From these remarks you will understand that neither Ordinance 82% of 1844, nor of 1847, apply to this particular case, or any case of a Piratical nature, and hence I have thought it necessary to issue a Notification on the subject, pending receipt of instructions from Her Majesty's Government, to whom the whole case will be submitted by next mail.
I entirely approve of the manner in which you have acted in this matter throughout, and particularly under the circumstances of your having sent the Prisoners down to Hongkong without having waited for instructions from myself on the subject.
I have, &c.
(Signed) G. Bonham.
(True Copy) (Signed) A. R. Johnston, Acting Colonial Secretary.
TO ...