26
Population and progress. Hong Kong
was ceded by the British Crown, under the seal of the Superintending Magistrate, and Chief Commissioner, Captain Elliot in January 1841, see Captain Elliot's proclamation
dated Hong Kong 20th February 1841 promising full security and protection to all British subjects, and foreigners residing in, or resorting to the Island so long as they shall continue to conform to the Authority of Her Majesty's Government, hereby constituted, and proclaimed in, and over Hong Kong. By the same proclamation, natives of China were invited to settle in the Island by promising them that they should be governed according to the customs of China in every description of justice excepted.
And by another proclamation dated Hong Kong 1841 issued by Sir Charles Elliot, Chief Superintendent of British Trade in China, and Captain Elliot, H.M.S. the Hyacinth, it is declared that the Island of Hongkong has now become a part of the dominions of the Crown of England by clear public agreement between the High Officers of the Celestial and British Courts; the Chinese are hereby promised protection against all enemies, whatever; and further secured in the free exercise of their religious rites, ceremonies, and social customs, and in the enjoyment of their lawful private property and interests. All Chinese ships, and Merchants resorting to the Bay of Hong Kong for purposes of trade are exempt in the name of the Queen of England from charges, or duty of any kind to the British Government. The remainder of the proclamation consists of further inducements for the Chinese to settle in and trade with Hong Kong.
19. A