not men but angels. Boat-loads of water were immediately despatched to our
ship, and whilst they forwarded an ample and impressive statement in our
behalf to the Prince of Satzuma, they desired to give us a great supply of pro
visions. Out people were to return to their homes immediately, and every
other matter to be satisfactorily arranged. We had also drawn up a letter to
the Prince, in the envelope of which we had enclosed the document addressed
to the Emperor. This, however, they refused to receive, after much delibera
tion ; yet the substance was faithfully transcribed in their report to Kagosima.
Having been requested to come to an anchor opposite to a certain village,
we repaired thither, under the guidance of a native pilot. On the third day,
230
early in the morning, a fishing-boat came off to us in great haste, and the
people, seemingly on their own account, stated that we would not be permitted
to enter a more secure harbour, as had been promised at first, and, since more
Mandarins had arrived, it would be best to trip our anchor and sail away. Our
Japanese having applied the day previous for permission to go on shore, they
were prohibited doing so by the authorities. A few moments of reflection fully
convinced us that we must not expect any friendly treatment, though the
authorities had solemnly pledged themselves. We were no longer left in a state
of doubt; the ominous striped cloth was down ; and as soon as the Mandarins
found themselves secure under the cover of this defence, they commenced
firing upon us. Though the balls fell all short, we thought it best to get under
way. The wind being contrary, we had to beat out, and thus to approach the
land in different directions. From six projecting points were we tired upon
during twelve hours, with long intervals between. But as both the cannon
were very defective and ill directed, no damage was done, all balls falling short.
The Bay of Kagosima is well sheltered, and there is an excellent anchorage
near the city. Only the Loo-Chooans are permitted to trade to this emporium ;
all other commerce is considered as smuggling, in which the Satzuinans have
shown themselves too clever. This was one of the first ports visited by the
Portuguese, and is still to this day one of the most flourishing.
During the whole course of our negotiation with the Japanese Govern
ment, we are not aware of having given the slightest offence. We came there
to deliver up seven shipwrecked men, and to solicit a friendly intercourse ; our
intentions were fully stated, both in writing as well as verbally, and acknow
ledged to be excellent and praiseworthy. Without being charged with having
transgressed the laws of the country, or in the least degree being warned of our
impending fate, the Government was determined on our destruction; and out
preservation, which we owe to the merciful protection of Providence, must
mainly be ascribed to their want of means to kill us.
Our natives were thunder-struck, and grateful that they had not availed
themselves of a Satzuma junk to return to their country, tor then they would
certainly have been decapitated, or put, for all their lives, into prison. Now,
they had at least some means left of saving their lives by returning to Macao.
They earnestly besought us to take them back, because their country had
rejected them as outcasts, and we willingly granted them a favour asked with
tears. After frequent calms and currents we arrived, August 29th, in Macao
Roads. »
To sum up the total of our experience in regard to this country, we ought
to give full credit to the frankness and friendliness of the natives. They are
people who would oblige foreigners to any extent. The Mandarins we saw
were mean in their appearance, and never spoke without trembling: the sol
diers are in petticoats —real sans-culottes — and apparently inferior to the
Chinese. The system of espionage is carried here farther than even once in
Spain by the Inquisition. The Emperor and all his vassals are prisoners in
their palaces, and even not allowed to eat as much or as little as they like, or to
sleep beyond their time. Every officer is responsible with his head in his
station to the whim of his superior, and a mere machine in the performance of
his duty. Japan exhibits the true image of despotism. Its constant tranquillity
is a mere fiction, but it is a matter of fact that Government has always been
strong enough to quell rebellion and maintain its system. How the present
struggle will end, we do not know ; but so much is certain, that the great bulk
of the people groans under the heavy burdens imposed upon them. There is
an overgrown population, and though the means of subsistence in plentiful years
are sufficient, they are not adequate during a time of scarcity.
The Japanese coasting commerce is very extensive: the resources of this
country are very large, and the inhabitants fully as industrious as the Chinese.
The Government is the only check to improvement, and the insurmountable
bar to foreign intercourse.
(Signed) CH. GUTZLAFF,
Joint Interpreter.
231
No. 108.
Captain Elliot to Viscount Palmerston.— (Received March 19, 1838.)
My Lord, Canton, September 2G, 1837.
AN accident of a serious nature has just occurred at this place ; and, being
apprehensive that unfounded and disquieting reports may reach England upon
the subject, I forward this Despatch by a ship bound to Bombay, in the hope
of saving the December overland mail.
Two Lascars, belonging to an English passage-boat, landed on the evening
of the 20th instant on the north shore of the river, about two miles below the
Factories, and a fray took place, in which a Chinese was declared to have
received several severe stabs with a knife.
There were two other Lascars on shore at the same place, and although it
does not seem that they were engaged in the affair, they, with the two prin
cipals, fell into the hands of the Chinese police, and the whole four were brought
np to this place and confined in the Consoo House.
On the morning of the next day (the '21st), the magistrate, in whose dis
trict the disturbance occurred, sent them to me for examination, but declined
to leave them in my hands.
I had no strong objection that they should remain in the custody of the
Mandarins, at the Consoo House, during the daytime, because I could always
know whether they were removed within the walls of the city, and then trans
mit the most urgent appeals for their immediate delivery to my care ; but, as
night approached, and it would be difficult to watch proceedings, other steps
became necessary.
At eight o'clock, therefore, I sent for the three official merchants to the
Hall, and demanded that the men should be given up before ten .o'clock that
night, upon my pledge that they should be fairly tried, according to the laws of
my country (and in the presence of Mandarins), for any crime alleged against
them.
Howqua replied, with composure, that these persons were in the custody
of the Mandarins, charged with a violation of the laws of the empire, and pend
ing the determination of the safety of a Chinese who had been severely stabbed
by one amongst them. If Englishmen went to France, he argued, they were
amenable to the justice of that country ; and then, taking this rather displeasing
occasion to compliment me upon a presumed reasonableness of disposition and
love of justice, which, he said, had secured for me the respect of the Governor,
he required me to show why the case should be different when Englishmen
came to China.
