ANDOVER-HARVARD LIBRARY
AH 3NUM J
Period 3000
GAYEHOLSTER
P's. CXIX, JOILXVII)
aigetis #Y XP הבינני
170.10 Period 300
J. 3.15.
INSTITVTIONTOLOGIC
FLY OOSTERIAVANIA A
Ps.CXIX, 100.
JOHLXXII. 17.
77372-620705
CHINESE REPOSITO
FROM JANUARY TO DECEMBER, 1841.
PRINTED FOR THE PROPRIETORS.
ACCOUNTANT, story of an. Affairs with the English.. Agriculture in Japan... Alceste island, notice of. Alcoholic liquor invented. America, how first peopled. Americans, attempts of, to enter
Arms, supply of, to Chinese. Arts among the Japanese.. Authors, a list of distinguished... Averil's travels in the east.
81 British forces in China...57,478,688 529 British merchants return to Canton 233 284||Broken island, or Mamuh shan.....268 .371 Broughton in the Japanese sea..160 126 Brown, Rev. S. R., reports by........564 .311 Budhism introdnced into China..140 Buffaloe's Nose, notice of the....254 .160||Burial places inviolable.......
Amoy, English beaten from Amoy, heroes of rewarded. 445 CABINET, a new one at Peking..200 Amoy, fall of its defenses.. .525 Cabinet, members of the imperial. 56 Amoy, forces left at................ 527,623||Cabinet, new measures of...682,684 Amoy, losses of the Chinese at...590||Calendar for the year 1841............ Amoy, notices of the city....638,686 Caine, capt. William, of Hongkong 236 Amoy, the capture of............. 524,621 Cambridge, the British ship.....179 Anchorage on the Chusan shore..261||Cannibalism, an instance of......349 Ancient learning, a view of............. 4 Canton, list of officers at.... Anecdotes of the Japanese. 72 Canton, state of affairs at ...529,687 Angling for frogs by Chinese....472 Canton, the defenses of..... Anglochinese College deed. 32 Canton, the capture of.........535 Anstruther, capture of capt... 506||Canton river, operations on the.......179 Anstruther revisits Ningpo. 588 Canton, attacked by Brit. fors. 295,391 527 Canton, the ransom of the city...296 .279 Canton, the bombardment of.....340 9 Cantor, Dr., collections by ..434 301 Cape Montague, notice of the....253 Cards of invitation to marry..... 68 BELCHER, a letter from capt.....548 Cathay, early attempts to reach..245 Benevolent Societies in China... 52 Central Asia, notice of... Bengal govt. notification... 535 Central islands, notice of the....257 Bible, work of translating the.... 30 Che hwangte, the reign of......136 Bilbaino, indemnity for, paid.. ....424||Chĕkeäng, affairs in...... Black island, or Heishan. ..........371||Chesapeake, the ship, burnt..............120 Blackheath, or Chang too, island.270 Chinaman, the character of a....105 Blackwall or Tsihtsze.. ..267||Chin Leënshing, shot in battle.. 41 Blood, use of, among the Chinese. 104||Chin dynasty, notices of the....146 Bocca Tigris, the fail of the.....116 Chow dynasty, notice of the.....132 Bocca Tigris, the defenses at. 110||Chow dynasty, the after or second 152 Bogue, the several forts at. 37 Chimmo, B, naval secretary.....475 Bogue, the battle of the.... .176||China, its first inhabitants.. .248 Books burnt by Che hwangte.... 136 Chinese empire, stute of the...........246 Bremer, sir J. J., appointed plenipo 352 Chinhae attacked and taken........626 Britain tributary to China.......340Chinhae, Chinese losses at......588
Chinhae, notices of..
685||E Yin, the faithful minister,......128 Chinhae, notices of the place....636 Economy of Chinese workmen..473 Christian books in China... .644 Edict, urging on the war........ .283 Christians, early in China.. .311 Edwards, Mr. A. P. seizure of...639 Chookeätseen, notice of the.......... .260||Elephant island, notice of.......... Chronology of the Chinese. .121 Elepoo, tial and condemnation of.633 Chuenpe, the battle of.......37,108 Eliza, the ship, goes to Japan..........161 Chubshan island, notice of the...373 Emperors of the Ta Tsing dynasty 593 Chusan, the government of...... 57 English intercourse with Japan..168 Chusan, under It.-governor Lew.. 118 Examinations, literary instituted..148 Chusan archipelago, notice of the 251 Expedition moves northward.....523 Chusan, notices of 264,425,587,636,686 Expedition, progress of the second 587 Chusan, topographical notice of..328 Chusan, meterological observa- {tions made at............
354 Fire in suburbs of Tinghae?!:515 (husan, medical operations at...453 | Fisher's island, notice of....! 75.270 Chusan, reminiscences of. .481 Fisherman and pirates at war!!::528 Chusan attacked and taken.....623||Fourmont, the conduct of. ... .::.673 Chwostoff's visit to Japan. ... 166 French commercial mis. to E. A..688 Classes of people in Japan.. 17 Friend of India, note from.......560 Classical literature of China. .593 Fube and his cotemporaries.....124 Climate of Chusan island. .428 Fuhkeen, account of by gov. Yen.639 Coast of China, surveys on the..371 Fuhtoo shan, the island, notice of 257 Coins among the Japanese... .282
FIELD, the death of Mr...
...285 ..286
Colleges in the city of Tinghae..490 GAMBLING by quadrating cash....474 Coloural Magazine, note from....560 Gardeners, the Japanese. Columbine goes to Chusan.....291 Gazette, the Hongkong... Commerce of Japan.
.282 Geology of the Chinese coast...425 Commerce of Chusan..
429 Gifts conferred by Taoukwang... 90 Commissioners, three imperial...234 Gode, Record of the Chinese.... 87 Compass invented by duke Chów 132||Gold, abundance of, in China........248 Confucius, the writings of..... Confucius, conversation with... Conspiracy in Japan.
Consuls, foreign in China. Coolidge, seizure of Mr..
Corea, coast of, noticed
Corkers, or isolated reefs..
Coronation of Taoukwang.
646 Golownin's visit to Japan... .614 Government of Japan.
..166 - 10
75 Gough, sir Hugh's dispatches....535 58 Gough, sir Hugh, arrival of......184 415 Gough's Passage, notice of......256 378,380 Grammar of the Chinese... ...222 253 Grammatica Sinica, notice of....678
87 Granaries at Tinghae..
Counsels, division of, at Peking...682 Grattan; captain.7 Crucifixion of Japanese..
77 Gulf of Cheihle, tides in the
Cruelty of Japanese government.. 75 Cycle of sixty years....
· D ̧v, Dr., a recominendatory
letter from...
Deer island, passage.
.483 .687
122,125 HALF-TIDE rock, notice of the...253 Heä dynasty, notices of the..... ..126 Heäke Mun, notice of the..
Defenses at Amoy noticed.. Dictionary, a Latin-Chinese, by
Prémore...
567 Heights above Canton.
263 Han dynasty, the eastern, noticed 140 525 Han dynasty, notice of the.......138 Han dynasty, the After... .140,150
.674 Hangchow, the dangers of....679.685 Douglas, lieut., shipwrecked.....193 Hangchow, notices of the city....643 Douglas, lieut., notice of his cage.508 Heerjee bhoy Rustomjee's donation 479 Drollery among the Japanese... Drought, seven years of.. Dual powers, notice of the... Duelling by Japanese, notice of..
80 Herbert, an official let. from capt. 549 .128 History of China, Magaillans'....641
49 History made easy.
80, History, method of studying....
Hobson, Dr., Medical report by...465||Krusenstern's visit to Japan.....14 Holidays consecrated to worship. 70 Kungtung, notice of....... Holderness Rock, notice of the...252 Kutsu or Kootsze, island.........267 Hongkong, rules and regulations of 287 Kuper, A. L, official letter of....547 Hongkong declared a British set- Kwan Teenpei, commander-in-
tlement.. Hongkong made a free port. Hongkong, sale of lands at.
...109 350 Kwan Teenpei, the family of....687 .351 Kwan shan, notice of,..
52-LACKER-Work in Japan.
Hongkong, the population of, 289,592 Kwokenso, a military post.......256 Hongkong, British settlement of. 240 Hongkong, affairs at.. Hongkong Gazette, notice of Hospital for foreign, seamen. Hospitals in Tinghae city. Houki, notice of the island.
