The Indianapolis journal., 1903-05-09
Forts Being Constructed at Lao
Yung to COmman the Road Be-
tween There and Yalu River.
PORTION OF KOREA INVADED
RUSSIA'S LATEST COUP VIEWED
WITH SURPRISE AT PEKING.
Vigorous Action by the United States
and Other Nations Probable
Protest from Japan.

PEKING, May S.-The Russians, IL is an
with a large force and also have put gar
risons at the forts at the mouth Of the Lao
river. They are further reported to be
making extensive warlike preparations.
The Russians are reported to be construct
ing forts on the hill near Liao-Yung COM
manding the road between there and the
Yalu river, and they have arranged to have
a large quantity of provisions delivered
at Nieu-Chwang. A dispatch from an off,
cial at Nieu-Chwang says indications point
strongly to these active preparations being
intended to guard against operations
news of Russian activity. which comes
from a most trustworthy source at Nieu-
Chwang adds that on their return to Nieu-
Chwang the Russian troops brought with
them several large guns. A large force has
been ordered to reoccupy Tien-Tchwang-
Tai. The Russians have 1900 troops be-
tween the mouth of the Lao river and
Port Arthur.
Russia's coup has caused profound sur
prise here, as recent developments had led
to the expectation that Russia would COM
promise her demands since they had been
revealed to the powers. The latest ma
neuver is interpreted as being intended
as a reply to Chinas refusal to grant Rus
sia's demands, to the protests of the pow
ers and as a declaration that she is ready
to fight in order to maintain possession
that the Russian army reoccupied certain
strategical posts at just about the time
naval reinforcements were reaching the
Gulf of Pe-Chi-Li The temporary with
drawal OF the Russian troops from Nieu-
Chwang is believed to have been a feint
to avert suspicion from the contemplated
policy until the Russian squadron was
within useful distance. 1t has been re-
ported recently that Russia was accumulat-
ing great stores Of provisions and war ma
terials. 1t Is impossible to confirm these
reports. but it is known that the Russian
military authorities have been buying
many horses. All the available inforraa-
ton indicates that Russia is preparing to
Increase and not decrease her forces In
Manchuria
The foreign ministers yesterday discussed
information to the effect that the Russians
had taken large tract of land across the
river from New-Chwang, commanding the
terminus of the Shan-Kwan railroad. II
was stated that Russia informed the Chi
nese officials that the tract was needed for
a Russian drill ground. The selection OF
the site seemed remarkable, because all the
troops were then quartered on the opposite
side OF the river, several miles distant.
where plenty of land was available.
The Chinese officials describe the dow
ager Empress as being greatly distressed.
and as fearing that the Russian agpres
sion will excite anti-fc-eign Demonstration
resulting in retaliation on the part of the
foreigners and the introduction of more
foreign troops. Nowhere has a suggestion
been heard that China will resort to arms
in order to resist Russia Prince Ching
the grand secretary, yesterday secured Ave
days leave of absence. This Is a favorite o
strategem of Chinese officials who are de-
sirous of avoiding unpleasant Situations
1t Is stated here that Russian Influence ;s
being exerted to conciliate American opin-
ion, and that appeals being made to
the traditional friendship Of the two ma :
uons. with the argument that Russian de-
velopment of Manchuria will open a great
field for American commerce, while the
opposition Of the United States to Russia 3
plans might provoke retaliation against
American trade. The Russians have estab-
lished consulate at Mukden.