the new taken the case Ackon the French Government; and without further proof of the man's rationality it would be hopeless to apply for repayment to the Belgian authorities of the city which is now stated to be his birthplace, Love teen boo Kamburgh.
Ander these circumstances, I fear that the costs incurred in this case will have to be borne by Hong Kong; and I suggest that for the future, less expensive means of repatriating distressed seamen should be adopted, especially by sending them home by the P. & O. mail steamer, when he would in all probability have easily obtained a berth in a sailing vessel.
It was, in my opinion, a somewhat considerable expense to proceed when their nationality is disputed.
Indexed: Hong Kong 1106 75
The Under Secretary of State, Foreign Office MINUTE.
Mr. Kantha 4 Feb: Sir J. Pauncefote. 57 Mr. Malcolm. Mr. Meade. Mr. Herbert. Mr. Lowther. Lord Carnarvon.
With reference to your letter of the 29th Ultimo, I am directed by the Earl of Carnarvon to request that the Earl of Derby will inform the French Government that Her Majesty's Government decline to be responsible for the expenses incurred in the case of Victor (Sayeton of Engeler), sent home from Hongkong as a distressed seaman, as his Lordship has intimated.