prompts this Government to render up to China where any malefactors whose rendition is applied for, provided a satisfying prima facie case is made out. The law required by English Law has been advised by the Viceroy to all the Government formalities to be observed in demanding rendition of Chinese subjects, (vide letters to you from this office No. 1657 and 531 of the 31st October, 1883, and 1st April, 1880, respectively) and I believe he has those about him who are conversant with English law and more especially the rules of evidence, so that there should be little difficulty in producing such proof as is required to establish the guilt of the accused.
From some of the Viceroy's remarks, it would appear he is under the impression that the Governor of Hongkong can make laws he likes for himself when dealing with the Viceroy. He should understand that English law applies as much to the Governor as to the meanest of Her Majesty's subjects.
With regard to any amendments in the law respecting rendition, it is the object of the Hongkong Government, as it can be the object of the Viceroy, to simplify the mode of procedure and reduce the expense, as long as English justice is upheld. You are aware that private enquiries have been made of you by the officer at present administering...
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