June 1st. -- Wăn-ming (文明) Censor for Hoo-pih and Hoo-nan, kneels and petitions with regard to the case of the Eunuchs who acted riotously and contrary to law (see Gazette, May 24th.) The petitioner humbly considers that Eunuchs are invariably evil disposed persons, and that they have always shown themselves to be so, from the Han and Tang Dynasties, down to the present Dynasty. Our Emperor being fully aware that all previous Eunuchs have been wicked, restrains the present ones rigorously, and if they transgress they are immediately punished.  In consequence of their late disorderly conduct, His Majesty sent forth his anger like thunder, and exhibited His majestic severity towards them. The law enjoins that when the Imperial cortege is either setting out or returning, the military and other attendants shall march on the East and West side of the road ; and that if either Civil or Military officials proceed in the Emperor's track, they shall receive 80 blows. Also, if on days of sacrifice, or on days when the Emperor proceeds to a temple, any attendants shout out, or rudely crowd around, they shall receive 100 blows, and their masters shall receive 50 blows with the lesser bamboo. Also, the names of those officers who, having no part in any ceremony assigned them, nevertheless bring a large number of attendants with them, shall be taken down, and punishment shall be inflicted upon them. The laws thus provide that those holding official position shall be punished, if they transgress ; and who are Eunuchs that they dare to transgress the laws ? The petitioner prays that all the palace officials may be enjoined to rule these Eunuchs with rigour.  -- His Majesty replies that the petition is recorded. 

June 2nd. -- Ying-yuen (英元) petitions. The plaintiff Wan She-mei has a nephew who has hitherto lived apart from him. This nephew seized the opportunity of an insurrection, during the reign of the Emperor Hëen-fung, to plunder people ; and the plaintiff's father having given information to the prefect, feelings of hatred arose between the two. The nephew therefore attacked the plaintiff, and wounding him in both feet, seized and carried off some of his property. The plaintiff then got out of the way, and went to some other place to live, being afraid of his nephew.  In the fourth month of the ninth year of the present reign, the plaintiff returned, and his nephew, leading on some scores of villains, attacked his house and carried off clothes and other property. He then seized the daughter of a widowed relative of the plaintiff, with the intention of selling her. The plaintiff's mother attempted to rescue the girl, and was beaten so severely by the ruffians that she committed suicide. All this coming to the ears of the prefect, that official sent persons to arrest the nephew, who, however, escaped by hiding himself in the neighbouring district, and bribing the police runners there. He afterwards came back and burnt down the house of the plaintiff, having first plundered it. The Criminal Judge, when informed, referred the case back to the Prefect. The petitioner prays the Emperor to issue orders for the proper investigation of the matter. -- His Majesty replies that the petition is recorded. 

(2) The same official petitions with regard to the following case. An inhabitant of the district of Ling-shwuy in the province of Sze-chuen, opened a salt shop ; but, because he sold the salt at too high a price, the people of the district informed against him. The District Magistrate therefore consulted with the son of the person who lodged the complaint at his Yamun, which led the salt dealer to suppose that the son was the leader of the party who were opposed to him. Thus enmity arose, and the salt dealer persuaded the police runner to seize the son and starve him in prison.  The dealer, after this, bribed the officer appointed to try him, and offered 30 Taels as compensation to the father for the murder of his son. The father refusing this sum, was beaten by the officiating judge, and hence the present appeal. 

June 3rd. -- Chang-shun (長順) reports that Tă-urh-tse cuts down the soldiers' rations, and having opened a shop, sells goods to them at high prices instead of giving them their money allowance. He also takes for himself the rations of those soldiers who are absent from the Cantonment on duty.  All this he does from a covetous desire to cheat ; and the Emperor therefore issues orders that he be degraded, and further commands the petitioner to investigate the case, to find out how much of the money received for the soldiers has been appropriated by the culprit to his own use, and to order him to make good whatever sum he has taken. 

(2) Yung-yuh (榮毓) petitions in reference to the official who has charge of the trees at the Imperial Mausolea. This officer wishing to make some recompense to the Emperor has presented 1,300 Cedar trees for the Tung-ling Cemetery, and asks leave to plant them. -- His Majesty gives permission. 

June 4th. -- An Imperial Edict is issued.  Tih-ying states that there are always rebels at Keih-lin and Hih-lung-këang, and prays the Emperor to take measures to suppress them. The garrisons of both places have always been most efficient, but at present, on account of their rations being reduced, the Emperor does not exhibit the full force of his gracious consideration for them.  His Majesty therefore orders that henceforth full rations are to be served out to these garrisons, and then they will doubtless discharge their duties assiduously as before. The generals of the Cantonments are ordered to see that each house belonging to the agriculturalist class has a board hung out, with the names of the inmates, in order that no rebels may be secreted by them. It is said that this year more than 1,000 families have removed to Keih-lin and Hih-lung-këang, as is supposed, because they found it difficult to get a livelihood at Fung-tëen, . their former place of residence. The Generals are commanded to put a stop to all causeless immigration. 

