The constitution, functions and the methods of operation of the district banks would have to follow some general rules; and the measure of control to be exercised by the Government should also be decided. Above all, care should be taken that these institutions are independent, on the one hand, of the Government, and, on the other, of the native banks who subscribe the majority of the capital. The Government should, of course, control the business relating to the regulation of currency; but the banks should not be made subject to the whims of the Government officials, as companies like the China Merchants' Company, on occasions. The position must be one of mutual help between banks and the Government.