Their Excellencies, whilst expressing their recognition of the just behaviour of H.M. Govt in the matter, at the same time begged me to write to them on the subject.
I therefore addressed the inclosed note to the Prince of King. In a few days I received H. J. H.'s reply, copy of which I have also the honour to inclose, in which he concludes with the expression of the wish that the Government of Hongkong may be instructed from England to comply with the terms of the Treaty.
As I have already intimated to the ministers, that the course they desire to be adopted would be taken for granted as the fulfilment of the one I am at a loss to understand the reason of the request contained in the paragraph of the Prince's despatch above alluded to. I have etc.
(sd.) J.G. Groman