F. P. Knight to S. Wells Williams, October 13, 1874

Mr. Knight to Mr. Williams.

Sir: Having reference to my dispatch No. 274, of the 6th instant, I have the honor herewith to hand you three (3) inclosures further on the subject.

I shall now feel very obliged for your instructions regarding my action in the matter wherein the harbor authorities either have or have not tried to exercise an excess of authority to the prejudice of the pilotage regulations.

Not to override the harbor-master or the commissioner altogether, I have referred a point to Peking which I hold this consulate is competent to settle. The harbormaster’s letter No. 21 does not please me.

But feeling, as I must, under obligations to the customs for kindly-lent, interpreter-aid for years, I should be glad if my action was approved by the inspector-general, Mr. Hart.

I am, sir, your obedient servant,