I observed that, without thinking such a step absolutely impossible, I foresaw that it would present serious difficulties; arising from the especial circumstances of the harbor, which hardly permit the separation of licensed and unlicensed boats, necessary for the exercise of a thorough control, and others resulting from the known reluctance which the Chinese have to a change of their ancient habits, and which, being shared equally by those who trade licitly or illicitly, might seriously affect the commerce of this Colony.
I told your Excellency, however, that I was of opinion that something might be done in the meantime, in the shape of subjecting the Chinese vessels to a Registry on arrival and departure, with a view to establish gradually a good system of control over their employment; and I assured you that to this end you would find me most willingly disposed, if it were not for the consideration that, being about to give up the Government of Macao, I should not take measures, foreseeing difficulties in the execution of which I was beset, and leave them to be carried out by my successor, who might perhaps devise a more feasible plan.
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