of the influence which he has hoped to acquire with the Colonial Authorities. This, at least, is the opinion I have held for some time past with reference to his proceedings. The present Viceroy appears to understand his true character thoroughly, and a short time ago, on some mention of Colonel Feng taking place in connection with a medal he had proposed conferring upon Lieutenant Commander Lloyd R. N., after a cruise in the Gulf of Tonquin, His Excellency said of him - "He is too serviceable not to be employed, but very dangerous withal. I keep a sharp eye upon him, however." There can be no doubt that in activity and energy Colonel Feng compares very favourably with the majority of Chinese Military Mandarins. His early years were passed at sea - among pirates, the Viceroy has been drily observed - and he engaged in trade in Siam, so that his antecedents have disposed him to a more bustling, enterprising course of life than is usually preferred by the class to which he now belongs.
(Signed) W. F. Mayers.
Canton, December 27th, 1869.
(True Copy)
Colonial Secretary
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