Yuan's reply to this memorial reads as follows.
Tang Chi-yao and Jen Ko-cheng have prayed us twice to become Emperor and ascend the Throne at an early date in earnest and truthful tones. In their telegrame dated prior to the lst (December), they reported there were rebels secretly spreading sedition in Yun-but as they had taken very intent precautions, no possible outbreak could happen. Yet soarce-
Ko-cheng, who are responsible for the safety of the territory, but who have been unable to uphold their authority, are truly blameable, when ther they were acting under coercion
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.