This ordinance has been passed in obedience to the instructions contained in Your Grace's Despatch N. 108 of the 16th August last; and the circumstances which have rendered it necessary have been fully detailed in my Despatch No 110 of the 10th ultimo.
The object of it is to prevent unauthorized supplies being taken from Hong Kong to belligerent vessels anchored in the waters of the Colony, either in the waters or immediate neighbourhood of them.
I have the honor to be, My Lord Duke, Your Grace's Most Obedient Servant,
Merccles Robinson
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A question has arisen about this Ordinance with reference to its obligations. And always whether the government is sufficiently authorized having performed its obligations.
It composes a penal character performed by the government. I conclude that regulating that principle after all must be for the Land Representative to duly defend.
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