Macao, January 1st, 1840, dateline on fresh 3-page typeset letter to Rev. Charles Robinson in Siam with "Mission" inscribed in top right corner, letter with manuscript "To the Am.(erican) Mission in Siam" and docketed "Canton Mission" on inside flap, interesting letter regarding the Opium War between Great Britain and China and the halting of trade between the two countries, naval engagements, mention works of various missions in Southeast Asia, etc., Very Fine, a very rare early letter from the Canton Mission in Macao. Estimate  $5,000 - 7,500. Due to the Opium Wars, the Missionary's in Canton were forced to take refugee in Portuguese Macau. During this period the American Missionary Society had there own courier system due to security and reliability. Additionally, there was no organized postal system between China and Siam. Local couriers carried inland mail and for international mail by ship captains or pursors. This was probably carried by South Sea junk or sloop. $0 (Image)