Mr. Denby, chargé, to Mr. Gresham.
Peking, August 2, 1894. (Received September 12.)
Sir: Referring to the last words of my telegram of the 1st instant, to the effect that outbreaks were feared at Tientsin and requesting, a war vessel, I have the honor to state that the desirability of having an American gunboat at that port has been repeatedly urged upon me by the United States consul and by the Japanese authorities. It seems that there are in that city more Japanese residents than at any place in China except Shanghai, and, therefore, more danger of an outbreak of popular violence which, if unchecked, will make no distinction of nationalities.
Tientsin also will be the objective point of retreat, in case of defeat, for the Chinese troops, and will be near the line of march of the Japanese troops if they attempt to take Peking.
The Yamên has promised to make every effort to preserve peace, but foreign gunboats will, for this purpose, be more efficacious than any efforts of the local authorities.
I have, etc.,