CO129-158 - Sir Kennedy - 1872 [6-8] — Page 55

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of the last cask which was "slightly tainted when opened but not otherwise bad." The Fish was "good and not tainted."

Mr. Neale states, still speaking of the "Passengers on the voyage, full rations with plenty of pork, fish and rice; they had the option except 'salt beef,'" and adds, "At least that was the only reliable evidence that the provisions were sufficient."

The report seems to show that the only doubtful provisions were salt beef. Mr. Mitchell reported that one passenger turned sick on the passage to the resport due to insufficient clothing.

I did not possess any power to compel the 53 free passengers paying their way to provide themselves otherwise than as they thought fit.

The ship had live Chinese Doctors who had proved their qualifications before the Sanitary Office by undergoing an examination. Doctors Kerr and Wong were present at Canton.

I do not know what more I could have done to ensure that the ship was in a fit and proper condition for the voyage. The ship was leaving Hong Kong in a satisfactory state for the thirteen days' voyage...