the Regulations of the government, and I incline myself to support this view not merely
1st because I have
a great aversion to induce
any action which may
cause people to bid against one another and make money "for themselves" appear in my way the motive influencing the Government, but because I think it not altogether a fair course to induce applicants as it were to disclose their hands by stating the amount which they would offer -
an amount under those circumstances certain to be higher in many cases than could be reasonably given - and
having gone so far then to throw those parties over and make selection for character, as I fear the whole proceeding would then wear a very partial appearance.
5. I think the matter is one of great consequence and the decision of the Governor and Council therein is an important one. Therefore they should not shrink from taking the whole burden on their shoulders and both naming the fee and selecting the Candidates.
6. The time has quite gone by in which, if that straightforward course be adopted, the Chinese are likely to misunderstand the
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