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detention and consequent heavy expenditure here, and praying Your Lordship's favorable Consideration of his claim to repayment under the exceptional circumstances of
the case.
As it is scarcely competent to me to submit to Your Lordship any suggestion in a matter wholly unconnected with this Government, I refrain, notwithstanding Mr. Franklyn's appeal to the contrary, from expressing any opinion on the pecuniary claim raised, but as regards the exactness of the details which he has furnished relative to the circumstances causing his detention at Canton, I think it is but simple justice that I should vouch to Your Lordship for their correctness, and state that I have satisfied myself thereof by direct personal enquiries.
I have the honor to be,
My Lord,
Your Lordship's most obedient,
humble servant,
William Robinson
Administrator, Hongkong Government