The Taku controversy is a matter which is arousing considerable hostility and criticism against the Japanese in some Chinese circles, especially among the younger classes.
'The National Students' Federation has despatched a vigorous telegram to the Minister of Foreign Affairs demanding that he should deal severely with the Japanese and demand an explanation. The message reads in part:
"Whilst the Fengtien fleet was bombarding Taku, which was defended by the Kuominchun, Japanese gunboats attempted to force an entry, regardless of the warnings of the Kuominchun, and, worse still, they opened fire on the Kuominchun. This is a grave matter, an important violation of the sovereign rights of China and an unprecedented insult to the Chinese people at large. This is sufficient to show that the Japanese are aiding the Fengtien traitors. They are always delighted to see China thrown into a disordered and chaotic state.
Our indignation makes the hair of our heads stand on end. You are requested to take the matter up strongly with the Japanese Minister to see that there is no recurrence. Rest assured that we will back you
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.