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The hereditary princes were then asked for an expression of
opinion. The majority of them knew little of foreigners and
foreign countries, and as Prince Tuan, the father of the future
Emperor, had expressed himself so strongly, they hesitated to
offer an adverse opinion. But when it came to Prince Su, a man of
strong character, widely versed in foreign affairs, and of
independent thought, he opposed the measure most vigorously.
"Who," he asked, "are these Boxers? Who are their leaders? How
can they, a mere rabble, hope to vanquish the armies of foreign
nations?'
Prince Tuan answered that "by their incantations they were able
to produce heaven-sent soldiers."
Prince Su denounced such superstition as childish. But when after
further argument between him and Prince Tuan the Empress Dowager
assured him that she had had them in the palace and had witnessed
their prowess, he said no more.
The imperial princes were then consulted, but seeing how Prince
Su had fared they were either in favour of the measure or
non-committal. Finally the Empress Dowager appealed to Prince
Ching who, more diplomatic than the younger princes, answered:
"I consider it a most dangerous undertaking, and I would advise
against it. But if Your Majesty decides to cast in your lot with
the Boxers I will do all in my power to further your wishes."
It is not a matter of wonder therefore that the Empress Dowager
should be led into such a foolish measure as the Boxer movement,
when the Prince who had been president of the Foreign Office for
twenty-five years could so weakly acquiesce in such an
undertaking
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