"Hodgson to Ramseyer"

Informs him that Stewart and Vroom were going to Kumasi with a letter which was more or less an ultimatum to accept a British resident by 31st October or have an expedition sent against him. The letter also contains what news the Governor has of the ambassadors sent to London by Asante (Ramseyer adds the marginal comment that the Ansahs are sons of the dead Prince Ansah, and of no good reputation). It informs him too that protection is being given to all the tribes who ask for it (Nkoranza specifidally named, also Bekwai and Adansi). Ramseyer can himself give this information to Yaw Sapong. The Kokofus are being told they can return to their lands under British protection. They are being given every encouragement to detach themselves and they will not be harmed by an expedition, providing they remain allof. Arms and a detachment of Hausas will probably be sent up to the Nkoranzas in order to make a flank attack on Kumasi if war breaks out. Rös’ letter had included information about the Kong people and the soldiers of Aberewa Opoku. Hodgson relies that Samory had sent messages seeking British friendship and trade with the coast. The Gyamanhene has sent messages asking for protection against Samory, but has been told that he is on the French side of the 'Anglo-French frontier' and unless he moves into British territory he must approach the French for help. There will probably be no arrangement between Samory and Kumasi - the messengers of Samory whom Ramseyer had heard had visited Kumasi were probably concerned with trade between Bonduku and Kumasi and since Samory wants free communication with the coast he will hardly do anything to offend the British Government.

07.10.1895

07.10.1895

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