London, Feb. 14.
It is understood that the British Foreign Office is well disposed to the construction of the Vhinchou-Aigun line, but feels its hands somewhat bound diplomatically.
The English press continues favourable to the scheme.
"The Economist" reviews the whole undertaking, emphasizing the value of the line to China and also to Great Brit This paper declares that now that Japan and Russia have declined the invitation' of Mr. Knox, United States Secretary of State, (for the neutralization of the Manchurian Railways) no reason exists for farther delay in connexion with the Chinchou-Aigun scheme.
"If," "The Economist" continues, " Japan carries out ber expressions of goodwill and friendship for Chinain a practical manner, no difficulty should arise.
There is some danger that continued inactivity on the part of the British Government may mislead the Chinese authorities into the supposition that the British Government is not alive to the benefits to be den—by British interests—from the development of China's resources. It may be hoped that, if any hitch should arisen carrying out this great and beneficial project, the! British Government will take wise' measures to smooth the th of commercial interests; ant diplomacy will enable " scheme that reflects so much credit upon China to be completed without farther delay."—Special Service.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.