I answered that I would venture to say my Government would admit all
the force of this reasoning, as soon as it could be made at all applicable by the
Emperor's gracious will to place my countrymen on the like footing in China,
with respect to freedom of intercourse and the equal administration of the laws,
as they stood in France, considered with relation to those points.
There was no pretension in England, he might assure himself, to dictate
any change of policy to the Chinese : that was a high matter, which depended
upon the Imperial wisdom and pleasure; but it was not to be denied that the
present state of things was attended with great inconveniences, and one amongst
them was, the utter impossibility to concede their right to try British subjects
for a breach of Chinese laws, by Chinese officers, whilst those laws were only
partially administered towards them, and whilst appeal to the higher Chinese
tribunals is entirely shut out from them.
All that could be justly expected from my Government, under such cir
cumstances, was to provide means for the fair trial of British offenders against
Chinese life or property by British laws and British officers.
With respect to the merits of this particular case, I urged that no European
had seen the body of the man said to be stabbed ; that the Lascar denied the
whole allegation, and that it was certain no knife had been found upon him.
I concluded by insisting that the men must be delivered to me by ten
o'clock, or that I must quit Canton, leaving upon his Excellency and them
232
selves, in the form of a protest, all the grave responsibility of any evil conse
quences which might ensue from their further detention.
I suggested, at the same time, that, as soon as it were known I had left the
Factories, it was too probable some eight hundred or a thousand men might
come up to Canton from Whampoa, to carry a petition to the city gates for the
restoration of the people. Whilst I remained, my countrymen would be patient,
feeling assured that the safety of the people was certain ; it was not easy to
believe they would remain so after I had left Canton.
The Lascars, it was to be observed, were a very excitable race of people,
and they might urge their commanders to take some hazardous step, which no
man would deplore more sincerely than myself; but it would be wholly out of
my power to control events, if they constrained me, by their unreasonable re
fusal of my proposal, to retire from the stage of my public duties—the very first
of which was the protection of my countrymen.
Ilowqua was evidently shaken by this tone of representation, but he' still
anxiously entreated me to wait till he could see the Governor in the morn
ing. I felt, however, that this was one of those cases in which firm coun
tenance and rigid adherence to my original declaration was all I had to depend
upon ; and I closed the discussion by desiring the people to prepare my boat.
At this point Howqua gave way, and the men were forthwith restored
to me.
They have been in my custody ever since ; and your Lordship may be
assured that I will never give them up to any other form of trial than that to
which I have pledged myself—namely, a trial according to the forms of British
law.
It is satisfactory to add that the Chinese is said to be doing well, and that
the tranquil course of the trade has not been interrupted.
I would in this place, my Lord, express a respectful but earnest hope, that
no time may be lost in the formation of adequate judicial and police insti
tutions for the government of the King's subjects in this empire ; and I have
no hesitation in assuring your Lordship that it is in my power to secure from
the provincial authorities the most formal sanction to their operation. J
For several months in the year, there are not less than 2000 of his Majesty's
subjects at Canton, Whampoa, Macao, and the immediately adjacent anchorages ;
and your Lordship is aware, that, except in cases of homicide, the Chinese
Government do not interpose at all for the preservation of peace between them
and their own people, or between his Majesty's subjects themselves.
Your Lordship will conceive the exceeding risk and unsuitablcness of the
absence of defined means of sufficient control.
I have, &c,
(Signed) CHARLES ELLIOT.
Macao, October?!, \SoJ.
P.S.—Particular circumstances calling me to this place on the 30th ult., I
apprized the Provincial Government that I adhered to my pledge with respect
to these people, but must take them away with me to Macao. The day after
my departure from Canton, accompanied by the Lascars, a chop was issued by
the district magistrate, desiring that they might be finally delivered to me to be
dealt with as I saw fit.
(Signed) CHARLES ELLIOT.
233
No. 109.
Captain Elliot to Viscount Palmerston.— (Received May 15, 1838.)
My Lord, Canton, November 18, 1837.
THE Inclosure No. 1, which I have now the honour to transmit,
consists of a series of four Edicts upon the subject of the opium ships,
forwarded to me by the Provincial Government, at various dates in the
months of August and September last.
An instrument subsequently addressed to me (Inclosure No. 4 of this
despatch) so fully recapitulates the subject matter of these documents, that
I have merely considered it necessary to trouble your Lordship with their
contents in an abridged form.
It is requisite your Lordship should know, that since my first arrival
in Canton, in the month of April last, I have frequently been urged by the
official merchants (and, as they have always declared, by the special
command of the Governor) to dismiss the opium ships from the usual
anchorages outside the port. I have invariably replied on these occasions,
that my Commission charged me with the superintendence of the trade to
Canton ; that my Government had no formal knowledge of the existence of
any other ; and that his Excellency must be sensible I could concern myself
only with the duties I had due authority to perform.
"When the Edict of the 19th September was delivered to me, the
merchants anxiously importuned me to acknowledge the receipt of all
these papers, and authentically to explain my situation in relation to the
whole subject.
So long as there was room for the supposition, that these repeated
approaches were merely formal, I considered, that it would be most con
venient entirely to disregard them ; but, with the Government manifestly
in greater earnest than it had ever yet been upon the subject, it was to be
borne in mind, that my continued silence was susceptible of mis
chievous misconstruction for the vindication of the menaced inter
ruption of the whole commerce.
Thus impressed, I resolved to record my own grounds for the course
I was pursuing, rather than to leave its explanation to the inferences of
the Provincial Government.
The Inclosure No. 2, is my note to the Governor, in acknowledgment
of the first Edict.
The Inclosure No. 3, is his Excellency's admission of the reasonableness
of my objections to transmit for submission to the throne, communications
which reached me through an indirect and informal channel.
The Inclosure No. 4, is an instrument addressed directly to myself
under the seals of the Kwang-Chow-Foo and the Kwang-Heep, and contains
copy of his Excellency's Edict, addressed to those officers for communica
tion to me.
