[This Document is the Property of His Britannic Majesty's Government.]
277
C. O.
AFFAIRS OF CHINA.
CONFIDENTIAL.
[39783]
No. 1.
4136
[November 14.1
SECTION (EC 4 FEC 09
Sir J. Jordan to Sir Edward Grey.-(Received November 14.)
(No. 179.) (Telegraphic.) P.
Peking, November 14, 1908. A CABINET Council was held yesterday morning for the purpose of determining the succession to the throne. The Empress-Dowager was present, and, though in weak health, took an active share in the deliberations. It was decided to appoint a Regent in the person of Prince Chun, whose son would be nominated heir to the throne. Prince Ch'un is to be formally installed with all due ceremonial, and, it is expected, will be invested with full powers by the Empress-Dowager. The Chinese Government trust that these arrangements will meet with the approval of the foreign Powers.
Such is the substance of a message I have received from Yuan Shih-kai. He is himself living in the Palace, and his message was conveyed to me by Sir Walter Hillier, who had himself received it from Yuan's son. Sir Walter had been particularly com- missioned to procure from me my opinion as to the decision arrived at by the Grand Council.
I replied that I would not fail to inform His Majesty's Government by telegraph, and would at the same time convey Yuan Shih-kai's assurance that, in his Excellency's opinion, no better arrangement could be made in view of the present condition of affairs. declined, however, to express an opinion on a question of such moment.
I pointed out privately to Sir Walter the dangers attendant on a long Regency, which had been exemplified in the case of the Emperor Kwang Hsü. The surroundings amid which the new heir would receive his early training were not suitable for the education of a future Sovereign, and the introduction into the Palace of a boy of such tender years, however unavoidable it might be, was certainly to be regretted. Sir Walter might, I suggested, take a fitting opportunity to draw attention to the desirability of reforms in the Palace.
Sir Walter has been led to understand that the Emperor is still alive, though no hopes are entertained of his recovery. He is, however, convinced that the death of the Emperor has already taken place.
[39784]
No. 2.
Sir J. Jordan to Sir Edward Grey.--(Received November 14.)
(No. 180.) (Telegraphic.) P.
Peking, November 14, 1908.
I HAVE to-day received a uote from the Wai-wu Pu informing me officially of the Regency of Prince Ch'un.
[39783]
No. 3.
(No. 135.)
(Telegraphic.) P.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir J. Jordan,
Foreign Office, November 14, 1908. PLEASE refer to your telegram No. 179 of the 14th instant on the subject of the illness of the Emperor of China.
Yuan Shih-kai should be thanked for his message sent to you through Sir Walter Hillier. You should also express the hope that the arrangements which have been made will obviate all risk of disorder.
[2029
-7]
ก
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.