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sufficient discrepancies in his statements were nevertheless detected by myself as well as by the Chinese Officer to leave no reasonable doubt that the letter had been fabricated by enemies of the alleged writers, with the hope, most probably, that foreign intervention against the Ch'in clan might thus be brought about.
I enclose a translation I have made of the letter in question.
The proceedings of the two clans.
I am,
Fred (Signed) Mr Sped! Mayers,
Vice Consul in Charge of H. B. M. Consulate at Canton
(Forms Copy.)
Mhuurm Colonial Secretary
and on my return to Canton shall request that the District Authorities may be directed to prosecute farther inquiries into