Whittall to C. de Varigny, Hawaiian, February 16, 1867

Mr. Whittall to Mr. de Varigny.

Sir: In reference to my last despatch, I have to inform you that the vessels spoken of are still in this harbor, empty.

The result of an interview upon my part with the governor of Macao has been an understanding to the effect that so long as vessels bearing the Hawaiian flag comply with Portuguese law, he may regard them as rightful traders, but that he can, and will, in no wise interfere with any embargo which I may place upon them, as his Majesty’s representative.

I have, therefore, intimated to the charterers of the vessels that unless they can declare to me that when Mr. Consul Gal. Eldredge furnished these crafts with Hawaiian registers, he was aware that such were for the purpose of enabling them to engage in the coolie traffic, I cannot allow them to quit these waters, until I receive instructions from the King’s government. None of the parties interested have since addressed any communication to me.