\1 > 4, 5, 5. o. 6, 5, 7, Subject. Arrangements in regard to Yang-tsze provinces proposed to Consular Piody at Shanghae by Viceroys at Nanking and Wuchang Dispatch of naval and military forces to China by Germany.. Conversation with French Ambassador re- specting number of troops to be sent to China .. .. .. Willingness of United States' Government that Japan should send a force for relief of Lega- tions . . . . . . Yang-tsze Viceroys hold themselves responsible for order so long as Powers do not land troops in Yang-tsze Valley Text of an Imperial Decree to Li Hung-ehang and Yang-tsze Viceroys, instructing them to collect money and forces Definition of attitude of United States' Govern- ment in present crisis .. Her Majesty's Government will hold Peking Government peri^onally guilty if menibprs of Legations or other Europeans injured. Memorandum given to Chinese Minister .. Arrangements proposed bv Yang-tsze Viceroys to Consular Body at Shangh:ie (see No. 1). Answer given to Chinese Minister Proposal of French Government that Powers should come to an understanding as to their action. Conversation with Count Costa Orders reported ts have been received by Go- vernor of Shantung to march on Nanking and capture it Chinese Minister asks as to possibility of ob- taining from Treaty Powers a guaranlee of Cliinese territory or a Self-denjing Ordi- nance Conversation with M. Delcasse respecting situation at Peking. His Excellency has proposed an identic warning to de' facto Government of China that they will be held personally responsible . . Suggestion of Her Majesty's Government that Japan should send reinforcements at once. M. Delcasse informed . . . , Proposed warning to authorities at Peking. Memorandum from German Government ?. Yang-tsze Viceroys would welcome assistance in resisting Boxers, if necessity should occur, but are not anxious for it at present. Governor of Shaniun? refuses to march on Nanking Page TABLE OV CONTENTS. Ul No. 17 Name. Mi Whitehead 18 19 £0 21 Sir C. Scott Lord Ourrie Acting Consiil-Geaeral Warren Consul Tratman .. Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Dale. 22 To Mr. Whitehead . . i 23 Ui 25 26 27 28 2U 30 31 32 Mr. Whitehead To Acting Coiisul- General VVarren Acting Consul-General Wai-ren Air. Whitehead To Acting Consul- General VVarren Count Lamsdorff to ' liussian Charge d'Affaires in London Acting Consul-General Warren Consul Scott To Mr. W^hitehsad Telegrapliic Telegraphic Telegrapliic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic July a, 1900 8, 9, 10, 10. 10, 11. II, 12, 12, 12, Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic 13, IS, 13, 13, Subject. Pago Japanese force for China. Lord S.Tlisbury's telegrams of the 6th July communicatpd to Japanese Minister for I'oreign Affairs. Panirulars as to Japanese troops that left on the 6th July Count Lamsdorff' s objections to any one Power being given a special man Lcrd Currie 59 Sir C. Scott To Acting Consul- General Warren Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic 20, 20, 61 Mr. Choate 62 63 Acting Consul-General Warren Sir C, Scott Telegraphic Telegraphic 21, 21. ''I 21, 21, 22, 22, 22, SUBJECT. Terms of apologetic message from the Emperor of China to the Emperor of Japan, and of the reply thereto . . . , , , Mandate to Japan. No opportunity for speaking to Count Lamsdorff as to No. 41, Cannot understand how Russian Govern- mpnt could have been under erroneous im- pression , , Text of communication from Russian Govern- ment, suggesting the concentration of the general command of the troops in China in one hand . . . . . . .J Instructions to request explanations as to the meaning of certain phrases in Russian com- munication. Views of Her Majesty's Go- vernment Instructions to communicate to the Govern- ments to which they are accredited reply of Her Majesty's Government to the Russian communication as to a special mandate being given to Japan (see No. 41), and to obtain their views as to the fundamental principles laid down by the Russian Government Explanations of Her Majesty's Government on the question of a special mandate to Japan will, if possible, be communicated to-day to M. Delcass6 . . Explanations of Her Majesty's Government on the question of a special mandate to Japan have been communicated to M. Delcasse. His reply . . . . . . •< Explanations as to views of Her Majesty's Government in regard to the question of a mandate being given to Japan have been communicated to Italian Government. Views of the latter . . Views of Her Majesty's Government as to concentration of general command of inter- national forces in China in one hand have , been communicated to Count Lamsdorff. Reasons for the Russian communication Chinese Minister has communicated a Chinese Imperial Decree, dated the 18th July, ordering the punishment of Baron von Kelteler's murderers President of the United States has received appeal from Emperor of China to take the initiative to bring about a concert of Powers, Chinese Imperial Decree, dated the 10th July, declares the foreign Ministers are being protected by the "Throne. Message from United States' Minister to his Government received by Sh^ng . . . . , , Reasons for the Russian communication to Her Majesty's Government of the 13th July as to the question of a special mandate being given to Japan. Russian Govern ment anxious , to avoid charge of having hesitated to accept Japanese assistance ., .. .. Page 19 19 £0 20 21 21 21 21 22 22 S3 23 23 Ti TABLE OP CONTENTS. No. 64 66 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 78 79 Name Sir E. Monson Acting Consul-General Warren Sir H. Kuraboid Date. June 18, Julv -1=1, Imperial Decree To Acting- Consul- Genoral Warren To Sir C. MacDonald To Sir E. Monson Acting- Consul-General Warren Telegraphic Sir C. Scott Lord Pauncefote To Sir H. Rumbold 76 ActingCoiisul-General Warten 77 Viscount Gough Sir E, Monson Telegraphic relegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Celegraphic 80 Acting Oonsul-General Warren Telegraphic J 7, 27, 24, 24, 25, 25. 25, 25, 25. 26, 26, 25, 25, 27, Subject. July 21, 1900 Question of mandate to Japan. Transmits JVIemoramhim given to Vl. Delcasse giving the substanc-e of the British rpplv to the I{u«sian communication of the 13th July, and asking vie*'s of French Government as to the fuiidanipntal principles laid down by Russian Government . . Assurance has been communicated to the Wuchang Viceroy that Her Majesty's Government will support him in keeping order on the yang-isze Question of mandate to Japan. Transmits Memorandum communicated to Austro- Hungarian Government, giving the substance of the British reply to the Russian com- munication of the l.^th July, and as-king their views as to fundamental principles laid down by Russian Government .. „. Orders the punishment of murderers of Baron von Ketteier and M. Sugiyama, and the pro- tection of foreigners Inquires as to concurrence of Yang-tsze Viceroys in proposed linding of a British force of 3,000 men at Shanghae . . Chinese Minister has been informed no reply can be given to the Emperor of Cliiiid's message until communication has been restored with European Ministers Informs of proposal by M. Delcass§ as to consultation between allied Naval Com- manders Nanking Viceroy declares his ability to preserve order. Account of military measures being taken by him , . American-China Association propose to ask United States' Government to land a force at Shanghae . . Reply given by the Emperor of Russia to the message sent to him by the Emperor of China Reply given by the President of the United S.ates to the Emperor of China's message Austro-Hungarian Government will send no military force to China. Proposed naval measures Massacre reported in Shansi Page Recommends that Her Majesty's Government should guarantee a loan by the Hong Kong and Shanghae Bank lo the Wuchang Viceroy Message from the Emperor of China to the German Emperor, and reply of German Government . . Message from the Emperor of China to the President of the French Republic Consent of the Nanking Viceroy to the landino- of a British force at Shanghae . ° 24 26 26 27 28 28 28 29 29 29 29 30 30 30 31 S3 TABLE OP COJJTENTS. ra Ko. 82 83 84 86 87 88 89 90 9i 92 93 94 95 Name. ActingXJonsul-General Warren Sir E. Monson To Admiraltv Sir C. Scott Viscount Gough Sir E. Monson Hong' Kong and Shang- hae Bank Li Hung-chang to f^ir Chihclien Loiengluh To Sir C. JIacDonald Lord Currie Acting Consul-General Fraser Admiralty to Vice- Admiral Sir E. Seymour Vice- Admiral Sir E. Seymour to Ad- miralty TelegrapTiic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Date. July 2«, 1900 28, 28, 28, 21, 23, 28, 28, 30, 30, 22, Telegraphic Telegraphic June 20, July 30, 31, Subject. Nanking Viceroy consents ur conditionally to the landing of a British force at Shanghai . , Massacres reported at Chiichow M. Delcasfe agrees with the British views as to the qnesiion of a special mandate being given to Jajian in China Inquires as to danger to he apprehended from allowing freeifom of action to the Chinese fleet at Shaiighae and Hong Kong Conversation with Count Lamsdorff respecting Russian conimunicalion as to the concent ration of the general conirtiand of the iuternaiional forces in China in one hand Reasons for the Kussian communication to Her Majesty s Government of the 13th July as to the question of a special mandate to Japan. Kussian Government anxious to avoid charge o*' having hesitated to accept Japanese assistance ' . . Question of mandate' to Japan. Transmits ni:te verbale communicated to the German Government, giving the substance of the » lirilish reply to the Russian communication of the 13th July, and asking their views as to the fundamental principles laid down by Russian Government Transmits Memorandiini communicated by W. Delcasse recording the concurrence of the Pieiich Government in the views of Her iVlajasty's Governir.ent as to a special mandate being given to .Japan, and the fundamental principles laid down by Russian Government.. .. .. ., Recommends to the consideration of Her Majesty's Government telegram received from Shanghae by the Chinese Association urging landing of British force at Shanghae The Throne has been memorialized to escort the foreign Representatives to Tien-tsin or restore communication with them. No more reinforcements should be sent Inquires as to position of Europeans at Peking Keply of Her Majesty's Government to Russian communication of 13th July as to a special mandate to Japan has been commuuicated to Italian Government. Views of the latter as to tundamental principles laid down by Russian Government . . Describes communications with the Wuchang Viceroy as to assistance being given hiin by Her Majesty's ships in keepinji order on the Yang-tsze, and transmits correspondence . . Inquires how many troops are required for the defence of Shanghae Opinion as to number of troops required for the deience of Shani>liae Page Vlll TABLE OF CONTENTS. No. 96 97 98 Name. Acting Consul-Genera] Telegraphic Warren , Date. Aug. 1, 1900 Sir F. riunkett ..Telegraphic 1, To Acting Consul- ! Telegraphic! General Warren ; 99 j Mr. Choate 100 I Acting Consul-tieneral i Warren 101 103 103 104 10.5 106 107 Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic 1, Admiralty ,. Sir C. Scott To Acting Consul- Gen eral Warren 3, 3, Telegraphic Telegraphic ; 3, Telegraphic 108 ; To Mr. Choate 109 To Hong Kong and Shanghae Bank 3, 3, 3, Subject. Massacre of missionaries reported in Shensi Royal Decree will be issued prohibiting the exportation of arras from Belgium to China Naval and military authorities at Shanghae would be hampered until Europeans are withdrawn from riverine ports. Her Ma- jesty's Consul at Chungking should leave with the European community . . Questions of Ministers being sent under escort to Tien-tsin and Powers not advancing on Peking. Reply of United States' Govern- ment to Li Hung-chang Loan asked for by Viceroy of Wuchang. Asks whether Her Majesty's Government are willing to guarantee Situation in Yang-tsze provinces. Viceroys can- not remain neutral unless guarantee is given that person of Empress-Dowager shall be respected. Situation is getting more serious Relief of Peking Legations. Suggests in- forming Chinese Government that they wili be held responsible for any outrage on Europeans in Peking, and threatening destruction of ancestral tombs if such should Danger apprehended from Chinese war-ships. They are at present stationed in the Yang- tsze and at Canton only. Should they leave these localities they will be watched and necessary measures taken Attitude of Viceroy of Nanking as to mainte- nance of peace in Yang-tsze Valley. Trans- mits telegram from Commander-in-chief. Viceroy is friendly, and agrees to landing of 3,000 troops at Shanghae Appeal of Emperor of China to Emperor of Russia to mediate for pacification of China, and reply of Emperor of Russia Loan requested by Viceroy of Wuchang. How can its misapplication to purposes hostile to foreign expeditionary force be guarded against? Proposal to hold Chinese Government per- sonally responsible for injury to Legations, and to threaten destruction of tombs of Manchu dynasty. Latter would be repug- nant to European public opinion . . Agrees with reply of United States' Govern- ment to Li Hung-chang's proposal to stop advance on Peking pending negotiations for establishment of free communication with Legations " • . • Condition of affairs at Shanghae. The con- siderations urged are receiving the attention of Her Majesty's Government Page 44 44 44 45 45 45 46 46 46 47 48 48 48 48 TABLE OV CONTENTS. IX Name. Vice - Admiral Sir E. Seymour to Admi- ralty HI I To Her Majesty's I Representatives at I Washington, St. j Petersburgh, Paris, ! Berlin, Vienna, Rome, and Shanghae Acting Consul-General Warren Lord Pauncefote »» )» Sir H. Rumbnld Mr. Raiices Admiralty . . Acting Consul-General Warren Consul Carles To Acting Consul- General Warren Mr. Whitehead 123 124 Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Date. Aug. 3, 1900 July 27, 27. 29, Auff. ?, 6, 5, 6, Jilne 25, 26, .Inly 5, Subject. Interview with Viceroy of Nanking, who, with Viceroy of Wuchang, agrees to one British ship remaining at each port, but desires no foreign ships should ascend river.. .. Statfraent of policy of Her Majesty's Govern- ment in China made in House of Commons on the 2nd August . . Loan asked for by Viceroy of Wuchang. Transmits telegram from Her Majesty's Consul at Hankow, with details as to pro- posed security and method of repayment Appeal of Emperor of China for good ofBces of President of United States to bring about concert of Powers for restoration of peace. Transmits above with reply sent .. " Fundamental principles " proposed by Russian Government. Transmits copies of note addressed lo and reply received from Mr. Hay as to views of United States' Government ,. Exportation of war material to China. Informs of additional preventive measures taken by Austro-Hungarian Government .. Exportation of war material to China. Informs of Royal Decree provisionally forbidding exportation Landing of British troops at Shanghae. Trans- mits telegram to Commander-in-chief, asking if troops may be landed, and reply stating that they may, with Viceroy's consent Viceroy of Wuchang's request for a loan. Chinese local feeling is in favour of Vice- roy's neutral policy. Suggests measures for insuring proper application of loan Massacre of British subjects at Chuchow. Governor of Chekiang acknowledges mas- sacre, and has punished persons responsible for it . . . . . . News of besieged Legations has been received by Japanese Consul up to 1st August Instructions as to communication of British Consular officers with foreign colleagues in order to effect withdrawal of their nationals in concert, where such withdrawal becomes necessary . . ». . . Dispatch of further Japanese force for relief of Legations. Transmits Memorandum handed to Viscount Aoki. His Excellency's reply , ^ Dispatch of further Japanese troops for relief of Legations. Informs of decision of Japanese Government to mobilize one division . . . . . . Dispatch of further Japanese troops for relief of Legations. Informs of proposed dispatch of 2,S0U additional troops. Transmits Memoranda exchanged with Viscount Aoki. Japane.=e Government propose an exchange of vifY's of Powers concerned Page 49 49 49 50 51 53 53 54 54 55 55 35 55 56 5G [1116] TABLE OP CONTENTS. 3 25 126 127 128 129 131 132 133 13-1 135 136 137 138 139 Name. Acting- Consul-General Warren Consul Playfair Liu Kwung Yi to Sir Chi^chen Lof^ngluh Sir F. Lascelles Date. June 27, 1900 Telegraphic Telegraphic 26, Aug. 6, To Mr. Goschen 130 To Sir E. Monson Telegranhic Imperial Edict of '2nd August Li Hung-chang to Sir Chihchen Lofdngluh Sheng to Sir Chihchen Lotengluh Consul Carles Sir C. MacDonald Admiralty Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Sir C. Scott 7, 5, 7, 8, Telegraphic 8 Teleoraphic 8 Subject. Page Situation at Shanghae and in Yang-tsze dis- tricts. Sincere determination of Viceroys to keep the peace. iMeasures of Consular Body at Shanghae for stopping exodus of natives. Transmits Proclamation issued for that purpose .. Report on state of affairs at Fooehow. Has not thought necessary to apply for naval pro- tection Massacre at Chuchow. Informs of murder of five English ■ missionaries, punishment . of responsible officials, and arrest of ,guillv parties Appointment of Count Waldersee to supreme command of China expedition. Transmits translation of noi« verbale respecting willingness of Emperor of Kussia to recog- nize appointment, and asking for views of Her Majesty's Government Proclamation prohibiting export of arms to China. Instructions as to urging desirability of urging adoption of similar measures on Danish Government French suggestion as to naval co-operation of Powers in Chinese waters. Informs of conversations with M. Cambon, and reply given Removal of Legations under escort to Tien-tsin. Orders restoration of telegraphic communica- tion with Legations, and suitable escort for them to Tien-tsin Requests that no further advance be made on Peking pending negotiations Informs of restoration by Imperial Edict of 5th August, of code telegraphic communica- tion with Legations Informs of rout and retreat of Chinese from Peitsang Situation in Peking since 4th July. Action of Chinese troops and Boxers. List of casualties. Has no intention of leaving Peking except under European escort . . Action of allied forces in neighbourhood of Tien-tsin. Transmits telegram from Rear- Admiral, China Station. . 1 .anding of British troops at Shanghae. Trans- mits telegram from Commander-in-chief, China Station, inquiring when British troops may be expected, and reply Appointment of Count Waldersee. Offer of his services by German Emperor. Russian Government will offer no objection Informs of communication to Count Lamsdorff of Chmese Imperial Edict of 2nd August His Excellency will await confirmation by direct communication from Ministers in Peking 58 59 60 60 61 61 61 62 62 62 62 63 63 64 TABLE or CONTENTS. XI No Name. Dntp. 140 Lord Pauncefote •• July 30, 1900 1-11 Sir C. MacDonnld . . Telegrajihic A.ig. 4, 142 Mr. Chcate 9, 143 To Sir F. Lascelles . . Telegraphic a, 144 AetingConsul-General Warren relegrapliic 9, 145 Mr. Whitehead Telegraphic 9, 146 )> Telegraphic 9, 147 Sir E. Monson Telegraphic 9, 14S To Her Majesty's Repi'esentatives at Paris, Home, Berlin, Vienna, St. Peters- burgh, Washington, and Tokid Telegraphic 9, 149 To Mr. Whitehead . . •• 9. 150 Consul Fulford Telegraphic 8, 151 Sir F. Lascelles Telegraphic 10, 152 )i » • • Telegraphic 10, 153 J) 55 • * i Telegraphif" 10, Subject. Russian proposals for settlement of China question. Mr. Hay has no observations to add beyond those already made Removal of Legations to Tien-tsin. Informs of request of 'I sung-li Yamen to fix date for departure and reply given. Essential that foreign troops should escort them in sufficient numbers Transmits Chinese Imperial Edict of the 2nd August, communicated to United States' Governmenf, as to removal of Legations under escort to Tien-tsin, and permission given to communicate telegraphically, en clair, with reply of United States' Govern- ment r ^ ' Appointment of Count Waldersee. Acquies- cence of Her Majesty's Government in appointment . . Proposed loan to Viceroy of Wuchang. States securities available. Urjres im- portance of strengthening Yang-tsze Viceroys in their present position . . , . Landing of British troops at Shanghae. Trans- mits communication sent at request of Viscount Aoki to Vice-Admiral Seymour, asking what his actual proposals for landing of troops are, and emphasizing danger of precipitating disturbances . . , . . Appointment of Count Waldersee. Informs of acquiescence of Emperor of Japan in proposed arrangement . . . . Appointment of Count Waldersee. Minister for Foreign Affairs knows nothing of appoint- ment Instructions to ascertain views of several Governments as to what action should be taken in view of position of Europeans in Peking. . . . . . Appointment of Count Waldersee. Informs of conversation with Baron Hayashi, and reply given to his inquiry as to what answer Her ^Iajesty's Government proposed sending to German proposal Informs of bombardment and occupation by Russians of native city of Newchwang Appointment of Count Waldersee. Informs of communication to German Government of reply ol Her Majesty's Government Appointnien) of Count Waldersee. German Government suggest military Representatives should be sent to Count Waldersee's head- quarters by the Powers. , No conclusion yet arrived at by German Go- vernment as to steps to be taken to rescue Legations ... .. .. Page [UK-!] h 2 Xll TABLE OF CONltENTS. JSTo. 154 355 156 157 158 159 leiO 161 162 163 Name. 164 165 166 167 168 1G9 17j 171 Sir H. Rumbold Lord Pauncefote Lord Currie -Sir C. Scott )i i> To Acting Consul General Warren To Her Majesty's Representatives at Tokio, Paris, Rome, Vienna, St. Peters- burg, and Washing- ton Admiralty . . . . Acting Consul-General Warren Li Hung-chang, Lew Kwung Yih, Chang Chih Tung, and Sheng Suen Ilwai to Sir Chihchen Lofengluh Imperial Edict issued 7th August Memorandum commu- nicated by Japanese Minister Sir E. Monson . . » >> hz.d Currie Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic lebgraphic Date. Aug. 10, 1900 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, Telegraphic I'elegraphic Pelegrapluc 1, fa- 10, n, 11, 11, 1', II, Subject. Count Waldersee's appointment will be agree- able to Austro-Hungarian Government, but it has not yet been formally agreed to Count Goluchowski prefers to await views of other Powers as to steps to be taken to rescue Legations United States' Government have informed Chinese Government that attacks on Lega- tions must cease at once, and urge them to co-operate with relief force Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs thinks en- deavours should be made to come to an understanding with authorities at Peking Italian Government have Waldersee's appointment accepted Count Russian Government have received telegram identical with that from Sir C. iWacDonald of 4th August .. Count Lamsdorff's warning to Chinese Minister, and reply to proposal for departure of Ministers under escort . . . . Her Majesty's Government agree to guarantee loan to Viceroy of Wuchang. Instructions as to arrangements to be made . . Fears of Viceroy of Nanking as to landing of large foreign force at Shanghae. Was no Proclamation issued on the subject ? Acceptance by Her Majesty's Government of Count Waldersee's appointment . . Transmits telegram from Rear-Admiral Bruce, reporting capture of Yangtsun Satisfaction of Viceroy of Wuchang at statement of policy in Parliament. Renewed assurances as to maintenance of Agreement with Her Majesty's Government . . Asks that the landing of so large a force at Shanghae may be stopped . , Page 69 C9 69 Appoints Li Hung-chang as Plenipotentiary to negotiate .. .. .. ..7-3 Proposal of Japanese Government that Powers should agree to armistice to arrange for escort of Ministers from Peking ., No decision can be come to as to Count VValdersee's appointment without meeting of Cabinet in presence of President of Republic French Minister for Foreign Affairs thinks only course is rapid advance lor rescue of Legations . . . , Has informed Italian Government that Her Majesty's Government have accepted Count Waldersee's appoin*.ment 70 70 70 7] 71 71 71 72 72 :i 73 74 TABLE OF CONTENTS. XUl Name. Sir C. Scott To Mr. Whitehead Consul Carles Sir C. MacDonald To Acting Consul- General Warren Mr. Whitehead To Acting Consul* General Warren Sir F. Lascelles , , l32 To Sir C. MacDonald Verbal communication to Chinese Minister Sir F. Lascelles .. Date. Telegraphic Aug. 11, 1900 Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic » . J' Acting Consul-General Warren Sir C. Scott To Sir C. MacDonjld Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic 11, 7, 8, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 12, 10, 10. 11, 18, 13, 13. Subject. Russian Ministar authorized to proceed to Tien-tsin if sufficient guarantees of safety are given Japanese Minister asks views of Her Majesty's Government as to Li Hung-chang's appoint- ment as Peace Plenipotentiary Reports capture of Yangtsun . . . . Messenger from Peking reports that firing recommenced 4th August. He met Chinese troops in full retreat Yaraen have informed him of Li Hung-chang's appointment as Plenipotentiary. Hopes advance will not be delayed by any nego- tiations . . . . . • • • 1 Hequest of Viceroys that landing of so large I a force at Shanghae may be stopped I French Minister for Foreign Affairs is not '\ aware of danger at Shanghae, and will land ! French troops if British are landed 1 I Japanese Government have refused to instruct their Minister to leave Peking Troops not to be landed at Shanghae pending further orders Italian, Russian, and Austrian Governments have agreed to send militar}' representatives to Count von Waldersee's head-quarters. No reply as vet received from French Government .. .. .. Latest military news received. Chinese Go- vernment pressed by !Russian Government to supply provisions to Legations Chinese Government should permit an escort of international forces to receive Europeans outside Peking and accompany them to Tien-tain. The Emperor and his Ministers I will be held directly responsible for any I harm done to Europeans I Notes exchanged with German Government as to appointment of German Commander-in- chief in China Thanks of German Government for prompt acceptance of a German Commander-in-chief by Her Majesty's Government. Italian Government have also notified their consent Imperial Decree prohibiting export of arms from Germany to China , Summary of communications as to landing a British force to protect Shanghae Russian Government have informed Chinese Government that negotiations can only com- mence when Ministers and other European!; are in a place of safety . . Iveply of Her Majesty'* Government to pro- posal of Chinese Goiernment that Chinese force should escort the Legations froni Peking . . . . Page 74 7-1 71 75 75 75 76 76 76 77 7 7 '.'J XIT TABLE OP CONTENTS. No. 190 J91 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 aoi 20-2 203 204 205 206 207 208 Name Mr. Choate To Sir 0. Scott Sir C. MacDonald Mr. Thornton To Acting Consul- General Warren Consul Carles Act ns; Consul-General Fraser Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Date. Aug. 13, 1900 13, 10, 14, 14, Consul Wilkinson Consul Carles Viceroy of Nanking to Sir Chihchen Lofengluh Li Hung-chang to Sir Chihchen Lofengluh To Sir F. Lascelles yi. Cambon Acting Consul-General Warren Mr, Goschen Lord Pauncefote To Acting Consul- General Warren Teleuraphic Telegraphic TeleRraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic felegraphic Telegraphic June 28, July 2, 3, 6, Aug. 10, l.i. 15, 15, 15, 16, 16, 16, SUBJECT. Reply of United States' Government to Imperial Decree appointing Li Hung-chang Envoy Plenipotentiary on the part of China Conversation with Russian Charge d' Affaires as to the departure of Europeans under escort from Peking, and the appointment of Li Hung-chang as Plenipotentiary Negotiations should not delay the advance of the allies, as supplies are cut off, and firing continues. Li Hung-chang has been appointed Plenipotentiary Issue of a Decree prohibiting the export of arms to China from Portugal and Portuguese Colonies The loan of 75,OOOA to Viceroy of Wuchang has been arranged. Inquires if he has agreed to the securitv, and instructs him to obtain an acknowledgment of receipt, and an undertaking to repay in thespecified terms with interest . . State of affairs at Tien-tsin. ride to Taku .. Mr. James Watts' Copy of Protocol of meeting of Senior Naval Officers. Demand for surrender of the Taku forts Proclamation issued by Viceroy of the Hu Kuang Provinces, and Govfirnor of Hupei, in obedience to Imperial Order to protect their territory Translation of Decree of Peking Government in regard to war with European Powers Condition of affairs in Ningpo district Hsu-ching-cheng and Yuan-chang said to have heen beheaded,andYamen said now to consist entirely of Manchus Arrangements made with Admiral Seymour for landing troops at Shanghae . . Appeals to Powers not to allow their forces to enter Peking . . Lieutenant-Colonel Grierson appointed to post on staff of Count Waldersee Reply of French Government to request of Chinese Government that the foreign Ministers may be ordered to leave Peking'.. Consular Body at Shanghae consider that recall of Indian troops at Woosung would endanger Shanghae Datiish Law issued prohibiting export of aims to China Proposal of Russian Government for securing safety of foreigners in Peking. Views o1' United States' Government already ex- pressed .. .. .. ■ .. Landing of British force at Shanghae. In- structions sent to Admiral (*age 80 80 81 82 82 82 84 85 86 89 89 90 90 90 91 91 SI 92 TABLE or CONTENTS. XV No. 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 2-24 225 ii26 227 228 229 280 To Her . Majesty's Telegraphic Representatives at Paris, Berlin, Home, Vienna, St. Peters- buruh, Washington, and Shanghae To Admiralty . , Consul Carles . . Telegraphic Documents communi- cated by the French Embassy Vice-Admiral Sir E. Seymour to Admi- ralty Sir E. Monson Consul Tratman Acting Consul-General Warren Telegraphic Telegraphic Consul Carles » 5> >j » To Sir C. Scott Acting Consul-General Warren Lord Pauncefote Sir F Lascelles Li Hung-chang to Sir Chihchen Lofengluh Viceroys of Jjiang Kianof and Liang Hu to Sir Chihchen Lofengluh Acting Consul-General Warren To Sir C. Scott Consul Carles Li Hung-chang to Sir Chihchen Loflngluh Date. Aug. 16, 1900 Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic 16, 12, 17, 17, 17, 17, 18, 16, 16, 17, 19, July 13, Aug. 10, 19, 20, 20, 20, June 16, Aug. 21, Subject. Reply of Her Majesty's Government to Li Hung-chang's message urging Powers not to allow their forces to enter Peking Request made for British protection to Swedish and Norwegian missionaries attached to British Missions in China Imperial Edict ordering Yung-lu to prepare to escort foreign Ministers to Tien-tsin Allied forces have captured Tungchou Li Hung-chang appointed to negotiate with foreign Powers. Views of iVI. Delcass6 in regard to an armistice Troops will commence landing at Shanghae to-morrow . . , . Appointment of Count Waldersee. Decision of French Government in regard to position of French Commander.. Peking reported taken on the 16th August .. Personal safety of Emperor and Empress- Dowager. Viceroys of Wuchang and Nanking urge guarantee Peking Legations relieved . Details of relief of Peking . . : . Massacre of missionaries by Yu Hsien at Tai Yuan-fu, in Shansi Telegram received by the Russian Govern- ment from their Minister at Peking Arrangement wita Viceroys for preservation of peace in Central and Southern China. Letter to Delegate of Viceroys . . Demands made by the United States' Govern- ment on the Chinese Government Reply of German Government to communi- cations made to them by Chinese Govern- ment Urges cessation of hostilities and commence- ment of negotiations Hold themselves responsible for peace and oriier in provinces in south and east of China Can the Viceroys of Wuchang and Nanking be assured that their advice will le taken i.; final settlement ot affairs of China ? Russian occupation of Chinese Custom-house at Newchvang. To inquire what are facts Foreign guards for Peking. Question of pro- viding escort. 'J'elegrams from General Nieh to the Viceroy at Tien-tsin . . Urges withdrawal of foreign troops from Peking, and opiening of negotiations 'cige 92 92 93 93 93 9.5 95 95 95 96 06 96 96 97 97 SiS 99 99 100 100 100 101 XTi TABLE or CONTENTS. No. 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 243 ?44 245 2i7 248 249 Name. To Acting Consul- General Warren Sir C. MacDonald Sir C. Scott Consul Carles Telegrapiiic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic To Sir C. MacDonald Mr. Ohoate Sir C. MacDonald . . 19 »J 242 To Mr. Whitehead 250 251 252 Consul Mansfield . . Telegraphic Sir C. Scott Date. Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Lord Pauncefote >> M Count Hatzfeldt Mr. Choate Acting Consul- General Warren Mr, Whitehead Aug. 21, 1900 15, 22, 22, June 28, Aug. 20, 23, 23, 23, 24, 24, 25, 26, 13, 16, Telegraphic 16, 24, 27, 27, July 10, 24, Subject. Authorizes assurances to Vicero)'s of Nanking and Wuchang that they will be consulted as to settlement . . . • • • Legations relieved .. Reply of Russian Government to Li Hung Chang's message of the I9th August Newchwang customs. Replies to No. 228 Count Lamsdorff promises inquiries Reported intention of the Empress-Dovfager to destroy the Legations. Correspondence with the Viceroy of Tien-tsin Imperial city in Peking captured. Flight of Emperor and Empress-Dowager . . Congratulations on escape Question of appointment of Li Hung-ehang as negotiator. Asks for views Reply of United States' Government to Li Hung-Chang's telegram of the 19th August Situation at Peking. Useless to attempt nego- tiations till Chinese military power is crushed . . . . Establishment of railway communication with Tien-tsin most essential . . To express to Japanese Government admiration felt by Her Majesty's Government for gallantry and eificiency of Japanese forces . . Japanese force landed at Amoy Conversation with Count Lamsdoiff on affairs in China. Appointment of Count Waldersee Opinion of Count Lamsdorff in regard to nego- tiations with China Position of foreigners at Peking. Views of United States' Government on question of securing their safety Foreigners at Peking. Reply of Uuited States' Government to inquiries as to their attitude in regard to Russian proposal to send international detachment under white flag to walls of Pekinf^ ,, ,, Departure of Count Waldersee for China Resolution of Admirals, interdicting communi- cation between Li Hung-chang and the Chinese authorities in the event of his arrival ot Taku. Views of United States' Government . . Movements of Emperor and Dowager- Em press Government of Peking to be held personally guilty if foreigners suffer injury. Note to Viscount Aoki • • . • > . Telegrams exchanged between the Emperors of China and Japan ,, Page 101 101 101 102 102 104 104 104 105 105 105 106 106 106 107 107 107 108 109 109 110 110 TABLE 0¥ CONTENTS. XVll No. Name. Date. Subject. Page 253 Xote communirated by Japanese Minister •• Aug. 28, 19C0 fianding of Japanese force at Amov. . 112 254 Sir C. MacDonald . . Telegraphic 2?, Question of opening negotiations with Li Hung- chang 112 255 Acting Consul- General Warren Telegraphic 28, Reform party trying to provoke disturbances on the Yang-tsze 113 25 G To Sir C. Scott •• 28, Intentions of Russian Government in North- East China. Convei-sation with Russian Charge d'Affaires 113 257 Consul Caries • • July ]7, Information as to Chinese troops at Tien-tsin before its capture 114 258 >5 )) • ■ • • i7, Arrangements for government of Tien-tsin 114 259 Acting Consul-Greneral Warren •• 21, Report from Kiukiang on serious anti-foreign riots in Kiangsi 115 260 i> j> •• 24, Imperial Decree ordering protection of foreigners and repression of disorder 116 261 Aairig Consul-General Fraser •• ]8, Anxiety of Yang-tsze Viceroys for personal safety of Empress-Dowager 116 262 Consul Playfair •• 19, Correspondence with Viceroy of Fuhkien as to maintenance of order. . 118 263 Consul O'Brien-Butler ■ ■ 20, Affairs at Wenchow 119 264 Acting Consul-General Warren Telegraphic Aug. 29, Arrival of Emparor and Dowager-Empress at Taiyuan 121 265 >) 1) Telegraphic 29, Arrival of German Minister 122 266 5) 55 Telegraphic 29, Japanese force landed sjt Amoy 122 267 Sir C. Scott Telegraphic 29, Emperor of Russia's views as to necessity for early evacuation of Peking 12-:! 268 Lord Pauncefote ■ ' 20, Correspondence between United States' Govern- ment and Chinese Minister iu regard to Li Hung-chang's reqi?est that allied forces should not advance to Peking 123 260; Sir C. MacDonald . . Telegraphic 23, Situation at Peking. Summer Palace occupied by Russians . . . . . . 124 270 Mr. Adee to Mr. Choate ■ • 29, Communication made to United States' Govern- ment by Russian Representative as to Russian intentions in China. Reply of United States' Gov(|rnment 124 271 Memorandum comma* nicated by Chinebe Minister ■ • 30, Movements of Chinesie Court . . . , 126 272 Acting Consul-General Warren Telegraphic 80, Two Ministers of anti-foreign sentiments said to be coming eouth to investigate conduct of Yang-tsjie Viceroys . . 126 273 >» «* Telegraphic 30, French force landed at Sliangliae- Other Powers will probably latld men . . . < 126 274 Consul Scott Telegraphic 30, Situation at Canton 126 273 Sir H, Kumbold Telegraphic 30, A ustro- Hungarian Governnaenfi will not object to withdrawal of troops to Tien-tsin if other Powers agree, . . . . . . . 127 276 To .Mr. Whitehead .. Telegraphic 30, Japanese Government think Powers should take steps to induce Emperor and Empress- Dowager to return to Peking and form responsible Government , . . , 127 ;iii6] xnii TABLE OF CONTENTS. No. Name. 277 278 279 280 281 282 283 2S4 286 286 287 288 289 290 291 292 293 294 295 2S6 297 898 To Mr. Whitehead . . To Count Hatzfeldt . , Mr. Whitehead Sir E. Monson To Sir C. MacDonald Memorandum commu- nicated l)y Sir Chih- chen Lofengluh Acting Ccnsui-General Warren Consul Mansfield To Sir C. .MacDonald (also to Mr. White- head) To Sir F. Lascelles . . Sir C. Scott To Mr. Whitehead Consul Fraser Consul Playfair Acting Consul-General Warren Memorandum com- municated by Sir Chihchen Loflngluh To Her Majesty's Representatives at T6ki6, St. Peters- burgh, Paris, Eome, Berlin, Vienna, and Washington Acting Consul-General Fraser To Sir F. Lascelles Telegraphic Tslegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Date. Aug. 30, 1900 30, 81, 31. Teltj^aphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic 31, Sept. 1, 1, 1, 1. 2. Telegraphic Acting Consul-General Warren Consul Carles Sir C. MacDonald . . Pelegraphic Tclegraphir Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Julv 15, 23, 24, Sept. 3, 3, 3, Aug. 31, Sept. 2, Subject. Japanese force being withdrawn from Araoy . . Appointment of Count Waldersee. Instructions sent to Sir A. Gaselee in conformity with communication made by Her Majesty's Ambassador to the Grerman Government on 10th instant . , Japanese force being withdrawn from Amoy . . Views of M. Delcasse with regard to communis cations made by Russian, United States, and Japanese Governments . . Question of withdrawal to Tien-tsin. Requests views Li Hung-chang has memorialized the Throne for appointment of co-Plenipotentiaries Preparations were being made at Shanghae for accommodation of German troops Japanese force being withdrawn from Amoy . . Li Hang-chang has memorialized Throne for appointment of co-Plenipotentiaries Orders given for landing of German force at Shanghae Russian Minister and General at Peking ordered to transfer staff of Legation and troops to Tien-tsin Her Majesty's Government have not been informed of the existence of any means of persuading the Emperor and Empress to return to Peking Affairs at Chungking Affairs at Foochow. Assurances of Chinese authorities in regard to protection of foreigners Question of arrangements for protection of foreigners in the southern provinces Li Hung-chang requests that peace negotiations may be opened Her Majesty's Government cannot form a confident judgment on questions raised by the Russian Government until further in- formation reaches them from Her Maiestv's Minister .. "^ ■' All quiet at Hankow since failure of attem-pted rising _ _ '^ Landing of German force at Shanghae would not be in any way unfavourable to policy of Her Majesty's Government . . Observations on question of withdrawal from Peking Empress-Dowager. Movements of. . Thanks of those lately besieged in Pekine for message from Her Majesty's Government .. Page 127 127 128 128 128 129 129 129 Vj9 130 130 130 130 132 133 134 131 135 135 135 135 135 TA.BLE OF CONTENTS. XIX l>io. 299 Name. Consul Carlos 300 Sir C. Scott 301 302 303 304 306 307 308 309 310 311 312 313 314 315 316 317 318 319 320 Felegraphic Telegraphic To Consul Playfair . Actingf Consul-General Telegraphic Warren To Sir H Rumbold . . The London Chamber of Commerce Date Subject. Sept. 2, 1900 5, 5, 6, Acting Consul-General Warren Mr. Whitehead Consul Mansfield Lord Currie Sir E. Monson Admiralty . . British and Foreign Bible Society Acting Consul-General Warren Sir C. Scott » )) Sir C. MacDonald .. Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Li Hung-chang to Sir Chihchen Lofehgluh Acting Consul-General Warren Telegraphic 7, 7, 7, 7, 6, 6, 7, Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Aug. 30, Sept. 5, 3. 4, 9, 10, Murders at Taku and near Fenchou-fu. Reports arrival of messenger with news of , , Replies to Russian Circular. Converisation with Count Larasdorff. His opinion with regard to evacuation of Peking Assurances of Chinese authorities to Consular Body at Foochow. Approves temporary acceptance of . . Li Hung-chang"s movements. Hopes to begin negotiations on reaching Tien-tsin Nomination of Li Hung-chang, and armistice proposal of Japanese Government. Memo- randum communicated by Austro-Hungarian Embassy, and verbal reply given . Withdrawal from Peking. Telegram from Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce, depre- cating Edict as to maintenance of order in Peking and intended return of Emperor and Em- press-Dowager. Telegram from Chinese Representative at St. Petersburgh to Li Hung-chang, urging issue of Russian proposals. Substance of reply by Japanese Government . . Landing parties withdrawn at Amoy. Refugees returning Russian proposals. Reply of Italian Govern- ment . . . . • • • • Russian proposals. Note to French Govern- ment Naval intelligence from South China. Letter from Commodore at Hong Kong.. Settlement in China. Views of repre- sentatives in China of JVIissionary Societies . Appointment of Li Hung-chang. Decree of the 24th August, ordering him to make best terms he can . . Russian proposals. Conversation with Count Lamsdorff. His views and object of Circular Russian proposals. Further conversation with Count Lamsdorff. Replies received from other Powers to Circular Retention of troops at Peking during winter. Statements of Russian, German, and Japanese Generals Reports return of Prince Ching to Peking Russian Minister instructed to proceed to Tien- tsin. Withdrawal of foreign Ministers would be a mistake Summons to Peking. Asks for protection of allies to enable him to proceed there Li Hung-chang. Summoned north for peace negotiations . . . . l-'age 138 136 136 137 137 138 1J9 139 140 140 140 141 141 142 142 144 146 146 146 146 147 [1116] XX TABLE OF CONTENTS. No. Name. Date. Subject. Page 321 To Sir C.Scott Telegraphic Sept. 10, 1900 Withdrawal of British forces from Peking. In- form Russian Government that, in opinion of Her Majesty's Government, time has not arrived .. 147 322 To Mr. Herbert ,. ■ • 10, Withdrawal from Peking. French Government adhere to views of Russian Government 147 323 Acting Consul-General Warren Telegraphic 11, Movements of Emperor, Empress-Dowager, and Peace Commissioners. Li Hung-chang's advice to Yung Lu 147 324 Sir C. Scott Telegraphic n, Retention of Russian troops at Peking during winter. Statement of Russian General must refer to previous orders (see No. 316) 148 326 » n Telegraphic 11, Withdrawal from Peking. Does not indicate intention of Russia to separate general policy from that of other Powers 148 326 )) V Telegraphic 11, Li Hung-chang's summons to fPeking. Count Lamsdorff's opinion respecting news (see No. 319) 148 327 Sir C. MacDonald . . Telegraphic 7, Withdrawal of Legations from Peking. Pro- bable results that would follow . . 149 328 Mr. Herbert Telegraphic 12, Li Hung-chang's appointment, and Russian proposal for withdrawal. Conversation with M. Delcassfi . . 149 329 To Her Majesty's Representatives at Paris, Berlin, Rome, Vienna, St. Peters- burgh, Washington, andTokio Telegraphic 12, Russia intends to continue to co-operate with other Powers, and has so informed Chinese Minister at St. Petersburgh (see No. 326) . . 149 330 To Consul Carles , . •• 12, Mr. Watts' journey to Taku with despatches. Appreciation of 150 331 Sir C. MacDonald . . Telegraphic 10, Peace Plenipotentiaries. Suggests Viceroy of Fuhkien instead of Yung Lu 150 332 Admiralty •• 13, Movements of Emperor, &c. Telegram from Rear-Admiral Bruce .. 150 333 Acting Consul-General Warren Telegraphic 13, Peace negotiations. Li Hung-chang's move- ments and opinion 150 334 » » Telegraphic 13, Force for Chingwantao. Report respecting intentions of Russia, and Admiral's view . . 151 335 't )> Telegraphic 13, Withdrawing of troops from Peking. Tele- gram from Her Majesty's Minister as to probable result and state of country 151 336 To Her Majesty's Representatives at St. Petersburgh, Berlin, Vienna, Rome, Washington, and T6ki6 Telegraphic 13, French Government adhere to Russian pro- posal respecting withdrawal from Peking 151 337 Consul Carles •• July 23, Viceroy Yu Lu. Joined party of Empress- Dowager. Result 151 33S Acting Con sul-General Warren Aug. 7, Copies of Imperial Decrees. Missionaries and converts held responsible for situation. Re- ports from Peking 151 S39 )j r 7, Murder of British subjects at Ch'ii Chou Report by Consul King 153 TABLE OP CONTENTS. XSj Name. Acting Ccnsul-General Warren No.l 340 341 342 343 To Her Majesty's Rfpresentatives at Paris, Rome, Ber- lin, Vienna, St. Petersburgh, and Washington 344 345 346 347 348 349 850 351 352 353 354 355 356 357 358 359 360 361 Acting Consul-General Warren To Acting Consul- General Warren Consul Carles J) ?j » » Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Consul Fraser Acting Consul-General Warren Consul Wilkinson Sir F. Lascelles Mr. C. Hardinge To Sir C. MacDonald Mr. Whitehead 51 )» To Sir C. MacDonald Viceroys of Nanking and Hankow to Sir Chihchen Lofengluh Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Date. Sept. 14, 1900 14, 14, 15, 15, 15, Aug. 1, July 29, 31, Aug. 6, 6, 7, II, 10, Sept. 18, IS, 18, Aug. 13, 13, Sept. 19, 19, Subject. Members of China Inland Mission missing. Inquiries made by Head of Mission Departure of Li Hung-chang for Tien-tsin Missing missionaries and others. Numbers of, according to report of China Inland Ivlission Intentions of Russia. Summary of communica- tion received from Russian Government Missionaries in Shansi. Steps taken for their rescue. Governor responsible for massacre Export of arms and ammunition from United Kingdom to China prohibited. To issue instructions .. Missionaries in interior. Consult with Vice roys as to rescue . . Administration of city of Tien-tsin. General Regulations . . Register of telegrams dispatched by Viceroy of Pechili. Forwards extracts from Translation of Imperial Edict of 18th July Enjoins protection of foreigners. Pillaging is to be put down Movements of allied forces Observations as to complicity of the Empress Dowager and Court in the outrages on the Legations Departure of Europeans from Chungking Report on the situation at Kiukiacg Position of missionaries in the neighbourhood of Ningpo . . . . German Circular as to the commencement of peace negotiations Russian Government desire to ascertain views of Powers as to transferring Legations to Tien-tsin, accepting Li Hung-chang and Cbing as Plenipotentiaries, and opening negotiations . . . . . . , . Is it desirable to assent to Prince Ching's request to immediately open peace negotia- tions ? Note to the Japanese Government relative to Her .Majesty's Government's acceptance of appointment of Field-Marshal Count von Waldersee Reply of Japanese Government to Chinese jiroposal that Ministers should leave Peking under escort . , Rescue of surviving missionaries . . Pafe 154 154 154 154 165 155 155 155 159 161 162 162 163 164 166 172 172 172 172 173 173 Imperial Decree for extermination of Boxers. Safety of missionaries at Paotinir-fu and Chingting-fu. Opening of negotiations ., 174 xxn TABIiE OF CONTENTS. No. 362 363 364 365 366 367 368 Name. 373 374 375 376 377 378 379 Memorandum afiven to the Chinese Minister to be forwarded to the Chinese Govern- ment To Sir C. MacDonald Count Hatzfeldt Admiralty United States' Acting Secretary of State to Mr. White Sir C. MacDonald Mr. Whitehead Telegraphic 369 370 371 37a Sir C. MacDonald Telegraphic Date. Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Acting Consul-General Telegraphic Warren Lord Panncefote Mr. C. Hardinge 5) 5) Sir C. MacDonald )» )) Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Sept. 20, 1900 20, 18, 20, 20, 21, 22, 22, 22, 22, 23, 23, 14, U, 20, 24, 24, 24, Subject. Reply to telegram from the Emperor of China to the Queen of the 3rd July Imperial Decree for extermination of Boxers. Safety of missionaries at Paoting-fu Proposal as to the surrender of the guilty parties before opening negotiations for peace Report on the training of Chinese troops at Wuchang . . . . . . . . Letter from Sir E. Seymour on the position of aft'airs on the Yang-tsze, and the advisability of landing British troops at Shanghae Capture of Pehtang forts . . Acceptance of Prince Ching as Plenipotentiary by United States' Government Reply to Russian Government's inquiry as to with- drawing Lejations and appointment of Plenipotentiaries, and to German Govern- ment's proposal for the surrender at guilty parties Resume of situation at Peking up to date Reply of Japanese Government to German Circular respecting surrender of guilty parties Reply of Japanese Government to Russian Circular respecting withdrawal of the Lega- tions from Peking, the examination and the adequacy of the credentials of the Chinese Plenipotentiaries Suggests accepting Li Hung-chang and Prince Chinsr as negotiators, and inserting names of two Yang-tsze Viceroys and that of Viceroy of Fuhkien Appointment of anti-foreign Taotai to Shang- hae, of Prince Tuan as Member of Grand Council, and of Tung-fu Hsiang as Generalis- simo of Imperial forces. Attitude of Chane- ChihTung .. .. .. __ Correspondence between United States and Chinese Governments respecting appointment of Li Hung-chang and Prince Ching Telegram published in the " Novoe Vremya " respecting thanksgiving service in honour of relief of Blagoveschensk Conversation with Count Lanisdorff on subject of German proposal for surrender of guilty parties. No reply as yet sent by Russian Government . . . , _ | Steps taken for securing safety of remainino- missionaries . . . , " Continued activity of the Boxers. Missionaries not yet handed over Desirable to open prelmiinary negotiations P^ 174 174 176 175 176 178 179 180 180 181 181 181 181 1S3 184 1S4: 18.5 185 TABLE OF CONTENTS. XXUl No. Name. Date. Subject. Page 380 Sir F. Lascelles Telegraphic Sept, 24, 1900 Affirmitive replies of French, Italian, and Austrian Governments to Getman Circular. Japanese and Russian replies expected imme- diately 185 381 To Sir C. Mac Donald Telegraphic 24, Substance of German Circular lor surrender of guilty parties . . 185 382 Sir C. MacDonald Telegraphic 25, Definite instructions to Russian Legation and troops to leave lor Tien-tsin 186 »83 >J )! • ■ Telegraphic 25, Reasons against peace negotiations being carried on at Tien-tsin . . 186 384 Consul Scott Telegraphic 25, Anti-missionary attacks in Canton. Satis- factory Proclamation by the Acting Viceroy 186 385 To Her Majesty's Representatives at Peking, T6ki6, Paris, Berlin, Rome, Vienna, St. Peters- burgh, and Washing- ton Telegraphic 25, Substance of the United States' reply to the last Chinese, Russian, and German Circulars 186 386 To Sir F. Lascelles , . 2fi, German Ambassador informed that Her Majesty's Government would make inquiries at Peking before giving a reply to the German Circular as to the punishment of the instigators of massacres 187 387 To Sir C. MacDonald Telegraphic 25, Requests his opinion and those of his colleagues in regard to certain points in German Circular dealing with the punishment of the instigators of anti-foreign outrages 188 388 Mr C. Hardinge Telegraphic 26, Russian and French replies to the German Circular as to the punishment of the in- stigators of anti-foreign outrages . . 188 389 Consul Carles •• Aug. 8, Transmits statement as to situation at Peking furnished by messenger sent thither by Captain Wingate on the 29th July J 88 390 > >7 -• 15, Substance of Memorial of Governor of Shan- tung to the Throne deprecating the denuding of his province of troops 189 391 Consul Fulford • • IS, Russian occupation of Newchwan^. Trans- mits correspondence between the Treaty Power Consuls and the Russian authorities as to the hoisting of the Russian flag 190 392 Acting Consul-Genera Warren .. 2*, Report as to the general attitude of the Viceroys and Governors towards mission- aries in the interior 193 S93 J, )? •• 23, Transmits correspondence as to the massacres at Ch'U Chou in July. The Governor of Chekiang has promised compensation 193 394 Mr. Herbert •• Sept. 23, Acceptance by the French Government of German proposal as to the punishment of the instigators of anti-foreign outrages 197 395 Mr. C. Hardinge Telegraphic 27, Russian reply to the German Circular as to the punishment of the instigators of anti- foreign outrages 197 396 To Sir C. MacDonald . Telegraphic 27, Authorizes commencement of negotiations with Chinese Plenipotentiaries under conditions . . 198 397 Mr. C. Hardinge ■ « 26, Transmits text of official communication respect- ing the withdrawal of Russians from Peking to Tien-tsin . . 19* SXIV TABLE OF CONTENTS. No. SOS S99 400 401 402 403 Name. 401 Lord Currie Sir C. MacDonald Sir E. Satow To Mr. C. Hardinge . J) w To Sir C. MacDonald Sir C. MacDonald Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Telegraphic Date. Sept. 28, 1900 29, 29, 29, 29, 30, 3D, Subject. Reply of Italian Government to Russian and German Circulars Reply to inquiries made by Her Majesty's Government before giving reply to the German Circular as to the punishment of the instigatoi-s of outrages Substance of Imperial Edict, dated the 26th September, punishioe instigators of outrages Reply of Her Majesty's Government to the Russian Circular of the 15ih September . . Reply given to M. de Staal in regard to Russian proposals contained in Circular of the 15th September Refusal of Her Majesty's (rovernment to withdraw Her Majesty's Legation from Peking. No Government has agreed to Russian proposal unconditionally No official assurances have been given to Chinese Plenipotentiaries as to the safety of the Empress-Dowager, but Prince Chmg believes that she would be safe if she returned to Peking. Any threat to the con- trary would not be advisable . . . . Page 199 199 199 199 200 200 200 Correspondence respecting the Disturbances in China. [In continuation of "China No. 3 (1900)."] No. 1. Sir Chihchen Lofengiuh to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received June 29.) THE Chinese Minister presents his compliments to the Marquess of Salisbury, and, referring to the interview he had with his Lordship yesterday, has the honour to forward him the following translation of the telegram from the Viceroys at Nanking and Woochang, the purport of which he communicated to Lord Salisbury at the interview above mentioned : — "In view of the exceedingly critical state of affairs in the north of China, the' Undersigned, the Viceroys of the Liang Kiang and Liang Hu Governments, M'hilst hoping to see things taking a more favourable turn, have deemed it expedient to take' special measures for the preservation of order in the provinces under their jurisdiction in the event of the disturbances ever extending to them. " With the object, therefore, of arriving at an understanding with the Treaty Powers witli respect to any concerted action which eventualities may call for, the Undersigned have framed the following Articles, and instructed the Taotai at Shanghae to submit them to the Consular Body at Shanghae as the basis of such action : — ■ " 1. That the Chinese authorities and the Consular Representatives of the Treatv Powers shall consult with each other, and act conjointly, in protecting native and foreign life and property, and this they severally recognized as being the sole object of the proposed understanding. " 2. That the duty of protecting Shanghae shall be confided to the Treaty Powers. " 3. That in the region of the Yang-tsze Valley, including the towns of Soochow and Hangchow, the responsibility for the maintenance of order shall jjertain to the Viceroys of the Liang Kiang and Liang Hu Provinces, who, within the limits afore- said, undertake to give adequate protection to foreign life and property, merchant and missionary ; and with this object, they do further undertake to issue stringent and imperative orders to all officials subordinate to them to suppress all inflammatory placards and punish all instigators of animosity between foreigners and the people. "4. Tliat the foreign war-ships already stationed at the Treaty ports in the Yang-tsze shall be maintained as heretofore, but on condition of their crews not beino allowed to go ashore. "5. That the Viceroys shall not be held responsible for the consequences of any disturbances which the entrance of foreign ships of war into the Yang-tsze may occasion, unless such entrance shall have been sanctioned by them. " f). That no foreign ships of war shall pass near to, or anchor opposite to, or in the vicinity of the Woosung and Yang-tsze forts ; neither shall they go througli any exercises in the neighbourhood of the forts which, by being misunderstood, might bring about a collision between them and the forts. "7. That foreign ships of war shall not cruise or anchor near to any of the Government powder-magazines, and that no foreign sailor or other person shall be allowed to approach such magazines. 'J he ammunition contained therein being solelv intended for the preservation of order and the security of life and* property, and being under the perfect control of the Viceroys, no apprehension should be entertained lest it should b to an understanding as to' the number of troops to b"e sent by each to Cliiha. ■'" I questioned his Excelleiic'y as to the precise object that these contingeuts were to attain. M. Cambbn replied that he thought we sliould be guided by the opinion of those on the spot, and he proposed that the question should be referred to a Council of the Admirals at Taku. I expressed some apprehension that advice coming frbm^s^ach a Council might represent the opinion of a less competent majority, and not that of the most weighty uKimbers of it. I should ]>refer that each Power should seek the opinion of its own' authorities as to what ought fo be done, and what force was necessary to do" it. To this view M. Cambon assented. With regard to the proposals drawn up by the Viceroys at Nanking and Hankow,' fiad stibmitted to the Consular Bo.ly at Shanghae as a ba^is Jbr joint action in certain eventualities, M. Cambon stated that the proposed arrangement indicated in manV jcspects the course which the Frencli Government was disposed to follow, but that they.^wei-e not prepared to bind themselv(«s by authorizing their Consul-Geneml td si'..;!! it. " ' ' - . . ■' I am, &c. (Sighed) SALISBURY. • The Mavquessof Salisbw'y to Lord Pauncefote. ' My Lord, Foreign Office, July 3, IQOO. ■ > TEE American Ambassador, in speaking to me to-day with regard to .tke crisis in Chioa.said that the United States' Government were quite willing that Japan i&hould, with the assent of the other Powers, send an expedition for the resctie of the Peking Legations. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY L^- No. 5. Viceroy of Nanking to Chinese Minister. — {Communicated by Sir Chikchen Lofengluh, July 4.) (Telegraphic.) Nanking, July 3, 1900. ■ WE, the Viceroys of the Liang Kiang and Liang Hu Provinces, undertake to ♦hold om'selves responsible for the security of foreign life and property, within our respective jurisdictions, as well as in the Province of Chekiang, so long as thfe Treaty Powers do not land troops in either the Yang-tsze Valley or tiie Province of Ghekiang. (Signed) Lieu Kun Yih. Chang Chitung. No. 6. Consul Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 4.) (Telegraphic.) ... Canton, July 4, 1900. I HAVE received privately a copy of an Imperial Decree to Li Hung-chang and the Viceroys of tlie Yang-tsze Provinces, which has since been published in a newspaper, to the follgvvjng cFFect : — "June 20. — You are aware of our dilemma about the armed bands (meaning Boxers), who must be either destroyed or pacified, and of the hostilities commenced by the foreign Powers. " You he ve estimated your resources and advise peaceful measures^ The Boxers are now in Peking, and have made their way into every part; their hatred of foreign missionaries is implacable. Were it attempted to suppress them by force, a catastrophe would be precipitated in the capital, and the inhabitants would be plunged in misery. We can now only employ the means we cannot control; a remedy for the state of affairs must be sought later. We are quite helpless, and war is being forced upon us. Hesitate no longer. Collect forces and money for the defence of the provinces you govern." Li Hung-chang, at an interview yesterday, said that he was determined to avoid, as far as possible, all warlike operations here. I w^ould recommend that the Powers make a united declaration that they will not make any attack on the Bogue forts or Canton. No. 7. Mr. Choate to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 5.) . ' My Lord, American Embassy, London, July 5, 1900. r HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that, in the present critical posture of affairs in China, my Government deems it api ropriate to define its attitude, so far as present circumstances permit this to be done, and has irxstructed me to advise your Lordship that it adlieres to the policy initiated by it in 1857, of peace with the Chinese nationi andof- furtherance of lawful commerce and of protection of the lives and property of its citizens, by all means guarantee I under extra-territorial Troatv rights, [1116] B 2 and by the law of naiious. It! vvi-ong be done to ilsS citizens, it proposes to hold the responsible authors to the utmost accountability. It regards the condition at Peking as one of virtual anarchy, whereby power and responsibility have practically devolvei upon the local provincial authorities. So long as they are not in overt collusion with rebellion, and use their poorer to protect foreign life and property, ray Government regards them as representing the Chinese people, with whom it seeks to remain in peace and friendship. The purpose of the President is, as it has been heretofore, to act concurrently with the other Powers — 1. In opening up communicatian with Peking, and rescuing the American officials, missionaries, and other Americans who are in danger. 2. In affording all possible protection everywhere in China to American life and property. 3. In guarding and protecting all legitimate ximerican interests. 4. In aiding to prevent a spread of the disorders to the other provinces of the Empire, and a recurrence of such disasters. My Government considers that, with the information at present at hand, it is too early to forecast the means of attaining this last result ; but its policy is to seek a solution which may bring about permanent safety and peace to China, preserve Chinese territory and administrative entity, protect all rights guaranteed to friendly Powers by Treaties and international law, and safeguard for the world the principle of equal and impartial trade with all parts of the Chinese Empire. I shall be pleased to have a brief interview with your Lordship as soon after the perusal of this note as you can conveniently accord it to me. I have, &e. (Signed) JOSEPH H. CHOATE. No. 8. T'he Marquess of Salisbury to Sir E. Monson* (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, July 5, 1900. I AM to-day communicating to the Chinese Minister a Memorandum in the following words : — " The Chinese Minister is requested by Her Majesty's Government to transmit by telegraph, in such a manner as will insure the message reaching the Government at Peking, notice that they will be held personally gu"lty if the members of the European Legations and other foreigners in Peking suffer injury." Inform Government to which you are accredited. No. 9. Memorandum by the Marquess of Salisbury. THE Chinese Minister called at this Office on the 4th instant and asked my view with respect to the arrangements proposed by the Viceroys of Nanking and Hankow, to the Consular Body at Shanghae, with regard to the joint action to be taken in the case of certain eventualities. I answered that I could fully recognize the excellent spirit in which these proposals were devised ; but that Her Majesty's Government could not accept them as a contract which they were bound to execute. I pointed out that they involved the renunciation of rights which Great Britain possesses under the Treaties, and that they impose on Her Majesty's Government duties which belong to the Chinese Government So far as it appears to Her Majesty's Government to be expedient to execute their provisions they will gladly do so, but each case must be judged on its merits. w ■ nm Tjrinf.n (Signed) SALISBUEY. roreign Office, July 5, 1900. Litehead ^°"^ ^'"'''' ^'''""'" '^'"^^' ^^ ^ Rumbold. Sir C. Scott, L>td Fauucefote, and Mr. Whitehead No. 10. The Marquess of Salisbury to Lord Currw. My Lord, Foreign Office, July 5, 1900. COUNT COSTA called at this Office to-day, and inquired what answer Her Majesty's Government had given to a communication from the French Government proposing that the Powers should take steps to co-ordinate their action in China and come to an understanding on the suhject. He was informed that the communication, as made here and at Vienna, had taken, the shape of a proposal that the Governments should instruct their respective Com- manders to report what amount of force was required for the operations they contemplated, in order that the contingents to be supplied by each might then be settled ; that I had seen no objection to each Government consulting its naval or military Commander, and that I thought this preferable to a request for a joint expression of opinion by all of them in council ; that we had already consulted our Admiral, who, after consultation, had stated that a force of 40,000 or 50,000 men would be required for an advance on Peking. Count Costa said that M. Visconti-Venosta had told the French Ambassador that iltaly would be ready to take part in any joint action that might be determined upon. The Italian Government had announced in the Chamber the measures they were taking. They were sending three additional ships of war to Chinese waters, raising the total to six, with crews sufficient to admit of a force being landed. They were ready to send more troops if necessary. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. ' No. 11. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 6.) '(Telesraphic.) Shanghae, July 5, 1900. TUAN-SHIH-KAI, Governor of Shantung, is reported to have received orders from Prince Tuan in Peking to march with 18,000 well-drilled troops on Nanking, and to capture it. Anarchy will spread throughout the Empire if this attack is made, and if we have not a very strong force here to support the Viceroy. No. 12. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. MacDonald. Sir, Foreign Office, July 6, 1900. THE Chinese Minister called on me this evening with a message from Li Hung- chang, who wished to inform me that, in his opinion, the Legations at Peking were still unhurt. He also wished to consult me as to the possibility of obtaihing from the Treaty Powers either a guarantee of the territory of China, or a self-denying Ordinance in any action circumstances may call on them to take in the present disturbed state of the country. The Minister stated that Russia had been consulted in the same sense, and had expressed her" willingness to guarantee the integrity of the Chinese Empire. I said I was much gratified to hear this ; but I could, naturally, not give an answer on so grave a demand without consulting my colleagues, and I would do so without delay. All I could say was that the policy apparently pursued by Russia was entirely in harmony with the principles and objects of this counti-y, and I should be very glad to find the aims of the two Powers entirely coincident. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. Np. 13. Sir E. Monsm to the Marquees df Salisbupy^.^lRe'cnved July 7.) (Extract.) Paris, July 5', 1900. ,^ •f I FQUND M. Delcasse very dejected yGbterday at the news of'the'desperatefsituatiof* of the members of the Diplomatic Body and the other Europeans at Peking. - " • • " r His Excellency said that the sole preoccufation of himself and his -coileagues at-thip moment was the duty of attempting their rescue, and that the reflection that the whole of Eui-ope appears to be powerless to enforce this rescue as against the Chinese wa*. overwhelmingly terrible to him. ';. In answer to my remarks, that the deficiency of force at the command of the European- -Powers could be best redressed by encouraging the co-operation of -the Japanese to the ■fullest extent, M. Delcass6 said that he also regarded Japan as the most important available factor for the object which all the Powers interested must have in view. He- 'hoped, therefore, that the division which the Japanese Government" was understood to have- mobilized would be dispatched at once. Heproceeded to enlarge upon the necessity that no jealousy or afterthought should bp- allowed to hinder unity of action and of direction on the' spot. It would never do that th& efficiency of the collective European forces, already far too weak and inconsiderablejshouij| ;be frittered away by isolated action on the part of each. His Excellency, in connection with this consideration, observed that be need hardly j. rhe supposed,. assure me that he, personally, andj he was convinced, his colleagues also'^ had no other thought at this moment than the rescue of those in danger,- if- such a rescue be still possible. I could not but express my approval of all that M. Delcasse said, but I asked him whether he had no definite suggestion to make, or any message which I might report to your Lordship. Upon this, his Excellency informed me tbac he had already, yesterday mornings instructed the French Representatives to propose to the Governments of the Powers interested the publicationof an identic or collective warning to the (Z^/iifcfQ ^Goye^nfiBent or authorities at Peking, declaring that they will be held personally responsible for the lives and safety of all the Europeans in the capital.* ( ■ >: ., M. Delcasse explained that he thought thaty while, on the one hand, it isXto be iconjectured that in one way or another this warning will reach those for whom itis intended at Peking, it will, on the other, show clearly to Europe and to the world at large, the- •soliilariiy of the agreement bet-ween the Powers, ■ , His Excellency seemed to me to attach more importance to this latter, point than to- the efficacy which such a notification may have at Peking. Indeed, beseemed to acquiesce in the opinion I expressed, that those who had seized upon power in the Chinese capital were hardly hkely lo be influenced by any warning from the European Powers. I have no doubt that even before the receipt of the telegram which I dispatched to your Lordship after my interview with M. Delcasse, you will have received from the French Embassy the message forwarded from Paris in the forenoon. But 1 thought it as well to lose no time in reporting the version given of it to me by M. Delcasse himself. - No; 14. Sir E. Monson to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 7.) My Lord, Paris, July 6, 1900. I HAVE the honour to transmit to your Lordship herewith copy of the urgent note- fwhicb I have, addressed to the French MinijSter for .Foreign AflTairs, in, accordance with the ■instructions contained in your Lordship's telegram of to-day's date,t intorming him that Her Majesty's Government have suggested to the Government of Japan that reinforce tiients should be sent by them to Chinawith the least possible delav. I have, &c. " (Signed) EDMUND MONSON. See •■ China No. 3 (1900)," p 96. t See ' China No. 3 (1900)," p. 102. Inclosure iu No. 14. Sir E. Monson to M. Belcasse. M. le Ministre, Paris, July 6, 1900.' ' ' I AM instructed by Lord Salisbury to inform your Excellenc-y that Her Majesty's Government have this day thought it advisable "to' suggest to that of .Japan that the' greatest dispatch should be used by them in sending reinforcements to China. • I have, &c. (Signed) EDMUND MONSON. No. 15. Viscount Gongh to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 7.) My Lord, Berlin, July 5, 1900. » L HAVE the honour to transmit hercM^th to your Lordship copy and translatioii of a Memorandum; which I have this day received from the Imperial German ;•. , Guided, however, by the conviction that no ihearis tshould be left untriedi unle^i hopeless from the outset, for the rescue of the fo-feig^ers besiegx?d in Peking, the Imperial Government are very ready to take part, on their side also, in the proposed collective declaration, and to instruct the Imperial Consul in Tien-tsin by telegraph accordingly. ^ , ,, , The Government of His Majesty consider, however, that they should give prominence to t,he faqt, that ijeither would they have ligld aloof, if the proposal of the Consuls at Tieh-tsin, td threaten the destruction of the Chinese Imperial tombs had met with the .concurrence of the other Powers. It appears to the Imperial Govern 7 ment in this cotinectlon, that the opinion of the Consuls, who, froni their immediat('' vicinity are best qualified to judge the situation, is not without weighty they being unanimously convinced that the threat to destroy the tombs of the present Imperial house wpuld exercise, a,, salutary effect on. the rioters, ,wJiose principal leader is himself a Prince of th^ said Imperial house. It should be observed, in conclusion, that the message from the Imperial Consul refers to tombs near Peking. Consequently the tombs in Manchuria would not be those in question^ but rather the so-called "Eastern" tonibs, situated nratMa4an-yii, on this side of the Great Wall. Berlin, July 4>, 190Q. , -O No. 16. Acting Consul- General Warren lo the Marquess of SalL^bury.— (Received July /.) (Telegraphic ) Shanghae, July 1, 1900. WITH 'reference to your Lordship's telegrams of the 6th instant,* the Viceroys woukl be glad to know that a force was ready and prepared to hasten to support them should the necessity arise, but they are not anxious at present for more torce at tlic^ The Viceroys have not expressed any wish that troops should be landed at anj ports. Yuan-Sliih-Kai, Governor of Shantung, will support the Viceroy Liu s policy and refuses to march on Nanking. No. 17. Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 8.) (Telegraphic.) Tokio, July 8, 1900. , 1 COMMUNICATED to-day to the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs your Lordship's telegrams of tbe 6tli Julv.t Viscount Aoki said that three batteries of artillery and one regiment of infantry started on tbe 6th July. Dispatch of troops was proceeding as rapidly as possible. No. 18. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 8.) (Telegraphic.) St. Peter sburgh, July 8, 19O0. CHINA. I have informed Count Lamsdorff, as instructed in your Lordship's telegram of the 6th July.t His Excellency mentioned the possibility that Japan might M?ant a mandate for separate action or special conditions for her co-operation, by which tiie accord in the common task of rescue and protection might be endangered. In his opinion, it is essential for the success of the combined effort that action should be identic and on equal conditions, and that although every contribution of force promptly available for co-operation should be welcomed, no one Power should b& given a mandate for separate action, or any special conditions, or any claim to pre- ponderating voice in guidance based on the relative amount of force supplied or tbe eervicea rendered to the common cause. f- No. 19. J^ord Currie to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 9.) (Telegraphic.) Rome, July 9, 1900. ITALY is sending about 2,600 men to China. Details follow by post. No. 20. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 10.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, July 10, 1900. THE Boxers are reported to have appeared at Wcnehow, where they are openly drilling, and declare that they intend to kill all native converts and foreio-ners. I*a consequence of these rumours a gun-boat is going up the river, but I suggest that the • See " China No. n (1900)," p. 103. t See '■ China No. 3 (1900)," p. lOi. foreigners should withdraw if the danger becomes serious, as the gun-boat cannot be spared for any length of time. It would be advisable, I think, for the people to come away from all the smaller ports whenever the danger is pressing, as there are not sufficient gun-boats to protect every port. No. 21. Consul Tratman to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 10.) (Telegraphic.) Ckefoo, July 10, 1900. CONSUL at Newchwang writes : — All Protestant missionaries safely out of Manchuria, but some Danish surrounded 80 miles south-east of Newchwang, and foreign rescue party started to relievo. All Protestant missionaries safely out of Shantung Province. No. 22. The Marquess of Salisbury to Mr. Whitehead. Sir, ^ Foreign Office, July 10, 1900. THE Japanese Charge d' Affaires called here on the 5th instant and asked me whether Great Britain proposed to send more troops to China beyond those already under orders from India. I replied tbat this would depend to some extent on the course of affairs in South Africa, but that w? had already from 10,000 to 12,000 en route or under orders, and our officers on the spot estimated that from 40,000 to 50,000 in all would be required for an advance on Peking. M. Matsui then inquired what other nations were doing. I replied that, from our information Prance was sending about 8,000, Germany about 9,000, America about 3,000, and Count Lamsdorff stated that Russia had already 10,000 at Taku and Tien-tsin. I pointed out that these reinforcements would probably meet the immediate emergency, but they could in many instances not be available till the latter part of August when it would be too late to relieve the Legations, and the rains would render operations difficult, and I asked what Japan intended to do, and whether she would not utilize her proximity by sending a considerable force immediately to relieve the Legations. M. Matsui replied that his Government would be willing to do the same as other Powers, but they apprehended difficulty if they did more, and thought a much larger number of troops than 50,000 would be required to relieve Peking. If they sent 15,000 now, which would be as much as other Powers, they would be beaten back. I pointed out that the opportunity of effective intervention now lay with Japan, and that although we could not, owing to distance, place a large body of troops promptly on the spot, we had supplied thirty-four ships, and should shortly have eleven more on the station, so that we were doing all we could in the common cause. I urged him to move his Government to consider these points. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. No. 23. Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 11.) (Telegraphic.) Tokio, July 11, 1900. WITH reference to your Lordship's telegram of the 6th July, I was sent for to-day by Viscount Aoki, who told me that in consequence of the friendly assurances given by your Lordship, it had been decided by the Japanese Government to send to China one or two more army divisions ; the material difficulties of landing and supplies will determine the date of mobilization and departure of these. [1116] C 10 No. 24. The Marquess of Saliibury to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, July 11, 1900. FOREIGN community at Wenchow. With reference to your telegram oi the 10th' July, you should consult Senior Naval Officer, and act m concert with him, and report -joint recommendation as to withdrawal of foreigners in this and other cases that may arise. No. 25. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury.— (Received July 12.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, July 12, 1900. ^ WITH reference to your Lordship's telegram of the 11th instant, both in regard to Wenchow and other cases, the Senior Naval Officer and myself have all along acted in complete concert. Her Majesty's ship " Pigmy " left on the 10th July for Wenchow, under instruc- tions, if the place was unsafe, to bring away all foreigners. No. 26. Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 12.) (Telegraphic.) _ TSkio, July 12, 1900. I HAVE sent the following telegram to Admiral Seymour : — "Lieutenant-General Terauchi, Second in General Staff, is being sent by the Japanese Government to discuss with you and Admiral AlexeietF a scheme of combined operations." No. 27. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, July 12, 1900. i APPROVE the action reported in your telegram of the 12th instant, with a view to providing for the safety of foreigners at Wenchow. Foreigners at smaller ports should, in view of the impossibility of detailing a man- of-war for every port, be advised to withdraw as soon as they are threatened by serious danger. You should, in concert with the Senior Naval Officer, arrange to hire a vessel or vessels to remove refugees from any port to which it is impossible to send a man- of-war. No. 28. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- Genera I Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, July 12, 1900. THE Governor of Hong Kong telegraphs on the 10th July as follows : " The following is an extract from a Proclamation issued by Yu, Governor of Hupei, and the Viceroy of Hankow : " * We have made arrangements with the Consuls of various Powers that so long as ships of war do not come up the Yang-tsze the lives and property of foreigners shall be protected by local officials. Peking has been notified of this Agreement bv telegraph.' " " ^ 11 The Ohinese Minister communicated to me, on the 29th ultimo, a long telegram which he had received from the two Viceroys, containing an Arrangement in nine Articles which the Taotai at Shanghae had been instructed to submit to the Consular Body at that place. Lof^ngluh called here again on 4th July, and I informed him that I recognized fully the excellent spirit in wMch these proposals were devised. At the same time, I pointed out to him that they imposed on Her Majesty's Government duties which properly belonged to the Chinese Government, and that they involved the renunciation of Treaty rights, and I said that Her Majesty's Government would gladly execute their provisions so far as it appeared to them expedient to do so, but that it was impossible for us to accept them as a contract which we were bound to execute, and each case must be judged on its merits. No. 29. Count Lamsdorff to Russian Charge d'Af aires in London. — [Communicated July 13, 1900.) LE 11 Juin notre Ministre a Tokio nous communiqua que le Gouvernement Japonais s'etait d6clare pret, vu la situation pleine de peril a P6kin, d'envoyer ses troupes en Chine afin de sauver, conjointement avec les autres Etats, les Representants des Puissances assi^ges a Pekin et secouvir les strangers se trouvant dans I'Empire, parmi lesquels le Japon compte de nombreux sujets. Tout concours au but indiqu6 ne pouvait rencontrer que I'accueil le plus sympathique de la part de toutes les Puissances. D'autre part le Japon, grace aux conditions g^ographiques pouvant, par renvoi d'un contingent considerable, faciliter essentiellement la tache des detachements internationaux se trouvant deja a Tien-tsin nous nous empress&mes d'informer le Cabinet de Tokio que nous ne voyions aucune raison d'entraver sa liberte d'action a ce sujet, d'autant plus qu'il avait exprime la ferme resolution d'agir en complet accord avec les autres Puissances. La decision prise par le Gouvernement Japonais, dans les conditions indiquees, etait toute naturelle, vu le danger qui menagait tout autant ses Bepresentants a Pekin, que ses nombreux sujets r^sidant en Chine ; mais, a notre point de vue, I'accomplissement de cette tache ne saurait impliquer des droits d'une solution independante des affaires a Pekin, ni d'autres privileges, a I'exception, peut- etre, d'une plus grande indemnite pecuniaire, si plus tard les Puissances avaient considere necessaire d'en deman5er une. Presque simultanement nous re^iimes du Cabinet de Londres une communication a ce siijet, dans laquelle il s'agissait d6ja non d'une decision spontanee du Cabinet de Tokio de participer a Taction collective des Puissances, mais d'une mission donn^e, par I'Europe au Japon, d'envoyer en Chine des forces considerables non seulement pour sauver les Legations et les sujets ^trangere, mais aussi en vue de repression du mouvement insurrectionnel provoque par les Boxers et I'etablissement de I'ordre a Pekin et Tien-tsin. Cette mani^re de poser la question pourrait a notre avis dans une certaine mesure enfreinde les principes fondamentaux qui avaient deja ete accept^s par la majority des Puissances comme bases de leur politique relativement aux 6venements en Chine, savoir : le maintien de I'union entre les Puissances, maintien du regime gouverne- mental existant en Chine ; exclusion de tout'ce qui pourrait mener au partage de I'Empire ; enfin le retablissement par les efforts communs d'un pouvoir central legitime capable lui-m^me d'assurer au pays I'ordre et la security. Le ferme etablisse- ment et la stricte observation de ces principes fondamentaux sont, a notre avis, absolument indispensables pour atteindre le but principal : le maintien d'une paix durable en Extreme- Orient. Le Gouvernement Imperial considere qu'en face des evenements mena^ants en Chine, qui concement les interets vitaux des Puissances, il est urgent d'^viter tout malentendu ou omission qui pourraient avoir des suites encore plus dangereuses. (Translation.) ON the 11th June our Minister at T6ki6 informed us that the Japanese Govern- ment had declared their readiness, in consideration of the perilous situation at Peking, to send their troops to China with a view to saving, conjointly with the other States, [1116] C 2 12 the Representatives of the Powers who were besieged in Peking, and to rescuing the foreigners resident in the Empire, among whom are many Japanese subjects. Any co-operation, anything tending to the attainment of the objects indicated, could only meet with the most sympathetic reception from all the Powers, Moreover,^ Japan, being able, thanks to geographical conditions, by the dispatch of a considerable contingent, to facilitate essentially the task of the international detachments already at Tien-tsin, we hastened to inform the Cabinet at T6ki6 that we saw no reason to inter- fere with their liberty of action in this respect, especially as they have expressed then- firm resolution of acting in complete harmony with the other Powers. The decision taken by the Japanese Government, under the above-mentioned conditions, wasa very natural one, in consideration of the danger which menaced their Representatives at Peking, as well as their numerous subjects resident in China ; but, from our point of view, the accomplishment of this task could not confer the right to an independent solution of matters at Peking, or other privileges, with the exception, perhaps, of a larger pecuniary indemnity, should the Powers consider it necessary, later on, to demand one. We received almost simultaneously a communication on this subject from the Cabinet of London, which had reference, not to a spontaneous decision on the part of the Cabinet at T6ki6 to participate in the collective action of the Powers, but to a mission given by Europe to Japan, to send considerable forces to China, not only to save the Legations and the foreign subjects, but with a view to the suppression of the insurrectionary movement provoked by the Boxers and the re-establishment of order at Peking and Tien-tsin. This way of putting the question might, in our opinion, to a certain extent encroach on the fundamental principles which had already been accepted by the majority of the Powers as the bases of their policy relative to events in China, that is to say, the maintenance of the union between the Powers ; the maintenance of the existing system of government in China ; the exclusion of anything which might lead to the partition of the Empire ; finally, the re-establishment by common effort of a legitimate central Power, itself capable of assuring order and security to the country. The firm establishment and strict observance of these fundamental principles are, in our opinion, absolutely indispensable to the attainment of the chief object : the main- tenance of a lasting peace in the Far East. The Imperial Government considers that, in view of the threatening events in China, which concern the vital interests of the Powers, it is urgently necessary to avoid any misunderstatiding or omission which might have still more dangerous consequences. No. 30. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 13.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, July 13, 1900. WITH reference to your Lordship's telegram of the 12th instant : The Consular Body here rejected the Agreement which was submitted to them as telegraphed by the Governor of Hong Kong. I communicated to" your Lordship its exact effect in my telegram of the 27th June, and the following is the full text of our reply as conveyed by the Senior Consul^to the Taotai of Shanghae : — " I am directed by my colleagues to express our pleasure at receiving yesterday from your Excellency and from his Excellency Sh^ng the assurances from their Excellencies Chang-Chih-Tung, Viceroy of Wuchang, and Liu-Kun-yi, Viceroy of Nanking, that they undertake to keep the peace and to protect life and property in their province, and to hold themselves responsible for any damage done by riot or insurrection. ^ We beg to thank their Excellencies, and to express our high estimation of their good intentions. " We desire you to inform their Excellencies that the Admirals of the allied fleets at Taku have made public Proclamation that they only fight against Boxers and those who strive to prevent rescue of foreigners in danger at Peking and other places. We desire you to assure their Excellencies that our Governments had no intention, and now have no intention, either individually or collectively, to take any action or to' land any force in the Yang-tsze Valley so long as their Excellencies are able to and do maintain rights of foreigners in their provinces provided for by the Treaties with the Government of China." 13 No. 31. Consul Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 13.) (Telegrapliic.) Canton, July 13, 1900. AN Imperial Edict, received yesterday, orders Li Hung-chang to go to Peking. He leaves Hong Kong on the 17th July for the North. No. 32. The Marquess of Salisbury to Mr. Whitehead. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, July 13, 1900. WITH reference to your telegram of the 11th instant, I have to state that Her Majesty's Government are willing to assist the Japanese Government up to 1,000,000^. if they at once mobilize and send forward without delay, for the relief of the Peking Legations, a further force of 20,000 men in addition to the troops which you stated, in your telegram of the 6th instant, were being dispatched. No. 33. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul-General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, July 14, 1900. A TRANSLATION of an Imperial Edict, dated the 29th June, was communi- cated to me yesterday by the Chinese Minister. It purports to give an account of what has occurred up to that date for the information of the Chinese Representa- tives abroad, who are therein directed to remain at their posts. It states that the Legations continue to receive thd protection of the Chinese Government, but admits the murder of the German Minister at Peking, at the same time attributing all the trouble that has arisen to the attack on the forts at Taku. I told Lo Feng-luh that our military measures were directed towards the preservation of the Legations, and other foreigners at present detained in Peking, and the recognition of the sacred character of a foreign Legation duly accredited and received. Beyond this, I said that Her Majesty's Goverment had no objects beyond securing the principles which all civilized Governments acknowledged. I also told the Chinese Minister that I was at a loss to understand why he should be in receipt of direct communications from his Government at Peking, while none were permitted to reach us from our Minister there. No. 34. Acting Consul-General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 14.) (Telegraphic) Shanghae, July 14, 1900. IT appears that the Yang-tsze Viceroys are somewhat disturbed in mind by the fear that the partition of China will be the result of the present trouble. I think that they would be strengthened in the position they have taken up if Her Majesty's Government could assure them that Great Britain had no intention of the sort, and w^ould use her influence with the Powers to prevent such partition. No. 35. The Marquess of Salisbury to Consul Scott. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, July 14, 1900. WE are of opinion that, in the present circumstances, Li Hung-chang will promote the cause of order more efficiently by staying at Canton than by proceeding to Peking. 14 No. 36. Acting Consul-Qeneral Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 14.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, July 14, 1900. THERE is no doubt that the Boxer movement is spreading, and may develop into a Chinese national uprising throughout the Empire against foreigners. To-day bad news comes from Hankow, Hunan, and Wenchow. The loss of Shanghae would be irreparable ruin to foreign trade and influence, as it is the shipping and commer- cial base of all China north of Foochow. The navy and volunteers cannot hold it against all contingencies. I would therefore urge strongly that a British force should without delay be sent to Hong Kong or Wei-hai Wei, and that their transport should be kept with them ready to leave for Shanghae at eight hours' notice. Five hundred cavalry, one battery of artillery, and 2,000 infantry would be an adequate force. The Senior Naval Officer at Shanghae concurs in this suggestion. No. 37. Acting Consul-General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 14.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, July 14, 1900. 1 HAVE the honour to report the arrival here of the entire foreign community of Wenchow. No. 38. Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 14.) (Telegraphic.) Tokio, July 14, 1900. WITH reference to your Lordship's telegram of the 13th July Yiscount Aoki, after consulting with Marquis Yamagata, informs me that as no combined plan of campaign has been agreed upon, the Japanese Government do not consider that the dispatch of further reinforcements would at present be opportune. The Japanese Government might reconsider this decision, Viscount Aoki added, if General Terauchi's mission, to which I referred in my telegram of the 12th July, should prove successful, and further troops be demanded by the Military Commanders. No. 39. Consul Eraser to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 14.) (Telegraphic.) Chungking, July 14, 1900. ' AFTER the mcendiansm and lootmg of houses and effects which took place on the 10th June the missionaries and their tauiilies are housed and treated in the provincial capital of Yunnan, where the Viceroy is by way of protecting them. I have received a telegram from his Excellency stating that under his protection they were safe. No. 40. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.) , , , , , Foreign Office, July 15, 1900. ' WITH reference to your telegram of the 14th instant, you may assure the Viceroys that Her Majesty's Government are entirely opposed in policy to, the partition of China. r j ,, 15 No information has been received here suggesting that measures of this descrip- tion are contemplated by any of the Powers. It is of the most vital importance for the preservation of the Chinese Empire that order should he maintained by the Yang-tsze Viceroys. No. 41. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. Scott. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, July 15, 1900. E-USSIAN Oharg^ d' Affaires communicated on 13th July a message from Count Ijamsdorff, stating that on the 11th June Russian Minister at T6ki6 had reported oflFer of Japanese Government to send troops to China conjointly with other Powers for preservation of Representatives at Peking and of foreigners throughout China. This action on the part of Japan was quite natural, as her geographical position enabled her to send considerable reinforcements at once to Tien-tsin, and she has numerous subjects residing in China. The Russian Government at once informed the Cabinet of T6ki6 that they saw no reason for interfering with Japan's liberty of action in this respect, the more so, as she had expressed the firm resolution of acting in complete accord with the other Powers. But the accomplishment of this task did not, according to the view of the Russian Government, imply any right to an independent settlement of affairs at Peking, iior other privileges, except, perhaps, a larger pecuniary indemnity if eventually the Powers should consider it necessary to demand one. Count Lamsdorff states that almost simultaneously he received from Her Majesty's Government a communication which already mentioned not a spontaneous decision of the Cabinet of T6ki6 to participate in the collective action of the Powers, but a mission to be given by Europe to Japan to send to China considerable forces not merely to save the Legations and foreigners, but also with a view to the repression of the insurrectionary movement set on foot by the Eoxers and the establishment of order at Peking and Tien-tsin. This manner of stating the question might, in the opinion of the Russian Government, infringe to a certain degree the fundamental principles which had already been accepted by the majority of the Powers as the basis of their policy, namely, the maintenance of union between the Powers, maintenance of the existing system of government in China, exclusion of anything which might lead to partition of the Empire, in fact, the re-establishment by joint efforts of a legitimate central Government capalile of assuring order and security. The Russian Govern- ment consider that strict observance of these fundamental principles is indispensable for maintenance of durable peace in the Par East, and that it is essential to avoid all misunderstandings or omissions which might have dangerous consequences. I have replied that Her Majesty's Government have never suggested that the action of Japan should confer on her any rights to an independent solution or any other privileges. They have never spoken to the Russian Government of a mission given by Europe to Japan. The fundamental principles of which Count Lamsdorff speaks have never been accepted by Her Majesty's Government, nor have we as yet discussed with other Powers the circumstances to which those principles might possibly apply. Her Majesty's Government have not expressed an opinion in favour of any steps except those which point to the relief of the Legations and of other foreigners.] No. 42. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 16.) (Extract.) ^^- Petersburgh, July 4s, 1900. I HAD to-day the first opportunity since Count Mouravieff 's death of conversation with Count Lamsdorff, who held a reception of the foreign Representatives. His Excellency expressed regret at having been unable to receive me earlier, but hoped that the answer which he had sent me to your Lordship's inquiry about a Japanese expeditionary corps to Northern China had made it clear that Russia had no desire to place the slightest difficulty in the way of the prompt dispatch of such a Japanese force as your Lordship had named. The Japanese Government, as appeared 16 from the communication they had made to the Russian and other Governments, had not asked for a mandate to act independently in the restoration of order in Tien-tsin and Peking, but was desirous to co-operate loyally in this emergency with the European forces. There would be grave objections to giving a mandate for single action to_ any one Power in the face of so grave a crisis as the present, when every other consideration must be subordinated to the one common and pressing aim of rescue and protection ; and any importation of elements of rivalry and jealousy would be fatal to its success. Any available force that could be promptly sent by any Power to hasten the work of relief would be most welcome. Russia had so far been able to contribute the most effective aid in the seizure of the Taku forts and the relief of Tien-tsin, but had no desire to found on that fact any claim for a privileged position in the common task before us. Under the circumstances, the Russian Government had adopted the only course possible at such a distance from the scene of action : they had given the fullest powers to M. de Giers to take any immediate action he thought necessary, and to call up from Vladivostock or Port Arthur any amount of force necessary to keep up communications with the coast and protect the Legations ; and Admiral AlexeiefE and the authorities at Vladivostock had been instructed in this sense. Unfortunately there were doubts whether this telegram had ever actually reached Peking, and at present the Russian Government was greatly embarrassed by want of prompt and detailed information from the Admiral as to the amount of force already landed and immediately available, and the measures which had been taken and were in contemplation ; he understood that the Russian force already landed amounted to 10,000, but the telegrams had been unaccountably delayed and were very meagre and he was anxious for the particulars, which I at once gave him, of the latest items of information from our Admiral at Taku and Consul at Tien-tsin and the dates at which they had been dispatched and received. It was impossible, he added, for the Government of St. Petersburgh to dictate a course of action to their authorities on the spot, who had the fullest powers. There was, he thought, no confidence to be placed ia the contradictory rumours from Peking which reached Europe through Chinese sources, but there could be little doubt that a complete state of anarchy now prevailed in the Chinese capital. The Empress was at the time said to have fled from Peking, and he had thought it possible that she might be endeavouring to join Li Hung-chang somewhere, and if so, that the latter might have made use of the Empress as a constituted authority to endeavour to restore order, and come to terms with the European Powers. The latest reports, however, asserted that the Emperor was a prisoner at Peking in the power of Prince Tuan, who had usurped the authority and led the anti-foreign crusade. Count Lamsdorff's view of the situation at present seemed to be that if we could only rescue our Legations and the Europeans, and bring them in safety to the coast, the allied forces should confiae themselves to holding in strength the position they now occupied at Taku and Tien-tsin, and not attempt to restore order in the interior but let the conflagration there burn itself out, and wait until it resulted in some apparent authority emerging at Peking with whom the Powers could deal, and whom they could render responsible. At present there was no one in the capital whom we could menace or even address ; in the opinion of the Chinese Minister at St. Petersburgh, who had his son and other relations there, the movement had become essentially anarchical, and Chinese and Europeans were being massacred and pillaged indiscriruinately. Count LamsdorfE had not heard directly of the course unanimously recommended by the Consular Body at Tien-tsin, but he entirely shared your Lordship's view that the effect of its adoption would not only be quite inpperative on the factors of the disturbance, but extremely hazardous and difficult to execute, and he thought that if there were any authorities which a menace or warning could reach, the proposal to warn them collectively that they would eventually be held responsible in. their persons and property for any injury to the foreign Legations or Europeans in Pekino- was a much more practical suggestion. ° There was one point on which Count Lamsdorff laid particular stress in his conversation with me : it was that the European Powers should proceed on the assump- tion that they were not in a state of war with the constituted Government of China, but with rebels and anarchists, otherwise the whole population of China would be 17 aroused against us, and none of the constituted authorities would have sufficient influence to accept our support in restoring order. Count Lamsdorfl: concluded by expressing a desire to ' be placed in possession of any information or suggestions which your Lordship might desire to offer to him, and by promising to keep me promptly informed of any later news which the Russian Foreign Office might receive from China; ho laid emphasis on the necessity of maintaining a complete accord between all the European Powers with regard to their action in China. No. 13. Acting Consul-General Warren to the Murquess of Salisburii. — (Received July 17.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, July 1 7, 1900. IT appears that the Boxer movement is spreading rapidly. The telegraph wires in Shansi, Shensi, and Honan have been cut, and orders given to kill foreigners and burn churches. The Governors of Kwangsi, Shansi, Shensi, Honan, Hunan, and Hupei are now all reported to have declared in favour of the rising. The Viceroy of Hankow may also be carried away by the flood, although he still remains firm. * I have received the following telegram from Her Majesty's Consul at Kiukiang : — " I have received news to-day that at Ching-te-chen the Roman Catholic Mission- was burnt, native converts killed, and the banks pillaged on the 1 1th July. The officials at Tao-chow ordered the Mission to withdraw immediately, declaring themselves unable to protect it. The Mission is since believed to have been burnt. The Mission has been withdrawn from Foochow (near Poyang Lake)." Ko, 44. Consul Fraser to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 17.) (Telegraphic.) Hankow, July 17, 1900. I BELIEVE that the Viceroy's hands would be strengthened by a public assurance that the Emperor and Empress-Dowager will be treated by the foreign Powers respect- fully and honourably, as the Empress is not considered by the Viceroys and official classes as really to blame for the present situation, or as having usurped the Throne. A guarantee of their Majesties' personal safety would do good, and would probably lessen opposition in the North iV this assurance is impossible. The Viceroy wished me to see him and hear his views on this urgent matter, but I replied that I could not do so until I had obtained instructions from your Lordship on the subject. No. 45. Consul Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 17.) (Telegraphic.) Canton, July 17, 1900. I HAVE the honour to report that, Li Hung-chang started this afternoon from Canton. No. 46. Cor.sul Scott to *lhc Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 17.) (Telegraphic.) Canton, July 17 19QQ. I HAVE the honour to report that Li Hung-chang has been appomted Viceroy of the Province of Chihli. [1116] D 18 No. 47. Sir C. 8cott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 17.) (Telegraphic.) St. Petershurgh, July 17, 1900. OFPICIAL messenger publishes telegram from engineer in charge of second section East Chinese Railway, stating that on 2nd July he was informed by Chinese General Tsuen that he had receired orders to take offensive against all Russians who did not immediately withdraw over frontier. Engineer collected staff, and reached frontier safely 13th July. A telegram from Military Governor, Amur, dated 14th July, states that steamers with ammunition were stopped at Chinese town Aigun, Chinese officers stating that they had orders to stop navigation, and were iired upon, but reached Blagovestchensk safely. One officer, six men wounded. On 15th July, quite unexpectedly, heavy fire was opened on Blagovestchensk ; three Russians killed, six wounded. No. 48. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir E. Monson. Sir, Foreign Office, July 17, 1900. THE French Ambassador called at this Office to-day and informed Sir T. Sanderson that the French Ambassador at St. Petershurgh had reported that the Chinese Minister in that capital had received a message from the Empress-Dowager of China, dated the 2nd July, stating that the Legations were then still safe, and that she was giving them such protection as she could. The message had come vi^ Pao-Ting-Fu, and was said to have been sent without the knowledge either of Prince Tuan or of the Tsung-li Yamen. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. No. 49. Foreign Office to India Office. Sir, Foreign Office, July 17, 1900. I AM directed by the Marquess of Salisbury to inclose, for the information of the Secretary of State for India, a copy of a telegram received to-day from Consul- General Warren at Shanghae,* from which it is anticipated that the disturbances in the north may before long extend to Shanghae. From other advices received here, it is felt that the threatening- state of affairs on the Yang-tsze makes it desirable that a portion of the Indian troops should be halted at Hong Kong as they arrive. Consul-General Warren, in a previous telegram, estimated the force necessary to defend Shanghae as follows : — 500 cavalry. 1 battery of artillery. 2,000 infantry. Matters have now assumed a more threatening character, and it .'nay be that the military authorities would advise a larger force. < Lord Salisbury would be glad to know if Lord George Hamilton agrees in this opinion, and whether he thinks it desirable that General Gaselee should under the changed circumstances at Peking, proceed to the north. It is urgently pressed bv Consul-General Warren, who is in touch with the Senior Naval Officer that the troops detained should be ready to sail at a few hours' notice. ' I am, &c. (Signed) FRANCIS BERTIE. No. 43, 19 Xo. 60. India Office to ForeUjn Office.— {Received July 18.) ^"'' India Office, July IS, IQQQ. i AM directed to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of tlie 17th instant, and to acquamt you. in reply, for the information of the Marquess of Salisbury, that tlio folloA^•lng telegram has this day been sent to Hong Kong:— "From Secretary of Stale for War to General Officer Commanding, Hong Kong, July 18, 1900. " Following for Gaselee from the Secretary of State for India:— " We hear ' ominous reports as to spread of revolt and consequent danger to Shanghac. You should stop there on your way north, and divert such troops as seen! absolutely necessary for its defence if, in your judgment, the position is critical. Whilstwe are alive to the necessity of rapidly augmenting the international forces at Tien-tsin, European interests at Shanghae are too important to he imperilled. Tele- graph your views as soon as possible from Shanghae.' " 2. Whether a large force will ])c required for Shanghae largely depends upon the information of the next few days. I have, &c. (Signed) J. STEDMAN, Major- General, Military Secretary. No. 51. Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 18.) (Telegraphic.) TSkio, July 18, 1900. VISCOUNT AOKI has informed the German Charge d'AfEaires that on Jhe 13th July the Emperor of Japan received a telegram from the Emperor of China dated about a week before from Peking, and sent by Chinanfu. The Emperor of China states that without danger to his own life he coiild not suppress the Boxers, and expresses the hope that the friendship between China and Japan wUl not be altered by the persecution of the Legations and the murder of Mr. Sugiyama. Viscount Aoki had replied through Chinese Minister in T6ki6 in the Emperor's name, that the gravest breach of international law which any country could commit was an attack on Diplomatic Representatives. Until the suppression of the insurrection there could be no question of amicable negotiations. No. 52. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 19.) (Telegraphic.) , St. Petersburg h, July 18, 1900. OWING to the Shah's visit Count Lanisdorff could not receive the foreign Representatives yesterday or to-day, and I could not speak with his Excellency with regard to your Lordship's telegram of 15th July. I am at a loss to understand how the question which I was instructed to put to the Russian Government on the 26th ultimo could have been understood by then} as proposing tliat an independent mandate should be given to Japan. I distinctly said when I saw Count Lamsdorff that I did not understand the idea as proposing that a separate mandate should be given, but as inviting the co-operation pf the reinforcements most promptly available. [1116] D 2 20 No. 53. The Marquess -of Salisbury to Sir C. Scott. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, July 20, 1900. RUSSIAN Charge d' Affaires has made following commnnication :— In view of inquiries addressed to Imperial Government concerning the ulterior military measures which the Powers may have to undertake in China, the latter considers it urgent to come immediately to a positive understanding on the subject. A question of the most important nature at once presents itself, that of the unity of action of all the international detachments on Chinese territory; or, otherwise expressed, the question of the concentration in one single hand of the general command and direction of all these detachments. The Imperial Government gather that the opinion of the foreign Cabinets differs on this point ; some think that the international forces may be put under the orders of the Senior Commander, others that the number of troops of a certain nationality should affect the selection of the Commander-in-chief Either method, being based on a casual circumstance, subject to frequent changes, is open to serious practical inconvenience. In these circumstances, it would seem useful to establish by common agreement more stable principles for the unity of action so necessary for success against the insurrectionary movement in China. Considering that the efforts of the Powers tend to the same object, equally serious for all, the Imperial Government think that special impoi'tance should not be attributed to the activity of this or that detachment. Whether the troops of any nationality be concentrated in the rearguard or be at the head of a column, whether it defends positions already conquered, undertakes reconnaissances, or guards lines of communi- cation ; all this, independently even of the numerical strength of the detachment should have the same value in the view of the Powers as contributing to the accomplishment of the work undertaken in common. I send some observations on this communication in a separate telegram. No. 54. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. Scott. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, July 20, 1900, THE communication recited in my preceding telegram was considered yesterday by the Cabinet, but before we can express any opinion on it, we find it essential to have some further explanations as to its meaning and intention. It speaks in first paragraph of the ulterior military measures which the Powers may have to take in China, and it suggests in second paragraph that for the purpose of these measures the general command and direction of all the international detachments on Chinese territory should be concentrated in one single hand for the purpose of securing unity of action. What is the meaning of these phrases ? What are the "ulterior military measures" to which allusion is made? Does the sentence imply, as the juxtaposition of expressions Avould seem to indicate, that "all the international detachments on Chinese territory" are to be employed upon these ulterior military measures ? and that for that purpose ail these detachments are to be concentrated under the single hand of the General Commanding? These phrases make it matter of the greatest interest to know the views of the Eussian Government with respect to this proposed General Commanding, the manner of his choice, and the powers to be placed in his hands. The rest of the telegram throws little light upon this subject. ■ Count Lamsdorff condemns without hesitation the plan of selecting such a Commander in deference to superior rank, or to the greater size of the contingent he commands. I entirely concur with Count Lamsdorff in thinking that the appointment of a General Commanding in pursuance of these considerations would not be satisiactory. The observations made in the two last sentences of the teleoram appear to be 21 intended to bear on this question. But I am not able to trace the deduction which Count Lamsdorff means to draw from them. You should place these observations before Count Lamsdorff, and request further explanations of the points raised in them, urging especially the importance of some definite understanding as to the nature, scope, and object of the military operations which he contemplates. No. 55. The Marquess of Salishnrij to Lord Currie* (Telegraphic). Foreign Office, July 20, 1900. EE.OM inquiries addressed to me, I gather that the Russian communication, recorded in my telegram of the 15th July to Sir C. Scott, has been made to all the Powers. You should communicate to Minister for Foreign Affairs the substance of my reply, recorded in the same telegram, explaining that nothing has passed between the Russian Government and Her Majesty's Government in any way justifying the state- ment that any European mission to Japan has been suggested or contemplated by us. We shall bo glad to know what view is taken by other Powers of the fundamental principles proj)osed by the Russian Government. We are in agreement with the desire to avoid anything which may tend to the partition of China, but it seems altogether premature, in our present ignorance of the condition or intentions of the authorities at Peking, to speak of the re-establishment by the joint efforts of the Powers of a Central Govei?nment, by which order and tranquillity can be guaranteed. No. 56. Sir E. Monson to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 21.) (Telegraphic.) Paris, July 21, 1900. 1 WILL endeavour to see the Minister for Foreign Aflairs to-day and speak to him in the sense of your Lordship's telegram of yesterday on the subject of the mandate to Japan. There is no doubt that the demand made by China for French mediation will be discussed at the Cabinet Council which is to be held this morning. No. 57. Sir E. Monson to the Marquess of Salisbury .—(Received J'uly 21.) (Telegraphic.) Paris, July 21, 1900. 1 PLACED unofficially in the hands of the Minister for Foreign Affairs this afternoon a Memorandum in fulfilment of the instructions contained in your Lordship's telegram of 2Uth July. His Excellency staled that he himself had never said anything to imply that Her Majesty's Government desired that a mandate should be given to Japan, and declared himself in ignorance of nearly all that had passed between the British and Russian Governments as detailed in your Lordship's telegram of the 15th instant to Sir Chailes Scott. No. 58. Lord Currie to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 21.) (Telegraphic.) Rome, July 21, 1900. THIS afternoon Mr. Townley saw Italian Foreign Minister and made the Communication as instructed in your Lordship's telegram, dated yesterday. • Also to Sir F;. Monson, Sir ii. Hii i.boid, Viscount G:ugli, anu Lord Paunctfote. 22 M. Visconti-VHnosta stated that the Italian Government had received a communi- cation from the Hussian Government similar to that made on the 13th instant to your Lordship. His Excellency had informed llussian Charge d'Aft'aires that the Italian Government had received no proposal from Her Majesty's Government that Europe should give a mission to Japan to send forces to China. Italy -was most desirous, his Excellency said, for the maintenance of the accord between the Powers ; she was opposed to all action which might lead to a partition of the Chinese Empire, would assist in any joint action for the relief of the Eoreign Legations, and would act in concert with the other Powers in any measures which it might be found necessary later to take for the establishment of a Government com- petent to restore and preserve order. No. 59. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Snlisbury. — (Received July 21.) (Telegraphic.) St. Petersburgh, July 21, 1900. IN conversation to-day I submitted to Count Lamsdorff the observations on the Russian communication contained in your Lordship's telegram of 20th July, and I invited further explanation on the points which they raised. His Excellency said that the communication had as its object to provoke an exchange of opinion between the Governments concerned as to the necessity of the general command and direction of the international detachments being concentrated in one hand. In Paris this necessity seems to be felt, and here and at Berlin the arguments in support of it are appreciated. It was meant to apply only to the present field of combined action in Pechili, and Count Lamsdorff gathers that, in the opinion of the military authorities on the spot, although hitherto the operations have proceeded successfully and without friction, the time has come to determine the responsibility for general direction by some agreement between the Governments. His Excellency cannot possibly indicate what ulterior measures may be necessary or their eventual scope, the rescue and protection of foreigners being the primary common aim. It is his personal view that if the Governments arc in agreement that it is essential for the success of the effort that there should' be a single general direction, then the views of their military authorities on the spot as to the most satisfactory and practical way of giving effect to it, and as to the nature and scope of the military measures which can be undertaken, should be ascertained by each Government by telegraph. These were points on which the Russian Government had not yet been able to form any definite opinion. No. 60. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul -General Warren. Sii*' , Foreign Office, July 21, 1900. THE Clunese Mmister called here this afternoon in my absence and announced to Mr. Bertie that at 2.30 p.m. to-day he received from the Viceroy of Nanking a telegram informing him that on the ISth instant an Imperial Decree was issued ordering the punishment of the criminals Avho assassinated the German Minister. In the same Decree, he said, it was stated tliat it was fortunate that the protection afforded to the other Ministers had been effective, and that they were all right. Lofengluh also said that he had received a similar telegram from the Taotai of Shanghae. ■ I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. 23 No. 61. Mr. Choate to the Marquess of Salisbuj-y. — (Received July 22.) My dear Lord Salisbury, American Embassy, London, July 22, 1900. I HAVE received from the Secretary of State a cable which arrived at 11 o'clock last night, stating that the President has received from Emperor Kwang Hsu a telegram, dated the 9th July, appealing to the long-continued friendly relations maintained between the two countries : he addresses the President in all sincerity and candour, with the hope that he may devise measures and take the initiative to bring about a concert of Powers for the restoration of order and peace, and asking a reply which he awaits with anxii ty. The President accepts this as evidence that the Emperor Kwang Hsu is living and in the exercise of Imperial functions, and desires a friendly accord with the Powers. He has instructed me to communicate this to you, and as it seems important, I send a special messenger down with it. Yours very truly, (Signed) JOSEPH H. CHOATE. No. 62. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 22.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, July 22, 1900. A MEMORIAL from various Viceroys and Governors, praying that the foreign Ministers might be protected, has been,- submitted to the Throne by the Governor of Shantung. The following translation of an Imperial Decree, dated 10th July, is in reply to it : — " It is written in the Confucian work ' Spring and Autumn,' that Envoys shall not be killed. How can it then be supposed that the Throne's policy is to connive at allowing the troops and populace to vent their wrath upon the foreign Ministers ? For a month past, excepting the murder of the German Minister by the riotous people, which offence is being vigorously investigated, the other Ministers are being protected by the Throne with a ceaseless energy, and fortunately have suffered no harm." Sheng received a telegram on Eriday from the Governor of Shantung, trans- mitting a message in cypher to the United States' Government from their Minister. This message was undated, but purported to have left Peking on 18th July. It was to the effect that the United States' Minister was in the British Legation under fire from shot and shell. The date given by the Chinese to the United states' Minister's tele- gram is, your Lordship will observe, the same as that of the above -quoted Decree, and the assurances given in the latter are not borne out by the former. I telegraphed yesterday to the Governor of Shantung, asking why we had had no message from Sir C. MacDonald, and how it was that a message from Peking could reach Chinan-fu in two days. He assures me, in reply, that there is no telegraphic communication, but that the United States' Minister's telegram was sent by the Tsung-li Yam6n by a messenger travelling 600 li (roughly, 200 miles) a-day. He cannot explain why Her Majesty's Minister has not telegraphed. He begs me not to be anxious, as he has already had several reliable messages to the effect shat the Ministers and others are all living and unharmed. No. 63. Sir C, Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 22.) (Telegraphic.) St. Petershurgh, July 22, 1900. THE object of the message communicated on the 13th instant by the Eussian Charo-^ d' Affaires, and reported in your Lordship's telegram of the 15th July, has been explained to me by Count Lamsdorff. His Excellency said that it was in order to clear the Russian Government at once from the odious and entirely undeserved charge that they had hesitated to accept 24 Japan's assistance, and had thereby assumed the grave responsibility of hindering the prompt relief of the Legations, this charge had been insinuated in the press and other quarters. His Excellency admitted that in the message which I communicated to hini no mention had been made of any European mandate to Japan for independent action, and that co-operation was indicated in the arguments used by me, but he said that at Berlin your Lordship's question had been uudoi stood to imply an European mandate, and that it was possible to so interpret the words used " an expedition to restore order at Peking and Tien-tsin, if Japan is willing to undertake the task." Although the misunderstanding had been promptly cleared up, unjust deductions had been drawn by the public press, and it ou2:ht to liave been made quite clear by the instructions sent to the Russian Minister at T6ki6 that all available prompt assistance from Japan, equally with the Powers concerned in meeting the common danger, would be gladly welcomed by Russia. I had, I said, no reason to believe that any doubts on this point had been enter- tained by Her Majesty's Government. No. 6i. Sir E. Monson to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 23.) My Lord, Paris, July 21, 1900. I H4VE the honour to transmit to your Lord'ship herewith copy of a Memorandum wliich I have to-day left with the French Minister for Foreign Affairs, by the communica- tion of wliich I hope to have carried out your Lordship's instructions. 1 rifirVc &c (Signed) ' EDMUND MONSON. Tnclosure in No. 64. Aide-memoire. LE 13 Juillet dernier le Charge d'Affaires de Russia a transmis h, Lord Salisbury une communication du Comte Lamsdorff d'apr^s laquelle le Ministre de Russia a Tokio avait fait savoir ^ son Excellence quale Gouvernement Japonais etait pret a envoyer des troupes en Chine pour collaborer avec celles des autres Puissances a la protection des Le"-ations et das etrangers. Le Gouvernement Russe a r^pondu qu'il ne desirait entraver en aucune fa^^on la liberte d'action du Japon, mais que, dans son opinion, cette action ne devrait impliquer aucun droit & une solution ind^pendante, ni aucun privilege an dela d'une indemnity p^cuniaire plus 61evee, dans le cas oii les Puissances seraient d'accord pour en exiger une plus tard. Le Comte Lamsdorff declare avoir re^u presque simultanement une communication du Gouvernement de Sa Majesty dans laquelle allusion est deja faite non pas ^ une decision spontanee du Cabinet de Tokio de s'associer a Taction collective des Puissances mais plut6t a un mandat que donnerait I'Europe au Japon pour I'envoi en Chine 'd'une armee conside'rable dans le but non seuleraent de sauvegardcr les Legations et las etrangers mais egalement de supprimer le mouvement revolutiounaira et de r^tablir Tordre. ^ Pekin et h Tien-tsin. Cette faQon d'enoncer la question constituerait, dans I'opinion du Gouvernement RuBse, una infraction des principes fondamentaux de Faction collective acceptes par la raajorito des Puissances comme base de leur politique, savoir le maintien de I'accord entre les Puissances, le maintien du syst^me de Gouvernement tel qu'il existe en Chine r^cartement de tout ce qui pouvait aniener la partition de I'Empire Chinois bref le rdtablissement par Taction collective des Puissances d'un Gouvernement Central' legitime capable d'assurer I'ordre et la se'curite. Lord Salisbury a r^pondu que le Gouvernement de Sa Majeste n'a jamais fait de proposition qui ait pu fa'ire supposer que Taction du Japon diit lui conferer des droits k une solution independante, ou aucun autre privilege Le Gouvernement Britannique n'a jamais fait mention au Gouvernement Russe d'un Inandai; donn6 au Japon par Ttiurope. Les principes fondamentaux dont parle le Comte Lams dorir n'ont jamais €ii agrees par le Gouvernement de Sa Majesty, qui n'a meme pas 25 diseute jusqu'a present avec les autres Puissances las eirconstances auxquelles pourraient s'appliquer ces principes. Le Gouvernement de Sa Majesty ne s'est jamais exprime en faveur d'aucune action saufcelle qui am^nerait la delivrance des Legations et des autres etranajars. Le Gouvernement de Sa Majeste attacherait le plus grand prix a savoir ies vues du Gouvernement de la Republique sur les principes fondamentaux qu'a proposes le Gou- vernement Russe. II partage le d^sir d'^viter tout ce qui pourrait amener uoe partition de la Chine, mais il lui semble premature de parjer du retablissement par Paction collective des Puissances d'un Gouvernement Central en Chine capable d'assurer I'ordre et la s^curite etant donnee I'ignorance absolue qui existe au sujet de la situation des autorites a Pekia et des intentions qui les animent. Paris, Ze 21 Juillet, 1900. (Translation.) Memorandum. ON the 13th July the Russian Charge d' Affaires transmitted to Lord Salisbury a communication from Count Lamsdorff, according to which the Russian Minister at T6ki6 had intimated to his Excellency that the Japanese Government was prepared to send troops to China to assist those of the other Powers in protecting the Legations' and foreigners. The Russian Government replied that they had no wish to hinder the liberty of action of Japan, but that, in their opinion, this action must not imply any right to an independent solution, nor any privilege beyond that of a higher pecuniary indemnity, if the Powers were agreed to demand one at a later time. Coimt Lamsdorff states that he received almost simultaneously a communication frbmi Her Majesty's Government, in which allusion is made not to a spontaneous decision of the T6ki6 Cabinet to associate itself with the joint action of the Powers, but rather to a mandate that Europe would give to Japan to send to China a large army, not merely with the object of protecting the Legations and foreigners, but likewise of suppressing the revolutionary movement and re-establishing order at Tien-tsin. This way of putting the question would, in the opinion of the Russian Government, constitute an infringement of the fundamental principles of collective action such as had been accepted by the majority of the Powers as a basis of their policy, namely, the maintenance of harmony between the Powers, as also of the existing system of Govern- ment in China, the avoidance of everything which might lead to the dismemberment of the Chinese Empire ; in short, the re-establishment, through the collective action of the Powers, of a legitimate Central Government capable of insuring order and security. Lord Salisbury replied that Her Majesty's Government never made a proposal which could have given rise to the supposition that the action of Japan should entitle tha.t country to any claims to an independent solution or to any other privilege. The British Government have never mentioned to the Russian Government any mandate given by Europe to Japan. The fundamental principles of which Count Lamsdorff speaks have never been accepted by Her Majesty's Government, who, up to the present, have not even discussed with the other Powers the circumstances to which these principles might apply. Her Majesty's Government have never expressed themselves in favour of any plan of action other than that which would effect the deliverance of the Legations and of other foreigners. Her Majesty's Government would attach the greatest value to an intimation of the views of the Government of the Republic on the fundamental principles proposed by the Russian Government. They share the desiie to avoid everything which might bring about a partition of China, but, in view of the absolute ignorance which exists regarding the situation of the authorities at Peking, and of the intentions by which they are animated, it seems to Her Majesty's Government premature to speak of the re-establishment, by the joint action of the Powers, of a Central Government in China capable of insuring order and security. Paris, July 21, 1900. [1116] E 26 No. 65. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 24.) My Lord, Shanghae, June 18, 1900. I HAVE to-day had the honour to telegraph to you to the effect that Her Majesty's Acting Consul- General at Hankow, at an interview with the Viceroy Chang Cliih Tung, communicated to his Excellency your Lordship's assurance that Her Majesty's Government would support him in keeping order on the Yang-tsze. The Viceroy professed to be taking steps, and to be confident that he and Viceroy Liu at Nanking would be able to prevent disorder. I have, &c. (Signed) PELHAM L. WARREN. No. 66. Sir H. Rumbold to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 2A.) (Extract.) Vienna, July 22, 1900 I CALLED upon Count Szecsen yesterdaj' by appointment and communicated to him the substance of the reply returned by your Lordship to the communication made to you ©n the 13th instant by the Russian Charge d' Affaires, as recorded in your Lordship's telegrams to me of the 20th July. I left with Count Szecsen an aide-memoire on the subject, of which I have the honour to inclose a copy. His Excellency, after listening attentively to the explanations 1 gave him in compliance with your Lordship's instructions, said that a communication similar to that referred to by your Lordship had been received here from the Russian Embassy some time ago. 1 he Russian Circular was of a purely retrospective character, and referred to circumstances which now unfortunately belonged to the past. With reference to the explanations I had been charged to give him, bis Excellency said that it was well known that there had been no proposal to confer a European mandate upon Japan. As regards the view which was taken by the Imperial Government of the funda- mental principles enunciated by the Cabinet of St. Petersburgh, Count Szecsen said that thev held to the maintenance of union between the Powers, and although their direct interests in China were small, were opposed to anything that might lead to a partition of that Empire. Inclosure in No. 66. Aide-memoire. UNE communication a ^te faite a Lord Salisbury a la date du 13 Juillet par le Gouvernement Imperial de Russie au sujetd'une proposition du Gouvernement Britannique ayant pour but de coaferer au Japon une mission pour le retablissement de I'ordre et de la securite en Chine. Un pareil mandat, d'apres le Gouvernement Russe, enfreindrait jusqu'a un certain point les principes fondamentaux qui ont dej^ et^ acceptes par la majorite des Puissances comme base de leur poUtique ; a savoir le maintien de I'accord entre les Puissances ; le maintien de la forme de Gouvernement exislant en Chine ; I'exclusion de tout ce qui pourrait tendre h un partage de cet Empire; en somnie, le retablissement par les efforts concertos des Puissances d'un Gouvernement Central legitime capable d'assurer I'ordre et la security. Comme il y a lieu de croire que pareille communication a i^t^ adress^e aux differents Cabinets, Lord Salisbury desire egalement porter a la connaissance de ces Cabinets la r^ponse qu'il a faite a la communication Russe. Lord Salisbury tient a constater que dans JeS pourparlers qui oht eu Ueu avec le Gouvernement Russe il n'a ete dit rien qui puisse justifier I'assertion que I'Angleterre aurait sugg^re, ou eu en vue, le decernement d'un mandat de la part de I'Europe au Japon. Lord Salisbury serait heureux de savoir ce que pense le Gouvernement Imperial et 27 Royal des principes fondamentaux exposes par le Gouvernement Russe. Le Gouvernement Britannique se joint an desir exprime d'eviter tout ce qui pourrait tendre k un partage de la Chine, mais, dans son ignorance actuelle de I'^tat et des intentions de I'aulorit^ existant aujourd'hui h. Pekin, 11 lui paraitrait pour le moins prematura de parler d'un rdtablissement par les efforts concertos des Puissances d'un Gouvernement Central capable de garantir I'ordre et la securite. (Translation.) Memorandum. A COMMUNICATION has been made to Lord Salisbury by the Imperial Russian Government, dated the ISth July, relative to a proposal of the British Government to intrust to Japan a mission for the re-establishment of order and security in China. Such a mandate, according to the Russian Government, would, to a certain extent, violate the fundamental principles which have already been accepted by the majority of the Powers as the basis of their policy ; that is to say, the maintenance of harmony among the Powers ; the maintenance of the existing form of Government in China ; tlie exclusion of everything which might tend to a partition of the Empire ; in a word, the re-establishment by the concerted efForts of the Powers of a legitimate Central Govern- ment capable of insuring the maintenance of order and security. As there is reason to believe that a similar communication has been addressed to the different Ctibinets, Lord Salisbury wishes also to inform these Cabinets of the reply which he has made to the Russian communication. Lord Salisbury wishes to record that in the, pourparlers which have taken place with the Russian Government, nothing has been said which could justify the assertion that England had suggested, or had in view, the giving, on the part of Europe, of a mandate to Japan. Lord Salisbury would be glad to know what the Imperial and Royal Government think of the fundamental principles set forth by the Russian Government. The British Government associate themselves with the desire expressed to avoid everything which might tend to a partition of China, but being at present ignorant of the state and intentions of the existing authority at Peking, it would appear to him to be, to say the least, premature to speak of a re-establishment by the concerted efforts of the Powers of a Central Government capable of guaranteeing the maintenance of order and security. No. 67. Imperial Decree issued at Peking on the 2\st of the 6th moon {July 17), and received in London on July 21. — {Communicated by Sir Chihchen Lofingluh, July 24, 1900.) THE present disturbance in our foreign relations is to be traced to the antipathies which have long existed between the native Christians and their fellow subjects, and to the irritation occasioned by the Treaty Powers in attacking and occupying the forts at Taku. The Court of Peking attach much importance to the maintenance of friendly relations with the Treaty Powers, aud would" view any interruption of them with sincere regret ; and it was for this reason that, notwithstanding the hostilities at Taku, we have repeatedly issued Imperial Decrees enjoining the metropolitan and provincial authorities to accord plenary protection to the foreign Legations in Peking and foreigners residing in other parts of the Empire. And as the disturbances which called for these Decrees still continue unabated, and as large numbers of foreigners are resident in divers parts of China, we now command the Tartar Generals, the Viceroys and Governors of provinces to make them- selves acquainted with their various places of abode, whether at the Treaty ports or at the Foos, Chows and Hsiens in the interior, so that our Treaty obhgation to give adequate protection to them may be fulfilled, and further untoward incidents prevented from occurring. We were shocked to learn last month that Mr. Sugiyama, the Chancellor of the Japanese Legation, had been killed, and some time afterwards that Baron von Ketteler, the Minister of His Majesty the Emperor of Germany, had been assassinated at his post in Peking. We now command that the parties to these outrages may be sought for and arrested without delay, in order that they may be punished according to law. [1116] E 2 28 Since the outbreak of hostilities at Tien-tsin there have doubtless been many peaceful missionaries and other foreigners, unconnected with these hostilities, who, at the hands of disorderly persons, have suffered in person or property. Let the Governor of Peking and the Viceroy of Chihli cause (heir cases to be severally investigated and reported to us for •our information. Recently in other parts of the Empire bandits and unruly persons have committed many acts of oppression, arson, rapine, and murder. The Viceroys and Governors of provinces and the high territorial military authorities are cooimanded to take stringent measures for the restoration of order and tranquillity in their respective Governments, and the extermination of the parties by whom these outrages were committed. Let this, our Imjieriai Decree, be promulgated in every part of the Empire. Respect this. Ko. 68. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, July 27, 1900. A TELEGPtAM from General Gaselee states as result of conference with you and Senior Naval Officer that a force of 3,000 men is necessary for defence of Shanghae, and that in your opinion this might be arranged with Viceroy of Nanking. You reported in your telegram of the 7th July that Viceroys were not anxious for further force at that date. Has situation since changed in this respect, and could force of 3,000 now bs landed with full concurrence on their part ? No. 69. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. MacDonald. Sir, Foreign Office, July 24, 1900. THE Chinese Minister in the course of conversation asked me what answer we proposed to give to the appeal which he had placed in our hands from his Imperial Majesty the Emperor of Ghina. I replied that whenever the European Ministers should return to us unhurt, we should be very glad to discuss, and to discuss in the most favourable manner, any appeal which the Imperial Government of China might have to make to Her Majesty's Government, but as long as there remained this terrible doubt as to the fate which they might have incurred at the hands of the Chinese soldiery or the Boxers, it was impossible for Her Majesty's Government to enter irito further negotiations with that of the Empire. 1 am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. No. 70. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir E. Monson. Sir, Foreign Office, July 24, 1900. M. CAMBON laid before me, by direction of M. Delcasse, a proposition with respect to the command of the naval forces belonging to the Allied Powers in the China Sea, but I was not able to ascertain from what he said that he had more in his view than that the Commanders of the ships should as much as possible consult together, so that their force might not be wasted in defending the various points at which European interests were attacked. I assured him that we entirely agreed with the necessity of full consultation between the Allied Naval Commanders before any decision was taken. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. 29 No. 71. ' Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 25.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, July 25, 1900. I HAVE received your Lordship's telegram of the 24th instant. The Viceroy of Nanking is still firm and declares his ability to keep the peace. Her Majesty's Consul at Nanking is endeavouring to ascertain the views of the Viceroy as to the landing of troops. Considerable quantities of ammunition are reported as being sent to Kiang-ym and other forts, and guns are being mounted at various points on the banks of the Yang-tsze. Three guns have been mounted upon the Wusung fort, though I am informed by the Viceroy that he gave orders that this should not be done. The Governor of Suchow seems to doubt his ability to keep the peace. It will be necessary to occupy Shanghae even without the consent of the Viceroys, should they be unable to control their people. I am withdrawing the women and children from the Yang-tsze ports. Many have left already. No. 72. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury.— (Received July 25.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, July 25, 1900. , THE situation is causing some alarm to the American-China Association here, and they propose to ask the United States' Government to send a force to occupy Shanghae either jointly with us or alone. No. 73. -Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 25.) (Telegraphic.) St. Petersburgh, July 25, 1900. I UNDEESTAND that the Emperor of Russia has, in the case of a direct appeal made to His Majesty by the Emperor of China (who is understood to be Kwang-su), acted in the same way as other Sovereigns, and has insisted that, before replying, he should be satisfied as to the safety of his Minister, and should be placed in direct com- munication with him. No. 74. Lord Pauncefote to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 25.) {Telegraphic.) Newport, July 25, 1900. THE text of the appeal of the Emperor of China to the President of the United States for his mediation has been made public by the United States' Government. It refers to the recent outbreaks of mutual antipathy between the people and the Christian Missions which caused foreign Powers to suspect that the Government was favourable to the people. This brought about the capture of the forts at Taku. It appeals to the President to devise measures to effect a concert of the Powers with a view to the re-establishment of peace and order. The President, in his reply, states that he understands from the message of the Emperor that the malefactors who have disturbed the peace and committed the late atrocities are in rebellion against the Imperial authority. If that be the case, the President would urge upon China — 1. To give public assurance whether the foreign Ministers are alive, and, if so, in . what condition. 2. To put the Diplomatic Representatives of the Powers in immediate and free communication with their respective Governments. 3. To place the Imperial authorities of China in communication with the relief 30 expedition with a view to securing co-operation for the protection of the foreigners and the restoration of order. The reply then states that if these conditions are fulfilled and the other Powers assent, the friendly good offices of the United States' Government will be placed at the disposal of the Emperor of China. The press here affirms that the Chinese Minister in Washington has received a message from Sheng to the effect that protection has been afforded to the foreign Ministers, who have also been supplied with food, and that they will now be sent under escort from Peking to Tien-tsin. No. 75. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir H. Rumbold. Sir, Foreign Office, July 25, 1900. THE Austro-Hungarian Ambassador called at this Office to-day and read to Sir T. Sanderson a telegram from his Government, stating that the Austro-Hungarian vessels " Elizabeth " and " Aspern " are being sent to China under the command of Rear-Admiral Montecucoli, who, on arriving in Chinese w^aters, would also assume command of the two Austrian vessels already out there. His Excellency stated that in view of the comparatively small amount of Austro- Hungarian interests in China, his Government did not propose to send any military force ; but the squadron would be prepared, if occasion arose, to land a considerable detachment in order to give evidence of the desire of Austria-Hungary to act with the other Powers interested. Count Deym added that the Austro-Hungarian Government wish to show their readiness to participate in the joint work of humanity and civilization undertaken by the Powers, and that their Commanders would proceed in complete accord with the other Admirals as regards any operations. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBTTRY. No. 76. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 26.) (Telegraphic.) ^ Shanghae, July 26, 1900. IT is feared that there has been a terrible massacre in the Province of Shansi. It is reported that five more foreigners have been murdered there. No. 77. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 26.) (Telegraphic.) _ Shanghae, July 26, 1900. THE Viceroy at Wuchang is most anxious to obtain a loan of 500,000 taels on the security of his cotton mills. He requires it in order to pay his troops. In the face of a formal Peking Edict to the effect that all provincial loans must stand on their merits, the manager of the Hong Kong and Shanghae Bank here cannot make it on his own responsibility. The Bank is willing to advance this sum if Her Majesty's Government will guarantee it. I would suggest the advisability of Her Majesty's Government taking this opportunity of confirming the Yang-tsze Viceroy's assurances of support in an effective manner, and of strengthening their power. 31 No. 78. Viscount Gough to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 27.) My Lord, ' Berlin, July 25, 1900. I HAVE the lionour to transmit herewith copies and translations of a note verbale handed to the Imperial Foreign Of&ce on the 21st instant by the Chinese Legation in- ]?erlin, which purports to contain a direct message from the Emperor of China to the German Emperor asking for the latter's assistance. The reply of Count von Biilow is likewise inclosed, in which his Excellency declines to submit the Chinese message to the German Emperor so long as the fate of the Europeans in Peking is unknown, the murder of Baron von Ketteler remains unatoned, and no proper guarantees for the future given. ' I have, &c. (Signed) GOUGH. Inclosure in No. 78. Note Verbale. (Translation.) ON the 21st instant the Chinese Legation at Berlin handed the following note verbale to the Imperial Eoreign Office : — " The Imperial Chinese Legation have the honour to bring the following telegram from the Imperial Council of State to the notice of the German Eoreign Office. This telegram was dispatched to Yuen-shi-kai, Governor of Shantung, for further transmission to Yii-lien-yuen, Taotai of Shanghae, to be forwarded thence to this Legation. " The Emperor of the Tatsing dynasty sends greeting to His Majesty the German Emperor. China and Germany have long lived in peace together, and on neither side has there subsisted any mistrust. Outbreaks of hatred have recently taken place between the Chinese population and the (native) Christians, during which Baron von Ketteler, Imperial German Minister, was unexpectedly murdered by the insurgents, which g:ives us occasion to express our profound regret. The inquiry had been com- menced for the arrest and punishment of the murderer, when the suspicion arose among all the foreign States that the attitude of the Imperial Government towards the population in their persecution of the Christians was one of connivence. Thereupon followed first the capture of the forts of Taku, hostilities commenced, and the evil increased in complexity. The situation in which China at present finds herself will be difficult to put straight, especially as the Chinese Government have not the intention of ever allowing the existing good relations to undergo a change, for it is only owing to the circumstances at present prevailing that the Government have to their regret been forced into a position of constraint. " For the removal of the universal feeling prevailing against the Chinese Govern- ment, and for a clearing up of the situation, there remains the one means of an appeal to the assistance of Germany. Therefore we open our heart to your Majesty in this letter, in the hope that the continuance of the friendly relations will thereby be assured, and that your Majesty may be moved to conceive a plan for the attainment of this end, and to assume the direction in order to bring about the former peaceful state of things. We pray tliat your Majesty will return us a favourable reply, our gratitude for which to your Majesty will always remain alive. " Given the 23rd day of the 6th moon of the 26th year of the reign of Kwangsii." July 19, 1900. The Imperial Chinese Legation were thereupon handed the following note verbale on the 24th instant : — " Berlin, July 21, 1900. " The Secretary of State for Foreign AfPairs, Minister of State, Count von Biilow, has received the note verbale from the Imperial Chinese Lesration of the 21st instant, inclosing a telegraphic communication from His Majesty the Emperor of China to His Majesty the Emperor and. King. Count Biilow does not find himself in a position to submit this telegram to His Majesty the Emperor and King so long as the fate of the 32 foi-eiffn Missions shut in in Peking and of the other foreigners there has not been cleared up, and so long as the Imperial Chinese Government have not made atone- ment for the outrageous murder of the Imperial Minister, and given adequate guarantees that their conduct in the future will he in accordance with the law of nations and with civilization." No. 79. Sir E. Monson to the Marquess of Salisbury.— (Received July 27.) My Lord, ^«''*"*' "^"^2/ 25, 1900. THE afternoon issue of the " Havas Agency " contains the text of the letter addressed by the Emperor of China to the President of the Erench Republic, dated the 19th instant, and transmitted telegraphically by the Governor of Shantung. The letter, after insisting upon the ties of friendship which have always existed between the two countries, implores the President to take the initiative with a view of remedying the situation, and begs for a speedy and a favourable answer. A copy of the " Havas Agency " sheet is inclosed herewith. I have, &c. (Signed) EDMUND MONSON. Inclosure in No. 79. Extract from the "Agence Havas " of July 2.5, 1900. Informations. L'EMPEflEUE, DE CHINE a adress6 au President de la R^publique la lettre suivante, qui a 6te transmise t^legraphiquement par le Gouverneur du Shantung, le 23 de la lune Chinoise (19 Juillet, 1900) :— " La Chine est, depuis plusieurs annees, li6e d'amiti^ avec votre honorable pays, Toutes les affaires concernant nos rapports sur les fronti^res du Quang-Si et dii Yunnan ont ete discut^es et reglees par la voie de la conciliation. II n'existe pas de griefs entre nous. " Recemment, la population et les Chretiens s'etant trouves en hostilite, des gens rebelles du peuple ont profits de I'occasion pour se livrer a leurs depredations, d'ou il est resulte que les nations etrang^res ont soupgonn^ la Cour de faire preuve de par- tialite envers le peuple et de jalousie envers les Chretiens. Depuis eurent lieu I'attaque et la prise des forts de Takou ; apres quoi Taction militaire et les malheurs se sont succ^de, rendant la situation d'autant plus compliquee et dangereuse. " Comme nous pensons que, dans les relations Internationales de la Chine avec I'etranger, votre honorable nation a les rapports les plus cordiaux avec la Chine, et que la Chine est aujourd'hui pressee par les circonstances jusqu'au point de s'etre attire la colore universelle, pour arranger ces difficultes et pour r^soudre ces compli- cations, il n'est pas possible que ce ne soit pas seulement sur votre honorable pays que nous comptions. " C'est pour quoi, nous ouvrant a vous en toute sincerite, nous vous exposons nos sentiments intimes, et, avec une entiere franchise, nous vous adressons cette lettre dans I'unique espoir que vous trouverez, M. le President de la Republique, le moyen d'avraugei- les choses et que vous prendrez I'initiative de transformer la situation actuelle. " Nous vous prions, en meme temps, d'avoir la bont6 de nous adresser une bien- veillante r^ponse que nous ne pouvons nous defendre d'attendre avec une anxiete extreme. " Le 23"^ jour de la 6« lune de la 26" annee (19 Juillet, 1900). (Signe) KOUANG-SIU. 33 (Translation.) THE Emperor of China has addressed to the President of the Eepublic the following letter, which has been communicated by telegraph by the Governor of Shantung, the 23rd of the Chinese moon (19th July, 1900) :— " Eor many years China has been united in friendship with your honourable country. All the business in connection with our relations on the frontiers of Kwangsi and Yunnan has been discussed and settled in a conciliatory manner. We have no complaint to make of each other. " Latterly, hostility having broken out between the population and the Christians, some rebels among the people have taken advantage of the circumstances to engage in depredations, whence it has come that foreign nations have suspected the Court of showing partiality towards the people and jealousy towards the Christians. After- wards there occurred the attack on, and capture of, the Taku forts ; after which military action and misfortune succeeded each other, rendering the situation all the more complicated and dangerous. " As we think that, in the international relations of China with foreign countries, your honourable nation has the most cordial relations with China, and that China has, under the pressure of circumstances, drawn universal anger on to itself, we cannot do otherwise than count on your honourable country to arrange these difB.culties and solve these complications. " Hence it is that, opening our hearts to you in all sincerity, we inform you of our innermost feelings, and address you with perfect frankness this letter, solely guided by the hope that you will find, M. le President de la Republique, a means of arranging matters and of taking the initiative in improving the present situation. " At the same time we beg you to be good enough to address a favourable reply to us ; this we are awaiting with the utmost anxiety. " The 23rd day of the 6th month of the 26th year (19th July, 1900). (Signed) '• KOUANG-SITJ." No, 80. Acting Consul-General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 27.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, July 27, 1900. PROTECTION of Shanghae. With reference to your Lordship's t.elegram of the 24th instant and my reply of the 25th instant. Her Majesty's Consul at Nanking has just telegraphed to me as follows : — " Send for the troops. The Viceroy leaves to your discretion the number." No. 81. Acting Consul' General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 28.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, July 28, 1900. I B/EQUESTED Her Majesty's Consul at Nanking yesterday to inform me of the exact terms on which the Viceroy consents to the friendly occupation of Shanghae. He has to-day replied that everything is left to my discretion, and that the Viceroy's consent is unconditional. His Excellency will not refuse absolutely, but will raise objections if any other Powers intimate that they intend to station a garrison at Shanghae. He will state to-morrow on what date he can receive the Admiral. [1116] E 34 No. 82. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 28.) (Teles:raphic.) Shanghae, July 28, 1900. THE Consular officer at Hangchow telegraphs as follows : — "Nine members of the China Inland Mission at Chuchow, four being those from Chiang Shan, are reported by Father "Witteib, a Roman Catholic, to have been mas- sacred. It is also reported that six employes have been killed by the Sub-Prefect. " Ching train-bands are said to have committed the outrage." No. 83. Sir E. Monson to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Receixed July 28.) (Telegraphic.) Paris, July 28, 1900. THE French Minister for Foreign Affairs has sent me a Memorandum, whicli, although, dated the 21st July, has only reached me this m.orning, expressing entire concurrence in your Lordship's views on the subject of China and Japan, as stated in the inclosure of my despatch of the 21st instant. No. 84. Foreign Office to Admiralty. Sir, Foreign Office, July 28, 1900. THE Eussian. Charge d' Affaires has, under instructions from, his Government, called the attention of the Marquess of Salisbury to information which has reached them to the effect that part of the Chinese fleet has taken refuge at Hong Eong, and part at Shanghae. M. Lessar states that, in view of the importance of insuring the security of the vessels transporting the reinforcements sent to the Far East by the European Powers, it is considered by the Russian Government to be of urgent importance to arrive at an understanding in regard to the measures necessary for the safety of comm.unications by sea, and for preventing by joint efforts the danger of possible offensive operations by the Chinese fleet. A communication has also been made by the German Embassy, to the effect that the German Government hear from Shanghae that the movements of the Chinese ships of war give cause for uneasiness. They are of opinion that it will be impossible to control the importation of arms into China unless the Chinese war-ships be isolated and watched, and that unless this be done they will be a danger to the European ships conveying troops. The German Government ask the opinion of Her Majesty's Government on the subject. I am directed by the Marquess of Salisbury to ask what arc the views of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty in regard to the danger apprehended by the Russian and German Governments from allowing continued freedom of action to the Chinese navy, and what reply they advise should be made to those Governments. I am, &c. (Signed) FRANCIS BERTIE. No. 85. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 30.) (Extract.) r ., u- . . i , • ^*- P'i^rsburgh, July 21, 1900. ON receipt of your Lordship s telegram this morning, I at once sought an interview of Count Lamsdorff, and read to him the observations which your Lordship had passed on the communication which the Eussian Charge d' Affaires had made to Her Majesty's 35 Government of the views of his Government concerning the ulterior military measures _whicli the Powers may have to undertake in China, and the question of concentrating in one single hand the command and direction of all the foreign detachments which may have to undertake such measures. I said that Her Majesty's Government had carefully considered this communication, but found it essential to have some further explanations as to its meaning and intentions before expressing an opinion. It was, I added, especially important to have some definite understanding as to the nature, scope, and object of the military measures which the Russian Government con- templates in this communication. Speaking of these ulterior measures in the two first paragraphs of the communica- tion, his Excellency had, I observed, mentioned the necessity of unifying the general command by an understanding between the local militaiy authorities. Did this, I asked, imply that all the international detachments on Chinese territory were to be employed on the contemplated military measures, and for this purpose all concentrated under the single hand of one General commanding the manoeuvre of his choice. I ventured to point out to his Excellency that " Chinese territory " was a very wide expression, and that we were scarcely yet able to gauge the extent of the danger which the Powers had to face, or assign to it any precise geographical limits. Count Lamsdorfi" said that he wished at once to clear up any possible misunder- standing on this point. The ulterior military measures contemplated in M. Lessar's communication were to be understood as exclusively confined to the present field of action of the international detachments, which might be roughly defined as the Province of Pechili. As regards other parts of China where danger might equally break out, it was clear that the direction of any necessary military measures would have to be undertaken indepen- dently. For instance, Russia would have to take independent military action in the north of China bordering on her own territory and on her rai,lway, and it was to be assumed that other Powers would act similarly in the south and centre of China, where their own territory and special interests were more immediately concerned. The question of a single hand to command and direct ulterior military measures of the international detachments now acting together in Pechili was the one raised, and he regarded it as important to secure unity of action. It was impossible to form any precise opinion at present as to the nature and scope of the military operations which might soon be necessary ; their immediate object was clearly the rescue and protection of foreigners, and up till now all the international detachments employed appeared to have acted in this task loyally together without friction and with considerable success ; but it appeared that the military and naval authorities on the spot considered that, for the success of any larger ulterior measures which might have to be undertaken, it was essential that unity of action should be secured by an agreement to place the direction and command in one single hand. This necessity seems to have been strongly felt by the French Government, and the arguments in its favour were appreciated, if 1 rightly understood Count Lamsdorff, at Berlin as well as St. Petersburgh. I then said that your Lordship had expressed a concurrence with Count Lamsdorff's view that the plan of selecting a Commander-in-chief in deference to superior rank or to the greater size of the national contingent commanded by him would not be satisfactory, as these considerations were based on circumstances subject to frequent change ; but that although the observations in the last two sentences of M. de Lessar's communication seemed to bear upon the question of an alternative plan, your Lordship had been unable to trace the deductions which his Excellency meant to draw from them. Had his Excellency, 1 asked, formed any definite opinion as to the plan to be followed in selecting a Commander-in-chief and determining the powers to be given him ? Count LamsdorflP replied that he had not, and the object of his communication was to elicit an expression of opinion on this point from the different Governments addressed with the idea that from the answers received ("du choc des opinions") would result some practical suggestion which might meet the views of all. His personal idea had been that each Government, on receiving this communica- tion, would, before replying to it, confer with its military authority on the spot, and ascertain his views as to the necessity of a single command, the best plan to be adopted [1116J P 2 36 in the selection, and also as to the ulterior military measures which they, with their better knowledge of local circumstances, considered it imperative or impossible to under- take. I have lost no time in telegraphing the upshot of my conversation with Count Lamsdorff to your Lordship. No. 86. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 30.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, July 23, 1900. IN the course of my interview with Count Lamsdorff last Saturday, I took an opportunity of referring to the message which he had sent to your Lordship on the 13th instant through the Russian Charge d' Affaires in London in explanation of the attitude of the Russian Government on the question of a J apanese military expedition to co-operate with the international relief forces in China. I said that I had no instructions to speak to his Excellency on this subject, as your Lordship's reply to M. Lessar had no doubt already reached him, and had cleared up any possible misunderstanding of the views and intentions of Her Majesty's Government in this matter. Speaking, however, entirely on my own authority, I could not help expressing some surprise that the question that I had been instructed to put to his Excellency on the 26th ultimo had apparently been interpreted by him as proposing to give Japan a European mandate for independent action in China. I had, I reminded him, in my private letter of the same date, given him the exact terms of the question which, in his absence, I had desired M. Hartwig to put to him, and had added at the same time that I was authorized to urge on his consideration when replying to it, the fact that the detachment of 10,000 men which we were sending from India, and the prompt reinforcements which it was assumed Russia was also sending, could not possibly reach their destination in time to rescue the Europeans at Peking, and relieve the two expeditions which were at present surrounded. Count Lamsdorff _ said that the sole object of the message which he had desired M. Lessar to communicate to your Lordship was to clear up any possible misunder- standing of the light in which the Russian Government had viewed the Japanese proposal to co-operate with the other Powers by sending a military expedition to China. It had been asserted in the public press, and in other quarters, that Russia had hesitated to sanction the dispatch of Japanese troops to China, and the odious and entirely undeserved conclusion had been drawn that in doing so, Russia had prevented timely aid being sent to rescue the Legations and Europeans at Peking Nothing could be further from the truth. The Russian Government was eager to welcome any available forces that could promptly be sent to assist in the comnTon humanitarian task, and Japan had an equal interest and right with other Powers to do so, as her own Legation was in danger, and the number of her countrymen in China and her interests at stake were very considerable. He received my message almost simultaneously with M. Isvolsky's report of the communication made to him by the Japanese Government, and he thought that the best way to avoid any confusion was to reply to your Lordship's question bv com- municatmg to me the exact terms of the instructions sent to M. Isvolskv for lii^ rpnlv to the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs. ^ ^^ It was quite true that your Lordship's question did not mention a mission to be given by Europe to Japan, and that the considerations which I had been authorized to urge m favour of approving the dispatch of a Japanese expedition indicated co-opera- tion m the rescue of the Legations, and of the two expeditions at that time reported to be m difficulties; but the words used, «an expedition to restore order at Peking and Tien-tsm and if Japan is wilhng to undertake to do so," were different to the words used m the Japanese communication, and might bear that interpretation. Thev had evidently been so construed at Berlin, where a desire was also evinced to ascerta^ the TeTtion "^ Government as to tbe answer to be returned to your Lordship's . ,, .^°^f .^^"'^'^^f fiJ *\\* any misunderstanding that might have existed was now a thmg of the past, but that the Russian Government could not aUowfor one momeni 37 such an odious suspicion as that of her having in any way, even unintentionally, thwarted the work of rescue to remain ui?contradicted in any quarter. Count LamsdorfE said that he had communicated his answer to me the very moment he was in a position to do so, and had brought his letter himself to the Embassy on his return from Peterhof, but that on hearing that I was on the point of dispatching the Queen's messenger, and knowing that I must in consequence be very busy, he had not asked to see me. I said that I regretted that I had not known of his visit at the time, for however busy, I was always at his disposal for an interview. I ^ assured him, however, that I had no reason whatever to believe that the suspicion to which he had alluded as causing him so much pain had for a moment been entertained in official circles in England. I had, I said, assured your Lordship by telegraph on the 4th instant that the Russian Government would gladly welcome the arrival of all reinforcements promptly available from Japan to co-operate in the common humanitarian efEort in China. I have, &c. (Signed) OHAELES S. SCQTT. No. 87. Viscount Gough to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 30.) (Extract.) Berlin, July 28, 1900. ON receipt of your Lordship's telegram of the 20th instant, instructing me to communicate to the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the substance of your Lordship's reply to Count Lamsdorff respecting an alleged European Mission to Japan, I called at the Imperial Foreign Office, and, in the absence through illness of Count von Billow, left a note verbale, in the sense of your Lordship's instructions, with Herr von Derenthall, of which a copy is iaclosed herewith. Count von Biilow is now with the Emperor at Bremerhaven, but I learnt to-day from Herr von Derenthall that, although any remarks on your Lordship's reply to Count Lamsdorff would probably be communicated through Count Hatzfeidt, the German Government now thoroughly understood that neither from your Lordship nor from T6ki6 had any proposal been made that a Mission should be confided by Europe to Japan. Inclosure in No. 87. Note Verbale. ON the 13th July the Russian Charg^ d' Affaires in London communicated to the Marquess of Salisbury a message from Count Lamsdorff. This message described the offer of the Japanese Government, made on the 11th June, to send troops to China, and also gave the reply of the Russian Government. The message went on to describe a communication received by Count Lamsdorff from Her Majesty's Government on the same subject, and to make comments thereon. The Marquess of Salisbury's reply to the above message was to the effect that Her Majesty's Government had never suggested that any rights to an independent solution or indeed any other privileges would be conferred on Japan by her proposed action, nor had Her Majesty's Government ever spoken to the Russian Government of a mission given to Japan by the European Powers. The fundamental principles spoken of by Count Lamsdorff in his message had never been accepted by Her Majesty's Government, nor had they as yet discussed with other Powers the circum- stances to which these fundamental principles might possibly apply. The only steps in favour of which Her Majesty's Government had expressed an opinion were the steps which point to the relief of the Legations and other foreigners. Her Majesty's Charge d' Affaires is instructed to communicate to the Imperial German Government Lord Salisbury's reply, and to explain that nothing has passed between Her Majesty's Government and the Russian Government which would justify 38 a statement that Her Majesty's Government had suggested or contemplated any- European mission to Japan. Her Majesty's Government would be glad to know what view is taken by the Imperial German Government of the fundamental principles proposed by Russia. Her Majesty's Government agree in the desire to avoid anything that might tend to a partition of China, but as nothing is known of the condition of the authorities at Peking or their intentions, it would seem entirely premature to speak of the re-estab- lishment by joint efforts of a Central Government qualified to guarantee order and tranquillity. Berlin, July 22, 1900. 2so. 88. Sir E. Monson to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received July 30.) My Lord, Paris, July 28, 1900. I HAVE the honour to transmit to your Lordship herewith, copy of a Memo- randum which I have received from the Minister for Eoreign Affairs, recording the entire concurrence of the Erench Government in the views of Her Majesty's Govern- ment, as stated in the Memorandum which I left with M. Delcasse on the subject of the affairs of China, copy of which was forwarded to your Lordship in my despatch of the 21st instant. I have, &c. (Signed) EDMUND MONSON. Inclosure in No. 88. Memorandum. EN remerciant son Excellence I'Ambassadeur d'Angleterre des explications que celui-ci a bien voulu lui fournir, par son aide-memoire remis le 21 de ce mois, relative- ment aux vues dont s'inspire le Gouvernement de Sa Majesty dans la recherche des moyens les plus prompts et les plus efficaces pour mettre fin a la crise actuelle en Chine, le Ministre des Affaires ^trang^res est heureux de constater I'accord qui existe entre Lord Salisbury et lui dans la mani^re d'envisager la co-Ofieration du Japon. A cet 6gard, le Gouvernement de la E^publique n'a cesse de declarer, d^s le debut de la crise, que Taction des Puissances en Chine devait rester solidaire et collective, et que tons les participants n'auraient a pretendre qu'a des droits egaux. Le Japon, par consequent, ne pourrait etre considere que comme un collaborateur de plus a I'oeuvre commune, sans avoir a reclamer aucun privilege exclusif. Or, telle est egalement I'o pinion formulee par son Excellence le Premier Secre- taire d'Btat de la Reine dans sa reponse au Cabinet de Saint-Petersbourg, dont Sir Edmund Monson a eu I'obligeance de resumer le sens. Quant aux principes fondamentaux sur lesquels reposerait tout d'abord Taction collective des Puissances, ils se degagent assez naturellement, semble-t-il, des circon- stances qui ont determine cette action. II suffira de mentionner : (1) la n^cessit^ d'un accord aussi complet que possible en vue notamment d'operations concertees pour sauvegarder les existences qui peuvent etre encore pr^servees dans toute Tetendue de TEmpire Chinois ; (2) inteo-rite de la Chine; ^carter tout ce qui pourrait amener au partage de ce pays; (3) enfin, le retablissement, Tetablissement ou reconnaissance d'un Gouvernement Central Chinois pouvant garantir I'ordre et la tranquillite dans le pays. Paris, le 21 Juin, 1900. (Translation.) IN thanking his Excellency the British Ambassador for the explanation which he was good enough to furnish in his Memorandum of the 21st instant relative to the aims held in view by Her Majesty's Government in the endeavour' to discover the promptest and most efficacious means for putting an end to the present crisis in China 39 the Minister for Foreign Affairs is happy to note the accord existing between him and Lord Salisbury in regard to the view they take as to the co-operation of Japan. On this point, the Gove'rnment of the Repubhc has never ceased to declare, since the outbreak of the crisis, that the action of the Powers in China should remain uniform and collective, and that those concerned should not claim anything but equal rights. Japan accordingly can be considered as one additional participator in the common action, without being entitled to claim any exclusive privilege. Now, such is likewise the opinion put forward by Her Majesty's Principal Secretary of State in his reply to the St. Petersburgh Cabinet, of which Sir E. Monson was good enough to communicate the substance. As regards the fundamental principles on which would rest at first the collective action of the Powers, they are quite naturally apparent from the circumstances which have determined this action. It will be enough to mention : (1) the necessity for as complete an agreement as possible in view notably of the operations that may be concerted for safeguarding those lives which can still be preserved throughout the Chinese Empire ; (2) the integrity of China ; to avoid everything that might lead to the partition of that country ; (3) lastly, the re-establishment, establishment or recognition of a Central Chinese Government capable of guaranteeing order and tranquillity in the country. Paris, June 21, 1900. No. 89. Hong Kong and Shanghae Bank to Foreign Office. — [Received July 30.) Hong Kong and Shanghae Bank, Sir, July 29, 1900. I HAYE the honour to inclose copy of a telegram received by the China Associa- tion from Shanghae late last night, which I beg to recommend to your most serious ■consideration. Although I feel sure that Her Majesty's G-overnment are fully alive to the im- portance of Shanghae, I venture to point out that the results of any disaster to that port would be much more far-reaching than is generally realized. In proportion to the male population, there is a much larger number of women and children in Shanghae than at any of the other Treaty Ports. No doubt many of the well-to-do class have already left for places of greater safety, but, even then, several hundreds of white women and children, not to speak of Eurasians, must always be in the place. It is too shocking to contemplate what might happen to these helpless creatures in the event of Chinese soldiers breaking loose. Erom a commercial point of view, the destruction, or even partial destruction, of Shanghae would he most disastrous, not only to those immediately interested in Shanghae, but (and this is the point I wish especially to impress upon Her Majesty's Government) to a very large commercial circle besides private individuals in the country. The value of British goods and property in Shanghae at the moment may be counted by millions. These goods belong to Manchester and other houses all over the country, and are financed both by English and Eastern banks. In the event of the property being destroyed, these banks would claim from the English shippers, who, in most cases, would be ruined. Their fall would bring down others, and the result would be a panic more disastrous and wide-spread than any which has been witnessed in the present generation. There is a very considerable number of people now retired in this country who live on what they derive from Shanghae property, incomes varying from 1001. to 30,000/. per annum. All that would go, in the event of any catastrophe, to swell the distress, so that in fact there would be few homes in the United Kingdom which would not suffer either directly or indirectly from the fall of Shanghae. There is so much nervousness at present regarding Chinese matters, that there is a danger of a commercial panic should Shanghae be even seriously threatened. 40 The Chancellor of the Exchequer, who will soon be appealing to the country for money, will at once realize what a situation, as described above, would mean to him and to the country. I bare, &c. (Signed) EWEN CAMERON. Inclosure in No. 89. Copy of a Telegram communicated by Mr. Keswick, 30th July, on behalf of the China Association who have seen the above letter from Sir E. Cameron, and support and entirely indorse the considerations urged therein. Shanghae, July 28, 1900. ADVISE China Association from China Association, Shanghae : — Unfriendly attitude reactionary provincial authorities increasing military pre- parations recognized in responsible quarter, pointing urgent necessity British Govern- ment forthwith provide force detached service Shanghae. No troops at present available in case of emergency. It is considered certain Chinese will attempt create diversion here elsewhere prevent advance Peking. Eor this reason alone precautionary measures urgently necessary where vast interest future security prestige all Europeans involved, while immediate action will prevent reactionary officials-. Hesitation certain increase present attitude and lead hopeless confusion later on. There is every reason to believe all the Powers welcome initiative Great Britain in the interest of all ooncerned. American co-operation, if offered, acceptable. Any attempt concerted general international occupation most undesirable. No. 90. Li Hung-chang to Sir Chihchen Lofengluh. — {Communicated by Sir Chihchen LofSngluh July 30.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, July 30, 1900. I HAVE, conjointly with other Viceroys and Governors, memorialized' the Throne to iTrge the immediate sending of foreign Bepresentatives under escort to Tien-tsia or the restoration to them the freedom of telegraphic communication with their respective Governments. The Imperial approval will be communicated to you as soon as it is obtained. Please persuade the Eoreign Office not to send any more reinforcements, and instruct those already sent not to make any advance. This is very important. No. 91. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. MacDonald. [Sent through Chinese Minister.] Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, July 30, 1900. PBAY let us know where and how you and other Europeans are. We have heard nothing since your letter of 4th July to Consul at Tien-tsin. This message is forwarded through Chinese Minister in London. No. 92. Lord Currie to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received July 31.) ^^ -^^iH ■ \^ . , -^o^^' J^h 22, 1900. AS 1 was m the country when your Lordship's telegram of the 20th July arrived, Mr. Townley called upon the Italian Minister for Foreign Affairs yesterday afternoon, and communicated to his Excellency the answer which your Lordship had returned to the Russian message relative to the"affairs of China. 41 M. Visconti-Venosta replied that the Italian Government had received a com- munique from the Kussian Charge d' Affaires couched in apparently similar language to that employed in the message handed to your Lordship. His Excellency said that the Italian Government was prepared to maintain the association of Italy with the common action of the Powers, the most important point heing, ia their opinion, the maintenance of the accord between the Powers, both with a view to arriving at a solution of the present problem, and in the general interests of peace. The principles enumerated in the Russian message had not, his Excellency said, formed the subject of any formal agreement between the Powers, but they had found expression substantially, with only slight variations of form, in the communication, made by M. Delcasse on the part of the Erench Government, in the language held by the Cabinet of Berlin, in M. de Billow's Circular, and now finally in the message of the Bussian Government. The Italian Government shared the views expressed by your Lordship that no action should be taken which might lead to an eventual partition of the Chinese Empire. As to the measures which the Powers would now have to adopt in order to re-establish at Peking a Chinese Government capable of giving the necessary guarantees for the security of foreigners, M. Visconti-Venosta had no a priori objection to any arrangement which circumstances might render advisable, and he added that the Italian Government is in principle disposed to adhere to any solution which will secure the adhesion of the Powers and the maintenance of the accord between them. I have, &c. (Signed) CURBIE. No. 93. Acting Consul-General Fraser to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 1.) My Lord, Hankow, June 20, 1900. ON the 14th instant I received from Her Majesty's Consul-General, Sh;inghae, the telegram, of which copy is inclosed, inquiring how I thought the Viceroy Chang would receive an offer of support. I replied that I thought an offer of present material aid would be welcome, but that the Viceroy would be very jealous for China's independence. On receipt of Mr. Warren's telegram of the 16th instant, I sought an interview with the Viceroy, which is described in Inclosure No. 4. As I expected, the Viceroy received the offer to support him with Her Majesty's ships, if he took measures to keep order, with cordial expressions of goodwill to England and assurances of his determination to afford protection and keep the peace ; but his Excellency deprecated anv naval demonstration on the Yang-tsze. This morning, however, I learnt by telegram from Her Majesty's Consul at Nanking that the Viceroy there had received a telegram from the Viceroy Chang to the effect that I had promised to telegraph to Her Majesty's Government not to send any of Her Majesty's ships up the river. I at once asked for an interview with the Taotai, who lives close at hand and was present at my interview -with the Viceroy, and pointed out the serious misunderstanding that seemed to exist as to the Viceroy's request. The Taotai assured me that I had understood his Excellency Chang correctly, and that there was no question of restricting the usual visits of Her Majesty's ships to Yang-tsze ports. He undertook to move the Viceroy to telegraph to Nanking accordingly. I trust that the mistake arose simply from a clerk's use of the Chinese words " war- vessels" instead of " naval force " in the Viceroy Chang's telegram ; but in order to remove any doubt on the point I have sent a note to his Excellency explaining that the only request of his that I can lay before your Lordship is that there may not be a demonstration by the fleet, and that the decision thereon rests entirely with Her Majesty's Government. After I had requested the interview with the Taotai I received a despatch from him covering instructions from the Viceroy, in which his Excellency reiterates strongly his and his colleague at Nanking's intention to safeguard our interests along the river, and their objection to a naval demonstration. I have the honour to forward translation of that portion of his despatch. The remainder merely begs me to recall all women and children from outlying Mission stations (a step already taken), to supply a list of missionaries and their stations and chapels, and to warn missionaries and others to [1116] G 42 exercise the utmost discretion in moving about in the interior, and to be forbearing in their deaUngs with the natives. So fyr as I can learn the immediate neighbourhood is quiet, and no outbreak need be apprehended unless affairs in the north go awry. A Mission station some 70 mdes to the westward was destroyed in a sudden riot on the ].4th, but no lives were lost, and the authorities profess to be taking energetic action against the offenders. As your Lordship's instructions CLime through Her Majesty's Consul-Gen eral at Shanghae, this despatch, wath its Inclosures, has been sent to him under flying seal. A copy will be forwarded to Her Majesty's Minister in Peking as soon as communica- tion with the Legation has been restored. I have, &c. (Signed) E. H. PHASER. Inclosure 1 in No. 93. Acting Consul- General Warren to Acting Consul- General Fraser. (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, June 14, 1900. k— I HAVE teiegraphed to Foreign Office urging protection of interests in Yang-tsze Yalley, and the arriving at an understanding with the Viceroys. Do you think your Viceroy would be inclined to co-operate with us if assured of support ? Inclosure 2 in No. 93. Acting Consul -Geueral Fraser to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Hankow, June 15, 1900. B^„,,,, YOUR private telegram of yesterday. '^JiC!■ In my opinion, Viceroy would welcome support if material and apparent, but would be jealous of Chinese independence. Inclosure 3 in No. 98. Acting Consul- Gen eral Warren to Acting Consul- General Fraser. (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, June 16, 1900. I AM authorized by Lord Salisbury to inform Viceroy that, if measures are taken by him to maintain order, he will be supported by Her Majesty's ships. Will you please convey to Viceroy this assurance, and inform me how it is received ? Inclosure 4 in No. 93. Acting Consul- General Fraser to Acting Consul- General Warren. Sir, Hanliow, June 18, 1900. IN confirmation of my telegram of yesterday, I have the honour to inform you of an interview^ which, in prompt acquiescence with my request made on receipt of your telegram of the 16Lh June, the Viceroy Chang granted me yesterday morning. There were present, also, the Customs Taotai T's6n and the Secretaries Kaw Hung Beng and Liang. So soon as the attendants had withdrawn I explained that the want of energy of the northern officials had led to men being landed by various Powers, and, in con- sequence, to a very serious situation. I then produced an English copy of Lord Salisbury's message which T translated mto Chinese and handed to Mr. Kaw, who also translated it in almost identical terms. ■ The Viceroy, who listened with intense interest, at once assured me that he was fully aware of his duty to maintain order and afford protection in his jurisdiction not only because of Treaty obligations, but also for his own interest and reputation. He 43 was in telegraphic communication with Nanking, and he and his colleague Liu were of one mind and were taking all possible precautions against outbreaks, whether anti- foreign or not, on the part of Secret Societies or bad characters. Although such case, as the sudden, riot near T'ien-m6n, to which I had referred, might occur, they would be dealt with so promptly and thoroughly so as to make them rather a warning than an encouragement to the disaffected. His Excellency did not desire the presence of a British squadron, which would be misconstrued by his people just now, but he repeatedly assured me that he and the Viceroy at Nanking were of one mind as to the advisability of acting in concert with Britain (binding themselves to England was his phrase), and should he come to doubt his ability to maintain order, he would at once consult through Her Britannic Majesty's Consul with Lord Salisbury. As to events in the north, he ascribed them to the Empress-Dowager's listening to the "stupid men of no experience who pretended that the suppression of the Boxers would involve injustice to loyal subjects," and he was especially vehement against Tung-Fu Hsiang and his Kansuh army. The Viceroy suggested that missionaries should be particularly careful at this juncture, and expressed readiness to provide special guards tor any specified chapel and station. He was gratified to hear that I had advised the calling in of all women and children from outlying places. His Excellency was most cordial throughout the interview, and the Taotai told the Commissioner of Customs later in the day that the Viceroy was exceedingly pleased with m.y visit and Lord Salisbury's message, by which his hands were strengthened. In my opinion the Viceroy's promises are sincere, and the only danger is the remote risk that his troops may not be so loyal and trustworthy as his Excellency undoubtedly believes. I have, &c. (Signed) E. H. FUASEU. Inclosure 5 in No. 93. Taotai Ts'en to Acting Consul- General Fraser. (Translation.) (Extract.) June 19, 1900. TO-DAY I received the following communication from his Excellency the Vicero'y Chang : — " I (the Viceroy) must therefore urgently instruct you (the Taotai) to at once inform the British Consul-General that I shall exert myself to protect [foreigners] within my jurisdiction, and to prevent bad characters from making trouble. If any lawless crew does create a disturbance before we are on our guard, the might of the regular troops will amply suffice to put them down and crush them immediately, nor will such a movement on any account be allowed to spread. Yesterday I was consulting with the Viceroy of Nanking by wire, and he informed me that he, too, had ever5^\vhere issued stringent orders for the protection [of foreigners], his idea being that he and I should co-operate in looking after the lower Yang-tsze. We both ask the British Consul-' General to inform his Government that at present bad characters are being put down in the Yang-tsze district, and that foreign assistance is not required. If the British fleet suddenly comes up the Yang-tsze to assist, not only will no advantage be gained, but on the other hand the people will, we fear, become suspicious, and other countries will follow Britain's example, thus rendering the readjustment of affairs impossible. As to the fear that other countries may take the initiative in entering the river to meddle, if the British Government do not make the first move, the other countries will not do so. Britain need, therefore, be under no apprehension." (Taotai's card.). [1116] G 2 44 No. 94. Admiralty to Vice- Admiral Sir E. Seymour. — {Communicated by Admiralty, August 1.) (Telegraphic.) Admiralty, July 30, 1900. IN a recent telegram you mention an opinion of British community and others that 5,000 troops were minimum for defence of Shanghae, but that 10,000 would properly meet requirements. General Gaselee, on the other hand, mentioned 3,000. What is your own unbiassed view as to what is necessary for safety ? It would take several weeks before a force could be made up to 10,000, including those in transports, which have not yet left Hong Kong for Taku. No. 95. Vice-Admiral Sir E. Seymour to Admiralty. — (Communicated by Admiralty, August 1.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, July 31, 1900. YOUR telegram of the 30th July. I have now been able to visit Settlement and suburbs and form my own opinion, which is that 3,000 with gun fire and men from the ships now in the river would probably suflSce — 5,000 certainly would. But if ships all had to go away, 5,000 would be required if serious attack made. No. 96. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {JReceived August 1.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 1, 1900. I AM informed by the English Baptist Mission that a telegram has been received from Mr. Morgan at Sian-fu (in Shensi) to the following effect : — " Eifty missionaries murdered, fear welfare of Christians. Eleven of us starting. Obtain protection in Hunan and Hupei." These massacres are becoming general, and I have the gravest fears for the safety of all foreigners now up country. I am trying to obtain protection asked for. No. 97. Sir F. Plunkett to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 1.) (Telegraphic.) Brussels, August 1, 1900 I AM informed by Belgian Mmister for Eoreign Affairs that, as soon as sig- nature of King can be obtained, Eoyal Decree prohibiting the exportation of arms to China will be issued. No. 98. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General Warren. <™'f ShdWwAL of E„„pea.s. ^°"^*» °^- ^"^'«' '■ «»«• Naval and military authorities at Shanghae would be much hampered in anv operations until all Europeans are withdrawn from riverine ports You had better give definite instructions to the Consul at'ohunffkinff to Ipsvp with the European community. ^ ^ " ^^'^^*^ 45 No. 99. Mr. Choate to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 2.) My Lord, American Embassy, London, August 2, 1900. ■ UNDER instructions from my Government, I have the honour to inform your Lordship that, on the 30tli July last, the Secretary of State of the United States, in answer to a suggestion of Li Hung-chang that the Ministers might be sent under safe escort to Tien-tsin, provided the Powers would engage not to march on Peking, replied that the Government of the United States would not enter into any arrange- ment regarding, the disposition or treatment of Legations, without first having free communication with Mr. Conger, the American Minister at Peking; that the responsibility for their protection rests upon the Chinese Government ; and that power to deliver at Tien-tsin presupposes power to protect and open communication with them, and this was insisted on. This message was delivered by Mr. Goodnow, our Consul at Slianghae, on the 31st ultimo, to Li Hung-chang, who then inquired whether " if free communications were established between Ministers and their Governments, it could be arranged that the Powers should not advance on Peking pending negotiations." To this inquiry the following reply was sent, on the 1st August, by the Secretary of State : — " I do not think it expedient to submit the proposition of Earl Li to the other Powers ; free communication with our E/epresentatives in Peking is demanded as a matter of absolute right, and not as a favour. Since the Chinese Government admits that it possesses the power to give communication, it puts itself in an unfriendly attitude by denying it. No negotiations seem advisable until the Chinese Government shall have put the Diplomatic Eepresentatives of the Powers in full and free communication with their respective Governments, and removed all danger to life and liberty. We would urge Earl Li earnestly to advise the Imperial authorities of China to place themselves in friendly communication and co-operation with the relief expedition ; they are assuming heavy responsibility in acting' othervrise." Should your Lordship wish to see me with regard to the aliovc, I shall hold myself at your disposition. I have &c. (Signed) ' JOSEPH H. CHOATE. No. 100. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 2.) (Telegraphic.) Slianghae, August 1, 1900. WITH reference to my telegram of 26th Julj^ I should be glad to be informed whether Her Majesty's Government are v;illing to guarantee the loan uliich the Viceroy of Wuchang asks for. He has helped me considerably in bringing in missionaries from the interior, and has provided them with money and escorts. We has thoroughly committed himself to us, and will lose his authority and have to go over to ihe other side unless assisted. T!ie great danger in Hankow is that, if not paid, there will be a mutiny of the troops. No. 101. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 2.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 1, 1900. WITH reference to my telegram of 5th July,* the situation is every day becoining more serious. The Viceroys at Nanking and Wuchang have declared themselves loyal to the Empress-Dowager, and have stated distinctly that they will he unable to carrv out the agreement of neutrality entered into with foreign Governments unless it is guaranteed thather person shall be respected. The Viceroys, while preserving peace in their districts to the best of their ability, are at the same time arming all along the whole * See " China No, 3 (1900)," p. 101. 4(j line of the Yang-tsze, and are preparing for attack. When the allied forces approach Peking, I fear tbey will find a very strong force opposed to them, as the Viceroys are further dispatching troops to the north for the protection of the Emperor and Empress- Dowager. No. 102. Acting Consul-General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 2.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 2, 1900. THE Chinese are convinced that when the relieving force approaches Peking the Ministers and surviving Europeans will, be murdered. Li Hung-chang himself has expressed this opinion. I would suggest informing the Manchu Government, through their Minister at London, that they will be held responsible for any outrage of the sort, and further, that their ancestral tombs at Mukden and Peking will be utterly- destroyed. Eidiculous as this may appear, I am assured on good authority it is very likely to prove effective, as tbe Manchus have a great respect for their ancestors, and this threat will deter them. No. 103. Admiralty to Foreign Office. — {Received August 3.) Sir, Admiralty, August 3, 1900. IN reply to your letter of the 28th ultimo, respecting the danger apprehended by the Bussian and German Governments from allowing continued freedom of action te the Chinese ships of war, I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of tho Admiralty to request you will inform the Secretary of State that, by the latest telegraphic advices received from the Commander-in-chief on the Cbina Station, all the Chinese cruisers of any fighting value are at the present time in the Yang-tsze, above the Kiang-yin forts, from which position they show no signs of moving. So long as they remain there no danger to vessels carrying reinforcements for the various nationalities is possible from them, and the difficulty of replenishing their coal supply must act as a deterrent on any extended cruising at sea. Sliould they, however, leave the Yang-tsze, it wall be necessary to watch them, and Vice- Admiral Sir E. Seymour has already received instructions on this point. The Chinese torpedo boats are now at Canton, and unless they leave that anchorage, constitute no danger to shipping. Their sphere of action is also limited by their coal supply, but should they leave Canton their movements will be watched and reported on by Her Majesty's ships. My Lords do not consider it desirable to interfere in any way with the Chinese ships so long as they take no part in the present disturbances, and continue to act as neutrals ; but it would be necessary for active measures to be resorted to if, in the opinion of Her Majesty's naval officers on the spot, such a course w^ere desirable. I am to add that there is a strong force of Her Majesty's ships now at Woosung capable of dealing with this matter if necessary. I am, &c. (Signed) C. J. THOMAS, Pro Secretary. No. 104. Admirally to Foreign Office. — {Received AiA,gust 3.) Sifj Admiralty, August 3, 1900. I AM commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to transmit, for the information of the Secretary of State for Poreign Affairs, a copy of a teleoram, dated the 2nd August, from the Commander-in-chief, China, relative to the attitude of the Viceroy, Nanking, and the Chinese ships in Yang-tsze River. I am, &c. (Signed) EVAN MACGEEGOR. 