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Consul Robertson's replies to Su Ho. Robinson's queries.
Queries.
What is the punishment awarded by the Chinese Law for Pirates?
Answers.
The Leaders of a body of Pirates when convicted, would be sentenced to the Ling-chih or Cut up alive, the others would be decapitated, and their heads exposed near the scene of their crimes. If the evidence is not complete against any of them, or if they had formerly been captured by the Pirates and forced to serve them they would be sentenced to various terms of banishment or menial Service in the Army.
The Law provides grades of punishment for grades of guilt, admitting of a more or less severe sentence in cases not of an aggravated nature, or where there are Extenuating circumstances, but the punishment suitable to the case is always carried out.
On political offences Death is sometimes Commuted.