“To his majesty, the king of Cochin-China:—“The undersigned, Edmund Roberts, has the honour to inform your majesty, that Andrew Jackson, president of the United States of America, being desirous of opening a friendly intercourse with the king of Cochin-China, has despatched the United States’ ship-of-war Peacock, commanded by Captain David Geisinger, to your majesty’s dominions. The president of the United States of America has despatched the undersigned, his special envoy, to your majesty’s court, intrusting him with a letter to your majesty, and has clothed him with full power to treat with your majesty, for the important objects which the president of the United States has in view. He therefore requests that your majesty will grant him an interview, with the least possible loss of time.It was the intention of the commander of the said United States’ ship-of-war, to have entered the bay of Turan; but having been driven from thence, after repeated attempts, by adverse winds and currents, he has been compelled at length to enter this port. As contrary winds and currents now prevail, it is rendered impossible for the envoy to proceed to Turan bay. The undersigned must, therefore, await your Majesty’s answer here.Dated on board the United States’ ship Peacock, in Vung-lam roads, province of Fooyan, Cochin-China, the seventh day of January, A. D. 1833, the fifty-seventh year of Independence.(Signed) EDMUND ROBERTS
“To his majesty, the king of Cochin-China:—
“The undersigned, Edmund Roberts, has the honour to inform your majesty, that Andrew Jackson, president of the United States of America, being desirous of opening a friendly intercourse with the king of Cochin-China, has despatched the United States’ ship-of-war Peacock, commanded by Captain David Geisinger, to your majesty’s dominions. The president of the United States of America has despatched the undersigned, his special envoy, to your majesty’s court, intrusting him with a letter to your majesty, and has clothed him with full power to treat with your majesty, for the important objects which the president of the United States has in view. He therefore requests that your majesty will grant him an interview, with the least possible loss of time.
It was the intention of the commander of the said United States’ ship-of-war, to have entered the bay of Turan; but having been driven from thence, after repeated attempts, by adverse winds and currents, he has been compelled at length to enter this port. As contrary winds and currents now prevail, it is rendered impossible for the envoy to proceed to Turan bay. The undersigned must, therefore, await your Majesty’s answer here.
Dated on board the United States’ ship Peacock, in Vung-lam roads, province of Fooyan, Cochin-China, the seventh day of January, A. D. 1833, the fifty-seventh year of Independence.
(Signed) EDMUND ROBERTS
Not being well acquainted with the Cochin-Chinese forms, the letter was simply folded up in paper and sealed, being enclosed in vellum, and addressed—
To His Majesty,The King of Cochin-China, &c., &c., &c.
To His Majesty,The King of Cochin-China, &c., &c., &c.
The two deputies had made considerable parade, opposite the low and dirty hut, in which they were waiting to receive the despatch. There was a party of soldiers, with pikes fixed in thesand, at regular distances; three elephants, with small riding-boxes on their backs; palanquins, or travelling conveyances, of the kind used in the country; and several ponies. The village generally has a dirty and miserable appearance. There are a few neat little brick and wood houses, with tiled roofs; the rest are all of mat, or the kind of leaf calledattap, little better than mere sheds.
After the despatch had been received by them, with a promise that it should be forwarded immediately, several questions were asked respecting the roads, the conveniences for travelling, and accommodations between this and Hué. Answers were elicited from them with considerable trouble. One of them, who admitted that he had twice followed the road, saying that he had forgot all about it. They seemed desirous to give as bad an idea as possible of the road, as though they considered it not quite impossible for the ship to go further north, and thus to relieve them of all trouble and responsibility. The road, they said, was big with numerous dangers and difficulties; few stopping-places or accommodations, and those few bad. The conveyance for baggage, cumbrous, being on men’s shoulders. Houses were, however, numerous on the road, and provisions abundant.
Their answers respecting provisions and their prices were unsatisfactory; nor could they be induced to make any arrangements for the natives to bring things off to the ship. Every thing appears much dearer here than we expected to find it; even rice and sugar, which we supposed the chief productions, are not much cultivated in this neighbourhood. But the country around seems well fitted to afford abundance of cheap provisions, did commerce hold out any inducement to produce more than is needed for personal use. They stated the number of inhabitants in Vung-lam to be about three thousand, and rather less in each of the other places.
Before leaving, they were again requested to forward the despatch for the king speedily; and, at the same time, to report to their superiors that the envoy would require to be accompanied by a party of at least fifteen or sixteen persons, and considerable baggage. As the boat pulled off, they set out, with their retinue of elephants, palanquins, and ponies; and, as we afterward found, returned at once to their superiors, at the capital of Foo-yan.
CATHOLIC PRIEST.
January eighth.In the forenoon, a Cochin-Chinese RomanCatholic priest came off, and held a written conversation, in Latin, with Dr. Ticknor, of which the following is the substance:—
Priest.“I am a Catholic priest. The prefect (or governor) has sent me to inquire whether you are Catholics, and of what nation you are, whether French or English?”
Answer.“A few of us are Catholics. We are from North America.”
Priest.“On what business has your king sent you? On business to our king, or for the purpose of trade?”
Ans.“Our business is with your king. This is a ship-of-war, (or king’s ship,) not a merchant’s ship.”
Priest.“Have you any presents?”
Ans.“I cannot answer that question.”
Priest.“Do you remain here, or go to our king at Hué?”
Ans.“We shall go to your king, at Hué, when we hear from him.”
Priest.“The prefect sent me to learn whether you have business with our king, what it is, and of what nation you are?”
Ans.“Our business has been communicated to your king, and it is with him alone. We are from the United States of North America. Have you any knowledge of North America?”