(2) Yang Chang-seun (楊昌濬) the Deputy Governor of Chĕ-keang, petitions that the grain tribute from that province for Peking may be conveyed to Tien-tsin by steamers from Shang-hae, as the Shan- tung and Honan route is disturbed by rebels, and the Ho-keen district is inundated. His Majesty replies that the Board of Revenue is informed of the matter. 

(3) Lëen Ching (連成) presents a supplementary petition for the reinforcement of the garrison at Chapoo, as that place is near the sea, and is the very wind-pipe of Keangsoo and Chĕkeang provinces in importance. -- His Majesty orders the Board of War to consult and report. 

6th.-- The Public Examiner for Kwei- chow petitions to the effect that, having been admitted to an audience, he started from Peking, and arrived at his post on the 27th day of the second month of the present year. Having received his seal of office from the proper authority, he worshipped towards Peking in the usual manner, and entered upon his duties. The petitioner states that the crops appeared to be flourishing in those districts through which he passed ; but that in Kwei-yang- foo, although the country around is now free from disturbance, yet, because the number of inhabitants is diminished, the amount of land cultivated is small. His Majesty acknowledges the receipt of the petition. 

(2) Three officers of the 5th Grade of the Upper Division of the Army, petition.  The petitioners have carefully examined into the case of the degraded officer Too- fŭh, who, in consequence of his bearing the same name as another person who was guilty of crime, was deprived of his rank through mistake ; and the Emperor promised to restore him to office on the first vacancy. When a vacancy afterwards occurred, this officer, without waiting for orders from the Board of War, petitioned the Emperor on the subject. What he wrote also was inaccurate ; for in his first petition he prayed to be appointed to the 4th Division, and in his second he asked to be restored to his former rank in the 5th Division. On examining the first petition carefully, the petitioners perceived that the characters stating the rank of the aforesaid officer have been inserted in the place of two others which have been erased, and they therefore pray the Emperor to order an enquiry as to whether the officer himself or the person who copied his petition made the erasure. His Majesty defers his reply. 

June 7th.-- Le Hung-chang (李鴻章), Member of the Imperial Council, Governor General of the Province of Chihli and a Viscount of the first rank, with Yen-heu the Inspector of the Imperial Granaries, petition the Emperor to the effect that the tribute grain has now been inspected, and therefore pray the Emperor to reward those officers who have shown diligence in the discharge of this duty.  -- His Majesty defers reply. 

(2) Le Hung-chang presents a supplementary petition, praying that Yuh-chang may be confirmed in his rank as Taoutai, for his diligence in inspecting the grain ; and that Choo Ke-ngang may receive some reward, according to the Emperor's pleasure, for providing steamers to convey the grain.-- His Majesty defers reply. 

(3) Këaou Sung-nëen (喬松年) the Governor of the eastern bank of the Yellow River, reports that in the Province of Shantung, on the banks of the Yellow and Yun Rivers, the vacancies of Assistant and Deputy Assistant Magistrates are just twelve in number, while the expectant candidates for these offices are about one hundred persons, and he therefore prays the Emperor not to send any more candidates. -- His Majesty assents. 

June 8th. -- Le Hung-chang (李鴻章) petitions. Le P'ei-che (李丕智) the Che-heen of Ping-hëang, lately reported to the petitioner that he received information from a grain dealer, that on the night of the 1st of the 2nd month of the present year, thieves broke open the door of his shop, and carried off money and clothes ; and that he (the Che-hëen) had examined into the matter, and found that the door of the shop had no appearance whatever of having been broken into, but that the grain dealer's assistant was slightly wounded.  The petitioner doubting this story, gave orders to the Che-hëen of Nan-ho to go and examine into the matter. This official subsequently informed the petitioner that the doorposts and the door fastening of the shop were broken down, and that the door itself was covered with mud. The alleged thieves left behind them a pole covered with mud, which they had used to break open the door. This was, therefore, the deed of rioters and not of common thieves ; so that the report of the Che- hëen of Ping-hëang is stupid. The petitioner therefore prays the Emperor to deprive that official of his button and to assign a limit of time within which he must arrest the rioters. -- His Majesty consents. 

(2) The same official presents a supplementary petition. Some time ago the petitioners recommended two officers for promotion to the first rank ; but the Board applied to, refused, on the ground that such promotion would be contrary to law in the present case. The petitioner now prays the Emperor to grant them some degree of promotion in consequence of their diligence with regard to the tribute grain.  -- His Majesty consents. 

(3.) Le Han-chang (李瀚章), Go- vernor-General of Hoo-kwang ( i. e. Hoo- pih and Hoo-nan), an officer of the first rank, with the Deputy-Governor of Hoo- pih petition that Lew Ts'eh-sëen, the Criminal Judge and acting Revenue officer of Hoopih, may be allowed to retire from office in consequence of the death of his father, and that another officer be sent to take his place. -- His Majesty defers reply. 

