Directory_and_Chronicle_1850 — Page 323

1850.

Journal of Occurrences.

285

and selfish desire of gain; and interdicting idle shows and inordinate fondness for the best, and whatever would in the least induce profusion and extrava- gance. Statesinen and people throughout the realm have been alike cognizant of this.

Since the little fools on the western frontier were chastised and quelled by our troops, at which time peace was soon made, we presumed not to vaunt our martial prowess; till afterwards, in relation to a matter of trade on the maritime frontier in the southeast, a trifling dispute arose, but, like the good men of ancient times, who regarded love to man as a prime virtue, how could we [even then] bear that our innocent babes should be exposed to the horrors of war? We therefore waived our trifling dissatisfaction, and entered into an important com- pact, whereby we both tranquilized our own borders and compassionated those from afar, as has been the case now for ten years, instantly causing the hurtful flames [of war] to die of themselves, and our people and the foreigners to trade with each other in harmony. In this, we certainly exhibited the inexpressible affection we have for our beloved people, and to this day the world has worthily judged of our intentions in it.

When overwhelming calamities by flood or drought came, we blushed for Ourself, that we had involved our people in such constant misery and toil, and we spared not to make special disbursements of aid from the provincial trea- suries to rescue the people from their afflictions and diseases. When our of ficers have requested us to remit arrearages or grant aid, there has been no case in which we have not copiously rained our favors and largesses upon them; we have never hoarded our delicacies, nor been niggard of our aid to those suffering from famine and flood, as all, both at home and abroad, will bear witness.

During the thirty years we waited upon the late empresa-dowager, delighting in her pleasure and ministering to her happiness, we never were remiss in due respect, nor have we failed in observing the last rites due her. In all these points, our shortcomings are small indeed.

Our own personal health has usually been vigorous, but about the spring and summer of last year, we felt suddenly indisposed; and though we took increas- ed care of our health, it has never been reëstablished. When returning to the palace last January, we were distressed to hear of the departure of the late empress-dowager, and our sincere grief has injured our health, so that we have gradually become weaker and poorer; lately, our breathing has become more difficult, and the violence of disease daily increases; yet when we reflect that we have been thirty years upon the throne, and our age is now sixty-nine, why should there be any repinings? Mindful of the paramount importance of pro- viding for the succession, we have timeously thought of the choice of one of excellent goodness, who will assume this great responsiblity. Accordingly, about 6 o'clock this morning, we specially called in the controller of the In- perial clan, the high ministers who wait before us, the high officers of the Council, and the high chamberlain, and gave them our personal commands in writing, ordering that they should set Yihchú, my fourth son, upon the imperis! throne, and further requiring these high officers all with united heart and zeal to support him, and have no regard for any other [claimant]. Since announcing this our pleasure, half a day has passed, and our spirits are gradually wasting away: is it not from heaven? The heir-apparent has exhibited a humane and filial disposition, and he is well established in virtue, rectitude and generous feel. ings, so that he will doubtless be equal to receiving the charge now intrusted to him. Let him mount the throne as emperor in order to continue our great line.

Whereas Heaven has created this people and set over them a shepherd, let him incessantly show his carefulness, diligence, solicitude and exertion; there. by he will learn the tempers of men and comfort his people; and perpetuate our mighty dynasty. As to the best way of marking the disposition of men, let him observe for himself, as in a clear mirror, or as by an even balance, their bean- ty and deformity, their merits and defects ; remembering that it is only by impar tiality that he can become able to adopt proper and beneficial measures. Anil we desire that all the civil and military officers within and beyond the realın be spotlessly pure in heart, each one diligently exercising the duties of his station, that by their assistance the reign of our imperial successor may be exceedingly

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