Immediate duties have hitherto prevented me from devoting to those matters the time and attention which their importance obviously demands.
I hope that after the exchange of the ratifications of the Treaty and the promulgation of Proclamation annexing Hong Kong to Her Majesty's Dominions, I shall be enabled to provide for the efficient discharge of the duties of the Police for the wellbeing and tranquillity of the Island, by increasing the powers of the Chief Magistrate and his Assistant, reserving to myself the confirmation of all cases involving punishment or fine beyond certain limits.
I shall also then (if I find I have authority to do so) appoint such Gentlemen as may possess the requisite qualifications, to be Justices of the Peace to assist the Civil Authority in upholding good order.
Should it unfortunately happen that any serious cases occur that call for the exercise of the powers vested in me by Her Majesty's Order in Council...
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