This latest conflict with foreign countries started due to clashes between locals and missionaries, and further escalated after the occupation of Dagu Fort. The imperial court prioritized international relations and was loath to sever relations. Clear orders have been issued multiple times to protect foreign embassies and missionaries. The war is not over yet, and many foreigners and Chinese citizens are in China, all of whom must be protected equally. All regional governors and military commanders are instructed to carefully identify all foreign nationals and missionaries in trading ports and counties, and protect them according to treaties without fail.
Last month, Japanese Secretary Sugiyama was killed, which shocked us greatly. Soon after, the German envoy was also killed, a most unfortunate event. It is necessary to order the immediate arrest of the perpetrators and thoroughly investigate the matter. Following the Tianjin conflict, in addition to war-related losses, the deaths of foreigners and missionaries, as well as their property losses due to chaos, must be carefully investigated by the Shuntian Prefecture and the Governor of Zhili, and then reported for handling. Recently, there has been widespread arson, murder, and pillage, causing harm to the common people. This state of affairs is intolerable! Regional governors and military commanders are to investigate the situation, seize the opportunity to eliminate them, and restore order. Let this be known throughout the land.