286 Lampoon on governor Tăng .479 Tingching
495 Land Measure, notice of....................652
374 Language, study of the Chinese.. 48
Lanterns, manufacture of. 430 Laoukeun, notices of..
ICE and icebouses, in Tinghae. Illustrations of men, &c... .49,104,172||Laws of the Japanese.
472,519,613,662 Laxmann, visit of, to Japan......168 130 Leäng, the After, dynasty...··,150 516||Leäng, the dynasty.
Images, invention of. Indian Oak, wreck of the.,... Interview with the imperial com-
missioner Keshen. Innes, death of Mr. James.. Instructions, notice of the sacred..593 Island, one to be possessed,
Leaoutung, cost of ...
.118,675
.517 Letters, specimen of Chinese.....617 .424 Lew Yunko's memorials.
Lew Yunko, conduct of.........
513 Lewchew, death of an envoy from 688 Lewis, letter of king, to the emp. 312 .688|Library, catalogue of the imperial. 2 10,72,160,205 |Library, a Chinese, in England.. 35
279,309||Lin goes to Chěkeäng.
JANCIGNEY, Colonel A. de, Japan, notices of
292 Japan, the population of.. 16 Lin sent to the Yellow river ...........592 Japanese, the language of the....205 Literature of the Chinese....550,669 Japanese, national character of the 72 Lockhart, Dr. medical report by..453 Japanese, the religion of the....309 Long Measure of the Chinese. 649 Japanese, some shipwrecked. .120 Louisa, loss of the cutter. ..407 Jesuit missionaries..
..301 Lowang, description of ......255.256 Jocelyn's Six Months' narrative.,510 Luh Tseihchang, report of. Johnston, A. R.. gov. of Hongkong 351 Julien on Chinese particles.... 222 MACAO, medical practice in......465 Justice, the administration of....249 Macao, the government of...
Magaillans, funeral of.. KAEFUNG FOO, Fuhe's capital....124 Magaillans' History of China. Kanghe's yoluminous writings....599 Magaillans, life of father G.,, Kanghe, character of the emperor.599|| Malacca, the college at.. Keäking, character of the emperor 90 Malcolm, arrival of major G. A...475 Keshen, an interview with. .517||Mantchous, early history of the.,642 Keshen's correspondence.... .502|| Manufactures in Japan. Keshen's memorial on state affairs 235 Maria, the schooner, lost. Keshen, a memorial from....
10 Marriage ceremonies..
Keshen, particulars of his trial...590 Matsoo Po, the goddess. Keshen, edicts respecting.
.111 Medical philanthropic society. 21
Keshen, degradation and recall of. 184 Medical practice in China.. Keshen, charges against..
Kintang, the island of.
Kite, loss of the ship. Kitto point, the situation of.
.352 Medical Missionary Society...52,448 .267 Mei-shan, or Plumb island.
191 Memorial from Keshen..
.257 ..235
253 Memorial from Yilishan.
Mencius, biography of.
Mencius, the writings of.........
Mercy, the goddess of...
648 Parsees, character of the... 185 Parsees Journals of two.....
320||Parker, arrival of sir William....475
...653 ...852
Meshan and Lanjett, island of....254 Parsees, language and books of...657 Meterological observations ..354||Parsees, religion of the.... Miaotaou, the group of islands...875|| Particles, remarks on Chinese....222 Mikado, character of the... 10||Patahecock, position of the island 252 Mile, its length in Chinese.....651 Pei ho, mouth of the river... .376 Military, duty of the Japanese.... 14 Pellew, captain of the Phæton.... 72 Military operations on the coast..438 People encouraged to take arms..529 Militia, native, at Canton.... 592 People in Canton, bad feeling of..527 Mines, the opening of, mooted....685 Perfidy of the Chinese government 119 Ming dynasty, notices of the.....156 Persians, language of the ancient. 660 Minister to the court of Peking..475 Phaeton's entrance to Nagasaki 72,168 Miscellany, a Chinese toy-book..613 Philological works of Dr. Morrison 31 Morrison, boat of the ship....295,415 Phleghthon, arrival of the steamer 424 Morrison, memoir of Dr..
25 Picture of the battle at Canton...519 Morrison Education Society.....52,564||Pihkwan, situation of....... Mountain, lieut.-colonel, D. A. G..391||Pirates, numerouns and trouble- Mountaineers, the independent. .644 some..'.
NAGASAKI; government of.... National titles introduced.... Native words, bad use of. Natural history of Chusan. Navigation through China. Nemesis, proceedings of the
Pirates, destruction of near Chusan 515 16 Plenipotentiary, policy of the new 476 .138 Ploughman, an island..
560 Poetry of the Japanese..
.434 Policy of the new plenipotentiary.476 .645 Poo Nang che tsang sin, Sack of
Wisdom...
steamer..
636 Poote, notice of the island. Nestorian Christians enter Chita 148 Population of Hongkong. Nine islands in Chusan Archipel..269||Population of Tinghae. Ningpo, letter from the prison in..119 Pottinger, arrival of sir Henry....475 Ningpo, military operations at........291||Pottinger, commissions of sir H...476 Ningpo, Brit occupation of...588,629 Powers of nature illustrat d..... 49 Ningpo, notices of the city. 636||Pratt, major, commands at Chuenpe 38 Ningpo, fall of the city.. 676 Princes in Japan, character of.....13 Noble, a narrative by Mrs.......119 Prisoners at Ningpo released..... 120 Noble, Mrs., embarke for England 424 Prisons in Japan, notices of the.. 21 Note-book, Leaves from a soldier's 510 Proclamation, an imperial.......6×3 Notices of China, No. 5.......... 65|| Proclamations about Hongkong.. 63 Notifications from Bengal govt.....535||Proclamations to the people of Notitia Linguae Sinicæ,.,. .671 Canton....
.180 Proclamations by captain Elliot..344 ODE of Soo Hwuy, translation of.663 Promotions in the Chinese army..445 Official rank, sale of.
,684 Punctuation, new mode of....
Office, the magistrate's, of Chusan 487 Punishments in Japan....
Opiuni, Jocelyn's notice of the
trade in.....
Oswainong, or Black rock. Outrages against Chinese,
P'wankoo, meaning of the word 49,123 .512 .259 QUEBAN islands, surveys of the...251 523 530||Queen, notice of the steamer..
Painting among the Japanese...279 Paper, collection of waste.
Paper, the manufacture of.... Paper, when invented.. Parke's history of the Chinese
Quoin, or the Kiaoushan........374
104 RAINBOW, Chinese name of the.. 50 281 Ransom of the Canton city......349 13 Rebellion of the Yellow caps....
95 Regulations for Hongkong... .287 241 Religious sects
Jupau.....
Religion of the Japanese. Reminiscences of Chusan
309 Surveys, extension of.
.481 Suy dynasty, the northern... 144,146 448 Suy dynasty, notices of the After. 152
Report of the M. M. Society. Report of the M. E. Society.. .568 Syllabaries of the Japanese... Residents in China, list of....... 5 Szema Kwang, notice of. . . . . . . . 152 Residents in, China, address to... 44 Szeme Tseen, the historiographer 138 Rewards for British subjects..120,174 Robert's passage, notice of... Routes, the various, to China. Russia, the discovery, of.... Russian intercourse with Japan.
256 TA Tsing dynasty, notices of the... 158 .310 Tae Shan, notice of the island.. 270 .245 Taikok, the defenses at.........110
162 Taoukwang's succession.
Taoukwang's slaughter of rebels,. 98 150
SABBATH, ohservance of the..... 49 Tang dynasty, the After.. Sack of Wisdom, review of the..550 Tang dynasty, notices of the.............148 Sacred Instructions of Ta Tsing..593 Tăng Shun's paper on foreigners.531 Sailing north, the order of... 524 Tăng Tingching banished to Ele .424 San Kwo Che, notice of the......... 98 Tang Tingching, memorial from..443 Sarah Gally Passage.
259 Tang Tingtsae, prefect of Ningpo 685 School-books, a desideratum.....577 Tang Tingtse of Ningpo... Schools for Chinese in Macao....568 Tea, impost on, commenced,. Schools for Chinese in Singapore.575 Teaouchow mun, notice of.......257 Schools for Chinese in Malacca..575 Teaohwa shan, notice of. Sciences among the Japanese,...26 Teën te, a Chinese goddess.. Seaouping taou, notice of... 379 Teenming, first Mantchou sov....595 Senhouse, dispatches of sir Le F..545 Teëntsin, defenses at..... Senhouse, sir H. Le F. death of..352 Time, divisions of, in Japan........216 Self-destruction of the Japanese.. 72 Tinghae, capture of the city..484,514
Seogun, character of the. Shaluyteen, notice of the.
