a minute can do. His present post would effect a very considerable saving to the public; and I do not know what his own gain thereby, amounting to ￡ 550 per annum, might be although this might be done though Expedient.
But the question for the Under Secretary of State for War is mainly, What are the duties of the military commandant at Kowloon? Is he expected to take an active part in suppressing piratical questions, if sudden exigency should arise on the coast of China or in the piratical Archipelago?
In reply to No. 10, I doubt Col. Caine's fibres, without in the least disparaging the services he has rendered in earlier times. I think in forwarding this to the War Department, Sir W. M. might say that as a colonial power he has no reason to object to the purpose, but that the question of the suitability of Col. Caine for the post he seeks must be left to Lord Palmerston's decision.
Memo. 04.
For Blackwood - A draft letter in the terms above indicated may be prepared for Sir E. Molesworth's approval, but I think it should be addressed to Lord Hardinge.
12. the Mil? To be seen), but that is a point in the letter which you have to arrange.
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