In our recent letter of 13th instant, however, we intimated that while an undisturbed continuance of the present state of things is probable, it will be necessary to proceed on the assumption that Chemulpo will not be retroceded, it will be permanent. We are advised of the bad prospects.
To this end, we have returned to the 78th instant, somewhat enigmatically expressed, a somewhat different opinion on the question and here again there appears to be considerable delay desirable before any action is taken in the matter.
In our letter of 24th January, this stands. We can only say that there are those who think the Commissioner should retain permanent written records rather than rely on a part of the district, and a cautious decision is arrived at much rather on general than on local grounds.
It is difficult to express a decided opinion on the subject, but on the whole I wish I were rather inclined to the original given boundaries.