harmony with him.
" ' The said Governor considered, that as the said barbarian Eye, Lord
Napier, had confessed his faults and besought favour, and as all the
merchants had repeatedly made earnest supplications, it doubtless
behoved him to extend a slight trifling indulgence, and to drive him out
of the port; and he therefore permitted the said Hong merchants to
proceed to the Superintendent of Customs, to request and obtain a red
permit. The said Governor immediately appointed trusty, civil, and
military officers who, on the 19th day of the 8th moon, took Lord Napier
under guard outside of the port. Both the said barbarian ships of war
also started on the same day, and were conducted under guard outside of
the maritime entrance of the Bogue. All the naval and military officers
and men who had been stationed at various places were every one recalled,
and returned severally to their stations.
" ' At the time when it was equally impossible for the said barbarians
to advance or to recede, what difficulty would there have been in imme
diately exterminating them ? But these outside barbarians are in search
of gain : to intimidate them on points whereon they are unacquainted
with the laws and prohibitions, and to refuse altogether arguing with
them is what I, the Emperor, am extremely unwilling to do. If contume
lious, they should then be chastised ; if brought under subjection, they
should then be tolerated. The said Governor and colleagues, in conduct
ing this affair, have yet acted skilfully and correctly. Before, on account
of the said Governor and colleagues not having been able to take due
preventive measures before the business, thereby admitting the said
ships of war to push into the inner river, causing to the military the
labour of driving them out; my pleasure was therefore made known, that
they should be severally degraded from their rank, and openly punished.
Now, having driven the said barbarian Eye and others out of the port,
the said Governor and others, although at the beginning they failed in a
preventive guard, have in the end been able to settle the thing well and
securely, without loss of the national dignity, and without incurring any
bloody strife. I, the Emperor, am exceedingly well pleased.
" * Let Loo have favour shown him, by restoring to him the title, " guar
dian to the heir apparent;" and let also the double-eyed peacock's feather
be given back to him. The neglect of guard on the previous occasion,
renders it difficult for him to free himself wholly from blame; let him,
therefore, still continue degraded from official rank, though retained in
office. With regard to all the maritime guard officers, and the Naval
Commander-in-chief, the special responsibility rested on the late Com
mander-in-chief, Le, who has been already degraded. Now, as the matter
has been brought to an end, let further inquiry be dispensed with, and
let him be directed immediately to return to his native place. Let Kaou-
e-yung, the degraded Tsantseang of the Admiral's own division, wait till
after the month of wearing the cangue be accomplished, and then be
released. Let all the officers who guarded the forts with so much careless
ness, be made to wear the cangue, and after the expiration of the time,
let them be released.
"'In this I, the Emperor, show favour beyond the measure of the laws;
the said Governor and others ought but to feel shame, and arouse to
diligence, strenuously exerting themselves to stimulate a reform in the
affairs of the camp and of the maritime guard, from time to time instructing
and admonishing with sincerity. It is peremptory that they take their
former accumulated habits, and with contrition, eradicate them severally,
in order to cause the military to become all strong and powerful, so that
the martial name and dignity maybe strengthened, and the appointed
duties be performed. Respect this.' "
76
No. 30.
J. F. Davis, Esq., to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received May 12, 1835.)
My Lord, Macao, January 2, 1835.
IT is with much satisfaction that I now inclose to your Lordship the ac
companying translation of an Imperial edict, which, viewed in connexion with
the occurrences of August and September last, must be regarded as a document
of considerable importance.
This paper attributes the efforts of Lord Napier to obtain a direct commu
nication with the government, and the transactions consequent thereon, to the
numerous extortions of the Canton merchants, and observes, that the foreigners,
" unable to bear their grasping, stir up all disturbances." Were it at all pro
bable (which I feel assured it is not) that the grievances admitted in this Im
perial document, and ordered itherein to be redressed, were thus brought for
ward from any really spontaneous desire to do justice to strangers, and relieve
the Canton trade from its heavy burthens, this would at least prove that our
complaints, so often repeated, had at length reached the Court of Pekin.
There is., however, far greater probability in attributing this disposition to
criminate the Hong Merchants, to that feeling of uneasiness, which its present
position in respect to the English trade is so well calculated to excite in the
cautious and timid government of this country. A species of apology is thus
provided for the late occurrences, and a desire professed to remedy grievances
in expectation, perhaps, that the harsh, unreasonable and unprecedented
measure, of rejecting Lord Napier's first letter of announcement, and subsequent
attempts at direct correspondence, may expose it to the risk of future and em
barrassing discussions.
However desirable it may appear to His Majesty's Government to avoid, if
possible, the chance of a serious rupture with this country, at the same time
that every endeavour is made to ameliorate the condition of British traders at
Canton, it may with the utmost safety and certainty be averred, that the similar
desire on the part of the Chinese Government is no less sincere ; however care
fully it may be sought to be disguised under the absurd phraseology of its
official papers.
While the document above referred to, proposes relief to the fair trader of
Canton, another edict, of which I have also the honour to inclose a translation,
is levelled against the smuggling trade of Lintin and the coast. It is almost
needless to observe that, previous documents of the nature have proved entirely
nugatory, and that the opium trade, at last, has continued in spite of them.
It remains now to be seen, whether the native government, having its attention
at length awakened by the increased amount of smuggling transactions, conse
quent on the open trade of this season, will endeavour to give greater efficacy
to its edicts, and oppose some effectual impediments to the contraband commerce
of Lintin.
I have, &c,
(Signed) J. F. DAVIS,
Chief Superintendent.
77
Inclosure 1 in No. 30.
Imperial Edict, against extortions of Hong Merchants under the name of Duties,
and against incurring debts to Foreigners.
THE following supreme mandate has been received.
" There are at Canton, merchants who have of late been in the habit of
levying private duties, and incurring debts to barbarians ; and it is requested
that regulations be established to eradicate utterly such misdemeanors.
