The text describes a chilling directive issued during a dark period in history, as reported by a South American mercenary serving in Turkey. He details an order from the Governor-General of the province of Armenia, instructing local officials in Adil Javus to carry out a brutal extermination of all Armenian males aged twelve years and older. This reflects the horrific treatment of the Armenian population in that era, underscoring the severity of the violence and oppression they faced.

This account, found in "The Abyss: World War I and the End of the First Age of Globalization" by Niall Ferguson, emphasizes the widespread and systematic nature of such atrocities. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of war and the deep-seated animosities that can lead to such tragic events. The mercenary's report provides a stark illustration of the brutal realities of conflict and the human cost of political decisions made during tumultuous times.