The Policy of the Chinese Government, is to keep junks at the mercy of the Batteries; but the suggestions extent which dictate to this policy ought to render et most obvious to operate in a counter direction.
There are now seven fortifications very strong apparently well provided.
With artillerymen, these forts would prove, even at present, formidable to any force, but with well manned American artillerymen, lyckenpear or American the Rock would be almost as impregnable as the Dardanelles.
On a review of the whole case there are no assignable grounds for the political or military occupancy; there were no expenses attending that occupation.
The Government of China is sufficiently civilized to respect the precious word property of British subjects at Canton before declaration of war took place which however is an event of very remote probability for many years to come) at treaty with China provides for the stationing of a ship of war at Whampoa or Canton.
It is better provided for any safety that British residents could be at Canton than Hong Kong afford. The Climate of Hong Kong will not admit of the island being garrisoned for troops, and in the event of another war with China, an invading army must proceed from land; but a small effective force at our disposal here-unless extremely numerous, and the impracticability of fortifying an island which is commanded by the heights around.