CO129-290 - Governor Sir Blake - 1899 [1-4] — Page 492

OP Y.

Subenclosure to Enclosure 3.

482

Midnight.

3rd April, 1899.

My dear General,

I think a force of 200 men ought to go. The Colonial Secretary will accompany them. So far as I can learn the villagers did not attack. They, to the number of 40 or 50, assembled with stones. This is only an ordinary riot so far and I am anxious

to avoid any bloodshed or interference involving responsibility

until I take over the place. I shall therefore instruct the

Colonial Secretary to bring back Mr. May and his force, leaving the

Chinese soldiers to guard the Natshed, and telegraph to the Viceroy

to have two hundred men sent at once for that purpose. It will be

time enough for us to act when we have assumed responsibility. I

have requested the Commodore to get steam on the Torpedo Destroyers,

which will be the quickest means of getting there, and it is well

to have a good show of force. But have a prudent Officer in Com-

mand, remembering that at present we are practically trespassing.

Sincerely Yours,

(Sgd) B. A. Blake.