This expression of interest derives additional value from the manner in
which they hastened to identify themselves with the coercive measures adopted
while the issue was yet uncertain. The confidence manifested by the British
community in the beginning was not I conceive, more flattering to me than
honourable to those who, with large personal interests at stake, renounced
without hesitation any advantage the power of disclaiming all participation in
the acts and responsibilities of Her Majesty's Consul, in the event of failure
and loss might confer.
Happily success is likely to prove in this as in most cases, that a disin
terested and generous principle of action may be the best and most advantageous
in the end ; but the result cannot affect the character of steps taken before it
could even be predicted with safety.
I heartily and earnestly desire that permanent benefit to our position and
commercial relations at this port may follow the vindication of the most
important of our rights, freedom from molestation, and security to life and
property. In this I shall find full reward for the anxious efforts it has cost
during the last month to prevent their violation .
The zealous and effective assistance II received from the commander of
Her Majesty's ship “ Childers,” and the frank support of the Consular Represen
tatives of foreign Powers at Shanghae, well merited the thanks which I rejoice
to see have been tendered by the foreign residents. Any satisfaction the
document you have placed in my hands might afford, must indeed hare been
incomplete, had these gentlemen not shared it with me, in the fullest manner.
149
I have to thank youpersonally for the obliging expression of your gratifi
cation in being the medium of communication on the present occasion, and
remain , &c.
(Signed ) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .
Inclosure 26 in No. 54 .
Mr. Bonham to Consul Alcock.
( Extract .) Shanghae, April 12, 1848 .
THERE is one point, however, on which I must remark, lest my silence
may be construed into approval, viz ., your desire to liquidate the claims of
British subjects out of the money due to the Chinese Government, kept back
during the fifteen days' embargo on vessels in your port.
This question has been for some time under discussion , and without going
into its merits, I must simply observe that in your notification of the 13th
ultimo it is notified that no Custom -house duties will be paid by British ships
until satisfaction had been obtained for a breach of Treaty rights . That
satisfaction has now been afforded by the Chinese Government, and I am
therefore of opinion that it has a just claim to the revenue of which it has been
temporarily deprived .
It also appears to me to be highly inexpedient to mix up a very important
political question with one entirely commercial, whereby an opening is afforded
for our acts and intentions to be both misinterpreted and misrepresented .
No. 55 .
Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston .— (Received June 21.)
My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, April 12, 1848 .
AS it may have appeared to your Lordship that my despatches to
Mr. Alcock have displayed a disposition towards a timid policy being observed
in the late misunderstanding between the British and Chinese authorities
at Shanghae, I think it proper to inclose, for your Lordship's information, copy
of a report made by Commander Pitman, of Her Majesty's sloop “ Childers,”
to Captain Campbell of Her Majesty's ship “ Melampus," and senior officer on
this station , reporting the particulars of the duties he was called on to perform ,
in the execution of the requisition made on him by the Consul, by which it
would seem that, had any one of the 1,400 grain junks, or 50 war junks, fired
a shot, or attempted to put to sea , collision would have inevitably ensued .
In fact, it appears that a strict blockade of the river was in force, and that
all vessels of every description, grain junk or otherwise, which attempted
to leave it, were of necessity stopped, and that had the crews of any of these
vessels , emboldened by their own numbers, or instigated by the local
authorities, attempted to put to sea, or to dispute the right of search,and
which the presence of only one small brig was certainly not calculated to
prevent, I, in all probability , should have had to report the termination of the
affair in a manner very different from that which I have had the great
satisfaction of doing.
Your Lordship will, I am satisfied, not fail to observe the very
embarrassing circumstances under which Commander Pitman has been acting,
as well as the zeal and discretion which that officer has displayed throughout
the whole of this important question.
I have, &c.
(Signed) S. G. BONHAM .
天
150
Inclosure in No. 55 .
Commander Pitman to Captain Campbell.
Sir, Shanghae, April 4, 1848.
IT is with great satisfaction that I am able to report to you that most
complete and full redress has been afforded by the authorities; his Excellency
the Nea-tae, or Provincial Judge, arrived here on the 28th ultimo, with ten of
the ringleaders concerned in the late outrage at Tsing -poo. The same afternoon I
went with Her Majesty's Consul, accompanied by Messrs. Medhurst , Lockhart,
and Muirhead, to the Che-heen's public office, for the purpose of seeing whether
the criminals could be identified, which was immediately done by the
above-named gentlemen, and the prisoners were punished on the spot by being
put in the cangue; as the demand was acceded to, the Government grain junks
were allowed to depart that night.
I have felt most anxious for the result of the late negotiations, when I
briefly state that 30,000 of these lawless vagabonds from the north, in the
Government employ, were within a few miles of the city, setting all laws
at defiance ; in addition to which, we had 1,400 grain junks above us in
the river, and 50 war junks below , such a powerful force might have
overwhelmed us by numbers at any moment, notwithstanding that we had
twelve armed vessels ready to repair to this anchorage fromWoosung at a
moment's notice .
After a most harassing blockade of fifteen days, which applied to only one
of the many classes of vessels engaged in traffic on this river, and which
necessarily obliged us to board them all, I am proud to say that this arduous
service has been performed by the officers and men under my command in
perfect good feeling, and in no one instance has a hostile collision taken place,
and the trade of this port has not been interrupted.
It has been a trial of strength up to the last moment, between Her
Majesty's Consul and the authorities, and the recent events clearly show
that the coercive means adopted were forced upon us, and we might have
been in the same position at this day's date, as we were on the 9th ultimo, had
it not been in my power to send Her Majesty's sloop “ Espiègle ” to Nanking,
as four days after her departure, when the Lieutenant -Governor at Soo - chow
was made acquainted that a vessel of war had gone to Nanking with a
despatch of the late disturbance, and to demand that prompt steps might be
taken to bring the guilty parties to punishment, he instantly sent his
Excellency the Provincial Judge, whose rank is far above the Taoutae's, to
Tsing -poo, with orders to have the ringleaders immediately apprehended and
to take effective measures to have this affair instantly settled.
I am fully aware that I, in conjunction with Her Majesty's Consul, have
taken upon myself great responsibility, but seeing our critical position on my
arrival here, and the circumstances connected with this murderous attack on
three British subjects, I considered I was called upon to take most urgent
measures to obtain redress, and by so doing to prevent a recurrence of such
outrages. Waiting for orders from Hong Kong would have been to have
played the part the authorities wished us to do. I believe it is the first
instance in China where we have been able to identify the guilty parties.