Shakok, the defenses at.. Shamo, a small island..
.....686
..373 261
11 Tinghae city, description of.......... 332 377 Thnghae, proclamation at.. ..625 110 Tinghae, notices of the city. .487 373 Tinghae situation of the city 260,263 Shang dynasty, notices of.......125 Tinker, a cliff steep rock... Shang dynasty, name changed...130 Titles called the Meaou haou....132 Shantung promontory, notice of...373 Toki, notice of the island.... Shaou Yung, the report of......676 Tower Hill, the passage.. Sheihluh mun, or Sixteen passages 265 Toybook, review of a Chinese...613 Sheppy, the island of..... 269 Trade, interruption of, at Canton.292 Sherry, loss of the sailor-boy....419 Treacherous conduct of Chinese..292 Shinkeä mun, or Singkamong. ....264 Treachery of Chinese officers....527 Ships, list of, for January 1841... 61 Treaty, preliminaries for a... .... 63 Shunche, the reign of....... .597 Troops in and near Canton 240 Sickness of troops at Hongkong..618 Troops, number of, in Canton...421 Singapore institution schools...34,53 Trumball island anchorage.
.263 Sinkong or Chinkeäng.
266 Tse dynasty, notices of the................ 144 Soldiers of righteousness.. 350 Tsin dynasty, notices of the..136,142 Soldiers, character of Chinese........514||Tsin dynasty, the Eastern. Sovereigns, the three august.123,231 Tsin dynasty, the After.... Sow Shin Ke, Records of the gods 87 Tsotang, new one in Macao......292 Spies, description of Japanese.... 15 Tung Keen Kang Muh, notice of. 7 Stead, the death of captain......291 Tung Yuen Tsă taze, a toy-book.613 Succession in Japan, rule of......... 78 Tungcha shan, notice of.........372 Superintendents of British trade.. 58 Tungtsze Kong, the bay of......378 Sung dynasty, notices of the Twan Yungfuh, notice of....
Southern..
.155 Tyfoons, notices of two.
..143 .150
Tyfoons at Hongkong..
USEFUL Knowledge Society....
VESSEL, a sunken ohe, raised... Vessels of the Japanese. Victoria bay, description of... Victoria bay, notices of... Victoria, speech of queen.
620|| Writers on Chinese affairs.
Writing apparatus, a portable....667 53|| Writing of the Chinese.
82 YANGTSZE keäng, survey of. 283|| Yellow caps, the rebellion of the.. 98 380 Yen, memorial from governor....639 379 Yibking appointed generalissimo.683 290 Yihshan, imperial commissioner.234
Yihshan's memorials.
WALKS, Chinese mode of making 172 Yihshan's crooked policy........528 Wall, notice of the Great....136,519 Yu Paoushan, prefect of Canton..527 Walls, Chinese mode of making..172 Yu Pooyun general... ..503,676 Wanton use of native words.....560 Yu the Great, prosperous times of. 126 War, the progress of the.....176,688 Yuen- dynasty, notices of the...154 Warren, an official let. from capt..549 Yuhwhang Shangte, sketch of...305 Whelps; a group of islands......253 Yukeen's memorial. Wisdom, review of a Sack of....550 Yukeen's conduct at Chinbae... :588 Woman, Memoir of distinguished. 138 Yukeen, notice of the deatn of.. 680 Woo Tsunle Leih vuen." Woo Shingkeuen Tseotsae. Woosnam, Mr., assistant surgeon 475 Worshiper, an idolatrous..
4 Yungching's character & writings 603 7 Yuyaou, a visit to the city. J.688
173 ZOROASTER, the religion of... 659
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CHINESE REPOSITORY.
VOL. X.-JANUARY, 1841.- No. 1.
ART. I. Chinese history: its value and character, as viewed and exhibited by native historians; with a notice of the work entitled History Made Easy.
Who does not wish to know the full history of the Chinese? time, the manner, and the route, by which the progenitors of the blackhaired race reached the hills of Tang-their leader and his line of ancestors, with all the knowledge, traditional or self-taught, possessed by him-the rise and progress of learning in every depart- ment, concerning things and relations, civil, social, and moral,- such as the invention of writing and the materials for executing it, the wheel and the loom, and the successive steps in bringing to per- fection the various products of the soil in both their natural and arti- ficial states-architecture and the vast varieties of handicrafts, with every branch of knowledge whereof these all are applications-schools, of every grade and class, with their numerous regulations-domestic and state policy, in their all-but-endless changes-oh, who would not like to draw back the veil that now shrouds the past and look through the vista of bygone ages, and see in their germ and progress all those things which now fill, or ought to fill, the history of the Chi- nese empire? But is this practicable? Can any one venture upon such an undertaking? For drawing a map of the empire in its ori- ginal state-for ascertaining the situation of the first little colony- and for marking the earliest advances in the arts and manufactures- where can the historian collect his trustworthy materials? In fact, do any exist? If so, what and where? Are there monuments, or
VOL. X. NO. 1.
Chinese History.
testimonies and witnesses of any kind, capable of being wrought into an edifice so complete that it shall exhibit the successive dynasties, as they rise one after another, in full relief and in their true propor- tions? For completing all that the most curious can desire, doubtless the requisite materials cannot be found; but with our own present very limited knowledge of Chinese antiquities, it is quite impossible to say how much can be obtained, or what can be achieved.
Yet surely a faithful exhibition of whatever does exist, bearing the stamp of authenticity, will not, cannot fail, to interest the reader, and there- by secure in behalf of Sinim a degree of consideration not hitherto or at present enjoyed.
On a work so arduous, it were impossible to enter without being impressed with a deep sense of its greatness-too great ever to be accomplished except by the united strength of many. Brief and mis- cellaneous notes are all that we dare to promise; and for the imperfec- tion of these, we must crave the most candid indulgence of the critic. A complete history of China, from the earliest times, may be easily pictured in fancy; but in reality to draw forth the full outline, collect and arrange the materials, is a work far beyond the grasp of any single hand: our notes, however, though they must be brief and mis- cellaneous, shall usually, if not in all cases, be derived from original
Sources.
With a catalogue of the imperial library, 四庫書目,
Sze Foo Shoo Muh, by our side, for a guide, references can be made to the best authors; aud these it will be our endeavor as far as prac- ticable to consult. Sometimes we shall introduce translations, and sometimes analyses may be substituted, according as the one or the other may seem most likely to meet the wishes of our readers.
The Chinese empire-unsurpassed in its antiquity and almost un- rivalled in its extent and resources-now invites our attention. Na- tive historians,-who have studied with the best advantages for arriving at the truth-denying to the empire that duration which weaker and more credulous minds have conjectured-assign limits for it which do not much differ from the chronology of our own inspir- ed records. What these native historians have written, it shall be our endeavor to ascertain and to state. In our earlier volumes some short papers have been given-sketching an outline of Chinese history; and in our last volume, the reader has in his possession valuable biographical notices, by Rémusat, of some of the most eminent Chi- nese historians of ancient or of modern times. The writings of Szema Tseën, and those of other early historians, we shall have oc- casion frequently to consult; but we have here first to introduce to
Chinese History.
the notice of our readers a popular work of modern date: it is the 54p & Kang Keën E Che Luk, or History Made Easy. The character and value of Chinese history, generally, as viewed by native historians, are exhibited in an Introduction and Preface to this work more fairly than can be done by any equally': brief remarks of our own. And our readers, we presume, will not be displeased with these papers, although cumbered with the disadvan- tages almost inseparable from mere translations. The first paper a short Introduction, written by an uncle of the principal author, of which the following is a translation.
Introduction.
