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CHEAP TRIPS TO EUROPE.

* SEGUIRA *'INAUGURATES NEW SERVICE FROM CHINA TO FOUTHAMPTON,

At the Invitation of Captain Hayes, the master of the steamship Suit, one of the vessels belonging to the Shire line, a number of gentlemen representing the shipping com Drains of Hongkong and the press attended an informal reception which was given on board the ship last Monday afternoon. The function was intended to celebrate the inauguration of a raw cheap passenger service between the Far East and the United Kingdom. Among those Present were representatives of the local agents of the Shirn line (blessrs. Jardine, Matheson & Co.,Ltd., Messrs. E.F. Aucott & W A. Fleming, Mr.H.G. While, of Suter, Hartwann & Rathjens, A.C. Lang of Gibb, Livingstone & Co, Mr. Da sials, solicitor, and several others. The party was conveyed by special launch to the Seguirs and under the guidance of Captain Hayes made round of inspection of the vessel. In two words the scheme of the new service may be outlined. The Seguire is one of the R.M.S.P. feet which trades to the River Plate and the West Indias. That company in con junction with the Saire line have entered into a mutual arrangement to provide what may be described as an experiment in the way of Intermediate passages at rates which will ap peal to those who do not care to buy a first das ticket on the premier mail boats. Only a limited number of passengers.can be taken, about fifty cabins being available, and it is bo lieved that the venture will meet the ap proval of à considerable section of the community. We certainly think it is bound to succeed. If the initial voyages indicate that there is really a demaed for a first-class pasange from Hongkong to London at a cost special and larger vessels to cope with the trade. The passenger accommodation is situated amidships and most of the cabins are on the main deck-unless our nautical knowledge is at fault. They are toomy and comfortable, fitted with all the usual appurtenances, including electricfans, and several have bathrooms, etc., at tached, The dining-saloon is a cosy apartment a good deal of ample size to accommodate more than fifty passengers and there is the customary piano and library. There is also a smoking room of considerable dimensions, with the inevitable bar at band. Altogether, the provision offered passengers is coiirely satis factory and, as they say, a bargain at the price. Tea and other. suitable refreshments were handed round,

THE HONGKONG TELEGRAPH SATURDAY, JUNE 19

Solicitor's Conduot

Questioned.

ACTION FOR DISBARMENT.

SERIOUS ALLEGATIONS OF ENDEZZLEMENT.

14th inst.

Considerable interest was manifested. In the Bupreme Court, to-day, when a case, happily, so seldom beard in Hongkong, cams on for hearing before the Full Court (comprising the Chief Justice, Sir Francis Piggott, and Mr. Justice Gompertz). The matter at line was that in which Mr. Clive Fletcher Dixon, a solicitor, a member of the firm of Messrs Hastings and Hastings, was called upon to show cause why he should not be strack off the Rolls for alleged misconduct.

Mr. E. Potter, with whom was Mr. C. D. Wilkinton, of Messrs. Wilkinson and Grist, appeared on behalf of Messrs. Hastings and Hastingas while Mr. H. G. Calthrop, lastracted by Sr. J. Scott Harston, of Messra, Ewant and Harston, represented the respondent.

The respondent, locking somewhat paid, was present during the proceedings. He was seated at the left hand and of the tabis, and followed Mr. Petter's argument with apparent interest. He now and again conversed with a brother solicitor, who accompanied him into Court. There were also a number of legal luminaries, and a low spectators in attendance..

Cross, and it was the duty of the Court to bear ench cases, whether a criminal offence had been

the defendant, and the cross-examias (Counsel) will gask them: top saya a charges had been proved, and that b

Mr. ColibropThat le very vague.pany, and I ving with a European woman, who The Chief Justice said that charges had been ran tim into greater expense iban be could and dates should be adford, and that defendant had promised him to giron, MA

done so big, tepla pene on To this defendant answered-"I might have

taken thousands if I wanted to that defendant the witness box is weld that has had

Mr. Hastings then suggested

| Insputed against the man OF BONGAN made against the maeg ACT GAMES BANSRAM I Rizo up,, this mode of lila, and had not painíat it would be to their Lordships, he would?

Mt. Calthrop (for the defence) stated that this cans had bean brought by a private capacity, MI. Potter cannot give the dates now, but and out by an independent person, as for las will as soon as I cao, cred ca poate stance--the lacorporated Law Society, Conn. Mr. Justice Gomperta inquired whether the rel quoted a similar case hazrd la the Privy money defendant was alleged to have borrow. Conecil, and went on to say that the case shoulded Bad been repaid, dilan dark he brought by an independent person-such as Mr. Fotter's answer was in the negative, the Attorney General of the Colony, and not by Mr. Calthrop--He denies borrowing any

money. the aggrieved party.

