I wish to be allowed to say a few words as to the receipt of the Circular despatch of 20th September 1890. I have no recollection of having seen it before August last when it was shown to me by Mr. Wise who had shortly before been verbally told of its existence and had obtained a copy from the Clerk of Councils. On reference to the Colonial Secretary's Office, I find that our copy was received on the 5th of November 1890, and was forwarded to Sir James Russell for his information, as stated in the covering letter (copy annexed, App. I) addressed to himself and myself. I am sure that Sir James Russell never consulted me as to any change in the system of taking fees, though I cannot, in view of the letter, say positively that he did not show me the circular.
I had then, as Puisne Judge, no part in summary proceedings, and when the Act came into force (1st July 1891), I was away from the Colony. Mr. Bruce Shepherd was then Acting Registrar, and I append a statement by him (App. II) as to what passed between Sir James Russell and himself, which would seem to show that Sir James Russell did not regard the circular despatch as containing directions to discontinue the system of personal fees in Hongkong. It is at least certain that neither he nor the Officer then administering the Government gave any directions for the inauguration of a new system on the passing of the Act.
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