by the Hong Kong for in Aff.
I may add that Shave sent a full report of this cause to the Secretary of State for FA. and to H.M's Minister at Peking, but that I have not hitherto received any instructions in reply as to the course I am to pursue in dealing further with this serious Matter. This consideration impels me to beg you to represent to H.E. the Secretary of State that it would be a great satisfaction to me if H.E. would consent to withhold from the Viceroy the communication of his intention with regard to these 13 prisoners until such time as the officer-in-Charge of the Consulate can receive definite instructions from H.M's Minister at Peking as to the action he is to take in a case of such exceptional gravity.
I have &c.
DJ Gr.1. Recolett Consul