3. It appears from the information I could gather from the different Merchants who were present that the root cause of the disturbance was a dispute between a party of foreigners and some Chinese fruit vendors, in which one of the latter was wounded. Some of the foreigners, including a Mr. Filler, went there, and the hot temper got the better hand. More of the Chinese suffered, and the Application of the Merchants to the head Authorities was made.
The authorities entered the factories, plundered the treasuries, and destroyed the furniture. They found the British factory, which was opposite the Swedish Compagno factory, and set fire to it. This was a Government building, which was made of brick and wood, and the fire was carried to other buildings.
The wind being from the Westward, the factories on Hog Lane escaped the fire, as did the buildings on the Bund. The destruction was achieved, and the rioters returned to Chinese hoops, and also renewed their attack on the foreigners.
I stated that this mode of proceeding was not likely to restore tranquility to the City, and that the danger was not to the foreigners alone, but to the trade and commerce of the place.
The dispute with the traversers was armed with sticks and stones, and all the Rispute with the traversers was evident. The rioters were evidently acting under a preconcerted plan, under the indication of sufficient persons, and were headed by individuals in official dress.
Her Majesty's Superintendent, Mr. Love, was on the spot, and took immediate action. He reported that the rioters were headed by individuals in official dress, and that the Hong Government had not taken sufficient measures to restore order.
The grand procession of Chinese soldiers under their own officers was increased to about 576 men, and they were visited daily by others in a quiet and orderly manner.
The counts of the loss you toss invener have conferred the shonion which I addend. For leaving co tu inkoving Lovee in En inflammtial body at this place of forced pom selfiese to the relations of the heat.
The Anwal of the te of the drainer suit was inferred to be consequent upon intelligence of the rest secasions sous à sensation, such as the Hong Government's iron after, bootists a fon me. I explained to them that I had not acted in an official capacity, but in unte to the British interests. Burboten Liany had no doubt taken immediate measures manding reparation and security.
Page 112
formatted as per instructions.
XCR(85)72
GR1178/1922/32(III)