350
in the suppression of a rebellion which originated from a
mutiny of unpaid troops at Liuchau and has spread over some
part of the Kwangsi Province. The Consul-General informed me that he did not consider this rebellion very serious, that
it would probably melt away before long, and that the Viceroy
words
appeared to consider that emigration furnish a satisfactory
outlet for those that have suffered from the unquiet condition
of the Country. Mr. Campbell fears however that until this
rebellion is disposed of the Viceroy will not be able to push
forward the emigration scheme as rapidly as we should like.
The Consul-General who takes the greatest
interest in the scheme is as anxious as I am that there should
be no undue delay in carrying it out, but he knows the methods
and habits of Chinese Officials and fears that it may be
6.
wrecked if these people are unduly worried about it. If it
succeeds, as we hope it will, Wuchou will afford a permanent
and satisfactory port of emigration for Chinese labour to the
Transvaal via Hongkong. It may be advisable later on to es-
tablish agencies at some other ports, such as Canton and Kong-
mun, which would also use Hongkong in the same way as proposed
for Wuchou, but at present we have decided that it is best
to confine the work to Wuchou especially having in view the
undesirability of interfering with existing sources of labour
supply to the Straits Settlements.
7.
I shall keep you informed of all further
developments of this matter as they occur.
I have the honour to be, Sir.
Your most obedient Humble servant,
M Nathan
Governor, &c..