Sir,
21 Bay cau, Pretoria, Hong Kong 14th April, 1839.
In reply to your letter No. 282, dated the 9th current, I have the honour to report that I have considered the proposition therein referred to for the supply of this city with gas by an American Company, and the modes of legislation suggested by Dr. Bridges for consideration of the Government in order to enable the Company to carry out its proposed object.
1. There is no legal or constitutional objection to the illumination of this city with American, or any other foreign gas by a Company.
Honorable W. J. Mercer, Esquire,
Colonial Secretary.