p. 9 | In the Orient

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, Cal. · Jan 6, 1904

In the Orient.

The powers are said to be still endeavoring to prevent war between Russia and Japan, and Russia also seems anxious to preserve the peace if she can do it without yielding to the demands of the Japanese. Some of the week's reports have stated that Russia might yield rather than precipitate war, but there seems little evidence to show that this is the case. Despatches from Japan state that there is much activity in both naval and army circles. Ships are being made ready for war, and railroads are being prepared to transport large numbers of troops on short notice. One correspondent states that Japan is in a much better condition for war than is generally known. Japan has asked Russia to reconsider her answer to Japan's demands, and it is felt that on the attitude which Russia takes toward this request hangs the question of peace or war. While Japan is buying more war-ships, the Russians are settling up Manchuria. In Peking a gloomy view of the situation is taken, and the Chinese are doing what they can to prepare troops for service. Japan is preparing to send a body of troops to Korea, but it is stated that this is with the consent of Russia, and for the purpose of quelling disorder. Many are predicting war between Japan and Russia in the spring. Japan has established a press censorship, which is looked upon by many as an ominous sign.