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of the colony of Hong Kong, which call for the enquiry proposed by the Parliamentary Petitions. I shall state nothing which will not be established, if Mr. Edwin James, M.P. for Mary-le-bone succeeds in obtaining the papers; of his intention to move for which, I am glad to see he has given notice.
But, before I do so, let me notice one preliminary error, suggested, doubtless, by those who fear exposure, and which, unless removed, may render enquiry impracticable.
It has been urged on the British public, that the quarrels and bickerings of a little community ought not to occupy the attention of Parliament.
I do not understand the position.
If it be meant that the case is one of quarrels and bickerings, I do not hesitate to say, that the objection argues an entire unacquaintance with the facts of the case, or else the conscious and deliberate purpose, of averting enquiries, by misleading the public as to their nature.
It is a case of crime; not of constructive, but of direct and positive crime, in its most familiar acceptation. It rests upon evidences sworn and unsworn, documentary and oral, official and private.
If established, it inculpates of extortion, bribe-taking, corrupt alliances, malversation, resetting of pirates, felons, and murderers, and other offences of no speculative or uncertain character, a number of English people, in the Government employ abroad, filling offices of rank in a British colony, and even representing to the eyes of foreign powers the majesty of British empire.
If disproved, it inculpates the witnesses, of conspiracy and falsehood.
