ntion of the _ultimatum_. To this and
numerous similar missives, which came for a time in rapid succession, Lord
Elgin had but one reply--that he could discuss nothing until the demands
already made had been satisfied.

_August 9th._--My diplomacy began yesterday, for I received in the
morning a communication from the Governor-General of the province, not
frankly conceding our demands, but making tolerably plausible
proposals for the sake of occasioning delay. I have refused to stay
the march of the military on such overtures; but the great slowness of
our operations is likely to lead me into diplomatic difficulties. The
Chinese authorities, if they become frightened, are clever enough to
advance propositions which it may be impossible to accede to without
compromising the main objects of this costly expedition, and by
refusing which I shall, nevertheless, expose myself to great
animadversion. There was a reconnaissance again this morning, and I
hope from the report of Crealock (who accompanied it, and who is doing
very well) that the enemy will prove quite as little formidable as I
have always expected. The serious advance was positively to have taken
place to-morrow, but I almost fear there will be another delay. I am
anxious to conclude peace as soon as possible after the capture of the
Peiho Forts, because, from what I have seen of the conduct of the
French here, I am sure that they will commit all manner of atrocities,
and make foreigners detested in every town and village they enter. Of
course their presence makes it very difficult to maintain discipline
among our own people.

[Sidenote: Taking of the forts.]

The 'serious advance' took place on the 12th, and was completely
successful. On that day the Allies took possession of the little town of
Sinho: two days later they occupied Tangkow. The forts, however, which
guarded the entrance of the Peiho--the Taku Forts, from which the British
forces had been so disastrously repulsed the year before--remained untaken.
Opinions were divided as to the plan of operations. The French were for
attacking first the great fortifications on the right or southern bank of
the river; but Sir Robert Napier urged that the real key to the enemy's
position was the most northerly of the forts, on the left or northern bank.
Happily his counsels prevailed. On the 21st this fort was taken by assault,
with