The Sunday Oregonian. (Portland, Ore.) 1881-current, June 17, 1900, Image 1

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VOL. XIX. NO. 24.
PORTLA2JD, OREGON, SUNDAY MORNIN0, JUNE 17, 1900.
PRICE FIVE CENTS.
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PAGES 1 TO 12
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THIRTY-TWO PAGES ml I I i
NEW YORK MYSTERY
How Did G. P. Rummeiin, of
Portland, Meet His Death?
FATAL WOUND NOT SELF-INFLICTED
Body Dropped From Ferryboat Be
tween Manhattan and States.
Island Warm "When. Found.
NEW YORK, Juno 16. On more dark
mystery of New York Bay confronts the
harbor police, and it possesses a. grisly na
ture which they may never solve. The
victim Js G. P. Rummelln, a wealthy
business man of Portland, Or., whose body
was taken from the ebbing tide at Staple
ton, in the borough of Richmond, form
erly known as Staten Island, yesterday
morning, stone dead, with the throat cut
from ear to ear, the awful wound al
most severing the head from the body.
The shifting tides about this city often,
bring up from their swirling depths such
horrors, and the dread stories that lie be
hind most of them have never been told,
and never will be while time endures.
The ghastly feature of this case is that
according to the narratives of different
witnesses, within the hour that Mr. Rum
melin's mutilated corpse was found adrift,
he "was seen alive on the deck of the
ferry steamer Southfleld, plying between
the boroughs of Manhattan and Rich
mond, and which passes on frequent
trips over the spot where the body was
recovered.
Coroner's Physician George Mord de
clares that the wound In the throaj. caused
death, and not the water, and he says,
also, that from Its depth and extent It
could not have been sell-Inflicted.
The Southfield is a large paddle steam
er, a sister ship of the Westfield. -of the
same line, which 31 years ago "blew up as
she was about to start from her landing
in New York with, a crowd of pleasure
seekers, killing nearly 100 of her passen
gers. The police theory, and the one
which, if accepted, will save them from
further labor in the case, is that Mr.
Rummelln leaped from the deck of the
steamer, and, falling before one of the
fast-turning wheels, was killed by a stroke
from their blades.
The first news of the tragedy was given
by a woman who was a peesenger on
the Southfield on her 10:30 A. M. trip
from this borough to Richmond. "When
the boat reached the landing at St.
George, one of the terminals of the Balti
more & Ohio Railroad, she told one of
the -ferry oflicers that she had seen a
well-dressed, elderly man, with a full, dark
beard, leap over the rail from the star
board bow of the vessel. A peddler then
came forward and said that at about the
same time he had been gazing upon the
wake when he saw the head of a man
rise to the foam-covered surface for a
few moments. As the white face turned
up to tho eky he saw the ghastly wound
In tho throat, and saw that the waves
as they swept across the features were
deeply tdnged with "blood as they broke
andell about them. Others had seen the
man upon the boat, but they had not teen
him go overboard, and the ferrymen, busy
at the hour with the rush of shopping
travel to Manhattan, would not believe
that such a thing could have happened
unobserved by others, for on bright days
these boats carry many passengers, even
in the early morning hours, who go to
tako the eight-mile sail across the bay and
"back for the fresh air, and, after failing
to get an explanation from them as to
why, If they had seen such a thing, they
had not raised a cry, the steamboat men
concluded that they were trying to perpe
trate some hideous hoax and bade them
begone.
Fishing is good on Robbln's Reef, a
rocky shoal something more than a mile
off the Staten Island shore, and at fa
vorable stages of the tide the waters about
the white lighthouse, which marks this
dangerous passage, are always c .ted with
little craft of sportsmen and professional
fishermen. Two of these latter, Charles
Lindsay and John McCaffery, who live in
Stapleton, were rowing their boat out of
tho reef at Just about the time that the
peddjer and the woman were pouring the.r
grisly tale Unto the deaf ears of the busy
men ashore, when they almost ran over
Mr. Rummelln's body. The honest fellows
attached a line to it and towed it safe to
shore, wheie it was placed In a wagon
and taken to the local morgue.
