The moment Mr. Dong saw the contents of the folder, he too had made a decision, one that coincided perfectly with Zhou Quan's proposal.
However, Oswald and Lai Wing-lim were still present.
The fact that the two had worked with Zhou Quan to prepare the National Security Law and had come without hesitation to meet Mr. Dong already made their position clear.
But until Oswald and Lai Wing-lim spoke, Mr. Dong plainly would not state his position lightly.
After all, they were only a step away from the Hong Kong Government's decision-making circle, and Mr. Dong needed to consider their feelings.
"Member of Parliament Oswald, Deputy Secretary Lai, what are your views?"
Turning his gaze toward Oswald and Lai Wing-lim, Mr. Dong became a little more formal, though his manner remained distinctly friendly.
Oswald and Lai Wing-lim exchanged a glance and instantly reached an agreement.
"Mr. Dong, if we follow normal channels and first submit this bill to the Legislative Council for discussion and a vote..."
Oswald spoke first. "This bill may very well come to nothing."
A considerable number of Legislative Council members had carried over from the foreigners' Legislative Bureau.
They might now support Hong Kong Island's return to the Motherland's embrace, but that did not necessarily mean they were particularly patriotic.
As an insider, Oswald knew all too well the sordid thoughts in some people's minds.
"So I agree with Sergeant Zhou's proposal. Have the higher authorities intervene directly, bypass the still-imperfect Legislative Council, and put this National Security Law firmly in place."
Having decided to support his youngest fellow disciple and future son-in-law, Oswald would show no hesitation now.
With Mr. Dong present, Oswald also addressed Zhou Quan somewhat more formally.
"Mr. Dong, as public servants working in Hong Kong Island's legal affairs..."
The moment Oswald