has been made, I would most respectfully suggest to your Lordship, that a short
period will exhibit how far the present plan of an authority established either
afloat or without the river, will prove efficacious and beneficial. I can safely
assert it will ensure all the requisite capabilities for the controul and assistance
of British subjects ; and it is not a matter of opinion with me, but of firm
conviction, that unless placed in a becoming position at Canton, and in a proper
channel of direct communication with the local authorities, an object most
desirable no doubt, but in my opinion, only now to be achieved by a demon
stration of force on the part of the British Government, which I do not hesitate
to assert, would speedily and completely prevent all future difficulties, the
residence there of the Commission would, even if permitted, and their
interference and interposition in matters now arranged by the merchants
themselves, Chinese and English, apparently without much difficulty, tend to the
creation and extension of disputes, discussions, and endless causes of interrup
tion and danger to the trade. In short, the less we have to do with the Chinese
authorities and people, save when appealed to in cases of aggression and
injustice, which I trust will be rare and trifling, the less apprehension may be
entertained of those perplexing difficulties in which we are liable to be involved,
mainly by the insecure and doubtful position wherein we find ourselves at
Canton, unable to communicate with the officers of Government ; completely at
the mercy of interested and mercenary Hong merchants, Linguists, &c ; and
P
t06
in the event of non-compliance with all their demands, to be insulted in every
possible manner; our servants taken away; provisions stopped; and houses
unroofed. No alternative then remains but the most revolting submission, or
removal from the port,—a result which I am justified in saying may be antici
pated on the first occasion of discussion in Canton.
A case of homicide, as your Lordship is aware, will be the event most
fraught with difficulty and anxiety. For the prevention of such a disaster, our
residence at Canton avails nothing; an efficient police establishment at Wham-
poa, might, indeed, be a precautionary measure well worthy attention ; but for
framing rules, regulations and orders, and impressing them in a serious and
formal manner on commanders, officers, and sailors, previous to vessels going
up, as well as the adjustment of all accounts, disputes, &c, previous to their
departure, this or some other outside anchorage is evidently the best position.
In the event of so unhappy a catastrophe occurring, as the death of a Chinese,
we are helpless in Canton ; we must give up a man, or men, or certain indi
viduals in the first instance, and finally the officers of the Commission are
threatened, annoyed, insulted, and ultimately compelled to retreat without the
river, as in the case of the Company's factory in 1821 —2; and then perhaps,
and not till then, is the affair brought to some termination.
If the Chinese authorities wish to communicate with us, they will depute a
Mandarin, or otherwise establish an intercourse, as in the instance before
mentioned, when, not only the Hong merchants, but a Mandarin of rank, came
down to Chuenpee, the very trouble and inconvenience arising therefrom having
some effect in bringing matters to a conclusion. Should the Chinese authorities
not wish to communicate with us, all efforts and expedients to compel them to
it, are unavailing. Captain Elliot's visit to the city gates in January last may
be adduced as a sufficient proof of this assertion ; and experience fully con
vinces us of the inexpediency of similar attempts. On their inviting
us to repair to Canton, either temporarily or permanently, it will be at our
option to comply or decline, as may be most advisable, and it is evident, in
the former case, we should find our position there very much strengthened and
confirmed.
No. 47.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received March 28, 1836.)
His Majesty's cutter Louisa,
(Extract.) Lintin, December 10, 1835.
I SHALL not intrude so far on your Lordship's time, as to enter at length
mto a defence, if such be requisite of the course of quiescent policy, in which
I flatter myself I have successfully persevered to the present moment, when I
rejoice to say everything in this country manifests a state of uninterrupted
tranquillity and peace, which I could hardly have ventured to anticipate from
the very discordant state of society, the virulent party spirit and default of
unanimity and good will existing among the British community in China,
while the important trade of the season is in active, and I trust, successful
progress under a tacit and mutual understanding and total abstinence and
forbearance from communication, on the part of the Chinese and myself.
My position has been one of extreme delicacy and difficulty. Succeeding,
in pursuance of the Instructions under His Majesty's Royal Signet and Sign
Manual, to the high and important office I have the honour to hold, at a crisis
when a false step or error in judgment might not only have led to extreme
hesitation and difficulty in the arrangements which His Majesty's Government
may deem it proper to make for the adjustment of affairs here, and their
future management and controul, but have plunged the whole of His Majesty's
Commission, all British subjects, and the valuable trade in which they are
engaged, as well as perhaps life and property, in great jeopardy, or into an
utterly hopeless and inextricable state of confusion and discord ; my best
efforts have been directed to maintain the precise position in which I found
myself placed on the departure of Mr. Davis, whose recommendation to that
effect has had due weight with me.
107
No. 48.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—{Received April8, 1836.)
His Majesty's Cutter Louisa,
My Lord, Lintin, December 10, 1835.
WITH reference to my present residence at this anchorage, I venture
most earnestly to call your Lordship's attention to the very efficient manner in
■which I am now enabled to exercise a controul and superintendence over the
merchant-ships resorting to, and remaining in China, from its centrical position ;
and the absence of all those impediments, difficulties and annoyances on the
part of the Chinese authorities, which 1 am confident must result from His
Majesty's servants being at Canton, or in any degree in their power ; as well as
the many advantageous opportunities it affords of rendering aid and assistance
to British subjects applying to me for advice.
1 do not apprehend the least notice will be taken of my change of position■
by the Chinese, but am disposed to anticipate their tacit acquiescence in a
measure calculated to meet their wishes for a controlling power over British
ships and subjects, especially sailors, of whose singularities, and sometimes
riotous conduct, they are ever in dread, and to afford them the means of ob
taining redress in cases of injustice or injury, totally free from those harassing
and endless difficulties originating in points of etiquette ; forms of correspondence;
and innumerable causes of dispute and altercation.
If on the arrival of this despatch no definite and conclusive arrangement
has been decided upon, for the future management of affairs in China, I cannot but
express a hope that the plan I am about to submit for your Lordship's consi
deration may meet with approval. I am anxious, however, to await the result
of a short trial and further communications on this important subject from
Canton. I trust I shall he able to suggest a method of accomplishing all the
ends requisite to regulate and controul the affairs of British subjects in China,
by an economical and efficient establishment outside the river, either at this or
some other anchorage, without the least probability of giving rise to perplexing
and anxious discussions with the Chinese authorities, whose object appears to be
solely to keep us from Canton, or of entering into unnecessary communication
with them, save when they may be compelled to invite us thither, or otherwise
carry on a correspondence and intercourse.
