und Spazaitying Jo note that the question. of reopening of the Hongkew and Yangtszepoo areas, is being brought to the attention of the government in Tokyo, Equally gratifying is it to learn, that Japanese restrictions with access to the wharves and the food-producing countryside of Pootung are being relaxed, Fathe! Jacquinot's plea broadcast by this journal yes: terday emphasizes the necessity for all the surrounding areas of Shanghai being reopened early. Tt 1s necessary that the farmers should be able to return to the sell as soon as possible 50 that the early crops for next year shauld be thus assured by' the resumption of these men's activities, A real proof of Japan's sincerity in this matter could so easily be given, and were that done much of present anxiety would be elleved. 'The considerations governing the re~ opening' of the Industrial districts at present closed are no ess weighty. While very con-iderable damage has been done there, there are still factories and installations which could be put into. operation, while the machinery of others Which could not could easily and continuously receive that attention without which it must deteriorate, The statement that delay in opening these areas Is due to Japanese fear of secret activities ikely to cause disturbances does not appear to be strikingly real. If there were any merit in the suggestion, then the whole of the areas at present behind the Japanese lines In north China would need to be completely denuded of inhabitants, and it' is known that though their numbers have been very greatly reduced still many thousands carry on their businesses there without causing the incon venience which the Japanese appear to fear in Shanghai, Tt may" be wise for' the Japanese military authorities to make haste slowly in this matter, but, surely, not too slowly.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.