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yielded without a struggle and throughout the province there has been constant friction between these Peasants' corps and "village volunteers" (Man Tuen) maintained by the gentry in their defence. There can be no doubt that the systematic destruction of the influence of village elders which has proceeded ever since the institution of the Republic has been one of the most notable causes of the existing state of anarchy in the country districts.
5. While it is too early to attempt any definite summing up of the position, and certainly impossible to forecast the probable course of events, some estimate may be formed of the aims and objects of the various individuals and groups concerned in the recent coup. The motive of the military commanders, in so far as it is not due merely to the desire to secure a larger share in the spoils of office, may be traced back to the struggle for domination between the Kangtung and Kwangsi factions which has been in progress ever since the overthrow of the Manchus. The province of Kwangsi is not self supporting and has always depended on assistance from Kangtung. But the disappearance of any adequate central control has meant that only by actual domination of Canton could the officials of Kwan si secure the necessary pecuniary assistance. Thus the Cantonese had a twofold grievance: not only were they governed by men from another province but also income was being diverted to Kwangsi which might have been expended in Kwangtung or directed into their own pockets. The military commanders have accordingly
kept this aspect well to the fore declaring that their rising was merely against the tyranny of Wong Shiu-hung
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and not
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