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which I sent to him on the subject. In an unofficial note transmitting these answers he observes: -
"As regards query No 3, I may cite in instance the case of the bad one Panama - a very bad and murderous case of piracy. The examination of the twenty-four prisoners taken extended over a period of two months. The depositions furnished have been told pirates that you decapitated in remark are not every case but only in very bad ones, such being the fact.
Trials in criminal cases are generally conducted fairly enough. Of course they understand their own people and have means of obtaining their previous history and occupations. The proceedings which were full and voluminous, extended over a period of above two months, the result being that sixteen of these men were beheaded and eight flogged and banished.
I thought all were certain of decapitation, but extenuating circumstances were admitted in favour of eight of them, bringing home proof that our courts would not admit, at least it would be controverted by those learned in the law whose duty it is to pull their clients through at all risks. I believe your references to the Secretary of State that if the project is carried out with care it will do an immense deal of good."