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General, that the want of space in Hong Kong may induce them to encamp Troops on the opposite coast, which is not in any way viewed as an unfriendly act, and that while there, it will be the duty of the Commandant to assist the Authorities in maintaining order amongst the lawabiding Inhabitants. When Troops arrive, I shall be prepared to have the Ships conveying them placed to the west of the Peninsula, and one third from each Vessel landed, so as to reduce the numbers and thus keep all in health, and shall have them in that state till I hear further from Your Excellency as to what Notification you think it most desirable to issue to the European Community of Hongkong.
I would conclude by reminding Your Excellency that there will be another drain upon the Force in China, which could not, even without exercising Jurisdiction, be held by a less force than three Companies of Native Infantry from Hong Kong Garrison.
I have the honor to be,
Signed,
C. van Straubenzee M.G.
Comdg. Troops in China
True Copy.
Brereton,
Actg. Military Secretary.
Confidential
377
W4497 or
Read Enclosure Canton
March 4th 1860.
In forwarding you the Copy of a letter from the Honble. F. Bruce C.B. H.M. Minister in China, I have the honor to request that you will be pleased to call upon His Excellency Lord, the Governor General, and point out to him that in consequence of the large force shortly expected in China, and of the Reinforcement that may arrive after the departure of that Force, I shall be compelled, from want of space at Hong Kong, temporarily, to occupy a portion of the Kowloon Peninsula for encampment, &c., and trust that His Excellency
Harry Parkes Esqre
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