C.O. 1 22413 284
FOREIGN OFFICE, June 3rd, 1904.
Secretary,
Sir:-
I am directed by the Marquess of Lansdowne to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 31st ultimo, with respect to the sale of the Steamship "Ohio" and the rumour that she is to be transferred to the Japanese Government.
I am to request that the Commissioners of Customs will be good enough to inform His Lordship whether they are able to obtain information on the following points:-
1. Who is Mr. Frederick J. Bardens of Kobé, in whose favour a Certificate of Sale of the vessel is being given? Is he a British Subject or of other, and if so what other, nationality?
2. Is there any reason to suppose that the transfer is colourable, that the vessel is ultimately destined for the Japanese Government, or that she is suitable for use as a war vessel or fleet auxiliary?
Without further knowledge of the facts of the case, it is not possible for the Secretary of State to take ... to His Majesty's Customs.
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