To one point alone it is possible their attention may be attracted, and that
is the circumstance of my being in the neighbourhood of the great and increas-
sing emporium of the outside trade. In the event of their remarking on this
part of the measure, I conceive it will be very easy to remove their objections,
simply by changing my position to Chuenpee, the legal and usual anchorage to
which the resort of our men-of-war has generally been sanctioned. Should
however no great opposition occur, and I really see little reason for the appre
hension, it must be evident that no position can be so eminently well adapted, as
independently of a fleet of between twenty-five and thirty ships almost con
stantly lying here in full and active employment, every vessel passing up or
coming down, touches either for the transhipment of cargo, or other commer
cial purposes ; and I have seen upwards of fifty vessels assembled here on one
occasion. To this may be added, that the accounts and claims of the compra
dors and other Chinese, and consequent payments, are rarely concluded until
their final departure from Lintin.
In continuation of this subject, I shall shortly again address your Lordship.
I have, &c,
(Signed) G. B. ROBINSON.
P2
108
No. 49.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received March 28, 1836.)
His Majesty's Cutter Louisa,
My Lord, Lintin, December 10, 1835.
IT is with great satisfaction I forward to your Lordship, copy of a letter
this day received from the Secretary of the British Chamber of Commerce, on
the subject of my residence at Lintin; in addition to which, I have been almost
surprized at the expression of universal approbation, and even of obligation, on
the part of every one connected with the trade to China with whom I have
conversed on the subject. : «
With a view to point out the advantage that will accrue from the residence
here of an authority competent to give advice, and in cases of need, assistance,
I wish briefly to bring to your Lordship's notice, a circumstance which took
place here a few days ago.
On the arrival of the British ship, Fairy Queen, Captain Holmes, according
to a common custom, dispatched an officer in charge of all the letters and packets
to Canton, in a Chinese " fast boat " which he hired for that purpose. On the
way up the boat was seized and detained by some inferior officers stationed at
the mouth of the river, who with a view of extorting money, put the officer in
irons, with many threats and menaces, even of death, in the event of their
demands not being complied with. Being a very young man, and a perfect
stranger in China, he was naturally much alarmed, and wrote to his Captain a
letter full of terror and distress, most earnestly imploring to be released by the
payment of 500 dollars to the bearer. On receiving this letter, Captain Holmes
came on board the cutter to receive my advice, when, entertaining no uneasi
ness for the safety of the officer, much as his being subjected to personal suffer
ing and inconvenience was to be lamented, I recommended the detention on
board the Fairy Queen of the Chinese bearer of the letter. As I anticipated, on
the following morning, another Chinese came alongside, in a very small boat,
with another letter and a smaller demand, stating the young man to be in a
boat guarded by Mandarin soldiers, in a bay about five miles distant. This
second letter detailed the officers sufferings, his being confined in irons, with the
alarming threats that were made to him ; and added, that he was becoming very
sick, and suffering from hunger and cold.
I cannot but remark on the extreme solicitude and anxiety evinced on this
occasion by Captain Holmes, whose feelings and sentiments were highly credit
able to him. But I deemed it advisable to dissuade him from the attempt he
was desirous to make, of proceeding with his own boats and seamen to rescue
his officer by force. In the event of his discovering the exact position of the
boat in which the officer was said to be confined, there would have been every
reason to apprehend an affray of a dangerous nature, in which life might have
been lost, and the consequences of which might have been very serious. I was
therefore glad to find him willingly listen to my counsel, and await the result of
a communication, which I lost no time in forwarding to T. A. Gibb, the consignee
of the ship, in Canton. To this I have as yet received no answer ; but 1 am
happy to say the young man has been restored to his ship in safety, although
not yet informed of the process whereby his release was effected.
My present position enabled me to prevent mischievous consequences
which would probably have ensued, had the Captain, utterly inexperienced and
ignorant of the singularities of this country, proceeded with his seamen,
naturally irritated and excited, to redress his own grievances, or, as might be
apprehended in some cases, to revenge so great an outrage.
I beg here to point out, that, even had I been in Canton, holding that kina
of intercourse with the Hong merchants, which, as it is at all times subject to
their will and pleasure, appears to me wholly inefficacious, I should have been
altogether unable to have prevented mischievous consequences until too late.
And even had such consequences not taken place, as an officer of His Majesty's
Government, totally unconnected with trade, my influence with the Hong mer
chants would have been secondary to that of Mr. Gibb, or any other gentleman
of commercial influence about to load the ship,—a prospective source of profit
109
to them. In all cases of this sort, the officers of His Majesty's Government if
at Canton, must be viewed by the! Hong. merchants, who derive no advantage
from them, in a very insignificant light, compared to wealthy firms or individual
British subjects largely engaged in commerce.
This may be considered as the most essential point of difference between
the officers of the King's Commission and the late Select Committee of the
East India ■ Company, who with so powerful an engine in the>r hands as
the Company's, independently of the influence they consequently derived
over the country and trade, were regarded by the Hong merchants with
extreme deference and consideration ; to which may be added, their having at
their disposal, during the period when difficulties were likely to occur, a well-
ordered, disciplined fleet, affording, in cases of need, a display of officers, men,
arms, and boats, unexampled in any other country or service, and surpassed
only by the royal navy. The commercial character of the Company's factory
rendered their residence at Canton, and familiar and constant intercourse with
the Hong merchants, necessary■ during the season of business. But in all cases
of discussion and difficulty, that intercourse was in a degree suspended, and, in
some cases, an untoward circumstance failed of all adjustment, till after the
withdrawal of the factory, and even shipping from the river.
Another point to which I would call your Lordship's attention, is the fact,
that, in the present disorderly and disorganized state of our mercantile marine,
anyr source of discord that has laid dormant during the voyage, or only partially
exhibited itself, invariably breaks out on the ship's arrival at her first anchorage.
