19. At this moment in various directions and at various distances round this Island there are numerous Chinese Cruisers, which not merely search vessels for contraband, but which overhaul craft that have visited this Island, and with a rapidity, which I had scarcely anticipated, seize sometimes the vessels themselves, and sometimes the cargo, especially when consisting of British Manufactures they levy fines and whilst in all cases squeezes. These outrages are accompanied by ill usage of the Masters of these vessels and of their passengers, which latter, it is stated, have been frequently beaten and robbed.
20. I need scarcely say that the Chinese Government, if these proceedings are with its sanction, is adopting the surest way of inflicting a deadly blow on the prosperity of this Colony. Vessels which have been constant traders here for years and can show clearances of regular bundling have in this way been lately robbed by vessels flying the Customs flag. The consequence is not merely the stagnation but, at this moment, almost the extinction of the legitimate trade in English and other manufactures conducted in Native vessels between this Colony and the Chinese Ports on the Mainland.
21. The Acting Registration General has received many petitions and communications on the subject of late and is now at Canton.