Anson Burlingame to Edward Cunningham, March 25, 1863

Mr. Burlingame to Mr. Cunningham

Sir: I have the honor to inform you that immediately upon the receipt of your humane suggestion, to improve the sanitary condition of Shanghai by the construction of a new gate, and the drainage of stagnant water from before the city, I applied to the authorities at Peking, and requested that they would inquire of the local authorities of Shanghai as to the necessity for these improvements, and, if the Chinese desired, to permit them to be made. I was at once informed that instructions would be sent to the local authorities to have the improvements made, if they thought best. I asked them if I should make known to you these instructions. They said yes. I accordingly inform you of the same, and express the gratification I feel in being able to do something for the health of the people of Shanghai.

I have, &c.,