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ent to the Opium Suppression Bureau and placed in the guard
room.
At first, one Mo, head of the Bureau's detectives,
proposed to fine Low $150. But later on, a person of the
name of Tung, with many others who crowded in, demanded $5,000,
which was ultimately reduced to $1,000. They removed Low to
a filthy, evil-smelling, dark room, which was so intolerable
that he had no alternative but to comply with their demands.
They thereupon made him give a statement that he had been
fined for the illicit use of opium.
It was 4.0 am. before he was released and able to return
to his office. The man Tung went with him and received from
him a draft on the Chi Ch'eng Cash Shop for $1,000, subsidiary
coin, payable at 3 days sight. The man Tung then demanded
from him a further sum of $200.
I feel sure that this case, in which most detestable
methods of extortion were used and which involves a flagrant
instance of breach of Treaty stipulations, will arouse in
you feelings of horror and disgust. I must protest with
every possible emphasis against the treatment which Low Peng
Kiah has received and request that you will in the first
place see to it that the draft for $1,000 on the Chi Ch'eng
Cash Shop, given under duress, is cancelled and order the
Cash Shop in question not to cash the draft. I also request
that you will clearly explain the Treaties to all the police
at the various police stations and give orders that hence-
forth they must not take upon themselves to enter the business
premises or residences of British subjects. Whatever the
circumstances may be, I must request that you act strictly
in accordance with Treaty provisions.
I have the honour further to request that you will deal
with this case with all possible severity and that you will
inform me without delay of the action which you have taken
in the matter.