Mss Eur F699/1/1/1/7/21

Sends a duplicate of his last letter by the Calcutta mail [not enclosed]. He did not reply to Canning's telegram as he had already written on the regiments for China, and could hardly write on Mansfield by telegram. Canning is sending more troops than expected and the British will be clearly superior to the French. Details of the force. The French seem to be in favour of holding part of China as a security for an indemnity, rather than advancing on Pekin. Wood hears a better account of the French commander, his wife got him into trouble but she is not going to China. Is afraid that Mansfield will not like his position, but Herbert and the Duke of Cambridge think the arrangement is the best. Wood sent Canning's letter o the Queen who returned it with the remark that what Canning said about the French was most true. But there will be as many if not more English than French in China, apart from the native troops and the Germans. Has not heard from Elphinstone about sending to Suez to meet the Armstrong guns. Wishes Canning joy of his, success in Oudh: he believes that a certain quantity of humbug is not only useful but indispensable in dealing with 'orientals', and not only with them. Is glad that the financial prospects are improving. Has never received a Despatch about honours, sends a paper about this. The Prince showed Wood Canning's letter on some order of knighthood for India. Thinks two orders or classes are needed, one for sovereigns and rajahs, and another for people of high rank. Chapters of the Order would be impossible, but the Governor General might invest in public Durbar or in some ostentatious way. The decoration might be a collar. Asks for Canning's views. Canning is authorised to withhold the bounty to the locals who have remained firm.

Enclosed:

1. Extract of a letter from Canning to Wood, 25 Jul. 1859 referring to a revised Minute on rewards for Civil officers.

2. Details of the two Armstrong batteries being sent to China. Endorsed: to Sir J Outram 28/1/60.