English: An old Chinese passport [^1] issued to a German by Qing Dynasty's imperialist envoy [^2] in Germany, dated on 3 February 1898, which states:

Démarche of Protection. The Great Qing's imperialist envoy to the Germany, Lü, issuing a démarche of protection. Be it in the démarche that, HaiSi [^3], German, departing from the German capital Berlin, to the port of Genoa in Italy, boarding a ship of the BaYanDe [^4] company, on a cruise to Nanjing, Shandong, Zhili, Mongolia and elsewhere, for which a démarche of protection was requested in person. All local authorities and checkpoints on the way are hereby requested by this démarche to offer protection and avoid delay. Be this a démarche of protection.

Delivered to HaiSi [^3] in his receipt and possession.

On this 13rd day, 1st month [^5], in the year 24 of Guangxu.

Checkpoints on the way are requeted to take notes of this démarche on the right.

Restrict: surrender between the ____ and ____ day.

Editorial Notes. [^1] Chinese literal translation: démarche of protection. Since it's issued to a Germen national by the Chinese Government, it's not a "passport" but a "visa" as per today's concept. [^2] equivalent to Ambassador today. [^3] a Chinese translation of a German's name, where the original text is unverifiable. [^4] a Chinese translation of a company's name, where the original text is unverifiable. [^5] months per Chinese calendar.