absolutely of we effect if Leong etfu should be delivered up to the Chinese Authorities.
His Excellency desires me to inform you that the promise though made more than forty years ago solemnly fulfilled, and that he will carefully and jealously guard the lives, liberty, and property of the Chinese in Hongkong from any interference by any Chinese Mandarin or Official. His Excellency however is not prepared to take any action which would make Hongkong a safe resort and refuge for criminals from the mainland.
His Excellency agrees with you that there is no Extradition Treaty called between England and China, but is of opinion that the 21st Article of the Treaty of Tientsin forms a complete Treaty.
His Excellency is advised that you are not correct in stating that it is extremely doubtful whether Ordinance 20/1850 and 20/1871 apply in this case, as the latter Ordinance (20/1891) has removed all doubt in the matter.
His Excellency believes that he is bound to deliver over Leong etfu if the Magistrate has found a prima facie case against him and committed him to prison to await His Excellency's order, unless there are strong and sufficient grounds to justify the Governor in Council in differing from the Magistrate.
I am to add that His Excellency has now considered the case in Executive Council, and it has been decided that the accused should be surrendered to the Chinese Authorities.
I have …
(Kynge) Frederick Stewart,
Acting Colonial Secretary