Naval Force on Asiatic Station to Frederick F. Low, April 18, 1873

Admiral Jenkins to Mr. Low.

Sir: I had the honor to receive to-day your dispatch, dated April 5, informing me of your request to Commander Bunce, commanding the Ashuelot, to delay his departure from Tien-tsin until the 1st of May, or longer should events seem to require the retention of the vessel at her present station.

I had already received dispatches from Commander Bunce, informing me of your request and of his compliance therewith, and, on the 7th instant, transmitted to him instructions to remain at Tien-tsin until he is informed by you that the presence there of the ship is no longer necessary, or until he is relieved by another vessel.

I trust that it may not be necessary to keep the Ashuelot at Tien-tsin much longer, as her crew need a change and the ship requires some repairs; but if it should seem to be important to have a vessel there I shall relieve her by another.

If you deem it to be of any advantage, either as a precaution or otherwise, I will order the Yantic, a small sloop of war drawing about 13 feet of water, (just arrived on the station,) to Chefoo, as she could probably pass the Taku bar with a high tide. She might be useful should difficulties arise. I hope, however, that the present causes of uneasiness will soon be removed by a satisfactory settlement of the questions which have recently proved so embarrassing to the ministers at Peking, and, meantime, I beg to assure you that every suggestion from yourself as to any measures which may lie in my power to carry into effect to assist you will receive the most cordial and careful attention.

I expect to reach Shanghai on or before the 10th of May, and I shall be glad to receive there any communication you may favor me with.

I have, &c.,