PARTITION OF CHINA.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXVI, Issue 11010, 14 March 1899, Page 4

PARTITION OF CHINA.

The Spectator, representing in this probably a strong public opinion in England, and also a feeling amongst all the Powers concerned, urges that a Conference should be held for the partition of China, as the only means for obviating the constant danger of collision. Great Britain, Germany, Russia, France, and we suppose Italy, , would claim some share. Wo do not suppose that America would put in any claim, although she might require certain securities in regard to trade. This great and ancient Empire, having indeed a history and a civilisation far more ancient than the nations which now propose to dispose of her by nnrtition, is to become a series of protectorates like the most barbarous parts of Africa. Half a century ago, China was a mysterious country, with a teeming population, and with cities reported to be the greatest in the world. We could only reach its borders, and were strictly circumscribed in all our intercourse. But times change. Great Britain has been operating on the seaboard, Japan struck severe blows, while Germany has obtained a harbour and a naval base. Probably the most powerful force in effecting a change in China has been the overshadowing power of Russia in the north, constantly pressing upon the whole border, and latterly carving a way down to the seaboard. The Chinese Emperor will, in the event of such a partition, reign only in name, and occupation will be provided for that active mother of whom we hear much. But there seems to be no apprehension that there will be a great and patriotic revolt amongst the Chinese against a change of rulers.