Honan is to lose one of the very best officials that we have had in many years: he leaves us in the person of Mr. C. F. Hsu, for the past 10 years CommMssioner for Foreign Affairs for the province. Nor will he be regretted by the foreign community only: among the very best circles of his own compatriots he is respected and admired as a man of great ability and sterling worth.
Ten years ago, the 11th of this month, Mr. Hsu came to Honan, since when your correspondent feels fullest assurance in expressing the opinion, that no case of difference has arisen between Chinese and foreigner that has not been settled to the full satisfaction of both parties through the unwearied effort and perfect tact of Mr. Hsu.
It will be remembered that there was great trouble at one time over the disposition of the land at the Chikungshan summer resort. Such a strong feeling of suspicion was engendered in the official mind at that time that when it was expedient to enlarge the bounds of the community, from want of building space, it was next to impossible to do so. Then it was that Mr, Hsu undertook the difficult task of mediator. The result has Been an extension of the community of Chikung on lines of such comprehensive justice and fairness, that whereas the Chinese Government reaps great advantages from the settlement, both Chinese and foreign lease-holders are perfectly satisfied. This is. but a type of his conduct of public affairs pertaining to His office.
In the general life of the com: munity likewise his broadminded public spirit and unselfishness will make him greatly missed. But a few weeks ago he was re-elected to the office of President of the Public Health Association, which office be has held ever since the formation Of the Association. He has been active President of the Fu Chung School of Mines likewise, through all its history: this school has lately been moved to Chiao-tso.
During these days immediately preceding his departure for Shanghai, to which city he goes to fill the same office in Kiangsu that he-has so ably filled in this province, he is being feted and dined: when he leaves on the 10th instant' for his new field of service he will carey away with him the very best wishes of this community for all success in the larger field.
Mr. Lisle Fu-an, councillor to the Tuchun. of Kiangsu at Nanking, is cuvetted to follow Mr. Hsu as Commissioner for this province.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.