!
Copy.
No: 23
and two copies.
MR. JAMIESON TO H.M.MINISTER
Sir.
H.B.M.Consulate-General,
Canton.
May 8th, 1914.
604
Having reference to my despatch No: 22 of
the 7th instant, regarding the very serious piratical
attack outside Hongkong waters on April 27th on the
British steamer "Tai On" I have the honour to enclose
copy of a despatch which I have addressed to His
Excellency the Governor in connection therewith.
The Chinese are for the present loyally and energetically co-operating with the Colonial
Authorities in tracking down the miscreants, but
there is every likelihood of this energy proving
shortlived.
Inasmuch as in recent cases the pirates
have boarded the steamers, which they propose to
attack, in Hongkong, and as there can be no doubt
that they procure their arms from there, increased
vigilance on the part of the Folice would seem called
for, but I do not think that any augmentation of the
West River flotille, even were the Admiralty in a
position to make such, would contribute materially
towards the suppression of these daring gangs.
I have, etc.,
(Signed) J.W. JAMIESON.
Consul-General.
JOHN JORDAN, G.C.I.E.,K,C.B.,K.C.M.G.,
&C.
&c..
HIS MAJESTY'S MINISTER
PEKING.