It will be recollected that the enforcing of the recognition of the Queen of England, as an independent Sovereign, equal in rank to the Emperor of China, was one of the most difficult points in the negotiations with the Chinese Government. It will, therefore, be easily understood that the apparent and unconscious yielding of this point in the Government Gazette of a British Colony, was naturally regarded by the sharp-witted Chinese with contempt and ridicule. I have taken sure steps to ensure the use of the proper titles in the future; but this mistake is an additional proof of the necessity, for the Queen's Service, of the measure which I have recommended.
Moreover, Sir Harry Parkes, probably the most competent judge living of this question, has strongly advised me to send some of the Cadets to Peking; and has kindly offered to give them quarters at the British Legation, and to place them on the same footing with the Students.