Telegram from the Officer Administering the Government of Hong Kong to Mr. Lyttelton.
(Received, Colonial Office, 7.50 a.m. 27th July, 1904.)
In reply to your telegram of July 25th clearance has been granted and the "Mascotte" leaves to-morrow. In view of your telegram of June 22nd and of the facts which I have reported and on account of the Captain's admission that the vessel was to be sold in Japan I considered it desirable to refuse clearance pending reference to you. If no action was to be taken I expected instructions from you within 24 hours.