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declarations of the Yamên as to this point were very satisfactory, and I do not hesitate to state my belief that the promises contained in the note of the Yamên, taken together with the supplementary declarations, will, if carried out faithfully, prove of benefit to the inland trade in foreign goods.
Joint action of the Consuls of the Treaty Powers will, however, be necessary to obtain satisfactory practical results from the Yamên's promises and instructions to the provincial authorities; and I therefore beg to propose that we should meet and discuss the question amongst ourselves, after you and our other colleagues have had time to peruse the inclosed documents, of which I hope to be able to furnish you with English translations in a few days.
I remain, &c. (Signed)
Inclosure 5 in No. 49.
Mr. O'Conor to M. von Brandt.
M. VON BRANDT,
My dear Minister and colleague,
Peking, February 4, 1886. I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the letter which you were good enough to address to me under yesterday's date, inclosing copies of correspondence which has passed between your Excellency and the Tsung-li Yamen in regard to the due execution of the Transit Pass clause of the Treaties of China and the foreign Powers, and to the abolition of differential duties on foreign goods sent inland under this clause; and I venture to indulge the hope that the assurances obtained by you from the Prince and Ministers will be productive of benefit to foreign traders of all nationalities.
I shall have much pleasure in meeting your Excellency and our other colleagues at any time that may be found most convenient, in order to discuss what further steps may be necessary, with a view to give a practical effect to the promises of the Chinese Government in this matter.
I have, &c. (Signed)
N. R. O'CONOR.