The Chief Justice-There is nothing to pr vest a private pamoa from applying for a solicitor's name to be struck off the Rolls?

Mr. Calthrop agreed. He sald that there should, however, be Counsel representing the incorporated Law Society, and the proceedings should not be taken by the aggrieved party. The question is whether this case ought to be tried in that Court. The only case that could be dealt with was when the solicitor had been belare the Criminal Court, and secondly, the case in which a solicitor was called upon to show cause why his name should not be struck off the Rolls, and he had admits ted the offence, or he had neglected to show cause, The same principle bold good now although the procedure was different...

Council here went into authorities, and the Court adjourned for tiffin,

When the Const resumed allar the tiffin ad. journment, Mr. Calthrop copiioued with his argument. He said that if there was no ad- mission of the offence, then the question mast go before a jury. It was then clear, and of good Tea100, for their Lordships to send the case to a jury. They could not go on with the case dorit the man had been charged with a felony first. It was a case, he reiterated, to go before a jury, and should not be left to be tried on affi davits. Mr. Calthrop submited finally that a defendant. Their Lordships should send the case to a jury.

Mr. Potter replied to Mr. Calthrop, and dealt with previous cases at great length.

Mr. Potter-Yes, he denies that, Mr. Calthrop hare proceeded to read certain" rules from the Law Times newspaper wton Counsel for the plaintiffs objected to anything being quoted from a newspaper. His friend had a similar objection yesterday.

Mr. Calthrop replied that in making charges against a man the material char.es and dates should appear in the affidavits, but his friand bad other charges now which were not in the fidavits. Here Mr. Calthrop auld that if his friend "did not trust him he would hand. up the Law Times rules to the Court--which he did.

Mr. Potter-It is not a question of the trusting,

The Chief Justice-I should say that the charges be differently formulated before they come into Court,

Mr. Potter I shall be glad to do all in fairness to the 'defandani, The next charge, he said, was on the 8th January, 1979, when a man named Wan Hi engaged Messrs. Hastings and Has tings to act on behalf of a friend in a Police Court case. Wan Hi agreed to pay $50 costs. He instructed Mr. Dixon and paid to him $30 on account. This money defendant duly cre- dited to the firm as having been received as account. Do the 13th or 14th January, Was Hi paid to the defendant the remaining $10 eat of ed & the firm by the defendant and the firm never received it. The next charge against the defendant was in January of the presont year,

of £35 then the amalgamated firms will build brenght against the defendant calling upon him fary, should try the case-in all fairness 'to the f.the $50. This sum, however, was navar credit-

Mr. Justice Gompenz said that he had only had a cursory glance at the affidavits, but be could not find anything criminal in them. The charge alleged against the defendant was that of borrowing money from a client during the progress of an action,

Mr. Potter replied that there was nothing against the defendan'; but if misconduct could proved the Court was justified in striking him off the Roils. That was the reason for a Master. The defendant did not admit the charge.

When the Court started shortly before eleven o'clock, Mr. Potter (for Messrs. Hastings and Hastings) addressed the Court at some length. Bir address was dotted here and there with the citing of authorities on similar subjects. Counsel stated that this was a motion to show cause why he should not be struck off the Rolle. He thought it was better at the out- set of this matter if he dealt with the Court's ferisdiction in a matter of this kind. Mr. Potter thought, that he could make it clear if be dealt with the old and new procedure of England-the old procedure before the passing of the Solicitor's Act of 1888--and by the new procedure he meant that now in vogus. A motion made to the high Court, an affidavit was put in by the plaintiff in the matter, but if that affidavit contained anything of a criminal nature, the Court in all fairness to the defen-b dant would not compel him to answer that affidavit by another. The reason was obvious. The Court never made an order calling upon the defendant to answer an affidavit which would incriminate himself. If he filed Mr. Aucolt in a short felicitous speech con-

An affidavit and a prima facie charge mada gratulated Captain Hayes on his command,

out the Court referred the whole maiter to a referred to the favourable prospects of the new

Master. The Master would bear the evidenceJustice, service, and generally bespoke success for the

of both sides, bear Counsel on both sides, re- -venture.

