412
our friendly feelings.
4.
In speaking of affairs in the North West, where Tsen
Ch'un Hauen declares that no trouble is to be expected, I asked
if General Tung Fu Hsiang had not a large number of troops. He
laughed and said "I have most of them" which looks as if the
desertions from that army of which mention has been made from
time to time may have been for the purpose of joining Tsen Ch'un
Hauen, who has the reputation of paying his men.
5.
The Viceroy's reputation for stern justice and strict
dealing with his officials has preceded him and has created
consternation among the officials in Canton, where I am informed
the Viceroy will find a depleted Treasury. On the intimation
of his appointment several of the officials are reported to have
sent in their resignations which, by telegraphic order from him,
have not been accepted pending his arrival, Probably before the
acceptance of the resignations the Treasury will be somewhat
replenished.
6.
It was late when the Viceroy left Government House, and
as he was hurrying on to Canton he begged that I would not return
his visit, but that as soon as he was settled he hoped that I
would