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set on foot a well-founded political fabric for Our country and homes, We being desirous that each and every one should partake of its benefits.

Do you, then, abstain from becoming accustomed to old customs; beware likewise of paying little heed to your advancing steps, or of being slow to act.

Give, then, due attention to Our words.

In accordance with the oath We took upon ascending Our Imperial Throne, We now summon to their deliberations the representatives of Our subjects. It is Our wish that they should amply discuss and determine upon such new measures as may be thought necessary for the welfare of the people, and thus facilitate the administration of Our domestic concerns; and, further, that the Government and the governed may be of one mind, and that the voice of the latter may thus find access to Ourselves.

It is hoped that all men may feel a due sense of the duties they owe to the State, and that the chief magistrates of the cities and provinces will maturely consider and well weigh such projects as may be submitted to them for promoting the welfare and advancement of Our Empire.

Some short time since We issued Our proclamation ordering the institution of the Genro-in, with a view to the better enactment of laws for this realm. For this purpose you have been nominated Gikuan, and We confide in your wisdom and discretion for the due execution of the important functions of your high office, which, if conscientiously discharged, cannot fail to redound to the happiness and well-being of Our subjects.

Understand Our object, therefore, and aid Us.

It is Our wish to consider extensively the laws of all foreign countries with reference to Our national Constitution, and thereby to determine Our constitutional law. Do you, therefore, prepare a draft for this purpose and submit it to Us. We will then make Our choice.