Courier Democrat. (Langdon, N.D.) 1891-1920, 1900-09-13

Washington, Sept. S.-The latest express
'sion as to the attitude of the powers on
he evacuation of Picking comes from the
united States ambassador at Paris, Gen.
Horace Porter, who has advised the au-
thorities here that the attitude of the
French government is favorable to the
position taken by Russia. Almost SIM
lltaneously with this dispatch from Gen.
Porter came another from the American
charge d'affaires at Berlin, giving the at
titude Of Germany on Russia's proposal.
This in substance states that Germany,
while anxious to avoid any friction be-
tween the powers, regards the conditions
at Peking such as to require the con-
tinued presence Of German forces there.
gives the
Text of the Answers
out only the substance of the positions
taken by the two governments.
These two highly important communi-
cations bring the Chinese negotiations to
very advanced stage, though they are
not yet concluded, as all of the answers
are not yet in. The German and French
answers, however, clearly indicate the
alignment of the powers. 1t is generally
accepted that Germany's attitude in favor
Of remaining at Picking will be concurred
N by Italy and Austria, as these two
countries act with Germany on political
questions of a general nature. Moreover,
definite word has been received here
which clearly foreshadows Austria's posi-
ton in favor of remaining at Picking. AS
co the purposes of Great Britain there
IL Absolute Lack
Of official information. though little
doubt is entertained that since Germany
has taken the initiative Great British will
follow suit In favor of remaining at Pc
king. The position Of Japan likewise is
lacking in def1niteness. although it is be-
Heved In the best posted quarters that ii
other nations remain at Picking, Japan
will deem 1t expedient to remain there
also. 1t would seem from this that
France is the only governn ent to give
concurrence to the Russian proposition,
although the United States has expressed
q purpose of following Russia's course
unless the other powers brought about
modification Of Russia's position. Thus
tar Russia has not expressed any pur-
pose of modifying her original position.
1t was stated authoritatively yesterday
that
RUSSIA Has Not Ordered
the departure of her minister or troops
from Picking up to this time so far as the
United States government is advised. 1t
is stated also that no new propositions
nave been presented, but the question Is
practically the same as when presented,
namely, as to whether the troops will re-
main or be withdrawn from Picking.
The receipt of the communications from
md o,~{e
conferences between the president, Secre-
tary Root and Acting Secretary of State
Hill, and also between Mr.. Hill and Mr..
Adee. 1t was gathered from these meet
ings that another note was being pre-
pared by the United States, but the au-
thorities did not feel disposed to give any
linking as to its nature and
1T ds Quite Probable
that Its final form will await the consid-
Grafton OF the cabinet to-day
Aside from the general question, the
French government is again considering
the status Of Ii Hung Chang, and this
subject also was brought to the attention
of the authorities here yesterday. There
have been reports of prospective deten-
ton of Earl Ii in case he proceeded
north, but the communications Just in
hand indicate that there will be no in
reference with his movements His ac-
ceptability as a peace commissioner also
continues to be a.
Subject of Discussion
there being strong desire in certain,
quarters not to include him on the Chi
nese commission.
M. >Theibaut, the French charge DAFT
flares, and Baron speck Won sternberg
the German charge d'affaires, called at
the state department to-day but the pur-
poses of their calls were not disclosed
although they are understood to have re-
lated to the Chinese situation. The mill
tary situation at Picking remains I'M
changed apparently. Gen. Chaffees mes
sages make it clear that he for one is
proceeding upon the understanding that
the American troops are to winter in
China.