44 



TEA DISTRICTS OF CHINA. 



Chap. II. 



going to the southward and westward, must also pass 

 through Hang-chow. It therefore appears to be like 

 a great gate on a public highway, through which 

 nothing can pass or repass without the consent and 

 cognizance of the authorities. 



The power which this place gives the Chinese 

 authorities over our imports and exports through 

 Shanghae is very great, and hence complaints of 

 stoppages and illegal charges, or " squeezes" have 

 been not unfrequent. The day cannot be very far 

 distant when we shall be allowed to trade and travel 

 in China as in other countries — when all those foolish 

 regulations regarding boundary-lines will be swept 

 away; but, in the event of these changes being 

 gradual, it may be a question whether our Govern- 

 ment should not endeavour to open the town of 

 Hang-chow-foo, or at all events have a consular agent 

 there for the encouragement and protection of our 

 trade. 



