Nanking, Aug. 8.
A stern reproach, that they" have not been doing all that is possible to [Prevent droughts and floods. has been given the authorities of Chekiang, Kiangsu, Honan, Anhwei, Hupeh, and Kiangal provinces by General Chiang Kai-shek.
In an identic telegram to the chairmen of the six provinces, Gener [Chiang says that natural calamities pave in recent years frequently visit~ led very large areas because the Jauthorities have failed to carry out Jadequate prevention measures and allowed nature to take its own course. He adds that this state of affairs cannot but give one a heartache.
Referring to the present drought in the Yangtse provinces, General Chiang states that, although its serious proportions are not to be denied, it Jappears that not all possible measures have been taken to minimize Its effects by means of artifelal irrigation for the lowland and by readjust: ment of rural credit and food supply.
The Generalissimo strongly rebukes those responsible for propaganda tending to exaggerate the effects of the drought. He says that a number reports submitted to Nanking greatly exaggerate the conditions of {the areas concerned, apparently with the object of obtaining the utmost possible relief from the Central
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.