Tokio. February 12.
Tt is authoritatively announced in Japan that the British Foreign Office has recognized the valid Japan's contention in regard to the proposed Fakumen Ra has issued the necessary instructions ty Sir John Jordan at Peking. Accordingly it is most improbable that the construction of this railway will be begun.
Careful investigation in the matter of the Chientao dispute is required to prevent a hasty settlement.
London, February 8.
The most disastrous fire in the history of New Zealand took place yesterday in the heart of Christ-church. A large block of business premises was destroyed, and_ the loss is estimated at half a million sterling.—Exclusive Service.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.