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discussed, we must wait and see whether Chinese officers only will not be sufficient. If the waterways become more peaceful, it will not, I think, then be necessary to trouble our neighbours for assistance and in this way Great Britain will be saved heavy expenses on account of
the pay of her sailors. I feel it therefore incumbent upon
me to request that the discussion of this question may,
for the present, be postponed.
I have the honour to request that you will
communicate the contents of this despatch to H.E. the
Governor of HongKong and at the same time return him my
sincere thanks.
(Seal of Viceroy.)