Armed East Indiamen, huge square-sails set to the trade winds, brought British merchants to China in the 18th century. Ashore, the traders were treated to fireworks and feasting by hong merchants, who alone among Chinese were permitted to deal with foreigners. But opposition to the old East India Co. was growing in England. Company Surgeon William Jardine saw his chance. He and his partner, James Matheson, a fellow Scot, doubled as consular representatives of foreign countries. Soon Jardine, Matheson & Co. were making millions in the China trade.
Getting In. China's Manchu...
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