ECA
494
...
The moral effect on the Viceroy and the local authorities to be caused by the arrival of one of Her Majesty's ships on the spot within forty-eight hours of the piracy.
The presence of Her Majesty's Ship "Sandpiper" on the West River has undoubtedly had a salutary effect and piracies have been much less numerous of late.
Referring to the request conveyed in my telegram, I venture to suggest that if a firm attitude is taken and compensation exacted from the Chinese Authorities for all property robbed from British ships, not only will it tend to force the hand of the Viceroy and oblige him to take stringent measures for the suppression of robbery and piracy, which are carried on to a scandalous extent, but that British vessels will obtain a prestige which will give them a distinct advantage in obtaining freight and passengers.
I have written strongly to the Viceroy and have so worded my despatch that should you accede to my proposal,