Russell Young to Messrs. Russell & Co, October 21, 1882

Mr. Young to Messrs. Russell & Co.

Gentlemen: I have the honor to acknowledge your letter of the 12th instant, in which you ask the legation to obtain from the Tsung-li yamên permission for an association of merchants to lay a submarine telegraph cable between Shanghai and the ports of Foo-Chow, Amoy, and Swatow, terminating at Hong-Kong. You inform me that it is the desire of yourselves and your associates to “invite the co operation of Chinese merchants and others in Shanghai, and at the different stations on the line.” It is, furthermore, your intention to use every care to “carry out the necessary works with the approbation of the local officials, and with due regard to the rights of the people.” You say, in conclusion, that other mercantile houses in Shanghai have addressed my French, German, and English colleagues, asking them to make an application of the same tenor to the Tsung-li yamên, and express the hope that. I “may be able to co-operate with their excellencies in obtaining the desired permission.”

I shall submit your proposition to the Department of State. In the mean time your enterprise meets with my hearty approval, as one that will be a benefit alike to the Chinese and the foreign residents. I shall be glad to unite with my colleagues in any representation to the Tsung-li yamên that may secure the desired concession, feeling assured that my action will meet the approval of the Government.

I am, &c.,