[ { "id": 231171, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-035 - Public Offices - 1850", "page_number": 215, "title": "CO129-035 - Public Offices - 1850", "content_text": "Admit\n\n212\n\nhis Lady when on\n\nproves it.\n\non their\n\nway\n\nto Frieste,\n\nThat the misfortunes of himself and family hastened the death of the said Alex»\n\n» Comelater — and on the settlement of the peace of Campe the present Memorialist, Joseph George Comelate, having himself rendered important Services from time to time,\n\nwas appointed British Consul at Ancona,\n\n\"in Consideration) . _ (to use the expressions employed by Lord Burghersh, now Earl of Westmorland, at that time British Ambassador in Florence _ ) \"of the Services Rendered and loss sustained by his Father's?\n\nThat in the Year 1815 Memorialist by his timely foresight saved the British and Ionian properly then, in the harbour of Ancona, from King Murat, and he also afterwards at his great personal risk, was (as acknowledged by Capt. C. T. Smith of H. M. Frigate \"Undaunted\") the only means of capturing the Flotilla and Treasure of the same Murat in the Islands of tromite in the Adriatic,\n\nWhere it was proposed to place the Treasures in safety, if the integrity of Memorialist had not rendered the attempt futile by rejecting proposals which, however calculated to repair his shattered fortunes, were inconsistent with his honour and interest of Great Britain).\n\nThat Memorialist continued to discharge the duties of his Office for several Years with fidelity, zeal and activity —\n\nThat", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-035 - Public Offices - 1850.txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 231174, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-035 - Public Offices - 1850", "page_number": 218, "title": "CO129-035 - Public Offices - 1850", "content_text": "215\n\nAdmiralty\n\n2.\n\nLet kembres (Signé,)\n\nH\n\ncolar Commistion)\n\nBoleze Louis Beadnelly\n\nMy Dear Sir,\n\nH.M.S. Undaunted Tremite 7th June 1815.\n\nI have succeeded in getting possession of the Fortress and Titands without any loss; some fortunate circumstances contributed to my success.\n\n[...] Ancona certifica constare a prestar Municipales Pap - presentanza), che il defonto Soy Alessandre Comelite, for riconosciuto ned nel suo hubblico Siplomaties Parattere I'Agonte Politics Commerciales di S.Mr. Britannica) in questa Citta's, dallas autoritas constituite di queis tempe, esercito i Lo doveri del seu impriège a conilgat no usò è distintive Fortifica, instore, the as causar de ana godettes in fehuvilagi.\n\nTales efficiate, pubblicar Nester, e dello Zelo è deller famigliers de turi attac-can ento Suo interesiti del' Joverno Britannicas sollente, Ma Lione)\n\nI now fur affecte Jacca Jenerates Inccheggio nelle diverses invasionis trupper tu mesi in Italia, apportare esser alle leur feersonar tatter les as personnal taller les possibile, ves - Sazimi, a misero a confiscar c'ar confiscar le due proprietà, for cui Suffrè gravissima purdité in mobités, effetti preziosi, mananzie\n\nTutto ciò à pubblico Sone rilascia Centificato. The fede Dal Palazzo Comunitativo il de 29 ed alles.\n\nporscui v tai Marzo 18235\n\n(Signed)\n\ne notor duigi Risotti\n\nI. Speciale Sag\n\nTo\n\ninternal division attended my operation;\n\nThoves rescued 231abcable) out of very bad hands, and I matre) doubt, that two days more would have found the speil) divides\n\nthe 22nd May.\n\ntroupes which composed this Garrison Her\n\nJ. Gromelente. Et\n\nC. Thurlow Smitt\n\nSigned BC. Ther\n\nWe have the greatest the greatest filension in giving, Cortifients under my hund in hammer och Jorges Cometate,\n\nMy first acquaintance) wilts Mr Comalates made? in the Cronals at Uncens 1816 when he was the dulces of which, lation of fulfilling officed he had the repulation) with the almost real) and Mr Comitaté, sévotion to the British Interest, was fully appreciated by Sixd Chor Maitland, and in the course) intercourse) with. Mr Comelate. Bly, Sins Thomas Mailbend I desires. We fully uphold that reputation).\n\nUnfortions misfortune, having time reduced Mr. Comelates to the necessity of livelihood by ins foreign langunger, giving instruction he huf establishièr", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-035 - Public Offices - 1850.txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 234438, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-045 - Sir Bonham - 1854 [1-4]", "page_number": 211, "title": "CO129-045 - Sir Bonham - 1854 [1-4]", "content_text": "living in Mt Comelate's House at \n\nAncona with Sir William Hamilton \n\nand his Lady when on their \n\nTrieste proves it... \n\n- \n\nway \n\nto \n\nthe \n\nThat the Misfortunes of himself and family hastened the death of the late Alexander Comelate, and on settlement of the peace of Europe the present Memorialist his son, dreph George Comelate, having himself rendered important services \n\nto time, was \n\nfrom time to time \n\nappointed British Consul \n\nat Ancona, -\"in consideration\" - to use \n\nthe expressions employed by \n\nBurghesh Ford \n\nnow Earl of Westmoreland, \n\nat that time British Ambassador in \n\nFlorence - \"of the services rendered, and \n\nloss sustained by his Father\" - \n\nThat in the \n\nyear \n\n1843(?) \n\n1845 Memorialist \n\nby his timely foresight saved the British \n\nand Ionian \n\nproperty \n\nthen in the Harbour \n\nof Ancona from King Murat, and he \n\nalso afterwards at his great personal \n\nrisk was \n\nthe only means - (as acknowledged by Captain C. J. Smith of Her Majesty's Frigate \"Undaunted\") of capturing the Flotilla and Treasure of the same King Murat in the Island of Fano(?) in the Adriatic where it was proposed to \n\nplace the Treasure in safety \n\nsafety if the integrity of Memorialist had not rendered the attempt futile by rejecting \n\nproposals which, however calculated to his shattered fortunes, repair his shattered \n\nwere", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-045 - Sir Bonham - 1854 [1-4].txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 249995, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-079 - Public Offices - 1860", "page_number": 145, "title": "CO129-079 - Public Offices - 1860", "content_text": "At page 1362 of the papers is the verdict of the special jury in the case of Chit Runeen Parbohut. In the opening of the Case, the Counsel for Bee Grown said that J. Bowring and Dr Bridges were on their trial. The verdict of the jury found them, in effect, guilty of a corrupt and damnable trick to defeat the ends of justice. This too without hearing a word of the defence, a perusal of the evidence shows that no other verdict was possible.\n\nThese three remarkable and signal triumphs of justice, were owing to the extraordinary ability, undaunted courage, unswerving perseverance, and conspicuous honour and integrity of Eure Custey. He is dismissed, and the criminals favourit!!!\n\nCommittee respectfully beg to explain this... \n\nTo His Excellency the Governor, &c., &c., &c.\n\nOf Your Grace's most obedient\n\nAl... kcast\n\nHis Excellency the Governor to be bute\n\no Colonial Secretary\n\nKansiall\n\nChairman.\n\n11396\n\n12619\n\n86.\n\n34\n\nAug? 4\n\nFurther\n\nLuneb\n\nJune,\n\n42 trong nông\n\nCondon WC China\n\nRECEIVED\n\nREC\n\n143\n\nChina Telegraph Office\n\n28 MAY 337 Strand W. C.\n\n23\n\n1860.\n\nLord Duke\n\nMay 22nd 1860\n\nI have the honour to bring to Your Lordship's notice, the enclosed letters from Mr W. Tarrant, who has been transferred to the Debtors' Jail at Hongkong, for non-payment of the costs of the late action for libel against Colonel Caine, for which he has suffered six months imprisonment, in the common Jail.\n\nI believe Your Lordship will hold with me that it is hardly fair that the offender not only undergoes incarceration for his offence but also has to pay the costs to the Crown.", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-079 - Public Offices - 1860.txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 323357, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-212 - Governor Sir Bowen - 1883 [10-11]", "page_number": 165, "title": "CO129-212 - Governor Sir Bowen - 1883 [10-11]", "content_text": "(3.)