Directory_and_Chronicle_1850 — Page 188

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Journal of Occurrences.

MARCH,

XIV. The inferior department of Kweiyáng is a small prefecture in the extreme south of the province, set off from Yungchau along the banks of the River Kwei between it and Chin chau. It contains but few inhabitants.

XV. The inferior department of Tsing was in like manner parti- tioned off from the south of Yuenchau fú in the southwestern corner of the province, along the valley of the Ku ho, a branch of the River Yuen. The region is very mountainous, and the aborigines

numerous.

XVI. The inferior department of Chin occupies the extreme south- east of the province, and is by no means one of the least of its divisions. The chief town is "a great and populous city," and a thriving trade is carried on with Kwangtung, the mountains here being less elevated than further west, repaying the labors of the husbandman, and afford- ing facilities for travel.

The productions of Húnán are varied, though the revenue by no means corresponds to her resources. Gold, silver, cinnabar, and quick- silver are produced from the mines; mica, armenian stone, marble, and a few other minerals, are also found. A great variety of wild game and waterfowl is taken on the mountains and waters in various parts, which also furnish a few medicinal preparations highly esteemed. Rice, wheat, varnish, cassia, fruits, nuts, and vegetables are raised for the supply of the inhabitants, and measurably for exportation, but the external traffic of Húnán is trifling. Nor do the inhabitants take a high standing among their countrymen in respect of literary acquire- ments or excellence of manufactures.

ART. V. Journal of Occurrences: attack on pirates in Mir's bay, and correspondence relating to it; edict in reference to a change in newyear's day; death of the emperor of China; position of Kiying; dedication of the Scamen's Bethel at Whampoa.

Tax suppression of piracy has engaged the attention of the Chinese officers along this coast for many years-we had almost said for ages, and the pirates have played a game of fast and loose with them, just as they were paid or attacked. At last the rulers have called in the assistance of western power and skill to help them, and accepted the offers made by the English authorities to assist in abating the nuisance. The following note from Gov. Bonham to Gov. Sü details the particulars of this novel and commendable breach of old custom.