proportions almost incredible in the present day. The Viceroy would of course be very hostile to it as he is to everything foreign. Though the evildoers are of course somewhat scattered, they have several well-known haunts where they could be surrounded and surprised in large numbers and once it was made clear that their suppression was going to be carried out, the smaller and more isolated bands would no doubt be arrested and handed over to justice by the peaceable inhabitants of the country.
It is quite hopeless now to look for any vigorous action on the part of the Chinese Authorities.
In conclusion I have the honour to enclose copy of a letter with enclosure from the chief British Silk Merchants of the port. The gravity of the interest involved will be apparent when I state that the total amount of contracts for Silk undelivered made by the four firms alone is nearly $3,000,000 and that a considerable proportion of this vast quantity of Silk is already overdue for delivery.
I have etc,
(Sd.) R.W.Mansfield.