i
216
12:05
of sympathy and support almost amounting to recognition, and that it was preferable to continue the attitude of friendly neutrality that we had hitherto maintained.
On August 11th, Sir R. Macleay reported by telegraph that a revenue launch belonging to the Salt Administration which had been undergoing repairs at Hongkong had been claimed by the Canton Government, who threatened to
seize it forcibly if it were not surrendered. Sir R. Stubbs had informed the Minister that as this would entail serious consequences, he would consider himself justified in handing over the vessel.
The Colonial Office were requested by this Depart- ment to send immediate instructions that the vessel was to be retainin Hongkong, under guard, if necessary,
it could be removed to a place of safety.
until