4881
184
to the chinese Authorities
4. As par as I understand the evidence transmitted with your Despatch, it seems that the Vessel in question sailed from a British Port, and visited two others (Malacca, Singapore, Penang are mentioned) and (although bound ultimately for a Chinese Port). One at least of the Crew, who were thus detained by the Pirates, had been working at Malacca, I presume as a Subject of the East India Company. And lastly, the Pirates brought the vessel into Hong Kong a British Port.
5. Under all these circumstances, although it be true that this was neither a British Vessel, nor carrying British Goods, I am not satisfied that the British Government was so wholly unconcerned in the matter as to have rendered it the most advisable course to hand over the case to the Chinese Authorities.