Captain Hayes, in responding, expressed bisport-his-fading on the evidence to the High Cour, and the High Court acted accordingly conviction that the experiment was bound to

-that is to say, that il on the finding of the succeed, seeing that everything would be done

Mester it was found that the solicitor should be for the comfort and pleasure of those who

struck off the Rolls, it was done. If it was travelled by his ship and he expected to find recommended that the solicitor should be sus that before his return from Yokohama some pended, it was done. That was the old proce- six weeks benco avery cabin would be booked date, which applied hers-the old common law procédure. The only difference was that in Hongkong their Lordships could fulfil the functions of a Masier.

to advance.

On the promenade deck, a long and breezy walk, the company lounged for some time learning that the vessel was fitted with refrigerating apparatus-although no sugges tion is made that she is going into the frozen pork business-and has electric light through out. Certainly it is to be hoped that the service laaugurated by the Sephira will be fully patron- ised, for it meets a common demand. All passengers will be on an equal fooling and all will enjoy the same privileges. The Seguira is a vousel of some sono. tous.

B.B. WU TẦNG ĐANG AN A

SCHOOL VISITOR.

Chicaga, Máy o Wu-Ting-lang, Chinese Minister to the United States, has accepted the presidency of the Chinese school of Chicago, according to an announcement made to-day. The school is one of a series started under the auspices of the Imperial Chinese Government. Courses in Chi- Aese literature, domestic science, Chinese and International law, and in the customs and habita of Chinese in their own country will be given. There are thirty-two students ranging In age from 6 to go years already enrolled.

TALKS TO COLLEGE GIRLS.

Chicago, May 8. Wa Tiog-fang, the Chinese Minister to this, republic, was palpably embarrassed this after noon and lacked his usual ready flow of lan- guage. He explained it by saying that he was not accustomed to addressing an audience made up especially of women, particularly col Inge women. The couple of hundred Wellesley alamo who had gathered for their annual banquet on the ninth floor banquet hall of the Anditorium did not seem to notice it, though, and they applauded him heartily.

The Chief Justice referred to the Registrar. Mr. Potter stated that the Registrar was not on the same footing as a Master. There were Ints of things a Master could do, which the Registrar could not.

The Chief Justice The Master takes sum

monses.

Mr. Patter answered in the affirmative, and continued to remark that the Court should re- for this matter for raport, and the Court should decide what was to be done, or an, the other hand the Court should hear the case now.

Counsel cited a long chain of authorities on the subject of disbarring a solicitor. There was no suggestion. be pursued, that the case. should go to a criminal jury-all that was seeded was that the defendast show cause why he should not be struck off the Rolls

And having shown their Lordships what the procedure was, Mr. Petter observed that their Lordships' furisdiction, was-disciplinary, and nut criminal. In other words, a solicitor being sa officer of the honourable Court, the duty of the Court was to decide whether that person was a fit and proper person to con tinue as an officer of the Court. It was not the duty of the Court to find whether he had com- mitted a criminal offence. The question to be decided was, is he a fit and proper person to be an officer of the Count?" Their Lord ships' duty, was to see that no one who was not fit and proper person should be an officer of the Court and he was responsible to the Court for his conduct: Once again Mr. Petter called attention to be fact that the proceedings waro oot criminal, but disciplinary.

The Chief Justice referred to the question as to whether the proceedings were disciplinary or criminal. If the former the appeal was not taken away. They were not asked to find the Nose of the other speakers aroused so much defendsot guilty in criminal. How could they enthusiasm as Minister Wu. He began by say, then, that a solicitor was not a fit and apologizing for his embarrassment, following it proper person to contious on the Rolls if be ap by a confession of a change of mental atti-was not charged with embezzlement? tude toward women since his residence in the United States, and concluded by saying, that all women should be educated-if possible they should receive college education. He told of the condition of women in China and intimated that while it is desirable for Chinese to leam all good lessons possible from Western nations he would not have them imbibe any of our vices.

A CHINAMAN'S SUICIDE, BODY FOUND IN peculiar PosiȚION AT STANLEY.

A most remarkable case of suicide was dis covered on the hillside at Stanley, near No 4 bridge, last Sunday moming. The body of an qpknown Chizaman, whose age appears to be between thirty and thirty-five years was found. inspended from a branch of a tere by a piece of rope, one end of which was knotted round his neck.

Mr. Potter's reply was that there was, practi- cally, not one case in which the Court had refused to act.

The Chief Justico-1 don't say that the case you have cited was not necessary for the foundation of your argument.

Mr. Potter That was the reason why i s'ated it first. If the Court sent the case to a criminal jury, he went on, the matter would have to return to their Lordships again to drcide whether the man was's fit and proper person for the Court. Counsel then proceeded in show that there were cases where a solicitor has been found guilty by a jury of misconduct, his name has been struck off the Rolls, and is another case where he was not diabaned the A jury's verdict was Court refusing to do so. not to be relied on. The case, must be tried ab initio.

