396 
CHINESE OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS* 
many of the Imperial kindred had taken names, containing three characters, 
and which did not form a Tartar word. He requested that all such should be 
ordered to change their names. His request is by no means proper. Those 
under the Tartar Banners, adopting a Chinese name, are not permitted to 
take three characters.* This is with the intention that they may be distin- 
guished from Chinese names. 
“ The Sons of the Eight Banners take Tartar names, in which three or 
f our characters are used, and from the change of the termination of a word, 
they do not well agree with the Tartar language. Of this class, it is difficult 
to ascertain the number. If they be ordered to change, it will occasion 
much trouble and confusion and be unsuitable to the dignity of Govern- 
ment. 
“ It is ordered, that in all these case they act as heretofore. It is unne- 
cessary to deliberate upon it. 
“ Respect this” 
* There are generally three characters in Chinese names. 