\n\nIt may be here mentioned that when General Grant, the ex-President of the United States, visited China in 1879 he said that, in his tour round the world, he had seen only four really great men, viz., Disraeli, Gambetta, Bismarck and Li-Hung Chang and that he was inclined to consider the latter, the Chinese Statesman and General, the greatest of the four, especially taking into account his inferior opportunities of education in his early days.\n\nThe stay at Tientsin lasted three or four days, and then His Excellency, in company with Sir Harry Parkes, the two Misses Parkes, and Mr Grosvenor, the Secretary of Legation, left for Tung-chow in house-boats towed by the Viceroy's steamers. The country was compared by His Excellency with the delta of Egypt, the mud-built dwellings, and the general aspect of the country, subject to periodical inundations, giving an Egyptian appearance to the scenery. From Tung-chow the party rode to Peking, a distance of fifteen miles.\n\nAt Peking Sir G. Bowen was received in state at the Tsung-li Yamen, or Foreign Office, by the Ministers, and high officials who govern China in the name of the Emperor, a boy of 14 who has never yet been seen by Europeans. Prince King, the President and uncle of the Emperor sent a message to Sir George stating that in consequence of the death of one of his wives, the night before, he regretted he was unable to return His Excellency's visit immediately. The Prince sent Sir George, however, a magnificent dinner, which is the highest mark of Chinese respect. Twelve huge coolies staggered into the hall of the Legation, each bearing a covered tray. When the lid was taken off each of the trays there was a separate course inside of soups, fish, game, pastry, fruits &c. With this dinner were also sent two large jars of wine from the Prince's cellars.\n\nHis Excellency visited the many places of interest in Peking, and got admission to the Temple of Heaven, the \"Holy of Holies\" of China. His Excellency was particularly impressed by his visit to this celebrated temple. It is situated in an enclosure which occupies one corner of the Chinese city, and is about the size of Hyde Park. This park is planted with fine trees. In this temple, His Excellency remarked that there are no idols; only the Supreme Being is worshipped there; for once a year the Emperor offers up burnt offerings in it to the same God of Heaven who was similarly worshipped by Abraham in the wilderness. The following description of this noteworthy temple and the ceremonies performed in it, is taken from the Guide for tourists to Peking and its environs, Issued from the China Mail office in 1876. This grand establishment originated in ancient times; although the present buildings owe their construction to the emperors of the Ming dynasty, yet it cannot be doubted that an altar of heaven existed on this place in much earlier times. A high brick wall surrounds a well-kept park, with old trees; within this enclosure, covering more than one square mile, is a second one, which again is divided by walls into several compartments. Close to the entrance of the inner enclosure is the Chai-kung, or palace of abstinence--where the Emperor has to pass the night preceding the sacrifices in watching and meditation, a fine modern building. South-east to it is the altar, a beautiful white marble structure, ascended by twenty-seven steps and ornamented by circular balustrades on each of its three terraces; it has a diameter of about 100 feet. On the south-east of it stands, at a short distance, the large furnace for the whole burnt-offering; it is faced with green glazed tiles and is nine feet high. It contains an iron grating on which a bullock is placed at the time of the sacrifice; the remaining charred bones are generally to be seen within it. Outside there is a pit for the blood and hair. On the south-west of the altar there are three high poles for hanging lanterns, which give illumination to the sacrifice, as it is performed before dawn. North\n\n(4.)\n\nof the altar is another of somewhat smaller dimensions, called the Ch'i-ku-t'an, or altar for prayers on behalf of the harvest, On it is raised a magnificent triple-roofed circular temple, ninety-feet in height, which constitutes the most conspicuous object in the whole enclosure. It is seen from many points of the city and its environs, and that which is generally called by foreigners the Temple of Heaven. Before the last century the three roofs were covered with blue, yellow and green tiles, but by Kienlung these colours were all changed to blue. In the interior large shrines of carved wood. The windows are shaded by Venetians made of thin blue glass beads strung together; they are produced at the glass factories in Shan-tung, also, as at the great south altar, are seen on the south-east the green furnace for the bullock, and besides eight iron urns, in which the other offerings, consisting of silk, cloth, grain, &c., are burnt. On the east is a winding passage or cloister of 72 compartments of 10 feet each = 720 feet in length, leading to the slaughter-house. At the latter there is a very deep well, famous for its good water, an object worth mentioning in Peking. Besides those buildings there are two halls at the back of each altar, also covered with blue glazed tiles.\n\nThe worship of the Tien, Heaven, or Shang-ti, Supreme Ruler, is the most important of all the state observances in China, and constitutes a most interesting remnant of the ancient monotheistic cultus which prevailed in China before the rationalism of the Confucianists and the polytheistic superstition of Buddhism predominated. There are no images of any kind in the temple, and the offering of whole burnt bullocks strikingly reminds us of the ancient custom of Western religious, as that of the Hebrews and the Greeks. The ceremonies of the sacrifices are kept with the utmost severity and are of a very complicated nature. The chief sacrifice is at the winter solstice. On the 20th day of December the offerings and an elephant carriage are sent with great array to the temple, and on the 21st the Emperor follows in a sedan chair, covered with yellow silk and carried by thirty-two men; he is preceded by a band of musicians and followed by an immense number of followers, including the princes, high officials, &c., all on horseback. Having arrived at the Temple, the Emperor offers incense to Heaven and to his ancestors and inspects the offerings; then he is conveyed on the elephant carriage to the Palace of Abstinence, where he is not allowed to take any animal food or wine, nor to sleep. Next morning, seven quarters before sunrise, he puts on his sacrificial robes and goes to the southern gate of the outer enclosure, dismounts from the carriage and walks to the great altar, where an Imperial yellow tent has been erected on the second terrace.\n\nAt the moment he arrives at the spot where he kneels, the fire of the sacrifice is kindled and music is heard. The Emperor then proceeds to the upper terrace of the altar, kneels and burns incense before Heaven and also presents incense to his ancestors. Then he makes three genuflections and one prostration and offers bundles of silk, jade cups and other gifts, music being heard all the time. Afterwards he kneels at another point of the altar, where an officer reads a prayer aloud. At last he receives, kneeling, the \"cup of happiness\" and the \"flesh of happiness.\" With the first dawn the whole party returns to the palace. Foreigners, who watched the party when passing the Chien-men from the city wall, speak highly of the splendid appearance of the whole procession; hundreds of officials in brilliant robes of state and numberless followers on horseback, among them a company of the Imperial Life Guards.\n\nA similar sacrifice takes place at spring solstice, with the same ceremonies, at the northern altar, but the motive is the special prayer for a prosperous harvest, Whilst the winter sacrifice is offered for a blessing upon the whole empire.\n\nOn his first arrival in Peking, Sir G. Bowen was entertained most hospitably by Sir\n\n(5.)