to construct a battery necessary therefor in time of War, the Colonial Government will, on a representation from the Officer Commanding the troops that the necessity of the Military Service requires it, undertake to hand over the Site in such period as he may name, without waiting for the expiration of the three month's Notice which would under ordinary circumstances be given.
With regard to the site proposed for a Battery on the foreshore, Lyemoon Pass, and which it appears is on Chinese territory, I am to observe that should an opportunity offer itself of securing a Military reserve in this position, the Secretary of State for War considers it very desirable that it should be taken advantage of.
With reference to the last paragraph of your letter under reply, I am to suggest that instructions may be sent to the Officer administering the Government by the Mail of the 25th instant, which will enable the construction of the trial Battery referred to being proceeded with.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient Servant,
Edward Huggard
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