Memo 1SZ-03-01

To Dou Xun and Shi Dayong, 

''We receive, with not a little alarm, the seditious and rebellious communication you have discovered which purports to be written by the Prince of Kunyang. ''

''While the evidence does seem solid that he has written this, we remain doubtful that someone like the Prince of Kunyang would write something this shocking. Even the former Prince of Shuoyang, who actually rose in revolt with an army and might have had occasion to insult us most gravely, did not do this. Why, then, the Prince of Kunyang?''

''Given that our route passes by the Prince of Kunyang's residence, but not any of the other elder princes, this is both a coincidence and out of keeping with the Prince of Kunyang's character. As such, we strongly suspect something is askew. ''

''We hereby command you both to investigate this thoroughly. While we do not know what the truth might be and have no certain direction, you are to investigate with vigour. Should the need arise to use coercion in gaining information, you may consider this memo as authorisation - though any action that leads to maiming or severe injury must not be done without notification. ''