Wang said that "It is the fixed policy of the. National Government always to use pro-' per diplomatic procedure according to established principles of international law in reaching an amicable and satisfactory settlement of outstanding issues between China and the foreiga Powers." Speaking at Nanking last Tuesday, he said that the Programme of the Waichiaopa was to abolish extraterritoriality this year and to take back-all concessions next, In view of the Powers' replies, these statements do not harmonize very well. But we would prefer to think that the earlier speech represents the real spirit of the National Government. China undoubtedly desires to stand on equal terms with other Powers, and we cannot believe she would be so mad as to follow the extremist advice and declare extraterritoriality abolished when ther the Western Governments agree or not, If "proper diplomatic procedure" is to be followed, the way is clearly shown in the closing paragraphs of both the British and American replies, Both, though in different language, suggest the same method, namely, a conference to work opt a system by which consular jurisdiction would gradually be relinquished, either for certain cases, or in certain districts, or both, pari pass with China introducing in effective force the requisite reforms. This was the recommendation of the International Commission of 1926, and when all circumstances are ' considered it is the only safe, reasonable and beneficial course, In conclusion, we may be forgiven for drawing special attention to the perfect courtesy and consideration shown in the wording of these replies. The Powers.
wwe had a disagreeable task to perform. They are anxious to show China that they feel, surely the events of recent years prove that they do feel, the utmost sympathy with her a ditions. But they cannot be blind to facts which make it impossible for them to accede to all her wishes the instant that they are voiced, and they have done their best not only to soften the sharpness of refusal but show how those wishes may most quickly be fulfilled and to assure China of their cordial co-opera tion if only she will do her part. If these replies were nothing else they would be a fine example of correct diplomatic procedure as practised amongst great Powers and of a truly human spirit of sympathy.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.