169
Observe that out of the four alleged free emigrants examined by Dr Eitel, Captain Thomsett now admits that ... was under Contract and that ... has been taken off the list. Holding Captain Thomsett responsible for the classification of the remaining eight hundred and thirty-five, I have signed the Licence.
(Sd) J. Pope Hennessy 20th April 1881.
Licence sent to Harbour Master. (da) F. S. 20.4.01.
Licence received last evening (Sd) H. G. T. (FA) 29.4
True Copy
Noted by the Harbor Master, &c.
Copy
Colonial Secretary's Office Hong Kong, 19th May 1881.
I have the honor, by direction of the Governor, to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of to-day, forwarding the list of Chinese Passengers about to proceed by the British S.S. Ocean to Australia.
In reply, I am to instruct you to hold a searching examination with the view of ascertaining whether these persons are all free and under no Contract of Service whatever.
I am to add, that in making your report to me, His Excellency would be glad ...
H. G. Thomsett, Esq. R.N., Emigration Officer, &c.