Coroner George Trantie, of Richmond;
Dr. Mord, several policemen and a few
privileged cluzens gathered about the .body
while the doors were closed against the
morbid throng without. They found it to
be that of a man about 65 years of age,
6 feet 7 inches in height, and weighing
about 135 pounds. The hair and moustache
were gray, the chin was covered with, a
heavy black beard. It was clad In a
black cashmere sack coat, striped trous
ers, white shirt, white merino undercloth
ing, turn-down collar, black ellk tie, black
socks and black, laced gaiters. Tihen
they searched the pockets and marvelled,
for they found the body still warm, even
after its immersion in water which yet
retains the "Winter chill, and when they
Jrew forth a package of papers they
found them not jet wet through. Among
the effects were two watches, one of gold
and attache! to a ribbon chain, and the
other of silver: a pair of gold-rimmed
spectacles, account book with the inscrip
tion on the cover, "Ladd & Tilton, Port
land, Or."; a billhead of "G. P. Rummelln
& Son," Of the same city, and the busi
ness card of M. E. Phillips, representing
E. W. Bedell, a wholesale dealer in millin
ery at 92 Bleecker street, Manhattan.
TWere was a visiting card of J. D. Will
lams, 263 Wjckoff street. Brooklyn. These
addresses were speedily telephoned to the
police stations nearest to them, and from
tl em went 'detectives to bear the news
to the persons named.
Mr. Williams, whose place of business
!s at 324 First street, who was t close
personal friend of the dead man, being a
customer of his firm, was the first to reach
Stapleton. He brought with him Henry
H. Gxlefncr, of 53 East Tenth street. Man
hattan, and Charles Mulle, of 722 Brpad
way, in the same borough, where he is in
the fur business. All of them had bought
goods from Mr. Rummelln, and knew him
well. After the first shock of horror had
passed they declared that beyond perad
venture It was toe who lay before them.
They could throw no light upon his death,
nor could they tell how he happened to be
on the Southfield at that time of day, for
they knew of no business which could
hao taken him across the bay.
Many of the spectators inclined to the
theory that Mr. Rummelln was murdered.
No steamer's wooden paddle would have
made such a clean cut, they saj, though
the sharp blades of a 6crew vessel often
inflict such wounds. There are on the
Eouthfleld two dark passages for teams
along the center of the vessel, and It Is
tho custom of the drivers to leave their
horses and vehicles standing in them and
pans out on the forward decks to enjoy
tho sail across the bay. Here, they say,
would be the place where murder could
bo quickly done and tho body slipped over
the after rail, there to Its till the waves
should give It up.
Details as to the disposition of the bodv
have not yet been made known.
THE SEWS IX PORTLAND.
Mr. BBmaelU's Family Prostrated
With. Grief.
The news of the mysterious affair spread
quickly in Portland, -where Mr. Rummelln
has a host of friends and acquaintances,
nnd much sympathy was expressed for
the family of the deceased.
Particulars: were anxiously Inquired for,
and every one expressed wonder as to
how he came to be so foully dealt with,
as he Is known to fee familiar with New
York City, having made numerous busi
ness trips there safely in past years. The
only word received by the family was a
telegram which came to Frank Rumrne
Jln, a son of the deceased, from J. D.
Williams, Brooklyn. N. Y.. saying Mr.
Rummelln had died. The dispatch was
evidently worded in this manner for the
purpose of breaking the news gently and
preparing for what was to follow. The
sender was doubtless unaware thai the
Associated Press had already conveyed
intelligence of the awful deed. Mr. Rum
melln Immediately wired A. Frasier, New
York agent for a London house through
JONATHAN P. DOLLIVER, OF IOWA
' ' i
ONE OV THE LEAD IX G CANDIDATES FOR THE "VICE-PRESIDENTIAL
NOMINATION.
which Rummelln & "Sons did business,
asking for additional information. -
Mr. Rummelln left Portland Sunday last,
by fast train, and arrived in New York
Thursday, his 'arrival being reported in
the hotel list of that date. '
He is supposed to have carried not
more than 5300 to 5500 on his person, be
cause business with the Eastern con
cerns was done by means of drafts, ana
it was not necessary for him to carry a
large sum of cash with him. He could
also draw money readily If he required
It for personal or other use, being- well
known in certain business circles in New
York. The financial condition of the firm
has always been of the best.
George P. Rummelln was born In Ger
many 66 years ego, and came to tho
United States when 19 Tears of age. Ha
arrived in this city In 1870, and soon after
ward opened a furrier's establishment
with Charles Gutmann, under the Arm
name of Rummelln & Gutmann. This
was continued until 1SS9. when Mr. Rum
melln became the sole owner of the con
cern, and then associated himself In
business with his sons, Frank and Philip,
as G. P. Rummelln Si Sons.
A wife, Johanna Ruronielin, three sons
Philip, Frank and George and thTeo
daughters Ella, Pauline and Mrs. Frank
Long who survive, are prostrated with
grief.
