CO129-217 - Governor Sir Bowen Administrator Marsh - 1884 [7-10] — Page 191

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proceeded to Keelung from Forchow, (where Admiral Courbet, the Commander-in-chief, remains, with six shipd), _ with three men- of-nar, including his Flag-ship --- La falissonnière - a powerful imelad Frigate. On the 4th instant Admiral. Lespes took up positions with his three ships at a distance of about eight, hundred (800) yards from the Chinese Forts at Keelung; summoning them to surrender within twenty four (24) hours. As the Chinese did not comply with

this

(

this summons, the French men-of-

mar

opened fire at the expiration of the term allowed. The fire

was

immediately returned, and both La Galissonnion, and the Villars were

1

struck by Chinese shot, but not m seriously damaged. It is stated that the Chinese Kept up their fire

for only about a quarter of an hour, during which time the Frenck guns! had well-nigh demolished the Forts, and the Chinese soldiers fled.

e

in

utter confusion. && party of French seamen landed and hoisted their

Hag