THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 6127, 14 March 1898, Page 3

THE CRISIS IN CHINA.

. 4> THE BEITISH PEOTEBT. PANIC IN MANCfIUEIA. United Press Association— By ElectricfTolejfraph (Jopji right. Eeceived March 13, 5.30 p.m. PEKIN, MAKd* 12. The issue of the Chinese loan ha been postponed till March 21. BEfiLIN, March 12, The Eeichstag has doubled th North German Lloyd's East Asiai subsidy, with the view of establishing a fortnightly service to China. 1 prohibition is, however, imposed 01 carrying agricultural produce home ward; but the Eeichstag refused t< prohibit the carnage of wool. ST PETERSBURG, March 12. The fourteen millions requirec under the recent Imperial ukase foi the construction of warships will b( taken from the reserve in the Eussiar treasury. Beceived March 13 4.50 p m. LONDON, March 12. Eeports" from Pekin state that Sii Claude M'Donald, the British Ambassador, on Tuesday strungly protested against the leasing of Port Arthur on the ground that it would disturb the balance of power. The Chinese authorities replied that they were unable to withstand the pressure of Russia. The Standard says the Czar's ukase ordering a large expenditure for warships is the Czar's reply to Sir Claude M'Donald. The same journal considers that the evils of a timid surrender and a spiritless acquiescence in the attitude of Eussia in China would vastly outweigh the advantages of a dishonourable peace. The Spectator advocates the mobilisation of a very powerful special squadron. PEKIN, March 12. The Governor of Manchuria, terrified by the presence of 15,000 Russian troops, has requested the Chinese Government to send reinforcements, but no reply has been sent from Pekin. It is reported that the Corean Cabinet has decided to release M. Alexieff, the Eussian financial agent, and the Euasian military instructors from their engagements. NEW YOKE, March 12. American naval officers are enthusiastic at the suggested alliance with Great Britain. The British warship Cordelia, at present coaling at Key West, Florida, was the object of a tremendous reception, the officers and men being cordially greeted.