The papers inform us that a number of officials are petitioning Gen. Yuan and requesting him to abolish the title and office of Chief Commander and to adopt the title of Governor instead. During the last few days, Gen. Yuan has been visiting the different schools, and appears to be taking a greater interest in civil matters, so it would seem as if he will comply with the request and be Governor.
The people are not at all satisfied with the existing condition of things, and no wonder, when they are squeezed by some and robbed by others. One of the leading Cantonese stores. was broken into some nights ago and upwards of $1,000 worth of goods removed. In the morning, the owner of the store reported the matter to the police, and they commenced operations by arresting two of the shop assistants. When the owner protested, he was told that the assistants must have been in league with the robbers. or, they could never have gained an entrance to the premises. A few of the things have been recovered from pawnshops, but the owner of the. store is afraid to press the case, lest his assistants be subjected to torture.
'A company of soldiers passed through Tuhshan on their way to Huchow. Immediately after their arrival, they sent. to the man in the Board office and informed him that they wanted a room in. the temple papered and renovated. He did not' move as quickly as they desired, so the petty officer had him taken to the temple and_ thrashed with a carrying-pole until it broke, and the sufferer has no hope of redress.
Coolies are scarce. so strong and healthy women are being commandeered to carry loads and ammunition. At Tsunyi, the official sent out a Tien of soldiers to attack the robbers. They entered into a compact with them and, according to authentic reports, others were sent, with a similar result, until nine out of 11 lien have gone over to the robbers.
Proclamations are out in the city informing the public that an export duty of $310 per load is to be imposed on all opium exported from the province. Dame Rumour says.a number of merchants have been discovered who sold and bought opium without affixing the revenue stamps to the bills and accounts. The opium has been confiscated as a punishment.
The students in the city schools are making progress in_ their physical exercises. Tennis is the favourite occupation just now, and it is interesting to note the way in
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.