The Duke of Newcastle to Sir W. Robinson.
Downing Street,
20th October, 1861.
I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Mr. Merin's dispatch, No. 136 of the 24th July last, and I have to acquaint you in reply that the Secretary of State for War has instructions for the repayment to the Agents General of the sum of £134 15s. 8d. to be held to the credit of the Colony of Hongkong, this sum being due to the Colonial Government on account of Military Expenditure incurred in the years 1854, 1855.
[Page 14]
Sir W. Robinson.
263
In continuation of my letter of "Ordnance in January 1885, I was told by them that though informed of the Lords Commissioners of Her Majesty's Treasury having sanctioned the payment, they had received no instructions to pay the sum.
In addition to this £134 15s. 8d. was a small amount expended by this Government in repairs after the evacuation of the premises and to arrange the accounts with the Military authorities finally and prevent further queries, I respectfully suggest that the sum of £134 15s. 8d. be paid by the War Department into the hands of the Agents General and held to the credit of the Colony.
I have, &c.
(Signed) W. J. Unerary
Colonial Secretary Administering the Government
I have, &c.
(Signed) Newcastle.