1905-05-13 — Page 7

CHEAP WATør supplieES.

There can be no doubt that the appointment, of a Härbour Master alia duty authorised" the pumerous difficulties with which captains berthing officer will go far towards meeting of steamers bave for long had to contend. Under the present regime the system of board- ing ships and facilitating the berthing of vessels navigating the extremely difficuli channels to the harbour is far from satisfactory, especially when one remembers that, is saime cases, where vessels have entered at night, officers who have had scarcely any experience and who, as the "boy" said, "do not know, the sharp or the blunt end of a ship," go off and tell the skipper that they may make last to such and such berth, but can give no information as to white that particular spot is.

L-TACTICAL OBSERVATIONS. One of the most important and the strongest

137

A JUNK MASTER'S,SHARP PRACTICE,

fxth Inat. Reference has frequently been made to the haphazard manner in which Chinese water junks obtain their water supplies, and only the other day the master of a water junk was prosecuted and fined for taking in a supply of water from "an unauthorised place." "But would seem that water junks are not the only affenders in this respect, and an interesting tase has just come to hand. It fechas that resident somewhere in the shau-ki-wan district was enjoying the luxury of a cold bath the other morning, and revelling in the splashing of the water. All at once his water tap ceased to flow, although after a while a slight trickle came down. Seeing that this had occurred Another plea in favour of the establis ment of before he determined to investigate the such a department is the care and proper control matter, and with that view descended to the of lights on the river, here is no doubt that basement-after hastily donning a breezy attire. the shipping fraternity have to thank Mr. Tyler from my standpoint lay the Japanosa infantry; Anding and asking for particular officers. The tary service has resulted in the decreasa He was surp.ised to fad that a 'scow, one off for the establishment of some excellent marks those boats which are usually attached to a in the lighting of Am. ere oint, Blake Point,

nother water-tap. Ahopkeeper, or some one these will receive the necessary consideration who resided on the ground floor, was called 'due to the importance of the marks and dan- upon to explain the meaning of this transaction,gers. It may not be generally known that the and, of course, he volubly stated that the acow Canton Harbour Office is practically respon came from a junk on which he had some sible for the whole of the waterways from, Tai- friends. Naturally he did not receive a cent for this gracious act of courtesy; he would although of course, there are numinat acting shan to Canton and from Canton to Wuchow, not take monay from his friends, but mast people will read that defence

they please, and may have different opinions on the subject. At any ate the European, whose water supply was being used in this free and easy fathion, gave the Chinainan

THE HONGKONG TELEGRAPH, SATURDAY, MAY 13 1905. money in procuring water frontage and bund general reader." He soms up, his views coume ice-cold, In from three in four minutes 30,000,000. lbs, ing the land purchased.

thus

a month, representing Cigar Factories.Sumatras liave been pincod the meat was finished, and the march, continu. about 7,600 head of cattle. But the neigh | at 68, ed. That fact deserves all recognition.

bourhood of Osaka was soon cleared of Acullaneous-Green Island Cements have The uniform of the Japanese soldier is catile, and beef has now to be brought been done at $261 for the old and $16) and was the very slight visibility of positions and curian soil the khaki of cat and caps was of things prevails in Tokyo, and canile are sent of the impressions received of Japanese tactics practical. On the yellow or dirty white Man from Awali or Nota province. The same state $17 for the new shares. Sales of China Providents have been effected at $84, and Icgs movements. The "vold" of the battlefield visible only a very short distances. The yel

the capital from Tamba, Tango, and Tajima have found buyers at Saaz). Steam Water was here almost ideally complete. Even a grey heads of the infantry on the upper (Hyogo prefecture and Kyoto-fu). The arrival boats have changed ownership at $18 and $174. trained military eye reinforced by good glasses of earth; the difference was only perceived the demand for beef, about fifty head being rate transactions have taken place in the North crest of trenches inoked like stones or lumps of Russian prisoners in Osaka greatly increased Langkata have dropped to Tla. 235 at which saw on the whole lule of the opponent, who when the men began to shoot. The Japanese consumed daily by the Russians understands admirably how to utilise cover.

dignified and grave. When they met Russian prisoners whom I saw showed themselves officers they saluted smarthy; otherwise they word very saciturn and expressed no wishes as The order kept on the march and the clean- lines of the Japanese quarters was remark able. Even the train columns marched evenly and in close formation. In quarters the com affiches, signposts, ate, which avoided delay ip manding authorities were indicated by written

worked in good order. The treatment and railway line from Llaoyang to Mukden was

tical, and the atthiude of the Japanese towards when I wished to cut a rope with which my baggage was tied, I reached out for the sword of a cavalryman who was assisting me, but he only," he stammered excitedly. This pleased tue of his weapon.Japanese sword, enemy objected energetically to such an unworthy

their

FREIGHT.