It is here, then, that prompt and immediate steps can be taken for the suppres
sion of riots, and the restoration of order and discipline. Even where my
interference is not called for, 1 am enabled to impress forcibly on the minds
of captains, officers, and seamen, those points to which their attention ought to
be called in this peculiar country, and that they are amenable to punishment
for an infraction of those rules and regulations, with a copy of which I propose
hereafter to furnish each ship. While, on the other hand, ships coming down
do not receive their port-clearance, or become independent of controul, until
their actual and final departure, —a matter of extreme importance, and not
practicable, if the Superintendents are in Canton, as a captain applying for and
obtaining his port-clearance there, would frequently remain within the river, or
at this anchorage, for a period of some length, during which many irregularities
might be committed.
• • I have, &c,
(Signed) GEORGE BEST ROBINSON.
Inclosure in No. 49.
Mr. Sprott Boyd to the Superintendents.
British Chamber of Commerce,
Sirs, Canton, December 8, 1835.
IT has been a source of much inconvenience to the merchants of Canton,
and risk to the ships engaged in this trade, their being obliged to anchor at
Macao to obtain the signature of His Majesty's Superintendents to their mani
fests. The new arrangement, by which this necessity is obviated, has
therefore given much satisfaction to the members of the Chamber of Commerce ;
and I have much pleasure in complying with the request of the Committee, to
return you their tbanks for this instance of your attention to the interests of
His Majesty's subjects engaged in the trade to China.
I have, &c,
By Order of the Committee, •■ ,
, : (Signed) W. SPROTT BOYD,
• Secretary*
110
No. 50.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received May 21, 1836.)
(Extract.) Lintin, January 5, 1836.
SOME official business requiring my presence at Macao for a few days, I
bare deputed Mr. Edward Elinslie, our Secretary and Treasurer, to attest the
manifests of British vessels during my absence from Lintin.
I have great pleasure in assuring your Lordship, that far from any difficul
ties arising in my present situation, I am enabled to exercise a very salutary and
efficient controul over our shipping, to aid and assist British merchants residing
at Canton, and at the present moment are about to proceed to Macao, for the
purpose of communicating with Mr. Morrison, on the subject of an application
which has been made to me by a Hong merchant, for the recovery of a debt in
curred by a Parsee native of Bombay.
On the part of the Chinese, I believe, no opposition will take place to my
official residence here, but that they are likely, tacitly to acquiesce in a step
which promises to relieve them of much difficulty.
Your Lordship will readily comprehend, I am living on board a small vessel
of seventy tons, at the total sacrifice of all personal comfort, and at a moment
when the separation from my family is severely felt: and I cannot conclude this
letter without bringing to your notice, that Mr. Edward Elmslie has willingly
and cheerfully subjected himself to many privations and inconveniences in the
praiseworthy and diligent discharge of his duties. I feel confident his efficient
and active exertions in conformity with my views will be duly appreciated.
No. 51.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received May 13, 1836.)
(Extract.) Macao, January 12, 1836.
Iw-j IN my last address of the 5th instant, I apprized your Lordship of my in-
tion, to depute Mr. Elmslie lo act, during my absence from Lintin, for a few
days in attesting the manifests of Brilish ships, and issuing port-clearances ; and
I am happy to say, I anticipate no difficulties in the course I have adopted, for
the aid and assistance of the mercantile community of Canton, and the exercise
of a salutary controul over all British ships resorting to China.
As a proof of the disposition of the Chinese to avail themselves of my inter
ference in their behalf, I inclose copy of a letter from one of the Hong
merchants, requesting assistance for the recovery of an alleged debt.
In so doing, I merely wish to bring to your Lordship's notice, the disposition
of the Chinese to avail themselves of the interposition of a British authority in
cases of need.
Inclosure in No. 51.
The Hong merchant Yunwo, or Punhoyqua, to Sir G. B. Robinson, respecting a
debt of 6,400 dollars, owing to him by a Parsee merchant, Aomatchee, or
Hormusjee.
c
A respectful communication. December 26, 1835.
In the tenth year of Taoukwang(l830), I undertook the purchase of certain
goods on account of the Parsee foreigner, Hormusjee, amounting in value to up
wards of 6,400 dollars. Our agreement was, that the money was to be repaid to
me within a certain limited period after the delivery of the goods. All commer
cial contracts and agreements regarding time, between me and Hormusjee having
been made by my assistant, Paoukwang, I sent him, at the expiration of the period,
to receive the amount due. Contrary to expectation, Hormusjee put off the pay
Ill
ment from time to time till half a year had elapsed, and he still deferred. See
ing that he made no precise arrangement, I wished to insist on his doing so ; but
to my astonishment, he at length endeavoured to make pretexts, and create dis
turbance, i therefore, at that time, repaired to the Consoo, and requested a meet
ing of my fellow-merchants, to consult with them on the subject. I then imme
diately informed the Honourable Company, requesting their decision. The
Honourable Company decided, that in reason, the debt ought to be repaid ; and
directed the Parsee, Mr. Tseugkeen, forcibly to detain Hormusjee, and to require
him to pay the whole amount before he could be allowed to return home.
After this, years passed over, and I could only wait quietly for the money;
as before, I obtained no information respecting it. But in the fifth month of last
year the Parsee gentleman, Natabhoy, presumed to send Hormusjee home by
stealth. "When I heard thereof I hastened to inquire about it, and was told by
Natabhoy that he had sent Hormusjee home in order that he might speedily remit
money in payment. Finding that he had a person standing surety for himr I
believed the truth of this. But now another year has passed over, and there is
not a word about it, or a fraction of it. I have also heard lately that Natabhoy is
about to return home in the vessel commanded by Kalek. From whom then shall
I ask payment of this money ? From whence shall I obtain restitution of my
blood-earned property ?
Considering that you, Sir, are the chief authority of your country, and that
the regulation of the trade isconfided to you, 1 am enabled to state the whole to
you from beginning to end. I presume to request that you will grasp hold of
justice, and will exercise your power to compel Natabhoy and Hormusjee, and
oblige them to arrange this matter, and speedily repay the whole sum, not suffer
ing them to have recourse to long and frivolous delays. Having already received
a decision in my favour, I hope to have the same carried into effect, and to find
that, from first to last, I have been supported. My gratitude will then be bound
less. For this purpose I write to present my request. And wishing you every
good, &c
(Signed) PWAN WANHAE.
