The fight over the indemnities continues at Pekin. It is
stated semi-officially that Great Britain and Germany have agreed upon a plan, but even the totals are not settled. According to the Americans, the total is just under sixty-two millions, of which Russia claims eighteen, Germany fourteen, France eight, Japan six, the United States five, Great Britain four and three-quarters, and Italy, Austria, and Spain together six. The Russian and French claims and those of the Mediterranean Powers are monstrous, but reduction, if made at all, must be made by all, and Germany wants " her millions as well as her legions." The method of raising the money is still undetermined, as are the questions whether occupation should cease before the money is paid, and whether, if it does not cease, the Chinese should pay the expenses of the troops, as France did after Waterloo, which would involve more millions. The Powers are much too secure that China is dead, and may find that they have still grave military difficulties to overcome.
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