Mr. Denby to Mr.
Gresham.
Legation of the United States,
Peking
,
October 14,
1894
.
No. 2000.]
Sir: I have the honor to inclose herewith a
translation of a decree which appeared in the Gazette of the 12th
instant, forcibly enjoining the protection of the missionaries in this
city.
The Chinese Government is making commendable efforts to guarantee
foreigners from molestation or injury. In addition to the proclamations
recently posted and this decree, other measures have been taken, such as
the placing of small companies of soldiers in the vicinity of foreign
residences. We are also said to be under the friendly surveillance of
secret police.
The city at present seems more than usually tranquil.
I have, etc.,
Chas. Denby, Jr.,
Chargé d’Affaires ad
interim.
[Inclosure in No. 2000.]
Decree issued by Sis Majesty, the Emperor,
published in the Manuscript Gazette, October 12,
1894.
The foreign missionary establishments situated in Peking have long
enjoyed peace and quiet and it is right, should necessity arise,
that every protection should be extended to them.
The Japanese have engaged in war with China, but this does not in the
least involve foreigners of western countries. During the present
year there has been a large influx of peons from the various
provinces into Peking. It is to be feared that there may be among
them some ignorant fellows who may recklessly excite the people.
There is a still worse class of cruel and unscrupulous rowdies who
will avail of rumors to create disturbances.
It is therefore urgently necessary that measures should be taken to
guard against such acts. To this end let the office of the
gendarmerie and the police censors of the five cities issue
instructions to their subordinate officers that they must earnestly
act to suppress disturbances and give special care to the protection
of the missionaries. Any one who violates the law and creates
trouble must be immediately arrested and severely punished. Not the
least leniency is to be shown.
