1.
-
*
No latino by
:
100
(3).
86
be absolutely firm: and without it there could be no question of negotiation at all.
But paragraph A would require radical amendment if we are to go further. In its present form it binds us to negotiate fresh treaties on basis of equality and reciprocity and is tantamount to sur- rendering in advance our whole position in China. The most I presume we could be ready to concede in the present conditions in China would be revision of certain clauses of treaties; not their entire
But on suppression and replacement by new ones. this I should be glad of your instructions,
Chen is to consult his government, remainder of whom arrived here December 10th and has suggested another interview when he will produce revised version of second paragraph of recognition formula. I propose then to tell him that having studied terms of proposed declaration regarding treaties etc.. 1t is open to above fundamental objections and that in view of my instructions I do not feel authorised at present stage myself to put up an alternative
draft.
That meanwhile have sent his two formulas
home and am awaiting further instructions es to my future movements. I have repeatedly explained to
him throughout the interviews that I am in no way
authorised to commit His Majesty's Government in any
way and that we are merely exploring the ground to
clear our minds in the hope of finding possible
ground for future æreement.
Matters having progressed thus far, I presume
you will wish for time to take stock of position in
which
...
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