I think it would be better to say that the circumstances of
"Sir E. Lytton's absence why Jeffry & his
newest cannot be as definite as hoped
"with that I feel it right & express
1.
1.
A
very decidedly the doubt at Hongkong whether the public interest will be promoted
in the opinion of the S. of S. In
by submitting &c. &c. information &
correspondence that has taken place
Sir Eighteen yourself
2
re J. Basang in
relation & q. suspension - I cannot entertain this doubt I do not feel at liberty & comply with his application."
This will I think be an adoption of the right course
33
with at the same time he free from
obligations. Leaving
the final decision
of the S. of State.
The better & commence by acquainting both Dr. and Sir E. Lytton. I begin by saying that in consequence of his prolonged absence from London I prefer to communicate with him, though
of course in such a case I speak with
less authority, than I delay all
communication till the return of the Sec. of State
or would do that effort.
Brass 21.
B