emigrants are to be believed) that they had misapprehended the date from which their

wages were to run, and had been cheated of the greater part of their advances ; that a

clause promising a back passage after five years had been interpolated into their agree

ment ;and,finally, that few knew where they were going, and a large number were not

willing to go to Demerara. Considering the circumstances under which this question was

put to them , it is rather surprising that any should have been ready to proceed than that

( 5 )

the majority should have been unwilling . But the examination proves the necessity, (as

suggested by the committee ,) of instituting an inquiry, under the supervision of the

emigration officer, into the circumstances of each person emigrating, and ascertaining

whether he has really consented, with an understanding of what he is about, to emigrate

to the West Indies on the terms contained in the indenture. The committee also suggest

( with Governor Barkley ), that opium -eaters should not be selected for emigration, there

being plenty of persons ready to go who are not infected with that vice ; and they

suggest the necessity of sending females. On this we can only add our concurrence in

both suggestions, and our satisfaction at perceiving that they do not treat the latter as

impracticable.

it. It will of course form part of Mr. White's duties to give effect to ihese suggestions,

( which, indeed, he has in a great measure anticipated ,) or such a modification of them as

shall appear most practicable ; and , with this view, we shall, unless the Duke of New

castle should disapprove that course, communicate to him a copy of the committee's

report before he leaves England.

15. We have only to add that it appears from Mr. White's letter of the 9th of April

1853, (Correspondence relative to Emigration of Chinese Coolies, pp. 136 , 138, 139, ) that

two interpreters who were engaged to go by the “ Emigrant " to Demerara and Trinidad

respectively will have been left at Hong Kong. As Mr. White will probably leave

England at the beginning of next month, it would be advisable that, if these persons

have not left the colony, they should be detained till his arrival, when some arrangement

may be made for forwarding them .

We have. & c .

Herman Merivale, Esq. (Signed ) T. W. C. MURDOCH .

& c. & c. & c. FREDERIC ROGERS.

No. 3.

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon. the Duke of NewCASTLE

to Governor Sir G. BONHAM .

( No. 25. )

Sir , Downing Street , September 9, 1853.

I ENCLOSE for your information the copy ofan Act passed in the recent 16 & 17 Vict.c. 84.

session of Parliament, by which the Governors of the Colonies are empowered

to declare by Proclamation that in vessels sailing from ports within the limits

of their respective governments, a space of 12 instead of 15 feet should

suffice for natives of Asia or Africa, who were to be conveyed through the

tropics.

The long and extensive experience which has now been had of the in

troduction of coolies from India into the West Indies at the rate of one for

every 12 feet, justifies the conclusion that that allowance of space is compatible

with the preservation of the health of the passengers on board ship.

From China itself the experience has been too limited to support any general

conclusion, but the healthiest ship which has yet reached the West Indies with

Chinese emigrants contained one for every 12 feet, and I think that, looking

to the wide extent of the analogous emigration from India, the experiment

may very properly be tried of adapting the same rule to emigration from

Hongkong

I have therefore to recommend you to make use of the power conferred upon

you by the recent Act, and to issue aa Proclamation declaring that, during the

north -east monsoon at least, 12 instead of 15 feet shall be a sufficient

allowance of space for any natives of Asia or Africa who may be conveyed

from Hongkong through the tropics.

I have permitted the Emigration Commissioners to make their agreements

respecting some vessels which they have engaged in this country for the con

veyance of Chinese emigrants from Hongkong, on the assumption that you

will issue the proposed proclamation.

I have, &c.

Governor Sir G. Bonham , (Signed ) NEWCASTLE.

&c . &c.

( 250. ) A 3

( 6 )

No. 4. No. 4.

Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor Bonham to his Grace the

Duke of Newcastle.

( No. 4. )

Victoria, Hongkong, January 6, 1854.

My Lord DUKE, (Received March 6, 1854.)

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Grace's

Page 5. despatch No. 25 * of the 9th of September last, enclosing copy of Act 16 & 17

Vict. c. 84., and recommending that the powers therein conferred on the

Governors of British Colonies be availed of, and a proclamation, declaring that

12 feet instead of 15 feet be a sufficient allowance of space for any natives of

Asia or Africa who may be conveyed through the tropics, be issued.

I have in consequence issued a proclamation in conformity with the views

contained in your Grace's despatch, and I have now the honour to enclose

an attested copy thereof.

Acting on the principle observed at New South Wales in reference to the

Act passed in the 15th and 16th years of Her Majesty's reign, commonly

called the “ Passengers Act, 1852,” I have embodied in the proclamation the

requirements of both Acts, The provisions that have been made in conformity

with the first-inentioned Act cannot, however, be strictly adhered to, for if it

was attempted to enforce them in this colony they would be immediately

evaded by the masters and consignees of vessels removing them either to

Kowloon, a Chinese port not above three miles distance from the anchorage of

Hongkong harbour, or to Macao, Whampoa, Cumsingmoon, or some other

Chinese port in the vicinity ; a measure which would effectually prevent all

interference of any British `authority, and at the same time be detrimental to

the interests of the colony.

I may as well remark that at present there appears no immediate chance

of procur ng coolies for the West Indies where they cannot be conveyed with

. advantage to the shippers, so long as freight of vessels remains at its present

high rate.

I have, &c.

His Grace the Duke of Newcastle, ( Signed ) S. G. BONHAM .

&c . & c. & c.

Encl. in No. 4 . Enclosure in No. 4.

PROCLAMATION .

By his Excellency Sir Samuel George Bonham , Baronet, Knight Commander of the

most Honourable Order of the Bath , Governor and Commander-in -Chief of the Colony

of Hong Kong and its dependencies, and Vice -Admiralof the same, Her Majesty's Pleni

potentiary and chief superintendent of the trade of British subjects in China.

Whereas by an Act of the Imperial Parliament of Great Britain and Ireland, passed

in the fifteenth and sixteenth years of Her Majesty's reign, intituled “ An Act to

" amend and consolidate the laws relating to the carriage of passengers by sea ,” it is

amongst other things enacted, shat it shall be lawful for the Governor of any of

Her Ma esty's possessions abroad , by any Proclamation to be by him , from time to

time, issued for that purpose, (which shall take effect from the issuing thereof,) to declare

what shall be deemed for the purposes of the said Act to be the length of the voyage of

any ship carrying passengers from such possessions to any other place whatsoever, a nd

to substitute for the articles of food and provisions specified in the said Act, such other

articles of food and provisions as he shall deem to be a full equivalent for the same ; and

also to declare what medicines , medical instruments, and other matters shall be deemed

necessary for the medical treatment of the passengers during such colonial voyage.

And whereas also by a certain other Act of the said Parliament passed in the seven

teenth and eighteenth years of Her said Majesty's reign, intituled “ An Act to amend the

Passengers Act, 1852, so far as relates to the passages of natives of Asia or Africa ,

and also passages between the island of Ceylon and certain parts of the East Indies,” it is

amongst other things enacted, that it shall be lawful for theGovernors of Her Majesty's

possessions abroad,if they shall think fit, to declaro by Proclamation that ships intended

to pass within the tropics, from any ports within their respective Governments, may

convey passengers being natives of Asia or Africa, after the rate of one for every twelve

superficial feet of the passenger deck, instead of one for every fifteen such superficial

( 7 )

(

feet, as required by the 12th section of the said “ Passengers' Act, 1852.". Now , there

fore, I, Sir Samuel George Bonham , Bart,, the Governor aforesaid, by this my Procla -

mation, issued for that purpose, do declare that the following shall be the rule of

computation by which the length of the voyage of any ship carrying passengers from

Hongkong to the several places herein -after enumerated shall be computed , for the

purposes of the said recitedAct, that is to say ;

In the Months.

October April

Passage from Hongkong to the under mentioned Places to to

for March . September.

Ships propelled by Sails.

Both inclusive.

Days.

California , or West Coast of America, north of the Equator 100 75

West Coast of America south of the Equator. 120 120

Sandwich Islands 75 56

New Caledonia, New Hebrides, Feejee Islands, Tahiti, Society 100

or Friendly Islands ,

Sydney, Melbourne, or South Australia

, 100

60 80

Western Australia 45 60

Van Diemen's Land 65 80

New Zealand 75 90

Manila 20 20

Singapore 20 45

Batavia 30 60

Ceylon 45 70

Madras or Calcutta 50 75

Bombay 60 80

Mauritius, or Bourbon 60 80

Cape of Good Hope -

65 85

West Indies, East Coast of America 147 168

Great Britain or Europe -

162 180

And I do hereby further declare, that with respect to passengers being Chinese, or

persons accustomed to Chinese diet, in addition to, and irrespective of any provisions

of their own which any such passenger may have on board, the master of every

“ Passenger ship” shall make to each statute adult during the voyage, including the

time of detention, if any, at any port or place before the termination of such voy age,

an allowance of pure water and sweet and wholesome provisions, according to the

following dietary scale, and the provisions mentioned in such scale shall in the case

of such Chinese passengers only be substituted for the articles of food and provisions

specified in the said Act :

Rice 1 } lb. per diem . Water gallon 1 per diem .

Salt Pork Firewood -

3 lbs.

Lard, salted fat, fresh fat, Salt 1 oz . per week.

or oil oz. Pepper 1

Pickled vegetables 3 > Vinegar pint į >

Tobacco 을 27

Tea 4 ozs .

Three weeks supply of biscuit is to be placed on board, to be issued at the rate

of 2sulbs. a day only when the weather is too bad for cooking, or when required by

the rgeon .

Peas or beans may be substituted for rice, and opium for tobacco, to the extent and

in the proportion to be fixed by the surgeon.

Half issues to be made to children under ten years of age. The issues in accordance

with this scale are to be made daily ; the first issues to be made on the day of

embarkation .

And I do hereby also further declare in pursuance of the said last --mentioned

any that 12 instead of 15 feet shall be deemed a sufficient allowance of space for

Act, natives of Asia or Africa who may be conveyed from Hongkong through the

Tropics.

( 250. ) A 4

( 8 )

And lastly, I do hereby further declare, that the medicines, medical instruments, and

other matters necessary for the medical treatment of the passengers during any such

voyage, shall be as follows, namely :

For a Ship carrying 100 passengers and in like proportion for any greater or less

number. [ Here follows the scale. ]

Given under my hand and seal of the Colony, at Government House, Victoria ,

Hongkong, this 28th day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand

eight hundred and fifty three and in the seventeeth year of Her Majesty's

reign.

By his' Excellency's command ,

J. G. BONHAM.

W. CAINE,

Colonial Secretary .

GOD SAVE THE QUEES.

No. 5. No. 5 .

EXTRACT of a DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Duke

of Newcastle

NEWCASTLE, dated Hongkong, April 21st 1854.

(Received June 22, 1854. )

“ Mr. White the emigration agent has left the colony for England, and will

of course report to your Grace on the prospects for continuing a supply of

Chinese for the Colonies. Meanwhile the voluntary emigration is considerable,

and the Coolies still seem disposed to press in great numbers towards Cali

fornia and Australia. They are deplorably ignorant, are likely to be the

victims of the cupidity, alike of Chinese brokers and sea captains, and the

interests of humanity, to say nothing of the reputation of a · British colony,

require that more control should be exercised over abuses.

* An example has just occurred. I learnt that a Peruvian vessel ( the

Libertad ) had engaged nearly a hundred Coolies more than she was able

properly to take, or would be allowed to take under the Passengers' Act; that

her seaworthiness was very doubtful; and that the state of the Coolies on

board was most unsatisfactory.

“ We have prevented her departure in crder that some steps may be taken

for the protection of human life.

“ Though Sir Geo. Bonham has applied certain portions of the Colonial

* Page 6. Passengers’ Act to this colony by his proclamation of 28th December, * there is

really no machinery here, for giving effect to the regulations adopted. We

want more efficient control, and I think Mr. Hillier, the chief magistrate,

might very properly and usefully be appointed, at an additional salary of

2001. a year to undertake the duties of emigration agent. His knowledge of

the Chinese language, and his habits of intercourse with the Chinese people

make his nomination particularly desirable. I am afraid the remuneration by

any system of fees would from the almost universal venality of subordinates,

lead to uncontrollable abuses, and that the object in view could hardly be

accomplished without some slight expense to the colony.

“ I cannot allow there is force in the objection, that if our colonial regulations

are stringent and efficient the emigration trade will be transferred to other

localities. It appears to me that when Coolies learn from experience that their

interests and comforts are cared for, and that securities are provided for their

protection in this colony which they cannot find elsewhere, emigrating Coolies

would prefer resorting to it, and thus the interests of the colony be permanently

promoted. Means might be found of circulating in the districts, which furnish

the supplies of emigrants, some information as to the arrangements made in

Hongkong in favour of those who embark in the colony."

No. 6.

Copy of DESPATCH from Lieutenant -Governor W. CAINE to his Grace

the DUKE OF NEWCASTLE.

( No. 11. ) Victoria, Hongkong, May 4 , 1854 .

My Lord Duke, (Received July 3 , 1854. )

I have the honour to address your Grace on the subject of Chinese

emigration from this colony to California, Australia, and other places, which

( 9 )

has now attained so great magnitude as to render it most desirable to enforce

the salutary provisions of the English Passengers' Act of 1852, as far as the

circumstances of the locality permit ; for, at present, the ships that leave this

port crowded with human beings are under no sufficient control as to the

quantity of provisions and space or the seaworthiness of the ship, except what

may be afforded by the foresight and self-interest of the passengers or the rules

of the place at which they disembark ; and this last species of control, as will

appear in the sequel, is not unfrequently rendered valueless.

2. I cannot, I think, give your Grace a better idea of the present state of

emigration in this quarter than by extracting a few remarks on the subject

from the “ China Mail” newspaper of the 16th and 23rd of last month . It is

there said that emigration to California, notwithstanding the immense numbers

who have already crowded thither, is still on the increase; that no fewer than

12,000 Chinese in Canton and Hongkong are waiting shipmentto San Fran

cisco, while the departures since the 1st January last may be safely estimated

at 5,500 ; that, within the last three months, upwards of 2,100 have departed

for Melbourne, thus showing what attention Australia is exciting among the

Chinese ; that Chinese passage brokers, being under such heavy engagements

to find passages, are driven to the utmost straits, so that European ships con

demned years ago as unfit to carry cargo are readily purchased at enormously

high prices and fitted out for passengers; that of those already purchased only

one can be termed a sound wholesome ship ; that one ship of 850 tons was sold

for $85,000 ; another of 337 for $33,000 ; one of 140 tons for $ 15,000 ; one of

379 tons for $ 30,000 ; and four or five others at prices equally extravagant.

3. Added to this, in two instances, the master of the vessel, after taking on

board aa number of passengers far in excess of that which is either legal or safe,

fearing the consequences, has forced a number of them on shore at the moment

of sailing,when the passage broker having absconded they looked in vain for

a return of their passage money or even for food and shelter. In the case of

the “ Shamrock ” brig this cruelty was practised at Singapore, where the vessel

touched on her way to the Australian colonies. One vessel has been wrecked

on the Madjicosima Islands, involving great loss of life ; another, a Dutch ship,

has put into Singapore leaky; and it ismuch to be feared that these are but

a small part of the casualties which may be expected to occur unless some

efficient control be speedily exercised.

4. It has therefore been thought fit to exercise the power given by the Pas

sengers' Act of appointing an emigration officer , for without his intervention

none of the penalties in that Act can be enforced. For this duty, Mr. Hillier,

the chief magistrate of police has been selected , and for the additional labour

thus imposed on him , and the exposure to the climate that it will necessarily

involve , it has been considered that an addition of 2001. a year to his salary is

such a sum as could reasonably be given, and one very much below that which

would be necessary to ensure the services of a competent person not already

in Government employ . I should have been disposed to recommend the

levying a small fce upon each emigrant as some compensation for the protec

tion afforded him , and with the view of relieving the colony from any pecuniary

burden, but I fear the difficulty of collection and the abuses to which it might

lead in the hands of subordinate officials would more than counterbalance its

advantages, and ( small though it be ) would induce the emigrant Coolie to seek

its evasion by embarkation at some other port.

5. The process of collecting passengers for California ships appears to be

somewhat as follows :-A passage-broker at Hongkong (not unfrequently a

man of straw who is not to be found a few hours after the vessel leaves ) sends

out his crimps to the mainland, and these on the payment of about five dollars

as bargain money, give to each candidate for shipment a bargain-ticket, sealed

with the seal of the broker for whom they act. With this ticket the candidate

proceeds to Hongkong, where on payment of the balance of passage-money

and re -delivery of the bargain -ticket, a passage ticket is granted, securing to

the possessor a passage to California. Thus the broker may receive the money

of shiploads of passengers before he has provided by the purchase or the

charter of ships, for the accommodation of even a small number of them. If

the charter money be high, the shipowners may often risk the confiscation of

the ship at the port of debarkation in consequence of an infringement of the

Passenger law there, and still be sure of a profit on the transaction ; and the

(250.)

( 10 )

ship may be despatched with the same certain profitable result, if the Chinese

purchaser pay but a small sum for her acquisition and receive large amounts

for passages. It is difficult at present to account satisfactorily for the enor

mous prices paid for ships as related above, though the sum paid for a passage

is also unusually high ; I can only attribute it to the pressure upon the more

substantial Chinese brokers of engagements which they must fulfil at the risk

of absolute ruin. It is manifest that the temptation under these circumstances

to crowd human beings recklessly into unseaworthy vessels must be extra

ordinarily great.

6. In conclusion , I would state that this subject was brought to the notice

of Sir George Bonham before it attained to its present more serious importance.

非

He issued in consequence a proclamation ,of which a copy was forwarded to

• Page 6. your Grace, in Despatch * No. 4, of 6th January last ; but he refrained then

from doing more, fearing that to enforce the English Passenger Act in all its

strictness would tend to drive emigrant vessels away to Chinese ports and thus

deprive the colony of the benefits that it must derive from this source. Yet it

may well be doubted whether the additional protection and comfort afforded

to the passenger by an effective Government surveillance, will not render the

colony more attractive to emigrants, and thus counterbalance the supposed

evil consequences of a feeling of dissatisfaction on the part of charterers or

owners of ships at any interference with the liberty of action they have hitherto

enjoyed ; and at all events , the existing danger of serious casualties renders

this contingency of minor consideration.

I have, &c.

His Grace the Duke of Newcastle, ( Signed ) W. CAINE .

&c . &c. &c.

No. 7. No. 7 .

Copy of DESPATCH from the Right Hon . Sir George Grey to Governor

Sir John BowRING .

( No. 22. )

SIR, Downing Street, August 29, 1854.

I have to acknowledge the receipt of Lieut. -Governor Caine's Despatch ,

Page 8. No. 11 , of the 4th * of May last, reporting the steps which he had taken for

enforcing the provisions of ' the Passengers’ Act, in regard to emigrant vessels

proceeding from the ports of Hongkong; and in expressing my approval of

those measures I have to convey to you the sanction of the Lords Commissioners

of the Treasury to the allowance of 2001. per annum to Mr. Hillier, the

chief police magistrate, to act as Emigration Officer, on the understanding that

this additional income is to be discontinued whenever the cessation of emigration

may render the office unnecessary .

I have, &c.

Governor Sir Johu Bowring, ( Signed ) G. GREY

&c . &c. & c.

No. 8 . No. 8.

Copy of DESPATCH from His Grace the Duke of NEWCASTLE to Governor 1

Sir John BOWRING.

( No. 11. )

SIR, Downing Street, March 16, 1854 .

I Transmit to you for your information and guidance a copy of aа letter

from the Colonial Land and Emigration Commissioners, transmitting copies of a

correspondence with Mr. White on the subject of Chinese emigration to the

25th Feb. 1854. West Indies, together with a copy of the answer returned to the Commissioners

by my desire.

17th March 1854. I have to request that you will instruct the Surveyor -General to place him .

self in communication with Mr. White respecting the establishment of a depôt ,

( 1 )

and that you will report to me your opinion as to the expediency of such a

measure .

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed ) NEWCASTLE .

&c. &c . &c.

Enclosure 1 in No. 8 .

Encl. 1 in No. 8.

Colonial Land and Emigration Office.

SIR, February 25, 1854.

1. WE beg to enclose copies of two letters which we have received from Mr. White, * No. 2. 10th Dec.

with the answer which we have returned to those letters. It is not possible, however, No. 4. 26th Dec,

that this answer can be received before the emigration has practically terminated. 24th February

2. It will be seen that little chance exists of chartering ships in China , but that

Mr. White has authorized Messrs. Tait and Co. to send one or two vessels (if they can be

procured ) from Namoa ; a step which we cannot refrain from regretting.

3.It appears to us that no better course can be adopted for commencing a healthy

female emigration than that adopted by Mr. White ; but we do not feel very sanguine of

his immediate success .

4. We trust that next year, being at liberty to advertise for shipping at a far earlier

period, we shall be able to secure asupply of European surgeons.

5. The emigration is as yet of so uncertain a kind that we could not recommend that

the expense of constructing a depôt should be incurred ; but we think it might be very

advisable to obtain the opinion of some Government officer on the spot ; and we would

suggest that if the emigration proceeds the Governor should be instructed to direct the

Surveyor -General or some other competent officer to place himself in communication with

Mr. White on the subject, and report respecting the expediency of such a step ; the

expense which would be necessary ; and on any means which Government might possess

for facilitating the construction of a building adequate for the purpose.

We have, &c.

Herman Merivale, Esq. ( Signed ) T. W. C. MURDOCH .

&c. &c. &c. FREDERIC ROGERS,

Sub - Enclosure 1 to Enclosure 1 in No. 8. Sub -Encl. 1 to

Encl. 1 in No. 8.

(No. 2. )

SIR, Hongkong, December 10, 1853.

SINCE I had the honour of addressing you by last mail, several vessels have

arrived, suitable for the emigration service, but they have all been taken up at rates very

far exceeding those which I am authorized to give, and are princicipally under charter

for California .

2. As an instance of the high rates of freight now current, I may mention that

Mr. Comstock, agent on behalf of the PanamaRailway Company (of whom I made

mention in my last), offered, a few days ago, $ 70 for the conveyance of labourers to

Panama, and to put 700 on board, the charterer finding water and fittings and everything

necessary. The vessel ( the Wilhelmsburgh) registers 900 tons, and according to the

English Passengers' Act could not carry more than 450 emigrants. But 700 passengers

at $ 70 each is equivalent to 450 at $ 109, and this latter is the sum I would have had to

offer in order to place matters on a par.. In addition to the freight for the emigrant, the

charterer engaged, if required, to furnish a cargo of guano from Peru for New York .

The whole offer has, however, been declined, and the vessel is now under charter for

California. This statement will show the Commissioners how little prospect there is of

procuring shipping for the West Indies during the present season .

3. As it is possible that some stray vessels may call in at Amoy, without knowledge of

the high freights current here, I have authorized Messrs. Tait and Co. to take them up

on my account ; and I annex copy of the letter I have addressed them on the subject. I

effected this arrangement only on the condition required by them , that they should

receive a commission for placing emigrants on board (from Namoa ); and although this is

contrary to my express wish , that the emigration should be conducted from Hong

kong, I thought it best to accede to it under present circumstances, for I see little

prospect of getting vessels in Hongkong, and if I had rejected the proposal made to me

by Messrs. Tait and Co. I would lose the chance of any vessels that might arrive at Amoy,

for they would unquestionably be taken up under a similar engagement for the Cuban

emigration.

4. If emigration is to be carried on from this port continuously ( or at least for a few

years) and systematically, and in a manner creditable to the Government, it is absolutely

Note. - The previous correspondence relative to Mr. White's proceedings, as West India

Emigration Agent in China, is contained in the papers presented to Parliament by Her Majesty's

command in 1953 and 1855, “ Correspondence Emigration from China .”

( 250. ) B 2

( 12 )

necessary to have a depôt. Here emigrants may be collected, and be prepared for em

barkation, so that no delay shall arise when the vessel is ready to receive them , and here

they will be protected from the possibility of fraud on the part of the collecting agents.

The present method of bringing them together two or three days before the vessel leaves,

and then shipping them offwithout sufficient preparation or inquiry, leaves open the door for

all manner of abuses ,in spite of the best exertions of the emigration agent. But the establish

inent of a depôt, whether atloat or on shore, will be attended with some expense ; and with

the little prospect there is of obtaining shipping this season , I do not wish to incur any ex

pense that may be avoided, without having the previous sanction of the Commissioners. A

hulk , such as would answer the purpose of a depôt afloat, will cost at present from 3,0001. to

4,0001. The town of Hongkong, at the foot of an abrupt hill, offers few conveniencies

for building, and I have been unable to find any place but one suitable for the purposes

of a depôt. This place comprises three lots of land ( on which there are buildings, now

in a nearly ruinous condition, as the parties to whom they belonged have allowed them

to lapse to the Crown rather than pay a heavy ground rent), and is nearly three acres

in extent, and situated on the shore of the bay. The Surveyor-General informs me that the

three lots may be had for 3001. a year, but they cannot be made available for the purposes

of a depôt until the Governor, who resides at present in a house adjoining one of these

lots, shall have removed into the new Government House now in course of erection. The

repairs to the old buildings, and the erection of new ones that may be required , will,

on a rough calculation, cost from 1,0001. to 1,5001. If emigration from China is likely

to be carried on for a few years, I recommend the establishment of a depôt, afloat or on

shore (the latter only as being the most economical) ; but if it is to be uncertain and

desultory the expense of a depôt may be saved. And in this case the emigrants required

inay be obtained as well through the agency of a respectable mercantile house as by the

instrumentality of a Government agent.

5. No emigration from China will be safe or satisfactory until soine of those who have

left return with favourable accounts of the West Indies, and till this takes place the

respectable Chinese will continue to regard this emigration with suspicion and distrust.

If the accounts be favourable, the emigration may become to a great extent self

supporting, for thousands will be eager to emigrate , and will gladly undertake to pay

at least a portion of the passage money, as soon as their confidence has been secured.

6. I have already stated frequently that I see no prospect of procuring women , except

by purchase, direct or indirect. If the Government will authorize me to advance money

for this purpose I have no doubt of success. Girls of respectable connexion may be

obtained for about forty dollars of ten to fifteen years of age, and I propose to pay this

amount to a few of the more respectable emigrants, and leave them to make their own

arrangements, on condition of their marrying the women before the departure of the

vessel. When favourable accounts are brought from the West Indies by returned Chinese

emigrants , it may become unnecessary to resort to this method to procure women and

children ; but until that takes place, if my information be correct, there is no probability

of obtaining women without purchase, forsuch is the universal custom of the country.

7. In iny last communication I stated that I could not get access to the depôt at Macao ;

but being furnished with introductions from Canton I returned there on my way back to

Hongkong. Mr. Jorgé at once consented to my seeing it, on condition that I should

communicate nothing in reference to it, either to Government or to the newspapers.

I found everything exceedingly well arranged and worthy of imitation, and the whole

establishment such as I should be glad to see in Hongkong. I found 480 stout men

and boys well lodged and well clothed, and looking clean and comfortable, and the

arrangements of the place in every way satisfactory. As Mr. Jorge has purchased vessels

for the service, this portion of the Cuban emigration may be considered as well organized

vessels, although he

and likely to be permanent. He has not been able to charter any about

has offered as high as seventy dollars per emigrant. As he puts fifty per cent.

more men on board than would be allowed by the English Passengers' Act, this sum of

seventy dollars is equivalent to about 105 dollars to the British West Indies. He

informs me that the vessels despatched by him towards the close of last season arrived in

Cuba without any accident, and that the ratio of mortality among the emigrants was

very trifling

8. There is no prospect of obtaining a European surgeon ; none can be obtained here ;

and the vessels from Australia, California, and India do not bring any . If I succeed in

procuring vessels, I shall have to despatch them with Chinese surgeons instead ; and if it

be made imperative for the future that European surgeons must be employed, it will be

necessary to make

Chinese have arrangements for

left this for California this surgeonsin(except

without purpose England. Upwards

their own) of 40,000

; and I am not

aware that any epidemic has broken out, or that any untoward accident has occurred to

mar the success of a single voyage. Almost everything depends on the captain, and

the surgeons likely to be picked up here are men whose services would probably be of

little or no value. The surgeon of the “ Emigrant,” who was engaged at a high salary

for the voyage to Demerara , died of " delirium tremens” from sheer drunkenness a few

days after the voyage had been abandoned .

9. As to emigration generally, I see no reason to doubt that any number of people

may be obtained that the resources of the West India colonies can afford,

( 13 )

That portion of the Cuban emigration which is established at Macao is, except as

to the overcrowding of the vessels, on a satisfactory footing, and is likely to be of a

permanent character.

An extensive and increasing emigration is going forward to California . Numbers of

Chinese return from there, and goback again, after having made here such purchases as

they think likely to yield profit. Hardly a week passes without vessels arriving from and

leaving for San Francisco,so that the intercourse is regular and well established. There

are now in harbour two English vessels of considerable size, which have been purchased

by Chinese expressly for this trade, and a line of packets has been lately established by a

respectable firm , with vessels * advertised to sail at stated periods. The emigration to

California may therefore be considered as thoroughly well established, and as likely to

increase yearly, at least for some years to come.

As yet, little or nothing has taken place in emigration to Australia ; but as a few

Chinese have recently returned from there, and have brought with them a good deal of

gold, it is expected that emigration will set in to Australia in the same manner as to

California.f

The Peruvian consul at Canton has recently issued a notice that the Peruvian

“ Government conceive it undesirable to encourage the importation of Chinese Coolies

“ into Peru, and will henceforth decline to enforce the observance of any contracts that

may be entered into between shippers and Coolies.” This will in all probability check

the shipment of labourers to that quarter.

The “ Sea Witch ” (American ) is now in harbour, and proceeds shortly to Namoa, to

take labourers for the Panama Railway. Her upper deck has been housed over from the

mizen forward, so that she will carry nearly as many passengers on this deck as on her

'tween deck, and in all many more than would be permitted by the English Passengers

Act. The agent for the company has not been able to charter any vessels here, although

he is authorized to give very high terms for the conveyance of labourers. The Sea

Witch ” was chartered in New York, and was fitted out there for her present occupation.

10. I have drawn upon the Commissioners in favour of Messrs. Dent and Co. for 5001.

sterling, so as to have some funds in hand for the payment of any disbursements that may

be required. The bill is at thirty days,' and under date 10th December.

I have, & c.

S. Walcot, Esq. , Secretary, ( Signed) JAMES T. WHITE.

Colonial Land and Emigration Commissioners.

& c. &c. &c.

DEAR SIRS, Hong Kong, December 9, 1853.

IF any vessels arrive at Amoy suitable for the emigration service, I shall feel

obliged by your taking them up on my account, for theconveyance of 500 to 600

emigrants to British Guiana, and a similar number to Jamaica. The first vessel to go

to Jamaica. The ship to provide wood, water, and the necessary fittings, and a European

surgeon, if one can be obtained ; and the amount to be paid must not exceed 1 + 1. 10s.

sterling, or $ 70, for every emigrant landed . I name this sum as the maximum , and

trust you will be able to procure freight at lower rates.

You are aware of the stringent provisions of the English Passengers Act ; and I

must urge you not to employ any vessel that is not unexceptionally sea -worthy, and

in every way suited for the comfortable conveyance of emigrants. They must be care

fully surveyed.

I wish these vessels to take emigrants from Namoa ; and if you will inform me when

a vessel has been chartered, I will,if possible,meet her at that place. I have arranged

with your Mr. Tait as to the commission you will be entitled to charge for this service,

and also as to the probable outlay for local charges, and for provision and clothing to

the emigrants, amounting in the aggregate to $24, and if two months wages, or $8,

be paid in advance, the total sum required per man will be $ 32, which sum I shall

be prepared to advance as soon as I am informed that a vessel has been taken up for

the service.

The provisions must be of the best quality, and the supply of water abundant; but on

this and other points connected with the emigration I will write hereafter.

To obviate the inconvenience and dissatisfaction that appears to have arisen in the

West Indies by deducting $1 a month from the wages of the emigrants, so as to refund

to the colonies the $8 advanced here, I think it would be well, instead of having any

reference to these $8 in the contract, merely to stipulate that for the first eight months

after their arrival they will be entitled to receive as wages (exclusive of food, &c. ) only

$3 a month, after which they will be placed on the full allowance of $ 1. Interpreters are

absolutely necessary.

I am , &c.

Messrs. Tait and Co., Amoy. ( Signed ) JAMES T. WHITE.

&c. & c.

* One of these is the “ Lord Warriston,” a fine vessel, which the Commissioners may, perhaps,

remember was tendered to them by Mr. Hamlin, a few days before I left London.

† Three vessels are now advertised for Port Philip and Sydney, and are intended to carry

passengers.

B 3

(250.)

( 14 )

I understand that no commission will be charged for chartering. I send a copy of some

papers relating to emigration ,” which will show the spirit in which the colonial

authorities desire that this emigration should be carried on.

Encl. 2 in No. 8. (No. 4.) Enclosure 2 in No. 8.

SIR , Hong Kong, December 26, 1853.

Nothing of any interest connected with emigration has occurred since I had the

honour of addressing you on the 10th instant.

2. Very few vessels have arrived, and these all under previous engagements, so that

the rates of freight are fully as high as they were ; and as there is a great deal of Chinese

produce on hand waiting for shipment, it is probable that they will go even higher.

3. No vessels have been taken up here, either for Panama, Peru, or Cuba, but

Mr. Jorge has purchased another vessel ( now at Manilla under the French flag, for the

Cuban emigration .

4. As an indication of the high rates of freight now current, I may mention that a

vessel being required for the conveyance to England of the invalids of the 59th regiment,

tenders were called for in the usual form , but only one vessel was offered ( the " Enter

prize "), and the rate required 151. per man . Last year the rate paid was 301. This

tender was rejected; but an arrangement has since been made, by which the rate per man

is reduced to 40l ., the difference being made up, or nearly so , by the freight payable ou

stores that are to be sent home, and by other concessions.

5. Upwards of 800 Chinese have returned from California since the 10th instant.

passenger on board one of the vessels that brought 300 informs me that they appeared,

all of them , to have plenty of money , and that they stated their intention of returning to

California as soon as they had seen their friends and enjoyed the festivities of the new

year. The return of Chinese under such favourable circumstances must naturally stimulate

emigration to that quarter, and the communication is now so certain and so frequent

that it cannot fail to become of considerable importance.

6. Subjoined is a memorandum furnished to me by Mr. Jorge of the three vessels

despatched by him at the close of the last emigration season. It is singular that the

mortality was least on board of the vessel that was most crowded.

Tons. Coolies. Died .

Sophia 240 250 17

Viaganté 300 51

Victoria 500 400 53

950 121

The mortality on board of the “ Viaganté” was caused by “ scurvy," which broke out

ninety days after leaving this ; and he attributes it entirely to the negligence of the

captain .

The mortality on board of the “ Victoria ” he attributes to her being despatched “ too

late in the season, about the end of March .”

7. He has made arrangements for this season with parties residing at Anjer, and at the

Cape of Good Hope and St Helena, to furnish his vessels with whatever provisions or

supplies may be required, and he makes it imperative upon the captains to call at Anjer

for fresh vegetables and pigs, and at the Cape of Good Hope or at St. Helena, or at

both , if necessary, for the same purpose, taking sheep at the Cape instead of pigs. These

arrangements are good, and might be adopted with advantage in our West Indian

emigration, for the various breaks in the voyage, and the frequent supply of fresh

vegetables and water, must conduce to the health, comfort, and cheerfulness of the

emigrants.

8. Difficulties, however, occur in spite of bis precautions and care. By late advices

from Singapore I learn, that the “ Adamastor,” of 400 tons, despatched by Mr. Jorge

for Cuba in last October, with upwards of 300 Coolies on board, had put into that port,

the captain being compelled to this step under the threat of losing his life. The Coolies

deserted the ship immediately after her arrival, and the voyage was necessarily abandoned.

