 In the confusion, some of the Europeans escaped overboard, only to be fired upon by the Chinese.The Japanese rescued three of the British crew (the captain, first officer and quartermaster) and 50 Chinese, and took them to Japan.The sinking of the "Kow-shing" almost caused a diplomatic incident between Japan and Great Britain, but the action was ruled in conformity with international law regarding the treatment of mutineers (the Chinese troops).