Merd." Stephors estelmes to acting Colonial Secretary
400
are
able to lay before him the subject to which it relates, but that before doing so, a letter and inquiry by the magistrate having already been held and the prisoners having been duly committed, His Excellency is undertaking to delay the rendition or carrying out of the prisoners, if such rendition should appear to be proper under the circumstances.
Hong Kong, 4 January 1881.
We have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 18th instant and now forward copy of a placard that was posted on the buildings near one of the Praya wharves a short distance from the Custom House.
A translation of the document is enclosed for the information of The Honourable G. Stewart, L.L.D., Acting Colonial Secretary.