PBA Galleries

Includes: Copy of a letter to Capt. Eliphalit Smith authorizing payment for a shipment on the Brig Macedonian. With certification attesting to the accuracy of the copy at the bottom by Michael Hogan, United States Consulate, U.S. seal attached at right. Dated Canton, February 14th, 1823. * Minutes of a "Public Meeting Held at Markwicks Hotel. For the purpose of taking into consideration the measures proper to be pursued to render a lasting tribute to the memory of the late Capt. Horsburgh...best answered by the erection of some work of public utility, such as a light house on Pedra Branca in the Straits of Singapore". A list of subscribers and the amount of their contribution below. Dated November 22, 1836. * 12 page manuscript of a legal case and opinion regarding maritime trade and letters of credit, with mention of trade in Calcutta and Canton. Dated 1836. * 8 page manuscript document regarding trade in Manilla of items including coffee, sugar and indigo. There is also mention of the opium trade "Opium is strictly prohibited yet the English succeed in smuggling in 400 to 800 #s, Calcutta is most in request & command at the sale of $1200...Vessels with opium on board arriving at Manilla when the Junks are there, may meet with a good sale to the Chinese traders, who carry it to Cochin, China."

From the archives of American William Shepard Wetmore, China Trade merchant and supercargo.