In days gone by Kuangsi used to have no mean reputation as r liters talent, but in the time of the rebellion collections of books were burnt, the type was destroyed and nothing was left over wherewith to aid the cause of learning. Deeply impressed by such a state of things Ma P'ei-yao, the Governor, some time ago decided to establish printing press in the, provincial capital and asked the Throne to instruct the authorities of the six provinces of Kiangnan, Chekiang, -Kuangtung, Hunan, Hupeh and Szechuan to have copies of the classical and historical works printed within their jurisdiction reproduced and transmitted to Kuangsi. This request was sanctioned on the Sist of December, 1889, and the Governor addressed special letters to each of the high © offi calling their attention to the matter. They one and all have, rethe Kalgan route is much the "most cognised the disadvantages under whi direct besides furnishing ample past Kuangsi labours, situated as it is on the and watering facilities. "Ponies sant by the confines of the Empire, and with a laud-Chisyu pass have in former years been able desire to further the cause of learning delayed on the road and event reached have had copies of the principal works the capital fearfully out of condition. Per-printed and forwarded to memorialist. mission to adopt, the alternative route has Aifvculty of communication Szechuan has Owing to the great distance and to the on previous occasions been oftengrantedand memorialist would request that in this not yet been able to respond to the appeal, instance he be also allowed to act in accor-but orders have been given to such officers dance with the precedent thus furnished. as have been sent there on other duty to Let To-ko-tuan be informed hereof in order
bring- back the books with them. The take advantage of the opportunity and that he may take charge of the catti: and act accordingly.
Governor-General of the Liang Kiang has
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.