FOR USE IN EASTERN
Mo 93 COLONIAL
PRESSING, CO 34405 535
FOREIGN OFFICE.
October 4th 1904.
Sir:-
With reference to your letter 30588/1904 of the 2nd ultimo respecting the disposal of the officers and crew of the Russian warship "Burni", I am directed by the Marquess of Lansdowne to state for the information of the Secretary of State for the Colonies, that the Russian Ambassador called at this Office on the 3rd instant and said that Lieutenant Tyrtoff, the Commander, was seriously ill and it was thought likely to become insane. His Excellency urged that, apart from the general question of the repatriation of the crew, Lieutenant Tyrtoff should be sent back to Russia.
I am to suggest for Mr Secretary Lyttelton's consideration that a telegram should be despatched to the Governor of Hong Kong, enquiring whether he can confirm the statement regarding Lieutenant Tyrtoff's condition.
[...]
Secretary of State
Colonial Office.
XM 3