We presume that the
British Merchants have responded to that invitation - But understanding that some differences of opinion on this important subject still exist among
them we take the liberty of stating to your Excellency the conclusions at which we have unanimously
arrived, in order that,
& your Excellency may feel assured of our disposition to promote by our hearty and united efforts, the success of such a remedial measure as that referred to.
We are encouraged to
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address Your Excellency by the Conviction that Great Britain is
better qualified
than any
other
power to deal with this matter - Her greater trade with this Empire, and her Colony on its borders, indicate this ; while the enlightened policy which guides her councils
insures to the Merchants of every
nation a share in whatever
benefits
are conferred upon British trade in China. Moreover the
Stability and integrity which distinguish Her Britannic Majesty's Government Constitute
a
pledge that any course issued