274
in a
clear report for consideration, without the slightest degree of obscurity. Haston!
On receiving the above, I thought it my duty to address this to the Honorable Bailiff for examination, and that he might move the Commandant of Faepang to write to the British Magistrate that the said clerk be sent over to Kowloon to be tried by the Commandant and me, the humble deputy. If the said Clerk has indeed practiced extortions upon those fishermen, and on his return come to Hongkong to levy duties, I shall instantly report this to the Governor, that he may be severely punished according to law, in order to put a stop to the annoyance of anybody ever going again to Hongkong.
3
When this came to hand, I instantly addressed the Honorable Commandant to request him to communicate the tenor of the deputy's (Note.) to the British Magistrate in order to send the said clerk to Kowloon, to institute conjointly the trial.
On obtaining the above, I immediately forwarded a copy of the deputy's orders for the consideration of you, the Honorable Magistrate, hoping that you will send the said Clerk to Kowloon, that I, in conjunction with the Deputy and Kowloon Bailiff, may try him. In doing so, you will afford me a decisive proof of your public friendship.
This is the principal object of this communication, addressed
To
The British Chief Magistrate of Hongkong,
etc.
Major Faine
244
etc.
Taukwang 26th year, 1st Month, 2nd day
11th December 1844 - Received 12th Decr
(True Translation) (Signed) Charles Gutzlaff, Chinese Secretary.
Reclerich W. A. Bruce