CO129-434 - Governor Sir May - 1916 [7-8] — Page 653

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Luk Wing-ting nominated to replace General Lung as Military Governor has arrived at Shiu Hing.

For the present, however, it is not likely that Canton will fall from the jurisdiction of the Central Govern- -ment, and I desire to place on record here my conviction that ita escape from capture by the rebels is in no small measure due to the moral support courageously given by His Britannic Majesty's Consul-General at Canton to General Lung in the interests of law and order. If I may be permitted to criticise the actions of an officer not belonging to the Colonial Service I would like to say that Mr. Jamieson has handled a very diffi- -cult situation with consummate skill and with much fortitude.

Railway traffic with Canton remains interrupted.

3.

I attach a copy of a letter from the Acting Manager reporting the further cutting of the line on the 14th August at a point adjoining the British boundary; but on the 21st August it was found possible to resume the running of trains as far as Sheklung.

4.

I would urge that strong representations should be made to the Central Goverment in this connection, regarding their obligation under Article 10 of the Railway Loan agreement to prevent interference or obstruction in the working of the railway. Under section 39 of the draft Working Agreement, which was unfortunately not completed, provision is made for payment of compensation in circumstances such as the present; and the loss to this Government has been very considerable.

5.

I have sent a copy of this despatch to His Bri- -tannic Majesty's Minister at Peking.

I have the honour to be, Sir,

Your most obedient, humble servant,

danaz

Governor,&c..