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given all proper precaution shall be taken.
I have also forwarded copy of your despatch to Admiral Stopford, now in the North in support of M. Pottinger at the Peiho River, and have spoken with Captain McCleverty the Senior Naval Officer in this Station.
It is true that if the French Squadron were to leave Turon, and are now engaged with the Annamese and visit Swatow with hostile intention, we have not a sufficient Naval Force in the South of China to oppose them.
But I am in hope that Mr. Bruce will satisfactorily and speedily conclude his negotiation with Peking, as from advices received this morning I am led to think that he does not anticipate opposition to his progress from the Imperial Government.
When matters shall be settled at Peking, Admiral Stopford will have available, and sufficient force for the protection of this Colony, in the event of a rupture with one European power.
I think it right to mention that I have received an official and uninvited communication from Mr. Lobscheid, formerly Missionary, and now Inspector...