No justification for a refusal on the part of Her Majesty's Government to enforce a measure in itself intrinsically right and proper.
are understood to be a one of Stick pots, piratical implements of offence, not one of defence on the part of an innocent trader; and the mere fact of having them on board, which appears to have been ascertained in certain instances, affords evidence of intention of using them for unlawful purposes, should opportunity offer.
Lord Clarendon considers therefore that the Governor of Hongkong should be directed to cooperate with the Chinese Authorities in the suppression of piratical acts on their soil, and instructions will be sent to Sir Rutherford Alcock to bring the whole question, through Consul Robertson, before the Viceroy, and to inform him that, if he persists in not taking necessary precautions for the supervision of vessels frequenting the Ports of his District, the Governor of Hongkong cannot be expected to act alone and unsupported.
I am, Sir, Your most obedient humble servant
Cotton Stanley
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