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which so far as it is performed at all at present falls strictly on the Imperial Government. Pirates literally swarm amongst the Islands, Creeks, and inlets in the neighbourhood, and prey on craft which would scarcely be credited upon the local traffic of any Colony conducted by Chinese in Chinese craft.
Lately they have become so bold that most daring and successful attacks have been made upon British and foreign vessels within sight of the harbour.
All our daily supplies are brought home, and I was assured shortly before leaving the Colony that a species of black mail was levied upon all the shipping from the mainland. The Admiral on the station has always given what assistance he could consistently with the demands upon him, to check this evil of which he has been fully aware, and after each exploit of piracy a gun boat is usually sent to cruise about for some days; and one...