10th Moon, 7th day (December 26th.)
No. 52.
Viscount Palmerston to Sir G. B. Robinson.
Sir, Foreign Office, May 28, 1836.
HIS Majesty's Government approve of the proposal contained in your
despatch, of December 1, 1835; and they are of opinion that it would
be desirable to extend the limits of the powers of the Superintendents of
British trade in China. I have, therefore, to instruct you publicly to notify
that the jurisdiction of the Commission is to be extended, so as to include
Lintin and Macao ; and that from the date of the promulgation of such
notification the authority of the Superintendents over British subjects and
ships is to be considered as extending to Macao as well as Canton; and as being
of equal force and validity within this extended jurisdiction as it has hitherto
been within the limits of the port of Canton,
I am, &c,
(Signed) PALMERSTON.
No. 53.
Viscount Palmerston to Sir G. B. Robinson.
(Extract.) Foreign Office, June 6, 1836.
YOUR despatch of the 20th November last, relating to the case of
Mr. Innes, and the Records of the Proceedings of the Commission, from July
28th to August 16th, relating chiefly to the same case, were received here on
112
the 28th of March, the Records being inclosed in a despatch from Mr. Elmslie, the
Acting Secretary and Treasurer, dated December 10, 1835. I gather from them
the following information : that Mr. Innes, a British merchant residing at
Canton, had conceived himself to be unjustly treated by the Chinese authorities,
in consequence of their demurring to satisfy a demand he had made upon them
for the restitution of some bales of merchandize belonging to him, which had
been seized by the Chinese Custom-House Officers ; and that, upon expe
riencing delay in the settlement of his demand, he had notified to the Governor
of Canton his intention to procure redress for himself by acts of reprisal
against the Chinese trade.
All the Papers relating to this case, are at present under the consideration
of the law officers of the Crown, and until I have received their report upon
them, I shall not be enabled to send you such precise and definite Instruc
tions as the complicated nature of the transaction appears to me to require.
But I cannot abstain from expressing to you the surprise with which His
Majesty's Government learned Mr. Innes's intentions, — intentions which cannot
be too strongly condemned ; and wrhich, if carried into execution, would have
rendered Mr. Innes liable to the penalties of piracy. If Mr. Innes alone were
concerned, he might be left to abide by the consequences of his own violence,
but the proceedings which he threatens to adopt, would expose to inconvenience
and danger the British subjects resident at Canton ; and I have therefore to
instruct vou to prevent Mr. Innes, by all legal means, from executing his threats,
if his own sense of their impropriety should not already have induced him to
renounce them.
With regard to any expectation which may have been held out to Mr.
Innes, that the authority of His Majesty's Government might possibly be
exerted to procure for him the redress he has required, I must observe that his
claim involves questions of considerable difficulty; and is by no means so clear
and unquestionable, as to warrant any such measure as, "to make the
recovery of Mr. Innes's property a subject of demand on the Chinese autho
rities, on your first formally coming into contact with them."
You will, however, avail yourself of any suitable opportunity to press upon
the Chinese Authorities, the restoration of the property in question, unless those
Authorities can show that the goods were seizable by the Custom-house regu
lations, in consequence of being found in the place where they were seized.
It must be remarked, however, that there was ground for unfavourable
presumption against the goods ; and that upon the principle contended for by
Mr. Innes,—that the employer is responsible for the agent, —he (Mr. Innes)
who was at the time employing the pilot Acha, who had charge of the goods,
may be required to pay forfeit for the violation of the Chinese Custom laws by
the pilot. .
I am &c,
(Signed) PALMERSTON.
No. 54.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received June 6, 1836.)
(Extract.) ; ■ . Macao, January 16, 1836.
FROM the results alone, since I had the honour to succeed to my present
office, your Lordship will discriminate how far I am capable of appreciating the
vast importance of an interrupted progress of the trade, in preference to attempt
ing any speculative measures to effect a change in our position which, if achieved,
might not prove of adequate advantage to the risk incurred.
To conclude, it is with extreme satisfaction I assure your Lordship, that I
have never witnessed, during a period of sixteen years passed in the China
service, a more quiet, regular, or, I trust, prosperous season than the present ; and
I can only pledge myself, that I shall never wilfully incur any hazard or danger
to the important trade confided to my care.
113
No. 55.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received June 6, 1836.)
His Majesty's Cutter Louisa,
(Extract.) 1 Lintin, January 29, J 836.
IT must remain for the decision of your Lordship, whether my policy in
abstaining from futile attempts to force ourselves into communication with the
Chinese authorities, to the prejudice and risk of our present tranquillity, evinces
prudence and sound judgment, inasmuch as this season is now well advanced,
and likely to draw to a prosperous conclusion, without the occurrence of any
serious difficulties or inconvenience. A large fleet of merchant-ships had been
loaded and dispatched ; commercial operations have been carried on with vigour,
activity, and success ; while the British and foreign community in Canton have
not been subjected to annoyance, privation, and anxiety, of which they might
have justly complained, had any measures of mine led to a recurrence of those
perplexing and vexatious discussions, certain to end in defeat, failure, and
disgrace.
That no misunderstanding may take place in regard to my views as
respects our policy in China, I consider it right to assure your Lordship, that to
keep out of difficulties is my object, rather than voluntarily to encounter, for
the sake of perhaps overcoming them. In our present position, I have deemed
it most prudent to let things take their course, so long as that course continued
smooth and prosperous, in reference to endeavouring to mend matters by
extremely hazardous experiments.
All attempts at communication with the Chinese authorities at Canton
will prove unavailing at present, they are determined to oppose and defeat them ;
but they are perfectly willing tacitly to permit our controul and superintendence
of British subjects, provided we do not repair to Canton. Natives are forbidden
to assist or serve us in any such attempt ; heavy punishment is to be inflicted on
any person who receives us into his house ; and every endeavour on their part
seems directed to the one point, which I consider it to be so eminently important
to achieve, namely, an exact reverse of our position, by our being invested with
full powers without the river, whereby I am positive every end for which this
Commission was formed might be accomplished, and both the King's officers and
British Residents exempted from those disgraceful and prejudicial humiliations
and annoyances, which I feel assured will follow our forcing our way to Canton,
or holding an imaginary intercourse (for such it must be) with the Hong mer
chants, thereby actually creating our own sources of complaint, by strengthening
and cherishing that very body of monopolists, and, to use their own term,
" restrainers and compellers of barbarians," in place of exerting all our efforts to
overcome (not by violent measures, be it understood) all their incessant
machinations and contrivances to keep us in an abject state of subjection.