\n\nRobert Hart, for four days, after which Sir George made his journey to the Great Wall. On returning from this trip His Excellency stayed with Sir Harry Parkes at the British Legation. His Excellency did the trip to the Great Wall in four days, but he would strongly recommend those not pressed for time to spend six over it. One can either ride on horse-back, or go in a mule litter, on this journey. His Excellency rode most of the way,\n\nOr\n\nLeaving Peking, His Excellency proceeded to Nan-kou, a distance of 30 miles where he slept. During the night a thief stole his shooting jacket, with one or two articles in the pockets. Fortunately the Governor was provided with a change of raiment, so that the theft caused little inconvenience. His note-book was, however, unfortunately in one of the pockets, and its loss was deplored because it contained the notes of his journey. Sir George may console himself with the reflection that this theft was one that might occur in many inns in England. Nan-kou is a fortified, busy little town situated at the entrance of a long, picturesque valley, stretching to the N.N.W., and is the farthest outpost of a series of fortifications which defend the very important Nan-kou pass leading to the Great Wall. From Nan-kou, Sir George proceeded on the following day to the Pa-ta-ling gate in the Great Wall, a distance from Nan-kou of about fifteen miles,\n\nThe Governor returned to Nan-kou the same day. Nothing could be worse than the present state of the roads, but they and their surroundings afforded ample proof that in ages past this part of China could boast of magnificent highways, bridges and other structures. Nothing can be more impressive than the sight of the Great Wall stretching along the crest of a high mountain-ridge for 2000 miles. The same general decay is visible in modern China as in modern Turkey.\n\nThe next day His Excellency visited the Tombs of the Emperors of the Ming dynasty, proceeding to the village of Sha-ho to sleep. This was a heavy day's riding for a man of the Governor's age, but he said he stood it almost as well as when he rode across European Turkey from Constantinople to Corfu, in 1849, when he was only 28 years old. Sir George was deeply interested in the spectacle of the Ming Tombs, with their solid white marble gateways, the famous gigantic stone tortoises, the long avenue of colossal elephants, camels, horses, sages, and warriors, cut in sandstone, the marble terraces and staircases, the noble hall, and the grand amphitheatre of mountains around.\n\nAfter sleeping at Sha-ho, His Excellency, on the following day, visited the ruins of the Summer Palace and other places of interest in the neighbourhood, especially the Bell Temple, containing the third largest bell in the world. He returned to Peking the same evening,\n\nOn his return to Peking His Excellency stayed at the British Legation, where he fully discussed with Sir Harry Parkes the questions affecting the Government of Hongkong in its relations with China. The so-called blockade of Hongkong was found to be rather a difficult subject to deal with, and any definite action in regard to it was postponed until Sir Harry Parkes' visit to Hongkong, which will take place in March next. Then it will be further discussed, and the matter in due course of time will be laid before the Legislative Council His Excellency remained with Sir Harry Parkes at the British Legation about a week,\n\nThe voyage down the Peiho was much more rapid than that up, thanks to the strong current. Only a brief stay was made at Tientsin and Shanghai on the return journey, and Hongkong was reached, after an absence from the Colony of about seven weeks, on the 24th inst. During the whole time, the weather was very fine, and the temperature delicious, like that of the autumn in Italy.\n\nEnclosure\n\n163\n\nTen Chinese Met hus 1o-day a well-written Wa Tsz-yue\n\narticle extolling Li Hung-chang for the reception he gave to Sir George Bowen with the French and British Ministers. It begins by quoting the words of Mencius: \"It requires a benevolent prince to be able with a great country to serve a small one. And it requires a wise prince to be able with a small country to serve a large one.\" Of Sir George it says: \"We have in His Excellency a Colonial Governor, lenient and loyal. Already within the first year of his administration in Hongkong, in the social circle, easy and self-possessed, he has spoken monumental words of wisdom; in the line of enterprise, undaunted by hardship, he has explored the Great Wall, and in his official capacity, zealous and painstaking, he has worthily borne his part in international counsels. Truly our Governor possesses qualities which command the imitation of all his people and the respect of all his neighbours.\"\n\n4", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-212 - Governor Sir Bowen - 1883 [10-11].txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 327913, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-220 - Governor Sir Bowen - 1885 [1-3]", "page_number": 291, "title": "CO129-220 - Governor Sir Bowen - 1885 [1-3]", "content_text": "## Enclosure\n\nWith our Ministers in China and Japan, and with the officers commanding our Naval and Military Forces in carrying out the instructions of Ster Majesty's Government, and in the general promotion of British interests, which I believe to be identical with the interests of Peace and Commerce.\n\nI have the honour to be, My Lord, Your Lordship's Most Obedient Humble servant, \n3. Bowen\n\n(11) \n\n## THE NAVAL ENGAGEMENT AT SHEIPOO\n\nThe Shanghai Courier gives the following account of this event:\n\nOn Thursday afternoon, the 12th February, the Chinese fleet was at anchor in the outer roads of the Sheipoo harbour, inside of Montague Island, and the order was given that at daylight on Friday morning they were to proceed northwards. While the Chinese fleet was getting under weigh, the French fleet hove in sight to the eastward of Montague Island. The Chinese Admiral, who was on board the Kwei-chi, immediately signalled for his fleet to proceed southwards, and the Nan-shen and Nan-shuan shaped a course for the Heishan Islands, the Yu-yuen and the Chin-cheng following in their wake. The Kwei-chi, Nan-shen, and Nan-shuan, being smart steaming vessels, the cream really of the Nanyang squadron of the Chinese fleet, were 2000 yards ahead of the Yu-yuen and the Chin-cheng, and as the French fleet were making a good stern chase, these two vessels, thinking the French would pass them by and pursue the other three, steamed round Cape Conway and entered Sheipoo harbour by San Mun Bay. The French did not pass them by, however, but directed all their attention to them, and eventually gave them \"A New Year's cumshaw,\" as their destruction has been irreverently termed. The Chin-cheng is the Foochow built boat known as No 26. She was commanded by Vice-Admiral Ting, who has been to Europe and had some training, we believe, in the British Navy. The Yu-yuen is the old frigate No. 6 that was moored at Woosung for several months, and she was commanded by Kin-yung, but better known to foreigners as \"Mobi\" who has risen from the ranks, his first experience of warfare being in the Pluto and Confucius during the Taiping rebellion. Both these vessels were of wood, with no armour whatever, and their speed was not more than 9 knots, so refuge in Sheipoo harbour was the best move they could take with the French coming rapidly down upon them. But when they got inside the French blocked the four entrances, and made them an easy prey for their powerful weapons of destruction, and superior skill in naval warfare. Nevertheless the Chinese commanders, if they lost their ships, as they must inevitably have done under the circumstances, saved their crews.