171
He would, however, inquire into the case of the "Robert
Lebaudy", regarding which he had at present no information. That,
of course, was a perfectly courteous answer, although it would have
been more satisfactory, perhaps, had Sir Edward Grey stated the
circumstances of the attack "as reported by the Governor". The
public, we think, would like to know exactly what the facts are
as found by the Governor, and as much in the Governor's
interests as in those of anyone else, seeing that his
subordinates appear to have dealt with this case in a rather
unfortunate way.
•
The main facts of the incident seen to be very simple.
The "Tai On" is a British steamer, registered at Hong Kong and
trading in Chinese waters. She is commanded by Captain W.
Holmes, and Mr. H. Cornwall is her chief officer. The Chinese
Government, primarily responsible for the maintenance of law
and order, discharge their duties in such a negligent fashion
that the "Tai On" is the subject of piratical attack, with
the result that the officers of the ship are robbed of a large
sum in cash and of their clothing and effects. In the
circumstances they naturally turn to seek the protection of
appears at once to have given in the subsequent case of
the "Robert Lebaudy". Some measure of sympathy, it may
be assumed, they would at least receive,but, so far as may
be inferred from a letter addressed to one of their number,
the authorities at Hong Kong were not even civil to these
plundered men. Here is the communication: -
Kr. H. Cornwall.
Sir,-
Referring to your letter of the 17th instant addressed
to the Honourable A.K. Thomson, I am instructed to inform you
that the Government will take no steps in connexion with
your claim, which they consider is unwarranted, and that
any loss you may have incurred is due to your own imprudence
in carrying so large a sun of money with you on board the
"Tai On".-
Hore Kong.
I have &c.,
(Signed)
Basil Taylor.
Commander R.., Harbour "aster.
The Fr. Thomson referred to in the letter is the
Treasurer of Hong Kong, which, of course, ie a Crown
Colony.
They have curious customs in Crown Colonies, and
one of them appears to be for the Treasurer to send
their own country
-
a protection
which the French Government
appears
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