Reception of the King of Kandy’s Envoys by Governor Imam Falck, Carel Frederik Reimer, 1772
The Dutch governor in Colombo regularly hosted envoys from the king of Kandy, complete with the customary exchange of gifts. Interpreters were on hand to facilitate conversation, but real discussions were avoided. For example, the king’s persistent plea for the return of conquered territory was ignored by the Dutch for as long as possible.