DRAFT.
In this direction, it will have the advantage of eliciting pledges as to the future action of the Chinese Government, by bringing them face to face with the technical problems of railway construction; it may have the further advantage of making them realize that skilled European assistance, such as is afforded by consulting Engineers, cannot be dispensed with.
9. It may be desirable that you should consult with Sir J. Jordan as to the time at which, and the quarter to which, such representations should be made. In any case, you will, of course, keep him fully informed as to any action that may be taken.
I commend the question to your earnest attention in view of its vital importance to Hong Kong, but I feel it is necessary that you should be left with full discretion as to the manner in which this very difficult situation can best