This is an ordinance which has particular unusual powers. In good hands it will do good, in bad hands it will lead to abuse. I think the right view of it is given by the Chinese Members of Council on pp. 19-20 of the print attached to 5525.
I sanctioned informing the Governor to inform Mr. Whitehead, who has circulated his protest widely in the country, that Mr. Chamberlain, after careful consideration, has not thought it advisable to advise H.M. to disallow the ordinance, but says that it must be carefully watched as being liable to abuse and that it should not be left in force after the two years have expired without the authority of the Secretary of State.
Un Lockhart's statement is to the effect that portions of it would have a certain effect. I would say something to the effect that it furnishes an amendment. Draft alone.
22 March 1900
Dear Mr. Lucas,
Many thanks for the papers relating to the trial of Ar. 40 of 1899 Hong Kong. You will recollect that I most decidedly object to its pronouncement. Mr. Meech's and Mr. Hutchead's observations deserve every consideration.
Yours sincerely,
Secl. & Bekryad
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14 Forto Brenne
Hove
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