386
been called to the instructions which have
been issued to regulate the intercourse of
Governors with Foreign Consuls; and I am
confirmed in this view by observing that you
speak of the Consuls General of Austria
Hungary and Germany as the "representatives"
of the two Powers. I therefore desire to
call your attention to my predecessor's
Circular despatch of the 1st of June, 1906,
in which he dealt with the position and
treatment of foreign Consuls in the Colonies.
3. I would remind you that, as
there laid down, the only legitimate functions
of a foreign Consul are those connected
with the welfare of his nationals as indi-
viduals. I understand that as a matter of
fact Lord Elgin's Circular despatch was
issued because certain Consuls in South
Africa