Entry

The Ministry of War re-submitted several maritime defence proposals put forward by the Fu-jian Grand Coordinator Chen Zi-zhen: " ...4. Training in the use of firearms. The Japanese (倭奴) are most skilled with fowling guns (烏銃). We have the technological advantage of the "Senior General" Fo-lang-ji guns, with their great fire-power. A circular notice should be sent to grand coordinators and grand defenders requiring them to test and assess one-by-one, which of the coastal war-ships are suited to the use of firearms. The weapons must be well-crafted and strong so that in battle they do not explode and cause damage. The troops must also be trained in using the weapons so that when meeting the enemy they are not startled..." An Imperial order was issued noting: "The Japanese yi are changeable and guileful. These coastal defence proposals are to be circulated as orders and fully implemented. There must be no carelessness in this as such will result in criminal charges."