\n\nIt was about ten o'clock a.m. on the 13th February that the Chin-cheng and Yu-yuen anchored about two hundred yards apart in Sheipoo harbour. The French allowed them to remain quietly there till about ten o'clock at night, when four French torpedo boats attacked them. The Hotchkiss machine guns on the two Chinese vessels were quickly at work and the fire was too much for the torpedo boats, which were driven back. At half-past twelve o'clock the torpedo boats returned to the attack, and were again beaten off, and at 8 p.m. on Saturday night they returned again, and for the third time the Chinese were too much for them. But Admiral Courbet was undaunted, and he is as well skilled in strategy as he is brave, and at four o'clock on Sunday morning, the 15th February, Chinese New Year's Day, a number of Chinese fishing boats came into the harbour for their crews to spend the day on shore. Under cover of these boats, four torpedo boats stealthily stole a march on the Chinese men-of-war's men. These fishing boats coming suspiciously close to the Chinese war-vessels, were hailed, and a reply was given “Fishing boats.” But immediately afterwards four torpedo boats shot out from their hiding places, and were alongside the two Chinese vessels before an effective fire could be blazed into them, the result being that torpedoes were exploded under the two Chinese ships. The vessels were not blown out of the water, the explosions making holes in their bottoms, and causing them to fill. This done the torpedo boats returned to the French ships; they had done their work against foes they found more persistent and brave than had been expected. The Chin-cheng drifted on a shoal and filled with the tide, her crew escaping in boats to the land, and not a single man belonging to her was lost. She had no foreigners on board. The Yu-yuen did not sink for four hours afterwards. All her crew got safely into the boats and with the exception of the second engineer, a Chinaman, they reached the shore. The boat in which the second engineer was capsized and he was drowned. This was the only death caused by the engagement on the Chinese side; the loss on the part of the French is variously estimated, nine and fifteen killed being the figures given.\n\nThe tugboat Fuh-lee arrived at the scene of the engagement on Sunday night. Mr. Richardson, who was the chief engineer on the Yu-yuen, and the only foreigner on board the two Chinese men-of-war, and about a dozen Chinese came up to Shanghai in the Fuh-lee, with instructions to report the engagement to the Chinese authorities here. The French fleet were then outside, cruising round after the other Chinese men-of-war, and as Admiral Wu signalled for them to proceed south; there is little doubt that they did so, but afterwards turned back as we hear of the following telegram from Admiral Courbet at Matsou:--\n\n\"MATSOU, 15th February. \n\"Seen on the 13th inst., at about five miles distance, the Chinese fleet of three cruisers, one corvette and a frigate. The three cruisers could escape on account of a thick fog; as to the frigate and corvette, which had made for Sheipoo Harbour, they were sunk on the 16th at 4 a.m. by the torpedo-boats of the Bayard, though a heavy fire of musketry and artillery was discharged upon them by the Chinese,\"\n\nThe bravery of Captain Kin-yang, alias \"Mobi,\" is highly spoken of, as indeed is the conduct of the Chinese generally. \"Mobi\" fought his ship to the last and at each attack by the torpedo boats he worked a Hotchkiss gun.\n\n283", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-220 - Governor Sir Bowen - 1885 [1-3].txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 336135, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-236 - Others - 1887", "page_number": 220, "title": "CO129-236 - Others - 1887", "content_text": "# Farewell Address to Lieut. General Sargent\n\nHaving read with great interest some articles published in the Hongkong newspapers referring to the public demonstration of goodwill towards Lieut. General Sargent and his family on their leaving that Island, and the universal expression of regret on that officer relinquishing a command, in the execution of the duties of which he appears to have won for himself the well-merited confidence and full appreciation of the community at large, I could not refrain from seeking of my dear and worthy relative a perusal of the original document containing the gratifying and highly complimentary address presented to him on board the steamer about to convey him and his family to England, by a deputation composed of Members of the Legislature and of the most influential of the civil and mercantile European and Chinese communities of the Colony.\n\nMy desire having been gratified, I feel loath to withhold from our numerous mutual friends and relatives, who cannot enjoy the same privilege, the opportunity of possessing a copy of it; and having obtained permission to print it for that purpose, I will add the encomiums contained in the newspapers which first drew my attention to it.\n\nI have known General Sargent (with whom I am proud to claim relationship as a brother-in-law) from his early youth, and witnessed in the boy those noble qualities of honor, integrity, and fearless discharge of every obligation he considered to be his duty, which, further developed, now characterise the man, the undaunted and the distinguished soldier.\n\nI am sure all related to him, and all having the privilege of his friendship or acquaintance, will share with me the unbounded gratification that the gallant and faithful services rendered by him to his Queen and country, marked by Her Majesty's approbation in his being selected for the responsibility of commanding her Forces in so distant and important a dependency, should also have elicited the grateful recognition of the community whose safety and protection were committed to his charge.\n\nAll his friends will, I am sure, join with me in the sincere and hearty prayer that he may long be spared in the enjoyments of health and every domestic happiness to acquire all the prosperity and advancement attainable in the noble profession to which he is so thoroughly devoted.\n\nIn an appendix, I will insert a brief summary of our worthy friend's officially recognised distinguished services, and a few incidents connected with his past interesting military career.\n\nWorthing, 6th June, 1885.\n\n**W. T. LAYARD, General**\n\n## Additional Information\n\nI am informed that the first time Lieut.-General Sargent heard anything whatever about a public address to him was a few days before he left the Colony, when the Honourable P. Ryrie, (the oldest resident English Merchant in Hongkong, senior Unofficial Member of the Legislative Council), took a printed copy of the document to Head Quarter House, intimating his having been deputed by a Committee of Gentlemen to express the hope that the General would receive from the community of Hongkong a farewell address upon the day of his departure. This was conveyed in the kindest and most complimentary terms by Mr. Ryrie to General Sargent, who valued them all the more, coming as they did from a gentleman so conspicuous as Mr. Ryrie always was for his thorough independence of character.\n\nThe Committee referred to by Mr. Ryrie consisted of the following gentlemen, who also prepared the Address:-The Hon. Sir G. Phillippo, Chief Justice of Hongkong, and senior Official Member of the Legislative Council; the Hon. P. Ryrie; the Hon. W. Keswick, head partner in China of Messrs. Jardine Matheson and Co.; the Hon. T. Jackson, Chief Manager of the Hongkong and Shanghai Bank; the Hon. F. D. Sassoon, head partner in China of his firm, all Unofficial Members of the Legislative Council; Major Tripp, Merchant, and Commanding the Hongkong Volunteers; and Captain J. J. Francis, the leading Barrister at the Hongkong Bar, a Captain in the Hongkong Volunteers.\n\nOn embarkation, the General was met by the deputation, headed by Mr. Ryrie, who addressed him as follows:-General, the performance of the very pleasing duty assigned to me on the present occasion gives me the most intense pleasure, and I can say my personal esteem for you cannot be exceeded by any one who has the honour of your acquaintance. As regards the public of \n\nPage 204", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-236 - Others - 1887.txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 355642, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-264 - Governor Sir Robinson & Public Offices - 1894 [9-12]", "page_number": 628, "title": "CO129-264 - Governor Sir Robinson & Public Offices - 1894 [9-12]", "content_text": "ཝཾ ། 'ཏི། བྷཝཱ ཏིན\n\n623\n\ncompelled to pass through some districts to infected and from his Office. One that of a Clerk, also occurred other case, that of and it is presumed that he contracted the disease through working in Office next door. 18 Indians had an house where some this case is progressing favourably.\n\nThe men of the Shropshire Regiment who contracted the disease almost at the outset are all now nearly convalescent, I am still enforcing the restrictions on the leave of the men of the Ships under my orders, and have entirely stopped the leave of the men of Hus. Undaunted for the reasons St. fiver in my last general letter.