Where, however, parties are charged with forging or altering the Papers, the affidavits should be precise as to the flight and Condition of such papers, with reference to the forging or Alteration.
4. Where it may be practicable, the Consuls should send in the Ships, or otherwise, any Witness or witnesses to Hong Kong; but if it be impracticable to bring any material witnesses to Hong Kong, they should transmit Affidavits or depositions from such witnesses.
The Consuls should make such provision as the circumstances may permit, either by application to the nearest Naval Officer, or by hiring a proper Crew, or otherwise for restoring the safe possession and navigation of the Ship to Hong Kong and for delivery up to the proper officer there who will generally be the Registrar of the Vice Admiralty Court.
6. The Consuls should bear in mind that they are not authorised by the Statute to detain or take into custody the Ship or the Master.
When...