141
Confidential. :
Sir:-
OOL
EASTERN
93
330
FOREIGN OFFICE,
September 20, 1905. 34041
IREC TRE 22 SERVES
With reference to your letter marked 32305/1905
1 **
of the 11th instant asking what answer should be re-
turned to the enquiry of the Governor of HongKong
whether arrangements might be made for the immediate
return to Russia of the sailors of the Russian
Tor-
pedo boat "Burni" who are interned in that Colony,
I am directed by the Marquess of Lansdowne to state
for the confidential information of Mr. Secretary
Lyttelton, that the Japanese Government is unable
to consent to their return until after the ratifica-
tion of the treaty of peace between Japan and Russia
which should take place not later than fifty days
after its signature 1.e. October 25th next.
I am
accordingly to suggest that the matter should stand
over for the present.
I am,
sir,
The Under Secretary of State,
Colonial Office.
Your most obedient,
xho.
humble Cervant,
Tb la cpbell