23 JANUARY 1886, Page 3

The Times' correspondent telegraphs almost incredible stories from Mandelay. He

declares that the Provost-Marshal, whom he does not name, recently extorted evidence from a Burman while covered by the rifles of a firing-party ; and that he, being an ardent photographer, keeps persons ordered for execution some minutes under the presented rifles, in order that the com- mand "Fire !" may be given at the moment when he exposes his plate. If that story is not true, the correspondent of the Times should be expelled Barmah ; while, if it is true, the Provost-Marshal should be dismissed her Majesty's service. It is indispensable for the protection of quiet citizens in a place under military occupation that a Provost- Marshal should have power of life and death, otherwise every camp-follower would be a &colt ; but he is not invested with his terrible function in order that he may torture prisoners to secure photographic curiosities. There has not been such a ease in the thirty-five years we have known the Indian Army ; but it is fair to recollect that the Times' reporter was expelled Mandelay, and has not forgiven that act of injustice yet.