Thus The Guardian today. “Violent clashes as a thousand supporters of Chinese rule tear down banners of pro-democracy activists,” elaborates the newspaper. Luckily, the protests have ebbed already this morning, but hundreds remained around government offices in the city’s downtown. Protesters wanted to know why the police had not sent reinforcements to break up the clashes, but the police refused to comment. Torrential rain drenched the remaining participants of the so-called umbrella revolution. In short, the chaos promised by Beijing has already started, albeit in the mildest of forms. This time around, the citizens of Hong Kong appear to be fighting among themselves. First the police and then the army will be sent in to separate the warring sides, if needed. Creative, this. The recent events smack of an art performance writ large. Congratulations to Beijing! It can only be hoped that the author will be handsomely rewarded in due time.