No. 56.
Viscount Palmerston to Sir G. B. Robinson.
(Extract.) Foreign Office, June 7, 1836.
YOUR despatches of the 16th and 29th of January, were received
here yesterday, and His Majesty's Government is accordingly furnished with
some means of forming an opinion with regard to the measure which you adopted
in the month of November last, of taking up your residence at Lintin.
As to the advantages which you anticipate would result to British commerce
from the formation of a permanent establishment at Lintin, of the nature of that
114
which you suggest in your despatch of December 1st, 1835, I have to say,
that, after duly considering what you have said yourself in favour of such an
establishment, and the reasons against it, His Majesty's Government do not
feel that they have yet been put sufficiently in possession of the means of
forming any final opinion upon this suggestion; and I, therefore, cannot
authorize the permanent residence of the Commission at Lintin, until I have
received further information upon the subject.
You are not, however, to understand from what I have said above, that I
disapprove of your having resided for some time at Lintin. So imperfectly
informed as I am, with respect to what can be stated for and against the
step you had adopted, I am obliged to take for granted that your reasons for
having adopted it, appeared to you to be of sufficient weight to counterbalance
the inconveniences attendant upon your having separated yourself from your
colleagues ; and having undertaken alone to carry on the business of the
Commission, without waiting to learn whether your Government coincided in
your own particular views, or not.
It has long been the intention of His Majesty's Government to reduce the
establishment in China : this measure is called for by the necessity of practising
economy in every branch of the public service ; and is justified by the extent and
nature of the business which the Commission has to transact. For the due
despatch of this business, I am. of opinion, that an establishment considerably
less than that which now exists will be sufficient. I cannot yet exactly state
what may be the precise nature of the future establishment ; but I am clearly of
opinion, that there is no longer any occasion for the continuance of the office of
-Ghief Superintendent. It, therefore, now becomes my duty to acquaint you,
that His Majesty's Government have decided to abolish at once the office and
salary of Chief Superintendent. In communicating to you this decision, I have
at the same time to inform you, that your functions will cease from the date of
the receipt of this despatch. You will make over to Captain Elliot all the
archives of the Commission; which will, of course, include copies of every
despatch, and its inclosures, which you have addressed to this department
•during the period you have acted as Chief Superintendent.
No. 57.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston. — (Received June 14, 1836.)
His Majesty's Cutter Louisa,
(Extract.) Lintin, January 29, 1836.
IN a former despatch, I intimated my intention of submitting
for your Lordship's consideration, the plan of an establishment which, I con
ceive, would fully and efficiently accomplish the ends contemplated by His
Majesty's Government, for the general Superintendence of the Trade, the controul
and assistance of the mercantile community, and more particularly, that most
essential branch of our duties,—the better management and regulation of the
ships, without danger or interruption to the quiet progress of the Trade, or sub
jecting the King's officers, as well as all our countrymen, to disgraceful humilia
tions, constant annoyances, privations, and, it is to be feared, severe loss and
detriment, which I cannot but too surely apprehend will ever attend the resi
dence of a British authority in Canton, unless properly established there, and
duly acknowledged and respected by the Local Government.
Before I proceed, however, I must distinctly avow my opinion, that the
attainment of so important a point as the establishment of His Majesty's Com
mission at Canton, in a proper and becoming position, is one most desirable in
itself, and likely to be attended with the greatest advantages and benefits; but I
firmly believe that, unless by force of arms, it will never be achieved. The events
of some years past militate in no small degree against any rational hope, that,
without intimidation, and, I fear, ultimate resort to hostilities, a proper under
115
standing could be established, although not a doubt can be entertained of the
perfect success that must attend the adoption of vigorous and efficient measures
on the part of the British Government.
The destruction of one or two forts, and the occupation of one of the
islands in this neighbourhood, so singularly adapted by nature, in every respect,
for commercial purposes, would, I am positive, promptly produce upon this bar
barous nation, arrogant in proportion to their ignorance, every effect we could
desire, and at once and for ever place our Trade and political relations with the
empire on a respectable, safe, and becoming footing.
But it is by no means my duty or intention to offer suggestions of this
nature, save as the means of conveying my opinion of the perfect certainty of
success, and the immense advantages that would emanate therefrom, in the event
of His Majesty's Government at any time deeming such a course advisable. On
the contrary, my object is to point out the little necessity that exists for so total
a change of policy, by the adoption of an alternative which now presents itself,
for the almost imperceptible adjustment of existing difficulties, and the future
management of affairs, as well as reduction in expense consequent upon this
change in the nature of our establishment.
The Chinese seem to have but one object ; that is, to prevent our establish
ing ourselves permanently at Canton. It appears to me, then, injudicious and
vain, to persist in the endeavour to place ourselves completely in their power, and
entirely under their controul and thraldom, when the very locality of that place
alone, renders our residence there almost incompatible with the duties we have
to discharge, and exposes British merchants in a tenfold degree, to inconvenience
and danger, arising from our collision with the Mandarins.
I conceive the principal object of maintaining a British authority in this
country, is to exercise a salutary controul over the safety, conduct, and perhaps
property, of the King's subjects in China ; to arbitrate and assist in the adjust
ment of disputes and differences ; and to prevent the occurrence of actions or
proceedings, whereby the natives of China may be wronged or aggrieved ; or to the
prejudice of that high national character and reputation, which it is so desirable
to uphold and maintain, even for policy and interest alone.
To these ends, a full and efficient controul over the shipping is the main
point ; little else seems requisite. While that power is retained in our hands,
and exercised when necessary, with judgment and discretion, little difficulty will
exist in the management of other matters. No man can quit the country, or
evade the fulfilment of just claims against him; and it cannot be doubted that
the knowledge of our ability effectually to interpose our lawful authority, will
check those evils which might be expected to result from the total absence of any
officer of His Majesty's Government, unconnected with Trade, unbiassed by
party feelings, and ever vigilant over the safety, welfare, and bearing of the
King's subjects.
