Confidential
Sir,
C.O.
36474
IP-24 OCT 04
80
Admiralty, S.W.,
15th October 1904.
With reference to previous correspondence relative to the internment of the crew of the Russian Torpedo Boat Destroyer "Burni", I am commanded by My Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to transmit herewith, for the information of the Marquess of Lansdowne, a copy of a letter dated 15th August (No. 854) from the Commander-in-Chief on the China Station and its enclosures, reporting the circumstances under which the Commander of the "Burni" applied for British Protection, and also as to the disposal of the crew.
2. With regard to paragraph 4 of the Commander-in-Chief's letter relative to the treatment of the arms surrendered, My Lords propose, with Lord Lansdowne's concurrence, to inform Sir Gerard Noel that they should be retained until the conclusion of the War; and it is suggested for consideration whether these arms should not be sent to Hong Kong for custody by the Colonial Authorities.
3. The list giving the names of the crew of the "Burni" being in original, I am to request that it may be returned when done with.
Secretary of State,
FOREIGN OFFICE.
I am,
etc....
Sd....