\n\nI am informed that Surgeon Penny has performed his duties in a very arduous and highly creditable manner, and his services seem to be invaluable.", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-264 - Governor Sir Robinson & Public Offices - 1894 [9-12].txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 366018, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-281 - Governor Sir Robinson & Acting Governor Major Gen Black - 1898 [1-3]", "page_number": 353, "title": "CO129-281 - Governor Sir Robinson & Acting Governor Major Gen Black - 1898 [1-3]", "content_text": "## TABLE B.—RETURN OF FORMAL ENQUIRIES DURING THE YEAR 1897.—Continued.\n\n| FINDING | Europeans | Chinese | Total |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| Brought forward | | | |\n| Death occasioned by the falling of the buildings 248 and 250, Queen's Road West, through the collapse of the party wall, occasioning death by asphyxia in the case of Un Ming and death by shock through injuries received in the case of Lai Tai Sin, there being no sufficient evidence to show what was the immediate cause of the collapse of the party wall | | | |\n| Death occurred from injuries received from an accidental explosion | | | |\n| Death resulted from a bullet wound self-inflicted consequent upon mental distress in connection with money difficulties into which he had fallen with the Hongkong High-Level Tramway Co., Ltd., of which he had been the Superintendent since 1892 | | | |\n| Death resulting from injuries received through the collapse of the party wall dividing Houses 92 and 94, Hollywood Road | | | |\n| Death resulting from the effects of a fall from the verandah of the Second floor of Wellington Barracks over which the deceased jumped while in an unsound state of mind | | | |\n| Drowned by deceased's boat being run down by the Danish S.S. Pindor. Accident due to Deceased having put her helm down instead of up and so attempted to re-cross the bows of the steamer | | | |\n| Found drowned | | | |\n| Murdered by some person or persons unknown | | | |\n| Suicide by cutting her throat whilst temporarily insane | | | |\n| Suicide by drowning whilst temporarily insane | | | |\n| Suicide by hanging | | | |\n| Suicide by hanging whilst of unsound mind | | | |\n| Suicide by shooting through the head whilst in a state of mental aberration | | | |\n| That deceased came to his death by the collapse of No. 35, East Street due to the shore having given way | | | |\n| The Magistrate finds that the death of the deceased was occasioned by injuries received from a fall while engaged in working a piece of machinery on board H.M.S. Undaunted over the side of the ship, and that the fall was occasioned by the use of an old or worn out strand which gave in the hands of the deceased as he pulled at it | | | |\n| Total | 1 | 346 | |\n| Men | | Men. Women. Boys. Girls. | 24 | 14 | 4 | 5 | 50 |\n| Europeans | 1 | | | | | | |\n| | | | | | | | |\n\nPage 363\n\n## Enclosure 3.\n\n### HONGKONG, No. 29 M98\n\n**REPORT ON THE WIDOWS' AND ORPHANS' PENSION FUND FOR THE YEAR 1897.**\n\nLaid before the Legislative Council by Command of His Excellency the Officer Administering the Government.\n\nHONGKONG, 25th January, 1898.\n\nSIR,—We have the honour to submit the following Report on the Widows' and Orphans' Fund For 1897.\n\nA Statement of Accounts of the Fund to 31st December, 1897, is appended.\n\nOn that date, the Funds were disposed of as follows:—\n| Account | Amount |\n| --- | --- |\n| On Fixed Deposit, Hongkong and Shanghai Bank | $43,000.00 |\n| Current Account | $41.11 |\n| Total | $43,041.11 |\n\nThe average monthly contributions amount now to about $730.\n\nDuring the period under review, 45 officers joined the Fund and 25 contributors left. There are at present 192 contributors on the books; of whom 76 are bachelors, 111 are married, and 5 are widowers.\n\nThere are 216 children on the books.\n\nThe average age of the three classes of contributors is as follows:— Bachelors, about 28 years. Married men, about 32 years. Widowers, a fraction under 37 years, 52 years and 4 months.\n\nThe number of pensioners, viz., 6, remains the same as in the previous year:—\n| Name | Pension per annum | Date |\n| --- | --- | --- |\n| Mrs. MOOSDEEN | $63.67 | 7th January, 1892 |\n| Mrs. BEAVIN | $14.45 | 3rd June, 1894 |\n| LEUNG CHE WAN | $30.09 | |\n| CHAN TAI | | 23rd January, 1896 |\n| Mrs. MOFFATT | $54.85 | 17th February, 1896 |\n| Mrs. MOORE | $163.10 | 14th June, 1896 |\n| 5 children of the late S. MOORE | $119.93 | 22nd July, 1896 |\n\nWe have the honour to be,\nSir,\nYour obedient Servants,\n\nT. SERCOMBE SMITH,\nChairman.\n\nA. W. BREWIN,\nF. MACHADO,\nFRANCIS W. CLARKE,\nJ. G. DA ROCHA,\nDirectors.\n\nThe Honourable J. H. STEWART LOCKHART,\nColonial Secretary,\n&c., &c., &c.\n\n### TABLE C—RETURN OF BURIALS WITHOUT FORMAL ENQUIRIES DURING THE YEAR 1897.\n\n| Reason why no Formal Enquiry was held | Europeans and Americans | Chinese | Indians and Malays | Japanese | Sex not ascertainable | Total |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| | Men. Women. Boys. | Men. Women. Boys. Girls. | Men. Women. Boys. | Men. Women. | Man. | |\n| Found on Land | | | | | | |\n| Found in Harbour | | | | | | |\n| No suspicious circumstances | 2 | 102 | 19 | | | |\n| No evidence and/or decomposed state of body | | 5 | 41 | 33 | | |\n| Post Mortem satisfactory | | 17 | 1 | 2 | | |\n| Suspected persons were tried for the murder of deceased | | | | | | |\n| Suspected persons were tried for causing the death of deceased | | 4 | 3 | 2 | | |\n| Total | 2 | 128 | 27 | 212 | 208 | 602 |\n| | | | | | | 93 | 351 | 23 | 20 | (13) | 24 |\n\nH. E. WODEHOUSE,\nPolice Magistrate,\nMagistracy, Hongkong, 28th January, 1898.", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-281 - Governor Sir Robinson & Acting Governor Major Gen Black - 1898 [1-3].txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 369439, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-288 - Public Offices & Others - 1898", "page_number": 27, "title": "CO129-288 - Public Offices & Others - 1898", "content_text": "## CORRESPONDENCE, 'THE BACK DOOR.'-A CRITICISM.\n\nTo the Editor of the 'CHINA MAIL.'\n\nHongkong, October 8.\n\n...quite lost; Britain's flag still flew over part of the island, that the last of the defenders, certainly amazingly few, was slain and the Union Jack torn down. Poor Blobs, if spooks revisit this world, he should haunt the isle he guarded so well and loved so dearly in life.\n\nIt is now time to tell you... General Renard was unable to communicate with General Morbleu till after dark and then had to report that he had barely 700 men fit for duty, and that they were in such an exhausted condition without reinforcement, he could not essay the reduction of Stonecutters. Morbleu's men were, if anything, in worse plight, and Huzzard took good care to rouse them at intervals during the night with a shell or two over the town.\n\nAbout 3 a.m. Renard sent over some small parties of men, who, landing at the eastern end of the island, got into the Civil Magazine, where were stored nearly 150 tons of dynamite and about 200,000 lbs of powder (it was a great oversight that at the first alarm this mass of explosives had not been taken out into the harbour and sunk), laid trains, lit the matches and retired to the Peninsula again. About 4.15 a.m. the Magazine blew up with a fearful explosion and shock like an earthquake, bringing down houses and walls in Victoria, and tumbling down the ruins in Kowloon.\n\nThe effects were calamitous on the Stonecutters Forts: it literally dismantled them; all the guns were thrown over, the front of Stonecutters East opened and fell forward into the sea, yawning chasms appeared in Stonecutters West. Rookshank and many of his men were buried in the ruins of the Eastern fort. Huzzard collected all the survivors in the West fort and did what was possible to barricade the breaches, &c. One quick-firer was got into serviceable order, and then they had done all they could do. At sunrise the French came over, at first very cautiously, but finding no resistance, with greater boldness, till past the butts. Renard had landed 500 men, but it was not till past 8, and until reinforcements from Hongkong had landed on the southern shore.