Priest.“I have no knowledge of North America. I know England, France, Spain, &c. Will you tell me whether you have a minister (nuncium ad visitandum et cognoscendum) authorized to negociate.”
Ans.“We have a minister (nuncium) to your king, to be acknowledged by him.”
Priest.“Has your king sent you to our king with presents or empty-handed?”
Ans.“This is a question which I am not permitted to answer.”
Priest.“Is your visit here friendly?”
Ans.“We have come here with the most friendly motives.”
He laughed and said—“A ship-of-war come with friendly motives!”
Here the conversation ended; he said he would return to the prefect who sent him. The priest’s age was probably about sixty-five. He said he was educated at the college of Jadent. He was attended by six persons.
January ninth.Going on shore to-day, Mr. Morrison was informed that two deputies had left, the same evening they received the letter for the king, and that the old head-man of the town, who first came on board, was under arrest, for not having been sufficiently alert in reporting the ship’s arrival. In reply to a question concerning the priest who was on board yesterday, he was informed that he had been sent by the governor of the province. He was informed, also, that two or three Chinese junks, from Hainan, visit this port annually.
Some anxiety, too, was shown, to prevent any one walking beyond the beach. The market-time was found to commence between two and three o’clock, and to end about sunset.
January fourteenth.Mr. Morrison went on shore to make inquiries respecting the trade, &c., of the place, from the principal of the two Chinese interpreters who had been on board on the sixth and following days; and who had since been employed as comprador for the ship. On most points this Chinese appeared ignorant; a little information was, however, obtained from him.
COMMERCE OF VUNG-LAM.
He stated that from one to three Chinese junks, annually visit Vung-lam, about the month of January. They come from Hainan, and import, almost solely, tea and paper. The former, if of good quality, sells for twokwan(or about eighty cents) a catty, if inferior, for about half that price. They take back fah-sang, or ground-nut oil, manure, and a few small articles. The oil costs about twenty-five kwan a pecul. Cocoa-nut oil is made, but to a very small amount. It costs about half a kwan a catty. The coasting-boats trade chiefly in rice, which they import from the south, Ne-hats-ang. There seem to be from twenty-five to forty of these boats in Vung-lam and the surrounding anchorages, and not less than one hundred and fifty or two hundred fishing-boats. The Chinese trade at Quin-hone, or Kwei-nyun, does not exceed, he said, four or five junks annually. This is the capital of the province of Pring-ding, on the north of Fooyan. The capital of the province of Fooyan is not large. Its name is Tui-yan. It does not possess much trade, and of that none is maritime, the city being some miles from the coast. The truth of this statement seems somewhat doubtful. The provinces of Fooyan and Pring-ding are under the same dsong-dok or governor.
January sixteenth.This evening the old head-man of Vung-lam made his appearance again, somewhat altered in his dress, for the better, and seemingly alarmed at his arrest and punishment, the cause of which he professed to be ignorant of. He came to request that the paper, on which the conversation held with him the first day had been written, might be given up to him, which was accordingly done.
He then expressed a desire that every one should remain on board, and that none should go on shore, except to market; speaking, at the same time, of “vexing and annoying the people.” He was asked to explain, and said the people were alarmed. This, he was told, their behaviour contradicted; and no molestation had been given to any of them, while some of the soldiers had been very troublesome to those who went on shore; even urging and almost forcing Mr. Roberts to return to the ship, when it was evident he was waiting for the arrival of a boat.
Two instances of vexatious behaviour were particularly mentioned; to which he replied, that he was ignorant of the circumstances, but would inquire respecting them. He then left.
DEPUTIES.
January seventeenth.Increased difficulties having been met with in the purchase of provisions required for the ship, Mr. Morrison went on shore in the afternoon, to try the effect of remonstrance with the old head-man. On reaching the shore, he met a large travelling retinue coming into the town; and was informed that two deputies, Mandarins, from Hué, had arrived, and were accompanied by the anchasze or judge (the under-governor) of the province. He therefore returned to the ship, whither he was shortly followed by the newly-arrived officers, in a large galley, rowed by thirty-two soldiers, wearing red, lacquered, peaked caps, with very ordinary waist clothes. The boat was about sixty feet in length and twelve in breadth, and built most substantially and neatly. She was decked with loose plank, a small cabin was erected amid-ships, covered with palm-leaf. She had neither masts nor sails; as the stern-post raked more than a whale-boat, she would not readily answer her helm; a man was therefore placed at each bow with a broad-bladed paddle, to assist her steering. The men rowed in unison, standing up and facing the bows. An officer was placed amid-ships, beating time by striking against two pieces of bamboo, which was answered by the rowers by a sharp quick cry when their oars touched the water. A smallred square flag was hoisted on an ornamented staff at the tafferel, and many long spears bristled along the quarters. She had no projecting stem, a bluff bow, and was sharp aft.
The deputies were dressed in their robes of ceremony, consisting of very stout figured or plain satin dresses, of blue, open on the sides at the bottom, the sleeves very wide; short satin trousers of yellow or red; black crape turbans, and Chinese shoes; but the cotton underdress was exceedingly dirty. They all wore long thin beards and mustaches.
