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We have discussed the future as though the National Con-

ference would probably decide in favour of a Republic, but it would be rash to assume that it will do so. And we must not leave out of account the influence of the Great Powers. Japan will no doubt exercise whatever pressure she properly can to prevent the establishment of a Republic, which would be very distasteful to her. We believe that the plan of putting the Manchu House at the mercy of the people has been conceived in the interests of peace and solely for the good of China. We sincerely hope that the solution will be a happy one.

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