CHINA: New Regime

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While inland China was wrapt in its customary slumber, the coast provinces, from Kwangtung to Chihli, effervesced in a variety of bubbles.

In the South, Dr. Sun Yatsen, "perpetual rebel", was reported hostile to the warlords who controlled Peking.

In the Centre, General Wu Pei-fu, until recently the biggest man in China, prepared, with his cronies, for war upon the legions of the Peking warlords.

In the North (i.e. in Peking), Gen eral Feng Yu-hsiang, "Chinese Christion Soldier", relinquished his command "now that his military services are no longer needed." This left, controlling Peking, Marshals Chang Tso-lin and Tuan Chi-jui.

Evidently there had been dispute among Feng, Chang and Tuan. What were the two remaining ones going to do? A report from London professed to know that Marshals Tuan and Chang ' were "for restoring the Manchu Monarchy." That would explain the animosity of Dr. Sun and also lend reason to the quarrel with General Feng. This latter, in addition to frowning on his comrade's ideas on foreign policy (see below), is a republican in spirit and no believer in dynasties.

The next development seemed further to foreshadow Tuan in the role of Regent. With the full consent of the Government, the knowledge of all foreign legations, and on the advice of his English tutor, young Hsuan Tung, whilom "Boy Emperor" of China, sought asylum in the Japanese Legation. The report was that he might cross to Japan, there to wait out of harm's way until Tuan had reduced his realm to order for him. Meanwhile, the young Manchu talked of how good it seemed to be freed of official duties, of how he would like to go to the U. S. to study "at Hamilton College or Columbia Uni versity.

And meantime, Marshal Tuan issued a mandate:

On November 24, 1924, I, Tuan Chi-jui, assumed office as Chief Executive* of the Republic of China. At the time of assuming office, I formally announced as follows: I, Tuan Chi-jui, although without ability and undeserving, assume office as Chief Executive of the Republic of China. I swear that I will endeavor to consolidate the Republican Government, respect public opinion, and strive to bring about reform within the country and raise the nation's standing abroad. I swear the foregoing reverently.

More mandates followed: