Manuscript DS, signed “George P.R.,” one page both sides, 7.75 x 12.5, January 19, 1816. Document addressed John Lord Eldon, Lord High Chancellor of Great Britain, directing him to affix the Great Seal to an instrument "containing a Full Power to Our Right Trusty and Wellbeloved Councillor William Pitt, Lord Amherst, whom we have appointed His Majesty's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Our Good Brother and Cousin the Emperor of China;—authorizing and empowering him to treat, discuss, and conclude, on His Majesty's behalf, with such Ministers of His Imperial and Royal Majesty the Emperor of China who may be duly empowered on His Part." Signed at the head by George IV as Prince Regent ("In the Name and on the Behalf of His Majesty," George III), and countersigned at the conclusion by Foreign Secretary Robert Stewart, Viscount Castlereagh. A three-page true copy of the instrument is annexed to the document, bound together with a purple silk ribbon. The white paper seal, affixed to the left side, remains intact. In fine condition.
In 1816, Lord Amherst was sent as ambassador extraordinary to the court of China's Qing dynasty, with a view of establishing more satisfactory commercial relations between China and Great Britain. On his arrival, he was given to understand that he could only be admitted to the Jiaqing Emperor's presence on condition of performing the kowtow—a ceremonial act of deep respect, shown by prostration. Following the advice of Sir George Thomas Staunton, Amherst refused to consent unless the admission was made that his sovereign was entitled to the same show of reverence from a mandarin of his rank. As a consequence, Amherst was refused entry into Peking and the object of his mission was frustrated, and he was forced to return to England.
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