The Chief Justice-Yes. It is the same with civil servants,, If a jury find a civil servant not guilty of a charge, that does not prevent the Governor from dismisying him.

The Chief Justlco, after reviewing the au thorities, held that the case should be tried in the Supreme Court, is the absence of a Master. The Puisne Judge-I agree with the Chiaf Mr. Calthrop asked when the case was to be taken.

The Chief Justice-Tomorrow morning,'| Mr Calthrop Will it be taken in the ordine BIY way, by the calling of witnesses?

The Chief Justice-Yes,

Mr. Caltbrop asked whether there would be a jury summoned.

The reply was in the negative. The Court was then adjourned until tomor row morning at 10.30 o'clock.

The defendant was engaged by an Isdlan samed Gulab in a case on the 11st January, and he paid the defendant, on account of Messre. Bastings And Hastings, costs in the sum of $40. Only $30'of this sum the defend. ant crediled to his firm.

At this juncture, Counsel spoke as to the way In which defendant joined the firm of Messrs. Hastings and Hastings, The defendan', be said came to this Colony some time in Octo ber, 1904, and joined the firm as an assistapt He showed considerable ability in solicitor the conduct of the cases in which he had been instructed, and as far as Mr. Jobn Hastings could see he was a capable and trustworthy man and to show how Mr. Hastings looked upon the defendent as a valuab' man it seed only be mentioned that at the end of his term, defendant was called upon to enter into a second agreement, By that agreement it was agreed to keep-defendant for no addi tional term of five years as managing clerk, and at the end of the term he was promised A partnership in the business,

;

ask them to decide what panlchmant- thep k would decree to a case of this kind. Prey de

Mr. John Hastings was than called to should go to Japan, ostensibly on a hollday, solicitor's practice in Hongkong - And 3 was and that he should not return, He suggested the senior partner in the arm of all ezers. farther that defendant should go to some other Hastings and Hastings In 1906, DEO place where he could continue his practică. first joined the firm as assistant solicitors in On Defendant inid have nowhere to go to the stb'df April, 1907, be entered into sa naw agreement by which Mr. Dizon was to contigna I can't go home as my father has already two sons in the business." He bagged Mr. Hasts the firm's employmeat for another five years, ings to re-consider the maiter and let him stay at the sad of which he was to be given, a parte a lesson to him. That concluded the first a valuable man and had no desire to get rid of on, adding that what had occurred would be nership. Witness had always found Mr. Dixon

him. He expected great services of him in casa: Interview. A VER MA

proceeded” home during 1908, where he ra On the stat March, Mr. Hastings wrote to of witness' departure from the Colony, Witness

31st March, 1909,

mained till 15th October. The role in defendant the following letter:-

Dear Dixon-Referring to our interview his office le when a solicitor receives, mossy of the 16th instant, during which you ad- for costs, he anters it himself, in ag rough mitted to me that you had taken office cash book. Hathen hands the money, to the moner on various occasions, though you cashier, whose duty-it-it-to-pay-tbor money said the amounts were small, I bave con at once to the Bank. A receipt was alwayYS KİM sidered the matter very carefully, being for all monies paid to the firm: Each solicito

had to make an entry into the diary for all serv most auxious to do what is right both as regards yourself and as regards this firm vices rendered to clients and those entries want, and I can come to no conclusion but that into the bill for costs. On the 2nd February

1900, witness had an interview with Tam Ling you must leave this office.

Kwong, his present Interpreter, and with a former interpreter who had since retired from his service.. In consequence of these inter views, be made inquiries and alas requested Chief Detective-Inspector Hanson to make in». quiriei in regard to a certain case. He obtain ed certain evidence to the case of Wong H Tam Ling Kwong, further gave him further particulare of the case of Wong Hui Tong, in which the Kwong Hing Cheong firm saed Rese ter, Brockelmann & Co. Mr. Dixon had taken up that caso. On the r6ib of March, wittinen, S had an interview with Mr. Dixon On the fol lowing day, he wrote to his brother informing bim of the result of the interview. In the la«, terview, witness told Mr. Dixon that it was ka- ported that he was in the habit: of receiving=" money for costs from clients and paying a. portion of it to the office and keeping the balance for himself Witness gave Mr. Dixon, to understand that: he had been informed that - this used to be done príncipally. in

Court Palica

CREDI oring, casus. in which Mr, Dixon received money is cash from clients. Witness said that he had

You are in a position of grost trust and responsibility and it is impossible that you can be continued in such a position, unless this firm has complete confidence in you which of coame cannot be the case after what has occurred.

