war with the Chinese, but that I would land a force (as the Americans have done) to ... protect English lives and property, and that if it were necessary I might do the same for the same purpose
I intimated that I was about to send your Excellency a despatch by the Raven which the American commodore had kindly placed at my disposal and I would send any despatch for the Council. It appears from what the President, The Bishop, told me that the Council was forced into this step by the pressure from without. The People wanted to avenge their Governor. I said I thought it unwise and unnecessary to take the Barrier as they could not keep it without also taking the Fort which commanded it and from which the Chinese had already opened fire, but that now Chinese troops were landing to reinforce the Fort, they had better destroy the Barrier and retire within their own walls. It would be desirable to have the "Medea" here and I have sent a letter to that effect to Commander Lockyer who I have also desired to wait on Your Excellency for Instructions as to what assistance I am to render the Portuguese and if under any circumstances I shall be justified in taking an active part with the Portuguese.
I should not be surprised at a Revolution taking place here.
(signed) E. H. Frobidge Colonial Secretary.
Page 105