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apprehend it would be far easier for an Emigration scheme to be conducted from Head Quarters, where the Agent, through Her Majesty's Consul, can readily appeal to the Chinese Authorities when disputes arise, than from a Port distant from a Consular representative, to which place reference might from time to time have to be made when delays would occur, and difficulties arise in dealing with questions promoted by obstructive Officials.
In cases where the discussion of questions takes place at a distance from the seat of action, this is invariably the result. If, therefore, Emigration to the West Indies is to be resumed, it would be advisable, in my opinion, that it should recommence at Swatow, where a very good class of labourer can be readily obtained. For I consider that further enquiries as to how far more can be made satisfactorily after Canton has been re-opened, when it will be found advantageous to begin with a Sub-Agency first established at the former place.
6. Though not advising, therefore, that Mr. Sampson should, pending further instructions, move from Canton to Swatow, I shall transmit to him...