§ Mr. MOLTENOI beg to ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs a question, of which I have given him private notice, namely: Whether the report is correct that a large military force sailed on Friday from Japan for China, escorted by a squadron of warships; whether he can state with what objects this force is being sent, and whether its dispatch is in connection with the demands made upon China by Japan?
§ Sir E. GREYMy hon. Friend's question has not reached me. I was at a Cabinet Meeting the whole of the morning. It may possibly have gone to the Foreign Office, but it has not reached me, and I cannot give an answer without notice.
§ Mr. MOLTENOIt was delivered at the Foreign Office this morning.
§ Sir E. GREYI could not be there; I was busy.