June 9th.-- Too-hing-ah (都興阿) and Tsing-Khae (清凱) petition regarding a quarrel between a literary gentleman and a military officer during which wounds were inflicted, The Emperor commanded the petitioners to investigate this matter, and they now forward their report for His Majesty's inspection. Three different accounts of this transaction were sent in to the petitioners. On the 24th day of the 3rd month of the present year, they received the evidence of a graduate of the third degree (進士), a member of the Board of Punishments, named Khing-keih, to the effect that the commander-in-chief, Chang Tih-lūh, took one of his wives to see a play, and a quarrel arising, he gave the plaintiff a beating.  On the 28th the petitioners received a second account of the matter from Wan- khwei, acting sub-prefect at the Sing-ming office, to the effect that King-shun, who is attached to a small post in charge of the Yellow Banner, gave evidence before him that his informant's servant went to the Temple of the Demon King to see a play, and getting into a quarrel with some soldiers, was beaten by them ; whereupon the informant's cousin Khing-keih went to the Temple to inquire about the affair, and the General of the Cantonment, Lëw Tih-shing, leading on a number of soldiers attacked that official, wounding him in the head and body. According to a third account, received from the Commander-in-chief himself. General Lëw Tih-shing, while going his rounds in the streets, quarrelled with the literary gentleman Khing-keih, and came to blows with him, in consequence of which the General was dismissed the service, and his soldiers who took part in the affray were put into confinement. In consequence of receiving these differing accounts of the quarrel, the petitioners deputed three officials, of whom one was the sub-Prefect already mentioned, to investigate the case thoroughly. These three officials report that, according to Lëw Tih-shing's own account of the matter, his duty is to patrol the western district; and as the feast of Tsing-ming was at hand, a stage was erected, according to ancient custom, outside the Temple of the Demon King, on which to recite prayers, and offer sacrifices to the souls of the slain in battle. The Commander-in-chief Chang Tih-lūh went in person to inspect the Tablets and offerings. The shopkeepers at this time had assembled on the west side of the Temple to witness the play in honour of the Gods. The General, fearing lest riotous persons should be mixed up with the spectators, every now and then led out his soldiers to patrol the place. Seeing a person dressed in ordinary clothes and cap scolding loudly and going into the Temple, he never suspected that this was the literary gentleman Khing-keih ; and as he would not reply when questioned, a quarrel arose, and the General gave him a beating, assisted by one of his soldiers.  Some persons exhorting the combatants, they separated. It was the General therefore who, in his pride, administered the beating himself ; and the Commander-in-chief, who did not go, as alleged, to the play in company with one of his wives, had nothing whatever to do with the affair.  Khing-keih was also proved to have given a false statement of the whole matter.  The petitioners pray the Emperor to order the Board of Punishments of Shing-king (the Metropolis of Manchow Tartary) to examine into the case thoroughly. -- His Majesty defers reply. 

June 10th.--Tsze-kang (志剛) petitions to the effect that he has been ill for a long time, and there is no prospect of his health improving ; besides, in the place where he is stationed, he cannot procure any medicine ; and he therefore prays the Emperor to grant him leave of absence to return home in order to procure medical advice. 

(2) King-lëen (景廉) presents a supplementary petition. Formerly, when General Ho-kwan, stationed at the town of Pa-le-kwăn, showed cleverness in purchasing rations and arms for his soldiers, the petitioner recommended him for promotion; now however, the General's constitution is weakened by age and he is slow in discharging his duties ; and hence, the petitioner prays the Emperor to dismiss him.  His Majesty defers reply. 

(3) Le Han-chang petitions that, in consequence of his intelligence and knowledge of military affairs, Wei Hing-fa may be sent to supply the place of Le Chang- yoh, the Governor of Hoo-pih, during the temporary absence of the latter in Peking. 

June 11th -- Le Hung-chang (李鴻章) petitions. The expectant Tau-tae named Le Hing-juy, Prefect of Ta-ming, some time ago received permission from the Emperor to return home to Keang-ning, in consequence of the illness of his mother.  He has now returned to Chili, bringing his mother with him, and the petitioner prays the Emperor to allow him to resume his duties in that province, as he is talented, and, having his mother with him, will doubtless give his whole mind to the performance of official business. His Majesty refers the case to the Board of Office. 

