CO129-151 - Lieut Governor Whitfield - 1871 [7-8] — Page 196

193

· report

of

Avdd

circulated that the wells

being poisoned. Persons accused

this crime were

rectually seized by

the people and it is sued in at least

one instance, beaten to death.

Crowds in the streets have been more liberal than usual of abuse when foreigners pass by, and threats have been made against some Protestant Missionary Chapols, but so far, wo have only to complain of insult and not of notual violence. I am told the agitation is formidable than any thing

MOMC

of the kind which has occurred

here for many years.

The Viceroy' is I believe, very

anxious to prevent disturbance, but I cannot see that any effective stops

are

yet takon to punish the persons concerned in the circulation of the placards before mentioned, and if the excitement, should continue, shall be certainly in some danger.

The Chinese Steam gunboats.

are

all away from Canton.

I think it

we

I duty to

- acquaint you with the above quats for the information of His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor. Should become more serious, I will,

affairs

again

communicate with

you.

Meantime I berz you will

please shew this Despatch to the