Customs Taotai to Eli T. Sheppard, May 19, 1875

The Taotai at Tien-tsin to Mr. Sheppard.

Sir: I have already appointed deputies to sit conjointly with you in the trial of the collision case between the junk Chin I Hung and the American steamer Shantung; but on considering the unusual gravity of this case—the serious damage to the junk and the large quantity of rice involved—I wished to go in person and sit with you, but I cannot arrange to leave my business, which is very pressing just now. I have therefore requested Mr. Twinem, acting commissioner of customs, to appear at your consulate to-morrow morning, at 10 o’clock, and represent me in acting conjointly with you in the hearing of this case, in order that a due regard may be shown for im portant business.

I avail myself, &c.

Cards and compliments of