(2) The same official presents a supplementary petition. According to information received from several persons, there lately lived a filial young lady named Pang Yun-chun, a native of the district of Hwae- ning in Gan-hwuy, the eldest daughter of Pang Tsëö-khe, the Prefect of King-chow.  From her earliest years this young lady delighted in reading poetry, and took pleasure in listening to ancient and modern tales of filial piety, rectitude, purity, and chastity. She accompanied her mother to her father's residence at his official post, and never left her for a moment. In the 6th year of the present reign, the mother became seriously ill, and the daughter secretly cut off a piece of her arm and gave it to her in her medicine, whereupon the mother recovered. During the winter of the 11th year, the mother again became ill, and the daughter gave her soup and medicine, and for more than twenty day 6 and nights never put off her own clothes. She again cut off a piece of her flesh and gave it to her mother to cure her ; but the latter never recovered, and the daughter, fearing to wound her father, eat her meals as usual, and conducted herself as if nothing had happened. On the one hundredth day after the death of her mother, the daughter rose early, washed herself, put aside her head ornaments, put on clean under garments, carefully binding up the wounded places on her arms, and told her father that she was going to take her brothers and sisters to worship before the coffin of her mother, which was deposited in the Kae- fŭh-sze temple. Within the precincts of this temple stands a pagoda more than 280 feet in height, and pretending that she was going to worship Buddha, this young lady told her brothers and sisters to wait for her outside. She then, with her nurse and female attendant, ascended thirteen stairs, and looking first towards the west, where her mother's coffin lay, and then towards the south, in the direction of her father's residence, she sorrowfully made three inclinations, and then threw herself down. Those who were below in vain rushed forward to save her. They only saw her with her cheek resting upon the ground ; and thus she passed away, with a smile upon her countenance ; being at the time only 26 years of age. This took place on the 24th day of the first month of the present year (21st February. ) In this young lady's sleeve was found a paper containing two sentences ; one, to the effect that she threw herself down from the Pagoda of her own free will ; and the other, forbidding her relatives to change her clothes when about to place her in her coffin, and requesting them to lay her beside her mother. On opening a small casket, another written paper was discovered, in which she took leave of her father and other relatives, and stated that when her mother was dangerously ill, she burnt incense and vowed that she would accompany her mother, if she died, beneath the Earth (i.e., to Hades), and praying her father not to grieve for her. -- The petitioner prays the Emperor to grant permission to build a triumphal arch to this young lady, and His Majesty consents. 

June 12th.-- TsoTsung-tang(左宗棠) presents a supplementary petition. In Kan-sŭh province the soldiers' rations have lately been falling short, and therefore, as opportunity afforded, the grain was inspected in order to prevent fraudulent practices. The petitioner has now discovered thate three officers, a Commander-in-chief, a General of Division, and a Brigadier, have been guilty of purloining rations, and he therefore prays the Emperor to degrade them. His Majesty consents. 

June 13th.-- Lew Kwn-yih (劉昆一) Deputy Govenor of Keangse, an officer of the first rank, deprived of honours but retained in office, petitions. The petitioner has received information from the acting Che-hëen of Loo-ling, that a Literary gentleman of his District, a member of the Han-lin college, has at his own expense repaired the Confucian temple at Keih-gan, with the adjoining buildings, at an outlay of more than 19,000 Taels. He has also supplied the utensils used in sacrificing, and the musical instruments, together with clothes and boots for the managers of the ceremonies, and for the musicians, at a cost of more than 3,000 Taels. Also, he has repaired the temples of Chastity and Filial Piety at an outlay of more than 3,800 Teaou ; and the Examination Hall, at an expense of, more than 10,000 Teaou. This gentleman has also repaired several other places of importance, and has expended in all more than 50,000 Taels, and the petitioner therefore prays the Emperor to grant him a tablet in commemoration of his public services. -- His Majesty refers the case to the proper Board. 

(2) Wang Wan-chaou (王文韶) the Deputy Governor of Ho-nan, petitions.  The Literary gentlemen of the province of Ho-nan have begged the petitioner to pray the Emperor to restore to the lately deceased Deputy-Govemor of the province the honours of which he had been deprived during life, and to give his tablet a place in the temple of renowned officers, in order that he may be sacrificed to ; as during his lifetime he averted calamity from the people, all of whom preserve a thankful remembrance of his goodness. -- His Majesty grants the petition.

*June 14th. -- The Yamun for the management of foreign affairs having petitioned that the foreign emissaries 1 temporarily 

* Capital letters are not used in the translation because they tend to mislead the English reader. -- The fair way in which to Judge of the true import of the characters used is to test their use in the Peking Gazette itself; and that is the plan adopted. 

1. －使臣 used in reference to a messenger from a petty state who came to Peking in charge of a present of Elephants sent to the Emperor. Peking Gazette I5th day, 7th moon, 10th year of present reign. The proper designation of H. B. M's Minister, (e. gr.) used in Despatches is大英钦差大臣; the first two characters being placed above the columns, i.e. capitalized.

Staying 2 in Peking, have fervently implored an audience in order to present to Us their foreign despatches : We now command that these foreign emissaries thus temporarily staying in f eking, who have despatches to present, be admitted to an audience. 

(2) Ying-yuen(英元) a President of the Board of Censors, petitions in reference to Wang Chaou-tung, a native of the District of Hwae-yuen in the province of Gan-hwuy. This plaintiff states that his father is in trade, and when lately on his way home, was robbed by sharpers of 73 dollars and more than 2,000 cash. They then murdered him by cutting off his hands and feet. These villains were arrested, and the Che-hëen investigated the matter, but they escaped by bribery. The other officials applied to refused to try the case, and referred it back to the Che-hëen. 

