Nevins to S. A. Holmes, August 29, 1870

B.

Dear Sir: I am requested, by a unanimous vote of the American residents here to write to you on their behalf to request you to obtain a steamer, a gunboat if possible, to come to Tungchow Thursday morning of this week to remove us from this place. The reason for this action I will give below.

We have credible grounds for believing that official communications were received here some time back from Tsing-quo-fan, and from the governor of the province, calling upon the authorities and the people to make arrangements for massacring foreigners generally some time this fall. It is believed here that Chi-hien, and the principal military officers who were summoned to the provincial capital some weeks ago, went for the express purpose of being instructed as to what they should do with us, and as to the preparation they should make for defending the city in case of war.

The Chi-hien came back from Chi-naw-foo last week, went on to Chefoo immediately to communicate with the Taotai, and has returned to Tungchow. The chief military mandarin of this city is expected here three days hence, and it is said that he is bringing 2,000 soldiers with hire. Some reportsstate that in the event [of the punishment] of the Chinese in Tient-sin, they will take their revenge on us here—others, that they will hold ns as hostages.

We hear that a very large military force is being collected in Chi-naw-foo. There is a great deal of excitement here again, and since the return of the Chi-hien the principal men of the city are holding frequent conferences with the officers.

We have learned from independent sources that the people are divided—some of them opposing any movement against us, and some of them favoring it. The people generally expect that an attack will be made upon us on the 16th of the present Chinese month. We have received intelligence from our native Christians in Ping-tai and Lai-yung, confirming these reports. Chinese connected with us are urged by their Mends to get away from us by all means before the 15th, and there is reason to anticipate that they may be obliged to do so in order to save their lives, if we remain here longer. It is very probable that it will be impossible to leave Tungchow if we delay long. We think that even now we would find it difficult in getting away by the ordinary modes of travel. I might refer to other rumors had I time and were it necessary.

It is with great reluctance that we have determined to send you this communication, but under the circumstances we think the risk too great to remain longer. Our plan is to leave our houses in the care of the officers. We would be glad to have you come as an official representative in communicating with them. We will be ready to leave early Thursday morning. If no gunboat or steamer can be obtained we would be greatly obliged if Mr. Mayers will fulfill the promise he has already made, to come to us in his boat. Perhaps two boats would be required. There are here five gentlemen, five ladies, and eight children, and we would like to take with us a few Chinese.

If a steamer cannot come to us on Thursday, please communicate with us at the earliest moment by special post.

I am, sir, on behalf of the American residents here, yours, truly,