The Petitions seem to have had their origin in some vague rumor that Mr Caldwell was to be displaced, and to proceed to England, but I am not aware how the rumor had its foundation.
I enclose an abstract of the documents which will put you in possession of their general purport.
I have the honor to be,
With the highest respect, Sir,
Act. Asst.
19.6.
Your Most Obedient
Humble Servant,
John Kenna
Annex
39
from Hong Kong
4179
Received
In Boarding.
MINUTE
145
Lord Canning 20
for filing
Sir,
...
215
21th April 56
PRINTED FOR PARLIAMENT
I have to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch No39
of the 22 February
Sir,
...
me the
purport of five petitions which
have been
addressed to
you by the Chinese Inhabitants
of Hong Kong praying that In Caldwell
154 be...