File No. 893.00/539.

The American Chargé d’Affaires to the Secretary of State.

[Telegrams.—Extracts.—Paraphrases.]

Opposition to railway construction by foreigners is causing serious disorders in Szechwan. The agitation is thus far confined to mass [Page 48] meetings, closing of schools and shops, and refusal to pay taxes. The Szechwan Viceroy has been ordered to put down the disturbances by force. The disorders are spreading to Hunan.

Williams.