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: operate with Mr Peddar, Vice Consul at that Port; and to report to me regarding the steps which he would advise to be taken for the protection of the Settlement, as also the state of feeling of the Chinese Inhabitants of that locality.
The only European Force at present stationed here is the right Wing of the 75th Regiment, and a half Battery of Royal Artillery. I beg to suggest that the left Wing of the 75th Regiment be ordered to Hong Kong, from Singapore, and that the half Battery of Royal Artillery now serving here be augmented by the addition of another Battery.
The present Native Force at Hong Kong consists of the 29th Madras Native Infantry, (about 800 strong) armed with muzzle loaders, and one Company of Gun Lascars.
I may add, in conclusion, that the Chinese are now armed with Government breech loading rifles, and I am also informed that they are in possession of some Mitrailleuses.
I shall do myself the honor of reporting, by the earliest opportunity, the result of Colonel De Batts' Mission, as well as any further steps I may take in the matter.
I have &c.
(signed) H. W. Whitfield.
Major General,
Commanding Troops, China & Japan.