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Of course, the phrase "half-baked lawyers" implies condemnation of the Law School in advance. It is the kind of objection that the conservative and rather timid type of intellect which probably flourishes in Hongkong is bound to make, but I do not think anxiety as to the possible reaction of a law school on the political development of Hongkong (which might not in the long run be altogether unhealthy) is any good reason for not attempting this great task for China.
Sir Henry Gollan, when he talked the matter over with me, said that the potentialities were so vast that it was worth risking a great deal that you could not hope for quick results but he seemed to feel that it would be a great opportunity lost if some real effort were not made.
I have dictated this letter in a great hurry in order not to fail in carrying out the promise implied in my cable. I hope to follow it up by two or three letters to people who may help in London. One letter will be to Hurst: but these will have to follow by next mail. The reason why I cabled was that I was anxious that you should not get committed to any other suggestion before having full opportunity for considering the claims of Hongkong University.
I hope to write about other things by the next mail.
Yours sincerely,
(Signed) Richard Feetham.