387
DRAFT.
Africa had attempted to obtain recognition
as Representatives of the Foreign Powers to
which they belonged, and because it was felt
essential to prevent any action by which
such a claim would be recognised.
4. The practice of attending the
receptions given by Foreign Consuls is not
specifically dealt with in Lord Elgin's
Circular despatch, but it follows a fortiori
from the ruling in the second clause of
paragraph 5 (A) of that despatch that
Governors should not be present. You will
recognise, therefore, that, in view of the
principle involved, your action in attending
the reception given by the Austrian Consul
General on the occasion of the 60th anniversary
of the accession of His Majesty the Emperor
Francis Joseph was open to misconstruction.
I am