Justice has been completely obtained , and our friendly relations and security
again established at this port, and I have every reason to hope it may be
permanent.
On the 29th ultimo I went with Mr. Alcock to visit his Excellency the
Provincial Judge, who afterwards returned with us on board the “ Childers,”
and on his leaving I saluted him . He left this place on the 30th ultimo, much
pleased that all had been so cordially arranged, and with entire satisfaction to
all parties.
I have the honour to inclose you copies of letters sent me by Her Majesty's
Consul, by which you will see the opinions of the foreign community, who
consider all that has been done here is for their best interests and future
security to life and property.
Her Majesty's sloop “ Espiègle” has not returned yet, although hourly
xpected, the wind for the last forty -eight hours has been entirely against
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her. On her arrival here I shall immediately dispatch her to the station at
Ningpo .
I cannot close this letter without reporting to you how highly I am pleased
with the conduct and exertions of the officers and men under my command ,
who have carried out my orders so efficiently as to prevent any act of hostility,
and I do trust that his Excellency the naval Commander -in -chief, as well as
yourself, will approve what has been done.
I have, &c.
(Signed) J. C. PITMAN .
No. 53.
Mr. Bonham to Viscount Palmerston.— (Received June 21.)
My Lord, Victoria, Hong Kong, April 24, 1848 .
SINCE I had the honour to address your Lordship on the 12th instant ,
Her Majesty's steam sloop of war “ Fury ” has returned from Shanghae, bringing
me despatches from Mr. ConsulAlcock of the 10th and 12th instant, respectively,
which, with their inclosures, I now transmit for your Lordship's information .
Mr. Alcock's letter of the 10th announces the return of Her Majesty's
brig “ Espiègle” to Shanghae, and incloses Mr. Robertson's report of his
proceedings on his mission, which, as it appears entirely satisfactory in every
respect, renders it unnecessary for me to make any remarks on it, and thereby
to add to the voluminous correspondence which has already passed on this
question. I may, however,perhaps be permitted to congratulate your Lordship
on the entire success of this mission , opening as it has done the gates of
Nanking and of the Yamun of the Viceroy for the first time since our inter
course with China commenced.
Mr. Alcock's letter of the 12tb is simply an explanation of the reasons that
induced him to proceed to the length he considered it proper to do without
previous reference to theChief Superintendent. It is, indeed, very satisfactory
to observe the talent and ability displayed by that gentleman, and the result
of his operations and negotiations clearly show that he did not enter on the
responsible position he assumed without duly weighing the chances of success,
and likewise the means within his power of a dignified withdrawal, should by
accident his views have proved erroneous as to the probable proceedings on the
part of the Chinese under the circumstances, or the steps adopted by him to
ensure his object prove ineffective ; and I confess therefore I shall be happy to
hear that this negotiation, which has been so ably conducted and successfully
terminated, may meet your Lordship’s approval.
But, my Lord,I would remind you that, being a comparative stranger in
this country, I did feel on the receipt of Mr. Alcock's first despatches, which
reached me the day after my arrival here, not a little anxious as to the results
of his measures, and in which I thoroughly saw that my able and experienced
predecessor participated. Mr. Alcock's acknowledged talent and ability has
brought the question in this instance to a very successful termination, and it
has, moreover, been thoroughly proved that he judged rightly as to the probable
result of his measures, still I am of opinion that it could scarcely have been
intended that theConsuls generally should be invested with the power that has
been assumed, although onthis occasion, under the explanation afforded by Mr.
Alcock, it may have been advisable.
My limited residence of only one month in this colony, has prevented my
becoming acquainted with any of the other four Consuls, I can therefore only
say, that it will be cause of congratulation to your Lordship, and of great
comfort to myself, to find in these officers, the same high qualifications and
activity, clearly possessed by Mr. Alcock ; but, as this may not be the case, it
>
may still be doubted if it would have been prudent, on my part, to have allowed
this matter to have passed unnoticed, and thereby to have given countenance to
a similar course of action on their part, and which they would naturally be
desirous of following, whenever opportunity might offer.
X 2
152
If I only studied my own convenience, or to hold myself irresponsible, I
should naturally advocate the Consuls being entrusted with very enlarged
powers ; but I am not unconscious of the arduous and delicate duties that your
Lordship has seen fit to entrust to me, and of the confidence that Her Majesty's
Government has been pleased to honour me with , and I am therefore particularly
desirous that I should be instructed whether the views that I have taken on this
occasion, are correct, or otherwise.
I have, &c.
(Signed) S. G. BONHAM .
Inclosure 1 in No. 53 .
Consul Alcock to Mr. Bonham .
Sir , Shanghae, April 10, 1848.
MY despatch of the 31st March will have already made your Excellency
acquainted with the successful termination of the negotiations connected
with the Tsing -poo outrage, by the seizure and punishment of the chief
offenders..
The return of Her Majesty's ship “ Espiegle ” on the 7th instant, enables
me to report the further results attained by the Vice -Consul's mission to
Nanking
The inclosed report from that officer furnishes a detailed account of his
proceedings. It will be seen that the Vice-Consul, as the bearer of my official
statement, was received with every mark of courtesy and distinction by the
Viceroy in person, in the city of Nanking, and that its perusal was followed
by the expression of his Excellency's dissatisfaction at the remissness of the
Taoutae, and acquiescence in the reasonable nature of the representation I had
found it necessary to make.
My request for the dispatch of a delegate of rank was conceded, and the
Viceroy, of his own accord, has afforded a more signal satisfaction by the
removal of the Taoutae ; a successor ad interim having been at once named, as
the inclosed copy of an acting appointment conferred on Woo, will show.
The Vice-Consul brought the inclosed reply, information having been
conveyed at the time of its delivery into his hands, that the Treasurer of the
Province had already been dispatched from Nanking, to Shanghae. On the
6th instant, the late Taoutae Heen announced the resignation of the Seals of
Office to his successor ; the District Magistrate of Tsing-poo, as a matter of
course will also be removed .
On the last day a party of the officers, under the escort of Mandarins,
deputed by the Viceroy, visited the Porcelain Tower, and it appears on their
return, through a vast concourse of people, some stones were thrown at the
party indiscriminately. The next morning at day -break fourteen prisoners were
abreast the ship in the cangue, and his Excellency sent an officer to express his
regret at the occurrence, and to state that he had instantly caused the offenders
to be seized and punished. I attach no other importance to the circumstance
than as it affords аa further proof of the desire of the highest authority of the
Province to prevent all just cause of complaint.
