CO129-026 - Bonham - 1848 [9-12] — Page 41

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of such person

have

ever been called on so to

act; as in all such cases where the

Government

d as a

a

...

is concerned, Mr Caldwell, the Assistant Superintendent of Police, is directed to attend at the Supreme Court, for the purpose of interpreting, and with the assistance of Chinese writer recently appointed as Translator in the Supreme Court, as reported to Your Lordship in my Despatch No. 66 of 28th August, last, he is also capable of making all necessary translations.

of the

On inquiry from the only member of Legislative Council now here, who was present when the Rule was passed, I do not find that the rates of Fees authorized to be taken in Civil cases, were framed, with reference to Interpreters and Translators being liable to be called on to act in Criminal ones without further fee or reward; and a reference to the Table will, I trust, show that the Fees are so moderate, that no suitor can have any reason to complain of them, while the imposition of liability to be called on to act without fee in Criminal cases and Revenue actions may be regarded as a description of fees for the privilege accorded to them by the Government.

I have considered the Rule only affects Chinese Interpreters, for there are but few other cases in the Eastern languages coming before the court; and when there is, it is generally one wherein a knowledge of Hindustani or Malayan is required, and in those languages there is an Interpreter for the Court, provided at the expense of the Government.

I have the honor to be,

With the highest respect,

Your Lordships'

Most Obedient,

Humble Servant

Sir,

19th August