Feeling somewhat doubtful how far my residence at this anchorage, on board
this little vessel of seventy-four tons, in conformity to the public notice under
date November 21, would answer the expectations I had long since formed of
its utility and advantage, and being uncertain in what manner the Chinese would
view the change of position I had assumed, trifling as it is, I delayed this despatch
until the present period, when the season is well advanced, and I am competent
to speak with confidence and truth on the efficient means I here possess to
discharge at least a most important part of my duty.
In this place I shall not enter into any argument on the mischiefs attendant
upon that disunion and opposition which I fear inevitably results from the exist
ence of a Council or Board of three or more persons, but under the impression
that the management of affairs would devolve infinitely better on a single indivi
dual, whose views and proceedings, not liable to opposition and counteraction,
could be carried into effect on his whole and sole responsibility, I submit, with
all due deference, that he should reside on board some vessel in the vicinity of
the shipping, completely out of the power, and free from the restraints, of the
Chinese. His situation should be centrical, for general communication, and his
means of locomotion entirely unshackled. To effect this, and to afford him a
comfortable habitation, I would suggest the purchase or hire of a small merchant
vessel [about 200 hundred tons], capable of accommodation for the Chief Super
intendent. A Secretary to succeed to his office in the event of death or absence,
and one or two clerks ; sufficient room for a master and crew of about twelve
Q2
good steady seamen, two of whom might be sworn in as constables, to act as
occasion required. Room might also be found for a medical man, whose
presence in a large fleet is of the greatest advantage, and a space devoted for the
reception of a person under arrest, or whom it may be desirable to take out of
his ship. The expense attendant upon such an establishment would be trifling
indeed, compared with that of the present Commission, if permanently fixed at
Canton, or elsewhere on shore, and its utility and efficacy in my opinion beyond
all calculation.
The duties devolving on the head of such an establishment, would be, to
receive the registers and papers of ships arriving; issuing precise and distinct
orders and regulations for the guidance of captains and seamen, who are to
appeal to him in serious cases of disturbance or complaint on board ship, and
invariably on every occasion where natives of China are concerned, in place of
taking the law into their own hands, and seeking to redress their real or imagin
ary grievances. To listen patiently and attentively to any Chinese who may be
injured or aggrieved, and, by the power with which he is invested, to afford them
redress, and, if possible, indemnification ; to attend to the better ordering and
discipline of the ships, by watchful observation over both commanders and
seamen ; and by every means in his power, to improve and ameliorate the present
disorganized state of the mercantile marine. I venture to predict, with confi
dence emanating from my own experience, that much may be done by precept
and example, combined with the power vested in an officer of His Majesty's
Government.
An idea will naturally suggest itself, that for the above purpose, a man-of-
war would be best suited. I have no doubt of the advantage that would accrue
from one of His Majesty's ships being permanently stationed in China, and that,
as far as our countrymen are concerned, especially sea-faring men, she would
prove doubly efficacious and useful ; but my experience in this country con
vinces me the Chinese would never tolerate (at least for some time to come,
until they become assured that no ulterior or sinister views were in contempla
tion,) her permanent stay even outside the river, and that any attempt to carry
her within the Bocca Tigris would be utterly futile. Time, indeed, might
change their prejudices and inveterate dislike to any appearance of a military
force ; but for the present, a mercantile ship or vessel, divested of all warlike
appurtenances, is obviously requisite. She might hoist a distinguishing and
appropriate flag ; and it has been suggested to me, by a very intelligent Chinese,
from whom I candidly confess I have received many hints, that a pendant or flag,
bearing the Chinese characters of civil officer, would be very suitable to their
own ideas. I doubt not that such a vessel would be allowed to pass the forts
and move about at pleasure ; indeed, were it necessary, I conceive her permanent
anchorage at Whampoa during the season would be sanctioned. Whilst, how
ever, a competent effect resulted from her station being without the river, I should
strongly advocate that no chimerical views of improvement were allowed to over
come the most prudential forbearance and compliance with prejudices absurd as
they may be.
So firmly convinced am I of the advantages that would attend the immediate
adoption of the plan, that I have been nearly induced to purchase one or two
vessels which have been offered at moderate terms for sale, and were well adapted
for the purpose. Nothing prevented my so doing, but the anxious wish to avoid
even an appearance of presumptuously carrying my individual views into effect,
until I was honoured with the expression of your Lordship's approbation.
In this place it may not be irrelevant to remark, that it is foreign to my
disposition and feelings to act upon the impulse of the moment, and I may
venture to pledge myself, that even in very trifling and unimportant affairs, I
shall ever defer undertaking measures in accordance with my own wishes, without
the sanction and authority of your Lordship.
I firmly believe that, on the first issue of my public notice, there was hardly
one, if any, adverse voice or sentiment ; I was thus informed on every side; but I
lament to assert, that there exists such bitter and inveterate party feeling in this
place, that whatever one set or party propose and advocate is certain to be
violently condemned, opposed, and, if possible, counteracted by the other.
It is not necessary I should disgust your Lordship by the relation of the
evil consequences produced of late years by this lamentable spirit. I will only
express a hope that it may die away in time, and cease to act to the extreme
prejudice and detriment of the public welfare and our national character.
117
It may, however, I repeat, affect the measure in question ; and therefore 1
feel compelled to exercise a degree of reserve and circumspection repugnant to
my feelings, and quietly and unobtrusively bring things into such a train, that,
if I should be gratified by the expression of your Lordship's approbation and
definite instructions, no perceptible change will be apparent. It is my determi
nation, therefore, at the total sacrifice, however, of my personal comfort and
domestic happiness, to reside principally on board this little vessel at her present
anchorage, and thus establish, in a great degree, my position. In this there is
no change of the policy hitherto adopted, or the slightest deviation from the
principles I entertained ever since the expulsion of His Majesty's Commission
from Canton. It is no relinquishment of pretension, but simply an effort to
secure a better position, or, more clearly speaking, to make the best of a very
bad one. After being so ignominiously expelled from Canton, where an attempt
to establish ourselves produced such extraordinary inconvenience, detriment, and
anxiety, not only to our own countrymen, but even to the foreign community in
general, when Edicts have been issued, threatening severe punishment to all
natives who may be suspected only of serving or assisting us, when the disastrous
results and criminal accusations by which perfectly innocent men were involved,
and unhappily suffered persecution and torture, are before our eyes, is it possible
I could have ventured to risk, or rather entail, a repetition of those evils, by
madly attempting to repair thither?
