Page:Notes of a journey across the Isthmus of Krà.pdf/39



From, Bengal Engineers,

To, Commissioner, M. and T. Provinces.

Tavoy, 26th April, 1863.

SIR,—I have the honor to forward to you the enclosed Report, with plans, &c., as per margin, of a journey made by Captain Forlong and myself up the Pakchan river, across the Isthmus of Kraw to the Gulf of Siam.

No one can be better aware than yourself of the good which would accrue to the Provinces of Pegu and Tenasserim, by the free importation of Chinese labour by the route recommended, and we therefore submit this Report to you. As, further, the matter involves other and far more important than local interests, we recommend that the Report be forwarded to the Government of India, as one worthy of immediate and attentive consideration, with such remarks as your complete knowledge of the general and local bearing of the subject may deem expedient.

We would beg to bring to your notice the great civility and kindness with which we were received by the Chief Civil Authority, Tacompa, in the Siamese Territory.

I have, &c., (Signed)A. FRASER, Captain, Bengal Engineers.