To the Editor of the "Norra-Cama Dairy News."
Sir,—As was anticipated, Dr. Eugene Chen prefixes his reply to my letter with a quarter column of "anonymity" bugaboo. It leaves me cold. I am unconcerned as to whether or not Sun Wen happens to be the Doctor's "political leader and personal friend." Sun Wen is a public man and as such lays himself open to anonymous criticism in the correspondence columns of the Press, equally as under cover of the editorial "We." Were 1 to criticize an individual in his private status I would certainly give my name, otherwise I feel under no obligation so to do. This 1s my fixed opinion and nothing will shake it. I am equally unconcerned as to whether the Doctor continues this or any other correspondence with either classified or unclassified scribes. With re gard to my object. in writing as I do, am quite willing to elucidate—I do so below.
As to the argument, I did not attack Sun Wen's reputation. 1 merely drew attention to that reputation. The question of intervention was quite a side issue and was used by myself as an example of Southern propaganda. Dr. Chen continues his theoretical arguments which may be placed against my suggestion, and those interested can judge for themselves. I have nothing further to add except to express the opinion that as things are at present, perhaps, under certain circumstances, it might be expeditious to put out the flickering light in Peking by withholding the salt and customs surplus. But, maybe the Powers reason like my humble self—that such a course would not be politic until there presents himself a strong man whose political career would justify his being trusted with the task of forming a new and stable central government.
Dr. Chen insists that Sun Wen is the man. I maintain that Sun Wen's past history as a professional "political leader" does not justify that view. On, the other hand, as a "'personal friend," I have no doubt he fully merits Dr. Chen's highest esteem. My object in writing these letters is that since I was at one time in a particularly unique position to become possessed of facts (much more so than the average student of Chinese politics) I hold the views indicated above and if my puny writings lead newcomers, who might interest themselves in the matter, to investigate, before taking for granted Dr. Chen's cleverly phrased propaganda, my purpose will be served. I am so far interested in Chinese polities as to take the trouble to try and bring truth to light.
Finally, Dr. Chen, of course, cannot write without being rude, amd his angle of attack on my
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.