[
    {
        "id": 298417,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-174 - Sir Kennedy - 1876 [4-8]",
        "page_number": 341,
        "title": "CO129-174 - Sir Kennedy - 1876 [4-8]",
        "content_text": "340\n\n21. Out of consideration 21. The proposed transfer to the inhabitants, rifle involves the revision of the \n\ninide a rivityd only fructicable defle \n\nAnnge in Wingling. \n\nMonges \n\nleh, are \n\nnav never seen, \n\nMillary target practice should not be eeded befor wing invariably carried that at Kinulom has been and somewhere in the permanently secured for \n\nof the Groop. \n\nhil \n\nCounting. Good rifle \n\nmay \n\nhe speured \n\nAnd at Harley \n\nM. \n\nto the VI. \n\nat Koulom \n\nML \n\n2 Mo \n\nhas been \n\n99. A copy of my report \n\noffplied to me of the on the subject to the \n\nto the Commander Commander in \n\nWil \n\no \n\nChief, which \n\nStatements. \n\nmay \n\nChief thought \n\ncontain the Military Secretary, & \n\nrequiring refutation enclosed t",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-174 - Sir Kennedy - 1876 [4-8].txt",
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    {
        "id": 308267,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-192 - Governor Hennessy - 1881 [1-4]",
        "page_number": 257,
        "title": "CO129-192 - Governor Hennessy - 1881 [1-4]",
        "content_text": "C. O.\n\n252\n\nin \"Hongkong\n\nI have the honour to be,\n\nMy Lord, Your Lordship's Most Obedient\n\nHumble Servant,\n\nMyreffumency.\n\nThe Daily Press.\n\nHONGKONG, JANUARY 8TH, 1881.\n\nGUNNERY AND STEAM TRIAL OF H.M.S.WIVERN\"\n\nBY OUR SPECIAL COMMISSIONER.] The Wivern, 4, ironclad turret ship, in charge of Commander John G. Jones, was taken outside for a gunnery and steam trial on Thursday morning. Governor Sir John Pope Hennessy went out to witness the target practice, and His Excellency was accompanied by Admiral Coste, C.B., Commodore Smith, Captain Cleveland, Flag-Lieut. W. H. Maitland-Dougall, and Captain Barton, A.D.C. to the Major-General Commanding; and a number of gunnery officers from the fleet now in harbour. Mr. R. H. Sleeman, Inspector of Machinery; and Mr. George Fitzgerald, Chief Engineer of the Iron Duke, were also present, but the engines of the Wivern were in charge of Mr. L. M. Gresw, Chief Engineer of the ship.\n\nIf there is one thing more than another which your \"Commissioner\" regards with a fixed and inveterate antipathy, it is getting up in the middle of the night. Under the impression that there was some connexion between ships and tide, and remembering the copy-book text which averred that the latter \"waits for no man,” I gave orders to be called at six a.m., and was punctually roused out at that ghostly hour. There were few things stirring but the cooks and beasts; two dissipated-looking sparrows had apparently been making a night of it somewhere, and eventually found their way into my verandah, and an asthmatical coolie was dragging his weary limbs down the road as if nine men held him and one drove him; and notwithstanding that my faithful domestic had administered a skilfully compounded \"eye-opener,\" that operation had to be repeated before I could fully appreciate the situation. Somebody, somewhere, has written, \"Night is the time for rest,\" evidently knowing nothing about getting up in the middle of it to go on a steam trial. However, preliminary difficulties surmounted, I got to Peddar's Wharf, and soon after ran the gig alongside the gangway of the ironclad which was about to go on the cruise referred to above.\n\nI almost feel that the Wivern is an old acquaintance, as I used to pass her daily in going from Liverpool to the Cheshire shore at the time she and her sister ship—now the Scorpion, at Bermuda—were lying together in the Sloyne, in the custody, if I remember rightly, of Captain \"Jacky\" Paynter, of the Revenge. These two vessels, popularly known through a clever cartoon in Punch of that period (1863), as \"the Laird's rams,\" were no doubt built for the Confederates, although it was stated they were intended for some Eastern, not Western, navy; their names, too, tended to confirm a belief in their Eastern destination, as they had been christened El Tousson and El Monacir. Soon after their construction in Laird's yard, at Birkenhead, and just before they were ready for sea, strong representations were made by the Government of the United States, which resulted in the vessels' detention in the Mersey by the British authorities, and after lying there some considerable time they were eventually purchased by our Government.\n\nThe invention of the cupola or turret principle, as applied to war ships, is credited to the late Captain Cowper Coles, who made known the merits of this form of vessel in 1855; but it was not until 1861 that the Admiralty could be prevailed upon to regard the system in a favourable light. In the following year, however, the turret was adopted by Ericsson when he built the Monitor for the United States Government during the Civil War, and she gave a good account of herself in the memorable action with the Merrimac, just after the latter vessel had succeeded in effecting the destruction of the Cumberland and Congress.\n\nAlthough seventeen years old, the Wivern is in an excellent state of preservation, nothing about her presenting that perishing appearance noticed in some ships even though they may have seen but little service. This will probably be accounted for by reason that she was originally well built, both in respect to the work and materials put into her, and that she has been well kept; added to which £30,000 was spent upon her not long since in giving her new boilers and decks, having forecastle and poop built, cabins fitted, and bilge keels placed upon her. Although, of course, the Wivern is a long way behind the terrific engines of destruction of more recent times, she is a fine addition to the China command, and properly manned should be a real protection to this harbour and Colony. She presents the least possible target, answers her helm most readily, has no top-hamper, possesses many water-tight compartments, and not a man need be exposed in working her big guns in action, as she has steering gear below and a bullet-proof tower for the officer directing the movements of the vessel. With all those immense advantages, it must be apparent that in the duello there is no craft of any nationality in the Far East that would have any chance with her. In addition to her fighting power, she is formidable as a ram, as she has four or five feet of spur; and on a recent occasion when I saw her in dry dock, I was surprised to find that she was rather a pretty model below the water-line. The Wivern is 220 feet long, with a beam of 41 feet, and in commission has a complement of 150 men; and, with stores, provisions, and ammunition on board, to fighting trim she has a mean draught of 17 feet.\n\nSoon after His Excellency the Governor arrived on board, the ship's head was laid to westward and she proceeded under easy steam down the harbour and out through the Sulphur Channel; and on arriving off the south-east point of Lamma Island the steam trial commenced. The working of her machinery was highly satisfactory, and going down with the wind eleven knots were got out of her with 69 revolutions; after being brought head to wind and going back over the same course, a similar result was obtained; and later, with 70 revolutions, a slight improvement upon eleven knots was made.\n\nThe Wivern's armament consists of four 12-ton guns, Woolwich pattern, two in each turret; four Nordenfeldt guns, two on the forecastle and two on the poop; a Gatling gun, mounted on a carriage fit for shore fighting, but the gun can be readily detached and hoisted into a cutter for boat service; there is also a 9-pounder for the latter kind of work. In addition to this she carries the formidable Whitehead fish torpedoes, containing a charge of 33lbs. of gun-cotton, and spar torpedoes with 35lbs. of the same explosive. The projectiles for the 12-ton guns are of several kinds—empty common shell, weighing 237lbs.; Palliser chilled shot, of 250lbs., and Palliser chilled shell, of the same weight, but containing a bursting charge which explodes immediately it has contact with the object, besides these are case-shot and shrapnel. A full charge of powder is 30lbs. rifle large grain, and a battering charge 50lbs. pebble. The mechanical appliances adopted in loading and working these guns are such as to enable the gunners to fire with great rapidity, and the result is that a tremendous weight of metal can be poured into an enemy's ship in an incredibly short space of time. But of modern weapons, probably less is generally known about the Nordenfeldt gun than any other. The first ship in the British navy which received a Nordenfeldt gun was the Comus, now in Hongkong Harbour, followed by the Northampton, 12, double-screw armour-plated ship, and",
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    {
        "id": 337756,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-239 - Governor Des Voeus Acting Governor Stewart - 1888 [9-12]",
        "page_number": 151,
        "title": "CO129-239 - Governor Des Voeus Acting Governor Stewart - 1888 [9-12]",
