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Commanding, in his capacity of Acting Governor, offers no objection to the employment of native watch-men. W. Jardine assumes that he considers that a sufficient amount of reliance can be placed upon them, and provided that while they are employed they be placed under the authority of the Military. In this arrangement required of them, and that a suitable place of shelter, in a proper Guard room, be established for a night-watch, when not actually patrolling.
For European troops, McHardwell is of opinion that the Governor may be authorised to carry out the arrangement to be in readiness by the time the European troops shall arrive in this colony.
McHardwell will be glad if Lord Aberdeen will, on the receipt of the Treasury approval of the cost being deducted from the Military contribution, cause instructions to be sent to the Government of Hong Kong by telegraph.
I have the honor to be,
Your obedient Servant,