CO129-360 - Public Offices - 1909 — Page 575

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You contended that the defendant, being a subject of Portugal, must be tried by the Portuguese Consul, and said that you would be happy to assist me in any way that lay in your power, short of assuming a jurisdiction which you did not possess over a person of another nationality. You requested me to take steps to put a stop to the hostile and irresponsible articles which have been appearing in the Canton press, and forwarded a copy of the "Kuo Shih Pao" for my perusal.

At the conclusion of our interview yesterday I caused a Proclamation to be prepared, which will be posted up within the next few days. I had previously instructed the Taotai of Constabulary to discover and deal with the offenders. As explained in my previous despatch, this matter will be dealt with as distinct from the main case.

On receipt of your despatch explaining your position with regard to the case against the defendant and the limitations of your jurisdiction, I addressed a despatch to the Portuguese Consul requesting him to appoint a day for an impartial trial in conjunction with the Chinese authorities.

In conclusion, I have to say that your offer to assist me in any way that lies in your power fills me with the greatest admiration and respect for the spirit of justice with which your actions are prompted.

I avail, &c.

(Seal of Viceroy.)

[This Document is the Property of His Britannic Majesty's Government.]

AFFAIRS OF CHINA.

CONFIDENTIAL.

[5929]

C.O.

8782 February 13.]

REC [REG? 12 MAR 30

SECTION 1.

No. 1.

War Office to Foreign Office.-(Received February 13.) Sir,

War Office, February 12, 1909. IN continuation of War Office letter of the 2nd instant, I am commanded by the Army Council to acquaint you that the particulars furnished therein are given on the understanding that the position of the Legation guard at Peking is in no way affected by the present proposals for the withdrawal of the troops from North China. The expenditure on the provision of barrack accommodation for the Legation guard during the last six years may be put at (roundly) 40,0007.

I am, &c. (Signed) R. H. BRADE.

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