477
I
would seem to be nothing to prevent the immediate execution of them
observes
Lord de Grey
moreover that the application for additional Troops at Hong Kong is based on
Colonial services; and
he trusts therefore that, under these circumstances the Duke of Newcastle will issue peremptory directions to the Lieut Governor not to interpose any interference with
the diminution of the Force in China agreed upon by the Government, even though
it should lead to the withdrawal from Hong Kong of the reinforcements lately sent thither or even a still larger reduction of the existing garrison.
I have the honor to be
your obedient servant,
Edward Luytens
1