CO129-361 - Public Offices - 1909 — Page 285

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of a contribution towards the funds of the proposed

HongKong University, and also the correspondence which

passed with Sir C. MacDonald respecting the Japanese

Boycott and the Pratas Islands.

Whilst concurring generally in the view as to

the possibility of serious difficulties arising if

communications of this nature are made without the know-

ledge or approval of His Majesty's Government, Sir E.

Gray is at the same time inclined to think that it is

unnecessary to forbid absolutely all direct corres-

pondence on matters of importance with His Majesty's

Representatives in the Far East; provided that such

correspondence is confined to an exchange of informa-

tion, or to suggestions to be made to His Majesty's

Government with regard to the action to be taken on

the questions under discussion.

Sir E.Grey would therefore suggest for Lord

Crewe's consideration, that words to this effect might

be added to the draft enclosed in your letter.

I am, Sir,

Your most obedient,

humble Servant,

W. Langley