They had quick black eyes, with a lively expressive countenance. Three most filthy servants attended them, each bearing boxes containing areca-nuts, betel, chunam, and paper cigars; and they were continually employed in scratching and picking off vermin. There were three umbrella-bearers, some soldiers, &c., and two men dressed in long blue woollen garments, bound with a wide strip of red cloth about the neck and on the lower part of the sides, and of the same height in front. They wore a low, red, peaked cap, secured to the head by means of strings passing from the sides across the forehead and back of the head, over a black turban—the cap only covered the head to the top of the ears. These men bore ornamented ivory sticks, with red silk tassels; but, contrary to the custom of those who had previously visited us, these officers left the majority of their attendants behind. The anchasze’s office designated him as of the third rank; while the two deputies, it was afterward ascertained, were of the fifth rank. They were preceded by two interpreters, one of whom spoke fluently the corrupt Portuguese dialect of Macao, and also a little French; the other, having been for some years in a British frigate, had a pretty good knowledge of the English, so long as the conversation was confined to what was commonplace. The Portuguese interpreter was a native Christian, named Miguel, and had acquired a knowledge, both of speaking and reading, at Macao. The quondam man-of-war’s man, was named Joseph, when in the British service.
From the nature of the conversation with the two deputies, it was chiefly kept up in writing, notwithstanding the presence of the two interpreters. The deputies commenced by stating, that they had been commissioned by the “minister of commerce and navigation,” at Hué, to come, in company with a provincial officer,to inquire respecting the ship, and attend to her wants. They wished to know, therefore, if she stood in need of any thing. They were thanked, and informed that she was not in want; at the same time, they were requested to publish permission for the people to bring provisions alongside for sale. They replied that they would do so. They then inquired to what country the ship belonged, and produced a large sheet, containing representations of every known national flag, with the names of the countries attached, in French and in Chinese characters. The flag of the United States was pointed out to them, and they were informed that the ship was a man-of-war. They then put some complimentary questions, respecting the health of our “king,” and of the individuals on board, &c., which were answered and reciprocated. They had long, they said, heard of the country, as a good and happy one; and were now rejoiced at the meeting. They inquired the purpose of our coming, a species of question which every new comer repeated, as though ignorant of any previous intercourse with the officers of government. The necessary answer being given, they were asked respecting the letter from the envoy to the king, whether it had reached the capital before they left. They replied it had; but the address on the cover was erroneous; and therefore the minister of commerce and navigation, (whom they afterward stated to be the chief minister,) could not venture to hand it to the king. The country, they said, is not now called Annam, as formerly, but Wietman, (in Mandarin dialect, Yuènan;) and it is ruled, not by a king, (wang,) but by an emperor, (hwang-te.)[†]They said, also, that they had received orders to pay particular attention, and examine every thing, so as to prevent any farther miscarriage or delay in the business of the mission. It was explained to them, that the errors they mentioned did not arise from any disrespect towards the king, (or emperor,) but from the ignorance of their forms, which want of intercourse occasioned. They were asked to point out in what manner the address should be altered, and replied, that it would be preferable to address a letter to the minister of commerce and navigation, informing him of the ship’s arrival and object of coming; and requesting him to state the same to the king. They desired to be allowed to see the letter, in order to prevent theadmission of “interdicted words,” that is, expressions which, according to the Chinese punctilios of writing, are considered inadmissible in official correspondence with the higher ranks of officers. The letter to the king was then returned, at the desire of the envoy; and the deputies expressed a wish to know the contents of the President’s letter, as well as the particular and specific object of the mission. They were informed that the President’s letter was an introduction of the envoy to the king, and that the envoy was prepared to negotiate respecting the particular objects of this mission, after his arrival at Hué; but that the one general object, a treaty of friendly intercourse, was inclusive of all other objects. This answer was far from being satisfactory, and they repeatedly returned to the same point, till, finding they could obtain no other reply, they at length desisted. Being now requested to give an explicit address for the letter to be written to the minister, they drew a short letter to the following effect:—
ENVOY’S LETTER.
“Edmund Roberts, envoy from the United States of America, desires to state to your excellency, that he has received the commands of his president, deputing him, a petty officer,[†]to bring a public letter to this effect: ‘I have long regarded the fame of your kingdoms with a desire for friendly intercourse; but I have not previously had an opportunity for obtaining it. I now entreat earnestly for a friendly intercourse. Beyond this, there is no other point I desire.’
“The said envoy presumes to make this statement, praying you to report it to the emperor, that having glanced thereat, he may happily allow him to repair speedily to the capital, and respectfully present the letter,” &c.
The tone of this letter is extremely objectionable, for, besides the servileness of particular expressions, the general language is that of an inferior, (the same idea being often expressed in Chinese by different words, according to the respective ranks of the writer, and the person he addresses;) the letter was therefore immediately rejected; and some of the most offensive expressions, such as “petty officer” and “earnest entreaty,” were pointed out and animadverted on. With the effrontery of falsehood common among the Chinese, they denied that the expressions were those of an inferior; but truth does not form a part of their creed. They were then informed that a letter would be written by the envoy the next day, and that the expressions should be respectful, but not mean or servile. They repeated their desire to see the letter before it was closed, in order to expunge improper words; and insisted on the necessity of their so doing. They were told, that they might see the letter; but that no material corrections could be made at their suggestions, after a fair copy of the letter had been prepared. After some further conversation and dispute concerning points of small import, they returned to the shore, at about eleven o’clock in the afternoon. The old judge had left early in the evening, having become seasick.
January eighteenth.This morning, the deputies came on board by appointment, to receive the letter from the envoy to the minister. They were again accompanied by the judge, who had recovered from his seasickness. Some refreshments were brought, consisting of a bullock, a hog, a few poultry, some rice and wine, which were presented to the envoy and captain, with felicitations on their arrival.