9. Incidents such as this deter captains from embarking in the emigration service ;

and to show the general feeling that prevails on the subject, I annex the copy of a

letter from the consignee of the " Jamestown," to whom I had made an offer for the

conveyance of emigrants to Jamaica .

10. The proper season for emigration is passing away so rapidly that I have taken

upon myself the responsibility of offering $ 80 for the passage of emigrants to the West

Indies. This sum , payable on arrival, is equal to £ 16 13 4

The provisions, clothing, and local charges will amount to about $ 25,

which at the current high rates of exchange will not be less than - 6 6 8

Making in all L 23 0 0

( 15 )

This is an amount beyond which the Commissioners would not, as I apprehend,

authorize me to advance, nor would any such advance be sanctioned by the local

governments.

I have, &c.

S. Walcot , Esq ., Secretary , (Signed) JAMES T. WHITE

Colonial Land and Emigration Commissioners,

&c. &c. & c.

MY DEAR SIR, Canton, December 10, 1853.

INFORMED through Captain Moore you are very desirous of getting forward

Coolies to Jamaica, and ready to pay very liberally, considering the scarcity of tonnage,

I am induced to solicit an offer for the “ Jamestown." I send this by express boat, as

time is an object, and the voyage for this ship already marked out for Manilla. Still your

offer may be an object for me to abandon the latter, therefore you must send me your

very best terms, as on receipt of same I shall either accept them or close my despatches

to Captain Moore for Manilla .

Let your offer be very clear. Say S per head for 500, or as many more as the ship

can take in her 'tween decks.

Freight to be paid on the number shipped, less two (2) per cent. in the event of any

mortality amounting to more than that per- centage, and no further abatement in any

case, not excepting the possibility of the ship stopping on the voyage and the men

escaping

Shipto find water and fuel only, and to be despatched on 1st January, or sooner if

possible.

Freight to be paid in Spanish dollars, on arrival of the ship at Jamaica.

'Tis unnecessary to send me an offer coupled with receiving freight on the number of

Coolies landed, as it will not be considered for a moment.

So much has been said of your readiness to pay a ship more liberally than present rate

of freights will yield, I shall be most happy to abandon the Manilla voyage of the

Jamestown,” and meet you promptly ; but remember the last clause, as I cannot take the

slightest risk of being disappointed in the out-turn of the freight.

As the post boat may give me your reply earlier than the bearer of this can return ,

better write by it.

Very truly,

(Signed) H. W. HUBBETT.

Enclosure 3 in No. 8 .

Encl . 3 in No. 8.

Colonial Land and Emigration Office,

SIR , Park-street, Westminster, February 24, 1854.

I Am directed by the Colonial Land and Emigration Commissioners to acknowledge

your letters, No. 2. of the 10th December, and No. 4. of the 26th December last.

The Commissioners regret much that you should have been unable to procure any

shipping for emigrants for the West Indies. They entirely approve of your having

increased your offer to $80 a head ; they also fully approve the proceedings which you

propose to take in regard of obtaining women, understanding your intention to be this -

that as wives are, in fact, obtained by purchase in China, you will furnish some of the

emigrants procured by you with the means of effecting marriages in this, the usual manner,

taking care that the connection thus formed is one of aa natureas legitimate and obligatory

as the law and usage of China renders possible.

With regard to your intention to employ native surgeons, the Commissioners cannot

but feel much apprehension, especially observing the large mortality which has taken

place in two out of the three ships despatched by M. Jorgé to Cuba. They trust that

if you find yourself forced to have recourse to this class of persons, you will have spared

no pains to secure as capable a person as can be obtained.

The Commissioners would not as yet feel at liberty to sanction the expenditure of

money in a depôt. The emigration from Hongkong is at present experimental, not a

single cargo of emigrants having been yet collected at that port. The Commissioners

are glad to observe that you anticipate no difficulty in obtaining emigrants, but they do

not think so large an expense (which does not appear to be indispensable) should be

incurred, at least till those anticipations have been tested by experience. There is, how

ever, one point in your proceedings to which the Commissioners cannot advert without

great regret. Your instructions authorize you to despatch emigrants from Hongkong,

or, if necessary, from Amoy. But you state that you have entered into an engagement

with Mr. Tait for despatching vessels from Namoa. There appeared reason to be dis

satisfied with the mode in which the Messrs. Tait conducted in 1852 such part of the

West Indian emigration as fell into their hands. Emigration from Namoa is, as you are

aware, in direct violation of our treaties with China, and on that account, when emigra

tion was set on foot from that port last year, it elicited an immediate remonstrance

(250.) B4

( 16 )

from the Foreign Office. The Commissioners trust, therefore, that no emigrants will

have been despatched from that or any other locality which is not legally open to

British trade.

The Commissioners have perused with much interest the account which you give of

the emigration to Cuba and other destinations. They are glad to perceive that a stop

has been put to an emigration alleged to be connected with so many abuses as that to

Peru .

I have, &c.

( Signed ) S. WALCOTT,

J. T. White, Esq. Secretary.

Encl. 4 in No. 8 . Enclosure 4 in No. 8.

GENTLEMEN , Downing Street, March 17, 1854.

I Am directed by the Duke of Newcastle to acknowledge the receipt of your

letter of the 25th ultimo, transmitting copies of two letters from Mr. White, reporting

his proceedings in connexion with the emigration of Chinese to the West Indies, together

with a copy of the answer you have returned to Mr. White.

I am to acquaint you , in reply, that the Duke of Newcastle approves of your answer

to Mr. White ; and his Grace has directed the Governor of Hong Kong to instruct the

Surveyor-General of that colony to place himself in communication with Mr. White

respecting the establishment of a depôt, in the case of the continuance of emigration,

and to report his opinion respecting the expediency of such a step.

As regards the mode suggested by Mr. White for obtaining female emigrants, whilst

his Grace is aware that Chinese marriages are always a matter of purchase of the wife

from her parents , he desires that Mr. White be instructed to take care that neither him

self nor his agents are the purchasers. The way to prevent such a result will, in his

Grace's opinion, be to offer a bounty to married emigrants equivalent to the price paid

by a man of the labouring class for his wife. He will then , in consideration of this

summ , make his own domestic arrangements, and of course bring his wife with him .

I have, & c.

The Colonial Land and Emigration (Signed) H. MERIVALE.

Commissioners.

No. 9. No. 9.

Copy of DESPATCH from Lieutenant -Governor Caine to the Duke of

NEWCASTLE.

( No. 23. ) Victoria, Hongkong, June 5, 1854 .

My Lord DUKE, (Received August 7, 1854. )

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Grace's despatch

* Page 10 of 16th March last, ** giving cover to sundry letters from Mr. White, late West

India Emigration Agent in this colony, and the correspondence relating to

these letters .

2. Your Grace desires me to instruct the Surveyor-General to place himself

in communication with Mr. White respecting the establishment of a depôt for

Chinese emigrant Coolies destined for the West Indies, and to report my

own opinion as to the expediency of such a measure. Mr. White having, as

your Grace will have been apprised, returned to England at the termination of

the season favourable to emigration , I can only comply with the second

requirement.

3. I am decidedly of opinion, with Mr. White, that if the emigration to the

West Indies from this place is to be systematic and constant, it cannot be con

ducted in so creditable a manner as the Governinent would wish, without the

establishment of a depôt on shore or afloat : the former would probably be the

least expensive both as to its original cost, and in regard to the establishment

necessary for its due regulation.

4. It is difficult to imagine how , without the aid of such an establishment,

labourers can be selected of such class as by their introduction would benefit

the Colonies, for this must necessarily require time ; nor how, when such

selection has been made, the Coolies can be prevented from absconding after

the receipt of the advanced wages that are always given as a part of the

inducement to emigrate. The ordinary lay -days of a ship chartered for the

voyage cannot be sufficient time, nor the ship a suitable place, for these

preliminary arrangements ; and the fact that such a depót has been found

( 17 )

necessary both at Macao, where emigration is in private hands, and in Calcutta,

where itis under the supervision of the Government, seems to strengthen the

supposition that it would also be a requisite here.

5. Such an establishment would also seem necessary to realize Mr. White's

anticipations of success with regard to inducing married men and families to

emigrate. Unquestionably it is most desirable that in emigration of every

kind the proportion of male and female emigrants be as nearly as possible

equal. When this is the case the removal of labourers from a country where

the wages of labour are barely sufficient for their scanty subsistence to another

country where labour is in great demand, and the climate at the same time

suitable, must be a source of mutual benefit, and a work of high philan

thropy. To accomplish this equalization of sexes among Chinese emigrants,

we must tolerate Chinese ignorance and Chinese prejudice in regard to ma

trimony, which we shall find on examination to be, after all, not so far different

from our own notions as might at first sight be supposed. Mr. White, in

advocating the purchase of women might with equal truth have used a term

less abhorrent to our notions of freedom and less suggestive of abuse ; for in

reality the money and presents given to the parents of the bride are considered

to be for the purpose of enabling them to send her to her husband's house pro

vided with a suitable wardrobe, and in a manner becoming their station . Per

haps the question propounded by the parents to the intending husband what

sum of money he was willing to disburse to induce them to place their daughter

at his disposal, might not to European ears appear more indecorous than would

to Chinese ears the converse of the question as propounded by intending hus

bands in Europe to parents what sum of money they were willing to add as a

dowry to their daughter, to induce him to place himself at her disposal. And

both in China and England mercenary considerations in such engagements

are admitted to be abnormal and improper.

6. It is true that such a bounty on marriage as that proposed, might induce

some to select as their wives prostitutes from the numerous brothels within

their reach ; but the better the class of emigrants selected, the less probability

of this contingency ; and even should its occurrence be certain I cannot look

upon it withany degree of apprehension ;ܪ‬on the contrary, I believe that

very many of this unfortunate class of females, were such an opportunity

presented to them of escaping from their terrible bondage, would most gladly

avail themselves ofit, and become thereafter grateful and virtuous wives ; for a

great number of them , perhaps a large majority, are purchased as slaves in

their infancy, and are so trained up for the express purpose of prostitution,

that their mode of life can scarcely be termed voluntary. Here it is true they

are free ( and they constantly take advantage of their freedom in this manner ),

but on the mainland they are, I imagine, utterly without the power, if without

the money, to obtain their liberty. I am glad that this subject is occupying

the attention of Her Majesty's Government, for I consider it to be one of the

greatest importance.

7. The very best stimulant of emigration to the West Indies would be, as

Mr. White remarks, the return to China for a season of those who have already

emigrated , earned money , and been well treated in the country of their tempo

rary adoption.

8. With regard to the treatment of emigrants on board their ships, the great

desideratum is the selection of a good captain, for on him, more than on any

arrangements that can be made before the departure of the vessel , depend the

comfort, health, and good humour of the passengers. For this reason it is

most desirable that aa sufficient number of ships for the season's emigration be

chartered in England.

9. The Passengers Act seems to me to be unnecessarily stringent, in regard

to the number that each vessel is allowed to carry. Vessels hence to Califor

nia, almost without exception , build deck houses for the accommodation of

passengers, and when they find it more profitable than to carry cargo, they lay

an orlop deck also for the same purpose. The American Passengers Act allows

this ; and the emigration officer ( recently appointed, as your Grace was in

formed by my despatch of 4th * of May last), with my sanction, permits the Page 9.

practice to continue, taking care only that fully twelve feet of space be allowed

to each adult on the upper decks, and twenty -four feet on the orlop -deck — the

(250.) с

( 18 )

height between the decks being six feet. This I consider to be fully sufficient

forthe preservation of health , and it satisfies both the Chinese passenger and

the shipowner; and I see no reason why the sameindulgence should not be

allowed to ships carrying emigrants to the West Indies. It is obvious that

such a relaxation from the stringent provisions of the English Passengers Act,

would materially diminish the cost to the colonies of each emigrant. The great

points to be attended to are, the seaworthiness and ventilation of the vessel,

the quality and quantity of the provisions, and the space allowed to each pas

senger. If on these the emigration officer satisfy himself, I consider others of

minor importance.

10. It would be well, I think, if some local enactment were made to meet

the peculiar situation of this place. Under present circumstances, though

some effective control is absolutely requisite, the emigration officer is placed

in the anomalous position of acting under a law of which he enforces not a

great deal more than its general spirit‫ ;ܪ‬to carry it out in the letter would, in my

view , be productive of nothing but harm . It would simply drive away from

our harbour a source of employment and wealth to the colonists, which it

should be our anxious endeavour to foster and increase, and would not at the

same time tend in any way to further the interest of the emigrant or of

humanity. Such an enactment I purpose to submit to your Graceat a future

time, when we shall have had more experience of what is required: to delay

it seems necessary, not only on the score of deficient knowledge, but also that

it may; if possible, be made to square with the intention ofthe Emigration

Commissioners in regard to the more permanent and systematic establishment

of the West Indian emigration, and with further reference to the measureson

the same subject, which, I am given to understand, it is the intention of Her

Majesty's Government to bring before Parliament at an early period.

11. I would add, in conclusion, that if the Commissioners think fit to employ

the emigration officer already appointed here to organize measures for a

regular supply to the West India Colonies of Coolie emigrants, instead of

sending out a special agent for the purpose, this Government will not object.

He is, I believe,quite competentfor the task, and, from his acquaintance with

the language and people, peculiarly fitted for it ; but his services would be

available as a supervisor only - want of tinie would coinpel him to leave much

of the details to some trustworthy subordinate. In the former capacity and as

a correspondent of the Emigration Board , I have no doubt his services would

be very valuable, and would require for their remuneration a much smaller

expenditure than would be necessary in the case of an officer sent fromEngland

for the purpose. I make these remarks under the impression that Mr. White

does not wish to return to China, and that the Commissioners may have some

difficulty in finding a suitable successor. That the emigration can be con

ducted only during one -half of the year is, perhaps, an additional reason for

the employment as agent of some person not wholly dependent for support

upon the emoluments of the office.

I have, & c.

His Grace the Duke of Newcastle, ( Signed ) W. CAINE.

&c. & c.

No. 10. No. 10.

Copy of DESPATCH from Lieut.-Governor CAINE to the Right Hon .

Sir GEORGE GREY.

Victoria, Hongkong, March 14, 1855.

(No. 39.) (Received May 9, 1855.)

SIR, (Answered, No. 11, June 5, 1855.)

I HAVE the honour to enclose copies of proclamation and notification

Page 19 . recently promulgated in this colony on the subject of emigration.

I have, & c.

The Right Hon . Sir George Grey, Bart. ( Signed ) W. CAINE.

&c. &c. &c.

( 19 :)

Enclosure in No. 10. Encl. in No. 10 .

GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION.

With reference to the provisions of “ The Passengers' Act, 1852” restricting the number

of passengers to which the required space of twelve feet has been allotted to one for every

two tons of the ship's registered burthen , the emigration officer has been instructed to

apply to all ships a uniform standard of measurement, namely — that now or hereafter to

be employed for ascertaining the capacity of British vessels. — Ships not registered under

the latest Imperial Acts must therefore procure from the Government Surveyor a certifi

cate of their actual capacity before they can be passed by the emigration officer.

By order,

W.T. MERCER,

Colonial Secretary's Office, Victoria, Colonial Secretary.

Hongkong, 9th March, 1855.

Enclosure 2 in No. 10. Encl. 2 in No. 10 .

PROCLAMATION .

JOHN BOWRING .

WHEREAS by a Proclamation dated 28th December 1853, made in pursuance of the

85th Section of “ The Passengers' Act, 1852, ” it was declared that the provisions and

medicines supplied to passenger ships should be in accordance with certain scales in the

said Proclamation duly set forth, and whereas these scales have been found in some points

unsuited to the wants of Chinese passengers, it is hereby declared that with respect

to passengers being Chinese or persons accustomed to Chinese diet the supply of provisions

and medicines for passenger ships may in future be as follows.

Provisions.

Or such amount of

Rice lbs. 1 per diem provisions customari

Salted Provisions ly used by Chinese as

wholly pork ; or may in the judgment

pork and į fish ; or 1/ do. ofthe emigration offi

špork, beef, and fish

Salted vegetables or pickles ១ do.

} cer be capable of per

fect preservation dur

Water, imperial quarts 3 do. ing the passage and

Firewood -

lbs. 2 do. be fully equivalent to

Tea OZ. + do. | this scale.

[ Then follows a list of medicines, &c., for every 100 passengers, and in like proportion

for any greater or less number.]

Or such other medicines, disinfectants, and medical and surgical implements as a duly

qualified medical practitioner may certify and the emigration officer may consider to be

sufficient.

Given under my hand and seal of the colony at Victoria ,

Hongkong, the 28th day of February, 1855.

By His Excellency's command.

W. T. MERCER ,

Colonial Secretary .

GOD SAVE THE QUEEN.

No. 11 .

Copy of DESPATCH from the Right Hon. Lord John Russell to

Governor Sir John BOWRING,

( No. 11. )

SIR , Downing Street, 5th June 1855.

I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of Lieut.-Governor Caine's

Despatch, No. 39,* of the 14th of March last, enclosing copies of a notification * Page 18.

and a proclamation which you have recently issued on the subject of emigration .

In the former, you announce that in calculating the restriction of thenum

ber of passengers by the tonnage of the vessel, the system employed for

measuring the tonnage of British ships will in future be applied to all vessels

employed in the carriage of passengers. I see no objection to this notification ;

(250. ) C 2

( 20 )

but I have to inform you that in the Bill now before Parliament for the amend

ment of the Passengers' Act, it is proposed altogether to except from the

tonnage check vessels sailing from Hongkong:

The proclamation substitutes for the provisions and medicines required by

the previous proclamation such provisions and medicines as may be approved

by the emigration officer. This is unobjectionable in itself, but the law has not

authorized the Governor to delegate such power to the emigration agent.

It will be necessary, therefore, that youshould recall the proclamation and

should issue a fresh one, comprising, as far as possible, the whole list of sub

stitutes which may be considered advisable.

I may take this opportunity of informing you that it is in contemplation to

introduce into Parliament a measure designed expressly for the repression of

abuses in Chinese emigration ; and I shall put you in possession ofthe provi

sions of the Bill as soon as it is prepared.

I have, &c.

Sir John Bowring, (Signed ) J. RUSSELL.

&c. &c.

No. 12.

Copy of aa DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Right

Honourable Lord John RUSSELL, M.P.

Government Offices, Victoria , Hongkong,

( No. 136. ) September 12, 1855.

( Received November 10 , 1855. )

MY LORD, ( Answered November 23, 1855.)

In compliance with the instructions conveyed in your Lordship’s 1

• Page 19. despatch No. 11,* of 5th June last, I have the honour to report that the pro

clamation of 28th February, 1855, regulating the scale of provisions and

medicines to be carried in emigrant ships, has been cancelled, and another, of

which copy is enclosed, has been issued in its stead.

I have, &c.

The Right Hon . Lord John Russell, M.P. ( Signed) JOHN BOWRING ,

&c. &c. &c.

Encl. in No. 12. Enclosure in No. 12.

PROCLAMATION .

JOHN BOWRING .

WHEREAS under proclamation dated 28th February 1855 , certain powers were

unduly delegated to the emigration officer at this port, it is hereby declared that the

proclamation aforesaid shall be, and the same is, annulled from this date ; and that with

respect to passengers, being Chinese or persons accustomed to Chinese diet, the supply of

provisions and medicines for passenger ships shall in future be as follows ::

Provisions.

Rice, 1 } lb. per diem .

Salt provisions, —wholly pork ; or f pork and } fish ; or { pork,

} beef, and fish ,

Salted vegetables or pickles,

Water, 3 imp . qts. 9 )

Firewood, - 2 lb.

Tea, oz.

[Then follows a scule of medicines, dc., for every 100 passengers, and in like

proportion for any greuter or less number.]

Given under my hand, and Seal of the Colony, at Victoria, Hongkong, this 20th

Day of August 1855.

By His Excellency's Command,

W. T. MERCER ,

Colonial Secretary .

GOD SAVE THE QUEEN.

( 21 )

No. 13. No. 13.

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon. H. LABOUCHERE

to Governor BOWRING.

( No. 3. )

SIR, Downing Street, November 23, 1855.

I HAVE to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch No. 136 of the

12th September, and to convey to you my approval of the proclamation

which you have issued for regulating the scale of provisions and medicines to

be carried in emigrant ships.

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed ) H. LABOUCHERE .

&c. &c.

No. 14 .

Copy of DESPATCH from Governor Sir John BOWRING, to the Right

Honourable Sir William MOLESWORTH, Bart., M.P.

Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong ,

( No. 147. ) October 6, 1855.

Sir, (Received December 7, 1855.)

I have now the honour to forward copy of an interesting document, by

which it appears, that during eleven months, ending on the 30th September

last, nearly15,000 Chinese have leftthis colony by square-rigged vessels,—the

return giving no information as to the amount of emigration in native junks,

which are generally employed for conveyance of passengers to Cochin China,

Siam , the Straits Settlements, and the islands of Netherlands India.

It is worthy of remark, that during this period not a single vessel has

cleared from Hongkong with emigrants for our West India colonies, or for the

island of Cuba, or Peru, or any of the countries of Western America, except

California .

The great mass of emigrants who have departed from hence are of the

superior class, such as have been able to pay their passage money ; and the

return is instructive as evidence that the protecting character of our emigration

legislation is no impediment to the shipment and conveyance of Chinamen who

are willing to quit their country as adventurers in foreign lands.

These returns show the number of emigrants

To Australia 10,467

To California 3,042

To ports in China 1,375

To the Philippine Islands - 11

To Siam 50

To Singapore 46

It may be added , that the shipment of emigrants from the legal ports in China

has almost wholly ceased, and that it is now generally carried on from unlawful

places removed from consular control, principally Swatow andCumsing moon,

in shipping not British, and directed by agents not subjects of Her Majesty.

I have, &c.

The Right Hon. ( Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

Sir William Molesworth, Bart., M.P.

&c. &c. &c.

( 250.) C 3

( 22 )

Enclosure in No. 14.

Encl. in No. 14.

RETURN of VESSELS CLEARED OUTWARDS with CHINESE PASSENGERS from the 1st

November 1854 to 30th September 1855.

Number of

Vessel. Flag. Tons. Date sailed . Destination. Passengers.

Hamilton Brit. - 438 Nov. 14, 1854 Shanghai 6

Pielades Dutch 424 ‫وو‬ Amoy - 12

Yen Looing Brit. - 70 Nov. 17 Canton 10

Zetland 1,283 Nov. 18 99 East Coast 26

Samuel Churchman Am . 221 Nov. 29 California 72

Alfred 99 453 Dec. 1 California 246

Nightingale " 1,066 Dec. 6 Shanghai 4

Bombay Brit. - 400 Dec. 11 > Amoy: 1

Eliza Ann 99 258 Singapore 30

Bella Vascongda Spain 480 Dec. 12 Manila 4

Tarranta Portug. 320 Dec. 13 Port Philip 386

Margaret Mitchell Brit. - 930 Dec. 23 9 Shanghai 7

Inchinnan 565 Dec. 26 California 257

Naryana 417 Dec. 27 Foo - Chow - Foo 4

F. E. Schutt Hamb. 280 Jan. 3, 1855 Shanghai - 4

Leonore Am. - 373 Jan. 5 San Francisco 170

Alfred - 453 San Francisco 246

Wizard " 1,601 Jan. Whampoa 12

Arturo Brit. - 675 99 Port Philip 450

Resolution 382 Port Philip 315

Lucas Am. 349 | Jan. 17 California 168

Malane Brit. - 133 Jan. 19 Foo - Chow - Foo 4

Java 1,175 Jan. 25 San Francisco 578

Annie New Gren . 307 Jan. 31 Port Philip - 219

Lady Hayes Brit. - 384 | Feb. 1 Port Philip 263

William and Martha 359 Feb. 2 Port Philip - 275

Statesman 345 99 Port Philip 289

Asa Thor Dan . - 250 " Amoy - 12

Levant - Am . 382 Port Philip 355

George Metcalf Brit. 413 Feb. 5 Port Philip 229

Neptune Siam . 700 Feb. 7 Siam - 50

Gem Brit. - 249 Feb. 8 Singapore 4

Harpley - > 547 Feb. 10 Port Philip 336

Joven Idhap Portug . 600 Feb. 12 9 Macao 4

Elizabeth Ellen Am . - 581 Feb. 14 San Francisco 240

Kate Hooper 1,507 | Feb. 15 Port Philip 716

Cum - hap-lee Brit. - 78 Feb. 17 Amoy - 50

Santiago Peruv 198 Feb. 24 EastCoast 1

Palmetto Am. - 282 Feb. 27 9 San Francisco 20

Neurea - Brit. - 264 Mar. 8 99 Amoy 70

Tuskina Am . - 422 99 > Port Philip 280

Monsoon 404 Mar. 16 Port Philip 285

Alfred - Brit. - 788 Mar. 17 Melbourne 453

Hashemy 523 Mar. 23 Port Philip 336

Whistler Am . 922 > Melbourne 418

Nina Brit. 95 | Mar. 24 Shanghai 2

Ameer 459 Mar. 28 Port Philip - 214

Race Hound Am. 500 Mar. 30 San Francisco 100

Vigilant Brit. - 257 Mar. 31 Melbourne 196

Elizabeth 711 " Port Philip 320

Thos. Fielden 904 Melbourne 423

Menado - Dutch 717 Hobson's Bay 308

India Brit. - 573 April 4 Port Philip 266

Gundreda 450 April 10 Shanghai 25

Forerunner 141 April 12 Amoy - 25

Sting Ray Am. 846 April 3 99 San Francisco 301

Eliza Jane Brit. - 564 April 14 9 Port Philip - 264

Nile 378 Melbourne 173

Stephen Baldwin Am. 634 April 17 San Francisco 262

Resolução Portug. 689 April 19 Melbourne 317

Hannah - Brit. - 261 April 20 Port Philip - 100

Wild Pigeon Am. 1,000 April 21 Foo Chow - Foo 16

Alverton Brit. - 409 April 27 Port Philip 187

Science Am . 380 April 28 , East Coast . 3

Colibri Dan 202 May 2 Singapore 4

Victoria Peru - 894 | May 3 Hobson's Bay 426

( 23 ) .

Tons. Number of

Vessel. Flag . Date sailed . Destination .

Passengers.

Brought over 11,849

Maria Natividad a

Peru 518 | May 3, 1855 Port Philip 215

J. W. A. Lorenzen Ham . 749 | May 9 >> Hobson's Bay 357

Melane .

Brit. 136 Shanghai 12

Bombay - 513 May 11 Port Philip

និម

12 >

ន្នី”F°*“+៖១។ឧទមននៗ្ន

Banner : 133 | May 15 Amoy - 4

Louisiana Am. 250 San Francisco 5

St. Joseph French 811 > San Francisco

Arturo Brit. 700 May 25 > Hobson's Bay

General Chassé Dutch 300 May 31 > Amoy -

Johanna 445 June 5 >> Shanghai

Nestorian Am . 697 > Shanghai

Hamilton Brit. 438 June 6 Shanghai

General Blanco Hano. 985 97

Hobson's Bay

Mariner's Hope Brit. 210 June 9 > Singapore

Primera de Santander Span . 550 June 15 >

Manila

Lizzie Jarvis New Gren. 500 June 16 San Francisco

Aar Hamb . 450 Amoy -

Clarita O Peru 200 June 18 East Coast

Taranta Port. 320 June 22 Shanghai

Tiger Brit. 146 June 28 West Coast

Hamlet 420 July 3 Amoy -

Adelaide 285 | July 5 Amoy

Cristina 272 July 7 Shanghai

New Margaret 411 July 15 Shanghai

Unicorn 900 July 20 Shanghai

Frederick VII. > 131 July 21 Shanghai

Mariner's Hope 246 92 > Singapore

Audax - > 150 July 24 East Coast

R. B. Forbes Am . 756 July 26 Shanghai

Nina - Brit. 98 > Shanghai

Homer 595 July 28 > Amoy - 200

Paul Johan Netherd . 600 July 30 >>

Foochow

Betah Brit. 177 > Shanghai 20

Banner >

133 Aug. 2 >>

West Coast 5

Abbotsford 425 Aug. 4 Amoy - 8

Lizzie New Gren. 373 Aug. 6 > San Francisco 21

Snow Squall Am . 742 Aug. 11 Shanghai 8

Black River Packet Brit. 265 | Aug. 14 > East Coast 50

Paquita -

Span. 348 Manila 5

Excellent Dan . 300 | Aug. 15 Shanghai 6

Favorite Siam . 556 Aug. 17 Amoy - 20

Horatio Am . 460 > Shanghai 2

Confucius Brit. 500 | Aug. 20 > Amoy - 100

Antoinette 219 Aug. 23 Shanghai 1

Nairn Balgyce Dutch 330 | Aug. 24 Amoy - 20

Lima Ham . 219 Shanghai 10

Keenan Hasselar Dutch 698 Aug. 25 San Francisco 20

Ocean Qucen Siam. 500 Aug. 27 > Amoy - 50

Mary Spencer Brit. 479 Aug. 28 San Francisco 4

Eaglet > 241 Aug. 30 West Coast 3

Cambalu 536 Aug. 31 Shanghai 2

-సలురు

Portug . 297 Sept. 1 West Coast

ఉతం

Taranta - 6

Brit. 169 Amoy -

.20

Ann

Siam Siam. 250 | Sept. 6 > Amoy -

Lontra Eagle - Brit. 139 Sept. 10 Canton

Amoy Dutch 474 Sept. 14 » Amoy - 70

Betty Dan . 170 Sept. 15 2 Shanghai

Homer Brit. 595 Sept. 17 Whampoa

Africa 515 Sept. 18 Shanghai

Christina Dutch 343 Sept. 21 Shanghai 30

Annie New Gren. 307 Sept. 22 99 Port Philip 14

Carman - Peru 350 Sept. 24 Shanghai 9

Johan Christople Dan. 272 > 99 Shanghai

Total 14,991

(Signed) Thos. V. WATKINS,

Harbour Master's Office, Victoria, Hongkong, Harbour Master.

October 5, 1855.

( 250.) C4

( 24 )

No. 15. No. 15.

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon. H. LABOUCHERE, M.P., to

Governor Sir John BOWRING .

( No. 11. )

SIR , Downing Street, December 8, 1855.

I TRANSMIT to you herewith copies of an Act ( 18 & 19 Vict. c. 104. )

18 & 19 Vic . c. 104 .

passed during the last session of Parliament for the regulation of Chinese

Passenger Ships.

By the last section it is provided that this Act shall come into operation as

soon as it shall have been proclaimed in Hongkong, if not previously pro

claimed on 1st January next. The period at which the Act will reach you,,

will of course render a Proclamation unnecessary to bring it into operation.

Nevertheless, it will be desirable that you should give it as extensive a pub

licity as possible.

The object of this Act is to prevent the recurrence ( so far as regards

British ships or ships sailing from British territory,) of the grave abuses which

have existed in the carriage of Chinese emigrants, and with this view it pro

vides that until otherwise enacted by the Legislature of Hongkong, every such

ship shall be subject to certain regulations specified in a Schedule to the Act

which limits the numbers to be carried, and requires a specified supply of

provisions, water, medicines, and medical comforts. The duty of certifying

that these regulations have been observed, is devolved on the “ Emigration

Officer ,” and any ship sailing without such certificate is made liable to for

feiture.

If you should decide, for the present at least, not to exercise the power of

legislation confided to the Legislature of Hongkong, but to leave the regula

tions of the Act in operation , I should see no objection to that course. But

in that case it would be necessary that you should at once issue a Proclamation,

under the 3rd section to determine the length of voyages of Chinese passenger

ships, and to make any alterations which you may think desirable in the scale

of provisions, medicines, and medical comforts. I must also point out that in

consequence of an alteration in the House of Lords, the “ note ” to Schedule A.

has become inconsistent with the body of the Act, and it would therefore be

necessary in publishing the Act to add another note to point out this incon

sistency, and that the penalty for breach of the regulations has been reduced

from forfeiture of the ship and a fine, to a misdemeanor.

But if you should decide on substituting a local Act for these regulations, it

would be essential that you should not diminish the protection which Parliament

intended to provide for the Chinese passengers in matters affecting his health.

You should not for instance reduce the superficial or cubical space to be

allowed to each passenger in the between decks, nor should you except on

very strong grounds diminish the space required by the regulations on the

upper deck . Considering the latitudes through which Chinese passenger

ships must pass, it is very important that there should be sufficient space on

the upper deck to allow the great bulk of, if not all, the people to be col

lected there in the day time. Otherwise the between decks can never be

sufficiently ventilated and cooled . In other respects I should desire to leave

your discretion and that of the Council unfettered . You will observe that any

ordinance which you may pass will require the confirmation of Her Majesty

before it comes into operation .

But whether you continue the regulations of the Act, or substitute for thein

a local ordinance, it is evident that the principal responsibility in carrying the

law into operation will devolve on the emigration officer. It is that officer who

is to decide on the number that a ship may carry, to ascertain that she is

seaworthy and properly fitted, manned and stowed, to inspect her provisions

and water, and to enquire whether the passengers understand the contracts into

which they have entered. It will also be his duty to see to the due execution

of the bond required under the fourth section by the master and two sureties,

and to ascertain the sufficiency of any sureties proposed to him . In filling

up the bond the names of the master and their sureties with their additions

must of course be inserted at full length. Upon the manner in which these

duties are performed , will depend,, almost entirely, the amount of protection

which the emigrants will obtain.

( 25 )

To assist the emigration officer in the performance of his duties, I have *

obtained from the Emigration Commissioners a memorandum * showing the * Printed Volume

instructions issued by them to their officers in this country for the performance of Instructions,

of duties similar to those which will devolve on the emigration officer in

reference to a Chinese passenger ship. These instructions will probably not be

applicable in all respects to Chinese passenger ships, but they will show the

minute attention paid in this country to questions relating to the seaworthiness

of passenger ships, the number of passengers they may carry, their ventilation ,

and the goodness of their provisions and water. Too great vigilance cannot be

exercised on these points, and it is therefore indispensable that the officer

entrusted with the duty should be a man of energy, decision, and firmness ;

acquainted with shipping, and capable of exercising a sound judgment in the

matter of provisions, & c. You would not hesitate, should it appear to you

necessary, to make any changes among the holders of office in the colony,

which would secure the appointment of athoroughly efficient officer.

In respect to the appointment of emigration officers at other ports than

Hongkong, if such appointments should be deemed requisite, and in respect to

all that relates to Her Majesty's consuls, you will receive instructions from the

Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs.

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed ) H. LABOUCHERE.

&c. &c ,

No. 16. No. 16.

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon. H. LABOUCHERE, M.P., to

Governor Sir Joux BOWRING .

( No. 27. )

Sir , Downing Street, January 22, 1856.

With reference to that part of my despatch of the 8th * instant which * Page 24.

refers to the possible appointment of emigration officers at some of the legalized

ports in China, I have now to inform you that Her Majesty's Government

have decided , for the present at least, to appoint no emigration officer elsewhere

than at Hongkong. This decision will make it necessary that every British

ship carrying passengers from China should repair in the first instance to

Hongkong to obtain her emigration papers. But as the district from which

emigrants are likely to be procured lies between Amoy and Hongkong, and

during the north - east monsoon ( when the principal emigration in British ships

is likely to be carried on ), is practically nearer to Hongkong than Amoy, I

do not anticipate that any material inconvenience will be caused by this ar

rangement. The facilities which it will afford for carrying out the Act and

preventing the abuses which have prevailed in this trade are too obvious to

require notice.

