Mr. Denby to Mr. Bayard.

No. 827.]

Sir: I have the honor to inclose herewith a translation of the official announcement of the Yamên of the approaching marriage of the Emperor, and a copy of my reply thereto.

I have, etc.,

Charles Denby.
[Inclosure 1 in No. 827.]

The Tsung-li Yamên to Mr. Denby.

Your Excellency: The Prince and Ministers have the honor to state that sometime since the following decree was issued by Her Majesty the Empress:

“From the time that the Emperor reverently entered upon the succession to the throne he has been gradually advancing up to manhood, and it is fitting that a person of eminent character should be named to fill the position of His Majesty’s Consort and aid him in the performance of the duties of the Palace, to the end that the exalted position of Empress may be properly filled, and the Emperor assisted in following the path of virtue; Yeh-ho-na-la, the daughter of the Deputy Lieutenant General Kuei Hsiang, a woman of moral excellence, whose deportment and bearing are befitting and of a high dignified character, having been selected, we command that she be appointed Empress.”

The Prince and Ministers have now received a communication from the Board of Ceremonies stating that by Her Majesty’s commands, the 26th day of February has been selected for the performance of the marriage ceremonies.

As in duty bound the Prince and Ministers send this communication for your Excellency’s information.

A necessary communication, etc.

[Inclosure 2 in No. 827.]

Mr. Denby to the Tsung-li Yamên.

Your Highness and Your Excellencies: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the communication of your highness and your excellencies wherein you announce the approaching marriage of His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of China.

I am directed by the President of the United States to convey to His Imperial Majesty his earnest felicitations on this auspicious event, and to express his sincere hope that these gracious nuptials will be blessed by Heaven, and that happiness and prosperity will always attend their Imperial Majesties.

Availing myself, etc.,

Charles Denby.