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As to the words in clause 7 "as hereinafter provided" there are words in the sub- sequent sections, eg., 11 and 14 which appear to contemplate a purchase within the 20 years, and to which the words referred to may be construed to have reference.

We think, therefore that the intention was that the guarantee should last for a maximum term of 20 years only, and that it would probably be construed to continue only for that period.

•

2. If the net profits, after making the deductions mentioned in clause 8, amounted in each of the five years to $50,000, the Government would have to pay $250,000 in addition to the capital value.

28082.

The Right Hon. J. Chamberlain, M.P.,

&c.,

&c.,

&c.

a

We have, &c.,

R. B. FINLAY.

EDWARD CARSON.

No. 94A.

(NATAL.)

LAW OFFICERS AND MR. SUTTON to WAR OFFICE.

OPINION re JOHAN SUNDT'S CLAIM."

Royal Courts of Justice,

July 23, 1901.

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1. Although the evidence against Sundt that he was a spy (the charge on which he was arrested and detained) was unsatisfactory, we think, in view of the state of affairs in Natal and the matters subsequently referred to, that there was ground for his detention in the public interest as a prisoner under Martial Law.

During Sundt's imprisonment he drew up for the Authorities information with regard to the Transvaal Secret Service, which, whether accurate or not, goes far to justify the suspicions of the Durban authorities; and his antecedents do not appear to be such as to make him deserving of particular sympathy.

2. While we think the imprisonment seems to have been unduly prolonged, we are of opinion, having regard to all the circumstances and also to the Natal Indemnity Act, that Sundt cannot maintain any claim in law, either upon His Majesty's Government or the Local Authorities in Natal.

We have, &c.,

R. B. FINLAY. EDWARD CARSON. HENRY SUTTON.

• See W. O. 2808201, Natal, and previous papers.

9813—25—8 1901 Wt 352

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PUBLIC

RECORD OFFICE

Reference :-

PLEC.O. 885

س.

15 PUBLIC RECORD OFFICE, LONDON

ALLY WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE BE REPRODUCED PHOTOGRAPHIC- COPYRIGHT PHOTOGRAPH-NOT TO

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