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it must surely be the case that when the results of Western civilisation and experience are conveyed in the English language to a mixed class of Chinese and English boys, it is impossible for the Chinese not to be out-distanced by their European classmates unless there is a very great disparity of age. This contention is supported by the opinions of the Committee, who state in paragraph 16 of their Report that the education of the British children is retarded by the inevitably slower progress of their classmates, to whom English is a foreign language. It was also stated in paragraph 2 of the Petition which formed the first enclosure to Sir Henry Blake's Despatch of the 3rd September last that "many an English boy is of necessity kept back whilst instruction is laboriously imparted to those who have a very inferior knowledge of the medium of instruction".
8.
In conclusion I shall be glad to learn whether after consideration you are of opinion that steps should be taken to introduce into Queen's College those portions of the proposed new educational system which is concerned with the organisation of that institution.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient
Humble servant,
M E Gascoigne
Major-General,
Administering the Government.