George P. Rummelln was a man of un
questionable Integrity, a successful busi
ness man, possessed of considerable prop
erty, and was one of Portland's very best
citizens. Many friends will mourn his
loss to the community. The remains will
be returned here for burial.
ITALIAN PARLIAMENT.
Opened la the Presence- of Kins
Haabert
ROME, June 16. In the Senate today the
21st Legislature was opened in the pres
ence of King Humbert, Queen Marguerite,
the Duke of Aosta, the Duke of Genoa,
the Count of Turin and many Senators
and Deputies.
King Humbert was warmly applauded
during the reading of the speech from the
throne. He explained the reasons for the
appeal being made to the electors, and
said he had confidence that the wisdom
and patriotism of the new- Parliament
would furnish him with the necessary
means of fulfilling his important duties.
The excellent relations between all the
powers, he added, assured the country
that the National Interests would be guar
anteed at all times. Tho new Parliament,
King Humbert further asserted. Intended
to devote its attention to bettering the
condition of the working classes, to the
protection of manufacturers, agricultur
ists and emigrants, to the reduotlon of the
tributary taxes within the limits agreed
on by the budget, to education and to le
gal and administrative reforms.
Upon reassembling, the chamber elected
the Ministerialist, Gallo, president by a
vote of 242 to 214.
Mexico Quarantines San Francisco.
CITY OF MEXICO. June 16. The Mexi
can Government, following the example
set by Texas, has quarantined against
San Francisco, and until notice to the
contrary is given, ell persons who have
been in San. Francisco within a period
of 15 days will not be allowed to pass the
border until they have remained In quar
antine for a sufficient length of time to
make up the 15 days. The Mexican quar
antine relates to passengers only. The
border authorities have the matter in
hand.
London Broker Fall.
LONDON. June 16. On the Stock Ex
change today the failure was announced
of Stephen Blood, a brother of Lady -Co
lln CampbelL It Is understood he bad a
large "bear commission open in "West
Australians. '
NEW YORK'S CLAIMS
Wants the Vice-President, but
Cannot Decide on a Man.
TEMPORARY OFFICERS SELECTED
The National Committee Settled All
the Contests Except That
of Delaware.
PHILADELPHIA, June 16. Tho feature
of the situation which confronts the Re
publican hosts at the close of the week
preceding the assembling of the National
Convention is the absolutely unanimous
disposition to carry out fully the wishes
of the President In everything relating to
the coming convention. As the cians from
every quarter of the country gather, the
overwhelming sentiment Is that, having
1 served ono good term, McKinley deserves
another, and that good faith and good
politics demand that the wishes of tho
candidate, as nearly as can be ascertained,
shall be respected In the matter or the
Vice-Presidency, as well as of the plat
form upon which he Is to go to tho
country.
The National Committee completed its
labors ra connection with the contests
today by leaving the Delaware factions
suspended In mld-alr.
The Vice-Presidency is the uppermost
topic in the minds of the leaders, as well
as tho rank and file. It is the only bone
of contention, and that contention would
cease very quickly if anybody were au
thorized to say exactly what the Presi
dent wants. IX there is any plenipoten
tiary of the President here he has not
presented his credentials. The men who
are popularly supposed to be McKlnley's
spokesmen are the most careful to dis
claim any power of attorney, and their
reticence in proclaiming a candidate leads
the rank and7 file to -believe that the
President has declared "hands off." The
result Is that anybody and everybody who
has a candidate feels at liberty to boom
him to his heart's content, for the time
being at least. Either Bliss or Allison
would be a first choice of the majority
of the leaders, but both of these men
have turned deaf ears to the supplication
of the managers. Secretary Long, of Mas
sachusetts, they are holding in reserve
In case another not so acceptable as ho
should become too formidable.
The most difficult problem arises in con
nection with the New York delegation.
Headed by the "big four," Piatt. Roose
velt. Depew and Odell, the Empire State's
elite delegation came to town and set the
gossips mad with speculation. To New
York, the logicians argued, the nomina
tion naturally should go to secure a well
balanced ticket geographically.
Lieutenant-Governor Timothy "Woodruff,
already on the ground with headquarters
opened and buttons engraved, has never
been considered seriously, but the pos
sibility that the New York delegation
might get together on Odell. General
Greene or Bliss, If he could be induced to
change his mind at the eleventh hour,
makes the political prophets "pause. Gov
ernor Roosevelt still firmly adheres to his
determination not to be a candidate, not
withstanding his wonderful hold upon the
Imagination of all. Until New York Anally
acts at the meeting of the delegation Mon
day, unless the situation should crystal
lize meanwhile, prophecies are .valueless.
In the Interim, tho "West will go on
shouting Itself hoarse. She has Irving
M. Scott, of California, the builder of the
Oregon: Bartlett Tripp, of South Dakota;
Fairbanks of Indiana, and others, m ad
dition to the eloquent Dolllver. None ex
cept the latter has arrived. Tomorrow,
with marching clubs and brass bands,
they will invade the monotony of Phila
delphia's Quaker Sabbath, and make the
welkin ring with their vociferous actions
in true "Western style. And tomorrow for
tho first timo Philadelphia will tako on
tho appearance of. a convention city.
Tonight half a dozen banquets were held
to distinguished visitors, but the most im
portant gathering was aC the Union
League Club, where Chairman Hanna and
Secretary Root dined. Secretary Root
and Postmaster-General Smith, fresh from
"Washington, arrived late this afternoon.
The Postmaster-General, It Is understood,
was the bearer of the platform that meets
the President's approval.
The Committee Meeting:.
The National Committee was In ses
sion fr6m 11 A. M. until almost 7 P. M.
today. A variety of subjects were dis
posed of, and when tho committee ad
journed all the contests over seats In the
convention, except those In the State of
Alabama, had been put behind it.
The Alabama case has been revived
upon "agreement between the two fact
tlons to divide the delegation by the
elimination of contesting delegates, and
this work will be completed at a meeting
of the committee to be. held next Monday.
In three districts of the state a settle
ment was reached today; -but there are
still several other districts and the stale
at large to receive attention. Tho fourth
end seventh districts were 'reconsidered
on the assurance that the factions bad
themselves reached a compromlss- agree
ment, the understanding being that the
delegates representing the Veugh&n fac
tion should be seated in one case and those
of the "Wlckersham faction in the other.
Accordingly, the committee decided to
place on tho temporary roll Aldrlch and
Smith, Vaugbanltes. from the fourth dis
trict, and Lathrop and Ezeil, "Wlckersham
men, from the seventh district. The con
test in the second district was withdrawn,
and the Vaughan men were seated.
Other contests disposed of during the
day were those covering- the State of
Texas and several of tho districts .of that
state, as well as tho Norfolk, Va., dis
trict, and Committeeman Jim Hill's o&
district In Mississippi. In Hill's district
ono delegate of each faction was seated,.
while In the Virginia aistncT.jex---.on-gresjman
Bowden carried oft the honors
In opposition to John S. "Wise. i
In- th!s district, ex-Congressman Bowden
and "Wlllkim S. Holland claimed to be the
regular delegates, whllo this honor was
contested 'by "W. H. Llbbey and A. H.
Martin. John S. Wise appeared, for Lib
bey and Martin. Ho contended forth
regularity of the convention which se
lected his clients, and attacked In bitter
terms the personnel of tho opposition,
growing qulto personal In his reference
to Mr. Bowden, whom he charged with a
desire only to control the patronage with
out reference to party success, saying that
Bowden had himself voted the Democratic,
ticket.
Mr. Bowden contradicted in vigorous
language Mr. "Wise's claim to regularity,'
saying that, he and Mr. Holland had been
elected almost two months before they
heard of tho pretensions, of Llbbey and
Martin. Ho claimed that the convention at
which they were nominated wa3 called by
the regularly appointed district chairman,
and, that It was fully indorsed by the
state committee.
During the hearing, Senator Quay came
into the committee-room and received
quite an ovation.
Congressman Hawley won the fight for
delegate-at-large from Texas in opposition
to E. H. R. Green. Some of the district
delegations were given to the Green fac
tion, but the Hawley people claim that,
taking the delegation as It stands, they
have a majority. This probably means
that Mr. Hawley will be chosen to repre
sent Texas on the National committee.
The Delaware controversy between the
Addlcks and Dupont factions was tempo
rarily shelved by the committee. Mr.
Dupont's followers were found to be un
willing to make such concessions as tho
committee could accept, and the commit
tee decided that there was no course open
to it which would insure the state to
the Republican party at the Fall election
except to exclude both factions from par
ticipation In the early proceedings of the
convention. This disposition will have the
effect of throwing the adjustment of the
case upon tho National committee- of cre
dentials. Just before adjournment today the com
mittee disposed of Mr. Payne's resolution
regarding the participation of Federal office-holders
in the selection of delegates
by referring them all tiChalrman Hanna.
