Transcription:
getting out in the country away from the hum and burr of civilization, where one can see natures handiwork in all its splendor;
but know I would enjoy it much more had I but a little knowledge of the why's and wherfor's. Our conversation during the
brief time we were together when going to Canton from Hongkong I shall remember to my latest hour and I live in hopes of renewing
our personal acquaintance at some future date when I shall be again able to profit by your explanation of things that are.
By the way the Steamer by which we went to Canton was burned in Hongkong some two weeks ago and many lives were lost (all
native) there were only 2 European passengers on board and they were saved. She took fire just as she was reaching her berth
at the wharf, and the chinese in their mad rush to get ashore trampled many women and children to death and blocked the gangways.
The loss of life is not none exactly but some reports put it at over a thousand while others say about 300, at any rate it
was more than enough. I have not copies of your two books and would be more than pleased to have them but I cannot procure
them out here. Could I have them I would treasure them greatly. If you have or have not received the tea by this time let
me know and I will jump on the Postal authorities here and see what is wrong. Because the tea I sent I really want you to
get as it is just as it comes from the plantations and not adulterated in any way. Wishing you all the good things of this
and the next world I remain yours most sincerely M. Seeley Husted. J. M. C. Hankow. 03771