Memorandum handed to Acting Secretary Hill by the Chinese Minister, Mr. Wu.
Cablegram from Earl Li Hung Chang, dated September 9, 1900, transmitted by the Chinese minister at London under date of September 10 and received by Minister Wu on the night of the last-named date.
I have just received a telegram, dated September 3, from governor of Shantung, transmitting a dispatch addressed to me by the privy council, from Ta-tung Fu (Shansi), on August 30.
The privy council to Li Hung Chang, envoy plenipotentiary, grand secretary of state, and viceroy of Chihli.
On the third day of the eighth moon of Kwang-hsu, twenty-sixth year (August 27), the following imperial edict was issued:
“We hereby command Li Hung Chang, envoy plenipotentiary with full discretionary powers and grand secretary of state, to proceed at once by steam vessel to Pekin and there to associate himself with Prince Ching in discussing and dealing with all pending questions. Let there be no delay. Respect this.”
The above has been communicated to me in obedience to the imperial will.
Another communication from the privy council states an edict has already been issued commanding Sir Robert Hart to confer with (the representatives of) the foreign nations for the loan of a steam vessel to convey Li Hung Chang without delay to Pekin, where he is to associate himself with Prince Ching in dealing with all pending questions. There was also a copy of an edict for Li Hung Chang, which the inspector-general of customs (Sir Robert Hart) was directed to depute an official to deliver in person (to Earl Li). The documents referred to have been dispatched by post, but on account of the roundabout method employed and fearing a mistake or failure might arise, the edicts are respectfully transcribed (as above). On receipt of the same the Shantung government is requested to transmit them by telegraph to Envoy Li.
Having received imperial orders urging my speedy departure for the north, it behooves me to make arrangements to start on my journey soon. Please inform Secretary of State and request instructions be telegraphed to the United States commanders at Tientsin and Pekin to cooperate in affording me protection, if required.