in their circular, dated 6th inst., Messrs.

junk, was busily filing' lnnumerable jars from and the Tide Pale, and it is to be hoped that carcely anything could be seen of the enemy. sending back of wounded was quick and prac. quence of the increase of shipping, along the Lamké and Rogge state :-Whilst porthern re- from behind a tree of part of à head looking | the Russian prisoners unabjectionable. Once Be this as it may, arrivals in Osaka have porta are of an encouraging character, con.

DES

such a scare by his threats that it is unlikely this method of making money out of the water works will occur again. At the same time, it would be interesting to leun if this particular forms of pr.cy or sharp practice call it what you wills in anything like general vogue, Away on the outskirts of the city, it should not be difficult for the owner of a junk, if he timed bi viss properly, to secure his water supply froin an 'unauthorised source" certainly, although from, a clean and uncon- taminated. sonice, at a minimum of cost. A cent a gallon to the nearest neighbour would probably ensure his temporary blindness to the ongoings of the junkmen, with the result that a plentiful supply of water would be obtained for a mere trifle. The question affects those who teside on the water front, and they might

Jo well to give it their attention.

FIRE AT ST. JOSEPH'S COLLEGE.

oth inst. At about five minutes to oren ofclock this morain, fire was di covered in the store-room, on the second floor, St. Joseph's College end an alarms was a once turned in to the Central Station. The fire, it appears, broke out amang a lot of bambos waiting, and boxes

During the battle of Mukden I was at certain place, which was desperately contested for days. From this place one could see into drawing forward of the reserves and ammual-regards quarters, food, etc. a valley in which the Japanses advance, the tion, the retiring of the wounded, etc, took place. But of all this, in spite of the closest observation, absolutely nothing could be seen. To this day I cannot understand how the

Mpanere did it

A few hundred metres presence only too distinctly manifested by the bullets which busted by one's ears; but fora and there one could observe an arm come

over a piece of rock. Regular bodies ware scarcely ever seen even in the attack. In the same way the machine-guns were concealed. Their rattling was always audible, but their could perceive that they were always on the whereabouts could not be discovered. Yet one arbour Masters at Samshoi and Wychow, it is quite on the boards that the present Constalet and were ably handled. Not less well the

artillery took cover. One could see, the sum Inspector will at an early date give his allen-

Less was I pleased when-xnd that happen mit of an elevation where a battery was placad,ed nearly every day-officers assured me that tios to these most difficult passages of the river where captains are at present indebted to

but the exact position of the guns or their bum- they abhorred war, and that the Japanese lepers to sustain bamboo poles on the smaller could not with certainty be discovered.

people felt likewise. Very unwillingly, anid they had the japanese decided to fight. Grasted. I will not here go into the history of events. But many details in battle have shown

did not presuppose the intention to befoot the me that the Japanese enjoy it passionately. Some phenomena would be inexplicable if one

Japanese it is a pleasure to fight, and mortal enemy, to bluff and deceive him. To the

But with my simple German undemanding combat is fun to him. I can understand this cannot comprehend why they so eagerly assert the contrary; all the more so as nobody can believe them. I once said this to an otherwise very nice officer: "Why these excuses?"

the shitung sand

Movement of the Japanese army in close brought forward by taking advantage of every formation I bave never seen. Reserves were

kind of cover, probably moly at night. An advance was usually only discovered by rifle.

rocks where the tide runs at an immense rate through the narrow channels, it is proposed to put leading lights, and marks on either banks of the river in the zig-zag racky-channel approaching Doshing and Wuchow, and its fire being opened from a print where no more recognized that the proper fighting of the entrance to Samshui is an absolute no

ment had previously been observed. But to cessity consequent un

this rale I have seen exceptions, and the oper banks.

