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therefore, to apply only to British ships. The use of the word "fee" in the ordinance is hardly compatible with the intention to levy vessels of every nationality.
for all seamen shipped in the Colony.
Of course I do not wish to be understood as imputing to the Harbour Master anything more than an erroneous construction of the Shipping Ordinance.
My views are mostly concurred in by the United States Consul.
Colonial Secretary to United States Consul 72/215.
Sir,
Colonial Secretary's Office.
Hongkong 19th May 1885
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 6th instant on the subject of the fee of $1 a head which is levied by the Harbour Master on each American seaman shipped in this port, and to inform you that the same has been laid before the Governor.
I have been directed by His Excellency to forward for your information copy of a report from the Harbour Master explaining the circumstances under which this fee is levied.
[...]
U.S. Consul