Land Board
Miscu
OB
most
de was He
for long not only the principal but the only Executive Officer in this colony, which at the time of its first Establishment was the resort of a mixed population, composed of all Eastern nations, and the order and security of the Colony was without doubt due to his acquaintance with Asiatics, his perfect knowledge of the Hindustani Language and the personal activity which had procured his honorable notice in his own profession. It is but just to add, that had he followed the fortunes of his Regiment, he would have been necessarily promoted some years ago;
But so necessary did Captain Elliott consider his presence at Hongkong that he refused his natural request to be at the head of his company in the operations against Canton.
True extract
2. T. Mercer,
Colonial Secretary.
Extract of despatch 41 of April 19th, 1847, from Governor Sir John Davis to the Earl Grey.
"The Major General's report will put your Lordships in possession of the Military details of our short Expedition of seven days and I have only to add that the able dispositions of Major Caine, who was acting Governor and Commandant in my absence, Ensured the safety and tranquility of the Colony.
Assistant Adjutant General's Office, Victoria, Hongkong, May 3-4, 1847
162
I have the honor to acquaint you that the Major General Commanding has had much pleasure in forwarding your Military report, of the 9th ultimo, to His Grace the Commander-in-Chief, and that in so doing he did not fail to express his acknowledgements of the services rendered by you, whilst in temporary command of this garrison, during the recent operations at Canton.
I have the honor, &c., (Signed) John Bruce, Captain,
Assistant Adjutant General.
To Major Caine,
Colonial Secretary, Victoria.
In December, 1857, Major Caine was permitted by Major General Sir Charles Straubenzee, K.C.B. Commanding H.M. Forces in China, to accompany him at the assault and capture of Canton, and in the General's despatch he was pleased thus to express himself to Lord Panmure, then Secretary for War:
Extract
"I take this opportunity of thanking...