probably known to all residents in China that the Viceroy Li Hung-chang hias just passed the seventieth anniversary of his birthday, For weeks previous tu the event the yamen dours were besieged by bearers of presents from far and near: most notable among then, thoss that came from the palace in Peking. Expressions of congratulation were also received from foreign representatives, as well as from Chinese high officials. The Viceroy's recent recovery from a dangerous illness rendered these expressions very appropriate in view of his influence in China, his close relatives with the throne, and his friendly attitude towards foreign batlons.
The Viceroy emphasised his friendly feeling by deciding to give " banquet to the foreign Tesidents and leading native ofticials. As all could not be included in the assembly of guests at dinner, invitations were issued with the intention of making the company as representative us practical ble. The dinner was to be followed by pyrotechnics and thentricale which all were invited to witness. The 6th of February was the day appointed, but on account of the death of " young and beloved sou, the celebration was deferred till the evening of the eleventh, For this purpose the Gordon Hall was placed at the Viceroy's disposal by the Municipal Council, and every assistance in the way of preparation and
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.