In a recent article supporting the movement for the relief of Russian refugees in Shanghai, we were careful not to stigmatize the whole Russian community for the faults of a few, admitting the existence of evils which now cause a "Viotim's" groans. But it has to be admitted, on indisputable evidence, that there are far too many black sheep in our Russian family. With the great increase in its number, crime in the n has increased to a very considerable extent, and crime by Russian experts in their own particular lines of business. They have in-eluded gentlemen of the school of Fagin who, as pick-pockets, would compare favourably with the most skilful thieves extant, and_experienced: shop-lifters have paid profitable attention to all the best stores in the Settlement. The species fraud known as "'ringing-th changes" has also been—practised to a very considerable extent. It is beyond question that there among us too many Russiaes whose mode of getting a livelihood will not bear too close investigation—(except by a Magistrate)—and it becomes increasingly necessary for the authorities to deal drastically with present—undesirable guests, and devise measures for preventing the unwelcome arrival of others.
OF course, the thing is s said than done. At present there is no sort of check upon the arrival of undesirables from the north. Once away from Harbin and Vladivostok, they are free to settle where they will, and it would more effective method of procedure has been adopted, and there is! every likelihood that future deportation orders will very effect ly be carried out As to our correspondent's suggestion that there! has been undue leniency on the part of the Mixed Court, we believe the complaint is not without some foundation. We have in mind one instance in which a seemingly well deserved deportation was refused both by an Assessor for the day and by the Senior Consul's Assesser to whom the matter was referred. Where an evi] undoubtedly exists, it is up to the authorities not to stand on ceremony in sup-i pressing it. Otherwise, we shall anticipate letters from not one but, many victims of the Fourth? abuse.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.