The Inclosure No. 5, is my acknowledgment of this paper.
The earlier transmission of this despatch has been prevented by the
Governor's absence from the provincial city on an official tour, which has
put it out of my power to transmit my note, No. 5, till yesterday ; and I
considered it a matter of some moment, that the circumstances should stand
in their present posture before they were reported for your Lordship's
information.
Situated as I am, I hope to be pardoned for submitting my own views
of a course of proceeding which seems to me to be easy and advantageous
of adoption in the present conjuncture ; but I am disposed to believe, that
it may more conveniently form the subject of a separate despatch.
I have, &c,
(Signed) CHARLES ELLIOT,
Chief Superintendent.
2 H
234
Inclosure 1 in No. 109.
Abstract of an Edict from the Governor and Lieutenant Governor ofCanton
to the Hong Merchants, against the Opium-receiving ships anchored
outside the port of Canton.
August 4, 1837.
THEIR Excellencies have received from Peking an Imperial Edict,
which they insert, and of which the following is the substance : " A
memorial has been laid before the Emperor, representing that more than
ten English vessels are constantly anchored outside the port, in the
anchorages of Kap-shuy-moon and Kumsingmoon ; that the illicit trade—
the importation of opium and exportation of Sycee silver—depends
Entirely on these vessels ; and that they form also places of refuge for
proscribed smugglers. The Emperor accordingly directs, that the resident
foreigners be immediately required to send them away, and also, that
steps be taken to punish all natives engaged in the smuggling of opium."
The Governor and Lieutenant Governor hereupon issue orders to the
Hong Merchants, to make it known, that no foreign vessels are allowed to
remain anchored outside the port ; and to call on the English Superinten
dent to send away all the receiving-vessels now anchored in various
places within a period of ten days.
[Note. This abstract is given in as few words as possible, as the tenor
of the whole of this document, and of the three others, appears in a
subsequent document, of which a full translation is given.]
(Signed) J. ROBERT MORRISON,
Chinese Secretary and Interpreter.
Abstract of a second Edict from the Governor and Lieutenant Governor
of Canton against the Opium-receiving Ships anchored outside the Port.
August 17, 1837.
THE Imperial Edict, inserted in the first Edict from their Excellen
cies, is here re-inserted ; and their previous orders are alluded to, with
blame, on account of no answer having yet been given.
The English Superintendent Elliot, being authorized to direct even
trifling matters, is so much the more called on to interfere in an important
matter, which, as it is contrary to the laws of the Celestial Empire, must
also be obnoxious to the instructions which the Superintendent has from
his own Government. The benevolence of the Great Emperor is universal,
but it cannot suffer depraved foreigners to tempt natives to do eviL
The strict terms of the Imperial Edict require on the part of their
Excellencies, the utmost diligence ; and, being apprehensive that the Hong
merchants may not have explained the subject with sufficient earnestness,
this second Edict is therefore issued. The Superintendent is to be in
structed, immediately to send away all the vessels anchored at Lintin,
and other places outside the port ; and hereafter, the trade must be con
fined to articles legally dutyable, and no contraband articles, such as
opium, must be imported.
The goodness of the Government in permitting foreigners to have a
general mart for their commerce, at such an important emporium as
Canton is, is then spoken of; but it is shown on the other hand, that
the Emperor can be awfully severe, as well as good and merciful ; and
that it will be well, therefore, to avoid such conduct as will lead to the
entire stoppage of commercial intercourse.
Abstract of a third Edict from the Governor and Lieutenant Governor of
Canton against the Opium-receiving ships anchored outside the Port.
September 18, 1837.
THEIR Excellencies allude to the Imperial Edict before published by
them, and recapitulate their orders of date 17th August, adding that no
235
report has yet been made in answer. They then give the substance of
sundry reports from naval and civil officers, in regard to the movements
of ships from Kapsingmoon eastward, to a place called Tseenshatsuy, and
also between Tseenshatsuy and Macao. This not being the direction
which vessels should take to return to their countries, it is plain from their
moving eastward to Tseenshatsuy, that their object is to remain lingering
about, and to watch the progress of events.
The goodness of the Government in permitting the continuance of
trade, under all circumstances, for a space of 200 years, is highly extolled,
and the contumacy of foreigners reprobated ; and it is asked, if they
can suppose that while they render the Chinese seas a common sewer
for the filthy opium, the Government can fail to put the laws in force
against them? If in the several foreign countries, individuals of another
country were, with their ships, to contravene the laws, and continue for a
long time so doing, the king of the country would certainly enforce the
laws against the offenders. How much more must the Government of this
empire punish the contumacious disobedience of barbarians ?
The King of England has been hitherto dutiful and respectful, and
has plainly prohibited the conduct complained of; and, lest any of his
people should bring shame on their country, has sent the Superintendent
Elliot, to Canton, to hold them in check. But a month has elapsed since
strict investigation concerning these receiving-vessels was entered upon,
and yet the Superintendent has not sent any of them away. It is to be
feared, therefore, he is unfit for the situation of Superintendent. If he can
willingly bear reproach, on account of these vessels, how then will he
answer it to his King, or how to their Excellencies ? If he will seriously
consider it, he surely cannot find rest upon his bed.
Their Excellencies issue once more their commands, requiring the
Superintendent to make known to those of the receiving-ships the good
ness and the terrors of the Government ; to lay before them the choice of
weal or woe ; and to call on them all immediately to return home ; they
also require him to report to his King, in order that the receiving-vessels
may henceforth be prohibited from coming hither. Thus the good and
bad will not be confounded ; thus the unbounded goodness of the Emperor
may be manifested, and the path of intercourse be for ever retained to
those who are good among the foreigners. It would not be difficult for
their Excellencies to use the power placed in their hands, and at once
drive oft" these offenders ; but they do not decline repeatedly to give admo
nitions, lest anything should be wanting to the faithful exhibition of their
requirements, and so the display of impartial benevolence should be
obstructed. But further contumacy, after this, will make it manifest that
words are but thrown away upon wilful offenders.
