but I think it
having no authority to question the Col.
subject, Just on the au right to bring the matter to
to your
notice
as it bears prima facie evidence of
being
correct.
Possibly the Hongkong Govt may have communicated with the Chinese Magistrate of Kow-loong for the proceeding, but, if no such
authority
with danger
, & obtained some sanction
was obtained, it is one
fraught
to our amicable relations
with the Chinese Govt, a clear infraction
of international rights,
weaken our
+ calculated to
right of appeal to the Chinese
Govt for redress under similar circumstances,
et
the late levy of the Salt Gabelle in British waters being a point.
But, under
any
instance.
circumstances, the
employment of the Colonial Police beyond the jurisdiction of the Colony.
particularly
on a service which appertains
strictly
470
belongs to H. M. Squadron, is inadmissible,
unauthorised by any existing
certainly
serious
lead to
Treaty or Regulations, & may
difficulties Situated as Hongkong is on the shore of the southern portion Chinese Empire, great
& complications.
is on
the
of the
of
care & discretion
should be exercised in respect to international relations, & or
or juste milieu
can best be arrived at by the British or Chinese authorities keeping strictly within
their respective jurisdictions.
Your
obt servt
(signed) F. B. Robertson.