\n\nSIR, Your 'Back Door' contributor is just a wee bit too previous. The Bear has not got Hongkong yet, though the object of the little story is plain to be seen, and who will say that the writer's motives are not patriotic. Not fault with individuals, but with the system.\n\nWe know that our soldiers, officers and men, will do all that men can do and may be trusted to die at their posts; but why should they have to die, when a little forethought and preparation would render it unnecessary for them to make this sacrifice?\n\nWhat are the facts? Civilians possessed of ordinary common-sense and reasoning, though not necessarily experts in fortifications and warfare, believe, not without some apparent reasons, that this Island is inadequately defended on the South side; and that under modern conditions we are liable to be 'rushed,' say at the present moment with only the Undaunted (under repair) and the Amber and the obsolete Harbour craft available, not counting torpedo boats, which are fast becoming obsolete, too.\n\nOf course, we know the hundred and one reasons that would be given to prove such a thing impossible, but it is always the unexpected that happens, and knowing the recently expressed sentiments of some of our friends, would it not be worth while to be prepared for any eventuality?\n\nSo far as can be learned, the sum of their labours are represented by a coat of black paint on several buoys in the Harbour, presumably to frighten the enemy and make him imagine Mines. None of the naval members ever fulfilled the purpose for which they were intended, so far as the public are concerned.\n\nNow we have to pay 17 per cent Military Contribution, besides extras. Many of us have all we possess invested in this Island, and will have to live and die here, and naturally we want to feel reasonably sure that our defences are being looked after. If there is any doubt on this point, let the Authorities take us into their confidence and demonstrate the fact to a representative committee, and if it is money they want, they can surely trust to our patriotism and to our sense of self-interest to make any required sacrifice, the only necessity being that they must convince our reason.\n\nSurely this is better than trusting to luck and passing on responsibility. The weak point appears to be that if we were attacked in the foggy season, guns on the heights would be no use, in a dark night, to keep hostile craft at a distance in the absence of the fleet as at present. Now, if the points of each small bay on our south shores were provided with a couple of Maxims and a quick-firer in the nearly absolute shelter of the points of land where galleries could be excavated for them, and for a powerful search light, no boats capable of landing troops could possibly escape detection or annihilation.\n\nThe number of men required at each bay would not exceed say ten in peace time, and a buried telegraph cable would enable information to be sent to Headquarters for re-inforcements on the first appearance of an enemy, and here the Jubilee Road would come in.\n\nNow the expense of this first instalment of defence would not be very great. I believe we have some Maxims in store, and the services of the convicts could be utilized to make the shelters, shelters that could not be easily burst or reached by any vessel short of an ironclad, and this in the offing, but those holding them could sink anything. I believe there are numerous sites for guns pre-empted by the War Authorities on the South side, but so far there is not a gun near them, and we know how long it takes to get a heavy gun into position when there is extra pay per hour for the men on the job.\n\nAnd what has become of the famous Defence Committee of which so much was expected? Hongkong is our most distant link in the chain of strongholds. Now, is it worth or is it not worth our while to defend it to the last? If it is not worth our while, why all the money spent and to be expended on projects, etc., etc. We must conclude that the authorities consider it a vital point! If so, why this blind trusting to luck and a defenceless south shore?", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-288 - Public Offices & Others - 1898.txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 374015, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-295 - Public Offices - 1899", "page_number": 88, "title": "CO129-295 - Public Offices - 1899", "content_text": "4 x 3\n\nامی باد\n\ncopy No-549/519.\n\n20724\n\n86\n\nSir,\n\nAnnexation of Sham-Chun.\n\nMECO\n\n&\n\nREG? 7 AUG 39\n\n\"Tamar\" at Hong Kong.\n\n24 May 1899.\n\nHaval\n\nHaving received a requisition from His Excellency the Governor to co-operate with the Military at the taking over of Sham-Chun, the object being to send so overwhelming a force that resistance would be futile, I conferred with Major General Gascoigne and agreed with him that the portion of the force should land at Starling Inlet and advance from that direction, two Military columns advancing from Tai-po-hu and Deep Bay respectively, the whole to meet at 3 p.m. on Tuesday May 16th. Having nominated Captain Clarke of H.M.S. \"Undaunted\" to the command of the Naval Brigade I arranged for the following force to embark in \"Swift\" and \"Firebrand\" on Monday evening May 15th.\n\n100 Bluejackets. With rifles.\n\n \n 100 Bluejackets.\n \"Undaunted\"\n \n \n 30 Marines.\n \"Aurora\"\n \n \n 30 Marines.\n \"Tamar\"\n \n \n 290\n \n \n\nI enclose copy of his letter reporting proceedings and one from Major General Gascoigne.\n\nThe duty was well and expeditiously performed as I knew it would be when entrusted to Captain Clarke.\n\nI have &c.\n\n(sgd) F. POWELL.\n\nCommodore.\n\nTo\n\nAdmiral Sir E.H. SEYMOUR, K.C.B.,\n\nCommander-in-Chief,\n\nCHINA.", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-295 - Public Offices - 1899.txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 374017, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-295 - Public Offices - 1899", "page_number": 90, "title": "CO129-295 - Public Offices - 1899", "content_text": "7\n\n* YAK\n\nSir.\n\n3088\n\nC0724\n\nReporting Proceedings of Landing Party\n\nREG2 7 AUG 39\n\nH.M.S.\"Undaunted\" at Hong Kong\n\n18th May 1899.\n\nko: Frutal\n\n.mipiace i. færangu: *ɔ,6%, kad mag m\n\n1:\n\n!\n\nH*R*2*,\n\nI have the honour to report that in accordance with your orders I proceeded at 10 p.m. the 15th in H.M.S. \"Swift\", \"Firebrand\" in company, to Starling Inlet, where the ships arrived at 5.45 a.m. the 16th.\n\nThe party commenced disembarking at 7.30 and the force marched off between 9.30 and 10.\n\nA position about two miles to the E.N.E. of Sham-Chun was reached by me at 12.55 and the whole force was there by 1.45 p.m. Leaving a company in charge of the baggage the remainder proceeded to the east side of the City of Sham-Chun where I met General Gascoigne with about 150 of the Hong Kong Regiment. Later in the afternoon and at various intervals the army arrived.\n\nThe Union Jack was hoisted about 5.45 p.m. and a salute of 21 guns fired.\n\nShortly after the force under my command marched back to its bivouac on the hills to the E.S.E. side of the City. On the following morning the Column left at intervals between 5.15 and 6.15 and returned to their ships.\n\nConsidering the great heat, the heavy weights to be carried (Coolies being very scarce and hard to procure), I consider that the way the men marched was creditable to them.\n\nStarling Inlet was left by both ships about 12.30 returning to this port, which was reached between 6 and 6.30 p.m., each having proceeded independently.\n\nancis Powell, C.B.,\n\nI have &..\n\nSA.C.CLARKE, Captain.\n\nSenior Naval Officer,\n\nHONG KONG.\n\nPage 90\n\nPage 91", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-295 - Public Offices - 1899.txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 374018, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-295 - Public Offices - 1899", "page_number": 91, "title": "CO129-295 - Public Offices - 1899", "content_text": "Copy.\n\n20724 RECO &\n\nFan Ficer Comm\n\nFrom Commander-in-Chief in China and Hong Kong\n\nTo the Commodore in Charge.\n\nSir,\n\nHong Kong.\n\n20th May 1899.