Our influence over our allies was but small, for we in vain endeavored to persuade them to give up the invasion of Elmina.

We even cut off the supplies of powder and arms to the Fantis, whose loyalty to our rule was thereby much shaken.
All these troubles induced the Dutch to come to the decision to withdraw altogether, and they accordingly offered to transfer all their possessions to us.

The English government determined not to accept the transfer if it should lead to troubles with the natives, and as a first step required that the Ashanti force should leave Elmina.

In 1870 the King of Ashanti wrote to us claiming Elmina as his, and protesting against its being handed over to us.

According to native ideas the king of Ashanti's claim was a just one.