File 21/2 'Coal Depot at Koweit' [‎144r] (286/389)

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negotiations, the Porte might have grounds to object to our
proceedings, as constituting a modification of the status quo.
It was therefore postponed for the time being, and pending the
conclusion of current discussions with the Porte which seemed
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in a fair way of reaching definite result. The said negotiation
were however broken off owing to the outbreak of war between
Turkey and other Powers and are now in a state of indefinite
suspension. Once they have recovered from their present em
barrassments, the Turks are hardly likely to be more concil
iatory in regard to Gulf matters than they were before but for
the present they are presumably too much occupied to take any
rfCti</<rK
interests in the affairs of Koweitf I venture to^enquire
whether it would not be prudent to proceed with^construction
of the coaling depot without further delay.
3. I would add that our omission to make good our declared
intentions in regard to measures for which we have formally
and specifically asked his concurrence, such as this project
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and the case of the Post office, is calculated^a prejudicial
effect on the Sheikh of Kowei^s mind.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient servant.
Lieut-Colonel,
Political Resident A senior ranking political representative (equivalent to a Consul General) from the diplomatic corps of the Government of India or one of its subordinate provincial governments, in charge of a Political Residency. in the Persian Gulf The historical term used to describe the body of water between the Arabian Peninsula and Iran. .