As an incidental advantage gained, I may mention, that accurate
information has been obtained of important alterations, in what appeared
the bed of the Yang -tze-keang when the expedition sailed up, the river
having at the time overflowed its banks by the melting of the snow from the
mountains, so that deep water lay for a considerable distance on each side over
the surrounding country, and in many places shoals are marked on the charts
drawn at the time, far beyond the river's bed.
Careful observation appears also to have been made of the fortifications
raised on the banks since the fleet anchored off Nanking. On these points the
inclosed copy of Captain Campbell's reports to the senior officer, will be found
to give interesting details. )
The outrage took place on the Sth March, the “ Espiègle ” returned on
the 7th instant. Within a month, therefore, complete reparation has been
obtained, and the transaction of business with a British officer in the official
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residence of the chief authority of the Province, within the walls of the second
Imperial city in the Empire, the distinction with which the Vice -Consul was
received, and the reiterated courtesy which marked his Excellency's return visit
on board the man -of-war, cannot, I conceive , fail to exercise a salutary and
permanent influence upon our relations with all local authorities, and to
establish our position in popular estimation on a higher and better footing than
had previously been found attainable.
Nor must I omit to solicit your Excellency's attention to the fact, that the
last results, obtained from the peaceful mission to Nanking, were gained without
painful insisting upon rights and claims : of course no advantage is ever gained
in China without an attempt on the part of the authorities to withhold or give
less than may be desired, but the incidental and preliminary discussions,
necessarily arising from this disposition, were conducted with every mark of
respect to the high authority to whom Her Majesty's Vice-Consul was
accredited, and the points raised were finally conceded , in every instance ,
gracefully and courteously on the part of the Viceroy, as the resultof his own
free will and conviction .
For the tact, good judgment, and ability, shown in the conduct of this
delicate negotiation for privileges and concessions, which could not be insisted
upon, however reasonably and advantageously they might be urged in preli
minary discussions on points of etiquette with the delegates of the Viceroy,
Mr. Vice-Consul Robertson deserves great praise, and looking to the long tried
services of this officer, it affords me much satisfaction to bring his successful
exertions upon this occasion under your Excellency's especial notice.
He reports that he was very happily seconded, as I had no doubt he would ,
by Mr. Interpreter Parkes, whose employment at Foo -chow, where more than
once not very dissimilar affairs had to be discussed with the Viceroy of the
Province, gave him peculiar advantage.
I have, &c.
( Signed) RUTHERFORD ALCOCK .
Inclosure 2 in No. 56 .
Vice - Consul Robertson to Consul Alcock .
Sir , Shanghae, April 7, 1848.
s
IN accordance with the instruction contained in your letter of the 19th
ultimo, directing me to proceed to Nanking, obtain an interview with the
Viceroy, and deliver a letter to his Excellency from you , relative to the attack
lately made at Tsing-poo on the Missionaries Messrs. Medhurst, Lockhart, and
Muirhead, I have the honour to report, that on the evening of the same day, I
went on board Her Majesty's ship " Espiègle," at anchor off this city, accom
panied by Mr. Interpreter Parkes, a Chinese writer, and two policemen .
At daybreak on the 20th, wegot under weigh, dropped down to Woosung,
and at 2 o'clock, P.m , had reached Point Harvey in the Yang-tze -keang, when
the vessel took the ground, but fioated again on the following morning. In the
evening of the 21st we again grounded on the north bank of the river, a little
below Keashan, and there remained until the morning of the 23rd, when the
vessel was hove off. On the morning of the 24th, we made the best of our
way up the river, with light and partialwinds, and a strong current against us,
and on the 25th anchored under Choo -shan.
Here we were boarded by a military Mandarin surnamed Chin, of the rank
of lieutenant -colonel, intrusted with the command of the defences in this
neighbourhood, who came off to make inquiries as to the object of our visit.
I told him I was on my way to Nanking on business with the Viceroy. He said
that the people were alarmed at our presence, and that the gates of Chin
Keang -foo had been closed. I told him that there was no causefor alarm , that
my mission was a peaceful one, and doubtless would speedily be arranged at the
interview I required with the Viceroy. In reply to his inquiry as to whether
we intended to land elsewhere, I acquainted him that such was not my
intention ; that my business was at Nanking alone, and nowhere else. He
appeared satisfied with this explanation and took his leave.
154
On the following morning, the 26th, the Che -heen or Magistrate of Tantoo,
the district in which we then were, and in which the city of Chin -keang- foo is
situated, came on board , as he said, to pay his compliments and offer his
services. He asked, in effect, the samequestions as the lieutenant-colonel did,
and I answered them accordingly, declining his services on the plea of the
trouble it would givehim , but eventually parting with every expression of good
will and courtesy on both sides.
We then got under weigh and run up for a couple of miles, but were
compelled to anchor from the breeze failing us. No sooner had we done this
than we were boarded by various other Mandarins, who proved to be the Prefect
of Chin -keang-foo, accompanied by the above-mentioned Magistrate, and
lieutenant- colonel, with another military officer of inferior rank. Being
convinced that the best way to obtain an audience with the Viceroy would be
keep the objects of my mission as private as possible, I had previously
determined upon declining any further interviews with the subordinate
authorities, and this party was accordingly received by Captain Campbell and
Mr. Parkes only.. This had the good effect of shortening their stay, as when
the main subject was referred to by them , Captain Campbell had only to say,
that it was a matter in which he was nowise concerned, to put an immediate
stop to their inquires, and to banish any hopes they entertained of prevailing
upon me to go no further,and to transact my business with the Viceroy through
them . Their offers to afford us assistance or to furnish us with supplies, were
renewed on their departure.
The next morning we were again under sail, and about 12 o'clock had
passed Chin -keang -foo, and anchored four miles above Golden Island. Here
we were boarded by the district Magistrate, and lieutenant -colonel command
ing at Eching, a city a few miles further up the river. These officers, either
from fear or diffidence had at first much difficulty in assigning a reason for
their visit, but afterwards stated, that they had been directed by the Viceroy, to
learn from us the cause of our appearance. They then of themselves produced
as their authority the sealed instructions of his Excellency, but Mr. Parkes
perceiving on looking over this document, that we were therein spoken of as
barbarians, it was at once returned to them , and they were immediately requested
to leave the ship.
