I understand that I do
not propose to levy a duty on the Articles adverted to when intended for import and export.
The Tonnage duty at the rate mentioned in your Despatches appears to me unobjectionable and it may be hoped that this slight contribution towards the heavy cost of maintaining the necessary Establishments connected with the Port of Hong Kong will not divert Ships from resorting thither in any number which sufficient motives would otherwise induce the Port for entering.
I have only further to remark that the regulations adopted by you in regard to tenders on Biddings for Land - Leases appear to have been in