Memorials, & c., on the subject of opening up a direct commerce with the West of China from the Port of Rangoon.
China. No. 5. (1864)
London. Harrison and Sons. 1864. Stock ID #173686 48 numbered memorials and correspondence from July 1860 to January 1864 (most from 1863) advocating the opening of a trade route to Western China from British Burma [Myanmar]. Presentations from several chambers of commerce and trade associations to the Foreign Office urged diplomatic engagement and an engineering survey for a route through Burma, following the completion of "a Treaty [that] has been entered into with the King of Burmah". When referring to this item please quote stockid 173686.
Parliamentary Paper, title wrapper, contents + 21pp, 32.2 x 20cm, later stiff card wrappers with title label, library stamp and pencil markings to the title page, outer margins of several leaves strengthened with reemay, the final leaf with a tide mark to the outer corner, a good copy.
The tone of the "memorialists" is urgent, pressing the need for Britain to have an expedited route and access to lucrative markets--in particular citing the foothold of the French "having gained a footing in Cochin China, is fully alive to the advantages of the newly-acquired position there, and contemplates using the route by the River Kamboja to open up French commerce with the Western Chinese provinces, in competition with the British trader." By contrast, the replies by the Foreign and India Offices are measured "...the Government of India have been instructed to report on the best means to be adopted for developing the resources and improving the intercommunication of British Burmah. Pending the receipt of their report, Sir C.[harles] Wood is not prepared to issue any further or more specific orders on the subject." An historic assemblage.
De-accessioned from the University of Hull Library, sold with a letter of confirmation.
Price: $425.00 AU