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Pending delimitation of boundary no building
or dredging operations or placing of buoys shall take place in disputed territories on land or water with the exce:tion of work absolutely essential and necessary for keeping harbour open for passage of steamers, for determining of which a delegate (one group undecypherable) shall be sent to Macao by Canton Government.
2. Chinese warships shall not be troubled with formalities of signing (port) papers.
Chinese authorities will issue proclamation emphasizing the pacific character of the recent reinforcement (of troops).
These proposals are being referred by both sides to their respective Governments and it is hoped to hold another Conference to-morrow or the day after.
You will note that there would appear to be little ground in common and I have accordingly suggested that Macao endeavours to demonstrate urgency to Chinese delegates and avail itself of phrase "absolutely necessary etc." actually to carry on work whilst nominally suspending same, pending Convocation of Commission.
Situation is gravely complicated by fact that little if any control can be exercised by Southern Government over Military Governor; who commands the troops, is obstinate and ignorant in extreme, and professes contempt of international law and obligations. It is therefore to be feared that he may at any moment create a serious situation.
I should accordingly be grateful for an immediate indication by Your brdship of length to which His Majesty's Government are prepared to go in supporting Portuguese; and also for instructions as to language which I am to use in the event of trouble
arising.
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