"The outside barbarians' commercial intercourse with the inner land,
exists, indeed, by the compassion exercised by the Celestial Empire. If all the
duties which are required to be paid, can, indeed, be levied according to the
fixed tariff, the said barbarian merchants must certainly pay them gladly, and
must continually remain tranquil. But if, as is now reported, the Canton
merchants have of late been in a feeble and deficient state, and have, in addition
to the Government duties, added also private duties, while fraudulent indivi
duals have further taken advantage of this, to make gain out of the Custom-
House duties, peeling off (from the barbarians) layer after layer ; and have
gone also to the extreme degree of the Government merchants, incurring debts
to the barbarians, heaping thousands upon ten thousands ; whereby are
stirred up sanguinary quarrels : if the merchants, thus falsely, and under the
name of tariff duties, extort, each according to his own wishes, going even to
the extreme degree of incurring debts, amount upon amount, it is not matter of
surprise if the said barbarian merchants, unable to bear their grasping, stir up
disturbances. Thus, with regard to the affair this year of the English, Lord
Napier and others, disobeying the national laws, and bringing forces into the
inner river, the barbarians being naturally crafty and artful, and gain being
their only object, we have no assurance that it was not owing to the numerous
extortions of the Canton merchants, that they, their minds being discontented,
thereupon craftily thought to carry themselves with a high hand. If regulations
be not plainly established, strictly prohibiting these things, how can the
barbarous multitude be kept in subjection, and misdemeanors be eradicated?
" Let Loo, and his colleagues, examine with sincerity and earnestness ;
and if offences of the above description exist, let them immediately inflict severe
punishments therefore ; let there be not the least connivance or screening. Let
them also, vith their whole hearts, consult and deliberate, and report fully, and
with fidelity, as to the measures they, on investigation, propose, for the secure
establishment of regulations, so as to create coufident hopes that the barbarians
will be disposed to submit gladly, and that fraudulent merchants will not dare to
indulge their desires of peeling and scraping them. Then will they (Loo and
his colleagues) not have failed of accomplishing the duties of their officers..
Make known this edict. Respect, this."
Inclosure 2 in No. 30.
Imperial Edict, against the importation of Opium.
November 3, 1834.
ON the 3rd day of the 10th moon (November 3rd), was received the
following supreme mandate.
" Loo and his colleagues have made a report of the existing circum >
stances of foreign vessels selling opium, and of the measures taken for
inquiring and acting with regard thereto. The Canton barbarian vessels
which clandestinely bring opium, chiefly dispose thereof in the outer seas;
having a race of native bandits hooked together with them, to afford
them supplies and remove (their cargoes). Loo and his colleagues have
given strict commands to the war vessels, from time to time to urge and
compel the barbarian vessels to get under weigh, and to prohibit the
native vessels and tanka-boat people from holding intercourse with the
barbarian vessels; also, with severity to seize the smuggling native
vagabonds.
" But when all the vessels are crowded together on the face of the
sea, it is difficult to separate the worthless stones and 'gems;' it only
remains, after the merchant vessels of every nation have sailed away,
to examine thoroughly, and if there be on the sea any warehousing
smuggling ships, immediately to send forth the naval force, and with a
great display of lofty dignity, strictly to drive them out. Orders should
further be given to the officers to appoint two cruizers to anchor at sea,
among the barbarian vessels, in order to make search, and to prevent
all native vessels and tanka-boats from approaching the barbarian
vessels to hold clandestine dealings with them; that thus the supply
of provisions may be cut off. If any native vagabonds go in fast-boats
to the barbarian vessels, to land the opium for sale, or clandestinely
to purchase goods, let them be immediately sought after, seized, and
brought to trial, and punished with severity. The military commandants
and the district magistrates, on the inner rivers, must also be held
responsible for appointing cruizing vessels at the maritime ports; to be
severally stationed, in positions previously arranged, so as to occupy
all the inlets communicating with the sea; and there to cruize about
in rotation throughout night, for the purpose of making seizures. If
any people, taking (opium) to sell, steal through, either inward or outward,
let them be immediately seized and committed. Let the custom-houses,
one and all, search strictly, and with real earnestness. And whenever a
seizure has been made of men or vessels smuggling what is contraband,
or evading the duties, let application be immediately made, according to
rule, and the parties be severally rewarded and encouraged. If any
officers are negligent in keeping up guard, or if soldiers or policemen
take fees to connive, let the soldiers or policemen be punished according
to law, and let the commanding officer be reported against with severity.
Let the local officers be commanded also to inquire after, and seize native
vagabonds who open 'opium furnaces,' making diligent search for them,
and punishing severely. If any officers do not act with fidelity, they
must, whenever convicted, be severely reported against. Let the Hong
merchants, likewise, be commanded to enjoin commands on the English
barbarian merchants, that they are mutually to examine and inquire,
and that if one vessel smuggle and evade the duties, all the vessels shall
be immediately prohibited trading; that thus they may themselves be
caused severally to investigate, and adopt preventive measures, which will
be a plan more sure and perfect.
" Loo and his colleagues, when they meet with any of these cases and
circumstances, must punish offenders, they are not permitted to extend
mercy towards them. Still more must they not, in lapse of time, become
careless and indolent, regarding this as a mere prepared document."
There is, further, a postscript to the report, stating, that " by nature
the barbarians have no other object but gain, and their clandestine trade
having existed long, they certainly will not contentedly relinquish it.
Either after the Government force has dispersed, they will come again, or
else they will creep, rat-like, into other provinces." The said Governor
and his colleagues are imperatively required to keep them under very
strict controul, maintaining, outside, a cruizing squadron of Government
vessels, and within, a strict guard at the maritime entrance ; so that they
may neither dispose of goods, nor yet be suffered to escape into other
provinces. To sum up, they are expected to form plans, and conduct the
matter securely, strictly prohibiting, till they eradicate offences; then will
they not have failed of fulfilling the duties of their offices. Respect this."
No. 31.
J. F. Davis, Esq., to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received May 18, 1835.,)
(Extr ct.) Macao, January 19, 1835.
AFTER the lapse of considerably more than three months since the
re-opening of the trade, consequent on Lord Napier's retirement from
Canton, I am tempted to take a brief review of the principal occurrences
79
of this period, as the best ground of an opinion concerning the measures
which His Majesty's Government may deem it fit to adopt relatively to
China.
I am aware that two courses of a very opposite nature, might have
been taken by me, subsequent to Lord Napier's decease, in lieu of the
one which, according to the best of my own judgment, and with the
entire concurrence of the Board, I have pursued; and which, considering
that a season of unusual commercial activity, and an increased amount
of tonnage, is now drawing quietly to a close with the monsoon, I see no
reason to regret. I might, in the first place, have tried the effect of a mea
sure which has not been without its advocates, and which (under very pecu
liar and favourable circumstances) was successful in 1814. 1 mean the
withdrawal of the ships from the river, and the stoppage of the trade on
our part. I do not deny that this might have been productive of con
siderable embarrassment to the local government for the time : but the
ill-success of such a course in the season of 1829-30, when the Company's
ships were detained for about five months to little or no purpose, was a
warning which I now do not regret having profited by. The effect of such
detention on private shipping would have been ruinous, and a serious
blow to the future trade with this country.
I might, on the other hand, have adopted the opposite extreme
measure of an immediate submission to the dictates of the local govern
ment, and have proceeded to Canton to place myself under the manage
ment of the Hong merchants; but from this I was deterred by the
conviction, stated to your Lordship in my despatch of the 11th November,
that " any adjustment ought to take place as the result of a mutual
necessity ; and that an unbecoming and premature act of submission on
our part, under present circumstances, could not fail to prove a fruitless,
if not a mischievous measure." I feel persuaded that it would have been
the most effectual means of preventing the Emperor's favourable edict,
inclosed in my despatch of the 2nd instant.
The proclamations of the Viceroy, (copies of which I had the honour
to forward under dates the 2nd and 11th November,) calling for the
election or appointment from home, of a "trading chief" betrayed the
difficulty which the local government had brought on itself by its refusal
to acknowledge Lord Napier. Translations of subsequent papers (not
intended for our perusal), which I had the honour to forward on the 18th
November, proved the importance which the local government really
attached to the trade, and its anxiety to avoid a rupture ; as well as the
responsibility which the Emperor had fixed on the Viceroy, in respect to
the preservation of tranquillity.
It was reasonably hoped by the Commission, that a complete silence
and abstinence from all further attempts to negotiate with the Canton
Government, pending the reference home, might be attended with a
favourable effect. The Imperial edict, forwarded with my despatch of the
2nd instant, in which the blame of the transactions of August and
September is thrown on the Hong merchants, and the late troubles
attributed to their extortions on the trade, must be viewed as an unequi
vocal sanction of that opinion. To repeat the words of my former
despatch, " a species of apology is thus provided for the late occurrences,
and a desire professed to remedy grievances, in expectation, perhaps, that
the harsh, unreasonable, and unprecedented measure of rejecting Lord
Napier's first letter of announcement, and subsequent attempts at direct
correspondence, may expose it to the risk of future and embarrassing
discussions.
An opportunity is afforded by this Imperial document, which His
Majesty's Government (should it be indisposed to accede to the Chinese
proposition of a "trading chief,") may not be inclined to neglect, in making
an appeal to the Court of Peking, against the conduct of its servants at
Canton, whose corrupt system, in relation to the European commerce,
tends nearly as much to defraud the Emperor of his dues, as to oppress
and discourage the foreign trader. I am at least persuaded, to repeat the
expression of my sentiments in a despatch to the Governor General, of
the 24th October, [Inclosure in No. 20 of this collection], that it could
80
be only the failure of such an appeal, that the policy and justice of any
coercive measures towards ■ the local government, would be otherwise
than questionable.
The crude and ill-digested Petition to His Majesty from a portion
of the English traders at Canton (for some of the most respectable
houses declined signing it) is said to have been drawn up by a casual
visitor from India, totally unacquainted with this country.
1 have, &ic,
(Signed) J. F. DAVIS,
Chief Superintendent.
No. 32.
Extracts from the " Records of Proceedings."—(Received July 7, 1835.)
January 19, 1835.—MR. DAVIS has before expressed his conviction,
that during the quiet progress of the trade at Canton and Lintin, it is the
obvious duty of this Commission, under existing circumstances, to abstain
most carefully from any steps calculated to pledge His Majesty's Govern
ment as to the future, or to impede or embarrass in any way whatever, the
commercial transactions of individuals, during the interval that must
elapse previous to the receipt of instructions from home. The same sen
timents have been expressed in our communications to the Governor
General of India, with the full impression that it is expedient to afford to
His Majesty's Government the amplest time and choice in regard to its
measures, subsequent to the arrival of our despatches of last October.
On these grounds it was deemed most advisable to make no attempts at
negotiation with the Chinese Government, unless such available advances
should come from them as might warrant a departure from this rule.
With his original intention to quit China during the favorable moon-
soon, and his notice to that effect conveyed in his letter of the 17th July
last, Mr. Davis has waited since the middle of October to give full time
for the arrival of replies from Peking, and the development of the views
of the native authorities ; and the result has been a requisition for a
" trading chief," and not a king's officer. Under these circumstances it is
obvious that nothing remains to be done but to await the final determination
and arrangements of His Majesty's Government. With the concurrence
therefore, and sanction of the Board, Mr. Davis will adhere to his notice
intimated in July last) to the Foreign Office and the Court of Directors,
and since then conditionally repeated in a despatch to Viscount Palmerston,
under date the 13th October. But as his proceeding home "on leave,"
would according to the standing instructions, prevent the succession of
Captain Charles Elliot to the Board, he will, with a view to securing to
His Majesty's Commission, the valuable services of that gentleman, deem
it his duty to wave any claims, that the form of " absence on leave "
might afford himself, and vacate entirely his station on embarking; thereby
causing Captain Elliot to suceeed as a Superintendent by virtue of the
aforesaid Instructions.
(Signed) J. F. DAVIS.
In resigning the office of Chief Superintendent, Mr. Davis this day
delivered over to Sir George Best Robinson, His Majesty's Commission to
Lord Napier, together with all other official documents, Seal of Office, &c
January 21.—Mr. Davis embarked in the ship Asia for England.
January 22.—The Board assembled, and in pursuance to our
Instructions under the Royal Signet and Sign Manual, Sir George Best
Robinson assumed the office and duties of Chief Superintendent, Mr.
Astell that of Second, and Captain Elliot, late Secretary, that of Third
Superintendent.
81
A. R. Johnston, Esq., being nominated by the Chief Superintendent,
received his Commission as Secretary and Treasurer [to date from the day
of Mr. Davis' resignation], under the Seal and Signature of the three
Superintendents. •
No. 33.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—{Received June 19, 1835.)
(Extract) Macao, January 24, 1835.
SINCE Mr. Davis' departure nothing of moment has occurred; but
I trust shortly to furnish your Lordship with much information, which I
have reason to hope will prove valuable, relative to ports and harbours
on the coast of China ; the state and nature of the native commerce thereat ;
and the probable advantageous result that would attend a well conducted
trade with places less shackled with the extortions and impositions to
which we have been so long subjected at Canton.
No. 34.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received June 19, 1835.)
(Extract.) Macao, February 3, 1835.
THE almost instant departure of the ship Robarts enables me merely
to communicate to your Lordship in the most brief manner, that a boat's
crew, consisting of 12 men belonging to the ship Argyle, bound from
Bengal to Canton, have fallen accidently into the hands of some lawless
or piratical people on the coast, forty or fifty miles westward of this port.
As soon as the circumstances reached the knowledge of the Superin
tendents, not a moment was lost in endeavouring to secure the assistance
of the Provincial Government, for the recovery of the people. I regret to
observe, however, that the Canton authorities refused to receive the state
ments from the hands of Captain Elliot, who was deputed to convey it,
because it was not made in the form of a Petition. Your Lordship may
rely upon our most anxious efforts to deliver these unfortunate people from
their perilous condition, and I will not fail to forward a detailed statement
of the matter, as well as all our proceedings therein, by the earliest
opportunity.
I have only time to add that the commerce is proceeding uninter
ruptedly, and there is no reason to apprehend it will be disturbed by this
unfortunate event.
No. 35.
Extract from the " Records of Proceedings."—(Received July 7, 1835.)
January 29, 1835.—Captain Macdonald of the Argyle, this day
appeared, and deposed to the following statement on oath :—
Appeared Alexander Macdonald, and deposed, that he is master of
the British ship Argyle ; states, that being bound from Bengal to Canton,
the ship fetched in between Hawchime and Lieuchee Island on the 21st
instant. Is quite certain that it was somewhere between these points that
the ship fetched, but cannot speak with more precision, because of the
state of the weather which had prevented him from observing for the four
previous days. Owing to the damage the sails had sustained, the ship
was anchored at this place, and, on the morning of the 22nd, at day-light,
deponent sent a boat on shore, then distant about two miles, with the
view to seek a pilot. The boat contained the second officer of the ship,
M
82
an European Sookanee, a Manilla Sookanee, and nine lascars, twelve in
number altogether. The boat was not armed, and Deponent is persuaded
that no outrage was offered to the natives by the boat's crew. The boat
did not return to the ship at all ; at about one o'clock, however, two
Chinese boats came off and communicated with the ship. The people
asked whether she was bound to Macao ? Deponent desired them to go on
shore, and send off his boat. They pretended to go, but returned,—that
is to say, two men returned in a sampan [a small boat] and intimated by
signs, that the boat's crew were seized. They offered, before the ship
left the place, on the 22nd, to bring the people back, if Deponent would
give them 500 dollars. He had not the money with him, and, under
all the circumstances of the case, he thought it best to repair to this place,
where he arrived to-day.
(Signed) ALEXANDER MACDONALD.
Sworn before me, this 29th day of January, 1835.
(Signed) G. B. ROBINSON,
Chief Superintendent.
As there appeared to be no doubt that these unfortunate men had
fallen into the hands of some of the notoriously lawless people upon the
part of the coast indicated in the deposition, the Superintendents deter
mined to lose no time in formally and respectfully reporting the circum
stances to the direct knowledge of the principal authorities at Canton.
With this view, they caused the following note to be translated into
Chinese by M. Gutzlaff, and its sentiments to be rendered in a manner
conformable to the genius of the language, and in accordance with those
respectful modes of communication adopted by public officers in their
reports to each other.
" To his Excellency the Governor of the two provinces of Kwangtung
and Kwangse.
" The Undersigned have the honor respectfully to represent to your
Excellency, that, &,c, [here was recited a succinct statement of the
circumstances.]
" The Undersigned are very conscious that your Excellency will hear
of the violent outrage committed by these evil-disposed people upon His
Majesty the King of England's subjects, driven by distress upon the coast,
with feelings of sincere regret ; and they have a firm confidence in the
earnestness of your Excellency's efforts to deliver these unfortunate
innocent men from their perilous condition with the utmost promptitude.
In the discharge of a solemn duty to the King their gracious Sovereign,
and in a sense of respect to your Excellency, it has been judged right to
submit this important representation in the most direct manner, by the
hands of a member of His Majesty's Commission, who is accompanied by
the captain of the ship, and is authorised to carry on any official commu
nications which may be needful. It has also been considered decorous and
reasonable to refrain from taking any urgent steps for the recovery of the
people, until your Excellency shall be made acquainted with the disastrous
transaction.
" The Undersigned avail themselves of this occasion to offer to your
Excellency the expression of their highest consideration and respect.
(Signed)
G. B. ROBINSON, 1st 1
" J. H. ASTELL, 2nd [Superintendent.'
"CHARLES ELLIOT, 3rd!
The version in Chinese of this document, as prepared by M. Gutzlaff,
is as follows :—
"La, Ah, and E, by British Royal Commission Superintendents of
their country's affairs, communicate jointly and respectfully to your
Excellency the Governor of the two Kwang, Loo.
" That on the first day of the first month, the 15th year of Taou
.
83
Kwang, (January 29th 1835), Ma, [Alexander Macdonald], a captain of
their nation, reported :
"That his ship called the Argyle, whilst on her voyage from
Bengal, met unfortunately with storms and made St. John's, when she
anchored in a harbour on the east coast, near to New-Keo-Chow.
" That, on the 23rd of the 12th month of the 14th year of Taoukwang
[January 21st, 1835], he sent his mate, two helmsmen, and nine sailors in
his boat on shore, with the intention of procuring a pilot, who might
guide his ship over the shoals to Macao.
" That the inhabitants of St. John's being unfortunately ruffians, seized
on a sudden upon our people, twelve in number, taking them prisoners,
and forcibly possessing themselves of their boat.
" That, although the said Captain strenuously exhorted them to
liberate his sailors, those ruffians demanded by way of extortion, 500
dollars, for which they would set them at liberty.
" That two of the inhabitants of St. John's came here in his ship to
receive that unjust bribe.
" This coming before us Superintendents, we prepared previously this
document to represent to your Excellency, that according to decorum,
we should not ourselves arbitrarily endeavour to get back our country
men, but we beseech your Excellency most earnestly to issue immediate
orders to those ruffians of St. John's, commanding them to give up our
countrymen without delay.
" The Superintendents being extremely desirous to fulfil the duties of
their office, which they hold by Royal Commission, could not sit down
with indifference, and see their people in the utmost danger, without
succouring and assisting them. They therefore deputed the Superin
tendent E. to repair with the said Captain Ma, to the provincial city, that
he might with his own hand present this document, and wait for an
official reply from your Excellency.
" Respectfully wishing your Excellency the enjoyment of peace and
happiness, we communicate in this document a true statement of the case.
" Done, January 30th, 1835.
" (Signed) CHARLES GUTZLAFF."
January 30, 1835.—Tt was considered to be desirable that the three
Superintendents should sign this Paper to the Governor, as it appeared to be
possible that this circumstance might give it rather the character of a
Report than a Letter [and it will be remembered that the pretext for re
fusing Lord Napier's first communication was, because it was a Letter] ; at
all events it was thought probable that the Chinese authorities might be
disposed to avail themselves of any change in the form, as a reason for receiv
ing the statement. The seals of the three Superintendents were affixed to
their signatures, but it was determined merely to attach a fly seal to the
envelope, because it was hoped, that to afford the officer who might be
deputed to communicate with us, the facility of reading it, would remove
every rational ground of objection. Upon the address was superscribed
a short sentence to the effect, that the report related to matter concerning
human life. These precautions being taken, it was arranged that the
third Superintendent [Captain Elliot] should be the bearer of the paper, and
with a view to prevent excitement, or any pretension that the communication
was tumultuously presented, it was resolved that the intention should be
kept perfectly secret, and that only two persons should accompany Captain
Elliot, viz. M. Gutzlaff and the Captain of the Argyle. It was also
decided that these gentlemen should not go to the factories at all, but
should repair direct to the water gate, [about a mile to the eastward of
the factories,] at which point an officer in the navy, of Captain Elliot's
rank [Captain Freemantle, in 1831] had recently delivered a letter from
the Governor General to the Viceroy. The result of this attempt is
described in the following papers.
February 4, 1835.—The annexed Minute is from the third Super
intendent.
M 2
84
Immediately upon the conclusion of our recent visit to the water-
fate, I requested M. Gutzlaff to take a note of the circumstances which
ad occurred there, because I rather preferred that the statement should
be made by another hand than my own. I have read his paper which
is annexed to this minute, with great attention, and I should say, that
it contains a complete and exact account of the transaction. There can
be little doubt that the person by whom I was principally beset, acted
only in the performance of his duty in resisting the entrance of any
foreigner into the city. It need hardly be observed, however, that he was
unnecessarily earnest and violent, because there was not the least
disposition on my part to force my way into the city, but simply to
maintain a position within the first wicket, as is usual on these occasions,
and to wait there for the arrival of any officers deputed by the Governor,
with whom I might confer. The two Mandarins of rank who did
eventually come, stayed only to declare that they could receive nothing
but a Petition, and therefore no opportunity was afforded to me formally
to complain of the unbecoming treatment I had experienced. But I
confess I cannot regret this circumstance, for it is very obvious that the
true responsibility of this and all other conduct of the same nature,
attaches entirely to the Government, and is by no means to be set aside
by the imputation of blame to their subaltern officers. It belongs generally
to that spirit of unreasonable and dangerous impracticability with relation
to the point of direct intercourse between the public officers of the two
countries, which is so completely a subject for the consideration and
disposal of His Majesty's Government.
The awakening of eager solicitude upon the part of the highest
authorities, for the rescue of the king's subjects, and the inducing a
serious determination vigorously to pursue the offenders, were the great
objects of immediate concern to the Commission, and to this extent there
can be no doubt that our Mission was completely successful.
(Signed) CHARLES ELLIOT,
Third Superintendent.
Mr. Gutzlaff''s report.—Sunday morning, 1st February, 1835, His
Majesty's third Superintendent, Captain Elliot, R.N., the master of the
British ship Argyle, Alexander Macdonald, and myself, arrived opposite
the third pagoda in Canton river.
We went in a three-oared boat to a landing place near the Yew-Ian
Gate, which leads to the Governor's palace, in order to present a document
from His Majesty's Superintendents, addressed to his Excellency the
Governor, wherein they requested him to give orders for the liberation of
twelve British subjects who had been forcibly seized upon by some natives
of St. John's, and belonged to the British ship Argyle.
His Majesty's third Superintendent, Captain Elliot, wore the uniform
of a post captain of His Majesty's navy, and directed us both to behave
towards himself, in the presence of the Mandarins, with the greatest
respect, to give an additional proof that he was a King's officer. He also
requested me to be courteous in the extreme, when engaged in conversa
tion with the Mandarins, and not to offer any resistance, should violence
be used towards us.
We entered, accordingly, the Yew-Ian Gate, and had proceeded a few
houses farther, when, all on a sudden, the soldiers fell upon Captain Elliot,
one of them, a second lieutenant, with a brass knob, grasping the hilt of
his sword and struggling with him for several minutes, until Captain
Elliot fell on the ground. In the mean while, I addressed the soldiers in
a loud voice, that the gentleman whom they maltreated was an officer of
His Britannic Majesty, and came here upon a most urgent affair, which
concerned the lives of twelve British subjects, but they did not listen, and
pushed him very hard. I then placed myself near a pillar, and endea
voured to reason with these violent men, which had the desired effect, for,
upon hearing that we came in the service of His Britannic Majesty, they
desisted from offering violence to me ; nevertheless, they continued to treat
Captain Elliot with the greatest indignity, whilst I myself went up the
street to find out, if possible, an officer of rank ; but not succeeding, I
'85
turned back, and saw Captain Elliot, and afterwards Macdonald, forcibly
dragged and pushed through two wicket gates. Hereupon, I most
solemnly, in the hearing of all bystanders, protested, that Captain Elliot,
being an officer of His Britannic Majesty, had come hither with a docu
ment addressed to his Excellency the Viceroy, concerning the lives of
twelve British subjects, and was on no account to be ill-treated. I exhorted
them to abstain from this outrage, but the lieutenant, as well as the other
soldiers, answered me with a sneer, took hold of me, and threw me out of
the gate. .'
We stood now between the Yew-Ian and the two wicker gates, when
we were met by a military Mandarin, in his uniform, wearing a blue knob,
and being preceded by several men who carried chairs. To him Captain
Elliot addressed himself, and presented the document, which he refused to
receive, and I was then requested to state to the said Mandarin, in plain
terms, that this was His Britannic Majesty's officer, who had come here
upon a most important affair which concerned the lives of British
subjects, and was anxious to hand this document to a Mandarin of rank,
that he might transmit it to his Excellency the Governor. He treated this
appeal with contempt. I, therefore, showed him the outside of the docu
ment, where it was stated, that this matter was of the highest importance,
and concerned the lives of British subjects. He read it and sneered con
temptuously. Captain Elliot then requested, through me, that the lieute
nant who had treated him, a British officer, with such indignity, should
be punished. The military Mandarin laughed, saying, " You an officer !"
We pointed, therefore, to the epaulets and the other insignia of rank, and
the bystanding soldiers remarked, that gold naturally indicates rank,
whilst the officer silenced them and sneered. He then took off his upper
robes, and Captain Elliot declined any farther conversation.
Whilst the Mandarin withdrew, we were exposed to a great mob,
drawn hither by curiosity, in witnessing so extraordinary a scene. The
soldiers now collected in greater numbers, and placed themselves before
the wicket gate where we stood, some of them having whips, in their
hands, whilst others appeared on the opposite side, and drove the multitude
away.
Shortly afterwards some Linguists came and desired to converse with
us. Captain Elliot requested me to tell them, that we wished to commu
nicate our affairs to a messenger from the Viceroy, a Mandarin of rank.
This I told them in Chinese ; and farther refused to hold any conversation
with any man who was not an officer of Government.
We had waited half an hour longer, when several Mandarins, all in
their State uniform, arrived ; and amongst them we observed Mowqua, a
senior Hong merchant, who wore a peacock's feather and a crystal globe.
The same Linguist addressed us again, and desired that we might com
municate the affair, and give him the document. As he, however, met
with a refusal the gates were thrown open, and we were brought into the
presence of two general officers, who wore red buttons, and had seated
themselves in the Watch-house. As soon as Captain Elliot tried to sit
down, they rose, and he presented, most respectfully, the document to one
of them ; but the Mandarin refused to receive it. These officers, as we
were told, had been deputed by the Governor, and I therefore again
stated in a loud voice, that Captain Elliot was a British officer, who was
come here to represent a most urgent case which concerned the lives of
twelve British subjects ; but he replied, " we only receive Petitions." I
showed him the cover of the document, upon which the above words were
written, which he read. After this both left us abruptly, and repeated,
" We only receive petitions." We therefore withdrew, and returned to
our boat.
(Signed) CHARLES GUTZLAFF,
Joint Interpreter.
[Mem.: F. O., 1840.—IT is not necessary to state all that subse
quently passed between the Superintendents and the Chinese authorities
relating to this case : suffice it to say, that the authorities are represented
to have exerted themselves zealously ; that on the 20th of February,
86
intelligence was received at Macao, that the officer and boat's crew of the
' Argyle had arrived at Canton on the 18th ; that they were restored to
their ship on the 19th ; that the ship was secured in the usual way ;
and that the first part of her cargo reached Canton on the 23rd.]
No. 36.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Lord William Bentinck, Governor General of
India, transmitted to the Foreign Office by the Secretary to the
Superintendents. —(Received July 7, 1835.)
(Extract.) Macao, February 21, 1835.
SINCE the departure of Mr. Davis the trade has been drawing unin
terruptedly to a close, nearly all the ships with tea cargoes having
sailed.
With regard to the actual position of affairs, from the circumstances
of our removal from Canton, and being cut off from communication with
the natives generally, I am unable to furnish any decided opinion of my
own ; but from the most authentic private information I have strong
reasons to believe, that, under an assumed appearance of perfect indiffer
ence, the local authorities are in a state of extreme apprehension and
disquietude, as to the consequences likely to result from the events of the
past year. The Canton population are said to be intensely anxious, and
to interest themselves greatly in the question of our political situation
with their Government.
No. 37.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received July 7, 1835.,)
(Extract.) Macao, February 27, 1835.
I HAVE now the honour to forward to your Lordship the first of a
Series of Essays or Remarks by the Rev. Charles Gutzlaff*.
Fully impressed with the great importance of transmitting every
intelligence respecting this country, immediately on assuming the duties
of office, I requested Mr. Gutzlaff would furnish me with any information
likely to prove of moment or interest, being convinced no person could be
so well qualified as this gentleman who, your Lordship must be aware,
has had more remarkable and favourable opportunities of making
-observations and thereby forming opinions, than perhaps any other
European, at least in modern times. If this assertion should be ques
tioned, on the ground that many others have resided for a longer period
in the country, I may be permitted to observe, that men engaged in
mercantile or other pursuits at Canton, confined within narrow limits,
and only deriving casual information from ignorant if not interested
persons, Hong merchants, Linguists, and servants, cannot, I presume, be
quoted as equally good authority with an individual who, disregarding all
the luxuries and comforts of civilized life, has not only visited the coast
in European vessels, but adopting the dress, habits, and, what is more
surprising, the language of these people, has associated with them on a
familiar footing in various places, known formerly to no Europeans, and
now only to a few. Of an energetic and enthusiastic disposition, influ
enced by the highest motives, and carried away perhaps by over-sanguine
hopes and expectations in his religious views, it is possible Mr. Gutzlaff
may have adopted some fallacious ideas, as to the facilities of extending
British commerce to other ports in China; but I am thoroughly con
vinced the most successful results would attend decided and vigorous
* The substance of this and all Mr. Gutzlaff's other Essays on the Statistics of China, sent to the
Foreign Office by the Superintendents, has been printed in a work published by Mr. Gutzlaff in Lon
don, in the year 1S38, called " China Opened.''
87
measures on the part of the British Government, to achieve an object of
such infinite importance.
I cannot speak from personal experience, having never visited the
coast ; but from the period when the first ship, the Merope, Captain
Parkyns, 1820-21, commenced the system of delivering opium at various
places, I have closely questioned intelligent men, who have had opportu
nities of making observations ; and the result of my inquiries is the
conviction, that the people are intensely desirous to engage in traffic,
certain to prove alike advantageous to themselves and to foreigners ; that
the Mandarins are anxious to benefit thereby, but are, relunctantly
perhaps, compelled to enforce the prohibitions regarding trade ; and that
an opening for almost unbounded commercial operations would be the
desirable effect of little more than a demonstration on the part of our
Government, of a determination to establish a proper understanding in
the political and commercial relations of the two countries.
The ease and fluency of Mr. Gutzlaff's style afford a striking proof
of the aptness of this gentleman, a native of Stettin in Prussia, in
acquiring languages, and of the proficiency which he attains.
Throughout his writings, your Lordship will perceive an anxious
wish to call our attention to the incalculable advantages that would
accrue from the establishment of a trade at other ports in China, and the
facility with which he anticipates so important an object might be
accomplished.
No. 38.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received -August 6, 1835.)
My Lord, Macao, March 30, 1835.
I HAVE the honour to inclose a document recently issued from the
Hoppo's office, containing a memorial from the Provincial Government
to the Emperor, embodying eight regulations respecting the foreign trade
and intercourse. These restrictions are described in the memorial to be
"additional and altered." I cannot say, however, that the alterations
or additions are framed in such a spirit, or proceed to such an extent,
as would render adherence to these eight rules at all more compatible
with the conduct of the trade, or our continuance in the country for one
month, than to the eight several times multiplied, already deposited in
the Company's Archives. In fact, perhaps I need hardly observe to your
Lordship, that the single object of the republication of these instruments
from time to time, is to enable the Local Government to evade respon
sibility, in every conceivable contingency which may arise out of the
foreign intercourse, by fixing the duty of a most minute controul upon
other persons. Whilst things proceed in a quiet and usual course,
the regulations are not adverted to, but the moment there is the smallest
degree of present inconvenience, the provincial authorities turn to this
most comprehensive rubric of prohibitions, and immediately pronounce
that certain traitorous Hong merchants, &c, &c, (always choosing men
of substance,) have been guilty of a breach of the laws of the empire.
Their own vindication in the eyes of the Emperor is then attempted, and
pretty generally achieved by the vigorous pursuits of these victims, fining
them heavily, or putting them to death, or both, as the urgency of the
case shall seem to require. I am disposed to believe that the publication
of this document, just now, may be taken to afford some evidence of
a state of considerable disquietude, some expectation of difficulties at
hand: at all events, I know of no other observation with which it appears
to be worth while to trouble your Lordship upon the subject. The posture
of public affairs in this country continues unchanged since the date of my
despatch of the 4th ultimo.
I have,
VC, &c
UH..,
(Signed) G. B. ROBINSON,
Chief Superintendent.
88
Inclosure in No. 38.
Document from the Hoppo, containing a Memorial from the Canton
Government to the Emperor, with Eight Regulations restrictive of
Foreign Trade.
March 8, 1835.
PANG, by Imperial appointment, Superintendent of the Maritime
Customs of Canton, &ic, &.c, issues this order to the Hong merchants,
requiring their full acquaintance with the contents thereof.
I have received the following communication from the Governor.
" Whereas I, the Governor, united, on the 28th day of the 1st moon, in
the 15th year of Taoukwang, with your Excellency the Hoppo, and the
Lieutenant-Governor of Kwangtung, Ke, in framing a respectful memorial
concerning restrictive regulations, decided on for direction of the trade
and of barbarians. We must now await the receipt of a reply in vermilion
(i. e. in the Imperial hand-writing), when the same shall be reverently
recorded and communicated to you.
" A communication ■ is at the same time addressed to the Governors
of the Metropolitan Provinces (Chihle and Keangnan), and of Minche,
(Chekeang and Fuhkeen,) and to the Lieutenant-Governors of the
provinces Keangsoo, Chekeang, and Fuhkeen, requesting that they would
issue general orders to all civil and military officers along the coasts
within their jurisdiction, strictly to command that the merchant-ships,
hereafter, when resorting to Canton to purchase foreign goods, shall one
and all repair to the chief custom-house of Canton, and request a stamped
manifest, enumerating the goods and their quantities, likewise to disallow
private purchases; and also to maintain strict investigation, that if any
vessels from sea, bringing home transmarine goods, be found on exami
nation, to be without the stamped manifests of the custom-house, such
goods may be immediately regarded as contraband, and examination
made, and punishment inflicted, according to the regulations.
" Instructions also are given to the Tungche of Macao, for him
immediately to give strict orders to the pilots, the compradors, and so
forth, that they may obey and act accordingly. Hereafter they are
imperatively required to adhere to the regulations established by memo
rial to the Emperor; they are to be careful in piloting vessels, and they
must not unlawfully combine (with foreigners) to smuggle, if the barbarian
ships go out or come in contrary to the regulations, or if the barbarians
clandestinely go about in small boats to places along the coast, rambling
about the villages and farms ; the said pilots are to be assuredly brought to
a strict investigation, if there be any sale or purchase of contraband goods,
or stealthy smuggling of goods liable to duty, and the compradors fail to
report according to the truth, they also are to be immediately punished
with rigour, and are decidedly to have no indulgence shown to them.