It is believed by Mr. .Payne that the
effect of this disposition of the resolutioa
will be to hold It over the heads of of
fenders n the, future, and that It would
thus have a beneficial Influence, even
coTmM-8
Mr. Tlepke, oT Rhode Island, offered a
resolution during the afternoon for a re
duction of representation in Congress of
states where the free exercise of the
elective franchise is prevented. It was
debated at some length, but -was tabled
because of .the generally expressed opinion
that the subject was one for the action
of the National convention, and not -for
the committee. It lt?nderstood that Mr.
Tlepke will ask the committee on reso
lutions to consider the wisdom of Incor
porating the resolution in the convention
p'atform.
A resohitldn looking to the reduction of
tho representation at non-Republican
states In Republican conventions was also
presented, but It was withdrawn after
the adverse action taken on the Tlepke
proposition.
Officers of the Convention.
Tho National committee today made
official announcement of the selection of
temporary officers of the National' con
vention as follows:
Temporary chairman of the convention
Senator E. O. "Wolcott, -Colorado.
Temporary secretary Charles IV. John
son, Minnesota.
Assistant secretaries John R. Malloy,
Ohio; John R. Beam, New Jersey; Lucien
Gray, Illinois; Gradner P. Stlckriey, Wis
consin; James F. Burke, Pennsylvania;
"W. B. Bouchman, Tennessee; "Warren Big
ler, Indiana; John Q. Royce, Kansas; F.
S. Gayloru, Connecticut.
Reading clerk Dennis E. Alaward,
Michigan; E. L. Lampson, Ohio (reading
clerk House of Representatives).
Clerk at President's desk Asber C.
Kinds, Minnesota.
Official reporter "W. R. Blumeburg.
District of Columbia, official reporter of
the Senate.
Tally clerks-nj. Herbert Potts, New Jer
sey; George R. Butlln. Nebraska.
Ex-Congressman Frank was designated
tonot,f thes ofllclals of their selection,
.t. S. rush of dele&ates and visitors to
the National Republican Convention be
gan in earnest today. Every train
brought Its quota of vltitors and dele
gates, aijfl those who hud not engaged
rooms In advance were turned away from
most of tho big hotels. Most of the big
men are In tonight.
The first rolld delegation to arrive to
day came from California. There were
over 40 persons In the party, headed by
U. S. Grant. Jr., delegate-at-large. They
were accompanied by a band of music,
and all of them had on Scott badges!
They assured Inquirers that their state
was In the fight for the Vice-Presidency
to stay. They went to the Colonade Ho
tel and prepared to dispense hospitality
in California style.
The Callfornlans were the first of the
state delegations to hold a caucus to se
lect officers. Judge "W. G. -Van Fleet was
elected National committeeman, and
other selections were made as' follows:
Committee on resolutions Dr. C. A. Row
ell; committee on credentials, G. W. Reed;
committee on rules and order of business,
R. S. Robblns; committee on notification
of candidates. William Garland. The
delegation took no formal action as to
whom it will support for the Vice-Presidential
nomination, but will look over the
ground and hold another caucus Monday
afternoon for the purpose of deciding on a
candidate.
Tho chief Interest in today's arrivals
was centered in New York's "Big Four."
Shortly after 3 o'clock, while the corri
dors of the Hotel Walton were crowded,
some ono shouted, "Here comes Teddy."
Instantly there was a shout, and then
most of the crowd took to cheering New
York's Governor. After holding an im
promptu reception in tha hotel office. Gov
ernor Roosevelt went directly to his
rooms, and then a steady stream, of cards
was started to the apartments. Sena
tor Piatt and Senator Deptjw, and State
Chairman Odell followed close on the
heels of Governor Rocsevelt.. Mr. Piatt
was immediately surrounded by politi
cians of all degrees, and had difficulty in,
reaching- his rooms.
Other prominent arrivals Included Sena-'
(Concluded on Second Pase.)"
FROM BAD TO WORSE
Situation In China Becomes
Alarming.
RUMORED MASSACRES IN PEKIN
Frelg-a Relief Colnms'la Danger sx
. Annlallatlon-mmamlcation
With Capital Severed.
LONDON, June 16. A special dispatch
from Hong- Kong1, says all -the Pekln le
gations have been destroyed, and the
German Minister, Baron von Ketteler,
killed. There is no confirmation "of tho
report, cor the later report of fighting
between the British end the Chinese.
Dispatches from Shanghai, dated last
evening," state that Admiral Seymour's
force is in & tight place between Lang;
Fang and Yan Sun, with enormous
masses of soldiers in- front, whllo the
SENATOR EDWARD O. WOLCOTT
"WHO "WILL BE TE3IFORARY CHAIRMAN OF TEE REPUBLICAN NATION
AL CONVENTION.
