Sir,
Government House,
Hongkong,
23rd, January, 1919.
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Despatch No.2. of the 21st January regarding the case of the
Chinese Gunboat "Kwang Lee ".
The Military Governor's despatch is not in accordance with the facts, and I am unable to accept his explanation of
the removal of the Gunboat.
I shall be glad therefore if you will again press for the immediate return of the Gunboat to Hongkong and for the tendering of a full apology for the extraordinary action that has been
taken in this matter.
I enclose copies of reports in connection with the incident which have been made to the Secretary for Chinese Affairs.
I have, &c.
(Signed) CLAUD SEVERN.
Officer Administering the
Government.
W. Jamieson, Esq., C.M.G., LL.D.,
His Britannic Majesty's Consul-General.
Canton.