F/MS.
No.460.
Copied to Colonial Office
F.O. (Please pass this ow)
BRITISH EMBASSY,
CHUNGING.
4th November, 1942,
sir,
With reference to my despatch No. 218 of July 14th, 1942, I have the honour to transmit herewith a second report dated the 21st October, 1942, submitted to me by Dr. Gordon King regarding the progress of the relief work undertaken by him at my request on behalf of the students of the University of Hong Kong.
2. This second report carries the story of progress up to the 15th October and gives a graphic account of the hardships endured, the difficulties encountered, the assistance received and the work accomplished. Accounts of experiences suffered by a number of the students given in their own language are attached to the report and give some idea of the hazards of the journey into Free China.
3. Dr. King makes it clear that the work done is highly appreciated by the students themselves and it should be gratifying to the sponsors of the Uni- versity to realise that it possesses a number of friends all of whom have helped to make the work possible.
4. It should not be overlooked that the major contribution has been made by the Chinese Government, through Mr. Chen Li-fu, Minister of Education, through their action in throwing open the National universities of China to the students with free tuition and dormi- tory accommodation.
5.
The budget submitted in the report dated July 2nd, 1942, has been considerably exceeded due to the fact that it covers an extended period, consider- ably more students and a rising scale of costs.
6. I am of the opinion that the report and estimates are highly satisfactory and I trust that they will have your approval even though they may have to be adjusted later should the cost of living proceed unchecked on its upward path.
7. Dr. King requests that copies of the report be transmitted to Sir Geoffrey Northcote, former Governor of Hong Kong, and Mr. A. Morse, of the Hong Kong & Shanghai Banking Corporation. Copies are enclosed for the transmission to them if you concur.
I have the honour to be,
With the highest respect,
Sir,
Your most obedient humble servant,
(Signed) H.J. Seymour.
The Right Honourable
Anthony Eden, M.C.,M.P.,
Foreign Office,
LONDON. 8.1.1.
64.