If, therefore, we cannot place ourselves within the defined limits specified
in our instructions, I am surely better situated on board a vessel belonging to
His Majesty than in a Portuguese settlement, at which His Majesty's Com
mission is likewise unacknowledged, isolated from the great body of shipping,
far removed from the first anchorage to which they all resort on arrival, and
incapacitated from affording prompt and efficient advice and assistance in nume
rous cases where my presence alone has prevented serious evils, and tended to
maintain the idea, especially amongst sailors, that there is an authority existing
in this country competent to redress grievances and punish offences. I could
adduce numerous instances, but I forbear to intrude further on your Lordship's
time, except to add, that intelligent Chinese have strongly insisted that no diffi
culties are to be feared so long as I do not endeavour to force myself into com
munication or correspondence with the Canton Authorities, neither is any notice
likely to be taken of my official residence here ; and I was informed by a Chinese
who came from Canton to see me on other business only a few days ago, that
much satisfaction was felt by the shopkeepers and similar classes at the informa
tion : a reference to me would at all times avail them in the fair settlement of
their claims, against ships or individuals on the point of departure.
Implicit obedience to the very spirit of any instructions I may have the
honour to receive will be my first care ; should they, however, not militate against
the continuation of my present system, or direct the adoption of very opposite
measures, I shall deem it my duty to persevere quietly in it, gradually extending
my controul over British ships, and establishing, by the force of habit and custom
(the most powerful talisman in China), the foundation of that establishment I
have suggested.
I would here respectfully solicit your Lordship's attention to the subject,
that in the early part of next season, every preliminary may be arranged. The
ships will leave the river very early, and during the summer months I shall
endeavour to prevent any irregularities taking place amongst the many British
vessels now about to proceed for rice and other Straits' produce, and likely to
anchor or resort, during the summer months, to this or the adjacent anchorage of
the Cumsingmoon, as well as any collision between our countrymen at Canton
and the Chinese, of which, however, I see little chance ; nor do I entertain the
least apprehension of any difficulties, unless, indeed, created by any injudicious
attempts on the part of this Commission to produce an alteration in our position,
little likely to prove an amendment.
To use the common, but applicable maxim, of "Letting that which is well
alone," I shall carefully avoid all danger and risk of any change of a doubtful
nature in its prospective effects.
118
No. 58.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received June 14, 1836.)
His Majesty's Cutter Louisa,
(Extract.) Lintin, February 1, 1836.
WITH reference to my despatch of January 29, wherein I trust 1 have suc
ceeded in exhibiting the advantages that would, in my own opinion, emanate from
the establishment suggested, of a British authority resident in some vessel in the
immediate vicinity of the shipping, or the most centrical and convenient ancho
rage for communication with them, I have briefly mentioned that I conceive the
sole direction, management, and responsibility of affairs, would better devolve on
one individual, than on a Council or Board of three. Generally speaking, since
I came to the country, I have been aware of great difference of opinion existing
between the members of the Select Committee of the East India Company, and
in the remarkable discussions of 1829— 1830, the effect was obvious enough, act
ing to the full extent of completely counteracting the views and efforts of both
parties or sides, for so I cannot but call them. Disunion in council, adverse and
different opinions and interests, with the consequent opposition, extending itself
even amongst the shipping, has unfortunately furnished the Chinese with a most
powerful weapon to turn against ourselves, of which so astute and discerning a
people failed not adroitly to avail themselves. Failure, defeat, and disgrace have
consequently attended all " discussions" as they are termed, and 1 can only anti
cipate similar results in future.
Facts speak for themselves; it is vain to recur to the errors of past years, save
as a warning and beacon for the future. Should' my views and suggestions seem
worthy of adoption, one individual, in whom is vested a power and authority
legally constituted and competent over all British subjects, within a certain dis
tance of the coast of China, residing afloat or even if it may be practicable on shore,
in any place or position that may seem most expedient and desirable, will ever be
more unanimously supported and aided by his countrymen, and, therefore, enabled
to carry any rational views, in conformity to his instructions, into operation, on
his own personal responsibility.
To provide for the contingency of death or absence, a competent confiden
tial and responsible Secretary, might qualify himself, by the discharge of more
detailed duties and an attentive observation of passing events, to succeed to the
office of the Chief; and an Assistant Secretary duly qualified to take the Secretary
ship, being on the spot, 1 conceive the establishment would be complete, with
occasional clerks, who, however, would scarcely be required, if all three took an
active share in the duties of the service.
The peculiarity of this country and the singularity of our relations with it,
commercial and political, although the latter term seems superfluous, render it a
point of infinite importance that the successors to office should practically acquire
that experience and knowledge so essential for a judicious exercise of the great
power vested in the hands of one man, by a previous residence therein. I know of
no place in this world, where the ideas, opinions, and prejudices of strangers or
those recently arrived, undergo so great a change as in China, until very lately a
terra incognita, and inaccessible, save to a very limited number of individuals.
It may seem somewhat presumptuous in me to offer any hints on the
adequate remuneration of these officers, but I must observe that the situation of
Chief is evidently one of extreme importance and responsibility. The mer
chants of Canton are a very wealthy body of men, expensive in their style of
living and in the habit of estimating others (and such would especially apply to a
public man), according to their pecuniary worth and resources. The agents of
the East India Company derive much of their consequence from the nature of
their appointment, between which and that of His Majesty's officers there would
exist little comparison, considering the allowances granted them, and the liberal
pension upon which they will retire after a period of twenty-two years' service,
during which it is to be supposed they must have acquired an independent fortune;
but I feel the subject is a delicate one, and it can hardly be considered becoming
on me to enter upon it.
119
For the office of Secretary and Assistant Secretary, the salary of 3.000Z.
and 1,500Z. per annum, appear proportionably appropriate, and I trust I may with
propriety express a hope, that any officer of His Majesty's Government may ever
be enabled to live in a style suitable to his rank and station ; and that the very
great sacrifice of every advantage of civilized life, the numerous and serious
privations and annoyances accompanying an exile in this disagreeable country,
may be taken into liberal consideration.
