opinion that the ability exists to establish
a
system the joint cruising
occasionally
resorted to a
0
ad
1
wh is now
only
that at all events
the Chinese naval force is competent
to
independently preserve order in the Canton
river & its immediate neighbourhood.
In the letter above referred to I had the honor to submit the draft of a memorandum
prepared with the object of clearly limiting &
defining the action of H.M's Squadron so
as to prevent a repetition of irregularities wh have frequently given cause for complaint.
And with reference to that portion of the draft describing the system of Registration (to check on piracy) then by the Viceroy, the total disarmament wh H.E. found to be impracticable, I have now the honor to Enclose the copy of a letter from H.M's Consul at Canton, Covering a despatch from the Viceroy announcing that this system of registration has been perfected
and
furnishing
196
me with copies of the new
forms
of Register for issue to the squadron under
my
command to assist H.M's Officers in deciding
the character of Vessels on the grounds of grave
Suspicion.
The Viceroy asks for a copy of the general order, a draft of wh was submitted for his
Consideration.
It was ...
I have informed him that it
has been referred to the authorities at home for final consideration & approval, & that
in an
amended form it will probably reach
this station by the date given for the
completion
of the enrolment of Chinese junks viz the 7th
on the friendly a
Aug: next when he
may rely
on the cordial cooperation of the British Squadron.
But before the Registration system
is in good working order it would
evidently be inexpedient to expect every vessel to be furnished with a Register, as the absence of one : could not for some months be accepted, in the absence of other proof, as evidence of the Vessel being Engaged in piratical pursuits
For
X