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You? of Hong Kong should be instructed to put in force any local ordinance such as that referred to in Paragraph 10 of Mr Mercer's Despatch, which may prevent supplies being taken from Hong Kong to belligerent Vessels anchored other than such as are within the limits of the permission accorded by H. Mis proclamation.
It would, I think, (but this is perhaps a question for the exercise of discretion on the spot) also be proper that the U. S. Consul should be apprised of H. Mis intention in this respect; and if existing local Ordinances should be insufficient for this object, it would be expedient that others should be framed which may be sufficient for it.
It must also be observed that it would not be competent to the Ships of War of either belligerent to be off the mouth of the Harbour of Hong Kong for the purpose of exercising hostilities against Vessels entering into that Port, or going out of it; such a proceeding and practice would be a plain violation of international obligations and of the neutral rights of Gt. Britain.
I have &c
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(Signed) Robert Phillimore