Wuen the Fete Nationale was celebrated here year ago, France. and China were just entering on the presages of arms between them: which ended some three months since, - Yet on-that ooonsion the Chinese in the oily "ind: settlements witnessed with all the goyd'* humour which a rainy day left to then, the decorations, aralies, fags, and the al display which the French Muuipal authorities bad provided. 'I'he Chinese ships of war in the river drowned tings in Louour of the Republic. Ko. long lind not yet boon bombarded, or the forts on (he Min destroyed. Since then these operations have been acvomplished, a blockade of Formosa estab-shed, the right of search at sea exer ed, Chinhai bombarded, two El corvettes destroyed in Sheipoo and a Treaty of Peace signed. A friendly understanding has again been estubed between the two nations, and the celebration of the Fete on Tuesday was not marred by any anxieties, euch as wore felt by many on the previous occasion. We trust that here may be no return of the onuses which predayed the anxieties Inst year; at least within the experience of the present generation of foreign residents in China, What has past during the last twelve mouths has no doubt been generously forgotten by both Powers. At least we will hope so. And that being the case, good to both countries should result from the events of last year.. Nations that have been at war learn each others' characters and qualities, and very often feel more respect for their former foes than they formerly. did. The Chinese authorities and people conducted themselves. with greater self. respect and generosity towards the French than could Lave been exe
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.