to choose the course that will be advantageous to us. This is not
reluctantly yielding to the request of the Entente Allies. It is the
course we must take in our present situation.

THE REASON FOR DECLARING WAR

"The presumptuous manner in which Germany has replied to our demand
is an open affront to our national integrity. Recently Germany has
deliberately shown hostility to our advice by reiterating her
determination to carry out the ruthless submarine policy with
increased vigour. All these are reasons for diplomatic rupture as
well as for declaration of war. Furthermore, the peace of the Far
East was broken by the occupation of Kiachow by Germany. This event
marked the first step of the German disregard for international law.
In the interests of humanity and for the sake of what China has
passed through, she should rise and punish such a country, that
dared to disregard international law. Such a reason for war is
certainly beyond criticism.

THE TIME TO DECLARE WAR

"War should be declared as soon as possible. The reason for the
diplomatic rupture is sufficient reason for declaring war. This has
already been explained. It would be impossible for us to find an
excuse for declaring war if war be not declared now. According to
usual procedure war is declared when the forces of the two countries
come into actual conflict. Now such a possibility does not exist
between China and Germany. Since it is futile to expect Germany to
declare war on us first, we should ask ourselves if war is
necessary. If not, then let us go on as we are, otherwise we must
not hesitate any more.

"Some say that China should not declare war on Germany until we have
come to a definite understanding with the Entente Allies respecting
certain terms. This is indeed a wrong conception of things. We
declare war because we want to fight for humanity, international law
and against a national enemy. It is not because we are partial
towards the Entente or against Germany or Austria. International
relations are not commercial connexions. Why then should we talk
about exchange of privileges and rights? As to the revision of
Customs tariff, it has been our aspiration for more than ten years
and a foremost diplomatic question, for which we have been looking
for a suitable opportunity to negotiate with the