Shortly after another boat ran alongside, having on board a military
Mandarin surnamed Chang, of the rank of major. Mr. Parkes saw this officer
and told him in answer to his inquiries, that I was on board on a visit to the
Viceroy at Nanking. He said that as we were resolved to go there, it would
be well to make some arrangements previously, in order that the Viceroy
mightbe prepared to give me an interview , admitting that he had been sent
down for that purpose. On Mr. Parkes reporting this to me, I requested him
to tell the officer, that when we reached Nanking, I should be prepared to
make any arrangements that were requisite , but that I saw no necessity for
entering into these matters beforehand. This was the last visit paid us by the
Mandarins on our way up, who finding that they could gain nothing by their
inquiries, thought it useless to make further attempts.
Finally, after some further delay, owing to our having made an ineffectual
attempt to go through a shorter but narrower channel, we anchored off Nanking
on the evening of the 29th .
Early the next morning the Lieutenant-Colonel Chin, and the Major
Chang, came off, and I then declared that the object of my visit was to have
an interviewwith the Viceroy, for the purpose of delivering to him a letter from
Her Britannic Majesty's Consul at Shanghae, and requested them to take our
cards,and arrange for a meeting as soon as convenient. They at once admitted
the willingness of the Viceroy to give one, and proposed to have it held at the
Temple outside the city, where Sir Henry Pottinger had met the Commissioners
in 1842. But to this I demurred ; and I may here perhaps state myreasons for
objecting to this arrangement .
In the first place, I had advanced so farin the negotiation as to have the
interview fixed : that point therefore was settled, and the next question was as
to the spot where it should be held. Being led to infer from the conversations
that had taken place with the authorities on our way up the river, and many
other little circumstances which came under my observation,that I could safely
take a strong position, and execute the mission with which I was intrusted, in
155
the manner most creditable to the Consul, and most advantageous to British
interests, I then told these officers that I had come to Nanking on a matter of
public business, that the only fit place to transact this was at the Yamun or
official residence of the authority to whom I was sent, and that I could not
think of giving the Viceroy the trouble of coming out of the city to see me,
when it was my duty, in deference to his rank , to wait upon him, I therefore
requested that they would communicate to his Excellency my sentiments on this
subject, and beg him to name a time for my visit..
They urged that if I was resolved upon entering the city, the meeting
should be held at the Literary Hall, and not at the Yamun of the Viceroy, on
the plea that the Hall was the place at which Sir Henry Pottinger was received
by the Imperial Commissioners at the interview which he held with them inside
the city ; but to this I objected, on the grounds, that the cases were by no
means of a parallel nature, as my business lay with the Viceroy of the Province,
and not with any authorities who were only temporary residents there, and that
if any other place but his Yamun were fixed upon, his Excellency might as
well come out of the city at once.
They then said they must receive the instructions of the Viceroy on
this head, as also with regard to the various ceremonies that were to be observed
during the meeting, and took their leave to return again in the afternoon .
This they did at 6 P.m., andinformed me that the Viceroy considered my
reasons for seeing him at his Yamun conclusive, and had named noon on the
following day, as the time when he would receive me. The various ceremonial
points (though after much discussion ), had also been most satisfactorily
arranged, his Excellency having acceded to all that I had required. The three
large gates were to be opened, we were to leave our chairs after passing through
the second one, and walk to the third, where the Viceroy would meet and
conduct us to the Hall of Audience, I was also to receive the usual salute of
three guns .
On the following morning, the 31st, the two officerscame on board to take
us on shore. Captain Campbell, with three of his officers , Mr. Parkes, and
myself, went in the ship's boats, and on landing were placed in sedan-chairs,
with four bearers each, and accompanied by a military escort and numerous
police-runners, set off for the city, passedthrough the gates, at which I observed
à strong guard, and after a ride of an hour and forty minutes — such is the
immense area within the walls — we reached the Viceroy's Yamun, and were
received by him in the manner previously arranged.
We then sat down in the form of a half- circle, his Excellency placing me
in a seat at the top next to himself. Refreshments were brought in , and after
some general conversation, I entered on the object of my visit, and getting up
presented him with your letter, which he received standing and bowing. Having
opened and read it, he said that it was a very reasonable letter, and that, doubt
less, the Taoutae at Shanghae had been very remiss in not taking more active
measures for securing the punishment of the delinquents ; but that since we
had left the Judge of the Province had been sent from Soo -chow, who, he
thought, would speedily arrange everything. II pointed out to him that one
object of my mission was to obtain the appointment by his Excellency of a
Delegate from Nanking, his own Court, to proceed to Shanghae, to effect an
adjustment of the matter; and impressed upon his Excellency the necessity of
this step, from the moral effect it would have on both the local authorities and
the people ; that hereafter, under similar circumstances, the one would act with
promptness, to avoid appeal to the higher authority, and the other would see
that foreigners were not to be molested with impunity, or offenders escape the
punishment due to their acts, by declaration of incompetency to seize them on
the part of these local authorities.
His Excellency admitted the truth of this, but declared that the fittest
person had already been sent. Mr. Parkes and Ihadprovided for this objection
by previous conversation on the subject. I was therefore prepared, and at once
named the Treasurer of the Province as the most proper officer that he could
send for the purpose. As I expected, he objected to this, asserting many rea
sons, all of which were met and refuted; but, deeming that the interview was
sufficiently prolonged, and that if a second and more private one could be
obtained I should be able to act more effectually in the matter, I signified my
wish to take my leave, urging on his consideration what I had said, and express
156
ing my conviction that my arguments would have due weight with bis
Excellency.
I then expressed a wish to see him again on the morrow , to which he
assented ,and mentioned the Temple outside the city as a convenient place for
all parties. Captain Campbell took this opportunity to ask whether he would
>
like to visit the “ Espiègle.” His Excellency signified the satisfaction it would
give him to do so, remarking that “ it would afford him an opportunity of
returning our visit, which it was only proper that he should do so, ” and he then
fised upon the next day to come on board .
I may mention that a repast was served up of which the Viceroy partook
with us, his Excellency and another Mandarin, late Taoutae at Ningpoo, Captain
Campbell, Mr. Parkes, and myself, sitting at one table, and the naval officers
at another table, with Lieutenant -Colonel Chin . After having dined we took
our leave, the same ceremonies being observed on our departure as on our
arrival.
The following day, the 1st of April, turned out wet and stormy. The
Viceroy came down to the beach, but it blew too heavily for him to come off to
the ship. Mr. Parkes went on shore, and arranged for his Excellency to pay
his visit on the next day, the 2nd , which he did , and was received with yards
manned and due honours. He inspected the brig, and partook of luncheon ..
Mr. Parkes settled that we should go on shore, and have an interview at the
Temple, as I was of opinion that the matters under discussion could be more
properly be entered into there than on board the brig, where he was paying
only a visit of ceremony. Accordingly I followed him when he left, and Mr.
