PROCLAMATION
The relations of trade between Chinese and Foreigners make for the good and convenience of the public. Messrs. Butterfield & Swire who have been established in the Treaty Ports of China as a shipping Company, have for many years carried on their business in a peaceable manner. The case last year in which a Portuguese, Noronha, on board the S.S. "Fatshan" was accused of causing the death of a Chinese passenger, caused considerable excitement among the people of Canton, but as the result of my warnings, the carriage of passengers and cargo had proceeded as before without disturbance.
I have now reason to fear some ignorant agitators have been spreading slanderous stories, and I have therefore issued this proclamation in order that it may be known that Messrs. Butterfield & Swire have always traded in a perfectly quiet and legitimate manner, and deserve the gratitude of all Chinese. The firm has made a donation of over $400,000 to the Hongkong University the object of which is to provide an education for the sons of Chinese.
I am also informed that Messrs. Butterfield & Swire have taken steps on all their steamers to restrain their Employees and to treat Chinese passengers with the greatest consideration.
With regard to the case against Noronha, the defendant being a Portuguese subject, the responsibility of trying him rests with the Portuguese Consul. The British Consul has nothing to do with the case and still less should Messrs. Butterfield & Swire be regarded with suspicion and misunderstandings caused.