        "content_text": "149\n\nto battleships conducting a bombardment underweigh beyond the mine field.\n\nIn this latter category the gunners of Belcher and Stonecutter forts might possibly fire into each other if they missed the target. On the other hand, if the modified obstruction suggested is put down on Kellett's Bank, the field, reduced to 6½ cables in length, is manageable; it is under the guns of Stonecutter fort at its best; and the distance of the enemy is increased 1¼ miles from the City, unless he destroyed the mine field which is hardly within the range of possibility.\n\nI have, &c.\n\nW. Usborne Moore, \nCommander.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-239 - Governor Des Voeus Acting Governor Stewart - 1888 [9-12].txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 346920,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-251 - Acting Governor Barker - 1891 [9-11]",
        "page_number": 524,
        "title": "CO129-251 - Acting Governor Barker - 1891 [9-11]",
        "content_text": "## \n580 offered him of feel sure that he Large, and possesses in my opinion very considerable natural ability. would succeed in extricating the entire organisation of the Establishment from the thoroughly unsatisfactory condition into which it has been allowed to drift. of course specially fit him for the post. \n\nHe is a capable and zealous officer, so has filled the post of Acting Harbour Master to the entire satisfaction of the Government and the public. Carget, the post of Superintendent of the Gaol.\n\n44. \nMr Thomson is however a Cadet and has therefore I presume a priority of claim over Commander Hastings. \nI may at the same time remind Your Lordship",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-251 - Acting Governor Barker - 1891 [9-11].txt",
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    {
        "id": 417059,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-352 - Public Offices - 1908",
        "page_number": 385,
        "title": "CO129-352 - Public Offices - 1908",
        "content_text": "## Inclosure 3 in No. 1.\n\n**Lieutenant-Commander Godfrey to Vice-Admiral Sir H. Lambton.**\n\n**(Confidential.)**\n\nSir,\n\n\"Teal,\" at Kiukiang, April 14, 1908.\n\nI HAVE the honour to report that, in accordance with Confidential Memorandum, \"Movements of Lower Yang-tsze Gun-boats,\" dated the 16th March, 1908, I proceeded from Kiukiang to Hukou, at the entrance to the Poyang Lake, intending to proceed to Nanchang. At Hukou, a signal was hoisted from the forts, \"Close, I wish to communicate\" (this is always done). A Chinese military officer came off requesting my reasons for wanting to go into the lake; I informed him it was due to \"Commander-in-chief's orders,\" and that I was going to Nanchang to call on the Governor, &c. (a friendly visit). He informed me that the Viceroy had issued orders that no foreign ships were to be allowed in the lake, and wished me to wait whilst he telegraphed for permission. This I did not do, as the Consul at Kiukiang informed me that it was held by all nationalities as a right to go into the lake, especially as there is a British firm (Messrs. Butterfield and Swire) who run a steamer twice a-week between Nanchang and Kiukiang, and also there are British subjects at Nanchang, Wuching, and Nankang (nearly all China inland missionaries). The German gun-boat \"Tiger\" was turned back about a month ago at the entrance of the lake.\n\nThere was a Chinese river gun-boat, \"Kiang Guan,\" of 600 tons displacement, at the entrance, who also sent an officer of the guard and informed me the Governor had given orders that foreign men-of-war were not allowed in the lake.\n\nThis case, and the German gun-boat \"Tiger,\" are the first two occasions on which ships have actually been stopped. Only protests have been made by the Chinese previously.\n\nIn accordance with C.S.O., Article 377, I made a formal protest, and informed both officers I should report the matter to my Commander-in-chief, and, as His Majesty's Minister at Peking is due at Kiukiang on the 16th April, I should report the matter to him to get the question settled once and for all.\n\nI have, &c.\n\n(Signed)  \nH. R. GODFREY.\n\n## Inclosure 4 in No. 1.\n\n**Sir J. Jordan to Vice-Admiral Sir H. Lambton.**\n\nPeking, May 7, 1908.\n\nWITH reference to your Excellency's letters of the 18th and 30th April, I have the honour to inclose, for your information, copies of correspondence which has passed between the Foreign Office, Wai-wu Pu, and this Legation on the subject of the navigation of the Poyang Lake by His Majesty's ships of war.\n\nThe question first arose in the summer of 1903, when a correspondence took place between the Taotai of Kiukiang and His Majesty's Acting Consul, Mr. Higgs. In this, the Taotai held, under instructions from the Governor of Kiangsi, that foreign ships of war are by Treaty permitted to visit Treaty ports only, and requested that stringent orders should be issued forbidding war-ships from navigating the Poyang Lake. Mr. Higgs replied, quoting Article 52 of the Tien-tsin Treaty, which he held meant that British ships of war were at liberty to visit any port whatever; and afterwards he paid a visit to the lake on board His Majesty's ship \"Teal,\" of which he gave a verbal notice to the Taotai beforehand. The latter wrote the next day to say that as it was a question of a personal visit to the Governor at Nanchang, he would not feel justified in placing difficulties in the way, but expressed a hope that if the Governor requested that gunnery practice should not be carried out in the lake on the return journey, as rumour said would be done, the Commanding Officer would desist. Mr. Higgs replied that in no case would such practice be carried out inconsiderately.\n\n*Wai-wu Pu, July 18; to ditto, August 18; to Foreign Office, August 24, 1904; Foreign Office, July 10; to ditto, October 19; to ditto, October 25, 1905.*\n\nIn 1904, the question arose again, in connection with the gunnery practice of His Majesty's ship \"Tweed\" in the Poyang Lake. The notes exchanged between the Wai-wu Pu and Sir Ernest Satow on the 13th July and the 18th August, 1904, copies of which are inclosed, explain sufficiently the nature of the Chinese objections and of Sir Ernest Satow's replies. In a despatch of the 24th August, 1904 (copy inclosed), Sir Ernest Satow requested the instructions of His Majesty's Secretary of State, and in a reply of the 10th July, 1905 (copy inclosed), Lord Lansdowne concurred in a recommendation that the Commander-in-Chief on the China Station should be authorized to send gun-boats to the Poyang Lake in order to maintain the right of British vessels to navigate its waters, but stated at the same time that, in view of all the circumstances, it would not be politic to insist on carrying out target practice on the lake against the wishes of the local authorities.\n\nIn April and May 1905, four of His Majesty's ships cruised in the lake, and practically no objection was raised by the local officials to the presence of the gun-boats; and, in a despatch of the 21st April, Mr. Sandius reported that, as far as the Nanking Viceroy was concerned, the incident might be considered closed, his Excellency having withdrawn all objections to ships of war visiting the lake, provided that they abstained from gun practice; but in October, the Wai-wu Pu wrote to Sir Ernest Satow objecting again to British men-of-war navigating the lake, and Sir Ernest replied reasserting the right to do so under Treaty, and stating that the Commander-in-chief had been instructed by His Majesty's Government to maintain that right. The correspondence was sent to the Foreign Office in despatches of the 19th and 25th October, 1905 (copies of which are inclosed), and by a despatch of the 23rd December, 1905, Sir Edward Grey instructed His Majesty's Minister to inform the Chinese Government that His Majesty's Government intended to adhere to their interpretation of Article 52 of the Treaty of Tien-tsin, and to their right to navigate the Poyang Lake. This decision of His Majesty's Government was communicated to the Wai-wu Pu in a note of the 20th February, 1908, to which no answer was returned.\n\nIt is clear from the foregoing that your Excellency is authorized by His Majesty's Government to send gun-boats to the Poyang Lake in order to maintain the right of navigation, and that the movements of such gun-boats should not be affected by the protests of the local Chinese authorities. I do not gather from the Report of the Commanding Officer of His Majesty's ship \"Teal,\" in the present instance, that any more than a verbal interference was offered by the Chinese authorities at Hukou, but in view of the fact that the movements of the \"Teal\" were influenced by that interference, it seems to me desirable that, before one of His Majesty's ships again proceeds to the Poyang Lake, a verbal intimation of the proposed visit should be given to the Taotai through His Majesty's Consul at Kiukiang.\n\nI have, &c.\n\n(Signed)  \nJ. N. JORDAN.\n\nPage 382",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-352 - Public Offices - 1908.txt",
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    {