"Instructions are likewise given to the Porchingsze and Anchasze,
to examine and act in accordance with the tenor of the copy of the
memorial, and immediately to transmit directions to the civil and military
officers along the coast (of the province), to act in obedience thereto;
also to command the Hong merchants and linguists to enjoin orders on
the barbarian merchants of every nation, that they may, one and all, act
in obedience thereto, and not oppose.
" Besides all this, it is fitting that I address this communication to
you the Hoppo, that you may in accordance with the tenor of the copy
of the memorial, issue orders on all points, to the Hong merchants ana
linguists, that they may enjoin orders on the barbarian merchants of
every nation, for them to obey and act accordingly."
This coming before me, the Hoppo, I unite the circumstances and
issue this order. When the order reaches the said merchants, let them
act in obedience to the tenor of the copy of the memorial, and enjoin
orders on the barbarian merchants of every nation, that they may
pay obedience thereto. Oppose not ! A Special Order !
Annexed is a paper, containing a fair copy of the memorial, as
follows :—
89
" A reverent memorial, respecting restrictive regulations, determined
on for the direction of the trade, and of barbarians, is hereby presented,
imploring the sacred glance to be cast thereon.
" With reference to barbarians from beyond the outer seas, coming
to Canton to trade, since the time when, in the 25th year of Keen-Lung,
(1760,) restrictive enactments were fixed by a representation (to the
throne), there have also been further regulations, from time to time,
namely, in the 14th year of Keaking, (1810,) and in the llth year of
Taoukwang, (1831,) determined on, by the several former Governors and
Lieutenant-Governors ; and on representation (to the throne) the same
have been sanctioned ; obedience has been paid to them ; and they have
become established laws. These have been complete and effectual. But
in length of days, wherein they have been• in operation, either they have
in the end become a dead letter, or there have gradually sprung up
unrestrained offences.
" Last year the English Company was ended and dissolved. The
said nation's merchants come at their own option to trade. There is
none having a general controul. Although commands have been issued
to the said nation's barbarian merchants, to send a letter home to their
country, to continue the appointment of a Taepan who shall come to
Canton, for the direction and controul (of affairs) ; yet, as the merchants
are now many, and individuals are mingled together, while affairs are
under no united jurisdiction, it is necessarily required that regulations
should be enacted and published, in order to furnish matter to be obeyed
and adhered to. But the affairs of time have variations of present and
past ; and, since the English barbarians' Company is dissolved, the
attendant circumstances of commerce are also slightly different from what
they before were.
" Besides those old regulations, respecting which it is unnecessary
further to deliberate, but all which, as formerly, continue to be distinctly
enumerated in plain commands : and, besides the regulations regarding
the management of barbarian debts, and regarding the strict seizure of
smugglers, both which have already been specially represented, there are
still regulations which require to be reconsidered, for the purpose of
adding or altering. These, we, your Majesty's Ministers, calling into
Council with us the Porchingsze and Anchasze, have carefully deliberated
upon.
" The rules of dignified decorum should be rendered awe-striking, in
order to repress overstepping presumption ; the bonds of intercourse
should be closely drawn, in order to eradicate Chinese traitors ; the
restraints on egress and ingress should be diligently enforced; the
responsible task of investigation and supervision should be carefully
attended to. Then, surely, with regard to the restrictive enactments, will
there be increasingly displayed minute care and diligence. At the same
time, the Hong merchants should be strictly commanded to trade fairly
and equitably, each regarding highly his respectability, in order that all
the foreigners, thoroughly imbued with the sacred dew of favour, may
universally quake with awe, and be filled with tender regard.
" Looking upwards, to aid our Sovereign's extreme desire to soothe
into subjection the far-coming barbarians, and to give attention and
weight to the maritime guard, we respectfully join these expressions, in
a reverent and duly prepared memorial ; and also take the eight regula
tions which we have determined on, and, making separately a fair copy
thereof, respectfully offer them for the Imperial perusal ; prostrate sup
plicating our Sovereign to cast the sacred glance thereon, and to impart
instruction. A respectful memorial.
" Taoukwang, 15th year, 1st moon, 28th day. (February 25, 1835.)"
"We respectfully take eight additional and altered regulations,
restrictive of the barbarians, whereon we have deliberated and decided ;
and, having attentively made a fair copy thereof, we, with reverence,
offer them for the Imperial perusal."
1. The outside barbarians' ships of war conveying goods are not
permitted to sail into the inner seas. It is requisite to enforce with strict-
N
90
ness the prohibitory commands, and to make the naval force responsible
for keeping them off.
On examination, it appears, that the trading barbarians may bring
ships of war to protect their goods themselves. This has, for a long time
past, been the case. But the regulation hitherto existing only permits
them to anchor in the outer seas, there waiting till the cargo vessels leave
the port, and then sailing back with them. They are not allowed to
presume to enter the maritime port. From the period of the reign of
Keaking onwards, they have gradually failed to pay implicit obedience to
the old rule ; and, last year, there was again an affair of irregularly
pushing in through the maritime entrance. Although the said barbarians,
sailing into the shallow waters of the inner river, can effect nothing in the
least, yet restrictive measures always should be perfect and complete.
With regard to the line of forts at the Bocca Tigris, there are now some
additional erections, and some removals in progress ; and, at the same
time, more cannon are being cast, and measures of preparation and
defence are being determined on. It is, besides this, requisite to enforce
with strictness the regulations and prohibitions.
Hereafter, if a ship of war of any nation, conveying goods, presume
to enter either of the maritime ports of Cross harbour, or the Bocca Tigris,
the barbarian merchants' cargo vessels shall have their holds altogether
closed, and their trade stopped ; and, at the same time, she (the ship of
war) shall be immediately driven out. The Naval Commander-in-chief
also shall be held responsible, whenever he meets with a ship of war of
the outside barbarians anchored in the outer seas, to give commands
immediately to all the officers and men of the forts, that they apply
themselves to the object of keeping up preventive measures against the
same ; also to lead forth in person the naval squadron ; to cruize about
with them in guard of all the maritime entrances ; and to unite their
strength to that of the forts, for the purpose of guarding against (any
such ship of war). Should the officers or soldiers be guilty of negligence