Benjamin Trask to De Long, November 12, 1872

Mr. Trask to Mr. De Long.

Sir: I have sent twelve men of the Maria Luz away to Hong-Kong, as ordered. I remained on board the steamer with them until 2 a.m., and then I gave them the money and the purser of the steamer the tickets. They gave me much trouble up to the last moment. They tried to rob me, and they tried to take my life on the vessel and on the Hatoba likewise. I was forced to call on the English police to protect me so I could go on board the steamer. The purser knocked down two of them. They stole two of the swords out of the vessel last night. I went on board, overhauled their baggage, but I could not find anything of them. They, I suppose, threw them overboard, to avoid being arrested. They all signed clear of the ship and owners in the kencho. I paid them the sum of six hundred and thirty-six dollars and twenty cents, as directed. I used or appropriated the remainder, which was one dollar and eighty cents, for sampan hire, &c. Total sum drawn, six hundred and thirty-eight dollars, ($638.)

I have, &c.,