There being some doubt whether the minister of commerce and navigation was the chief minister of state, (although they had asserted he was,) the address of the chief minister was now asked. Before they answered this question, they wished to see the letter; but this being refused, they eventually gave an address the same as yesterday, viz.: “To the minister of commerce and navigation of Cochin-China.” This address was therefore inserted without alteration in the Chinese copy of the letter. In the English, it was altered to “the minister for foreign affairs, commerce and navigation;” he being the same minister called by Mr. Crawford, the “Mandarin of strangers.” The letter was then shown to them, and after a few trivial alterations of single words in the Chinese translation, which were acceded to, they expressed themselves satisfied; it was therefore sealed, and delivered to them to forward. The following is a copy:—
“To the minister for foreign affairs, commerce and navigation, Hué:—“Edmund Roberts, special envoy from the United States of America, desires to inform your excellency that Andrew Jackson,the president of the United States, wishing to open a friendly intercourse with the emperor of Cochin-China, has sent the United States’ ship-of-war Peacock, commanded by Captain David Geisinger, to his majesty’s dominions.“And the president of the said United States of America has deputed me his special envoy to his majesty’s court, intrusting me with a letter to his majesty; and has clothed me with full powers to treat, on behalf of the president of the United States, for the important objects which he has in view. I therefore request your excellency to state this to his majesty; and hope that an interview will be granted with the least possible loss of time.“It was the intention of the commander of the said United States’ ship-of-war to have entered the bay of Turan; but having been driven from thence, after repeated attempts, by adverse winds and currents, he has been compelled at length to enter this port of Vung-lam. As contrary winds and currents still prevail, it is rendered impossible for him to proceed to Turan bay. The undersigned therefore awaits his majesty’s answer here.“Signed and sealed on board the United States’ ship Peacock, in Vung-lam roads, province of Fooyan, Cochin-China, the eighteenth day of January, A. D., 1833, and of the Independence of the United States, the fifty-seventh.“EDMUND ROBERTS.”
“To the minister for foreign affairs, commerce and navigation, Hué:—
“Edmund Roberts, special envoy from the United States of America, desires to inform your excellency that Andrew Jackson,the president of the United States, wishing to open a friendly intercourse with the emperor of Cochin-China, has sent the United States’ ship-of-war Peacock, commanded by Captain David Geisinger, to his majesty’s dominions.
“And the president of the said United States of America has deputed me his special envoy to his majesty’s court, intrusting me with a letter to his majesty; and has clothed me with full powers to treat, on behalf of the president of the United States, for the important objects which he has in view. I therefore request your excellency to state this to his majesty; and hope that an interview will be granted with the least possible loss of time.
“It was the intention of the commander of the said United States’ ship-of-war to have entered the bay of Turan; but having been driven from thence, after repeated attempts, by adverse winds and currents, he has been compelled at length to enter this port of Vung-lam. As contrary winds and currents still prevail, it is rendered impossible for him to proceed to Turan bay. The undersigned therefore awaits his majesty’s answer here.
“Signed and sealed on board the United States’ ship Peacock, in Vung-lam roads, province of Fooyan, Cochin-China, the eighteenth day of January, A. D., 1833, and of the Independence of the United States, the fifty-seventh.
“EDMUND ROBERTS.”
A little general conversation ensued, at the conclusion of this business; they having promised that an answer should be received in seven or eight days.
They asked several questions respecting America and Europe, for instance, what is the meaning of “the fifty-seventh year of independence?”—“Is England now at peace with France?”—“Has France recovered peace since the last revolution? and where is the dethroned king living?”—“Is America at war with any country?” &c. These and other questions of a similar nature having been answered, they took their leave, inviting Mr. Roberts, Captain Geisinger, and the other gentlemen on board, to call on them. They were at the same time invited to visit the ship whenever they wished.
January nineteenth.Three of the gentlemen went on shore, about noon, to visit the deputies, taking an excuse for Mr. Robertsand Captain Geisinger. They were found residing in a neat little brick house, situated in a small garden of areca and betel plants; the latter being generally twined round the smooth round trunk of the areca-tree. The house is the most respectable in the place, and appears to be a private residence hired for the occasion. The conversation was for the most part common-place. The judge, they informed us, had returned to the capital of the province, to attend to the duties of his office.
A little information was obtained respecting provisions, firewood, and the nature of their mission to Hué. On the latter subject, they confirmed for the most part, the account previously obtained from the two first deputies, and insisted on making a present of some fire wood, saying they would send a person next day to show where it could be cut. They were requested to give permission to shoot and ride, but declined doing either. Shooting, they said, is prohibited by law. During the conversation, they stated, that there is an American namedLeemesay(probably Lindsay) engaged as a pilot on board one of their ships. This is an Englishman who finds it more convenient to pass among these people as American than as English. On leaving, the deputies said they would call on board the following day. A present of firewood was brought along-side in the evening.
January twentieth.This morning, another present of firewood came off, and with it the Portuguese interpreter Miguel. He brought a note in French, addressed to the younger M. Vanier, whose mother being Cochin-Chinese, he remains in the country, although his father has returned to France. M. Vanier is now employed as a pilot, and is about to go to the straits of Malacca, with a cargo of sugar from Turan. He will be joined by a vessel from Ahiatrang, laden with rice, and piloted by Leemesay, (or Lindsay,) the American whom the deputies spoke of yesterday. Miguel informed us that the Roman Catholics are persecuted under the present religion; and that the few French, Spanish, and Italian priests, who are living in the country, are obliged to conceal themselves.
Père Jacard, a Frenchman, is confined wholly to the precincts of the palace, where he is employed in the care of the king’s European books, charts, mathematical instruments, &c. It is difficult for foreigners (excepting Chinese) to gain admission; legal permission must be obtained from the chief officers of the provincial government, in that part of the country, where admission is sought.