Here vessels trading on the Wetting into position I have never seen. Suddenly ation then usually miscarried. Balleties get- River are obliged, according to Customs' re artillery appeared on a crest where one would ulations, to call in and be boarded, and a not have suspected their presence possible. the passage from Canton takes the ordinary The infantry firing was cool and accurate boats just a day's journey, including their stop At a crisis it would become suddenly very pages at Kunthuk aud other ports which were opened to them on the 27th February, 1901,

violent, but without losing in accuracy. 1 they always enter

liked also the workmanship of the artillery; ught, and at the time of the freshets, when the water at Wuchny rses

they knew the distances well; and the explod more than o fest, it may be imagined what time was lost in firing at invisible objects; but, ing point of shrapnel was always exact. No. rate of tide is to be navigated at samshui, the junction of the North East and West Rivers. whenever the battery had a good mark, the when the Blate at the combat sequired it, or Yet the Cus ois fusce the boats, at great firing became very spid, one strapual after nak to themselves, to enter Samshui and it is not infrequent la they ground; luckily it is fell exactly like the other.

ar other came hissing overhead, and one shot mostly on sands "otton. The proper lighting of Smshui is an absolute pecessity.

of vessels is the inability of the present har- Another complaint put forward by captains hour office to keep a proper fairway. The minor accidents which cour in the harbour columns and nearly all of these can be traced Precinct duties we vemonth would tid, as far as the steamers are concerned, to the want of a proper Harbour Police to keep the fairway clear of native craft on the entry of boats into the precincts of the anchorages. It

belonging to the boarders of the college. The Fire Brigade, under Cap'nin F. B. 1.yons, Immediately turned unit, but anarriving at the scene of the ou break, it was found that their services were not required, as the Brothers and Home of the elder boys had already extinguish ed the incipient conflagration. The damages done were not expected amount to more thatffice, separate and distinct from the Customs about $200, as only a few boxes, banks, and mats were destroygʻi, braides the wallk and ceil- ing being slightly chaired. Just how the fire originated could not be ascertained, but it is surmised either that's boy want to his box with a lighted candie and wore, it, or else was smok

Ing and threw down a lighted match amongst the malting.

PIRE AT KOWLOON,

loth inst. Quite a stir was occa ioned in Kowloon shortly before 'welve n'clock to day when it Jaine known that a fire had broken out on

department, and failing th, ge sielsme tune ago, the Con-ular Body should be pressed te endeavour to establish a Kiser Conservancy

ROBBERY AT THE HONGKONG AND MANGHAI BANK.

SMART WORK OF THE POLICE,

An i: cident occurred recently at the Kobe branch of the Hongk ng & Shanghai Bank which may act as a warning in those who have business at the Blan, and furnishes an example of smart police work. According to the Jugan

he strategy was charterised by continual making and enveloping. The Japanese have well recognised that the great tinge of modern

tus.

To be brief, I can only say that what have seen of the Japanese army in tattin and other opened a new era of tactics and strategy, which Wise has greatly interested me. They have will not be without influence on the armies of the world. I believe that soon after the war officers from all countries will come to Japan in order to study the art of war at its source. Japan will no doubt be asked for instructors, but not only by China. There is no doubt, also, that Japan will meet such wishes after the maxim that great position imposes great obls.ation.

-WITH-GENERALS OKU AND KODAMA,

demands concentration of fining, and that and caveloping Often when I saw this man. this can only be achieved by out-manmuvring

After being taken prisoner I had the honour ground. In a certain place we were threatened the cetavre I imagined myself on a German practice of being received or Marthath by General Oku, the leader of the second Army, and on

from three sides at the same time, which was

rather unpleasant for a neutral. The Japanese are assisted in this out-flanking by a very minule knowledge and a thorough reconnaitr

thousand metres distant.

ron Kodama. On both occasions the conver-

the price of which at this time of the year is usiness reportedFarnham, Boyds at Ti

The present is the season for bamboo shoots,

Advices from Shanghai, dated 9th inst, stato:' about to sen per kwamme, but it is now ruling 158 for July, and at Tis. 161 for September. at 16 sen. The high price of beef and fish has Lanu-Kung-Mows at Tis. 40. Astor Houses affected the price of the shoots. Another cause at $19. Lands 6 per cent Deb, at Tix, 97. for the advance is that this edible is tinned and Business reported direct:-Shanghai and sent to the front in considerable quantities, Hongkew Wharis at Tis, 190 for July. Tuga The demand for this foodstuff in Osaka alone.Ord at Tis. 57. Farnham, Boyds at Ti for tinning purposes amogas to about $8 for August. Lands at Tis, 15. Langkata 50,000,000 lbs, per day.

at Ths, 340 cash, and at Tis, 25s for October. The mobilisation of Ashermen for mill Astor Houses at $29.

