At the restoration of peace after the Taiping rebellion a fortress was erected in the Hukou Hsien, as the place was considered the key to the entire province of Kiangsi. Ever since it was put up this fortress has been regarded not only as an additional safeguard to the city but also as an ornament to the town. One day last month fire was discovered within the fortifications, and it was afterwards ascertained this was the work of incendiaries.
soldiers and a watchman who are suspected, together with several members of the secret societies, have been arrested and are undergoing trial, The Governor of Kiangsi has deputed another detachment of able officers to track out the Kolao Hui people. These deputies are to work in conjunction with those already sent out by the different authorities in the Yangtze valley. The work of capturing sneak thieves on the river steamers is also included in the programme of this body of officials, and travellers are rejoicing at the news that the authorities are taking measures to rid the steamers of this pest.
In view of the near approach of the triennial inspection, Kiangan military men are busy making preparations, The troops in the Yangchow district had a grand drill the other day in the presence of the Grain Commissioner. Thousands of people went to see the braves going through the various evolutions.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.