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THE EMPEROR
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already achieved, made favourable progress with respect to the negotiations still pending.

At this bright epoch of progress it is Our desire to push forward the national civilization, and, assisted by the virtues of Our ancestors, to secure a crowning glory such as shall befit the auspicious beginning. We call upon you to observe the political situation at home and abroad, and by harmonious co-operation of the Government and the people to promote Our wishes.

Imperial Message directing a Field-Marshal to return from the Field (1895).

We were greatly pained to learn that sickness had overtaken you during the campaign, and We despatched an envoy to inquire about you. Finally, being anxious to learn direct from you the enemy’s condition, We directed that you should return. It gives Us great satisfaction to observe that your health is now improving. We relieve you of your present office, and appoint you to one of deliberative character. We desire that you receive treatment for your malady, and give Us the benefit of your counsels.

Imperial Rescript appointing His Imperial Highness Prince Komatsu as Commander-in-Chief (March 16, 1895).

Whereas Our land and sea forces advancing against China have already completed the first period of the campaign, and are now about to enter upon the second, therefore We, deeming it essential to appoint a Commander-in-Chief of the expedition against China, do hereby nominate you to that office, ordering you to assume command of all Our expeditionary forces, investing you at the same time with the authority to appoint, remove, promote, and degrade the officers under your command; and We charge you in accordance with Our will to proceed and assume the duties of this office so as to increase the prestige of Our realm.

Imperial Proclamation on the Restoration of Peace with China (April 21, 1895).

We deem it that the development of the prestige of the country could be obtained only by peace. It is Our mission, which We inherit from Our ancestors, that peace should be maintained in an effectual way. The foundations of the great policy of Our ancestors has been made more stable. We desire that We shall, together with Our people, be specially guarded against arrogance or relaxation.

It is what We highly object to, that the people should become

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