We have already noted that the testimo ial to Mr. Gundry, the Honorary Secretary of the Eh London, reach-the sum of £600. The following letter in reference to the presentation of this testimonial will be read with interest (Copy).
3, Lombard Street, London, 14th November, 1899, Dear Mr. Gespry,—The Members of the China Association, most sensible of your very valuable work in connection with tions with China, have, it order to. roatk the great questions involved in our rela-
their appreciation of your labours un their behalf as Honorary Secretary of the Asso ciation, decided to ask you to accept from them the enclosed cheque for £600 which they desire you will deal with in any manner most agreeable yo yourself.
How to express appreciation of your self-sacrificing services has been a matter of some difficulty, but the object of this testimonial is to signify the regard and esteem for you which is shared by subscribers both here and abroad, and to indicate to you, however inadequately, how much they consider the whole foreign community of China, and indeed the country generally is indebted to you for the clear and effective expression of views formed after laborious research and on accurate knowledge, which are calculated to promote increased intercourse with that empire, and peacefully to bring about its political regeneration and commercial development.
With every good wish for your health and prosperity, amy
(Signed) W. Keswick, Yours very truly, Chairman, China Association.
R. S. Genpry, Esq.
(Copy).
China Association, 159, Cannon Street, E.C.
19th November, 1899.
Dean Mr. Keswick,—I find great difficulty in acknowledging as I would wish, the most kind expressions in your letter and the handsome testimonial you enclose, Both come to me as a complete surprise, What work I have been able to do for the Association has been to me a source of genuine interest, and the cordial recognition which members have iny has been ample reward.
T shall therefore, T feel sure, not he misunderstood when 'T say, that Lappreciate the presentation for the kindly feeling it implies, far more than for its in My most pleasant recollections are connected with China, and Tam only too glad if Lhave been able, by helping to forward great' interests which the Association represents, to repay in any degree the kindness I have received from hosts of friends during the long period that ce nection hus endured.
The day exnnot be far distant. when it will be wise to entrust the honorary secretaryship ty a younger man. The robleness of continuity in one sense is, ious, but it may be too dearly pur.
at the cost of slackening energy, and t that there will be no hesitation in giving that maxim expression if my own good sense does not tell me when the time has arrived.
With renewed thanks to yourself and to the members of the Association for the very gratifying expression of good will, Tam,
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.