CO129-288 - Public Offices & Others - 1898 — Page 144

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crests of the hills and headlands which dominate it are also included in the lease to us.

We would, therefore, strongly urge that the parallel of 220 401 N. should be the Northern boundary of our territory, and for the same reason we would urge that the meridian 114- 45 E, should be the Eastern boundary,

These boundaries extend further North and East than

those suggested by us originally, but upon matured

consideration and for the reasons above stated, we

consider that such enlarged boundaries are absolutely

necessary.

We do not propose that the above suggested boundary

should be fortified. A few Police Stations along the

frontier on our side, and a few Customs Stations on the

Chinese side would be amply sufficient, but the territory

between 220 40′ and the fortified Kowloon hills, would be

of incalculable value as a permanent source of supplies

to the garrison. At present we are absolutely and

pholly dependent for beef, fowls, and vegetables on

Canton and the Chinese. Greed might induce, or fear

compel the Mandarins at any time to cut off our supplies.

If British rule extended up to 22° 40′ N, a teeming

population such as would be attracted by justice and

safety to life and property, would speedily produce

continuous supplies for the Fleet and Garrison.

We think that it is doubtful whether purchases of

lands made by speculators during the last two years

within the recently leased territory, ought to be

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recognised as valid by the Hong Kong Government. At all

events, such titles should only be recognised subject

to the following conditions:-

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