and millions of people might be terrorized. The evil
consequences cannot be described. Between the two evils, We have adopted
the lesser one. Such is the motive of the Throne in modelling its policy
in accordance with the progress of time, the change of circumstances,
and the earnest desires of Our People. Our Ministers and subjects both
in and out of the Metropolis should, in conformity with Our idea,
consider most carefully the public weal and should not cause the country
and the people to suffer from the evil consequences of a stubborn pride
and of prejudiced opinions.

The Ministry of the Interior, the General Commandant of the Gendarmerie,
Chiang Kuei-ti, and Feng Kuo-chang, are ordered to take strict
precautions, and to make explanations to the peoples so clearly and
precisely as to enable every and all of them to understand the wish of
the Throne to abide by the ordinance of heaven, to meet the public
opinion of the people and to be just and unselfish.

The institution of the different offices by the State has been for the
welfare of the people, and the Cabinet, the various Ministries in the
Capital, the Vice-royalties, Governorships, Commissionerships, and
Taotaiships, have therefore been established for the safe protection of
the people, and not for the benefit of one man or of one family.
Metropolitan and Provincial officials of all grades should ponder over
the present difficulties and carefully perform their duties. We hereby
hold it the duty of the senior officials earnestly to advise and warn
their subordinates not to shirk their responsibilities, in order to
conform with Our original sincere intention to love and to take care of
Our people.

Bearing the Imperial Seal and Signed by
Yuan Shih-kai, the Premier;
Hoo Wei-teh, Minister of Foreign Affairs;
Chao Ping-chun, Minister of the Interior;
Tan Hsuen-heng, Acting Minister of the Navy;
Hsi Yen, Acting Minister of Agriculture, Works and Commerce;
Liang Shih-yi, Acting Minister of Communications;
Ta Shou, Acting Minister of the Dependencies.

25th day of the 12th moon of the 3rd year of Hsuan Tung.

TERMS OF ABDICATION

N.B. These terms are generally referred to in China as "The Articles of
Favourable Treatment."

A.--Concerning the Emperor.

The Ta Ching Emperor having proclaimed a republican form of government,
the Republic of China will accord the following treatment to the Emperor
after his resignation and retirement.

Artic