(3) The same official petitions in reference to the following case. Wang Yung- fung, a native of Chang-ping-chow, in Shun- t'een-foo, gives information that Yaou Sze- fan wanted to seize upon some land belonging to the plaintiff, and his mother being anxious about the matter went to Yaou Sze fang's house to entreat him to desist from his purpose, whereupon the latter poisoned her, and escaped justice by bribery. The plaintiff then brought his complaint before the petitioner, and the prefect of Shun-t'een was ordered to try the case. This latter official referred it to the office of the Northern Division of the Capital, but the son of the official at that office being a friend of the police runner who received the bribe to favour the culprit's escape, justice was again defeated. Hence the plaintiff again refers his case to the petitioner, who prays the Emperor to issue orders that it be properly investigated. -- His Majesty replies that the case is recorded. 

(4) Ying Paou-she, (應寶時 ), Criminal Judge for the province of Këang-soo, and holding the rank of Commissioner of Revenue,  reports. After this official had served as acting Commissioner of Revenue, the Emperor permitted him to resume his post as Criminal Judge, for which he now, returns thanks. On the 4th day of the 4th month he returned to his Yamun and received his seal and books from his locum tenens ; and having prepared a table and incense he worshipped towards the Emperor's palace and entered upon office. -- His Majesty acknowledges the receipt of the despatch. 

2. -- 駐 used in reference to the stages through which travellers and couriers pass to their various destinations ; also the stages through which the Emperor lately passed on His journey to the Imperial Tombs.  Ibid 2nd moon 29th day (March 27th) ; 3rd Moom, 15th day (April 11th) ; and 5th moon, 3rd day (May 28th.) 

3.-請籲 in Chinese etiquette, only used by the petitioner himself to express his humility. Ibid 22nd day of 4th moon; also see 20th day o f same moon, where the phrase " 奴才籲請 your slave fervently implores," is used. 

June 15th. -- Ying Paou-she petitions in reference to the following case. According to the evidence of Chin Che-fan, he is 31 years of age, and lives to the west of the village of T'ëen-thow, gainings his livelihood by agriculture. On the night of the 25th of the 11th month of the 9th year of the present reign, a band of robbers came to his house and commenced beating at the door, which no one ventured to open. The robbers then set fire to it, and four female members of his family were burnt to death, and his uncle was much injured. All the money and property together with the animals in the house were completely destroyed by the fire. The Che-hëen held inquest on the bodies, and then gave orders for their burial. He also ordered the soldiers stationed in the neighbourhood to go in pursuit of the ruffians. The latter eventually escaped by bribery, and the petitioner prays the Emperor to issue orders for the thorough investigation of the affair.  -- His Majesty replies that the case is recorded. 

(2) The same official petitions. The plaintiff in the present case is the widow of Shen Tsing-gan, an inhabitant of Chang- Khew District in Tse-nan-foo, in the province of Shan-tung ; she is 56 years of age.  Her husband's younger brother, named Shen Ming, was, from his infancy, given to her husband's third uncle as an adopted son. In the 8th month of the 9th year of the present reign, Shen Ming, laying a plan to thieve, in combination with his cousin, poisoned the widow's own son, who was only 6 years of age. He further bribed several companions, and assembling them together carried off all the widow's rice, clothes, and other property. He also carried away her sheep and seized upon her land. The Che-hëen ordered the culprit to restore everything which he had taken away ; Shen Ming, however, not only disobeyed this order, but even sold the widow herself to a man who lived at a distant place. She subsequently made her escape, and came to Peking in search of justice. 

June 16th. -- The Board of Rites and Ceremonies petition that, on the 19th of the present month, no animals may be killed -- The Sacrificial Board have presented the list of Ceremonies to be observed in sacrificing to Earth ; and also petition the Emperor to appoint a Reader of prayers for the occasion. His Majesty appoints Khing Fŭh (慶福). 

(2) An Edict. Ngeh-lih-ho-poo and Khwei-chang report that a subcaptain of the lower division of the 5th grade has caused disorder in certain batteries, and ask for instructions in this case. Kwei-khing was ordered from Keih-lin to occupy the post of sub-captain at Woo-loo-mŭh-tse. While on the road to his destination he conducted himself improperly, daring to beat the soldiers in the batteries he passed, and demanding an excessive supply of sheep; a most outrageous and improper proceeding. We therefore orders that sub-captain Kwei-khing, of the eighth degree of hereditary rank, be deprived of his honours and of his commission, and that he be handed over to the proper Board for punishment, as an example to others. 

