The Last Days of Pekin

A first-person travelogue recounts an eyewitness journey with a naval expedition to northern China, documenting arrival by sea, the march toward the capital, and the peaceful occupation that followed major conflict. The narrative combines vivid descriptions of imperial architecture, the Forbidden City, tombs, and summer palaces with observational sketches of local life, military routine, and interactions between occupying forces and residents. Interspersed reflections consider cultural contrasts, the hardships and discipline of sailors and soldiers, and the visual spoils and artifacts encountered. Organized as episodic letters and episodes, the work blends reportage, travel description, and personal impressions to convey the atmosphere and aftermath of the campaign.