and probably most undesirable
However this
may
be the
proposal is one which Her Majesty's Government would not be justified in pressing upon China, unless the Chinese Customs see their way to an effectual protection of the Chinese Revenue
Lords
and even in that case My Lords are of opinion that it would be better that any arrangement which could be agreed upon between Sir R. Alcock and Mr Hart should be carried into effect by the independent action of the Chinese administration, than in virtue of a treaty engagement with Her Majesty's Government
190
Government which it might be difficult to forego and perhaps dangerous to enforce
I have the honor to be
Sir
Your obedient Servant,
Lord Mallet
P.S. The printed Inclosures in your letter are returned as herewith requested