June 17th -- An Edict. Tsae-ts'een and others report the imprisonment and excessive punishment of a petty official by an underling, and pray that the latter may be handed over to the proper Board for punishment. According to the evidence in this case, Ah Chang-ah, a clerk in the office of the Prefect of Shih-mun-foo, beat to excess and imprisoned a clerk of the 7th grade named She-hing, in consequence of a gross misdemeanour committed by the latter. Now, although this inferior clerk may have guilty of the crime laid to his charge, yet the prefect himself should have been been requested to inquire into the matter; but Ah Chang-ah thus taking the law into his own hands committed a serious error, and we therefore command that, in the first place, he be dismissed from office. . At the same time let She-hing also be first brought before Tsae-ts'ëen, and then let both be forwarded in charge of an officer appointed by the Governor- General of Chili, to be examined and punished by the Board of Punishments.  Respect this. 

18th June. -- An Edict. Tso Tsung-tang (左宗棠) reports that Ching-luh, general-in-chief at Woo-loo-muh-tse, when formerly in Kaou-tae district extorted taxes ; thus treating well-behaved persons as though they were rebels. He tyrannically slaughtered more than 200 persons, and falsely reporting that he had gained a great victory, petitioned to be rewarded. The petitioners pray that an Imperial official be sent to inquire into the affair. We have already deputed Kin-shun to take charge of the criminal's command, and also to transmit our orders that he be deposed from office and brought, to trial, at the same time appointing officials to conduct him to Peking. The Censor Woo-ko-tŭh reports that the crime which Ching-lŭh has Committed is a very serious one, and prays that an adequate punishment may be inflicted upon him. It is now reported to us by King-shun that all our orders have been attended to, and that the prisoner has arrived in Peking ; and we therefore further command that he be handed over to the Board of Punishments to be dealt with. Respect this. 

(2) Paou Yuen-shin (鮑源深) the Deputy-Governor of Shan-se, petitions with regard to the appointment of an officer to fill the post of Che-hëen, Laou Wän- khing, the district Magistrate of .Yŏ-yang, has been transferred to the District of T'ae-ping (in the province of Gan-hwuy,) and the petitioner recommends Chang Yung-gan as his successor. Chang Yung- gan is 37 years of age, and is a literary graduate of Tsing-ping District in the province of Shan-tung, who has had a high honorary degree conferred upon him by the Emperor. He was appointed a District Magistrate as a reward for his services against the rebels in Hoo-peh. He gives his whole mind to his duties, and is careful and accurate. His Majesty refers the petition to the Board of Official Appointments. 

(3) Chang Ting-yo (張廷岳) petitions. In consequence of illness the petitioner formerly received leave of absence, and his son, a member of the Board of Works, also received four months' leave of absence to visit his father during his illness, and his mother accompanied him on that visit. The petitioner now prays that, as his own duties are heavy, and his health is not perfectly established, his son may be allowed an extended leave of absence to attend to the household affairs, while he himself devotes his own attention exclusively to the performance of the duties of his Yamun. His Majesty grants the petition. 

(4) Wang Wän-chaou (王文昭) presents a supplementary petition. According to established law the families of soldiers killed or wounded in battle are entitled to receive commiseration money.  In the sixth year of the reign of the Emperor Hëen-fung, in consequence of the lowness of the funds, the Deputy Governor of Hoo-nan petitioned that the money given to the families of soldiers killed out of the province might be paid out of the funds of the province in which the latter fell in battle, and not out of the funds of the province from which they were detached. To this the Board consented, adding that if those who were slain left no wives, or children, or other relatives, then the money was to be expended in sacrifices to the dead; but if the deceased left relatives behind, then, according to law, the compensation money must be given to them. This rule however, when put in practice, was found to give rise to confusion and cheating, and the petitioner therefore prays that the old practice of giving away the compensation money in the provinces from which the soldiers were detached, instead of in those in which they were killed or wounded, may be adhered to. His Majesty refers the matter to the proper Board. 

June 19th.-- Yung-yuh (榮毓) and others petition that certain necessary repairs may be made at the Imperial Mausolea ; and also that a certain stone bridge may be put in thorough repair. His Majesty has appointed an officer to examine into the .  matter and, report. 

(2) Ying-yuen (英元 reports the following appeal case. Yang Kea-sze, the plaintiff, is 32 years of age, and is a native of Show-chow in Gan-hwuy. His brother Yang Kea-tëen opened an eating house to gain a livelihood. At Hing-lung-tseih there lived a sharper named Tseang Lan- iung alias Tseang Tsae-ching, who frequently took his meals at the shop on credit. On the 14th day of the first month of list year, a disturbance arose on his being asked to discharge his account ; and the sharper, collecting together more than a hundred ruffians armed with swords, spears, and matchlocks, these swarmed like bees around the door of the shop. Yang Kea-t'ëen came out to discuss principles of propriety with them, and received wounds in ten different places, which caused his death. One of the neighbours coming up to exhort the combatants, was shot in the throat and killed. The culprits ultimately escaped justice by bribery, and the plaintiff, in despair, refers his case to Peking. His Majesty replies that the case is recorded. 

