the 1st of October 1876 the number in Gaol was 521; on the 1st of October 1874 it was 405.
These figures are certainly satisfactory. They show that which has already been abundantly proved, that the cheap fares of the Canton steamers (which have been in full operation this year) have had something to do with the increase of crime in 1876; but they further show the soundness of Mr. Creagh's views that the official countenance given to opium smuggling and to the violation of one of our own laws had been one of the causes of the increase of crime in this Colony of late years.
From my despatch No. 130, Your Lordship will also see that the suppression of the illicit traffic in opium this year has been coincident with a sound increase in legitimate trade.
I have the honour to be, My Lord, Your Lordship's Most Obedient humble servant, Governor