The Agreement between us must there fore be cancelled and I enclose you an Agreement cancelling saioe which please sigo and return.

I do not, however, wish to send you away at once; and have no objection to your staying on for a mouth or two if you wish at the same salary, etc, in order to give you time to look round and make your plan as to what you will do:

It must be understood, however, that we are at liberty to determics such asgaga ment at any time should any necessity arise for doing so,

As regards the money paid by Sharpe Parkers & Co. for your admission 'us' a Notary, I have written to my brother to try and get it refunded. If that cannot be done of course you must pay it.

I trust that if you do stop here for a time.made independent inquiries in the matter and,

As suggested, you will give up living with the woman with whom you are now living and try and save all you can.".

I should be glad also to know particulars of the amounts which you have taken from the office monies and to have same re- fanded.

Yours faithfully,

(Sd) JOHN HASTINGS.

C. F. Dixon, Esq. Mr. Poller, alter reading the letter, continued by saying that Mr. Hastings wanted to cover defendant as much as possible, and requested more Mr. Justice Gompertz-Was that mentioned him to stay on for two months

antil be had collected sufficient money to In the agreement?,

Mr. Patter-Yes. (Proceeding)-So your leave the Colony. There was no reply to Lordships will readily sea that Mr. Dizon the above letter, and on and April Mr. Hastings 15th inst... is a man, whom

Mr. Hastings could addressed defendant again, calling upon him The 'Supreme Court was comfortably filled bave had do desire to get rid of, and to antrender the signed agreement which was with spectators this morning when the later your Lordships will more readily recogniserent to him on 31st ult. On the and April, the locutory proceedings were taken, in which the fact that M. Hastings was to have rame day, Mr. John Hastings received a letter Mr Cliva Fletcher Dixon, solicitor, Jath of the left Hongkong this year for some time and he from Messrs, Bwens and Hanston. The letter firm of Messrs, Hastings and Hastings, was relied upon Mr. Dis slepping into his post.is appended :-

tion, and to be of every assistance to the firm called upon to show cause why his came should not be struck off the Rolls of the Sap-when the senior partner left the Colony, Your reme Court for alleged misconduct.

The visitors numbered some forty panons, including many Chinese gentlemen, officers of the Hongkong Police Force, and many civilians, who followed the case with considerable inter- 631,

Lordships will.sen.then that Mr. Dixon is a valuable men, and so far as desiring to get rid of him a partnership in the business was offered kim.

Counsel at this point explained the rule The defendant entered the court-room existing in the office of Messrs. Hastings and accompanied by bis lawyers and his brother-Hastings to the receipts of monies, Wher solicitor a few minutes before the Court sat, and took up the same position at the left hand end of the table as he occupied yesterday. He appeared more cheerful to-day, and chaited freely with his lawyers.

money was paid over to any person in the firm, he said, a receipt is given to the client, entries were made in the rough cash book by the solicitor receiving the money, and Toote made in the solicitor's diary-of-Brory- The Judges, Sir Francis Piggott and Mr.transaction. When this was done the money Justice Gomperie, arrived in Court abortly after is turned over to the cashier, who pays it into hall-past ten, when Mr. E Potter (representing the bank. Of course, the reason why-a-soli Messrs. Hastings and 'Hastings) the complain. citer should be an scrupulously exact as to the anis, began his address to the Judges. Mr. entries in the books was because of the bills of Patter was instructed by Mr. C. D. Wilkinson, costs to be sent to clients, of Messrs. Wilkinson and Grist.

Counsel went into the alleged facts of the card at great length. He opened his addreas by saying that the application was on behalf of Mr. John Hastings, of the firm of Hastings and Hastings, that Mr. Clive Fletcher Dixon be struck off the Rolle as a solicitor on the ground that he had been guilty of gross misconduct in his capacity as a solicitor.

