20
ation, on the
is entirely incorrect, and I presume it be founded, if it have any foundation, worthless remarks of the Colonial Newspapers, to which little regard, for party purposes is ever given by any one.
save
49. But the allegation of the cause is based on a thorough misconception of the character and position of the Hongkong merchants.
-
writer evidently
The
assumes that
the merchants here resident have no connection with the ports
of China or beyond the Colony; whereas this may be said to
342
a certain extent only of the small trading and storekeeping interests.
50. It is a fact that of all the leading firms in China there is hardly one that for the last few years has not found it necessary to have at least its agency in this place, and at the present moment, a large majority of the principal Houses have established here their head quarters, and from this port all Commercial operations with China and elsewhere are regulated and directed.