p-201eda-ich

Since I must be absent from this capital city for more than one week to visit the province of São Paulo and since it is necessary for the good of the people and their private and public peace and security that the business of government should not suffer as a result of my temporary absence, I consider it appropriate that my ministers and secretaries of state continue to attend at the Palace on the prescribed days, and under the leadership of the Crown Princess of the United Kingdom of Portugal, Brazil and the Algarves, my most beloved and esteemed wife, continue the normal business of the various secretariats and public offices, which shall be done in my name as if I were present. I also consider it appropriate that my State Council continue to sit in session on the agreed days or as necessary, also under the leadership of the same Crown Princess, who is hereby empowered, with the aforementioned ministers and secretaries of state, to undertake whatever measures are necessary or required for the well-being and safety of this state. And she shall apprise me without delay of all developments that they may be approved and endorsed by me, for I fully expect that she will undertake nothing which is not in accordance with existing laws and the best interests of this nation.

The Minister and Secretary of State for the Kingdom and Foreign Affairs will please accept that this is my wish and undertake whatever measures are necessary to ensure that this is carried out.

At the Palace of Rio de Janeiro, on 13th August 1822, with the signature of HRH the Prince Regent.