The Hong merchants finally are commanded to report, whether the
Superintendent is looking on with folded arms, or whether the delay
arises from the obstinacy of those on board the receiving-ships. They are
warned also not to risk their fortunes and lives by negligence and indif
ference.
Abstract of an Edict from the Governor and Lieutenant Governor of
Canton respecting contraband trading on the coast of Fuhkeen,
September 19, 1837.
THE Governor and Lieutenant Governor give insertion to an Impe
rial Edict just received by them from Peking, of the following tenour ■—
" The Governor of Fuhkeen had informed His Majesty, of the apprehension
of sundry persons who had been engaged in the introduction of opium,
whereupon His Majesty had commanded the naval Commander-in-chief in
that province to suppress all such illegalities therein. Calling to mind
that there are many foreign officers and chief supracargoes at Macao, His
Majesty further requires that, as often as such officers shall obtain infor
mation of the existence of a contraband traffic, it shall be their duty to
send away the offending parties."
Their Excellencies require the senior Hong merchants accordingly to
call upon the English Superintendent to investigate the subject ; and when
23C
ever he learns of any illicit traffic, immediately to send away the offending
parties for trial, according to the laws of their country ; and also to prevent
vessels from going beyond the prescribed bounds.
Inclosure 2 in No. 109.
Captain Elliot to the Governor of Canton.
Canton, September 25, 1837.
THE Undersigned, &c, &c, has had the honour to receive your
Excellency's Edicts addressed to the senior Hong merchants, dated on the
18th and 19th September, 1837.
His Commission from his Government places the ships and subjects
of the English nation trading to this port under his direction. It is his
duty to use every effort to cause all British persons arriving within these
limits, to respect the laws and customs of the empire ; and your Excellency
may be assured that he will ever zealously devote himself to those
objects.
The Undersigned is not ignorant that an extensive traffic is carried
on without the port of Canton by the ships of foreign nations. But he
sees only the papers of British ships which arrive within the port ; and he
is therefore without any public means of knowing which of the ships
resorting to these anchorages are British ; what is the nature of their
pursuits; whence they come, or whither they go ?
Your Excellency has now been pleased to direct that His Majesty
the King of England should be informed of the gracious will of the
Emperor, requiring the adoption of measures to prevent these alleged
irregular visits of British ships to the coasts of China.
It is the duty of the Undersigned respectfully, but plainly, to signify
to your Excellency, that the present condition of his public intercourse
with the Government of these Provinces renders it impossible, consistently
with the customs of his country, that any such communication should
ever arrive under the notice of the King.
The pleasure of your Excellency reaches the knowledge of the
Undersigned, who is an officer, and wholly unconnected with trade, in no
more authentic and formal shape than the copy of an Edict addressed by
your Excellency to native merchants. He does not dare to forward the
substance of information derived from such a source for submission to the
throne.
In his ordinary intercourse with your Excellency, he has deferred, at
great personal responsibility, to the present manner of communication,
because your Excellency informed him that it was in conformity with the
customs of the empire.
But in the transmission of communications to the knowledge of the
King of England, it is in like manner just and needful, that due regard
should be had to the customs which regulate the manner of intercourse
with His Majesty.
In a late visit of a British ship-of-war to the coasts of Fuhkeen, upon
public business, his Excellency the Governor of that province commu
nicated his pleasure concerning those affairs, to certain officers of the
province, and commanded them to take a copy of his Edict, and to deliver
it, under their seal, to the Commander of the British ship.
That document is now in the possession of the Undersigned, and a
translation of it will be laid before the King, so that the gracious benevo
lence of the Emperor to the distressed subjects of his kingdom may be
made known to His Majesty.
If your Excellency, in your wisdom, shall judge fit to conform to this
same practice, whenever it be desired to lay communications before His
Majesty, all difficulty upon the subject will be removed.
■ The Undersigned will conclude this address, by observing, that His
Gracious Sovereign has never yet been approached with representations
setting forth the existence of irregularities by the subjects of his kingdom
237
on these coasts ; and that His Majesty, therefore, can know nothing of
any such allegations, or of the pleasure of the Emperor in respect to
them.
The Undersigned avails himself of this occasion to renew to your
Excellency the sentiments of his highest considerations.
(Signed) CHARLES ELLIOT,
Chief Superintendent.
Inclosure 3 in No. 109.
The Governor and Lieutenant Governor of Canton in reply to Captain
Elliot's request that the wishes of the Government should be commu
nicated through the medium of an Officer.
September 28, 1837.
THE Governor and Lieutenant Governor jointly reply. The vessels
having been so long anchored off the coast, that the Great Emperor has
been informed respecting them,—and the Superintendent having resided
for some years at Macao, how can he be ignorant of the circumstances
and places of their anchorage? The address of the Superintendent is
merely a specious document. The rule of the Empire is, that all com
mands issued to foreigners are to be enjoined through the medium of the
Hong merchants. And in a matter of such importance as the present,
how can obedience be refused ! There is, however, some reason in the
representation, that it is difficult to bring to the knowledge of his King a
plain and unauthentic document. They, therefore, taking this into con
sideration, will adapt their proceedings to the occasion, and will instruct
the Prefect of the department of Kwang-Chow, and the chief military
officer of the same department, to communicate their wishes to the Super
intendent, who, in obedience thereto, is to send away the receiving-ships,
and also to forward information to his King, that such vessels may be
prohibited coming hither again.
[Note.—The same matter appears almost verbatim in the next docu
ment, where it is translated in full.]
(Signed) J. ROBERT MORRISON,
Chinese Secretary and Interpreter.
Inclosure 4 in No. 109.
The Prefect and Commandant of Canton to Captain Elliot.
September 29, 1837.
CHOO, Prefect of Kwang-Chow-Foo, and Ta, commander of the forces
of Kwang-Chow, issue these commands to the English Superintendent,
Elliot, that he may render himself acquainted therewith.
