File No. 893.01/89
Minister Reinsch to the Secretary of State
Peking, March 22, 1916, 7 p.m.
The Government has decided to promulgate mandate canceling monarchy. Yuan will remain President, and Hsu Shih-chang, who will sign degree, as well as other who disapproved monarchy, will [Page 67] again actively join the Government. Paradoxically, old school statesmen will therefore again be in ascendency. There has been a great deal of earnest thinking, and Peking in the future will be likely to make sure of actual public opinion before deciding important matters. It is anticipated that revolting provinces may desire to insist on Yuan resigning, but there as reason to believe form of government is now settled.