47 Inciosure in No. 104. Vice-Admiral Sir E. Seymour to Admiralty. (Telesfraphic.) _ Shiakwan, August 3, 1900. HAVE seen Viceroy, who returns my call to-morrow. Ha is very friendly, and, I believe, anxious to maintain peace in Yang-tsze Valley. Referring to your teiegrapliic inquiry, Chinese ships are together ; believe them not anti-foreign, but well disposed towards British. Eear-Admiral Chin commanding, who now looks to Viceroy for orders. Consider that one ship should still remain at each of the five ports in the river, with discretion to move in ease of sudden war. Ichang-fu ship uncertain as yet. Viceroy sees no reason for landing troops Shanghae, but evidently does not wish large force. He agrees to moderate force, say 3,000. He hopes no foreign men-of- war will come up the river. I recommend that they should not. No. 105. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 3.) (Telegraphic.) St. Pelersburgh, August 3, 1900. A COMMUNICATION appears in the Oflacial Gazette of yesterday, of which following is a summary : — " The complete impotence of the Government of Peking to ai'rest the insurrectionai'y movement in China, and to restore order in the capital, a state of affairs conductive to serious complications, inspired the Emperor of China to address to the Emperor a request for His Imperial Majesty's mediation. " The anti-Christian troubles are attributed by the Emperor of China to the evil proceedings of agititors acting in their own personal interest. When, at the instance of the Russian Minister, the Government decided to take repressive measures, it was already too late to allay the excitement against the foreigners caused by the spreading of false rumours among the lower classes. "The Chinese Government, from fear of compromising the safety of the Legations, and of provoking a general rising against the foreigners at the ports, did not dare to take decisive measures against the insurgents, the result being that the Powers have suspected the Chinese Government of complicity with the anti-Christian movement, and have decided to take military measures, which threatened to still further complicate the situation. "The Emperor of China has therefore addressed a request to the Emperor of Russia to find some means for saving the country, and to take the initiative in carrying it out. " The Emperor has replied to the above telegram stating that, while deploring the serious events now happening in China, the uncertainty of what is taking place in Peking and the absence of news respecting the fate of the Russian and foreign Repre- sentatives render all idea of mediation in favour of China very difficult at the present moment. • " The efforts of Russia have but one object in view, namely, to assist in the re-establishment of order and tranquillity in the Chinese Empire, and, inspired by their traditional friendship for China, the Imperial Government have decided to render to the Chinese Government every assistance with a view to repressing the present troubles. "The Emperor hopes that the Emperor of China will take the most effective measures for the pacification of this vas| Empire, and for the security of the lives and property of the Russian and all other foreign subjects residing in China." 4S No. 106. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 3, 1900. I Hi\.VE received your telegrams of the 1 st August regarding the proposed loan to Viceroy at Hankow. In the event of the loan heing made, how do you propose to prevent its being applied to sending troops to the north, to arming the Yang-tsze, or to some purpose of a, similar nature? No. 107. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 3, 1900. I HAVE received your telegram of the 2nd August. The threat to destroy the tombs of ilie Manchu dynasty would be very repugnant to public opinion here in Europe, and we are also informed that it would create a bad impression in China generally. With regard to tbe warning that we should hold the Chinese Government personally guilty for any injury to the members of the Legations, j)lease refer to my telegram of the 5th July. No. 108. The Marquess of Salisbury to Mr. Choate. Dear Mr. Choate, Foreign Office, Auyust 3, 1900. I AM much obliged to you for your note of yesterday informing me of what^has passed between the Government of the United States and Li Hung-chang with regard to the proposal of the latter that the advance on Peking should not take place, pending negotiations for the establishment of free communication between the foreign Repre- ■ sentatives and their Governments. I need hardly assure your Excellency that I entirely concur in the terms of the reply of the Secretary of State, Messages of a similar kind have reached me from the Emperor throuo-h the Chinese Minister, and I have always said that no negotiations were possible until I was in a position to communicate freely with Her Majesty's Minister in Peking. I have, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. No. 109. Foreign Office to Hong Kong and Shanghae Bank. Sir, Foreign Office, August 3, 1900. I LAID before the Marquess of Salisbury your letter of the 29th ultimo calling attention to the serious condition of affairs at Shanghae. The considerations on which you have dwelt have received and are continuing to receive the most earnest attention of Her Majesty's Government. I am, &c. (Signed) PRANCIS BERTIE. 49 No. 110. Vice-Admiral Sir E. Seymour to Admiralty. — {Communicated by Admiralty, August 4.) 1 (Telegraphic.) ^ Shiakwan, August 3, 1900. VICEROY returned visit to-day, and renewed his assurances of friendship for Great Britain, which country he was satisfied was only seeking to promote trade. He will consent to one British ship remaining at each of ports in the nominal list, but particularly desires no other foreign ships should come up the river, as iu the present excited state of people he fears tliey might think foreigners had come to seize their country. The Chinese would fight in order to prevent their country being taken from them. i:I(^ said to me that he and A^iceroy Chang-Cbi-Tung are of one mind on the above points. I promised to advise my foreign colleagues not to send any of their ships up the river. Recommend 3,000 troops be sent Shanghae when ready. Leave for Shanghae to-morrow. No. 111. The Marquess of Salisbury to Lord Pauncefote* (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 4, 1900. THE following statement of policy in China was made on behalf of Her Majesty's Government in the House of Commons on 2nd August : — Great Britain will, in concert with other Powers, press forward by every means the relief of the Legations at Peking, and regards it as imperative to impress upon China the sanctity of Envoys, and the power of Europe to protect or avenge theui. As regards the Yang-tsze district and the adjacent region, assurances have been given to the Viceroys that the sliips and forces of Great Britain will co-operate as far as possible with them in quieting unrest and securing order, and provision is being made for the due fulfilment of this assurance. Her Majesty's Government are opposed to any partition of China, and believe that they are in accord with other Powers in this declaration. Her Majesty's Government hold that the future Government of Cliina, whether directed from Peking or decentralized, must be a government by the Chinese, and they are not prepared to substitute for this an European Administration. Similarly, they hold that in the common interest much caution should be observed in any scheme which may be entertained for organizing Chinese troops under foreign of&cers. Compensation must be made by China for the effects of the existing disturbances. No. 112. ' Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 5.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 5, 1900. I HAVE received following from Consul at Hankow : — "My information is that 5,000 troops, mostly recruits, none foreign drilled, have been sent north. Taotai prote.sts simply in obedience to Decree to aid in suppressing Boxers. Loan is wanted to supply troops to keep peace in remote parts, as Viceroy cannot spare his own good men. Repayment in ten annual instalments; mining rights as security besides Treasurer's and Viceroy's seal, or perhaps water and electric light concessions. Prompt answer w^anted. Viceroy has hitherto done nothing to cause suspicion of good faith so far as I know. " It is reported that another 5,000 troops are gradually to go north overland." * Also to Sir C. Scott, Sir E. Monson, Lord Gougli, Lord Currie, Sir H. Rumbold. and to Acting Consul- General Warren, with instructions to repeat it to 'l'6ki6, Canton, Iloiig Kong, and Wei-hai Woi. [1116] H 50 No. 113. Lord Pauncefote to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 6.) My Lord, Newport, Rhode Island, July 27, 1900. WITH reference to my telegram of the 25th instant, I have the honour to transmit herewith, for your Lordship's information, the full text of the letter in which the Emperor of China requested the good offices of the President of the United States to bring about the concert of the Powers for the restoration of peace and order, together with Mr. McKinley's reply to this appeal. These documents were communicated to me officially by the United States' Crovernment. I have, &c. (Signed) PAU:N'CEF0TE. Inclosure in No. 113. I. Translation of a Cablegram received by Minister Wu on July 20, 1900, /rom the Taotai of Shanghae, dated July 19, 1900. HAVE received a telegram from Governor Yuan (of Shantung), dated the 23rd day of this moon (19th July), who, having received -Prom the Privy Council (at Peking) a despatch embodying an Imperial letter to the President of the United States, has instructed me to transmit it to your Excellency. The Imperial message is respectfully transmitted, as follows : — " The Emperor of China to his Excellency the President of the United States, greeting : " China has long maintained friendly relations with the United States, and is deeply conscious that the object of the United States is international commerce. Neither country entertains the least suspicion or distrust towards the other. Recent outbreaks of uiutual antipathy between the people and Christian Missions caused the foreign Powers to view with unwarranted suspicion the position of the Imperial Government as favourable to the people and prejudicial to the Missions, with the result that the Taku forts were attacked and captured. Consequently there has been clashing of forces with calamitous consequences. The situation has become more and more serious and critical. We have just received a telegraphic Memorial from our Envoy Wu Ting-fang, and it is highly gratifying to us to learn that the United States Government, having in view the friendly relations between the two countries, has taken a deep interest in the present situation. Now China, driven by the irresistible couise of events, has unfortunately incurred well-uigh universal indignation. For settling the present difficulty, China places special reliance in the United States. We address this message to your Excellency in all sincerity and candidness, with the hope that your Excellency will devise measures and take the initiative in bringing about a concert of the Powers for the restoration of order and peace. The favour of a kind reply is earnestly requested, and awaited with the greatest anxiety. ' Kwang Hsii, 26th year, 6th moon, 23rd day {July 19, 1900)." It is, therefore, my duty to transmit the above with the request that your Excellency, in respectful obedience of Imperial wishes, will deliver the same to its high destination and favour me with a reply. (Signed) YU LIEN- YUEN, Taotai at Shanghae. Kwang Hsii, 26th year, 5th moon, 23rd day l{July 19, 1900). • 51 II. The President of the United States to the Emperor of China, greeting : I have received your Majesty's message of the 19th July, and am glad to know- that your Majesty recognizes the fact that the Government and people of the United States desire of China nothing but what is just and equitable. The purpose for which we landed troops in China was the rescue of our Legation from grave danger and the protection of the lives and property of Americans who were sojourning in China in the enjoyment of rights guaranteed them by Treaty and by international law. The same purposes are publicly declared by all the Powers which have landed military forces in your Majesty's Empire. I am to infer from your Majesty's letter that the malefactors who have disturbed the peace of China, who have murdered the Minister of Germany and a member of the Japanese Legation, and who now hold besieged in Peking those foreign diplomatists who still survive, have not only not received any favour or encouragement from your Majesty, but are actually in rebellion against Imperial authority. If this be the case, I must solemnly urge upon your Majesty's Government to give public assurance whether the foreign Ministers are alive, and, if so, in what condition. 2. To put the diplomatic Hepresentatives of the Powers in immediate and free commimication with their respective Governments and to remove all danger to their lives and liberty. 3. To place the Imperial authorities of China in communication with the relief expedition so that co-operation may be secured between them for the liberation of the Legations, the protection of foreigners, and the restoration of order. If these objects are accomplished it is the belief of this Government that no obstacles will be found to exist on the part of the Powers to an amicable settlement of all the questions arising out of the recent troubles, and the friendly good offices of this Government will, with the assent of the other Powers, be cheerfully placed at your Majesty's disposition for that purpose. (Signed) WILLIAM McKINLBY. July 23, 1900. By the President : (Signed) John Hat, Secretary of State. Fo. 114. Lord Pauncefote to the Marquess of Salisbury. — [Received August 6.) My Lord, Newport, Rhode Island, July 27, 1900. YE accordance with the instructions conveyed to me in your Lordship's telegram of the 20th July, I communicated tc the Secretary of State the substance of your Lordship's reply to the message from Count Lamsdorif, as reported in your telegram of the 2nd July, and I at the same time requested Mr. Hay to favour me with the views of the United States' Government on the " fundamental principles " proposed by the Eussian Government. I have the honour to inclose a copy of my note, and of the reply which I received from Mr. Hay. The Eussian Charge d'Affaires had verbally communicated Count Lamsdorff's message to the Secretary of Slate on the IStli instant, and had inquired at the same time whether the United States had joined in givmg any special mandate to Japan, or whether any arrangement had been entered into for special compensation for the action of Japan. Mr. Hay replied that no such arrangement had been made nor suggested to the United States from any quarter. In reply to my inquiry as to the view taken by his Government of the " fundamental principles" enunciated by Count Lamsdorff, Mr. Hay states that M. de \\ ollant's communication, which was made orally, was not sufficiently explicit to enable liira [1116] H 2 52 io comply with my request. I accordingly addressed a further note to Mr. Hay statmg those principles, and inquiring whether they suggest any iurtlier observations on his pai-t. I have, &c. (Signed) PAiJNCEFOTE. Inclosure 1 in Xo. 114. Lord Pauncefote to Mr. Hay. Pear Mr. Secretary, Newport, Jvlij 21 1900 , lis my absence from Washington I beg to communicate to you, m the iorm ot a Memorandum, the reply of Lord Salisbury to the message from Count Lamsdorff, whicb, it is understood, has been delivered to all the Powers by the Eussian Representatives. His Lordship wishes me to explain that nothing which has passed between the British and Eussian Governments in any way justifies the statement that a European mission or mandate to Japan was ever suggested by or in the contemplation of Her Majesty's Government. i x- i They would be glad to learn the view taken by your Government of the " fundamental principles " which the Eussian Government propose. In the wish to prevent anything tendmg to the partition of China, they entirely concur, but to speak of the le-establishment by joint eftorts of a Central Government which can guarantee tranquillity and order seems to Her Majesty's Government altogether premature in our present ignorance of existing conditions and of the intention of the authorities at Peking. I have, ike. (Signed) PAUNCEFOTE. Inclosure 2 in No. 114. Memorandum. ON the 13th instant the Eussian Charge d'Aftaires in London communicated to the Marquess of Salisbury a message from Count Lamsdorff pm-porting to give an account of what had taken place with reference to the offer of the Jajpanese Govern- ment to send troops to China for the relief of the foreigners and the suppression of the insurrection, and particularly with reference to a supposed suggestion of a mission to be given by Europe to Japan with that object. In that message Count Lamsdorff' declared the fimdamental principles which, he stated, had been accepted by the majority of the Powers as the basis of their policy. Lord Salisbury understands that Count Lamsdorff's message has been communicated to all the Powers, and his Lordship has instructed the Undersigned to convey to the United States' Government the substance of iiis reply to it, which is as follows : — Her Majesty's Government never made any suggestion that any right to an independent solution or to any other privileges should be conferred on Japan by reason of her action, nor have they ever suggested to Eussia, or contemplated that Japan should receive any European Mission. They have never accepted the fundamental principles stated by Count Lamsdorff; nor has any discussion as yet taken place between them and the other Powers as t>> the circumstances in which the application ot those principles might possibly be fitting. Except as regards steps for the relief of the Legations and other foreigners. Her Majesty s Government have not expressed an opinion in favour of any particular course of action. Inclosure 3 in No. 1 14. Mr. Hay to Lord Pauncefote. Dear xMr. Ambassador, Department of State, Washington, .July 23, 1900. I HAA^E the pleasure to acknowledge the receipt of your personal note of the 21st instant, communicating to me, in the form of a Memorandum,, the reply of Lord Salisbury to the message of Count Lamsdorff in respect to the purposes of Russia in 53 dealing with the Chinese crisis, and to the offer of Japan to aid in the movement undertaken by the povverp in China. The purport of Count LamsdorflF's message was communicated to me bj tlie Russian Charge on the 13th instant, comprising the statements that the aims of his G-overnment included the preservation of life and property of Europeans in China, the relief of the endangered Legations, and the maintenance of the integrity of the Chinese Empire. M. de Wollant asked whether the United States had joined in giving any special mandate to Japan, or whether any arrangement had been entered into for special compensation for the action of Japan. 1 answered that no such arrangement had been made, nor suggested to the United States from any quarter. M. de WoUant's commuTucation, orally made, is not explicit enough to enable me to comment upon the "fundamental principles." to which Lord Sahsbury's request relates, if, as I infer from your letter. Count LamsdorfF's announcement speaks of the re-establishment by joint etfbrts of a Central Government in China which can guarantee tranquillity and order. The views of this Government in that regard were expressed in my circular cablegram of the 3rd July, when, in declaring it to be the purpose of tlie President (besides fulfilling his duty to protect American life and interests) to co-operate in aiding to prevent a spread of the disorders to other provinces of the Empire and a recurrence of such disasters, I said : — " It is, of course, too early to forecast the means of attaining this last result, but the policy of the United States is to seek a solution which may bring about permanent safety and peace to China, preserve Chinese territorial and administrative entity, pro- tect all rights guaranteed to friendly Powers by Treaty and International Law, and safeguard for the world the principle of equal and impartial trade with all parts of the Chinese Empire." I am, &c. (Signed) JOHN HAY. No. 115. Sir H. Rumbold to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 0.) (Extract.) . Vienna, July 29, 1900. AN announcement is made in the " Eremdenblatt " of the measures taken by Government to prevent the export of material of war from China. In addition to the directions given in this respect in the ports of the Monarchy, the Austro-Hungarian Consular Agents have been instructed to guard against Austrian or Hungarian vessels accepting consignments of arms destined for China, and, in suspicious cases, told to report at once by telegraph with a view to enabling the autsiorities at home to take the necessary steps at once. No. lib. Mr. Raikes to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August t).) Mv Lord, Brussels, August 3, 1900. WITH reference to Sir E. Plunkett's telegram of the 1st instant, i have the honour to state that a Royal Decree, dated the 2nd August, has been issued pro- visionally forbidding the exportation of arms and munitions of war to China. I have, &c. (Signed) y^RTHUK RAIKES. 54 No. 117. Admiralty to Foreign Office. —(Received August 6.) ji^jj. Admiralty. August 6, 1900. I AM commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to transmit, for the information of the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, a copy of a telegram, dated the 3rd August, from Admiralty to Commander-in-chief, China, and of latter & reply, dated the 5th August, relative to the landing of troops at Shanghae. I am, &c. (Signed) Y.VAS MACGREGOR. In closure 1 in JTo. 117. Admiralty to Vice-Admiral Sir E. Seymour. (Telegraphic.) Admiralty, August 3, 1900. YOUR telegram of the 3rd instant. Please telegraph if we correctly understand that the 3,000 troops may nowbe sent to Shanghae, and landed there with the consent of the Viceroy. If that is so, it simplifies the situation, and is much better than keeping force at a distant spot such as Wei-hai Wei. I Inclosure 2 m No. 117. Vice-Admiral Sir E. Seymour to Admiralty. (Telegraphic.) August 5, 1900. YOUK telegram of 3rd August. It is correctly understood that 3,000 troops may now be landed at Shanghae with the Viceroy's consent. Oonsul-General is asking Viceroy to issue Proclamation to assure Chinese that they are for the defence of settlements only. This force should be landed Shanghae on arrival China. Any additional troops might be kept Hong Kong or Wei-hai Wei, in case they are required. No. 118. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 8.) [Delayed in Siberia.] (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 5, 1900. WITH reference to my telegram of to-day, I find, on careful inquiry, that well-informed Chinese are convinced of the sincerity and loyalty of Yang-tsze Viceroys to Her Majesty's Government. It is fully realized by them that the policy of Prince Tuan is a suicidal one, with only one possible end. The troops that they are sending north are raw recruits of two months' training, and badly armed. They are keeping their best troops in these regions to keep peace and maintain order, but a very large number of them are Kolaohui men, who will certainly cause trouble if their pay is in arrear, though without sympathy with the Boxer movem.ent. It is absolutely essential that the Hankow Viceroy should raise loan before next pay day, and the Provincial Treasuries are quite exhausted from loss of trade and revenue. They can assure proper application of loan to intended purpose by handing over to Her Majesty's Government Lingtzu or receipts given by the different Generals to Provincial Treasury on receipt of pay of troops. 55 No. 119. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 6.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 6, 1900. THE massacre at Ohuchow (near Chiangslian) is officially acknowledged by the Governor of Chekiang. He informs me that five British subjects were suddenly attacked and murdered. The District Magistrate was also killed in trying to protect them. The Prefect, Taotai, and General of that district have been all cashiered for their negligence. The Governor is, I believe, sincere in his desire to prevent such outbreaks, and expresses the deepest regret at the sad occurrence. As far as I can see, the officials in Central and Southern China, although they cannot always be successful, are doing their very best to prevent this sort of thing. No. 120. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — [Received August 6.) (Telegraphic.) Tien-tsin, August 4, via Chefoo, August 6, 1900. NEWS of Legation up to 1st August has been received by Japanese Consul. This afternoon allied force will move out. No. 121. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 6, 1900. WE take it for granted that, in all cases where the withdrawal of European residents is advised by British Consuls in concert with naval officers, British Consular officers will communicate with their foreign colleagues in order that all nationalities may receive similar warnings and thus have every possible facility afforded them. This should be communicated to other Consuls as you think necessary, and please consider it as a standing instruction. No. 122. Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 7.) (Extract.) Tokio, June 25, 1900. I HAD the honour to receive your Lordship's telegram of the 22nd instant, and I at once went to the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, taking with me a para- nbrase of your Lordship's telegram above referred to, which I left with Viscount Aoki, and copy of which I have the honour to inclose. His" Excellency seemed pleased to receive this communication, especially as regards the concluding paragraph, to the effect that Her Majesty's Government had given orders for the dispatch of a considerable force from India, but he did not give any direct -answer, merely saying that he would submit it to his colleagues in the Cabinet. I pointed out that some time must necessarily elapse before the troops from India could reach Taku, whereas Japanese troops could be sent there in three days, and that this was the meaning of your Lordship's reference to the favourable geographical situation of Japan. ,-,■,, , , His Excellency replied that although Japan had made great progress, she was not jet in a position to take an independent line of action in so grave a crisis, and that it was imperative for her to work in line with other Powers. 56 Inclosure in 'So. 122. Memorandum. HER Majesty's Charge d' Affaires has been instructed by Lord Salisbury to ask the Japanese Government, in view of the critical condition of the Legations at Peking and of the forces sent to their relief, whether it is not their intention to send a further force to their assistance. The urgent necessity for immediate action, and Japan's favourable geographical situation, makes her intentions of grave importance in this difficult matter. Her Majesty's Government have sent instructions to India for the dispatch of a considerable force. No. 123. Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of SalisDuri/. — (Received August 7.) My Lord, ' Tokio, June 26, 1900. WITH reference to my despatch of yesterday's date, 1 have the honour to report that Mr. IJchida, Director of the Political Department in the Japanese Ministry for Foreign Affairs, called upon me at l/SO this afternoon, on Viscount Aoki's behalf, and informed me, in connection with the inquiry contained in your Lordship's telegram of the 22nd instant,* that the Japanese Government have decided to mobilize one division, making a total of about 13,000 men, including the two detachments which have already been sent to Taku. I inquired whether the remaining 10,000 men would be dispatched to China at once, to which Mr. Uchida replied in the negative, adding, however, that transports would be ready to receive them, and that they could be embarked at the shortest notice in case of emergency. 1 understand that this communication, the substance of which I had the honour to report in my telegram of this day's date,t is considered by Viscount A old as a reply to the inquiry made in your Lordship's telegram above referred to. I have, &c. (Signed) J. B. WHITEHEAD. No. 124. Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 7.) My Lord, ^ Tokio, July 5, 1900. I HAVE the honour to report that on the receipt of your Lordship's telegram of the 2nd instant,^ T called on Viscount Aoki and handed him a Memorandum of its substance, copy of which I have the honour to inclose. His Excellency promised to submit it at once to the Premier, Marquis Yamagata, and " see what could be done." He then read me a few telegrams confirming the desperate situation at Peking, and said that he considered it impossible to relieve the Legations, because the approach of a foreign army would be the signal for their massacre. He had tried to get into communication with the Chinese Government through the Viceroys Liu, Chang-Chi-Tung, and Li Hung-chang, but they also appeared to be out of touch with the capital. Viscount Aoki went on to say that the difficulties of an expedition to Peking at this season were almost insurmountable, as maize was standing high in the whole plain, and there were no roads along which artillery or cavalry could advance. The Chinese had also opened the sluices of the Pei-ho, and the water in that river had consequently fallen so much that boats drawing more than 3 or 4 feet of water could not navigate it. He considered that for a successful attack on Peking a force of at least 70,000 men would be necessary, and he seemed doubtful whether the forces at present landed could even hold Tien-tsin and Taku. Late on the same evening I again saw Viscount Aoki, who told me that during the 'to See " Ciiina No. ;i (19uO)," p. 69. + See " China No. 3 (1900)," p. 76. + See " Chin^ No. 3 (1900)," No. 235, p. 90. 57 afternoon the Cabinet had held a meeting, at which Marquis Ito had also been present, and had decided to make a proposal to the Powers, which he was then drafting, and would communicate to me on the following day. His Excellency repeated his fear that the Legations could not be saved, but said that the Powers had Treaty rights to uphold and their prestige in China to vimlicate, and the Japanese Government held that a joint military expedition on a large scale and the captiue of Peking was imperative. In order to avoid friction, however, it was necessary that an agreement should previously be arrived at between the Powers on all questions such as the supreme command of the international forces or the spheres of operations of the several contingents. On the following day, the 4th July, Viscount Aoki called upon me in the evening, and handed me the Memorandum of which I inclose a copy. In doing so, he said that in consequence of the further suggestion contained in your Lordship's telegram of the 2nd instant, the Japanese Government had decided to send at once 2,500 men beyond the force already dispatched, but he repeated that the material difficulties of landing and supplies were so great that it would be almost impossible to send more at a time. I saw Viscount Aoki again this afternoon, and informed him that I had forwarded his communication to your Lordship. On my return to the Legation I received your Lordship's telegram of the 4th Jidy, and immediately forwarded its substance to his Excellency in the private note of which T have the honour to inclose a copy. I have &c (Signed) ' i. B. WHITEHEAD. Inclosure 1 in No. 124. Memorandum communicated to Viscount Aoki, July 3, 1900. THE British Vice- Admiral at Tien-tsin reports that on the 29th June despatches were received from Peking by a Chinese runner confirming the murder of the German Minister, and stating that the situation ivas desperate, that all foreigners were in great distress, and were hoping for relief every hour, and also that a large Chinese army was advancing on Tien-tsin. Eear-Admiral Bruce, at Taku, had a long consultation with the Russian General, and they agreed that the combined forces which have till now been landed, with all reinforcements expected, amount to only about 20,000 men, and that with this force it may be possible to hold the base, Taku-Tien-tsin, and probably also Peh-tai-ho, but that an advance beyond Tien-tsin would not be possible. Under these circumstances. Her Majesty's Government would be glad to learn whether the Japanese Government propose taking any additional measures. Inclosure 2 in No. 124. Memorandum. IMPERIAL Government have also received reports confirming the very grave situation in North China, and they perceive that the present trouble is much more deep-rooted, and has far wider bearings than it might appear. Consequently, whilst the Imperial Government are perfectly ready to take full share in the concerted action and, indeed, have determined to send at once a certain number of troops in addition to 'those already dispatched, in order to meet immediate necessity— yet, in view of the fact that much larger forces than those already landed, or now on the way, are deemed absolutely necessary for the advance on Peking, or even to hold the base, Taku-Tien-tsin, efficiently; and, further, having in view the almost insurmountable difficulties, especially at certain seasons, by reason of the nature and climate of the locality, Imperial Government deem it highly advisable that the Powers concerned should, at this juncture, exchange their views concerning the measures to be taken in common to avert the impending danger and to meet all eventualities in future. 1116] 58 Inclosure 3 in Is'o. 124. Mr. Whitehead to Viscount Aoki. Dear Viscount Aoki, T6ki6, July 5, 1900. I Have this moment, on my return from your Excellency's reception, received a teleo-ram fiom Lord Salisbury, in which, after repeating the inclosed message from Admiral Seymour, his Lordship says that this indicates a position of extreme gravity, and instructs me to communicate it at once to your Excellency, Lord Salisbury goes on to say that Japan is the only Power which can send reinforcements, and that no objection has been raised by any European Power to this course. I think this shows that Lord Salisbury believes there is still some hope of rescuing the Legations, and hopes that Japan will make the effort. Believe me, &c. (Signed) J. BEETHOM WHITEHEAD. Inclosure 4 in No. 124. Telegram from the Marquess of Salisbury to Mr. Whitehead. THE following telegram has just been received from Admiral Seymour, dated Tien-tsin, the 30th June : — " Chinese couriers arrived from Peking with a short message, dated 24th June, stating that the condition there was desperate, and asking for help at once. Couriers, on being interrogated, stated that all Legations, except British, French, German, and part of Russian, are destroyed. Europeans gathered in British Legation have provisions, but ammunition is scarce. One gate of the city near Legation is held by Europeans with guns captured from Chinese. Five marine guard killed and one officer wounded. There is not much sickness at present. " I propose to remain at Tien-tsin at present, unless there are naval operations in the Tang-tsze, or elsewhere. " Vice- Admiral Alexeieff is expected, and will be Senior Officer of all nations here. " Chinese inundated country near here yesterday from the Grand Canal, their object being probably the defence of the city to the south. "There is no injury to us, and general health is good. " All agreed that no advance on Peking possible for many days at least, on account of the want of force and transport." No. 125. Acting Consul-General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — [Received August 7.) ■ My Lord, Shanghae, June 27, 1900. ON the 23rd instant I had the honour to send you a telegram to the effect that it was certain that the Tien-tsin Concessions had been bombarded by Imperial troops under direct orders from the Peking Government, and that it was probable - that a like fate had beiallen the Legations at Peking, from which place there had been no news since the 13th June, with the possible result that when communication with the capital should be re-established wc might find a new Emperor on the Throne, the Legations attacked, and a Decree issued to kill all foreigners. The Nanking Viceroy seemed well disposed, but I expressed the opinion that Shanghae should be rendered unassailable, as I considered that a strong force here and at Woosung would prevent hostilities. The presence here of the "Undaunted," '' Daphne," and "Waterwitch" did not show a sufficient amount of naval strength to. insure confidence. There were, I said, several thousand Chinese troops at Wooaung and around Shanghne, and about 5,000 more at Soochow, twelve hours' distant, all armed with modem weapons and supplied with modern artillery, so that they would destroy Shanghae in a few hours. Her Majesty's Consuls at Chungking and Ningpo had both asked for gun-boats, "but none could be spared. The situation Iconsidered most serious 59 and likely to become move so unless we had a speedy success in the north. Li Ping H^ng, former Governor of Shantung uild a firm supporter of the Empress-Dowager, was at the Kiang-yin forts and his influence would certainly not he on the side of order. I have since heard from Her Majesty's Consul at Chinkiang that he has learnt on reliable authority that Li Ping Heng has several times telegraphed to the Viceroy Liu K'un-yi begging him to order the forts to fire on any foreign mon-of-war coming up the river, but that the Viceroy has flatly refused to do so, and has given orders to the officers in command of the forts that they are not to fire a shot without distinct instructions from him. I have no doubt that both the Viceroy at Nanking and the Viceroy at Hankow are thoroughly honest in their declarations of determination to keep the peace. There is danger, however, in the action of some of their subordinates, who evidently would not be averse to stirring up trouble. I have brought to the notice of his Excellency Liu K'un-yi the fact that large shipments of arms and ammunition are being made from the Kiangnan Arsenal here to Kiang-yin Forts, that ammunition is being sent from the same arsenal through the creeks to various places in the district, and that fresh guns are being mounted in the Woosung Forts. His Excellency replies that all this has been done without his knowledge and that he will put a stop to it. There is great excitement amongst the natives here who are leaving the place iu thousands. To stop this exodus, if possible, the Consular Body has issued a notice which has been posted in Chinese throughout the Settlements, a translation of which I have the honour to inclose. There is now a very considerable force of warships here, English, American, and Japanese, and I do not consider it likely that any serious trouble will arise. There is uneasiness at some of the smaller ports but gun-boats will be sent there as soon as it is possible, and I think that for the moment the situation is secured. I have, &c. (Signed) PELHAM L. WAREEi?. Inolosure in No. 125. Proclamation to Chinese by Consular Body, Shanghae. (Translation.) OWING to the troubles in the north, many rumours have been circulated in Shanghae which have unsettled the minds of the people. In their ignorance of the true state of affairs, they have frightened themselves and each other, and in fleeing homewards from Shanghae have in many cases fallen a prey to robbers. We, the Consular body at Shanghae, have consulted with the Chinese authorities regarding the protection of life and property in this neighbourhood, and have agreed to act in co-operation in putting down any disturbance that may occur. The Municipal Council holds the volunteer corps in readiness for the protection of the Settlement, and our war-ships have taken up theii' positions in the river for the same purpose, and for that alone. With such precautions both on shore and afloat, and with the cordial co-operation of the Chinese authorities, there is no reason why the troubles in the north need spread into these parts. There is no cause for alarm, and we hereby give notice to all that the presence of foreign men-of-war in the river is only a measure of precaution for the protection of the Settlement, and that there is no foundation of truth in the idle rumours with which many persons are now exciting themselves. (Signature of Senior Consul.) No. 126. Consul Playfair to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 7.) My Lord Foochow, June 26, 1900. IN consequence of the operations undertaken by the allied forces in the north for the suppression of the Boxers, communication with Peking, whether by post or telegraph, has been entirely cut off since the first week in June. On this account I venture to make [1116] I 2 60 to your Lordship direct a report on the state of affairs at Fooehow, which in the ordinary course I would have addressed to the Legation at Peking. On the 22nd of this month the French Consul received from his Consul-General at Shanghae the text of a notification from the allied Admirals addressed to the provincial officials of the Empire apprising them that the operations at Taku were for the suppression of the Boxers and the protection of foreign lives. This announcement coincides, fortunately, with the view of the situation already adopted by tlie Viceroy here ; a view which mitigates the anxiety which I should otherwise have felt for the safety of the foreign residents at this port. On the first intimation of the trouble the Yiceroy, of his own motion and without any demand on my part, sent to let me know that he had moved additional troops into Kien-ning and Ku-cheng, where the inhabitants are known to be turbulent, and had detailed an extra force for the protection of foreigners on Nantai ; and he expressed his determination to repress all attempts at disturbance on the part of the populace in his jurisdiction. In view of the favourable attitude of the authorities and the peaceful demeanour of the Foochow people, I have not thought it necessary to apply for naval protection, considering that Her Majesty's ships are already fully occupied and that there are many ports in China where their presence would be essential for the protection of life and property. My colleagues of the Consular Body for the most part share my views. The Viceroy, in acknowledging to the French Consul the receipt of the Admirals' notification, said he had instructed his subordinates that the position of foreign residents remained the same, and that they were to be unmolested and protected as before. I venture to draw the attention of your Lordship to the very friendly, satisfactory, and sensible attitude of the Viceroy when confronted by a problem of some difficulty. The Church Missionary Society has, I understand, called in to Nantai its lady members in the city of Foochow and in the country, but the measure does not seem to me necessary, and had not been suggested by i;ne. Fortunately, it is in July that such a migration to Kuliang, a health resort in the hills above Foochow, usually takes place, so that the movement will appear to the Chinese an ordinary one, and not inspired by panic. I have, &c. (Signed) G. M. H. PLAYFATR. No. 127. Liu Ktvung Yi to Sir Chihchen Lofengluh. — {Communicated by Sir Chihchen Lofcngluh, August 7.) (Telegraphic.) Nanking, August 6, 1900. A TELEGRAM from the Governor of Chekiang gives the information that Chu Chow suffered from the disturbances of rebels. English missionaries to the number of five persons were murdered. The Magistrate of Hsi-ngan, who went to suppress the disturbances, also fell victim to the rebels. The Governor lost no time in sending troops to restore order, and the place is now in peace again. The local officials, both military and civil, the Chentai, the Taotai, and the Prefect who are responsible for the disturbances, are duly cashiered. Orders have been aiven to arrest the principal parties who are guilty of the ciime, and to be punished in accordance with law. The parties, cither foreign missionaries or the Chinese native converts who suffered, either in person or in property, will be reported upon and indemnified T .Please convey my deep regret to the Marquess of Salisbury, and assure his' Lordship that rigid measures shall be taken to administer justice to all narties concerned. '■ No. 128. Sir F. Lascelles to the Marquess of Salishury.~-{Recciced August 7.) (Telegmphic ) 5,,;.,^ ^ jg^,,,_ iHb. folowmg IS a translation of a note vcrhale which wns handed to me by Herr von JJercnthall this afternoon : — ■ J ' His Majesty the Emperor of Russia has stated to our Most Gracious Sovcreic-n that 61 it would afFord him especial satisfaction to place the Russian troops operating in the Province ofChi-li under the supreme command of Field-Marshal Count Waldersee. ^His Majesty the German Emperor is ready to undertake the task thereby devolving upon him, as he has reason to assume that also other Governments besides Russia consider that a German supreme command would be of advantage ; for example, the Japanese Government have given it to be understood that they would prefer a German supreme command to the supreme command of another Power more extensively interested in East Asiatic affairs. The Government of His Majesty the German Emperor would be grateful for a communication as to the views held by Her Majesty's Government upon the subject of the supreme command, and as to the ir-anner in which they would be disposed to connect the British troops in the Province of Chi-li, with the army operating under Field-Marshal Coimt Waldersee. No. 129. The Marquess of Salisburi/ to Mr. Goschen. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 7, 1900. A PROCLAMATION, prohibiting the export of arms and ammunition to China, was issued here yesterday. Represent to the Danish Government, on behalf of Her Majesty's Government, the desirability of adopting similar measures. No. 130. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir E. Monson. Sir, Foreign Office, August 7, 1900. THE French Ambassador spoke to me on the 31st ultimo on the importance of an agreement among the Naval Commanders in Chinese waters for the distribution of ships of war to the various ports where protection was required for the European communities, so that there should be no waste of strength. His Excellency subsequently informed Sir T. Sanderson that the Russian, German, Austro-Hungarian, and Italian Governments, who had been consulted, had agreed that such an arrangement would be desirable. I have to-day informed M. Cambon that Her Majesty's Government entirely agree with his Excellency in principle, but do not Avish to fetter the discretion of the British Admiral in the movements of the ships under his orders. They have no doubt, however, that the Admiral will communicate freely with his foreign colleagues in all matters in which there is to be combined action, and where consultation on any particular matter involving danger to Europeans may be necessary. His Excellency expressed a wish that the consultation should extend to the action of individual vessels at isolated ports, even where no combined action is contemplated. I pointed out, however, to his Excellency, that the very different position of the various Powers in respect to naval force in China would make any such arrangement very difficult. 1 am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. No. 131. An Imperial Edict issued August 2. — (Communicated by Sir Chili chen Lofengluh August 8.) IN view of the existence of hostilities betAveen certain Chinese subjects and foreign Powers caused by the anti- Christian feelings of the Chinese people, we have afforded reasonable protection to the foreign Ptepresentatives in Peking, and the Tsung-li Yamen has sent to the Legations letters of inquiries and proposals for their safe conveyance under escort to Tien-tsin, to avoid the apprehension of further attack from rebefs before the complete restoration of peace and order in the capital. We 62 have now, on the advice of Li Hung-chans and Lpw Kwung Yih, to authorize Yung-lu to appoint heforehand, good and reliable high civil and iniHtary officials, with selected troops of soldiers for the purpose of escorting them from Peking to Tien-tsin as soon as they have fixed tlie date of departure. Li there be any rebels en route trying to endanger the safety of the party, the officials in charge have to destroy the rebels at once, «o as not to commit any blunder. Before their departure from Peking, the freedom of telegraphic communication in plain words with their respective Governments, is hereby to be restored to the foreign Eepresentatives, in order to show the candidness with which I have always treated thera. Respect this. No. 132. Li Hung-chang to Sir Chihchen LnfSngluh. — (Communicated by Sir Chihchen Lofe'ngluh August 8.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 5, 1900. THE Imperial Edict of the 2nd August is the self-evident proof of the immediate conveyance of the foreign Representatives under escort to Tien-tsin. Please a&k Lord Salishury to instruct the Commander-in-chief not to make any further advance, and wait for negotiations. i\o. 133. SMng to Sir Chihchen Lofingluh. — {Communicated by Sir Chihchen LofSngluh August 8.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 7, 1900. IMPERIAL Edict of the 5th August last authorizes the restoration to the foreign Representatives the freedom of code-telegraphic communication with their respective Governments. No. 134. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 8.) (Telegraphic.) Tien-tsin, August 5, 1900. THE Chinese have been driven out of Pei-tsang and are in full retreat. No. 135. Sir C. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 8.) (Telegraphic.) Handed in Tsinan YamSn, August 7, 1900. Peking.— I received to-day, 3rd August, your telegram, undated, forwarded through the Chinese Minister.* State of affairs m^entioned in my letter of 4th Julj^ continued until 16th July, when shell and cannon fire ceased, but rifle fire from Chinese positions held by Government troops and Boxers lias continued intermittently ever since, but since then casualties have not been numerous. The following British have been killed :— David Oliphant, Warren Captain Strouts and Privates Scadding and Phillips, Royal Marines. Twenty-six British wounded, mcluding Captains Halliday and Wray, Students Townsend and Peachey and Morrison, "Times." correspondent. All the wounded doing well, except Marine Private Sawyer. Rest of British in Legation well. Total killed in garrison 60, wounded 110. Over 200 women and children refugees in this Legation. We have strengthened our fortifi cation «, and can hold out • ten dav vnless severely attacked. '' * See No. 91. 63 Chinese Government are trying to persuade foreign Envoys to leave Peking for Tien-tsin with wives and families. Kemembering Cawnpore we have no intention of leaving unless under escort of European troops, and we are temporizing to gain time. Up to date, Chinese Government have refused us permission to send cypher messages to our Governments No. 136. Admiralty to Foreign Office. — {Received August 8.) Sir, Admiralty, August 8, 1900, I AM commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to transmit, for the information of the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, copy of a telegram, dated the 6th instant, from the E-ear- Admiral, China Station. Copies have also been sent to the War OflB.ce and India OfS^ce. I am, &c. (Signed) EVAN MACGREGOE. Inclosure in No. 136. Rear-Admiral Bruce to Admiralty. (Telegraphic.) Chefoo, August 6, 1900. ALLIES, about 12,000, attacked Chinese strongly entrenched position at Hsiku, about 2 miles outside Tien-tsin, early this morning. Chinese driven out and retreated to the northwards pursued by allies, who occupied Peitsang. Transport following up troops by road and river. Advance to Peking begun. No. 137. Admiralty to Foreign Office. — (Received August 8.) Sir, Admiralty, August 8, 1900. I AM commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to transmit, for the information of the Secretary of State for Eoreign Affairs, copy of a telegram, dated the 7th August, from the Commander-in-chief, China, relative to the dispatch of British troops to Shanghae, together with Admiralty reply. Copies have been sent to War OflBce, India Office, and Military Intelligence Department. I am, &c. (Signed) EVAN MACGKEGOR. ' Inclosure 1 in No. 137. Vice-Admiral Sir E. Seyraour to Admiralty. (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 7, 1900. VIC]']ROY has, I hear, told Shanghae Taotai that British troops will come here. When may I expect them, so as to be prepared ? Inclosure 2 in No. 137. Admiralty to Vice-Admiral Sir E. Seymour. (Teleo'raphic.) Admiralty, August 8, 1900. YO UE telegram of the 7th instant. General Officer, Hong Kong, has been directed to place himself in communication with you, and to send on the troops to Shanghae by the route, and in the manner you suo-gest, taking your advice as to whether a portion of the brigade should go at once or "wait till the whole has arrived from India. 64 No. 138. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 8.) (Telegraphic) S(. Petersiurgh, August 8, 1900. COtjJST LAMSDOEEF informs me that the services of Count Waldersee have been offered by the German Emperor to take the general command of the operations of the international forces in Pechili, and that the idea will meet vrith no objection on the part of the Russian Government. No. 139. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — [Received August 8.) (Telegraphic.) St. Petersburgh, August 8, 1900. AN Imperial Edict received from Peking was communicated to Count Lamsdorff to-day by the Chinese Minister. After explaining the situation, it says that negotiations are proceeding with the Foreign Ministers with a view to all Europeans in Peking being sent to Tien-tsin under a safe escort of troops, in company with High Court Dignitaries, who would be responsible for their lives and safety to the Throne, and that before leaving the Ministers are to be allowed to communicate direct with their respective Governments en clair. In reply Count Lamsdorff observed that he awaited confirmation of the information in this Edict by a direct communication from the Ministers themselves. His Excellency has received no official news of any engagement or of an advance on Peking. The latest telegram from Admiral Alexieff says, on the contrary, that it was agreed by all the Commanders that it was quite impossible to advance on Peking before the middle of the month. A reconnaissance in force from Tien-tsin may, he thinks, possibly have been made. No. 140. Lord Pauncefote to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 9.) My Lord, Newport, Rhode Island, July 30, 1900. AS I had the honour to inform your Lordship in my despatch of the 27th instant, I communicated to Mr. Hay the fundamental principles enunciated by the Russian Government as governing the action of the Powers in relation to China, and I inquired whether they suggested any further observations on his part. In a note Mr. Hay replied that no further comment from him on the subject is necessary beyond that given in his letter of the 23rd (Inclosure 3 in my above- mentioned despatch), inasmuch as his citation therein from his Circular telegram of the 3rd July expresses the President's views as to the eventual conditions under which order and responsible government may be restored in China, while deeming it premature to forecast the means of bringing about those results, I have, &c. (Signed) PAUNCEFOTE. No. 141. Sir C. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 9.) (Telegraphic.) Peking, August 4, 1900. [Figures of this Telegram communicated by Chinese Minister August 9.J THE Corps Diplomatique has to-day been informed by the Tsung-li Yamen that the foreign Governments have on many occasions asked the Chinese Ministers that we should leave Peking under sufficient escort. Yamen ask us, therefore, to fix- the date of our departure from Peking, and to arrange conditions of departure. 65 We liave answered that we are referring the matter to our Grovernments to have their instructions, without which we cannot leave our posts. In order to allow us to leave ia security, it is essential that foreign troops come to take us away, and that they should be in sufficient numbers to escort 800 Europeans, of whom 2(j0 are women and children, 50 wounded, and more than 3,000 native Christians whom we cannot leave here to be massacred. Under no conditions would it he safe to trust to a Chinese escort. All the foreign Representatives are sending to their Governments tbe ahove telegram. No. 142. Mr. Choate to the Marquess of Salisbury, — {Received August 9.) My Lord, American Embassy, London, August 9, ]900. 1 HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that the Chinese Minister at Washington communicated on the 8th instant to tlie Secretary of State of the United States an Imperial Edict, dated the 2nd August, in reponse to the Joint Memorial of Li Hung-chang and Liu Kun-yi, proposing the sending of the foreign Ministers from Peking to Tien-tsin. The Edict reads as follows : — "Throughout the disturbances recently caused by our subjects on account of Christian Missions, which ha\e resulted in a conflict of forces, it has been found necessary to afford protection to all the foreign Ministers in Peking on repeated occasions. The Tsung-li Yam6n sent notes inquiring after their welTare. and as Peking has not yet been restored to order, and precautionary measures may not secure absolute safety, the foreign Ministers are being consulted as to the proposed plan of detailing troops to escort them safely to Tien-tsin for temporary shelter, so that they may be free from apprehensive anxiety or fear. We hereby command Jung Lu to appoint, as a preliminary step, trustworthy high civil and military officials, who, together with reliable and efficient troops, shall, at such time as the foreign Ministers may agree upon for leaving Peking, escort and protect them throughout their journey. .Should lawless characters manifest evil designs upon the Ministers, or attempt" to rob them, or in any way create trouble, they (the high officials) shall at once repress them without fail. If the foreign Ministers before leaving Peking should desire to communicate with their respective Governments, and if their telegraphic messages should be in plain language, the Tsung-li Yamfen shall at once attend them without delay, thus manifesting the utmost friendliness of the Imperial Government. Kespect this." Wu Ting.fang also communicated to the Secretary of State a cablegram received by him, (mi the morning of the 8th instant, from Yu Lien-yuen, Taotai of Shanghae, which reads as follows: — •' Have received telegram from Governor Yuan Shih-kai, to the effect that the Tsung-li Yamen received, on the 5th August, an Imperial Edict allowing all the foreign Ministers free commuriication with their respective Governments in cypher." In reply, the Secretary of State, on the evening of the 8th ivistant, handed to the Chinese Minister the following signed Memorandum : — " We are availing ourselves of the opportunity offered by the Imperial Edict of the 5th August, allowing to the foreign Ministers free communication with their respective Governments in cypher, and have sent a communication to Minister Conger, to which \vc await ari answer. We are already advised by him in a brief despatch, received the 7th August, that Imperial troops are tiring daily upon the Ministers in Peking. We demand the immediate cessation of hostile attacks by Imperial troops ufjon the Legations, and urge i.he exercise of every power and energy of the Imperial Government for the protection of the Legations and all forei<^ners therein. We are also advised, by the same despatch from Minister Conger, that, in his opinion, for the foreign Ministers to leave Peking, as proposed in the Edict of the 2nd August, would be certain death, in view of the ftict that the Imperial troops are now firing upon the Legations, and in view of the doubt [1116] K 66 expressed by the Imperial Government, in its Edict of the 2nd August, as to its power to restore order and secure absolute safety in Peking, it is evident this apprehension is well founded, for, if your Government cannot protect our Minister in Peking-, it will prcbsumptively be unable to protect him upon a journey from Peking to the coast. We therefore urge upon the Imperial Government that it shall adopr'the course suggested in the 3rd clause of the letter of the President to His Majesty the Emperor of China of the 23rd July, 1900, and enter into communication with the relief expedition, so that co-operation may he secured between them for the liberation of tlie Legations, the protection of foreigners, and the restoration of order. Such action on the |)art of the Imperial Government would be a satisfactory demon- stration of its friendliness and desire to attain these ends." r I am instructed by my Government- to communicate the foregoing to you Lordship, for tlie information of Her Majesty's Government. I have, &c. ■ (Signed) JOSEPH H. OHO ATE. ■ ' ' No, 143 The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir K Lascelles, jfTelegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 9, 1900, IN reply to your telegram of the 7tli instant, I Kave to state that, in the event of the Powers who have forces in Pechili determining to put these forces under the supreme direction of Coimt Waldersee, Her Majesty's Government will most gladly concur in that policy. The British Comm;inders wdl receive instructions in this sense ; and Her Majesty's Government will view with great satisfaction an arrangement by which so distinguished a soldier is placed at the head of the international foi"ces. It will be necessary to draw up instructions which go more into detail if the project goes forward. :/\ No. ] 44. , Acting Consul-General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 9.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 9, 1900, THE unpledged securities of the Yang-tgze Provinces are amply sufficient to secure repayment of the loan which it is proposed that Her Majesty's Government should guarantee. The hypothecation of the li-kin in districts not included in the 4-| per Cent, sterling Loan issued at 90 in the year 1898 might be suggested to the Viceroys as security, the collection to be handed over to the control of the Imperial Maritime Customs. It is most important to strengthen the Viceroys in their present position, for, if they were overthrown, the result would be a rising, the suppression of which would involve the expenditure of much time, and the employment of large forces, and this would be inevitably followed by the partition of China. The firm position held by the Viceroys has for the time being checked the plans of the Peking Government for a general uprisal against foreigners, which, but for this, would certainly have been carried out. No. 145- Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. —{Received August 9.) (Telegl*aphic.) f^/„-^^ ^„^„5^ 9^ I900. AT request of Viscount Aoki, I have sent following to Vice-Admiral Seymour to-day : — " Viscount Aoki has heard that you have made a proposal to Viceroy of Nanking that troops should be sent from Hong Kong for the protection of Shanghae. His 67 Excellency inquires whiether you have .talfjaii into -consideration the dmger^ of- such action; precipitating disturbances and exciting. population in Yang-tsze region, which it is of the highest importance to avoid. He begged me to ask you what are your actual proposals." No. 146. Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 9.) (Telegraphic.) , ,- , Tokio, August 9, 1900. With reference to Sir F. Lascelles' telegram of the 7th August, a telegram has been received from the German Emperor by the Emperor of Japan with regard to Count Waldersee's appointment to supreme command. His Majesty has signified his consent in his reply. No. 147. Sir E. Monson to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 9.) (Telegraphic.) Paris, August 9, 1900. 1 HAVE just seen the French Minister for Foreign Affairs at the funeral service for the King of Italy, and he declared that he knew nothing of the appointment of Connt Waklersee as Commander-in-chief in China beyond what he had seen in the papers. He coald not, in reply to my inquiry, give me any idea of what the Fiench answer would be, and assured me that he could not see me again to-day, being occupied all the afternoon with the President. No. 148. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir E. Monson.* (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 9, 1900. PLEASE endeavour to ascertain views of the Government to v/hich you are accredited as to what action should be taken in view of the position of Europeans in Peking as described in the telegram which they have no doubt received from their Eepresentative there, as we have from ours in the telegram of which a repetition has been sent to you. No. 149. The Marquess of Salisbury to Mr. Whitehead. Sir, Foreign Office, August 9, 1900. THE Japanese Minister came to the Foreign Office to-day and was received, in my absence, by Mr. Bertie. He said he had come to inquire whether the German Government bad proposed to Her MajeRt.v's Government that Count Waldersee should have supreme command of the international forces at Tien-tsin. Mr. Bertie replied tliat Her Majesty's Government had received such a proposal from the German Government, and asked whether that Government had made a like proposal to Japan. Baron Hayashi explained that the Japanese Government had received the suggestion, but had not yet replied to it. Viscount Aoki wished first to know what view Her, Majesty's Government took of it. His Excellency was inclined to think that, as Count \Valder3ee would be the officer of the highest rank, it would be well to adopt the German suggestion. Baron Hayashi asked what answer had been, or would be, made by Her Majesty's Government. * Also to Lord Currie, Sir F, Lascelles, Sir H. B,unaboU, Sir C, Scott, Lovd Pauncefote, and Mr. Whitehead. [1116] K 2 68 ' r Mr. Bertie informed him that the matter was under consideration, Barian Hayashi said that the propoBal emanated from the German, not the Japanese, Government. Later in the day I informed Baron Hayashi that Her Majesty's Government had accepted the proposal of the German Government. I liave acquainted you by telegraph of the terms of our acceptance. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. No. 150. Consul Fulford to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 10.) Telegraphic.) Chefoo, August 8, 1900. RUSSIANS bombarded and took the native city of Newchwang on the 4th August in consequence of attack on foreign quarter by mob. Bussians have temporarily occupied the Settlement, giving assurance to foreigners of Treaty rights and privileges. Native city not much damaged ; foreigners and foreign quarter all safe. No. 151. Sir F. Lascelles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 10.) (Telegraphic.) Berlin, August 10, 1900. 