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