Since the question of Kuo-ti (form of State) was raised consternation has seized the public mind; and on account of the interference of various Powers the spirit of the people has been more and more aroused.  They have asked the question:—­“Who has invited the disaster, and brought upon us such great disgrace?” Some one must be responsible for the alien insults heaped on us.

We have learned that each day is given to rapid preparations for the Grand Ceremony; and it is now true that, internally, public opinion has been slighted, and, externally, occasions have been offered to foreigners to encroach on our rights.  Our blood runs cold when we face the dangers at the door.  Not once but twice hath the President taken the oath to observe and obey the Constitution and protect and maintain the Republic.  The oath was sworn before Heaven and Earth; and it is on record in the hearts of millions of people and the words thereof still echo in the ears of the people of all nations.  In the Classics it is said that “in dealing with the people of the country, faith is of the essence of great rule.”  Again it is written that “without faith a people cannot endure as a nation.”  How then can one rule the people when he “eats” his own words and tears his own oath?  Principle has now been cast to the winds and the Kuo-ti has been changed.  We know not how the country can be administered.

Since the suspension of the National Assembly and the revision of the Constitution, the powers of Government have been centred in one person, with the implied freedom to do whatever seems meet without let or hindrance.  If the Government were to use this power in order to reform the administration and consolidate the foundations of the nation, there would be no fear of failure.  For the whole country would submit to the measures of the Central Government.  Thus there is not the least necessity to commit treason by changing the Kuo-ti.

But although the recent decision of the Citizens’ Representatives in favour of a monarchy and the request of the high local officials for the President’s accession to the Throne have been represented as inspired by the unanimous will of the people, it is well known that the same has been the work of ignoble men whose bribery and intimidation have been sanctioned by the authorities.  Although inept efforts have been made to disguise the deceit, the same is unhidden to the eyes of the world.

Fortunately it is said that the President has from the very beginning maintained a calm attitude, speaking not his mind on the subject.  It is now as easy to turn the tide as the reversing of the palm.  It may be objected that if the “face” of the nation is not preserved in view of the interference of Foreign Powers, there will be great danger in future.  But it must be observed that official declaration can only be made in accordance with the will of the people,