prince kung restored to his former rank, September 11, 1874

prince kung restored to his former rank.

Imperial decree.

We have received the following gracious behest from their Imperial Majesties, the Empress Dowager Tsz’an and the Empress Dowager Tsz’hi: “His Majesty having yesterday sent orders that Prince Kung be degraded from his rank of hereditary prince imperial to be a prince royal, and his son, Tsai-Ching, be degraded from his rank of beili prince royal, owing to the former having, when summoned into the presence, failed in proper respect in his words and remarks; (we admit) that there has been a decree of error in this which has merited rebuke. But we now recall to mind, since the said prince imperial took part in the affairs of the government, how untiring and diligient he has always been, as the records amply show. Let additional favor therefore be shown by restoring him to his rank of hereditary prince imperial, and his son to his rank of beili prince royal, thus at once marking favor to both of them.

“The said prince imperial will not fail to understand and profit by the admonition embedied in this act of His Majesty, and will, in future, increase his zeal and sincerity in at sending to all duties confided to him, and assisting government through its difficulties.

“I respect this.”

Same date as the above notice. Prince Kung returns thanks for the favor shown in retaining him in the great council.

In the Gazette of the next day (September 12) is: Prince Kung returns thanks for the mark of favor in restoring him to his dignity of hereditary prince imperial. Tsai-Ching returns thanks for the mark of favor in restoring his rank of beili prince royal.