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had been gone through that Szechuan could sequre
internal peace.
In reporting as I have, I am conscious of
exposing myself to being considered an alarmist,
never an enviable reputation. This, however, is not
the case. I see a situation slowly and steadily
developing, a situatiɔ which, given certain
circumstances, must lead to a crisis. I also see
incidents like the Pei-lu-Ting dase, the bombardment
of Wanhalen, the sinking of junks, the huge claims
of French Kissions assisting the development of
the situation, It is not a question of quoting
specific incidents where everything has to be
watched so carefully, but I have no hesitation in
re-affirming my considered consideration that directly
the reunification of Szechuan is an accomplished fact, whether in four or five years or even longer,
it will immediately be followed by anti-foreign opposition on the part of the officials, which
will eventually end in anti-foreign outbursts.
I have, etc.,
(signed) W.MEYRICK HEWLETT.
Consul General.