Parkes, who had gone on shore to receive him , accompanied him back to the
beach .
On reaching the Temple we found his Excellency waiting to receive us,
and after being seated entered at once into the business before us, taking up
the question of the expediency of sending the Provincial Treasurer to Shanghae,
which, from conversations Mr. Parkes had with various of the authorities in
passing to and fro from the ship during the morning, we were led to believe the
Viceroy had made up his mind to do. His Excellency began by expressing his
conviction of the obligation of preserving the good relations existing between
the two countries, and how anxious he was to do all in his power to further that
ohject. He regretted the necessity he felt for degrading Heen-ling, the Taoutae
of Shanghac, who had clearly been most remiss in the performance of his duty,
and insinuated the difficulty you, the Consul , would hereafter experience in
meeting him after what had occurred ; and that he deemed his removal from
office at Shanghae essential .
Mr. Parkes and I, in anticipation of such a result, had had some conversa
tion previously together on the subject, and I in the end instructed him , that in
the event of such a question arising, to decline passing an opinion upon it. My
reason for taking this ground was my knowledge that Sam -qua, the late Hong
merchant at Canton, had been long hanging about Shanghae, open to employ
ment, and evidently with his eye on that port, as its future Taoutae, in the
event of the removal of Heen-ling from office. To acquiesce with the Viceroy
in the justice of his remark, would cause , I feared , a termination of Heen -ling's
tenure of office, and Sam -qua would, in all probability, step into the vacancy.
Not to acquiesce with his Excelleney, would put us in the position of bringing a
serious charge of negligence against the Taoutae Heen -ling, for which he deserved
degradation, and yet when that degradation was all but offered, to support him
after condemning him , thus entailing a doubt as to the soundness of our case,
most inexpedient to have incurred . I had, therefore, determined, as far as we
were concerned, to leave it an open question, trusting to have an opportunity of
giving the Viceroy to understand that Sam -qua would not suit us at Shanghae in
any way, and thus put a stop to any intention that may have been entertained
of presenting him with the appointment. Moreover, I conceived that if the
Taoutae Heen ling was to be removed, it had better be the simple act of his own
Government, and unconnected with any influence of ours, as I imagined that
the Viceroy would be well pleased to assign our resquest as a conclusive reason
for his removal , and thus throw upon us the onus of the step. Besides the
appointment of аa delegate of superior rank to the Taoutae Heen-ling to adjust the
affair at Shanghae, constituted of itself aa virtual suspension, and it was to obtain
157
this that I heldout so firmly for the appointment of an officer of so high a
standing as the Treasurer.
Under these circumstances, in answer tothe Viceroy's insinuation respecting
the removal of the Taoutae Heen -ling, Mr. Parkes made answer, “ that it was a
question which must rest with his Excellency alone to decide.”
As I had expected, the opportunity to check the employment of Sam-qua
soon offered, by the Viceroyshortly after observing, that he had appointed
another officer of the rank of Taoutae, and here he mentioned Sam -qua'sname,
to assist in arranging the business. I instructed Mr. Parkes to hint to his Excel
lency, that there was no necessity whatever for the interference of Sam-qua in
our affairs, and, I believe Mr. Parkes urged this in so pointed a manner, that the
Viceroy well understood our feeling upon the subject.
Finally, after some discussion as to the difficulties that existed respecting
the employment of the Provincial Treasurer, his Excellency signified his inten
tion ofdispatching that functionary immediately to Shanghae, as a delegate, in
compliance with your request for one, there to act with the Provincial Judge in
bringing matters at Shanghae to aa satisfactory conclusion .
I have not detailed the various manœuvres and arguments made use of by
the authorities with whom these negotiations were entered upon, from the
Viceroy downwards, to put us off, and get the business closed in accordance
with their views of the case, although I am bound to say, that every disputed
point was eventually conceded by them with the best possible grace, and with
an evident intent to satisfy our demands. At one time the discussion relative
to the appointent of Provincial Treasurer assumed a curious position, being a
close argument between the Viceroy and Mr. Parkes as to the stated impossi
bility of employing him, on the plea that that officer could never be detached
from his office, nor even be employed on any other but his financial affairs. But
Mr. Parkes adduced precedents to prove thecontrary, which doubtless materially
tended to gain the object in view, for the Viceroy was obliged to relinquish this
line of argument, and fall back, first upon the propriety of the prior appointment
of the Provincial Judge, and, lastly, to appealing to me as to whetherI thought
he would not act in good faith, and with good intentions ? My answer to this
was,that such a doubt could not exist in my mind after the courteous reception
he had given us at Nanking, which was the best proof of his intention ; but that
the appointment of the Provincial Judge had not emanated from his Excellency,
nor bad he been dispatched from Nanking, he having been deputed by the
Lieutenant-Governor, and sent from Soo- chow only, which we might have
obtained by going at once to that city, instead of travelling this long distance to
Nanking, or troubling his Excellencyat all on the subject. He then urged that by
reiterating the orders for the dispatch of the Judge he made the appointment
virtually his own, and deemed that that would be found sufficient. I , in answer,
acknowledged the sufficiency of the appointment, but objected to it on the
ground that the moral effect which it conveyed, would not be the same as if
some officer of high rank were sent direct from the Viceroy himself; that my
instructions were to wait upon his Excellency, and after presenting your letter,
receiving an answer, and being informed that a delegate from Nanking
had been appointed to proceed to Shanghae, my mission was concluded, and I
hoped that he would, as speedily as possibly, place me in a position to return
and report that the request of Her Britannic Majesty's Consul had been
acceded to by His Excellency.
The interview Mr. Parkes and I had with the Viceroy at the Temple on
the 2ndinstant, was attended with marked courtesey and politeness on the part
of his Excellency. He expressed openly and freely in condemnatory terms, his
opinion of the event at Shanghae, that had caused our visit, and his regret
at the occurrence. On our leaving he mentioned his intention of dispatching the
Treasurer as soon as possible, which would either be on the following day,
or early on the morning after, and stated that he should give me notice of the
departure of that officer, at the same time that he should me send an answer
to your letter, in order that we might return to Shanghae without further
delay.
Seeing that we should thus have to remain another day off Nanking, I
took the opportunity of requesting the permission of his Excellency for the
officers of the brig to visit the Porcelain Tower, begging that if the least
objection existed to the trip, he would say so, as it was only wished for as
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a means of passing the time while waiting for his Excellency's answer to the
Consul's letter to be sent on board. Before Mr. Parkes had concluded making
mention of my request, his Excellency turned round to Lieutenant-Colonel
Chin, and Major Chang, and directed them to attend the following day to take
the party up to visit the Tower, and on my again stating that I should regret
if my request caused any trouble or inconvenience, he answered me that
such would by no means be the case, and that he was happy to give us the
opportunity of seeing the edifice. We then, after having partaken of some
refreshment with his Excellency, took our leave and returned on board.
