Wer territory is occupied by British troops (formal occupation not being completed) and if the Chinese authorities have been taken in hand, Chinese troops are remaining and are supposed to be arriving. When these Chinese troops arrive, I am prepared to order our troops on shore to withdraw.
I think it is as well to take the first chance to let them know as soon as he can safely do so.
As a matter of fact, the disturbance will collapse at the first firm appearance of our troops being able to keep order. This is conceivable, however, that the whole business may have been connived at by the Chinese authorities.
4/4
Sir 9. Wingfield
I think we had better telegraph to Sir H. Blake as follows at once:
In reply to your telegram of today:
Guard carefully against any dead loss, and when necessary, display firmness and do all in your power to endeavour to conciliate the people further.