To-day the eclipse of the sun was recognized by special ceremonies at the Board of Rites, which adjoins the Russian and American Legation barracks, The officials of the Board began to assemble shortly after noon. By half past four, when the partial eclipse became noticeable, the officials gathered in front, of the chief official building, following Hsii P'u and Shih Hsii, the two Presidents of the Board, buth having remained here since the siege. An altar with burncing incense and offerings was placed in the open Court, The officials knelt down'on the inner side, facing the setting sun. They remained motionless for some fifteen minutes, when the rescue of the sun was announced. he ceremony there was beating of drums and gongs, to frighten away the dragon.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.