classes of the population here to imagine for a moment that we could be caught unprepared. Therefore in agreement with the Commodore and General such precautionary measures were taken without delay.
Enclosure 4 168
by the success of the British Arms at Pekin. The enclosed dispatch from Vice Consul Mayers gives so full and, I think, so probable an explanation of this ostentation as would no doubt have amply sufficed to repel a real invasion. In this singular affair, it was further ascertained that there were no signs of any hostile preparations in Mir's Bay or towards Wongkong, or at the other places alluded to in the intercepted letter from Chen-Mwei-Sik. The latter is a man of considerable influence, known for having actually got together a fleet for the purpose of attacking Hongkong when his designs were frustrated.
The Commodore had meantime reported that there were no hostile preparations in Mir's Bay or towards Wongkong.
I have the honor to be, Your Lordship's Most Obedient Servant, Richard Graves MacDonnell Governor.