valued at £3,175,352, and the Exports at £4,815,375, which shows
an increase in the Trade in Imports of £849,900, and Exports of £740,183. The importation of Opium has likewise increased, during the same time from 21,250 to 43,000 chests, "From this valuable trade, Great Britain
and India are so supposed to receive directly and indirelly by taxes on the tea, and the profit made by the East India Company on the opium, a pecuniary benefit to the amount of nearly two millions of Pounds sterling, annually. Hongkong established for the maintenance and protection of this trade, and the officer whose particular duty it is to superintend and foster it resides therein; and perhaps therefore this colony may
more than ordinarily be entitled to consideration in the quota which the inhabitants should be called on to contribute towards its support.
I have the honor to be,
With the highest respect,
Your Lordships,
Most Obedient
Humble Servant
Systrasam