committed a crime of inconceivable magnitude and are guilty of high treason.  Like Wang Mang and Tung Tso he seeks to sway the whole nation by utilizing a young and helpless emperor.  Moreover he has given the country to understand that Li Yuan-hung has memorialized the Ching House that many evils have resulted from republicanism and that the ex-emperor should be restored to save the masses.  That Chang Hsun has been guilty of usurpation and forging documents is plain and the scandal is one that shocks all the world.

Can it be imagined that Chang Hsun is actuated by a patriotic motive?  Surely despotism is no longer tolerated in this stage of modern civilization.  Such a scheme can only provoke universal opposition.  Five years have already passed since the friendly Powers accorded their recognition of the Chinese Republic and if we think we could afford to amuse ourselves with changes in the national fabric, we could not expect foreign powers to put up with such childishness.  Internal strife is bound to invite foreign intervention and the end of the country will then be near.

Can it be possible that Chang Hsun has acted in the interest of the Ching House?  The young boy-emperor lives in peace and contentment and has not the slightest idea of ever ruling China again.  It is known that his tutors have been warning him of the dangers of intriguing for power.  That the boy-emperor has been dragged on the throne entirely against his own wishes is undeniable.  History tells us that no dynasty can live for ever.  It is an unprecedented privilege for the Ching dynasty to be able to end with the gift of special treatment.  How absurd to again place the Tsing house on the top of a high wall so that it may fall once more and disappear for ever.

Chi-jui, after his dismissal, resolved not to participate in political affairs, but as he has had a share, however insignificant, in the formation of the Chinese Republic, and having served the Republic for so long he cannot bear to see its destruction without stretching out a helping hand.  Further, he has been a recipient of favours from the defunct dynasty, and he cannot bear to watch unmoved, the sight of the Ching House being made the channel of brigandage with suicidal results.  Wherever duty calls, Chi-jui will go in spite of the danger of death.  You, gentlemen, are the pillars of the Republic of China and therefore have your own duties to perform.  In face of this extraordinary crisis, our indignation must be one.  For the interest of the country we should abide by our oath of unstinted loyalty; and for the sake of the Tsing House let us show our sympathy by sane and wise deeds.  I feel sure you will put forth every ounce of your energy and combine your efforts to combat the great disaster.  Though I am a feeble old soldier, I will follow you on the back of my steed.

    (Sgd) TUAN CHI-JUI.