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regulated and understood among Western Nations, and I find that he was fully alive to the necessity of making ample provisions against such dangers. I suggested the appointment in the first instance of one of their Foreign Employés from the Maritime Customs, until there was time for their own officers to be educated as to the nature and gain experience of the duties which devolve upon Consuls and the limits of their power. He seemed disposed to concur with me in this view and in the necessity of taking especial precautions against the abuses incident to a corrupt administration and underpaid Officials.
Notwithstanding the strong feeling expressed therefore by the deputations of the Chamber of Commerce and the Mercantile Communities of Hongkong to-day on this subject, I am convinced it is by such alone that any satisfactory or permanent settlement of existing differences and conflicting interests can be effected. There is nothing in my opinion in the position of Hongkong as a British Colony or a Free Port, which should preclude the feasibility of making such arrangements in accordance with International Law and usage, which shall, in Lord