MISSION TO ASHANTEE. m 
tributaries ; and the King feels called upon by these unexpected 
difficulties, to conduct the war in person ; not with his former 
expectation of witnessing their rapid subjugation, but from his 
present conviction of the necessity for every stimulus and energy. 
His precaution has dictated some popular acts, ameliorating the 
condition of the lower order of his subjects. The confidential 
ministers have been instructed to hint to me, that it would be 
indiscreet in the King to expose even his temporary reverses in an 
arduous war, by the residence of a British officer; and that he 
would most probably defer that part of the mutual wish, until the 
contest was terminated. I used the same medium to impress upon 
the King, that such a feehng tow^ards the delegate of a friendly 
power was misplaced ; that you had expedited his ex-parte views 
in the confidence of his consummation of the reciprocal objects of 
the Mission, Avithout which (as they had been instituted for his 
benefit and aggrandisement) I could not think of returning ; since 
a protraction would be construed into a slight of the friendly 
overtures of the British Government, which (from its dignity and 
pre-eminence in Europe) could not be vouchsafed whenever they 
might be solicited. 
1 anxiously await your communications on the Commenda 
palaver, to further my exertions for the full accomplishment of the 
Mission. The King and his Council labour under so much anxiety 
and business at the present moment, that though we pay and 
receive visits of ceremony, it is almost impossible to effect an 
audience, but on the receipt of dispatches. 
I am, t^c. &c. 
T. EDWARD BOWDICH, 