Mr. Justice Gompens-Gross misconduct Mr. Polter-Yes,"

This brought Counsel to the 2nd February- On that day an importasi date in this matter. Mr. John Hastings had a conversation with two of bis interpreters, and by reason of that con- versation he made inquiries and as a result of those inquiries Mr. Hastings discovered that so far from defendant baing a loyal and being an absolutely trustwanty period, that faithful servant to the firm, and so far from ho had taken there sums of money, bor. rowed sums, and made requests as already All this evidence was obtained absolutely independent of any employed of Only in one care did Mr. Hastings invoke any Messrs. Hastings and Hastings, said Counsel. outside aid, and in that case a police-inspector brought him in touch with the man, Wan Hi, in securing the charges. As he bad already stated the charges are five in number,, and are sup ported by Wong Hui Tong, who is an inde pendent witness, and managing partner of wealthy and influential firms of silk merchants- of Canton,

Mr. Calthrop (for the defence)-Might I sug-mentioned. gest that, my friend specifically formulate the charges against my client. I understand there are three charges of embezzlement,

Mr. Potter-f will come to them presently. The Chief Justice-Put them in the best form you can!

Mr. Galthrop returned that he wanted to know thecharges Messrs. Haslingsand Hastings are relying on.

Mr. Potter-There are three charges, but before coming to them I want to give a sketch Messrs. Hastings and Hastings. * of Mr. Dixon's connection with the firm of

Mr. Calthrop-I want to know, the charges

Mr. Potter replied that he would come to them presently,

Mr. Calthrop-We are entitled to know what

they are.

Mr. Potter-Three io nomber; and hers Counsel opened his case. He stated that witness, one Wang Hui Tong, of Canton, would prove to the Court that on the aged July, 1908, be paid the sum of Sco to Mr. Dixon for costs. was never credited to Movars. That sum Hastings and Hastings, nor did the firm receive the monty, Mr. Wongal Tong would also prove-

L

Mr. Calthrop-We want the three charges, Mr. Poller-They will come to more than three.

Mr. Calibrop-The man is fighting for his the charges against him.

The body was discovered by an Indian policeman, who had it cut down and taken to No. 1 Police Station from where it in this case was a man in Canton-the mana-professional existence. And we want to know

Mr. Potter agreed with the statement, and proceeded to say that the one important witness pingpartner of a very influential firm. This man might be able to attend a civil case, but would, probably, not like to be associated in a criminal matter. It was not found that the defendant had been guilty of embezzlement. What was to be proved was misconduct. And the reason for sending the matter to a Master was that in the event it was proved that he was not guilty bls good name and fame would not suffer. Countel proposed that the care should be tried in accordance with the old procedure,

The Chief Justice-By hearing witnesses? Mr. Potter Yas. Tas case should be heard by one fudge or by the Fall Court.

The Chial Justice Doss it not follow then that this does not call in the assistance of jury ?ack44

Continuing, r. Poller stated that during the continuance of an action the defendant bar. rowed various sums of money from Wong Hui Tong, amounting in all to Sygo; that at the conclusion of that action-

The Chief Justice-Was Wong Hui Tong a client of the firm?..

Mr. Potter-Yes, t

Apparently there was no reason why this man 'should come here and swear to ruiz Mr. Dixon. Mr. Dixon conducted the case for him and conducted it successfully, and so far from owing him any gradge Wong Hui Teng owed him & debt of gratitude.Wan Hi, the other witness, is the manager of a fruit store in Hongkong, and Gulab is a famader in the Police Force. There could, therefort,, be no collation among the witnesses: Wang Hui Tong belongs to CLD

resides in

Galab Hongkong, and tea; Wan Hi

On the 26th March, Mr. John Hastings" bad is an Indian; an interview with the defendant on this matter. It might be stated here that at that interview Mr. Hastings was not aware of the charges to be made by Wong Hui Tong, of Canton.

At the interview, Mr. Hastings, said: to the defendant that it had been reponed to him (Mr. Hastings) by Buog Kam Ming (the late interpreter) that defendant bad clients for costs and of paying portions of it is been in the habit of receiving monies from to the office and retaining the balance for him. self; that this was done usually in Police Court cases, or cares in which clients paid money to he had made independant ingairer into the bim direct in cash. Mr. Hastings also said that matter, and that he was salified that he had obtained sufficient evidence to satisfy him that

the charges were true,

...

.

2nd April, 1909

Dear Sin-We have been consulted by Mr. C. F. Dixon relative to your letter to him of the 31st ult, and Mr. Dixon has informed us of what took place at your interview with him on the 26th alt.

Mr. Dixon instructs or that at such in terview he denied the charges which you advanced against him..

