I was taken to the customs pontoon on the south bank of the river, and then up the steep bank by many steps to the basement of an old temple where the two customs officers have their pleasant dwelling.

I was kindly received, and stayed the night.

We were an immense height above the water; the great city was across the broad expanse of river, here more than seven hundred yards in width.

Away down below us, moored close to the bank, and guarded by three Chinese armed junks or gunboats, was the customs hulk, where the searching is done, and where the three officers of the outdoor staff have their offices.
There is at present but little smuggling, because there are no Chinese officials.

Smuggling may be expected to begin in earnest as soon as Chinese officials are introduced to prevent it.