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for the Colonies that before Chinese criminals can be handed over to the authorities, distinct assurance should be given in writing to the Govt of Hongkong that no torture should be inflicted on the surrendered criminals, & that they would afford to the British Authorities practical opportunities for being present.
In reply, I would observe that in this case there is no objection to British officials being present (at the trial) after the rendition of the criminals.
The demand in the despatch under acknowledgment that torture should not be inflicted refers of course to the trial. The declaration in Viceroy Yang's former reply, that torture would not be applied without cause & recklessly at the trial that torture would not be applied.
There is no room for any misapprehension. Cases are decided according to her laws. There is evidence, China conducts trials.