of Commerce, 2ist February, 1899.
Sm,—I am requested to draw your attention to a letter from Mr. Dudgeon on the 4th inst. with reference to the Inland Waters Navigation Rules.
A copy of the said letter is enclosed, and whilst well aware of the advantage secured by H.B.M.'s Minister in obtaining the assent of the Chinese Government to the opening of Inland Waters Navigation, it is evident that many amendments are needed in the newly-formed Regulations before they can prove any incentive to the Trade requirements. or to the providing of craft suitable to its
The Committee would therefore be glad to know whether a Revision of those Regulations is contemplated, and whether it would be appropriate for the Chamber to hand you for transmission to H.B.M. Minister, a memorandum of the amen ments and additions desired, or if you are of opinion that Mr. Dudgeon's letter covers the ground sufficiently to avoid the necessity at present of troubling His Excellency with such a formal statement.
Thave the honour to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, Drusoxp Hay, Secreta Brno Brexax, Es H.B.M.'s Consul Shanghai.
H. M. Consulate-General,
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.