the ruffians who burnt and destroyed churches and chapels; but afterwards missionary cases occurred at Ch'eng-tu and Ku-t'ien. Lately another in which missionaries were murdered at Ts'ao-chou, and though every effort was made to settle it by discussion, and the building of chapels and the lease of Kiao-chau were authorized, the menaces of all kinds resulting from it are creating unbearable evils.

The Manchu Generals-in-chief, the Viceroys and Governors, are all recipients of the Imperial bounty, and should turn their thoughts to reducing the State's misfortunes. Wherefore this special Decree is issued, calling upon them henceforth to bestir themselves and carefully guard against missionary troubles. When they receive District Magistrates, let them give particular orders to those officers to inquire into the number and situation of the chapels in their jurisdiction and the character of the local inhabitants. In litigation between the people and the churches let them be warned to decide equitably, that the well-disposed may not suffer injustice and the wicked have no pretext [for stirring up strife]. Most important of all is it that missionaries passing to and fro should be thoroughly protected according to Treaty, as a precaution to some extent against calamity, and to prevent events taking a turn for the worse. If the Magistrates rigidly adhere to their own settled views, vainly devote themselves to gaining an empty name, and do not estimate the gravity of this danger correctly, with the result that a little local difficulty spreads to an entire province, and affects very prejudicially the whole State, the responsibility will in every case be laid at the door of the Manchu Generals-in-chief, Viceroys, Governors, and other high provincial authorities. Let them, therefore, tremble and take heed.

Let this Edict be proclaimed for the information of all.

CONVENTION between Great Britain and China, respecting an Extension of Hong Kong Territory. Signed at Peking, June 9, 1898.

[Ratifications exchanged at London, August 6, 1898.]

WHEREAS it has for many years past been recognized that an extension of Hong Kong territory is necessary for the proper defence and protection of the Colony,

It has now been agreed between the Governments of Great Britain and China that the limits of British territory shall be enlarged under lease to the extent indicated generally on the