The Times of Thursday contains from its Peking corre- spondent
an account of the first Session of the Chinese Pro- vincial Assemblies. They were elected on a limited franchise, and the subjects open to discussion are restricted. Procedure was on the Western model, each subject being submitted to three readings. Places were provided for the reporters of local newspapers, and the debates were daily recorded. The members received payment at a low rate as well as their travelling expenses. The correspondent praises in particular the address of the Acting-Governor of Shantung, who was formerly Chinese Minister in Paris and Berlin. He advised the members of the Shantung Assembly never to be afraid of adverse criticism, and he eulogised the conduct of Yuan Shih-kai, who when Governor of Shantung suppressed the " Boxer " movement in his province. This reference to Yuan Shih-kai was believed to have Imperial approval, and therefore attracted wide notice.
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