~(Copy)
In short
95
231
492.
Colonial Secretary's office, Victoria, Hongkong,
July 17th 1856.
Sir,
In reply to your letter of 10th instant, with Enclosures, in which you request the Chief Justice's opinion on its subject, I have the honor to forward copy of His Excellency's Memorandum on the question. I have also to express my regret that so many days have elapsed (owing to inadvertencies) within which time you should have received an acknowledgment of your communication.
The Honorable
The Chief Justice.
I have, Sir,
(Signed) W. J. Mercer,
Colonial Secretary.
True Copy-
Colonial Secretary.