ry difficult
one; for while we are up here for the purpose of bringing pressure to
bear on the Emperor, as a means of placing our relations with China on
a proper footing, we have news from the South which looks as if the
Government of the Empire was about to pass out of his feeble hands
into those of the Rebels, who have upon us the claim that they profess
a kind of Christianity.

[Sidenote: A birthday.]

_July 20th._[5]--I know that you will not forget this day, though it
can only remind you of the declining years and frequent wanderings of
one who ought to be your constant protector, and always at your side.
It is very sad that we should pass it apart, but I can say something
comforting upon it. The Admiral and General came here yesterday, and
agreed with the French authorities that the two fleets are to start
for the _rendezvous_ on the 26th. Ignatieff, the Russian, who made his
appearance here to-day, said, 'After your force lands, I give you six
days to finish everything.' If he says what he thinks, it is a
promising view of things. Six days before we start, six days to land
the troops, and six days to finish the war! Eighteen days from this,
and we may be talking of peace. Alas! what resemblance will the facts
bear to these anticipations?

[Sidenote: Chefoo.]
[Sidenote: Plans for landing.]

_Talien-Whan.--July 21st._--Now for a word about Chefoo. I had agreed
to dine with the General, Montauban, on the night of my arrival, so,
after visiting Gros, I went to his headquarters. I found him in a very
well-built, commodious Chinese house. I must tell you that, as we were
entering the bay, we descried a steamer a-head of us, and it turned
out to be a vessel sent by the French to examine the spot (south of
the Peiho Forts), which had been selected for the place of their
debarkation when the attack comes off. On the evening of our dinner,
the General did not enter into particulars, but gave me to understand
that the result of the exploration had been very unsatisfactory, and
that his scheme for landing was altogether upset. I heard this with
considerable dismay, as I feared that it might be employed as a reason
for delay. Before we parted that night, I agreed to land next morning,
to see his artillery, &c. He read me the unfavourable report of his
exploring party, which was headed by