Make sure to acknowledge at the first opportunity all communications received from our representatives abroad. Extracts affecting the several departments of the Ministry should be sent to these departments, and all questions involving decisions, e.g. new appointments, proposed developments, etc, etc, should be sent to me.

I can't sufficiently impress upon you that the efficiency of all our agents abroad will depend upon the efficiency of your office, the promptness in replying, system, etc, etc. On you in particular devolves the responsibility of following each matter up either with the representatives or with us at home who are responsible for the decisions. This should be regarded as a standing order.