That the wretched men of the China fame could have had anything to do with the serious increase of crime in Hongkong.
That this question should be set at rest is of primary importance not only as it will prevent my attention being withdrawn from the real causes of the increase of crime. It is of some importance also in preventing the Government from interposing unnecessary restriction on legitimate and useful channels by which a commercial enterprise, namely traffic with Canton, has been, since the beginning of September 1876, largely increased.
I have the honour to be,
My Lord,
Your Lordship's obedient
humble servant,
J. Smale.
H. B. M. Consul,
Canton.