part, to the extent even of acquisition of territory," and that the English were especially "irritable ... at their inability to involve the United States in their unworthy quarrel." But he states later that Lord Elgin had not at that time been informed of the character of the reply to the invitation to join the allies, and that after its receipt their relations were more cordial.
The first duty of Mr. Reed was to seek an interview with the imperial commissioner Yeh and make an effort to open negotiations for treaty revision; but he was doomed to the fate of his predecessors. This polite but obstinate official, "on hearing that an officer of the highest fame and reputation with such kindly feelings" had reached China, "was extremely desirous of having an interview," but since the destruction of the suburbs by the British "there is really no place where to hold it." As to negotiations, there was no occasion for them, as the existing treaty was satisfactory and beneficial, and did not require alteration. Thus the minister was informed that the especially designated diplomatic representative of the emperor could not meet him, nor would he consider with him the business of his mission.
The blow which the allies had been preparing fell upon Canton in December, 1857. It was a second time captured and sacked. Yeh was made a prisoner and sent to Calcutta, where he died within a few weeks after his arrival. This official had established an unenviable reputation for incivility, obduracy, and hatred of foreigners, and upon him had been placed the responsibility for the unsatisfactory condition of international relations. But at the capture of Canton the documents
