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subject, without some active means of following it up with ease, would fail in its object. could be evaded by the removal of the coolies from the Barracoons or, which is still more likely, by the employment of threats by the Barracoon keepers to induce these ignorant men to say they are content to remain – and I feel persuaded also that a very cursory examination would satisfy the Macao authorities on this point. I feel sanguine that my presence, accompanied by the complainant Asoong, and the knowledge of the fact that I was sent over from Hongkong to obtain their release would give confidence to these captives and induce them to give expression to their real feelings, whether they be those of contentment with their present position or a desire to obtain their freedom if they have been so grossly deceived.