MIN. M. Officers' Association, Shanghai, 24th February, 1993.
Dear Sm,—In reply to your letter of the 19th January, 1898, relative to the formation of a Naval ' Volunteer Corps we beg to inform you that a Committee has been formed to carry out your wish and suggestions. We are pleased to say, that up to the present time forty members have placed their names on a list, and are willing to serve in the Naval Brigade. The said members are desirous to place themselves entirely under your control, in conjunction with the Shanghai Volunteers, for the protection of the Settlements.
Iam, Sir, Yours faithfully, E. J. Tapn, Chairman of Committee for the Naval Volunteers, Major Houzipar,
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.