MISSIONARIES IN DIRE PERIL.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLI, Issue 9224, 28 May 1910, Page 5

MISSIONARIES IN DIRE PERIL.

THE COMET AND THE CHINESE. A SIGN OF BLOODSHED. {By Electhio Telegraph—Copybight./ (Peb Pbeßß Association.) Received May 28, 9.30 a.m; PERTH, May 28. Mr Sanders, a Perth missionary who is in one of the inland provinces of t China, writing on March 21, throws f some light on the recent rioting. Hβ says: "A comet suddenly appeared and remained for a few evenings, but it was evidently not Halley's comet, which was not due to appear to the unaided vision for some weeks. The comet here •is a sign of bloodshed and rebellion and its appearance, has greatly excited populace. When Hafley-'s comet is visible the fears ajid unrest will become intensified. Secret eocietiee and reyoluntionaries make the most of * such things and use them as opportunities to play on tho popular superstitions and stir up trouble. China is honeycombed with such eocietiee.- . Unfortunately foreigners invariably come in for the first shock and brunt of any trouble, whatsoever be it. Whether it is a comet, pestilence or increased taxation, the blame is laid on us. Railways are being built and the common rumour is that China is on the point of being sliced and divided amongst the Powers. Yuan-shi-kai and Tuan Fang, China's two most able statesmen, have been summarily dismissed from office and new comes the unexpected comet and the pr/jmi6o of another one still more brilliant. What with these and other omens, coupled with their superstitions, the bloodthirsty people are easily aroused. Wβ are in for a year which might bring anything. Should popular ignorance prevail and . panic arise we shall bo in dire peril."