! was Aver that Subject, and the result was petitions from each district of the city, numerously signed, presented to the Government, soliciting the establishment of such a system as that instituted by the ordinance.
I inclose copy of Mr. Macgowan's letter, forwarding these petitions, and a brief summary of their contents.
The Rate is fixed at One and a half per cent on the assessed property for the Police Rate, and will, it is expected, bring in £1511 per annum.
It was thought advisable to attach the collection of this fund to that of the Police Rate, for which the Machinery already exists.
The Ordinance was published in Draft for general information, and, before final adoption, considerably modified and improved. It has been translated into Chinese.
In its present form it is hoped that fraud will be prevented.
I trust You will not object to laying it before the Queen for Her Most Gracious Majesty's approval and Confirmation.
I have the honour to be,
with the highest respect,
List,
Your most Obedient, and most Reverant,
John Bowring