79
3
by me in March 1868.
as to the one display of the Japanese flag by one of the Imperial Messageries Steamers when entering this harbor.
12. The notice, which has been taken of this matter appears to have arisen from a representation made by the French Consul here to his Government, and I suspect that it must have been incomplete. At least it is very apparently inferred that I merely complained of a French Merchantman hovering in English waters and exhibiting a non-national flag, or a flag other than that of the Nation to which it belonged.
13. I therefore supplement the information furnished to Your Grace by copies of the correspondence which actually did take place between this Government and the French Consul, from which Your Grace will perceive that the Colonial Secretary drew his attention on the 3rd of last March to the fact of the French Steamer "Hewoghly" having on the previous day entered this Port with the Japanese flag flying at the Main, without any apparent adequate reason for flying that flag. Your Grace will also perceive that the French Consul's attention was drawn to the inconvenience which might have resulted from the recognition of such a flag not being in some manner justified by the circumstances, whilst the letter concluded with the suggestion: