21. The "Astræa," after cruising up the Yang-tsze to Nanking, returned to Shanghae, taking over the duties of Senior Naval Officer at that port from His Majesty's ship "Flora" on the 3rd January,
On his arrival at Shanghae, Captain Vaughan-Lee was requested by the Consul-General to prevent the steam-ship "Maori King" from proceeding to sea, as there was a warrant out for her. A guard was placed on board and her engines were disabled; but the guard was withdrawn after a few days. Captain Vaughan-Lee states that she had been embarking Chinese coolies from Vladivostock for Hong Kong, but taking them to Mexico instead, where they were landed against their will; but he understands that the actual charge against her is in illegally flying the British flag.
Page 65
This Document is the Property of His Britannic Majesty's Government.
AFFAIRS OF CHINA.
CONFIDENTIAL.
(8044)
The "Kinsha," and "Nightingale" are at Shanghae, making good defects. "Widgeon" is at Hankow giving leave. She has been relieved at Ichang by the "Teal."
The "Bramble," "Britomart," "Thistle," and "Snipe" are cruising as necessary in the Lower Yang-tzse.
The Senior Naval Officer at Shanghae reports that all is quiet in the Yang-tzse Valley. The river is falling rapidly, and the water is low above Kiukiang, but the channels are scouring out and navigation will improve.
I have been informed by the "Thistle" that an unusual amount of drilling of regular troops and crews of war junks is going on at Nanking, and that the rifle-range inside the Taiping Gate is used a great deal. The Viceroy, having had his life threatened, goes about well guarded. An electric tramway is being built at Nanking, and the railway through to Shanghae will be ready in February.
22. There is nothing of interest to report from the Upper River. The "Woodcock" is at Chungking, and the "Woodlark" cruising as necessary.
(No. 53.)
No. 1.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir J. Jordan.
(Telegraphic.)
FOREIGN SETTLEMENT AT HARBIN,
442634
2241
Received: 9 APR 03
[March 11.]
SECTION 1.
Foreign Office, March 11, 1908.
His Majesty's Ambassador at St. Petersburg has been informed by M. Isvolsky that the Russian Government solicit our support at Peking, as they desire to create a foreign Settlement at Harbin on the same lines as the foreign Settlements at Chinese ports.
Please let me know if this statement corresponds with the demand made at Peking by the Russian Government. If it does, please give me your views on the question.
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