47.
M. Lockhart might have been saved if he had sent his telegram (10155) before W. L. left Haiphong, instead of 5 days after he left.
Tell him to tender reimbursement to the Canadian Pacific Co. for the cost of the return passage from Montreal to Hong Kong & back of Mr. Lockhart (Myself, saying about the passage nothing to W. Lockhart's family?).
When I wrote my minute 12970, I was under the impression that Mr. Lockhart had come home alone and that his passage was not a charge against the Government.
It now appears that he accepted passage not only for himself, but he is with child and wife. I fear this puts it out of the question.
Taking official notice, which would raise a storm in Council and renew all our troubles with the Stony Creek Indians, I think that unless we are prepared to repay Mr. White, it would be a mere breach of trust to accept Mr. Lockhart's proposal alone.
Even if they accepted it, it would put them under an obligation, and it might stir them up to ask for their passage to be repaid.
I think it may be a question whether...