But as under these circumstances it may be expected that passenger ships

will arrive at Hongkong to be surveyed and obtain their emigration papers,

with their passengers, stores and cargo already on board, it will be necessary

that the emigration officer should exercise discretion as to the manner in

which he should perform the duties imposed on him in regard to the survey of

the ship, &c. In the " substance of instructions issued to etnigration officers

in this country, which I transmitted in my despatch of 8th instant, it is assumed,

as you will perceive, that the ship can be entirely cleared of cargo and pas

sengers before she is surveyed, and consequently that a thorough examination

may be made of her both inside and outside. This of course would be im .

possible in the case of ships arriving at Hongkong with their passengers, &c.,

on board. In that case, therefore, the emigration officer must take the best

means in his power to satisfy himself as to the ship's seaworthiness, bearing

in mind that while his first duty is to see that nothing is omitted which may be

necessary to the safety of the ship and herpassengers, it is also indispensable

that nothing should be done wbich would throw an unnecessary or vexatious

obstacle in the way of legitimate trade. The same remarks will apply to the

instructions in regard to fittings and ventilation. Provided these be in the

( 250. ) D

( 26 )

opinion of the emigration officer sufficient for security and health, it would

not be desirable that he should attempt to follow strictly the rules observed

in this country .

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed ) H. LABOUCHERE.

&c . &c.

No. 17. No. 17 .

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon . H. LABOUCHERE , M.P., to

Governor Sir John BowRING .

( No. 36. )

Sir, Downing Street, March 7, 1856.

With reference to my despatch No. 11 of the 8th of December, I have

to acquaint you that Her Majesty's Government consider it desirable that the

British Consuls abroad should be furnished with copies of all regulations issued

by the Governor of Hongkong in pursuance of the Chinese Passengers' Act.

I have, therefore, to request you to transmit to me a sufficient number of

copies of such regulations as are in force, in order that they may be forwarded

through the Foreigu Office to Her Majesty's Consuls, by which means they

are more likely to reach those officers than if sent direct from Hongkong.

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed ) H. LABOUCHERE .

&c. &c.

No. 18. No. 18.

Copy of aa DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Right Hon .

H. LABOUCHERE, MP.

Government Offices, Victoria , Hongkong,

( No. 20. ) February 5, 1856.

SIR, ( Received April 10, 1856.)

I have the honour to inform you that towards the end of last month a

copy of the “ Chinese Passengers’ Act, 1855," was placed in my hands by aa

private resident in the colony.

Seeing from the last clause that it was actually in force here even without

notification from the Government, I determined, on the authority of the Lo pidon

No. 1 . Gazette officially received, in which it was announced as having obtained the

Royal Assent, to publish it at once and enforce it from the date of publica tion.

No. 2. Accordingly the enclosednotification and proclamation, dated 25th and 26th

January respectively, were drawn up and appeared in the Government Gazette.

A few days afterthe above date I had the honour to receive your despatch,

No. 11 , of 8th December last, with the Act enclosed.

A second notification was in consequence prepared and will appear in next

Saturday's Gazette.

No. 3 .

I enclose copy of it ; and I also have to report that, as it may be impossible

to procure a European surgeon for every vessel leaving this withemigrants , and

as Schedule A. under the first regulation, regarding instruments, & c., seerns to

contemplate such impossibility, I have directed the emigration officer to procure

from the master a declaration of his inability to engage a regular practiti oner,

and to permit the employment of a person otherwise competent, and posse ssing

the confidence of the passengers .

I have, &c.

( Signed ) JOHN BOWRING .

The Right Hon. H. Labouchere, M.P.,

&c. &c. &c.

( 27 )

Enclosure 1 in No. 18. Encl. 1 in No. 18.

No. 12.

GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION .

It having been notified in the London Gazette of August 17th, 1855, that “the

Chinese Passengers' Act 1855 ” has received the Royal Assent, His Excellency the

Governor is pleased to direct the publication of the same for general information.

This Act will therefore be enforced from this date, and the emigration officer has been

instructed accordingly .

By Order ,

( Signed ) W. T. MERCER ,

Colonial Secretary.

Colonial Secretary's Office, Victoria, Hongkong , 25th January .1856 .

( Then follows a copy of the Imperial Act, c. 104, 18 & 19 Vict.]

Enclosure 2 in No. 18. Encl. 2 in No. 18.

(No. 13.)

PROCLAMATION .

JOHN BOWRING .

By His Excellency Sir John Bowring, Knight, LL.D., Governor and Commander

in - Chief of the Colony of Hongkong and its dependencies,and Vice-Admiral of the same,

Her Majesty's plenipotentiary , and chief superintendent of the trade of British subjects

in China.

Whereas by an Act of the Imperial Parliament of Great Britain and Ireland passed

in this the Eighteenth and Nineteenth years of Her Majesty's reign, entitled an Act

for the regulation of Chinese passenger ships, under the third clause thereof it is

enacted, that “ it shall be lawful for theGovernor of Hongkong to declare by proclamation

“ for the purposes of this Act, what shall be deemed to be the duration of the voyage of

any Chinese passenger ship : "

Now therefore I, Sir John Bowring, Governor as aforesaid, by this my proclamation

issued for that purpose, do declare that the following shall be the rule of computation by

which the length of the voyage of any ship carryingChinese passengers from Hongkong

to the severalplaces herein -after mentioned shall be computed, for the purposes of the Act

above referred to ; that is to say :

Pussage from Hongkong to the under -mentioned places for ships propelled by sails.

In the months

October to March. | April to September.

( both inclusive . )

California or West Coast of America, North of the Equator 100 days. 75 days

West Coast of America, South of the Equator 120 120

Sandwich Islands 75 56

New Caledonia, New Hebrides , Feejee Islands, Tahiti,

Society or Friendly Islands 100 100 9

Sydney, Melbourne, or South Australia 60 >

Western Australia 45 60

Van Diemen's Land 65 80

New Zealand 75 90

Manila 20 20

Singapore 20 45

Batavia 30 60

45 70

Ceylon

Madras or Calcutta 50 "

Bombay 60 80

Mauritius or Bourbon 60 80

Cape of Good Hope 65 85

West Indies, or East Coast of America 147 68

Great Britain or Europe 162 " 84

Siam 20 45

Given under my hand and seal of the Colony, at the Government Offices, Victoria,

Hongkong, this 26th day of January, in the year of our Lord One thousand

eight hundred and fifty -six, and in the nineteenth year of Her Majesty's reign.

[ L.s.] By His Excellency's Command,

( Signed ) W. T. MERCER ,

Colonial Secretary.

GOD SAVE THE QUEEN.

(250. ) D2

( 28 )

Enclosure 3 in No. 18.

Encl. 3, in No. 18.

(No. 18. ) GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION .

In continuation of Government Notification , No. 12, it is hereby further intimated

that the “ Chinese Passengers' Act, 1855 " has now been officially communicated to this

Government ; and his Excellency the Governor desires to point out, for general infor

mation, that in consequence of an alteration made in the House of Lords the " note " to

Schedule A. has become inconsistent with the body of the Act, and that the penalty for

breach of the regulations has been reduced from forfeiture of the ship and a fine to a

misdemeanor.

By Order,

W. T. MERCER,

Colonial Secretary's Office, Victoria, Hongkong, Colonial Secretary:

February 1, 1856.

No 9. No. 19.

Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Right Hon.

H. LABOUCHERE, M.P.

( No. 78. ) Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong ,

May 7, 1856.

SIR, ( Received July 7, 1856. )

Page 26. In reply to your despatch, No. 36,* of 7th March last, I have the honour

to state that the Chinese Passengers' Act was published in the Government

Gazette of this colony on the 25th January last, and that the following noti

fications have been issued in the said Gazette with reference thereto.

No. 13 ( proclamation ), of 26th January ; No. 18, of 4th February ; No. 22,

of 15th February; No. 34 , of 14th March ; No. 46, of 9th April ; No. 51,

of 22nd April; and a notification from the departinent of the superintendent

of trade, dated 12th March .

Of these I beg to forward all the available copies herewith ; viz., 25 of Nos.

13 and 51 ; 12 of Nos . 18, 34, and 46 ; and six of No. 22 ; together with two

of the notification from the superintendency of trade.

I have, &c.

( Signed ) JOHN BOWRING .

Right Hon. Henry Labouchere, M.P.,

& c. &c. &c .

Encl. 1 in No. 19. Enclosure 1 in No. 19 .

[PROCLAMATION, No. 13, January 26, 1856 , see page 32.]

Encl. 2 in No. 19, Enclosure 2 in No. 19.

[GOVERNMENT Notification , No. 18, February 4, 1856, see page 33.]

Encl. 3 in No. 19. Enclosure 3 in No. 19.

( No. 22.) GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATIOX .

Ir is liereby notified that the following fees are charged by the Goverrment

surveyor for certifying the seaworthiness or capacity of emigrant ships under the

* Chinese Passengers' Act, 1855 : "

Certificate of seaworthiness - 816

Certificate of admeasurement (when required ) 16

By Order

(Signed) W. T. MERCER,

Colonial Secretary's Office, Victoria, Hongkong, Colonial Secretary.

February 15, 1856.

( 29 )

Enclosure 4 in No. 19. Encl. 4 in No. 19

GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION,

Diplomatic Department.

His Excellency Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary and chief superintendent of British

trade in China, &c. , &c., has received instructions from the Earl of Clarendon, to the

effect that no British vessel is to be permitted to depart with Chinese emigrants for any

foreign country until she shall have proceeded to Hongkong, where the emigration officer

will be charged to ascertain that the conditions of the Chinese Passenger Act have been

fulfilled ; and Her Majesty's consular authorities are required to notify these instructions

of the Secretary of State in their several jurisdictions.

Her Majesty's Naval Commander-in-Chief will instruct all officers under bis authority

to assist the Consul in giving effect to the orders of Her Majesty's Government.

By order,

(Signed) G. W. CAINE ,

In the absence of the Officiating Secretary

Superintendency of Trade, Victoria , to H.B.M.'s Plenipotentiary.

Hongkong, March 12, 1856.

Enclosure 5 in No. 19. Encl. 5 in No. 19.

(No. 31.)

GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION.

In order to prevent difficulties arising on board emigrant ships at the moment of

intended departure, through unfounded statements by the passengers that their contracts

were not properly explained at the time of signature, persons engaging emigrants for

labour in the Colonies are advised to convey each labourer before the emigration officer,

or before a magistrate, who shall fill in the contract with a full description of the

intending emigrant, and certify in the form following, that its purport has been fully and

intelligibly explained. At present no fee will be charged for such attestation : :

FORM.

Name and Surname of the Labourer contracting (to be written in the

Chinese as well as in the English character ).

Age,

Native Province, District, and Place,

Descriptive Marks,

I certify, that on this day of 185 , in my presence , the

within contract was fully, distinctly , and intelligibly (as I believe) explained to the

above-named Labourer in a dialect which he understood ; that he expressed himself

willing to be bound by its terms ; and that he received into his own hands, in my

presence , the sum of dollars, as advance wages.

(Signed) A. B.

Justice of the Peace for Hongkong.

The attention of merchants and others interested in the emigration business is specially

called to the above intimation.

By order,

( Signed ) W. T. MERCER,

Colonial Secretary.

Colonial Secretary's Office, Victoria , Hongkong,

March 1+ , 1856.

Enclosure 6 in No. 19 , Encl. 6 in No. 19.

(No. 46.)

GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION.

In order to prevent unnecessary delay in the despatch of Chinese passenger ships

reported ready for sea, notice is hereby given that ,

1. It is not permitted to enter any of the passengers on the ship's articles as cooks

or stewards (if their names be excluded from the passenger list) notwithstanding

that compensation is made, by a remission of passage-money for their services in

these their respective capacities.

2. The ship will be detained if passengers whose respective ages exceed 12 years be

entered on the list as children ,

( 257.) D3

( 30 )

3. To the passenger list must be appended the names of the cabin passengers, if any,

the description and number of the crew, and all persons on the ship's articles

(mentioning the number of Chinese) ; and a memorandum of the total number of

souls on board the ship .

By order, (Signed ) W. T. MERCER,

Colonial Secretary's Office, Victoria, Colonial Secretary

Hongkong, April 9, 1856.

Encl. 7 in No. 19. Enclosure 7 in No. 19 .

(No. 51. )

GOVERNMENT NOTIFICATION.

It is hereby notitied for the information of masters of ships carrying Chinese

passengers, and unprovided with the improved appliances usually found in vessels of

modern construction, and generally for the information of all interested, that in addition

to a windsail for every hatchway, it is required that a constant supply of fresh air be

ensured to the between decks in bad weather, by fitting at each end of the space set

apart for passengers, two funnels of wood or metal, four in all, with moveable heads,

in manner following, that is to say, the body of the air funnel to reach from under

neath the lowermost deck overhead to a height of 3 or 4 feet above the uppermost

deck, and to pass through holes cut for the purpose in either side of the deck , and

made water -tight by a canvas coat or other suitable means.

The attention of the emigration officer has been called to the above regulation.

By order, W. T. MERCER,

Colonial Secretary's Office, Victoria, Colonial Secretary.

Hongkong, April 22, 1856 .

No. 20.

Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Right

Honourable Henry LABOUCHERE, M.P.

Governinent Offices, Victoria,

Hongkong April 11 , 1856.

( No. 59. ) (Received June 7, 1856. )

SIR, ( Answered No. 95, August 11 , 1856, Page 39.)

I have the honour to report that, during the past month of March,

two cases were brought to my notice of intended violation of the Chinese Pas

sengers’ Act.

One was that of the ship “ Levant,” which has been seized, and is now in

custody of the Marshal of the Vice -Admiralty Court ; the other that of the

“ General Blanco," which , it is to be feared, has succeeded in starting on her

disastrous voyage .

Both vessels sailed under the Hawaian flag, and were owned by the same

person .

The enclosed correspondence will give full particulars, and after the decision

in the case of the “ Levant,” I shall have the honour of again addressing you.

As regards the “ General Blanco," she was out of colonial jurisdiction when

intelligence of her proceedings reached the authorities ; but I am anxious to

be advised if the position taken by Rear-Admiral

- Sir James Stirling be

correct ; that though she possessed no national rights, and was violating a law ,

no matter of what nation,he was not justified in seizing her on the bigh seas.

It will be perceived that I made immediate appeal to the Governor of the

Portuguese settlement of Macao, who endeavoured, but unsuccessfuily, to detain

the “General Blanco," for whose passengers I entertain grave apprehensions.

I have, &c.

The Right Hon . ( Signed ) JOHN BOWRING,

Henry Labouchere, M.P.

& c. &c.

( 31 )

Enclosure 1 in No. 20. Encl. 1 in No. 20 .

(No. 168.)

Colonial Secretary's Office, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR, March 17, 1856.

With reference to my private communication made to you yesterday (Sunday ), I

am directed by his Excellency to ascertain from you full particulars concerning the ship

“ Levant,” which is stated to have been anchored in this harbour, and to have left with

passengers, and without a certificate from the emigration officer.

I have, &c.

Captain Watkins, R.N., (Signed ) W. T. MERCER,

Harbour Master. Colonial Secretary.

Enclosure 2 in No. 20. Encl. 2 in No. 20.

(No. 17.)

Harbour Master's Office,

SIR, Victoria, Hongkong, March 18, 1856.

In reply to your letter of the 17th instant, No. 168, I beg to report that the

“ Levant ” arrived at Hongkong from Whampoa on the 31st January ultimo, and dropped

down to Green Island on the 15th instant, where she still remains. The “ Levant ” is

under the Hawaian flag, and commanded by Albert Wood ; the owner I believe is a

Mr. McCormick, a Hawaian subject, now I understand at Whampoa.

The crew of the vessel were partly entered at this office, and the ship's articles are still

here, to have the remainder of her complement added, when they can be procured.

I have, & c.

The Hon. W. T. Mercer, Esq., 2 (Signed ) Thos. V. WATKINS.

Colonial Secretary.

& c. &c.

Enclosure 3 in No. 20 . Encl. 3 in No. 20 .

(No. 184.)

Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR, March 19, 1856.

I HAVE the honour to apply to your Excellency for assistance under the following

circumstances :

The ship “ Levant,” owned, as reported, by a Hawaian subject, but possessed of

no register, sailing letter, or other sufficient papers, is lying off Green Island with say

200 Chinese passengers on board, having dropped down beyond harbour limits yesterday

evening

The Chinese passengers are bound for Melbourne, and I believe it is intended to clear

the ship, if possible,for Macao, the voyage for which being under seven days' duration,

the vessel is assumed to be beyond the provisions of the Chinese Passengers'Act.

But the ship's articles are in custody of the harbour master, who is instructed not to

deliver them up, till the master, by anchoring again within the harbour, shall place

himself in a position to demand them.

I am this instant given to understand the vessel is now moving once more within the

harbour limits for this purpose.

By the interpretation clause of the Chinese Passengers' Act the “ Levant comes

clearly under the definition of a Chinese passenger ship, as carrying from this port “more

than twenty passengers, being natives of Asia .'

As regardsher plea, if offered, that her voyage is to Macao, and therefore, by its dura

tion, not bringing her under the Act, the passengers themselves will overset this, as will

also the fittings, the provisions, and the general preparations made.

I should here remark that the ““ Levant ” has no certificate, nor has she applied for

such, from the emigration officer of this colony.

Under section 6 of the Act the commander of a ship of war belonging to Her Majesty

has power to search a vessel such as this, and by section 10 to seize and detain her.

I therefore request your Excellency's assistance, as Her Majesty's Government have

issued stringent instructions that this Act of Parliament be firmly enforced , and by

section 11 of the Act, no responsibility will attach to any naval officer for acts dons as

above advised.

The Attorney -General will advise further proceedings when the “ Levant ” is reported

under seizure .

As your Excellency may remark, that it is in the power of the emigration officer to

make the seizure under section 6, I would observe that the naval authority is first

specified under that section, and also that it is advisable to employ an armed force to

prevent opposition.

(250.) D4

( 32 )

The “ Chinese Passengers' Act, 1855 " is published , should your Excellency not be fur.

nished with a copy of it by authority from home, in the Government Gazette of this

colony, 2nd February 1956.

I have further to suggest to your Excellency that, independently of the operation of

the Chinese Passengers' Act, the “ Levant” is liable to seizure and legal proceedings on

the ground of insufficient papers.

I have , & c.

His Excellency , (Signed) John BOWRING,

Rear Admiral Sir James Stirling, Governor, & c.

& c. & c. & c.

Encl . 4 in ' No. 20. Enclosure 4 in No. 20.

(No. 185.)

Colonial Secretary's Office, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR , March 19, 1856.

The ship “ Levant,” apparently unregistered, is reported to have, suy, 200 Chinese

passengers on board for Melbourne, and has applied for her ship’s articles, in possession of

the harbourmaster, the master giving out that he is bound for Macao.

His Excellency the Rear-Admiral lias been written to, but Sir John Bowring is afraid

that active assistance may not be rendered by the navy, though the Admiral's reply has

not yet been received .

It is possible,however, that the Admiral may require some application from the emigra

tion officer, who has like power to seize under the Act ; and his Excellency the Governor

therefore directs you to make full inquiry into the circumstances of the “ Levant’s” case,

then to apply to the Admiral for aid, and finally to report proceedings to this office for

his Excellency's information.

I have, & c.

( Signed) W. T. MERCER,

The Hon. C. B. Hillier, Esquire, Colonial Secretary.

Emigration Officer,

dc. & c.

Encl. 5 in No. 20. Enclosure 5 in No. 20 .

Winchester, at Hongkong,

Sur , March 20 , 1856.

I had the honour to receive yesterday evening your Excellency's Despatch of

yesterday's date, and having had this morning a conference with you, I now proceed to

reply to the application for assistance contained in that communication.

In the first instance, I have the honour to state that I am ready and willing to despatch,

at an instant's notice, such assistance as may be sufficient, in men and boats, to prevent

opposition , by persons on board the ship “ Levant,” to the legal exercise of authority on

the part of any officer appointed by your Excellency to give effect, within the limits of

this colony, to the provisions of the Act for the regulation of Chinese passenger ships.

I only await the expression of your wishes in this respect, and in the meantime suggest

that such officer be sent at once to my flag -ship, in order that the necessary force may

accompany him from this to the “ Levant."

In the 9th, 10th , 11th , and 12th paragraphs of your Excelleccy's Despatch it is

intimated that a commander of a ship of war belonging to Her Majesty has power to

search a vessel such as the “ Levant,” and to seize and detain her, and that no responsi

bility will attach to naval officers for such proceedings ; and that the Attorney -General

will advise further proceedings when the “ Levant ” shall be reported under seizure ; and

your Excellency requests my assistance to enforce the Act in question, it being, as you

inform me, the desire of Her Majesty's Government that the Act should be enforced with

firmness.

In these circumstances, I am naturally anxious to give effect to your Excellency's

application, and I have to notify to you that in the event of your considering it impossible

that the seizure or detention of the -- Levant" can be effected by any officer appointed by

you to carry out the provisions of the Act, I shall, in this instance, direct a naval officer

to detain her until further instructed .

Awaiting your Excellency's reply,

I have, & c.

(Signed Js. STIRLING ,

Governor Sir John Bowring, Rear-Admiral and Commander -in -Chief.

& c. & c. & c.

( 33 )

Enclosure 6, in No. 20. Encl. 6 in No. 20 ,

(No. 188.) Colonial Secretary's Ofice, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR , March 20, 1856.

On Dr. Harland's certificate, his Excellency sanctions your leave of absence to

Macao for 10 days, as applied for by you in your letter, No. 19, of this date.

Before your departure ,however, I shall be obliged by your giving me further particulars

about the ship “ Levant," in addition to those furnished in your letter, No. 17, of 18th

instant

It is necessary to know what steps you took on iearning that the “ Levant ” bad no

regular papers ; at what date you ascertained that she had Chinese passengers on board ;

whether inquiry (and of what nature, and when ) was made by you into the peculiar

position of this ship ; and if she complied with all the harbour regulations previously to

her leaving the harbour and dropping down to Green Island, on the 15th, as reported by

you on the 18th .

It is of great importance that you supply, without delay, a detailed account of the

movements and transactions of this ship while under your authority in this harbour, and

the measures adopted by you, from time to time, withreference to her.

I have, &c.

( Signed ) W. T. MERCER ,

Captain Watkins, R.N., Colonial Secretary

Harbour Master.

Enclosure 7 in No. 20 . Encl. 7 in No. 20.

(No. 7.) Emigration Office, Hongkong,

SIR, March 21 , 1856 .

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter, No. 185 , of 19th

instant, and, from inquiries made on board the " Levant ” and elsewhere, am enabled to

report, for the information of his Excellency the Governor, as follows:

The “ Levant," a ship of 382 tons, sailed under the flag of the United States of America,

and was recently sold to James McCormick , an American citizen, naturalized , under the

Government of the Sandwich Islands, who chartered her to a Chinese named Chong Ahoy,

for the conveyance of emigrants to Melbourne. I have seen the bill of sale and a com

munication from Mr. Jardine, the Hawaian Consul, to the effect that a sailing letter

will be granted as soon as the usual documents are presented for verification .

It was arranged that she should prepare for sea in this harbour, get a clearance for

Macao, take herpassengers on board in the vicinity of this city, beyond the limits of the

port, then proceed for emigration papers to Macao, and thence to Melbourne. Through a

mistake of the mate , she sailed beyond these limits and took on board her passengers

before she had obtained a port .clearance from the harbour master, and this document

being, in consequence, refused, she returned to the harbour with her passengers on board.

It is stated that a portion of these were, through inadvertance, embarked within the

limits of the port ; but of this I have not yet been able to obtain any certain information .

No notice was given to the emigration officer that the ship wasfitting for passengers.

Mr. McCormick informs me that he despatched the Hawaian ship “ Emma ” from this

place under similar circumstances,and intends to pursue the same course with the ship

ás General Blanco ,” sailing under the same flag, being assured by his legal adviser that by

so doing he does not infringe the provisions of the Chinese Passengers'Act of 1855.

Under these circumstances, before attempting to move his Excellency the Rear-Admiral

to so serious a measure as the seizure of the vessel, I beg for the opinion of the legal

adviser to the Government whether, on the facts stated, this ship has become liable to

forfeiture, under the 8th section of the Chinese Passengers' Act.

I have, & c.

The Hon. W. T. Mercer, Esquire, (Signed) C. B. HILLIER,

& c. & c. &c. Emigration Officer.

( Copy .)

I see nothing in the circumstances above detailed to warrant a delay. No time should

be lost in seizing the vessel for the purpose of forfeiture, under the Chinese Passengers

Act. The harbour regulations ordinance, which has been violated, as appears by Captain

Watkins' letter, ought also to be enforced. I cannot advise the postponement of process

until to -morrow , as it is doubtful how far it can be legally executed on a Sunday. Easter

Monday, again , is a close holiday. If the vessel proceeds to sea in the meantime, it will

be hard to clear the Executive of the laches which will have enabled her to do so.

( Signed ) T. CHISHOLM ANSTEY.

Attorney -General's Office, March 22, 1856.

The emigration officer must act on the Attorney -General's opinion.

By order,

( Signed ) W. T. MERCER ,

Colonial Secretary.

(250. )

( 34 )

Encl. 8 in No. 20. (No. 22.) Enclosure 8 in No. 20 .

SIR , Victoria, Hongkong, March 21 , 1856.

In reference to your letter of the 20th instant, No. 188, I have the honour to

report ,

1st. That I was not aware, nor had I any suspicion, that the “ Levant ” had no regular

papers : some time after the vessel's arrival from Whampoa the crew were discharged,

and ,when the master came to enter a fresh crew , he brought the ship’s register to the

office, merely that the tonnage might be taken from it and inserted in the new articles ;

being under a foreign flag, with a Consul at the port, he is the person in whose custody

the papers ought to be placed, and who would judge as to whether they were correct and

regular or not; the articles were brought to the shipping office at the request of

Mr. Jardine, simply for the convenience of entering the men there at once, until the crew

was completed, instead of giving the men the trouble of going to East Point.

2nd. The date I first ascertained that the “ Levant ” had Chinese passengers on board

was Sunday last, the 16th instant, communicated by the note of Mr. Murrow enclosed in

yours of that date.

3rd . On Monday, the 17th instant, I sent to ascertain the position of the “ Levant,"

what Chinese passengers she had on board, and the reason for her moving down , but was

unable to remain at office, and for hours totally unequal to any effort or exertion from

il severe attack of diarrhea and fever ; the “ Levant was then within the limits of the

harbour, and had a number of Chinese on board .

4th. Before the “ Levant ” dropped down to Green Island on the 5th instant, she had

complied with all the regulations of the port as far as I have any means of judging.

5th . During the night of the 18th instant, the “ Levant " left the harbour and returned

again on the 19th , as reported in my letter of that date : after office hours on that day,

application was made to the acting chief clerk for a clearance, and refused on the ground

of her not having the emigration officer's certificate : on the following day the application

was renewed for a clearance for Macao, and again refused ; the circumstance being re

ported to you, as I understand, by the acting chief clerk.

I have, & c.

( Signed ) THOS. V. WATKINS,

Hon. W. T. Mercer, Esquire, Harbour Master.

Colonial Secretary.

Encl. 9 in No. 20. Enclosure 9 in No. 20.

(No. 190.) Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR , March 22, 1856.

In acknowledying your Excellency's reply of the 20th to mine of the 19th instant,

I beg to inform your Excellency that in my opinion, confirmed by that of the Honourable

the Attorney -General, there is no authority here to whom I could, under the Chinese

Passengers' Act, and the circumstances of this case , delegate authority to seize or detain

the ship “ Levant," until at least after an appeal for this service to your Excellency ,

That appeal I have now the honour to make, and I am informed that the ship in

question is expected to leave the harbour instantly.

I have, &c.

(Signed ) JOHN BOWRING ,

His Excellency Rear -Admiral Sir James Stirling, Governor, &c.

&c. &c. &c.

Encl. 10 in No. 20. (No. 8.) Enclosure 10 in No. 20.

SIR “ Winchester,” at Hongkong, March 22, 1856.

I HAVE the honour to inform you that in compliance with the requisition for

assistance contained in your despatch of the 19th instant, and still further urged in your

communication of to -day, I have caused the Hawaian ship “ Levant ” to be seized and

detained this evening, and for further security removed to an anchorage near this ship.

Having taken these steps solely with a view of giving effect to your Excellency's

application for aid, and having no intention on my own part to proceed against the vessel

seized, and it being necessary that the officer and seamen of the “ Winchester,” at present

in custody of the "“ Levant,” should return to the “ Winchester ” as speedily as possible,

I request you will give directions for such proceedings to be taken as you may see fit

to adopt, in order that the naval department may be relieved of further charge.

I have, & c.

(Signed ) JAMES STIRLING ,

Governor Sir John Bowring, Rear- Admiral and Commander-in-Chief.

&c. & c.

( 35 )

Enclosure 11 in No. 20. Encl. 11 in No. 20.

(No. 8.) Emigration Office, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR , March 22, 1856.

I HAVE the honour to report for the information of his Excellency the Governor

that, immediately on the receipt of the Attorney -Generals opinion covering the facts

detailed in my letter, No. 7, of 21st March, I waited on his Excellency the Rear-Admiral,

placed these documents in his hand, and said that I had been instructed by his Excellency

the Governor to ascertain the circumstances attending the departure of the “ Levant,” and

to request that the law might be enforced against her in conformity with the 10th section

of the Chinese Passengers' Act, 1855. That these circumstances were as stated in my

letter, with the difference that, after further enquiry, I had no longer a doubt that the

vessel had embarked a considerable portion of her passengers within the limits of the

port, and had sailed beyond the limits with these on board . I added that, although the

Act conferred on me no power to seize, I was quite ready to point out the vessel, and to

accompany for this purpose any force that might be sent in execution of the law ; and,

lastly , I suggested the probability that, unless the measures taken were of a very prompt

character, endeavours would be made to withdraw the ship from British jurisdiction.

To all which, after a conversation of some length, his Excellency finally replied that he

was willing to enforce the law if the Colonial Government would assure him that they

had no officer of their own competent to this service ; that he had already written to his

Excellency the Governor to this effect, and now awaited aa reply.

Soliciting, therefore, the further instructions of his Excellency the Governor,

I have, & c.

The Right Hon . W. T. Mercer, Esq., (Signed) C. B. HILLIER,

Colonial Secretary. Emigration Officer.

Enclosure 12 in No. 20. Encl. 12 in No. 20.

(No. 192. ) Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR , March 24, 1856.

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt, on Saturday evening, of your

Excellency's letter, informing me of the seizure and detention of the ship “ Levant," in

compliance with my requisition for assistance from the naval authorities.

In furtherance of your desire that the naval force in charge of this vessel be relieved

without unnecessary delay, I have consulted the Honourable the Attorney -General, who

advises that the naval officer making the seizure apply to Mr. Gaskell, Queen's Proctor,

under sections 10 and 11 of the Chinese Passengers' Act.

The Proctor will thereon apply to the Marshal of the Vice-Admiralty Court to take

charge of the ship, and your Excellency will not be troubled with the further custody

of her.

The Attorney-General shall be instructed to look after the subsequent proceedings, and

the Colonial Secretary has communicated with Mr. Gaskell.

I am , & c.

Rear -Admiral Sir James Stirling, (Signed ) JOHN BOWRING,

&c. &c. & c. Governor, & c.

Enclosure 13 in No. 20. Encl. 13 in No. 20.

(No. 193.) Colonial Secretary's Office, Victoria , Hongkong,

SIR March 24, 1856.

The ship “ Levant” has been seized, at the request of his Excellency the Governor,

by the naval authorities for breach of the Chinese Passengers' Act, 1855.

His Excellency the Rear- Admiral is anxious to be relieved from the charge of her as

soon as possible, and I am instructed to desire that you will place yourself, as Queen's

Proctor, in communication with the Honourable the Attorney -General, and take, without

delay, the necessary steps for bringing the case into the Vice-Admiralty Court, and placing

the vessel in custody of the Marshal .

The Admiral is anxious that the depositions be taken to -day.

I have, &c.

William Gaskell, Esq ., (Signed) W. T. MERCER ,

Queen's Proctor. Colonial Secretary .

Enclosure 14 in No. 20. Encl. 14 in No. 20.

(No. 195.) Colonial Secretary's Office, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR . March 24, 1856.

WITH reference to your letter No. 22, in reply to mine, No. 188, I have the honor

to make the following observations :

You say that the master of the “ Levant” brought the ship's register to your office.

But it was at your office that I learnt that the ship had no register, and from subsequent

inquiry I am led to think still that she has none.

( 250.) E 2

( 36 )

Again, you say that the ship was under a foreign flag, with a consul at this port. I

must point out that this Government is not aware of any Hawaian Consul at thisport, so

that, even admitting the “ Levant’s” right, which is more than doubted , to fly the

Hawaian flag, it is in your office that her papers would be properly deposited.

And , again, you state that the “ Levant,” before dropping down to Green Island, had

complied with port regulationsas far as you had the means of judging. As the harbour

master is fully furnished with these means, it is presumed that the blue-peter was hoisted

as required by section 9 of the Harbour Ordinance ; but it is to be regretted that you did

not ascertain the circumstances under which the “ Levant was leaving, and make these

known at once to the emigration officer or myself.

As the matter stands, a flagrant breach of the Chinese Passengers' Act has been, to all

appearance, deliberately committed or planned in this harbour, and no notice has been

taken of it by the proper authorities.

However, the vessel is now seized, and will be brought into the Vice -Admiralty Court

for adjudication, so it is only necessary for me to call your attention to the point I have

first above mentioned, and request to know if a register was at any time produced to you

by the master of the “ Levant."

I have, & c.

Captain Watkins, R.N. , ( Signed ) W. T. MERCER,

Harbour Master. Colonial Secretary.

Encl. 15 in No. 20. Enclosure 15 in No, 20.

(No. 198. ) Colonial Secretary's Office, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR, March 25, 1856 .

I have to request that you will forward to me, under sealed cover, the ship's

articles of the “ Levant," of which I verbally directed you to retain possession.

I should wish these by llam. to-morrow at latest.

I have, & c.

H. Gunthorpe, Esq. (Signed) W. T. MERCER ,

Harbour Master's Office. Colonial Secretary.

Encl. 16 in No. 20 . Enclosure 16 in No. 20 .

(No. 199.) Colonial Secretary's Office, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR , March 25 , 1856 .

In reply to your letter, No. 8 , of 22d instant, this day received, I have the honor

to inform you that steps have been already taken to place the ship “ Levant” in the Vice

Admiralty Court.

Should further instructions to you be necessary , you will either hear from the Queen's

Proctor, or I shall have the honor of again communicating with you.

I have, & c.

The Hon. C. B. Hillier, Esq ., (Signed) W. T. MERCER,

Emigration Officer. Colonial Secretary.

Encl . 17 in No. 20. Enclosure 17 in No. 20.

Harbour Master's Office, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR, March 26. 1856.

In conformity with request, communicated by your letter, No. 198,of yesterday's

date, I have the honor to enclose herewith the articles belonging to the ship “ Levant.

I have, & c.

The Hon . W. T. Mercer, Esq., Colonial Secretary, ( Signed ) HENRY GUNTHORPE.

& c. & c. &c.

Encl . 18 in No. 20. Enclosure 18 in No. 20.

(No. 201.)

Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR, March 27, 1856.

I have the honour to bring to your Excellency’s notice another flagrant case of

violation of the Chinese Passengers’_Act, 1855, similar in all respects, save one,to that

of the ship " Levant,” in which your Excellency has already rendered the colonial authorities

your valuable assistance .

The “ General Blanco ” belongs to the same owner as the “ Levant, ” is said also to Hy

the Hawaian flag, without any papers, and to huve embarked here a large number of

Chinese passengers for the colony of Victoria .

