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Extract from a Telegram from W. Hughes, Acting Consul at Canton, to Mr Wade, dated June 7, 1871.
On the 22nd of April, the Viceroy wrote to instruct the Commandant of Nan-hai and Panyu to the effect that in international matters, or when it is necessary for a foreign Vessel of War to cooperate in seizing Pirates, the local authorities must apply for the Viceroy's orders before taking action. The Viceroy had learned that an officer named Chen Ting has ventured without previous permission to borrow a foreign Vessel of War to seize Pirates. The conduct of this Officer is to be blamed and he is to be reprimanded. If he wants to borrow a foreign Vessel of War, he must first report the reasons for the proposed step & await the orders of his superiors. If he acts otherwise he will be degraded.
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