But though we must defend British subjects and property and
may fairly look for American approval of our action, we must scrupulously avoid any appearance of taking the side of any Chinese General. To do that would be certain to unite the Chinese against the foreigner —if they are capable of being united.. It is useless officially to blame the Chinese, as there is no responsible Government. It may be pointed out, nevertheless, how mad it is for the Chinese to behave as they are doing. A few months ago all the Powers sent representatives to Peking with all the will in the world to meet Chinese wishes. But how can the Powers waive ancient treaty rights when it is being proved to them day by day that tjie Chinese are incapable of giving security to those foreign communities for which they would make them- selves responsible ?
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