Seemed thou by difficulty apply for instructions by Telegraph, do not appear to have been definitely informed that any preparations had been made in Hongkong for taking the census of the Colony this year, but I have no doubt that the matter has not escaped your attention.
No special instructions have been issued to any of the colonies in connection with this census, nor have they appeared to be necessary. I presume that you intend to follow more or less closely the arrangements and procedure adopted in previous years. I must leave it to you to determine whether a census in the new territory is possible. If not, a careful estimate of the population on or about the 31st March should be framed, distinguishing the sexes if possible.
P.S. Since the above was written, I have received...