4

was satisfied that the informaton given him was true. Mr. Dixon denied the allegations and shortly afterwards left the room, but witnezi almost immediately called him back Witoass informed Mr. Dixon that he bad, svidence: In: his possession on which he could prosecuta [him, but that he had no wish - whatever to do so. He, however, advised him to go away, as it was impossible to keep him in. the office. Mr. Dizon then admitted, of having Occasions taken money from the office, but he aaid the amounts were small and the were not many on which he did so." Witness replied that the amount was not the question, but the matter was one of principle. Mr. Dixon. was in a position of trust and responsibilty, and witness said he could not sen how it possible for him to keep him in the office. Be suggested to Mr. Dixon that, he should go away and practise alsowhere. The latter re plied that he had nowhere to go. He could; not go home, because his father bad already two) sons in the business. Witness suggested other places where he might go to. Witness altrie buted what had occurred to the fact that Mr. Dixon was living with a European woman, who, must have run him into a great deal of expence, swid more than he could afford. Mr. Dixon he did not spend more than he could, afford. Witness reminded defendant that his (witness')) brother had spoken to him about the subject of living with this woman and that he had pro- In the first paragraph of your letter mised to give up that mode of life. Defendant ander reply you allege that; at the inter-begged-witness to give him andlber chaene. view in question, the charges were ad-and said this would serve as a lesson to him. He said he could have taken thous unds if he had wished to do so. te begged bim to reconsider the matter, and writer to his brother. Witness said he had already, written to his brother Witness said he falt absolutely certain that defendant had admitted having taking money from the offices fant

At this stage, two letters ware produced, both,"

31st March and written by witness, dated the and April, respectively. A reply was received to the letter of and April from Messrs. EwARK and Harston. Continuing, witness said. that. on receipt of the letter from Messrs. Ewenn, and Barston, be called Mr Dixon-10. bis room and asked him what he meant by admitting that he had taken mossy from the office and then instructing a firm solicitors to write a letter denying it.. Mr. Dixon: said he must deny it or genader altogeiber, Witness said he saw no reason why he should go under allogether. Hongkong was not tha osly place in the world. He could make Witness said i^Mx living anywhere. Dixon wished to fight, he was perfectly,

da BG.

Mr Dixon unsaid: willing he did not wish to fight. He asked: to be allowed to practise in Hongkong and said he would not take away witness' clients or, words to that effect. This request witness : refused, Witness had no wish to fight Mr. Dixon: Mor bad be any motive to ruin him. He was, the most useful man in his office. T

mitted,

We-are-instructed to say that such was not the case and that the charges in ques tion were then and still are denied.

We-bava-further to inform you that, in view of your statement to Mr. Dixon at the interview of the 26th ult, above alluded to that Mr. Hung Kam Ning had admitted that the charges were true and that he was implicated, Mr. Harston has seen Mr. Hung Kam Ning and bas been informed by him that he has not only parer ad- mitted the truth of the charges, but strenuously denies them.

Under the terms of the Agreement dated the 15th April, 197, made by your firm with Mr. Dixon bels entitled to certain iubstan tial rights-bich rights he is the more en titled to by reason of the fact that he has, io reliance upon the dus recognition by your firm of those rights, partly performed the terms of such Agreement.

This Agreement we gather from your letter under reply you are desirous should be cancelled, but, upon the facts laid bofere us, we have adrised "r. Dixer be should refuse to sign the Agreement of Cancella: tion which you have prepared and endor red upon the original Agreement,

to

With reference to the question of the money paid for his admission as a Notary by Mesars. Sharpe Parker & Co. (who wo

By Mr. Calthrop-Witness bad had his peses understand are your London Agents) we have advised Mr. Dixon that, upon the tice for a long time in Hongkong. He started facts fald before us by bim, it is perfectly in 1880-29 Fexra, Witness did not know clear that your firm and your firm alone fr it be had been very successful During tegally liable to reimburse Messrs. Sharpe that time, he had a great deal of sikke Parker & Co. the amount disbursed by perience in criminal and Common Law themis

A cases. At the time Tam Ling Kwong mada In view of the position raised by the his report, bs did not specify any a parti- charges brought by you against Mr. Dixbacular point. He did not know, of his coWNY we can wall understand (as we are inform knowledge but had been told about it by Bang ed is the case) that the relations between Kam Ming, Soon afterwards, he placed sha you are somewhat strained and the posis matter in the hands of Inspector Hanson: tion altogether by as mezar a desirable.Through Inspector Hanson, he got some av- one from Mr, Dixba's point of view.

It is possible that if Mr. Harsion could meet you to discuss the matter some satis factory arrangement might be arrived at, but you will please distinctly understand that; In the meantime, Mr. Dixon claims that bis rights under the Agreement above * mentioned are valid and subsisting.

