Papers Relating to the Foreign Relations of the United States, With the Address of the President to Congress December 4, 1917

File No. 893.00/2636

Minister Reinsch to the Secretary of State

[Telegram]

American Legation,
Peking, July 1, 1917, 7 p.m.

The first edict of the Emperor has been issued. He assumes the position of Constitutional Monarch and appoints Cabinet with Chang Hsun as Premier, Liang Tun-yen Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hsu Shih-chang Grand Councilor. Character of appointees generally reactionary, do not inspire confidence. Questionable coup [sic] by Tuan and followers of Liang Shih-yi not yet known. President Li is still in Peking. He sent word expressing hope United States would not recognize restoration. Premier Li has left Peking.

Reinsch