No. 208.
Mr. Denby
to Mr. Bayard.
Peking, May 21, 1888. (Received July 21.)
Sir: I have learned from a dispatch received from Mr. Consul Win-gate, at Foochow, that on hearing from Consul-General Kennedy of the wreck of the American steamer San Pablo, near the island of Haitan, on the coast of Fukien, he applied to Mr. Chang, a Taotai at Foochow, and the imperial commissioner of the Foochow arsenal, for a gun-boat to be sent to the wreck to render any needed assistance.
This request was complied with, but it is claimed that the local authorities were not efficient in protecting the property from looters. I understand that a claim will be presented for damages, which will receive proper attention. The San Pablo became a total wreck. There was considerable looting by fishermen and the residue was sold at public auction and brought something over $400.
I have, etc.,