{
551
same month 13 bales of transit yam, said to belong to the above firm, were taken by robbers near Shao Ch'ing. It is satisfactory to record that six of the "Lily" pirates have been arrested, five of whom have been beheaded, one being retained to give inforation against others still at large.
removal of Chinese Officials from French Territory.--Viceroy's instructions to the Brigadier-General at Kiao-chau were :~-~~-
On the 19th instant I received a report from the Captain in command of the naval force at Nao-chou, to the effect that a French official had stated that, Nao-chou having been included in French territory, all land taxes and other revenue would be administered by the French, and that all Chinese civil and military officials would have to remove at fonce. The captain accordingly requested instructions.
I also received a further report to the effect that the French had inquired when the officials were going to take their departure, and were pressing the question very trongly.
I have to observe that, on receipt of reports of a similar tenour, the former Acting Viceroy pointed out that, in accordance with an Agreement made between Generalissimo Su and the French Admiral, the Islands of Nao-chou and Tung Hai were to be leased to the French, and all civil and military authorities, clerks, and Yamên runners were to be
moved forthwith.
to
The Brigadier-General is therefore hereby instructed to at once direct the civil and ilitary officials in the Islands of Nao-chou and Tung Hai to return to Canton imme- ly Clerks, soldiers, and runners will likewise be relieved of their duties. All tions of war, &c., should be handed over to the Brigadier-General. If the people in the leased area behave themselves and do not break the law, they will be at remain where they are, and the French will not press them to remove. They the management of their property as heretofore, and the French will protect If the French require land or other property, they will pay the owner its price. 4 is provided in the Convention. The people must continue to live in peace as Should the nd should not bring themselves into danger by making trouble. hereafter ill-treat the people in violation of the Convention, the latter will be at to inform me by Petition, and I will discuss the question with the French. The Jer-General should inform the gentry and Elders.
January 24.)
sn, March 1, 1900.
(Signed)
G. D. PITZIPIOS.