Democratic Sentinel, Volume 17, Number 20, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 2 June 1893 — THE CHINESE QUESTION. [ARTICLE+ILLUSTRATION]

THE CHINESE QUESTION.

Members of the Cabinet Discuss the Derision of the Supreme Court. The Chinese question occupied the entire attention of the Cabinet at its meeting Tuesday. Before the Cabinet meeting Chief Justice Fuller, who dissented from the decision of the Supreme Court, called at the White House and had a brief talk with the President. Subsequently the Chief Justice had an interview with Secretary Gresham. It is understood the conclusion reached by the Cabinet was that the law could not be enforced, for the reason that there is no money available for that purpose. The act only carries an appropriation of. SIOO,OOO. Secretary Carlisle showed that not more than $16,0»0 of that sum remained. It was estimated that it wiuld cost to deport all the Chinese now in Iho country, who have not complied with the law, more than $0,000,0(10. It is evident the administration was surprised by the decision, and the situation is perplexing. With the constitutionality of the law settled, it is embarrassing not to be able to enforce it, but in the absence of the money for the expenses of deporting the Chinese there seems to be nothing that can be done. If the Chinese would simply accept the situation and comply with the law it would simplify matters, but the impression is that most of them will not do this, but will resist as long as possible.

As to the expense of enforcing the law, it is not by any means sure that if Congress were in session the money would be appropriated. W. W. Rockliill, Chief Clerk of the State department, who has correspondents in the Chinese diplomatic service, and also a number of American friends in that country, says he has not heard a word concerning retaliation, and, furthermore, that there is hardly a likelihood such action will be considered, much less taken. Secretary Carlisle has received many telegrams asking for a suspension of the operations of the law for at least six months.