twelve
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twenty West Coast Boats and ten piratical junks in Mei-chow Bay which are doing serious injury to the Coasting trade in and out of this Port.
The Colonel states inter alia in his note, that it has been reported to him by his scouts that a couple of Foreigners are on board of the piratical craft, but whether as captives or otherwise had not been ascertained.
I have reason to suspect that these pirates are of the same gang that opened fire on the British Lorcha "New Hong Kong" in October last.
I shall be happy to communicate to the Colonel Commandant my reply to the course which you may in your discretion determine on the circumstances.
I have, Her Majesty's instructions under consideration.
(Signed) Chas Sinclair.