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2. I approve of course which you adopted with respect to these men.
3. The opinion which you express at the close of your despatch reference to the disposal of offenders being British subjects resorting to Stony Khong, raises a question of magnitude which requires careful consideration. It certainly would be desirable to leave the Offences committed by Chinese against their fellow countrymen to be dealt with as much as possible by their National Tribunals, but before adopting the policy you recommend it would be I conceive highly necessary, Considering the great importance of encouraging Commerce by the repression of Piracy to have some clear understanding as to the principle on which the cases to be dealt with by our own Tribunals should be distinguished from those to be handed over