and where a Prisoner's statement ought to be read in evidence.
I should add that during the preparation of the Ordinance a prisoner was brought for trial at the Supreme Court charged with two murders and that although upon the Depositions which were taken by Mr Consul Winchester, a very strong case is made, the substantial witnesses being Japanese no influence exercised by His Excellency Sir Rutherford Alcock could induce the Japanese Government to countenance the sending there Witnesses to Hong Kong and that since the Ordinance has passed a similar difficulty has arisen with reference to an Englishman charged with murder in Amoy.
In each case there will be entire failure of Justice unless the court shall under this Ordinance permit the depositions to be read.
(Signed) John Smale, Attorney General.
7th May, 1882.
(True Copy)
Memo... Colonial Secretary.