On the probable expenditure requisite for the vessel suggested, and the
contingent demands, I shall address your Lordship in another despatch. It
will not, however, be deemed, I feel certain, unreasonable, considering the nature
and extent of the advantages accruing.
No. 59.
Viscount Palrnerston to Sir G. B. Robinson.
Sir, Foreign Office, June 15, 1836.
SINCE the date of my despatch of the 7th instant, your despatches of
the 29th of January and 1st of February, from Lintin, have been received and
laid before His Majesty's Government. And I have to state to you in reply,
that there does not appear to be anything in those despatches to render
necessary a change in the arrangement which has already been decided upon,
and which was communicated to you in my despatch above referred to.
I am, &c,
(Signed) FALMERSTON.
No. 60.
Viscount Palrnerston to Captain Elliot.
(Extract.) Foreign Office, June 15, 1836.
HIS Majesty's Government having decided, for the reasons stated in my
despatch to Sir George Robinson, of the 7th instant, to abolish the office
and salary of the Chief Superintendent of British Trade in China ; the duties
of that office have now devolved upon you, as the Second Superintendent.
Sir George Robinson has been directed to make over to you all the archives
of the Commission ; and you will, from the date of the receipt of this despatch,
consider yourself as the Chief of the Commission.
No. 61.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palrnerston.—(Received July 4, 1836.)
His Majesty Cutter Louisa.
(Extract.) Lintin, February 5, 1836.
I SEE no grounds to apprehend the occurrence of any fearful events on the
north-east coast, nor can I learn what new danger exists. I am assured, from
the best authority, that the scuffles between different parties of smugglers and
Mandarins, alike engaged and competing in the traffic, are not more serious, or
frequent than in this province. In no case have Europeans been engaged in any
kind of conflict or affray ; and while this increasing and lucrative trade is in the
hands of the parties whose vital interests are so totally dependent on its safety
aud continuance, and by whose prudence and integrity it has been cherished and
brought into its present increasing and flourishing condition, I think little
apprehension may be entertained of dangers emanating from imprudence on
their part. Should any unfortunate catastrophe take place, what would our
position at Canton entail upon us but responsibility and jeopardy ? from which
we are now free. #
120
On the question of " Smuggling Opium," I will not enter in this place,
though, indeed, smuggling carried on actually in the Mandarin boats can hardly
be termed such. Whenever His Majesty's Government direct us to prevent
British vessels engaging in the traffic, we can enforce any order to that effect ;
but a more certain method would be to prohibit the growth of the poppy and
manufacture of Opium in British India; and if British ships are in the habit
of committing irregularities and crimes, it seems doubly necessary to exercise a
salutary controul over them by the presence of an authority at Lintin.
No. 62.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received July 4, 1836.)
His Majesty's Cutter Louisa,
(Extract.) Lintin, February 8, 1836.
I MUST bo permitted to call your Lordship's attention to the fact, that any
deviation from the line of conduct so judiciously inculcated by my predecessor,
Mr. Davis, might (indeed I am certain would) have led to difficulties and inter
ruptions to the trade, accompanied by innumerable and unforeseen sources of
anxiety and risk, in place of the present aspect of affairs, at the conclusion almost
of a most successful commercial season : had those consequences resulted, to
whom would the responsibility attach ? obviously, I think, to myself, as I felt it
did on the occasion of the Second Superintendent's visit to the city gate ; and
while I allude to that unfortunate proceeding, I must apprise your Lordship that
during that gentleman's short stay at Whampoa, when concerting measures for
proceeding with two armed vessels to recapture the boat's crew of the Argyle,
private letters reached me at Macao, pointing out the immediate determination
of the Chinese Government to stop the trade until he quitted the river. I lost
no time therefore in privately requesting him to return, and from that period
firmly resolved to abstain from any attempts at intercourse with the Chinese,
until in possession of further instructions, unless indeed anything like an advance
had been made on their part ; but I can safely assert that, far from evincing any
such disposition, they seem carefully to avoid the possibility of any collision with
us. At the same time, it must be observed, they tacitly acquiesce in our re
maining at Macao, and also in my official residence at this anchorage, to which
I only anticipate objections if the bitter party spirit raging at Canton, should
induce ill-disposed or interested individuals to attract their attention to the subject,
in an unfavourable or suspicious point of view.
At the suggestion of some of the principal commercial gentlemen at
Canton, and I believe in accordance with the wishes of the whole community, I
proposed the plan of assisting them to the utmost of my ability by residing
at this anchorage, in place of remaining comfortably at Macao with my family,
thereby entailing on merchants, captains, and British subjects in general, the
delay, danger, and inconvenience consequent upon the necessity of resorting
thither on all matters of business.
It may be necessary to explain to your Lordship, that large ships cannot
approach Macao at any time ; and that in strong winds it is difficult, sometimes
impracticable, to communicate with the shore vessels in Macao Roads, are often
liable to be blown out to sea while the captains are on shore ; and must be at all
times exposed to considerable risk and danger, whereby the insurance would be
affected, whereas they are in perfect safety, and may be detained, if requisite, at
this anchorage without the least apprehension.
121
No. 63.
Sir G. B. Robinson to Viscount Palmerston.—(Received July 4, 1836.)
His Majesty's Cutter Louisa,
(Extract.) lAntin, February 10, 1836.
I HAVE the honour to inclose to your Lordship copy of a letter from the
British Chamber of Commerce, and my reply thereto, as also of a letter I
consequently addressed to Mr. J. R. Morrison.
That gentleman shortly after visited me at Lintin, where I explained fully
my views and opinions on the subject of his residence at Canton, and furnished
him with precise and positive instructions for his guidance on certain points ;
in others, much must be left to his own prudence and discretion,—of which I
entertain a very high opinion, and rest perfectly assured and satisfied that no
serious evils will result from his resorting to the provincial city, perfectly in a
private character, and solely for the purpose of assisting the British community
in matters of a commercial nature ; but at the same time I must confess, I cannot
at this time approve of the resort to Canton of any member of the Commission ;
and I have apprized Mr. Morrison of my intention to recall him on the first
appearance of any difficulties or inconvenience emanating from his interference
or interposition.
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