It is with considerable regret that this journal records the death of a very old friend in the person of Sir Reginald Johnston, Sir Reginald had a most interesting and full life, as his famous book, "Twilight in the Forbidden City," clearly shows. Starting his career with Hongkong Civil Service, in 1919 he" became tutor to the young ex-emperor of China and guided his studies for the next six years, profoundly influencing the young man, as he in his turn was profoundly influenced, "In 1027 he was appointed Commissioner at. Welhalwel position which he held until the port' was Fendited to the Chinese in October 1030, The Fepresentative of this journal, who was the only foreign Journalist sent specially to cover proceedings, was able in the few days he spent there before and after rendition to ascertain how greatly Sir Reginald had added. 10 Britain's prestige in that part of China, There was one small incident which greatly touched him during the preliminaries to" the actual rendition ceremonies. The headmen from the surrounding villages had been called into Wel hhalwet so that the departing Commissioner could take Jeave of them. There were the usual speeches after which there wag a presentation of scrolls from practically every village in the hinterland. The headmen in their speeches were obviously moved at the parting from a man who had ruled them wisely and fairly: they obviously did mot wont {0 pass without the British jurisdiction, but the fiat had gone forth and there was no option but to obey. The speeches, all of the same tenor came to an end. There was an uncom: fortable pause, when suddenly an old man moved from the book of the police court in which the ceremony had taken place, tand, walking. up a gangway between his fellows, Was seen carry ing a tray on which was a small white porcelain bow! fied with clear water, Sir Reginald Aushed and tears came into "his eyes as he made a speech to the gathering, thanking them in this own behalf, and in. that of his. coun: try for the tribute which had Just been paid. The white bowl lied with clear water "was the silent tribute to the purity of the British justice with which the donors had been
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.