Sir, - That the Government has been in possession of the ground since the date of Colonel de Bull's letter.
I have seen (Signed) J. Pardinier Austin Colonial Secretary. W4.255
Sir, Head Quarter House, Hongtong, 28th December 1875.
508 I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter W.1988 of the 22 instant, and while concurring with his Excellency the Governor that the correspondence about "Washermen's Sheds" originated by his Excellency the Administrator should cease, I regret that I cannot accept the decision of his Excellency that the transfer of the land in question to the Colonial Government was completed on receipt of Lieutenant Colonel de Bull's letter.
The Hon. J. Gardner Austin, Admin Secretary.