"We have had an interview with Mr. Russell this morning. He agrees
with us that it would not be wise to enter into the business of the
reference without ample time to consider all the points involved,
especially as Mr. Rogers declines positively to act, and we are now
compelled to choose another referee. Mr. Russell is obliged to leave
for London on Saturday night; and he on the whole prefers to come to
Athens some four weeks hence if need be, or on his return from the
Witenagemote the 1st of March. We trust this will be satisfactory to
you.
"For the associate of Mr. Russell in the case, we select the Hon. G. W.
Hampden, late member of Witenagemote from this city. The two gentlemen
are well known to each other. Please inform us if he is satisfactory to
you; and also please inform us if it is your wish that a third person
should be chosen by these two before a hearing be had, or only in the
event of their disagreeing."