Peking, January 9.
The situation is absolutely unsettled. There are ea great differences between the leading Statesmen, that it will be most difficult to restore harmony amongst them. Nobody knows what will happen. The discontent of the officials and the gentry with the present state of affairs renders it especially difficult to get a clear view of the situation, as many contradictory ramours are spread through the capital, many of which may be fostered by the special desires of interested parties. But it appears that many changes amongst the highest officials are minent. It is generally reported that the Minister of War, Tieh Liang, will leave Peking shortly and that he will be appointed Viceroy either in Canton or in Nanking.
Yuan Sh supposed to take charge of the War Office, while he will be succeded in the Waiwupu by Tang Shao-yi, one of his friends and favourites. The future will shor whether and how far these reports are correct. There can be, how scarcely a doubt, that the Manchu Bhizeas reform party, headed by Yuan sity is loosing ground and that the
Shih-kai and Chang Chih-tang, is constantly gaining more influence.
Hangchow, January 9.
Repeated fights between salt smugglers and troops have occurred during the last few days in the districts between Haining and Kashing. The troops have been successful in most cases. Yesterday morning, however, the attack was renewed by the salt smugglers, several thousands of whom The H-C. herald and S. C. & C. Gasette, have been called to arms. The police tation and the post office have been destroyed in Yoshi in the district of Haining as well as several schools and mission buildings in other small places! of that vicinity. Business has come to 2 total stand. Reinforcements of troops from here are needed to restore order and peace.
LEAT TELEGRAMS,
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.