The Viceroy at Foochow addresses the Emperor with reference to the presentation of forged credentials or testimonials by persons seeking appointments as officers in the provincial armies. The subject, it appears, was recently brought to the Emperor's notice by the Commander-in-Chief of the army in Kansu, The Viceroy represents that since the time of the Taiping rebellion the very large number of officers seeking appointments has led to. much confusion and a difficulty in distinguishing the true from the false.
But, as faras possible, ho has been most careful to enquire into the introduction. of sericulture into the #ll-eases coming under, his notice. Last province. The Emperor in reply desired Year, Brevet Captain, Liu Wei-him to wait till general success fad been lied to him for an appointment.' He achieved throughout the whole of his jurisdiction and.then to send in the nonics of the most deserving officers. The Governor now, retums to the subject. He finds that up to the end of last year 206,180. pounds of wilk-had been produced; and that in a luge number of districts which he names, the art of silk weaving had been introduced and 2,690 pieces of silk goods had been turned out. He considers this a manifest proof. of success; and he urges that if those who brought it about are not ro-warded, it will "discourage others from persevering. The introduction of the silkworm was essayed by previous Governors, butfuiled us often as it was tried, the lack of funds being the great difficulty. The last attempt was succoetlly inaugurated Saree Yorno® of Anhui, and was continued and years in Ping-cheng, now Go-
completed by the memorialist. In conclusion a list of officers to be rewarded is given, Referred to the Board of Civil Office.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.