1 GAVE Herr von Derenthall this morning a paraphrase of the telegram from your Lordship of yesterday's date relative to the appointment of Count Waldersee. The warmest thanks were expressed by his Excellency for the prompt and friendly manner in which the proposal had been accepted by your Lordship. He said that your Lordship's reply, which was among the first receiveil, would be at once communicated to the Emperor, who, he felt sure, would be much pleased. I understand that, with the exception of the Italian Government, who have accepted Count Waldersee as Commander-in-Chief, the other Governments have not as yet sent in their replies. No. 152. Sir F. Lascelles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 10.) (Telegraphic.) Berlin, August 10. 1900. WITH reference to my immediately preceding telegram I have the honour to inform your Lordship that Heir von Derenthall has been instructed by the Emperor to suggest that Military Eepresentatives should be sent to Count Waldersee's head- quarters by the Powers, to act as intermediaries between the different Commanders and him, so that the action of the supreme command in China might be simplified. No. 153. Sir F. Lascelles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 10.) (Telegraphic.) Berlin, August 10, 1900. I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship, with reference to your telegram of 9th August, that Herr von Derenthall informed me this morning, in reply to my inquiry that the steps to be taken in view of the present position of the Europeans in Peking were under the earnest consideration of the German Government, but no conclusion had yet been arrived at by them. 69 No. 154. Sir H. Rumbold to the Marquess of Salisbury.— (Received August 10.) (Telegraphic.) Vienna, August 10, 1900. COUNT LUTZOW states that although the Austro-Hungarian Government have not formally agreed to the proposed appointment by the German Government of Count Waldersee to he Commander-in-chief of the allied forces in China, there is no doubt that this appointment will be agreeable to the Emperor and his Government. No. 155. Sir H. Rumbold to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 10.) (Telegraphic.) Vienna, August 10, 1900. WITH reference to your Lordship's telegram of yesterday, no telegram has reached Count Goluchowski from the Austro-Hungarian Charg^ d' Affaires at Peking similar to the one sent by Her Majesty's Minister on the 4th instant. Count Goluchowski says that he finds it difficult to offer any opinion as to the best course to be pursued in view of the present position of affairs, and would rather await the expression of the views of the other more interested Powers on the subject. No. 156. Lord Pauncefote to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 10.) (Telegraphic.) Newport, Rhode Island, August 10, 1900. WITH reference to your Lordship's telegram of the 9th August, I have the honour to report that the United States' Government yesterday informed the Chinese Government, by telegraph, that, according to reports received from their Minister at Peking, the Lpgations were being daily tired upon by the Imperial troops, and that, since they wex^e unable to afford Mr. Conger proper protection in Peking, they were therefore presumptively equally incapable of protecting him on his journey to the coast, whereby be would be exposed to certain death. The United States' Government demand that the attacks on the Legations by the Imperial troops should immediately cease. They urge the Chinese Government to pursue the course proposed to them already in the President's message of the 23rd July, namely, to co-operate with the relief army for the protection of foreigners, the re-establishment of order, and the liberation of the Legations. I am sending by to-day's mail the full text of this note, and am awaiting the reply of the State Department to my inquiry whether they have any further suggestion to make in answer to your Lordship's question. No. 157. Lord Currie to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 10.) (Telegraphic.) Rome, August 10, 1900. FOLLOWING refers to the Foreign Office telegram of 9th August : — The Foreign Ministei-, whose opinion I have asked in regard to the foreign Representatives at Peking, has promised to reply to me shortly. As yet he has not received the telegram from the Italian Eepresentative. His views generally are that before the European troops make an attack upon the city, endeavours should be made to come to an understanding with the authorities at Peking. 70-^ No. 158. Lord Currie to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 1 0.) (Telegraphic.) Rome, August 10, 1900 I AM informed by the Marquis Visconti-Venosta that the Italian Ambassador" in Berlin has reported the nomination of Count Waldersee, and has added that it was expected that Japan would concur, and it was hoped that England would also. In regard to the latter point, the Eoreign Minister said he earnestly hoped that the European Powers would not find China a source of discord. He had replied in the affirmative to the German proposal. No. 159. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury, — (Received August 11.) • (Telegraphic.) St. Petersburgh, August 10, 1900. A TELBGEAM, practically identical with that received from Sir C. MacDonald of the 4th instant, has been received by the Russian Government from their Minister at Peking. No. 160. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 10.) (Telegraphic.) St. Petersburgh, August 10, 1900. THE telegram from Sir C. MacDonald of 4th August has been communicated to the, Russian Government. Count Lamsdorff told Mr. Hardinge, who saw him this afternoon, that he had just had a long interview with the Chinese Minister, and had spoken very strongly indeed to him, threatening that unless the Legations were immediately relieved from their present painful situation, the attitude of the Russian Government would change to one of hostility. _ A proposal had been made by the Chinese Minister that the foreign Ministers, their families, and other Europeans, should leave Peking Avith an escort, commanded by a certain General (Count Lamsdorff had forgotten his name), and accompanied by certain distinguished Mandarins, whose presence with them should serve as a guarantee. In reply, Count Lamsdorff said that if any harm whatever befell the Ministers^ either in Peking or on their road to Tien-tsin, the Emperor of China and his Ministers would be held directly responsible ; that he was not in a position to appreciate the value 6f the Mandarins who might be deputed to accompany the Ministers as a guarantee for their safety, since those in Power in Peking might select Mandarins whom they would be glad to get rid of, but that if the safe removal of the Ministers were sincerely desired by the Chinese Government, and an escort acceptable to the Ministers could not be provided by them, the very simple expedient remained for them of applying for a sufficient escort of international troops from the allied forces, who could escort the besieged foreigners to Tien-tsin, coming under the white fla^'- to receive them as far as the walls of Peking, without entering the city. It was, in^the meantime, absolutely incumbent on the Chinese Government, as an earnest of their, good faith, to supply the Legations Avith any provisions they might wish for. In reply, the Chinese Minister had promised that he would telegraph immediately and energ;^etically to Peking in the above sense. In Count Lamsdorff 's opinion the transmission of cyphered messages by the- Ministers from Peking is a promising sign, and his Excellency is hopeful that their departure may be successfully negotiated. General Kuropatkine is convinced ttiat it is impracticable for the allied forces to advance as far as Peking for anotiier two or three weeks, and others possessin<^ local knowledge share this view. ° 71 No. 161. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.)_ Foreign Office, August 10, 1900. IF the Viceroy of Wuchang will execute an assignment of the li-kin revenue of his provinces not already appropriated to the Chinese ^4^ per Cent. Loan, Her Majesty's Government are prepared to advance to him, through the Hong Kong and Shanghae Bank, the sum of 75,000Z. for a period of 10 years at 4^ per cent. You sliould arrange with the Viceroy the terms as to repayment (presumably annual), and you should also settle the periods and amounts of advance. You should also take care that the money is not used for the equipment of troops to proceed north, hut devoted to the payment of the troops retained in the province. > Corhmunicate with the Senior Naval Officer, and act in concert with him on. this subject. No. 162. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 10, 1900. I HAVE received, through the Chinese Minister, a telegram from the Viceroy of Nanking, saying that he hears that 2,000 British troops are to be landed at Shanghae, and that Erance and America will also land troops there. The Chinese, he adds, are removing themselves to places of safety, as this report has caused great appreliension amongst them. The Viceroy wishes the force limited to a small number, as he does not, in view of the large naval force at Woosung, see the necessity of so large a land force, which he thinks will cause great complications, and will provoke other Powers to similar action. Were not arrangements made by you that the Viceroy should issue a Proclamation assuring the Chinese that the defence of the Settlements is the only object for which the force is to be landed ? No. 163. The Marquess of Salisbury to Mr. Whitehead.* (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 10, 1900. THE proposal of the German Government that Eield-Marshal Count Waldersee shall be Commander-in-chief of the international expedition to Peking has been accepted, so far as they are concerned, by Her Majesty's Government, and subject to further instructions, which have not yet been drafted by them. No. 164.. Admiralty to Foreign Office. — {Received August 11.) g|j. Admiralty, August 11, 1900. I AM commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to transmit, for the information of the Secretary of State for Eoreign Affairs, copy of a telegram, dated the 8th August, from Kear- Admiral Bruce at Taku, relative to the taking of Copies also sent to War Office, India Office, and Military Intelligence Depart- ment I am, &c. (Signed) EVAN MACGREGOR. Also to Sii' E. Monsou, Lord Cufrie, Sir C. Scott, Sir H. Rumbold, and Lord Paunceibte. 72 Inclosure in No. 164. Rear-Admiral Bruce to Admiralty. (Telegraphic.) Taku, August 8 (vid Chefoo, August 9), 1900, FOLLOWING telegram received from General Officer Commanding :— "Yangsun taken 6tli August. Troops exhausted by heat and long march Allies remain there two oc three days, then rush to Peking. Pight^ lasted four hours Chinese severe losses. Extended four miles. Enemy demoralized." No. 165. Acting Consul-General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 11.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 11, 1900. THE following telegram has been received from Acting Consul-General at Hankow : — " The Viceroy has sent the Taotai to express his satisfaction at the declaration of policy which was made in the House of Commons, and to assure us that relying on the support of Her Majesty's Government, he is determined to disregard any orders to leave his post or to break his agreement with us, which he may receive from Peking. " He informed me that, having heard that Yung Lu, the President of the Board of Eevenue and favourite of the Empress-Dowager had been cast into prison by order of Prince Tuan, he feared that the latter was still usurping the power. " The leader of the Black Flag troops wished to bring several thousand men through Hankow on his way to Peking, but the Viceroy directed him to proceed by Shashih. The troops have not yet left Kwangtung and probably will not do so. They would be four months on the way. " The Viceroy is anxious about the loan and cannot understand the delay in granting the guarantee." No. 166. Li Hung-chang, Lew Kwung Yih, Chang Chih Tung, and Shena Sucn Hwai to Sir Chihchen LofSngluh. — [Commnmcnted by Sir Chihchen Lofengluh, August 11.) (Telegraphic.) Nanking Yamen, August 10, 1900. IN^ view of present disturbances in the north, though the foreign Settlements in Shanghae are to be protected by the Treaty Powers, yet the protection of the Yang-tsze Valley is the sole duty of the Viceroys, and we assure that no rebels could enter our jurisdiction without being crushed. In addition to twenty forr-ign men-of-war now being stationed near Shanghae, of which the majority are English, we now hear that Great Britain is going to'land at Shanghae 2,000 Indian troops. This report has caused great apprehension among the Chinese merchants and people, and they are now^ moving away from Shanghae, and the city is quite deserted. It is impossible to say that the" people of other ports will not give a wrong interpretation of the state of affairs in Shanghae, and such a misinterpre- tation is sure to give rise to great complications and disturbances, which will greatly injure commercial interests. We have to ask you to move Lord Salisbury to stop the proposed landing of such a big force. ° No. 167. An Imperial Edict, issued August 7, received by Sir Chihchen Lofengluh August 1 1 .— {Communicated by Sir Chihchen Lofengluh, August 11, 1900.) THE present hostilities between certain Chinese subjects and foreign nations are caused partly by the misunderstanding of the foreign Powers and partly by the mis- management of the Chinese local authorities. It would be a misfortune to the whole 73 ■world, and contrary to tlie wishes of China, should such a complication be allowed to evolve out by itself. Let, therefore, Li Hung-chang be appointed as Minister Plenipotentiary, and negotiate by telegraph with the Secretaries of State for Foreign Affairs of Treaty Powers, to obtain first the suspension of hostilities, and then have the satisfactory settlements submitted to our approval of all the existing difficulties. Eespect this. No. 168. . Memorandum communicated by Japanese Minister, August 11, 1900. IN view o£ the anxiety held by the Chinese Government to send foreign Ministers temporarily to Tien-tsin and to suspend the advance of the combined forces to Peking, the Imperial Government propose that tlie Powers concerned should agree to an armistice for a certain time pending further negotiations Avith the Chinese Govern- ment, on condition — 1. That the Chinese Government shall order their troops and rebels to retire beyond a certain distance, which is to be determined by the Commanders of the com- bined forces. 2. That a part of the combined forces shall freely advance to Peking to escort the Ministers and foreigners back to Tien-tsin. The Imperial Government apprehends that on the approach of combined forces to Peking all the foreigners there will be massacred, that Empress-Dowager and Emperor will flee into the interior, and that anarchy will prevail in the capital. No. 169. Sir E. Monson to the Marquess of Salisbury. — [Received August 11.) (Telegraphic.) _ Varis, August 11, 1900. THE Minister for Eoreigu Affairs informs me that he only received the official communication of the proposed appointment of Count Waldersee as Commander-in- chief, which formed the subject of your Lordship's telegram of 8th August, after he had seen me at the funeral service the day before yesterday. In a matter of such moment no decision can be taken without a plenary meeting of the Cabinet in the presence of the President of the Republic, and as five of the Ministers are absent from Paris, no such Council can be held before the 14th instant, after the President's return from Marseilles. I told his Excellency that Her Majesty's Government had accepted in principle, subject to the unanimity of the other Powers, and to the drawing up of such instruc- tion as might be by them considered necessary after deliberation. No. 170. Sir E. Monson to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 1 1 .) (Telegraphic.) Paris, August 1 1, 1900. I DISCUSSED to-day with the Minister for Poreign Affairs the situation of Europeans at Peking, which formed the subject of your Lordship's telegram of 9th August. He said at once that, in his opinioc, no other course was permissible than to advance to the rescue of the Representatives as quickly as possible, and thus comply with the urgent appeal which has been received from them all. As for the proposal that the Ministers should proceed to Tien-tsin under Chinese escort, it could not be listened to in view of their own conviction of its resulting in their massacre. It was the business of the Generals on the spot to arrange the advance with all reasonable precautions to avoid the risk of a check. [1116] L 74 No. 171. Lord Currie to the Marquess of Salisbury.— {Received August 11.) (Telegraphic.) 'R'""^. -%m«^ H' l^OO. PS^I HAVE communicated to the Marquess Visconti-Venosta the substance of your Lordship's telegram of 10th August in regard to Count Waldersee. No. 172. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 11.) (Telegraphic.) 8t. Petersburgh, August 11, 1900. MY telegram of 10th August. In reply to his telegram, the Russian Minister in Peking has been authorized, by order of the Emperor, to proceed to Tien-tsin with the whole staff of the Legation and the troops which have been disembarked, but only in the event of the Emperor of China and the Chinese Government having given the surest guarantees that the journey will be made in complete security. The Russian Minister has been instructed at the same time to point out the serious responsibility which will weigh upon China and upon the Emperor himself in the event of the slightest infringement of the inviolability of all those who may proceed to Tien-tsin at the same time as the Eussian Minister, in the event of such a measure being possible. No. 173. The Marquess of Salisbury to Mr. Whitehead. Sir, Foreign Office, August 1!, 1900. THE Japanese Minister called to-day and was received in my absence by Mr. Bertie. Baron Hayashi asked whether Her Majesty's Government had received notice of Li Hung-chang's appointment to act as negotiator between the Chinese Government and the Powers for the conclusion of an armistice and peace. Mr. Bertie replied that Her Majesty's Government had received no suqIi inti- mation. Baron Hayashi then handed to him the paraphrase of a telegram from the Japanese Minister for Eoreign Affairs stating that a telegram had been received from Li Hung-chang on the 10th instant announcing his appointment as Plenipotentiary, and that the Japanese Government desired to know the views of Her Majesty's Government on the subject. 1 am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. No. 174. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 12.) (Telegraphic.) Tien-tsin, August 7, vid Chefoo, August 10, 1900. YESTERDAY Yangtsun was taken. 76 No. 175. Consul Carles to the Marquees of Salisbury. — {Received August 12.) (Telegraphic.) ' Tien-isin, Augnst 8, via Chefoo, August 10, 1900. A MESSENGER has just returned from Peking, having been unable to deliver despatches. He reports that he was there from the 1st to the 4th August, and that, until night of the 4th August, no firing took place. Then foreign troops opened fire and were replied to. No guns, however, were heard. On the 6th August Chinese troops were met in full retreat. General " Ma" wae missing, supposed to have been killed or wounded. After audience of Empress-Dowager, Li-Ping-Heng had left Peking. No. 176. Sir C. MacDonnld to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Communicated by Chinese Legation. August 12.) (Telegraphic.) Peking, August 8, via Shanghae, August 8, 1900. WE have been informed by Yam^n of appointment of Li Hung-chang as Plenipo- tentiary to negotiate with foreign Powers. I earnestly hope that advance of the relief force will not be delayed by any negotiations. No. 177. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 12, 1900. A TELEGRAM, dated Nanking, the 10th instant, from Li Hung-chang, the Viceroys of Wu-chang and Nanking, and Sheng, has been communicated by the Chinese Minister. The telegram states " that it is the duty of the Viceroys to protect the Yang-tsze Valley, and that gi'eat apprehension has been caused amongst the Chinese by the reported intention to land 2,000 Indian troops at Shanghae, and that they are deserting the city in consequence ; that the state of afiairs at Shanghae may be misinterpreted by the population of other ports, and that great complications and disturbances will be the consequence. They therefore request that orders may be given to stop the landing of such a big force. No. 178. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul-General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 12, 1900. THE French Minister for Foreign Afiairs has stated to Her Majesty's Ambassador that he is not aware of imminent danger to Europeans necessitating the intended landing of British troops at Shanghae, as announced to the Consular Body by Admiral Seymour and yourself. He has also stated that, in the event of British troops being landed there, French troops will also be landed. No. 179. Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. — [Received August 12.) (Telegraphic.) T6ki6, August 12, 1900. WITH refprence to your Lordship's telegram of 9th August, a suggestion made to the Powers by the Japanese Government will doubtless have been communicated to your Lordship by Baron Hayashi. rine] ' ' : L 2 - 76 Acting under instructions from his Grovernment the Chinese Minister here asked Viscount Aoki on the 9th instant to telegraph to Baron Nishi and instruct him to leave Peking. This his Excellency refused to do, stating that in view of what had occured no confidence could be placed in a Chinese escort, and inquiring in what way the Peking Government would guarantee that the Foreign Ministers would not be attacked en route. No. 180. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 12, 1900. PENDING further orders from here, the actual landing of troops at Shanghae should not take place except in the case of evident emergency. No. 181. Bit F. Lascelles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 12.) (Telegraphic.) Berlin, August 12, 1900. I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship that Herr von Derenthall states that Italy, Russia, and Austria agree to send military representatives to the head- quarters of Count von Waldersee, whose appointment has been consented to by Japan and the United States. The delay of the French Government in sending an answer Herr von Derenthall attributes to the fact that M, Loubet is not empowered to place French troops under the command of a foreign Commander-in-chief unless the consent of the Council of Ministers has been obtained, and no Council can be held before the 14tb instant No. 182. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. MacDonald. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 12, 1900. THE following is our latest military news : — On the Gth August Yangtzun was taken by the International Relief Column, and they were at Nan-tsai-tsun, and intending to press on to Peking on some date not specified, but subsequent to 8th August. Strong pressure has been brought to bear on the Chinese Government by the Russian Government to supply provisions to the Legations. No. 183. Verbal communication made to Chinese Minister by Mr. Bertie, August 12, 1900. THE Chinese Minister at Petersburgh has proposed that the Legations and Europeans shoaid leave Peking with an escort under the command of a Chinese General,^ and in company of certain distinguished Mandarins, whose presence would the Minister says, serve as a guarantee for the safety of the Ministers, their families, and other Europeans. Lord Salisbury is not in a position to appreciate the value of the security thus offered, but if the Chinese Government are sincere in their desire for the safe removal of the Ministers, and are unable to provide an escort acceptable to the Ministers, the Chinese _ Government should apply to the alUed forces for a sufiicient escort of the international forces, who, without entering the city, might come under the white flag as far as the walls of Peking to receive the besieged foreigners, and to escort them to Tien-tsin. Meanwhile it is absolutely incumbent on the Chinese Government, as an earnest of their good faith, to supply the Legations with such provisions as thev mav desire. 77 Unless tlie Legations be immediately relieved from their present painful situation, the attitude of Her Majesty's Government tovpards the Chinese Government wili be changed, and the Emperor of China and his Ministers, as well as all those concerned in any harm done to the Ministers and other Europeans, either in Peking or on their road to Tien-tsin, will be held directly responsible. Ko. 184. Sir F. Lascelles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 13.) (Extract.) Berlin, August 10, 1900. I HAVE the honour to inclose a copy and translation of a note verbale which was handed to nie on the evening of the 7th instant by Herr von Derenthall, the substance of which I had the honour to communicate to your Lordship by my telegram of the 7th instant. Inclosure 1 in No. 184. Note Verbale. (Translation.) HIS Majesty the Emperor of Eussia has stated to our Most Gracious Sovereign that it would afford him especial satisfaction to place the Eussian troops operating in the Province of Chi-li under the supreme command of Field-Marshal Coimt Waldersce. His Majesty the German Emperor is ready to undertake the task thereby devolving upon him, as he has reason to assume that also other Governments besides Eussia consider that a German supreme command would be of advantage ; for example, the Japanese Government have given it to be understood that they would prefer a German supreme command to the supreme command of another Power more extensively interested in East Asiatic affairs. The Government of His Majesty the German Emperor would be grateful for a communication as to the views held by Her Majesty's Government upon the subject of the supreme command, and as to the manner in which they would be disposed to con- nect the British troops in the»Province of Chi-li with the array operating under Field- Marshal Count Waldersee. Berlin, August 7, 1900. Inclosure 2 in No. 184. Note Verbale. HER Majesty's Government will view an arrangement by which so distinguished a soldier as Count "Waldersee is placed at the head of the international forces with great satisfaction, and if the Powers who have forces in the Gulf of Pechili should decide to put those forces under the supreme command of the Field-Marshal, Her Majesty's Government will very gladly concur in such a policy, and will give instructions to their Commanders in this sense. It will be necessary that instructions which go more into detail should be drawn up if the project goes forward. Berlin, August 10, 1900. No. 185. Sir F. Lascelles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 13.) (Extract.) Berlin, August 10, 1900. I HAD the honour to inform your Lordship, by my telegram of to-day, that Herr von Derenthall had expressed his warmest thanks for the prompt and friendly manner in which you had agreed to the appointment of Count Waldersee as Com- 78 mander-in-cMef in Chi-li. As a matter of fact, your Lardship's reply was one of the first to be received. The Italian, Government have already signified their consent, both through their Ambassador here and by a telegram from the King to the Emperor. '^ The French Ambassador informed me this morning that he had no information: on the subject, but that he thought it probable that his Government would accept. - The United States' Oharg^ d'Aff"aires is also without instructions as yet, but thought that his Government would agree when they knew that Her Majesty's Government had done so. No. 186. Sir P. Lascelles to the Marquess ofi Salisbury. — {Received August 13.) My Lord, Berlin, August 11, 1900. 1 HAVE the honour to transmit to your Lordship herewith copy and translation of an Imperial Decree, dated the 6th August, prohibiting the export from Germany to China of arms and war material. I have, &c. (Signed) FRANK C. LASCELLES. Inclosure in No. 186. Decree respecting the Prohibition of the Export of Arms and War Material to China, dated August 6, 1900. (Translation.) WE, William, &c.. Decree : § 1. The export of arms and of war material to China and to the European Settle- ments on the Chinese Coasts, as well as to any ports in the neighbourhood of China, from any part of the Empire is forbidden until further notice. § 2. The Chancellor of the Empire is empowered to permit exceptions to be made to this prohibition in consideration of the destination of the goods, and to make the necessary conditions for the insurance of this destination. § 3. The present Decree comes into force on the day of its promulgation. (Signed) WILLIAM. (Signed) Count von BiJLOw. Published in Berlin, August 10, 1900. . No. 187. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 13.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August I'd, 1900. WITH reference to your Lordship's telegrams of 12th August, 1 have the honour to inform you that the Municipal Council of Shanghae brought to: the notice of Admiral Seymour that Shanghae was in a defenceless position, and asked him to land 10,000 men. On the 28th July, the Consuls informed the Council that the present defence force of police and volunteers could not be regarded as adequate for the purpose, and they requested the Admiral to take steps to secure the safety of the place. The Admiral conferred with the Senior Naval Officer of the other Powers and asked for a force of 3,000 men, the number he regarded as sufficient for immediate contingencies. The Viceroy at Nanking had previously expressed his consent that British troops should be landed in such numbers as we should think necessary. In the course of ah interview with the Admiral at Nanking, the Viceroy again expressed his' consent, the number to be landed being fixed at 3,000. 79 On the 9th instant, Admiral Seymour and I informed the Consular Body that our troops ^would arrive here on the 12th. Our notification was not replied to. On the 11th August the Viceroy objected to the landing of the troops on the, grounds that other Powers wovid take similar steps, and that there would he general apprehension amongst the Chinese. Since it became generally known that British troops were about to occupy Shanghae, the exodus of Chinese has ceased ; people are returning and a sense of security prevails again. Yesterday the Viceroy again agreed to the landing of British troops, provided no other nationalities followed suit. On the 1 3th instant, the Taotai formally assented to our occupation of Shanghae in a Proclamation in which he pointed out that Chinese would share in the protection afforded by the troops. No. 188. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — -{Received August 13.) (Telegraphic.) St. Petersburgh, August 13, 1900. THE Chinese Minister has been desired by Count Lamsdorff to make it quite clear to the Government at Peking and to Li Hun g-chang that only when the Ministers and other Europeans now imprisoned in Peking are in a place of safety can the Bussian Government enter into negotiations with the latter. Purther that it was impossible to trust the Central Government to protect them on their way to Tien-tsin since it has been unable to ensure their liberty and protection in Peking, and they should not, consequently, if sincere, place any obstacle in the way of the advance of a detachment of European troops to act as an escort ; they should supply the Legations with provisions at once and the arrangements which it is proposed to make for the safe passage of the Ministers and other Europeans from the Legations into the care of the international detachment, and for having the road cleared of all armed forces likely to molest them should be communicated in detail. I understand that a Circular, proposing a very similar course for their adoption, has been addressed by the Japanese to the European Governments and it is, in Count Lamsdorff's opinion, important that the language held to the Government at Peking and to Li Hurig-chang by all the Governments interested should be very firm and identic. The presence of so large a number of Christian Chinese refugees with the Lega- tions whom M. de Giers as well as M. Pichon report cannot be abandoned, does much, in Count Lamsdorff's opinion, to embarrass the situation. It is important, he thinks, that the present advance should not be for hostilities but exclusively for relief and escort purposes and that this should be understood at Peking. We would be free to use other language when this has been accomplished and our Legations and the Europeans are in safety. According to the Chinese Minister conveyances for the women and children and sick and wounded of the party could easily be obtained . No. 189. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. MacDonald. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 13, 1900. A PROPOSAL has been made by the Chinese Government that a Chinese force should escort the Legations from Peking. u .i, • ^^- ■ . t. In reply I have informeu the Chmese Government through their Minister here that I am unable to appreciate the security offered by this proposal, but that if the Chinese Government are really desirous for the safe removal of the Ministers and cannot provide an escort acceptable to them, the allied forces should be asked for a sufficient international escort to go under a white flag as far as the walls of Peking, and that the besieged foreigners should be received and escorted to Tien-tsin by this i further said that in, the meantime the Qhinese Governrpent must supply the 80 Legation with, provisions, and that unless the Legation was immediately relieved from its present situation, Her Majesty's Government would change their attitude towards the Chinese Government and would hold as directly responsible the Emperor of China and his Ministers as well as all those concerned in any harm done to the Ministers and other Europeans in Peking or on the road to Tien-tsin. No. 190. Mr. Choate to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 13.) My Lord, American Embassy, London, August 13, 1900. I HAVE the honour to inform your Lordship, under instructions from my Government, that on Saturday, the 12th instant, the Chinese Minister at Washington delivered to the Secretary of State the text of an Imperial Edict, forwarded by Privy Council from Peking, dated the 8th August, appointing Earl Li Hung-chang as Envoy Plenipotentiary on the part oE China to conduct negotiations by telegraph with the Powers concerned for the cessation of hostile demonstrations pending negotiations through him for the settlement of whatever questions may have to be dealt with. And I have further to inform your Lordship that on the afternoon of the same day a Memorandum, of which the following is a copy, was delivered to Minister Wu as the response of' the Government of the United States to the foregoing communication : — "Memorandum. " The Government of the United States learns with satisfaction of the appoint- ment of Earl Li Hung-chang as Envoy Plenipotentiary to conduct negotiations with the Powers, and will, on its part, enter upon such negotiations with a desire to continue the friendly relations so long existing between the two counfries. It is evident that there can be no general negotiation between China and the Powers so long as the Ministers of the Powers, and the persons under their protection, remain in their present position of restraint and danger, and that the Powers cannot cease their efforts for the delivery of these Representatives, to which they are constrained by the highest considerations of national honour, except under an arrangement adequate to accomplish a peaceable deliverance. " "We are ready to enter into an agreement between the Powers and the Chinese Government for a cessation of hostile demonstrations on condition that a sufficient body of the forces composing the reUef expedition shall be permitted to enter Peking unmolested and to escort the foreign Ministers and residents back to Tien-tsin, this movement being provided for and secured by such arrangements and disposition of troops as shall be considered satisfactory by the Generals Commanding the forces comprising the relief expedition. " (Signed) " Dated 12th August." I have, &c. (Signed) JOSEPH H. CHOATE. No. 191. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. Scott. ^'^' nx TT7CCAT? 11 1 I .J 1 • .. . c -^°^'«^fi"* Office, August 13, 190U. M. LESSAR called here to-day and mformed Sir T. Sanderson that a telegram had been received from the Russian Minister at Peking, dated the 11th August statins that the siege continued, and that the foreign Representatives had declined the offer of the Chinese Government that they should proceed temporarily to Tien-tsin in view of the absence of sufficient guarantee for their security. M Lessar stated that, by order of the Emperor, the Chinese Minister at St. Peters- burgh had been requested to inform the Tsung-li Yamen by telegraph that the Imperial Government considered the actual position intolerable, and held the Emperor and the Chinese Princes entirely responsible for the slightest breach of the inviolability of the SI Russian Minister and lliissian subjects. Wiih regard to the proposal that the foreign Legations and residents should proceed to Tien-tsin, the Imperial Government considered that the Ministers and the numerous liluropcans could only accept it if the Chinese authorities took the measures indispensable for their protection against every eventuality on the way. The Eussian Government consequently considered it necessary to warn the Chinese GovernmenL that inasmuch as the departure of the Ministers from Peking would take place solely on the pressing advice of the Chinese authorities, the Pow'ers will not accept any excu-e or justification in the event o'' an attack on their inviolability. The Tsung-li Yatnen ought to make known in detail the measures they intend to take for the efficacious protection of the Eenresentatives during the journey from Pekin-i- to Jlen-t^ln. If the Powers found those measures insufficient, they could pcrhai'S make a joint proposal to the Chinese Government that an international detachment should he disi)atched bearing a white flag or some other sign agreed upon, whose only object would be to act as a safe escort for their Ministers on their journey to 'J'ien-ti-in. Sir T. Sanderson informed M. Lessar that on hearing from Sir C. Scott of the communication to this effect made by C(mnt Lamsdorff to the Chinese Minister, I had decided to support it by a similar communication to the Chinese Minister here, which had been made yesterday, and of Nthieh the terms had been telegraphed to Sir C. Scott. M. Lessar also communicated a further telegram from his Government, inquiring as to the attitude of Her Majesty's Covermuen'. with regard to the appointment of Li Hung-chan^' as Plenipotentiary to open negotiations "ith the Powers, and staling that tlie Russian Government is of opinion that the demands suggested in their preceding telegram ^holild be discussed without delay, and iheir immediate execution insisted upon. Only when that had been done could they enter upon negotiations with Li Hung-chang, who ought to proceed to Tien-tsin tor that purpose. Sir T, Sanderson informed M. Lessar he believed Her Majesty'ti Government to be entirely in accord with this view of the Russian Government, that no answer had as yet been returned to tlie announcement of Li ilung-chang's appointment to negotiate, but that any decision on that subject would be communicated to him. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. No. 192. Sir C. Mac Donald to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 14.) (Telegraphic.) Peking, August 10, vid Shanghae, August 14, 1900, [The figures of this Telegram were communicated by the Chinese Minister. 14th August.] LI HUNG-CHANG, as stated in my telegram of yesterday, is appointed Plenipo- tentiary, with full powers to arrange all matters with the Foreign Offices of the Powers. March of troops on Peking should not be delayed by any negotiations whatever. We are still being fired at daily, and our supplies are and have been entirely cut off, so- that we must surrender unless we are shortly relieved. ' No. 193. Mr. 'ihornton to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 1-1.) (Telegraphic) Lisbon^ August 14i, 1900. DECREE issued prohibiting provisionally exportation and re-exportation of arms, parts of arms, and munitions of war from Portugal and Colonies to Chinese ports. [1116] M s--' The Manint^'s.s of SaHshiny to Acthuj Const, !-f!enertil )! orynn. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, Aiujusl II, 1900. WITH rcierence to my t(4ei^r;un oi: tlio lltli August, ai-raiigoraents have been made by Her Majesty 's'Govcrnment with the Hong Kong and Shuagliae Bank For an advance of 7-'),OdO/. to be made to the Viceroy ol' Wuchang. Has lie agreed to the security P If so, you should also obtain from him on acknowledgm(!iit of receipt, and an imdertaking to repay in Hie specified terms with interest, and you should stipulate, if possible, for delivery of receipts from tlie Generals in acknowledgment of the sums handed to them to enable theuT To pay the troops under their command. :Nn. 1'.).".. Comul Caries lo the Marquess of Sulisbunf. — {Ncrrired August lo.) M\ Lord, Tien-isin, June 28, 1900. IT is difficult to obtain any iniormalioiv as to what i-- occurring in this neighbour- hood, as there arc no means of conimimication. The Chinese servants in the British ConccssioTi liave been gradually disappearing since the beginning of tlic month, and when the Chines<> forts began to shell the Concession, those who had not already left lost no time in escaping. The whole of the official staff of Chinese employes *in this Consulate deserted, and only one male and one female servant remained in my house. At the same time it became almost imx)ossil)le for any Chinese to enter our lines, either here or at Taku. A cypher message to the r.ear-Admiral which I A\Tote on the lining of a man's sock was the cause of the pooor fellow's death. Many messengers were sent hero from Sir E. Seymour's ferct; while at Wuku, but only one of them reached me, and the body of one was seen just outside our lines wln^n the force arrived. xV-s no news reached Tien-tsin from Taku, and in spite of all our efforts to communicate with tlie fleets we Avere uncertain whether any oE our nu'ssages had beeii received, Mr. .James Watts, a young Englishman in Tien-tsin, volunteered to ride down l)y night with despatches, and, under the escort of three Cossacks, reached Taku safely. His intimate knowledge of the country made the f( at j/ossible, but the bravery of his act was not dirainislied tlirougli its not being foolhardy. The service which he rendered was of great value to the community, and I have much pleasure in bringing it to your Lordship's knowledge. T'lie distance by road from 'fien-tsin to Taku is about '.V2 miles, but as the time occupied on this occa'^ion was about twelve hours, a very considerable detour must have been made. I have, &c. (Signed) W No. 196. CoTt.yul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August ]5.) My Lord, Tien-min, July 2, 1900. I HAVJ^ the honour to inclose copy of a Protocoi, dated the !6th ,)une, which was forwarded by his Excellency Admiral Hildcbrand to the French Consul-Generai for transmission to the Viceroy, demanding the surrender of the Taku ferts before 2 a.m. on I lie I 7th uitinio. I have, &c. (Signed) W. !i. CAKLTsS. s:i Inclosuic iu No, 190. Protocol. PROTOCOLE de la reunion tenue sous la pr^sidence de sou ENcellence I'Amiral Hildebrand, le pliH ancien des otficiers presents sur rade. Les Fuissances alliens, d^s le debut des troubles, ont vnis sans opposiiion des detache- ments a terre, pour proteger leurs concitoyens et le Corps Diplomatique cunire les rebclles conn us sous le iiom de Boxeurs. Tout d'abord, les Representanls de I'autorit^ Imperiale ont paru coinpvendre leur devoir et fait des efforts apparents pour le retablissement de I'ordre, mais inaintenant ils inontrent clairenient leur synipathie jiour les ennemis des etrangers, en amenant des troupes sur les lignes du chemin de fer et en garnissant de torpilles I'entree du Pei-ho. Ces actes prouvent que le Gouveriieruent oublie ses engagements sulennels vis-a-vis des etrangers, et coninie les chefs des forces alliees out I'obligation de rester en communica- tibn constante avec les detachements a terre, ils ont decide d'occuper provisoirement, de gre ou de force, les forts de Takou. Le dernier delai pour leur remise aux forces alliees est 2 heures du matin le 17 Juio (2 heures a.m.). Ceci sera communique au Viceroi du Petcbili a Tien-tsin et au Commandant des forts. (Signe) Amiral HILDEBRAND, Doyen des Officiers presents sur rade. (Suivent les signatures des Amiraux et Commandants des navires des forces alliees.) A lord du croiseur Imperial Russe, le 16 Juin, 1900, a 11 heures du matin. Pour copie conforme : Le Consul-General de France, doyen du Corps Consulaire, (Sign6) J. DU Chaylard. (Translation.) PROTOCOL of a meeting held under the presidency of his Excellency Admiral Hildebrand, the Senior Naval Officer liere. The allied Powers, since the beginning of the troubles, have landed detachments without opposition for the protection of their nationals and Diplomatic Body against the rebels, who are known by the name ot Boxers. At first the Representatives of the Imperial aathority seemed to understand their dutv, and made apparent efforts to re-establish order, but now they clearly show their sympathy for the enemies of the foreigners by placing troops on the railway lines, and by placing torpedoes in the entrance to the Peiho. These acts prove that the Govern- ment forirets its solemn engagements towards foreigners, and as the Commanding Officers of the allied forces are bound to remain in constant communication with the detachments on land, they have decided to occupy provisionally, by consent, or by force, the Taku forts. The limit of time for their surrender to ihe allied forces is 2 o'clock m the morning of the 17th June (2 a.m.). This willbe communicated to the Viceroy of Pechili at Tien tsm and to the Officer Commanding the forts. (Signed) Admiral HILDEBRAND, Semor Naval Officer. (The Signatures uf the Admirals and Captains of ships of allied forces here follow.) On board the Russian Imperial cruiser, June 16, 1900, at 11 A.M. Certified copy, French Consul-General, Doyen of the Consular Corps, (Signed) J. du Chaylakd. [1116] M 2 1^0. 197. Acting Consul-Genera I Fraser lo the Marquess ef Salisbury. — (Received August 15.) My Lord, Hankow, July 3, 1900. I HAVE the honour to for-vard translation of a Proclamation just issued by the Viceroy and the Governor at Wuchang. The Proclamation seems to be satisfactory, especially in the " skilful way in which the Iinpcrial sanction for their Excellencies' arrangement with the foreign Consuls is invoked. The words which I have rendered " naval squadron " literally mean " a company or group of war-junks or large vessels," and^so do not impair the right of Her Majesty's ships to visit the Yang-tsze ports. — - The people have a report, which on private information I know to be well founded, (hat the Peking Government if^sueil a Decree chiding the Southern autho- rities for their presumption and ignorance of the real state of affairs in the North, and calling upon them to jAin in the war of extermination against foreigners. The Viceroy and his colleagues ignore this, and all other orders issued since the Northern Government began hostilities, on the, ground that they do not express the Imperial views. 1 have, &c. (Signed) E. H. FRASER. Inclosure in "Eo. 197. Proclamation by Chang, Viceroy of Hu Kuahg Provinces, and Yii, Governor of Hupei, issued in obedience to an Imperial Rescript to safeguard their territory. (Translation.) WHEREAS in the Isorth the disturbances of ruffians having led to a rupture with the Powers, men's minds are agitated and the political situation involved ; And whereas we had the honour to receive, on the 25th and 26tb June, transmitted Decrees to the effect that at present in the capital every effort continued to be made to protect the Legations of the Poweis, and that the Viceroys and Governors of the provinces must take such measures as in their judgment the crisis necessitated to preserve their territories ; And whereas it is, of course, our duty to devise means to carry out reverently these Imperial orders, we have, with his Excellency i^iu, Viceroy of the Liang Chiang Pro- vinces, carefully devised a joint scheme to preserve the integrity of the south-eastern provinces. 'J hat is to say, we have agreed with the Consuls of the Powers, that, provided only the naval squadrons of the fleets of the Powers do not enter the Yang-l.sze, the local authorities shall do their utmost to protect the lives and property of all foreigners in. our provinces. And we have rep<,rted to the 'I lirone, by telegraph, the successful negotia- tion of this scheme. This is a perfect plan to safeguard the lives of individuals and' families of the ])eoplc of these parts. But, as it is quite possible that, until the present' scheme, as reported to the Throne, is understood among the populace, local rutfians and wicked folk may find pretexts to stir up trouble to the detriment of the public interohts. We therefore hasten to issue this Notice for the information of all classes — civilians and military alike. Know ye that the present hostilities in the North were not intended or expected by the Court, and that the present Imperial orders that in the capital the Legations continue to be protected, and in the provinces at present the Concessions and chapels arc still to be protected, in accordance with the Treaty provisions promulgated year after year, are both designed to maintain the public interest intact. Now that the Powers arc willing lo leave protection to us, and to keep the naval squadrons of the fleets out of the Yaiig-lsze, the inhabitants and trade may both remain as undisturbed as usual, and local ruffians will not have a chance to make disturbance. Very many are the blessings secured by thus safeguarding the lives of individuals and families"^ of the people in the Vang-tsze and inland provinces, and utterly wrong would it be lightly to give cause for strife. Thus may we humbly embody the desire of the Court to see to the integrity of the State. Gentry and Elders are especially bound earnestly to impress on others that thus may the peace of the unimpaired territory of the Empire be secured, and thus may the perfection of the heavenly sympathy of our divine dynasty be the more displayed. 85 From the date of this ISTotification, should any concoct ]ymg tales, and delude men's mmds, or assemble crowds and disturb the Concessions and chapels, they shall be «traightly sought out and dealt with as local bandits and Secret Society ruifians. At every point strong forces have been posted promptly to extirpate utterly such ■evil scoundrels as seek pretexts to stir up disturbances with the desi4n of starting riots. Should soldiers or police make trouble, or be guilty of violonco.they will at once be punished under martial law. Our aim is, by keeping the people and traders undisturbed, and uiaintaining the ■peace of the country, to second humbly the meaning of tlie Imperial commands to j)reservc our territories by such measuies as in our judgment the crisis necessitated. Let all obey in fear and trembling this special urgent Proclamation. Dated K.S. XXVI, vi (July 1900). ^'o. 198. Acting Cjnsal- General Fraser to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 15.) My Lord, Hankow, July 7, 1900. I HAVE the honour to inclose translation of a Chinese document which reached nie through the Spanish Mission priests, and which I believe to be a copy of an authentic Decree issued by the Peking Government with reference to its war with the European Powers. 1 hare, &c. (Signed) E. H. FRASEE. Inclosure in No. 198. Decree dated June 26, 1900. {Translation.) I, TING-CHIEH, have the honour to forward this reverent copy of a Decree received by me on the 27th June, having been handed out by the Grand Council on the 26th June, and forwarded at 600 li (200 miles a day) by the Board of War:— " We yesterday announced to Li Hung-chang, Li Ping-heng, Liu K'un-yi, and Chang Chih-tung the facts that it was equally difficult to repress or to soothe the feud of the Society men against the converts, and that hostilities were first resorted to by the Powers. "The reluctance of you Viceroys and Governors, after considering the position and estimating your strength, to provoke foreign enmity lightly may well be the policy of tried Mmisters consulting the interests of their Stnte. "But, unfort nately, i^ the present case the Boxer bands have spread over the whole capital, and their numbers are not less than several hundred thousand. From soldiers and people up to princely and ducal palaces, from all alike, comes one cry of hatred of the foreign religion : the two cannot exist together. Repression meant intestine trouble and the utter ruin of the people. The only course, therefore, was to turn the movement to account, while slowly devising reformation. The warning in your memorial not to endanger the State by believing their heretical talk leaves out of ticcount the helpless position in which the Court is placed. "Did }e Viceroys and Governors realize how great i;! the cri-sis in the capital je would stirely be unable to eat and sleep in peace, and so anxious to do your duty that ye could never think of making onesided representations. •'The present state of things is one in which the incitement and pressure of provi- dential opportunity and human affairs have combined to render war inevitable. Do not any of ye Viceroys and Governors longer hesitate and look on, but with all speed provide troops and supplies, and vigorously protect the territories, for any remissness it is ye that shall be called to account. " Let this be enjoined by telegram on— " Li Hung-chang, Governor-General of Liang Kwang. " j.i Ping Heng, Admiral of the Yang-tsze. " Yii-lu, Governor-General of Chihli. "Liu iC'un-yi, Viceroy of Liang Chiang. ■" Chang Chih-tung, Mceroy of Hukwan:;. SG " Hsu Yang-k'uei, Governor-General of Cliekiang and Eukicii. "Kuei-cbiin, Governor-General of Szechuan. • " Tseng-ch'i, Military Governor of Moukden. '■' Ch'ang Shun of Kirin, and Shou-shan, of Heiu Chiang. "Wei Kuang T'ao, Governor of Siiansi. '• Ting Chcn-to, governor of Yunnan. " Yuan Shili K'ai, Governor of Shantung. '• Yii-ch'ang, Governor of Honan. " Lu Chu'aii-liu, Governor of Kiangsu. "Wang Chiii-ch'un, Governor of Anhai. " Sung-shou, Gnvernor of Cniang-si. " Y'li Ying-liu, Governor of Hupei. " Yii Ijien San, Governor of Hunan. " Tuan-ts'ai, "Liu Sim T'ang, Governor of Chekiang. '■ Yao Ying-cli'i, Governor of Hi. "Te-sliou, "Huang Tun^-sen, Governor of Kwang-si. "Sliao Chi-ch'eng, Governor of Kwei-ehow." Copy is being telegraphed to the other.s. {Received June 29, 1900.) No. 199. Consul Wilkinson to the Marquess of Salisbury.— {Received August 15.) My Lord, Ningpo, July 6, 1900. IN the present impossibility of communicating with Her Majesty's Minister, 1 have the honour to report direct to your Lordship on the condition of affairs in this district. That condition is on the whole satisfactory. Ningpo, as your Lordship is aware, is the official residence not only of the Taotai (Intendant) of thi-^, the Ning-shao-t'ai, circuit, but also of the T'it'ai, or Commander-in- chief of the provincial forces. It is situated some 11 miles up the Yung River, the mouth of which is commanded by tlie Ciiinhai Forts. The great bulk of its not inconsiderable trade is carried on with Shangliae by means of two large river steamers, one under tiie British, the other under the Chinese flag. Running on alternate week-days, these steamers arrive at Ningpo at 6 or 7 o'clock in the morning, and leave at 4 in the afternoon. In this way then, should any outbreak occur at the port between 4 p.m. and 6 a.m, (ou any day except Sunday, when the Chinese steamer remains iierc), the foreign community would have, in the absence of a ship of war, no place of retreat afloat for their women and children. Nor, owing to the configuration of the ground — a flat plain intersected everywhere by canals — could a refuge be found ashore. The adult male residents, exclusive of missionaries, do not exceed in number twenty-five, for the arming of whom there were, besides fowling-pieces, the dozen Martini-Henry rifles stored at this Consulate, the only Consulate at Ningpo. Under these circumstances my first proceeding, wben news of events in the north appeared to render prec/iutirmary measures advisable, was to ascertain throuiih Her Majesty's Consul-Gcneral at Shanghae, whether a vessel of war could be spared either to- form a giiardship here or to visit the port from time to time. Mr. Warren replying that there appeared no prospect of a gun-boat being spared for the present, I had in contem- plation to discover from the two Shipping Companies (Messrs. Cutterfield and Swire, and the China merchants) whether it would not be possible to cause our daily steamers (the steam-sliips " Peking " and " Kiangtien ") to overlap, so that one at least should always he in harbour here. Tiiis course 1 was, and am, very reluctant to adopt, since it would lo a large extent dislocate trade and alarm the natives. Moreover, for a cause- to which 1 shall refer later, these steamers are at present in great demand for the conveyance of Chinese passengers, and their owners would naturally demur to any interruption in the traffic not most imperatively called for. There remained to so impress upon the 'local authorities their obligation to put down disorder and protect foreigners as to insure that they would use their best endeavours to this end. It so happened that the Knglish text of the Joint Declaration 87 l)y the allied Admirals (dated Taku, the 20th June), had a[)()eared in the foreign press of Shanghae. J was able then, when calling upon the Taotai on the 23rd ultimo, to hand to him an informal translation of this document, and I took the opportunity to point out to him, as impressively as I was able, how advanta£feous observance of the neutrality therein proposed would, in the certain event of the overthrow of the Boxers by the allies, prove to those officials who had kept the peace and protected foreigners. The Taotai Ch'eng-hsiin, though a Manchu, has had considerable experience of foreign affairs in the province, and appeared to readily admit the force of my argument. A few days after my visit I received (on the night of the 26th) the authorized Ohinese text of the Declaration by telegraph from Mr. Warren, and the following day I otRcially transmitted this to the Taotai. I have now the honour to inclose translation of his reply, which 1 regai'd as entirely satisfactory. In the meanwhile the Commiinder-in-chief called upon me and assured nie in the most emphatic terms that he would maintain order. He deprecated the dispatch hither of a foreign war-vessel, but promised that if such visit, of which he begged me to notify him in advance, was contemplated, he would give orders to the Chinhai Forts not to oppose her entrance. Similar assurances of good-will and set purpose to protect foreigners have been given by the Prefect and Magistrate. Of the sincerity of these officials I have little doubt, for they are astute enough to see' that their interest at this crisis lies in keeping the peace ; their power to enforce their wishes depends on the amenability of their troops, and that on the absence of popular excitement. Unfortunately, for some cause or other, probably the somewhat ostentatious parading of the volunteers, the native community of Shanghae has taken alarm, and a great number of natives of this district are flocking back to Ningpo with their families. The daily steamers have arrived crowded to the danger point, and extra boats have been put temporarily on the line. (I inclose a Return of passtngcrs brought hither between the 26th June and this date (lith July) — a total of 17,3G1, as against a normal average of some 4,000 for an equal period.) These passengers pf ss into the interior, spreading exaggerated reports of events in the north, and increasing every- where the cost of food and conveyance. It is to this source that will be traceable any uneasiness that is being felt, and I readily assented to the Taotai's request that I would ■communicate with Shanghae and suggest that steps should be taken to discourage this exodus. So far very few anti-foreign placards have appeared. The latest, I am told, threatens our extermination on the 13th, or, if it cannot be effected then, on the 15th of this moon (the 10th or 12th instant), but 1 have not myself seen it, nor do I attach importance to it. The Taotai has issued a satisfactory Proclamation, of which T have the honour to inclose translation, and copies of which I am requesting him to furnish me for the inland Mission stations. I am ascertaining from the local representatives the names and present whereabouts of the missionaries in the interior, in order that should it be necessary they may recalled to the coast; but for. the reasons 1 have already given I do not, I am happy to say, regard these persons as being in any present danuer. Meanwhile, 1 have just learnt from tiie Rev. H. Moule that, under advice froin his father, the Bishop of Mid-China, the missionaries at Shaohsing have all left, with the exception of the Rev. W. H. and Mrs. AVarren. There was, however, Mr. Moule informs me, no apparent necessity for this step, as the people were friendly and quiet, and he can find explanation of his father's telegram only in some possible disturbance ac Hangchow, where, it may be observed, a Manchu garrisjn is stationed. Should any noteworthy developtnents occur in the position of atfairs here, I will not fail to report; them to your Lordship, sending my despatch, as I am sending this present one, under flyini^'seal through Her Majesty's Consul-tTcneral at Shanghae. I have, &c. (Signed) W. H. WlLKINSO>r. Inclosure 1 in Xo. 199. Ch'eng, Intendaiit of the Ning-shao-t'ai Circuit, to Consul Wilkinson. (Tran^ilation.) ,, . THE Intcndant had the honour on the 27th instant to receive the following despatch from Her Maiesty's Consul : — •• I received last night a telegram from Mr. Wairc;), H'jr Majesty's Consul-Gejieral 88 at Shanghae, informing' me that the local authorities there had embodied, in a Proclama- tion warning people to preserve order, a telegram from the allied Admirals at Taku, of which the Chinese text was as under : — " ' [*A Notification. The Admirals hereby notify the Governors-Greneral, Governors, and the local otlicials, civil and military, of the different provinces that the present military operations have for their sole object the suppression of the Boxer insurgents and the more speedy relief of the Ministers and others, tlieir compatriots, at Peking, and' that this and no other is their purpose. Jointly resolved by the Admirals of the Powers, at Taku, June 20.]' " I have the honour to request that you a^so will cause Proclamations to be issued' aiid disseminated, in order that this resolution of the Admirals may be made known to the people at large and a stop put to the fabrication of idle rumours." The Intendant would observe, in reply, that the outbreak of the Boxer insurgents in the north is no concern of the Eastern and Southern Provinces, Ningpo is situated in an out-of-the-way corner of the sea-coast, and no comparison is possible between it and Shanghae. Tliough there have been idle rumours of late, still the Intendant has- already issued Proclamations, and, in concert with the garrison, has directed his subordinates to keep watch and ward night and day. Men's minds are now compo?ed; but if the present No.itication were embodied in a Proclamation, suspicion might be aroused among the populace and the evil-disposed take heart; the proceeding, in short,, would not have a quieting effect;. Moreover, the Intendant is in receipt of instructions from his Excellency Liu^ Governor of the Province, directing him to " arrest without fail all malefactors and put to deatti the guilty, exerting himself to protect foreign merchants and missionaries." As far as this port is concerned, foreigners, o.licials, and private individuals alike may, since both the Governor and the Intendant are exerting themselves to protect them, take heart, and there is no need, it would seem, for the- dispatch of war vessels to preserve the peace. The Intendant is communicating with the Commander-in-chief, and is issuing instructions to his own subordinites to search out, arrest, and condignly pnnish malefactors and to protect without fail all chapels and foreign buildings. Meanwhile he begs that the Consul will inform Mr. Consul-General Warren of this his present reply,. and will do him the honour to himself acknowledge its receipt. Kuang Hsu, 2fith year, 6th moon, 3rd day {June 29, 1900). Inclosure 2 in No. 199. Number of Native Passengers arrived from Shanghae from June 26 to July 0, 1900. Date. 1 Name of Vej-sel, Number. June 26, 1900 .. Steam- ?hip " Pekin " 601 „ 27, 5» • • » " Kianjrtien" 1,308 ., 28, J» • • T1 " PekIn " 1,454 „ 28, »» • • )» "Kansu" 464 „ 29, |f ' • )J "Kaniit-en'' 1,857 „ 29, 9» »* *' Kunjrping" 1,173 „ 30, Ifl • • n "Ppkiri" 997 ,. 30, 89 ■ • >* "Whampoa" 587 July 1, 9* • • )» "Kiangtien" 1,474 „ 1, 9> • • »? " Kungping 777 . 8, ?1 • • 7t " Pekin '* 1,226 „ 4, . " M "Kiangtien" 1,902 ., 6, ?^ " Pekin " 1.287 ;, 6. )< • • »l " KianKtien" 1,560 „ 6, 9, • • 1) " Kungping " Total •• .. 694 17,361 Retranslation. 89 Inclosure 3 in No. 199. Proclamation by Ch'eng, Intendant of the Ning-shao-t'ai Circuit. (Translation.) I'N regard to the outbreak of Boxer insurgents in the region of Chih-li, Imperial orders have been frequently transmitted by telegraph to rigorously arrest and condignly punish the ringleaders and to disperse their followers. Ningpo is an open port of trade, a common resort from all quarters, and a place therefore where malefactors can easily conceal their traces. Eumours of late have been very frequent, and fears are not groundless, that vagabond militiamen and robbers visiting the port may combine with local scoundrels to seize this opportunity for furtive practices. It becomes imperative then to maintain close watch and ward, in order to render the trading classes secure and to keep the populace tranquil. For the effectual defence of the various chapels and dwelling-houses of foreigners in the city, its suburbs, and campo, the Commanoer-in-chief has been requested to send a detachment from the nearest troops ; the Prefect has been instructed to revive the system of wards and households, and the Magistrate to select able-bodied runners, while picked men have been detailed from the city guard, and orders issued to the police to co-operate with them in zealous watch and scrutiny. In addition to these measures, the present ]S otification is issued for observance by persons of all classes in this Prefecture. Be it known to all of you that " the cont'octing of tales causing trouble is an offence not light, and that in the peaceful following of his usual avocations lies man's profit and happiness." Ningpo is an open port, where natives and foreigners have mixed for years. Trades of every nation have consistently maintained cordial relations with our people, and it is but right that all should show themselves friendly and amiable, and should take measures for mutual protection. Above all, do not wantonly give way to suspicion and doubt, and so bring upon your- selves remorse and chagrin. Should any ill-conducted scoundrels dare to concoct tales and excite the multitude, seeking occasion to create disturbance, the said soldiery, runners, and police shall promptly and without fail arrest them and send them to the Magistracy in order that they may be punished with the utmost severity. No indulgence whatever shall be shown to them. The Intendant loves the people as his own children, and will keep the law firin as the hills. Let every one in awe obey 1 A special Proclamation. Kuang Hsii, 26th year, bth moon, 29th day {June 25, 1900). No. 200. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 15.) (Telegraphic.) Tien-tsin, via Chefoo, August 10, 1900. I AM informed by the Japanese Consul that Hsu-ching-cheng and Tuan-chang were beheaded on the 29th July, and that Ministers of Yamen are now all Manchus. Also that the Viceroys of Canton, Nanking, and Wuchang have been impeached by Li-ping-heng. Above-mentioned Li-ping-heng, I see in " Peking Gazette," was still in Peking on the 4th August, and had been received in audience almost daily. No. 201. The Viceroy of Nanking to Sir Chihchen Lofengluh. — (Communicated by Sir Chihchen Lofengluh, August 15.) (Telegraphic.) Nanking, August 15, 1900. TELEGRAM received. Satisfactory arrangements have been made between myself and Admiral Seymour and Consul Warren with regard to the landing of several hundred troops at Shangliae. Rumours have been stopped. The people have been pacified. The peace and order of the Yang-tsze Valley will therefore be maintained. Please convey my best thanks to Lord Salisbury. [1116] N 90 No. 202. Li Hung-chang to Sir Chihchen Lofengluh. — {Communicated by Sir Chihchen Lofengluh, August 15.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 15, 1900. 1 HEAE that the allied forces are now approaching Thnng-chow. I have asked the Government to send High Commissioner to meet their Com- mander, and to make arrangements for the suspension of hostilities, and I will proceed to Peking also very soon. The Treaty Powers fully appreciate now the difficult position in which both the Emperor and Empress-Dowager are now situated. I strongly and most respectfully ask them to stop their forces at Thung-chow, and not to enter the city walls so as to terrify the Emperor and Empress- Dowager, to shed the blood of innocents, and to cause irreparable damages to the present dynasty, and to hurt the feelings of 400,000,000 of the Chinese population. All of them would feel most gratetul to Lord Salisbury if his Lordship would consent to my humble request. (The same request forwarded to Russia, France, Germany, America, and Japan.) No. 203. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir F. Lascelles. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 15, 1900. LIEUTENANT-COLONEL J. M. GfMERSON has been appointed to post on staff of Count Waldersee. Tou should inform German Government. He is now in South Africa, but vsdll, it is hoped, join. Count Waldersee at Colombo about the 7th September. No. 204. M. Camhon to Foreign Office. — {Received August 1 5.) Cher M. Bertie, Amhassade de France, Londres, le 16 Aout, 1900. JE viens de recevoir communication de la r<^ponse de M. Delcasse a la demande qui lui a ete adressee par le Gouvernenrent Chinois pour faire donner I'ordre aux Ministres etran^ers de quitter P6kin. Je vous en envoie copie. Cette reponse a ^te remise au Ministre de Chine hi Paris. Votre bieu d^vou6, (Signe) PAUL CAMBON. (Translation.) Dear Mr. Bertie, French Embassy, London, August 15, 1900. ';:Z^ M. DELCASSE'S reply to the request which was addressed to him by the Chinese Government that the foreign Ministers should receive instructions to leave Peking has just been communicated to me. I send you a copy of it. This reply has been handed to the Chinese Minister at Paris. Yours, &c. (Signed) PAUL CAMBON. Inclosure in No. 204. Memorandum. LE Repre'sentant de la Chine a Paris nous a communique un t^legramme du Tsung-li Yam^n en date du 6 AoAt et dans lequel le Gouvernement Imperial voulant obtenir I'ordre aux Ministres ^(.rangers de quitter la capitale, ordre qui ne saurait leur gtre donnd tant que la route ne sera pas shxe, s'exprime comme il suit : — 91 "En retardant ainsi, s'il arrive quelque accident, qui en portera la resnonsa- bilite?" Ml 1 Ce sera sans aucun doiite le Gouvernement Chinois. Son devoir strict est de prot^ger les Ministres etraneers autant et plus que lui-meme. Et s'il est vrai qa'il a les plus grandes peines a les defendre et a se defendre contre les rebelles, qu'il ordonne a ses troupes de s'effacer devant les forces internationales. Celles-ci doivent et sauront rendre libre la route de Tien-tsin a la capitale et accon.plir I'cEuvie de protection qui !eur incouibe. Le Gouverneinent Chinois couiprendra, nous voulons encore I'esperer, que le seul moyen pour lui de prouver la sincerite des dispositions cju'il proclame et de limiter ses responsabilite's, c'est de cesser d'y mettre obstacle. Paris, le 10 Aout, 1900. (Translation.) THE Representative of the Chinese Government at Paris communicated to us a telegram from the Tsung-li Yamin, dated the 6th August, in which the Imperial Government, desiring to obtain the order for the foreign Representatives to leave the capital, an order which cannot be given as long as their safe-conduct is not assured, express themselves as follows : — " Should any accident take place in thus delaying the departure, on whom will the responsibility fall ? ". . The responsibility will undoubtedly rest with the Chinese Government. It. is their duty to protect the foreign Ministers as much as, and even more, than themselves. And if it is true that they experience great difficulty in defending the foreigners and in defending themselves against the rebels, let them command their troops to give way to the international forces. These latter must and can keep the road from Tien-tsin to the capital, and fulfil the task incumbent on them of protecting the foreigners. We will further hope that the Chinese Government will understand that the sole means of proving the sincerity of the arrangements announced by them, and of limiting their responsibilities, is to cease to put obstacles in their way. Paris, August 10, 1900. No. 205. Acting Consul-General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 1.5.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 15, 1900. ALL the members of the Consular Body have telegraphed to their respective Governments urging that it would endanger the safety of Shanghae if the 2,000 Indian troops which have arrived at Woosung were to be recalled, and proposing that the forces should be landed in Shanghae under international agreement. It is- advisable that additional troops be immediately dispatched by the allies for the efficient protection of this port. No. 206. Mr. Goschen to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 16.) (Telegraphic.) Copenhagen, August 16, 1900. A PROVISIONAL Law was published to-day forbidding the export of arms and ammunition to China from Denmark and Danish West Indies. No. 207. Lord Pauncefote to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 16.) (Te egraphic.) Newport, August 16, 1900. I HAVE the honour to state that I learn from the United States' Government that they consider that their views on the proposal of the Russian Government for securino' the safety of the foreigners now confined in Peking have been expressed [1116] N 2 92 by anticipation in the third paragraph of the Memorandum handed to the Chinese Minister at Washington on the 12th instant, which the United States' Ambassador in London has communicated to your Lordship.* Mr. Adee, Acting Secretary of State, tells me that the above is, in substance, the reply which he has returned to the inquiries addressed to him on the subject by members of the Diplomatic Body. No. 208. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 16, 1900. LANDING of British force at Shanghae. With reference to your telegram of 13th August : Admiral has been authorized to join with you in arranging for the disembarkation of troops, with the consent of the Chinese authorities, but without giving any guarantee as to the action of any other Power. This has been done in view of the evident feeling of the Con- sular Body that the presence of troops is desirable, and of communication received yesterday from the Viceroy, through the Chinese Minister here, withdrawing objec- tions previously made. No. 209. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir E. Monson.f (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 16, 1900. IN reply to Li Hung-chang's message,| repeated to you in my immediately preceding telegram, I have to-day informed the Chinese Minister that, until the British Legation has been allowed to return to Tien-tsin under the escort of an adequate European force. Her Majesty's Government can enter into no such negotiations. No. 210. Foreign Office to Admiralty. Sir, ^ Foreign Office, August IG, 1900. THE Swedish and Norwegian Charge d'Affaires has asked, under instructions from his Government, that British protection may be afforded to Swedish and Norwegiaa missionaries attached to British Missions in China. The Marquess of Salisbury proposes to inform him that the British gun-boats on the River Yang-tsze will protect so far as they are able all Europeans, without distinction, but that the attention of Her Majesty's Naval and Consular Officers in China will be called to the desire expressedby the Government of Sweden and Norway in regard to these Swedish and Norwegian missionaries. I am directed by his Lordship to suggest that instructions accordingly may be sent to Her Majesty's naval authorities in Chinese waters. I am, &c. (Signed) FRANCIS BERTIE. * See No. 190. t Also to Emba?sies and Shanghae. + See No. 20'' 93 No. 211. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 17.) (Telegraphic.) Tien-tsin, vid Chefoo, August 12, 1900. DIKEOTIONS are givea to Yung-lu in an Imperial Edict, apparently dated 2nd August, to prepare to escort foreign Ministers to Tien-tsin, and Tsung-li Yamen is instructed to forward despatches en clair from them to their respective Governments. By an Edict of same date. Christian villagers in arms against the Imperial troops are promised pardon if they raze their earthworks and submit. In one instance mentioned in Edict this has actually happened. No. 212. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 17.) (Telegraphic.) Tien-tsin, undated, vid Chefoo, August 17, 1900. ACCORDING to a reliable authority I hear that the allied forces captured Tungchou early, on 12th August with little resistance, aad are resting on account of fatigue. I also hear that 15th August has been fixed for the general attack on Peking. No. 213. Documents communicated by the French Embassy, August 17, 1900. Traduction d'une Piece remise par le Minis tre de Chine le 12 Aout, 1900. Te'le'gramme du Grand Conseil, transmis par le Taotai de Shang-Hai, et regu aujourd'Imi, 11 Aout. (A.) NOUS avons re9u le Decret Imperial suivant : — " Dans I'occasion pr^sente, ou des hostilites ont eclate entre la Chine et I'etranger, les nations etrang^res n'ont pas ete sans se meprendre. Les autorites locales Chinoises ont aussi, dans certains cas, agi d'une fagon qui n'etait pas bonne. Les faits de guerre se sont suivis et des malheurs se sent produits, contrairement a I'amiti^ premiere. Ce n'etait pas la, en definitive, la voie a suivre pour sauvegardev nos relations. Nous ordonnons que soit donne a Li Hung-cbang le titre de Ministre Pl^nipotentiaire, qu'il demande immediatement par telegraphe aux Ministeires des Affaires Etrang^res des differentes nations d'arreter, tout d'abord, les hostilites et aussi qu'il discute de fa^on convenable et separement les affaires sur lesquclles il y a lieu de s'entendre definitivement, et au sujet desquelles il domandera que nous rendions des Decrets, pour qu'il y soit donne une suite conforme." Hespect a ceci : Pri^re d'informer le Minist&re des Affaires Etrang^res. Le 8 Aout, 1900. En outre : Tele'gramme regu de Li Hung-chang. " J'ai re9u le Decret suivant : . . . . (meme teneur). " Je vous prie de vous entendre aveo le Minist^re des Affaires Btrang^res, le priant de donner d'abord des ordres pour arreter les hostilites, apr^s quoi sera disoutee une commune solution. J 'espdre que vous me r^pondvez." Le 15 (-9) Aodt, 1900. 94 (B.) Le Gouvernement Japonais a r^cemment saisi le Gouvernement Fran9ais d'une proposition tendant a ce qu'une suspension d'armes f At notifies au Gouvernement Chinois sous la condition que ce Gouvernement autorisat I'entr^e a P6kin d'un contingent international suffisant pour escorter jusqu'a Tien-tsin les strangers enfermes dans la capitale. M. Delcass^ a d6clar6 que cette proposition lui paraissait appeler la m^me reponse que celle qu'il avait faite a une demande d'armistice du Gouvernement Chinois (reponse dont M. Cambon a communiq;u6 le texte a Mr. Bertie par lettre particuli^re le 15 AoM), et par laquelle il faisait observer que le seul moyen de prouver la sinc6rit6 de ses dispositions a regard des Ministres strangers 6tait d'ordonner a ses soldats de s'effacer ae>ant ies troupes Internationales. Albert Gate, le 17 Aout, 1900. (Translation.) Translation of a Paper communicated by the Chinese Minister, August 12, 1900. Telegram from the Grand Council, transmitted by the Taotai of Shanghae, and received to-day, Uth August. (A.) WE liave received the following Imperial Decree : — " On the present occasion, when hostilities have broken out between China and foreign countries, foreign nations have not avoided mistakes. The Chinese local authorities have also in certain cases acted wrongly. Warlike acts have followed and misfortunes have been caused, in opposition to former friendship. That was certainly not the way to safeguard our relations. We command that the title of Minister Plenipotentiary be given to Li Hung-cbang, and that he immediately request the Ministers for Poreign Affairs of the different nations by telegraph first to suspend hostilities, and also that he discuss in a suitable manner and separately the affairs which must be definitely settled between us, and concerning which he shall ask us to issue Decrees, in order that it may be followed by proper action." Respect this. Pray inform the Minister for Poreign Affairs. August S, 1900. Further : Telegram received from Li Hung-chang. " I have received the following Decree : . . . . (same as above). " Pray make representations to the Minister for P^oreign Affairs, and request him first to give orders for the suspension of hostilities, and afterwards the solvition will be discussed. I hope to have a reply from you." August 15 (-9), 1900. (B.) A proposal was recently made to the Prench Government by the Japanese Government for notifying the Chinese Government of an armistice, on condition that an international contingent, sufficient to escort the foreigners shut up in the capital as far as Tien-tsin, be authorized to enter Peking. M. Delcass6 declared that this proposal appeared to call for the same reply as that which he had returned to a demand for an armistice on the part of the Chinese Government (the text of the reply of which M. Cambon communicated to Mr. Bertie 95 in his private letter of the 15th August), and in which he called attention to the fact that the only means of proving the good faith shown by the Chinese Government in their arrangements with regard to the foreign Ministers was to command the soldiers to give in to the international troops. Albert Gate, August 17, 1900. No. 214 Vice- Admiral Sir E. Seymour to Admiralty. — (Communicated by Admiralty August 17.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 17, 1900. TROOPS will commence landing here to-morrow. Remainder of 3,000 will come up from Hong Kong. No. 215. Sir E. Monson to the Marquess of Salisbury, — {Received August 18.) (Extract.) Paris, August 17, 1900. THE terms of the Erench reply respecting the Gommand-in-chief in China of Count Waldersee are given in a communique published by the Havas Agency jfesterday afternoon to the following effect : — "The French Government has informed the German Government that as soon as Marshal von Waldersee shall have arrived in China, and shall have taken in the Councils of the Commanders of the International Corps d'Arm^e the eminent position due to his superior rank, General Voyron, the Commander of the Erench Expeditionary Corps will not fail to place his relations with the Marshal upon a proper footing." The Erench expression used in the last sentence runs as follows : " ne manquera pas d'assurer ses relations avec le Mar^chal." No. 216. Consul Tratman to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 18.) (Telegraphic.) Chefoo, August 17, 1900. ACCORDING to intelligence brought by a Japanese torpedo-boat, just arrived from Taku, Peking was taken 16th August. The Legations are reported to have been safely relieved. No. 217. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 18.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 18, 1900. AN identic note has been addressed by the Viceroys at Wuchang and Nanking to all the Consuls-General at this port requesting them to urge their respective Governments to guarantee the personal safety of the Emperor and Empress-Dowager. The A'"iceroys promise that if they are unharmed they will unswervingly liold to theii' agreement for the preservation of peace and order in the south-eastern provinces. 96 No. 218. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received, via Chefoo, August 19.) (Telegraphic.) Ti,en-tsin, August 16, 1900. THE Legations at Peking were relieved on the loth August. Sir C. MacDonald and the staff of the Legation are in good health. No. 219. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received, vid Chefoo, August 19.) (Telegraphic.) Tien-tsin, August 16, 1900. THE Japanese Consul communicated to me the following information : — " On the morning of the 14th August allied forces attacked Peking on the east side, commencing with artillery fire. " The enemy, who resisted obstinately, held the wall. The Japanese and Russians advanced on north side of ' Tungu ' Canal, and the English and Americans on south side. During the night the Japanese blew up the ' Tung Chih ' gate on east side of Tartar city. English and Americans entered Chinese city by ' Tung Pien ' gate. Parties were at once detached from both forces and united at Legation. Ministers and their stafis are all well. Chinese lost 400 killed, while the Japanese lost 100 killed and wounded, including three officers." , ^ — No. 220. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received, vid Chefoo. August 19.) (Telegraphic.) Tien-tsin, August 17, 1900. A JESUIT priest here has received news that the Protestant and Catholic missionaries in Tai Yuan-fu, in Shansi, were invited by Governor Yu Hsien to his Yam^n on the 9th July, and were executed there, five on the spot, and the rest, men, women, and children, in the space in front of audience hall. A Roman Catholic soldier, who says he was present, brought this intelligence. No. 221. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. Scott. Sir, Foreign Office, August 19, 1900. ON the 17th instant the substance of a telegram, dated 16th August, fronv the Russian Minister for Poreign Affairs was communicated by the Russian Embassy at this Court, stating that the Russian Minister at Peking had telegraphed to St. Peters- burgh on the 9th instant that the Legations continued to be besieged by the troops, by whom they were surrounded, and that they were deprived of external communi- cations and bombarded. M. de Giers added that their provisions would not last more than ten days. Count Lamsdorff stated that with a view to putting an end to this orave situation energetic and simultaneous representations to the Chinese Goveriiment on the part of all the Powers seemed to him urgently necessary, both through tlie Representatives of China in the different States, and through Li Hung-chang, who was Plenipotentiary designate, and eventual negotiator with the Powers. Count Lamsdorff concluded by stating that he liad made a categorical declaration to the Chinese Minister at St. Petersburgh, and had requested him to telegraph to Li Hung-chang immediately. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. ^7 Fo. 222. Acting Consuly may, therefore, possibly no longer be valid. To delay negotiations would not, in my opinion, entail any loss upon us, seeing that it will not be possible for some time to come to arrive at a general settlement. The punishment of those taking a prominent part in the recent outbireak ao-ainst foreigners is of great importance in its bearing on the future. Unless severe punish- ment is inflicted on individuals — the Boxer movement being far from crushed it will only be a question of time for a recurrence of the present crisis. No. 255. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 28.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, August 28, 1900. THE Chinese party known as the Reform party, of whom Kang Yu-wei is at the head, are at present seeking to create disturbances in the ports on the Yang-tsze be stirring up the Kolao-hui and other Secret Societies. The Reformers declare that they 113 bear no ill-will towards foreigners, that the restoration of the Emperor and overthrow of the present Administration is their aim. At Hankow some' forty members of the Keform party have been arrested, and several have been beheaded. I have given the leading men to imderstaad that if they adopt such courses they can expect no sympathy from Her Majesty's Government, who are pledged to give their support to the Viceroys in their endeavours to preserve peace and order. No. 256. The Marqliens of Salisbury to Sir C. Scott, Sir, Foreign Office, August 28, 1900. THE Kussian Chargd d' Affaires called at the Foreign Office to-day, and, in my absence, made the following communication to Mr. Bertie, respecting the intentions of the Russian Government in North-East China and their reasons for the decision which they had taken. M. Lessar said that from the beginning of the troubles in China the efforts of the Imperial Government had been directed, firstly, towards protecting the Russian Repre- sentatives and their nationals in Peking against the rebels, and, secondly, towards assisting the Chinese Government in their struggle against the revolt, in order promptly to re-establish order in the country. When the other Powers interested decided to send troops to China with the same object, the Imperial Government proposed, as a basis of common action, the following fundamentiril principles : — 1. The maintenance of the agreement between the Powers ; 2. The mifintenance of the existing system of Government in China ; 3. The exclusion of everything which might lead to the partition of the Empire ; and 4. The establishment, by common effort, of a legitimate central Power, capable, in itself, of assuring order and security to the country. With regard to these principles, M. Lessar said an agreement had been come to between nearly all the Powers. The Imperial Government, having no other object in view, remained faithful to the^e principles, and mtended in the tuture strictly to adhere to the programme laid down therein. The progress of events, such as the attack by the rebels on Russian troops at Newchwaug and the hostilities committed by the Chinese along the Russian frontier, including the bombardment of Bl.igovestchenk without any provocation, had forced Russia to occupy Newchwang and to send troops into Manchuria. These temporary measures had been solely dictated by the absolute necessity of repelling the aggression of the Chinese rebels, and not with interested motives, which are absolutely foreign to the policy of the Imperial Government. Directly the pacification of Manchuria was attained, and the necessary measures had been taken to insnre the security of the railroad, concerning the constrnction of which there was a formal understanding with the Chinese Government, embodied in the Concession granted to the " Soci^te des Chemins de Fer de la Chine Orientale," Russia would not f til to withdraw her troops from Chinese territory, provided that such action did not meet with obstacles caused by the proceedings of other Powers. It was clear, M. Lessar said, that the rights of foreign States and international Ciimpanies interested in the open port of Newchwang or in the railways reconstructed by Russian troops remained inviolable and assured. In the occupation of Peking, which had been accomplished more quickly than could have been hoped the first and most important object of the programme had been attained, namely, the rescue of the Legations and of the foreigners besieged in Peking. The second object which they had in view, namely, to render assistance to the Central Government in the re^itoration of order and in the re-establishment of regular relations with the Powers, had been hindered for the moment by the departure from Peking of the Emperor, Empress-Regent, and Tsung-li Yamen. In these circumstances, the Imperial Government saw no reason for the Legation to remain in Peking, accredited to aji absent Go\einment, and proposes to withdraw M. de Giers and the personnel of the Legation to Tien-tsin. accompanied by the Russian troops, whose presence in Peking now becomes useless, in view of the decision taken, and many times expressed by Russia, not to exceed the limits of the task which she had undertaken at the beginning of the disorders. Directly, however, the legitimate [1110J Q 114 Chinese Government had resumed the reins of power, and nominated Representatives furnished with full powers snfficieut to negotiate with the Powers, Russia, m concert with the otlier States, would proceed to appoint Representatives, and would dispatch them to the place chosen for the pourparlers of the negotiations. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. No. 257. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received August 29.) Mv Lord Tien-tsin, July 17, 1900. I HAVE the honour to report that after the capture of Tien-tsin I ascertained that the troops emph>y,ed on its defence, and who ^vere held in reserve, consisted approximately of the following forces : — , . 1. xVbout 1,000 men engaged recently by the 1 ien-tsin Salt Commissioner for the defence of ihe city itself. These men bore the badge of the Tien-tsin Salt Commissioner (Lu). Their bravery under a tremendously hot gun-fire from 4-inch and 12-pi-. guns excited the greatest admiration. The south wall is lined with their bodies. Those of them who were not killed have dispersed or have heen disbanded as they were for special service. 2. Tlie Viceroy's own body-guard of about 1,000 men, who have accompanied him on his" retreat to Ta Sbaotzii-K'ou, a village a few miles west of Tien-tsin on the Grand Canal. These men are said to be indifferently armed. 3. The forces under General Ma, who have been brought hither from Shan Hai Kuan. They are constantly stated to consist of thirteen camps, three of which -are of cavalry. This would make a iorce of 5,000 infantry and 750 cavalry. These troops were probably encamped along the Lu Tai Canal and to the north-west and north-east of the city, and are said to have retired upon Yangts'un. 4. A certain number of men bdonging to troops which were raised some years ago by Li Hung-chang, and who are known as Lien Chun and Huai Chiin. They appear to have been employed outside the south gate of the city at the time that the city was attacked, but to have escaped with heavy loss. These men with the artillery retired upon Hsi K'u, six of the central buildings in which are said to have escaped destruction, when that arsenal was fired on Admiral Seymour's force withdrawing from the place on the night of the 25th and :;i6th June. The intention of the Chinese was to fortify this arsenal and utilize it to stop our advance, but the place was captured yesterday by the Russian troopsi As General is'ieh has been killed and his torce broken up, there are therefore, so far as I can ascertain, only General Ma's troops and those who have escaped from Hsi K'u, who are likely to oppose an advance from Tien-tsin towards Yangts'un. The Boxers in Tien-tsin are said to have been shot down by Imperial tmops a few days before the city was captured, because they refused to occupy the most exposed positions, and in this neighbourhood, at any rate, the influence of the Boxers is probably on the wane. 1 have, &c. (Signed) W. R. CARLES. No. 258. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — [Received August 29.) My Lord, Tien-tsin, July 17, 1900. I HAVE the honour to report that the Commanding Officers of the allied forces held a meeting yesterday to provide for the government of the city, and agreed to appoint a Military Governor with a Staff. To-day it was agreed to appoint a Board of three officers — British, Japanese, and Russian— each to have an equal voice; in the control. I have, &c. (Signed) W. R. CARLES. 116 No. 259. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received August 29.) My Lord, Shangliae, July 21, 1900, I HAYE the honour to inclose herewith copy of a despatch which I have received fi'om Mr. Clennell, Her Majesty's Acting Consul at Kiukiang, reporting serious anti- foreign riots and attacks on missionaries which have occurred in the Province of Kiangsi. I have, &c. (Signed) PELHAM L. WARREN. Inclosure in No. 259. Acting Consul Clennell to Acting Consul-General Warren. Sir, Kiukiang, July 17, 1900. I HAD the honour to inform you to-day, by telegraph, that news has been received of several serious riots in the interior of this province, all, apparently, directed against the Roman Catholics. This news has come to me somewhat as a surprise, as the Taotai assured me on the 10th instant, in reference to another matter, that the entire Province of Kiangsi was at that time free from disorder. Also Protestant missionaries from the interior, while reporting some uneasiness and a few trifling thefts from their premises at Nanch'ang, have represented the interior of Kiangsi in general to be in its normal condition. It is true that the Protestant missionaries from Nanch'ang, Wuchen, and Huk'ou have deemed it safer to come into the port, but this has been merely a precautionary measure, and I had no evidence of anti-foreign action since the appearance ot a very offensive placard at Huk'ou about the 26th May. The Roman Catholic priests and sisters who have come in this morning from Chiiig- te-chen and Jaochou report that their premises at the former place were burnt on the 11th July, including an orphanage and the dwelling-house of the missionary, Pere Ciceri. Some days previously native banks in the town had been burnt. Many native Christians were killed and their dwellings burnt. The populace declared that an Edict had been received from the Emperor — perhaps meaning the usurping Prince Tuan — commanding the destruction of all foreigners. It is the belief of my informant, P^re Fatiguet, that a document of this nature had really been received from the present usurping power at Peking, and that, although ignored by the responsible officials, it had come into the hands of a Secretary, and had been by him issued to the people. At Jaochou intense excitement prevailed. An attack was made on the very large Roman Catholic establishment in that city, and the officials, declaring that they were powerless to protect the missionaries, advised the priest and the four sisters resident there to go away. They have accordingly come into Kiukiang. It is believed that the mission-house and convent were burnt soon after their abandonment. The Roman Catholic missionaries from Foochow (above Jsanch'ang) are also on their way to that place, thougli it is not known whether any riot has actually occurred there. In calling; your attention to these occurrences, I would point out that, as far as [ knvhat I can, and am having some success in getting the ladies to go down river now, as in the contusion of a hasty departure hereafter, under pursuit by hostile natives, they and their children would be the first attacked, being the weakest and least likely to be armed ; at the Tien-tsin massacre of 1870 it was almost exclusively women who suffered, and in tlie Ku-c'i'eng massacre of 1&95 it was exclusively women and children (all English). 1 have also warned British subjects in the interior that they had better leave as the situation is sure to become worse and troubles more general. At and near Ch'engtu troubles are beginning, and the Missions are threatened by would-be incendiaries at Chungking. I inclose translation of the Empress' Edict and telegram. Inclosure 1 in ifo. 289. Edict of the 5th month, 28th day {June 24, 1900). (Translation.) WE have received from Jiilu u Memorial reporting that the foreigners had started trouble and suddenly seized a pretext for acts of war, hut that in successive battles, lasting for several days, victories had been obtained. The reading ol this Memorial greatly rejoiced and comforted us. China had lived in peace' and harmony with all countries for years, but, after all, affairs have come to an open rupture owing to the hatred between the people and the converts to Christianity. Relying on their strong iron-clads and powerful armies, they [the foreigners] attackeri the forts of our port of Taku, and issued from Tzu-chu-lin [i.e., the foreign quarter of Tien-tsin] in all directions to tight. But Jiilu was everywhere at once, offering resistance; and also our Boxer troops aided him with all their heart and strength, opposing the rampart of their bodies to the assailing cannon and bayonets. On the 2l&t, 22nd, and 23rd [25lh, '.ieth. and 27th June] our forces destroyed two [1116] S 2 war-vessels and killed tnaiiy of the enemy. The people's resolution had become like walls to protect their country, and the firmness of their minds raised the martial spirit of the troops. The Boxers who helped the troops so much in these actions are men of the people; with them, the State need not use a soldier nor spend a dollar. Eveu the little children wielded arms in defence of their altars and fields. In all their dangers the spirits of their ancestors, oi the gods and sages, protected them. The myriads of the people are actuated by one ideal. We hasten to promulgate this Edict in praise of the patriotic Boxers, and to assure them that those of them who are in distress will be cared for. When these troubles are over we intend to bestow on them special marks ot our favour. Let these people's soldiers only still continue, with_ united hearts and utmost efforts, to repel ag^ression and prove their loyalty, without tailing, till the end. This is our earnest desire. Reverence this. Inclosure 2 in 5Jo. 289. The Empress-Dnwager of China to the Viceroy of Szechuan Province. (Translation.) (Telegraphic.) Dated 5th month, 29th day {June 25, 1900). IMPERIAL Edict: At present war has broken out between China and foreign countries. At Tien-tsin, in Chihli, our Generals iiave gained victories with the patriotic Boxers helping the Govern- ment troops, and an F^dict has already been issued to praise and congratulate these. Such patriotic people are to found in all parts of the Empire ' and if the Viceroys and Governors of all the provinces are ai)le to unite and organize forces, we can put an end to foreign insults, and shall accompiisli great results. Report immediately what steps are being taken. The provinces bordering on the river or the sea should particularly act quickly. Brinjj tliis 6C0-Zi a-day urgent Edict to public notice. Respect this. No. 290. Consul Playfair to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 3.) * My Lord, Foochow, July 23, 1900. I HAVE the honour to inclose the full text of the Eno^Iish version of the assurances offered by the Chinese authorities for the acceptance of the Consular Bodv. This instrument is in eflVct a declaration on the part of those authorities that they hold themselves bound by the Treaties in force, in spite of the warlike operations going on in North China, and is practically an adherence to the .Agreement entered into by the Yang-tsze Viceroys, with the exception that the authorities here require no reciprocal assurances, and that the Consuls are not asked to bind the Powers they represent to anv course of action. The clause relating to gua-boats stood in the original draft submitted to the Consular Body as follows : — "Since the neighbourhood of Foochow is extremely peaceable, and since the Chinese local authorities do their utmost to extend protection, there is no need for the vessels of war of the Powers to visit the port, as their so doing might excite suspicion and alarni among the people, and so give rise to diserders." _ This request for an expression of opinion was subsequently modified to the wording as it stands at present, whereby the right of men-of-war to come and go as usual is recognised. 'I'he Chinese word used to define this Agreement is the same as that employed to designate a Treaty. This instrument can, however, hardly be dignilied by that title. It 13 fatiierv>-hat I called it, " assurances" that the Treaties' in force are stiil to be held 133 bindino-. It gives no new privilege, and takes none uwav. As fcir as foreigners are concerned, it is an unnecessary document, and is useful only as reassuring us as to the intentions of the Chinese aulhorilies under circuuistauces wlieie doubt might have been legitimate. To these authorities themselves it has, however, a very real value, as testifyirig to the people of Kootihow that their officials stand on good terms with tiie Representatives ■of foreign Powers. The one danuer to which the foreign community is exposed is a ' popular risii'g, with which the authcrities might find themselves unable to cop?. From the official-, I am convinced, we liave to ex|)ect nothing but good. They have shown themselves not only willing, but anxious to give us no cause for complaint, and to provide for our safety by every means in their power. The understanding of the 14th July, and the trust shown in the assurances of the Chinese authorities, will strengthen their liands and will enable them, I hope, to fullil the ■obligations svhich they have assumed. The document is, however, long, and to submit the text in fall would have detailed a telegram of at least ten times the length of that I sent on the 14th instant to your Lordship. Its signature was agreed to by the Consuls of Russia, the United States, France, Japan, and Holland. i therefore pray that your Lordship wdl approve my having temporarily accepted the assurances of the Chinese authorities pending the receipt of your Lordship's sanction. I have &c. (Signed) ' G. M. H. PLAYFAIR. Inclosure in No. 290. Convention entered into by the Consuls at Foochnw and the Local Authorities on the subject of mutual Protection. Translntion.) WHEREAS the Governor-General and Governors of the Liang Kiang, Liang Hu, Liang Kuang, and Anhui Provinces have now agreed, in consultation with the Consuls of the Powers at Shanghae, on the steps to be taken for their mutual protection; and whereas the Consuls have communicated the terms to their Foreign Offices, and have received their sanction to the drawing up of, and signing of, such a Convention; now therefore the Province of Fuh-kien has decided to act in accordance with the Convention entered into bv the Lianj; Kiang and the above provinces : — 1. The Chinese local authorities are willing to do everything in their power to protect from injury the lives and property of the foreign Officers, merchants, and missionaries resident in Fuh-kien. The same will be true of Amoy. 2. At places in Fuh-kien should bad characters spread false reports for the injury of "foreigners, the local authoritit s will conscientiously effect the arrest and punishment of such bad characters, and no indulgence will be shown. 3. The present Convention is made for the nuitual protection from injury of the people, business, and property of Chinese and foreign countries. It must be explicitly- declared that whatever disorders may happen elsewhere, these' rules will be observed by both parties. 4. Since the neighbourhood of Foochow is very quiet, and the people and the local authorities have agreed to do their utmost to secure full [)rotection, and the Representa- tives of all foreign nations have assured the Viceroys of Ct-ntral and Southern Cl)ina that they will not attack places in Central and Southern China so long as the local authorities maintain order, the people therefore should be informed that they have nothing to fear should foreign war-vessels call at this or other ports as they have been in the habit of doing heretofore. We, the Consuls, will inform the Admirals of our several natioiis that while single war-vessels may come and go to Foochow as usual heretofore, it is not desirable that a number of vessels should come here at this time, lest the people might be «ilarmed. 5. The Consuls of the Powers are requested to communicate this Convention to their Foreign Offices, to be placed on record as a precaution. (5. This Convention shall be n>ade in the Chinese, English, and French languages, two copies of each, and shall be signed by the Viceroy, Tartar-General, and the several Consuls. One copy shall be deposited with the Senior Consul, and the other with the Bureau of Foreign Affairs. 134 7, In this Convention, in cases where the text is not clear, the Chinese version shalt be deemed correct. True copy : (Signed) 'G. M. H. Playfaik. Foochow, July 14, 1900. Kg. 291. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 3.) My Lord, Shanghae, July 24, 1900. I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your telegram of the 24th July, reporting that General Sir Alfred Gaselee, K.C.B., had telegraphed to the Secretary of State for India that he had, as a result of a conference with the Senior Naval Officer and myself, recommended the employment of a force of 3,000 men for the defence of Shanghae. Your Lordship refers to my telegram of the Sth instant, iu which I stated that the Viceroys were not then anxious for more force here, and asks whether the situation has undergone any change. I have to-day replied that Her Majesty's Consul at Nanking is endeavouring to ascertain the opinion of the Viceroy, Liu K'un Yi, as to the landing of British troops at this port. The Nanking Viceroy is still firm and anxious to keep order in these parts. In this he is supported by the Wuchang Viceroy, but the latter's position is less strong, as he has not the same control over his Generals as his compeer at Nanking. The forts on both sides ol' the Yang-tsze have been strengthened with additional guns, and men and ammunition have been moved in. At the Wusung forts extra guns have also been mounted. The Eoxei- movement is on the increase, and further murders of foreigners are reported from Shansi. Shanghae is, as far as foreigners are concerned, the commercial metropolis of China, and is looked upon both by Chinese and Europeans as a point of safety, and it is, therefore, a matter of vital importance that we should show ourselves in a position to hold it against every emergency. I have instructed Her Majesty's Consuls at the Yang-tsze ports to send away the women and children without causing a panic. The majority are seeking refuge at Shanghae, and it is now more than ever essential that every precaution should be taken for the defence of this place, where so many thousand foreigners are con- gregated. I have, &c. (.Signed) PELHAM L. WAREEN. No. 292. Memorandum communicated by Sir Chihchen Lofengluh, September 3, 1900. THE purport of a telegram from his Excellency Li Hung-chang, under date Shanghae, the 2nd September, 6'45 a.m., received by Sir Chihchen Lofengluh in London at 9 a.m. the same day : — " Have received by telegraph an Imperial Decree from His Majesty the Emperor of China, under date tlie 19th August, urging me, as Plenipotentiary, to propose to open peace negotiations with the Treaty Powers. " I memorialized, as per telegram under date the 26th August, to the Throne for the appointment of Prince Ching, Yung Lu, and the Viceroys Lew Kwung Yih and Chfing Chih^ Tung as co-Plenipotentiaries, and have now to request the Ministers resident at the difi'erent Courts to niake the necessary explanations, and to use their efforts to persuade the Foreign Offices in favour of opening the peace negotiations as. soon as possible." No. 293. The Marquess of Salishury to Mr. Whitehead* <(TelegTaphic.) Foreign Office. Seplember 3, 1900. CIRCULAR communication made by the Russian Government to the Powers and reply by the American Government. You should inform the Government to which you are accredited that no answer has yet been received by Her Majesty's Government to the communication which they have addressed to their officers at Peking. They are not able to form a confident judgment on the important questions raised in the Russian Circular, until further information reaches them from Her Majesty's Ministei- and from the General Com- manding the British forces in that city. No. 294. Acting Consul - G eneral Frnser to the Marquess of Salishury. — {Received September 3.) ^(Telegraphic.) Hankow, September li, 1900. SINCE the failure of the attempted rising all is quiet here. The Viceroy here specially requests both me and Mr. Warren to telegi'aph to your Lordship expressing his hope that Her Majesty's Government will take the lead in putting an end to hostilities and opening negotiations with Li Hung-chang. His Excellency fears that the Secret Societies may be encouraged to rise again by the capture of Peking, which, he says, has caused psrturbation along the Yang-tsze, and has paralysad trade, and that possibly the rising might succeed, which would mean devastation of all the ports on the Yang-tsze. i No. 295. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir F. Lascelles. i(Tclegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 3, 3900. REFERRING to my telegram of the 1st instant respecting the proposed landing ■of German troops at Shanghae, I have informed the German Embassy that I do not •consider that the landing of the forces mentioned would be in any M'ay unfavourable to the policy of Her Majesty's Government, and I liave at the same time expressed through tlie" German Embassy my thanks for the courteous communication made to me by the Emperor's direction. No. 296. Acting Consul' Gene lal Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Recciced September 3.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, September 3, 1900. THE withdrawal from Peking would, according to the inCormation at my disposal, expose the motives of the Powers to certain misconstruction by the Chinese; and until the return of the Emperor and Empress-Dowager, Avhich should be made a condition precedent to negotiations, the bad eflFects of such wdthdrawal could only be obviated by a continuance of our military occupation of Peking. * Also to Mr. Hardinge, Sir E. -Monson, Loi-d Currie, Sir F. Lascelles, Sir F. Plunkctt, and Lord Paiincefote. 136 No. 297. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 4) (Telegraphic.) Tien-lsin, August 31, 1900, THE Empress-Dowager is probably at Paoting-f u or in the neighbourhood of that place. No. 298. Sir C. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 5.) (Tele""raphio.) Peking, vid Taku, September 2, 1900. LADY MacDONALD and myself, as well as all British subjects and their families lately besieged in Peking, return most grateful thanks to Her Majesty's Government for their sympathetic message; we had many. very anxious moments, but never doubted that our country would strain every nerve to save us. No. 299. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 5.) (Telegraphic.) Tien-tsin, September 2, 1900. IT is reported by a messenger from Eenchou-fu in Shansi that six Americans were killed at Taku, 50 miles east of that place, on the 31st July. He also states that a party of three men, four women, and three children left Eenchou-fu under escort on the ] 5th August, and that when 10 miles out they are reported to have been shot. The messenger has a rag on which is written, " This man will tell our situation and is trustworthy." It is dated the 13th August, and signed C. "W. Price. No. 300. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 5.) (Telegraphic.) St. Petersburg//, September 5, 1900. THE substance of your telegram of 3rd September has been communicated to Count Lamsdorff, who quite understands our desire for fuller information of position at Peking before deciding our course of action. Information is also anxiously awaited from the Hussian Minister and General, together with their acknowledgment of receipt of their instructions. In the meantime, while paying full tribute to the pacific sentiments and aims set forth in the Russian Circular, the answers from other Governments, including Germany, have not expressed entire agreement as to expediency of immediate with- drawal from Peking of the foreign troops, as well as the Legations and Europeans. Count LamsdorfF seems scarcely to have expected a prompt agieement, and says that the object of the Circular was not to influence judgment of other Powers, but to give them early intimation of the course which the Emperor, while continuing to operate cordially with the other Powers in aims and objects agreed upon, has decided to follow as regards his own troops. No precise date has been fixed for the withdrawal of these troops. The General is to take into consideration local conditions, and communicate with other Com- manders, but to withdraw from Peking as soon as practicable, even without waiting for others. 137 The considerations which the Tlnited States' and other Governments urged against evacuating Peking now would, in Count Lamsdorff's opinion, be equally applicable to evacuation at any later date. The continued presence of foreign troops in the capital would prevent the Emperor of China from returning and any recognizable national Government being set up, and the allied forces can scarcely wish to police the capital permanently, but to open diplomatic negotiations with some duly accredited Plenipotentiary of a legal Government as soon as possible. He maintains his opinion that tbe Powers could do this more effectually by con- centrating their forces in strength at Tien-tsin and Taku in touch with the coast, and by their Governments leaving perhaps detachments near Peking, gradually restoring and securing the line of communications, if necessary, up to the walls of the capital, so that the formidable force which will then have been collected under the leadership of the German Commander-in-chief would be able to promptly enforce the demands of the allies if negotiations fail, and if the formal declaration of hostilities with ulterior measures becomes unavoidable. No. 301. Foreign Office to Consul Playfair. Sir, Foreign Office, September 5, 1900. I AM directed by the Marquess of Salisbury to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch of the 23rd July, inclosing the full text of the assurances given by the local Chinese authorities to the Consular Body at Foochow. His Lordship approves your action in having temporarily accepted the assurance of the Chinese authorities pending the receipt of his instructions. I am, &c. (Signed) PEANCIS BERTIE. No. 302. Acting Consul-General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 6.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, September 6, 1900. IT is the intention of his Excellency Li Hung-chang to start for Tien-tsin and Peking immediately after the Chinese festival on the 8th instant. He hopes to begin negotiations as soon as he reaches Tien-tsin with any of the foreign Ministers who may have left the capital and come to Tien-tsin. No. 303. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir H, Rumbold. Sir, Foreign Office, September 6, 1900. COUNT BERCHTOLD, Secretary to the Austro-Hungarian Embassy, called at this Office on the 13th ultimo, and left with Sir T. Sanderson a Memorandum stating that the Chinese Government had communicated to the Austro-Hungarian Govern- ment the Imperial Edict of the 7th. ultimo, according to the terms of which Li Hung- chang was named Plenipotentiary, with a view to his entering into negotiations with the Powers. It was stated that Li Hung-chang's mission had become necessary owing to the hostilities which the Powers had begun in China, and the origin of which was to be found partly in misunderstandings between the Powers and partly in the negligence of the Chinese officials. His Excellency was instructed to negotiate an armistice with the Powers interested, with a view to entering into pourparlers with [1116] T 13« them, so as to regulate all contentious questions, and to submit the conclusions come to to the approbation of the Chinese Government. It was further stated in the Memorandum that the Japanese Minister at Vienna had suggested in a similar communication to Count Goluchowski, a proposal from his Government, to the effect that the Powers interested ought, in view of this desire expressed by the Chinese Government, and of the probability of a massacre of strangers at Peking, as well as of the flight of the Emperor and Empress-Mother at the approach of the allies, to grant an armistice to the Chinese Government. At the same time the Japanese Government considered that the concession of an armistice should only be granted on condition that the Chinese Government gave the necessary orders for the Chinese troops and rebels to retire to a distance which would be indicated by the Commanders of the allies, and allowed the foreign troops to advance on Peking, with the object of escorting the besieged persons to Tien-tsin. The Memorandum concluded with a request on the part of the Austro-Hungarian Government to be informed as to what reply I proposed to make, in the event of similar steps being taken by the Chinese and Japanese Governments in London. Sir T. Sanderson explained to Count Berchtold the communications which I had made to the Chinese Minister on the subject, the substance of which was forwarded to you in my telegram to Sir C. MacDonald of the 23rd August, and informed him that a similar statement had subsequently been made to the Japanese Government. T am, &c. (Signed) SALISBUEY. No. 304. The London Chamber of Commerce to the Marquess] of Salisbury. — {Received September 7.) Botolph House, Eastcheap, London, My Lord, September 6, 1900. I HAVE the honour to append a copy of a very important telegram dispatched from Hong Kong and received here to-day. The expression of the views of tlie Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce on the disastrous effect upon our relations with China which would result from the with- drawal from Peking of the allied forces before an adequate and satisfactory settlement of the grave questions at issue with that Empire had been obtained, is deserving of your Lordship's most earnest consideration. The message conveys the opinion of commercial men fully acquainted with the character of the Chinese, with the problems that have to be solved, and who represent interests of vast magnitude. I am, &c. (Signed) W. KESWICK, Chairman of the East India and China Trade Section of the London Chamber of Commerce Inclosure in No. 304. Telegram from Hong Kong to London Chamber of Commerce. September 6, 1900. PLEASE communicate Eoreign Office as follows : — "Hong Kong Chamber Commerce earnestly advocates maintaining allied forces Peking until proper government established, and guilty ofladals punished. Earlier withdrawal most disastrous foreign prestige throughout China." 139 No. 806. '^^ Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received Sepiemler 7.) (Telegraphic.)_ Shanghae, September 7, 1900. THE Chinese Representative at St. Petersburgh has telegraphed to Li Hung-chang urgently begging him to send a Memorial to the Throne through the Governor of Shensi (the person most hkely to know -where the Court is to be found), in the following terms : — An Edict should be issued to show China's severity and ability to maintain order when the European troops are withdrawn ; announcing the intention of the Emperor and Empress-Dowager to return to Peking shortly, and the t&sk of restoring order in the capital should be intr-usted to capable officials. He thinks that the adoption of this course would allay the apprehensions of the allies who would consent to the withdrawal of their troops from Peking. No. 307. Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 7.) (Telegraphic.) Tokio, September 7, 1900. IN reply to the Russian Government's Circular communication. Viscount Aoki handed a Memorandum to-day to the Russian Minister, the substance of which is as follows : — " The Japanese Government before coming to a decision as to the withdrawal of the whole of their troops from Peking, intend to recall that portion which may be deemed tactically superfluous, or which is in excess of the number actually required. " They think it would be prudent for the Powers to continue jointly exercising their military pressure in Chih-li for some time longer, with a view to restoring tranquillity and order in that province. " In view of Japan's proximity to North China, it will be relatively easy for her in case of need to send troops again, and therefore the Imperial Government feels assured' that no bad results will be caused by the measures which they propose to take. " They further declare that, while consenting, in certain eventualities, to the temporary withdrawal of their Legation, they will always be prepared to co-operate with the Powers concerned in any further action which, in the common interest, they may deem necessary.'' I have repeated the above to Sir Claude MacDonald, through Shanghae. No. 308. Consul Mansfield to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 7.) (Telegraphic.) Ampy, September 7, 1 900. WITH reference to my telegram of the 1st instant, I have the honour to report that the Japanese and British landing parties withdrew this morning. The incident closed without any friction, and the refugees are returning. [1116] T 2 140 No. 309. Lord Currie to the Marquess of Salisbury.— (Received September 7.) (Telegraphic.) ^o^^' September 7, 1900. THE Italian answer, which has been shown. to me by the Russian Chargd d Affaires, is to the following effect : — „• • Italy does not object in principle to the removal of her Minister to Iien-tsin, but wishes to have his opinion before instructing him. The opinion is expressed that a previous understanding is desirable before with- drawal from Peking. If, however, a final decision has been taken by Russia, Italy hopes that she will act in concert with the Powers on all future questions. In regard to the withdrawal of troops, Italy will await reports from Commander, but fears the withdrawal would encourage the Chinese to resist. No. 310. Sir E. Monson to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 8.) My Lord, Paris, September 6, 1900. WITH reference to your Lordship's instructions contained in your telegram of the 3rd instant, I have the honour to transmit herewith copy of the note in which I informed M. Delcasse that Her Majesty's Grovernment must await the reports from their Minister and General at Peking, for which they had telegraphed, before expressing an opinion upon the acceptability of the Russian proposals for the evacuation of that capital. I have, &c. (Signed) EDMUND MONSON. Inclosure in No. 310. Sir E. Monson to M. Delcasse'. M. le Ministre, Paris, September 4, 1900. WITH reference to the conversation which I had the honour to have with you on the 3 1st ultimo, respecting the proposals of the Russian Government as to the evacuation of Peking, and the answer of the United States' Government thereto, I am directed by the Marquess of Salisbury to inform the Government of the Republic that Her Majesty's Government have not yet received from their Diplomatic and Military Officers at Peking any reply to the communication addressed to them requesting information as to the situation. Until such information shall be furnished to them by the British Minister and the British General in that city, Her Majesty's Government will not be able to form any confident judgment upon the very important questions which are raised in the Russian communication above referred to. I have, &c. (Signed) ' EDMUND MONSON. No. 311. Admiralty to Foreign Office. -^{Receited September 8.) Sir^ ^ Admiralty, September 6, 3900. I AM commanded by the Lol-ds Cotntnissioners of the Admiralty to transmit, for the information of the Secretary of State, extracts from a letter from the Commodore, Hong Kon;j, dated the 2nd August, relative to affairs in South China. I am, &c. (Signed) H. J. VAN SITTART KEALE. 141 : . ' Inclosure in No. 311. Commodore Potvell to Admiralty. (Extract.) " Tamar" at Hong Kong, August 2, 1900. HER Majesty's ship " Mohawk " arrived from the Australian Station on the 27th ultimo, and left on the 30th for Kiung--chau and Pakhoi. I have given Commander Freeman orders to inform Her Majesty's Consul at each place that the " Mohawk " will remove any Europeans who may wish to leave, remaining only long enough for this purpose, and then returning to Hong Kong. Her Majesty's ship " Rohin " is at Wuchau, and the "Sandpiper" at Canton, the latter having been cruising in the Delta. Affairs continue to be quiet at Canton, where the " Redpole " also remains. Two shallow draught gun-boats, the "Argus" and the "Vigilante," are being reconstructed by the Hong Kong and Whampoa Dock Company for the French ; they are to be commissioned, when ready, for service on the West River. The "Argus" is nearly completed. No. 812. British and Foreign Bible Society to the Marquess of Salisbury .-^(Received September 8.) 146, Queen Victoria Street, London j My Lord, September 7, 1900, THE representatives of the Church Missionary Society, the London Missionary Society, the Wesleyan Missionary Society, the China Inland Mission, and the British and Foreign Bible Society, who are at present in China, have cabled to London messages in which they state that any premature settlement at the present juncture would be fatal. They evidently consider that such a policy would tend greatly to increase the dangers to which Europeans are exposed and wovild lead to disastrous consequences. The Secretaries of the above Societies in London — in conjunction with those of the Baptist Missionary Society and the English Presbyterian Missionary Society — deem it their duty to lay these communications before your Lordship as expressing the united opinion of experienced men, who have had prolonged opportunities for knowing China and the Chinese. On behalf of the Secretaries of the above-named Societies, I have, &c, (Signed) JOHN SHARP, Senior Secretary. No. 313. Acting ConsuUGenerat tVari'en id the Marquess Cff Salisbury. — (Rebeived September 8.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, September 8, 1900. YESTEEUAY a couriei- brought to Shanghae a Decree of the 24th August to the following effect : — Li Hung-chang must act as Plenipotentiary, and make the best terms he can as quickly as possible. Being at this distance, we will not interfere. Telegraph a reply, and allay our anxiety. The Chinese Minister at St. Petersburgh has also wired to Li Hung-chang that the Russian Foreign Office had not yet received a definite reply from the Powers as to the withdrawal of the troops from Peking. Russia intends to abide by her agreement, but hopes China will afford every assistance, and not force Russia to reconsider her position. The Chinese Minister adds that he has telegraphed to the Chinese troops in Hi not to repeat the indiscretion they committed in Manchuria. 143 Ko. 814. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 10.) My Lord, St. Petershurgh, August 30, 1900. AVh'bN I attended Count Lamsdorft's reception at the Foreign Office yesterday, his Excellenc}', who liad just returned from attendance on the Emperor and Empress's departure from St. Petershurgh, informed me of the important decision which His Majesty had, before starling, taken in ordering the withdrawal from Peking of his troops and of the Russian Legation and other Russian subjects who had been besieged there. Count Lamsdoiff said that he had already addressed a Circular telegram to the Russian Representatives at the Courts of the Allied Powers, informing them of the decision and enabling them to explain to the Governments to which they were accredited the considerations which had prompted these instructions. _ , This Circular also reasserted the Emperor's loyal adherence to the aims and objects, which all the Powers concerned in China were unanimous in pursuing, and reaffirmed the disinterested character of His Majesly's policy, and his firm desire to withdraw his troops from all Chinese territory which they had been obliged for protection to temporarily occupy, as soon as order and the status quo ante had been re-estabhshed in North China. His Excellency urged these considerations again very strongly in conversation v?ith me. They were in every respect consistent with the view which Count Lamsdorff has not ceased to take^ since assuming charge of the Foreign Office, of the requirements of the present situation in the Far East. He recapitulated to me the points which Russia had from the first indicated, as, in her opinion, best adapted for the guidance of the allied forces in their common action and aim. To these the Emperor intended to continue firmly to adhere- "We had been proceeding, he reminded me, on the assumption hitherto that we were not in a formal state of war with the recognized Government of CLina, but with a nation in a state of rebellion. Our first aim was to release our imprisoned Representatives and their countrymen, and place then(j in safety. The second was to assist the national Government to restore order, to obtain com-r pensation, and guarantees against the recurrence of similar disorders and dangers to our Treaty interests and rights in China. At the same time all idea of a partition of China, or of infringing in any way on her territorial integrity or independence was, by common consent, strongly deprecated. The first aim — the release of our Legations — had been happily accomplished. Circumstances had fortunately combined to admit of an earlier advance with a small force on Peking in i-esponse to an urgent appeal from our Ministers than had been contemplated *as safe, ^r even feasible, by the milil,ary authorities on the spot. Now that this had be^n successfully accomplished, the next thing, in the Emperor's opinion, was to escort the released Legations and Europeans to a place of safety near the coast, and suspend further military action in order to give place to the action of diplomacy. The recognized Government had fled from Peking ; there was no authority in the capital at present with which the foreign Governments could deal ; and the continued presence within its walls of foreign troops who were not of sufficient strength to undertake the serious responsibility, even if we desired it, of permanently policing and maintaining order there, was not only, in his opinion, highly inexpedient, but very dangerous. The Emperor of China would certainly not return to his capital while foreign troops were in occupation of it, and any idea of following the Court into Shan-si and bringing it back by the aid of foreign bayonets, or aa prisoners, would be fatal to the success of the other aims which the Powers were pursuing. It was equally impossible to entertain the idea of the Powers creating themselves a new Government at Peking which would not be recognized as a national one by the Chinese. What we had to do, in his opinion, was to try and get as soon as possible into uegotialion with some authority who could satisfy us that be or they possessed genuine full pcweis fjcni the recognized Governn.ent of the country. This had decided the Ln jeior, as lar as his own trccps and Ministers were concerned, to order their withdrawal IKH) Ickirg, alttr tiling Ictal ciictn stances into ccnsideralicn and ccn niunicating with tit ttnntiLcleis ol the ctlerfcuigu detacLnents, but they were to obey these instructioni MS at the earliest practical date, and leave even if the other detachments remained in Peking. Count Lamsdorff went on to develop very clearly his own personal view of the best position for the allied forces to take up at the present conjuncture. It has been urged on his consideration that an immediate evacuation of Peking by the allied forces would be interpreted by the Chinese as a triumph for them, and Would be followed by a fresh rising, disorders, and massacres, and a consequent loss of foreign prestige in China. He had weighed this consideration very carefully, but was still firmly convinced that the continued presence of our troops in the capital, after the release and safe conduct of -our Legations and the Europeans to the coast, would be fraught with even more disastrous consequences. It was impossible to entertain seriously the proposal which had been put forward in some public quarters that the allied forces, lowering themselves to the level of savagery of the Chinese, should, before leaving Peking, inflict some indelible mark of their presence there which would impress itself on Chinese memory, as razing the city to the ground, or perpetrating some other equally barbarous act of vandalism, and his Excellency dreaded the possibility ol" the foreign troops there getting out of hand, and yielding to the temptations of pillage and other acts of violence. By withdrawing their detachments from the precincts of Peking, and concentrating them in a strong position near the coast such as the base now occupied at Taku and Tien-tsin, the allied forces would remain with a firm grip on the throat of the Capital and be in communication with their ships and Governments with their supplies. It was evidently in his Excellency's opinion most desirable to keep military action well in hand, and not to let it lead foreign policy instead of following its guidance. In this respect he referred to various erroneous impressions created by the incorrect reproduction in the press of some Russian military telegrams. It had been assumed that Russia was taking advantage of the present crisis to extend her territory and influence at the cost of China, by permanently occupying territory on the right bank of the Amur in Manchuria, and at Newchwang and by seizing control of the customs, and lines of railway in which foreign capital was interested. This was entirely incorrect ; Russia had no such intention ; and any places which she bad been obliged by the attack of Chinese rebels on her frontier to occupy temporarily, she intended when the status quo ante and order were re-established to restore to their former position. She was also prepared to hand over as soon as possible to the regular authorities of the Chinese Customs the management and control of the custom-house at Newchwang, ■ which had been temporarily taken in hand by the occupying force, and, in accordance with the oflicial declaration already made to me, the control of any Chinese railways which had also been provisionally assumed would be restored to the former management on the termination of hostilities, and indemnity only claimed for the expenses incurred in repairing and managing the lines. This, Count Lamsdorff said, had been expressly stated in the Circular instruction to M. Lessar, which he had been instructed to communicate to your Lordship. The object of this Circular, he said, was to give the Governments with which His Imperial Majesty was cordially co-operating in China the earliest intimation of the •instructions sent to M. de Giers and General Linevitch, and he trusted that your Lord- ship would see in the statement of the considerations on which they were based a fresh proof of the Emperor's desire to follow a line of general policy and aims in agreement with those of Her Majesty's Government, and other Powers equally concerned in minimizing the dangers to their interests of the present serious crisis in China. His Excellency said that M. de Lessar had reported that an early intimation of your Lordship's views on the subject of this Circular, which had at once been forwarded to you, had been promised as soon as they could be ascertained. I said that I was of course unable as yet to state what view your Lordship was likely to take of the Russian proposal for an immediate evacuation of Peking, but I felt sure that your Lordship would be grateful to him for having supplied a clear exposition of the views and intentions of the Emperor of Russia in this respect, and I reminded him of the statement of policy made on behalf of Her Majesty's Government in the House of Commons, which I had communicated to him unofficiallj^, and which seemed in most -essential points to agree very closely with the policy of the Imperial Government, which be had just been explaining to me. I have, &c. ■"' ^ (Signed) CHARLES S. SCOTT. 