433
12.
The Graft Bill embodying the proposed alterations in the Law will no doubt encounter some opposition in the Colony from unreflecting persons who will look upon it as an interference with the freedom of the Port, a phrase that is perhaps more often used than understood. I believe that it will affect injuriously those persons only who sell Opium for smuggling. The Law is not complained of in the Straits where it has worked well. In exchange for this legislative enactment, important advantages will be gained by the Colony, as the Junk Trade will be practically free from future molestation and no longer be placed at a disadvantage compared with Traces; and any complaints against the Customs' stations will be investigated in the presence of an officer of the Colony who may take part in the decision if the Governor deems such a course advisable.
13.
It is in a great measure due to the Junk Trade that precious goods and other English manufactures find their way from Hong Kong into the interior of China and are kept up. The supplies of the Colony are also maintained.
The advantages to the Government will in all probability be considerable. The revenue derived from Opium by this Government is about $185,770 a year. In the Straits Settlements, with a smaller Chinese population than Hong Kong, the Government receives nearly $1,180,000.