Letters and Journals of James, Eighth Earl of Elgin

by Earl of James Bruce Elgin

CHAPTER VII.

FIRST MISSION TO CHINA—PRELIMINARIES.

Origin of the Mission—Appointment of Lord Elgin—Malta—Egypt—Ceylon
—News of the Indian Mutiny—Penang—Singapore—Diversion of Troops to
India—On Board the 'Shannon'—Hong-Kong—Change of Plans—Calcutta and
Lord Canning—Return to China—Perplexities—Caprices of Climate—Arrival
of Baron Gros—Preparation for Action.