( 37 )

I am given to understand that it is intended to land these men at a place on the coast

called Twofold Bay, a considerable distance from Melbourne, which city there will be no

probability of their reaching from the bay in question.

If this be true, nothing but death by starvation awaits these unfortunate men.

1 The case of the “ General Blanco ” differs from that of the “ Levant ” in this,-she is

lying just outside this harbour, whereas the “ Levant,” though she proceeded outside, was

induced to return, and was thus brought within the jurisdiction of the colony.

With the “General Blanco," however, we have no means of interfering, and I have no

alternative but to bring the above facts to the notice of your Excellency, in the hope that

your Excellency will exercise your authority and prevent the prosecution of this disas

trous voyage by seizing the “ General Blanco," which, as I have said, is reported to be

possessed of no papers, and consequently of no national rights or privileges, and bas on

board a very large number of natives of Asia .

It is given out that this ship intended to make for Macao in the first instance.

I have, & c.

His Excellency Rear -Admiral (Signed ) JOHN BOWRING .

Sir James Stirling, Knt.,

&c. & c.

Enclosure 19 in No. 20. Encl. 19 in No. 20.

Winchester,” at Hongkong,

SIR, March 28 , 1856 .

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency's Despatch of

yesterday, in which you call my attention to the case of the “ General Blanco," a ship

which you represent to be under the Hawaian flag, and at present lying just outside this

port, and beyond the jurisdiction of this colony ; and in which you inform me that, as,

under the circumstances stated , you have not any means of interfering with the “ General

Blanco , " you entertain a hope that I will exercise my authority and seize her, and thereby

prevent her from proceeding on the disastrous voyage she is supposed to have in con

templation.

I have the honour to inform your Excellency, in reply, that I have no authority to

seize and detain a ship for having violated the Chinese Passengers' Act, even when proof

of such violation may be exhibited to me, such ship not being a British ship, and not

within Her Majesty's dominions.

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed ) Js. STIRLING ,

&c. & c. Rear-Admiral and Commander -in - Chief.

Enclosure 20 in No. 20. Encl. 20 in No. 20.

(No. 210.) Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR, March 28, 1856 .

I HAVE the honour to bring to thenotice of your Excellency that the ship “ General

Blanco ” has left this harbour for Macao, on her way to the Australian colonies, with a

cargo of Chinese passengers.

She quitted this port without the emigration officer's certificate, or a port clearance

from the harbour master, and is understood to be possessed of no legal papers, and to have

no claim to the rights and privileges of any national flag.

As I have reason to fear that fraud and injury to the unfortunate emigrants are con

templated, I beg that, should the “General Blanco" come within your Excellency's

jurisdiction, your Excellency will take such steps in the matter as the claims of humanity

may dictate and the laws of Portugal permit.

I have, & c.

His Excellency Governor Guimarães, ( Signed) JOHN BOWRING.

&c. &c. & c.

Enclosure 21 in No. 20. Translation .) Encl. 21 in No. 20 .

Most ILLUSTRIOUS AND MOST EXCELLENT SIR,

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency's despatch of

of the 28th ultimo, informing me that the ship “ General Blanco," had sailed irregularly

from the port of Hongkong, and that she was bound to Macao.

Whilst thanking you for this information, I have to state that the ship in question

actually appearedat anchor in Macao Roadsa yesterday morning. The master landed

and applied at the harbour master's office for a clearance, but this was refused him by my

orders until he had produced papers authorizing him to sail lawfully. The master showed

only a clearance from Macào from the harbour master of Hongkong, a deed of sale of the

( 250. ) F 3

( 38 )

vessel, and some kind of register signed by Mr. Jardine as consul for the Sandwich

Islands, the flag of which islands the ship was flying. When the master was asked

respecting the cargo of the vessel, he at first hesitated to give an answer, but afterwards

stated that he had some Chinese passengers on board , but not Coolies.

Having received the harbour master's report of what was taking place, I desired him

to proceed on board the ship and inquire into the description of her passengers, and to take

such measures as humanity and the laws dictated in respect of Chinese emigrants ; and

also to ascertain all further particulars connected with the ship ; but this inspection could

not be effected, as the vessel set sail the same evening, and , as it appears, and is reported,

has proceeded to Hongkong.

God preserve your Excellency,

Macao, April 2, 1856.

(Signed ) ISIDORO F. GUIMARAES.;

The most illustrious and most excellent Sir John Bowring,

Governor of Hongkong and Her Britannic,

Majesty's Plenipotentiary in China.

True translation .

(Signed ) L D'ALMADA E CASTRO.

No. 21 . No. 21 .

Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor

LAB

Sir John Bowring to the Right Hon .

H. OUCHERE.

Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong,

( No. 109. ) July 5, 1856.

Sir, (Received Sept. 5, 1856.)

I had the honour in despatch No. 59, of 11th April last, to report the

seizure of the ship “ Levant," forviolation of the ChinesePassengers'Act, and

I mentioned that after adjudication of the case by the Vice-Admiralty Court

I should again have the honour of addressing you on the subject.

I have now to state that on the 17th ultimo the Judge condemned the ship

to a fine of 1001. and costs, and I enclose a letter from the Attorney -General in

which that officer complains of the inadequacy of the punishment, in opinion

as to which I myself concur, when I consider the nature of the offence, and the

expediency if not necessity of making severe example of the first case occurring

under the Act.

I have, &c.

The Right Hon . H. Labouchere, ( Signed ) J. BOWRING .

&c. &c . &c.

No. 22. No. 22.

Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Right Hon .

H. LABOUCHERE, M.P.

Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong ,

( No. 113. ) July 8, 1856.

SIR, ( Received Sept. 5, 1856.)

* Page 43. Since writing my despatch, No. 109,* of 5th instant, I have learnt that

an attempt was made, on behalf of the owner of the “ Levant,” to procure the

remission of that part of the Judge's decree which condemned him in costs.

The motion was heard yesterday and failed , as will be seen from the en

closed letter of the Attorney -General, and the case may now be considered

finally settled.

I have, &c.

( Signed ) JOHN BOWRING .

The Right Hon . H. Labouchere, M.P.,

& c. & c. &c .

( 39 )

Enclosure in No. 22. Encl. in No. 22.

The " Levant."

Attorney -General's Office, Hongkong,

SIR , July 8, 1856.

This case was again brought on yesterday by the advocate for the claimant, who

moved that so much of the Chief Justice's decree as gave costs should be rescinded , as

being contrary to the common law principle that “ the Crown neither pays nor receives

costs." The unskilful language of the “ Chinese Passengers Act ” I have more than once

had occasion to point out to you, and in no instance is it more apparent than in this.

Fortunately I was able to satisfy the Chief Justice that principle and authority supplied

what was wanting in that enactment ; and it may be that the consciousness of the

inadequacy of the trifling penalty ( 1001.) imposed by him to meet the costs and charges,

if they were to be defrayed by Government and not by the claimant, contributed to the

decree being pronounced once more in my favour.

The motion was refused with costs.

I have, &c.

The Hon. W. T. Mercer, Esq ., (Signed) T. CHISHOLM ANSTEY,

Colonial Secretary. Attorney -General.

No. 23. No. 23.

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon . the Earl of CLARENDON to

Governor Sir John BOWRING.

( No. 95. )

SIR , Downing Street, Aug. 11 , 1856.

1. I HAVE to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch , No. 59,* of the * Page 36 .

11th of April, with its enclosures relative to the seizure of the “ Levant ” and

the contemplated seizure of the “ General Blanco,” for violating the Chinese

Passengers’ Act.

2. It appears that these vessels belong to a Mr. McCormick, who is said to be

a subject of the HawaianItRepublic, and that they are sailed under the flag of

the Sandwich Islands . further appears to be the object of the owner to

carry on a passenger traffic from Hongkong or its vicinity without complying

with the provisions of the Chinese Passengers’ Act. With this view his vessels

take their passengers on board beyond the limits of the colony, and clear out

for Macao only , which being less than a seven days' voyage they are not re

quired by the Act to obtain a clearance from the emigration officer or to pro

vide themselves with emigration papers or to give a bond to the Crown. They

contemplate taking a further clearance from Macao for their ultimate destina

tion, or, as would appear from the case of the “ General Blanco ,” sailing from

Macao without any such clearance.

3. The “ General Blanco " is said to have taken on board aa number of Chinese

passengers in Hongkong, but proceeded beyond the jurisdiction of the colony

before this was discovered, and afterwards sailed for Macao without having been

cleared by the emigration officer or given bond, and without any “ emigration

papers. While she was still in the vicinity of Hongkong, but beyond the

limits of the colony, you applied to Admiral Sir J. Stirling to seize her, on the

ground that she had violated the Chinese Passenger Act. Sir J. Stirling

declined to comply, observing that he had no authority to seize and detain a

ship for violating the Chinese Passenger Act , such ship “ not being a British

ship, and not within Her Majesty's dominions.

4. On this point I feel no doubt that Admiral Stirling was right. The

authority to enter and search Chinese passenger ships is strictly limited by the

sixth section of the Act to British ships or ships within British jurisdiction .

The “ General Blanco ” fell within neither of these categories. Whatever her

nationality she was certainly not a British ship, while the ground of your

application to the Admiral was that she was not within British jurisdiction . If,

therefore, Sir J. Stirling had seized the ship on the ground of her having

violated the Chinese Passenger Act, he would unquestionably have exceeded

the powers vested in him by the Act 18 & 19 Vict. c . 104 .

5. If a foreign ship, though fitted and prepared in Hongkong, do not take

passengers on board till she is beyond its limits, she does not so much evade

the law as avail herself of aa liberty which the Legislature has not attempted,

and I think could not have ' attempted, to control. If she take passengers on

(250. ) E 4

( 40 )

board in Hongkong, but, in order to evade the Act, take out a fraudulent

clearance for Macao, it is for the authorities of Hongkong to consider whether

the proof of fraud is sufficient to justify them in detaining the ship before she

gets beyond the colonial jurisdiction, and to ensure success in legal proceedings

against her. When she has once left the colony she is beyond the power of

arrest until she come again within British jurisdiction .

6. In the case of the “ Levant,” you and the Attorney -General were satisfied

that there were sufficient grounds to go upon, and accordingly seized the ship.

I hope that the proceedings in that case will lead to the effectual vindicationof

the law which the owner of that vessel has sought to evade ; but whatever the

result may be, I anticipate that the course thus adopted will deter foreign

owners ormasters from attempting to take passengers on board in Hongkong

unless they are prepared to comply with the Chinese Passengers’ Act.

7. Before closing this despatch , I may advert to a point which, though it has

no bearing on the general question, it is as well to setright. In yourletter to

the Admiral you state that you had been informed that the passengers in the

“ General Blanco ” were to be landed at Twofold Bay in Victoria, which, being

distant from Melbourne, nothing but death from starvation awaited them . I can

inform you that no such misfortune need be apprehended. Twofold Bay,

though distant from Melbourne, is the port of a large pastoral district, and was

of sufficient importance to induce the Emigration Commissioners to dispatch a

ship to it direct from this country as far back as 1848.

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring , ( Signed ) CLARENDON.

&c . &c .

No. 24.

Extract of a DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Right

Hon. H. LABOUCHERE, M.P.

Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong,

July 26, 1856.

( Received October 11 , 1856. )

( No. 121. ) ( Answered November 20, 1856, No. 32, Page 41.)

“ I have attentively read the communication from SirGeorge Bonham to

Mr. Merivale,* on the subject of Coolie emigration from China.

“ In the general views of Sir George Bonham I cordially concur. I think

there is a great superfluity of labour in China which might advantageously be

transferred to the colonies , and the condition of the emigrant might be greatly

benefited if proper security could be obtained,-Ist, as to the honest purposes

and proper fulfilment of the original contract ; 2nd, fitting arrangements for the

sea voyage; and, thirdly , security, when the period of the contract is expired,

for the return of the emigrant ( should such be his wish ) to his native

country.

“ But I am afraid no adequate security can be found for giving effect to any

of these three conditions . The shipment of Coolies is now almost wholly con

fined to unlawful ports where there exists no consular control, and where there

can be no doubt shocking abuses and abominations prevail. The crimps em

ployed in the collection of emigrants have been hitherto people of the very

worst character, and are frequently sacrificed to the vengeance of the people,

and of late, in several cases, have been put to death by the mandarins. The

profits of the trade, the enormous premiums given for the collection of emi

grants, naturally and necessarily create agents of the lowest and most worthless

description. As regards contracts entered into between planters and emigrants

in our own colonies, no doubt local authority might give them full effect; but

in most other countries the correspondence of the Foreign Office will, I appre

hend, show that legislation does not provide any sufficient protection for the

emigrant labourer.

"The securities for the proper treatmentof Coolies during the voyage might

be satisfactorily provided, if vessels, let them have collected their emigrants

* This communication will be found printed at page22 of the Papers presented to Parliament

by Her Majesty's Command, “ Emigration from China,” 1855.

( 41 )

where they may, were compelled to clear out at a port where an emigration

office and functionaries are established. But since the existence of the Chinese

Passengers' Act, which, from the 1st January last, compels all British emigrant

ships to come to Hongkong, in order to have their papers examined, I am

aware of only one instance (the “ Henry Miller,”, now in harbour, bound to

Havanna) in which a cargo of emigrants has been brought to Hongkong in

order to fulfil the conditions of the Act, though I have reason to believe many

shipments have taken place from Swatow, Cumsingmoon, and Macao, in none

of which is there any British official to control or prevent irregularities.

“ I attach much importance to the condition, as referred to by Sir George

Bonham, that after the period of contract is expired, there should be an obli

gation to convey the emigrant home. This condition has been invariably *

repudiated by contractors, but I think it should be enforced .

“ No doubt it would be desirable to circulate among the Chinese all possible

information which could attract them to the places of their destination ; but

such information would be infinitely increased in value if it were furnished by

their own countrymen who have preceded them in the countries to which they

are invited . If the reputation of a British colony were well established in a

district of Kwantung or Fookein no local opposition would prevent emigra

tion to that colony . The Hongkong government might be an auxiliary of

great value to the colonies if emigration could be placed on proper foundations,

and if it were really in a condition to secure fair contracts, comfortable pas

sages, fit treatment, and ultimate restoration of the emigrant to his native soil ;

but it is impossible to close one's eyes to the difficulties of the whole question ,

whether in reference to the character of the agents employed or to the nature

of the competition with the vessels ofall nations, and, above all, to the tempta

tions which large profits offer to the violation of law . "

No. 25. No. 25 .

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon . H. LABOUCHERE , M.P., to

Governor Sir John BOWRING .

( No. 132. )

SIR , Downing Street, November 20, 1856.

I have received and considered your despatch,* No. 121 , of the 26th of Page 40 .

July last, on the subject of emigration from China.

I have to acquaint you that unless such means as would meet the approval of

Her Majesty's Government can be devised for securing a due proportion of

females, it is not contemplated to make any endeavour to set on foot an

emigration of Chinese to the British Colonies at the public expense.

I have, &c .

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed) H. LABOUCHERE.

&c. &c. & c.

No. 26. No. 26.

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon. H. LABOUCHERE, M.P. , to

Governor Sir John BOWRING .

( No. 111.)

SIR, Downing Street, September 25, 1856.

I HAVE received through the Foreign Office the copy of a letter*

addressed to yourself by Her Majesty's consul at Manilla, dated the 28th June

last, regarding the application of the Chinese Passengers' Act to voyages

between China and the Philippines, and I transmit herewith for your informa Sept. 15, 1856.

tion the copy of a report from the Emigration Commissioners on the subject.

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed) H. LABOUCHERE.

&c . & c.

( 250.) F

( 42 )

Encl. in No. 26 . Enclosure in No. 26.

SIR, Emigration Office, September 15, 1856.

We have to acknowledge your letter of the 6th instant, enclosing the copy of a

letter addressed by Her Majesty's Consul at Manila to the Governor of Hongkong,

18 & 19 Vict.c. 104. relative to the application of the “ Chinese Passenger Act ” to British vessels carrying

Chinese emigrants from China to Manila.

2. By the 1st section of the Act, a “ Chinese passenger ship ” is defined to be “ every

ship carrying from any port in Hongkong, and every British ship carrying from any

“ port in China or within 100 miles of the coast thereof,more than 20 persons, being

“ natives of Asia . ” There cannot be a question , therefore, that a British ship carrying

passengers between Amoy and Manila is in the meaning of the Act a “ Chinese pas

senger ship .” By the 4th section it is provided that no “ Chinese passenger ship ” shall

proceed to sea on a voyage of more than seven days without emigration papers,, and any 1

Chinese passenger ship proceeding on such a voyage without such papers, is, by the 8th

section, forfeited to the Crown. By a proclamation issued by Sir J. Bowring on the

26th January last, under the 3rd section of the Chinese Passenger Act, the length of

voyage from Hongkong to Manila is declared to be 20 days, but we are not aware

whether any proclamation has been issued by him declaring the length of voyage from

the ports of China to other places. We presume, however, that, even without such a

proclamation, any Court before which the question might be raised would have no

difficulty in deciding that a voyage from the coast of China to the Philippines was a

voyage exceeding seven days.

3. It follows that the " Fortuna,” as a British ship carrying more than 20 Chinese

passengers on a voyage exceeding seven days, was clearly a Chinese passenger ship, and

as such required to be furnished with emigration papers, and that she might have been

seized for the want of them by the British Consul at Manila, or by the commander of any

of Her Majesty's ships by whom she might have been met at sea. She will be equally

liable to forfeiture whenever she may return to any port in Her Majesty's dominions,

provided sufficient proof of her neglect of the law can be produced. We think it probable

that Sir J. Bowring, who has evinced anxiety to enforce the provisions of the Chinese

Passenger Act, will, if he has had the opportunity, have taken steps to enforce the law

against the “ Fortuna.” We do not doubt that he is fully alive to the exact state of the

law in regard to her.

We have, &c.

( Signed ) T. W. C. MURDOCH .

H. Merivale , Esq. FREDERIC ROGERS,

&c. &c.

No. 27. No. 27.

Copy of aa DESPATCH from the Right Hon. H. LABOUCHERE, M.P., to

Governor Sir John BOWRING .

( No. 130. )

SIR, Downing Street, 14th November 1856.

Sir E. Buxton , I TRANSMIT herewith the copy of a letter and enclosure from Sir E.

October 18, 1856. Buxton , together with two reports from the Colonial Land and Emigration

Emigration Com- Commissioners, on the subject of the mortality reported to have occurred >

missioners. among the Chinese passengers on board the “Duke of Portland ” and the

October 30,1856. “ John Calvin " on the voyage from Hongkong to Havana.

Ditto, ditto, As the mortality on board these vessels appears to have been of deplorable

November 6, 1856. extent, I request that you will furnish me with any information which may

exist respecting them at Hongkong.

I have, &c.

( Signed ) H. LABOUCHERE.

Eacl. 1 in No. 27 . Enclosure 1 in No. 27.

My LORD , Cromer, October 14.

I HAVE the honour to enclose for your Lordship's information an extract from the

“ Shipping and Mercantile Gazette,” which gives a dreadful account of the consequences

that result from the ill -treatment of Asiatics in their voyage from Hongkong to Cuba.

I have the honour to request, as President of the Strangers' Home for Asiatics, that

your Lordship will cause an inquiry to be made into the truth of the fact stated, and as

to the condition of the Coolies after their arrival in Cuba.

I am , & c.

The Earl of Clarendon . (Signed ) EDWD. N. BUXTON ,

President.

( 43 )

Sub -Enclosure to Enclosure 1 in No. 27.

EXTRACT from the “ Shipping and Mercantile Gazette," Friday, 3rd October 1856. Sub - Encl. to

Encl. 1 in No. 27.

A New York paper mentions the arrival at Havana of four British ships with

cargoes of Coolie labourers. One of the ships, the “ Duke of Portland ,” is reported to

have sailed from Hong Kong with 500 of these people on board, out of which number she

has landed but 202 ; 130 are said to have died by natural death upon the voyage, and the

residue to have drowned themselves. Another vessel, the “ John Calvin ," lost 110 by

“ natural death and suicide ” in a passage of 185 days, making a total loss in both ships

of 240 Coolies. If the information in our American contemporary be correct the affair

demands the prompt attention of the Foreign Office. The unfortunate survivors were, it

appears, at once drafted upon estates on contracts of eight years' service. We take it for

granted that these poor people were voluntary emigrants, and that they simply fell victims

to brutal treatment on the voyage. But even this aspect of the affair, if correct, is bad

enough, for more reasons than one. Great efforts have been made, more especially of late,

to procure a supply of labour for our West India colonies. The scarcity of that com

modity lies at the root of the West Indian difficulty. It is advisable by every means to

encourage immigration from the East, or from any other quarter where it may be legiti

mately procured.

In a recent article we dwelt at some length upon the efforts which have been made to

procure an adequate supply of labour, more especially in British Guiana, on the results

which have followed those efforts, and on the interest attending the discussion of the

labour question throughout the West India Islands. It is of the last importance that

emigrationtothe West should not get into disrepute with the labouring classes of British

India and China, from which countries large supplies have been heretofore drawn ; and

nothing is more likely to discourage it than the barbarities which seem to have attended

the transport of these recent cargoes to the shores of Cuba. But what if it turns out that

they were cargoes of veritable slaves, captured or kidnapped in the Bay of Bengal or the

Bay of Hong Kong instead of in the Bight of Benin or the Mozambique Channel and

conveyed by Britishvessels to the slave mart of Havana ? So valuable is the trade which

the Cuba planters are now driving at the expense of our colonies that they can afford to

pay almostfabulous prices for labour, and would risk almost anything to procure it. We

take the report we have referred to for as much as it is worth, but we shall watch the

progress of the necessary inquiry respecting it with some interest.

Enclosure 2 in No. 27.

Encl. 2 in No. 27

SIR , Emigration Office, October 30, 1856.

We have to acknowledge your letter of the 25th instant, enclosing one from

Sir E. Buxton, with an extract from the “ Shipping and Mercantile Gazette,” and desiring

us to report what information we may have respecting the two ships the “ Duke of

Portland," and “ John Calvin,” said therein to have sailed from Hongkong to Havana

with Chinese passengers, and to have incurred a inost frightful mortality on the voyage.

2. In reply , we have to state that we have received no information whatever on the (

subject of these ships. We have, however, communicated with the owner of the “ John

Calvin ," with whom we are acquainted, and shall endeavour to communicate with the

owner of the “ Duke of Portland ,” to ascertain whether they have received any informa

tion on the subject.

We have, & c.

( Signed ) T. W. C. MURDOCH .

T. F. Elliot, Esq. C. ALEXANDER WOOD.

Enclosure 3 in No. 27 .

Encl. 3 in No. 27.

SIR , Emigration Office, November 6, 1856.

WITH reference to our report of the 30th ultimo, we have to state that

Mr. Duncan Gibb, whom we bad supposed to be the owner of the “ John Calvin ,” has

informed us that he sold his vessel of that name some time ago, and that the vessel

reported to have arrived at Havana with Chinese immigrants, though bearing the same

name, is not the same vessel . As there is no vessel of the name in Lloyd's list, we are

unable to obtain any further particulars about her.

2. In respect to the “ Duke of Portland,” the other vessel mentioned in the New York

paper, we enclose the copy of a letter which we have received from the owner. It will

be seen from this letter that the whole number originally embarked was 330, and that November 1 .

of these, 130, or 2-5ths of the whole, died on the voyage. This is so shocking a mor

tality that Mr. Labouchere will probably thinkit right to endeavour toobtain, through

Her Majesty's Consul at Havana, as well as from the Governor of Hongkong, some

explanation of the causes which led to it.

We have, & c.

H. Merivale, Esq. ( Signed) T. W. C. MURDOCH .

& c. & c. C. ALEXANDER WOOD.

(250) F 2

( 44 )

Sub . - Encl. to Sub - Enclosure to Enclosure 3 .

Encl. 3 in No. 27.

SIR, Greenock , November 1 , 1856 .

In reply to your favour of 29th ultimo, received this morning, we beg to state

that the “Duke of Portland ” took on board 330 emigrants (not 500 as reported ); of

these 130 were lost from natural death (chiefly fever we understand ) and suicide, but we

have no particulars as to the number lost by each cause. The remainder, 200, were

safely landed at Havana.

From what we know of the master, we feel certain that no improper harshness would

be used towards the passengers. The passage was a very protracted and severe one ;

besides the severe gales in rounding the Cape of Good Hope for three weeks, three

hurricanes were encountered in the Carribean Sea in as many days. Both master and

crew were quite exhausted on their arrival ; one or two of the latter died, and the chief

mate was off duty two months.

We are, &c.

S. Walcott, Esq ., Secretary. (Signed) THOMAS HAMLIN and Co.

No. 28 . No. 28.

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon. H. LABOUCHERE, M.P., to

Governor Sir John BOWRING .

(No. 4.)

SIR, Downing Street, 7th January, 1857.

1. I have had before me various despatches addressed by yon to me,

and others addressed to the Foreign Department, which have been referred

from thence to this office, raising important questions connected with the

enforcement of the Imperial statute styled the Chinese Passengers’ Act.

2. The questions may be enumerated as follows :

First. The propriety of any interference by Her Majesty's cruisers, under

the provisions of this Act, whether on the high seas or in any place beyond

British jurisdiction , either with foreign vessels or with vessels not strictly

entitled to any national flag.

Secondly . The application of the Chinese Passengers' Act to vessels pro

ceeding from Chinato thePhilippine Islands.

Thirdly. The practicability of preventing anevasion of the Act, pointed out

by Mr. Robertson, Her Majesty's Consul at Shanghae, by means of Britisha

vessels conveying emigrants from Hongkong to some unauthorized port in

China, and there trans-shipping them into other vessels for conveyance to

distant countries.

November26,1856 . 3. I transmit to you an extract of aa report from the law officers of the Crown,

December 18 . dated the 20th of November, containing their opinion on the two first of these

October 31 . questions, together with an extract of another report, dated the 11th of De

cember, containing their opinion on the third question ; I also enclose copies

or extracts of two reports from the Emigration Commissioners, dated the

26th of November and the 18th of December, on the subject of emigration to

the Philippines, and of a report from them dated the 31st of October on the

subject of the evasion pointed out by Mr. Robertson at Shanghae.

4. Some of these questions have been raised by you, as Governor of Hong

kong, and others in your capacity of superintendent of trade, but seeing how

closely they are connected together, I have settled, in concert with the Earl

of Clarendon, that you should receive your directions upon the whole of them

in the present despatch. I have, therefore, to instruct you as follows:

First. No attempt is to be made to enforce the Chinese Passengers' Act

against a foreign ship, either on the high seas or anywhere else out of British

jurisdiction; neither is any such attempt to be made in respect to vessels

supposedto be not strictly entitled to any national flag.

Secondly. As regards voyages in British ships from China to the Philippine

Islands, I agree in the opinions expressed in the reports of the Emigration

Commissioners, dated the 26th of November and 18th of December ; and I have

to authorize you to take such steps as appear to you most expedient for

carrying them into effect, seeing that the law offices have reported that you

possess the requisite legal power. You will, therefore, proclaim the length of

passages from Chinese ports as well as from Hongkong under the third section

of the Imperial Act, having reference in such proclamation to the difference in

the length of voyages during the north -east and south -west monsoon ;and you

( 45 )

will not pass any local Ordinance which would relieve any vessels now subject

to the Imperial Act from its operation. There occurs here a subordinate

question, whether the Consul atAmoy may be appointed an emigration agent,

on which point you will receive instructions from the Foreign Department . In

the event of such an appointment being made, you will, of course, communicate

with the Consul at Amoy on all matters connected with the enforcement of the

Chinese Passengers’ Act at that port.

Thirdly. If the trans-shipment alluded to by Mr. Robertson be made from

one British vessel to another, this latter becomes immediately a Chinese

passenger ship under the terms of the Act. In sailing from a remote port,

she may , indeed, violate the Act, but she cannot be said to evade it, since its

enactments fully extend to her; and if detected in a deviation from them, she

remains liable to the penalties of the law . Should аa. British vessel, carrying

Chinese passengers, be met on the high seas without being furnished with

regular papers, the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty have hitherto been

unwilling to impose on the commanders of Her Majesty's cruisers the respon

sibility of actually seizing such avessel, unless the passengers should appear to

be suffering from ill -usage or neglect.

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed ) H. LABOUCHERE.

&c . &c. &c.

Enclosure 1 in No. 28. Encl. 1 in No. 28 .

SIR , Emigration Office, November 26 , 1856.

We have to acknowledge your letter of 13th instant, enclosing a letter addressed

to the Earl of Clarendon by the Consul at Manila, accompanied by letters from

Sir J. Bowring and the Attorney -General of Honkgong, on the subject of the British ship

" Fortuna ” which had carried Chinese emigrants from Amoy to Manila without com

plying with the requirements of the Chinese Passengers Act.

2. In our report of the 15th September * last we expressed our opinion that the • Page 49.

“ Fortuna ” had violated the provisions of the Passengers Act in not procuring the

emigration papers ” required for vessels proceeding on a voyage of more than seven

days'duration, and that she had accordingły rendered herself liable to forfeiture. The

same opinion is expressed very decidedly by the Attorney -General of Hongkong and

Sir J. Bowring. The Consul we perceive states that the voyage from Hongkong to

Manila is sometimes made in five, and even in three days in the favourable monsoon,

and that an average voyagefrom Amoy at the same season would be seven , but against

the monsoon fifteen days. As regards a voyage from Hongkong to Manila, Sir J. Bow

ring's proclamation of 26th January last fixes it at twentydays, and as the voyage from

Amoy is longer, it is scarcely credible that any Court would assume it to be less than

seven days on the ground that it was not included in the proclamation. But to prevent

any doubt or difficulty on the matter hereafter, it would be desirable that Sir J. Bowring

should issue a proclamation under the third section of theChinese Passengers Act, defining

the length of voyages from ports on the continent of China as well as from Hongkong. And

we would suggest the questionwhether in certain cases the proclaimedduration ofthe voyage

should not bemade to vary according to the season, since the compelling a shipping agent

to put on board during the favourable monsoon a quantity of provisions which could only

be required during the unfavourable monsoon would be unnecessary in itself, and would

tend to diminish the inducement to send off emigrants during the fittest season .

We have, & c.,

Herman Merivale, Esq., (Signed) T. W. C. MURDOCH .

&c. &c. FREDERIC ROGERS.

Enclosure 2 in No. 28. Encl. 2 in No. 28.

EXTRACT of a REPORT from the EMIGRATION COMMISSIONERS to H. MERIVALE, Esq.,

dated Emigration Office, December 18, 1856.

« THE questions raised by Sir J. Bowring relate, first, to the mode of dealing with

non -British ships which fit in Hongkong, but take their passengers on board beyondthe

limits of the colony, and thus escape the operation of the Passengers Act ; and, second, to

the course to be adopted in regard to emigration to the Philippine Islands and the Indian

Archipelago.

On the first of these points we are happy to perceive that the view which we sub

mitted in our report of 28th of June last is sanctioned by the law officers of the Crown.

Upon this point, therefore, there can be no difficulty in deciding on the instructions to be

issued to Sir J. Bowring.

( 250.) F 3

( 46 )

“ The second question is more complicated. It is urged by Messrs. Lime, the owners of

the · Fortuna,' which has been engaged in this trade and by Messrs. Tait and Co., who

had chartered the ' Ferozepore’ for Manila, supported to a great extent by Mr. Morrison

the Consul at Amoy, that theprovisions ofthe Chinese Passengers Act are in reality inappli

cable to voyages to the Philippine Islands and the Straits settlements, that the passage to

Manila or Singapore is short, that the passengers are not ignorant Coolies but mecbanics,

who have either made the passage before, or are acquainted with the circumstances of it from

others, that they contract for their own passages andsupply their own provisions, the ship

finding only water, and in case of emergency rice; that it isthe interest ofthe master to treat

the passengers well , and that the trade has been in existence for many years without

giving rise to complaint. They further point out that tocompel British vessels engaged

in this business to proceed from Amoy or other ports to Hongkong for emigration papers

(as under the present arrangements they must do) would be virtually to excludethem

from the business and to throw it into the hands of foreigners ; as regards Manila

into the hands of Spaniards, and as regards the Straits settlements intothe hands of

the Dutch. It is therefore suggested that voyages from Amoy to Manila and Singapore

should be exempted from the operation of the Act by aa local Ordinance, to be passed

under the authority of the second section of it.

“ There is no doubt much weight in the above representations, but they do not satisfy 1

us thatit is necessary or expedient to exempt the passenger traffic in British vessels to

the Philippines and the Straits, from control and supervision. The passage from Amoy

to Manila or Singapore, is in the favourable monsoon about seven days, but against the

monsoon 15 days, and “ the utmost Jimit in unfavourable weather is within six weeks ; "

the emigrants are a poor and singularly penurious class, and under the present system

are left to supply their own provisions, and it is admitted that the Spanish ships are

often excessively overcrowded . Here then , as it appears to us, are strong grounds for

requiring the supervision of Government. Where a voyage is liable to such extreme

variations as between seven days and six weeks, there will always be a probability, if

the owner is left uncontrolled , that the ship will be sent to sea provided only for the

shorter, or at the utmost for an average, voyage; and this probabilty is increased where

the emigrants find their own provisions. Weknow from what occurred in the emigration

from this country, when a similar system was in force here, that many emigrants

embarked with a stock of provisions insufficient for even an average voyage, and of

course quite inadequate for a protracted one. It was because of the frequent occurrence .

of such cases, and the suffering and sickness produced by them , that in the English

Passengers Act a compulsory dietary was provided, sufficient for the maintenance of the

people, irrespective of whatever they might provide for themselves. Looking to the

penurious habits of the Chinese, it does not appear to us safe to exempt the vessels in .

which they are conveyed from that provision of the Chinese Passengers Act which requires 1

the ship to provide a sufficient dietary for the passengers.

“ Again in regard to space, it appears to us essential that notwithstanding the com .

parative shortness of the voyage, British ships engaged in the trade should be subjected

to control. The allegation that no complaint has heretofore been made, is scarcely

sufficient proof that no ground of complaint has existed, and if it is the fact that Spanish

vessels have been excessively overcrowded ,we see no reason why the samethingmight

not occur in British ships. Considering that the voyage is within the Tropics, and

during the unfavourable monsoon consists in beating to windward, it is plain that great

risk of sickness might be the result of overcrowding, even in a short voyage. And it.

cannot be forgotten that some of the most scandalous cases of abuse in Chinese emigration,

involving an excessive crowding of the passengers, and consequent mortality, have taken

place on board British ships. For these reasons we do not think it would be right to

authorize Sir J. Bowring to comply with the suggestionthat the emigration to Manila

or the Straits should beremoved from the controlof the Passengers Act.

“ But the objection urged against requiring all vessels from whatever port to proceed

to Hongkong for emigration papers, appears reasonable. In the south -westmonsoon it

is probable that a vessel would not reach Hongkong from Amoy in much less than a

week, and if destined for Manila, she would scarcely be nearer her destination at Hong

kong than at Amoy. The delay to vessels proceeding from a morenortherly port would

of course be greater. The result must be as is alleged, to drive British vessels entirely

out of the trade from those ports, unless, as is probable, it should induce them to carry

it on in defiance of the law, taking their chanceof being stopped on their voyage by any

of Her Majesty's cruizers. Nor is it inrespect to the short voyages only that this result

will follow . It will eventually be equally the case in the long voyages across the Pacific,

or round Cape Horn . But such a result is not to be desired . It would throw the

trade into the hands of foreigners, who would be under no control, or of British subjects

who would be in conflict with the law , and either class would be likely in conducting

it to consider little beyond the profits of the particular voyage. The improvement in

the general trade which might be expected to follow from the example of a well con

ducted system would be lost, and Chinese emigration would continue as at present, to be

marked by occasional disasters of an appalling description .