Boxers are cutting the ' railway In the
rear. The KJang Nan arsenal, outside of.
gfyanghai, i3 sending vast quantities of
Ammunition north. All is quiet at Shang
hai, but trade has been disrupted. . It Is
stated that 7000 Americans are coming
from Manila, and that large forces of
Japanese are also en route. The wires
souts of Tien TeIu have been cut, and the
city telegraphically Isolated.
According to a special from Vienna, it
is stated In diplomatic circles there that
the question of Intervention is under dis
cussion by the powers. Jt is proposed that
Japan shall act as mandatory of the pow
ers and re-establish order In Pekln and
elsewhere. This, It is said, emanates
from England, and it Is supported by
Germany and Austria, but it is doubtful
If Russia and France wfll agree to tho
proposition.
St. Petersburg reports that communica
tion between Kalgan and Pekln has been
interrupted. There Is 'great excitement
at Kalgan, where a missionary has been
attacked.
Dispatches from Tien Tsln receied In
Berlin eay that the, Boxers entered Pe
kln the evening of June 13, destroyed sev
eral missions and attacked the legations,
but were repulsed with the aid of Max
ims. No Europeans were reported killed.
The attitude of the Chinese troops
toward the Boxers was uncertain.
A special dispatch from Shanghai,
dated today, says it is reported that, after
the audience of Sir Claude MacDonald,
British Minister to China, with the Tsung
11 Yamun, five foreign Ministers demand
ed a safe conduct for their servants and
their people, notifying the Taung 11 Ya
mun that they could no longer maintain
relations with the government. The an
swer was, "Certainly not." "What other
answer could be expected In a civilized
country? This was followed by an in
crease of the forces around the gates,
and the next night widespread incendiar
ism. This- Incendiarism prevailed among
the foreign residences. The massacre of
native Christians and other friends of
foreigners was -also common. The build
ing of the 'American mission, the customs,
the mess quarters and a number of other
.Structures were destroyed. The guard
slope saved the foreigners, who. It Is
stated, are huddled in legations, very
short of food and deserted by native
servants.
.Latest Chinese reports state that the
Empress has ordered Liu Kung- Ylh,
Chang Chi Tung and LI Hung Chang to
hasten. to Pekln. They will probably
find excuses for declining. The latest
edict against the rioters especially avoids
mentioning the Boxera.
Berlin and St. Petersburg dispatches
assert that Russia and Germany have
combined for common action in China
It Is reported that a high Russian per
sonage Is going to Berlin to arrange the
details.
It Is generally recognized now that tho
position of foreigners at Pekln Is peril
ous, as there Is but a short step from
the massacre of servants of foreigners to
the killing of the foreigners themselves.
"If a massacre Is averted," says the
Spectator, "and the palace la reduced to
obedience, the great difficulty will be to
decide on the next step. The powers
can neither encamp permanently In Pekln
nor leave until It is established that the
government is prepared to respect inter
national obligations. If anarchy breaks
out in China, the object of the powers Is
defeated. Failure or success of the pres
ent effort may evolve a series of wars
of which no man can see the end."
Commenting on the part the United
States will take In the present crisis in
China, the Statist today saysr
"Unless the British Ministers muddle
the matter. Great Britain can reckon on
aslstance from the United States and
Japan upon the maintaining, even by
force, of the pojjcy of the open door in
China."
The Cabinet meeting held 'today, under
the presidency "of Lord Salisbury, was
concerned almost entire'ly with the situ
ation In China, v
Not Believed in Paria.
PARIS, June 16. The Foreign Office
4lev3 skeptically tho dispatch from Hong
Kong "announcing the destruction of the
foreign legations at Pekln and points out
that telegraphic communication with Pe
kln. Is cut, and the news should bo taken
with prudence.
AS VIEWED IN FRANCE.
Diplomatic "World Stirred Over the
Nctts From China.
.PARIS, June 16, News of fighting be
tween the European troops and the Box
ers has enhanced the interest in tha sit
uation In China, which Is forming tho
leading feature of all the newspapers.
The diplomatic world Is naturally very
much stirred, especially owing to the
contradictory reports regarding the atti
tude taken by the Empress Dowager.
Evep. tho Japanese and Chinese Lega
tions appear doubtful as to the exact
condition of affairs.
At the Chinese Legation much uneasi
ness prevails. The explanation given by
the officers there is that the Boxers are
simply outlaws who receive no counte
nance from the government, and are Ill
treating their own countrymen, as well
as foreigners. Members of the legation,
whose constant intercourse with Euro
peans has brought them more Into line
with "Western ideas, admit guardedly that
tho general situation in China is hardly
satisfactory, and that there is room there
for beneficial reforms, but they are fax
from pleased at tho recent developments,
which have given Russia an opportunity
to play what will probably eventually be
come a predominating part In the much
feared Intervention.
