CHINESE AFFAIRS

Otago Witness, Issue 2565, 13 May 1903, Page 21

CHINESE AFFAIRS

Diplomatists in Peking were astonished to learn on Thursday that although there was plenty of available land in Niuchwang the Russians had taken a large tract across the river commanding the terminus of the Shan-hai-kwan railway, ostensibly for the purposes of a drill ground. May 10. Mr Conger (United States Minister at Peking) has wired Mr Hay (Chief -Secretary U.S.A.) that the Russians reentered Niuchwang, but subsequently retired. Other reports state that they have again withdrawn their troops from the forts at the mouth of the Liao River. Mr Hay is publishing the despatches relating to China. They show that Count Lamsdorff (Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs), on being reminded of his promises regarding China, denied America's right to intervene between Russia and China. On being further confronted with the pledges given by Russia, he repeated that he was still for an open door in Manchuria, as understood by Russia. May 11. St. Petersburg officials belittle the report regarding Russia's action in Niuchwang. They declare that reinforcements were sent there temporarily, and will now be definitely withdrawn. Chinese Viceroys and Governors have telegraphed to the Grand Council in Peking urging it to stand firm against foreign aggression. Admiral Bridge took the Glory to Hankow. She is the first battleship that has ever been there, and was warmly welcomed. The Times is not disposed to think that the Russian action in Niuchwang indicates any new development of moment. The New York correspondent of The Times says the comments in every American paper reveal the increasing gravity of the situation. If President Roosevelt and' Mr Hay take strong measures the country will back them. The New York Sun declares that the interests of the United States and Great Tti il mfftjli repelling Russian aggression are like the two halves of a single unit. NEW YORK, May 5. Mr Hay asks, in connection with the projected American commercial treaty, that Peking be made an open port, in the hope of averting the partition of China. The New York Tribune (Republican) scouts Count Cassini's suggestion that special Manchurian concessions are sought by America. It declares that Americans have no desire to sneak in by a specially-prepared side door. They want to enter by a front door which is open to all the world. May 7. The New York Sun protests at Russia's shameless mendacity over Manchuria, and heartily supports AngloAmerican friendship. The New York Times hopes Russia may be moved to say — through diplomacy, man to man, and nation to nation —what she wants and what she means.