in legal and other expenses he has disbursed no less than $3,150 - whilst if he accepts back his vessel according to the invitation of Counsel Robertson, he computes that he will have not merely to pay the additional fine of $4,000, but will also have to endure a loss of at least $20,000, as she now stands, caused by the probable deterioration of the Steamer and her machinery, as well as that caused by demurrage for her detention for more than 14 months... a monstrous injustice to be inflicted illegally on a man, who specially deserves the protection of the British Government.
I cannot therefore but feel that the case is of very grave importance, and one which cannot be suffered to end thus. Therefore, I trust Your Excellency may be able to devise means to procure compensation for Leheong, who I think is evidently entitled to much more than receiving back his vessel without payment of a fine which, however small, would admit the correctness and legality of the proceedings by which the confiscation was effected, and
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