the constant navigation of steamer, in conce of fish on the markot. It is stated that

coast of Japan, has driven the fish out to sea. sensibly fallen off of late, resulting is a remark able rise in the price of fish. Haule made on the coast of Korea and Kyushu are sent direct

ward leap. The poultry business in the interior fishing districts. Eggs have also made an up. ly to the front, and are largely tinned in the

by the farmers on account of the war. Eggs greatly decreased, as it has been given up

hospitals of the Russian prisoners. In Osaka are a favourite article of diet in the military some 120,000 eggs have been purchased by the Hamadera prisoners' depot authorities since the 35th ultimo, and in consequence the poultry business in the neighbourhood of Osaka, which

MOVEMENTS OF THE U.S. PLEET, was not very flourishing, is now being revived.

has

The vessels of the American fleet yet at Cavite will, it is understood, be dispatched to different points on this station within the next few days. The cruiser Raleigh was scheduled to leave Cavite on the 3rd for Shanghai, while the Oregon will proceed to Chefon, as also the 'isconsin, which is yet at Olongapo. The avaransport Zaffre was said to be scheduled instant, while the big battleship Ohio was dus sail for Bremerton, Washinton, on the sth

Admiral McCalla, who it has been stated all to arrive at Cavite on the same date. Rear

along was to come to this station on the Chfo

and assume the chief command of the Asiatic ficct, is not aboard, and naval officials are all at sea concerning his actual assignment.

market as being 5m in most directions, there. tinuing to describe the position of the freight. has been little doing in the south since writing last under date of the 22nd ultimo,

13 and 10 cents per picul. Chartering in this Baigon to this, with next to no demand, a low engagements have been concluded at 12

ly affected in consequence of Insurance Com direction has 10

cargoes hence to Japan, a factor which has panies having for a time xalsed their rates on temporarily proved prohibitory to fresh con tracts being entered upon between local im porters of Saigon rice and Japanese buyers. The fact, however, of rates having been

all probability help to accelerate resumption of brought on a lower basis again, and the local. market having improved quite latterly, will in

certain extent been adverse-

chartering business.

The continued demand Saigon to Philip- pine parts for quickest possible loading, alluded to in our last report, has not resulted in further settlements, no more prompt boats being procurable. After the heavy impons of last month a reaction has of necessity set in, and from present appearances it may not be until the beginning of June, that freab inquiry will show.

No change of any moment has meantime. Southern market is concerned. taken place in other directions, as far as the

imposed at Saigon, since the 18th ultime, upon Quarantine of ra days! voyage included, is all arrivals from Amoy.

As for Yangtze freights, Shanghai, advices dency, and that the crop is plentiful. The bulk slate that the market maintains a very firm ten of the shipments has naturally been carried off by the liners, but the latter not being able to entirely cover requirements, reports have it

reason to believe that outside tonnage will con that already some chartering has come off up north, and as the demand for space is likely to remain strong for some time, there is every tinue to pick up a share. Latest quotations

speculation in rife, as to whom the department A great deal of interest is manifest and at Washington will assign to command the cruiser and Philippine squadrons. Both of these require the assignment of a staff officer

13th by the Chief of the General Staff, Ba-repairs, while her sister abip the fielens is and just who the two rear admirals will be is as yet a matter of conjecture.

The Wilmington is laid up ledefinitely far sation lasted considerably longer than under liable to prove a total loss to the government similar circumstances is usually the case. tractive appearance. At the first glance one

owing to her bottoms having been sprung.

are: Wobu to Canton and Chinking to Can General Oku is a most amiable man of at-

She was but recently put out of commission at top 23 candarecos, Wuhu to Swatow 14 cans sees in him the grave warrior and campaigner:la, with the exception of one vessel at Cavile extensive exports to Japan still stand in the

the Cavite yard, and a report of her injuries dareent forwarded to Washington. The torpedo flotil

High prices of beans and beancakes and the

standing that at table a more animated tone vessels which have proven such a factor in mo. owing to the great scantiness of supplies, con After the exchange of tile usual phrases, how.

easily nrises. To speak on military subjects, ever, the conversation began to drag, notwith making its headquarters at Malampaya way of business from Newchwang to the south, sound, feland of Pamgua. There these tiny

Turning to coal freights, business from Japan, especially on the present position of the dern warfare, are to stay indefinitely, Sixtinues slack. Moji to this has a fixture at war, he could not be induced at all. He put us off to the time after the war, when

months stores are said to have been shipped 51.50, Kuichinotru to Honyay has been done its history would be written

to them from Cavite. The cruiser Cincinnati at $2.50 and Katchinottu to Singapore at $1.75, He did not is at Chefoo and is understood to be acting a Hongay to Chinkiang, a charter is reported wardly and frankly that on this, or that being the American legation in Seoul, Korea. $1.75. Rive evasive replies, but said straightfor

a base of supply to the marines who are guard. at $3.50, and Hongay to this a boat obtained could not give any answer. One recognised

