1874 — Page 236

There is every reason to suppose that this Ordinance has a deterrent effect, but it will be some time before the lower classes of Chinese women, accustomed as they are to such practices in China, learn to avail themselves of the protection offered. One defect in the Ordinance has already come to light in the investigation of cases, which is that no section applies to those where a sale has already taken place.

7. With reference to Burglary and Larceny in dwelling rouses during the night time, in the past year the European Community has been very free from such attacks. Out of six cases reported, three occurred in British Kowloon; in two other cases, a door or a venetian blind was left open. and in the third a false key was used. The whole property stolen in these six cases was valued at $268.00. A very dangerous gang of burglars who attacked outlying Chinese houses was captured in August last, and eight of them were convicted.

8. In the month of September, a Typhoon of unusual force passed over the Colony, and causeu a great deal of work to be thrown on the Police. The number of those killed was so great that the Governinent Contractor for the removal of dead bodies was, after the first day, wholly unable to fulfil his contract. But, with the aid of Convicts, the Police assisted at the removal or burial of nearly

$50 corpses.

9. I enclose a list of men who have been arrested during the past year for breach of Conditional Pardon or Deportation Warrant.

The Inspectors continue 10. The state of the Police Force is similar to that reported last year. to work faithfully, and steadily, and as a body the men have behaved very well. I am glad to be able to record that the cases of drunkenness are fewer in number. The exception to the general rule of good behaviour has been in the conduct of some of the Chinese Water Police, six of whom committed offences against the Criminal Law.

11. I have the honor to enclose the following Returns:-

Tables A., B., C., D., & E., as in 1873.

Table F-Return of men arrested for breach of Conditional Pardon or Deportation Warraut. Table G.-A Report on the Police School written by Mr. FALCONER.

I have the honor to be,

Sir,

The Honorable J. GARDINER AUSTIN,

Colonial Secretary,

HONGKONG.

Your most obedient Servant,

W. M. DEANE, Captain Superintendent of Police.