Lord Milner: I hope it is understood that if the matter is left here, there is no obligation on my Government to deal with the matter in a particular way.
Lord Kitchener: But there is a pledge that the matter will be properly considered.
Lord Milner: Yes, of course, if we are going to put an understanding on record. Solemnly I think it is necessary that we understand that this document contains everything concerning which there is anything in the form of a "pledge."
Lord Kitchener: There is thus a "pledge" that this point which you have raised will be considered in your interest.
General Smuts: Now the question with reference to the payment of receipts still remains.
Lord Kitchener: That will be referred to the British Government. As regards the amount, that is an essential point, but I am of opinion that the amount is high. I would like to know whether it is understood now that we are agreed on all these draft proposals with your amendment? And that there are not any other matters? Because they will have to be telegraphed to England.
Chief Commandant de Wet: We have no other matters.
Lord Milner: The proposed telegram which I wish to transmit reads as follows: "The Commission is prepared to submit the following document to the meeting of representatives of their Burghers (if it is approved of by His Majesty's Government), and to ask that meeting for a 'yes' or 'no' vote." Is that good?
Chief Commandant de Wet: Yes, naturally, except that I cannot say that that document is approved of by me; but I will abide by what the Delegates do.
General Hertzog: I would not like it to be understood that we will use our influence with the Delegates.