a late conversation with me on the subject of the seizure of the Prince Albert he stated that his case appeared to be similar to that of Isuy A Chum, from whom, while under torture, such an enormous sum was extorted, and believe but few will disagree with this comparison.
To conclude with an account of the present position of the subject of this report, may add that he is Compradore to the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company, which post he has held since 1849, that he is a Director of a local Company, a large shareholder in a local Bank, in the Hong Kong and Whampoa Dock Company, and in the "Card Company", and that he is possessed of three vessels which trade in these and the neighbouring waters.
From my own personal experience I speak in the highest terms of Kwok A-sung, a good citizen, an honest straightforward Merchant, and one who has used the deservedly high position which he holds among his fellow countrymen here to assist in preserving the Peace and good order of the Colony.
(Signed) Cecil C. Smith
(Arve Copies)
Registrar General.
Acting Colonial Secretary.