Legation of the United States,
Peking, July 2,
1902.
No. 1033.][Inclosure.—Translated from Chihli
Gazette dated July 1, 1902.]
Proclamation by Yuan Shih-k’ai, Pao ting
fu.
Yuan, junior guardian of the heir apparent, president of the board of
war, president of the censorate, and viceroy of Chihli, issues this
proclamation for the information of the people.
The private possession of weapons has hitherto been forbidden by
law.
In 1900, during the time of trouble, a good many weapons were left
among the people, to the injury of various localities.
Some time ago I laid down clear rules for giving up such arms. In
case any train bands are still in possession of weapons, and have
not complied with the law, they must at once do so, and give them up
to prevent trouble.
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As to native Christians in possession of munitions of war, they must
also deliver them up. No private individual will be permitted to
carry weapons about his person in order to disarm suspicion and
avoid trouble.
Year before last the Boxers caused disturbances, killing, plundering;
but these are now old scores which should not be raked up.
Aside from instructing all under my jurisdiction to comply with the
above orders, I put out this proclamation, hoping that the gentry
and people will take note of this and comply.
Hereafter the people and the Christians must not seek to retaliate
against each other, or accuse each other, and bring on further
trouble, but be forever at peace with each other.
Tremble and obey!