Most of the naval people are hoping that the

On monthly terms, three fresh settlements the warrior who, as at Kinschow and Liao vent will strongly reinforce the strength are on record. yang, goes straight to his aim.

of the United States Asiatic fleet, in compari Sail Freights-Nothing done. Baron Kodama is of an entirely different on with the naval strengths of the other great Sail-tonnage loading or to load.--For Balti type. Vivacious, lively, communicative as he powers. It is the opinion, of most people in more and New York American skip 4. G. i', ons needed not to ask him anything. Admiral Evau's recommendations on this sub-

the naval branch of the service that Rear Roper, arrivedin6th March

Disengaged-British bark West York, 720 the conversation mostly alone, so that one only will eventually be carried out, but when? needed to listen. I found it very interesting That is the perplexity, says the Cadlenstr.

Departures:American ship S. P. Hitchcock, to interview a General in the midst of victory;

April 30th, for Manila. one has not often such an opportunity. I told myself that Kodama would know that what is ild to a fournalist in spoken to the public, and that he would not part with dangerous secrets of State, but I was nevertheless full of curiosity as to what we would hear. This bring me to My impression of his remarks was "els a point where to continue my story is difficult. would have been more!" One felt that ho had set himself the task to bluff us, as he had to a certain degree bluffed his opponents at Mukden by his strategy; his intention was to transport us into wondering admiration, where by of course it was emphasized that Japan had undertaken and conducted this war with the greatest unwillingness. · I bad come with the firm determination to straightway believe everything the General might say. But I found it quite impossible. A General relishes such days as were accorded to Kodama last March;

are the sublimity to his life. Baron Kodama

· were seen rolling up close to the Hongkong .Chr. nicle, it appears the during the morning The enemy's strength can best be judged by began to talk of his own accord, and conducted | jects when commander in chief of this station, tons. British ship Travancore, 2,200 ton

is to be trusted that the Chinese authorising of the ground Where this is not sufficient will establish, without delay, this much-needed they attack from various sides, dig themselves in where they have fad a partial success, and energet colly keep up enfileding fire. as the enemy shows a movement, they use As soon shrapnel, which proves that the artillery is attentive and that there is no bitch in the plants, I have even experienced infan ry firing at loog distances on such occasions, much to my per sunal discomfort. For example, we were tiring quietly in the valley and received shots when the Japanese were yet fifteen hundred to two Their strength they economise wonderfully. If attacked from several sides an inexperienced man would naturally think the nemy was much stronger than his own. And yet this was not the case at the point where I was placed, his batteries. In a certain place one had the Impression that four Japanese batteries wore firing, and yet am convinced there were no more than three, may be only two. Also their infantry positions are sparingly manned, but if attacked, hey will show at once that, though weak, they are determined to risk, every thing. This sparing employment of lactically first-class troops prac ically multifilies their forces. During a battle I have had moments when one could not help applauding: "Very good!" "Excellent!" It was a feast for the eye to anyone who is able to see with the eye of a military man. The Japanese leading mostly hit the nail on the head. After a few tentative advances the weak paint of the enemy is found, and as soon as this is discovered the attack proceeds with indomitable perseverance. A minute and correct direction of an engagement affords as enjoyment much greater than the finest theatrical performance. It was a pleasure to look upon such operations. But it would be overstepping the limits of this article to begin a treatise on present Japanese tactics; after the war books will be written on the subject. I will not conceal the fact, however, that! was

the water from, Thick zuuds of while smoke and Kowloog Wharf and Godown Cosa foreigner visited the bank and presented a premises, and it was at first thought that cheque for Y,500. One of the Chinese com one of the godowns was flames, It soun

pradores received the amount from the cashier became known that this valuable propƐsty was

in a hundred Yio noies and a hundred not even threatened as the fir was confined to notes. The comp adore returned to the de

