Adam Benson to A true copy. J. FREDRICO ELMORE , Secretary Peruvian Legation, August 8, 1872

Mr. Benson to Sanquii Fau.

Sir: In compliance with your request I visited, yesterday afternoon, the Peruvian bark Maria Luz, having on board a number of Chinese coolies bound from Macao to Peru.

I was accompanied by Mr. Bata, a Japanese officer and Chinese interpreter, attached to this office. Below the deck I found the men in as comfortable quarters as is usually provided for Chinese steerage passengers, their general appearance giving no indication of insufficient food or bad usage. Several of the men were brought aft and questioned. They all said they have enough to eat and were not ill-used. They complained of having been kidnapped in Macao, and implored assistance. I inspected some of the food that had just been prepared for the afternoon meal. It consisted of rice, fish, and a sort of cabbage, and appeared to be clean and well cooked.

In relation to the replies to questions as to food and treatment, I respectfully suggest that you seriously consider whether the fear of punishment after the vessel leaves port has not strongly influenced these men against making any complaint against the captain.

The captain informed me he would be ready for sea in three days.

With respect, &c.,