42
Canton Government as set out in your despatch, I have no
alternative but to consider that the negotiations on this
subject initiated at the Conference of the 10th March have
broken down: and to request you to inform Kr. Chum offici al-
ly that the offer of the concession then made by me is now
definitely withdrawn.
I regret that the offer of a sensession which would
have tended to the further improvement of the relations
between Hong Kong and Canton should have been considered
an opportunity for making party capital: and I remain pre-
pared to carry out my original purpose of neutralising the
office by establishing the Eastern Extension Telegraph
Company as Commersial Agents in charge pending the unifi-
cation of China. I propose, however, to wait till circum
stance alter or the Government of Canton or of Paking or
both make a formal suggestion to that effect before taking
further mation.
Chouk-pan (
In the meantime, as long as Mr. Lafiti
} appears to be soceptable to ne peli-
tical party, my object is at least partially attained by
leaving him in possession undisturbed.
I have, etc.,
(Sd). C. Clementi.
Governor, ko.