The next day, the 3rd instant, the Lieutenant-Colonel Chin and
Major Chang, came off at 8 o'clock in two boats. We reached the landing
place on the south side of the city at about 2 o'clock, and there found several
Mandarins of rank, with attendants and chairs awaiting us, but the distance to
the Pagoda being but short we walked up, and though followed by a large
crowd, had not to complain of the slightest molestation. After viewing
the Tower we adjourned to a dinner in one of the adjoining buildings, and then
proceeded on our return to the boats. As we advanced through the square in
which there many thousands of people collected, some stones were thrown at us
from far behind, which struck indiscriminately both us and the Mandarins and
attendants. Wetook no notice of this assault, and walked out of the square
into the street, where the stoning ceased, and we reached our boats in safety.
Proceeding down the canal a few more stones were thrown at the boats,
but beyond this, no obstruction or any appearance of ill-will was shown,
and considering the immense concourse of people, among whom must always be
idle and ill disposed, I am not inclined to attach any importance to this
incident, but regard it merely as a casualty I am bound to mention.
On our return an officer came on board with the Viceroy's answer to your
letter, and with notice that the Treasurer would leave at 8 o'clock the following
morning, the 4th, for Shanghae.
On the following morning at daylight, fourteen men were seen abreast of
the ship kneeling in the cangue, and the Lieutenant -Colonel Chin accompanied
by Major Chang, and another officer came off with a list of their names, having
been sent by the Viceroy to express how deeply annoyed and grieved his
Excellency felt at our having been molested, as also his intentions to use
his utmost endeavours to severely punish the offenders. At the same time, he
reported to me that the Treasurer had already commenced his journey, taking
leave of this officer, sail was made, and we immediately left the city of
Nanking on our return ,
I have now the pleasing duty to convey my deep sense of the services
rendered during this mission by Mr. Parkes,to whose exertions, tact, and zeal,
its successful termination is chiefly due, and I only hope that ifin the course of
my career in the public service in China, I am again placed in communication
with the authorities on matters of a similar nature , I may have the benefit
of his valuable assistance. It is easy to speak well of the exertions of an
officer in a general way, but it is not so easy to express the particular
opinion you may entertain of the way in which those services are rendered, and
above all, of the tact and good sense brought to bear on the occasion. I beg,
therefore, you will take my simple assertion that, if our communications
with the Viceroy at Nanking have been effected in a manner worthy of
our position in China, to Mr. Parkes chiefly is due the success attending
my endeavours on that point .
I have also to express my sense of the kindness I experienced from
Commander Campbell, during our protracted voyage up the Yang-tze-keang.
I have, &c.
(Signed ) B. ROBERTSON .
159
Inclosure 3 in No. 56 .
Declaration .
(Translation.)
Le, a Chief Guardian of the Crown Prince, a Director of the Board of War, and
Governor -General of Keang -nan and 'Keang-see ;
Luh, a Vice -president of the Board of War, and Lieutenant -Governor of the
Province of Keang-soo, declare the following directions for an acting
appointment :
HEEN, the Intendant of Circuit for the departments of Soo -chow -foo,
Sung-keang -foo, and Tae-tsang - chow, having in the management of affairs
acted erroneously, and failed in the performance of his duty, has now been
removed, leaving his office vacant. We learn that Woo (Sam-qua), an unat
tached Intendant, is possessed of ability sufficient to temporarily conduct the
affairs of that office ; and we now, therefore, do at once declare his appoint
ment to the same . Let the said Intendant, immediately on receipt of this his
authority, and in obedience to the orders therein made known, proceed to
officiate in that office, and let him duly report to us for our information the
date of his arrival at his post.
Disobey not. A special declaration.
Taoukwang, 28th year, and month, 28th day. (April 1, 1848.)
Inclosure 4 in No. 56.
The Governor -General Le to Consul Alcock.
( Translation .)
Le, of the Tatsing Empire, one of the Chief Guardians of the Crown Prince, a
Director of the Board of War, and Governor-General of the two Keang
Provinces, makes known the following :
ON the 27th day of the second month (31st March ), Mr. Vice - Consul
Robertson and Mr. Interpreter Parkes came to the provincial city, where, as in
duty bound, I gave them an interview and a courteous reception. They
delivered to me your statement, from which I learn that the Missionaries,
Mr. Medhurst and others, had been assaulted and wounded by certain sailors
at Tsing -poo, but that after a protracted delay none of the offenders had yet
been seized or punished, and that therefore in accordance with Treaty Rights
you had proceeded to lay your complaint before me.
I find with regard to this case that the Intendant of Circuit for Soo-chow
foo, Sung -keang -foo, and Tae-tsang-chow (Taoutae of Shanghae), and others,
had previously reportedthe matter to me,upon which I, the Governor-General,
in concert and communication with Luh, Lieutenant -Governor of the Province
of Keang-soo, deputed E > acting judge for that Province, and Woo (Sam -qua),
an unattached Intendant, to proceed with all haste, and with the Magistrate of
Tsing -poo, and other officers under his command, to seize many of the criminals
principals and accomplices, and forward them to Shanghae for trial and
both
punishment.
By this time the affair has been finally adjusted, but a question now
remains as to whether the Intendant of Circuit for Soo- chow -foo, Sung-keang
foo, and Tae-tsang - chow, has not acted wrongly in the matter and failed in the
performance of his duty. I, the Governor -General, have therefore deputed
Chuen, the Treasurer of Nanking, and Chin, an unattached Intendant, to pro
ceed overland to Shanghae, and in concert and communication with E the
acting judge of Keang-soo, and Woo, the unattached Intendant, to thoroughly
examine into and arrange this point. These mcasures will prove how desirous
I am to afford you protection.
The maritime duties should now be paid as heretofore, and the rice junks
be allowed to quietly proceed to sea , and British subjects should continue to
confine the extent of their excursions to the limits that were originally laid
down and fixed upon, in the hope that by both nations adhering to the esta
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160
blished regulations the Treaty of perpetual peace and friendship may be
cemented .
It is my duty to make the above known to you.
month. 29th day. ( April 3, 1848. )
Taoukwang, 28th year, 2nd month,
Inclosure 5 in No. 56.
