Harbor of Macao; and, in one word, have invariably acted towards us with less friendship and forbearance than they have showed to any other Nation whatever. They have simply - in fact, tolerated our residence at Macao, and that, it may be said, solely because it led to a traffic which formed the great source of revenue and its attendant prosperity to that Settlement. Now, as for the facts I now state – and which are abundantly proved by reference to the despatches of my Predecessor during the years 1838, 1837 and 1840, we known to Mr Advocate-General or how far they will tend to alter or modify the opinion he has given it is impossible for me to say, but I have felt it to be my duty to submit them for the further consideration of Her Majesty's Government, and whatever final decision may be passed on them, I beg, very respectfully to repeat my humble recommendation for the reasons I have assigned.
That the question of the right of Portugal to our aid or interference in any dispute she may have at any future period with China, should not be made, in any degree, a subject of discussion.
I have the honor to be,
My Lord,
Your most Obedient,
Humble Servant,