Mr. Low to Mr. Fish
Sir: I have the honor to report my arrival in this harbor in the flagship Colorado, on the morning of the 12th instant, having left Shanghai on the 8th instant. Our departure from Shanghia was delayed several days in consequence of the necessity of the admiral’s presence there in arranging for the repairs of the Ashuelot, and other business pertaining to his fleet. The Monocacy and Palos accompanied the Colorado, and are now in this harbor. We found the Benicia and Alaska here awaiting our arrival. The fleet expects to sail on Tuesday the 16th instant, and, if nothing unusual occurs, will reach the coast of Corea in three or four days thereafter. The admiral has gathered all the information possible in regard to the coasts, harbors, and rivers of Corea, and I have collected all the data that can be found, private as well as public, about that country and its inhabitants. It is, however, meager, and not to be relied upon as a guide for action.
The fact is that Corea is more of a sealed book than Japan was before Commodore Perry’s visit. The scanty information obtainable, if taken as a guide, will be more likely to mislead than otherwise, and hence I shall consider personal observation and experience as the only safe and reliable basis from which to form conclusions, and on which to found action.
I apprehend that all the cunning and sophistry which enter so largely into oriental character will be brought to bear to defeat the object of our visit, and if that fails it is not unlikely that we may be met with a display of force. It is impossible to say what the exact line of action will be, as so much depends upon the temper and disposition of the Corean officials. I hope that the object sought for may be accomplished peacefully; but if it becomes necessary to use force, I shall endeavor to confine it to repelling unprovoked attacks, and redressing actual wrongs and insults. It is mistaken policy when dealing with oriental governments and people to allow insults and injuries to go unredressed. Such lenity leads them to believe that fear alone prevents retaliation, and adds to their arrogance, conceit, and hostility.
It gives me pleasure to add that I am comfortably situated on the flag-ship, and every disposition is manifested to contribute to my convenience and comfort. Admiral Rodgers exhibits an anxiety to render the mission a successful one, and I doubt not there will be entire concurrence and co-operation between us on all measures which may be deemed necessary for the public interest. It is doubtful if I shall be able to communicate with you again until the mail which leaves Shanghai July 12.
I have the honor, &c.,