My Lord,
It has been continually reported in telegrams from Peking published in the local Press that the Wai-wu-pu is negotiating with the British Minister for the retro-cession of Wei-hai-wei.
I am informed by Sir John Jordan that there is no truth in this report, but if at any future time His Majesty's Government contemplate such a step I venture to submit to Your Lordship that the permanent cession to Britain of the leased Territories of this Colony might suitably form one of the conditions of the cession of Wei-hai-wei.
There is no need for me to recapitulate to Your Lordship the urgent and vital reasons of defence etc., which led to the occupation of these Territories, or to emphasise the large outlay in buildings, roads, and railway which has been incurred in the Territories since their acquisition. The lease expires in 1997 and it is conceivable that a situation of considerable difficulty may then arise.
Government House,
26th May 1909
C.O. 21468
RECD 28 JUN 09
Right Honourable
The Earl of Crewe,
etc., etc., etc.,