\n\nI have the honour to inform you that the Naval Contingent which you kindly lent for my assistance for the purpose of occupying the town of Sham-Chun on Tuesday 16th instant acquitted itself to my entire satisfaction. I had arranged with Captain Clarke of H.M.S. \"Undaunted\" that the column should meet me at Sham-Chun at 3 p.m. on that day, and when I arrived the column was awaiting my arrival. Owing to the additional force lent to me the display of strength was imposing, and quite precluded all chance of resistance, had there been any intention on the part of the natives to offer resistance. I fear that the men had had a long, hot, and trying march, but they appeared to be perfectly fresh and contented. I have only therefore to express my thanks for the assistance so cheerfully given. I have mentioned in my report to the War Office the great help I have received not only on this but on several other occasions lately from Her Majesty's Navy.\n\nI have, &c.\n\nAldi W.J. GASCOIGNE,\n\nMajor General, Commanding in China and Hong Kong.\n\nPage 6\n\nON CHOH", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-295 - Public Offices - 1899.txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 377878, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-301 - Governor Sir Blake - 1900 [9-12]", "page_number": 347, "title": "CO129-301 - Governor Sir Blake - 1900 [9-12]", "content_text": "# Enol: 1 \n39607 \n**DIRECT** \n**FE = :** \n**China mail** \n18/10/00 \n\n## MANIFESTO OF THE WAI CHAU REBELS. \n### A Patriotic Document.\n\nThe translation of the manifesto of the Wai-Chau rebels, as given below, will enable the reader to form a conception of the causes that have been at work to bring about the present disturbances and also the ideas and hopes of these men in raising the standard of rebellion. There are several points in this document which are well worth noting. It will be observed that there is no attempt to disguise the fact that China has been beaten and that she is now practically at the mercy of her foes. Considering that it was not originally intended for 'barbarian' eyes, it cannot be said that the references to foreigners are at all strong or even objectionable from the Chinese point of view. It is the mandarinate rather than foreigners as a whole who are the object of their hatred. Millions of Chinese share with them in this feeling. If it were possible to take a plebiscite in China as to who are really to blame for her decay and distress, there can be but little doubt that an overwhelming majority would charge the rulers with the entire responsibility. There is a deep and widespread feeling among the people that they have been betrayed. On the whole, the manifesto is patriotic and remarkably free from that bitterness of sentiment to other countries, which is the ordinary way a Chinaman takes to show his love for his own. It is written in good style, which proves that there are scholars in connection with this movement.\n\n## THE MANIFESTO.\n\nHeroes now are coming forth, \nAnd everywhere works of righteousness are doing. \nIn accordance with instructions, this proclamation is issued \nTo give peace to your villages. \nDo not forget that the Middle Kingdom in former times was a mighty country. Broad was the territory and abundant was its store; \nThe people swarmed and great was her power. \nHow can we endure so great disgrace and falsely bear a glorious name? \nThe great has become small and the small great, \nAnd foreign powers our lands divide. \nAvaricious magistrates and corrupt officials, \nWith hearts like unto tigers and wolves, \nRegard the people as fish and flesh and by oppressive laws entangle men. \nThere are the two classes of mandarins, military and civil. \nOne fears death and the other desires bribes. \nThey divide up the country and pay indemnities. \nYear after year it is the same. \nChina, having united herself with discord, is involved with every country, \nAnd soldiers are sent to repress (lawlessness). \nTientsin and Taku are already gone, and Peking too is lost. \nHeaven has called her (China's) soul away, and miseries and calamities are increased. \nKwang, having no power to protect (China), has fled to a distant place. \nWho can endure distress so great? \nCovetous mandarins do not repent, and wickedness becomes more apparent. \nFor every business, (mandarine) money is demanded. \nLike madmen, they devour the people. \nCases of oppression are neglected, and the country is destroyed. \nThe people endure hardship and tyranny, and when will peace return? \nThe country by barbarians is cut up. The misery is long past endurance. \nIt is that the land may gain the light that heroes everywhere now rise, \nAnd all must send forth the soldiers of righteousness, who with undaunted valour fight.\n\nMoreover, my people, it is necessary that you do not fear. \nA great army will enter your borders, removing all oppression and giving peace to all good men. \nThose who disobey must die. Repentance then will come too late. \n(The power to) rebuke lies with the elders. Those who obey will be blessed. \nOf the people, the literati are the guides. Farmers, workmen, merchants, tradesmen, do your duty as before. \nWomen and teachers (converts) need not fear. Protection and peace your portion will be. \nLet this proclamation everywhere be made known, and men from the four quarters rise, all duly armed with rifles and swords. \nWhenever the soldiers pass, let provisions be brought forth for them. Do not be deceived by men, and cause me to stain my blade in vain. \nThis (document) is to remove the dangers of the people and not to plunder them. \nIf my soldiers obey not the law, you are at liberty to arrest and bring them to me. \nNo matter who they are, according to their guilt, they will be dealt with. \nMongols and Manchus must be destroyed. Those corrupt and corrupt officials will be sliced into a thousand pieces. \nIt is right that this paper you should see. Do not forget but obey most reverently.\n\n## Origin of Manifesto and Raising Flag of Rebellion.\n\nThe manifesto professes to come from the neighbourhood of the Kowloon Hinterland, where the rebels raised their standard on the 12th day of the 8th moon (October 5th); near a place called K'ai Ch'ong. Before raising the flag, certain ceremonies were performed, which consisted in offering roasted pigs as a sacrifice to the spirits of the flags. This done, the banners were unfurled to the breeze about four o'clock in the afternoon of the 12th day. The manifesto or proclamation was then distributed in all the villages and towns lying near. On the 13th, the rebels moved to Sham Ts'ün, and two days later to Sha Wán. There they met a body of the regular soldiers whom they easily overcame, capturing several of their officers. The news of this victory was carried to Sam Chau Tin and several other villages, with the result that all the people were won over to the cause of the rebels. Subsequent events have already been chronicled. Evidently, the struggle is not over yet, for there is a demand for more troops for Wai Chau and the East River, where there is already a very strong force.\n\n## Shek Lung.\n### PAYMENT OF INDEMNITIES.\n\nIt is said that the presence of the French gunboats at Shek Lung is proving a good tonic to the magistrates. They are already beginning to pay up the losses of the Roman Catholic converts. The arrangement is to divide the payments over a period of time. Sums sufficient for the rebuilding of the houses will be paid first, and afterwards indemnities for the personal losses.", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-301 - Governor Sir Blake - 1900 [9-12].txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 493931, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-478 - Public Offices & Others - 1922", "page_number": 322, "title": "CO129-478 - Public Offices & Others - 1922", "content_text": "# MANIFESTO\n\nOF\n\nTHE\n\nANTI-MUI-TSAI\n\nSOCIETY\n\n30th July, The attention of the public was drawn to the mui tsai question in 1917 by a case at the Criminal Sessions in 1921, in the Tai Ping Theatre, Hongkong. It is regretted that this meeting was called to reply to five set questions which do not touch the roots of the subject, and that the Chairman refused to put to the vote a resolution, duly proposed and seconded, that the mui tsai system be abolished in the Colony. Fearing that the effect of this meeting may be to aid the preservation of this iniquitous practice, we have formed the Anti-Mui-tsai Society with the object of relieving the sufferings of the mui tsai and supporting the kind efforts of Western friends.