HONGKONG.
487
No. 27
99
SECRETARY OF STATE'S DESPATCH RESPECTING THE RECENT DISTURBANCES IN CON- NECTION WITH THE TAKING OVER OF THE NEW TERRITORY,
Laid before the Legislative Council by Command of His Excellency the Governor.
HONGKONG
No. 118.
SIR,
DOWNING STREET,
23rd June, 1899.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Despatch No. 107 of the 28th April and its enclosures, in which you have given me some further details of the recent disturbances in connection with the taking over of the New Territory.
2. I have read your despatch and enclosures with interest, and am confirmed in the favourable opinion which I expressed in my despatch No. 96 of the 26th ultimo as to your own action and the manner in which you have been supported both by civilian officials and by Her Majesty's Naval and Military forces. Without wishing to undervalue in any way the services rendered by others, it is evident to me that much has been due to the energy of Mr. LOCKHART, and to his local knowledge.
3. I have not failed to bring to the notice of the Secretary of State for War and the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty the manner in which you have spoken of the services rendered by the Naval and Military forces.
4. I have at the same time to acknowledge the receipt of your Despatch No. 105 of the 27th April enclosing a copy of a letter addressed to you by the Secretary to the Hongkong Chamber of Commerce in reference to the recent disturbances.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient,
Governor,
Sir H. A. BLAKE, G.C.M.G.,
SC.,
&c.
humble Servant,
J. CHAMBERLAIN.