THE CHINESE RIOTS

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LII, Issue 373, 26 April 1910, Page 5

THE CHINESE RIOTS

A BRAVE BRITISH OFFICER.

AVHAT MIGHT HAVE BEEX.

RICE AND THE "FOREIGN DEVIL.

By Cable—Press Association—Copyright,

Received April 25, 9.55 p.m. Pekin, April 25. Changsha is quiet, but the situation is precarious and the vicinity extremely disaffected.

The British Consul lias circularised refugees, emphasising the statement made by officials that if one foreign life had 'been lost during the riots the whole province would have risen. It only awaited a word from Changsha. Although scarcity of rice was the immediate cause of the outbreak, this rioting was a concession to the Huanese anti-foreign feeling. Coupled with the evidence of the Changsha refugees concerning the growing intolerance of the people in recent years, this'is highly significant. The refugees pay glowing tribute to Captain Hewlett, who from the 13th to the 17th (when the Thistle arrived) was practically sleepless. It is largely clue to liis efforts that no foreigner was killed.

Some of the native military officials stood firm and helped foreigners to escape.

POWER OF THE UNION JACK.

Pekin. April 25

The British Consul has returned to Changsha. He declares that organised bands are rioting in the 'neighborhood. All the foreigners took refuge on two British vessels.