About noon, the deputies made their appearance. The conversation was short and common-place. They requested to be shown the ship’s voyage, on a chart, and were curious to know why China was visited before coming to Cochin-China, it being more to the north. They desired to be shown about the ship, and then took their leave promising to send their barge (a large boat, manned with thirty oars) to cut and bring off firewood, the next morning. As they spoke of tigers, they were told that guns must be taken as a defence; and they at length gave their consent to shooting. As they left, they particularly invited the envoy and Captain Geisinger to visit them the following day. Their invitation was accepted, being desirous of not giving offence.
January twenty-first.The weather being unfavourable, an excuse was sent, deferring the visit until better weather.
YUEN AND LE.
January twenty-third.Notwithstanding the weather continued unfavourable and rainy, another visit was received this morning from the two deputies, whose names were now found to be Yuen and Le. They asked numerous questions respecting Europe and America, seeming particularly desirous to know the affairs of England, and the nature of the United Slates government. In answer to their inquiries about the President, they were informed that he is elected by the people, once in four years. They asked also a few questions respecting American productions, particularly ginseng, of which they knew something; they repeated their inquiries as to the object of visiting Canton, and the time spent there, and whether there were any presents from the president, &c.
In reply to questions put to them, they stated, that the tribunals and officers at court, and the titles of their ministers and other officers, are the same as in China; but they evaded telling the names of any of the ministers, saying, that they could not remember them all. They declined some trifles offered to them, on the plea that they dare not receive any presents. They then repeated their invitation to Mr. Roberts and Captain Geisinger, to visit them on shore, and promised assistance in procuring provisions. They urged, that the ports were already open to trade, and therefore the mission unnecessary. They were told in reply that the regulations of trade were not known, and the charges on shipswere so high, it was found impossible to trade—that the mission was not destined to apply tothembut to the court; and that whatever might be the state of the case, speedy measures should have been taken to enable the mission to proceed to Hué.
PRESENT OF A FEAST TO THE EMBASSY—DESCRIPTION OF ARRANGEMENT—DEPUTIES FROM HUÉ—EXTRAORDINARY DEMANDS—REFUSAL TO FORWARD DESPATCHES TO THE EMPEROR—LETTER OF THE ENVOY TO THE MINISTER OF COMMERCE—PRESIDENT’S LETTER—UNCONDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE DEPUTIES.
PRESENT OF A FEAST TO THE EMBASSY—DESCRIPTION OF ARRANGEMENT—DEPUTIES FROM HUÉ—EXTRAORDINARY DEMANDS—REFUSAL TO FORWARD DESPATCHES TO THE EMPEROR—LETTER OF THE ENVOY TO THE MINISTER OF COMMERCE—PRESIDENT’S LETTER—UNCONDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE DEPUTIES.
On this morning, January twenty-fourth, Captain G. and myself visited the deputies: their residence was somewhat improved, since the previous visit paid to them; considering the filthy habits of the people, it was neat and comfortable. Our conversation was short and common-place. The deputies informed us that they had been to Bengal, a year or two before, and also to Manila.
January twenty-sixth.One of the officers, who had come from the capital of the province on our first arrival, appeared again to-day, accompanied by another whom we had not before seen, and the two interpreters, bringing complimentary messages to the envoy, and refreshments, which, they said, were sent by order of the king. They consisted of a feast, (comprising fifty-one dishes,) two bullocks, four dogs, five sacks of rice, five jars of native liquor, thirty ducks, thirty fowls, eggs, and a variety of fruits.
As it would have given offence, and impeded, if not wholly destroyed the object of the mission, to have refused the present, it was immediately accepted with thanks; and the officers, who brought it off, were informed, that a salute of thirteen guns would be fired in honour of the king, as the present was said to have come from him. The feast was brought on the board in handsomely varnished and gilded cases; to all outward appearance, it was very neat and cleanly; but we could not divest ourselves of the idea, that it was cooked in the uncleanly vessels we had seen on shore, and that it had come in contact with the filthy paws, dirty nails, and heads filled with vermin, which we had seen on shore: we,therefore, barely tasted of one article, the confectionary. A complimentary toast was drunk to the emperor, in a glass of their favourite rice wine.
The mandarin, who came to present the feast, was dressed in a robe of ceremony, of very stout, light blue, flowered silk. He was invited to partake of the feast, but politely excused himself, saying, “I dare not partake of a feast presented by the emperor.” He was therefore furnished with other refreshments.
The feast was arranged in the cabin, by a servant sent with it, assisted by several others: it was served up in China, and consisted of fifty-one articles, (exclusive of fruits,) arranged in the following order: At the head was placed an entire tortoise, jellied on the outside, and filled with rice, &c.; then followed a leg of fresh boiled pork; two roasted ducks; one roasted fowl; a deep saucer of roasted pork, cut in square pieces; and three stewed pigeons in a bowl, with sauce. The preceding seven articles were arranged from the head to the foot of the table, in the centre, and were flanked with seventeen bowls, each containing a different article. One contained stewed eels, whether of the hedge or ditch, I am not able to determine; another was filled with stewed mullet. One had within it a piece of stewed fish, with sauce; a fourth held fish pickle, or the essence of balachang, emitting a most unsavoury smell. Seven of the bowls were covered with yellow paper, and ten with red: they contained chow-chow, or mixed meats, deers’ sinews—which latter were particularly recommended.
The name and contents of each article were inscribed in Chinese characters, on its cover. The remaining portion of the dishes, consisted of two bowls of boiled ducks’ eggs, and one of fowls; one of boiled crabs; three of red, yellow, and white rice; two of sausages; three of rice pilau; one of stewed fowl; one of shrimps; one of bitter cucumbers; two of sponge-cake; and the rest were forced-meat pasties and confectionary. They were cooked with ground-nut oil, or the fat of fresh pork; and were, generally, very insipid, and totally without seasoning.
