Panton’s reply to the Chinese merchants and goldminers

After receiving a silk scroll, as a parting gift from the Chinese community at Bendigo, Resident Warden, and Protector of Chinese, Joseph Panton, showed his thanks and appreciation with the following letter.

 

Accession number: MS 5992

 

From the State Library of Victoria's Manuscript Collection.

 

See the catalogue record for this item

 

 

Transcription


Bendigo 29th August 1858

To the Chinese Storekeepers, miners and residents of Bendigo.

I beg most heartily to thank you all for your most flattering address and also for the handsome testimonial that accompanies it.

I am rejoiced to learn that my official administration has met with the approval of the Chinese residents on this Gold Field. I gladly avail myself of this opportunity to compilment them on the manner in which they have conducted themselves since their arrival here, readily and willingly subscribing to the laws and customs they found in force, and in every way endeavouring to carry out directions and instructions given to them from time to time by the constituted authorities.

I need hardly say that such conduct reflects most creditably not only on themselves but on the nations to which they belong. I beg you will receive the assurance of the gratification I feel at this unexpected demonstration of your good feeling towards me. Accept my parting prayer for your prosperity and success and be assured of the friendship of your obedient servant,

J A Panton.

Chinese