June 19th.-- Yung-yuh (榮毓) and others, petition that Foo-ke* a Secretary of the Palace Board and holding the seal, be rewarded for having expended more than 1,893 taels and 7 mace, in planting 1,300 Cedar trees at the Mausolea of the Emperor Yung Ching (A. D. 1723). The petitioners pray that this official may have the honorary rank of Assistant Captain- general of the Flank Division conferred upon him. His Majesty grants the petition. 

(2) The same official prays that the Secretary of the Board of Rites and Ceremonies for the Mausolea of the Emperor Tung Ching, and who is also an officer of the 3th degree of Hereditary rank, may be retained in office for two years longer in consequence of his diligence in the discharge of his duties. His Majesty consents. 

June 20th. -- To-morrow morning at 2 o'clock a.m. the Emperor will offer sacrifice.  His Majesty will then put off His sacrificial garments and will breakfast at the Tung- ho-kung apartments, after which He will proceed to worship at the temple of the God of Fire. 

June 21st, -- The Governor-General of Hoo-kwang, and the Deputy Governor of Hoo-peh petition the Emperor to appoint Examiners for the present year's examination, to be held at the latter place for the second degree (Keu-jin). His Majesty refers the matter to the Board of Kites and Ceremonies. 

June 22nd. -- Lew Chang-yew, Deputy Governor of Kwang-se, reports that the envoy (使臣) from Prince of Yüe-nan has passed the Customs' barrier, bringing presents to the Emperor, viz., a pair of Elephant's tusks ; two Rhinoceros' horns ; 100 pieces of Silk ; 100 pieces of Silk with white nap upon it ; I00 pieces of Silk for coverlets &c. ; 100 pieces of Cloth ; 900 ounces of fragrant woods ; 45 catties of fragrant seeds, and 45 catties of Betelnut. 

June 23rd. -- Yung Chang-seun (楊昌濬) Deputy Governor of Chě-këang, petitions. According to invariable military custom, when any officer receives his dismissal, he is in duty bound to return immediately to his native place. Lieut. -Colonel Chang Kwei-fah, formerly doing duty in the Laou- sěang Cantonment, and in the Foo-ching Banner, was, in consequence of his attention to his duties, decorated with a peacock's feather. This officer's native place is in Këang-se, and some time ago he received his dismissal from office ; yet with daring presumption he continued to hang about the country parts of the Districts of lin-hae and Sgen-keu, exciting and cheating the people, and using charms, thus giving rise to disturbance ; all which proceedings are contrary to law. The petitioner prays that the matter may be closely examined into, and that this officer may now be deprived of his decorations, and punished for his misconduct, as a warning to others. -- His Majesty grants the petition. 

* This officer previously petitioned for permission to present these trees as an offering to His Majesty. (See Gazette for Jane 3rd). 

June 20th.-- Le Hŏ-nëen (李鶴年) an officer of the first rank, Governor-General of Fŭh-këen and Chě-këang, and acting Commander-in-Chief at Fŭh-chow, petitions, recommending that a Captain holding the seventh degree of Hereditary rank, and doing duty at Wăn-chow, may, in consequence of his great merit, be promoted to the vacant post of Major at the Shih-poo Cantonment, in Chĕ-këang. -- His Majesty refers the petition to the Board of War. 

June 26th. -- The Emperor has been petitioned to order the dismissal of a certain gaol official for carelessness in guarding the prisoners under his charge, and suffering one of them to escape. This official, who is named Tseaou Ting-jen, is also a clerk in the office of the District Magistrate of Ling-show in Chili. His Majesty commands that he be deposed from office, and brought to trial. He is to be brought before Le Hung-chang and confronted with the prisoners, and to be strictly examined as to whether he has been guilty or not of conniving at the escape of the aforesaid prisoner in consequence of bribery ; and the case is to be reported in order that, if guilty, he may be punished according to law. The Governor of the gaol, Lew Kang-nëen, who is Che-hëen of the District of Ling-show, although he excuses himself from blame in this matter, on the plea that when the escape took place he was absent from his post on public business, yet in reality has shown his inability to guard against such a disaster. His Majesty therefore commands that he be handed over to the proper Board of examination, and that a period be allowed him within which he must make every exertion to arrest the escaped criminal Kwo Ching-lin and bring him to justice. If at the expiration of the interval allowed this arrest is not made, then the aforesaid Magistrate must be deposed and rigorously punished. Respect this. 

