The Times of Saturday last reproduces the substance of an
interesting statement made by the Chinese Minister in Paris to a representative of the Ryan) on the subject of Chinese neutrality. While admitting that the Government at Pekin would not welcome the indefinite occupation of Manchuria by the Russians, he declares that they consider it essential to maintain good relations with Russia, on the grounds that they do not desire war, that they are not ready for it, and, above all, that Japanese assistance could not be of much use to China. He significantly adds :—" There is no desire at Court to introduce the Japanese Army into China, even for its defence. Do not the defenders of a country frequently aspire to become its masters ? " While, therefore, disbelieving in armed Chinese intervention, he frankly admits that the Chinese masses warmly sympathise with the Japanese, who have for several years done everything in their power to make themselves popular in the North of the Empire. Hence, in spite of strict orders given to Viceroys and Governors to check risings, he apprehends that it may prove difficult to restrain the populace if Japan should gain a victory over the Russian Army. The communication gains in significance from the fact that it was published before news reached Europe of the fighting on the Yalu.
