CO129-301 - Governor Sir Blake - 1900 [9-12] — Page 62

rake

*

61

of the West River our Naval forces ought to be suffi-

cient if the proper stamp of gunboat were placed upon the

river. The gunboats "Robin" and "Sandpiper" are quite

insufficient. They are too small and too slow. The

French Government, with practically no trade on the West

River has now lying in this harbour two newly Commission-

- ed ships of the "Woodlark" class, which with two large

lighters are almost ready to proceed to their destina-

tion- the West River. In my opinion Great Britain, whose

interests on the West River and North Rivers are para-

mount, ought to be adequately represented there by an er-

fective. Naval force, which at present she is not.

(9* That some measure of reform

; shall be secured in the coming negotiations is devoutly

to be wished, not only in the interests of China but as

offering the greatest hope of security in the future for

the Trade and Commerce of the Western World.

I have the honour to be,

Sir,

Your most obedient,

Humble servant,

Henry Assale

GOVERNOR, &C.

Jat!