CO129-518-3 Proposals to hold periodical conferences between principal British authorities in China- and the government in... 13-8-1929 - 31-12-1929 — Page 22

2.2

4.

had all been received officially by me in Hong Kong

when on their way to and from the Philippines.

The

water situation in Hong Kong at the end of September

had much improved, although it still causes me

anxiety, and the trouble in Kwangtung and Kwangsi

had for the moment simmered down, so I snatched at

the chance of getting away for three weeks to Manila

and Baguio. I will gladly, however, again visit you

at Peking, or elsewhere in China, if circums tances

make this possible. But, from the point of view of

this Colony, a visit by myself to His Majesty's

Minister, whether at Peking, at Shanghai or at Nanking,

is far less valuable than a visit by His Majesty's

Minister to Hong Kong. It is not I only who desire

to confer with you, but the merchants of Hong Kong,

both British and Chinese. I trust, therefore, that

before long and, if possible, before negotiations

concerning the draft commercial treaty with China

are carried much further, you may be able to visit

this Colony, where you are sure of a very cordial

welcome.