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406.—Why do you say that, what evidence have you?
A.--I learnt so from the salt smugglers.
407.-Did they tell you themselves they were pirates?
A.-The man I asked told me about the salt smugglers being pirates; he did not
tell me he was a salt smuggler himself.
408.-Were you told this by more than one man?
A.
-I was told by two persons.
409.-At one time?
A. Twice-once at Yaumáti and once at Hongkong.
TENTH MEETING,
6th August,
Present:-Sir GEORGE PHILLIPPO, Chief Justice, (Chairman).
His Honour Mr. Justice RUSSELL, Puisne Judge.
Honourable P. RYRIE, M.L.C.
95
F. B. JOHNSON, M.L.C.
Mr. J. H. STEWART-LOCKHART, (Secretary).
Mr. P. A. DA COSTA examined :----
410.-You are Secretary to the Hongkong, Canton and Macao Steam-boat Company?
A. Yes.
411. This is a Commission appointed to investigate the circumstances of smuggling in the Colony, and we want to know from you if you can tell us anything about the smuggling that goes on in the River?
A.-There is a great deal of smuggling, principally opium, but also salt and saltpetre.
412.-How is the smuggling managed not by the steamers?
A.-No; the smuggled goods are taken on board in a surreptitious manner by the crew and passengers.
413.-By the Chinese or Foreign crew?
A.-The Chinese, as far as I know.
414. Are there any regulations of the Company adopted to check smuggling on board the River Steamers?
A.-There are.
415.Will you say what they are?
A.-The Captain, with the assistance of his Chief Officer, is to go round every trip in search of smuggled goods, and if any are found they are to be entered with the agents at Canton.
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