395
significant.
2.
I have already informed that the French activity in Canton is becoming daily more pronounced.
Not much larger.
They have a naval force there. Theirs are which convicts up small fire boats and leave no stone unturned to advertise themselves as the dominant European power. They have within the past fortnight established a post office.
It is relieved that they are discussing with the Viceroy the concession of a naval station at Whampoa, which would if granted, give them complete control of the river.
I shall inform the Sin E sator of these which it may be the way instructions interact shall be fragment to hence.
It is important that the naval force of Great Britain at Canton should be at least equal to that maintained there by France.
I have the honour to be
Most Obedient
Humble Servant
Henry Smith