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Military. The Master shewed a clearance for Macao from the Harbour Master of Hongkong, also a Deed of Sale of the vessel, and some kind of Register signed by Mr. Jordine as Consul for the Sandwich Islands, the flag of which the ship was flying. When the Master was asked respecting the cargo of the vessel, he at first hesitated to give answer, but afterwards stated that he had some Chinese Passengers on board, but not Coolies.
Having received the Harbour Master's report that smuggling was taking place, I deemed it right to proceed on board the ship and inquire into the description of her passengers, and to take such measures as humanity and the laws dictated in respect of Chinese Emigrants; and also to ascertain all further particulars connected with the ship; but this inspection could not be effected, as the vessel left the same evening, and, as it appears, and is reported, has proceeded to Hongkong.
You will perceive, Your Excellency.
Macao, 8 April 1858.
(Signed) Isidoro Francisco Guimarães
The Most Illustrious and Most Excellent Sir John Bowring,
Governor of Hongkong, and H.B.M. Plenipotentiary in China.
True Translation (Signed) L. d'Almada e Castro,
Colonial Secretary.
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