“ · It appears to us then ofmuch importance that an emigration officer should be established

at Amoy, as well as at Hongkong, to carry out the Chinese Passengers Act. Sir J.

( 47 )

Bowring asks what is to be done at,ports where there is no consular authority, such as

Swatow, Namoa, &c. Wepresume that at such ports British trade, whether in passengers

or in anything else, is illegal and contrary to treaty, and Her Majesty's Government

cannot make any arrangement which would relieve British vessels frequenting those ports

from the risks which they thereby run, or would imply any sanction of their doing so.

But if any such vessels carrying passengers proceed either to Hongkong or Amoy, and

theretake out emigration papers, they would be relieved from the liability to seizure by

Her Majesty's cruizers for violating the Chinese Passengers Act. We gather from the

papers before us, that at present there is no emigration from ports to the north of Amoy,

so that the appointment of an additional emigration agent at that port would meet the

case as far as Her Majesty's Government can meet it. It will be for the Foreign Office

to decide whether the duties of emigration officer can be properly devolved on the Consul.

On that point we do not venture to offer an opinion.”

Enclosure 3, in No. 28. Encl. 3, in No. 28.

EXTRACT of a REPORT from the EMIGRATION COMMISSIONERS to H. MERIVALE,Esq., dated

Emigration Office, October 31 , 1856.

“ THE Consul at Shanghai, Mr. Robertson, states that the Chinese Passengers Act

is evaded by British ships clearing for Swatow , a Chinese port capable of being reached

' within the period of seven days at this season , and there transhipping the passengers

into other vessels to be carried to America, the Havana, or elsewhere. By this means,

he says, the 4th section of the Chinese Passengers Act is evaded, and the local Ordinance,

No. 9, of 1856, will be equally insufficient when it comes into operation.

«6

“Now it will be seen, on reference to the Chinese Passengers Act (18 & 19 Vict, c. 104)

that by Section 2 a Chinese passenger ship is defined to be every ship carrying from

any port in Hongkong, and every British ship carrying from any port in China, or

: within 100 miles of the coast thereof, more than 20 passengers, being natives of Asia,'

and by Section 4 every Chinese passenger ship proceeding on avoyage of more than

seven days is required to be provided with emigration papers. The Colonial Ordinance

(No. 9 of 1856 )* passed in May last further provides (Section 3 ) that any Chinese pas

senger ship clearing out from a port in Hongkong or China, or within 100 miles of the

coast, on a voyage to any port, for the purpose of commencing from such latter port a

voyage of more than seven days' duration, shall be deemed, within the meaning of the

Chinese Passengers Act, to have cleared out from the port it originally left. This Ordi

nance was referred to us on the 9th of August last, and on the 19th of that month we

pointed out some particulars in which it appeared to require amendment. But as no

objection was taken to its principle it will no doubt be re-enacted very shortly by the

Colonial Legislature.

* Looking to these enactments we are unable to understand in what way a British vessel

proceeding with passengers in the first instance to Swatow, a Chinese port, on taking

passengers on board there, and thence taking her final departure on a voyage exceeding

seven days, can be supposed to remove herself from the operation of the Chinese Pas

sengers Act. It is no doubt the fact that, by sailing from a remote port where there are

no British authorities, аa. vessel may bid defiance to the law , and if not intercepted by any

of Her Majesty's cruisers, may escape with impunity. But no alteration or increased

stringency in the law will prevent such an offence as this. The only hope of preventing

it is by the vigilance of Her Majesty's cruisers, and by the infliction of a heavy penalty

wherever it is discovered . Upon this point we would venture to call attention to the

fourth paragraph of our Report of the 3rd of April last. The case which we there put

hypothetically appears to be exactly the case which has occurred, and has given rise to

Mr. Robertson's letter ."

No. 29. No. 29 .

(No. 28.)

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon. H. LABOUCHEBE , M.P., to

Governor Sir John BOWRING .

SIR, Downing Street, March 14, 1857.

With reference to mydespatch,* No. 130, of the 14th of November last, Page 42

sending to you such accounts as had at that time been received at this office

of the deplorable mortality on board of two Chinese emigrant ships , named the

“ Duke of Portland ” and the “ John Calvin ," I transmit herewith two letters February 3, 1857.

from the Board of Trade. The first of these letters encloses an account of an February 5, 1857 .

* See Papers presented to Parliament by Her Majesty's command, February 1857.

F 4

( 250)

( 48 )

inquiry into this case by the Local Marine Board of London. The second

encloses some other documents, including a statement by the chief mate of the

“ Duke of Portland,” with explanatory notes by the captain in the margin, and

also a copy of the certificate granted to the “ Duke of Portland ” by the

March 14, 1857. emigration officer at Hongkong . I am likewise desired to enclose a copy of

the answer returned from this department to the Board of Trade.

Accounts have been received from Her Majesty's Consul at Havannah , in

which he agrees with the Local Board in London, in exonerating from blame

the master and the parties interested in the ship. He states that there is no

reason to doubt that the emigrants were treated with every care and humanity.

He says, that aa fatal disease manifested itself among the Coolies, and that they

were probably predisposed to infection from not being in good condition when

they were put on board . Both the “ Duke of Portland ” and the “ John Calvin ”

are stated to have had a plentiful supply of water taken in at Hongkong,but,

the Consul remarks, that it is supposed that it was not of a quality suitable to

so long a voyage, and that it was often complained of by the passengers.

* Page 54. From the enclosures to your despatch * to the Earl of Clarendon, No. 5, dated

the 1st of January, it appears that the passengers embarked in the “ John

“ Calvin ” were duly inspected, and the correctness of their agreements ascer

1 Page 51 . tained . In compliance with the concluding suggestion in the lettert from the

Board of Trade, dated the 5th of February, I have to request that you will

inquire what record or evidence may exist that a similar course was pursued in

regard to the “ Duke of Portland .”

With respect to both vessels, I wish an explanation upon the numberswhich

they were computed to be legally qualified to carry. The body of rules

appended to the Chinese Passengers Act required for each passenger a space of

five superficial feet on the upper and 12 superficial feet on the lower deck.

I am not aware that the Hongkong Legislature has exercised its power to

substitute another set of rules; but the figures embodied in the Emigration

Officers' certificates would only allow about three superficial feet above and

eight below , in proportion to the number of passengers declared admissible in

the “ John Calvin ” and “ Duke of Portland ." I shall be glad to receive a

report on this subject. The space prescribed in the rules annexed is, in my

opinion, decidedly not larger than sufficient, and it ought not to be diminished.

I may alsoremark, that no requirement of the Passengers Act is more important

than the one limiting the numbers to be carried, and that it is additionally

useful from its simplicity, and from the consequent ease with which this security

for the good of thepassengers can be enforced.

Governor Sir John Bowring, I have, &c.

&c. &c . &c. ( Signed ) H. LABOUCHERE.

Encl. in No. 29. Enclosure in No. 29.

Office of Committee of Privy Council for Trade,

SIR, Whitehall, February 3, 1857.

I AM directed by the Lords of the Committee of Privy Council for Trade to

request that you will call the attention of Mr. Secretary Labouchere to the case of the

mortality among Chinese emigrants on board the ship “ Duke of Portland,” on her voyage

from Hongkong to the Havana, in the year 1856.

My Lords'attention was called to this case by proceedings in one of the police courts,

reported in the “ Times ” of the 5th December. They immediately requested the Local

Marine Board of London to inquire into the case . That Board has made its report, and

a copy of the report, and of the evidence taken , is enclosed for Mr. Labouchere's infor

mation. The evidence given before the Board is confirmed by the entries in the official

log, which has been examined at this office.

The report and evidence contain a full statement of all that happened during the

voyage. They show that of 332 emigrants shipped, no less than 128 died on the passage,

most, as it appears, from fever, and some by suicide. They give an account of the first

appearance of discontent and mutinous conduct on the part of the emigrants in the port

of Hongkong, and they show the steps taken by the captain in the course of the voyage.

My Lords have, however, been anxious to obtain further information upon one or two

points, to which the attention of the Local Marine Board does not seem to have been

specially directed,

These points are :

1. By what persons and on whose behalf the ship was chartered for the voyage in

question.

( 49 )

2. How it happened that the ship left Hongkong on such a voyage so late in the

season .

3. The conduct of the emigration officer at Hongkong, whose duty it was to enforce

the provisions of the Chinese Passengers Act.

On these points Captain Seymour, who has shown willingness throughout to give a

full account of the matter, will no doubt be able to give information. He is at present

away from London, but if he returns, or if my Lords can obtain the information from

other quarters, they will forward it for Mr. Labouchere's information .

In the meantime they request that you will call his especial attention to the following

points :

1. This is a case in which the ship took in her emigrants at and sailed from Hongkong,

and that there ought therefore to have been no difficulty whatever in applying strictly

the provisions of the Chinese Passengers Act, 1855.

2. That if those provisions and the regulations adopted under them concerning room ,

ventilation, &c., were complied with, there is good reason for thinking that the

regulations are wholly insufficient to effect the desired object, at any rate for such a

voyage in such latitudes, and commenced at such a time of year as that of the “ Duke of

« Portland .”

3. Mr. Labouchere will observe, that the first appearance of discontent or mutinous

conduct on the part of the emigrants appears to have arisen from the belief on the part

of those last shipped that they had been cheated by those who had engaged them . It

is therefore very important to learn whether the emigration officer did, according to the

terms of the certificate given in Schedule ( B.) of the Chinese Passengers Act, inspect the

contracts between the emigrants and their intended employers, and satisfy himself that

they were reasonable, and that no fraud was practised in collectingthe emigrants.

Under the above circumstances, my lords would suggest for Mr. Labouchere's con

sideration, that instructions should be given to the Governor of Hongkong to make the

strictest inquiries concerning the circumstances under which the “ Duke of Portland ”

left Hongkong, and concerning the conduct of the emigration officer with respect to that

vessel .

It will, as it appears to my Lords, be also necessary to have it considered whether the

regulations already adopted by the authorities at Hongkong under the Chinese Passengers

Act are sufficient for the purpose, or whether further and more stringent regulations are

necessary .

I am to add that my Lords have communicated the facts of this case to the Foreign

Office. I have, &c.

H. Merivale, Esq. (Signed) JAMES BOOTH .

Sub - Enclosure to Enclosure 1 in No. 29. Sub-Encl. to

Local Marine Board , 71 , Cornhill, Encl. 1 in No. 29.

SIR, January 20, 1857.

In compliance with your letter of 7th instant, this Board has caused inquiry to

be made into the extraordinary mortality on board the ship “ Duke of Portland,” on a

voyage from China to the Havannah with emigrants.

Every facility has been afforded by the owner and captain of the ship.

This Board are unanimously of opinion that no blame attaches to them , or any one

connected with the ship ; that Captain Seymour's conduct to the emigrants appears to

have been kind and attentive, and that every possible precaution was used by him to

decrease the mortality. Dr. Ludgatt appears also to have exerted himself for the same

purpose.

The details of this unfortunate voyage will be found in full in the copy of Captain

Seymour's letter to the owner, Mr. Hamlin, and the copy of the proceedings at the

investigation, both sent herewith.

It appears to this Board that the mortality was greatly aggravated by the great heat

and unusual length of the passage ( 150 days) caused by the sailing of the ship in an

improper season; she sailed full one month later than she ought to have done, to enable

her to get down the China Seas. I am, & c.

T. H. Farrer, Esq ., ( Signed ) D. DUNBAR,

Marine Department, Whitehall. Chairman ,

Local Marine Board, 71 , Cornhill,

January 8, 1857.

INVESTIGATION into Circumstances attending the Mortality of Chinese Emigrants

whilst on board the Ship “ Dukeof Portland ," on her Passage from Hongkong to the

Havana .

Present :

Messrs. DUNBAR, PAILLIPS , GREEN, ANDERSON, INGHAM , and Captain DENNY.

DUNCAN DUNBAR, Esq ., in the Chair.

Captain G. N. Seymour, master, and Mr. Thomas Hamlin, owner of the “ Duke of

Portland," attended before the board.

(250. ) G

( 50 )

The letter of the 7th instant from the Board of Trade, calling the attention of this

Board to a statement in the “Shipping Gazette ” of the 6th instant concerning the

mortality, was then read.

Captain Seymour stated : - " We left Hongkong with 332 Chinese coolies ; we had

been measured for 334. We had a surgeon who had been all the voyage from London

to New Zealand, and thence to China. He had a diploma. He had been approved by

Captain Lane ,Government Agent. We took out the Bishop of New Zealand and other

passengers. We were to be paid a lump sum per head for all the Chinese coolies landed

alive at the Havana. We received nothing for those who died. The coolies appeared in

good health when shipped ; that was the general opinion on our leaving China. There >

were ample medicines put on board by theowner. We had water from China in excess.

Captain Seymour then read a letter which he had addressed to the owner ; it was

dated " Havana, 10th September 1856,” in which he states, that the emigrants were

all on board on the 31stMarch 1856. " On 2d April, when hove short and ready foi

sailing, the Chinese crowded aft, took belaying pins from the rails and armed themselves

with fire-wood, yelling and shouting in a fearful manner, throwing every thing moveable

overboard. Hethen had an interview with the stipendiary magistrate, at the Supreme

Court, whocame onboard with a police force ; the coolies laughed at them, and at length

they were driven below at the point of the bayonet. Then planted my two guns inside

the cuddy door, loaded them with grape and canister, had the carronades loaded and

placed at the poop fife rail ; gave the men a cutlass each ; Mr. May (magistrate) was

then on boartl. He left a serjeant and five policemen on board, for sentries during the

night. At daylight I was out of the roads. When at sea they refused to cook. The

third day I had the first suicide, and on an average I had three suicides daily between

Hongkong and until I passed the Straits of Sunda

“ On the morning of the 15th I discovered a plan among the Chinese to take the ship :

the same afternoon they carried their plan out, but as I was quite prepared forthem , a

few well-directed blows from the flat of a cutlass prevented the rush, and J. Williams

jumped overboard and saved the man who had been thrown from the forecastle ; after

the failure of the attempt they became quieter, but I had usually 12 to 18 in irons, for

riotous behaviour or attempted suicide.

“ On evening of 28th an attempt was made to rescue one of their ringleaders who I

had put in irons; one of them threw a large bone at me when trying to pacify them : I

then thought it time to clear the decks, and in the struggle one was wounded in the side.

I called at the Cocoa Islands in hopes of getting vegetables, fresh meat, and fish for the

invalids, but was much disappointed with the result of my visit.”

( Above from the letter.)

Captain Seymour then stated—“- We lost 128 Chinese before arriving at the Havana

chiefly from congestive fever ; it is like the Hongkong fever. We lost one of the crew .

I think the coolies brought the seeds of the disease on board with them. When they

would not eat I have tried to force food down their throats. We were 150 days on our

passage from China to the Havana. We remained three days at St. Helena. We had

vegetables from St. Helena to within a few days of our arrivalat the Havana. All the

opium for the Chinese was consumed before we arrived at St. Helena. The Chinese

mutinied before we sailed from Hongkong, on account of their wanting more money. I

believe one -third of them were kidnapped. They had spent the money they had before

leaving China. The surgeon was kind to them ; I was with them much more than the

surgeon was, he saw them always twice a day. The Chinese were shipped underthe

direction of the chief magistrate ; I have a document from him , stating that all required

for them was shipped. The entries regarding the assistance rendered by the magistrate

at Hongkong, weremade aday or two after in the official log. The opium required by

law was put on board in China,and I got more at St. Helena. I gave the doctor full

authority at St. Helena to get all the opium and medicines he required.”

( Entries in the official log regarding the disturbance previous to sailing, the medical

treatment, and the plan for giving more air to the emigrants, were then read .)

Captain Seymour then stated, “ The ship is 533 tons. The emigrants had the whole of

the lower deck, excepting the cuddy. We could see the differerce between those who died

from congestive fever and those who suffered from the want of opium. In April the ther

mometer in my cabin ranged from 82° to 90°. The season of the year was bad forthem .

The ship had scuttles. She has carried emigrants before. I was 100 days to St. Helena.

The loss of the monsoon in the China Sea was caused by our detention in China. They

could not get the people ready for shipping. We sailed from Hongkong on the 2nd

April. Only one man was injured in the disturbance ; he was wounded. The John

Calvin ' sailed about three weeks before me, and arrived after me. The scurvy was

frightful on board that ship ; we had none. I was told by the consul at the Havana that

I was the first ship arrived there without scurvy on board. I was without aa chief mate

for two months coming home ; he was below, sick, and off the Cape too, in bad

weather.”

The interpreter, a Chinese, who came from China in the ship, was examined ; he stated ,

“ The first time come on board ship, Chinamen complain ; had not money, wanted captain

to pay them,"

( 51 )

Captain Seymour here stated, “ They agree to serve for so long a period. They got

food, clothing, and everything. They complained they had one dollar given to them

instead of eight."

The interpreter then stated :—“ Some sick jump overboard. I keep men always to look

after sick. Don't know why that man jump overboard . They had food prepared

regularly. They wanted to get possession of the ship ; said they would never get back to

China ; they wanted to set her on fire. Some men say, not tell me. They threatened to

kill me and the captain. I believe the men only got one dollar. One · Portugal' take

money from them going down. The madarin told them they would be paid more when

they got on board. One day only at sea, in a gale of wind, they only had biscuits ;

could not cook. The doctor saw them two or three times a day.”

Captain Seymour also stated :-" I never laid down in my bed without a cutlass at my

belt. I believe the men all received their eight dollars, because there had been a previous

row about it, in the ‘ John Calvin .' We had twenty -five Chinese, from Hongkong ; all

the others were from Macao . ”

The inquiry was then adjourned until the 15th instant for the purpose of obtaining

the evidence of the surgeon .

Local Marine Board, 71 , Cornhill,

January 15, 1857.

Present :

Messrs. DUNBAR, GREEN, INGHAM, and ANDERSON, and Captains DENNY, and HUNTER.

DUNCAN DUNBAR, Esq., in the Chair.

The Board resumed the investigation into the circumstances attending the mortality of

Chinese emigrants whilst on board the ship “ Duke of Portland,” adjourned from the

8th instant.

Captain G. N. Seymour, the master, and Mr. Thomas Hamlin, the owner, attended

before the Board .

Mr. David Ludgat, surgeon of the “Duke of Portland ," was then called in ; he

stated :

“ A lowtyphoid fever generally prevailing among the low class of Chinesewas brought

on board by them when shipped at Hongkong. Sufficient food was provided for the

coolies. The sickness was attributed to improper food used by themselves, such as onions

and pickles. A number of suicides took place, but many more would have taken place

had not the boat been kept in readiness to pick those up who jumped overboard.

The Chinese were kindly treated all the time, both as to diet and other neces

saries of life, and were supplied with the usual quantity of opium . I have not seen

any of the cases on shore, but had the symptoms of the peculiar fever which the

Chinese are subject to described to me by the medical officer of the hospital. The

symptoms on board were the same as those described to me by the medical officer. I

prescribed the same medicines and treatment as adopted in the hospital. The fever

appeared among the coolies after they had been three days on board. Within a week

after sailing as many as sixty cases had appeared. All the symptoms on board were the

same asthose described by Dr. Barton , thehospital surgeon. The berthing was in every

way well fitted. The habits of the Chinese were very filthy. Every means was usedto

correct their habits, by taking every precaution to keep them as clean as possible. The

length of the voyage aggravated the symptoms and increased the number. The number

of deaths were nearly the same all the voyage, but increased in malignity. The deaths

after our arrival at Havana were much the same. No expedient to ensure carrying

coolies such a long voyage can be put in force but to lessen the numbers. This disease

would be infectious among persons of low habits, but with those more robust not so .

The coolies had food so regular on board that they had no occasion to complain. The

boatswain was the only one of the crew that died . The mate and stewardwere seized

with the disease, but they recovered : they were occupied more among the Chinese than

others of the crew ; I am disposed to think that the disease is infectious. When the

disinfecting matter was all used ,the t'ween -decks were fumigated with boiling pitch daily,

when possible to do it. The coolies died from debility and affection of the liverand lungs,

and exhaustion arising from the seeds of the disease. The chief mate was treated for the

same disease previous to sailing from Hongkong. As many of the coolies as could

be allowed with safety were ordered on deck daily. Captain Seymour's conduct was

attentive at all times to the Chinese in satisfying their wants and attending to their

cleanliness. Those of the Chinese who attempted to commit suicide, and were picked up, "

generally made a second attempt ; they were then more carefully looked after.

Enclosure 2 in No. 29 . Encl. 2 in No. 29.

Office of Committee of Privy Council for Trade,

SIR, Whitehall, February 5, 1857.

REFERRING to Mr. Booth's letter of the 3d instant, on the subject ofthemortality

> * Page 48.

on board the ship “Duke of Portland ," I am directed by the Lords of the Committee

(250 ) G 2

( 52 )

of Privy Council for Trade to enclose, for Mr. Labouchere's information, the following

documents :

No. 1 . Copy of questions addressed to the master of the “ Duke of Portland,” and of his

replies.

No. 2.

Copy of a statement made by John Hagan, late chief officer of the “ Duke of

Portland . ”

No. 3. Copy of the Emigration officer's certificate .

Copy of the list of the male emigrants who embarked in the “ Duke of Portland. ”

Nos. 4 & 5. Copy of a document in Spanish annexed to the certificate, with its indorsements. On

Being very volu- the back of this document are Chinese characters, apparently a translation .

minous, are not The statement made by Hagan, who my Lords have reason to believe to be a respectable

printed. and trustworthy man , was made in the presence of certain officers of this department, and

subsequently taken down in writing,

Mr. Labouchere will observe that, if this statement be true, a large number of the

emigrants were sick at the time the emigration officer granted his certificate ; that he

did not see them individually ; and that he does not appear to have had that personal

communication with each of the emigrants which would seem to be necessary in order to

ascertain that the agreements with them were properly made and understood.

My Lords wish it to be understood, that they are not considering a charge as proved

which the emigration officer has no means of rebutting, but they think it right to call

Mr. Labouchere's attention to the statements made, in order that full inquiry may be

made at Hongkong. I have, & c.

(Signed) T. H. FARRER .

No. 1 .

QUERIES asked of the Captain of the “ Duke of Portland . ”

January 30, 1857.

1. How and by whose orders did the ship happen to be engaged in the carrying of

Chinese emigrants ?

2. Who were the charterers of the ship on the voyage from China to the Havanna ;

and on whose account were the emigrants shipped ?

3. If done through an agent in China, what was the name and address of the agent ?

4. How did it happen that with such a voyage in view the ship sailed from Hongkong

with such a cargo so late in the season ?

5. Was the ship duly surveyed by an emigration officer at Hongkong ; if SO, what was

his name, and when was the survey commenced, and when completed ?

6. Can the captain furnish a copy of any certificate or document given by the

emigration officer ?

The Registrar of Seamen . (Signed) T. H. FARRER.

REPLIES of Master of " Duke of Portland ” to the foregoing Queries.

1. From various contingencies, arising in the earlier part of the voyage, the ship was

thrown out of the tea and silk carrying trade, in which it was first purposed to employ

her, and it was optional with me to employ her as I considered prudent.

2. The charterer was a Don A. R. Ferran, of Havana, but at that time residing at

Macao, and the emigrants were shipped on his account.

3. Messrs. Lyall Still, Hongkong, were agents for A. R. Ferran, and through them the

charter was negotiated.

4. The ship preceding the “ Duke of Portland ” experienced great difficulty in

obtaining her emigration papers, and the charterers could not pay that attention in col

the emigrants necesssary in order to despatch the ship at an earlier date.

5. The ship was surveyed and measured by Captain Watkins, the harbour-master at

Hongkong, in February 1856, afterwards by the emigration officer, whose name will be

found attached to the papers left at the registry officefor copying on Saturday. .

6. Yes, and left at the registry office on Saturday, 4

(Signed) GEO. F. SEYMOUR.

No. 2.

John Hagan ( certificate of competency, 11,628) joined the “ Duke of Portland ” in

Marginal Notes by London, as second mate, in March 1855, bound to New Zealand with emigrants, thence

Captain Seymour.

to Shanghai and Hongkong, where the ship was chartered to convey Chinese emigrants

to Havana.

Before receiving the emigrants at Hongkong, the ship was surveyed and measured by

Measured by harbour. the emigration officer ; a deck -house was built, and other preparations made for their

master, who inspected

the ship twice. reception. In February 1856, 25 came on board from the shore ; they had a small chest

each,and a change of clothing About a week after, 225 came alongside in a steam

were an

vessel from Macao ; they had bags with them , but no chests ; afterwards four or five

exhausted state from escaped to the shore. The steamer returned with another batch of 86,*about a week

sea sickness, having after.

( 53 )

These men were on board three or four days before we sailed, and about the second experienced heavy

day,* the emigration officer came on board,and all the emigrants that were ableassembled from

weatheronthe passage

on the deck. The emigration officer addressed them in the Chinese language, not . I believe the day

individually, but generally. after, and I believe he

The captain ordered me to go below and reporů how many were too ill to come upon was on board twice, if

deck. I found 38 were in their berths, and did not make their appearance on deck. not more .

Before this one of them had died, and his body had been sent on shore. This was the These were suffering

from the effects of sea

only time the emigration officer spoke to the men . sickness principally.

When we were about getting under weigh, the emigrants began to mutiny ; the captain

was on shore at the time, but finding they were likely to be troublesome, we lowered the

fore topsail. When the master came on board, and found how matters stood , he returned + No person came from

again to the shore, and went to the agents, Messrs. Lyell and Co.,t the charterers. I.yell Still's office on

Some person from their office cameonboard,witheight or ten policemen armed,andthe refused

thisoccasio n.They

to assist or in

emigrants were all sent to their berths. Three policemen remained on board all night. I terferein any way.

understood from the interpreter that the cause of the disturbance arose from the promised Idonot recollect the

amount of advance in money not having been paid. On 3rd of March we sailed, and number, butmore than

fortified the after part of the ship, to keep the emigrants under. Before we had been many April3.

days at sea, the deaths became very frequent, and the sickness increased very much.. The Forthe deaths, &c.

sickness arose from the loss of their opium, and some were so disposed when theycame on the O. F. L.is an

board. Some of the emigrants had a little opium with them ; the doctor used all he had. authority.

Several times during our passage down the China Seas the emigrants were very trouble. I do not recollect.

some ; some slipped overboard during the night,ş and were not missed till the next # Incorrect, for Ihad

option of refusing any

morning ; those that went overboard during the day were all saved, excepting one man. that myselfor surgeon

By the time we arrived at St. Helena, more than 100 had perished. Weremained there considered unhealthy

or unfit for the voyage,

three days, took in fresh provisions, water, vegetables, and the medicine chest was, and Iknow ofbut one

I believe, replenished ; it was not short of anything before, as far as I know . Upwards man that I could have

St. Helen

of 30 died between very | and Havana ; .butWhen

the remai appear

nderd at in a

ednah better objected to: Many

state of health, and few acommitted suicid e we arrive Havan we laid had skin diseases.

§ Several were picked

eight days in quarantine ; there were two deaths during this period, and the bodies were up during the night.

buried on shore. We put the emigrants on board the receiving ship, and I do not know || Fewer deaths and a

larger numberof

what became of them afterwards. The charterer, I understood, was a Spaniard at suicides, and those of

Havannah, bis agents being Messrs. ,

Lyall Still, and Co., of Hongkong. the most determined

We remained at Havannah about 14 days, and then went to St. Cruz for mahogany character.

and cedar for London. At Havannah the chief mate left, and I was appointed his I cannot state num

stead . bers, having no papers

There was plenty of water, rice, and meat ;; the emigrants were not on short allowance here to refer to .

during the voyage; provisions were served out to ten cooks twice per day, and they ownAt first underdsmy

, afterwar under

divided it among themen. The doctor went round twice every day to visit the sick men, the superintendence of

and of a night when called upon. There was a great stench in the ship,** owing to the the interpreter and

manner in which the Chinese used the water closet, one of which was within five feet of boatswain .

the ship's galley ; they were not built ina proper manner tt for the way in which they ** This I consider

incorrect.

use them . The urine was not carried off, but run along the deck. The men slept on ft Query : Could Mr.

mats, but were verylousy ; no soap was allowed by the ship,ft and consequently they Hagan suggest an im

were very filthy, and werecovered with vermin . Dead bodies were sewed up in rice provement? I could

not.

bags and thrown overboard .

One of the crew died the day after we left St. Helena, $$ and some of the crew were sick was

# Soap andtofreshwater

issued the sick,

in the China Seas.|||| and soap was obtained

(Signed ) JOHN HAGAN, at St. Helena for their

use .

February 4, 1857. Late Chief Officer.

Signed in presence of Everard Home Coleman . SS Taken ill the day

after sailing ; died

(Signed) J. H. BROWN, about ten days after

Registrar General of Seamen . sailing.

| || The greater number

suffering from venereal

No. 3. or its effects.

EMIGRATION OFFICER'S CERTIFICATE .

I HEREBY authorize the Chinese passenger ship (“6 Duke of Portland ,” to proceed to sea

for the port of Havana, in Cuba ; and I certify that the said ship can legally carry 334

adults, and that there are on board 334 passengers, making in all 334 adults, viz. ,

334 men, no women , no male children, and no female children, such children being

between the ages of one and twelve years ; that the space set apart and to be kept clear

for the use of such emigrants is as follows : On the upper deck, 1,140,-, superficial feet,

being fore poop cabins, cabin before poop, and deck -house ; and in the between decks

2,8701, superficial feet, being the whole deck ; that the ship is properly manned and

fitted ; and that the means of ventilating the part of the between decks appropriated to

passengers are as follows : scuttles, air funnels and windsails ; that the ship is furnished

with a proper quantity of good provisions, fuel, and water, more than sufficient for the

passage toSt. Helena, for 168 days' issues to the passengers, according to the annexed

dietary scale ; and with a proper quantity of medicines, instruments, and medical comforts,

according to the annexed scale ofmedical necessaries ;that I have inspected the contracts

between the emigrants and their intended employers(the terms of which are annexed to

(250. ) G 3

( 54 )

this certificate ), and consider them reasonable ; that no fraud appears to have been

practised in collecting the emigrants; and that there are on board a surgeon and

interpreter, approved by me, and designated respectively David Sudgate and Sungto.

The master of the ship is to put into St. Helena for water and fresh vegetables.

Passage from Hongkong to St. Helena estimated at 90 days; from St. Helena to

Havana at 79 days.

( Signed ) C. B. HILLIER,

Dated at Hongkong, this 1st day of April 1856. Emigration Officer.

Annexed to this certificate are :

1. Passenger List, as supplied by Master.

2. Copy of the Contract for Labour.

3. Schedule A. of Chinese Passenger Act.

Encl. 3. in No. 29. Enclosure 3 in No. 29.

SIR, Downing Street, March 14, 1857.

January 1 , 1857. With reference to your letter of the 3rd, and to Mr. Farrer's letter of the 5th of

No. 5 .

February, I am directed by Mr. Secretary Labouchere to transmit to you the inclosed

copy of a despatch, just received through the Foreign Office from Sir John Bowring, by

which it would appear that the “ John Calvin ” and the “ Duke of Portland ” were both

of them regularly cleared by Mr. Hillier, the emigration officer. Mr. Hillier himself is

unhappily sincedeceased. Sir John Bowring will be called upon to inquire, as you have

suggested, whether the passengers by the “Duke of Portland were duly seen, and the

correctness of their agreements ascertained ; but it is to be observed that the evidence

which the documents now received afford of the promptitude and vigour of action in this

respect in the case of the “ John Calvin ,” gives reason to hope that there was no undue

neglect of the same matter in the case of the other ship, the “ Duke of Portland,” which

sailed about the same time and under the same superintendence.

I am to acquaint you, however, that Mr. Labouchere notices another point which also

requires to be cleared up. The rules appended to the Chinese Passengers Act require

that for every passenger on board there should be at least five superficial feet on the

upper deck and 12 such feet below. The Legislature of Hongkong had power, under the

Act itself, to substitute other rules, but Mr. Labouchere is not aware that the power has

been exercised. Nevertheless,in the case of both these vessels, the number of superficial

feet allowed to each passenger is only about three on the upper deck, and eight on

the lower. As the reduced space so nearly agrees in the case of each vessel, it may be

that the emigration officer proceeded on some local rule which has escaped notice. But

an explanation will be demanded on the point ; and it is decidedly Mr. Labouchere's

opinion that the space named in the rules appended to the Act of Parliament is not larger

than sufficient.

I am, &c.

J. Booth, Esq. (Signed) H. MERIVALE

Sub.-Encl. to Sub -Enclosure to Enclosure 3 in No. 29.

Encl. 3 in No. 29.

No. 5 . Superintendency of Trade, Hongkong,

MY LORD , January 1 , 1857.

In reply to your Lordship’s despatch, No. 209, dated 18th October last, directing

me to make inquiry into the cases of " John Calvin ” and “ Duke of Portland ,” British

ships which conveyed Chinese emigrants from this colony to the Havana, a great mor

tality having taken place during the voyage, I have now to forward to your Lordship

the information I have obtained from the Emigration Officer's Department through the

Colonial Secretary.

I have, & c.

The Earl of Clarendon , K.G., (Signed) J. BOWRING .

&c. & c. &c.

Emigration Office, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR, December 29, 1856.

I do myself the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated the 26th

instant, No. 975,transmitting a letter from the Superintendency of Trade, and also

enclosing a copy of a communication from the President of the Strangers' Home for

Asiatics in England, with reference to the mortality which is said to have occurred on

))

board the emigrant ships “ John Calvin ” and “ Duke of Portland ,” which vessels were

cleared out from this port bound to Havana, by my predecessor (Mr. Hillier ), on the

12th of March and 1st . April last respectively, and requesting me to furnish you with

the fullest particulars in my powerrespecting them.

2. On reference to the records of my predecessor, I find that the ship “ John Calvin "

was authorized to carry 81 passengers only, whereas, by the slip of newspaper attached

( 55 )

hare on

to Sir E. N. Buxton's letter to the Earl of Clarendon above mentioned, I find that 110

போல் deaths occurred on the voyage ! It would therefore appear that this vessel succeeded in

le. going to sea with aa much larger number of coolies than that authorized by the emigra

tionofficer, a copy of whose certificate is hereto annexed, ard also an extract from the No. 1 .

emigration record book, which purports to show that a portion of the coolies originally

shipped bad declined to proceed on the voyage. No. 2.

DEE 3. As regards the ship “ Duke of Portland ,” I can only say, that the vessel was

authorized to carry 334 passengers only, out of which number she appears to have landed No. 3.

202. A copy of the clearance certificate of Mr. Hillier I also annex ; I would, however,

remark, that the requirements of the Chinese Passengers Act of 1855, appear to have No. 4.

been complied with at this port ; that the vessel carried a surgeon, was supplied with No. 5.

medicines according to the scale prescribed in Schedule ( A ), and that the bonds in each

case, copies of which are annexed, were duly entered into and executed .

4. It appears to me that the ship “ John Calvin ” was improperly allowed to clear

inwards at Havana with a greater number of Coolies on board than the emigration

officers' clearance from this port permitted1 ; and that had an inquiry taken place at

Havana, the fraud in both cases, if any had been committed, would have been detected,

and this Government would no doubt have been furnished with such evidence as would

have enabled it to recover from the sureties the penalties for the non - fulfilment of the

HTLINE provisions of the “ Chinese Passengers Act ” of 1855.

I have & c.

The Hon. W. F. Mercer, (Signed) C. R. MITCHELL ,

Colonial Secretary, & c. &c. &c. Emigration Officer.

No. 1 .

EMIGRATION OFFICER'S CERTIFICATE.