        "id": 436446,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-386 - Public Offices & Others - 1911",
        "page_number": 278,
        "title": "CO129-386 - Public Offices & Others - 1911",
        "content_text": "Referees\n\nGive the names and addresses of two referees. They should be responsible persons who know you well, either in private life or professionally; and one at least should be well acquainted with you in private life.\n\n1. Name is S. M. Ammon.\n\nAddress The General Hospital\n\nOccupation Matron\n\n2. Name Commander Target\n\nAddress Fairhaven, Burcott Pleasant Weybridge, Surrey (old friend of this family)\n\nOccupation M.B.\n\nTestimonials.\n\nGive the name, address, and occupation of the writer of each of your testimonials. Copies certified by the Colonial Nursing Association must be sent for record in the Colonial Office. The copies may be either in MS. or in print; and it is desirable, though not absolutely necessary, that they should be on foolscap paper not larger than this form.\n\n(27)\n\nThis is to certify that Miss S. M. Alag has been Matron at the General Hospital, Birmingham.\n\nSir Thomas Chavasse\n\n22, Temple Row, Birmingham.\n\n24543\n\nS. M. Alag\n\n276\n\nGeneral Hospital Manager\n\nNfare. 9th\n\n1911\n\nas found\n\nMiss Alag was in charge of the Hospital from March 1907 to April 1910. She passed her examinations for the Certificate of Nursing in March 1910. Prior to coming to the Hospital, Miss Alag spent 1½ years as a probationer in the Victoria Nursing Home, Shanghai.\n\nRobert Jardine, Esq., M.D.\n\nGreat Charles Street, Blon\n\nSummer Stupn. to the G. St. Birmingham Professor of Medicine to the University of...\n\nfr. Thomas Wilson\n\n07, Cornwall Street, B'ham.\n\nBlam\n\nCostetne officer to the Gen: Hosp: Physician to the In-patients to the Hospital.\n\nMiss Alag was trained in Medical, Surgical wards (Male, female and Children), Gynaecological ward, the operating theatre & 3 months in Villa Nursing; & learning massage.\n\nMiss Alag is a bright, intelligent & willing nurse with varied experience in hospital & private nursing. She has passed the Central Midwives Board examination and is fit by training & experience for District work & private practice.\n\nI also certify that she is of good education and being...",
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    {
        "id": 504638,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-495 - Governor Sir Clementi - 1926 [11-12]",
        "page_number": 507,
        "title": "CO129-495 - Governor Sir Clementi - 1926 [11-12]",
        "content_text": "+1 \n\n2 \n\nOf the members of the Kuomintang in this province and Hong Kong, less than 10 per cent. are imbued with Communistic principles, the rest being too apathetic or too ignorant to take an intelligent interest in the conduct of affairs: by the extremist section of the former. This section is under the leadership of Chiang Chung-cheng (or Chiang Kai-shek), an extremely able and unscrupulous individual, who received a military training in Japan and Germany, has the closest relations with Moscow, and is at the moment head of the military school at Whampoa. Collaborating with him are the late Civil Governor, Liao Chung-K'ai, head of the labour unions, and Tsou Lu, president of the university. These three are rapidly establishing a dictatorship, which is likely, in the near future, to prove all-powerful. Whereas they have nominally at their disposal a force of only some 7,000 to 8,000 men, in which are included officers, cadets, and Russians, their potential strength lies in members of the labour and agricultural unions, who, in lots of 200 to 300 at a time, undergo one month's intensive training in rifle-target practice, and are then dismissed to their homes to be called out and armed when necessary. The unlimited supplies of money, rifles, Thompson and machine guns, and ammunition, which they receive regularly from Russia, enable this military training to be carried on continuously.*\n\nBy the 13th June, the Yunnanese were driven from the city and many of them massacred (see Naval Intelligence Summary, Annex V). The victors—Kuomintang, labour unions, cadets, and Russians—at once began to utilise the news of the Shanghai shooting on the 30th May as propaganda to win popularity for themselves and establish their position. The general strike in Hong Kong and South China ports commenced on the 20th June. At Canton, a monster demonstration in front of the foreign concession at Shameen was arranged for the 23rd June. As it was generally believed that this would be made an occasion for creating an incident similar to that at Shanghai, His Majesty's Consul-General sent a special note of warning to the Canton Government (see Annex IV). The demonstration took place, and soldiers on the Canton side opened fire on Shameen (though no Chinese will probably ever admit this); the fire was returned by the foreign troops in Shameen (French and British), and some fifty-two Chinese were killed, of whom about half were soldiers carrying arms (for details of the incident, see accounts by His Majesty's Consul-General, by Commander Maxwell Scott, R.N., and by Mr. Fu Ping-ch'ang in Annexes VI, V, and VII, and for details regarding Chinese killed and wounded, see Annex VIII). No women were killed. On the Shameen side, one French civilian was killed, and there were French, British, and Japanese wounded. Foreign women and children were at once evacuated to Hong Kong, and the British garrison at Shameen was strengthened by two platoons of Indian troops. On the 26th June, the Canton Commissioner for Foreign Affairs addressed the following \"five demands\" to the British and French Consuls-General (see Annex VII):\n\n\"Inasmuch as the recent massacres of Chinese subjects constitute a complete abrogation of all the laws of humanity and cannot, by universal law, be tolerated, we make the following demands:\n\n\"1. Apologies will be made by High Commissioners appointed by the Powers interested to the Government of Canton.\n\n\"2. The senior officers responsible shall be punished.\n\n\"3. With the exception of two despatch vessels, all naval units of the Powers interested shall be withdrawn.\n\n\"4. Shameen shall be returned to the Government of Kwangtung and placed under the administration thereof.\n\n\"5. The victims and their families shall be compensated.\"\n\nThe French Minister and British Chargé d'Affaires at Peking instructed their representatives at Canton to reply that they were unable to take such demands into consideration (Peking telegram No. 175 of the 29th June). Meanwhile, the strike developed into a boycott—first of the goods of all foreign Powers, but gradually narrowing down to one against British goods alone. The carrying out of the boycott strengthened the power of the strike committees by giving them revenue (from fines, &c.), which, by the end of the year, was greater than that accruing to the so-called Government. The strike committees have throughout acted as virtual masters of Canton, under the guidance of Borodin* and other Russian \"advisers\"; and they are the\n\nAt the end of June, the position of the small foreign community at Shameen (about seventy-five civilians, besides troops) appeared to be a very dangerous one. They were isolated by about 100 miles of hostile river, and were faced by a Chinese city with a population of about 1 million persons, with a rising tide of fanatical anti-foreign feeling, with a weak and treacherous Government, with a trained Communist army, and with an active band of Soviet agents straining every nerve to provoke trouble between Great Britain and China.\n\nOn the 7th July (telegram No. 182 to Paris, &c., in F2944), we consulted the Washington Treaty Powers as to the serious position in China; and as regards Canton, we said:\n\nThe aggressive attitude of the Communist Government now installed at Canton is proved by recent events, and it is impossible not to feel considerable uneasiness about the position of the foreign community at Shameen, who are on the defensive. The danger presented by Canton is not purely local. The Canton authorities possess, in the Whampoa Officers' Training School, an institution which, as His Majesty's Government are reliably informed, is a distinct military asset. It is partly staffed with Russian instructors and must be regarded as the possible nucleus of a military force which, under the conditions now prevailing, may seriously affect the whole Chinese situation. Recent incidents appear, in the opinion of His Majesty's naval authorities, to indicate the possibility of a Russo-Chinese attempt to block the passage to Canton.