Succeeding the Annals written by Confucius
Tsew] and subsequently, in one grand whole illustrating the rise and fall of states, no work is superior to the Kang Muh; indeed the incidents comprised therein are so numerous, extending over a period of several thousand years, that the reader seems in an ocean, wide-spreading and boundless. Compilers-following brevity, par- ing off the redundancies-celebrated hands, have appeared in crowds; but their nice words and profound thoughts, the meaning of their lan- guage, the reality of their statements, are so imperfectly and obscurely expressed, that even those who are the most fond of learning and of profound thinking, with minds fitted to comprehend what they read, are yet without means of forming a connected chain of the events recorded. And this they are unable to do even after they have ex- amined other books and consulted their friends and teachers. Being myself ever fond of investigating the great principles of the Annals by Confucius, I have always found delight in perusing the entire Kang Muh (or Historical Principia). During the ten years and upwards that I held office in Shense, Szechuen, Shanse, and Honan, so completely was I engrossed with public affairs, that very few were the days afforded for the pleasures of historical reading. The mo ments of leisure that occasionally occurred were insufficient for the study of entire histories; and of the compilations, seized at intervals for reperusal, I was only able to comprehend their general import.
Formerly my relative, the honorable Lewtsun, a member of the Board of War, rising from the office of lieutenant-governor in Fuh- keen to the governorship of Kwangtung and Kwangse, with Tsootsae my nephew, having collected the productions of many ancient and
modern worthies of celebrity, compiled a work which they called
tit Koo Wan Kwan Che, or A Complete View of
Chinese History.
Ancient Learning [the Ne Plus Ultra of Ancient Lore]. This ny relative published, with an introduction of his own. Already it has circulated through the whole empire: as a corrector of youth, and as a work servicable to those of more advanced learning, its merits are neither few nor small.
"In the spring of this year I received an imperial commission, appointing me lieutenant-governor of Yunnan; and Tsootsae with his friends the Chows, Tsingchuen and Singjò, having prepared a draft of their work, entitled History Made Easy, sent it far away to me. Upon a cursory perusal of its-leading parts, I found it modeled after the Kang Muh, as compiled by Wang and Lew, with brevity and diffuseness, elegance and plainness, blended in an admirable manner. Selecting a chapter at random and carefully perusing it, I found that no principles had been omitted, no books left unconsulted; so that the readers, without examining other writings or consulting their friends and teachers, could comprehend it and form a connected chain of events. And I was also pleased to find that I now under- stood in the minutest details that of which before I had only obtained general ideas.
The terms "Made Easy," are fitly and correctly applied to it; and as a corrector of youth and a work servicable to those of more advanced learning, its merits far surpass the Koo Wan Kwan Che. Will not its popularity, therefore, excel in an equal ratio? I quickly directed its publication, having prepared for it this Introduction.
"Written by Tsunle Leihyen, uncle to the [principal] author, lieutenant-governor of Yunnan, assistant director of military affairs in Keenchang and Peihtseě and of the military stores in Szechuan and Kweichow, and one of the principal members of the Censorate, on an auspicious day, in the spring of 1712.
(L. S ) "Seal of Woo Tsunle Leihyen."
Here ends the commendatory essay of the patron of Woo Tsoo- tsae, Chow Tsingchuen, and Chow Singjo, the three joint authors, or rather compilers, of the History Made Easy. Immediately after the Introduction, we have from Woo Tsqotsae the following-
Preface.
"When a youth I had a strong inclination to read historical works, but had advanced even to old age, without having read through a single one: and why? Because, being naturally very dull, and unable quickly to comprehend what I read, it was, even while trying to understand it, suddenly forgotten. Moreover, my know-
Chinese History.
ledge of words being very limited, it was constantly necessary to consult authorities. Besides, early disabled by diseased feet, I had no mind for the study of the classics and general literature; while of cities and towns, of mountains and rivers, not one was visited. Although possessed of a strong inclination to read history, I was yet like the deaf devoid of hearing, and like the blind devoid of sight ; therefore ere the reading a single chapter was completed, 1 suddenly became disgusted and wearied. This was the reason why I never read through a single work. Still, although I possessed a strong in- clination to read history, and desired to study a multitude of books for perfecting my inquiries, and to visit all the noted hills and great rivers for the extension of iny observations, I deemed it impractica- ble. Hence I was led to inquire, what method of reading I should adopt in order to obtain the accomplishment of my wishes.
Always I have observed that those who found delight in history, were for the most part far more intelligent than other men, capable of compassing much at a glance, never forgetting what they had once read, and without any labored effort readily digesting what they had acquired; hence, when they read historical works, they must needs seek for such as were ample; and when they discoursed there- on they must necessarily be inclined to such as were profound; but those who are stupid, like myself, should take that history which is concise rather than those which are ample, and that which is plain rather than such as are profound; then perchance they may be able to obtain that to which they aspire.
"The two Chows, Tsingchuen and Singjō, were the friends of
my earliest years, my youthful fellow-students, engaged with me in the study of history. In the 43d year of Kanghe (A. D. 1705), having compiled from the Kang Muh a complete work, they submitted it to me as a model for historical reading; and immediately in conjunction. with them I engaged in its revision, which without interruption from the winter's cold or the summer's rain was continued for six succes-
sive years.
Displeased with the diffuse style of the manuscript, we aimed to select what was most important and to pare off what was redundant; and anxious to remove all obscurity, we labored to bring forward the general heads and to present them in the most perspicuous order.: Of the facts which were recorded therein we diligently searched for the origin and source, carefully describing and attentively explaining them, endeavoring to make them as distinctly visible as the finger laid in the pain of the hand, so as not to burden the mind or oppress the
Chinese History.
memory. The geography has been traced in such well defimed lines, and the ancient names so compared with the modern, that the whole seem as reality before your eyes, without shadow of error in any way whatsoever. The rivers, too, with their names and all their turnings and windings, are described with faithful precision. Obscure and difficult phraseology, and terms that are unusual or obsolete, are marked and pointed with such clearness and distinctness, that they may be read without impediment or hesitancy.. The writing of the: characters for words) and their words have been attended to and inarked with every possible care; so as to avoid following and perpe- tuating former error and mistakes such as writing loo for t yu,hae for she, &c. If in every place required, notes and explanations were to be introduced, they would be multiplied to an indefinite extent; their entire omission would be a capital defect, their too frequent repetition cumbersome; hence a systein of refer- ences has been adopted, which may serve to give life and animation, and add spirit and unity to the whole, not unlike the blood-vessel's that penetrate every part of the human body! Such, as here deline- ated, is the method of studying history, which, with grateful emotions- for its completion, I now subinit to the reader.
My former condition of inability to read through a single work while possessed of a strong inclination to study history, and the impracticability of obtaining such a method of reading as I desired obtained at length by the completion of the work compiled by my two friends, although unable to read a multitude of books for the perfect- ing of my inquiries or to traverse noted hills and great rivers for the extension of my information-compared with that previous state of having ears devoid of hearing and eyes devoid of sight, differs in a very great degree! Yes, at length I perceive that the disinclination for historical reading, and the inability to understand discourses on this subject, do not result entirely from poor natural endowments and bad masters, but rather from the defective works of compilers, constructed in such a manner that they are unfitted to direct the inclination' or enlighten the understanding.
My two friends desired me to publish our work without delay. To this I replied, that it was not well to give it so hastily to the public, urging that it should be delayed for further correction, so as to allow time to supply its defects-permitting it to be used only as a text-book for the children in private schools. Unexpectedly at this moment my friend Choo Shinghwae sent me the records of the Ming dynasty, which he had copied out in a complete work. These I immediately
Chinese History.
compiled, that they might be added to the other in case of its publi- cation,-which, after being kept under review for another whole year, began to assume a fiuished shape. Again my two friends desired that the work, introduced by a preface from an able master, should be published, believing that it would obtain a wide circulation. I replied, that it was yet without that surpassing erudition which could give it celebrity and fix with sufficient accuracy the rise and fall of a hundred generations, and that moreover it but faintly portrayed the merits of those it describes, and but poorly exhibited their achieve- ments and their failures. In all the minor points of style-such as the structure of sentences, the form and sounds of the characters, &c., it has only a mediocrity of merit. Though it may obtain a place in the most obscure schools and libraries, celebrity it cannot have, nor be expected to acquire a lasting fame. Being published under the terms "Made Easy," how many are there, except those who are as stupid as myself, who will not be offended by its conciseness, and who will not laugh at its humble style?
"Written by Woo Shingkeuen Tsootsae at the hall Chihmuh in Shanyin, on the 15th day of 7th month in the spring of the 50th year of the reign of Kanghe.
(L. S.) "Seal of Woo Shingkeuen Tsootsae."
The History Made Easy comprises a chronological series of events, extending from the earliest times of Chinese history to the close of the Ming dynasty. The copy before us is bound in 36 vols., the whole being divided into 112 sections or keuen, giving a total of nearly 8000-pages. Immediately after the preface, introduced aboye, the compilers have given in detail the rules, ten in number, by which they have been guided in preparing their work for publi- cation.
The 1st has reference to the mode of compiling their work. A general history ought to the studied throughout, from beginning to end; but men of ordinary capacities are not capable of performing such a task; hence the necessity for an abridgment of general his- tory-which ought to be prepared only with the greatest care, so as to preserve unity, and by giving brevity to the narrative render every object and every subject more lucid. This the compilers have en- deavored to effect. Their work is, for the most part, an abridgment of one of the Tung Keën, or "General Mirrors" of history-appar- ently that of Choo, the celebrated commentator of the Four Books, and is called
Tung Keen Kang Mũh.
Chinese History.
The 2d has reference to the arrangement of the Kang and the Muh, in order to give method and order to their work. The Kang ** are the heads or the principal parts of the history; they form a brief text of the whole work, down to the close of the Yuen dynasty. 'The Muh are the subordinate parts of the history; they are to the Kang (so the Chinese say) what the eyes are to the head, or what the strands are to the rope, of which it is composed. There may be a Kang without a Muh; vice versa, not.
The 3d has reference to the arrangement adopted by the coin- pilers in the subordinate part of their work.
In the first part down to the reign of
Weilce of the Chow dynasty, and also
in the last part of it, after the fall of the Yuen family, our compilers do not employ the Muh; in the first part, prior to Weilee's reign, they use
Kang and
Ke; in the last part, after the rise of the Ming line, they presume not to employ either Kang Muh or Kang Ke, but content themselves with a plain and simple narrative, with- out any of these divisions.
The 4th explains their system of references, adopted with the special purpose of rendering more easy the reading of history "by Inen of only ordinary capacities," like themselves. Having divided their work into sections (112 as specified above), and numbered the leaves of each section, the references are easy, and need no explana- tion from us. References in this manner, so common in our own, are seldom made by the Chinese in their books-for, as they inti- mate, it argues a want of intellect and a bad memory.
The 5th explains their mode of referring to, and specifying, the original works from which their materials have been derived. This they have done to enable the reader, whenever disposed, to refer to those authorities, either to see that there be no error in the abridg- ment, or to make himself more fully acquainted with the subject in hand.
The 6th explains their manner of treating the subject of geogra- phy--which is simply that of specifying the place, by its modern 'name, where each respective event occurred,→for if the reader of history is ignorant of the place, "the narrative will be to him like
a dream."
The 7th explains the new mode of punctuation, employed by the compilers. The Chinese usually omit all marks of punctuation; but in the History Made Easy, not only is the whole of the text di- vided into sentences and clauses by appropriate marks, but the good
Chinese History.
and bad qualities of men and things are indicated-the first by white marks or small circles, the second by black marks.
The 8th describes their use of marks for indicating sentences or periods, and the clauses or the subdivisions of periods. They say,
詞住而意亦住者句用小於字之旁
tsze choo, urh e yih choo chay, wei keu; yung seaou keuen yu tsze che pang; i. e. "a complete proposition, where the sense also is com plete, makes a period (or sentence); and it is indicated by a small round mark placed at the side of the word (where it terminates):"
訶住而意未住者為讀用小圈於字之中
tsze choo, urh e we choo chay, wei tow; yung seaou keuen yu tsze che chung; i. e. "a complete proposition, where the sense is not complete, makes a clause; and it is indicated by a small round mark placed between the words."
The 9th explains and illustrates the care which has been taken to secure a correct text,-a particular in which Chinese typography is exceedingly defective, especially in all books of light reading.
The 10th and last explains and illustrates the care taken to mark the different readings of the same character when it may chance to have different meanings, distinguishable only by different sounds.
Immediately following these ten rules is a long list of distinguish- ed authors and literati, 178 in number, beginning with Szema Tseen of the Western Han, and closing with one of the later worthies of the Ming dynasty. Their principal works are also given, in notes attach- ed to their respective names. The list is a good one, and might not, perhaps, be out of place in the Chinese Repository; but in case of publication, it would require original notes, which at present we are unable to prepare-and this must be our apology for omitting it.
Next to this list of authors, we have a catalogue of sovereigns, from Pwankoo to Tsungching or Chwanglee, whose reign closed with the late dynasty, A. D. 1643. This list of sovereigns, if practica- ble, shall appear in our next number. After it, the compilers proceed with the main body of their work, commencing with Pwan
koo, who, according to Chinese tradition, yu she, "first appeared in our world."
VOL. X. NO. 1.
show chuk
Notices of Japan, No. V.
ART. II. Notices of Japan, No. V.: political state of the empire,
classes of people, laws, prisons, &c.
THE government of Japan is supposed to be, like that of most oriental states, despotic; and so in fact it is, although the received idea of despotism requires some little modification to render it perfectly applicable to the sovereign ruling authority of Japan. We must especially abstract from that idea one of its great- est evils, and one which is habitually, whether or not justly, conceived to be inseparable from, if not an essential part of, despotism-namely, its arbitrariness. Liberty is, indeed, unknown in Japan; it exists not even in the common inter- course of man with man; and the very idea of freedom, as distinguished from rude license, could, perhaps, hardly be made intelligible to a native of that extra- ordinary empire. But, on the other hand, no individual in the whole nation, high or low, is above the law; both sovereigns, the supreme mikado, and his lieu- tenant-master the siogoun, seeming to be as completely enthralled by Japanese despotism as the meanest of their subjects, if not more so. If it be asked, how despotism can exist, unless wielded by a despotic sovereign, either monarch, oligarchy, or democracy, which last may be interpreted demagogue; the answer is, that at least at this present time, law and established custom, unvarying, known to all, and pressing upon all alike, are the despots of Japan. Scarcely an action of life is exempt from their rigid, iuflexible, and irksome control; but he who complies with their dictates has no arbitrary power, no capricious tyranny to apprehend.
Japan is a feudal empire, according to the very spirit of feudality. The mikudo, as the successor and representative of the gods, is the nominal proprietor, as well as sovereign, of the realm ; the siogoun, his deputy or vicegerent. His dominions are divided, with the exception of the portion reserved to the crown, into princi- palities, held in vassalage by their respective hereditary princes. Under them, the land is parceled out amongst the nobility, who hold their hereditary · estates by military service.
The utter impotence for good or for evil of the nominally all-powerful mikado has been sufficiently shown in a former paper, as also the perpetual thralldom in which he is held by the very honors paid him. It is, probably, the ever-recurring annoyance of these troublesome honors, that still induces the mikado frequently to abdicate in favor of a son or daughter. If even by this step they gain very little that can be called liberty, they at least escape from their task of diurnal immobility, and are no longer, it may be hoped, actually restrained from all lo- comotion.
The next personage to be noticed, in speaking of the political condition of Ja- pan, is the mikado's vicegerent, the siogoun, or kubo, the names being indifferently given him, without any clear explanation of diversity of signification between them.* Klaproth, however, indicates siogoun as the more appropriate title. This * [In the note on page 305 of vol. IX, the term kubo is applied to the mikado at Miyako. It is however more commonly applied to the siogoun at Yedo, but an examination of the Chinese characters employed for this title shows that
or 'the lord's palace,' might sometimes be applied to the mikado without committing a very glaring blunder, though it is no doubt incorrect to apply that term to the mikado though he is known by it in some parts of Kiusiu.]
Notices of Japan, No. V.
supposed virtually-absolute sovereign, who is still so called by many writers, we find, upon carefully examining the details given by those same writers, to be nearly as destitute of real power, as much secluded from the public eye, and en- meshed in the inextricable web of law and custom, as his nominal master.
The siogoun* scarcely ever stirs beyond the precincts of his spacious palace inclosure; even his religious pilgrimages, and his journeys to Miyako to do homage, or in Japanese phrase, make his compliment, to the mikado, being now performed by a deputy. The business of government is represented as wholly unworthy of engaging his thoughts; and his time is said to be so skillfully oc- cupied, as scarcely to leave him leisure, had he the wish, to attend to the affairs of the empire.
