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of the villagers, they had become the property of the Government of Hongkong and I submit that it is highly desirable that they should be restored to the villagers,
whose conduct has been exemplary for the last quarter of a
century and who would greatly value such a proof of the
confidence and good will of the Government. I should
therefore be glad if you would take such steps as may be
necessary to cause them to be returned to the Colony. I feel
sure that if the facts are represented to Lady Blake, who
4.
I believe is the present owner of Myrtle Grove, she will
readily agree to waive any claim that she may believe herself
to have to them. This Government would, of course, be ready to pay the cost of any structural alterations necessitated
by the removal of the gates from their present position.
I need hardly say that this Government would
be most reluctant, except as a last resort, to take legal
action in the matter and, if Lady Blake is not willing to
surrender the gates without compensation, we should be
prepared to pay such an amount as you consider to be
reasonable in order to recover them without friction.
I have the honour to be,
gir,
Your most obedient humble servant,
7.2. Stubbe
Governor, &c.