The French in Siam.

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume XX, Issue 6729, 20 July 1893, Page 2

The French in Siam.

Paris, July 19. In the Chamber of Deputies M. Duvelle, Minister for Foreign Affairs, stated that Lord Rosebery, English Foreign Secretary, had disclaimed any British boinjf in Mekong. He mentioned this as Great Britain had been assured that Bangkok would not be bombarded without notice An explanation had been asked for the meaning of the despatch of the English gunboats to Siamese waters. The reply elicited disclaimed any intention of intervening in the matter beyond protecting British subjects. France, ho said, was unable to exercise further patience unless reparation was granted for the recent murder of French subjects and the violation of the treaty rights, therefore coercive measures had been taken on land. The statement was received with applause. The tone of M. Develle's complaints against Lord Rosebery was haughty. He asserted that the Siamese interpret England's action as encouraging them to resist. M. Develle admitted that it was the iutention of the Government to reconquer the left bank of the Mekong, bur they had no desire to infringe on the independence of Siam. Bangkok is quiet. Some French naval officers ascending tho Menam were captured, but escaped. Siam is willing to deposit money to meet the French claims, pending a settlement of the dispute. It is reported that M. Develle his cabled his ultimatum. If the French ultimatum is ignored, Bangkok will be blockaded. France demands an indemnity of three million francs, and requires an answer in 48 hours. London, July 19. The English press advise Siam to give France no cause to imperil its independence.