\n\nThe Governments of the Powers were asked for their observations on the dangerous developments throughout China, and the steps which should be taken to meet them. With the exception of France, none of the Powers had much to suggest regarding the Canton situation. The Belgian Government (Brussels telegram No. 72 of the 15th July) were doubtful as to the specifically Communist character of the Canton Government. The Japanese Government (Tokyo telegram No. 171) agreed that Canton was a \"danger spot,\" but thought that our apprehensions were exaggerated; they considered naval or military action impossible at present, and that the United States would not consent to it. The French Government replied (Paris despatch No. 1670):-\n\nIn the Canton area, where the situation is very complex and uncertain, and may develop in unexpected directions, we must act with the greatest circumspection so as to avoid further outbreaks of xenophobia. But, while limiting our action for the time being to assuring the lives and property of our nationals, we should arrange, so as not to be taken unawares by events, for the establishment of close co-operation between the British and French naval authorities, and, if possible, those of other Powers as well, so as to study the measures to be taken at the first threat of more serious trouble. These measures might aim, for instance, at the institution of surveillance over the ways of access to Canton, the Cantonese authorities being eventually notified of the decision of the Powers themselves to assure liberty of communication between Canton and the sea, as in the north of China between Peking and the sea.\n\nThis proposal of the French Government was not pursued further.\n\nThe question of operations in China was considered by the Chief of Staffs Sub-Committee on the 25th June (C.I.D. Paper, Secret, No. 617-B). Their general view was that offensive action in China on a large scale was not possible for the British Empire acting alone, and that finality could not be hoped for from any operation within our capacity. As regards Canton in particular, they observed that [at first sight, it would appear that the easiest way to strike a blow would be by means...\n\n3\n\nAccording to a report in Canton telegram No. 14 of the 22nd August; \"Latvian customs explore encountered in city in the afternoon of the 20th August a Russian soldier, of whom there are 400, who in an effusive moment volunteered statement: I fired second shot against Shameen on the 23rd June Ivanovitch fired the first, but it took us three weeks to get the promised reward out of Borodin.\"\n\n* For a general review of political conditions at Canton in the summer of 1925, see also Mr. A. L. Scott's memorandum in Annex III.\n\n✦ A memorandum by Sir R. E. Stubbs on the strike at Hong Kong will be found in Annex IX.\n\n* Ilia official position is that of adviser to the Canton Government and to the Central Committee of the Kintang. There are thirty-eight other Russian \"advisers\" (Peking despatch No. 851 in F306). Kalin is their military adviser, and Smirnov (or Semenov) chief naval adviser (Canton despatch No. 26 of 24th July).",
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        "title": "CO129-499-2 Canton situation- governor's despatches 15-1-1927 - 4-2-1927",
        "content_text": "# The CANTON GAZETTE. 廣州日報\nVol. IV No. 853\n\nRegisterd at Canton, China, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 30, 1926 民國十五年十二月三十日星期四\n\n## AMERICA FOOLED, WARNS SENATOR; URGES WARSHIPS\nButler advises U. S. to build battleships rapidly; Says Naval Competition is among Powers\n\n(Reuter)\n\nNew York, Dec. 27. In a speech Senator Butler vehemently declared that he would persevere vigorously with his endeavours to force Congress to adopt the Naval Committee's programme. He asserted that the United States must build virtually a new navy at a cost of over $400,000,000. \"A high-speed race for naval supremacy is proceeding between the nations and we are in the race. When we scrapped over $300,000,000 worth of the finest warships ever designed we willingly and gracefully dethroned ourselves from the potential position of Mistress of the Seas, and now we are a poor third and likely to be fourth.\" He declared that Americans had been fooled. Their trusting good nature had got them into trouble and it would require fifty warships to bring the United States up to her place.\n\n## CHANG'S RIGHT HAND MAN IS DISMISSED\nIt is reported from Mukden that Yang Yu-ting, chief of staff to Chang Tso-lin, has been dismissed on account of his opposition to the hurried adoption of the measures against the South.- Wah Kiu Yat Po.\n\n## China Mourns With Japan Today; Order Flags Half-Masted\nFlags will be half-masted today in mourning for the late Emperor of Japan. The order for this mark of respect for the dead monarch of China's neighbor was given through the Branch of the Central Canton Political Council which received instructions from the Chairman of the Council.\n\n## Taking Of Yangping In Hupeh Reported By Official Wires\nChang Yuan-yao, in Nanchang, relays reports received from Hupeh front; Enemy put to flight\n\nMilitary Headquarters has received the following telegram, dated the 25th, from Chang Yuan-yao, Chief of General Staff of the Field Headquarters in Nanchang, reporting results of recent fightings in West Hupeh.\n\n\"A telegram dated the 18th was received from Regimental Commander Wan through Kung Ilao, Chief of Staff of the 8th Army, stating that his troops, after having captured Yuanan, Hupeh, took a large number of captives together with large quantities of arms, and set out in pursuit of the defeated enemies in the direction of Yangping. While crossing the river in retreat, one of the gunboats conveying troops was sunk following bombardment by the Regiment of Artillery under Chen I, it is reported. Several officers and soldiers of the enemy were killed, and quantities of military equipment were taken by our troops. Commander Wan left a portion of his troops in Yuanan for defense of the locality and sent a strong force to pursue and attack the enemy.\"\n\n(Sd) Chang Yuan-yao. (25th Dec)\n\n## Paris Comments On Britain's Suggested New Chinese Policy\nPress seems wary and cautious; Wants a sure bet: Cabinet says the \"liberalism\" will be guide\n\nParis, December 28.--The Press here is commenting on the British memorandum on policy in China and is suggesting certain modifications in foreign policy toward China. The \"Journee Industrielle\" writes that the future is in doubt. It must be known whether the administrations to whom the British Foreign Body brought the late Emperor are regionalists or are inspired by the Soviets or are composed of nationalist elements. The \"Temps\" asks with whom the Powers are to negotiate, and comments that it would be a serious mistake to bet on the problematic victory of one of the factions. Nothing decisive is reported from the meeting of the French Cabinet to discuss Chinese affairs. No decision was reached, it is reported, but it was generally agreed that France will be guided by a policy of liberalism.\n\n## NEW FRENCH CENSUS SHOWS 40,743,851\nParis, December 28.-According to the recent census, the population of France is 40,743,851. Foreigners living in France number 2,498,230.\n\n## Decide Not To Ban Private Schools; To Make Them Better\nBureau of Education reverses decision in view of the inadequacy of the present public schools to take care of education; To bring nationalism to teachers and students\n\nA reversal of the recent decision to forbid the founding of private schools in Canton is announced by the Bureau of Education. Instead of closing schools already in existence, an effort will be made to bring them up to standard. Special regulations will take care of schools founded hereafter. Training in this institute will be compulsory upon all teachers in private schools.\n\n## NEW ADHERENTS WILL DRIVE SUN FROM CHEKIANG\nChen I and Chow Feng-chi take active warfare against former chief; Hot battle at Chapkow\n\nShanghai, Dec. 27.--The Chekiangese troops under Chen I and Chow Feng-chi have announced that they will expel Sun Chuan-fang's troops out of Chekiang by military force, it is reported here. The main troops under Chen I are reported to have crossed the Tsientang River from Siaoshan on the morning of the 27th, and launched an attack upon Chapkow. A severe battle took place at the riverside between Chen's troops and those of Sun Chuan-fang under the command of Meng Chiao-yuet. Reports of guns were heard in the vicinity of Meng Kang Men gate of Hangchow.\n\nAccording to news received here from Regimental Commander Wan through Kung Ilao, Chief of Staff of the 8th Army, Meng's troops have been defeated, and have retreated to Chapkow. While crossing the river in retreat, one of the gunboats conveying troops was sunk following bombardment by the Regiment of Artillery under Chen I, it is reported. Notifications have been issued by Chow Feng-chi in the Eastern part of Chekiang insisting upon the capture of Hangchow within the limit of one week, and the expulsion of Sun Chuan-fang's troops from Chekiang. Sun Chuan-fang, who has given orders for their arrest, has branded Chen I and Chow Feng-chi as \"Reds\".\n\n## Reorganize Fukien On Committee Plan\nHo Ying-yam will adopt the Committee system, according to a Shanghai dispatch. Some of the appointments have already been decided upon. Yang Chu-chuang, Chen Kwei-liang, and Lin Chi-yuan will be on the committee in charge of the fleet. Feng Shing-to has been selected as Commissioner of Military Affairs.