Dangos 2250 canlyniad

Message probably in code as follows: 'Peking Seal pros & cons set hard June ask only wife what says she Hart'.

Concerning negotiations for the purchase of land from Evelyn's Wotten estate in Surrey; also references to danger of war between Russia and Britain and a comment on the East Roumelia affair, reflecting that the one triumph of Beaconsfieldian diplomacy had led in 5 years to fresh European scrimmages.

He had used the word 'shall' in the agreement merely to call attention to it and believed that a little gentle pressure from the other side might enable him to make a further modification, which gentle pressure was put in the form of a question, which brought forth a written explanation that it was not an obligation, but simply a future, establishing the intention of China to address herself when the time shall have come, to the cooperation of French industry, not excluding the industry of others, and meaning much the same as the Us article; the French text was binding, the meaning of which had been given to him and telegraphed to head quarters; he had succeeded in securing minor concessions, but trifling in comparison to this when it was considered that commercial advantages were to make up for the indemnity and Li was prepared to make concessions which would have given preference and priority.

Disclaims any intention of imposing conditions on his acceptance of the post of British Minister at Peking and encloses 1752 in support of his contention; had not wished to accept the post, but thought it his duty to do so; but considers that an honour was due in compensation for the serious financial loss to his family; he had finally accepted when the possibility of a future honour in recognition of his services was mentioned; if he had said that this possibility was too remote, it could have been said that he was bargaining; on hearing of his proposed appointment the French had threatened to break off negotiations, so he had asked for his acceptance to be delayed, but now that the treaty between France and China had been ratified (11 June) he was free to accept, but on the same day the Government had resigned; news of the offer had been well received everywhere, except in the Customs, as his subordinates did not wish him to leave.

Had made a few alterations in Rendel's able paper; was glad that his colleagues should know the part Rendel had played in the affair.

Enclosing cheque for half year's interest on £700; requests Rendel to sell his shares, which stood at 136-7, repay himself the advance and remit the balance, which would be useful for electioneering purposes.

Thanking him for kindnesses; concerning the receipt and despatch of code messages from Peking.

Granville had supposed the appointment of Inspector-General secured for Hart's brother when he gazetted his appointment as Minister, but in consultation with Lord Salisbury it was agreed that he should have full discretion to act in the public interest.

Asking him to see Lord Granville to get her husband's proposed award of CMG changed to KCMG.

Concerning the repetition of doubtful words in a telegram; reference also to the Elswick strike.

Congratulating him on his election victory,.

Congratulating Rendel on his election victory and commenting on his own defeat, due to a combination of Catholics, Fair Traders, parsons, brewers and publicans; pays tribute to Rendel's services to Wales; expresses alarm at proposals made by Welsh farmers as to the land laws.

Congratulating him on his election victory and commenting on the results in general.

Regretting that he should have correspondence imposed on him, and his inability to come to visit.

Appealing for a contribution to the Liberal election fund.

Stating that, though he had no part in the arrangements made with the Tories in co. Mont., having accepted it, he could not go back on his word and accept the candidature in the circumstances.

Resents the implications of Morley's letter (see 898), which he could only forgive because it was actuated by sympathy for Gladstone; but would withdraw his final 'no' and would 'do his utmost to reconciling myself for Gladstone's sake to going down'; states that he would go to co. Mont. on Monday and do his utmost to get out of the mess.

Congratulating him on his victory.