ŞE

I HEREBY authorize the Chinese passenger ship “ John Calvin ” to proceed to sea for

the port of Havana, in Cuba ; and I certify that the said ship can legally carry 301 *

adults, and that there are on board 81 passengers, making in all male statute adults ;* that

the space set apart and to be kept clear for the use of such emigrants is as follows :-On

the upper deck, 895.5 superficial feet, being fore poop cabin , 337.7 ; after deck house,

99.4 ; fore deck house, 458.6 ; and in the between decks, 2,724.2 superficial feet, being (*sic in original.)

the whole deck ; that the ship is properly manned and fitted, and that the means of

ventilating the part of the between decks appropriated to passengers are as follows:

Wind sails and ventilation trunks ; a plank taken out on each side of the deck ; that the

ship is furnished with a proper quantity of good provisions, fuel, and water for 147 days'

issues to the passengers according to the annexed dietary scale,and with a proper quantity

of medicines, instruments, and medical comfortsaccording to the annexed scale of medical

necessaries ; that I have inspected the contracts between the emigrants and their intended

employers (the terms of which are annexed to this certificate ), and consider them , as now

modified, to be reasonable ; that no fraud appears to have been practised in collecting the

emigrants, and that there are on board a surgeon andinterpreter approved by me, and

designated respectively, Le Chew and Laong Ahoy. The master of the ship is to put

into St. Helena for water and fresh vegetables. Estimated length of voyage from Hong

kong to St. Helena, 79 days ; St. Helena to Havana, 68 days.

( Signed) C. B. HILLIER,

Emigration Officer.

Dated at Hongkong, this 12th day of March 1856.

True copy

(Signed) C. R. MITCHELL ,

Hongkong, December 29, 1856. Emigration Officer.

No. 2 .

This ship was despatched by Messrs. Lyall, Still, and Co., who applied for a clearance

for 302 passengers (the ship had capacity for 301 and a portion ), but on the passengers

being mustered and the contracts explained by the emigration officer,all but 81 declined

to go . Messrs. Lyall, Still, and Co. were told that aa certificate could be granted for such

passengers only as had signed their contracts and come on board willingly, with a full

knowledge of the premises ; that this present refusal to proceed made evidence of consent,

in each case necessary. They replied that they were not prepared with this evidence,

as the contracts had for the most part been witnessed before the procurador of Macao ;

they preferred, therefore, to receive a clearance for the number now consenting. There

was no evidence of fraud or violence in collecting the men , but, on the contrary, proof

of unusual care.

True copy

(Signed) C. R. MITCHELL,

Hongkong, December 29, 1856. Emigration Officer.

True copy

(Signed) W. WOODGATE.

(250.) G4

( 56 )

No. 3. No. 3 .

EMIGRATION OFFICER'S CERTIFICATE.

I HEREBY authorize the Chinese passenger ship “ Duke of Portland ,” to proceed to sea

for the port of Havana, in Cuba ; and I certify that the said ship can legally carry 334

adults, and that there are on board 334 passengers, making in all 334 adults, viz.,

534 men, no women , no male children , and no female children, such children being

between the ages of one and twelve years ; that the space set apart and to be kept clear

for the use of such emigrants is as follows :-On the upper deck, 1,140, superficial feet,

being fore poop cabins, cabin before poop , and deck -house, and in the between decks,

2,8701 superficial feet, being the whole deck ; that the ship is properly manned and

fitted, and that the means of ventilating the part of the between decks appropriated to

passengers are as follows : scuttles, air funnels, and wind sails ; that the ship is furnished

with a proper quantity of good provisions and fuel ; water, more than sufficient for the

passage to St. Helena, for 168 days' issues to the passengers, according to the annexed

dietary scale, and with a proper quantity of medicines, instruments, and medical comforts,

according to the annexed scale of medical nesessaries ; that I have inspected the contracts

between the emigrants and their intended employers (the terms of which are annexed to

this certificate), and consider them reasonable; that no fraud appears to have been

practised in collecting the emigrants; and that there are on board a surgeon and

interpreter, approved by me, and designated respectively David Ludgate and Sungto.

The master of the ship is to put into St. Helena for water and fresh vegetables. Passage

from Hongkong to St. Helena, estimated at 90 days ; from St. Helena to Havana at 78

days.

(Signed) C. B. HILLIER ,

Emigration Officer.

Dated at Hongkong this Ist day of April 1856.

Annexed to this certificate are :

1. Passenger List, as supplied by Master.

2. Copy of the Contract for Labour.

3. Schedule ( A.) of Chinese Passengers' Act.

Hongkong, December 29, 1856. Emigration Officer.

True copy

(Signed) C. R. MITCHELL ,

True copy

(Signed ) W. WOODGATE.

No. 4.

COLONY OF HONGKONG TO WIT.

Know all men by these presents, that we are held and firmly bound unto our Sovereign

Lady Queen Victoria, by the grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and

Ireland, Queen, Defender of the Faith, in the sum of One thousand pounds of good and

lawful money of Great Britain , to be paid to our said Sovereign Lady the Queen, her

heirs and successors ; to which payment, well and truly to be made,we bind ourselves

and every of us, jointly and severally, for and in the whole, our heirs, executors,

administrators, and every of them , firmly by these presents.

( L.S.) ( Signed ) A. THORNHILL.

( L. S. ) > G. LYALL.

(L. S.) >> C. F. STILL.

Sealed with our Seals.

Dated at Hongkong this 11th day of February 1856.

Whereas by the Chinese Passengers Act, 1855, it is enacted, that before any Chinese

passenger ship shall clear out or proceed to sea on a voyage of more than seven days'

computed duration, the master thereof shall, with two sufficient sureties to be approved

by an emigration officer, enter into a bond to Her Majesty, Her heirs and successors, in

the sum of One thousand pounds :

Now the condition of this obligation is this, that if (in respect of the ship “ John

Calvin,” whereof Alonso Thornhill is master,) all and every of the requirements of the

said Chinese Passenger Act, and of the regulations contained in Schedule ( A.) to the said

Act annexed, or enacted by the legislature of Hongkong, shall be well andtruly observed

and performed , then this obligation to be void, otherwise to remain in full force and

effect.

Signed, sealed, and delivered by the above-bounden Alonso Thornhill, George Lyall,

and Charles Frederick Still, in the presence of,

(Signed) C. B. HILLIER ,

Emigration Officer.

Hongkong, December 29, 1856.

( 57 )

No. 5 . No. 5.

Know all men by these presents, that we are held and firmly bound unto our Sovereign

Lady Queen Victoria, by the grace of God , of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and

Ireland , Queen, Defender of the Faith, in the sum of One thousand pounds of good and

lawful money of Great Britain , to be paid to our said Sovereign Lady the Queen , Her

heirs and successors, to which payment well and truly to be made we bind ourselves and

every of us, jointly and severally , for and in the whole, our heirs, executors, administra .

tors, and every of them , firinly by these presen ts .

( L. S. ) ( Signed ) G. F. SEYMOUR .

( L. S. A. C. MALCOLM .

( L. S.) G. LYALL.

Dated at Hongkong this 28th day of March 1856. Sealed with our Seals.

Whereas by the Chinese Passengers Act 1855, it is enacted , that before any Chinese

passenger ship shall clear out or proceed to sea on a voyage of more than seven days'

computed duration, the master thereof shall with two sufficient sureties to be approved

by an emigration officer, enter into a bond to Her Majesty, Her heirs and successors, in

the sum of One thousand pounds :

Now the condition of this obligation is this, that if (in respect of the ship “ Duke of

Portland ,” whereof George Frederick Seymour is master) all and every of the require

ments of the said Chinese Passenger Act, and of the regulations contained in Schedule

(A. ) to the said Act annexed, or enacted by the legislature of Hongkong, shall be well

and truly observed and performed in like manner as the same ought to be observed and

perforined in case the said ship were a British ship, and the said * a British *(This blank was

subject, then this obligation to be void , otherwise to remain in full force and effect. in the original cer

Signed, sealed, and delivered by the above-bounden George Frederick Seymour, tificate.)

Alexander Campbell Maclean, and George Lyall, in the presence of, HILLIER,

(Signed) C. B.

Emigration Officer.

Hongkong , December 29, 1856.

No. 30. No. 30 .

Cory of a DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Right Hon .

H. LABOUCHERE, M.P.

( No. 46. ) Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong,

March 7, 1857 .

Sir , ( Received May 2, 1857. )

I have

HAVE the honour to inform you that on receipt of your despatch,

No. 130, † of 14th November 1856, relating to the mortality which occurred on | Page 42.

board the ships “ Duke of Portland ” and “ John Calvin," I directed commu

nications to be made on the subject to Messrs. Jardine, Matheson & Co. , the

agents for the “ Duke of Portland,” and Messrs. Lyall, Still & Co., the char

terers of both ships. I have received the accompanying replies from these

firms, and this appears to be the only information that can be collected here on

these lamentable cases.

I have, &c.

Right Hon . H. Labouchere, M.P., ( Signed ) JOHN BOWRING .

&c. &c. &c.

Enclosure 1 in No. 30. Encl. 1 in No. 30.

SIR, Hongkong, February 12, 1857.

We have the honour of acknowledging receipt of your letter of 9th instant,

having reference to the Coolie ships “ John Calvin ” and “ Duke of Portland,” and we

shall have great pleasure in affording his Excellency the Governor every information

which may be in our possession regarding the sad mortality which occurred amongst the

emigrants on board those vessels.

Of the “ Duke of Portland ” we know but little, beyond the fact that in her case, as in

)

the case of the “ John Calvin," the greatest possible care was taken here in her despatch,

both by ourselves and by the late Mr. Hillier, the emigration officer, who was on board

repeatedly previously to her leaving, and who inspected the provisions very closely. From

this vessel, since her leaving, we have had no communication ; but we are aware that a

great mortality did take place, and Messrs. Jardine, Matheson, and Co. , who were the

agents for the ship, may probably have heard either from the master or the owners.

With reference to the “John Calvin ,” owing to the circumstance ofour being the owners

of that vessel, we are enabled to give you more information ; and we have now the honour

( 250. ) H

( 58 )

of handing you an extract from Captain Thornhill's letter to us, announcing his arrival at

Havannalı, and giving us the particulars of the sickness on board. Beyond this we know

nothing, excepting that 225l. were spent at St. Helena in the purchase of vegetables and

other fresh provisions for the use of the Coolies.

As we have said before ,great care was taken both by Mr. Hillier and ourselves in the

despatch of the vessel from this ; and the master and officers weremost efficient, the former

particularly having had experience in carrying Chinese. It would appear, therefore, that

the mortality arose from the length of the voyage and from causes which were beyond all

human control.

We have, & c.

(Signed) LYALL, STILL, AND Co.

The Hon. W. T. Mercer, Esq. , Colonial Secretary,

&c. &c. & c.

Encl. 2 in No. 30 . Enclosure 2 in No. 30 .

EXTRACT of Captain THORNHILL's letter to LYALL,STILL, and Co.,dated Havannah,

September 23, 1856.

I BEG to inform you, by this opportunity, of my arrival here on the 2d instant, after a

long and tedious passage of 171 days, and much regret being placed in quarantine imme

diately, having lost 111 Coolies and 11 of my crew by death from fever, dysentery,

anasacra, and from the effects of opium . After writing you from Anjer, the wind came

from the south -west, with a current setting at the rate of three knots per hour to the

eastward, which compelled me to anchor in the Straits of Sunda until the 15 April , during

which time the typhus fever broke out and carried off 10 of them , cleared the Straits on

the 17th, and arrived at St. Helena on the 28th June, having experienced light winds in

the south -east trade, and heavy westerly gales off the Cape of Good Hope, and lost

55 Coolies. After leaving there, they appeared to improve, and no death until the 10th

day out, when the strongest went off suddenly, after aa few hours' illness of anasarca ; they

were perfectly quiet and submissive during the whole passage. I received pratique on

9th, having laid eight days in quarantine, during which time lost 11 Coolies, and landed

175 alive.

( True copy.)

( Signed) LYALL, STILL, AND Co.

Encl. 3 in No. 30. Enclosure 3 in No. 30.

The Hononourable W. T. BRIDGES, Esq., Acting Colonial Secretary, &c. &c. Hongkong.

SIR , Hongkong , February 21 , 18.57. >

We beg to acknowldge receipt of your communication of the 17th instant, on the

part of his Excellency the Governor, requesting information regarding the case of the

Coolie ship “ Duke of Portland,” from this to the Havannah, and asking for particulars of

the mortality reported to have taken place.

In reply, we beg to state that wewere mere agents for the ship which we chartered to

Messrs. Lyall, Still , and Co., who had afterwards everything to do with the shipment of

the Coolies, &c., and who are therefore much more likely to be in a position to afford you

information regarding the voyage than we are ; indeed we have not heard of or from the

vessel since her departure, and consequently know nothing whatever of the mortality on

board to which you allude.

We have, &c.

(Signed) JARDINE, MATHESON, AND Co.

Encl. 4 in No. 30.

Enclosure 4 in No. 30 .

SIR , Hongkong, March 5, 1857.

We have the honour of acknowledging receipt of your letter, No. 213, of 23

ultimo, on the subject of the despatch of the “ Duke of Portland ,” and in reply regret that

we can only refer you to our former letter of 12th ultimo.

The vessel was despatched from this, as we have already informed you, by the emigra

tion officer in the usual way, only with unusual care, and since her departure we have

received no information regarding her.

We have, &c.

To Honourable W. T. Bridges, Esq., (Signed) LYALL, STILL, AND Co.

Acting Colonial Secretary,

& c. &c. & c.

( 59 )

No. 31 .

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon . H. LABOUCHERE, M.P., to

Governor Sir John Bowring.

( No. 86. )

SIR, Downing-street, June 29, 1857.

I have had under my consideration your despatch, No. 46,* of the 7th of

* Page 57.

March, relative to the passenger ships “ John Calvin ” and 66 Duke of

Portland ."

This despatch shows that no further light is likely to be thrown upon the

facts, and I shall therefore now proceed to convey to you such remarks as these

cases appear to me to require.

The “ John Calvin ” sailed from Hongkong for Havannah on the 13th of

March 1856, with 298 emigrants on board, and lost 135 ; the Duke of Port

land” sailed from Hongkong for the same destination on the 3d of April 1856,

with 332 emigrants on board, and lost 128.

So deplorable a mortality occurring on board of two British ships despatched

from the chief port of a British Government in China could not fail to excite

both the deep regret of Her Majesty's Government, and also an anxiety to

detect its causes, and endeavour to guard against its recurrence. The main

points to be ascertained are, whether there was any inhumanity or culpable

neglect on the passage ; whether the numbers embarked were too large ; and

whether the emigrants had been deceived and were taken away against their

will .

As regards the first point, there appears no reason to suspect any want of

humanity or care on the voyage. The British consul at the Havannah, to

which the vessels proceeded, instituted an inquiry at the moment of their arrival,

and reported that the treatment of the passengers had been humane and attentive.

This conclusion was confirmed in the case of the “ Duke of Portland ” by the

report of the Local Marine Board of London. It has not been disputed in the

case of the “ John Calvin. ”

No reason has appeared for supposing that the unfortunate sickness on board

these vessels was attributable to overcrowding, owing to a misconception of the

late emigration officer at Hongkong ; the numbers which he declared the ships

qualified to carry were largerthanthe Act really intended. According to the

Chinese Passengers Act ( 18 & 19 Vict. c. 104. ) , the number of passengers is

not to be greater than after the proportion of one to every 12 superficial feet

of the 'tween decks . The emigration officer did not confine his measurement

of the “ ’tween decks” to the lower deck (which is the usual and real meaning

of the term ), but included all those parts of the upper deck which were housed

over, and which thus formed a space fit for habitation. The particulars set

forth in his certificates, and also the figures of his calculations, prove that this

was the fact. You have received froin me separate instructions, which will

prevent the recurrence of this mistake. The persons concerned in the vessel ,

however, cannot be held responsible for the error of the emigration officer, nor,

as already stated, has it been alleged that overcrowding was the cause of the

illness and mortality in these vessels.

It remains to be considered whether the people were deceived or removed

against their will . That kidnapping and various frauds are often practised by

the Chinese brokers who procure emigrants there can be no doubt. On the

other hand, it appears unfortunately to be the case that the people themselves

who embark are frequently cheats. They pretend to be emigrants in order to

live free of expense in the cooly ships, and then, at the last moment, when they

have received an advance of wages, they endeavour to desert the ship, or to

seize her by force, and effect a landing on the coast. This, of course, must

multiply the risks of collision, and enhance the difficulty of doing justice.

The security provided by the Chinese Passengers' Act against the use of

frauds or violence in procuring emigrants is contained in the sixth of the

regulations annexed to the Act. The emigration officer is to muster the

passengers and ascertain that they understand whither they are going, and that

they have not been improperly collected ; and he may, if he think fit, detain

the ship, and order all or any of the passengers to be relanded .

In the “ Duke of Portland” the emigration officer mustered the passengers

and gave his certificate that the ship was qualified to carry 334, and that

( 250. ) H2

( 60 )

the same number ( two less than were finally taken ) were on board , and

that the ship might proceed. After he had gone, and when the ship was

starting, a disturbance occurred, but was suppressed by the police, and the

vessel proceeded on her voyage .

Here I have to call your attention to the apparent conduct of the police in

the matter . The master of the ship states (at page 10 of the Parliamentary

Paper, of which some copies are sent to you herewith ), that Mr. May, the

superintendent of police, came on board, and that he left several policemen to

act as sentries during the night, and that next morning at daylight the vessel

was out of the roads. The mate stated (page 13 ), that the policemen were

accompanied by some one from the office of the charterers ; but the master says

that he is mistaken on this point, and it is evident that the master is the most

likely to have known whom he brought from the shore . If these accounts are

to be trusted, it appears strange that a superior officer of police, being a witness

of the insurrection of a large body of passengers , should have taken no steps to

ascertain the real cause of the disturbance. You will call upon Mr. May for

an explanation on the subject, and you will give strict orders that in case of

any tumult on board of aa cooly ship at the time of sailing, no police or other

force of the Government is on any account to facilitate her departure without

re- summoning the emigration officer, with proper interpreters, if necessary, to

discover the grounds of complaint, and whether or not the ship ought to be

detained .

It would have been far more prudent, to say the least, on the part of the

master himself, to have waited until the nature and validity of the emigrants'

discontent could have been ascertained ; and he suffered the natural penalty of

the opposite course by constant alarms and attempts at violence during the

voyage. But still, having been regularly cleared by the functionary designated

for the purpose by the Act of Parliament, who had assembled the passengers,

and had been ready at that time to receive any complaints which they might

have to prefer, he cannot be said to have committed any legal offence, and

there appears no ground to sustain a prosecution against him or the owners of

the ship .

The case of the “ John Calvin ” is different in this respect. The emigration

officer certified that the ship was qualified to carry 301, but that only 81 were

actually on board. It seems that all but 81 declined to go, and that he

therefore refused to insert more in his clearance, but the ship nevertheless

proceeded to sea with 298. In a letter from the master to the owners, written

soon after reaching Havannah, and before he could have any knowledge of the

inquiries which would take place in England , he mentions that the conduct of

the emigrants was quiet and submissive during the voyage. Whether the

excess beyond 81 consisted of the very persons who objected in the presence

of the emigration officer, or whether of others picked up subsequently, is not

stated ; but the former case is the most probable. It also is not stated that

the emigration officer ordered the passengers to be re-landed under the terms

of the 6th Regulation , and he certainly did not detain the ship, for by granting

his certificate he enabled the captain to put to sea. The proper course for

the emigration officer would have been to withhold his clearance until he was

satisfied that all the passengers whom he wished to be removed were re -landed .

You will explain this carefully to the present emigration officer, and desire him

to guide himself accordinglyin any future case which may occur of the same

nature.. Although , however, the late emigration officer does not appear to

have taken the best course for enforcing his views, there can be no doubt that

the master of the “ John Calvin ” defeated the spirit of the Act in proceeding

to sea with 298 emigrants, when only 81 had been approved of by theemigration

officer ; and I have, therefore, caused a case to be laid before the law officers

of the Crown, to ascertain whether there may not have been such an infraction

of the letter as will sustain a prosecution ; and in that case the bond should,

without fail, be put in suit against the master and his sureties. I shall lose no

time in apprising you of the result of the reference to the law officers of the

Crown ,

I have , &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed) H. LABOUCHERE.

&c. & c. &c.

( 61 )

No. 32. No. 32.

Hon. H. LABOUCHERE , M.P., to

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right BOWRING. >

Governor Sir John

( No. 83. )

Sir , Downing Street, June 18, 1857.

In my despatch , No. 28,* of the 14th of March last, your attention was * Page 47.

called to the requirements of the regulations appended to the Chinese Pas

sengers' Act , that for every passenger on board there should be a space of at

least twelve superficial feet on the 'tween decks, and also a space of five super

ficial feet on the upper deck left clear for the use of the passengers, and you

were informed that this space was in my opinion decidedly not more than

sufficient, and that it ought not to be diminished. I trust, therefore, that any

communications to the present emigration officer which you may have founded

on that despatch from me will have precluded any future misunderstanding

of the subject.

But since the time when I wrote to you, the nature of the misconception

under which the late emigration officer acted in computing the capacity of the

two ships, the “ John Calvin ” and “ Duke of Portland,” has become apparent

on further examination of the figures and statements contained in his certi

ficates of clearance, it is found that in computing the superficial feet of the

'tween decks, he did not confine bimself to the lower deck, but included all

those parts of the upper deck which were housed over . To prevent the possi

bility of further mistake, therefore, I have to request that you will apprise the

present emigration officer that this is not the true intent of the regulations

appended to the Act. The meaning of them is, that for every passenger on

board there shall be distinctly twelve superficiel feet of the lower deck itself,

and likewise five superficial feet of the upper deck available to them for air and

exercise. You will enjoin it upon the emigration officer to carry this regu

lation fully into effect.

I am, & c.

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed ) H. LABOUCHERE.

&c. &c. & c.

No. 33. No 33.

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon. H. LABOUCHERE, M.P., to

Governor Sir John BOWRING.

( No. 41. )

SIR , Downing.street, April 6, 1857.

My attention has been drawn by the Lords of the Committee of Privy

Council for Trade to the fact that the ship “ John Calvin ” was cleared from

Hongkong, whence she sailed in March 1856, with a certificate for 81 pas

sengers, but that she would appear to have proceeded in reality with 298 pas

sengers on board. Their Lordships are endeavouring to learn from the master

of the ship who is now in London , how this discrepancy or evasion of the law

may have occurred. In the meanwhile, I have to request thatyou will inquire

whether any explanation of the circumstance can be furnished from the emigra

tion office at Hongkong.

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring , ( Signed) H. LABOUCHERE.

& c. & c. &c .

No. 34. No. 34.

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon . H. LABOUCHERE , M.P., to

Governor Sir John BOWRING .

( No. 52. )

SIR , Downing Street, April 27 , 1857.

With reference to my despatch, No. 41 , of the 6th of April, requesting

you to seek information respecting the circumstances under which the “ John

Calvin was cleared , I have to acquaint you that the Board of Trade have

( 250. ) H 3

( 62 )

apprised me that all endeavours to find Captain Thornhill, the late master of

that vessel, have failed, but that from recent information obtained by the

registrar of seamen , it appears likely that he left this country for China by the

overland route, about a month since . I apprise you of this probability in

order that if Captain Thornhill should have reached Hongkong, you may be

able to make use of his presence in any inquiry which may be instituted on

the spot into the case of the “ John Calvin ."

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed ) H. LABOUCHERE .

&c. &c . &c .

No. 35 . No. 35.

Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Right Hon.

H. LABOUCHERE, M.P.

( No. 64. ) Government Offices, Victoria, April 10, 1857.

( Received June 5, 1857.)

Sir, ( Answered No. 81 , June 15, 1857, page 63.)

I have to report to you the following circumstances connected with the

British ship “ Gulnare," engaged in conveying Chinese hired emigrants to the

Havannah . The “ Gulnare ” arrived in Hongkong on March 13, and her captain

reported that she had left Swatow, near Amoy, on March 11, with a crew of

32 men , and having on board 432 Chinese. On the following morning, at

7.15 a.m., a desperate and well -combined attack was made by the emigrants to

obtain possession of the ship, and, as they failed in this, through the determined

conduct of the officers and crew, they attempted to set her on fire. They were

finally put down, after severely wounding the third officer and one of the crew ;

nine of their own number were shot, many more wounded, and three jumped

overboard to avoid capture. On March 14 , 20 of the Chinese, who had taken

the most prominent part in this piratical attempt, were brought on shore in the

custody of the police ; the charge against them was investigated by the chief

magistrate , who committed 18 to take their trial at the Supreme Court for

piracy, with wounding. One of the wounded Chinese died soon after the

“ Gulnare ” arrived in harbour, and a coroner's inquest, whose verdict was one of

“ Justifiable homicide,” was held on the body on March 17 . To facilitate

the despatch of the ship, the Chief Justice held an extra criminal sessions of the

Supreme Court on March 27. A verdict of " Guilty ” was returned thereat,

after a trial which lasted the whole day, against all the 18 prisoners ; the

Chief Justice left three, Ng-king -seang, Cheem -koong -sew , and Chun -amoon

for execution , and ordered a sentence of “ Death recorded ” to be entered up

against the remaining 15. At a meeting of the Executive Council, held on

Monday the 6th, after a lengthened investigation of all the circumstances of

this case, I came to the conclusion, in which, however, I was not supported by

the Lieutenant-Governor and Colonial Secretary, that the ends of justice would

be sufficiently answered if the extreme penalty of the law were carried out in

the case of the first-named convict, Ng-king-seang only. This man had clearly

acted as a ringleader, and was apparently of a different, if not of a superior,

station in life to the other prisoners. Ng-king-seang was executed on Thursday,

April 9, and the sentences of the other 17 prisoners have been commuted into

that of transportation for life. I have to remark, in conclusion , that the

emigration officer was directed to institute a thorough inquiry into the state of

the provision, &c., on board the “Gulnare," and he has reported thatShshe wa wass

provided in every way in a complete and satisfactory manner.

despatched from this on March 30, with : 326 emigrants, being of sufficient

capacity to carry 338 .

I hope that you will approve of the line of conduct I have pursued ; and

I have, &c.

The Rt. Hon . H. Labouchere, M.P., ( Signed) JOHN BOWRING.

&c . &c. &c .

( 63 )

No. 36. No. 36 .

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon. H. LABOUCHERE, M.P., to

Governor Sir John BOWRING.

( No. 81. )

SIR , Downing Street, June 15, 1857.

I have to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch, No. 64 , * of the 10th * Page 64.

of April, reporting that eighteen Chinese emigrants had been tried for a pira

tical attempt to take possession of the British ship “ Gulnare ; ” that one of the

prisoners had been executed, and that the sentences passed on the other seven

teen had been commuted to transportation for life. In sparing the lives of

two of the three prisoners whowere left by the ChiefJustice for execution, I

entertain no doubt that you used to the best of your discretion the prerogative

of mercy with which you are invested.

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed) H. LABOUCHERE .

&c . &c . &c.

No. 37 . No. 37.

Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Right Hon .

H. LABOUCHERE, M.P.

( No. 82. ) Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong,

May 20, 1857.

SIR, ( Received July 20, 1857.) | Page 19 of

In despatch No. 28, of the 14th March , relating to the passenger ships House of Commons

“ Duke of Portland ” and “ John Calvin ,” you directed me to inquire what record Paper, No. 147,

or evidence exists, that the passengers embarked in the “ Duke of Portland ” March 21, 1857.

were duly inspected, and the correctness of their agreements ascertained. You

further desired an explanation upon the numbers which both the said ships were

computed to be legally qualified to carry, and a report explaining how, when

the Chinese Passengers' Act requires foreach passenger a space of five super

ficial feet on the upper, and twelve superficial feet on the lower deck , the emi

gration officer's certificate would only allow about three superficial feet above,

and eight below, in proportion to the number of passengers declared admissible

in such two ships .

I have the honour to transmit in reply the accompanying letters with docu

ments from the emigration officer, dated respectively the December 29, 1856,

and May 15, 1857 .

These will, I trust, prove to your satisfaction that no precautionary measure

was omitted here to protect the passengers in the “ Duke of Portiand ” and

“ John Calvin .” The discrepancy as to the amount of room allowed has, I

conceive, arisen from an inaccurate copy of the emigration officer's certificate,

as the full space in both instances appears to have been secured.

I have, &c.

The Right Hon. H. Labouchere, M.P. , ( Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

&c. &c. &c.

Enclosure 1 in No. 37. Encl. 2 in No. 3".

Emigration Office, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR, May 15 , 1857

In reply to your letter of the 13th instant, No. 457, requesting me to ascertain

and report, for the information of his Excellency the Governor, whether there exists in

my office any record of the passengers by the “ Duke of Portland ” having been duly

inspected, and the correctness of their agreements ascertained, and informing me that the

Secretary of State for the Colonies is under the impression that instead of five superficial

feet on the upper deck and 12 superficial feet on the lower deck for each passenger on

board the ships “ Duke of Portland ” and “ John Calvin ,” there was only three feet above

and eight below allowed, and requesting me to ascertain, if possible, the proportionate

amount of room allowed to each passenger on board of such ships ; and also requiring a

statement whether the regulations of the Chinese Passenger Act, with regard to pas

sengers, are or have been in any way departed from ; I do myself the honour to draw

attention to my letter to your predecessor, dated the 29th December last, No. 13, and its

( 520. ) H 4

( 64 )

enclosures, in reply to hisletter to me of the 26th December,No. 975, enclosing for my

report a copy of aa letter from the President of the Strangers' Home for Asiatics in Eng

land, which I think will be found to contain nearly all the information now required.

2. I would, however, state that each statute adult on board the ship “ John Calvin '

was allowed the full space prescribed by the Act, viz. , 12 feet below and five feet above

for exercise ; and that the provisions of the Chinese Passengers Act have been, during

my term of office , and are at present, so strictly carried out in this colony that it will be

in his Excellency's recollection that complaints have been made by the masters and agents

of vessels thereof, and in one instance a protest was made by the master of the British

ship “ Gulnare ” against me for so strictly enforcing the provisions of the Act with regard

to space .

3. With regard to the ship “ Duke of Portland," she appears to have cleared out with

the number of passengers she was entitled to carry , although, upon the face of it, there

1. appears to be some clerical error in the certificate of Mr. Hillier, my predecessor, inas

much as I find, from the certificate of Captain Watkins, copies of both of which I beg to

annex, that the full space was allowed to each individual on board the said vessel.

I have, & c.

( Signed) E. R. MICHELL,

Hon. Dr. Bridges, Colonial Secretary , Emigration Officer.

& c. &c. &c.

EMIGRATION OFFICER'S CERTIFICATE.

I HEREBY authorize the Chinese passenger ship “ Duke of Portland ” to proceed to sea

for the port of Havannah, in Cuba ; and I certify that the said ship can legally carry

334 adults, and that there are on board 334 passengers, making in all 33+ adults, viz.,

334 men , no women , no male children , and no female children, such children being be

tween the ages of one and 12 years ; that the space set apart and to be kept clear for

the use of such emigrants is as follows :-On the upper deck 1,140 ; superficial feet, being

fore-poop cabins, cabin before poop, and deck -house ; and in the between deck, 2,870

superficial feet, being the whole deck ; that the ship is properly manned and fitted, and

that the means of ventilating the part of the between decks appropriated to passengers

are as follows ; scuttles, air-funnels, and windsails ; that the ship is furnished with a

proper quantity of good provisions and fuel ; water more than sufficient for the passage to

St. Helena for 168 days' issues to the passengers, according to the annexed dietary scale,

and with a proper quantity of medicines, instruments, and medical comforts, according

to the annexed scale of medical necessaries ; that I have inspected the contracts between

the einigrants and their intended employers (the terms of which are annexed to this

certificate,) and consider them reasonable ; that no fraud appears to have been practised

in collecting the emigrants ; and that there are on board a surgeon and interpreter

approved by me, and designated respectively David Ludgate and Sungto.

The master of the ship is to put into St. Helena for water and fresh vegetables. Passage

from Hongkong to St. Helena estimated at 90 days, from St. Helena to Havannah 78

days.

(Signed) C. B. HILLIER ,

Dated at Hongkong, this 1st day of April 1856. Emigration Officer.

Annexed to this certificate are,--

1. Passenger List, as supplied by Master.

2. Copy of the Contract for Labour.

3. Schedule A. of Chinese Passenger Act.

I AEREBY certify that I have measured the British ship " Duke of Portland," and

report that she has capacity, under Act 18 & 19 Vict. c. 104., for the conveyance through

the tropics of three hundred and thirty -four 1 : (334 15) Chinese passengers, allowing

12 superficial feet for the accommodation of each passenger, as follows, viz. :

On the main deck 2,870 · 5 superficial feet.

In the fore-poop cabins 343 : 10 >

In the cabins before the poop 539.5

In the deck -house 257.5

12)4,011 : 1

334 1

( 65 )

I further certify that the “Duke of Portland ” has a clear space of 2,674 superficial feet

on the upper deck for the use of the passengers, viz. :--

poop

On the роор 8637 superficial feet.

On the cabin before the poop 565.6 :)

On the spar-deck 756.6 ")

On the forecastle -

488 :6

5 )2,674: 1

5345

Being upwards of five superficial feet for each passenger.

Dated at Victoria, Hongkong, February 28, 1856.

( Signed ) J. V. WATKINS,

Harbour Master.

Enclosure 2 in No. 37. Encl. 2 in No. 37.

Emigration Office, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR, December 29, 1856 .

I do myself the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letterdated the 26th

instant, No. 975, transmitting a letter from the Superintendency of Trade, and also

enclosing a copy of a communication from the President of the Strangers' Home for

Asiatics in England, with reference to the mortality which is said to have occurred on

board the emigrant ships “ John Calvin ” and “Duke of Portland,” which vessels were

cleared out from this port, bound to Havannah, by my predecessor ( Mr. Hillier) on the

12th March and 1st April last respectively, and requesting me to furnish you with the

fullest particulars in my power respecting them .

2.p.66

2. On reference to the records of my predecessor, I find that the ship “ John Calvin ”

was authorized to carry 81 passengers only, whereas by the slip of newspaper attached

to Sir E. N. Buxton's letter to the Earl of Clarendon above mentioned, I find that 110

deaths occurred on the voyage. It would therefore appear that this vessel succeeded in

going to sea with a much larger number of Coolies than that authorized by the emigra

tion officer, a copy of whose certificate is hereto annexed, and also an extract from the

Einigration Record Book, which purports to show that a portion of the Coolies originally

shipped had declined to proceed on the voyage.

3. As regards the ship “ Duke of Portland ," I can only say, that this vessel was

authorised to carry 334 passengers only, out of which number she appears to have landed

202. A copy of the clearance certificate of Mr. Hillier I also annex .. I would, however,

remark that the requirements of the Chinese Passengers Act of 1855 appear to have been

complied with at this port ; that the vessel carried a surgeon, was supplied with medicines

according to the scale prescribed in Schedule A ; and that the bonds in each case, copies

of which are annexed, were duly entered into and executed.

4. It appears to me that the ship “ John Calvin ” was improperly allowed to clear

inwards at Havannah with a greater number of Coolies on board than the emigration

officer's clearance from this port permitted ; and that had an enquiry taken place at

Havannah, the fraud in both cases, if any had been committed, would have been detected ;

and this Government would no doubt have been furnished with such evidence as would

have enabled it to recover from the sureties the penalties for the non - fulfilment of the

provisions of the “ Chinese Passengers Act, 1855. ”

I have, & c.

( Signed) E. R. MICHELL,

Hon. W. T. Mercer, Esq., Colonial Secretary, Emigration Officer.

&c. &c. & c.

EMIGRATION OFFICER'S CERTIFICATE.

