an--lined the route. Curiosity chiefly was depicted on
their countenances; some looked frightened; but I observed no symptoms
of ill-will. At the entrance of the temple were two blind musicians,
playing something like squeaking bagpipes. This was the Chinese band.
We marched in with all our force, which drew up in a sort of court
before an open verandah, where refreshments were set out, and the
dignitaries awaited us. I was received by the Imperial Commissioner,
and conducted to a seat at a small table covered with little plates of
sweetmeats, &c. One of the Chinese Plenipotentiaries sat on either
side of me. It was a very pretty scene, and the place was decorated in
very good taste with flowers, &c. As my neighbours showed no
disposition to talk, I began by asking after their health and that of
the Emperor. They then said that they had received the Emperor's
orders to come down to treat of our affairs. I answered, that although
I was much grieved by the neglect of the Prime Minister to answer the
letters I had addressed to him, yet as they had on their cards stated
that they had 'full powers,' I had consented to have this interview in
order that we might compare our powers, and see whether we could treat
together. I told them that I had brought mine, and I at once exhibited
them, giving them a translation of the documents. They said they had
not powers of the same kind, but a decree of the Emperor appointing
them, and they brought out a letter which was wrapped up in a sheet of
yellow paper. The chief Plenipotentiary rose and raised the paper
reverentially over his head before unfolding it. I thought the terms
of this document rather ambiguous, besides which I was desirous to
produce a certain effect; so when it had been translated to me, I said
that I was not sufficiently satisfied with it to be able to say on the
spot whether I could treat with them or not; that I would, if they
pleased, take a copy of it and consider the matter; but that I would
not enter upon business with them at present. So saying I rose, moved
to the front of the stage, and ordered the escort to move and the
chairs to be brought. This put the poor people into a terrible
fluster. They made great efforts to induce me to sit down again, but I
acted the part of the 'uncontrollably fierce' to perfection, and set
off for