These refreshments had been sent in consequence of the receipt, at Hué, of the envoy’s letter to the minister, and the officers said that a reply might be expected in two or three days, at farthest.
In the afternoon, the deputies’ barge came alongside, and the interpreters said there were two mandarins on board: but, seeingthat the ship rolled very much, they would defer the visit until the next morning.
ARRIVAL FROM HUÉ.
This morning, January the twenty-seventh, the two interpreters appeared, to say, that two officers had arrived from Hué, but that the vessel was so unsteady they were afraid to come on board, lest seasickness should prevent them from fulfilling, to the full extent, their mission. They, therefore, requested Mr. Roberts to visit, and to converse with them on shore.
This attempt to make the envoy wait on them, could not, they were told, be complied with; but Mr. Morrison would go on shore, if they desired it, to ascertain their business.
Mr. M. accordingly went on shore, immediately after breakfast, and found the two former deputies, accompanied by two others, said to be of higher rank, who were far less prepossessing in their appearance, and much ruder in their manners.
The following conversation took place with them:—
Mr. M.“Is there any letter from Hué?”
Deputies.“No; we two officers have been deputed by the minister to come here.”
Mr. M.“Will there be any letter?”
Dep.“No; we are sent in place of a letter.”
Mr. M.“What message do you bring from Hué?”
Dep.“The minister of commerce and navigation has received the letter sent by the envoy; the contents being respectful and reasonable, he gave directions to the local officers to prepare a feast for the envoy. With regard to shooting, although it is contrary to the laws, permission is granted, in the present instance, for a few to shoot at a time, in consideration that you know how to regard the laws.”
Mr. M.“Shooting is not the business on which the envoy has come here. That is a trivial matter, not worth mentioning again. The envoy has come on important national business, with a letter for the emperor: he wishes to know what message you have from the emperor.”
Dep.“Though the shooting is a trivial matter, we have mentioned it, because you formerly made a request on the subject. As to the business of the letter, we require to converse respecting it with the official gentlemen:” meaning the envoy and those who they supposed were associated with him; for the Cochin-Chinese, like the Chinese, seldom send officers singly on any special business.
Mr. M.“It would be contrary to all etiquette, for the envoy to come on shore, to converse with you on this subject. If you have any thing to communicate, tell it to me, or (which would be better) go on board and tell it.”
Dep.“We like your regard for etiquette, and have now come with the wish to conduct your business according to etiquette, and to conclude it speedily. Yesterday we were prevented going on board by the wind: as you have now come, we will enter on the business with you at once.
“The minister of commerce and navigation desires us to communicate to the envoy the necessity of his having a copy and a translation of the president’s letter to lay before the emperor; also to state, that without full and complete information, the minister dare not report to his majesty. Having come so great a distance, you are doubtless anxious for the speedy conclusion of the business of your mission. It is on this account we have been sent; for our laws are strict, and demand implicit obedience: therefore, we are directed to show you how to conform to them. What ought now to be done, is to give a copy and translation of the President’s letter.
“Further, in the letter from the envoy, mention is made of the important objects which the President has in view. Without knowing what these important objects are, the minister can make no report to the emperor. Were he to do so, and the emperor should make any particular inquiries of him, respecting the mission, he would be unable to reply. If you will give a copy of the letter, and information with regard to these objects, four or five days will be sufficient to come to some determination respecting your mission.”
Mr. M.“Letters between the rulers of nations ought not to be submitted to the inspection of their ministers and people, but must first be delivered to the rulers to whom they are addressed. Of the President’s letter, there is both an original and a translation; which will be delivered, together, to the emperor, after the envoy has reached the capital.”
Dep.“If you will allow us to see a copy of the translation, your business may then be advanced.
“In the intercourse of China with France, England, &c., copies of their letters must first be shown to the minister or his deputies, before they can make any report to the emperor. Otherwise, being ignorant of the contents of the letter, they dare not report.”
Mr. M.“We know not the etiquette of China, but that of Europe, and all the nations of the west. Letters are first presented to the rulers, to whom they are addressed. Copies are not first shown to their ministers.”
Dep.“France and England have sent envoys here, who did not refuse to show copies of the letters which they brought.”
Mr. M.“I have heard that the English envoy, who complied with this demand, had no audience.”
Dep.“The governor-general (Ta-ping-t’how, great military headman) of Bengal, sent an envoy here, with a letter to the minister, and he concluded the business satisfactorily. Would we treat the English well and you ill?”
Mr. M.“You are, indeed, putting difficulties in the way. It has never been customary with us to show copies of letters previously to presenting the originals.”
Dep.“We are all the servants of our respective rulers, and we desire, equally with you, to bring your business to a satisfactory conclusion. We request you to think what object we can have in raising difficulties?”
DIPLOMATIC DELAYS.
Not being able to come to any conclusion on this point, they were asked if they had any thing else to say, when they pointed to what they had before written, respecting the important objects which the President had in view. They then wrote again: “You should return to the ship, and get the directions of the envoy and captain, on these two important points, viz.:—
“1st. To show a copy of the President’s letter.
“2d. To state clearly the particular objects of the mission. In the evening come again, and inform us of the result.”
“Our country wishes to receive and treat you in a liberal manner. France and England did not refuse to show copies of their letters. Why do you? We have been sent by the minister with these orders, and wish you to act in accordance with the advice we have now given. Your business will then be soon finished, which will afford the minister pleasure also.”
Mr. M.“If these are the orders you have received, I fear we must soon leave.”
Dep.“Why do you say so? Our endeavour is to bring your business to a speedy conclusion. All envoys must desire to bring their business to a satisfactory conclusion. We wish to aid you in doing so. Of what use is it to talk of returning? What object will be effected if you do so?”