I HEREBY authorize the Chinese passenger ship “ John Calvin ” to proceed to sea for

the port of Havannah, in Cuba ; and I certify that the said ship can legally carry 301

adults, and that there are on board 81 passengers, all male statute adults ; that the space

set apart and to be kept clear for the use of such emigrants is as follows : -On the upper

deck 895 · š superficial feet, being fore-poop cabin, 337.7; after deck-house, 99.4 ; fore

deck house, 458.6, and in the between deck, 2,724.2 superficial feet, being the whole

deck. That the ship is properly manned and fitted ; and that the means of ventilating

the part of the between decks appropriated to passengers are as follows:-windsails and

ventilating trunks, a plank taken out on each side of the deck. That the ship is furnished

withe a proper quantity of good provisions, fuel, and water for 147 days' issues to the

passengers, according to the annexed dietary scale, and with a proper quantity of medicines,

instruments, and medical comforts, according to the annexed scale of medical necessaries

That I have inspected the contracts between the emigrants and their intended employers,

(the terms of which are annexed to this certificate), and consider them, as now modified,

(250.) I

( 66 )

to be reasonable ; that no fraud appears to have been practised in collecting the emigrants

and that there are on board a surgeon and interpreter approved by me, and designated

respectively Le Chew and Laong Ahoy.

The master of the ship is to put into St. Helena for water and fresh vegetables.

Estimated length of voyage from Hongkong to St. Helena, 79 days ; St. Helena to

Havannah, 68 days.

(Signed) C. B. HILLIER,

Emigration Officer.

Dated at Hongkong this 12th day of March, 1856.

(True copy.)

( Signed) E. R. MICHELL,

Hongkong, December 29, 1856 . Emigration Officer.

ENCLOSURE No. 2 in Emigration Officer's Letter to the Hon. W. T. Mercer, Esq ., of the

29th December 1856 , having reference to the Ship “ John Calvin .”

This ship was despatched by Messrs. Lyall, Still, and Co., who applied for a clearance

for 302 passengers ( the ship had capacity for 301 and aa portion ), but on the passengers

being mustered and the contracts explained by the emigration officer, all but 81 declined

to go. Messrs. Lyall, Still, and Co. were told that a certificate could be granted for such

passengers only as had signed their contracts and come on board willingly, with a full

knowledge of the premises ; that this present refusal to proceed made evidence of consent

in each case necessary. They replied that they were not prepared with this evidence,

as the contracts had for the most part been witnessed before the procurador of Macao ;

they preferred, therefore, to receive a clearance for the number now consenting. There

was no evidence of fraud or violence in collecting the men , but , on the contrary, proof of

unusual care.

( True copy .)

(Signed) E. R. MICHELL ,

Hongkong, December 29, 1856.

. Emigration Officer.

EMIGRATION OFFICER'S CERTIFICATE .

I HEREBY authorize the Chinese passenger ship “ Duke of Portland ” to proceed to sea

for the port of Havannah, in Cuba, and I certify that the said ship can legally carry 334

adults, and that there are on board 334 passengers, making in all 334 adults, viz., 334

men , no women , no male children, and no female children, such children being between

the ages of one and 12 years ; that the space set apart and to be kept clear for the use of

such emigrants is as follows :—On the upper deck, 1,1407, superficial feet, being fore-poop

cabins, and cabin before poop ; and in the between deck, 2,870, superficial feet, being

deck -house, the whole deck ; that the ship is properly manned and fitted, and that the

means of ventilating the part of the between decks appropriated to passengers are as

follows :-scuttles, air -funnels, and windsails ; that the ship is furnished with a proper

quantity of good provisions and fuel, water more than sufficient for the passage to

St. Helena, for 168 days' issues to the passengers, according to the annexed dietary scale,

and with a proper quantity of medicines, instruments, and medical comforts according to

the annexed scale of medical necessaries ; that I have inspected the contracts between

the emigrants and their intended employers ( the terms of which are annexed to this cer

tificate,) and consider them reasonable ; that no fraud appears to have been practised in

collecting the emigrants ; and that there are on board a surgeon and interpreter approved

by me, and designated respectively David Ludgate and Sungto.

The master of the ship is to put into St. Helena for water and fresh vegetables.

Passage from Hongkong to St. Helena, estimated at 90 days ; from St. Helena to

Havannah, 78 days.

( Signed) C. B. HILLIER ,

Emigrant Officer.

Dated at Hongkong, this 1st day of April 1856 .

Annexed to this certificate are

1. Passenger List, as supplied by Master.

2. Copy of the Contractor for Labour.

3. Schedule A. of Chinese Passenger Act.

( True copy.)

(Signed ) E. R. MICHELL,

Emigration Officer,

Hongkong, December 29, 1856 .

( 67 )

COLONY OF HONGKONG TO WIT.

Know all men by these presents, that we are held and firmly bound unto our Sovereign

Lady Queen Victoria, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and

Ireland, Queen, Defender of the Faith, in the sum of One thousand pounds of good and

lawful money of Great Britain, to be paid to our said Sovereign Lady the Queen, Her heirs

and successors; to which payment,well and truly to be made, we bind ourselves and

every of us, jointly and severally for and in the whole, our heirs, executors, administra

tors, and every of them , firmly by these presents.

(Signed ) A. THORNHILL. ( L.S.)

GEO. LYALL. (L.S.)

C. F. STILL. ( L.S.)

Sealed with our Seals.

Dated at Hongkong, this 11th day of February 1856.

WHEREAS by the “ Chinese Passengers Act, 1855 ," it is enacted, that before any

Chinese passenger ship shall clear out or proceed to sea on a voyage of more than seven

days' computed duration, the master thereof shall, with two sufficient sureties to be

approved by an emigration officer, enter into a bond to Her Majesty, Her heirs and

successors, in the sum of 1,0001.

Now the condition ofthis obligation is this, that if (in respect ofthe ship “ John Calvin,"

whereof Alonso Thornhill is master) all and every of the requirementsof the said Chinese

Passenger Act, and of the regulations contained in Schedule A. to the Act annexed , or

enacted by the Legislature of Hongkong, shall be well and truly observed and performed ,

then this obligation to be void, otherwise, to remain in full force and effect.

Signed , sealed, and delivered by the above-bounden Alonso Thornhill, George Lyall,

and Charles Frederick Still, in the presence of

(Signed) C. B. HILLER ,

Emigration Officer.

( True copy)

(Signed ) E. R. MICHELI ,

Hongkong, December 29, 1856. Emigration Officer.

Know all men be these presents, thatwe are held and firmly bound unto our Sovereign

Lady Queen Victoria, by the Grace of God of the United Kingdon of Great Britain and

Ireland, Queen , Defender of the Faith, in the sum of One thousand pounds of good and

lawful money of Great Britain, to be paid to our said Sovereign Lady the Queen, Her

heirs and successors ; to which payment, well and truly to be made, we bind ourselves

and every of us, jointly and severally for and in the whole, our heirs, executors, admi

nistrators, and every of them , firmly by these presents.

(Signed) GEO. F. SEYMOUR. ( L.S.)

A. C. MACLEAN. ( L.S.)

GEO. LYALL. ( L.S.)

Dated at Hongkong this 28th day of March 1856. Sealed with our Seals.

WHEREAS by the “ Chinese Passengers Act, 1855 ,” it is enacted , that before any

Chinese passenger ship shall clear out or proceed to sea on a voyage of more than seven

days' computed duration, the master thereof shall, with two sufficient sureties, to be

approved by an emigration officer, enter into a bond to Her Majesty, her heirs and suc

cessors, in the sum of One thousand pounds.

Now the condition of this obligation is this, that if (in respect of the ship “ Duke of

Portland,” whereof George Frederick Seymour ismaster ), all and every of the require

ments of the said “ Chinese Passenger Act,” and of the regulations contained in Schedule

A. to the Act annexed, or enacted by the Legislature of Hongkong, shall be well and

truly observed and performed (in like manner as the same ought to be observed and per

formed in case the said ship were a British ship, and the said British ship a British sub

ject,) then this obligation to be void, otherwise to remain in full force and effect.

Signed, sealed, and delivered by the above-bounden George Frederick Seymour,

Alexander Campbell Maclean , and George Lyall, in the presence of

(Signed) C. B. HILLIER,

Emigration Officer.

(True copy.)

(Signed ) E. R. MICHELL ,

Emigration Officer

Hongkong, December 29, 1856.

( 250.) I 2

( 68 ) 5

No. 38 . No. 38.

Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Right Hon.

H. LABOUCHERE, M.P.

(No. 112. ) Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong,

July 17, 1857.

Sir, ( Received September 25, 1857.)

* Page 61 . By your Despatch, No. 52,* of 27th April 1857, I had the honour to be

informed by you that Captain Thornhill, of the ship " John Calvin ,” was sup

posed to have left England for China by the overland route. I have caused

inquiries to be made with regard to him, and by the accompanying letter from

the harbour master, Captain Thornhill seems to have proceeded to Calcutta,

and not to China .

I have, &c.

The Right Hon . H. Labouchere , M.P., ( Signed ) JOHN BOWRING.

&c. &c . &c .

Encl. in No. 38 . Enclosure in No. 38.

(No. 44. )

Harbour Master Office , Victoria, Hongkong,

Sir , July 11 , 1857.

In reply to your letter, No. 621 , of the 9th instant, having reference to the where

«4

abouts of Captain 'Thornhill, lately in command of the ship " John Calvin ,” I do myself

the honour to report, for the information of his Excellency the Governor, that, from

inquiries made, I have every reason to believe he is somewhere in India, having left

London some months ago, as I learn, for Calcutta.

I have, &c. ,

( Signed) E. R. MICHELL,

Acting Harbour Master.

The Hon. Dr. W. T. Bridges, Acting Colonial Secretary,

& c. & c. dc.

No. 39. No. 39.

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon . H. LABOUCHERE, M.P., to

Governor Sir John BOWRING .

( No. 101. )

SIR Downing Street, August 18, 1857.

With reference to the concluding portion of my Despatch No. 86, of

the 29th of June, I enclose, for your information and guidance, a copy of the

August 8. opinion which I have received from the law officers of the Crown upon the

question of the liability of the parties concerned in the “ John Calvin ,” to the

forfeiture of the bond given for the observance of the Chinese Passengers’

Act .

I think that, in pursuance of this opinion , it will be proper that you should

take steps for putting the bond in suit.

I have, &c .

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed ) H. LABOUCHERE.

&c . &c. &c.

No. 40. No. 40.

Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Right Hon.

HENRY LABOUCHERE, M.P.

Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong ,

( No. 148. ) October 9, 1857 .

( Received December 7, 1857.)

SIR, ( Answered, No. 1, January 2, 1858, page 70.)

• Page 59. In your Despatch, No. 86, of June 29,* 1857, you were pleased to

direct me to call upon Mr. May, the superintendent of police, for an expla.

( 69 )

nation of his conduct with regard to the dispatch of the emigrant ship " Duke

of Portland.” I have done so, and I have the honour to forward herewith such

explanatory letter which will, I trust, prove satisfactory to you.

I have, &c.

( Signed ) JOHN BOWRING.

Right Hon . H. Labouchere, M.P.

&c. & c. & c.

Enclosure in No. 40. Encl. in No. 40 .

( No. 80.)

Police Department, Victoria, Hongkong,

Sir, September 2, 1857.

I HAVE the honour to acknowledge receipt of your letter, No. 746 , dated 21st

ultimo, upon the subject of a Despatch received from the Right Honourable the Secretary

of State for the Colonies, calling for an explanation of my conduct as superintendent of

police, on the matter of the Coolie ship “ Duke of Portland . ” Captain Seymour, the

master of such ship, informed his owners by letter that

“ On 2nd April, when hove short and ready for sailing, the Chinese crowded aft, took

belaying pins from the rails, and armed themselves with firewood, yelling and shouting

in a fearfulmanner, throwing everything moveable overboard. He then had an inter

view with the stipendiary magistrate at the Supreme Court, who came on board with a

police force. The coolies laughed at them , and at length they were driven below at the

point of the bayonet. Then planted iny two guns inside the cuddy door, loaded them with

grape and canister ; had the carronades loaded and placed at the poop fife -rail ; gave the

men a cutlass each . Mr. May (magistrate) was then on board ; he left a serjeant and

five policemen on board for sentries during the night. At daylight I was out of the

Roads."

I have the honour to state, for the information of his Excellency the Governor,with a

view that the statement may be laid before the Right Honourable the Secretary of State

for the Colonies, that the extent of my knowledge on the subject is very limited ; but

that I have enclosed report touching the matter which will convey the required intelli

gence, in so far as it regards the interference of the Hongkong police.

Early on the morning of the 1st of April 1856 , I proceeded in the police boat on police

duty to the town of Aberdeen, and returned therefrom to Victoria in the afternoon,

arriving in Victoria harbour at about six p.m. I was casually informed by a gentleman

passing in a boat that there had been aa disturbance on board the Coolie emigrant ship

“ Duke of Portland ," then at anchor in the harbour, and that lie believed police constables

were on board the said ship. I immediately steered to the “ Duke of Portland ," and

went on board. I saw two constables there, who told me that there had been a dis

turbance on board amongst the coolies, and that they had been ordered to remain to

prevent a recurrence of the disturbance. They mentioned,as far as my memory serves

me, that the chief magistrate ( who was also emigration officer ), and the assistant-super

intendent, Mr. Grand Pré, had been on board . Everything was remarkably quiet on

board . I did not observe any excitement, or did I see the carronades or gunsplanted

as stated in the captain's letter. I did not make any inquiry, or did I remain on board

above a minute, as I was satisfied that, under the orders of the chief magistrate (who

was a Chinese scholar), all needful inquiries and proper steps therein had been taken.

Upon arriving at the police station, I saw assistant-superintendent Grand Pré,who

reported to me theoutlines of the matter, to the effect as reported in the following day's

" Morning Report."

I have the honour to enclose a report from assistant-superintendent Grand Pré, an

extract from the “ Police Morning Report” of the 2nd April, which report was, as usual,

forwarded that day to the Honourable the Colonial Secretary and the chief magistrate ,

and a copy of the casetaken at the police court before the assistantmagistrate, referring

to the prisoner taken for disorderly conduct from on board the “ Duke of Portland.”

I have, &c.

(Signed ) C. MAY ,

Hon. W. T. Bridges, Esq., D.C.L., Superintendent of Police,

Acting Colonial Secretary. At present Acting Assistant Magistrate.

Sub-Enclosure 1 in No. 40. Sub.-Encl. 1 in

No. 40 .

REPORT.

On the 2nd of April 1856 the captain of the ship “ Duke of Portland ” came to the

Central Station and said that the Chinese Coolies on board were creating a disturbance,

and that he did not consider himself safe. I went to the emigration officer, Mr. Hillier,

and reported the circumstances to him ; be then told me to take some constables on board ,

( 250.) I 3

( 70 )

and that he would follow immediately afterwards. I carried out his orders, and had not

been on board five minutes, when Mr. Hillier and Mr. Lyall, the latter agent of the ship,

came on board ; and Mr. Hillier examined all the Coolies, and they seemed all pretty

quiet, with the exception of one of them , who was brought on shore, and charged with

being one of the ringleaders. Mr. Hillier then told me it would be well to leave some

constables on board ; three of them were left. I returned on shore and gave orders to

Serjeant M. D'Silva, of the water police, that if he saw everything quiet on board the

“ Duke of Portland ,” the next morning, when coming off duty, he was to bring the con

stables on shore. I saw Serjeant Silva the next morning, and he told me that the ship

had got under weigh, and that everything was very quiet on board, and the constables

left there had all come on shore.

With regard to what Captain Seymour says, that “ the Coolies laughed when they saw

the police come on board,” and that “ the police drove them down below with the points

of bayonets," I must beg to say is incorrect.

( Signed ) A. GRAND PRÉ,

Police Department, August 24, 1857. Acting Superintendent of Police,

True copy .

( Signed) W. T. BRIDGES,

Acting Colonial Secretary.

Sub .-Encl . 2 in Sub - Enclosure 2 in No. 40 .

No. 40.

In consequence of representation made that the Chinese emigrants on board the British

ship “ Duke of Portland ” were creating a disturbance on board, having demanded pay

ment of an additional sum of money, more than specified in agreement, assistant -super

intendent Grand Pré and a party of police proceeded on board ; the Coolies were all

orderly excepting one man, who was apprehended. Three constables were left on board,

and remained until the ship sailed at four a.m. this day.

( Signed) C. B. H.

W. T. M

True copy

( Signed ) A. GRAND PRÉ,

Acting Sup. Police.

Commenced April 3, 1856. Concluded April 3 , 1856. C. M. Court, No. 363.

At the CHIEF MAGISTRATE'S OFFICE, Victoria, in the Colony of Hongkong.

MINUTES of Proceedings in the cause in which C.Bartlett, police constable, is plaintiff ;

and Huen Ahchun, 22, of Sámsúi, shopman , defendant.

Thursday, April 3, 1856.

C. Bartlett, police constable, charges defendant with using exciting language, calcu

lated to cause a breach of the peace on board the ship “Duke of Portland," on the 2nd

April instant, in this harbour.

Defendant discharged .

(Signed) W. H. MICHELL.

No. 41 . No. 41 .

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon . H. LABOUCHERE, M.P., to

Governor Sir John BOWRING.

( No. 1. )

Sir, Downing Street, January 2, 1858.

Page 68.

I have to acknowledge your Despatch, No. 148 * of the 9th October,

accompanied by an explanatory letter from the superintendent of police of

Hongkong respecting the emigrant ship “ Duke of Portland.”

You will inform Mr. May that his explanation respecting his conduct in

connexion with this vessel is satisfactory.

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring , ( Signed) H. LABOUCHERE .

&c. &c . &c.

( 71 )

No 42 ,

No. 42 .

Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Rt. Hon.

H. LABOUCHERE, M.P.

(No. 161.) Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong,

November 11 , 1857.

SIR , (Received January 7, 1858.)

I HAVE the honour to transmit to you for submission to Her most

Gracious Majesty the Queen, Ordinance 11of 1857. Its principal object is to

put a check on the frauds to which Chinese emigrants, and especially those

paying their own passage fares, have been from time to time exposed by unprin

cipledmen , both Europeans and Chinese, taking upon themselves the office of

passage brokers, and then defrauding their victims of their money and passage

by absconding from the colony.

I am of opinion that the Ordinance will be found a valuable auxiliary to the

objects of the Government, and therefore confidently submit it for your favour

able consideration.

I have, &c.

The Rt. Hon . H. Labouchere, M.P., ( Signed ) JOHN BOWRING.

&c. &c. & c.

Encl . in No. 42.

Enclosure in No. 42.

HONGKONG.

( Seal.)

ANNO VICESIMO PRIMO VICTORIÆ REGINÆ .

No. 11 of 1857.

By His Excellency Sir John BOWRING, Knight, LL.D., Governor and Commander-in

)

Chief of the colony of Hongkong and its dependencies, and Vice-Admiral of the same,

Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary and Chief Superintendent of the Trade of British subjects

in China, with the advice of the Legislative Council of Hongkong.

Title.

AN ORDINANCE for Licensing and Regulating Emigration Passage Brokers.

[3d November 1857.]

WHEREAS it is expedient to amend existing legislation with reference to emigrants; Be Preamble.

it enacted and ordained by His Excellency the Governor of Hongkong, by and with the

advice of the Legislative Council thereof, as follows :

1. From and after the passing of this Ordinance , no person shall act as a passage No person to act as a

broker or in procuring passengers, for or in the sale or letting of passages in any emigrant passage broker with-,

ship,unless he shall, with two sufficient sureties, to be approved by the emigration into a Hond and 06

officer, have entered into a joint and several bond in the sum of five thousand current tained a licence.

dollars to Her Majesty, Her heirs and successors, according to the form contained in

Schedule A , hereunto annexed, which bond shall be renewed on each occasion of obtaining

such licence as herein-after mentioned, and shall be deposited with the emigration officer;

nor unless such person shall have obtained a licence to let or sell passages, nor unless

such licence shall be then in force ; and where different members of the same firm act

as passage brokers, each person so acting shall comply with the terms of this section.

II. Any person wishing to obtain a licence to act as a passage broker, shall make How passage broker's

application for the same to the emigration officer, and the emigration officer is hereby licence may be ob

authorized ( if he shall think fit) to grant such licence according to the form in Schedule B. Power of justices to

hereunto annexed : Provided always,that no such licence shall be granted unless such order licenses tobe

bond as herein -before mentioned shall have been first entered into : Provided also, that forfeited .

any justiceor justices of the peace who shall adjudicate on any offence against thisOrdi

nance, are hereby authorized to order the offender's licence to be forfeited, and the same

shall thereupon be forfeited accordingly ; and the said justice or justices making such

order shall forthwith cause notice of such forfeiture, in the form contained in the Schedule

C. hereunto annexed , to be transmitted to the emigration officer, and such forfeiture

shall be exclusive and independent of any other punishment which may be inflicted upon

such offender under the provisions of this Ordinance.

III . Every person obtaining such licence as aforesaid shall pay to the emigration licences.

Fee to be paid for

officer a fee of two hundred current dollars, which fee the emigration officer is hereby

empowered and required to demand and receive upon the issuing of any such licence; and

the said emigration officer shall pay over all such fees to the Colonial treasurer, to be

applied to the Colonial revenue.

(250.) I 4

( 72 )

How long licences are IV. All such licences shall continue in force until the 31st day of December in the

to continue in force.

year in which such licence shall be granted , and for fourteen days afterwards, unless

sooner forfeited as herein -before mentioned : Provided that any licence granted before

the 31st day of December in the present year shall continue in force till the 31st day of

December 1858, and for fourteen days afterwards.

Contract tickets for V. Every passage broker who shall or may receive money from any person, for or in

passages.

respect of a passage in any emigrant ship, shall give to every such person a contract ticket,

under the hand of such passage broker, and stamped with his seal or trade mark ,-each

ticket to be printed in a plain and legible type, according to the Form in the Schedule D.

hereunto annexed , and to be accompanied with a translation, thereof in the Chinese

language, in plain and legible characters.

Passage brokers to VI. Every such passage broker before he shall receive or take any money on account

produce to emigration of any such passage, or for the sale or letting of the whole or any part of the accommodation

certificate

officerhave

they charteredof or in any emigrant ship proceeding from Hongkong, shall produce to the emigration

that

the ship forcarrying officer the certificate of the master or owner of the ship, in respect of which such passage

emigrants.

shall or may have been taken, or the accommodation in which shall have been so sold or

let, to the effect that such ship has been chartered for the purpose of carrying emigrants,

and that he, such passage broker, is authorized to receive payment for such passage, or

for the sale or letting of the accommodation in such ship : and such certificate shall

be filed in the officeof the emigration officer, and the contents thereof entered in a

book to be kept by the emigration officer, for recording therein the contents of such

certificate.

Passage brokers to VII. On every occasion of the delivery to any passenger of such contract ticket as

attend before emigra- aforesaid, the passage broker who shall have engaged to provide such passenger with a

tion officer for the

purpose of delivering passage shall attend with him at the office of the emigration officer, in whose presence

the contract tickets the contract ticket shall be delivered to such passenger, and who shall explain to him the

to passengers.

true intent and meaning of such contract.

Contrac : tickets not

to be altered .

VIII. No person shall fraudulently alter or cause to be altered, after it is once issued,

or shall induce any person to part with, or render useless, or destroy any such contract

ticket, during the continuance of the contract which it is intended to evidence.

Agents not to act IX. No licensed passage broker shall, as agent for any person, whether a licensed

without written au

thority, and to produce broker or not, receive money for or on account of the passage of any passenger on board

their authority on an emigrant ship without having a written authority to act as such agent, or on the

demand. demand of the emigration officer refuse or fail to exhibit his licence and such written

authority ; and no person, whether as principal or agent, shall, by any fraud , or by false

representation as to the size of the ship or otherwise, or by any false pretence whatsoever,

induce any person to engage any passage as aforesaid .

Penalties for offences. X. All violations or disobediences of, or defaults in compliance with , the provisions of

this Ordinance, shall be heard and determined summarily under Ordinance No. 10 of

1814 ; and on conviction of such offences, the respective offenders shall be sentenced to

pay the several penalties, or in default of the payment thereof, to suffer the several terms

of imprisonment respectively herein -after specified.

1. Against section I. 1. For every offence against section one, a fine not exceeding four hundred current

dollars, or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months.

2. Against section V 2. For every offence against section five, a fine not exceeding fifty current dollars,

or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six weeks.

3. Against section

VI. and IX . For every offence against sections six or nine, a fine not exceeding one hundred

current dollars, or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months.

4. Against section 4. For every offence committed by a passage broker against section seven , a fine

VII.

not exceeding one hundred current dollars, or imprisonment for a term not

exceeding three months.

5. Against section 5. For every offence against section eight, a fine not exceeding fifty current dollars,

VIII.

or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two months.

XI. For the purposes of this Ordinance, the term “ emigrant ship ” shall mean every

ship carrying morethantwenty passengers being natives of China, and clearing out for

a port or ports not in the Chinese empire; the term “ emigration officer” shall include

every person lawfully acting as emigration officer, emigration agent,or protector of im

migrants in Hongkong ; and the term “ passengers,” shall include all passengers being

natives of China.

JOHN BOWRING.

Passed the Legislative Council of Hongkong,

this 3d day of November, 1857.

J. M. D'ALMADA E CASTRO,

for the Clerk of Councils.

( 73 )

SCHEDULES TO WHICH THE FOREGOING ORDINANCE REFERS .

SCHEDULE A.

Form of Emigration Passage Broker's Annual Bond, with two Sureties to be approved

by the Emigration Officer.

KNOW ALL MEN by these presents, that we A* B of

& c., C D of & c., and E F of & c., are

held and firmly bound unto Her most Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria in the sum of

five thousand current dollars, to be paid to Her said Majesty, Her heirs and successors ;

to which payment well and truly to be made we bind ourselves, and every of us jointly

and severally, our heirs, executors, and administrators, and the heirs , executors , and

administrators of each of us, and each and every of them , firmly by these presents ;

sealed with our seals, dated this day of in the year One thousand

eight hundred and

Whereas by the “ Ordinance for licensing and regulating Emigration Passage Brokers,

No. 11 , of 1857,” it is amongst other things enacted : that no person whatever shall

carry on the business of a passage broker in Hongkong, in respect of any emigrant ship,

or shall be in any wise concerned in the sale or letting of passages in any such ship,

unless such person , with two good and sufficient sureties to be approved of by the emi

gration officer, shall bave previously entered into a joint and several bond to Her Ma

jesty, Her heirs and successors, in the sum of five thousand current dollars ; and whereas

the said C. D. and E. F. have been approved of by the emigration officer as sureties for

the said A. B.

Now the condition of this obligation is, that if the above bounden A. B. shall well and

truly observe and comply with all the requirements of the said recited Ordinance, so far

as the same relates to passage brokers; and further, shall well and truly pay all fines,

forfeitures, and penalties,—and also all sums of money, by way of subsistence money, or

of return passage money, and compensation to any passenger, or on his account,-- and

also all costs which the above bounden A. B. may at any time be adjudged to pay,

under or by virtue of any of the provisions of the above-recited Ordinance, or of the

Act of the Imperial Parliament 18th and 19th Victoria , cap. 104, entituled, ““ An Act for

the Regulation of Chinese Passenger Ships : ” then , and in such case , this obligation

to be void ,—otherwise to remain in full force.

Signed, sealed and delivered, by the above bounden A. B. , C. D., and E. E., in the

presence of t

[* Insert personal and family names in full, with the occupation and address of each of the parties.]

( t Insert the names and addresses in full of the witnesses.]

SCHEDULE B.

Forn of Emigration Passage Broker's Licence.

A. B. oft having shown to the satisfaction of me, the under

signed, that he hath given bond toHer Majesty, as bythe “ Ordinance for licensing and

regulating Emigration Passage Brokers, No. 11, of 1857," required : I, the undersigned,

do hereby license and authorize the said A. B. to carry on the business of a passage

broker in Hongkong, in respect of passengers on board emigrant ships proceeding from

Hongkong, until the end of the present year, and fourteen days afterwards, unless this

licence shall be sooner determined by forfeiture for misconduct on the part of the said

A. B., as in the aforesaid Ordinance is provided.

Given under my hand and seal this day of One thousand

eight hundred and

Signature [ L.s.]

Emigration Officer.

[1 The personal and family names in full of the person applying for the licence, with his address and trade or occu

pation, must be correctly inserted .]

SCHEDULE C.

Form of Notice to be given to the Emigration Officer of forfeiture of a Licence.

SIR ,

This is to give you notice, that the licence granted on the day of

18 to A.B. of to act as an emigration passage broker, was on the

day of now last past duly declared by me (or us ), the undersigned justice

( or justices) of the peace in petty sessions assembled , to be forfeited. I

Signatures

Place and date 185

To the Emigration Officer,

Victoria, Hongkong.

[1 The personal and family names in full, with the address and trade or occupation of the party , to be here inserted.]

L Here state severally the reason of forfeiture.]

( 250. ) K

( 74 )

SCHEDULE (D.)

Form of Contract Passage Ticket.

I HEREBY engage that the Chinese named at the foot hereof shall be provided with a

passage to and shall be landed at the port of in > in the ship

or vessel called the “ with not less than 72 cubic feet and 12 superficial

feet for berth accommodation, and shall be victualled according to Schedule (A. ) to the

“ Chinese Passengers Act, 1855 ," annexed . during the voyage, and the term of detention

at any plac- before its determination , for the sum of dollars, and I hereby

acknowledge to have received the sum of dollars in full payment.

Male. Female .

Name of Passenger. Occupation . Native Place.

Age. Age.

Signature

Passage Broker.

Victoria, Hongkong, the day of 185 .

I hereby certify, that I have explained and registered the above contract passage

ticket.

Signature

Emigration Officer.

Victoria , Hongkong, the day of 185

J. J. W. D'ALMADA CASTRO,

For the Clerk of Councils.

No. 43 .

No. 43.

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Rt. Hon . H. LABOUCHERE, M.P., to Governor

Sir John BOWRING .

( No. 10. )

Sir , Downing Street, February 16, 1858 .

I have received and laid before the Queen an Ordinance passed by

yourself and the Legislative Council of Hongkong on November3rd last,

entitled No. 11 of 1857, "for

“ licensing and regulating Emigration Passage

* Page 71 . Brokers,” the transcript of which was enclosed in your Despatch No. 161 of

November 11.*

I have received the Queen's commands to acquaint you that Her Majesty

has been pleased to confirm and allow this Ordinance.

You will cause Her Majesty's decision to be signified to the inhabitants of

Hongkong by a proclamation to be published in the usual and most authentic

manner.

I have, & c,

Governor Sir John Bowring, ( Signed ) H. LABOUCHERE .

&c . &c .

No. 44 .

No. 44.

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Rt. Hon . H. LABOUCHERE, M.P., to Governor

Sir John BowRING .

( No. 175. ) Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong,

December 2, 1857 .

Sir, (Received February 2, 1858. )

I HAVE the honour herewith to forward a letter received this date from

Enclos

ure

the harbour master regarding the proceedings of a British ship employed in the

Havannah Chinese Coolie trade. I entertain little doubt that aa bold attempt

has been made by the parties concerned to set at defiance the requirements of

( 75 )

the Chinese Passengers Act. Should punishment not follow in this instance,

the example will be speedily imitated by other ships in these seas, and I have

therefore to express my hope that every means may be taken to effect the

capture of the “ Dream ” befere her cargo is landed .

I havé, &c .

The Rt. Hon . H. Labouchere, M.P., ( Signed) JOHN BOWRING .

&c . &c. &c.

Encl. in No. 44.

Enclosure in No. 44.

Emigration Office, Victoria, Hongkong,

SIR , December 2 , 1857.

I DO myself the honour to report for the information of his Excellency the

Governor, that the British ship “ Dream, " A. Wilson, Master, of the burthen of 1,106 tons,

belonging to the port of Glasgow, Potter, Wilson, and Co., owners, received the

harbour master's clearance from this port for that of Macao on the 12th October last ;

copy of which clearance is herewith transmitted.

It has come to my knowledge that the “ Dream " left Macao about the 15th November

last, bound to Havana with between 400 and 500 Chinese Coolies on board, thereby com

pletely setting at defiance the Chinese Passengers’ Act of 1855.

The first section of the Act clearly defines the “ Dream ” as a Chinese passenger ship ;

the fourth section provides that no “ Chinese passenger ship ” shall proceed to sea without

receiving certain papers from the Emigration Officer, and entering into a bond with two

sureties. These papers have not been received from me, the Emigration Officer of Hong

kong, neither hasthe bond been entered into.

Section 8 provides that the ship shall be forfeited to Her Majesty for proceeding to sea

without the papers described in section 4.

As it appears to me that there can be no doubt of the illegality of the proceedings of

the master of the “Dream,” and as I deem it to be absolutely necessary that the peculiar

traffic in which the “ Dream ” is engaged should be under strict surveillance, I would

respectfully request that the necessary steps may be taken for the seizure of the

“ Dream ," as is provided for in the Act.

I have, &c. ,

(Signed) E. R. MICHELL ,

Emigration Office

Sub - Enclosure to Enclosure in No. 49. Sub-Enclosure to

Encl. in No. 49.

Port CLEARANCE for the “ Dream ," burthen 1,106 tons , under British colours,

Captain Alexander Wilson , bound for Macao, in ballast.

This is to certify to whom it may concern, that the master of the above-mentioned

vessel has rendered an account of her import and export cargo, and complied with all

the regulations of the port.

(Signed) HENRY GUNTHORPE ,

Chief Clerk to the Harbour Master.

Registered at the Harbour Master's Office,

Victoria, Hong Kong, October 12 , 1857.

(Signed ) E. A. MICHELL,

Acting Harbour Master.

No. 45. No. 45 .

Right Hon. H.

Copy of a DESPATCH from the Right Hon. HENRY LABOUCHERE to Labouchere to

Governor Sir John Bowring . Governor Sir J.

( No. 20. ) Bowring.

SIR, Downing Street, February 25, 1858.

With reference to your Despatch , No. 64 * of the 10th of April last, Feb. 16, 1858.

* Page 62.

respecting the Chinese emigrant ship “ Gulnare," I transmit to you for your

information the enclosed copy of a report from the Emigration Commissioners.

The question of issuing the instructions suggested in para. 5 has been sub

mitted to the Foreign Office for Lord Clarendon's consideration.

In reference to the concluding paragraph, I have to request that you will

state whether the inquiry therein alludedto was made by the emigration officer

at Hongkong, and if not, why it was omitted , and that you will give positive

directions that it should never be neglected on any future occasion of a similar

kind .

I have, &c.

Governor Sir John Bowring . ( Signed) H. LABOUCHERE .

(250.) K 2

( 76 )

Encl. in No. 45. Enclosure in No. 45.

Copy of a REPORT from the Emigration Commissioners to H. MERIVALE, Esq.

SIR, Emigration Office, 16 February, 1858.

We have to acknowledge your letter of the 29th ultimo, accompanied by a

despatch from the Governor of Hongkong, reporting the circumstances connected with

the sailing of the “ Gulnare ” with Chinese emigrants for the Havannah, and by a letter

from the Marine Department of the Board of Trade, calling attention to the great

mortality which occurred on the voyage.

2. From Sir J. Bowring's despatch , it appears that the “ Gulnare" arrived at Hong

kong on the 13th of March, from Swatow, with 432 Chinese emigrants on board ; that

the next morning the emigrants endeavoured to seize the ship, and, failing in that, to set

her on fire ; that after a desperate conflict, in which the third officer and one of the crew

were wounded, nine of the emigrants shot ( killed, we presume, is meant), many more

wounded, and three had jumped overboard, the mutiny was put down ; that 18 of

the ringleaders were afterwards brought to trial and found guilty, and three ordered

for execution, of whom one was actually executed, and the remaining 17 transported

for life ; and that the emigration officer having examined and reported that the

“ Gulnare ” was “ provided in every way in a complete and satisfactory manner,” she was

despatched from Hongkong on the 30th of March with 326 emigrants on board.

