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Tiu Mun and Ngao lam districts, and that in all pro- bability the so called Chinese troops in these dis- tricts are in league with the pirates, which accounts for the frequent petty robberies from launches etc.
Suggestions for Checking Firacies.
1.
I have for some time been of opinion that Tor- pedo-boats should patrol between fangmun and Lantau during fine weather, but in view of the sudden changes often experienced this is hardly practicable. I therefore suggest the building of two good solid launches of about 40-50 tons displacement, after the
style of the Chinese Customs armed launches which
sometimes make fast to buoys off Blue Buildings at
Hongkong. The dimensions should be roughly as follows;
Length
Breadth ..
Draught
Speed ... at least 12 knots, preferably more.
Their armament should consist of a 3 or 6 pounder for attacking piratical junks which have got into shallow water out of the way of their pursuers, and in addi- tion two maxims. They should also be fitted with an electric projector the acetylene type not being strong enough to be of any practical use.
... 60 to 70 ft.
... 15 to 18 ft.
-- ...
not more than 6ft.
K
Possibly a portable W/T set would be an addi-
tion which would amply justify the small cost.
The parent ship for these launches should be
at liongkong, and they would practically convoy all vessels between Hongkong and Wangmun in all but the
very severe weather. This would only be made possible
by