The provincial capital of Heilungchiang closely adjoins the Russian frontier town of Hailanpao (?) and international questions are constantly arising. At the request of the Governor the Tsungli Yamên appointed Keng Shan, a pupil of the Tung-wên-kuan, with nominal rank as a second class secretary of a board, to co-operate with the Deputy Lieutenant-General stationed there in the management of international affairs.