\n\n## Nationalist Education Will Be Introduced\nThe city will be divided into thirteen geographic divisions, according to the new plan, and the propaganda department of the City Kuomintang will be requested to send graduates from the Kuomin tang training institute to give lectures on the principles of the Kuomintang to the students of the various districts. After three months of regular lectures, examinations will be given. Only Kuomintang members will be allowed to teach in private schools in the future. If the teachers are not members at the present time, they must join. Special training will be given these teachers at a training institute to be founded for the purpose.\n\n## Nanchang City Wall To Come Down\nThe city walls of Nanchang are to come down, according to reports reaching here by express letter. The request for the destruction of the walls has come from the merchants and people of the city who wish to recover from the heavy losses incurred during the recent warfare. They believe that an era of prosperity will result from the widening of narrow streets, which can be undertaken if the wall is torn down. Necessary measures have already been taken and surveyors are on the job. A notification has been put up by the local police stations, notifying citizens who contemplate building near the Chang King and Tak Tin gates to postpone building until the wall has been torn down. Workers are to be hired at fifty cents a day.\n\n## U. S. Embarrassed By Nicaragua War\n(Reuter)\n\nWashington, Dec. 28.-The latest development of the civil war in Nicaragua, where the conservative forces are reported to be retreating, is regarded by certain members of Congress as embarrassing the United States Government. Mr. Borah, chairman of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, in a statement opines that a section of American business men are anxious to embroil the United States with Mexico through Nicaragua.\n\n## FINANCIAL PROPOSALS MADE BY MINISTER T.V. SOONG TO UNIFY CURRENCY IN PROVINCE OF HUPEH\nTo issue a public loan of $20,000,000.\n\n1. The fixed number of loan is $20,000,000.\n2. Securities: Hupeh Governmental Bank as the 1st Security, $15,000,000, effective from December 15th. Inland taxes on productions as the 2nd Security.\n3. The annual interests for the loan is 8%, giving also right for withdrawal of the loan bonds within the period of three years.\n4. Reimbursement will be made on the 7th year, i.e. after the total reimbursement of the public loans for the adjustment of currencies, and will be totally made within five years, once in every six months.\n\nThe loan will be used for refunding to the local merchants the various funds owed by the former government.\n\n## Prepare Attack On Gen. Tang Chi-yao\nKweichow, Kwangsi and Szechuan troops united for assault on Yunnan militarist\n\nReports received here state that a general assault will soon be launched by the troops under Gen. Fan Shek-sang backed by three Brigades of well-trained troops in Kwangsi, and the Revolutionary troops in Kweichow and Szechuen under the commands of Chow Hsi-shing and Lai Shen-fei. Gen. Fan will be the Chief Commanding Officer of the allied forces. Some days ago, Gen. Fan came to Canton to participate in the Council of war concerning military operations in Kwangtung, Kwangsi and Yunnan. In an interview with Gen. Li Tsai-sum, Gen. Fan reported on the enlistment of the troops under Lo Shu-chang, Defensive Commissioner in Yunnan, who had raised troops against Tang Chi-yao. Military Headquarters was requested to appoint Lo Commander of the 1st and 3rd Brigades, and the request was assented to, and the letter of appointment was handed to Gen. Fan for further transmission.\n\n## CHANCHUEN IS NOW TO BE A MUNICIPALITY\nThe Director's Office will temporarily be in the building on the South Bund, formerly used as its Canton office.\n\nThe proposal to convert the town of Chanchuen into a municipality has been approved by the Political Affairs Commission of the Provincial Government, and is to be carried out by order of the Central Political Council. Circular instructions are now being issued by the Provincial Government. Sze-to Chiu is being sent as special delegate for the reorganization of the municipality.\n\n## NAVAL DEPARTMENT MOVING TO CANTON\nThe Naval Department has removed its office to Canton from Whampoa, by order of Director Pan Wan-che. The whole Department will soon take up its quarters in the building previously occupied by the Aviation Department, it is stated.\n\n## TARGET PRACTISE FOR LOCAL TROOPS\nTarget practice for local troops has been inaugurated by Military Authorities on the gunboat \"Po Pik\", which is now anchored at the Tien Tze wharf.",
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        "title": "CO129-499-2 Canton situation- governor's despatches 15-1-1927 - 4-2-1927",
        "content_text": "## The Canton Gazette \n### 報日文英州廣 \n**ORGAN OF CHINESE NATIONAL OPINION** \nOffice: 82, Wing Hon Road, Canton \n\n**SUBSCRIPTION RATES, EXCLUDING POSTAGE** \n10 cents per copy, $2 per month. 50% discount on above rates allowed to teachers and students \nPublished daily except Sunday and holidays \n\nThursday, December 30, 1926 \n\n## THE BRITISH MEMORANDUM \nThat Foreign Diplomacy has not abdicated from its policy of interference in Chinese affairs is indicated by the British memorandum, handed to the Powers signatory to the Washington Agreement. This note is the most recent illustration of that policy and is, in its way, audacious. \n\nThe British still consider China as a colonial possession which cannot undertake any move without the authorization of the Powers. The Memorandum begins by recalling that certain Foreign Powers assembled at Washington agreed \"to grant\" to China certain increases on her treaty tariff affirming in the very phrase the so-called right of the Treaty Powers to interfere in and direct Chinese affairs. \n\n## Japan Formulating Methods To Protect Lives And Railways \nTokyo, December 3.--Japan has formulated concrete measures to protect the lives and interests of her nationals in all parts of China. Special attention is also being paid to railway construction and to the sale of salt in Fukien.\n\n## Politico's Diary \nDon Quixote Struts Again \nDon Quixote is still living, and still tilting at windmills. The enigmatic hero of the Spanish novel has only changed his garb. Today he is not wearing a brass basin as a helmet. He is clothed in elegant diplomatic uniform. Today he has no sword, no armour, but in his hands he holds the Sino-Foreign Treaties and behind him there stands the naval forces that have been concentrated in Chinese waters.\n\nLike the knight of old, the modern Don Quixote has fantastic illusions. He talks of China's legitimate aspirations. He spouts of the legitimate interests of foreigners, which should be done without hurting the susceptibilities of other Powers, but that Japan expects that neither China nor Russia project or express their determination to free their homeland from militarism and imperialism and to establish a real democratic government in China, foreign control.\n\nThe British Memorandum seems to show complete ignorance of nationalist views. While the nationalist movement is acknowledged as a movement \"which have thought it aims at gaining for China an equal place among the nations\", with regard to the Chinese Eastern Railway and the abolition of the unequal treaties, they are \"bolshevists.\" Like the doughty dreamer of the Middle Ages, the modern knight has glittering cloak of rhetoric and pantomime. Always there is noble intent.\n\nNothing can be allowed to interfere with China's assumption of her righteous place in the world. China's legitimate aspirations are not openly culled, but naval commodores and Sancho Pansa, programme has been drawn up in Japan to postpone indefinitely the building of the Harbin-Heilungkiang line, the right to construct which was secured by the semi-official Yokohama Specie Bank. This practically constitutes a right-about face so far penetration into Northern Manchuria is concerned. Reasons have not been adduced, beyond a general statement that Japan is bent on te... moving all possible friction.\n\nThe safeguarding of the Powers' interests. These, too, call for the surrender of the title deeds of the tidal lands to their offices for verification. In this divided allegiance, it is not surprising that China suffers, that international opinion is misinformed, and that there is a constant misinterpreting of political conditions in China.\n\nOn the surface, at the conference table, in the press, there is this rhetorical flourish. Actually, in factories, banks, treaties and battles, although there is plentiful rhetoric, there is hard bargaining and clever manipulation as well.\n\nThe British memorandum asks the other Powers \"to disclaim any intention of forcing foreign control upon an unwilling China,\" but also requests them to associate themselves with Great Britain in \"calling upon China to maintain the sanctity of the treaties.\" This appeal to the Powers reaches its logical conclusion in the injunction \"to abandon the policy of ineffective protest over minor matters, reserving protest—which should then be made effective by united action—for cases where vital interests are at stake.