CO129-362 - Public Offices - 1909 — Page 387

385

in China engaged in lawful occupations, such as the build-

ing of a railway are placed under the special protection

of the Chinese authorities. If these neglect their duty

in this respect and foreigners are subjected to insult

and hurt, regrettable international complications must

inevitably ensue.

In the case of the recent disturbances on the

Kowloon-Canton Failway the Magistrates of Tsang Ch'ang

and Tung Kuan have apparently failed in their duty in

these three respects.

Firstly, they have not rendored loyal assistance

to an important Chinese undertaking; secondly, they havO

signally failed to maintain order within their jurisdic-

tion; thirdly, they have not afforded British subjects

proper protection.

It is difficult to sac how they can o8020

severe omaure when these facts become know.

During Your Excellency's administration law-

lessness has been put down with a firm hand, uncouragement

has