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to all it contains: to add more will render chances even
more slender yet it is hardly likely that Hongkong will
wish to weaken present text; to strengthen it is unwise.
If therefore for reasons given in second paragraph
of our telegram substance of Article 18 is already
covered by existing instructions to customs at Kowloon
I suggest we forthwith cut it out of the draft and that
I be authorized to go ahead at once in accordance with
discretion already given me in your despatch No. 295.
I much doubt whether in any case Chinese would agree to
accept Article 18.
I shall of course keep in close touch with Shanghai
Chamber of Commerce throughout negotiations; my idea
being to initial them, then get them handed over for ex-
pert discussion between nominees of both sides: when
ground has thus been cleared I would return and take up
outstanding points myself.
If presentation of draft, at my discretion, is held
up I am quite clear in my own mind it will be a mistake.
From discussion today with Japanese Chargé d'Affaires
it was evident he regarded immediate presentation as a
wise move.
Addressed to Foreign Office No. 399 May 3rd; re-
peated to Mr. Newton No. 129 and Hongkong.
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