The mere official duties of ceremony imposed upon the siogoun-the obser- vances of etiquette, the receiving the homage or compliment, and the presents of those permitted and bound to offer both, upon frequently recurring festival days and the like-are represented as sufficient fully to occupy three individuals. These important ceremonies are regulated and conducted by a host of courtiers, holding what we should call household offices, and always about the person of the siogoun. But lest any notion of degradation in this actual nullity, any percep- tion of being, like the mikado, but the shadow of a sovereign, should germinate in the imperial breast, or be planted there by some ambitious favorite, both the siogoun and his court are constantly surrounded and watched by the innumera- ble spies of the council of state, which now constitutes the real executive power. The members of the council of state are differently given by different writers; but the best authorityt makes them thirteen-to wit, five councillors of the first class, uniformly selected from the princes of the empire, and eight of the second class, selected from the nobility. Other ministers are mentioned who do not appear to be comprehended in the council; these are the temple lords, who seem to be laymen, though the actual regulators of all religious matters, and the two ministers, called by some writers commissioners for foreign affairs, by others lieutenants of police, or heads of the spies ; and, indeed, the concerns of Japan with foreigners should naturally belong rather to the police department than to any especial minister. The councillors of both classes are almost uniformly chosen from amongst the descendants of those princes and nobles who distin- guished themselves as partisans of the founder of the present siogoun dynasty, during the civil war that preceded, and the intrigues that assisted his usurpation. Over the council presides a councillor of the highest class, and he is invariably a descendant of Ino Kamon no kami, a minister who rendered an essential service to the same usurper's posterity. This president is entitled Governor of the Em- pire: and his office, if resembling that of an European premier, or rather of an oriental vizier, appears even to transcend both in authority. All the other councillors and every department of administration are subordinate to him; no affair can be undertaken without his concurrence; and a notion is said to prevail in Japan, that he is individually empowered to depose a siogoun who should go- vern ill, and to substitute another, of course the legal heir, in his place; but this is manifestly a mistaken or confused conception of a power vested in the whole council, though possibly exercised by their president, which will presently be explained, and which it will then appear is not held gratuitously.
* Fischer.
+ Siebold.
Notices of Japan, No. V.
This council of state transacts the whole business of government; decides upon ́every measure, sanctions or reverses every sentence of death pronounced by an -imperial governor, appoints to all efficient offices, corresponds with the local authorities; and upon the occurrence in any part of Japan of any affair in which ́the course to-be pursued is not clearly marked out by law or precedent, must be 'consulted, and pronounce its decree, before a single step be taken by even the highest local officers. Each councillor has his own specific department, for which, in the common routine, he alone is responsible; but the measures of which, upon any important point, must be discussed, and adopted or rejected, by the whole body of his colleagues, headed by their president.
When any proposition has been duly investigated and determined upon by the -council, the resolution taken is laid before the siogoun for his sanction. This usually follows, as a matter of course, nine times in ten without the monarch's even inquiring what he is called upou to confirm. But if, by some extraordinary accident, he should chance to trouble himself about the concerns of his empire, and, either upon rational grounds or through caprice, withhold the sanction re- quested, the proceeding consequent upon the difference of opinion between the
· monarch and his ministers is prescribed by law. The measure is not at once abandoned, as might be imagined by persons thinking of the siogoun as a despotic sovereign; it is, on the contrary, referred to the arbitration of three princes of -the blood, the nearest kinsmen of the monarch, his probable heir, in default of a son, being one, if of sufficient age. The sentence of these arbitrators, whatever it be, and whatever be the question submitted to them, is not only final, but fraught with important, and, to European minds, painful results.
Should the verdict be in favor of the council, the siogoun has no alternative; be may not revoke his previous refusal, and yield to the united judgment of his ministers and the arbitrators, but must immediately abdicate in favor of his son or other legal heir. Such an abdication, for various causes, is an act so constantly recurring, that it bears a specific name, inkio; and a regular habitation for the abdicating siogoun is as established and essential a provision of the Yedo court,
· as a jointure-house for a queen-dowager in this country. To this inferior abode the siogoun, against whose opinion the arbitrators have decided, instantly retires, - and his successor takes possession of the vacated palace.
Should the arbitrators pronounce in favor of the monarch, the consequences are yet more serious, inasmuch as the minister who proposed and most strongly urged the obnoxious act, if not every member of the council, headed by the president-whose supreme authority should involve responsibility-is under the - necessity of committing suicide, according to the Japanese mode, by ripping him- self up. When to this always possible, if not often recurring, necessity, is added, that the whole council, collectively and individually, is surrounded by spies known and unknown, employed by superiors, inferiors, rivals, and each other, it i will be evident that these seemingly absolute ministers cannot venture upon the infraction of any law, or upon any deed of violence, of rapacity, or of arbitrary tyranny, except with the sword of Damocles, it may be said, literally as well as metaphorically, hanging over their heads.
Turn we now to the vassal princes of the empire, whose power appears to be the chief object of apprehension to the siogoun and his council.
There were originally sixty-eight principalities, hereditary, but subject to for- feiture in case of treason. Of this penalty, advantage was taken by successive
Notices of Japan, No. V
usurpers during the civil wars, to weaken apprehended rivals by the subdivision of their dominions. The consequence of these proceedings is, that there are now said to be 604 distinct administrations, including great and small principalities, lordships, and imperial towns.
The princes, called kok-shyu [or kokushi], or lords of the land, are of two grades, the dai-mio ('very much honored'), who hold their principalities directly of the mikado, and the sai-mio ('much honored'), who hold theirs of the siogoun. Both dai-mio and sai-mio are nominally absolute in their respective states. They go- vern with all the forms and organization of actual sovereignty, and each, by means of his noble vassals, maintains his own army; but they are entangled in a net of suzerain policy, which disables even the mightiest from attempting aught against the siogoun or his council; and so completely and annoyingly are they controlled, alike in their public duties and in their private enjoyments, that in no class of Japanese is the practice of (inkio) abdicating in favor of a son so pre- valent as amongst these grandees. A reigning prince of advanced age is never seen in Japan.
The actual administration of every principality is conducted, not by the prince himself or ministers of his choice, but by two go-karó, or secretaries, appointed by the Yedo council, the one to reside in the principality, the other at Yedo, where the family of the absent secretary is detained in hostage for his fidelity. These double appointments extend to all high provincial posts, and it is only by the regular annual alternation of situation of the two colleagues that men holding such posts ever see their families. Nor are the secretaries, thus obtruded on their nominal master, allowed to act as their own or the prince's judgment may dictate. They are, in fact, the mere delegates of the council, whose orders are transmitted by the secretary at Yedo to the secretary at the capital of the prin» cipality.
Either every alternate year, or the half of every year, the princes are compelled to spend at Yedo, and that is the only time during which they can enjoy the society of their families, there kept as hostages. During their residence in their own dominions, they are not only separated from those families, illegitimate as well as legitimate, but strictly prohibited from holding any species of intercourse, innocent or criminal; with the other sex. The ceremonious observances that fill their time, as the siogoun's, are prescribed from Yedo. They may not appear without their palace-walls, except at stated times and according to stated forms; nay, the very hours of their down-lying aud up-rising are imperatively preordain- ed by the council That no infraction of these intolerable restrictions can escape the knowledge of the council through the instrumentality of their spies, every prince and his household are well aware; but it is said that into some of the prin- cipalities those spies penetrate at the hazard of their lives; from one, Satzuma,* bardly any are said ever to return, and the Yedo government, never acknowledg 'ing them as its servants, never inquires into or avenges their fate.
But all this does not afford sufficient security in the opinion of government.
*Doeff. [This principality lies in the southern part of Kiusiu, and its prince is one of the most powerful in the empire. He monopolizes the whole trade be tween Lowchew and Japan, and governs Lewchew and the intermediate islands by his own officers, and has the reputation of allowing an underhand trade with the Chinese in a few articles.]
Notices of Japan. No. V
Lest the princes should, even at the sacrifice of all that is dear to them. confederate against the siegoan, neighboring princes are not allowed to reside simultaneous- ly in their respective dominions, unless, indeed, ill-will should be known to exist between them, in which case their mutual jealousies are sedulously fomented, by affording them occasions of collision. But the plan chiefly relied upon for insur- ing their subjection is to keep them dependent by poverty. To reduce them to the required state of indigence, many means are employed.