On the 28th September, we received from their Excellencies the
Governor and Lieutenant Governor, the following official document :—
" On the 3rd August, we received from the Grand Council of State,
copy of an Imperial Edict, of date July 14, of the following tenor :—
" ' Owing to the exportation of silver carried on from all the ports
along the coast, and in consideration of the important bearing of this
upon the national resources and the livelihood of the people, we have
already, in repeated instances, declared our pleasure, requiring all the
Governors and Lieutenant Governors of the provinces, faithfully to make
examination and to act in this matter.
'• ' To-day again, the Sub-Censor, Le Pankew, has laid before us. a
memorial to this effect, that there are above ten English warehousing
vessels, which first, in the year 1821, entered the anchorage of Kapshuy-
moon, and thence in 1833, removed their anchorage to Kumsingmoon ;
that the importation of opium, and the exportation of silver, depend
wholly on these warehousing vessels, which form also a general refuge for
absconders ; that a set of worthless fellows, in boats called " fast-crabs,"
238
going and coming from morn to night, find means to make their way
stealthily into every creek and inlet ; that there are depraved dealers
who prepare the drug for use, buying and selling by wholesale ; and, also,
that the native retail dealers in foreign commodities, under the open pre
text of selling articles of commerce, make secret smuggling their business,
and in nowise differ from the larger preparers of the drug.
" ' There surely must be a fixed place of anchorage for the vessels of
the foreigners: how then is it, that, while previous to the year 1821, the
clandestine establishment of warehousing vessels was never heard of,
these vessels have of late been suffered to remain for whole years at
anchor on the high seas, thus leading to unlawful combination between
them and natives, and to unrestrained smuggling? Let it be the respon
sible duty of the Governor of Kwangtung and his colleagues, to give strict
orders to the Hong merchants, to be enjoined on the resident foreigners
of the said nation, requiring them to compel the warehousing vessels now
anchored there, one and all, to return home, and not to permit them
under any pretext to linger about. Let them also ascertain where are
the dens and hiding-places of the opium-dealers, and inflict punishment
on each individual, without the slightest indulgence. Thus the source of
the evil may be closed up, and the spirit of contumacy suppressed. Let
a copy of the memorial be, together with these commands, transmitted to
Tang and Ke, and by them let the commands be enjoined on Wan. Respect
this.'
" This having been with respectful obedience transmitted to us, the
Governor and Lieutenant Governor, we have examined the subject.
Opium is a poison capable of destroying life; and the pure silver may not
by law be exported. The aim and object of the foreign receiving-ships is
gain alone ; and by presuming for a long period to remain at anchor,
enticing the natives and combining with them in clandestine traffic, those
concerned in these ships have greatly infringed the laws of the celestial
Empire. Having respectfully received the above commands, we issued
especial orders to the Hong merchants, requiring them earnestly and
zealously to enjoin the same on the said Superintendent Elliot, and
directing, that he should pay immediate obedience to the declared Impe
rial pleasure ; that he should send away home every one of the receiving
vessels now anchored in the various offings, and should no longer suffer
them to linger about as heretofore. This is on record.
" After thus doing, we successively received reports from the Military
Commander at Tapang, from the Sub-Prefect at Macao, and from the
Civil and Naval authorities of Heangshan, to the effect, that there were
twenty-five receiving-vessels anchored off the Motaou Islands [in Kap-
singmoon], as also in the offings of the Nine Islands and Cabreta Point,
and in the anchorage of the Typa ; from which places they successively
moved on the 29th and 30th days of August ; and on the 2nd and 3rd of
of September, nineteen of the said receiving ships proceeding from the
Motaou Islands to Tseenshatsuy offing, and two of them from the Nine
Islands, and one from off Cabreta Point, to the same place ; further, that
on the 8th of September, two vessels moved from Tseenshatsuy to the
Typa, and on the 9th, one from the same place to Cabreta Point ; while
only a Dutch ship, which had in the year 1834, anchored off the Nine
Islands, and had at this time removed to Tseenshatsuy, weighed anchor
on the 7th, and proceeded to sea, beyond the great Ladrone Island. We
also received a communication from the Naval Commander-in-chief
to the same effect, adding that Tseenshatsuy is to the eastward of Mo
taou ; and suggesting the great necessity for driving off the numerous
vessels which have now taken up their anchorage there.
" Now these receiving-ships come from the south-westward, and must
needs return in a south-west direction ; how is it then that they have on
the contrary removed eastward ! And why do they not remain in one
place ! It is manifest herein that they wish to cruize about unchecked,
and to linger in the neighbourhood, to watch the progress of circum
stances.
" The goodness of the Celestial Empire and its cherishing kindness
are extreme. Since it first granted to all nations a general market, where
239
the commodities of all might be bartered, a space of 200 years has
elapsed as though it had been but a single day. Such profound bene
volence,—favours so substantial, are well fitted to penetrate the entire
body, even to the very marrow of the bones. Could it then be supposed,
that depraved foreigners would twist awry the laws, and to serve merely
their private ends, would assume the pretence of traffic ! Most lucid and
clear are the sacred commands. Can any yet dare to be, as the habitual
looker-on, unobservant, and still continue to linger about ? And are the
seas of the central flowery land to be made a common sewer for the recep
tion of this filthy [opiumj ! Or shall we, entrusted with the defence and
government of the frontier, be thought unable to follow such conduct with
the rigour of the law ? Consider, if within the territory of any of those
countries, the vessels of another country were contumaciously to infringe
the prohibitions, and remain for a long period there without leaving,
whether the King of that nation would not regard it necessary to punish
such offenders with rigour, refusing the least indulgence How much
more then the celestial Empire ! How can it suffer barbarians to disobey
the laws, and without restraint to throw contempt thereon ?
" The King of the said nation has been heretofore, dutiful and
respectful, and his prohibitions have been rigorously and clearly enacted.
And being apprehensive lest merchants or seamen of vessels coming
hither should infringe prohibitions, or transgress the laws, and so should
bring shame upon their country, he specially sent the Superintendent
Elliot to Canton, to keep them under controul and restraint. But these
receiving-ships have now remained for a very long time at anchor; and
though two months have elapsed since the said Superintendent has
received our commands, he has not yet sent them away to their country.
