Prisoners would not obey. The prisoners certainly have mutinied had the officers not done as they did. The prisoners seemed to have settled in their places again to work. I then told them to get up and go to work. They refused. I observed 54 and 131 were determined not to go to work. No one was working of their own accord. It was very conspicuous they were not expected to act in this way before this. No question.
I, Jones, Warden, was called to the upper yard yesterday. I found the prisoners squatting down there. I sent for the Chinese Turnkey who interpreted for me. I told them collectively to get up and go to work, alluding to the work they were employed on inside the Gaol. They refused.
I then told them to put their things away. They did so and returned to their places, the ringleaders appearing conspicuous. I then took their numbers, asking them individually if they would work. They were for the most part determined not to, though some changed their minds and volunteered to work; these were put on one side. I then ordered the Guard and the European prisoners to be kept in readiness, armed, which was done.
I ordered the prisoners to go to their cells. They refused to go. I then ordered them to be taken to their cells one by one.