§ MR. GIBSONasked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, What was the purport and effect of the Despatch sent by the Government to General Gordon on May 21st; when will it be laid upon the Table of the House; is there any, and, if so, what reason to believe that General Gordon has yet received it; and, was there any Despatch sent to General Gordon between April 23rd and May 21st; and, if so, what was its date?
§ LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICEThe despatch in question gave General Gordon full permission to adopt at the first proper moment measures for his own withdrawal, and for that of the Egyptians who have served him, by whatever route he may prefer. He is also allowed to make free use of money rewards. The receipt of the reply from General Gordon will probably be the first Her Majesty's Government will hear of the receipt of their message by General Gordon. No other despatch was sent to General Gordon between the dates mentioned by the right hon. and learned Gentleman. It will be laid before Parliament at once.
§ MR. GIBSONHow soon?
§ LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICETo-morrow.