New-York tribune., 1906-03-23
MILLION ARE STARVING.
Japan'S Famine Worst of Modern
Times-s16OOO, 900 NeeGed.

The famine in Japan, which has been considered
for time moderately serious is now known.
the result OF reliable private advices received
by the New York State Red Cross. 70 be OF the
most terrible starvation emergencies OF modern
times. The failure Of the rice crops. which at one
time was believed to be limited TO certain classes
only in the northern provinces. has been found 90
be general In those parts Of Japan, and conserva-
tive estimates place the number OF starving Jap
anese at from eight hundred thousand 70 one mill
ion people. For these owing to extended rains last
summer. which have ruined the rice and other food
crops. there is absolutely relief in sight until
next october. when a usv harvest VIII be avail
able.
AS if this we're not bad enough. the present win
ter has been one Of the most severe in Japan for
many years. Heavy SHOWS and frequent storms
have made work impossible for those stiu strong
enough to work, and have stopped the public works
and the laying out Of rice fields instituted
Dressly by the Japanese government a means Of
relief for the benefit Of these people.
As the result Of this latest news. the Red Cross
Of this state has decided to use every agency its
command to do its share toward alleviating the
terrible distress. Sixteen million dollars IS the total
sum which VIII be required to save the japanese
country people This is estimated by allowing for
cost OF 10 cents a person a day. special meet
ing Of the japanese famine committee has been
called for Monday afternoon and the committee Is
70 be increased in membership
The seriousness Of the condition is such that the
committee is considering whether It is wise to
undertake the collection and transportation Of food
as we'll money. Already two food experts from
Japan have been asked to prepare food list show
ing what American staples be used. Interest
has certainly been shown in this in San Francisco
E. H. Hartman has volunteered to transport, free
OF charge. 1000 tons OF freight his railroad and
steamship lines by way Of San Francisco and Port
land. The mllers Of San Francisco have promptly
given 500 tons OF -four, and DR.. Louis KlODsch, Of
The Christian Herald has given. through the
Red Cross $500 to pay stevedore and loading
charges. This whole question will be fully dis
cussed at the meeting Of the Japanese Famine
Committee IN Room 5O9. No. 500 Fifth avenue next
Monday
The secretary OF the executive committee OF the
State Red Cross, W. c. Langdon. when asked about
the plans. said:
1t IS true that the famine IN Japan IL OF magni-
tude far beyond former belief. have dis
cussed our private advtces with Consul General
UChida, and he has confirmed private figures
that between 10000 and 100000 persons are in
need Of relief He agreed also that no food crops
would be available until October. and fixed the
cost Of living on famine ratiOns, at 10 cents day
a person. This means that millions must be raised
for adults and children.
We are exceedingly anxious therefore, to get IN
touch with all people in the state who desire 20
contribute for this cause, be their contributions
large or small. Contributions are TO be sent to
Jacob H. Schin, Room 5O9, No. 800 Fifth avenue.