Si T. R
Copies of these papers have been communicated to the For. Office by the War Office.
The position of this question is somewhat altered by the possibility of the temporary occupation of the Kowloon Peninsula by our Troops.
The question of permanent occupation of that conquered land is reserved for Lord Elgin's management. In view, however, of the case of our Troops being quartered there, and of the almost certain influx of Europeans and other persons from Hong Kong who will be attracted thither in hopes of gain, it would be prudent for the Governor of Hong Kong to caution any such visitors that they must conduct themselves with propriety towards the Chinese Inhabitants - as in the present relations of the Imperial Govt with the Court of Pekin it is important that Europeans should not give offence to the local Govt.
Martial Law and caution would be the best warning, but scenes like those imposed on us by the Authorities in a Territory which does not belong to us should be avoided. If this suspicion should be entertained, we should have to confer with the For. Office.
07.9 May.
M. Irwin
To Governor of Hong Kong (not being a temperate reference) relating to Nas (B+7. Mit cap 76. re the letter regarding the Govt's subjects resorting to (here) harbour).