Commander Campbell to Commander Pitman.
Sir, Woosung, April 8 , 1848 .
I BEG to inclose a list of the remarks made on board HerMajesty's sloop
under my command,, on her passage up the Yang-tze-kiang to Nanking.
I have, &c .
( Signed ) FRED. CAMPBELL .
Remarks made on board Her Majesty's sloop “ Espiègle,” on her passage up the
Yang -tze- kiang to Nanking, from the 20th March to 7th April, 1848.
IN proceeding up the Yang-tze-kiang from Woosung, the banks of the
river present a sameness that renders the navigation, otherwise simple, very
precarious and difficult .
The Blonde Shoal is the first difficulty met with, to avoid which, at low
water, I think it advisable to keep as near as possible in your own draft
(two and a-half fathoms) on the southern bank, as by deepening to three
fathoms we grounded on it. There was only then two feet water on its shoalest
part. It appears to be composed of a bed of rocks covered with mud .
The whole of Tsing-ming to Point Harvey is the same low unremarkable land.
The broad opening, five or six miles to the south -eastward of Point Harvey, shows
plainly, and several small junks appeared passing through it. On nearing
Point Harvey, it is particularly necessary to observe its appearance, and fix on
some particular object, some house, or tree, to keep on a south -east by east
bearing, until some distance from it, then shaping a course to the westward.
When abreast of Point Harvey it is very difficult, from the appearance of the
land, without taking this precaution, to fix on any particular part as the point,
and a vessel unwarned, and running up with a fair wind and fresh tide, will
probably, by a few moments? hesitation, be set on shore on the banks to the
northward ; the tide appearing to set in that direction with considerable
velocity .
Single Tree, on the south bank, appears withered at this season. The
main trunk separates into two large limbs, about half its whole height from the
ground, and has thus a forked appearance. Close along side it is another tree
of lesser height, having the same withered appearance.
Great Bush is a cluster of tall trees, and with thick foliage, presenting the
appearance of a large round bush .
Mason Island appears placed too far north on the chart.
Between Plover Point and Foo -shan we had shoal water (three- and - a- quarter
fathoms), with Lang -shan Pagoda bearing northerly, east half -east, and the
second hill from the eastward at Foo -shan west quarter -north . It shoaled more
by hauling to the northward, and we deepened by steering directly towards the
south shore. The above bearings point this shoal part out as directly in
mid-channel .
Lang -shan Pagoda will be easily known. It is on the summit of one of
three hills, which, when seen from the south - eastward, appear nearly as one.
The whole of the surrounding country, as far as the eye can reach, is one
unbroken flat.
At Foo -shan there are four very low remarkable hills. The easternmost is
the smallest, and at a distance not easily made out . The second hill, the next
westward of it, is higher, and there are some houses on it. This hill, together
with Lang -shan Pagoda, are excellent marks for passing over to the other side
161
of the river. This is called the Foo -shan Crossing. A difference in the depths
found, and those on the chart is to be expected, but having worked across, I am
of opinion, by close attention to the cross -bearings, the banks may be easily
avoided .
On reaching the north bank, from thence westward , past Kea -shan, the
navigation is rather troublesome from the great breadth of the river (the south
bank not being visible ), the want of any leading marks, and the channel being
much contracted. In going up we grounded on the north side, having shoaled
suddenly from twelve and a half fathoms to one- quarter less two fathoms.
In hauling off we deepened to twenty-two fathoms. Kea-shan bearing south
west by west quarter-west ; Lang-shan Pagoda south - east by east half-east;
small patch to the southward (east end) south half-west.
Kea -shan will be easily known, it will first appear from the eastward, like a
small round nob of land of moderate elevation ; allthe land in its vicinity is very
flat and low.
In coming down this part of the river, it fortunately happened to be low
water, the banks on both sides being uncovered in very many places to the
height of from six feet to nine feet, and the channel being contracted in one
part, where Kea-shan bore to the south-westward of us to less than three - fourths
of a mile . To avoid getting on shore it is, therefore, necessary to use great
caution . The right bank, after leaving the crossing at Too -shan, may be kept
pretty close on board, you will, however, have several fathoms less water that
what is marked on the chart . When Kea - shan bears west south-west, increase
your distance from the north bank, and I think it would be proper to borrow
towards the south side of the channel until you are past Kea -shan .
Koo -shan is a small low hill with some houses on it, not easily distinguished
if the weather is at all hazy.
All the hills marked on the chart on the south bank as far as Keang- yin
heen will be easily made out. The low one forming to the point of the river
opposite to the south point of Yin shan, kept on a south -west by west quarter
west bearing (though a distant), is a good leading mark for passing between the
>
Cornwallis Shoal and the banks to the northward . A cross -bearing of Koo-shan
will let you know when approaching and when past it. Leading between the
Cornwallis Shoal and the other banks, there are other hills to the eastward of
Keang-yin -heen, which when recognised are useful leading marks.
Cornwallis shoal is the small bank on the south side of the channel, marked
with one and a half fathoms on each end of it, bearing from Koo - shan cast
south-east nearly. It was completely uncovered when we passed it.
Proceeding up the river the south end of Starling Island, and Hwang -shan
hill will become visible. By keeping the latter not quite on with the south end
of Starling Island, but rather to the southward of it, it will lead you right up if
to it, clear of the banks, which project from the north side of the channel.
Starling Island is long, exceeding low and flat, the southern part is
wooded and inhabited,but the northern half is an extremely narrow low slip of
and that will in all probability be swept away at the first time of any unusual
swelling of the river. The north extremity for about a mile has already
disappeared, which I proved by transit bearings of the north extreme of the
island and Hwang-shan hill, both in going up and returning down. The present
bearing being east by north half north, and instead of there being twelve
fathoms closeto it, it is rather shoal, and should be given a berth at low water
of at least half a cable. The rest of the island, from its south point upwards,
we found bold too .
When abreast of the eastern entrance to the Sha -yaou river it appears
difficult to proceed, the chart showing a blank without any soundings, and
instead of one small island only appearing on the right hand, there are actually
three visible with houses and numbers of rush huts thickly studding them all
over. They extend as far north as an east north-east, bearing from thenorth
point of the entrance to the Sha-yaou river. On the chart, deep water (thirteen
fathoms) is marked near the north pointof the Sha -yaou river, but wefound it
shoal , having only four fathoms. We deepened by hauling more towards the
islands above mentioned .
