and the three Islands - Known by the
Islands-known
names
Kellett's, Green and Stone
a
of Cutter's Islands - appears to offer manifest advantages over that of establishing the Keep of the Colony at Chuck Choo-
With respect to our occupation of Stone Cutter's Island, that is a question that appertains directly to Sir Henry Pottinger's duties as Plenipotentiary, but, he has no reason for supposing that under proper explanation - the Chinese Government will object to it since it can
be of no value to them, and they will (it is to be supposed) perfectly comprehend the necessity for the Capital and Harbour of this Colony being protected by proper works.
A recent letter from the Thierry at Canton affords Sir Henry Pottinger
an
an excellent opportunity of bringing
the
If
Page 638
question to the immediate notice of the Government of China and that will be immediately done but as it will probably lead to further correspondence and even perhaps reference to the Emperor at Peking, it may not be possible to get it finally settled for two or three months.
In the
mean
time
Sir Henry
Pottinger will very gladly accompany the Honorable Major General D'Aquilar, in the proposed examination of the locations any day that may
be
mutually convenient as soon as the Roserpine Steamer is reported fit for Service after her late accident.
I have &c.
(Signed) Richard Hoonam
No: 96
W