The Japanese Minstor, Kato Takaski,
on being interviewed said he had not yet
received Instructions from his govern
ment regarding the action to be taken
here, but he had every reason to believe
Japan would aot in concert with tho oth
er powers, which course. In his opinion.
Is the surest method of bringing about
prompt and durable tranquillity. Isolated
action on the part of one or another of
the powers, he says, will only produce
chaos, and will be likely to lead to trou
ble between the powers themselves.
A man who Is entitled to speak with
authority In Chinese matters, Gabrlelle
La Marler, for eight years French Min
ister at Pekln, expresses a pessimistic
feeling regarding the extension of tha
anti-foreign movement. "For Euro
peans," says M". La Marler, "the present
crisis is the gravest that has yet oc
curred." FIRES IN TIEN TSIN.
Churches and Residences of Foreijrn
ers Burned.
SHANGHAI, Juno IS. Last night's ad
vices from Tien Tsln report that large
Incendiary fires occurred in the eastern
part of the city, where three English and
American churches were burned, besides
the residences of many foreigners. Tele
graphlo communication is interrupted, tho
poles having been burned, and there Is no
hope for Immediate repairs being made.
According to information received here
from foreign sources, 10,000 Imperial
troops, who were between Pekm and tha
International force advancing on that city,
have disbanded and joined the Boxers. It
Is asserted the Government of China does
not consider itself responsible for any en
counter which may take place.
Tha native banks at Chin Klang closed
business, fearing trouble from the Boxers.
Excitement prevails in Yangtsa Valley,
but all is quiet at Chee Foo In spite of
the alarming rumors to "the contrary.
Tho train conveying the relieving party
with food and ammunition was obliged to
return, being unable to reach Lang Fang,
where detachments of foreign troops, dis
patched Sunday last, ore now endeavoring
to repair the line.
Protection of Tien Tsin Foreigners.
BERLIN, June 16. A semiofficial dis
patch from Tien Tsln, dated June 15 (Fri
day) reads as follows:
"The foreign settlements here are ade
quately protected. Bands of Boxers have
appeared In the native town. They have
burned three chapel3 and are spreading
terror among the inhabitants. Two rail
road bridges between Tien Tsln and Lang
Fang have been rendered impassable by
the Boxers, and the construction train
dispatched to repair the destruction of
the railroad near Lang Fang has been
interrupted in its advance to the relief
of the troops. In the meanwhile the Ger
man detachment has continued to march
toward Pekln by road."
The Tsung 11 Yamun, it Is added, has
sanctioned the entry of foreign troops into
Pekln to the number of 1200 men.
Japan Sending: More Troops.
"WASHINGTON. June 16. The following
cablegram was received today at the Jap
anese legation from the Japanese Govern
ment at Toklo:
"The situation In North China Is dally
growing- more serious. The Imperial Gov
ernment has consequently, In addition to
the fleet already at Taku, decided to dis
patch a military force of about 1000 men to
Tien Tsln in order to strengthen the hands
of tho Japanese Minister In China. The
latter is In full concert with the other
representatives of the principal powers."
British Marines nnd Chinese Fought.
LONDON, June 16. British marines and
sailors fought the troops of General Jung
Fuh Slang several hours. Many Chinese
were killed.
AN EXTRA SESSION
Congress May Be Convened
Owing to Chinese War.
ADMINISTRATION IS APPREHENSIVE
The "Putted States' Rights Cannot Bti
Ignored, Eltner "by Chin r-
fcy the Powers j
WASHINGTON, June It The Admmte,
tratlon and department officials general-i
ly, while not saying much In public, are
deeply aroused tonight over tha Chifless
situation, not so much because of the
present horrible conditions, but over tha
possible outcome. Much apprehension is
felt also that the relief expedition may
bo overpowered and annihilated, but thq
greatest fear Is of international compli
cations that may arise ir the great pow
ers do not act unitedly In suppressing tha
uprising. Should Russia go in and take
the lead or act independently, there ia
danger that they will contend thereof ter
for supremacy in China. Or, If the Eu
ropean powers act in concert without
giving' the Americana a fair show, it la
feared they may later combine to sup
press American advancement in China.
This fear is, of course, premature, but
some people hero think If the worst ru
mors are confirmed, it may be necessary,
to call an extra session of Congress defi
nitely to outline a course to be pursued.