\"\n\n## Japan Would Stand Aloof \nJapan has just signed a forestry concession agreement with Russia and this is believed to be the fore-runner of other concessions that Japan will soon receive from the Soviet. This note was sent at the very moment that the British Minister to Peking was in Hankow interviewing the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Nationalist Government. This coincidence does not seem to us to be accidental.\n\n## Protest Abuses Of Tidal Lands Office! \nThe Municipality has submitted a report to Military Headquarters, requesting that military hospitals be notified that they should hereafter send separately to other suitable hospitals instead of the \"Fuk Shing\" Insane Hospital, delirious patients suspected of lunacy: particularly by the pretender to dictatorship, Chang Tso-lin. Only insane patients can be accepted by the asylum.\n\n## ROBBERY ON SHAMEEN \nIn addition to enlisting from Hongkong 10 detectives, and instructing Chinese detectives already in service to guard the West and East Bridges and jetties in Shameen, the British and French Consuls here have jointly informed the Public Safety to send police and detectives to suppress the activities of robbers, who have been causing much trouble to the inhabitants in Shameen since the restoration of communications.\n\n## Captives Will Build New Road To Kiangsi \nMilitary Headquarters has announced its decision to build a public highway from Namhung to Kanchow, connecting Kwangtung and Kiangsi, over a much-travelled route. Captives taken in the battles in Kiangsi will be employed for the work of building.\n\n## NEW COMMITTEE TO SAVE RAILWAYS MONEY \nA Committee for purchase of materials was formed on Monday by the Canton-Kowloon Railway Office. It will look after the purchase of all materials for use in the railway. It is expected that this committee will save many thousands of dollars yearly from the amount given for commissions, deductions, shoe-money etc.\n\n## YUET SHOU PARK \nIt is reported that work on the Yuet Shou Public Park on the Hill of Goddess of Mercy will be completed by the end of next month. The roads have been completed with the exception of some pavilions and stone benches.\n\n## CHUNGSHAN ROAD SOON READY IN JANUARY \nAs a result of investigation by the Strike Road-building Committee, part of the Chungshan Road from Canton to Whampoa will be completed within ten days and it is probable that the road will be open to traffic by the 8th January of the coming year.\n\n## RELIEF FOR REFUGEES \nA letter has been received by the Kwangtung General Association of the China Relief Association from the Department of Civil Affairs, for the relief of the Chinese refugees outside the Macao Barrier, who were expelled by Huchuen to the side of the Lion Hill in Whampoa, for erecting matsheds. The Provincial Government has duly notified the Ministry of Finance to appropriate a sum of $4000 for this purpose.\n\n## Shorter Bus Runs \nThe Municipality has held a Councils meeting with the Bus Companies regarding the matter. The ricksh-pullers have again requested the Municipality to shorten the routes for the running of the buses, in order that their business may not be affected. Their demands have been assented to by the Municipality, except the one as they have now requested, as a change can only be made after negotiation has been held.\n\n## The Canton Gazette, Thursday December 30, 1925 \n### Politico's Diary \nMr. Lin Hai-sing, an oversea Chinese from Siam, who has recently come to Canton after eight months' imprisonment in Saigon on a charge of counterfeiting local banknotes, has petitioned the Nationalist Government to send a strong protest to the Annam French Government against his detention and to demand compensation. He was finally sentenced to eight months imprisonment. Lawyers took the matter up with the French authorities, but he was sent to Saigon, where a further charge of counterfeiting banknotes with Russian accomplices was brought against him.\n\n## Arranging Details Of Taking Over Of Fukien Salt Gabelle \nAs instructed by the Ministry of Finance, the Salt Gabelle Department recently appointed Yip Shih-hai, Chief of the Branch Salt Department in Chao-Mui districts, to arrange with Commander Ho Ying-yam regarding the taking over of control of the salt gabelle in Fukien. These measures were decided upon after a conference between representatives of the South Manchuria Railway Department, the Foreign Office, the War Department and the Navy Office.\n\n## Ministry Of Navy To Be Converted \nThe Department of Agriculture and Labor has petitioned the Canton Government, requesting that the Ministry of Finance be further asked to instruct the Tidal Lands Settlement offices in the Chungshan, Shuntak, Tungkoon and Panyu districts to abandon the practice extorting from local farmers rents to be paid to their land-owners for the winter season, for the purpose of deducting there from the fees for registration etc., and of prohibiting the exportation of the cereals on the ground that their land-owners have not yet surrendered the title deeds of the tidal lands to their offices for verification.\n\n## Don Quixote sometimes goes too far \nLike his medieval prototype, he sees both his weapon and his target with a distorted vision. Some things baffle rhetoric. When devious help is giving to militarists whose aim is to strangle nationalism, no cloak of fine words can suffice.",
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        "content_text": "## \n6 \n\nHong Kong, had presented an ultimatum with a verbal warning that action would be taken.\n\nIf, after that, nothing was done, he thought the position would be intolerable. He agreed that the capture of forts was excessive, but recommended the destruction of Matshed Barracks. Anything was better than nothing.\n\nHe added that he had documentary evidence tending to show that the firing was by Whampoa Cadets, who had a grudge against the Lungshan because she had previously endangered small craft by her wash. He said it was essential to nip such lawless action in the bud or the West River would become like the Yang-tsze.\n\n## \n15. On the 21st May (at 0035) the Commander-in-chief informed Admiral Boyle that he considered that if Mr. Brenan's proposals (i.e., destruction of Matsheds) had been acted on at once, the incident would now be closed. He deprecated the forcing of serious issues over a trivial incident.\n\n16. On the 21st May, received Admiral Boyle's telegram of the 20th, saying that his telegram (in paragraph) had been sent before he had seen the Commander-in-chief's telegram to the Admiralty or reply to the Governor. Also that he had now read Admiralty telegrams Nos. 817 to 820 (which define the Government's attitude and policy in China as regards trade).\n\nHe thought it would save delay if he were supplied with Foreign Office cyphers. (Note: In February last, Commander-in-chief asked that R.A. 1 and R.A.Y. should be supplied with Foreign Office cyphers, but it was not approved).\n\n17. On the 21st May, the Commander-in-chief issued orders that if the Chinese general had not apologised by 1100 on the 23rd May and he had been warned that action would be taken, he authorised the destruction of the Matshed Barracks by incendiary bombs at the spot where the \"Lungshan\" was fired at.\n\n18. Late on the 21st May, received a telegram from Senior Naval Officer, West River (passed by Senior Naval Officer, West River, but presumably emanating from Consul-General, Canton) appealing for Commander-in-chief's support over the whole affair.\n\nHe confirmed that the shooting was by Whampoa cadets as an act of revenge for petty grievances.\n\nIt was essential for him to act quickly and he had obtained approval of the Minister. Also that the case was clearly covered by the Admiralty instructions, and he fully believed that he had the concurrence of the naval authorities.\n\nHis demands were extremely moderate and he had given five days' grace. If no action follows rejection, position will be humiliating. If we make a show of force he believed they would give way, but something would have to be done.\n\n19. On the 21st May, received a telegram from Minister, then at Shanghai. He said his only action had been to concur in the proposals of the Consul-General, Canton, in his first two telegrams. He noted that demands had been presented, but did not know whether Commander-in-chief had approved that being done. (Commander-in-chief was given no opportunity of any say in the matter.)\n\nFor the rest, he agreed that sanction should not be excessive and that the form thereof laid with the Commander-in-chief. Still, he thought action of some sort was justified under the Admiralty instructions.\n\n20. Late on the 21st May, \"Dauntless\" reported that Chung Wa Fu had been on board in uniform and tendered a formal apology.\n\n21. On the 22nd May, Commander-in-chief informed Admiral Boyle he presumed the incident was now closed and that he had recalled \"Dauntless.\"\n\n22. In answer to the Commander-in-chief, Admiral Boyle replied on the 22nd May that concurrently with the receipt of that telegram he had received a request from the Consul-General, Canton, for a display of force below Dane Island on Monday, the 23rd May. He added that the consul-general had not yet reported himself satisfied, nor had he suggested the withdrawal of \"Dauntless,\" which is still off Whampoa. The consul-general went further and requested that the display might be made whether the demands in full are meanwhile acceded to or not.