Bingham to Evarts, May 31, 1877

No. 200. Mr. Bingham to Mr. Evarts.

Sir: On the 10th instant a notification that pardon will be granted to such of the insurgents as will lay down their arms, &c, was proclaimed by the imperial army, a translation of which as published in the Japan Herald of date of the 25th instant I have the honor to inclose herewith in duplicate.

I have, &c.,

[From the Japan Daily Herald, May 25, 1877.]

The following has been proclaimed by the imperial army:

“notification.

“On examination of Satsuma prisoners it has been discovered that many of them, in following their leader, thought they were acting for the interests of the country, and had no idea they were in rebellion against the imperial authority. It has also come to light that a report has been circulated that the imperialists would never forgive them now, even if they should surrender themselves, and therefore they have resolved to fight to the death. This is a great pity, because the report is entirely false. Whosoever repents of his rebellion and surrenders himself will receive his pardon. This they ought to consider, and without a moment’s loss surrender in order to escape the stigma of traitors. Let this be known.