The Newberry herald and news. (Newberry, S.C.) 1884-1903, 1894-08-29

An Interesting Statement about the Wax
and Its Causes.
Rev. P. B. Peery, missionary in
Japan, has written the following IN
teresting letter to The Lutheran
Visitor:
The bugle blast has sounded and the
contest is on. After three months OF
quarreling, Japan and China have at
last come to blows. Both parties are
marshalling their forces for severe
struggle; and have already been hurl-
ing their armies and navies against
each other. No public declaration Of
war has been made, and there will
probably be none; as international
Law no longer demands it. The usual
manifesto has been issued to the various
representatives of foreign powers stat
ing that the two countries are in state
of hostility; and they have recognized
this state and instructed their nationals
to act in accordance with it.
The cause of the disturbance is the
kingdom Of Corea, lying about mid
way between the two countries. Corea
has been for centuries one OF the most
corrupt and misgoverned kingdoms on
earth. Either Japanese or Chinese
influence has directed her course for
ages. Long ago she was considered
subject to Japan and tribute was ex-
acted from her; but for the past two or
three hundred years Chinese influence
has been largely in the ascendancy
there. The japanese have been jealous
of this and have watched for an op-
portunity to supplant the Chinese.
The corruption and depravity Of the
Corean government kindled the fires Of
reballion, about six months ago.
Among the rebels were numbered
some of the most enlightened and
respectable men in the kingdom. Their
aim was to bring about reform, peace
ably if possible, forcibly if necessary.
The rebellion was successful and popu-
lar, and would surely have accom-
piished its end had not the present
Corean government called in assistance
from China. China at once sent over
an army, and the rebellion was
quelled.
In sending over these troops China
violated her treaty with japan; as the
treaty provides that neither power
shall send soldiers to Corea without
first consulting the other. AS soon as it
was known that China had really sent
troops there Japan at once seized her
opportunity, put on a bold front and
sent over part OF her standing army.
She then demanded the immediate
withdrawal Of the Chinese troops, and
a thorough reform in every department
of government; as well as the introduce
tion of railways, telegraph systems,
postal systems, etc. After much con-
sideration Corea refused to comply
with Japan's demands. Only two
courses were then open to Japan-to
back down and withdraw, or to under
take these reforms herself. She chose
the latter course and proposes by way
of preliminary to drive the Chinese out
of Corea and keep them out.
The population of Japan is shout
100000. TIE standing army numbers
100000; and is excsllently oficered,
trained, and equipped. The navy Is a
very respectable one for nation Of
this size. Every instrument of modern
warfare is here, and the japanese kIow
how to use them effectively. Patriotism
is the most predominant trait IL
japanese character, and this war is
exceedingly popular. The people are
united on this issue and will support
the government to man.
The population Of China is not less
than 300,OO0, ,0OO;and may be SOC, 900, 900.
It's present army is probably larger
than that of Japan; but it is poorly
organized, trained, and equipped.
There are many foreign officers in the
Chinese army and they sre badly
1eeded there; while there are none in
the Japanese army and there is no use
for them. The navies Of the two coun-
tries are about equal in number and
strength, but the Chinese do not know
how to use their large vessels and be-
come embarrese5 in an engagement.
There is very little patriotism in China,
and instead of supporting the govern
ment, many Of its subjects will doubt
less give it much trouble at home.
China has great masses Of men and
vast resources at her disposal; but her
men are unframed and disorderly and
cannot oe relied upon. Japan's num-
bers are smaller, hut her soldiers are
obedient and we'll trained and can be
relied upon in any circumstances.
The belligerents so far have busted
themselves mostly with preparations
and plans for conducting the war.
Japan has her regular navy in action
and has chartered and prepared for war
most Of the merchant vessels owned by
her subjects. In addition to the army
already in Cores she has about 100000
men ready to move at days notice.
China is not so quick to act as Japan,
but she is preparing her forces as rapid
ly as possible. Two or three naval
engagements have already taken place.
4 STTMA