in the manufacture of the Clothing, in its inspection, packing and shipment; allowing four weeks for these purposes there would be left one month only for transport, if the time thrice impressed was to be kept.
Before taking the step complained of by the Governor of Hong Kong the whole matter was brought under the consideration of the Secretary of State on my 11 February 1867.
There are in the Secretary's letter the three Clauses 1454/67.
The modes of forwarding goods from London to Hong Kong, are, 1st, by the overland route, occupying about six weeks (this is seldom resorted to on account of consequent Expense); 2nd, by steamer from Liverpool round the Cape, requiring about twelve weeks; and 3rd, by sailing Vessel, also round the Cape, about fifteen weeks.
3. It requires no argument to show that any pecuniary loss inflicted on Hong Kong arose from the late date at which the requisition was sent from the Colony, as the articles were wanted for use by the beginning...