Mr. M.“If such points are insisted upon, we must consider that the emperor desires no intercourse with our country; in which case there is nothing left for us but to return.”
This view of the matter was strongly objected to by the deputies, whom Mr. Morrison left with an understanding that he would probably visit them again in the afternoon.
In the afternoon, accordingly, Mr. Morrison, having received farther instructions, went on shore and recommenced the conversation, saying:—
“I have now received directions from the envoy to tell you, that what you insisted upon this morning, cannot be complied with; for it would be disallowed by our government. The letter is sealed, and cannot now be opened; but must either be carried by the envoy to the capital, or must be carried back, and the cause stated to the President.”
The deputies now inquired if there werereallya translation of the President’s letter, in a manner which implied distrust and unbelief of what they had been told. Being assured that a translationreallyexisted, they returned to their former point, desiring a copy—not, however, of the translation, but of the general scope of it. Compliance with this request was refused, unless they could show directions to that effect from the emperor.
Dep.“If there is, indeed, a Chinese translation, it is requisite to show a copy of it, before a report can be made to, or an order received from, the emperor. Being foreigners, how can you refuse to have your business conducted by us, who are the appointed deputies? or how can you insist on going at once to the capital to present the letter personally?”
Mr. M.“Without seeing an order from the emperor, the letter cannot be shown to any one; nor can the envoy stay here much longer. In a few days, either he must repair to the capital, or the ship must leave this port and go to sea. Two of you have beenalready informed of this, when you received the envoy’s letter to the minister. As we have been detained here nearly a month, without any thing having been done, it is now repeated to you all.”
Dep.“This delay is owing to your own mismanagement, in not having given a translation of the President’s letter, stating the objects of the mission. It is in consequence of this mismanagement, that the minister has been unable to state your arrival and object to the emperor. Hence the delay, which has in no way arisen from any want of kind reception on the minister’s part, or of attention on ours. Our laws are very strict, and the forms required by our etiquette, numerous. Were we to offend against either, the offence would not be considered slight. We have now been sent to see that every thing be done according to etiquette and law, and this requisition must, indeed, be acceded to, before you can obtain permission to proceed to Hué.”
Mr. M.“A letter between the sovereigns of two nations, cannot be carelessly and inconsiderately shown to any or every one. As to the letter and the objects of the mission, should the envoy go to Hué, the former can then be presented, and the negotiation of the business entered upon. But, should the envoy not go to Hué, it will be needless to speak of either.”
Dep.“We, the officers specially deputed by the minister alone, require to see the letter. How can it be careless or inconsiderate to show it to us? If every thing is left unexplained, then, although you should go to the capital, the minister would still have to depute officers to obtain a clear knowledge of your business, before he could make any report to the emperor!”
Mr. M.“Was the envoy’s letter to the minister received?”
Dep.“It was; but the expression, ‘important objects,’ was not explained, nor was there a translation of the President’s letter; hence, he could not venture to make any report. He has, therefore, sent us to repeat these inquiries; that, after he has learned the result from us, he may report to the emperor.”
Mr. M.“If the envoy were at the capital, he would then make all requisite explanations to the minister. If he cannot go to the capital without making such explanations to you, the ship will have to go to sea.
“Is the minister of commerce the same as the minister of elephants?
“If he received the letter, why is there no written answer from him?”
Dep.“The minister of commerce is a great minister, who directs the affairs of all foreign vessels that come here. In the letter sent to him, there was much that was not explained. Therefore, we have been sent to arrange and explain every thing; after which he will be able to report. Of what use would it be to give any previous written reply?”
Mr. M.“You had better make a speedy report of to-day’s conversation; for if the envoy does not shortly obtain leave to go to Hué, he will be necessitated to leave. The envoy is not likely to retract what he says.”
Dep.“Your ship has crossed a wide sea to bring an envoy from your country; and the minister has acted towards you according to his majesty’s gracious wishes of tenderness towards foreigners. He wishes to conclude your business speedily and satisfactorily for you; but you also must act according to our laws and etiquette: then you will not fail in your object. Return, and tell the two gentlemen (meaning Mr. R. and Capt. G.) that they may think maturely on the subject; to-morrow we will visit the ship.”
Mr. M.“The subject has been already fully thought on; I request you to think it over once more.”
They then again insisted on the necessity of every thing being fully explained, before another step could be taken; and, addressing Mr. Morrison personally, they said: “As you have read Chinese literature, you are acquainted with our forms of etiquette, and what is right and proper. Explain these to the envoy, that he may follow them; the success of the mission will then be owing to your efforts; whereas, by refusing to do so, the blame of failure will rest entirely on you.”
To this absurd language no reply was returned. They were told, that the envoy came with a desire to open a friendly intercourse, and would be sorry to return without having effected that object: but that he would not act contrary to the rules of his own country; and that he thought, if the emperor were informed of the circumstances, he would not desire any previous copy of the letter to be given. The conversation then ended, the deputies refusing to answer questions on any other subjects.
January twenty-eighth.This morning, early, the four deputies came on board, as they had yesterday stated their intention of doing. The conversation was commenced by asking the object of their visit, as they had yesterday been told, that the envoy could not give up the President’s letter, nor enter into any further particulars respecting the objects of the mission. They were at the same time told not to speak of “two gentlemen,” as the business of the mission rested wholly with the envoy.
Dep.“The letter which the envoy sent to the minister, spoke of very important objects, but did not explain what those objects were; therefore, the minister being unable to speak to the emperor, has sent us to inquire particularly; that when we have informed him of the objects, he may make his report, and conclude the business of your mission speedily.”