144 .; No. 315. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 10.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, September 5, 1900. ON receipt of your Lordship's telegraphic instructions yesterday, I at once called oo Count Latnsdorff" and informed him that Her Majesty's Government had not as yet received any answer to the communication which they had addressed to Peking, and would, therefore, not be in a position to form a confident judgment on the important questions raised in his Excellency's Circular telegram, which M. Lessar had communi- cated to your Lordship, until they had received from Her Majesty's Minister and General in the Chinese capital fuller information as to the position there. Count Lamsdorff said that he quite understood this.^ He was himself anxiously awaiting similar information from M. de Giers and General Linevitch, and, at any rate, an acknowledgment by them of the instructions sent to them. It would almost look as if the delay were caused by the insecurity or interruption of communications between Peking and Tien-tsin, and this caused him serious anxiety. I told his Excellency that I had also received communication of the answer returned by the United States' Government to the Russian Circular, and inquired whether he regarded it as satisfactory, and what replies had been received from other Govern- ments. Count Lamsdorff replied that the American answer was of the same undecided character as that of the replies which he had received from other Governments; they had none of them committed themselves to an expression of entire agreement with the view of the Russian Government as to the expediency of a prompt evacuation of Peking by the allied military forces, nor had lie, in fact, expected such an agreement. They had gene- rally expressed entire adherence to the principles and aims set forth in the Russian com- munication, and the German Government, when doing' so, entirely agreed to the expe- diency of withdrawing the Legations without delay from Peking, but was doubtful of the prudence of withdrawing the military forces as well from the Chinese capital at the present moment. It was clear that none of the Governments could form a decided opinion on this point until they had received fuller information as to the position from their own Ministers and Generals on the spot. The object of the Circular communication, which the Emperor had desired him to address to the other Governments co-operating in military measures in China, was to give them the earliest possible intimation of the instructions which he had caused to be tele- graphed to the Russian Minister and General in Peking, desiring that they should with- draw to Tien-tsin as soon as it was possible for them, in consideration of local circum- stances, to do so. They were to communicate with the Commanders of the other foreign detachments before doing so, and, although no precise date had naturally been fixed for the evacuation, they were to leave as soon as they considered it practicable, without delaying their departure until the other detachments had received similar instructions. Count Lamsdorff said that although the Emperor had decided on this course for his own troops, His Majesty had no desire to influence by his action the decision of other Governments, who might not be able to take the same view of its expediency. Count Lamsdorff said that he had carefully weighed the considerations urged on his attention by the American and other Governments, who apprehended the possibility of serious consequences, and a misapprehension of motive in the withdrawal of the allied forces now occupying Peking. The objections urged to evacuation at the present moment would, in his Excellency's opinion, apply with equal force to an evacuation at any later date, and, if acted on, might entail the occupation for several years of Peking by an" inter- national force. His Excellency went over again the arguments which he had used at our last inter- view, reported in my despatch of the 30th ultimo. He repeated his firm conviction that the Emperor of China and the recognized Government would never return to the capital while it was occupied by foreign troops. The Emperor and Court were confidently reported to be now out of reach in the Province of Shansi, and to be still entirely under the baneful influence of Prince Tuan, who had accompanied them. Under such circumstances, negotiations with them, or with a duly accredited Plenipo- tentiary of the recognized Governinentj was impossible. 145 The only way to get a legitimate Government back to Peking was to withdraw the allied forces outside the precincts of the capital. He repeated that the allied forces would, in his opinion, be able to exercise more effectual pressure on any Chinese Government by concentrating themselves in a strong position outside the capital, in touch with their base on the coast, where their strength would be receiving constant reinforcement. It might be desirable, in view of any necessity for ulterior military measures, that detachments should be left on the Hne of communication to keep it open, and it was very important that the railroad should be repaired and put in working order, and gradually secured, if necessary, up to the very walls of Peking. If, which he did not think probable, negotiations came to nothing, and the Powers were obliged to declare fdrmal war against the Chinese Government, or proceed to enforce their demands, they could, with the formidable force which would by that time have been collected at Tien-tsin and Taku, be able to advance rapidly on the capital under the leadership of the experienced Commander-in-chief whose services have been placed at their disposal. He did not like the position in which the allied detachments now found themselves at Peking, and was convinced that their remaining there would be fraught with more serious and dangerous causes of embarrassment than could possibly ensue from their withdrawal. 1 learn from my Austro-Hungarian colleague that his Government, in replying to Count LamsdorfF's Circular, expressed a desire to regulate its action entirely in iaccordance with that of the other Powers, and with the agreed principles of policy and common aim in China referred to in this communication ; but, as their interests in the Far East and participation in the common action were so much inferior to those of other Governments concerned, they did not feel justified in pronouncing a decided opinion on the expediency of the immediate withdrawal of the military forces from Peking, the more so, as their Charg6 d'Aflfaires there, who hud been wounded, was already leaving, and the Austrian detachment in Peking was a very small one. The French Government, I understand, while agreeing in principle with the Russian Government, has urged a full consideration of the possible consequences of immediate evacuation, and desires to receive fuller information as to the position before deciding the date of withdrawing their forces. The Japanese Government appears to entertain serious apprehension of the conse- quences of a premature withdrawal of the allied forces now occupying Peking. I have, &c. (Signed) CHARLES S. SCOTT. No. 316. Sir C. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 10.) (Telegraphic.) Peking, September 2, 1900. AT a meeting of the Generals the Russian General officially announced that he was instructed to keep 16,000 men in Peking during the winter. The German General made a similar statement. The Japanese General stated that he was instructed to keep 20,000 men there. No. 317. Sir 0. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 10.) (Telegraphic.) Peking, September 3, 190O. PE;INCE CHING entered the Tartar city escorted by Bengal and Japanese t^valry, and had taken up his residence at his house in the Japanese quarter. riiiej u 146 No. 318. Sir C. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury.— {Received September lO.j (Telegraphic.) Peking, September 4, 1900. AT a meeting of foreign Ministers to-day the Russian Minister announced that he had been instructed that, as no properly-constituted Government existed at Peking, he was to proceed to Tien-tsin, and await further instructions. Seeing that Prince Ching is now in Peking under orders from the Emperor, and as it is believed he has full powers to negotiate, the withdrawal of the foreign Ministers would be a mistake. No. 319. Li Hung-chang to Sir Chihchen Lofengluh. — {Commmnicated by Sir Chihchen Lofengluh, September 10.) (Translation.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, September 9, 1900. I HAVE received from the Privy Council the communication of the following Imperial Decree, dated Ta-Tung-fuh, Shansi, August 27, 1900 : — " We hereby summon the Grand Secretary Li Hung-chang, who has been furnished with full powers to negotiate with the Plenipotentiaries of the allied Powers, to come, without delay, to Peking, in order to co-operate with Prince Ching in the transaction of important State affairs. Respect this." The Privy Council has been commanded by a former Imperial Decree to instruct Sir Robert Hart, the Inspector- General of the Imperial Maritime Customs, to apply to the allied Commanders-in-chief for an escort to accompany your Excellency from Shanghae to Peking. In obedience to the Imperial command, I shall shortly leave Shanghae, and you are to request Lord Salisbury to be so good as to issue the necessary telegraphic instructions to the Commanders of Her Majesty's marine and land forces at Taku, Tien-tsin, and Peking, to afford me their protection. The Chinese Ministers at other Courts have been instructed to make communications to the Governments to which they are severally accredited in the same sense. No. 320. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {^Received September 10.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, September 10, 1900. A TELEGRAPHIC Edict has been received by Li Hung-chang ordering him to sail at once for the North, and, together with Prince Ching, to commence the peace negotiations. He was instructed to arrange with Sir Robert Hart for a safe-conduct of the steamer bringing him, which delays his departure for a time. No. 321. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. Scott. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 10, 1900. WITHDRAWAL of British forces from Peking. You should inform Russian Government that communica,tions have been received by Her Majesty's Government from their officers in the Far East in a somewhat 147 imperfect form. Without forecasting the course which it will be expedient to pursue in the future, Her Majesty's Government are of opinion that the time when it would be expedient to withdraw tlie British forces from Peking has not arrived. No. 322. The Marquess of Salisbury to Mr. Herbert. Sir, Foreign Office, September 10, 1900. THE French. Minister called at the Foreign Office to-day and showed to Mr. Bertie the telegraphic instructions which had been sent to the French Minister at Peking. They are to the effect that the Prench Government adhere to the views of the Russian Government that the object of the expedition to Peking, namely, the relief of the Legations being accomplished, there is no reason to remain there. M. Pichon is, therefore, to arrange with the Russian Minister and General to leave, as soon as possible, with the Legation staff and French troops and such native Christians as may desire to accompany the party. The French Government are of opinion that with the large international force which there will be at Tien-tsin and Taku, there is no doubt that any return of law- lessness on the part of the Chinese can easily be repressed from those bases. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. No. 323. Acting Consul-General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury, — {Received September 11.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, September 11, 1900. THE Emperor and Empress-Dowager were at Ku Kuan on the 7th September. (This place is marked latitude 37° 50', longitude 113° 52', on Waeber's Map.) As Prince Ching is in Peking, Li Hung-chang will start for the north on the l4th instant. The Third Peace Commissioner is Jung Lu, who, although reluctant to go, is never- theless prepared to obey orders. Li Hung-chang has advised him to confess his complicity in the attack on the Legations, and see if he will be then accepted by the Powers. This message is repeated to Her Majesty's Legation at T6ki6 and to Sir C, MacDonald. No. 324. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 11.) (Telegraphic.) St. Petersburgh, September 11, 1900. THE statement made by the Russian General at Peking, reported in Sir C. MacDonald's telegram of the 2nd instant, must be in reference to some orders previously given him by the Russian Commander-in-chief in China. Positive instructions to withdraw were dispatched to the Russian General on the 25th August. He has not yet acknowledged their receipt, and M. de Giers, in a telegram dated the 4th September, expresses his surprise that his numerous requests to be furnished with general instructions should have remained unanswered. The Russian Foreign Office have already dispatched six messages to their Minister, and have caused these to be repeated to Taku, so that they should be transmitted to their Legation at Peking. L1116J U 2 118 No. 325. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 11.) (Telegraphic.) St. Petersburgh, September 11, 1900. r CALLED to-day on Count Lamsdorff, and made to him the communication con- tained in vour Lordship's telegram of yesterday's date. In reply, his Excellency begged me to make it quite clear to Her Majesty's Govern- ment that the differeat course decided upon as regards the Russian troops was not in any way to be taken as indicating the slightest intention of separating the general action and policy of Russia in China from those of the Powers who might prefer to keep their detachments in Peking. It was, however, considered desirable to have the Russian troops as well as the Russian Minister as soon as possible in a position where communica- tion with their Government would be easy and rapid. He assured me that, on the contrary, the Emperor was more firmly determined than ever to continue in loyal cooperation with all the other Powers and toabide by his agree- ment with them as to common aim and direction, and the Russian action and aims would be faithfully kept within the limits of the statement made in Count Lamsdorff's Circular communicated to the Powers. He assured me, further, that there was nothing more foreign to the Emperor's mind than to entertain the selfish aims or motives for his action which certain foreign news- papers had credited him with. The Chinese Minister in St. Petersburgh has been requested by Count Lamsdorff to impress on Li Hung-chang as well as on the Emperor of China a firm conviction of the entire solidarity of the views of Russia and of other Governments, and to warn them seriously against interpreting the departure of Russian forces from Peking as in any way indicating the slightest separation of her action in exerting common pressure on the Chinese Government from that of other Powers. When doing so, however, he appears to have expressed a personal opinion that an early withdrawal from Peking of the other foreign forces would be facilitated by a prompt return of the Imperial Court to the capital. I gathered from Count Lamsdorff that as far as had as yet been decided, the German and Japanese Governments were not prepared to withdraw their forces from Peking at present, but that the American and French Governments would withdraw their Legations and forces as soon as the Russians withdrew theirs. No. 326. Sir C. Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 11.) (Telegraphic.) • St. Petersburgh, September 11, 1900. THE Chinese Minister here has made a similar communication to that repeated in your telegram of 10th September* to the Russian Foreign Office and to the Austrian Ambassador. It is dated the 7th September from Shanghae. Prince Cbing is not mentioned in the Imperial Edict, but Count Lamsdorff has learned that he is to co-operate with Li Hung-chang in negotiating for peace, and he considers the news good. The addition of certain other names to the list of negotiators would, in his Excellency's opinion, have been satisfactory. Count Lamsdorff is convinced, by the form and text of the Imperial Edict, that the Emperor himself has issued it, and granted the full powers to arrange and conclude terms of peace. No. 827. Sir C. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury.— {Received September 12.) (Telegraphic.) Peking, September 7, 1900. I HAVE received your Lordship's telegram of the 31st August. The Eussian Minister, as stated in my telegram of the 4th September, announced his departure in two days, and leaves Peking to-morrow. There was no mention of * No. 319, 14.9 the departure of the Eussian General. I think that a general massacre of Christian converts and of all Chinese who have shown themselves friendly to foreigners would most certainly ensue if all foreign troops leave now. I am of opinion that the departure of the Legations now would be most inexpe- dient, and I think that their withdrawal from the capital would hinder future negotia- tions. The Court would be alarmed by such a step, and it would probably cause the departure of Prince Ching, who, with some diplomacy, has been persuaded to return here. When the Corps Diplomatique have once succeeded in persuading the high officials, and possibly the Emperor, to return here, and Plenipotentiaries have been appointed with unrestricted powers, we might request these Plenipotentiaries to come to Shanghae to conduct the negotiations, as that place is in closer touch than Peking with Europe. ■: Peking would be preferable to Shanghae or Tien-tsin in which to carry on negotia- tions if telegraphic communication were properly restored. In my opinion, a General would have considerable difficulty in getting into touch with the Court if unaided by the Ministers. No. 328. Mr. Herbert to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 12.) (Telegraphic.) Paris, September 12, 1900. M. I)ELCASSfi says he would have no objection to LiHung-chang as a negotiator if he really can furnish bond fide credentials, but he ^has returned, no answer to his latest communication. M. Delcasse, in conversation this afternoon, argued strongly in favour of Russian proposal for withdrawal, and made use of much the same language as that held by Count Lamsdorff to Sir C. Scott, as reported in latter's telegram to your Lordship. Since 29th August no telegram from M. Pichon has been received. No. 329. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir E. Monson.* (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 12, 1900. IT is stated by the Russian Minister for Foreign Affairs that the Emperor will continue to co-operate loyally with the other Powers on the lines of the Russian Circular, notwithstanding the withdrawal of Russian troops from Peking. This has been impressed upon the Chinese Minister at Peking by Count Lamsdorff. No. 830. Foreign Office to Consul Carles. Sir, Foreign Office, September 12, 1900. THE Marquess of Salisbury read with interest your despatch of the 28th June, reporting the feat performed by Mr. James Watts in riding with despatches through the Chinese lines from Tien-tsin to Taku. * Also to Sir F. Laseelles, Sir H. Rumbold, Lord Currie, Sir C. Scott, Lord Paunoefote, and Mr. White- head, for Shanghae aud Peking. 150 His Lordship desires you to express to Mr. Watts his high appreciation of this courageous and pubHc-spirited act, and to inform him that your report of it has been laid before the Queen. I am, &c. (Signed) FRANCIS BERTIE. No. 331. Sir C. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 13.) (Telegraphic.) Peking, September 10, 1900. PEACE Plenipotentiaries : Your telegram of the 1st September. With the exception Yung Lu, several of whose troops were killed by us on the barricades opposed to us during the siege, I see no objection to the Plenipotentiaries named. One of Ching's standards was also captured by us. I would suggest instead the present Viceroy of Puhkien, Hsu Ying Kuei. No. 332. Admiralty to Foreign Office. — (Received September 13.) '■] ^ii"j Admiralty, September 13, 1900. I AM commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to transmit, for the information of the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, a copy of a telegram, cTated 7th September, from Rear- Admiral Bruce at Taku. I am, &c. (Signed) EVAN MACGREGOR. Inclosure in No. 332. Rear-Admiral Bruce to Admiralty. (TelegrapMcO Tahu, September 7, 1900. c- / o 7" o . , informed, on Japanese authority, Emperor and Empress were at Sianfu 3rd September. Prince Ching, the progressive leader, was coming to Peking 2nd September. Yu Lu, Viceroy of Chihli, committed suicide, with family, at lungchow ; several members of Reform party paid private visits to'.lapanese General a tew days ago. No. 333. Acting Consul-General Warren to the Marquees of Salisbury. —{Heceived September 13.) (TelegraphicO Shanghae, September 13, 1900. wir},^?;fnS v'' ^f ^1^T?> ^' -Hung-chang starts for Tien-tsin. He hopes, rl ?nni if fn% '";! ^V^ ^''^^"' ^•^^^' *" ^'^^ t^« P^^^« negotiations. He urges Yung Lu to see the Emperor privately, and insist on the 'punishment of the LTotiations BeX'/^r^f-^' ''" Boxer movement as a prelimWS ?he 1 eac negotiations He fears that his mission will fail unless he can meet the foreign Ministers mth an assurance that the guilty will be condignly punishS 151 No. 334. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 13.) (Telegraphic.) ■ Shanghae, September 13, 1900. A REPORT is current here that the Russians are about to send a force to Chingwantao. If a force is sent to Chingwantao, it is desirable that it should be an international one. In this view Sir Edward Seymour concurs. No. 335. Acting Consul-General Warren, to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 13.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, September 13, 1900. I HAVE received the following telegram, dated the 12th instant, from Sir Claude MacDonald, to be repeated to you : — " The withdrawal of all troops now would mean a general massacre of all converts and such Chinese as have shown themselves friendly to foreigners. Tung-fu Hsiang, with troops and Boxers, is still at Paoting-fu, 12 miles Irom Peking. The temples and the western hills are full of Boxers. It is dangerous to ride out without an escort into the country. When Prince Ching arrived here on the 3rd, he had to ask for an escort to protect him against Boxers and disbanded troops. Is the Chinese Minister at St. Petersburgh aware of this state of things ? " No. 336. The Marquess of Salisbury to Mr. Whitehead {for Acting Consul- General Warren and Sir C. MucDonald).* (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 13, 1900. I AM informed that the Erench Government will act in accordance with the Russian proposal, to which they adhere. No. 337. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 14.) My Lord, Tien-tsin, July 23, 1900. I HAVE the honour to report that events have shown thac the Viceroy Yii Lu, after his conference with General Nieh on the 14th ultimo, to which I referred in my despatch of the 28th June, determined to cast in his lot with the Empress- Dowager's party at all costs. The rapid "concentration of troops upon Taku, and the placing of mines in the river there, immediately followed upon that conference ; and the continuous bombard- ment of the foreign Concessions was undoubtedly an act for which the Viceroy was responsible. I have, &c. (Signed) W. R. CARLES. No. 338. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 14.) Mv Lord Shanghae, August 1, 1900. " I HAVE the honour to inclose translation of two Imperial Decrees of the 2nd August, communicated to me officially by his Excellency, Sh^ng. Both Decrees lay the blame for the present situation on the missionaries and their * Also to Mr. Hardinge, Sir F. Lascelles, Sir F, Plunketl;, Lord Currie, and Lord Pauncefote- ]52 converts. The first Decree provides for the escort of the Ministers to Tien-tsin, and significantly aUudes to the possibiHty of their being attacked en route. It also allows for messages en clair being transmitted on their behalf by the Tsung-li Yamen. In view of this,' 1 yesterday sent a message to Sir Claude MacDonald, to which a reply might come within five days. The second Decree begins with a declaration of neutrality towards civilian foreigners, but commands a campaign of extermination against native converts, unless they are willing to throw in their lot with the Imperialist side. The Boxers are called " Patriots," and the acts of violence committed in their name are provided for in advance by the allusion to robbers and banditti pretending to be " Patriots." These Decrees are considered by local Chinese to imply a certain degree of weakening in Prince Tuan's power in the capital. On the other hand the reports — which appear to be quite authentic — of the execution of two Tsung-li Yamen Ministers, Hsii Ching Ch'engand Yiian Ch'ang, clearly show that whether Prince Tuan's individual authority has or has not decreased, the capital is in a state of indescribable confusion, in which the anti- foreign party is absolutely predominant, and which renders the situation of foreigners there most dangerous. I have, &c. (Signed) PELHAM L. WARREN. Inclosure 1 in No. 338. Imperial Decree of August 2, 1900. (Translation.) WHEREAS on account of the recent troubles in the capital between the populace and missionaries and their converts, war has broken out between China and the foreign Powers ; And whereas all the Ministers of foreign countries resident in Peking should be protected; the Prince and Ministers of the Tsung-li Yamin have frequently addressed to them letters of encouragement and inquiry, pointing out that in view of the disorder prevailing in Peking full measures of protection were difficult to carry out, and the Tsung-li Yam^n therefore suggested that they should proceed under escort to Tien-tsin, where they could retire for the time being, and avoid all cause for alarm. We accordingly command the Grand Secretary Yung Lu to select reliable military and civil officers of high rank to escort the Ministers to Tien-tsin with an armed guard. When the Ministers have fixed a date for leaving Pekmg they shall be escorted with every care en route, and any attack upon them by banditti shall be rigorously punished, while no pains shall be spared to render their journey safe. Before leaving Peking, each Minister shall, if he desires, communicate with his Oovernraent en clair, and the message shall be transmitted by the Tsung-li Yamen without any delay. ■ The good feeling of the Throne towards the strangers from afar will thus be apparent. Inclosure 2 in No. 338. Imperial Decree of August 2, 1900. (Translation.) DURING the present outbreak of hostilities between China and the Powers, the foreign merchants, Missions, &c., throughout the Empire must be considered as outside the sphere of hostilities. All Viceroys and Governors have, therefore, already been commanded to protect them as usual, and now that our troops are massing round Peking, all general officers marching with their forces towards the capital shall also respect this command, and make arrangements for the protection of all foreign merchants and mis- sionaries, in order to assist the Throne in demonstrating its kindly feeling towards the strangers from afar. With regard to native converts, these are also children of our State and of the same origin as ourselves; but since the troubles began between the"Ch*uan" (Boxers) and the Christians, the converts in many places have taken up defensive positions in their villages, intrenching themselves and throwing up earthworks to resist the Imperial troops. Such people as these are acting as rebels, and must absolutely be exterminated. However^ 153 if they repent, in fear of the punishment due to them, and adopt a new line of conduct, the net of destruction may be opened, and they may be allowed to escape. Eecently the General Sung Cli'ing reported that the converts at Ta Po Tien, in the Pao-ch'i district,* when exhorted l)y him, all expressed their willingness to east aside their weapons and destroy their i'nrtificalions. They then scattered and returned to their villages. It is therefore evident that these converts are not all of their own free will banditti and robbers. In all cases where converts express their willingness to sui'render in the above manner, we hereby command all military and local authorities to act in the same way towards them, and not to put them to death indiscriminately. But all cases of robbers and banditti pretending to be patriots, and wreaking their vengeance on the converts, must be investigated and dealt with according to their circumstances, in order that disorder may be put a stop to. Obey this. No. 339. Acting Consul-General- Warren to the Maiquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 14.) My Lord, Shanghae, August 7, 1900. I HAD the honour to telegraph to you yesterday that the Governor ol Chekiang admitted the murder of five Briti?h subjects at Ch'ii Chou. These are the missionaries referred to in my teleurara of the 28th July, and it would appear that the four who were supposed to have le(t Ch'ang Shan for Cb'ii Chou decided to remain at their posts, and are, it. is to be hoped, still unharmed. The Governor exjjresses the deepest regret at the sad occurrence, and has degraded the Prefect, Taotai, and General of the place for their negligence. Unfortunate as these repeated massacres of isolated missionaries are, they are not, as far as 1 can judge, due to any remissness on the part of the officials in these parts, all of whom are endeavouring to the utmost of their power to preserve peace and order. I inclose copy of Mr. King's despatch of the 6th August reporting on the case. I have just ascertained that the names of the murdered persons are Mr. and Mrs. D. B. Thompson, Miss Sherwood, Miss Manchester, and Miss J. E. Desmond. 1 have, &c. (Signed) PELHAM L. WARREN. Inclosure in No. 339. Consul King to Acting Consul- General Warren. Sir, Hangchow, August 6, 1900. WITH reference to my letter of the 31st ultimo and my telegram of yesterday, I have the honour to inform you that I ata in receipt of a communication from the Governor to the following effect: — His Excellency states that five foreigners were killed at Ch'ii Chou, but does not mention on what date. With regard to the others who were reported to have been killed while passing through Ch'ii Chou in their flight from Ch'ang Shan or elsewhere, he says no trace can be found, but that search is being made for them. His Excellency adds that the Chen T'ai, Taotai, and Chih Fu, of Ch'ii Chou, are to be deprived of their posts for maladministration, and that all oflScials not discharging their duties properly and with due zeal will be punished. He states, in conclusion, that he has requested the Viceroy at Nanking to inform the Chinese Minister in London and also the Consular Body at Shanghae of the foreguingv and expresses more than once his deep and sincere regret at what has occurred. I have. &c. (Signed) ' H. KING. * About 60 miles east of Peiiing-. — Thamslatob. [ni6| 154 No. 310. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 14.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, September 14, 1900. THIRTY-NINE adults aud ten children of the China Inland Mission in Shansi and. Chihli are unaccounted for. They have not been heard of since the early part of May. It is reported that some of them are held for ransom by Boxers and rebels. The Head of the Mission inquires if anything can be done to rescue them, and have them escorted to some Treaty port. The above has been sent to Her Majesty's Minister. No. 341. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 14.) (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, September 14, 1900. ^ HIS Excellency Li Hung-chang left at 1 p.m., in a liritish steamer, for lien-tsin, the steamer flying a flag denoting that he is a Plenipotentiary. No. 342. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 14.) r (Telegraphic.) Shanghae, September 14, 1900. \ ACCORDIXG to the Report of the China Inland Mission, 2i missionarie (including females) have been killed in Shansi, 11 in Chekiang, and 4 in Chihli, making a total of 3S. Seventy-three persons are missing in Shansi, of whom sixty-three are British. No news of them has been received since end of June, and there is but little hope for their safety. No. 343. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir E. Monson.* (Telegraphic ) Foreign Office, September 14, 1900. A COMMUNICATION has been made by the Russian Government respecting their intentions, of Avhicli the follovAMng is a summary. It had been their first object to protect Ru!^sian Legation and nationals in Pekin"", their second to assist the Chinese Government to restore order. The Russian Government adhere to the principles communicated to you in my telegram of the ■20th July. Russia had been forced to occupy Newchwang and send troops to Manchuria by the progress of events, such as the attack on Russian troops at Newchwano- and the hostilities of Chinese along the Russian frontier, including the bombardment of Blagovestchensk. Russia vi'ill withdraw from Chmese territory M'hen the pacification of Manchuria is attained and the security of the railroad assured, provided such action does not meet with obstacles caused by the proceedings of other Powers. The inviolability of the rights of f.n-eign States and international Companies in Newchwang and in the railways repaired by Russian troops is to be maintained. The first object had been efi'ected by the rescue of the Legations. The departure from Peking of the Emperor, Empress- Regt-nt, and Tsung-li Tamen, to whom Minister is accredited, had temporarily hindered'the second object. • Also to Lord Currie, Sif F. Lasce k?, Sir H. Rumtold, Sir C, Scott, and Lord Pauncefote. 155 _ It is therefore proposed by the Hussian Government to withdraw to Tien-tsiu their Minister, his staff, and the Russian troops. Russia will, in concert with other States, appoint Representatives to negotiate, when the legitimate Chinese Government resume power and nominate Plenipo- pentiaries. No. 344. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 15.) (Telegraphic.) Shangkae, September 15, 1900. WITH reference to the missionaries in Shansi, I have long since asked the assistance of the Viceroys in rescuing them and bringing them to a place of safety. With the co-operation of the Governor of Shansi they have succeeded in rescuing large numbers, but Shansi is out of their jurisdiction, and their power in that province is limited. The Governor of Shansi is Yu Hsien, an oflBcial of rabidlv anti-foreign senti- ments. It is upon him that the responsibility lies for massacre of so many missionaries in Shansi. We can expect no assistance from hira, and there is no chance of recovering the missing missionaries without help from outside. No. 345. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General fi'arren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 15, 1900. THE exportation of arms and ammunition from the United Kingdom to China has been forbidden by a Proclamation issued on the 7th September. Do all you can to prevent the Chinese from obtaining such ammunition and arms, and issue instructions to other Consuls in the same sense. Consuls will receive all possible aid to enable them to act effectively from naval officers who have been instructed accordingly. It must be remembered, however, that belligerent rights of search and detention do not exist. No. 346. The Marquess of Salisbury to Acting Consul- General Warren. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 15, 1900. WITH reference to your telegram of the 14th of this month relative to the position of missionaries in the interior, T am afraid that the measures which the Chinese authorities themselves may be disposed to take constitute the only hope of rescue. You should consult with the Viceroys as to what can be done by them in the matter, at the same time impressing on them that retribution will certainly follow should the missionaries be killed. No. 347. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 17.) My Lord, Tien-tsin, August 1, 1900. I HAVE the honour to inclose a copy of the " R^glements Generaux d'Administrar- tion de la Ville de Tien-tsin," which have been submitted to the General Officers Com- manding the allied forces at Tien-tsin for approval and confirmed by them. I have, &c. (Signed) W. R. CARLES. [1116] X 2 156 Inclosure in No. 347. General Regulations for the Administration of the City of Tien-tsin. LA ville de Tien-tsin ayant ete occupee par les troupes alli^es il a et6 decide de constituer une Administration provisoire sous forme de " Conseil du Gouvernement Provisoire de la Cite Chinoise de Tien-tsin." La juridiction de ce Conseil s'etendra sur la ville mime de Tien-tsin et sur les territoires environnauts jusqu'au rempart de lerre (mud wall) k rexceplion : — L Des concessions etrang^res: Allemande, Anglaise, Frangaise, et Japonaise. 2. Des arsenaux, camps, chemins de fer, t^l^graphes, et autres institutions militaires ■d^ih. occupies par les troupes alliees. Le Gouvernement Provisoire s'occupera des questions suivantes: — • 1. R^tablissement de I'ordre et de la securite dans I'enceinte de la cM sur leterritoire soumis a sa juridiction. 2. Prescription dans la cite, sur ce territoire et aux environs, de mesures sanitaires afiu de prevenir les maladies epide'miques et autres. 3. II facilitera aux troupes alliees le cantonnement et leur procurera des vivres et des moyens de transport, betes de somme, charrettes, bateaux, coolies, &c. 4. II dressera I'inventaire et prendra les mesures ne'cessaires pour conserver la -propri^t^ mobili^re et immobilifere appartenant au Gouvernement Chinois, ainsi que celle des particuliers, delaissee par ces derniers. 5. II prendra des mesures pour prevenir la famine parmi les indigenes. Le Gouvernement Provisoire sera represente par un Conseil compos6 de trois inenibres jouissant des memes droits, ^lus par la reunion des Commandants Militaires des Puissances alliees operant dans le Petchili. Le Conseil etant emanation de toutes les Puissances jouira sur le territoire qui lui est confix d'une inri^pendance absoluc et fera droit, dans la niesure du possible, a toutes les demandes qui lui seront adressees, tant par les Commandants des troupes alliees que par les Consuls des Puissances etrangeres. En cas de divergence entre le Conseil et un des Commandants des troupes alliees ou entre le Conseil et un des Consuls, la question sera soumise a I'arbitrage de la reunion des Commandants superieurs des troupes alliees ou a. celui du Corps Consulaire, selon le 2.— To Yuan Shih K'ai, Governor of Shan Tung. The United States' Consul writes regarding Mission at Pang-chia-chuang, in Te-chou, asking for protection. No. 323.-10 Yuan Shih K'ai. English Consul writes regarding three British missionaries who on their way to Ho Nan stopped for a time at Te-chou ; on account of the road not being quiet they dare not advance. He also asks that if rebels threaten the Missions at Chichou and Lading, on the border of Shan Tung, you will send troops for their speedy protection. June 14, 1900. No. 324.^ — To Liu-kun-yi (Viceroy at Nanking). Reply to two telegrams. No. 325.— To General's Yamen at Peking. Sent on behalf of General Nieh. 161 No. 326.— To General Mei (in south of Cliilili Province), foreigners from Chi-chou put on board boat. Very good. (They were escorted from their home and sent under military escort. An officer came here by General Mei's orders to report their safe arrival. — W. R. Carles.) No. 327.— To Shang (Magistrate at ? ). Consult with General Mei as to condition and action of rebels. Ju7ie 15, 1900. No. 328.^ — To two Commissioners. Sent on behalf of General Nieh. Imperial orders have been received com- manding brigade to be all stationed at Tien-tsin. Requests Commandants Hsing and Yang. No. 329. — To two Commissioners. Five camps under Hsing and Yang are ordered by Emperor to Tien-tsin. General Nieh must be consulted as to their detention (at Paoting-fu). No. 330. — To Ting-chieh, Pinancial Commissioner (at Paoting-fu). Lu (Governor of Kiang Su) detains Magistrate Lo. What will you do in the matter ? No. 331.— To Colonel Chang at Paoting-fu. Acquaint Chang Taotai if they (the Boxers) are tranquillized (by peaceful measures), he may withdraw his camps to Tien-tsin. No. 332.— To Liu Kun Yi (Viceroy at Nanking). Telegraph to Peking is interrupted. Memorial by telegraph can be transmitted hence by mounted messenger. No. 333. — To Chang Chih-tung (Viceroy-at Wuchang). My Memorial to the Throne agrees entirely with that of your two Excellencies. Your Memorial has been sent on by mounted messenger. No. 349. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 27.) My Lord, Tien-tsin, July 31, 1900, I HAVE the honour to inclose translation of an Imperial Edict of the 18th instant, enjoining protection of the liCgations in Peking, and of foreigners generally throughout the provinces. Provision is also to be made for losses incurred by foreigners through proceedings which were not acts of war. The high authorities are at the same time instructed to put down the pillaging, murdering, and maltreatment of law-abiding people, which has taken place at the hands of brigands and rebels. With reference to the last paragraph, the information which has reached me within the last few days is to the eflPect that the Boxers, who were disheartened for a time by the capture of Tien-tsin by the allied forces, and through the loss of some of their leaders, are now mustering in great force in villages and towns 20 miles to the west of Tien-tsin, and also in places lying a few miles off the high road to Peking. I have, &c. (Signed) W. R. CARLES. Inclosure in No. 349. Imperial Decree. (Translation.) THE commencement of difficulties between foreign Powers and China in the present instance was due to the mutual differences between Christians and people. Subsequently the Taku forts were captured, which caused hostilities to break out ; but the Court rightly attaching great importance to foreign relations was loth to be hasty in breaking them off, and repeatedly issued Edicts ordering the protection of the "Legations, and instructed the Viceroys to protect missionaries. Hostilities have not yet ceafeed, and there are great numbers of merchants of every country in China ; it is fXU6] T 1«2 right that they should all receive protection, and we order Commanders-in-chief, Viceroys, and Governors concerned to ascertain what foreiga merchants and 'missionaries there are in the Treaty ports, as well as in the various Prefectures, Depjartments, and districts of the , interior, and to continue to be viofilant in affording them jgvery one proper protection, in accordance with Treaty; there must he no remissness. When the Japanese Secretary, Sha Shan Bin, was killed last month, we were profoundly astonished at (such an) extraordinary occurrence, but this is not all, for now there is the further case of the German Minister* being killed. The said Minister* being resident in Peking for the performance of international duties, his suddenly being wounded and killed is all the more greailyto be lamented, and it is our duty to issue stringent orders for the apprehension of the murderers and their punishment. As regards murders of foreigners and missionaries at Tien-tsin, subsequent to the outbreak of hostilities (not including casualties caused in the fighting, but only those due to wanton disorder), and damage to and loss of property, we order the Prefect. of Peking and the Viceroy of Ohihli to order their subordinates to investigate the cases, and, after receiving instructions, to deal with thfim collectively. The burning by brigands and rebels in various places, and the pillaging, mur- dering, and maltreatment of law-abiding people is still more intolerable, and the said Viceroy and all , military commanders of troops and high officials are hereby com- manded to investigate the real facts, and act as opportunity serves for the suppression of the rebels, so that the disturbance may be cut off at its source. I^et this general Decree be made known. Respect this ! Dated 22nd of '^^ moon, ISth July, 1900. No. 350. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 27.) My Lord, Tien-tsin, August 6, 190O. I HAD the honour of telegraphing to your Lordship yesterday that the Chinese had been driven out of Peitsang and were in full retreat. The allied forces had moved out of Tien-tsin the previous day, from 16,000 to 20,000 strong, and made the. attack early yesterday morning, capturing Peitsang at 7 A.M. The Russians, French, and Austrians were checked in their advance ^ihrough the country on the east bank of the river having been purposely inundated by the enemy. But the forces on the west bank of the river moved rapidly forward. General Gaselee's intention was to advance to Yangtsun as soon as possible. The Japanese force has lost heavily. Our own casualties, so far as is known, are few. The field telegraph was not in working order this morning, and it is not known what point has been reached, nor have full details of yesterday's action been received by General Dorward. I have, &c. (Signed) W. E. CAELES. P.S.— The weather is very favourable to an advance. Very little rain has fallen, and the temperature is lower than is customary at this season. W. E. C. No. 351. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 17.) ^^\n- . 1 ^-ffi u. u • Tien-tsin, August 6, 1900." li IS extremely diffacult to obtam any trustworthy information about the situation in Peking. , : . But it wb\iid appiear that during the latter part of June and the first half of July iJie * The word-iisedi* an objgeftiOMble tefm,: " • ' .}^ '-*'. 163 Empress-Dowager, eitber purposely or etheiwise, lost control of the Government, and that Prince Tuan was for some time the guiding spirit. The Boxers in the province had for months previously claimed Tung Fu-hsiang. as"' their patron, but after the irruption of Boxers into the capital on the l^th June, Prince Tuan assumed the position of being their head. Kang Yi and Chao Shu-chiao had shown great sympathy with the Boxer movement, and after the riots at Feng Tai, and the murder of Messrs. Roliinson and Norman at Yung- chinjr, were sent to preach to the Boxers on the doctrine of peace. On tlieir return from this mission tliey appear to have been somewhat discredited, and not to have been so prominent at Pekinji as before. Prince Ching and the Grand Councillor Jung-Iu appear to have been the only persons among the leading statesmen in Peking who act^ed as any check on Prince Tuan or General Tung. The capture of Tien-tsin by the allied forces acted temporarily as a shock, which made it necessary for the anti-foreign party to reconsider their line of action. An informal armistice was accordingly arranged, and the Empress-Dowager and Emperor were brought again to the front. The presents of " provisions " which were sent to the Legations in token of the Imperial desire for their welfare, consisted, according to news brought from Peking, of fruits and cakes sent from the Palace. '1 he Chinese text of the telegram received from the Governor of Shan Tung by the Consular Body at Chefoo, dated Chinan Fu, the 2nd August, only speaks of vegetables, fruit, and eatables, a present which may have been sent inore to "relieve the anxiety of foreign Governments," to quote the words of the Tsung-li Yamen's message, than to supply the Legation with food. From the Edicts which I have seen it seems to me probable that they are not the Edicts of any individual Ruler, hut of the dominant party of the hour. The same thing is visible in the attacks made upon the Legations. If the destruction of the Legation had been ordered by the Empress-Dowager the guns on , the city walls could have effected this without much loss of life to the Chinese. I imagine that the Empress-Dowager has preferred to remain in the background and thence watch with interest the struggle for life made by the foreigners in the Legations, who, in her opinion, must have enjoyed the same security as that of a mouse played with by a cat, and have afforded the same amusement to the spectator. The issue of the struggle must to her mind have been bejj'ond doubt, and the only question have been whether their death would result from starvation or massacre. I have &c* (Signed) ' W. R. CARLES. No. 352. Consul Fraser to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 17.) My Lord, Ichang, August 7, 1900. I HAVE the honour to report that at noon on the 2nd August I received at Chung- king your Lordship's orders (conveyed through the Consulate-General at Shanghae in a cypher telegram) to remove myself and the European community from Chungking by the British steamer " Pioneer." I had for weeks past l\een shipping away missionary families from Chungking and from the interior in native boats, otherwise it would have been impossible to succeed, as I did, in removing to the " Pioneer " that same evening all but a few persons who had, like those removed, ample time to go by the " Pioneer," but bravely refused to go, in spite of all remonstrances, and chose to stay behind and affront danger with the view of helping those expected from the interior during the next few weeks. The names of these gallant men deserve to be recorded: Mr. Wm. Hyslop, China Inland Mission; Mr. Brill, of Chicago; and Mr. Nicolson, of A. J. Little's. On the afternoon of the 2nd August the demeanour of the native populace was markedly more threatening. They yelled at me, " Kill the foreign devil," but did not resort to any violence. With half-a-dozen other armed Europeans, including a Frenchman and a German, I was able to get through the least fiequented streets (or rather alleys) and the quietest of the City gstes without molestation at about 8 p.m. just before it closed for the nii^ht, and, the night being bright, we were able to fetch up at the "Pioneer," anchored and moored on the other side of the Yang-tsze, without accident, except that [1116] Y 3 16i some valuable things were snatched from the baggage bearers. To save the Taotai's " face," however, I sent him a letter to say I had obtained leave of absence for a time, but hoped soon to return. The Japanese Consul wrote to me regretting his inability to leave_ for a few days. He was to leave by native boat in a day or two, he told me; and Captain Mori, of the Japanese steamer "TaJuan," told me, on the "Pioneer's" arrival at Ichang, that the Consul would be here soon by native boat with his nationals. The French priests, including a Bishop, had long ago made known their firm intention of staying till the last. The French Consul sent his archives on board on the evening of the 2nd, with the Consular doctor (and Acting Chancelier), Dr. Laville, of the French army. The French Consul asked me to detain the steamer till 8 a.m. of the 3rd, but I informed him the " Pioneer " must leave at daylight. She left about 6 a.m. on the 3rd. The American Acting Vice-Consul, iVlr. Lewis, a missionary, was picked up by the "Pioneer" from a native boat en route with others. Starting with twenty-six passengers, we picked up daily native boats with Europan Canadian, and American refugees (all missionaries), until, before arrival at Ichang, we had ninety passengers on board, including many women and a score of children. One of the refugee parties we picked up were in serious difficulties, the skilled boatmen having deserted and an ex tempore crew hired to replace them, a dangerous expedient amongst these furious rapids and whirlpools. The picking up of refugees made the journey down, which should be for the "Pioneer" less than twenty-four steaming hours for the 400 miles, last two days and a-half, and we arrived at Ichang on the afternoon of the 5th August instead of on the afternoon of the 4th. Yesterday 1 sent to your Lordship a telegram, reporting that Chungking community to the number of ninety had arrived at Ichang with me, including, besides sixty-three British subjects, twenty-four Americans, two Germans, and one Frenchman. As Captain Plant says he could take the " Pioneer " up again, I am keeping that vessel until I receive from Admiral Seymour a reply to an urgent telegram which I sent to his Excellency immediately on arrival here, submitting a suggestion that she should go up again with some men and some light ordnance. Most of the Chungking refugees have gone on to Hankow by other steamers. More are expected here soon from up-country. I cannot conclude without referring in terms of the highest praise to the help given me throughout the crisis by Captain Plant, Mr. Moorhead, Acting Commissioner of Customs, and Mr. J. Holton Bush, of the Pritchard-Morgan Syndicate. I have, &c. (Signed) M. P. A. ERASER. No. 363. Acting Consul-General Warren to the Marquess of Salishury. — (Received September 17.) My Lord, ^ . Shanghae, August 11, 1900. 1 HAVE the honour to inclose a copy of a report on the situation at Kiukiang, dated the 6th instant, which I have received from the Acting British Consul at that port. I have, &§. (Signed) PELHAM L. WARREN. Inclosure in No. 353. Acting Consul Clennell to Acting Consul-General Warren. ' T ttAATT^ t 1- Kiukiang, August ^,lQ{iQ. 1 HAVE the honour to report that the unrest which prevailed here during the greater part of July has greatly subsided during the last ten days, though reports of naval movements on the lower river seem to bo still causing alarm among certain sections ol the natives, and a gradual exodus to the interior continues. 165 I attribute the cessation of excitement in part to the action of the officials, and in part to the fact that 500 Uunanese soldiers, who had been quartered close to the back of the Concession since the 3rd July, were removed on the 27th, their place being taken by a " ying " of Kiangsi men, whose beliaviour has been scrupulously correct, praise I cannot bestow upon their predecessors. In particular, the new soldiers did good service in extinguishing and keeping order at a rather serious fire on the 31st July, which threatened to involve the Roman Catholic hospital. There are now about 3,000 soldiers of one sort or another at Kiukiang ; as many more at Huk'ou, a few at Takut'ang, and perhaps others at places in the vicinity. The numbers vary from day to day, and reliable information is hard to obtain. The activity lately observed at Matung is said to have ceased. Three Chinese gun-boats, the "Pao Min," " Chin-ho," and " Feiting " have visited Kiukiang since the 20th July. I have telegraphed their names and dates of their departure to the Foreign Office. They alJ landed guns, small arms, and military stores. The " Feiting " is still here. The force both of men and of guns, of which eighteen have, I am told, been added during the present crisis, seems now (if it should unfortunately be directed against us) far too considerable to be coped with by one gun-boat. 1 have sent a report on the military movements observed since my arrival here to await Captain M. E. Willoughby, care of Her Majesty's Consul at Chinkiang, the place appointed to be Captain Willoughby's head-quarters. The officials appear imbued with the idea that an Agreement exists under which our Grovernment undertakes not to enter the Yang-tsze in force or to occupy Wusung, and have expressed themselves several times in conversation, and at least once in a Procla- mation, as if their obligation to protect us were contingent on our adhering to this understanding. On the 7th July, Her Majesty's ships "Linnet" and "Woodcock" happening to have been in this port simultaneously for two days, the Chent'ai wrote to protest against their joint presence. The impression that this is their view is strengthened by the communication to me on the 4th instant of an Imperial Edict, dated the 24th July. You are doubtless acquained with this document, and have observed that, while it protests against the idea of China desiring to take the offensive against the Powers, it also emphasizes the necessity of protecting Chinese territory against invasion. As it reaches the Kiukiang Taotai through his Excellency the Yiceroy at IsTanking, who orders the Taotai to obey it, it seems fair to assume that his Excellency acknowledges it as a command, which'he is bound to obey. While I think they will ultimately side with the winner in the present troubles, the publication of the Decrees of the 29th June and of the l7th and 24th July is sufficient evidence that the officials in these provinces have so far by no means renounced their allegiance to the Government to which they owe their appointment. They acknowledge freely enough that " the northern aflFair has been mismanaged ; " they admit, though with much reserve, tbat^high ofiicials in the capital have been guilty of criminal conduct (denying, for instance, that Prince Tuan ever proclaimed himself Emperor) ; but, if they saw a chance of success, my impression is that they would gladly employ all the forces at their disposal to defend the Manchu dynasty, perhaps even to reinstate it if it should be overthrown. They would like peace to be preserved on the Yang-tsze, but are hedging against either event. Prudence and a regard for their revenue restrain them from violent courses, and so far they have preserved order, on the whole, exceedingly well, but they have not as yet thrown in their lot with the allied Powers. Since the riot at Jaochou on the 2 1 st July, I regret to say that several smaller disturbances in the interior have been reported, e.g., at Wu Paitzu (near Chichou, Hupei), at Wuch'eng, and one or two others. No Europeans have been injured in person, but several chapels have been destroyed. The rumour of a riot at Ki An has not been confirmed ; on the contrary, my last news is that all was quiet there, and the ofiicials doing their duty. The situation at Yung Hsin Hsien (near Hunan border) was reported to be critical. The resident missionaries (three Finnish and one Canadian) had left. At Kanchou all was quiet ; the women and children have arrived here in safety. At Linkiang Mr. Lawson was requested by the officials to remain, as the place was considered safe. Accordingly, after escorting his family to Kiukiang, he has returned to his station. Ml the British and American missionaries at Nanch'ang. Nank'ang, Wuch'eng, 166 Jaochoti, Huk'ou, and, in general, the nearer parts of Kiangsi have arrived here or gone on to Slianghac. "When 1 last heard, it was intended to leave two unmarried men at Fuchou and Cbicnch'an'j', recalling all others in that region. The district wliich gives me the gravest anxietj is the Knanghsin Valley. At a recent date there were in that region the following Protestant ladj missionaries : — At Anjcn, 4; at Kueich'i, 9; at Yi Yang, 3 ; at Ho K'ou, dt; at Yang K'ou, 3; at Kuang-leng, 3 ; and at Y^ii Shan, 10. Total, 86. None of these have come in as yet, and hy last accounts Tu Shan and Yi Y^ang were in a very disturbed state. I am in possession of an inflammatory placard irom Yi Yang, What with the Jaochou riot on the one side and the rebellion in Ch^'kiaiig on the other, I can only regard tliis section of the country as in a very critical position. , Mr. Orr Ewing left a week ago to visit these stations, and will, 1 still trust, be abls' to take steps for the removal of these ladies to places of safety. Fe left armed with despatches from the Taotai to the Magistrate at Anjen and the Prefect of Kuang- hsin Fu. As I have informed you by telegram Kuling is quite quiet, but almost evacuafed. I believe that at this moment the only foreigners there are Messrs, Broomhall, Bevis, and Ambler. There is a Chinese guard of twenty men, who have hitherto behaved well and to whom a substantial reward has been promised if they continue to do so. One case of theft has been reported to me ; the stolen articles were found on the thief's person, and he was handed over to tiie Magistrate here. Work still continues at the new school-house. As the evacuation of Kuling has, thrown a large number of people out of employment, I think that we have reason to he both surprised and rejoiced that its consequences were not far more serious than they have been. Several foreign houses are left vacant in Kiukiang itself. T have a case in my hands where a hoiTse in the city, evacuated by the Misses Johnston and left in charge of the officials, has been entered and pillaged of property worth probably 470 to 500 dollars. There is a half-caste family of four children still in Kiukiang, otherwise no foreign women and children. Import trade ^^as lately pretty nearly at a standstill, except coal from Japan. Export trade, however, id brisk, cargo being shut out from steamers, and the Bussian. tea factories are working busily. I received from the Taotai la'^t night a letter saying that six men (named) had been executed for participation in the Chingte Chen riot. The recruits who took part in the Jaochou riot, having been enlisted by an officer specially deputed by the Viceroy, appear to have been sent down to Nanking to be dealt with. The telegram which I sent you yesterday, inquii'ing whether there was any necessity for removing the male community was prompted by one received from Admiral Seymour by the Commander of Her Majesty's ship "Linnet," in which Sir Edward asked to he informed immediately the community was withdrawn. While drafting the present despatch I received your reply. I am very glad to learn that you see no present need to withdraw from this port, for I feel that to do so, unless we are absolutely driven out, would be a fatal mistake. , I have, &c. (Signed) W. J. CLENNELL.,, No. 354. Consul Wilkinson to the Marquess of Salisbury. ^^(ReCcived September 17.) My Lord, Ningpo, August 10, 1900, I HAVE the honour to report thatj with one exception, all British missionary ladies within the circuits whose centres are Ningpo and Wenchow have been withdrawn either to Shangliac or to Ningpo. The accompanying map, taken from the Decennial Reports, 1891, of the Imperial Chinese JVJarilime Customs, shows this Province of Chekiang as divided into fourteea 167 ietute8» These fourteen are grouped into four circuits, each presided over by a Taotai (Intendaiit), thus : — ■ .;:';!:.: -^ ^■■ .v';>, ,.' ; ■' No.: ■•■-'-. '■J r;i: Circuit. Prefectures. Spat of Government. 1 ■;.ii ' . 