Page:Over Five Seas and Oceans (Miller, 1894) (IA overfiveseasocea00mill).pdf/105

 Siam must consent to his giving the land as it was tributary to Siam. Then the French took up the cudgel of might against right, and began to intimidate the King of Siam, by bringing one of their gun boats up the River with flags flying and drums beating. The ship passed Packnam, which is a custom house, with their guns and cannon on board, which was a violation of the treaty obligations made with Western nations, Up the River came the gun boat with Count Castlenau on board. The demand was then made with all the bombast that a Frenchman can command, and it was refused. The King referred the matter to the Kalaholm, Prime Minister. He gave Count Castlenau an audience. After listening to the Count's demand, the Kalaholm asked "By what authority do you come here to treat with Siam for land? Where is your exequatur to act?" The Count said he had none. "Well," said his Excellency, "you had better go home