We fear he is unfit to bear the designation of Superintendent. If he can
willingly subject himself to reproach on account of these receiving-vessels,
how will he be able to answer it to his King ? Or how to Us, the Gover
nor and Lieutenant Governor ? Let him, in the stillness of night, reflect
hereon ; and if he do so, we think that he will be unable to find rest upon
his bed.
" It now, however, appears, from an address presented by the said
Superintendent, that he objects to the copying and enjoining of these
commands by the Hong merchants, on the ground of such copied docu
ment being unauthentic, without official seal or envelope, and so not
giving him evidence whereon to pay obedience to it ; and also that he is
apprehensive of transgressing the laws of his country. According to the
established laws of the Celestial Empire, it is required, that in all matters
wherein commands are given to the outer foreigners, such commands be
enjoined through the medium of Hong merchants. And in this instance,■
moreover, the Imperial pleasure was declared, specially requiring that the
Hong merchants should be commanded to give directions and to act. Can
any dare, then, not to pay respectful obedience thereto ? The said nation
of course has its own laws. But is it imagined, that the laws of outer
barbarians can be practised in the domains of the Celestial dynasty?
What utter ignorance of the requirements of dignity is this!
" Yet the representation, that it is impossible for him to communicate
to his Government such an unauthenticated document appears reasonable.
And we, therefore, on this consideration act, on this occasion, as expe
diency dictates. We forthwith issue this document to you, the Prefect of
Kwang-Chow-Foo, requiring you immediately, in conjunction with the
Commander of forces in the department, to copy these our commands, and
enjoin them on the said Superintendent Elliot, that he may act in obe
dience thereto. He is required speedily to make known to the receiving
vessels anchored at Tseenshatsuy and other places, the Imperial good
ness, and also the Imperial terrors ; to set before them the choice of weal
and woe ; and to urge their speedy and entire departure for their country.
There must be no contumacious opposition. The said Superintendent is
also to convey it to his King, that hereafter such receiving-vessels are to
be prohibited ever again coming hither ; and that only the merchant
vessels trading in legally dutyable articles may come, while all contra
band articles, such as the filthy opium, are not to be conveyed over the
240
Ik
wide seas. Thus, the source of the evil may be closed, and the laws be
held up to honour ; thus, the universally beneficial and boundless favours
of the Great Emperor, may, on the one hand, be conferred; and, on the
other hand, the path of commercial intercourse may for ever be kept open
to all good foreigners. We, the Governor and Lieutenant Governor hold
a great power in our hands, and do that which we determine to do. What
difficulty should we have in driving these vessels away with the utmost
rigour ? Yet we refuse not to repeat our admonitions again and again,
fearing lest there should be any want of perfect faithfulness, and any
consequent obstruction to the display of universally impartial benevo
lence.
" If, after this time of issuing our commands, the receiving-vessels
again collect, as though we were not heard, and continue to remain
looking around them, it will be manifest that amendment finds no place in
the hearts of those concerned in them ; and not only will they be no
longer borne with by the Great Emperor, but by their own King also,
they will certainly be subjected to trial. We cannot do otherwise than
pursue them with the rigour of the laws, and show forth to all the Celes
tial terrors. If the said Superintendent fail to pay earnest obedience
hereto, he also will draw on himself investigation and expulsion. All
must with trembling anxiety attend. Further, let him be commanded to
report as to the periods when these receiving-vessels severally depart for
their country. Oppose not ! Be earnest and speedy ; earnest and
speedy ! "
We, the civil and military authorities of this department, having
received the above, forthwith copy the commands of their Excellencies the
Governor and Lieutenant Governor, and send them to the said Superin
tendent Elliot, requiring him to pay immediate obedience.
[The remainder of the document is a repetition of the latter portion
of the preceding commands, with but one addition, wherein they require
Captain Elliot to report again " through the medium of the Hong
merchants."]
Be earnest and speedy ; earnest and speedy! A special order.
Taoukwang, 17th year, 8th month (29th September, 1837.)
A true Translation.
(Signed) J. Robt. Morrison,
Chinese Secretary and Interpreter.
Charles Gutzlaff,
Joint Interpreter.
Inclosure 5 in No. 109.
Captain Elliot to the Governor of Canton.
Canton, November 17, 1837.
THE Undersigned, &c &c, has had the honour to receive your
Excellency's Edict, dated on the 25th September, conveyed directly to
1nim under the seals of the Kwang-Chow-Foo, and the Kwang-Heep, and
ne will immediately transmit it to his country by the rapid steam and
*overland communication from Bombay.
He has already signified to your Excellency with truth and plainness,
that his Commission extends only to the regular trade with this Empire;
and further, that the existence of any other than this trade has never yet
been submitted to the knowledge of his own Gracious Sovereign.
He will only permit himself to add, on this occasion, that circum
stances of the kind described by your Excellency, cannot be heard of
without feelings of concern and. apprehension: and he desires humbly
to express an earnest hope that sure and safe means of remedying a
hazardous state of things, may be speedily devised.
The Undersigned renews to your Excellency the sentiments of his
highest consideration.
(Signed) CHARLES ELLIOT
241
No. 110.
Captain Elliot to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received May 15, 1838.)
• >
My Lord, Canton, November 19, 1837.
I NOW beg leave to resume the subject of my despatch of yesterday's
date.
i[ ■ In the early part of this year, the project of immediately legalizing
the traffic in opium was, without doubt, favourably entertained at the
Court ; and, situated as we are, it is impossible to detect the particular
management by which the postponement of the measure may have been
achieved. - -|
We have now arrived, however, at a stage in the passage of cir
cumstances when it appears to be necessary, that the subject should once
more be drawn under your Lordship's serious attention.
The vigorous proceedings of the Provincial Government against the
native smugglers at the outside anchorages in the immediate neighbour
hood of this port, have had the effect of vastly increasing the traffic on the
eastern coasts of this and the neighbouring provinces of Fuhkeen.