Chtneso Minister Wu discredits tho re
ports of massacres from Pekln. Ha says:
"The fact that the story comes from
EJong Kong ia an evidenoo that it may
be untrue. Eighty per cent of tho news
from Shanghai and Hong Kony. so far.
has proved groundless, and I have strong
hope that this belongs to the same class.
The news is supposed to come by tha
way of Tien Tsln, and Tien Tsln 13 cut
off from Pekln. As the railway Is de
stroyed, I do not see how the news could
have gotten through."
Oresonians at the "Wnlte House.
Commissioner Hermann today called on
President McKinley and introduced "Wal
lace McOomont, of Portland, and Rufus
S. Moore and H. E. Ankeny, all Oregon
delegates to the Philadelphia convention.
They were cordially received by the Pres
ident, who expressed his gratification at
the handsoma showing made by the Ore
gon Republicans. Questions asked the
visitors developed that, while they had
not finally made up their minds on tha
question, they were inclined to support
Bartlett Tripp for tho Vice-Presidential
nomination.
FIGHT TO A FINISH.
St. Leals Transit Company Rejects
Strikers' Offer.
ST. LOUIS, Juno 16. "War to the knlfa
was the slogan adopted by the striking
employes of tho St. Louis Transit Com
pany today. This extreme action was
decided upon this afternoon when tha
proposition adopted by tha striking street
car men yesterday looking to a settle
ment of the strike was turned down by
tho Transit Company.
President Gompers, of the Federation of
Labor, called on President "Whittaker, of
tho Transit Company, today In tha inter
ests of the strikers and remained in con
ference with him and the Board of Direct
ors for some time. The conference broke
up at 1:15 P. M., and; Gompers announced
that all negotiations between the strikers
and tha Transit Company were again off.
Whittaker refusing1 to submit the question
of reinstatement of the striking employes
to arbitration. Whittaker said tha best
he could do if the strike were declared Off
would be to place the strikers at the bot
tom of the list. an3 give them work as
they are needed.
President Mahonv of the Internationa
Association of Amalgamated Street Rail
way Employes, made this statement thl3
afternoon:
"This is now a fight to a finish. Pres
ident Gompers told me this afternoon that
he proposed to turn tho entire power of
tha American Federation of Labor, with
its membership of 2,000,000, against tha
Transit Company and fight tha issue out
if it takes five years to do it. The boy
cott to be declared will apply not only to
tho Transit Company, but to every per
son, every business man, every corpora
tion or Individual favoring them in ans
way."
NAVAL STATION.
One of the Second Class Will Hq
Established at Saa'Dleyo.
WASHINGTON, "june 16-The mvjj
Department has decided to establish a
coaling station of the second class at San
Diego, Cal. This decision has been
reached upon a report from Captain Field,
of tho Ranger, announcing the results of
a survey of tho harbor at that place re
cently made by him. The report states
that the minimum depth of water oves
tha bar at low tide is 21 feet, and the
tidal rise amounts to about five feet, so
there is sufficient water for naval vessels
of the smaller type.
Colwell Disobeyed Orders.
NEW YORK. June 16. A special to tha
Herald from Washington says:
Lieutenant-Commander J. C Colwell,
just relieved as American Naval Attache
in London, Is under Investigation for fail
ure to oboy orders of the Navy Depart
ment. A court of mquiry, of which Cap
tain F. A. Cook and Medical Director
White are members, is sitting for this pur
pose at Washington navy-yard.
Lieutenant-Commander Colwell received
orders to report on a certain date In the
United States, preliminary to going to the
Philippines. Ho failed to reports and sent
an explanation that his condition was
such, in consequence of an operation, that
it was Inadvisable for him to travel. It
is alleged that he subsequently placed
himself under medical treatment In order
to Justify his explanation. Tho court la
expected to submit its findings in a few
days.
SENATOR T, C. PLATT SICK
Fractured a Rib Friday, and Nov;
Jlas b. Fever.
NEW YORK, June 16. A special to the
Press from Philadelphia says:
Senator Thomas C. Piatt is In a serious
condition, and his friends are worried
about him. The Senator sustained a frac
ture of one of his ribs in h's New York
office yesterday by falling against a chair.
Senator Piatt made the journey from
New York this afternoon, accompanied by
his phjslclan. It ia said that his exertion
to prevent his real condition from being
known has weakened him perceptibly, and
thrown him. into a lever.
Francis of Orleans Dead.
PARIS, Juno 17. Francis of Orleans,
Prince of Jolnvllle, son of the late Louis
Philippe, King of the French, is dead oi
pneumonia, aged S2 years.
I
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