 The practice of employing Indian convicts continued throughout the 19th century as a means to provide the necessary labour for public infrastructure works, such as the construction of roads, drains and public buildings.In 1807, a Royal Charter to provide for the establishment of a Supreme Court and a police force in Penang was granted.The Supreme Court of Penang was first opened at Fort Cornwallis in George Town in 1808, with Edmond Stanley assuming office as its first "Recorder" (Judge).