Nearly the whole military duty of the empire is thrown upon the princes; they are required to maintain troops rateably, according to the extent of their domin- ¡ons, and to furnish even those required for the imperial provinces, the admin- istration of which is avowedly in the bands of the Yedo council. Thus, at Naga- saki, which during the last two centuries has been the only seat of foreign com- merce, the whole profit of which is devoured by the siegeun, council, governors, and their understrappers, and which for that very purpose was dismembered from a principality, and coverted into an imperial city, the duty of guarding the bay falls altogether upon the princes of Fizen and Chikuzen, whose dominions the bay divides. The two centuries of profound peace, which Japan has enjoyed since the adoption of the exclusive system, have naturally lessened the need of troops. The consequent diminution of expense is felt to be a great object; but neither the princes nor their subjects are the persons destined to profit by the saving thus effected. The number of troops to be maintained by each prince is, indeed in just proportion to that originally allotted them; but the sum which the troops so dispensed with would have cost them, they are required to pay into the treasury at Yedo.
Other modes of impoverishment there are, to which, when necessary, recourse is bad. One is that of obliging the princes to display extravagant pomp and magnificence during their residence at Yedo, involving them in every imaginable expense. Should these ways of draining his exchequer prove insufficient with some extraordinarily opulent or prudent prince, two resources are kept in reserve, which have never yet failed. One of these is the mogoun's inviting himself to dinner with his inconveniently wealthy vassal, at his Yedo palace; the other, the obtaining for him, from the mikado, some highly coveted post at the daīri. The expense of duly entertaining the siegoun, or of receiving the investiture of an esalted datri office, is such as no Japanese fortune has yet proved able to stand.
Of the lordships, it may suffice to say, that they sɛem to be merely very inferior principalities, the government of which is managed and controlled in a manner perfectly analogous to that just described.
The provinces and towns retained as imperial domains are administered by imperial governors, appointed by the state council at Yedo, and whose fidelity is similarly secured. To every government, two governors are appointed; one of whom resides at Yedo, the other at bis post, his family remaining as hostages at court, and he himself being subjected to the same restrictions and annoyances as the princes in their principalities; the two governors annually relieve each other in their government. Their authority in their governments is equal to that of the princes, or rather of the princes' secretaries in the principalities; except that a governor cannot inflict capital punishment until the sentence has been ratified at Yedo, whilst the princes may freely exercise this act of sovereignty. But neither prince nor governor likes to pronounce sentence of death, lest the
Notices of Japan, No. V.
perpetration of crimes requiring such punishment should be imputed to conni- vance, negligence, or general mal-administration on their part.
The governor is assisted by an official establishment, appointed by the council of state, most of the members of which are subject to the same restrictions as himself; and their number would be incredible, were we not told that the principle of Japanese government is to employ the most persons possible of the higher and middle classes. The official establishment of Nagasaki, the only one of which the Dutch writers have personal knowledge, may be worth giving as a sample.*
The gevernor has under him two secretaries, and a number of go-banyosi,† or superior police-officers, to each of whom is allotted a department, for which he is responsible, and a number of banyosi, or under police-officers, to execute his orders. All these are subject to the governor's authority; but the following officers are wholly independent of him: the treasurer, a sort of district chancellor of the exchequer, who is second in rank to the governor, and has an accountant to assist him in his labors; and the military commandant of town and district, the third in rank. Of all these official persons-the banyosi, who are of a very inferior degree, excepted-only the treasurer and the military commandant are permitted to have their families at Nagasaki. It is needless to repeat, that all these are surrounded by spies.
And here, having again occasion to mention the ever-recurring spies, it may be worth while to pause, in order to say a word or two further upon this mainspring of Japanese government. Their Japanese name of metsuke is interpreted by Dr. Von Siebold to mean 'steady looker,' or observer; by the Dutch writers, 'lookers across. They are of every rank in life, from the lowest to the highest beneath that of a prince, since even the proudest noblemen undertake the base office, either in obedience to commands which it were death-that is to say, imperative self-slaughter-to disobey, or impelled by the hope of succeeding to the lucrative post of him in whom they can detect guilt. Those spies at Nagasaki, who are subject to the governor, are entitled to demand on audience of him at any hour of the day or night; and woe betide him, should he, by postponing their admission, incur the risk of their reports being transmitted to Yedo otherwise than through himself. But there are other spies, not officially known, upon himself; and this, which notwithstanding the constant mention of spics as official public characters, it is self-evident must be the case, is further proved by the following anccdote of the success of a high-born spy. The incident did not, indeed, fall under the personal observation of the Dutch factory, inasmuch as it occurred in another and remote government, Matsinai; but it is given upon good authority, and is general in its application.
"Complaints of the governor of this province had reached the court, which took ¡ts own measures for ascertaining their truth. The agreeable tidings that the governor was displaced were speedily received; but it was not without astonish- ment that the capital, Matsmai, recognized in his successor a journeyman
* Doeff and Meylan.
+ [Go-banyosi is a term of general designation; go means imperial or govern. mental, and is applied to whatever appertains to the government; ban means to watch, to judge, to oversee (a ban no iye or ban-ya, is a guard-house); and si in officer; so that a go-banyosi is a governmental overseeing officer. These officers are perhaps confined to imperial cities like Nagasaki, for none of our informants have ever heard of such a title.]
↑ Meylan.
Notices of Japan, No V
tobacco.cutter, who, some months before, had suddenly disappeared from his master's shop. The journeyman tobacco-cutter had been personated by a noble of the land, who had assumed that disguise in order to exercise the office of a spy, for which he had been sent to Matsmai by the court.”
To return to Nagasaki. The officers hitherto mentioned are all governmental officers; but the affairs of the town itself, its own police, &c., are managed, not by them, but by separate municipal authorities-to wit, a council of nine, some- thing akin to a mayor and aldermen, but holding their offices hereditarily. The resolutions of this council must, however, be unanimous; if not, they are submit- ted to the governor. The municipal council employ, as their ministers and ser. vants, a regiment of ottona aud kashira, to whose superintendence the peace and good conduct of every street in the town is committed; a superintendence much facilitated by closing the gates of every street at a certain hour of the even- ing, after which no one can pass in or out, without an especial permission from
his kashira or ottona.
But all this organization of watchfulness does not satisfy the care, despotic or paternal, of the government, or perhaps we should say of the institutions, for the safety of the people. Every town and village in the realm is parceled out into lots of five houses, the heads of which are made answerable for each other; each is bound to report to his kashira every and any misdemeanor, irregularity, or even unusual occurrence, in any of his four neighbors' houses, which from the kashira is transmitted through the ottona to the municipal council; so that it may be said, not that one half, but that each half, of the nation is made a spy upon the other half, or that the whole nation is a spy upon itself. The householders are further bound to exercise the same vigilance over the portion of the street before their houses; any disaster that may there happen, in a chance broil among stran- gers, being imputed to the negligence of the adjoining householders. Any neglect of interference or report is punished, according to the occasion, with fine, stripes, imprisonment or arrest in the offender's own house; which last is a very different thing in Japan from what it is in other countries. In Japan, the whole family of the man sentenced to domiciliary arrest is cut off from all intercourse with the external world; the doors and windows of the house being boarded up, to insure the seclusion. The offender is suspended during the whole time, if in office, from his office and salary; if a tradesman or artisan, from exercising his trade; and, moreover, no man in the house may shave, a disgrace as well as an inconvenience. How the subsistence of the family is provided for during this long period of inac. tion and non-intercourse, does not appear.
One consequence or necessary concomitant of this system of mutual espial is, that a man should have some power of choosing the neighbors whom he is to watch and be watched by. Accordingly, no one can change his residence without a certificate of good conduct from the neighbors he wishes to leave, and permis. sion from the inhabitants of the street to which he would remove to come amongst them. The result of this minutely ramified and complete organization is said to be that, the whole empire affording no hiding-place for a criminal, there is no country where so few crimes against property are committed; and doors may be left unbarred, with little fear of robbery.
The population of Japan, which is variously estimated by different writers at from 15,000,000 to 40,000,000 of souls, is divided, if not exactly into castes, yet into nearly hereditary classes. It is held to be the duty of every individual to
Notices of Japan, No. V.
remain through life in the class in which he was born, unless exalted by some very peculiar and extraordinary circumstance. To endeavor to rise above his station is somewhat discreditable; to sink below it utterly so. These classes aré eight.*
Class 1 is that of the kokushi, or princes, including both dai.miô and sai-mió, whose condition has been already sufficiently explained.