■ matshed at Taim Ta. sui, erec'ed at the livery counter, libt was unable to the for bot of the small hillock on which an eigner to whom the notes belonged. He then outbreak occurred some two years ago. The returned in the cashier, a d nsked for a de Fire Brigade in charge of Capt. Lyons went scription of the owner of the notes, having, however, incautiously left the money 'on the counter, which was protected by the usual wire netting. When the Chinese returned, the money was gone, but he bel eved the owner had received it and for the moment nothing more was thought of the matter. Shortly after wards the foreign customer prosented himself and asked for his money, when the discovery was made that the money placed on the coun ter had been stolen About twenty-five per sons were at the counter when the mony dis The premises o. 248 Des Vœux Road appeared, but the police leamed that a billiard Central, were occupied by a plece goods shop. bay was among them and had received Y503 keeper until last night, but the premises have from the Bank on behalf of the Kobe Club, aince been gutted by fire and the contents of Not long afterwards he was arrested when on the place entirely destroyed. On the alarm the way from his father's house to the Club, being turned in, the Fire Brigade, under Cap. having, it seems, railed at his home before de

across the hubo it and with the aid of the You mati police and a couple of steamer, soon had the flames subdued. It is believed that the origin of the fire was due to spon angous com bustion in a quantity of coal stacked in the atshed. The damage does not amount to Buch.

ANOTHER FIRE,

11th inst.

With the three new battleships of this sta tion, the battleships of the Asiatic fleet, Oregon, Wisconsin, Ohio, Kentucky and Iowa, will equal any foreign fleet in the east, says the Ma

lia Times.

The only thing which can make the United any international affair, is that lack of a vice States navy in eastern waters take low rank in admiral. The French and British feets are both commanded by vice-admirats, who both rank with the fleet commander of the United States,

COMMERCIAL.

THE FORTNIGHTLY REPORT. Indian Yarn.-Since our last advices of the 21st ulto, the market has passed a rather quiet time. Chinese dealers have been less active by reason of the gradual rise in exchange and interval settlements have been small and is Imports being on the increase. During the

anxious to ease themselves as usual, but the some cases rates have fallen, Holders are Chinese confine operations to Immediate requirements only, Sales aggregate to about 3.500 balas. Shipments to Shanghal and coast ports of about 4,500 bales. Unsold stock is estimated at about 40,250 bales. Arrivals 16,150 balai.

Japanese Yard.-Heavy Imports have tended In their report of yesterday's date, Mesura,to limit sales to only about 100 bales of No. Benjamin, Kelly and Potts siste :---

47%. at $178, The market has ruled quiet during the past

WEEKLY SHARE REPORT.

Chinese Yard too bales of No. 10. have

Bengal Cotton. About 450 bales have found

he lives a tenfold life throub them; they week. Although several stocks have changed changed hands at $168,

tain Lyons, repaired at once to the scene of livering the Ysea to his employers. The man's is a quarter where the Japanese did not achieve was happy; he was in his element-and yet hands; it has been only in small quantities, but buyers at about Sas to Szji. Stock about 6000

the conflagration, but with the inflammable lodgings were of course searched, when the material the flames had made such headway, Y1, 00 intact was found concealed in a futon.

that all their energies were directed to saving the adjoin ng buildings and preventing the spread of the fire, nefiber of the adjoining buildings was damaged in any way except by the unavoidable play of water n them to pre vent their becoming ignited: The cause of the outbreak could rot. be ascertained, but it is believed that the ever-present "overturned lamp" was at the bottom of the trouble. Nor could the amount of the damage he learned, but the premises were insured for $3,000 each in the London and Lancashine and Hamburg

Fire 'nsurance Companies.

"

THE HARBOUR OF CANTON,

IMPORTANT PROPOSALS

TO FACILITATE BHIPP.NG.

A WAR CORRESPONDENT ON THE JAPANESE ARMY.

CRITICISM BY A CORRESPONDENT LATE

. WITH THE RUSSIANS,

One of the correspondents found with the Russians taken prisoner near Mukden, Fiel herr von Krieglstein, has written highly interesting article for Peut che fapan port

may

on the Japanese army. To him be remarked, balle seems a piece of art, which it executed in fire stye and accord ing to the approved rules of legalired mur der, gives to the connoisseur mora sthetic pleasure than the cultured playgoer can derive from the best acted drama, However, we will let she correspondent speak for himself through the medium,of translation. He remarks at the outset t-at the request to write an article for

any remarkable tactical successes. Probably

Banks-Hongkong and Shanghai Banks

no with for the bitter necessity of acting the inaintind bir

speeches all the time sounded as if he had Prices on the whole have been fairly well balas. Closing rates are $ig to $23. they were there the weaker side, or it might be Field-Marshal—that is, to live his life, to make hare ruled vary firm and have changed hands stock about 700 bales. Quotations are $zz' tó that they had no intention of bringing about himself a name for posterit,!This terrible to a small extent at $797. The London quota

Chinese Cotton. No sales are reported; decision there, though a mere demonstration is war," he said; "this glorious war, he only tion is Bo. Nationals remain in demand at New 25 chests at $1160 to $1.80 per picui-Old usually not their practice.

