be supplied from forces under the control of the
Shanghai garrison commander, has apparently proved
impracticable).
35
8. It may be of interest to mention, as
illustrating the difficulties which, in addition to the
more obvious ones, confront Chinese shipping companies
in dealing with the problem, that an emphatic protest
against the provision of guards on the Ningpo steamers
has been addressed to the three companies by the "tes-
boys" (stewards) on the boats in question. These
"tea-boys" are a numerous body, with more influence
than might be expected, and they have a duild through
which they make their wishes and opinions known.
The
real reason for their attitude in the present matter
is not at present clear, but presumably they are afraid
that the guards would interfere with the delicate
equilibrium of perquisites and purboires.
9. I will report further as soon as the discussions
now in progress produce some definite result.
I have, etc.,
(Signed) J. F. Erenan.
Consul-General.