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"partly caused by Chinese riot. Consuls and residents reported safe on board Ships. Order soon restored by authorities and with Espoir "Quandouts left for Canton.
and on the following day I telegraphed to Your Lordship, "Canton quiet."
Telegraphic communication between this and Canton was interrupted, for what reason is not known positively, but the severe gale of wind, believed to be the outer edge of a typhoon, which prevailed a few days ago may possibly account for it. Communication with the Acting Consul at Canton could therefore take place except by letter.
3. Commodore Kindington forwarded me a letter which he received from the Acting Consul, a copy of which is annexed, urgently applying for assistance. The delay in receiving this letter was caused by the bad weather encountered by the vessel by which it was conveyed.
Immediately on receipt of Commodore Kindington's letter I despatched the Swiftsure and the Espoir, the only two available vessels in the harbour belonging to the British Navy, except those in reserve which are not manned. I put on board them ten (10) seamen from the Victor Emmanuel Receiving Ship.
4.