two
After some further discussion, I suggested (rather unhelpfully) that perhaps the problem was more one of timing: that I honestly did not think his proposal should be made at this juncture and that clearly the best person to advise him as to whether his ideas would be helpful in the negotiations, would be the Minister responsible for Hong Kong affairs Richard Luce who would also have full access to advice from the Governor of Hong Kong. Sir Philip then indicated that Richard Luce had suggested that he might sound me and others out as to the value of the proposal. I replied a little curtly that if that were the case, then my strong advice would be that the proposal, kindly meant though it was, should be shelved at least for the time-being. Sir Philip naturally was a little hurt but said he would now wish to think things over before consulting Richard Luce again.
As I said to you on the telephone today, this is obviously a crackpot idea - but kindly meant. I see no value in pursuing it and, indeed, merely embarrassment and a counter-productive outcome if we do.
I am copying this letter to Bim Davies for information and amusement.
c.c.
L.M. Davies, Esq.
Jame
و سقف
Lack Boter
(Jack Cater)