The Envoy.“Two of your number have already asked repeated questions on this subject, and have been as often told, that the subject cannot be treated of before the mission proceeds to Hué. As this has been often told you, why do you now delay the mission with repetitions of the same questions? The minister is fully aware that my mission is for the purpose of opening a friendly intercourse between the two countries. Why, then, does he not make report thereof to the emperor? and why is there no order from the emperor, either permitting me to go to Hué, or directing my return? This line of conduct certainly appears uncivil; I must, therefore, conclude that the emperor is unwilling to admit our intercourse. If you have any thing further to speak of, say it; but do not go over yesterday’s conversation again.”
Dep.“Our country wishes to receive and treat you with liberality; but there is an appearance of secrecy in the letter to the minister, which requires explanation. Our conduct is in accordance with true politeness. How say you we are uncivil?”
Envoy.“If, when the ship arrived, the minister of commerce had immediately reported to the emperor the arrival of a United States’ vessel, with a special envoy on board, bearing a letter from the President to the emperor, and had requested leave for the mission to proceed forthwith to the capital, such conduct would have been open, polite, and becoming. But to profess that he dare not report to the emperor, and detain the mission here for along period, refusing to let it proceed at once to the capital, is, indeed, extremely rude.”
Dep.“Hitherto all envoys bringing letters here, from whatever country, have stated their contents and the objects of their mission, through officers deputed, like us, to receive such information. This has always been necessary before a report could be made. We have heard of you as a just, polite, and well-demeaned nation; and the minister, when he heard of your arrival, was much pleased, and desirous of bringing your business to a satisfactory conclusion, in order to establish a friendly intercourse with you. [They were here told that the minister was required to make no such request.] What answer would he be able to give, should the emperor inquire about particulars?”
Here they were pointed to Mr. Crawford’s account of his mission to Siam and Cochin-China, page 269; where he received what amounted to a reprimand, for having shown to the governor of Saigon the governor-general’s letter, when the minister of elephants told him: “It is his majesty’s wish, when the governor-general writes again, that the letter may be sealed, for this is the custom of Cochin-China.” And again, “It is not agreeable to the customs of the country, that any should inspect letters addressed to his majesty, before they reach his own presence.”
They did not appear, or choose not to appear, acquainted with the circumstances of Mr. Crawford’s mission, and did not want, they said, the original letter, but a translation.
Envoy.“If I return, and report to the President that, when I came here to propose a friendly intercourse between our countries, the ministers of Cochin-China refused to report my arrival to the emperor; took upon themselves to treat me rudely, and, after having detained me a whole month, forced me to leave, without obtaining admission to the capital; when this is told, what, think you, will be the world’s opinion of your country? Its opinion will be, that you are an extremely rude nation. If permission be not soon given for me to proceed to the capital, I shall be necessitated to leave; for within the present year I have to go to eight or nine other places.”
The latter part of this reply was intended to remove an error they seemed to have fallen into, in supposing that the ship hadcome from the United States, solely to negotiate a treaty with Cochin-China.
Dep.“Every thing in our country must be done according to etiquette. Hitherto all countries, whether far or near, have paid regard to this rule. The etiquette to be observed by ministers of government, is to report no business, until they have obtained complete knowledge of it. We have been desirous to effect for you the objects of your mission, but you have been obstinate in your determinations. Pray, what would you think of an envoy from any other country coming here, and refusing to have any thing done through the medium of officers deputed, like us, for the purpose of arranging the business of his mission, and insisting on immediate admission to the emperor’s presence? If the circumstances be told to all the world, the right and wrong will then be known. Our country has always received other nations liberally, without deriving any advantage from them.
“Before,” they continued, “you said there was no translation of the President’s letter; now you say there is:—before, you said the vessel was going to no other place; now you say she is going to nine other places. What are we to understand by this?”
As not the slightest hint had been given to favour either of these assertions, they were immediately contradicted. They had never been told, either that the President’s letter was not translated, or that the envoy had business in Cochin-China alone.
They now stated they did not want the letter opened; they only required to know what was desired; whether land to build factories on, privileges of trade, or what?
Envoy.“No favours or privileges are asked for. Our government does not build factories. Friendly intercourse alone is desired.”
Dep.“Is commerce desired?”
Envoy.“That is necessarily included in friendly intercourse between the two countries; which will be for the advantage, not of one, but of both.”
Dep.“You have now come over an extensive ocean as an envoy. The minister has acted according to the emperor’s gracious wishes of tenderness towards foreigners. He wishes to conclude your affairs happily and satisfactorily; but you persist and determine, of your own accord, to return unsuccessful. Say notthat you were not received well and liberally. The fault lies with you!”
Envoy.“As you refuse our intercourse, and I cannot obtain permission to go to Hué, I must leave shortly. The fault lies not with me, but in the minister’s uncivil treatment. On my return, I shall have to report, that the minister had the presumption to take the business of the mission into his own hands, without making any report to the emperor. How call you such conduct ‘liberal treatment?’”
Dep.“We too have been sent to bring the business of your mission to a determinate point; but your obstinacy leaves us at a loss what to do. We will return in a day or two to the capital, and make a report of the circumstances.”
This was said by the two who had arrived on the twenty-sixth.
In reply, they were told that the envoy could have nothing to do with their movements; that when quite ready he would leave; but that, when he did so, he would write a protest against the manner in which he had been treated, and would send a copy of such protest to the emperor, and copies to other princes also. At first, not seeming to understand what was meant, they desired that it should be sent to the minister instead of the emperor; but this, they were told, was out of the question.
January twenty-ninth.Some gentlemen who had been on shore in the course of yesterday, having been asked when the ship would sail, Mr. Morrison visited the deputies this morning, with the following written communication:—