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clanning rights, as British subjects, sicher from inhabiting ceded districts such as Hongkong and Mauleon, or subsequently by descent from Chinese residents on British territory.
2. In his despatch which is dated June 18th, Sir Rutherford Alcock has transmitted a copy of his correspondence with the Chinese Imperial Authorities and the results.
Enclosure No.2.
Consul Robertson covering a printed Circular, which I transmit, of Sir Rutherford Alcock to Her Majesty's Consular officers defining more particularly their duties in reference to persons of Chinese origin claiming protection as British Subjects.
Enclosure No.3.
I also inclose an opinion arrived at by Sir Rutherford Alcock, which now clearly explains the result of such claims to British protection under the Treaties with China, being claims that have been made the subject of illegal transfer and otherwise improper purposes, that I endorse it for Your Lordship's information.
The second despatch is from Mr Pauncefote, the Attorney General, in reference to both these despatches, and Your Lordship will perceive that at present there is little immediate probability of Chinese claimants of British protection arising here or at Kowloon.
Nevertheless it is an indisputable fact that several Chinese were transferred along with Hongkong and