You remember, of course, that when the Powers occupied Crete, each
nation in the combination landed a certain number of soldiers on the
island to help preserve peace.

Some of these soldiers have been at Crete ever since, and some have been
withdrawn. England called hers away some time since, and now Germany,
having use for her soldiers in China, has ordered hers to other duty.

It is said that the Emperor William has long desired to own a port in
China, and that he has used the murder of the missionaries as a pretext
to help him gain his ends.

We told you last week of his desire to increase the German navy. To
accomplish this, it will be necessary for him to do as other nations do,
that is, have ports all over the world where he can coal and repair his
ships. He has therefore looked with longing eyes on Kiao Chou.

This harbor is one of the best along the coast; so good, indeed, is it,
that Russia has been making offers to buy it. It has a great advantage
in being far away from the British and Russian ports, thereby
diminishing the chances of interference.

The Chinese have protested against Germany's unlawful act, and asked her
when she proposes to withdraw her troops, as they have secured the
offenders, and removed all cause of offence. Germany has made no reply,
so China fears she means to keep the harbor she has taken.

Many people believe that some such act has long been contemplated by the
Emperor.