Note 249 — Chapter VII · THE SHERIP MASAHOR
Reading edition
"Sarawak became virtually a protected State. Her ruler was appointed a public officer of the Crown, and such unequivocal countenance and support were given as to assure the natives, and to induce British subjects to embark their lives and fortunes in the country."—The Rajah to the Secretary of State for the Colonies. Nevertheless protection and support were withheld.
The Governor of Singapore sent the H.E.I.C.'s steamer, Hooghly, in November 1859, to safeguard British interests, but there was no need of her services then, and she left almost immediately.