Forward by Mr. Seth, which were in part inaccurate, in part irrelevant, and altogether, as the result has proved, confusing. If the question had involved a simple but debatable question the result would have been unfortunate: it is my opinion still more unfortunate when the matter in question was the conduct of an officer whom the Chief Justice had reported for breach of discipline, and who, even adopting Your Excellency's view, (see paragraph 7 of despatch to Secretary of State of 5th June) is in some measure dependent on and subordinate to the Chief Justice: the question from this point of view being how far he was an independent officer, and how far he was subordinate.
The measure of his independence is in my opinion capable of very clear statement: it is in respect of all those duties which lie outside his duties as Registrar of the Court. I have little doubt that on re-consideration of this matter, both Your Excellency and the Secretary of State will share my view, which is the only one consistent with the efficient administration of justice.
His Excellency
The Governor,
Hongkong.
(sd.) F.
I have etc.,
T. Piggott,
Chief Justice.