Yung Wing to Evarts, October 10, 1879
No. 116. Mr. Wing to Mr. Evarts.
Sir: Numerous complaints having reached me during the past summer from San Francisco in regard to a decision of the collector of internal revenue there affecting the interests of Chinese residents, I venture to call your attention to the facts, and I inclose documents which fully explain the subject.
It is alleged that for the first time in twenty years the collector refuses to accept as bondsmen for tobacco manufacturers wealthy Chinese merchants, but insists that the sureties shall possess real estate. As the Chinese rarely own houses and lands, the new regulation operates harshly against them. In many cases they are driven into the hands of professional “bond-signers,” who exact exorbitant fees for signatures. Under the former regulation the government never suffered loss from the Chinese, but under the new its receipts are diminishing.
The collector was not compelled by law to establish the new rule, and there are many things connected with it which look like a design to drive the Chinese residents from trade in San Francisco. If this be true, it is a violation in spirit, if not in letter, of treaty stipulations, and by an officer of the United States Government.
As the regulation referred to is within the discretion of the Executive, I have no hesitation in presenting the subject for your consideration.
I have, &c.,
Mr. Higby to Mr. Bee.
Sir: Your note of yesterday receved, referring to the Roscoe cigar manufactory, &c., I regret I cannot comply with your request. By doing so I would violate a rule I had to establish to protect the interest of the government.
Very respectfully,
Mr. Higby to Mr. Bee.
Sir: Your letter of date February 4 is received. A great crowd of business has delayed me in my answer.
In regard to the class of bonds of which you inquire, the Commissioner has ordered a thorough examination, and in calling for new bonds, I am exacting such security as I think the law requires to prevent frauds, and no more.
Very respectfully,