affairs. The danger is probably less real than apparent; and an early end to this period at which China can effectively act against Western powers is conceivable.
When she can, we shall hold Hong Kong.
Conceivable additions to its fortifications and its garrison will make the place worth more as a naval base if sincerely supported by the military officer in command.
Total Estimated Population of Hong Kong:
about 216,000
3300 English including Army, Navy and Mercantile 5000 Portuguese 200 Germans and other Non-British subjects including Armenians etc. about 200,000 Coloured 3000-4000 Malays, Indian Lascars, Javanese, Siamese etc. 205,000 ChineseThere is no record of how many of the Coloured Population are British Subjects, except the few that have been naturalized by special ordinances.
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