Whatever the cause, the Czar is ill, and in no state to attend to anything
but his own affairs. It is a sad pity just at this moment, when Europe
needs him so badly.

* * * * *

There is a little flurry in Siam.

Siam is in Asia, just below China, and next door to Burmah.

Some weeks ago a report came from Bangkok, the capital of Siam, that some
Siamese soldiers had fired upon and wounded our American Vice-Consul, Mr.
Kellett.

Our minister there protested, and sent word of the outrage to the King.

But the King of Siam did not take the slightest notice of the protest.

Then word was sent to Washington, with the request that an American
gunboat be sent to Bangkok, to teach the Siamese to respect United States
citizens.

The gunboat was despatched, and has duly arrived off Bangkok, but still
the King of Siam does not give any reason for the brutality of his
soldiers.

It is said that an American named Cheek, who owned some very valuable
property in Siam, died a short while ago, and named Mr. Kellett in his
will as the man who was to settle his property for him.