Till within the last few months, that branch of the trade never
afforded employment to more than two or three small vessels ; but, at the
date of this despatch, and for some months past, there have not been less
than twenty sail of vessels on the east coasts ; and I am sorry to add, that
there is every reason to believe blood has been spilt in the interchange of
shot which has ever and anon■ taken place between them and the Mandarin
boats.
The most grave result of the vigilance upon the spot remains to be
decribed.
The native boats have been burned, and the native smugglers scat
tered ; and the consequence is, as it was foreseen it would be, that a
complete and very hazardous change has been worked in the whole
manner of conducting the Canton portion of the trade.
The opium is now carried on (and a great part of it inwards to
Whampoa) in European passage-boats belonging to British owners,
slenderly manned with Lascar seamen, and furnished with a scanty
armament, which may rather be said to provoke or to justify search,
accompanied by violence, than to furnish the means of effectual defence.
I have no certain means of judging to what extent the shipping at
Whampoa may be implicated in this new mode of carrying on the trade,
but I am not without reason to believe, that they are so, and possibly in an
increasing degree.' And as your Lordship is probably aware that the
Hong merchant who secures each ship, and the captain and consignee,
join in a bond that she has no opium on board, it is needless to dwell
upon the very embarrassing consequences which would ensue if the
existence of a different state of facts should nevertheless be esta
blished.
I am disposed to believe that the higher officers of the Provincial
Government are perfectly sensible of the extensive smuggling of opium
carried on in the European passage-boats, and from some motive, either
of interest or policy, or probably of both, they oppose no immediate
obstacle to such a condition of things.
But the continuance of their inertness is not to be depended upon.
Disputes among themselves for the shares of the emoluments, private
reports against each other to the Court, and, lastly, their ordinary practice
of permitting abuse to grow to ripeness, and to rest in false security, are
all considerations which forbid the hope that these things can endure.
Setting aside, however, the interference of the Mandarins, it is not
to be questioned that the passage of this valuable article in small and
insignificantly armed vessels, affords an intense temptation to piratical
attack by the many desperate smugglers out of employment, and by the
2 I
needy inhabitants of the neighbouring islands. And another Ladrone
war directed against Europeans as well as Chinese is a perfectly probable
event.
In fact, my Lord, looking around me, and weighing the whole body
of circumstances as carefully as I can, it seems to me that the moment
has arrived for such active interposition upon the part of Her Majesty's
Government, as can be properly afforded ; and that it cannot be deferred
without great hazard to the safety of the whole trade, and of the persons
engaged in its pursuit.
The accompanying paper was originally intended as a memorandum
of matter to be framed into a despatch to your Lordship ; but several
considerations dispose me to hope I shall be excused for transmitting it
in its present form.
That the main body of the inward trade (about three-fifths of the
amount) should be carried; on in so hazardous a manner to the safety of
the whole commerce and intercourse with the empire, is a very disquieting
subject of reflection ; but I have a strong conviction, that it is an evil
susceptible of early removal.
I tl3.VC
(Signed) ' CHARLES ELLIOT,
Chief Superintendent.
Inclosure 1 in No. 110.
Memorandum by Captain Elliot.
Canton, November 19, 1837.
THE official application of the Provincial Government, which forms
the subject of Inclosure Feb. 20, in my despatch No. 6, seems to furnish a
proper occasion for an approach to this Government by Her Majesty's
Government.
The necessity for such interposition, it may be said, is not imme
diately obvious. That may be the case in England, and it would be an
ungrateful task to throw it into a stronger light. But at all events, I
shall simply say, that it seems to me, the actual state of things cannot
continue to be left to the turn of events, without seriously risking vast
public and private interests, or without such deeply-rooted injury to the
national character in the estimation of this huge portion of mankind, as
it is painful indeed to reflect upon.
Be my impressions, however, in these respects well founded or not, it
has occurred to me that the suggestion of a mode of approach to this
Government may not be a useless task at the present conjuncture, and
with that feeling, I submit the following proposition.
I would premise, by suggesting that the Secretary of State should
address a letter, without loss of time, to the Governor of these provinces,
announcing that the official paper, already adverted to, had been received,
and signifying Her Majesty's pleasure to despatch a Special Commissioner
to China, to inquire in what degree the evils complained of were justly
chargeable to Her Majesty's subjects, and to consider by what means it
might be possible to establish all things upon a safe and satisfactory
footing.
I would observe, however, that it is desirable the place to which it is
proposed to send the Commissioner should not be mentioned in the
Secretary of State's letter to the Governor of Canton.
This communication would, in my belief, have the immediate effect of
tempering the policy of the Provincial Government upon all points con
nected with the foreigners, and that of itself would be much to gain.
I have considered that the form of approach by a Special Com
missioner is the most convenient for several reasons.
243
In the first place, it is a description of appointment in frequent use
by this Court. And as these Commissioners are understood to be persons
who have particular business to perform, they are almost entirely
exempted from the tedious ceremonial which must press so heavily upon
the time of the higher officers of the provinces employed in their ordinary
stations.
The difficulties therefore would be easily managed in respect to all
points of form, which become so exceedingly perplexing in the case of
Ambassadors, whose main business the Chinese consider to be the per
formance of ceremony. But there is a still more urgent reason for the
appointment of such a functionary rather than an Ambassador. He might
not only announce that this visit was one of business and not of cere
mony, but signify, that he must stay where he was till it was entirely
completed.
No negotiations in China, it may be depended upon, will be so suc
cessful as those which are conducted either on board ships of war, or at
all events, at a place to which the ships could accompany the negotiators,
and abide in perfect safety. When the Chinese perceive it is seriously
intended that the ships should remain till all things were settled, they
will speedily arrive at such reasonable results as shall lead to their
departure.
Whilst I am upon this subject, I would presume to say, that a six-
and-forty gun frigate, and a sloop, or perhaps two, with a steam-boat
from India, do not appear to form a larger escort than may very properly
attend upon a Special Commissioner, charged with an autograph letter
from Her Majesty to the Emperor, and with the arrangement of momentous
public concerns.
