ABSTRACT
The streets were full of white uniforms, and calling of bugles, and rumbling of artillery. The armies of Japan, for the third time in history, had subdued Korea; and Imperial declaration of war against China. All the military powers of Empire were in motion. Many killed themselves on being refused chance of military service; and author cites at random a few strange facts from the local press. The gendarme at Soul, ordered to escort Minister Otori back to Japan, killed himself for chagrin at not allowed to try instead to the field of battle. The samurai, before going into a hopeless contest, sometimes killed his wife and children the better to forget those three things no warrior should remember on the battle-field, namely, home, the dear ones, and his own body. Special subscriptions also collected in every street for support of the families of the troops of the reserves, married men. The citizens voluntarily and solemnly pledged themselves to supply.
