I am sorry if I am a disappointment to you, gentlemen, but the present Government views your attitude without sympathy.

General Richardson is expecting a visit from you this morning at the War Office, and he will give you any information you desire.

An appointment has also been made for you this afternoon at the Admiralty.

You are doing me the honour of dining with me here to-morrow night to meet certain members of my Cabinet, and we will, if you choose, discuss the matter further then.

I have thought it best to place my views clearly before you, however, at the outset of your visit here." The Frenchmen rose a few minutes later and took their leave, ceremoniously but with obvious discontent.