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by three or four Powers, but under his existing instrue ti ons
he could not direct his Admiral to discuss naval measures,
Sir M. Lampson said that as far as the Diplomatic
Body was concerned his inclination was to do nothing for the
moment. The Powers concerned could continue discussions among
themselves. Of the five Powera represented on the Committee,
two were prepared for further discussions. He suggested
beginning on that basis.
Monsieur de Martel said that he could explain this
to Paris in the hope that the French Admiral might be authorised
to join in later.
Sir M. Lampson said that he was ready to suggest to
Admiral Tyrwhitt that he should have a discussion with the
Japanese Admiral.
Mr. Yoshizawa said that he would recommend that
course to his Government and ask for their views.
Monsieur de Martel observed that he had some grounds
for pressing his Government to co-operate as there had been
several cases of piracy on French ships. He had always taken
the line with his Government that the Americana and the Italians
had not the same interest. He would ask them whether they would
go ahead with three or four Powers. He would tell them that the
British and Japanese Admirals were going to discuss the matter
and would ask whether the French Admiral might join in.
A discussion ensued regarding the present whereabouts
of the respective Admirals.
Mr. Yoshisawa said that socording to the Japanese
Naval Attach the Commanding Officer of a Japanese gunboat
stationed near Canton might be instructed to confer with the
naval representatives of the other Powers.
sir/