around, and by any large battery erected on the opposite shore is now acknowledged and its ruin generally further were corroboration of the utility of Hong Kong. A review of the whole question, and examining the Island in all aspects; making very relevant advice for the settlement; on the business of the admitting for neutral sake that utter turn out intelligible there be some trade at Hong Kong. It may appear to be very advisable to retain Hong Kong as a British Station or Colony, and that the first establishment of the Colony be cut down to resources, and wants of the Island; and that the supernumerary Officers be provided for in other Colonies at vacancies occur; that the troops European, and Sepoy be reserved; & portion of the Ceylon Regiment (Malays) be kept at Stony Hong in aid of the civil power, that a frigate or sloop of war be always stationed in the harbour, with an extra complement of Marines to be landed on occasion in case of emergency; and that the British and other respectable inhabitants who are householders be formed into a parochial body with power to assess themselves for the police, lighting, drainage, and street making; that the harbour be open to ships of every flag; and that encouragement be given for the resort to and settlement on the island of other European Nations; if this be done a four-years' experience will determine whether it be possible to create any trade or induce resort to Hong Kong. The Government establishments, and outlay of the Public money for the last three years have produced beneficial results.
Page 84
Page 92