No. 5., January 6, 1868, (12th day of the 12th month.)
No. 5.
Protest of Daimios, sent to Mikado.
The imperial design of a great change which was lately determined upon, with the view of promoting peace and harmony in our country, by establishing a policy that would avoid the many evils that have hitherto existed, (ei,) that of having many heads instead of one, and which was to have been discussed at a general meeting of the Daimios, and while all classes of the people were expecting this consultation with anxiety, the armies of the summoned princes suddenly appeared at the court of the Mikado, on the 3d of January, 1868, (the last 9th day,) warlike equipped. Consequently great surprise and excitement have taken place.
We are informed that Nijo Deuka, who held office during the reign of the late Mikado, as well as up to the present time, and several other nobles, have been dismissed; and we are also informed that the Shogoon will likewise be deprived of his office, title, and estate. We are not aware of the reason of the Tycoon’s being so dealt with, but we apprehend the result of the contemplated reform in the government if the Mikado is influenced by these dissenters, more especially in this time when all classes of the people praise him for having surrendered to the Mikado the great power which has descended to him from his ancestors, besides having accused himself of incompetency, and also in his using every effort to support the imperial cause.
We sincerely desire that orders will be given immediately to prevent warlike people from frequenting the imperial residence, so as to calm as quick as possible the general excitement.
We also earnestly desire that the public affairs will be managed in such a manner as will be decided only by a majority at a general assembly, and that the proposed reform will be carried into effect.
As we look upon the present condition of our country as very critical, we have taken this liberty, which we feel our duty, and which we trust you will not find amiss.
With respect and esteem,