Tokio, May 18.
With regard to the declaration of independence by Chang Tso-lin, the "Jiji" states:
Though some Chinese newspapers are circulating rumours that Japan is assisting Chang Tso-lin, it is fact that she is not in the least vendering him any aid. The fact is that there is no justification for the step he has taken in declaring independence als' a sequel] to his defeat. His disregard of the sovereignty of China can never be recognized by the Powers. On the contrary, the continuance of China's internal troubles tends to impel all foreigners to the belief that the Chinese people have no ability to govern their own country, thus incurring the possibility of intervention of the Powers. It is for this reason that we cannot help calling for grave reflexion on the part of the Chinese people.
The "Yomiuri"? says:—That Chang Tso-lin has declared his independence as: a consequence of his defeat m a private war can Lave no influence with Chinese and foreigners. Such a move on his part must be taken as matter of annoyance not only to China herself but also to Japan, as it is detrimental to China's national welfare and happiness.—Eastern News Agency.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.