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with H.M. Consul at Shanghae, the principal Northern Port of Trade — I am compelled to submit to their Lordships my opinion that the Systems of Convoys, proposed, is not, in my opinion, feasible.
2. The main reason upon which I have formed this conclusion is, that from the peculiar construction of China Junks, the large Vessels only make their Voyages with the Monsoon; and for the smaller Junks, which are employed for short Voyages along the Coast, and which are most liable to the attacks of the Pirate, they are made to Sail with regularity & punctuality, which no system of Convoys could be organized without.
Our Ships of War could not be arranged to Sail with them, nor can they go against the Monsoon.
3. But there is another great Obstacle, which operates most forcibly against the proposition. I allude to the peculiar pride of the Chinese Authorities and People: — their jealousy of Interference, and reluctance to acknowledge their weakness, which would prevent the High Officers from admitting the necessity of interference on their parts, to protect their Traders. None of the Viceroys, or Governors at the Ports of trade, would take upon themselves the responsibility of giving any official countenance or sanction to such Arrangements as their Lordships have...