339
it is stated as follows:- "I request you
to inform the petitioners (against the disestablishment
of the Church of England in Hongkong) that, after carefully perusing their representations, I do not feel myself justified in reversing the decision arrived at by my predecessor, after full consideration
of the circumstances of the case.
I dare not conceal
from Your Lordship that this decision is opposed to the judgment and feelings of the English
community in Hongkong. But, personally, I am fully sensible of the weight of the considerations which have swayed yourself and
your predecessor in your present office, Lord Kimberley. Moreover, it is the first duty of the Representative of the Queen in
every colony to carry out loyally the instructions of Her Majesty's Government.
5
There is only one Clergyman, paid by the Colonial Government, viz: the Colonial Chaplain, the Reverend W. Jennings.
As