$25.

Malwa Opium-Sales are reported of about Marine Insurances.-Cantons have Jumped 15 chests at Srazy to Sea40 par pleul-Older to 53:0 and are wanted at the rate. Chins 6 chests at #1320 per piculį very old achosis at “ Traders continue in request at $57, North $1380 per picul. Stock 1658 chests: Uncleared Chinas are inquired for at Tls, 82, Upions 3 chests, bave been placed at $690, $595 and 170o and close with sellers at $695.

IL-GENERAL IMPRESSIONS,

Fire Insurance China Fires are still on offer at $86. Hongkong Fires have been done and further shares are obtainable at $301). Steamboats have advanced and can be placed Shipping-Hongkong, Canton and Macao

can have thought. It may be that judge where not only the diplomain but also the wrongly. It is possible that we live in a time $37. Generals of an eminently aggressive and war blow the soft fute of peace and humanity. Aplike nation must even in the middle of action Nevertheless General Kodama made a very strong impression on me. He looked ten in Tokyo, clear proof how well this dis years younger than when saw him last year tasteful war agrees with him te is one of the few Japanese with whom I was able to get on in conversation.

What I have seen of the japanese Army in at $264. the deld has greatly interested me, and the greater part by far I fognd excellent. One sees everywhere solid, good, correer work; good organisation, high tension and initiative. It is yet too soon for a conclusive valuation of to performances, which also would sarpass my powers but in case the criticism can only be lauds.

When I stood captured amongst a number of Runstans near the Mukdes railway station bullets suddenly hlased about our ears. advancing Japanese company, who had not seen the guards among the tall Russians, begon to fire at us. The behaviour of our guards at such a crisis was really brilliant. They could not know al first if the firing did not come from Russians. But without excitement the pri- soners were urged behind a plle of wood, while the guards themselves took a position upon ready to defend themselves bravely. It was small episode, but one could see that the men at once knew what to do and quickly arrived at a decision. It was a real pleasure to see such prompt and determined action. One may sea troops for years on the drill-ground and now nothing of them. but half a minute at a critical moment will often tell the careful ob server very much.

it

THE ADVANCE IN PRICES.

FOODSTUFFS IN JAPAN,

Indo-Chinas have improved their position and are in demand at $135 alldrains at the rate, Douglas Steamships and China and Manilas are unchanged at last quotations, Star Ferries have found buyers at $37) and $28 for the old and new shares respectively. Shell in further request. Shanghai Tuga (ordinary) Transports have been booked at az/6 and close are wanted et Tii. 551 there are sailers of the i Rosnerics-China Sugars are offering t 5224 Luzons have been negotiated at Szy and are now inquired for at $377,

Mining-Chinese Engineerings have been taken off the market at Tia, 740. In Raube, business has been transacted at $37

By Article V. of the Supplementary Commer cial Treaty with China the Chinese Government agreed to improve the accommodation for the Deutsche Japan post caused him some shipping in the harbour of Canton and to take embarrassment, followed the Russ the necessary steps to maintain that improve- army,' be says, "and was captured. It would nother good thing noticeable was the onb.very Battering for Japan's Army, "Summa cum preference shares at 'le. $9, ment, such work to be carried out by the be very improper to publish in Japan what I dued tone in which the parole was given and Imperial Maritime Customs and the cost thereo saw of the brave but unfortunate army, of the taken at night; one scarcely noticed the sent o be defrayed by a tax on 'goods landed ad opponent. Neither am I in a position to ask ries, and yet they were there and on the alert. hipped by British and Chinese ali-e accord- a Russian Centor 10 peruse anything I may Likewise the few wants of the Japanese ja ‘a ing to a scale to be arranged between the writs. Finally, a Russian correspondent has good trait from a military point of view. On merchants and Customs." It is not sur the same duty as regards the keeping of mili- the evening of March roth 1 was brought +grising, therefore, to learn from our cor es tary secrete as is asked, I understand, of the the quarters of General ayashi, who specially pondent at Canton that a considerable amount gentlemen who accompany the Imperial Japan distinguished himself in the engagements round A speculation regarding the decision of the ere army. To this must be added the Mukden and received a letter of acknowledge Chloese authorities,establishing a harbour feeling of gratitude towards an army ment (kanfe) from Field Marshal Oyama. The office in that growing port has been rife for where the correspondent so far bai realy amiable General, with whom, I am sorry to Some months. Indeed, the matter should have been treated most fairly, not

