Pakhoi, Oct. 2.
Pakhoi is in a panic. Not since the Revolution of 1911 have the people been so thoroughly scared. The origin of the present trouble the contest between Kuangtun; and Kuangsi.
Interest circles round two names: Generals Wong Chi-ain and Luk Lan-tsing, both of whom are said to have done their bit as brigands before being called to the more scientific office.
The former usually resides Pakhoi, and the latter in Liemchow. Some ten days ago Wong Chi-un Jeff by steamer for Hongkong and Canton, (not neglecting to take certain funds with him), leaving his son, a young man of 22, in charge of his soldiers. Yesterday the son followed the father, (again, the funds were not forgotten), and that night the soldiers proceeded to join themselves to a body of brigands, some 500-800 strong, who have terrorized the country round for a year or more.
These men have nominally declared for Kuangtung, and as General Luk Lan-tsing is, as far as latest advices go, still in favour of Kuangsi, a passage of arms may be expected between these two companies.
The aftermath is what the merchants and people generally look forward to with so much apprehension. Looting and rapine are almost certain to follow.
On the other hand should Luk Tan-tsing declare for Kuangtung the' likelihood of trouble is diminished considerably. For the present Pakhoi is defended by few hundred representing the Navy. under officer Li Ku-man who has been in charge of naval affairs here for 10 years, and is trusted and respected by the people. The local volunteers may also be expected to do their best unless absolutely outnumbered. The Chief of Police is reported to have deserted his post.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.