§ MR. STOREYasked the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Whether any news has yet been received from the Pegasus, which sailed on 1st May with provisions for the destitute crew of the Nisero; and, whether any, and what, progress has been made in the negotiations with the Dutch Government for the release of these men from captivity within its territory?
§ LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICENo news has yet been received from the Pegasus. I regret to say that the Dutch Government has refused the offer of mediation between them and the Acheenese, which, as I have stated was made by Her Majesty's Government. Her 543 Majesty's Government, however, have not yet abandoned the hope of inducing the Dutch Government to concur in measures for the pacification of the country. They are also considering the possibility of sending a mission to Kemala, the residence of the Sultan of Acheen, with a view to opening negotiations to secure the liberation of the captives through him. The Governor of the Straits Settlements is now in England, and in communication with the Foreign Office. Papers oil the subject will be laid on the Table immediately.
§ MR. STOREYasked whether it was only four days' sail from the British Settlement to the point to which the Pegasus had gone; and, if so, whether it would not have been possible before now to obtain information by telegraph which would have relieved the natural unhappiness of the wives and children of the men in captivity?
§ LORD EDMOND FITZMAURICEsaid, he could not answer at once as to the exact number of days' sail; but every effort was being made to obtain early information. The captain of the Pegasus and the authorities of the Straits Settlements were quite aware of the painful interest which existed in this country on the subject, and he could assure his hon. Friend that every effort would be made to obtain information.