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dictates of magnanimity, and, taking into consideration the general situation, accept the advice of the friendly Powers.

Accordingly, We have commanded our Government, and have caused them to reply to the three friendly Powers in the above sense. Regarding the arrangement by which We will renounce the permanent possession of the peninsula, We have specially commanded Our Government that the necessary measures shall be made the subject of future negotiations and adjustment with the Government of China.

Now the exchange of ratifications of the treaty of peace has already been effected; the friendly relations between the two empires have been re-established, and cordial relations with all other Powers are also strengthened.

We therefore command Our subjects to respect Our will; to take into careful consideration the general situation; to be circumspect in all things; to avoid erroneous tendencies; and not to impair or thwart the high aspirations of Our Empire.

Our beloved soldiers and sailors,—When in the 15th year of Meiji the system of reorganization of the army and of the navy was perfected, We, who hold the supreme command of the army and navy, laid down five points, which you as warriors ought to observe with all your strength, and We proclaimed to you that, loyal, courteous, brave, upright, and frugal, you ought to be permeated with undivided sincerity.

That We were very earnest in Our instructions to you was because We relied upon you as Our main pillars of support. Since then tranquillity has reigned over the domain for more than ten years. When, however, last year war broke out with China, you rose up at one word from Us, and endured the sultry heat of summer and braved the icy cold of winter. Those who stayed behind devoted themselves to securing the safety of the Empire at home, while those who were despatched abroad undertook the arduous task of marching upon and attacking the enemy. The result has been that both by land and by sea glorious success, never exampled before, has been achieved, thereby accomplishing the object of the war and displaying the glory of the Empire to the four seas.

We are highly gratified to see that the Imperial army and navy have arrived at such a state of efficiency, and We appreciate at the same time that you, ever keeping in mind the five points aforesaid, have disregarded your lives in order to fulfil Our order, and have admirably discharged the duties incumbent upon you as the main pillars of Our State. As to