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crests of the hills and headlands which dominate it are also included in the lease to us.
We would, therefore, strongly urge that the parallel of 220 401 N. should be the Northern boundary of our territory, and for the same reason we would urge that the meridian 114- 45 E, should be the Eastern boundary,
These boundaries extend further North and East than
those suggested by us originally, but upon matured
consideration and for the reasons above stated, we
consider that such enlarged boundaries are absolutely
necessary.
We do not propose that the above suggested boundary
should be fortified. A few Police Stations along the
frontier on our side, and a few Customs Stations on the
Chinese side would be amply sufficient, but the territory
between 220 40′ and the fortified Kowloon hills, would be
of incalculable value as a permanent source of supplies
to the garrison. At present we are absolutely and
pholly dependent for beef, fowls, and vegetables on
Canton and the Chinese. Greed might induce, or fear
compel the Mandarins at any time to cut off our supplies.
If British rule extended up to 22° 40′ N, a teeming
population such as would be attracted by justice and
safety to life and property, would speedily produce
continuous supplies for the Fleet and Garrison.
We think that it is doubtful whether purchases of
lands made by speculators during the last two years
within the recently leased territory, ought to be
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recognised as valid by the Hong Kong Government. At all
events, such titles should only be recognised subject
to the following conditions:-
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