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temporary quarters pending the completion of the permanent
station
The villagers here state that a good many people
have removed from this village on account of the rumoured attack
from Tung Kun.
One of the elders of the neighbouring village of
Ha Tsun informed me that the inhabitants of his village had been
disturbed by the same rumour and were about to remove but he dis-
suaded them by telling them the rumour is untrue.
The messenger I sent to Shatau in Chinese territory
to make inquiries returned here last night. I attach a copy of
his statement.
Mr. May has, I understand, sent a man to make in-
quiries in Tung Kun. I presume the Viceroy has been informed by
Your Excellency regarding the rumour.
The San On Magistrate has been through his district
urging the people to refrain from any opposition to the British.
The Police and the Troops here are in good health.
(Signed) J.H. Stewart Lockhart,
Colonial Secretary.