Chapter IX

Voyage from Turon Bay to Hué.--Mouth of the River of
Hué.--Politeness of the Cochin Chinese has not tended to
ameliorate the Treatment of Females.--Arrive at Hué.--Perpetual
watch kept over the Members of the Mission.--Military
Costume.--The Governor General’s Letter to the King sent to
the Mandarin of Elephants.--The Chinese Translation
altered.--Interview with the Mandarin.--Canal surrounding the
City.--Beautiful Prospects on the River of Hué.--Neatness
of the Villages.--Horses.--Soil.--Fortified City.--French
Mandarins.--Conference with the Mandarin of Elephants.--
Difficulty respecting an Audience with the King.--An
Entertainment served.--Further Discussion.--The Audience
with the King refused.--Beauty and strength of the Fort.--
Inhospitality of the Government.--Royal Barracks.--Artillery
Store-Houses.--Enormous Gun.--Citadel.--Remarks on the
French Interest at court.--The Presents from the Governor
General and an Audience refused.--Poverty of the Bazar 338