CHINESE QUESTION.

Waikato Argus, Volume IV, Issue 271, 7 April 1898, Page 3

CHINESE QUESTION.

RUSSIAN BRIBERY. GERMANY SURPRISED. London, April 5. It is reported from Tientsein that a censor of tho highest rank has memorialised the Emperor, accusing members of the Tsung-li-Yamen of accepting 1,000,000 taels of Russian pay, and Li Hung Chang of accepting 1,500.000 taels. If Li Hung is proved guiltless the censor offers to submit to decapitation ; if guilty, he asks that Li Hung be executed. The Times states that the Chinese Government have agreed to lease Wei-hai-wei to Britain after the withdrawal of the Japanese troops in May. Tho Daily News, commenting on the lease, says that more of the hinterland of the port is claimed. It is believed the Russian Government has acquiesced in tha lease; also, that Japan is favourable to the British occupation. The Times remarks that Wei»haiwei will be a difficult placo to defend, whilst it is also inferior as a naval base to either Kiao-chau or Port Arthur. The press and politicians are generally satisfied with the "Wei-hai-wei concessions, but the military service is less satisfied, fearing that a heavy garrison, with extensive fortifications, will bo necessajy to maintain the position. Germany was completely surprised by the move, but is apparently acquiescent. An impression prevails that Britain will exact further compensation from China. • It is reported from Pekin that France is about to seize a coaling station near Fuchang. The Times states that all the commercial Powers would view so daring a step with the utmost disapprobation. St. Petersburg, April 5. The Novoe Vremya threatens a demonstration on the part of Russia on the Afghan frontier, in reply to the British demonstration in the Gulf of Pechili. Count Muravieff, in response to inquiries, has renewed his assurances that Russia will keep Port Arthur and Ta-lien-wan open to trade.