\n\n23. The Commander-in-chief then asked Admiral Boyle to report fully what took place when the apology was preferred. Was it accepted and were the other conditions complied with? The Commander-in-chief saw no object in a display of force if the demands had been complied with. In a later telegram on the 22nd May, the Commander-in-chief informed Admiral Boyle that nothing was to be done until the Consul-General, Canton, had reported to the Commander-in-chief.\n\n24. On the 22nd May, Admiral Boyle replied that he had been informed by the Senior Naval Officer, West River, that a Chinese senior officer in uniform, accompanied by a civilian aide-de-camp, had proceeded on board Dauntless, and stated that he had come to apologise for the firing on the Lungshan. The captain of Dauntless accepted the apology. He added that the question of punishment of the offenders had not yet been settled to Mr. Brenan's satisfaction. The 200 dollars had been promised but not yet paid.\n\n25. Early on the 23rd May, intercepted a telegram from Consul-General, Canton (dated 2200/22nd) to Senior Naval Officer, Hong Kong, stating that an apology had been made, but that the demand for punishment and compensation had not yet been complied with. They probably would be complied with provided we made a show of force, and he asked the Senior Naval Officer, Hong Kong, to do what he could regarding the latter. He would report immediately satisfaction was received.\n\n26. At 1500 on the 23rd May received a message from the Consul-General, Canton (passed on to Commander-in-chief by Senior Naval Officer, Hong Kong), asking to be informed definitely by 3 P.M. whether any action would be taken in the event of the remaining demands not being complied with.\n\n27. At 1809 on the 23rd May, the Commander-in-chief informed Admiral Boyle and the Consul-General, Canton, that, after consultation with His Majesty's Minister, he approved the display of force.\n\n28. Shortly afterwards, Admiral Boyle reported that \"Dauntless\" was returning to Hong Kong, and later that all demands had been complied with in full. The Commander-in-chief then cancelled his permission for the display of force.\n\n## Annex (2) to Enclosure 1\n\n### **Memorandum**\n\n**RETALIATORY ACTION**\n\nAs His Majesty's Government have delegated to me certain discretionary powers, I wish to impress upon all commanding officers of His Majesty's ships the urgent necessity of achieving successfully the local retaliatory measures required to punish and prevent the recurrence of hostile action by the Chinese, with the smallest possible expenditure of ammunition and other resources.\n\n2. The expenditure of a large amount of ammunition with indifferent results is undesirable both from a political and economical point of view, since it tends to diminish the moral effect of such gun-fire, and may encourage the Chinese to go to greater lengths.\n\n3. While, therefore, His Majesty's ships have authority to return fire which has been directed at them or at any other vessel flying the British flag, using the main armament and manoeuvring the ship as requisite, such action should only be taken when the target is definitely located and where the gun-fire can be really effective.\n\n4. In cases where the target cannot be located, or where for any other reason no effective retaliatory action can be taken at the time, I am to be informed immediately of the circumstances, giving sufficient detail to enable other units of His Majesty's navy to proceed to that point particularly to deal with the culprits as ordered by me.\n\n5. Commanding officers are to note that the instructions contained in paragraph 4 above apply equally to any circumstances in which the lives of British nationals are endangered, or their property is suffering actual, deliberate, and wanton destruction.\n\nIn cases where the lives of British nationals are in imminent peril, and there is not time to refer to me, commanding officers may open fire to save life.\n\nIn every case I am to be immediately and fully informed of the details. The reports should contain, as far as possible, the exact position of the culprits and scene of the outrage, and the suggested local punitive action with forces required for its successful and speedy execution if authorised by me.\n\n**R. Y. TYRWHITT, Vice-Admiral, Commander-in-Chief.**\n\nH.M.S. \"Hawkins\" at Hankow, May 18, 1927.\n\nPage 30  \nPage 31",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-501-8 General policy in China 30-11-1926 - 30-11-1926.txt",
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    {
        "id": 508439,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
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        "document_key": "CO129-501-8 General policy in China 30-11-1926 - 30-11-1926",
        "page_number": 33,
        "title": "CO129-501-8 General policy in China 30-11-1926 - 30-11-1926",
        "content_text": "36 \n\n10 \n\npractice. Unfortunately, he appears to have taken that as sufficient authority for going ahead and in doing so he made a slip which I much regret, though happily no harm was done. I did not realise what was happening, being at sea, and thus only partially in touch with the situation; but as soon as I got to Shanghai and saw the full correspondence, I at once sent to you my telegram No. 1 of the 21st May in order to clear up the situation; and you may remember that in that telegram I made it clear that I had expected Brenan to act only after you had expressed your approval, and that I realised that the decision regarding retaliatory action was for you to take and not me.\n\nHowever, all's well that ends well, and I only bother you with this in order to show that your point of view and mine as regards procedure have been all along the same. The misunderstanding in this particular case was no doubt partly due to my being out of touch. But it may have had its uses since it has since led to the establishment of an agreed procedure which ought to prevent similar slips in future.\n\nYours sincerely,\n\nEnclosure 6 in No. 1.\n\n**MILES W. LAMPSON.**\n\n## Circular Telegram to Consuls of June 7, 1927.\n\nYou will have received from the Commander-in-chief copy of a memorandum No. 1040 of the 18th May dealing with the question of taking retaliatory measures in reply to hostile action on the part of the Chinese. After consultation with Admiral Tyrwhitt, I have to lay down the following instructions for your guidance. They are to be read in conjunction with the Commander-in-chief's memorandum.\n\nIn the event of any incident occurring which may require retaliatory action, you should at once consult the senior naval officer on the spot, if one of His Majesty's ships is in port, and arrange for an agreed report and recommendations regarding suggested retaliatory action to be telegraphed simultaneously by the senior naval officer to the Commander-in-chief and by you to me. Regard should always be had to the nature of the hostile action in putting suggestions forward in order that any proposed punishment shall not be excessive.\n\nIf none of His Majesty's ships is in port you should report direct to the Commander-in-chief as well as to me, and in view of the fact that the decision whether to take action or not rests with him, you should take care that he is always kept fully informed.\n\n| Condition | Action |\n| --- | --- |\n| His Majesty's ship in port | Consult senior naval officer, agree on report and recommendations to be sent to Commander-in-chief and to me. |\n| No His Majesty's ship in port | Report directly to Commander-in-chief and to me, ensuring Commander-in-chief is fully informed. |\n\nWhere immediate action is taken anywhere in your consular district by a naval officer, without reference to the Commander-in-chief, under the authority contained in paragraph 2 of section 5 of the Commander-in-chief's memorandum of the 18th May, you should at once report the circumstances to me. The best course will usually be to repeat to me any telegrams sent by the naval officer concerned to the Commander-in-chief. The latter is giving instructions to commanding officers to keep consular officers informed in such cases.\n\nIn no case should any demands be presented to any Chinese military or civil official until the Commander-in-chief has definitely sanctioned specific retaliatory measures.\n\n`[F 6984/4118/10]`\n\n## No. 2.\n\n**LAMPSON.**\n\nSir M. Lampson to Sir Austen Chamberlain. (Received August 19.)\n\n**(No. 677.)**\n\nHis Majesty's Minister, Peking, presents his compliments to His Majesty's Principal Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, and transmits herewith copy of a letter from Rear-Admiral Tyrwhitt regarding co-operation between British naval and consular officers.\n\nPeking, June 24, 1927.\n\n11 \n\n## Enclosure in No. 2.\n\nRear-Admiral Tyrwhitt to Sir M. Lampson.\n\nH.M.S. Hawkins at Shanghai,\n\nJune 7, 1927.\n\nMy dear Minister,\n\nI am very grateful for your letter of the 1st June regarding retaliatory measures and am glad that we are in complete agreement.