It is a well known fact that Fukien is the buffer between Canton and Nanking; and that also means thst Fukien will be the battle ground in case open hostilities break out, Therefore, it does not seem unrezsonable to suspect ulterior motives, in view of the strict secrecy regarding troop movements. Furthermore, large numbers of soldiers have " been employed of late in strengthening the fortifications around Foochow. New trenches have been dug, barricades and rifle pits fave been' constructed along the main highways entering the city, all of which lends credence to the current reports of possible. war:
ire between Nanking and Canton in the near future.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.
