2.2
4.
had all been received officially by me in Hong Kong
when on their way to and from the Philippines.
The
water situation in Hong Kong at the end of September
had much improved, although it still causes me
anxiety, and the trouble in Kwangtung and Kwangsi
had for the moment simmered down, so I snatched at
the chance of getting away for three weeks to Manila
and Baguio. I will gladly, however, again visit you
at Peking, or elsewhere in China, if circums tances
make this possible. But, from the point of view of
this Colony, a visit by myself to His Majesty's
Minister, whether at Peking, at Shanghai or at Nanking,
is far less valuable than a visit by His Majesty's
Minister to Hong Kong. It is not I only who desire
to confer with you, but the merchants of Hong Kong,
both British and Chinese. I trust, therefore, that
before long and, if possible, before negotiations
concerning the draft commercial treaty with China
are carried much further, you may be able to visit
this Colony, where you are sure of a very cordial
welcome.