\n\n2. I quite agree with your draft circular to consuls, and I am instructing commanding officers that in cases where they take action under clause 2 of paragraph 5 of my memorandum they are immediately to report the fact to the consular officer of the district concerned.\n\n3. Also, where time permits, I will not fail to await your remarks or criticism of the measures which the local authorities have suggested, before action is taken.\n\n4. I feel sure that these arrangements will put the procedure on a definite and regular basis.\n\n5. So far as any situation can be foreseen in this country, I imagine that \"incidents\" may be classified as follows:-\n\n(a) Rifle or gun fire directed at a man-of-war or at a British vessel in the presence of a man-of-war.\n\nIn this case the commanding officer may, at his own discretion, return the fire, provided he can locate his target. If he cannot locate his target, he reports the matter to me.\n\nSuch incidents are reported to the Admiralty and to you in my daily situation report.\n\n(b) Cases when a British ship is fired upon and no man-of-war is present.\n\nThe consul and the senior naval officer to whom the British ship reports the incident telegraph to you and me respectively, stating their proposals. I await your remarks if there is time—I do not anticipate many situations arising when there would not be time.\n\n(c) Cases of damage to, or destruction of, British property.\n\nIn the unlikely event of there being a man-of-war present, but no consul, I would repeat the senior naval officer's telegram to you and the consular officer of the district concerned, and await your remarks. I am only entitled to order retaliatory action when the property has suffered actual deliberate and wanton destruction.\n\n(d) Danger to life.\n\nWhen the lives of British nationals are in imminent peril, commanding officers may open fire, on their own authority, to save life.\n\nNow that the British are concentrated at the ports, a consul would almost certainly be present, but he might not be available, e.g., as at Nanking. Anyhow, commanding officers are being directed to report their action to the consular officer concerned as well as to me.\n\nIn cases when, as at Nanking, the consul cannot report to you, or if it is doubtful whether he has done so, I will repeat the report to you.\n\nI hope you had a pleasant passage to Tangku.\n\nYours sincerely,\n\n**REGINALD TYRWHITT.**\n\n37",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-501-8 General policy in China 30-11-1926 - 30-11-1926.txt",
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    {
        "id": 513647,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-508-4 Cases of attacks by pirates 6-11-1927 - 23-11-1928",
        "page_number": 167,
        "title": "CO129-508-4 Cases of attacks by pirates 6-11-1927 - 23-11-1928",
        "content_text": "giving him all my information, and informed him that I would land a party to recover the prisoners and boats if possible. He told me that he would land a party as soon as possible. Both ships (\"Somme\" and \"Yeung Shing\") proceeded close in-shore off the rocky beach a mile south of BOLD BLUFF, where the lifeboats were seen to be stranded, with some of the Chinese crews standing by them. It appeared probable that the pirates had retreated westward, so both ships rounded BOLD BLUFF and closed the sandy beach 1⁄2 mile westward of it.\n\nI landed an armed party under the command of Lieutenant M.H. HARDCASTLE R.N. on the western side of the beach, the Customs Cruiser landing two parties on the eastern side of it: the latter were the first to land. It was my intention that the primary object of the landing party was to recover the captured Officers and crew. One party of Customs men proceeded eastward over the high land south of BOLD BLUFF, and the other party (under the Commander) proceeded up the valley running southwestward from the beach. This latter party came in touch with retreating pirates and fired on them at long range. No casualties were observed and the pirates did not return the fire. H.M.S. Somme's party at this time were proceeding up the valley some few hundred yards behind the Customs men.\n\nThe pirates, on being fired on, abandoned the three passengers they had with them. On recovering these, the Customs men returned towards the sandy beach, the pirates scattering over the hills. Both Officers and the Chinese crews of the life-boats had been abandoned near their boats, and three more passengers on the high ground eastward of the valley mentioned.\n\nH.M.S. Somme was standing close inshore at this time, and I was prepared to open fire if I found a definite target. One or two men (who might have been pirates or merely peaceful natives) were seen on the hillsides",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-508-4 Cases of attacks by pirates 6-11-1927 - 23-11-1928.txt",
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    },
    {
        "id": 576530,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-591-10 Military Administration 16-1-1945 - 28-3-1946",
        "page_number": 38,
        "title": "CO129-591-10 Military Administration 16-1-1945 - 28-3-1946",
        "content_text": "OUTWARD TELEGRAM\n\n5414445\n\n7\n\n38\n\nThis document must be paraphrased if the communication of its contents to any person outside Government Service is authorised\n\nCypher\n\nNo. 35,\n\nTO BOMBAY (Malayan Representative)\n\nFROM S. OF S., COLONIES.\n\nSent 21st December, 1946. 22.15 hrs.\n\n(to India Office and Admiralty for onward transmission)\n\nAddressed to Malayan Representative Bombay, Repeated to Commander-in-Chief, Hong Kong.\n\nTarget date for the hand-over from military to civil administration in Hong Kong is 1st February 1946. Considerable numbers of Hong Kong Government officers and staff for sponsored undertakings will be flown from United Kingdom during latter half of January and during February and March. There is little prospect of direct shipping from United Kingdom and numbers flown to Calcutta may exceed capacity of Calcutta-Hong Kong airlift. In addition, accommodation difficulties are likely to arise in Calcutta if present Army transit facilities are not available when civil government is resumed and military responsibility ends.\n\nCan you arrange for an officer to be available in Calcutta to assist Hong Kong officers in transit, arrange accommodation, negotiate onward passages with Air Priorities Board, or Principal Sea Transport Officer and Ministry of War Transport representative as occasion arises, report congestion on air route and keep in close touch with Hong Kong authorities as to order of priority in which applicants for air passages are to be called forward.",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-591-10 Military Administration 16-1-1945 - 28-3-1946.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    },
    {
        "id": 576531,
        "series_id": 27,
        "series_slug": "histsyn-co129-engine",
        "series_title": "CO129 Colonial Office Hong Kong Records 理藩院香港檔案",
        "series_use_hku_proxy": false,
        "document_key": "CO129-591-10 Military Administration 16-1-1945 - 28-3-1946",
        "page_number": 39,
        "title": "CO129-591-10 Military Administration 16-1-1945 - 28-3-1946",
        "content_text": "(1/45) [4421B] Wt. 18047/424 50m. 7/45 C.N.Ld. 748\n\n39\n\nC. O.\n\nMr.\n\nMr.\n\nMr.\n\nMr.\n\nSedgwick 19/12\n\nMayle 20/1 acum\n\nDRAFT.\n\nCypher\n\nTELEGRAM\n\nMALAY REP\n\nBOMBAY\n\n1-La\n\n9.0 etter\n\nFrom Hong Kong\n\nvia Admiralty\n\nFURTHER ACTION.\n\nCopy to Comm\n\nSea defish\n\n(Cops. Mama)\n\nPermt. U.S. of S.\n\nParly. U.S. of S.\n\nSecretary of State.\n\n21 DEC 1945\n\nSet to 9.0 Admiralty for 21/12/45 1/1\n\ndespatch 22.15 hrs\n\nAddressed to Malayrep Bombay\n\nFROM\n\nTO\n\nFARMAALNE\n\nFOR THE COLONIES\n\nTo C. in C. HONGKONG.\n\nNo\n\n33\n\nTarget date for the hand-over from military to civil administration in Hong Kong is 1st February 1946. Considerable numbers of Hong Kong Government officers and staff for sponsored undertakings will be flown from United Kingdom during latter half of January and during February and March. There is little prospect of direct shipping from United Kingdom and numbers flown to Calcutta may exceed capacity of Calcutta-Hong Kong airlift. In addition, accommodation difficulties are likely to arise in Calcutta if present Army transit facilities are not available when civil government is resumed and military responsibility ends.\n\nCan you allocate a liaison officer to be stationed in Calcutta to assist Hong Kong officers in transit, arrange accommodation, negotiate onward passages with Air Priorities Board, or Principal Sea Transport Officer and Ministry of War Transport representative as occasion arises, report congestion on air route and keep in close touch with Hong Kong authorities as to order of priority in which applicants for air passages are to be called forward?\n\nIf you have no suitable officer to suggest for this post, I have in mind appointment of Wing Commander F. Lyle, a temporary Hong Kong Government officer with...",
        "txt_file_path": "txt/2diw2n4r2/CO129-591-10 Military Administration 16-1-1945 - 28-3-1946.txt",
        "external_url": "",
        "rank": 0
    }
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