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from the Tsungli Yamen it was stated that a despatch had been received from the British Minister to the effect that the Chinese Customs could not be allowed to remain within the New Territory. Thus the agreement made between Wang Weiyuan and Mr. Lockhart and the statements of the Governor of Hongkong, made at the interview of April 2nd., are insufficient proof, and we will cease to discuss the proposition to take over the territory on the 17th.
I beg you to at once inform the Governor of Hongkong that it will be needless for him to proceed to Kowloon on the 17th.
I have etc.
(Seal of Viceroy)