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on the bank encircled by the Pratas Shoal, a dangerous Reef lying about 150 miles to the south East of Hongkong.
Though beyond the boundaries of the Colony, it is much in the track of Vessels trading to and from the localities not to justify the step I now take in bringing it to the notice of their Lordships of the Committee of Privy Council for Trade.
It is particularly in the line of Ships sailing between this and Manila and the Australian Colonies, and is hazardous to all Vessels coming hither from the Southward by the ordinary Passage.
The wrecks on it are numerous; at this very moment a report is abroad of a Brig and a Schooner on the Shoal, and a Steamer has been despatched to make inquiry.
Many Naval Officers at home, and who have served in these Seas, are competent to give valuable information regarding the Pratas and its dangers.
Commander Dutruc was driven on it in Her Majesty's Ship "Childers" in October 1848, - and Her Majesty's Steamer "Reynard", under Captain Ancroft,