The British Mission still awaits at Lhasa the signature of
the Treaty. The Dalai Lama, who is either in a monastery "eight marches off," or has fled to Mongolia, makes no sign ; and the officials left behind have con- ceded nothing except the release of two Sikhimese prisoners. who were seized twelve months ago. Colonel Younghusband made an impressive ceremonial of their release ; but there are still eight clauses out of the nine submitted to the Tibetans which have not been signed. The Arnhem, or Chinese representative, is doing his best, and China, it is said, has, as suzerain, some powers in reserve; but the approach of cold weather causes much anxiety. Colonel Younghusband, we take it, is a good deal fettered by his instructions ; but it seems clear that the pressure must be made sharper. The lay population is friendly, and brings in sufficient supplies ; but the Lamas are sullen, and have been confined to their quarters in the Lhasa neighbourhood in consequence of a fanatical attack upon two British officers. There is a body which is rather absurdly called a National Assembly ; but no one has any final authority till the Dalai Lama speaks. It is not probable that the Lamas have formed any plot. They are simply sitting still to see what will happen, in utter ignorance that they are playing with fire. It may be necessary to storm the Palace-Monastery yet, even if the necessity is greatly to be regretted.
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