2 , , 4 i.n:j., , . Hang-oViia-hu Niii.u-shao-t'ai Wen-ch'ii . . Kin-ch'U-j-en Hangchow, Ka'hing, Hiicliow . Ningp:), Siiiiohsiiiir, Taicliow Wenchow, Cli'uohDU Kiuhwa, Ch'tlchoii, Yenchow Hnnjifchow. iNinjipo. Weirchow. Ch'Uchou. Affairs in the first of these circuits would naturally fall to Her Majesty's Acting Consul at Hangchow to report; those in the second and third to Her Majesty's Consuls at Ningpo and Wenchow respectively. The fourth has been a no-man's-land; but as it forms the upper basin of the Ch'ien-t'ang River, at the mouth of which Hangchow is situated, I informally suggested some time since to Her Majesty's Acting Consul at that , port that he should regard it as included in his sphere of duty. It is for this reason that I have not reported to vour Lordship any of the recent unhappy occurrences in the R^inhua and Ch'Uchou Prefectures. The western portion, moreover, of the Shaohsihg Prefecture is more readily accessible to Hangchow than to Ningpo, and as, for that reason, the members of the Missions wlio suffered through the disturbances at Chuchi in the early part of last month betook themselves to Hangchow, I have assumed that Mr. King has reported through Mr. Warren the nature and extent of their losses. From Wenchow Prefecture all the missionaries, Catholic as well as Protestant, with- drew on the l>!th ultimo. Three members of the China Inland Mission revisited the [)prt on the 30th July. They focmd their Mission compound intact, and quiet apparently restored in the city itself; but no satisfactory steps were being taken to stop the persecution of converts in the country districts. The Brigadier, Intendant, and Prefect all wrote urging them to bring their families back to the port, and reside there, preferably on Conquest Island, but, in any case, close together, for better protection. They decided, however, " to await the time when those in authority would be not only willing but able to protect foreigners from the fanatical Secret Society men now so numerous m the hill country round Wenchow." In the remaining Prefecture of the VVen-ch'u circuit, Ch'uchou (not to be confounded with Ch'uchou), the resident missionaries, though atfiliated to the China Inland Mission, are all Germans, Since the date of the recent troubles there, July 11th, no positive news has been received at Ningpo from or of them. It is reported, however, that they have retreated into Fubkien Province. As regards my own more paiticuUr charge, the Ning-shaio-t'ai circuit, T hesitated for a long time to advise British missionaries to come in from the interior. For one thing, the authorities here, the Provincial Commander-in-chief and the Taotai, were loyally discharging their duty to protect foreign life and properly, and I did not wish to initiate a measure which might seem to show that I, the only Consul at Ningpo, di;.trusted their ability to maintain order. For another, anything resembling a general exodus on the part of the missionaries would be exceeoingly likely to cause a panic among the natives, and probably provoke attacks upon chapels and converts. At the same time it was impossible to be altogether blind to two sources of danger : the resentment felt, by officials and people alike, at what they consider undue interference by the missionaries on behalf of their converts, and the outrage on Chinese decorum caused by the keeping up by un- married girls of households with no apparent male head. The former of these sentiments was fortunately not acute in this circuit, at least in regard to Protestant Missions ; but the latter might at any time afford to the ill-disposed an excuse for mischief, as in the interior of Ning-shao-t'ai alone there were at least four establishments of unmarried missionary ladies, including among their inmates eleven British subjects. Accordingly I wrote, on the 24ith ultimo, to the Director at Shanghae of the China Inland Mission, suggesting to him the advisability of withdrawing during the present troubles all unmarried missionary ladies from the interior of Chekiang. He replied that he was sending by telegraph 'instructions to this effect to, his agents at Ningpo. To those agents I expressed a verbal 0|)inion that it would be more satisfactory if the married ladies also were brought in, stating at the same time that 1 did not consider the OetSseisity equally strong. As regards fcbeir husbands and tlje Taomarried nois&ionaries, I 168 wished them to be guided by the condition of affairs in their respective neighbourhoods, of which condition I requested that I might be kept promptly informed, I took the opportunity to deprecate a too common practice among missionaries in the interior, of supplying to the newspapers full details of current events while keeping their Consuls in ignorance. A letter in this sense I addressed to their Director, who, T am happy to say, promptly replied that he " heartily agreed with the views expressed, and would impress upon his missionaries not only the advisability but the necessity of communicating to their Consul any facts regarding the situation in their districts." On consideration of all the circumstances, the local agents of the China Inland Mission resolved to bring in from the interior not the ladies alone, but the whole of their missionaries. In one instance it has so far been found difficult to effect this. Mr. and Mrs. Eichardson are stationed at T'ai-p'ing, a district town in T'aichow Prefecture. According to the last letter received from them, dated the 3Ist July, " outside the city for miles around it is not only unsafe at night, but in the day also. The officials have requested us not to traveCso that we are practically prisoners within the city walls'," The Taotai, on my application, has promised to provide an escort for the Richardsons sufficiently large to insure a safe journey to the coast, and to instruct the Magistrate to guard their premises during their absence. I should observe that the disturbers of the peace in that district are not Boxers or anti-foreign rioters, but ordinary brigands such as have been the bane of T'aichow Prefecture for many years. These bandits are encouraged to more active mischief by the present disturbed condition of the Empire at large. To avoid multiplying in this Report names of places and persons, I am appending in tabular form a list of missionaries resident in this province at the end of .Tune last, showing their present situations. I trust to be able shortly to report that all belonging to this circuit are in safety. For some reason the United States' Oonsul-General at Shanghae has, it is evident, arrived at the conclusion that even Ningpo is not secure, for he has advised his nationals to leave this port, and with one exception they have already gone or are on the point of going. I do not find myself in agreement with him. I believe that the Commander-in- chief and Intendant, with the officials under them, are bent on preserving the peace, and that unless some more pronounced intervention on the part of the allies takes place at Shanghae or in the Yang-tsze Valley too abruptly to allow time for its discounting here, peace will be preserved. Last month the Imperial Maritime Customs revenue at Ningpo was the highest on record, 100,742 Haikwan taels, and harvest prospects continue excellent. On the other hand, the exodus of Ningpo Chinese from Shanghae, to which I referred in my despatch No. 8 of the 6th ultimo, and which had abated by the 1.5th of that month, has recommenced, while news has just reached me of the contemplated withdrawal of foreigners from Hangchow. In the meantime, the Provincial Government has taken the noteworthy step of deputing to at any rate the four Prefectures of Ningpo, Shaohsing, T'aichow, and Wenchow officials of the expectant rank of Prefect, specially charged with the care of Mission property. The Deputy to Ningpo, Wang Ch'in, called upon me on the 4th instant, when I took the opportunity to urge the claims to consideration of the converts who in some parts of the province, notably near Wenchow, are apparently abandoned by the authorities to the tender mercies of their heathen neighbours. I am not sure whether the mission of these Deputies is prompted by a sincere desire on the pait of the Provincial Government to protect chapels and so avoid reclamation, or whether the many expectants of office at Hangchow have taken advantage of the situation to secure temporary employment. But, as I have said, I credit without reserve the local authorities at Ningpo with the wish and intention to maintain order. I have, t&c. (Signed) W. H. WILKINSON. Inclosure 1 in No. 354. Map of Chekiang Province. 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Lascelles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 18.) (Telegraphic.) Berlin, September 18, 1900. A COPV of the Circular which Count Hatzfeldt has been instructed to communicate to your Lordship was handed to me to-day by Baron von Richthofen. He said that it was Count von Bulow's conviction that, before entering into negotia- tions for peace, public opinion in Germany would require that the Government should obtain some satisfaction for the outrages committed in China. Moreover, if the ring- leaders in 1860 had been adequately punished, the present disturbances would, in his opinion, never have taken place. No. 356. Mr. C. Hardinge to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 18.) (Tele-raphic.) St. Petersburgh, September 18, 1900. I LEARN that the Russian Government have telegraphed to their Representatives in those countries, which are now en^jaged in China, instructing them to ascertain the opinions of the Governments on three points, which are as follows : — Would the transfer of their Missions from Peking to Tien-tsin accord with the views of the Governments who are maintaining their troops in Peking ? Would Li Hung-chang and Prince Ching, in the character of Plenipotentiaries approved by the Chinese Government to carry on negotiations, be acceptable to those Governments; and would the Goveinments concerned give the necessary authority to enter on negotiations to their Representatives in China when once the latter had satisfied themselves as to the value of the guarantees put forward by the Plenipotentiaries ? 1 understand that the Austrian reply to the above points has been received, and is to the effect that their action will be in conformity with that of the other Governments interested. No. 357. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. MacDonald. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 18, 1900. THE following telegram from Prince Ching has been communicated by the Chinese Minister : — " The allied forces occupy Peking. The Emperor and the Mother-Empress left for the west, I am now invested with full powers to act as co-Plenipotentiary to his Excellency the Grand Secretary Li Hung-chang to open peace negotiations with foreign Powers. Please request Lord Salisbury, in taking into consideration the amicable relations existing between us, to be so good as to empower Sir C MacDonald to negotiate with us as soon as possible so as to confer the benefits of peace upon humanity at large." Do you think it desirable to assent to Prince Ching's request ? No. 358. Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September lit.) My Lord, T6ki6, August 13, 1900. r:f'~ I HAVE the honour to transmit to your Lordship herewith copy of a note, which I have addressed to the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs, giving the substance of your Lordship's telegram of the 10th instant, relative to the appointment of Field-Marshal Count Waldersee to command the international expedition to Peking. 173 In the absence of information as to the nature of the further instructions mentioned in your Lordship's telegram, I thought it best to omit any reference to them. I flavG &c. (Signed) ' J. B. WHITEHEAD. Inclosure in No. 368. Mr. Whitehead to Viscount Aoki. M. le Ministre, TokiS, August 13, 1900. IN the course of the interview with which your Excellency honoured me on the 9th instant, you were so good as to inform me of the telegrams which had been exchanged between the German Emperor and His Majesty the Emperor of Japan, on the subject of the supreme command of the allied forces in North China. ! I now have the honour to state that I have received a telegram from the Marquess of Salisbury to the effect that Her Majesty's Government have accepted, so far as they are concerned, the proposal of the German Government that Field Marshal Count Waldersee shall be Commander-in-chief of the international expedition to Peking. I avail, &c. (Signed) J. B. WHITEHEAD. No. 359. Mr. Whitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 19.) (Extract.) TSkio, August 13, 1900. I HAVE the honour to report that during the interview I had with Viscount Aoki on the 9th instant, his Excellency informed me that the Chinese Minister had just been to see him, and had stated that the Peking Government were willing to send the foreign Ministers to Tien-tsin with a view to their safety, but that they refused to go. He then asked Viscount Aoki, on behalf of the Chinese Government to telegraph to Baron Nishi instructing him to leave Peking. His Excellency replied by asking what guarantees the Peking Government could give that the foreign Ministers on leaving Peking would not be attacked and massacred by General Tung's fanatical soldiery. The Chinese Minister had no suggestion to make in this respect. Viscount Aoki reminded him that he had repeatedly urged that Yuen Shi Kai or some other military commander of the moderate party should advance on Peking in co-operation with .Japanese, British, or French troops, and should relieve the Legations. Until the Chinese had done something of this kind to prove their good faith, no foreign Govern- ment would trust them. His Excellency further pointed out that after what had occurred the Ministers naturally would not leave Peking with only a Chinese escort to depend on for safety, and that he was, therefore, unable to telegraph instructions to Baron Nishi in the sense desired. No. 360. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. MacDonald. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 19, 1900. YOU mil have received, from Her Majesty's Consul-General at Shangbae his telegram of the 14th instant in regard to missionaries in the Province of Shansi. You will doubtless consider whether you can induce the Chinese Court, through the intermediary of Prince Ching or otherwise, to give orders that any missionaries StUl alive may he rescued and liberated. 1'4 No. 361. Viceroys of Nanking and Hankow to Sir Chihchen Lofengluh. — {Communicated by Sir Chihchen Lofengluh, September 20.) (Telegraphic.) Nanking, September 19, 1900. AN Imperial Edict has been issued to exterminate the Boxers. The foreign missionaries in Paoting-fu and Chingting-fu were escorted by the order of the Acting Viceroy of Chihli and delivered to the care of the Commanders of the allied forces at Changsingtien and Lukouchiao. It seems to us that the object of sending an expedition to Peking — first, to rescue the Representatives, and secondly, to suppress the insurrection — has been attained, and we hope that the allied Powers will soon appoint their Plenipotentiaries to open the peace negotiations with our Plenipotentiaries, and the British Government will be so good as to cease the sending of any more troops to the different ports, and to stick to the agreement for the preservation of order and peace of the Yang-tsze Valley, so as to confer the benefits of peace to humanity at large. No. 362. Memorandum given to the Chinese Minister to be forwarded to the Chinese Government. LOED SALISBURY duly submitted to the Queen, his Sovereign, the telegram from His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of China to Her Majesty, dated the 3rd July, whicb was forwarded by the Chinese Minister on the 11th of that month. As Lord Salisbury informed the Chinese Minister on the 24th July, it was not possible for him to submit to Her Majesty any proposals for a reply to that message so long as the Queen was left in uncertainty as to the safety oE her Envoy at Peking and communication with him was interrupted. Now that by the efforts of the allied forces the European Legations have been rescued from the attacks of troops under the comnaand of oflfi-cers of the Emperor of China, the Chinese Minister has inquired whether a reply will not be sent to his Imperial Majesty's message. The accounts which reach Her Majesty's Government of tlie treatment of British and other European missionaries in the Province of Shansi, where the Imperial Court is reported to be now residing, are of so distressing a nature that Lord Salisbury is, to his regret, still unable to submit such a message for Her Majesty's approval. It is reported that a number of missionaries have been killed, some by the direct orders of the Governor of Shansi, and that the fate of a still larger number, including children, is still unknown. The Queen has been deeply moved by the dreadful accounts which have reached her. Until the Emperor has shown in some signal manner his disapproval of these shocking acts committed in the proximity of His Imperial Majesty's Court, and has issued stringent orders for the rescue of those suiferers who may still have survived, Lord Salisbury cannot advise Her Majesty to reply to the Emperor's message. Foreign Office, September 20, 1900. No. 363. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. Mac Donald. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 20, 1900. A MESSAGE from the Nanking and Hankow Viceroys was communicated to-day by the Chinese Minister, stating that an Imperial Edict had been issued ordering the extermination of the Boxers, and that the missionaries in Chengting-fu and Paoting'-fu had been delivered over to the Commanders of the allied forces. The Viceroys are of opinion that the object aimed at in the expedition to Peking 175 : has been attained, viz., the rescue of the Legations and the suppression of the insurrection. In these circumstances, they express the hope that Plenipotentiaries will be appointed by the Powers to carry on negotiations, and. that no more troops will be sent by Her Majesty's Government to Chinese ports, and that the agreement with the Consuls in regard to the Yang-tsze Valley will be kept. No. 361. Count Hatzfeldt to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 21.) (Translation.) My Lord, Oerinan Embassi/, London, September IS, 1900. ' IN accordance with instructions received, I have the honour to make the following communication to your Excellency : — The Government of His Majesty the Emperor consider that it should be a preliminary condition to entering upon diplomatic intercourse with the Chinese Government, that those persons who are ascertained to have been the first and real instigators of the offences against international law, committed at Peking, should be given up. The number of persons employed as instruments to carry out the criminal work is too great ; an execution en masse would go against the civilized conscience. Circumstances will even prevent the possibility of ascertaining the names of all belonging to the group of the leaders. Those few of them, however, whose guilt is notorious, should be surrendered and punished. The Representatives of the Powers at Peking will be able to give, or to obtain, the most trustworthy evidence in this inquiry. It is not so important that a large number of persons should be punished as that the chief instigators and leaders should receive punishment. His Majesty's Government believe that they can count on the unanimity of all the Cabinets on this point, since indifference to the idea of just retribution would be equivalent to indifference to a repetition of the offence. The Government of His Majesty the Emperor therefore propose to the Cabinets concerned that they should instruct their Representatives at Peking to indicate those leading Chinese as to whose guilt in Instigating or committing the crimes there is no room for doubt. I should be much obliged if your Excellency would inform me whether Her Majesty's Government agree to this proposal in regard to the surrender of the guilty. I have, &c. (Signed) P. HATZFELDT. No. 365. Admiralty to Foreign Office. — (Received September 21.) Sir, Admiralty, September 20, 1900. I AM confimanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to transmit herewith, for the information of the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, copy of a report by Lieutenant C. G. R. Brandon, R. N., of Her Majesty's ship " Pique," on the training, &c., of the Chinese soldiers at Wuchang. A similar letter has been sent to the War Office and India Office. I am, &c. (Signed) EVAN MACGREGOR. Inclosure in No. 365. Lieutenant Brandon to Captain Reynolds. Sir, - " Pique," at Hankau, July 23, 1900. I HAVE the honour to report that, in accordance with your orders, I accompanied the Consul-General and the Commissioner of Customs to Wuchang, and watched the exercising of the Chinese troops, all of whom have been drilled by German officers. 176 2. The following facts I picked up from various sources about the troops : — 3. In Chang-Chih-Tung's Viceroyalty there are 3,000 trained troops and 6,000 under training, and he intends raising 7,000 more. 4. The field guns are made in the Hankau Arsenal, which is run by Germans ; the ammunition is also obtained there. 5. There is a verv large number of guns available for service; 1 saw twenty-nine being exercised, 6-prs", rapid-loading breech-loading Krupp guns, with a range of 4,800 metres. 6. Twelve men form a gun's crew ; on service five horses are allowed to each gun, three carrying the gun and mounting, and two the ammunition, which is stored in boxes of ten rounds each. 6. The cavalry are armed with lances and swords, and carry a Mauser carbine slung on the back. None of the cavalry have yet finished their training. 7. The infantry carry the Mauser rifle and a short sword bayonet. The kit carried on service weighs about 35 lbs. 8. The usual company and skirmishing drills were carried out, Chinese words of command being used, and the German army step adopted. 9. The men appear to be of excellent physique ; they have all been through the gymnastic course, which is a mixture of the British, German, and Japanese. The gymnasium is large, and special attention is paid to jumping, with and without poles. 10. The officers have all been through the ranks, but the new Military School at Wuchang is expected to supply them in future. 11. All recruits have to be of decent family, and must be able to read and write^ Their pay is about 8 dollars a-month. 12. The sappers and gianners are stated to be very clever at fortification, and also make excellent infantry, being trained in both branches. 13. I was informed that as long as the pay was received from the Viceroy the troops would fight his enemies, irrespective of nationality. What they would do should theii' pay not be forthcoming appears to be doubtful. 14. From what I saw, I am of opinion that these foreign drilled troops compare very favourably with our own men. A German officer told me that he considered them as intelligent as the average German soldier. I have, &c. (Signed) CLAUDE BRANDON. No. 366. Admiralty to Foreign Office. — {Received September 22.) "Sir, Admiralty, September 20, 1900. I AM commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to transmit here- with, for the information of the Marquess of Salifebury, copy of a letter from the Commander-in-chief on the China Station, dated the 8th ultimo, reporting on the State of affairs in the Yang-tsze Valley. I am, &c. (Signed) ^ EVAN MAOGB,EGOR. Inclosure in No. 366. Vice-Admiral Sir E. Seymour to Admiralty. Sir, " Alacrity," at Shanghae, August 8, 1900. I HAVE the honour to report that after my arrival at Shanghae on the 26th July I consulted Her Majesty's Consul-General, Mr. Pelham Warren, and some of the principal British residents on the state of affairs" here. 1 found much disquiet and apprehension existing amongst the community, due to the fear that the two great Viceroys in the Yang-tsze Valley, viz., Liu Kun Yi at Nanking, and Chang Ohih Tung at Wuchang (Hankau) might not b&able to control their troops; that if the troops were once out of hand there would be a general rising against foreigners throughout that region, and that the Settlement would he attacked, either by troops sent for that 177 purpose, or at least by bands of lawless Chinese from the Shanghae native city and surrounding country, the enormous wealth accumulated in the Settlement offering special temptati(m. On tlie 27th July I held a meeting, at which the Chairman of the Local Defence Committee and others were present to ascertain their views. The general opinion was that 10,000 men were required to make Shanghae quite secure. The two military otficevs sent by General Gaselee for defence duties, r.'aptain Davies and Captain G. D. S. Barrow, both agreed that this number was required unless t'ley could rely on men and guns being landed from ships in the river. The number asked for was hirger than I expected or myself thought at all urgently needed in all probability, and I therefore, in reporting to their Lordships, mentioned 5.000 as the number actually necessary. The meeting was strongly in favour of all British troops being sent, and, if not, that the Atr.'^ricans should join. This, no doubt, would be more acceptable to the Viceroy of Nankins; than if foreigners of other nationalities were laniled, but it was pointed out that the defence of the community was a matter in which all nations were interested, and would probably wish and insist on taking part, A day or two later I took an opportunity of visiting the suburbs of the Settlement to see what would be the best line of defe^nce to hold and the number of troops I thought required for it, and came to the conclusion that 3,000 troops, assisted by men and gun-fire from ships in the river might be expected to hold the Settlement against an attack in any probable lorce, and that 5,000 men could do so without assistance from the navy. I would here mention that although the country about Shanghae is fiat for miles, the numerous villages, trees, graves, and high reeds wou'd enable an enemy to conceal their approach until close to the Settlement, and there are scarcely any buildings from which a good look-out can he obtained. As soon as I arrived at Shanghae I asked Her Majesty's Consul-General to ascertain from the Consul at Nanking whether the Viceroy (Liu Kun Yi) would give me an interview, which 1 considered was desirable. The Viceroy replied that he was much prostrated by the heat, and would like me to defer my visit for a few days. On the 31st July I heard he could see me, and I therefore left Shanghae early on the 1st August in the "Alacrity" for Nanking. On passing the Chinese squadron just above Kiang Yin my flag was saluted and a cruiser detaclied to escort me up as an act of ,. courtesy. On the 2nd August I was received by the Viceroy in his Yamen at Nanking. I found him looking better than from previous reports 1 had expected, but still very frail and weak, although lie conversed with animation during the interview, which he regretted must be short as he was unable to sit long (for physical reasons). He referred, with many kind expressions of regard, to our pre\ious interview in 1898, and as'^ured me tliat he entertained the same friendly feelings towards Great Britain as formerly. He spoke of the expedition towards Peking, and his pleasure at seeing me safely back. He said that the Ministers in Peking were safe and that Prince Ching was protecting them, hut that tlie rebels were still too strong in Peking to be driven out, and that they held a great piut of the city. The Empress and Emperor were, he thought, to be pitied in the present situation. He raised no (objection to the landing of troops, as I propose, at Shanghae, remarking that the protection of the Settlement was a matter left to ours:elves, but he asked that the numher might not be large, as be feared the excitement a numerous force might cause in these localities in the present agitated state of the people. My visit was returned next day at the Foreign Office Yamen, lent to me for that purpose, the distance from the Viceroy's residence to the ship being too great a journev for him to undertake in his present health, At this interview the Viceroy referred to the foreign ships of war in the Yang-tsze Valley, and asked me to prevent others coming up, as in the present e.vcited state of the people it might lead to an outbreak. He thought that one British ship at each port was sufficient to give protection to foreigners, and if other Powcs sent ships the people would be afraid that they had come to divide up their country, and this tliey would 6ght to prevent. Great Britain, he knew, was friendly, and was only there to protect trade, and he remarked that if Great Britain would keep the peace on the waters of the Yang-tsze, Ciiina would do so on land, I said I would do what I could to assist him in this matter, telling him that our object was not at all the partition of China. He assured me that on all matters referred to in our interviews both he and Chang-chih Tung (Vicerov at Wuchang) were of one mind. This he stated when 1 ^ [1116] " 2 A 17S consulted him as to the advisability of my proceeding to Hankau to interview Chang, chih Tung, whi(-h he thought was unnecessary and might perhaps disturb the people. The opinion formed after my interviews with Liu-kung\i is that he is quite sincere in his etforts to maintain peace in the Yang-tsze Valley, but that the people are in such an excited state of mind that it would t;ike very little to cause a general rising against foreigners. The Viceroy, I believe, is doing his best to allay this feeling, and we shonld assist him as far as we can by doing nothing that may tend to further excite the people. In making the passage between Shanghae and Nanking, I noticed that the armaments of some of the fortiHcations have been increased, and there were many signs of prejjaredness for the defence of the river. This is probably a defensive measure only, and a natural one to take in view of the large number of foreign ships of war of all nationalities now in China or being '^ent there. Unless this were done, it is likely that the people would rise against their Governors, believing as they do that the foreigners have intentions against the integrity of Cliina. Whatever differences there may be amongst the Chinese in different parts of China, there is now one bond, common to all — dislike of foreigners, and determination to resist aggression. With reference to the 7th paragraph, I am sorry to say that since it was written the Viceroy has quite lately telegraplx^d down to ask that troops may not be lauded here. Some liaving left Hong Kong, I telegraphed there to detain the rest at present. On the llth I, with Her Majesty's Consul-Ueneral, had an interview with the Taotai of Shanghae, and we have got him to renounce his objection to troops coming, on local grounds. It still, honever, remains for the Viceroy to cancel his request that they shall not land for fear of the effect creaied in the Valley of the Yang-tsze, and this the Oonsul-General and I are trying to get him to do. Tlie final result I caimot yet report, but while the Viceroy continues to object I shall probably feel I cannot land the troops, as our present policy is to work quite with him. I am, &c. (Signed) E. H. SEYMOUR. P.S. — I have since heard that the Viceroy also has withdrawn his objections, but is very anxious that no other nation than Great Britain shall send troops here. E. H. S. No. 367. Admiralty to Foreign Office. — (Received September 22.) Sir, Admiralty, September 21, 1900. I AM commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to transmit, for the information of the Secretary of State for Eoreign Affairs, sopy of a telegram, dated the 20th September, from Rear- Admiral, China, announcing the capture of the Pehtang forts. J am, &c. (Signed) EVAN MACGEEGOR. Inclosure in No. 367. Rear-Admiral Bruce to Admiralty. (Telegraphic.) Taku, September 20, 1900, llO p.m. PEHTANG forts captured by allies 20th September. 179 No. 368. United States' Acting Secretary of State to Mr. White. — {Communicated to Foreign Office, September 22.) (Telegraphic.) Part 1.— On 17th September the Chinese Minister presented copy of a Circular telegram from Prince Ching announcing appointment as Plenipotentiary, conjointly with Earl Li Hung-chang, to negotiate peace, and requesting tliat United States' Minister at Peking be instructed to open negotiations. The following reply has been handed to-day to Chinese Minister : — " The Government of the United States accepts the Plenipotentiary authority of Earl Li Hung-chang and Prince Ching as primd facie sufficient for the preliminary negotiations, looking toward the return of the Imperial Chinese Government, and to the resumption of its authority at Peking, and toward the negotiation of a complete settlement by the duly appointed Plenipotentiaries of the Powers and of China. To these ends the United States' Minister in Peking will be authorized to enter into relations with Earl Li and Prince Ching, as the immediate P^epresentatives of the Chinese Emperor." Part 2. — On 17th September the Russian Charge delivered a Memorandum inquiring, first, Avhether the United States intends to transfer its Legation from Peking to Tien-tsin ; secondly, if full powers of Prince Ching and Li Hung-chang are recognized by the United States as sufficient; and, thirdly, if the United States is prepared to charge its Representatives to enter forthwith upon preliminary negotiations with the Plenipotentiaries of the Chinese Emperor. The following Memorandum, in reply, has been sent to the Russian Charge to-day; — " (1.) The Government of the United States has not any present intention to withdraw its Legation from Peking ; (2) the Government of the United States accepts the Plenipotentiary authority of Earl Li Hung-chang and Prince Ching as primd facie sufficient for the preliminary negotiations, looking toward the return of the Imperial Chinese Government, and to the resumption of its authority at Peking, and toward the negotiation of a complete settlement by the duly appointed Plenipotentiaries of the Powers and of China; (3) to these ends the United States' Minister in Peking will be authorized to enter into relations with Earl Li and Prince Ching as the immediate Rej)resentatives of the Chinese Emperor." Part 3. — On ISth September the German Charge communicated by note the Imperial German Circular, proposing that as pre-requisite to any negotiations, the Chinese Government deliver the real responsible authors of crimes against international law, recently perpetrated in China. To this the following note has been handed German Chai'ge to-day : — " In response to your inquiry of the 18th instant as to the attitude of the Govern- ment of the United States in regard to the exemplary punishment of the notable leaders in the crimes committed in Peking against international law, I have the honour to make the following statement : the Government of the United States has from the outset proclaimed its purpose to hold to the uttermost accountability the responsible authors of any wrongs done in China to citizens of the United States and their interests, as was stated in the Government's Circular communication to the Powers of 3rd July last. These wrongs have been committed not alone in Peking, but in many parts of the Empire, and their punishment is believed to be an essential element of any effective settlement which shall prevent a recurrence of such outrages and bring about permanent safety and peace in China. " It is thought, however, that no punitive measures can be so effective, by way of reparation for wrongs suffered and as deterrent examples for the future, as the degradation and punishment of the responsible authors by the supreme Imperial authority itself j and it seems only just to China that she should be atTorded, in the first instance, an opportunity to do this, and then rehabilitate herself before the world. Believing this, and without abating in any wise its deliberate purpose to exact the fullest accountability from the responsible authors of the wrongs we have suffered in China, the Government of the United States is not disposed, as a preliminary condition to entering into diplomatic negotiations with the Chinese Government, to join in a demand that said Government surrender to the Powers stich persons as, according to the determination of the Powers themselves, may be held to be the first and real perpetrators of these wrongs. " On the other hand, this Government is disposed to hold that the punishment of [1116] 2 A 2 180 the high responsible authors of these wrongs, not only in Peking but throughout China, is essentially a condition to be embraced and provided for in the negotiations for a final settlement. It is the purpose of tbis Government, at the earliest practicable moment, to name its Plenipotentiaries for negotiating a settlement with China, and in the meantime to authorize its Minister in Peking to enter forthwith into Conference with the duly authorized Representatives of the Chinese Government, with a view to bringing about a preliminary Agreement, whereby the full exercise of the Imperial power for the preservation of order and the protection of foreign life and property throughout China, pending final negotiations with the Powers, shall be assured. Accept. Sir, &c." You will communicate all foregoing to Minister for Poreign Affairs, inviting information of the replies of his Government in the three cases. (Signed) Hill, Acting. No. 369. Sir C. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 22.) (Telegraphic.) Peking, September 22, 1900. FOLLOWING is a resume of the situation up to the present time : — ■ The Grand Secretary Li Hung-chang has arrived in Tien-tsin ; he is expected in Peking before long. Before negotiations commence Prince Ching is waiting for Li to arrive. Meantime, he has exchanged visits with the Representatives of the foreign Powers, and has expressed his hopes for peace. It is apparently his opinion that tbe Court may return. If the Emperor cared for the interests of China, said his Highness to me, he must come back here. On the 15th a separate letter was addressed by each of the foreign Ptepresentatives, except the German, urging that in the interests of a lasting peace the Court should return, as it would further the tranquillity of the countr}^, as well as demonstrate that the influence of the Court's former advisers was at an end. The reply made by Prince Ching was to the efiect that he had already sent urging the Emperor to return, and that in support he would transmit our letters also. The Court is, so far as is known, still at Tai Yuan-fu, the capital of Shansi Province. It is reported that the leaders of the war party are also there. The notorious Yu Hsien is Governor of Shansi. Confidence appears to be increasing in Peking, and several minor officials are back in Peking ; there are, however, it is believed, a quantity of Boxers in the city in hiding. The foreign Representatives, all of whom are here except the Dutch and Austrian, assure me without exception that their Governments have sent them absolutely no instructiono. The railway line is in course of construction by onraelves and the Japanese betvreen Fengtai and Huangtsun, which is the next station further south. Work is progressing well ; the villages near the line had looted a large quantity of railway material, which has now been recovered by us. No. 370. Mr. f'Vhitehead to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received Se{ tember 22.) (Telegraphic.) Tokio, September 22, 1900. THE Japanese answer to the German Circular is as follows : — " In order to make it possible for the Powers to renew diplomatic relations with China, Japanese Government agree that punishment of real instigators must first take place. They are, therefore, ready to give instructions to their Representative in China to co-operate with other Representatives in order to ascertain and point out the individuals to whom the responsibility of the recent outrages is to be attributed. However, in giving practical effect to German Government's proposal to insist on their delivery, they anticipate grave difficulties. Further, an exchange of views between the Powers will be necessary on this point." 181 No. 371. Mr. Whitehead to ^'.e Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 22.) (Telegraphic.) Tokio, September 22, 1900. THE following is tbe substance of answer to three questions of Russian Circular : — 1. The withdrawal of the Legations to Tien-tsin does not seem opportune while Prince Ching is at Peking in communication with Eoreign Ministers and Li Hung- chang is on his way thither. 2. The foreign Representatives at Peking should examine the credentials of Chinese Plenipotentiaries. 3. The adequacy of the credentials should decide the question of the opening of negotiations. No. 372. Sir C. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 23.) (Telegraphic.) Peking, September 23, 1900. LETTERS are addressed to Li Hung-chang by Prince Ch'ing as his co-negotiator. We had better, I should say, accept both above-mentioned, with an understanding that these are purely prehminary negotiations, and reference will be made to the Govern- ments of the Powers. I am, however, incHned to suggest that the names of the two Yang-tsze Viceroys and of that of Fukien should be added to the list. No. 373. Acting Consul- General Warren to the Marquess of Salisbury.— {Received September 23.) (Telegraphic.) Sbanphae, September 23, 1900. ACCORDING to information I have received, Prince Tuon has been appointed Member of the Grand (Council, and Tung-fu Hsiang G-^neralissimo of the Imperial forces. An Imperial Decree, issued by the Court during its flight to Shansi, has also appointed a violently anti-foreign Taotai to Shanghae. Chang Chih Tung remains staunch in his determination to maintain order, although surrounded by anti-foreign advisers. Peace in Central China depends on the life of this aged official, and we should be prepared for eventualities. No. 374 Lord Pauncefote lojhe Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 24.) My Lord, Newport, Rhode Island, September 14, 1900. I HAVE the honour to transmit to your Lordship a printed communication which has been furnished me by the United States' Acting Secretary of State, embodying correspondence which has passed between the United States' Government and the Chinese Minister at Washington relative to the appointment of Li Hun^^-chang and Prince Ching to represent China in all questions pending between that country and the allied Powers. I have, &c. (Signed) PAUNCEFOTE. 182 Inclosure in Xo. 374i, Chinese Corresfondekcb, September 10-12, 1900. [Handed to Acting Secretary Hill on September 10 by the Chinese Minister, Mr. Wu Ting-fang.] Cablegram from Earl Li Hung-chnng. dated September 7, 1900, transmitted by the Chinese Minister at St. Pelersburgh, under date of September 9, and received by Minister Wu on the last-named date. I AM iti receipt of an Imperial Edict of the 30th day of the 7th month (the 24th August, 1900), transmitted by wav of Paoting Fu. It is as follows :— _ "Li Hung-chang, Envoy Plenipotentiary, is hereby vested with full discretionary powers, and he shall promptly deal with whatever questions may require attention. From this distance we will not control his actions. Let this Edict be forwarded with extra expedition at the rate of 600 li per day (to Earl Li) for his information and guidance. " Respect this." [Handed to the Chinese Minister, Mr. Wu, by Acting SecretarySHill, September 1 1,. ^ 1900.] Memorandum. The United Spates does not feel called upon to express any opinion at this time as to- the sufficiency of Li Hung-chang's authority, but hopes it will transpire that his credentials- are full and authoritative, not only for negotiation, but to enable him without further delay to give assurance that the li!e and property of Americans will henceforth b& respected throughout the Chinese Eupire, Department of State, Washington, September 11, 1900. (2.) [Handed to Acting Secretary Hill on September 1 1 by the Chinese Minister, Mr. Wu.] ■ Cablegram from Earl Li Hung-chang, dated September 9, 1900, transmitted by the Chinese Minister at London under date of September 10, and received by Minister Wu on the night of the last-named date. I have just received a telegram, dated the 3rd September, from Governor of Shantungs transmitting a despatch addiessed to me by the Privy Council from Ta-tung Fu (Shansi)- on the 30th August : — " The Privy Council to Li Hung-chang, Envoy Plenipotentiary, Grand Secretary of State and Viceroy of Chikli. "On the 3rd day of the 8th moon of Kwang-hsii, 26th year (the 27th August), the following Imperial Edict was issued : — " * We hereby command Li Hung-chang, Envoy Plenipotentiary, with full discretionary powers, and Grand Secretary of State, to proceed at once by steam-vessel to Peking, and there to associate himself with Prince Ching in discussing and dealing with all pending questions. Let there be no delay. " ' Respect this.' " The above has been communicated to me in obedience to the Imperial will. Another communication from the Privy Council states an Edict has alreadyj,been 183 issued commanding Sir Robert Hart to confer with (the Representatives of) the foreign nations for the loan of a steam-vessel to convey Li Hung-chang without delav to J 'eking, where he is to associate himself with Piince Ching in dealing with all pending questions. There was also a copy of an Edict for Li Hung-chanir, which the Inspector-Gtneral of Customs (Sir Robert Hart) was directed to depute an official to deliver in person (to Earl Li). The documents referred to have been dispatched by post, but on account of the roundabout method employed, and fearing a mistake or failure might arise, the Edicts are respectfully transcribed (as aliove). On receipt of the same the Shantung ■Government is lequested to transmit them by telegraph to Envoy Li. Having received Imperial orders urging my speedy departure for the ]!forth, it behoves me to make arrangements to start on my journey soon. Please inform Secre- tary of State, and request instructions be telegraphed to the United States' Commanders at Tien-tsin and Peking to co-operate in affording me protection if required. £Handed to the Chinese Minister, Mr. Wu, by Acting Secretary Hill, September 12, 1900,] Memorandum. ^ In reply to the request of Earl Li that instructions be telegraphed to the United States' Commanders at Tien-tsin and Peking to co-operate in affordmg iiim protection, if required, on his journey to Peking, the Government of the United States, so lar as its own forces are concerned, will be happy to facilitate in every proper way the journey of Earl Li to Peking, and will so instruct its Commanders. Department of State, Washington, September 12, 1900. No. 375. Mr. C. Hardinge to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 24.) My Lord, St. Petersburgh, September 14, 1900. I HAVE the honour to inclose herewith copy in. translation of a telegram from Blagovaschensk, published in the "Novoe Vremya" of the I'.th instant, describing a thanksgiving service celebrated in honour of the relief of the town of Blagoveschensk and of the renaming of the town of Sakalin, situated on the right bank of the Amur, by the name of llinsky. The words of the otliciating High Priest Konoplotf are also given, in vrhich he describes the town of Sakalin as having previously belonged to the Chinese and as being novr a Russian possession. At an interview vrhich Sir Charles Scott had yesterday with Count Lamsdorff, at •which I was also present, Her Majesty's Ambassador called his attention to this proceeding on the part of General Gribsky, and pointed out that it was at variance with the assurances contained in the Russian Circular recently issued giving the outlines of the policy of Russia in the Ear East. Count Lamsdorff informed Sir C. Scott in reply that his attention had only just been drawn to the newspaper account in question, and that he had immediately addressed a communication to the Minister of War pointing out that such a measure as that reported to have been taken by the military authorities at Blagoveschensk was contrary to the views of Russia, and urging that immediate orders should be sent to General Gribsky in that sense. He begged his Excellency to take no further notice of this action on the part of a Military Commander, and further confirmed the intention of the B-ussian Government not to make territorial acquisitions in China. He urged in explanation of the action of the military authorities that the distances were so great, and the means of communication so few, that it was not easy to keep the authorities in distant parts of the Empire in touch with the views of the Central Oovernment. I have, &c. (Signed) CHARLES HAEDINGE. ISi Inclosure in No. 375. Extract from the " Novoe Vremya " of September 1?, 1900. (Translation.) Blagovaschensk, August 25 (September 1), 1900. TO-DAY, on the Chinese bank of the Amur, on the burned ashes of bakalin, a solemn thanksgiving service in memory of the relief of this place by the iiussian forces, together with the ceremony of renaming the post Ihnsky, was held m the presence of the authorities, the army, the English officer Bigham,and a large crowd of people. The High Priest Konoploff said " now is the cross raised on that bank ot the Amur which yesterday was Chinese. Mouravieff foretold that sooner or later thm bank would be ours." In a beautiful speech General Gribsky congratulated the victorious troops. No. 376. Mr. C. Hardinge to the Marquess of Salisbury.— (Received September 24.) My Lord, 8t. Petersburgh, September 20, 1900. AT Count LamsdorfP's weekly reception to-day, I inquired of his Excellency what reply had been sent to the German Circular to the Powers respecting the surrender and punishment of the principal instigators of the recent massacre of foreigners in_ China, and of the attacks on the foreign Legations in Peking, the substance of which had appeared in the German and foreign press. Count Tiamsdorff replied that he had so far sent no answer to the German pro- posal, and that, having referred the matter to the consideration of tlie Emperor, he was awaiting His Majesty's instructions as to the reply to be given. His Excellency added that the German proposals appeared to him to be somewhat vao-ue, since it was'not entirely clear to him whether the prescribed persons were to be surrendered to the Ministers in Peking for punishment, or whether they were to be arrested and punished by the Chinese Government. For his part, he would prefer that the role of executioner, if necessary, should be undertaken by the Chinese Government, who appeared to have a special aptitude for such a task, though, in his opinion, he would prefer exile as a punishment for the guilty. His Excellency remarked tliat the proposal, if carried out, would serve as an excellent test as to whether a Government really existed in China of sufficient strength and solidarity to execute the stipulations to be arrived at as the outcome of the future negotiations, but that the high position of many of the leading instigators of the anti-foreign movement would present many difficulties to the satisfactory realization of this scheme. Count Lamsdorff then informed me that he had received a telegram Irom M. de Giers, llussian ^iinister in Peking, to the effect that Prince Cliing had requested the Ministers to severally address him letters urging the necessity of the return of the Emperor to Peking, which he might be able to utilize in order to put pressure on the Court to accelerate their return to Peking. This step the Ministers had complied with, and they would now wait to see its effect.. He approved of this step being taken, but he doubted whether it would have the desired result so long as the allied forces remained in Peking. I asked iiis Excellency whether, in the event of the Emperor's return to Peking, the Russian Legation would go to Tien-tsin, and he replied that in that case the objection to the maintenance of the Legation in a capital where there was no Court and no Government would no longer exist. I have, &c. (Signed) CHAP.LES HARDINGE. No. 377. Sir C. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury. — [Received September 24.) (Telegraphic.) Peking, September 24, 1900. \\ IIH regard to the rescue of missionaries leferred to in your Lordship's telegram of the 19th September, 1 have the honour to report that as soon as Prince Ching returned to Peking i at once impressed upon him that, in the interests of peace, the safety of all the 185 missionaries in the north of China must be secured. He promised that he would immediately take steps. Since then I have again represented the importance of this to his Highness 1 hope very much, therefore, that the safety of the remaining missionaries, at least in this province, will be secured. No. 378. Sir C. Mac Donald to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 24.) (Telegraphic.) ^ Peking, September 24, 1900. WITH reference to your Lordship's telegram of the 2Uth instant, I have the honour to report that the Boxer movement is far from suppressed ; they have only receded upon the advance of the allied troops, and remain wherever no visit is made, while they return to a place as soon as the foreign troops leave it. It is not the case, as alleged, that the missionaries mentioned have been handed over. No. 379. Sir C. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {deceived September 24.) (Telegraphic.) Peking, September 24, 1900, OPENING of negotiations. With reference to your Lo'rdship's telegram of the 18th September, it is, so far as preliminary negotiations are concerned, in my opinion, desirable to do so. No, 380. Sir F. Lascelles to the Marquess' of Salisbury. — {Received September 24.) (Telegraphic.) > Berlin, September 24, 1900. I AM informed by Barou von Eichtliofen that Prance, Italy, and Austria have returned affirmative replies to the German Circular. In the opinion of the United States' Government, the punishment of the ringleaders should be included in the peace conditions. The replies of Japan and Russia ■will. Baron Richthofen understands, be received to-day, and will be to the effect that, while the punishment of the ringleaders should precede negotiations, it would be better that the ringleaders should not be handed over to the Pow^ers, but that the punishment should be inflicted by the Chinese Govern- ment. The Acting Secretary of State further observed that Her Majesty's Government had as yet returned no reply. No. 381. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. MacDonald. (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, Septembef 2'4j 1900; THE German Government has made a communication to the Powers, of whicii the following is a summary, but to which I have not yet given any reply. As a condition preliminary to negotiations, the German Government hold that the original and real instigators of the crimes committed in Peking must be sur- rendered. They consider that though it may even bn impossible to discover all the ringleaders, owing to the number of criminal instruments being too great, yet those few ought to be delivered up and punished whose guilt is notorious. |1116J 2 B 186 The proposal, therefore, which the German Government now make is that those leading Chinese, whose guilt in instigating or in the actual perpetration of the crimes is heyond doubt, should he designated 1o the Powers by their Representatives, at Peking, who would receive instructions in that sense. No. 382. Sir C. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury.— {Received September 25.) (Telegraphic.) Peking, September 25, 1900, DEFINITE instructions have been received by the Russian Minister to proceed to Tien-tsiii in order to negotiate there ; he is leaving on the 29th instant. Orders have also been sent to the Russian troops to leave immediately, except ^-iJOOmen, i.e., one battalion, two Maxims, and one half-company of sappers. No. 383. Sir C. MacDonald to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 25.) (Telegraphic.) Peking, September 25, 1900. WITH reference to my immediately preceding telegram of to-day, I am informed by Russian Minister that in his Government's telegram he was, told that all the Powers have agreed in principle to negotiations being carried on in Tien-tsin. It is my strong opinion that Tien-tsin would be most objectionable for the purpose. To have negotiations there would lose to us all the advantages of staying in Peking, and give us none in exchange. Tien-tsin is capital of. Li Hung-chang's Viceroyalty, and we shall, therefore, in the eyes of the Chinese, tippear to be going to Li to beg for peace. This will encourage the war party, who will leave the foreign Powers to make all further advances. If th'- Chinese suspect that wo want to have peace more than they do themselves, no peace will be possible. Should negotiations be removed from Peking — a course which, so far as concerns preliminaries, I strongly deprecate — they should take place in Shanghae. No. 384. Consul Scott to the Marquess of Salisbury. — {Received September 25.) (Telegraphic.) Canton, September 25, 1900. AT several places in this district Missions and converts are being attacked. His Excellency the Acting Viceroy is doing his best to repress the rioters, aud has also issued a Proclamation which is extremely satisfactory, containing a denunciation of the so-called " Imperial" Edicts lately published in Canton, and laying great stress on the Throne's denunciation of the Boxers. He also states in this Proclamation that negotiations are being opened in the north with a view to the peaceable termination of these troubles, and that these who disturb the peace will be severely dealt with. This neighbourhood and the city itself remain quiet. There is no probability of an attack on the Concessions. No. 385. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. MacDonald.* (Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 25, 1900. THE replies of the United States' Government to the last Chinese, Russian, and German Circulars are briefly as follows : — 1. In anticipation of the return of the Imperial Chinese Government to Peking, • Al80 to Mr. Whitehead, Paris, Berlin, Rome, Vienna, St. Petersburgh, and Washington. 187 and the subsequent negotiation of a complete settlement by Plenipotentiaries duly appointed by the Powers in China, the Government of the United States is ready to accept the credentials of Li Hung-chang and Prince Ching as sufl&cient fur preliminary negotiations. 2. The withdrawal of the United States' Legation from Peking is not at present contemplated by the United States' Governmenu 3. The United States' Government, in reply to the German Circular, consider that no punitive measures can be so effective as degradation and punishment by the supreme Imperial authority itself, and it seems only just to China that she should be afibrded an opportunity of doing this, although tliey observe that they have from the outset declared their purpose of holding responsible to the utmost the authors of wrong done to United States' subjects in China. As soon as practicable the United States' Government intend to nominate Pleni- potei>tiaries for the negotiation of a final settlement, and hold that the punishment of those responsible, not only in Peking, but throughout China, is a condition to be pro- vided for in those negotiations. In order to assure the full exercise of the Imperial power for the protection of foreign life and property pending final negotiations, the United States' Minister at Peking will be authorized to discuss a preliminary Agreement with the Representatives of the Chinese Government. No. 386. The Marquess of Salisbury to 8ir F. Lascelles. Sir, Foreign Office, September 25, 1900. I RECEIVED from the German Ambassador on the 18th instant the note,* of which I inclose a translation herewith, proposing that the Powers should agree to demand as a preliminary to further negotiations with the Chinese Government the surrender of those who are principally responsible for the attacks on the foreign Legations in Peking, and on foreigners in other parts of the country. I told Count Hatzfeldt and other foreign Representatives who inquired what view Her Majesty's Government took of this proposal, that in a matter of so much gravity I must ask for a few days' reflection. I discussed the question with his Excellency during the visit he paid me this afternoon. I said it was impossible that the proposals of the German Government with respect to tlie punishment of the authors of the Chinese outrages could be received by the other Powers with anything but prolbund sympathy with the feelings by which they were dictated. It was felt, I believed, by every Government, and certainly by no Government more than that of Her Britannic Majesty, that the punishment of those who were guilty of the attack upon the Legations in Peking and of the murders of Europeans committed in various parts of China is not only richly deserved, but that an element of security for the future will be lost if that punishment cannot be inflicted. We should have been glad, therefore, to have given an unreserved assent to the proposal of the German Government, if it had merely pledged us to use the power given to us by our present occupation of Peking or other Chinese territory in bringing these highly- placed offenders to justice. The proposal, however, I said, goes farther than this. If I read it rightly, it is worded so as to pledge the Governments which accede to it not to consent to any negotiations with China until the punishment of those offenders has been completed. I hesitated, and I thought' my colleagues would equally be reluctant to join in an undertaking of which it is impossible to foresee the practical effect. We are not in possession of any evidence to enable us to judge to whom punish- ment is principally due or to know whether it is likely to be in our power to inflict it. Under these circumstances, I said, it appeared to us unwise to pledge ourselves to abstain from making any agreements which may be necessary for the protection of our nationals and our commerce throughout China ujatil those who are chiefly guilty • Ko. 864. {Ullfi] 2 B 2 188 of the recent calamities should have been adequately punished. It might be an under- taking, if the allies were to accept it, which would defer for an indefinite period the restoration of the tranquillity of China. Count Hatzfeldt pressed me before coming to an adverse decision to consult Her Majesty's Minister at Peking on the two following points : — Pirst, whether he and the other foreign Eepresentatives could with any certainty and on clear evidence designate those who were really responsible for the recent outrages. Secondly, whether in the event of the Chinese Government refusing or delaying to surrender" or punish the persons so designated, it would be practicable for the allies to find means of seizing them. I agreed to telegraph to Sir 0. MacDonald on the subject, and in the meanwhile to delay my answer. I am, &c. (Signed) SALISBURY. No. 387. The Marquess of Salisbury to Sir C. MacDonald. (felegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 25, 1900. WITH reference to my telegram of the 24th September on the subject of the German Circular addressed to the Powers, I shall be glad if you will inform me as soon as possible o'f the opinion of your colleagues and yourself on the following points : — 1. Whether you can designate with any certainty those persons who are really responsible for the attacks which were made upon the Legations and other recent outrages which have occurred. 2. Whether, in the event of the Chinese Government refusing to surrender or punish these persons, or returning evasive answers, it would be practicable to seize them. No. 388. Mr. C. Hardinge to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 26.) (Telegraphic.) St. Petersburgh, September 26, 1900. THE Russian Government replied to M. de Biilow's Circular on the 24th instant, agreeing in principle with the proposal made by the German Government, but asking for fuller explanations on the subject of the surrender of the most guilty Chinese authorities, with the object of giving a more practical shape to the proposal. Count Lamsdorfi" desires to lend his support to the proposal of the German Government. I am given to understand that the terms of the answer returned by the Prench Government are almost identical with those of the Russian reply . No. 389. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 27.) My Lord, Tien-tsin, August S, 1900. A MESSENGER sent by Captain Wingate to Peking with despatches from Sir Alfred Gaselee and myself to Sir Claude MacDonald, returned to-day. He was unsuccessful in delivering his despatches, but has brought news which is of great interest and value. I have the honour to inclose a copy of his statement, some portions of which I have already telegraphed to your Lordship and to Her Majesty's Minister at T6ki6. I have, &c. (Signed) W. R. CARLES. 189 Inclosure in No. 389. Statement of Messenger sent to Peking by Captain Wingate oji 29th July. [THE messenger, Ma Te Ch'un, was the servant of a resident in Peking, and had previously brouglit down a message from Sir C. MacDonald.] I arrived in Peking on the 1st August; on the 2nd I went to Su Wang Yeh's Eu, opposite the British Legation ; this Fu was entirely burnt, held by Tung Eu lisiangs soldiers, who had loopholed the Avail for rifle firing. Soldiers were stationed in it ready to fire on any foreigners. There was a large barricade in Legation Street, which prevented me from crossing. I then went out of the city and re-entered at another gate, proceeding to the sluice gate in the South Wall near the Legations. It was raining heavily. I was hoping to enter by this sluice gate, when a heavy rifle fire opened, apparently from the British Legation, and was answered by the Chinese. I was in Peking for. three days, and but for this heard no rifle firing and no cannons. The firing was probably that of a foraging party. I could see the hats of the foreigner soldiers on the wall. In Peking it was said that the Empress-Dowager had forbidden the troops to fire on the foreigners. On the 22nd July ten cart-loads and ten carrier-loads of provisions were sent into the Legation. Trade was going on in the streets, the shops having opened by the Empress- Dowager's orders. She had advanced 1,000,000 taels to assist the banks. The troops surrounding the Legations were those of Tung Eu Hsiang and Jung Lu. I left Peking on the ith and went through Tung Chou and Chang Chia Wan to Ho Hsi-wu. On the Tien-tsin side of the latter place, on the 6th, I met numbers of cavalry and infantry fleeing north. The Viceroy and Sung Ch'ing passed without my seeing them. Ma San Tuan was supposed to have been killed or wounded ; his troops were looking for him. The troops were disheartened, and complained of lack of food — they had been living on small millet. Erom Ho Hsi-wu I went to Huang Hua Tien, where the ti'oops are in great strength, and Tung Au Hsien, where are Boxers, thence to Tien-tsin. I saw no floods on the way. I heard that Li Ping Heng had arrived in Peking with twenty camps of soldiers following behind him ; he interviewed the Empress, and then left Peking. I also heard that the Empress-Dowager had made prepara- tions for flight from iPeking : news of this leaking out, Tung Eu Hsiang threatened to return to Kansu, if she fled. Ten eunuchs were beaten to death for having divulged her intentions. Natives in Tien-tsin city talk of the insufficiency of foreign troops, and expect to be attacked within a few days. No. 390. Consul Carles to the Marquess of Salishury. — {Heceived September 27.) My Lord, Tien-tsin, August 15, 1900. I DO not know whether the south of China has been in such communication with Peking as to have been conversant with the contents of the "Peking Gazette" of late. In case your Lordship has not already received from Shanghae or Canton the. "Gazette" of the i3th July, I would beg to call attention to the supplementary Memorial from Yiian Shih-Kai, Governor of Shantung, which is published therein. The document to which it is a supplement is not published, but would appear to have related to an Imperial Order to send troops to Peking. In the supplementary Memorial the Governor compares the present state of things with that which existed during the China- Japanese war, and points out that whereas then when China was fighting against only one country. Shantung had 25,000 men, now that China is fighting against all the Powers, and therefore larger forces are needed for the protection of the province, the force is smaller than in the former war. .. j He states that the 7,000 men whom he took with him from Tien-tsin have beeo. 190 told off to guard against any attack by German forces at Chingtao ; and that twenty camps (nominally 10,000 men strong) have been sent to the south-west of the province to prevent his communications with the south of the Grand Canal being cut by the enemy. He points out that the coast is thus practically undefended, and he is therefore enlisting f )Lir camps in the west of the province to be stationed at a point facing Taku, which he considers threatened. He further refers to lack of funds, and reports that he has agreed with the Provincial Treasurer to use for military purposes any funds which may be available. The main deduction to be drawn from the Memorial is that while professing to comply with Imperial Decrees, the present Governor of Shantung will as long as possible avoid obeying any order to send troops from his province northwards to meet the allied forces ; but how long this attitude may continue possible probably depends upon the turn of events in this neighbourhood. I have, &o. (Signed) W. E,. CARLES. No. 391. Consul Fulford to the Marquess of Salisbury. — (Received September 27.) My Lord, Newchwang, August 13, 1900. I HAD the honour on the 6th instant to send to your Lordship by steamer to Chefoo, and thence by telegraph, a message in cypher to the effect that as the conse- quence of an attack upon the foreign quarter at this port by a mob, the Russians had bombarded and taken the native city on the 4th instant. I added that the Kussians had. temporarily occupied this port, and had given assurances that the Treaty rights and privileges of foreigners would not he infringed ;, further, that the persons and property of the foreign community were safe, and that the native city had not been much injured, , : . .^ . o . Since the beginning of the present crisis in the north of China, and the Jsolatipn of Her Majesty's Minister in Peking, I have kept the British naval authorities at Taku acquainted with the course of events in J^Jewchwang. AVe were not disturbed till the I5th June, when agents of the Boxers were actively engaged in spreading their doctrines in the town and neighbourhood. IVlissionaries then commenced to come in from the interior, and the foreign employes of the Tien-tsin- Nevvchwang Railway also came to Newchwang to avoid attack. The Protestant Missions of Moukden were destroyed by a mob on the 30th June, the members of the Missions and their families having previously come to this port. The French Mission at Moukden was attacked and burnt on the 2nd July, and the Bish