The Japanese Challenge at Tientsin The Japanese blockade of the
British and French Con- cessions at Tientsin differs from the series of provocative actions that have preceded it—such as the killing of Mr. Tinkler and the arrest of Colonel Spear—in that those may be explained away as incidents, but the blockade can only be maintained through considered policy. Whether the Japanese Government approves of this threatening attitude, or whether it is thrust on it by the military authorities, is not clear, but the effect is the same so far as this country is concerned. The refusal of the British authorities to hand over the four Chinese demanded by the Japanese was unquestionably within their rights. But the Japanese are asserting that the war has changed the whole basis of foreign rights in China, and the present action is a challenge to our status there under the Treaties. The interference with our trade at Tientsin, which, at any moment, may be followed by similar action at Shanghai, must obviously be the subject of vehement protest ; and if that is not enough the Cabinet have to face the serious consideration of the next step to be taken. If necessary the Japanese can be reminded that the Treaty Powers, which include the United States and France, have at their command many forms of retaliation short of war.
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