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