Whether the newcomers were to be given any option like those already in the service, and on whether it was to be laid down that they were to have the 3/ compensation.
2. Because I had some hope that, if the estimates are fairly favourable, the Straits terms may be conceded; only I do not want to trouble you with this now. I propose to cancel simply by the old instruction & leave the matter indefinite for a few weeks.
On the other hand, there is no valid objection to putting what you suggest. Only it must be ruled whether or not any option is to be allowed. I gather from your minute that it should be a matter to be decided.
Government House, "Hongkong, 4 Dec.
My Lord,
In reply to Your Lordship's despatch No. 156 of the 27th September last, I have the honour to state that the rates of exchange...
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No 260.
The Right Honourable The Marquess of Ripon, KG,