No. 232.
Mr. Denby
to Mr. Bayard.
Legation of
the United States,
Peking, August 24, 1888.
(Received October 8.)
No. 691.]
Sir: I have the honor to inclose herewith a copy of
a letter received from Rev. Gilbert Reid. It will be seen that the Chinanfu
troubles are in process of settlement.
These troubles have been the nightmare of the newspapers for a year and more.
I am sincerely glad that time seems likely to vindicate my judgment and
conduct, and that my fellow-citizens, if they do not ask too much, will
succeed in their wishes.
I have the honor, etc.,
[Extract from No. 691.]
Mr. Reid to Mr.
Denby.
Chinanfu, August 2,
1888.
Sir: It gives me great pleasure to write you
that your dispatch to the Tsung-li Yamên in June last proved a most
opportune assistance. The Yamên’s order to the governor, referring to
your dispatch, instructed the local authorities to see and consult with
me and to effect an exchange of property. After various attempts to
induce me to consult with certain deputies specially appointed, or to
ask for an interview, the acting Taotai sent his card, requesting me to
appoint a time for an interview at his Yamên.
At the conference thus secured there was present the Taotai himself,
supported by the prefect, magistrate, and the two deputies. The three
main points of consultation were, first, possession of property; second,
punishment of the guilty parties who instigated the riot; third, some
form of compensation for the insults and injuries received. These
points, along with the matter of seeing the governor at some proper
time, are to be referred to the governor, and on receipt of instructions
the Taotai will give me a reply. I, in turn, will inform the
legation.
It is the desire of the official to postpone the matter till after the
great examination in September.
The reply of the Taotai will give particulars.
I am, etc.,