long since passed the initial stages and by sense tat he was fearled and compli: speak much else than Watakashi wa Doitsu- in the say, I could not, for want of an interpreter, this time have been on the are of completion. mented, but in the sense that he had fullest jin desu "Arigato," and "Sayonara," received The coast inspector of the Custom, Mr. W. F. liberty to go wherever he liked, and, if it me in his room, sitting on the Chinese kang. Tyler, is said to have compiled a statement le pleased him, even to be killed. In this respect The room was but heated one could see that which is set forth the immediate and absolute really everything could be seen. Anyone who the General's larder contained itle else but Eecessities of the part of Caston for meeting was sufficiently venturesome was allowed so rice, tea, sake, dried fish, and some Japanese the ever-increasing tonnage entering and dear the furthest Russian line that he could tinned provisions. This is saldier-like and Manuvring in the limited anchorage, With see the opponents as much as was possible to worthy of honour. Frugality in a soldier is the commancement of the fulfilment of Chinese anyone?

offan world, more than many other things, obligations under the Treaty, by starting With this preface the correspondent con Repeatedly I saw men on the march eating juwith the removal of all unifi jal obst uctions an cinses"This now gives me the starting their food. Without much ado they took some the river, the principal shipping firms having point to tell in good conscience the little rice from a receptacle and ate it sitting in the business at Ca ton expended large sums of 'know, as far as le may be of interest for the snow on the roadside. The food was of

commencement of hostilities between Japan The Osaka Mainichi observes that since the and Russia, the price of foodstuffs bar consider ably advanced, and says this is accounted for by the demands of the army at the front and of the Russian prisoners must also be account by the decrease of production. The support ed responsible in some degree. of the advance in prices. Beef, which was The Osaka journal mentions a few instances ruling at about B sen per tog momme whole: sale in Osaka, began to rise rapidly following the outbreak of war, ax entile and floned beef were sent to the front. in August last the rate rose to 14 sen, and now it is 22 or 23 ses, while the work of tinning beef has been sus- ponded, as it does not pay. During the time this industry was in full swing, the demand for beef in Qeska along amojojed to about

ochotts at $1180 to $140 per chest, Stock Patna Opium-Sales are reported of about

chests. Uncleared stock for chests. Beaures Opium.--Balesare reported of about 15 chests at 155 to $1,110 per chest Stock 84g chete. Uncleared stock gos chests,

Persian Opium-Sales are reported of about chests at $1,000. Stock 1701, Rt. 1391% (T.T.) ke,:140 (Post) on Landon ExchangeWe quote today on India at ta. 10 3/16d.

Camphor Oil... Cassia Oil Fennel Seed Oil Rose Dil... Sandalwood Oil* Beans

H

$10 to $ag 150 to 170.

*PA

280 to 300°

60 to 175.

250 to 400

***.3. $0.4

Camphor (China)

(Formosa) Canta Cloves Kiimiss

www. TH

car

+

Ivory -tuE:4。,,འ་

se qu123. to 137.

$30

3.tp 10

16 to 18

**200 -10 730

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

and Whampos Docks have been disposed of Docks, Wharfs and Godowns-Hongkong at $2033 and S204 at which latter rate more shares are procurable. Farnhams weakened to Tis, 3538 and shares were spid at this price, LIEUT. E. G. Barrett has resigned his com buyers at Tis. 154. Kowloon Wharfs are ob but at the close the market is Armer with mission in the Hongkong Volunteer Corps, tainable at $ros, Hongkow Wharfs have been ACCORDING to the latest returns the number parted with at Thu, 187.

of the Russian prisoners in Japan is 60,190.

Lands have been dealt in at 425 and $125, Lands, Hotels and Buildings, Hongkong Shanghai Lands are reported sold et Tis. 116. Hongkong Hotels have risen to B144 and are wanted. Humphreys Estato remeia firm with faquiries at $3.

Cotton Miller-Hongkong Coltons have changed hands at $16, In Shanghai, sales are reported of Ewos at The 383 Other stocks snder this kiadjag are huchanged,

THR Hon. Mr. A. W Brewin is going on leave and Mr. J. R. Wood will set temporarily as Registrar General,

list of authorized architects under the Fablic THE following names have been added to the fealth and Buildings Ordinance, 19031 Williams Lionel Wreford Weaser and Abdoola bootep Abdostum,