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At times as many as 15 vessels annually. Mr. Hernstein assures me that he has no difficulty in dealing with the natives, and that at each of his stations he has a European living for the purpose of trading.
The steam vessel under construction at this Port is for the purpose of having more rapid intercourse between the islands; and also for the conveyance of mails to the nearest Ports having mail communication with Europe.
After a long conversation with Mr. Sternstein the impression left on my mind is that he is not in any way connected with the kidnapping of natives.
(Signed) Lt. G. Thomsett
June 27th 1877.
(True Copy)
Harbor Master
Mauritia
Colonial Secretary