7
527 such an important matter being misunderstood.
7 I may also add, in reference to Emigration to Peru, that there had never been any Emigration from Hong Kong to that place till the arrival lately of Belgian Vessel the Frederic commanded by Adolphe Nicaise. That vessel is still in the harbor and will soon leave with a cargo of laborers for Peru. I need scarcely add that the propriety of allowing any Emigration to that Country from here engaged my serious attention, but whilst awaiting further authentic information as to the treatment of Chinese Emigrants there, and further instructions from Her Majesty's Government, I did not feel authorized to put a stop to Emigration, provided the conditions of the contract offered were fair and the Rules of the Port strictly complied with. Nevertheless I felt justified in exacting extra security to prevent irregularities and to ensure the good treatment of the Emigrants on landing, though in this particular case I believe such security was scarcely required.
8
I now transmit to Your Excellency in triplicate the form of Contract of the laborers offering themselves for Shipment to Peru in the Belgian Ship Frederic, and I shall be much obliged if you will favor me with any authentic information that may ...