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But it is not intended that Sham Chun shall be kept permanently (see Mr. Chamberlain's minute on 12913) and in view of its occupation - including crowding detachments - in October, the world will not entail additional requests, a reinforcement of the police force, etc., arguments in favour of boundary become all the stronger.
And as regards any loss of face on the part of the Chinese, the better understanding by an appearance of negotiating the moral influence of a temporary occupation of Sham Chun was a rock of offence until anything was satisfactorily settled. Judging by the desired effect as regards the preservation of prestige.
On the whole, therefore, I think that the reasons are not materially in opposition to the views expressed, I presume, in Cabinet. In this letter, which are the terms of the ultimatum to the Chinese Government, Mr. Blake is informed.
See with this 13777. Much has just come in. This makes it all the more desirable to adopt a speedy decision as regards boundary.
On the assumption that H.M. Government...