A proportion of the Shanghai inhabitants had left it, but the middling class stuck to this.
The shops were plundered and freely brought in provisions and vegetables, so that means were afforded to give the men after their necessary comforts, a good portion of salt provisions.
I have done everything in my power to show that their position was not misplaced, and I am most happy to say, for having conducted themselves orderly and quietly.
The troops, surrounded by large stores of liquor, conducted themselves with great satisfaction, and I embarked with their wives and followers yesterday without a single instance of inebriety.
The only injury done at Shanghai was by the Milione brothers who had examined this work unentered it. Suspension of disbelief is not required before.
No lift produced in my mind a deal which I had in view, and I was to a great measure the desired effect; suited to induce many of the marketable Chinese Establishments, principally to take charge of large Nanking bookers; the proprietors of which had fled, with a promise they would protect them from harm.
We have of course destroyed all this too, and embarked the brass guns amounting altogether, including three taken at Soochow and Foushan, to 406, about 100 of which were of brass.
The powder and military stores of every sort have also been destroyed.
By arrival on the 19th, diversion has necessarily resulted; a survey of the river has nearly ascertained the practicability of reaching Soochow by this route, but I consider it of the most vital importance to reach the point of intersection of the Imperial Canal with the Yang-tze-kiang, as early as possible, and to take the strong fortress and important City at that point; to check the enemy's command of the river.
Commanding officers have deemed it right to postpone all other operations for this most important one, after which our engines will at once move on their next position, commanding positions in the north, where stated to gain shipping, both Ningpo and Hang-chow must fall to our command.
My action has gratifyingly foreshadowed the blockade of the Ningpo, and I understand that the ships with instructions will be sent for the occupation of the ports of the Matsuists, which is at present under consideration.