I hope we call not spend any base a Swalhr breach present.
J add Japan, to make tidal observations, most valuable results would be obtained, both as regards tidal and the interests of shipping frequenting these ports.
SCIENCE
I would suggest that a circular should be drawn up, setting forth the advantages to be obtained, and instructions for taking the observations.
I shall be happy with the assistance of Mr Roberts to prepare the circular.
The Observatory about to be established at Hong Kong might ultimately become the centre at which all these observations should be analyzed, and where tide books for the various ports would be prepared. Singapore and the Straits Settlement might be added.
To do this however some considerable special organization would be required, and a tide predicting machine would be necessary.
In the meantime I would suggest that the Government of Hong Kong should enter into some arrangement with Mr Roberts to deal with the observations obtained.
It is most desirable that the observations of the present year should be...