The point to which I would submit this officer should be sent is the
Island of Tchusan. The anchorage has been well surveyed and is per
fectly safe ; it is in the near neighbourhood of the great city of Ningpo,
and not very far from Nanking ; so that communication with officers of
very high station would immediately be available.
And if events should take an unfavorable turn, the peaceful conti
nuance of the expedition at that point till further instructions could be
received from England would be easy ; as well on account of the defen
sible nature of an insular position by a sea force, as of the capabilities of
this island to support its own population and the force itself, without aid
irom the main land.
It is to be apprehended, that if the ships were sent at first, or were
subsequently to repair to any point on the Continent, considerable
numbers of troops would gradually be collected in the neighbourhood;
and if no other difficulty ensued, there would probably soon be great
inconvenience about the purchase of supplies, which the people of the
country would be prevented from selling.
But at Tchusan, the ships would be felt to be securely situated in
these respects : and the disposition to adjust upon satisfactory terms
would be proportionably greater.
I would remark upon this topic, that the Commissioner might have
orders to remonstrate against, and if need be, to prevent the introduction
of reinforcements into the island, whilst he remained there, upon the
ground that they might obstruct him in the peaceful performance of his
duties ; and above all, that he could not answer for the constant preser
vation of a good understanding between them and his own people:
trifling disputes might lead to conflicts, conflicts to open war. Reasoning
founded upon the maintenance of the public tranquillity is always very
needfully considered in China.
On arriving at the place of destination, I would submit that the chief
native officer should be required to announce to the Governor of Ningpo,
the arrival of a Commissioner charged with an autograph letter from
Her Majesty to the Emperor, and a letter from the Secretary of State to
the Governor General of the Provinces, resident at Nanking, as well as to
the Cabinet at Peking; and to request that proper officers might imme
diately be deputed to receive these last communications.
It seems to be a trifling point to notice, but I believe it is of moment,
2 I 2
244
that the Commissioner should be instructed neither to see nor to give, or
to receive, communications of any kind from persons deputed by the
Governor of Ningpo, till he should have most carefully ascertained
through his interpreters, that they were officers of at least the third rank,
if civil ; the second rank, if military.
The letters of the Secretary of State to the Governor General, and the
Cabinet at Peking, might signify in general terms, the cause and objects
of the Mission, and request that their Excellencies would move the Em
peror graciously to appoint Commissioners of the first rank to receive
Her Majesty's letter ; and other special officers to confer with him on the
business of his visit, in order that he might speedily complete it, and sail
back to his country as soon as it were satisfactorily arranged.
In determining upon the propriety of moving to any other place to
which he might be invited to proceed by the Emperor's command, I would
say the Commissioner should be guided by the affirmative of two pro
positions.
First. That the ships could accompany him, and remain in perfect
safety.
Secondly. That the place was nearer to the Court than Tchusan.
But my own very forcible impression is, that it would be the safest
and most hopeful course, to instruct him not to quit Tchusan at all till
all things were surely adjusted.
If the Emperor, when all matters were concluded, required him to
proceed to the Court, I would say that the visit should be preceded by a
convention, plainly defining the manner of his reception, and guaranteeing
his safe and becoming return, at any moment he thought fit, to the station
of the ships.
It is not probable that a visit to the Court will be invited, and in my
judgment, it had better be avoided, except it be very urgently pressed.
If the Commissioner were required to proceed to Canton and
place himself in communication with the Governor there, it might be
answered that he had no letters of credence to that functionary (a point
the Chinese perfectly understand), and that his orders forbid him to
communicate with him.
If all intercourse at any other point than Canton were obstinately
refused (and there, it would be idle to go), I would submit that the Com
missioner should be instructed to declare, that he had orders to take post
where he was, till further directions could be received from England.
And that he should forthwith manifest an earnest determination to
secure himself in a safe attitude.
Whilst I am upon this point, I would say that the arrival of a
transport or two at Tchusan from India, with supplies and stores for the
ships, would probably produce the best effect in hastening the movements
of the Chinese Court in a favourable sense.
When officers from Peking had arrived, and communications were
opened, I would propose that the Commissioner, after the verification of
the grounds of complaint, should explain how impossible it was Her
Majesty's Government could take the steps which had been urged by the
Chinese, and how futile they would have been if their enactment were
practicable.
More than one-half of the opium imported into China, it might be
shown, came from places not in the dominions of Her Majesty. And Her
Majesty, therefore, had neither the right nor the power to forbid its im
portation in foreign bottoms. Again, it might be asked, with such a vast
proportion of the opium foreign -grown, what means were there of
preventing the whole of the British-grown opium being sent to places
out of Her Majesty's dominions, and thence exported to China in foreign
bottoms?
From a person in my position, all reasoning of this description would
be out of place. It is my plain duty to adhere to the principle that this
is a subject with which I have no concern. But the arguments of a
Commissioner specially appointed to treat the matter, would be atten
tively considered; and I think those may be urged which would lead
245
not only to the early legalization- of the trade (a trade that is carried
under circumstances which are very discreditable to us), but to other
important relaxations.
I believe it would be salutary to announce, that Her Majesty being
without the power to prevent or to regulate this trade, anxiously desired
its legalization ; so that all men who visited the Empire of China might
be within the controul of the laws.
The natural consequence of the present system, it might be said,
was the corruption of all, high and low, and the infesting of the coasts
with evil men, both foreign and native.
It organized vast masses of people in the practice of law-breaking ;
and how soon they might pass from one state of lawlessness to another,
no one could foresee.
The regular trade was no longer safe without special and powerful
protection, for it was notorious, that depredation of the most flagrant
nature upon innocent men, attended with frequent loss of life, took place
every week in the year (by armed boats, having the Government autho
rity), upon the pretence of searching for opium.
Another point remains to be particularly insisted upon. The Imperial
Government had frequently menaced the entire extinction of the regular
trade, on account of this illicit traffic, which it was plain Her Majesty had
no means of preventing.
Threats so urgent and so hostile, furnished an irresistible reason for
the constant presence of a protecting force. It was impossible to say how
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