4
Such, so far as I have been able to learn, are the main differences of opinion on the various points in connection with the formation of the Company.
The first point of all is undoubtedly the main stumbling-block over which the negotiations have so long tripped, and of the removal of which there appears at present no probability.
The other points, though of great importance, and raising issues seriously affecting the profit or loss of the countries concerned in the conduct of the enterprise, would seem to admit of satisfactory compromise.
Regarding the details of the Company the following points may be of interest :-- Proposed Plans for Cutting and Rafting the Timber.-The felling and rafting of the timber will be done in one of two ways-
1. The Company will sometimes carry out the work itself, using its own employés; or
2. The forests will be divided into districts, and the working of each district will be let out by auction or handed over to some reliable firm.
Methods of Selling. The sale of the timber will correspondingly be made either directly by the Company, or through large firms on commission. It will be sold in any quantity to any customer of whatever nationality at the current market rates, or will be sold at auction in fixed amounts. It appears to be quite decided that the head office will be permanently at Antung.
Antung, January 24, 1908.
(Signed)
W. P. M. RUSSELL,
[This Document is the Property of His Britannic Majesty's Government.]
CHINA TRADE.
CONFIDENTIAL.
[10265]
No. 1.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir C. MacDonald,
[March 26.]
SECTION 1.
(No. 20.)
Foreign Office, March 26, 1908. (Telegraphic.) P.
TRADE-MARKS Convention. Your telegram No. 18 of the 7th instant. You have interpreted correctly the terms of the Articles in question. The words "and of making provision for the mutual protection of trading names and hong-marks" should be inserted in the Preamble after the words "trade-marks of their subjects."
A reply to your telegram No. 25 of the 25th instant will be sent shortly.
[2889 cc--1]
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