3. By the letter from the Board of Trade and its enclosure, it appears that the

“ Gulnare ” did not finally sail from Hongkong till the 1st of April, and that she arrived

at Havannah on the 19th August; she was therefore 20 weeks on the voyage. During

that time the mortality amounted to 58, or 17-79 per cent. ; of those who died, 21 are

said to have died of fever, or fever combined with dysentery ; 8 of dysentery ; 12 of

debility, of whom 9 are described as opium smokers ; and 3 committed suicide ; the

remaining 14 died of various diseases. The account gives no further particulars from

which it is possible to form any opinion as to the causes of the mortality, or the mode of

treating the sick ; but we observe among the deaths that of the Chinese doctor, who died

on the 8th of June, when the ship had been at sea ten weeks. As, however, 26 deaths

had occurred before this, and as under any circumstances the rate of mortality in a sickly

ship would be likely to increase the longer she was at sea, we can hardly infer that the

greater mortality in the latter ten weeks was attributable to the loss of that officer.

We presume that a duly qualified surgeon was on board in addition to the native doctor.

4. We fear that there would be no possibility, at this distance of time and place, of

instituting any effective inquiry into the causes of the lamentable mortality in the ship.

The report of it did not reach the Board of Trade until the 19th ultimo, exactly five

months after the “ Gulnare ” arrived at Havannah, and as a ship’s log is not, under the

Merchant Shipping Act ( sec. 286), delivered in to the Board of Trade until the arrival

of the ship in this country, a delay sufficient to embarrass, if not defeat inquiry, must

always intervene between the landing of African or Asiatic emigrants in the West

Indies and the report of the circuinstances of the voyage in this country.

5. The only means of obtaining an effectual inquiry into cases of this nature is by an

investigation on the spot immediately on the arrival of the ship. Such an inquiry would ,

as a matter of course, be instituted in any British colony on the arrival of an emigrant

ship with a loss of a large proportion of her emigrants. In foreign portsa similar

inquiry might, we presume, be instituted by Her Majesty's Consuls ; and as Havannah

is the principal foreign port in the West Indies to which emigrants are conveyed in

British ships,we would submit that the Consul at that port should be instructed, when

ever a British ship arrives there with emigrants, to inquire into the circumstances con

nected with the voyage, and especially to endeavour to ascertain the causes of any

mortality which may have occurred, and the different forms of treatment adopted in

different ships ; even if such inquiries should not reveal anything requiring the Consul's

immediate intervention, the information obtained might be of great value in framing

regulations for the future management of Chinese passenger ships.

6. In respect to Sir J. Bowring's report on the " Gulnare,” we may perhaps be allowed

to pointout an omission which appears to us remarkable. The circumstances connected

with that vessel proved that the emigrants were unwilling to proceed in her, and would

suggest, therefore, that they might have been collected on board either by force or fraud.

To prevent such a transaction , the regulations attached to the Chinese Passengers' Act

provide that the emigration officer shall not give his clearing certificate until he shall have

mustered the passengers, and ascertained to the best of his power that they understand

whither they are going, and the nature of the contract into which they have entered. It

would not be fair to infer, because Sir J. Bowring has not mentioned it, that the

emigration officer did not comply with this particular regulatior.;but under all the cir

cumstances of the case, the very cursory way in wbich the emigration officer's inquiry is

mentioned, and the total omission of all reference to this essential point, appear to us so

remarkable, that we think it right to notice them . We must also point out that no

allusion is made to any medical examination of the people before the emigration officer's

certificate was granted.

We have, & c.,

(Signed) T. W. C. MURDOCH ,

FREDERICK ROGERS.

( 77 )

No. 46. No. 46 .

Copy of аa DESPATCH from Lord Stanley to Governor Sir John Bowring.

( No. 7. )

SIR , Downing Street, March 16, 1858.

I TRANSMIT herewith copies of a correspondence which has taken place

between the Foreign Office and the Emigration Commissioners on the subject Foreign Office,

of the great mortality which has taken place on board ships conveying Chinese Feb. 15, 1858.

emigrants to Cuba. Emigration

I request that you will furnish me from time to time with returns of vessels Commissioners.

March 6, 1858 .

clearing out from Hongkong under the Chinese Passengers' Act, and with any

information which it may be in your power to supplyrespecting British vessels

taking passengers at other ports without complying with that Act.

I have, &c .

( Signed ) STANLEY

Governor Sir John Bowring,

&c. & c. &c .

Enclosure ] in No. 46. Encl. 1 in No. 46.

SIR, Foreign Office, February 15 , 1858.

I Am directed by the Earl of Clarendon to transmit to you the accompanying

copy of a despatch from Mr. Crawford, Her Majesty's Consul -General in Cuba, enclosing

a statement, showing the number of Chinese Coolies introcluced into that island between

the 1st January 1847 and the 31st December 18.57, and also showing the number of

deaths that have taken place on the voyage, and I am to request that in laying these

papers before the Colonial Land and Emigration Commissioners , you will move them to

favour Lord Clarendon with any observations which they may have to offer with regard

to the great mortality which appears to have taken place on board British ships engaged

in transporting Chinese to Cuba. Lord Clarendon desires me further to request that

the Commissioners will inform him , if they have the means of doing so , whether the pro

visions of the Chinese Passengers' Act are complied with by British vessels engaged in

carrying Chinese passengers to Cuba.

S. Walcott, Esq. I have, &c.,

& c. & c. ( Signed) SHELBURNE.

MY LORD, Havana, December 31 , 1857.

With reference to your Lordship's despatch, S. T. No. 35, dated the 30th ultimo,

the receipt of which I have the honor to acknowledge, with its enclosures upon the sub

ject of the trade in free colonists from China, I have to observe that it has been on

board of some of the British vessels which have brought Chinese to this port, subsequent

to the enactment of the laws for regulating such passenger vessels, that the greatest

mortality has occurred upon their voyages from China attributable only to the previous

condition of the colonists themselves, and in some degree to the qualities of the water,

which was taken in at some of the places where they called on their way here.

I beg leave to lay before your Lordship a concise abstract from the archives of this

office, which shows the number of ships of the several nations, and their tonnage ,number

of passengers landed, and the deaths on board.

It is distressing to retlect that the extract from the “ New York Herald ” is in the main

correct. The mortality has been enormous until now on board of these passenger vessels,

but it is to be hoped that it will be less in future, because the effects of the opium , which

the Chinese smoke to great excess, will be better atteuded to, and tobacco be allowed

them , so as to wean them of that pernicious habit by degrees, instead of taking it from

them all at once, –a practice which proved fatal to so many of them who had been used to

smoke, and otherways consume the opium to great excess, and more pains will be taken

in selecting transports with more perfect ventilation, and having better accommodation ,

as weil as by providing better provisions and water. Towards these desirable requi

sites the activity and intelligence of the inspectors of passenger vessels might be

directed with great advantage, and their sailing qualities should be attended to ; indeed

they ought all to be furnished with screw propellers.

I have, &c.

(Signed) J. T. CRAWFORD .

(250.) K 3

( 78 )

List of CHINESE LABOURERS imported into Havana up to 31st December, 1857,

Nationality of No. of Chinese Chinese Deaths on Percentage

Vessel. Vessels. | Tonnage. embarked. landed . the Voyage. Mort of Remarks,

ality

British 26 18,549 9,606 8,215 1,391 143 Many of the Chinese jumped

overboard,

American 9 7,832 3,910 3,538 372 93

Dutch 8 5,003 2,773 2,463 310 11

French 6 4,453 2,825 2,478 347 121 Screw steamer of 1,600 tons

brought 842, and lost

besides 58 Chinese.

Spanish 5 2,038 1,779 1,489 290 111

Portuguese 3 1,246 1,049 1,021 28 2

Peruvian 3 2,484 1,314 812 502 387 Cord lost 117 out of 292 ;

cause, bad water.

Bremen 1 560 249 236 13 51

Norwegian 1 470 221 179 42 19

Chilian 1 250 202 155 47 231

Total 63 42,930 23,928 20,586 3,342 14 s From June 3, 1847, to Dec.

31 , 1857.

( Signed ) J. T. CRAWFORD,

Havana, December 31 , 1857. Consul-General in Cuba.

Encl. 2 in No. 46. Enclosure 2 in No. 46.

EXTRACT of a REPORT from the EMIGRATION COMMISSIONERS to H. MERIVALE, Esq.

dated, Emigration Office, March 6, 1858.

“ We have to acknowledge the Earl of Shelburne's letter of the 15th ultinio,

enclosing a Report from Her Majesty's Consul-General in Cuba, on the subject of Chinese

immigration into that island during 1857, and desiring us to offer any observations which

may occur to us in regard to the mortality which took place in the British ships engaged

in this traffic, and to state, as far as we have the means of doing so, whether the pro

the Chinese Passengers' Act are complied with by British vessels carrying

visions ofpassengers

Chinese .

“ 2. From the Schedule attached to Mr. Crawford's despatch , it appears that 63 vessels,

measuring 42,930 tons, took on board for Cuba 23,928 Chinese passengers ; that of these

3,342 equal to 14 per cent. died on the passage, that of the above 63 ships, 26 measuring

18,549 tons were British , and that these British ships embarked 9,606 passengers, of

whom 1,391 , equal to 14.48 per cent.,died on the voyage. Mr. Crawford gives no specific

information in respect to the causes of this great mortality , but attributes it in general

terms to the state of the passengers at the time of embarkation, to the badness of the

water on board , and to the sudden withdrawal of opium from those accustomed to

smoke it.

“ 3. From a return of so very general a nature no inference can be drawn. The only

facts which it shows bearing at all on the question of mortality are the numbers embarked

compared with the tonnage of the vessels which carry them . But they bear apparently no

relation to the number of deaths. Thus the space in the British ships, assuming their

tonnage as a criterion, is rather above the average, yet their mortality is also above the

average mortality. But the most striking contrast is between three Portuguese and three

Peruvian vessels comprised in the return. In the three Portuguese vessels measuring

1,246 tons, 1,049 passengers were e mbarked of whom only 28, equal to 24 per cent. , died.

In the three Peruvian ships measuring 2,484 tons, 1,314 passengers were embarked, of

whom 502 or 38 per cent. died. Thus while the tonnage of the ship was doubled, and

the number of passengers increased by only one-fourth, the mortality was multiplied 14

fold . It is indeed stated that one of these vessels lost 117 out of 292 by bad water, but

even deducting this vessel, the mortality in the two others would be 37.67 per cent, or

131 times as great as in the Portuguese ships.

* 4. With such opposite results in the only facts which the return discloses, it is im

possible to draw any inference from it, and we regret to say that the other information at

our command does not enable us to supply the deficiency. We have scarcely any infor

mation on the subject of Chinese emigration during 1857, beyond what is comprised in

the letters from the Foreign Office to the Colonial department of 6th June and 17th

August last, which were communicated to us by Mr. Labouchere's directions. But the

facts stated in the enclosures to those letters show that the collection of emigrants in

China is carried on in a very irregular and unsatisfactory manner, and without those

precautions which are necessary to ensure that the people put on board are voluntary

emigrants, and at the time in a fit state of health to undertake the voyage. Those cir

cumstances, taken in connexion with such particulars as reach us from other quarters,

( 79 )

ead us to believe that a large portion of the mortality is probably attributable to the

nabits of life of the people who embark and to their state of health at the time of

embarkation .'

No. 47.

No. 47 .

Governor Sir J.

Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Right Hon . Bowring to the

HENRY LABOUCHERE, M.P. Right Hon . H.

Labouchere, M.P.

( No. 38. ) Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong, March 1858.

March 27 , 1858.

SIR , ( Received 21st May, 1858.)

I have the honour to inform you, that in compliance with your in

structions conveyed in despatch No. 101 ,* dated 18th August 1857, proceedings – Page 68.

were taken to enforce the payment of the bond signed by Messrs. Lyall,

Still & Co., in the case of the “ John Calvin,” and yesterday a verdict was

given for the Crown for the amount of the said bond, viz. 1,0001., the jury

having appended to their verdict the opinion which you will find referred to in

the various documents which I now enclose.

I received from Messrs. Lyall, Still & Co. the application, of which I send

copy, requesting that I should stay the execution for the penalty involved in No. 1 .

the verdict. I could not consent to this in a case where I have been acting

under your direct instructions, but I have expressed my willingness , under the

peculiar circumstances of the case, to recommend to you a mitigation of the said

penalty.

I forward herewith letters from the Chief Justice and the Attorney -General,

by which you will see that such mitigation would be deemed by both a becoming No. 2.

No. 3.

act on the part of the Government.

Had not the prosecution been instituted in consequence of your directions,

I should not have hesitated in suspending the payment of the bond. The house

condemned is one of great respectability; it availed itself of no legal quibble

or technicality to escape responsibility, and I am persuaded there was no intention

or desire on the part of Mr. Lyall to evade the requisitions of the law.

Mr. Anstey has availed himself of the opportunity to make some observations

on the Coolie trade, which is undoubtedlyassociated with horrible cruelties and

crimes. Several documents I have lately forwarded to the Earl of Clarendon

will,, I doubt not, excite his Lordship's attention ; and, perhaps, you may

think it desirable to convey to the Foreign Office Mr. Anstey's statements

as to the character of the contracts entered into with Coolies shipped for the

Havannah .

I have, & c.

Right Hon. Henry Labouchere, M.P. ( Signed ) JOHN BOWRING.

&c. &c. &c.

Enclosure 1 in No. 47. Encl. 1 in No. 47.

SIR, Hongkong, March 25 , 1858.

In reference to the cause which was tried to -day in the Supreme Court, of the

Queen against ourselves, in the matter of the “ John Calvin ,” we have the honour to

inform you that a verdict was found for the plaintiff, but that the jury unanimously

appended to their verdict the expression of their opinion, “ that the ship, John Calvin ,'

was fitted and properly equipped for the purpose ;that there was ample provision, space,

and accommodation in the ship for the number of passengers taken in the ship ; that the

mortality arose alone from the act of God ; and that the act of the emigration officer, in

not landing all on board in excess of the 81 named in the certificate, may have misled

the owners.

From what fell from his Honour the Chief Justice and the Honourable the Attorney

General in the course of the trial, we believe we are correct in stating that they quite

concur in this expression of opinion on the part of the jury ; and we would therefore

solicit from his Excellency theGovernor the indulgence that he would give directions for

stay of executionfor the penalty involved in the verdict until the matter can be brought

to the notice of Her Majesty's Government, and the pleasure of Her Majesty be known

thereon. We have, &c.

(Signed) LYALL, STILL, AND Co.

To the Hon. W. T. Bridges, Esq., D.C.L.,

Acting Colonial Secretary,

& c. & c. &c.

( 250.) K 4

( 80 )

Encl. 2 in No. 47. Enclosure 2 in No. 47.

SIR, Hongkong, Friday, March 26, 1858.

With reference to the case of theAttorney -General v. Lyall and Still, I beg to repeat

what I stated from the Bench yesterday, that I feel assured when the home authorities

have the whole matter before then, when they are made acquainted with the very fair,

upright, and honest conduct of the defendants, who, as owners of the ship “ John Calvin,"

evinced throughout the utmost anxiety to comply with every requirement of the Chinese

Passengers' Act of 1852, they will not insist upon forfeiture of the bond. The Crown

having, with the laudable view of inquiring into the real cause of the awful mortality

which occurred on board the “ John Calvin,” thought fit to institute legal proceedings, I

allowed the whole case to be fully entered into, although in the view I took as to the

legal construction to be put upon the 18 & 19 Vict. c. 104 , the greater portion of the

inatter introduced was irrelevant, strictly speaking.

I directed the jury that, inasmuch as there were on board a greater number of Chinese

passengers than specified in the certificate of the emigration officer, their verdict must be

for the Crown. I , at the same time, told them that they were at liberty to find any facts

specially if they so thought fit. They, accordingly, found

“ That there was ample space and accommodation and sufficient provisions for the

number of passengers actually on board, and that the mortality on board was the act of

God. That the ship was in every respect properly equipped, and that the fact of the

emigration officer having allowed the excess of passengers above 81 to remain on board

was calculated to mislead the captain and owners.”

I have, &c.

The Hon. the Acting Colonial Secretary. (Signed) JOHN WALTER HULME.

Encl . 3 in No. 47. Enclosure 3 in No. 47.

Attorney -General's Office, Hongkong,

SIR, March 26, 1858.

The Crown Solicitor has informed you that in the case of “ The Attorney -General

v. Lyall and another,” I obtained a verdict yesterday before a special jury of seven, for

the full penalty of the bond given by the defendants and their absent principal, Mr.

Thornhill, late master of the John Calvin ."

I did not oppose the wish of the jury to append to their verdict a recommendation of

the claims of Messrs. Lyall and Still, the defendants, to the favourable consideration of

his Excellency in respect of the remission of the penalty, or the stay of execution. There

can be no doubt that the vessel was well found in all respects for the number of Coolies

actually on board , that the mortality of the middle passage was the act of God, and that,

by Mr. Hillier's informing Messrs. Lyall and Still that he should not order the number of

Coolies in excess of 81 to be relanded here, that lamented and most excellent officer did

mislead Messrs. Lyall and Still as to his powers, their liabilities, and the intentions of

Government.

Moreover, I am bound to acknowledge the fair and honourable frankness with which

every particle of evidence, however inadmissible on strict principles of law, was allowed

by the defendants to be used on the part of the Crown , it being their own desire that the

whole of the facts should be before the jury. And I must here remind his Excellency that

this too was their conduct from the beginning. If they had not furnished his Excellency's

Government, when first applied to, with the extract from the master's letter from the

Havannah, detailing the important particulars of his voyage, the action could not have

been tried at all, or at least not until the questionable expedient of commissions to the

Havannah and elsewhere had been tried and succeeded . In truth, they have been cast

by evidence which themselves furnished.

I mention these facts, because they are highly creditable to the defendants, and deserve

to be recorded.

There are, however, some observations on other questions arising out of this trial

which I wish to lay before his Excellency, since they go to show the importance of a

still more thorough revision of the Chinese Passengers' Act, 1855, than it is undergoing

or has hitherto undergone.

One good result has been obtained, the closing (by Ordinance, No. 9 , of 1856, approved

by Her Majesty ) the door to all hope of evasion of the “ definition ” of “ Chinese passen

ger ship," contained in section I. of the Imperial Act. By that Ordinance, vessels clear

ing out hence for any port, with intent there to commence the voyage of more than seven

days' duration, shall be deemed to have commenced it at this port.

If the draught Ordinance for the further amendment of the Act, which stands for

discussion to -morrow in Council, shall be allowed to pass into a law, a far more mischie

vous fraud upon the enactment will have been prevented for the future. By extending

the meaning of " Chinese passenger ship ,” so as to bring within the several enactments of

the Act, applicable respectively to the case, all passenger ships managed or conducted by

persons here, but themselves lying in roads or harbours outside our waters, a disgraceful

traffic exclusively carried on by citizens of American republics, northern and southern, by

( 81 )

one French firm , by one German firm , and other foreigners abusing the shadow of British

protection , and opposing British law to Chinese prohibition, must infallibly be rooted

out.

But I submit to his Excellency that the revision should not stop here.

The disclosures that were made in the course of the proceedings yesterday, of frightful

abuses beyond the control and even the knowledge of the owners and masters of these

ships, in many cases appear to call for further legislation ; and as much of the mischief is

beyond the competence of a single Colonial Legislature to correct, the whole case might

very fitly receive the consideration of the Imperial Parliament.

It is impossible to peruse the Spanish form of contract presented to Mr. Hillier by the

late Consul for the Spanish Queen at this port, and not to see that every one of the

Coolies who accepted the terms therein specified and is now in the Havannah, is in fact

a slave for the period of his service.

Let his Excellency take that document and compare it with the carefully and mercifully

worded form of contract used by this Governmentfor the purpose ofCoolie emigration to

our own colonies (“ Papers and Instructions relating to Emigration from China,” January

and March 1853), and Sir John Bowring cannot fail to be struck with the contrast.

Bearing in mind what are the securities which his own Government provides in such

cases, what will not be his Excellency's indignation to be told that, where the Spanish

shippers and their foreign abettors have unrestrained liberty of action, these are the terms

which they impose upon their emigrants, and which are published by themselves under

the sanction of their own consular agents :

1. To work for eight years in Cuba, under the orders of the speculator or his assigns,

for the contract is negotiable or transferable, and whether at prædial labour or domestic,

and whether for private persons or for governmental establishments ( including, of course,

the mines), the selection to be entirely at the discretion of the undertaker:

2. Hours of sickness are not to be included in the melancholy computation of the labour

term , nor is that to be deemed to have begun on the immigrant's arrival, if sick at that

time, but only from the period of his restoration to health .

3. No limitation on the master's right to regulate the duration of a day's labour is

allowed, except that the bondsman is to have his “ horas seguidasde descanso y el tiempo

preciso ademas para la comida y el almuerzo," nor is even Sunday an exception in this

respect.

4. The wages (in the principal case, 4 dollars per mensem ) are to cease, and revive with

the health and vigour of the Coolie, whose daily food is limited moreover to a half -pound

of salt meat, and two pounds and a half of vegetables.

5. That these allowances are short of the usual rate in Cuba may be inferred from the

concluding significant stipulation, that, "although II know and ascertain ( aunque yo se'

y me consta) that far greater are the earnings of free labourers and slaves ( jornaleros

libres y esclavos) in the island of Cuba, I will conform myself to the wages stipulated..

6. Subjection to the “ order and discipline ” of the “ establishment,” & c., destined to

the immigrant, and especially to the " system of correction ” imposed therein, to supply

the deficiencies of Spanishlaw, by way of punishment for “ default of application and

constancy in labour,” for “ disobedience of the orders of the master or his agents,” and

for “all such like faults ; ” and the denial of all right to transfer himself to another

master.

: .7. Renunciation clear and express of all right of action or suit against the same per

sonages ; and in particular,

8.Renunciation of all benefit of protection under the ordinances of Isabella II. of

22d March 1854 (Articles 27, 28, 43, 44, and 45), touching colonisation, rescision of

contracts and payments of wages, and also of all other laws and dispositions touching

the same, bereafter to be published.

It is not uncharitable to suppose that at Macao, Amoy, Swatow , Cumsingmoon, and

other ports in our neighbourhood, this infamous form of agreement is carried through in

all cases without scruple, as without check.

In the particular case, Mr. Hillier so far amended it that he struck out the .“ renun

ciations ” last mentioned, and added a clause imposing on the undertaker the condition

that no Coolie was to work for more than 12 hours per diem , upon the average .

But these amendments were obviously far short of the exigency of the case.

It must be rememberedalso, that there being no provision for compelling the emigra

tion officer to re- land all alleged emigrants denying their supposed contracts , no less than

206 recusant persons therefore, in whose favour he had not interfered for the purpose

of making any such amendments, and some of whom were, as he certities, “ mere

children "and unfitfor such undertaking, were, in fact, carried to sea along with the 81 ;

and that of these, all who did not die on the passage are now at Havannah , bound by the

common form of engagement ; but unprotected by the special clauses which Mr. Hillier

introduced in favour of the rest.

I think that such a provision for the compulsory re -landing of passengers ought to be

immediately recommended for adoption.

But I further think that no power to clear and pass emigrant labourers, under any

contract like the above,ought to be vested in any British officer so long as the slave

trade is á crime.

( 250.) L

( 82 )

The indefinite power of coercion ; the want of reciprocity with respect to complaints

on the score of wages and food ; the sordid calculation of horæ non of sickness, no

matter how necessarily incident to the nature of the employment; the arbitrary power

to transfer and assign the servant; the arbitrary denial of all power to the latter to

exchange masters ; the enormous duration of service, if taken in combination with the

probable nature thereof ; and the bold avowal of a right of chastisement not recognized

even by Cuban law : these are surely ingredients whose compound is nothing else than

unadulterated slavery.

I will go further ; the contract is not one of hiring and service at all ; and the laws of

“ master and servant ” are entirely out of place. It is a contract with A. by B. to work

not for A. alone, but for all the other letters of the alphabet ; an undertaking not pro

tected by the letter, and to say the least, inconsistent with the spirit of the law, and the

policy of Great Britain, whose dominion this island unquestionably is.

If, indeed, we were bound by our Chinese treaties to tolerate or give effect to such

enterprises, that would change the situation of the case ; but the truth is far otherwise.

British law is strained, evaded, and violated ;; and British policy and honour brought into

serious embarrassment for the protection of a traffic prohibited by Chinese law, and

carried on within British jurisdiction by aliens, audaciously pretending to be aggrieved

because they are threatened by the British authorities with the same restraints to which

British subjects are by law amenable.

I take the liberty of enclosing the document which has given rise to these remarks.

On receiving it back, I will cause it to be restored to the registrar ; his Excellency will

see that I have altered the order of arrangement, but not the effect, in my analysis.

An Act of Parliament, were it possible to obtain one, for the amendment and consolida

tion of the Chinese Passengers Act, the local ordinance, and the practicable clauses of

other enactments of Parliament in pari materia, would be a great boon to humanity ;

for to do complete justice to the present need is only within the power of Parliament.

If this be not to be hoped for, much partial good may be done by local legislation ;

and I shall be very ready, on receiving instructions to that effect, to prepare the proper

ordinance.

In conclusion, I have to acknowledge, whilst perusing this last sheet of my present

mmunication, your letter ( No. 163) of this date, on the subject of the principal case.

I have already stated what took place at the trial, and I need not say that I fully

concur in the entire verdict.

The case, so far as Messrs. Lyall are concerned, is a very hard one.

No one pretends that, as owners, they are liable under the Act. They had no part in

the violation of any one of its provisions.

But they were also sureties, and it is solely in that character that they are reached ,

for their master's performance of his obligations.

Honestly ignorant, perhaps, that Mr. Hillier had no power to connive at his violations

of the Act, or perliaps that they were such, he did violate it merely in proceeding to sea

with a number of passengers in excess of the 81 , for whom the emigration officer had

granted his certificate. Thereby he forfeited his bond, and caused the same forfeiture

to fall upon his two sureties.

It is right to mention also that Mr. Lyall, in his evidence yesterday, in support of his

own case, stated that, on Mr. Hillier's saying, “ You must act on your ownresponsibility,

I shall not order the rest to be re-landed here,” he, Mr. Lyall, informed Mr. Hillier, and

afterwards the Colonial Secretary, that under these circumstances he must desire the

master to reland them at Macao (whence most of them had come). on his way to the

Havannah ; or, ifthey preferred that, to take them on from Macao, when he got there, to

the Havannah. He added that neither assent nor dissent being signified by those two

officers, he gave his orders accordingly to the master, and, as he presumed , the master

obeyed them under the same impression with himself.

Mr. Weatherhead, I find, has quitted his office, it being after hours ; but on the rc

opening of the office to -morrow , I shall forward some proofs bearing on this part of

the case .

I have, & c.

(Signed) T. CHISHOLM ANSTEY.

Encl. 4 in No. 47. Enclosure 4 in No. 47.

SIR, Attorney -General's Office, March 27, 1858.

12. I HAVE the honour, with reference to my letter of yesterday, to forward the

enclosed documents selected from among those produced, and read at the trial of the

' Sent in original.) Attorney-Generalv. Lyalland another on behalfofthe Crown. They belong now to

the Supreme Court.

Also a copy of my own notes of Mr. Lyall's own examination and cross-examination is

herewith sent ; it includes the summing-up also.

I omitted to state yesterday, that not being able to reconcile it to my sense of justice

to mulct these defendants of the amount to which they are liable to me under a recent

( 83 )

ordinance for my fees, I have directed Mr. Hazeland (acting for his absent partner,

Mr. Cooper Turner, the Crown Solicitor,) to omit them from his bill of plaintiff's costs

in the action .

I have, &c.

The Hon. W. T. Bridges, Esq., D.C.L., ( Signed) T. CHISHOLM ANSTEY.

Acting Colonial Secretary .

Enclosure 5 in No. 47. Encl. 5 in No. 47 .

In the Supreme Court.

Attorney -General v. Lyall and another.

Copy of the Attorney-General's Notes of Defendant Lyall's Examination and

Cross - Examination .

The Honourable George Lyall, examined by Mr. Day, states :

My partner and I were in 1856 owners of the ' John Calvin .' It was intended to

send to Havannah 301 passengers. In the beginning of March they were all on board.

The late Mr. Hillier was then emigration officer. I had frequent communications with

him on the subject. I gave him notice of the intention to carry those passengers. He

was aware of the day of her sailing. He went on board several times to inspect lier.

On the first occasion he found there were only 80 who wished to go. He spent about

three days in investigating the case on board. He then told me that he was so

thoroughly convinced that they were not ill used , that he would not re - land them . He

read the contract to them in my presence . He told me that he was perfectly convinced

they knew where they were going, and that they knew the nature of their contracts ;

and he said , he believed they were practising fraud on us ; which he would defeat, by not

ordering them to land here . I told Mr. Hillier that I should give instructions to the

captain to take them to Macao, and land them all there, if they would not go on to

Havannah. I told Mr. Mercer (the Colonial Secretary )the same; he said he had been su

informed by the emigration officer. They both of them said, I must do it on my own

responsibility. She sailed the next day. There were 301 originally ; 297 sailed, four

were landed (I think by Mr. Hillier ), oneor two of them for punishment ; I forget what

the others were landed for. [ Is shown the passengers' list.] There are some marked

here as not on board. [Is shown his letter,dated Tuesday evening,' beginning · The

other men '] That letter refers to a proposal to substitute some men in place of the

recusants. It was not carried into effect.

“ The vessel was equipped with necessaries and medicines for 302 days.”

Cross-examined by the Attorney -General ; states-

“By an arrangement with Mr. Hillier, she was to replenish her fuel and water at St.

Helena, not having stowage for the whole voyage ; with that exception, she was equipped

with necessaries for the whole way. [Is shown the Colonial Secretary's note, dated

' Tuesday morning,' beginning ' Dear Hillier - About Mr. Rozario.'] The conversation

there referred to by Mr. Mercer I believe to be the one I have already mentioned . [ Is

shown the draft minutes of Mr. Hillier.] They are perfectly correct, I have no doubt ;

but I have no doubt of the accuracy of the additional facts I have above stated. I need

not say that I do not for a moment believe that Mr. Hillier meant otherwise than most

fairly. I had nothing to do with the Coolie contracts; I was only an owner of the vessel

employed to take them.”

Copy of the Attorney -General's Notes of the Chief Justice's summing -up.

C.J.— “ I do not think I need trouble you, Mr. Attorney -General, to reply. It is only

matter of law , and I am quite with you.

" Gentlemen, I do not agree with Mr. Day's law at . all. If you believe the evidence of

Captain Thornhill's letter, you must find a verdict for the Crown.

Nevertheless, I did notwish to prevent the defendants from going into the whole case,

however irrelevant.

“ I do not consider that it was necessary to add an express enactment that the certifi.

cate of the emigration officer must be an accurate one. That is implied. Otherwise these

Acts will always be evaded.

“ But you are fully at liberty to append to your verdict a recommendation to the

favour of the Crown, if you think that there was, in fact, ample accommodation, and that

the frightful mortality on board was the act of God.”

The jury, after a minute's consultation , returned their verdict thus :

“Our verdict is for the Crown ; and we are fully satisfied that the vessel was in every

way fitted and provisioned for the voyage ; that the mortality was the act of God ; and that

the emigration officer,by not ordering the re-landing of the Coolies in excess of 81 , might

have misled the owners.

True copy

Hongkong, March 27, 1858. (Signed ) T. CHISHOLM ANSTEY, A.G.

( 250.) M

( 84 )

No. 48 .

No. 48.

Governor Sir J. Copy of DESPATCH from Governor Sir John Bowring to the Right

Bowring to the Honourable H. LABOUCHERE, M.P.

Right Hon. H. Government Offices, Victoria, Hongkong,

Labouchere, M.P. ( No. 48. )

April 12, 1858.

Sir, ( Received June 3, 1858. )

Page 79. With reference to my despatch, No. 38* of 27th March last, I have the

honour to forward to you the enclosed letter to your address from Messrs.

Jardine, Matheson & Co., Dent & Co., and other firms, praying a remission of

the penalty inflicted on Messrs. Lyall, Still & Co. as sureties in the case of the

“ John Calvin ."

I have, &c.

The Right Hon. ( Signed ) JOHN BOWRING.

Henry Labouchere, M.P.

&c. &c .

Encl . in No. 48 . Enclosure in No. 48.

SIR, Hongkong, April 10, 1858.

WE venture to address you, not only unsolicited, but without the cognizance of

the parties interested, with reference to the proceedings recently instituted in the

Supreme Court of this colony by Her Majesty's Attorney-General against Messrs. Lyall,

Still & Co. , as sureties to a bond for the due fulfilment by the master of the British ship

“ John Calvin ,” of the provisions of the Chinese Passengers' Act, in the hope that you

will be pleased to give the case your liberal consideration, for we feel that in the event of

the penalty to which they have subjected themselves being enforced, it would, under

peculiar circumstances, press with great hardship upon those gentlemen.

We do not wish, Sir, to deny that the defendants may have rendered themselves liable

to the fine decreed, according to the strict letter of the law ; but a careful review of the

whole case abundantly shows that there was no attempt at concealment in any one of

their acts ; and the evidence on the trial is equally conclusive as to the fact of the vessel

being adequately fitted and provisioned for the voyage, as well as fully competent, under

the certificate of the emigration officer himself, to convey the number of passengers that

were on board ; while it is recorded as the unanimous opinion of the jury, concurred in

by his Honour the Chief Justice, that the frightful mortality that took place during the

voyage was the act of God alone, and in no way attributable to negligence or want of

proper care or precautions on the part of Messrs. Lyall, Still and Co. It was, moreover,

expressly stated by the Attorney-General on the trial, that it was not as owners of the

vessel that he charged the defendants, but solely as sureties to the bond. We would

further respectfully submit, Sir, that had the emigration officer strictly done his duty, by

ordering the Chinese passengers on shore when they demurred to going on the voyage, no

groundfor the recent proceedings would, in all probability, have arisen, whereas the course

adopted by that functionary was doubtless calculated to mislead, if it was not the sole

cause of the whole irregularity.

We trust therefore, Sir, after aa careful perusal of the evidence elicited on the trial, and

on consideration of all the circumstances connected with the transaction , you may be

pleased to take a favourable view of the position of the defendants, and to sanction the

remission of the penalty.

We have, &c.

(Signed) JARDINE, MATHESON & Co. GILMAN & Co.

DENT & Co. BLENKIN , RAWSON & Co.

TURNER & Co. FLETCHER & Co.

LINDSEY & Co. W. H. WARDLEY & Co.

BIRLEY & Co. GIBB, LIVINGSTON & Co.

To the Right Hon. H. Labouchere, M P.,

Her Majesty's Principal Secretary of State for the Colonies ,

& c. &c. & c.

HONGKONG, & c.

RETURN

Po as Address of the HOUSE OF LORDs, dated 21st June 853,

FOR

Cories or EXTRACTS of CORRESPONDENCE between the

COLONIAL DEPARTMENT and the GOVERNOR of Hono.

KONG , and between the COLONIAL DEPARTMENT and

the Foreign OFFICE, on the SUBJECT of EMIG PATION

from HoxGKONG and from the CAINESE EMPIRE D the

BRITISH WEST INDIES and to FOREIGN COUNTRIE and

their PossessIONS, since the 1st of January 1853 .

PART I.

( The Lord Bishop of Oxford .)

Ordered to be printed 228 July 1858 .

( 250 )

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