We know that the Empire is in very troublous times.Unless we adopt Western methods，it is impossible to save our Empire；unless we remove the old-fashioned Conservative Ministers and put in their stead young and intelligent men possessed of a knowledge of Western affairs，it is impossible to carry out the reforms we had intended. But the Empress Dowager does not agree with me；we have repeatedly advised Her Majesty，but she becomes more and more enraged.We are now afraid that we will not be able to protect our Throne.You are hereby commanded to consult with Yang Jui，Liu Kuang-ti，Tan Tze-tung and Lin Hsi? and all who hold similar principles and see what assistance you can give to save us. We are very anxious and distressed and are anxiously waiting for your assistance.

《字林西报》1898年10月24日，即光绪二十四年九月初十日