(2) Governor-General Wăn-Pin (文彬) of the grain transport servioe petitions on behalf of a dutiful son, who cut off a piece of each arm to cure his parents' diseases. An honorary member of one of the Literary Departments of the Han-lin College reports that Fan Joo-khe, an officer of the second division of the ninth Degree, belonging to the District of Shan-yang in the province of Keang-soo, is sincere in the discharge of his domestic duties, and is by nature intrinsically dutiful. Bis mother by adoption became on one occasion grievously ill, and deriving no' benefit from medical advice, this officer, being at that time just nine years of age, after praying to the Gods in deep anxiety, of his own accord cut a piece of his flesh out of his left arm, and gave it to his adopted mother in her medicine, whereupon she instantly recovered. After this his own mother taking ill, he cut a piece of flesh from his right arm, and administered it to her, whereupon she also completely recovered. His fame for filial piety has spread abroad, and the petitioner on examining into the report finds that it is perfectly true, and that on the right and left arms of this filial son, are marks an inch in diameter. According to law, if any one cuts a piece of fiesh from his arm to the injury of his life, no distinction shall be conferred upon him ; but, on the contrary, he shall be liable to punishment.  Also, all sucli honours as those now sought must receive the sanction of the Emperor.  The petitioner iherefore prays that a mark of distinction may be conferred in the present case, as, although the act was an ignorant display of filial piety, yet it was his sincere desire to save his parents which urged this sou to commit it. -- His Majesty consents. 

(3) The same official presents a supplementary petition with regard to a lady who, after her husband's death in Sheti-se, removed to Tsing-keang, taking his remains in a coffin along with her. During the Spring of the I0th year of the Emperor Hëen-fung's reign, that place was attacked by rebels, and she fled with her two daughters to a village in the neighbourhood. Hearing a report, however, that these insurgents intended pillaging the village, and it being impossible for her to fly from it in consequence of the tender age of her daughters, she drowned herself along with them. The petitioner prays the Emperor to grant them a Triumphal Arch, accorting to law. -- His Majesty consents. 

June 27th.-- Le Han-chang (李瀚章) petitions that a Captain of the Left Cantonment in Hoo-peh may be granted leave of absence in consequence of the illness of his mother. His Majesty consents. 

June 28th. -- To-morrow the Emperor will pass through the Nuy-yew, Lung- tsung, and Se-hwa gates, and entering through the Se-yuen and Tih-chang gates, will take refreshment at the Han-yuen temple, transact business, and summon a Council (召見大臣). After this.  His Majesty will pass out of the Tih-chang and Chuy-hwa gates, to the Woo-ching temple, will rest there a short time; and will then proceed to the Tsze-kwang pavilion, to hold an audience (覲見). His Majesty will then return to the palace by the same route. Let all be arranged at 5 o'clock a.m. (初卯). 

(2) Ying yuen (英元) petitions on behalf of Ma King-ah, formerly a Superintendent of Embankments in the province of Shantung. In the 9th year of the present reign, this official's term of office expiring, he retired from his appointment.  In the 8th month of the 10th year, his successor, King Fung-woo, came to the plaintiff's lodging and formed his acquaintance. He stated that he was short of funds, and had employed another person to borrow money for him at a pawnshop ; he also asked the plaintiff to go security for him. The plaintiff consenting, went to the shop with him and procured the sum of 400 taels on loan, to be paid back in the first month of the 11th year of the present reign. This sum was paid back in the second month of that year, and he borrowed a further sum of 1,200 taels, for the repayment of which the plaintiff again went security. In the 12th month.  King Fung-woo wanted to borrow a further sum, but the pawnbroker refused, and he then borrowed 1,300 taels from plaintiff's brother, and gave a receipt for that sum. After this, King Fung- woo, through enmity, accused the plaintiff before the Deputy Governor of the province, of having applied certain public funds to his own private use, which he had obtained for King Fung-woo himself from the Revenue Commissioner; and the latter demanded that this sum should be now handed over to him. The Deputy Governor, being imposed upon in the matter, forwarded a petition to Peking, and the Emperor deposed the plaintiff from his rank and honours. The petitioner now prays the Emperor to take the case into reconsideration, and His Majesty replies that the petition is recorded. 

Jnne 29th.-- Tsin Yuh-ying(岑毓英), Deputy Governor of Yun-nan, petitions with regard to an appointed Prefect who continues to absent himself from his post, and prays the Emperor to appoint another in his place, in order to assert the importance of the performance of official duties. Ta-le-foo is an extensive district, and both Chinese and others inhabit that place. During the previous days of peace, this was a laborious post for an official to fill ; and now that peace has been restored after the late disturbances, an energetic officer is still more required, to rule the entire district efficiently and to establish peace on a firm basis. The Official Board some time ago appointed a Prefect to take charge of this important post, and the Emperor confirmed the appointment ; but for the space of three years that officer has not appeared to take upon him the duties of his new appointment. The petitioner therefore prays the Emperor to appoint another Prefect in his place, and His Majesty consents. 

June 30th. -- The keeper of the King-yun Gate of the Palace reports that he has caught a thief named Le Tseih stealing wood, and has handed him over to the Board of Punishments. 

(2) Le Tsung-he presents a supplementary petition, recommending an expectant Taou-tae of Keang-soo province for the appointment of acting Taou-tae at Hwae-gan-foo and Yang-chow-foo, the present occupant of that post having been appointed acting Governor-General in the grain transport service. - His Majesty acknowledges the receipt of the petition.