After passing this place keep towards the right bank of the river (taking
the precaution not to come too near the northern extremity of these islands,
in the event of any spit growing up in a northerly direction ), until Choo-shan
162
Pagoda, which will soon be seen over the land and recognised, bears nearly west,
when the left bank must be immediately crossed over to, you will then be to the
westward of the long shoal marked with quarter fathoms on it, but which was
visible to us full six feet above the water for nearly a mile. This shoal is
called after the “ Jupiter," who grounded on it.
Proceeding onwards there are apparently no obstructions to the navigation
of the river until past the western entrance to the Sha - yaou river. In the
channel, nearly due west from Chooshan Pagoda, a sunken rock is marked on
the chart. It was visible to us about seven feet above the water, and had a
pole fixed on it. It lies about a cable's length from the eastern shore, and
under a small hill on that side .
Seaow -sha Island is extremely low and flat, without trees or habitation of
any kind on it, and I should think frequently inundated. To the southward ,
and abreast of its eastern extremity, there is, I believe, a shoal, extending
from the southern shore to within two cables ' length of this point of the island,
and on which Her Majesty's ship " Calliope" grounded. It is said there is only
nine feet water on it.
Silver Island. We passed up and beat down to the southward of this
island. Less water than marked on the chart will be found, and the depths
very irregular. In going up, the point on the left bank may be rounded close,
but just within it, abreast of the island, it shoals. Borrowing to this side, to
weather the west end of Silver Island , we shoaled to three and a -half fathoms
for several casts.
Off the west end of Ta -sha is a bank which we shoaled on in working
out.
Marion Rock. Proceeding on past Golden Island there is a sunken rock ,
marked on the chart close over to the northern shore. It lies, however, directly
in midchannel, and in a direct line between the west point of the creek on the
south bank and the most elevated and most remarkable part of the bank on the
north shore. It has been built on by the Chinese, and now shows four or five feet
above the water. I observed a whitewashed mark on the rocks below the
Pagoda on Golden Island, and after passing the rock we brought the Pagoda
and this mark in one, it then appeared in a direct line over and on with the
rock, and appears intended as a mark for it . On our return down, by keeping
the Pagoda open to the right of the mark, we passed clear to the southward
of it .
Pih -sin - chow Island. Midway between the eastern point of this island
and the north shore is a bank , uncovered, three or four feet above the water,
with apparently a navigable channel, used by the junks, on either side of it .
We stood near it, and tacked in fifteen fathoms water, not far from it.
Along the south - east side of this island are several banks, which uncover at
low water. They lie parallel to the shore, a short distance from it, and are
steep too.
After passing E -ching, there are some remarkable hills. First, a range
marked on the chart as stretching to the north -west, but also to the north-east ;
next, westward of them , are two conical-shaped hills, with some table-land at the
back ; a very little further west is a remarkable table hill. Westward of the
creeks at E -ching, there are some shoal patches near the north shore, on the
edge of one of which we anchored during the night, the wind having failed us.
The weather next morning was too hazy to observe any bearings to get our
position exactly, but I sounded during the night, and found four fathoms about
half cable from the shore, rocky bottom . Off the mouth of the creek, on the
north shore, and south -east by south from the two hills, we had some shoal
casts over a rocky bottom, extending southward one -third the way across the
river.
We tried to pass through the creek which leads to the south of Tsaou -heae
hea Island, but after advancing about one-third of the distance, were obliged to
retrace our steps, finding only half the depth of water marked on the chart. It
is a very narrow channel ; a longer vessel than ourselves would have been
obliged to have returned the best part of the way stern foremost.
Off the north -east side of Tsaou -heae-hea Island, a shoal extends full one
third of the way across the river. Its northern edge uncovers for about three
cables' length in a direction parallel to the shore. When abreast of the centre
part, Ning- yan -shan pagoda bore north north - east, quarter east.
163
We observed a rock uncovered near the western shore, about a mile to the
northward of Ping - shan pagoda .
(Signed) E. H. GARWOOD, Master.
Inclosure 6 in No. 56 .
Commander Campbell to Commander Pitman.
Sir, Shanghae, April 7, 1848.
I HAVE the honour to acquaint you, for the information of his Excellency
the Commander-in -chief, that Her Majesty's sloop under my command anchored
off Nanking on the evening of the 29th March .
During the passage up we grounded three times on soft muddy bottom,
but sustained no injury, though a delay of 48 hours off Lang- shan Pagoda
from the difficulty of getting off, and which was not accomplished without
starting the water and lightening her of six guns, five tons of shot, chain cables,
bower -anchors, and the spare spars.
Between Choo-shan and Nanking we were visited by several Mandarins,
who came off and inquired the object of our visit, which , however, I deferred
acquainting them with, until our arrival at Nankin .
On the 31st March, after several interviews with the Mandarins on board,
1, with several of the officers, accompanied Brooke Robertson , Esquire, Her
Majesty's Vice- Consul at Shanghae, and H. Parkes , Esquire, officiating Inter
preter at that port, into the city of Nanking, when Her Majesty's Vice -Consul
presented his despatches to the Viceroy.
On the 2nd April, the Viceroy visited Her Majesty's sloop, and was
received with all honours .
On the evening of the 3rd instant, Her Majesty's Vice-Consul reported to
me that the object of his mission was concluded, but as it was nearly dark, I
did not deem it advisable to weigh until the following morning.
Inclosed is a list of batteries, with their strength and position, erected by
the Chinese since the last war ; also a few remarks upon the navigation of the
river, which is very different from what it was in the autum of 1842, as it was
then very broad and deep with a current of from three to four miles per hour
setting down, At present the current does not make stronger than from one
halfto two miles per hour, some parts of the river are little more than half the
breadth they were then, with from two to three fathoms less water.
The Mandarins said it was in consequence of the snows not having yet
melted in the interior.
The Viceroy and Mandarins were most polite and attentive, and assisted
us in procuring supplies, but evidently most anxious for our departure, and
much annoyed at our having come up.
On the morning of the 3rd instant, the Viceroy sent Mandarins and boats
for those officers who wished to avail themselves of seeing the Porcelain Tower,
most of whom took advantage of it. On leaving, the people had collected in
thousands, and a few in the rear commenced throwing brickbats, making no
distinction between Englishmen or Mandarins . The Mandarins, with their
attendants and some soldiers, did all in their power to prevent them , but
without success. Fortunately none of the party were much hurt, and the
following morning shortly before our departure fifteen of the culprits were
brought down in front of the ship, with the cangue round their necks. The
Viceroy expressed the deepest regret at the occurrence, and was doing all in
his power to discover the offenders.
Whilst proceeding down the Yang - tze-kiang this day, Her Majesty's sloop