\n\nOur Society will cease to function as soon as abolition of the mui tsai system is finally effected, and, while functioning, will take no part in any other social or political question. Undaunted by the magnitude of our task and conscious of the righteousness of our cause, we hereby issue this manifesto in the hope that it will receive the careful consideration of all, irrespective of sex, race, nationality, religion or domicile.\n\nLieut. Col. John Ward, M.P., took a great interest in this matter, and, though forbidden by Service Regulations from taking any open and active interest in political questions, he communicated with the Labour Party in England on this subject, and they interviewed the Secretary of State for the Colonies.\n\nLater, Mrs. H. L. Haselwood, wife of Lieut. Commander Haslewood, R.N., came to the Colony and actively interested herself in this question. From the outset, Mr. H. A. Cartwright, Editor of The Hongkong Daily Press, has been discussing the mui tsai system with the result that the question: \"Why is the practice of keeping mui tsai permitted in the British Colony of Hongkong?\" is being asked by a constantly-increasing number of fair-minded people, both here and in England. Upon this question, members of the House of Commons have repeatedly interrogated the Secretary of State for the Colonies and have requested that this system of domestic slavery be abolished. The founders of this Society are convinced that these people are solely actuated by the laudable desire to assist thousands of unfortunate girls and to preserve the fair name of Great Britain.\n\nIn consequence of the growing interest in the campaign in England on behalf of the mui tsai, a mass meeting was convened by the two Chinese members of the Legislative Council on\n\n## (1) INHERENT EVILS OF THE MUI TSAI SYSTEM.\n\n(a) There are those who rear mui tsai in name but bring up girls for prostitution in fact, and this heinous practice is known, in Chinese, as \"Cho chu fa,\" which means rearing females like flowers, for prostitution. This statement is unrefuted and irrefutable. The enlightened Chinese Press has persistently and clearly brought this disgraceful state of affairs to the notice of the public. There has been so much light admitted into this dark practice that details are unnecessary.\n\nPage 318", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-478 - Public Offices & Others - 1922.txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 502442, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-492 - Governor Sir Clementi - 1925 [12] - 1926 [1-5]", "page_number": 133, "title": "CO129-492 - Governor Sir Clementi - 1925 [12] - 1926 [1-5]", "content_text": "Enclosure 2.\n\nExtract from the Hong Kong Telegraph of 14-10-1925-\n\n(1).\n\nM. BORODIN INTERVIEWED.\n\nRED ENVOY DENIES RUSSIAN CONTROL.\n\nADVISERS TO CANTON.\n\nA newspaper correspondent who has recently returned to the Colony from Canton had the opportunity, whilst in the latter city, of interviewing M. Borodin, the Soviet envoy. In accordance with pre-arranged plans, the interview took place at Government House, where, on arrival, the correspondent was conducted to an ante-room. Here M. Borodin was in waiting, and he courteously asked the correspondent to be seated. This was evidently the private office of M. Borodin. It was plainly furnished and the decoration was in harmony with the furnishings, having only the flag of the Russian Soviet and the photograph of the late M. Lenin hung on the wall.\n\nM. Borodin is a man in the prime of life, about 45 years of age, of medium height and a robust physique, with a tendency towards corpulence. His head is rather large, and he has a wealth of dark hair. His eyes are large and bright. The man gives one the impression that he is keen, resolute and undaunted. On looking at his desk, the big piles of documents piled up on it bespeak the great amount of work he has to perform daily.\n\n\"Is it a fact, as reported in the papers,\" asked the correspondent, \"that the Strike is encouraged and backed by financial assistance from the Soviet?\"\n\n\"The Soviet has never given any financial assistance to the Strike Union,\" answered M. Borodin. \"Any assistance has been given from the Labour Unions there. The Soviet had nothing to do with it. It is a matter entirely of a private nature. True, a certain sum of money was received by the Strike Unions from the Labour Unions, but this was not from Russia, it must have been from local sources.\"\n\nThey have heard through the reports published in the newspapers, that the Government, both in its administrative and military powers, is now in the hands of Russians; that it is or is about to become Bolshevik; and that the present strike is encouraged by and has the financial assistance of the Soviet. \"If you would grant me a little of your time, I should like to ask a few questions in order that, on my return, I may be able to give the overseas Chinese your views on the present situation in Canton.\"\n\nM. Borodin replied: \"Certainly; I shall be glad to answer any questions which do not concern the civil administration of the Soviet, or its foreign policy. I, too, am aware that there are in circulation erroneous reports that the Government at Canton has embraced the Bolshevik cause; and I am glad to have today's opportunity to give you my views, and I hope you will tell the overseas Chinese what you actually see and hear without any colouring.\"\n\nThe correspondent opened the conversation by remarking: \"I am here on a mission on behalf of the overseas Chinese desiring to be enlightened on the present situation of the Canton Government.\"\n\nPage 129", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-492 - Governor Sir Clementi - 1925 [12] - 1926 [1-5].txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 }, { "id": 519594, "series_id": 27, "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine", "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案", "series_use_hku_proxy": false, "document_key": "CO129-517-5 The visit of the Duke of Gloucester to Hong Kong 2-5-1929 - 23-5-1929", "page_number": 5, "title": "CO129-517-5 The visit of the Duke of Gloucester to Hong Kong 2-5-1929 - 23-5-1929", "content_text": "The China Coast Officers' Guild.\n\n**HEAD OFFICE**: 6, YUEN MING YUEN ROAD, SHANGHAI. SECRETARY: W. E. KIRBY. TELEPHONE: CENTRAL 2520.\n\n87 DES VOEUX ROAD CENTRAL\n\n**BRANCH OFFICE**:\n\nThe Marine Engineers' Guild of China.\n\n**HEAD OFFICE**: 21, JINKEE ROAD, SHANGHAI.\n\nSECRETARY: J. WATSON.\n\nTELEPHONE: CENTRAL 2717.\n\n67 DES VOEUX ROAD, HONGKONG.\n\n**BRANCH OFFICE**:\n\nHONGKONG.\n\nBRANCH SECRETARY: W. J. STOKES.\n\nTELEPHONE: 3550.\n\nASSISTANT SECRETARY: T. T. LAURENSON.\n\nTELEPHONE: 26867.\n\n**CABLE ADDRESS**: \"CHICOGUI\" SHANGHAI & HONGKONG. CODES: BENTLEYS & A.B.C. 5TH EDITION.\n\n**CABLE ADDRESS**: \"PISTONROD\" SHANGHAI & HONGKONG. CODES: BENTLEYS & A.B.C. 5TH EDITION.\n\nHong Kong, 17th May 1929.\n\nThe Right Honourable\n\nThe Secretary of State for the Colonies,\n\nper favour of His Excellency the Governor,\n\nHong Kong.\n\nSir,\n\nWe have the honour to forward for your information the copy of a letter addressed by these Guilds to the Colonial Secretary Hong Kong.\n\nWe feel that an unfortunate slur has been cast upon a great Service which has been honoured by His Majesty the King in the appointment of His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales to be the Master and who in a book recently published and entitled \"The Merchant Navy\" has said: -\n\n\"Let us, who are land-dwellers, not mince words over this thing. It is the glory of our Merchant Navy and will be acclaimed for generations to come, that they faced without hesitation the tremendous odds and the frequent hazard of death, undaunted in spirit to the bitter end\".\n\n\"Let us not forget also, that had it been otherwise this country of ours must have perished\".\n\nIn view of these facts is it any wonder that the strongest possible protest is made, to the obvious affront to which we have drawn attention.\n\nWe have the honour to be,\n\nSir,\n\nYour obedient servants,\n\nT. T. Laurenson \nW. J. Stotes \nBranch Secretaries.", "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-517-5 The visit of the Duke of Gloucester to Hong Kong 2-5-1929 - 23-5-1929.txt", "external_url": "", "rank": 0 } ]