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of the political situation and the necessity of urging people to evacuate. Nevertheless they have duly weighed the consequences of the present compulsory Order and are convinced that the confidence of the Colony will only be restored by a scheme which is both equitable and voluntary.
I cannot recommend acceptance of petition for reasons given in first part of paragraph 5 of my telegram No. 703, in addition to defence considerations which you have stressed.
The cost of this telegram has been paid by the Committee.
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