Unquestionably the provisions of the Law have been in many cases relaxed so as to meet the emergency, and induce the Chinese to fall in with the new system; but this relaxation has been confined, as far as possible, to vessels which are known to be regular daily or weekly traders, or as mere fishing boats unlikely to be available for piratical purposes.
Nevertheless, I have thought it right to instruct the Harbour Master for the future to carry out the Law in its entirety - it is not a harsh Law, which imposes heavy burdens, whilst, moreover, this community and all neighbouring commerce is entitled to as complete protection as it can afford. Consequently, if the Law does not secure a constant and sufficient surveillance of every native craft, small or large, which frequents our waters, I have stated that I should regard either the Law as a failure, or the staff entrusted with its execution as incompetent.
8. Enough, however, has already been done, as