Yours faithfully,

(Sd) EWENS & HARSTOW. John Hastings, Esq;

Soon after the receipt of this letter, said with the defendant. What do you mean by Counsel, Mr. Hastings had another faterview admitting this thing to me," be said," and go to a firm of solicitors and fastruct them to deny Mr. Dixen, Counsel said, answered "It isnot "I must deny it,” the defendant is alleged to so," He then left the room, and had not gone have said, "or also I shall go under altogether,

told defendant that there was no necessity There were other places than Hongkong.

The defendant asked if he could not be allowed to practise in Hongkong.

dence from Wong Hi which satisfied him. On the 16th of March, he had information as to Wong Hi and Golab, The interview took place about 5.10 or 5.15 in the afternson. Besides with Dess and Mr. Dizon, nobody else was prevent at theinterview. He did not have a third and fandens pendent person present because he did not think it necessary, Witness admitted that it would have been advisable to have had a third parach present at the time Mr. Dizon was charged ibe alleged amberlement. Haiwould not: | advised a client to adopt that course,Ha

The Istler did not give thestre of it. of the interview word for word; but als letter to ale brother and preserved (a)

WAT sent to the mergue for burial. The body was sighted from the roadside, and was in a most peculiar position. It was hung ing from slender branch to which the other and of the rope was tied. The branch could not hold the weight and was practically snap

contained a summary of it. (Hare as Jolene daled the 17th March was produced and read in ped, while the man's knees were a few inches from the ground. The man, who was partially

Court Part of the letter contained, sancter disrobed, had no doubt climbed the ireo and, having adjusted the rope, jumped off,

irrelevant to the case, which was left oraz by permission from the Bench The concle Apparently when the rope began to tighten be repented of his dead, for thers were evident signs of a struggle. The surfaced roots of the

alven up a good position and good talentsman for what 2) ankepungk Mr. Hastings cross-b trees were entwined round his neck, his right West Was Woven lo the rope above, and the

Mr. Hastings said he could not go

proceeding when the Court rose wrist was deeply cut, it is stated, dus no doubt

Concluding, Mr. Potter said he did not know When the proceedings:reen) to the desperate attempts made by the man to raise himself to such a position asto release the Mr. Potter-No. cord here were also abrasions on the neck The Chief Justice-But you did not say it

what the defence in the case would be. He did sacs in Court and increased was not a criminal charge, depuse

not know how defendant' proposed to get over the spectators were noticed) where the slender cord had cut into the skin.

Me, Potter said that the Court, and not a

Mr. Hastings said "It is not, the question what seemed to be an insuperable difficulty local Europesa marche Fromtha position of the body, It goes to show that the man was in soch a condition after the jury, was the fit parson to dicide whether the

of the amount. It is a matter of principle created by his own language in these interviews, throughout the attenspoe's; drop as to be unable to raise himself to his feet. officer waya åt person or not. Where pli

PA Mr. Hastings went on to fail defendant that he Bat he look it the defence would be a total cross-examination of the man left no clue to his identity. As bis citor was the officer of the Conity the Conn Mr. Potter- think the witness will suppl❘ was in a position of trust and responsibility, declal of the charger, which would mass that tinuad-after Mr. Caliais remains wars more or less in a state of decom alone was to and whelber that person was at of the dates: I have not sens alm, but i think and that he could not keep him in employment Mr. Hastings: had invanted them, with mer numbering some wat whole affair to defendant keeping bad come, had koerd the witnesses, when they had heard: Messrs, Wilkinson and 20slips i he must have committed the deed a "not, ‹ There was no suggestion of a jury. There he can give them. I think the action conclud-after this. He (MG) Hastings) attributed the valious.particularly. When their Lordships / munten by:-Men fruit

was no way of getting out of those decided" "ed'some time in July, 1958,

| the action brought by the, Kwang Hing for more, than a minute, ben" Mr, kastings. Mr. for him going under altogether," portion of the leitor said that kin? Dixon:

Mr. Justice Gomperts-What was the action 7 Mr. FotterYes, He was the plaintiff la Cheong firm against Reater, Brockelmann called him hack, and said to him: 1 have

At the conclusion of sufficient avidence to prosecute you, Dixon and Company that action, Counsel went on a sum of but I have no wish to do so. I want you to go Stc,881 was due to Mr. Wong firm from away, for I cannot keep yen in my office now! Router, Brockelmann and Company a costa | Ton cfendant sat down, and then stid ja At an Interview between the defendant and Mr. admit having taken money from the office, bul Woog, the defendant suggested that if as hand. It was only small amounts, and there were not ed over the full amount in costs to Mr. Wong many occasions on which I did its ke (defendant) should get $1,000 for himself. 20, Mr. Galthrop 1 would ask my friend to

specify the dates,