Class 2 is that of the kie-nin; literally, noblemen.' These noblemen, as be- fore said, hold all their lands in fief, by military service, due to the several princes, or, in the imperial provinces, to the siogoun. The number of warriors due from each nobleman is regulated by the size and value of his estate; and they provide for the performance of his duty by the under-granting, or subinfeudation of their lands. From this noble class are selected the ministers who are not princes, the great offices of state, governors, &c., &c.; and the universal passion for these offices serves, in a great measure, to keep the nobility dependent upon the court, but not sufficiently so to satisfy the jealousy of government. Many of the precau- tions employed towards the princes are likewise resorted to with respect to the nobles. They are not, indeed, deprived of their families, except when holding provincial office; but they are compelled to spend a considerable part of every year at Yedo, and are there required to display a magnificence, which, if not quite equal to that exacted from the princes, is so far beyond their means, that it doubly weakens them; first, by actually impoverishing, and secondly, by inducing them to lessen the number of their military vassals, in order to derive a larger income from their estates. In the profound peace Japan has for two centuries enjoyed, this is probably esteemed safe policy.
Class 3 consists of the priesthood of Japan, Sintoo and Budhist alike. Of these, it well be more convenient to speak in an account of the religion of Japan. Class 4 is that of the samorai, or military, and consists of the vassals of the nobility. The service by which they hold their lands is now, and has long been, if not altogether nominal, yet very easy, as they have only to furnish troops sufficient to give guards and splendor to the courts of the mikado, the siogoun, and the princes, to preserve internal tranquillity, and to watch the coast. In former times, prior to the closing of the empire against foreigners, and confining every native within its limits, the Japanese soldiery are said to have been well known and highly valued throughout Asia, where, as soldiers of fortune, they served every potentate and state willing to engage them. That practice is now forbidden; and their military prowess must have died away, since it has had no field of action. But still, this class, useless as it may now appear, ranks in ge- neral esteem next to their feudal superiors. The siogoun is said to maintain, besides the samorai of the imperial provinces, a body of armed men called the dozin, in- cluded in this class, but considered very inferior to the samerai, and bearing more affinity to the French gendarmery than to regular troops.
It should be observed, whilst upon this subject, that captain Golownin, in his account of his captivity in Japan, says the imperial soldiers were so superior in rank and appearance to those of the princes, that he at first mistook the imperial privates for officers. No writer of the Dutch factory mentions any such differ- ence; and generally speaking, Golownin's situation-a prisoner in a remote pro- vince, conversing only through rude and ignorant Kurile interpreters, or by
VOL. X. NO. I.
Notices of Japan, No. V.
teaching his visitors Russian-rendered him so obnoxious to error, that when he differs from those who have better, though still very imperfect, means of informa tion, his testimony can have little weight; but upon this subject, having been almost wholly guarded by military, it is at least possible that he should be better informed than upon most others, and that such a difference may exist. These four classes constitute the higher orders of Japanese, and enjoy the especial, the envied privilege of wearing two swords, and the hakama, or petticoat-
trowsers.
Class 5 comprehends the upper portion of the middle orders of society. It con- sists of inferior officials and professional-that is to say, medical-men; persons deemed respectable, or, to borrow an expressive French phrase, comme il faut, and permitted to wear one sword and the trowsers.
Cass 6 comprises the lower, or trading portion of the middle orders; as mer. chants, and the more considerable shopkeepers. In this class, regarded with ineffable disdain, are found the only wealthy individuals in Japan. Far from being, like their superiors, forced into extravagant ostentation for the purpose of impoverishment, these persons are not allowed to imitate that ostentation. The degree of that splendor they may display is strictly limited, and they can spend their money only in those luxuries, comforts, and pleasures, which their superiors are obliged to forego, in order to support their station. The degrading step by which alone, if he aspire to ape his superiors, the richest merchant can, as a nominal, evade these sumptuary laws, has been already noticed; and even when thus indulged with one sword, never may he, under any circumstances, aspire to
the trowsers.
Class 7 is composed of petty shopkeepers, mechanics, and artisans of all des- criptions one trade, of which presently, expected-and including, strange to say, artists. The general appreciation of this class it is not easy to fix, as every sepa- rate genus, and even species, appears to be differently valued, according to the different occupations and trades; as, for instance, we are told that goldsmiths and 16. Bu painters rank much above carpenters and blacksmiths; but whether any difference thority be made between artists and housepainters does not appear.
Class 8 consists of the peasantry, and day-laborers of all kinds. former, the greater part appear to be, in fact, the villains or serfs of the landed proprietors; and even those who make some approach to the condition of an English farmer, or rather of a continental metayer-that being the Japanese mode of letting land-are said to be so heavily burdened with contributions, that indi- gence keeps them in a state of complete degradation.
To these recognized eight classes might be added a ninth, to locate the excep tion from the seventh above alluded to. This exception consists of the tanners, curriers, and all unhappy beings connected in any way with the leather trade. From some peculiar prejudice, originating probably in the Sintoo doctrine of defile- ment by contract with death, these dealers in hides or leather are the very pariahs, or outcasts of Japanese society. They are not permitted to dwell in the towns or villages with other men, but inhabit villages exclusively their own, whence they are called into the towns only to discharge the functions of executioners and gaolers, in which, if they need assistance, the tea-house proprietors are bound to supply it. They are not allowed to pollute an inn or public house with their presence, but, if in need of refreshment on a journey, they are served with what
mall tra
Notices of Japan, No. V.
they purchase outside, and the landlord would rather throw away than take back a vessel from which one had drunk. Finally, they are not numbered in a census of the population; and, what is yet more whimsical, their villages, when situated upon the high road, are not measured in the length of that road are subtracted from it, as nonentities so that, in paying by the distance between town and town, the relays of men and cattle stationed at the post-houses, the traveler is actually carried gratis through ́a village inhabited by makers of leather.
The Japanese laws are very sanguinary, admitting but little distinction between different shades of guilt, and none that turn upon the magnitude of theft. They admit of no fines—except, perhaps, in some trifling † misdemeanors amenable to municipal jurisdiction, because in the opinion of the Japanese legislators, such pecuniary punishments would give an unfair advantage to rich over poor criminals. Due pains are likewise taken to make the laws known to all classes alike. In every town and village is a spot inclosed by palisades, where, from a scaffold, every new law is proclaimed to the people; and where it is afterwards placarded, for the benefit of such as may have been absent from the proclamation. The code of police regulations is constantly placarded there.
In fact, the administra ion of justice is said to be extremely pure, making no distinction between high and low, rich and poor. If offenses against the state are more certainly punished than se against individuals, it is only because the officers of government would their own lives by neglecting to prosecute a state criminal, whilst the pro cution of crimes of the second class rests with the individual injured, who my not think it worth his while, for the mere gratification of taking a fellow-crgire's life, to add the expense and trouble of a lawsuit to the evils he has ally endured.
Minor complets and offenses are carried before the ottona, who act, in a manner secret as police magistrates, under the advice and control of the spics. The fairnes their adjudications is further insured by a right of appeal to the public tribis. But to afford means of escaping such publicity is one main ob- ject of thithority intrusted to these municipal delegates, who redress grievances and punimall transgressions natbon, thus sparing the character and feelings of many an der. The public tribunals are very solemn, diligent, and astute in their proceedings, and selum.. fail, we are assured, to elicit the truth.
But to effect this, when evidence and other mens are wanting, they have recourse to torture. From their verdict there is no appeal.
Capital punishment, and even sentence of death, necessainy involve connis- cation of property, and disgrace to the family of the criminal. Hence, a man of the higher orders, publicly accused and conscious of guilt, prevents his trial by at once ripping himself up. If the criminal be arrested too suddenly to allow of this step, and the family excite sufficient interest to induce the judicial and prison authorities to incur some little risk for their sake, recourse is had to two nathon forms of death before sentence. When most kindness is felt, the prisoner is privately supplied with a weapon with which to rip himself up; but this is a rare indulgence, because attended with considerable risk to the friendly agent. The more ordinary course is, to order the prisoner to be tortured, for the purpose of extorting confession; at the same time, causing an intimation to be given to the executioner, that should the operation prove fatal, no questions will be asked. In
* Siebold.
+ Meylan,
+ Fischer.
Notices of Japan, No. V.
either case, the prisoner is reported to have died of disease; and being presumed guiltless, because unconvicted, the body is delivered to the family for interment, and the concomitant evils of conviction are avoided.
The criminal, who, not having thus eluded or forestalled his fate, is sentenced to death, is bound with cords, set upon a horse, and thus led to the place of execu- tion-an open field without the town,-his crime being published both by word of mouth and by a flag. Upon his way thither, any person who pleases may give him refreshment-a permission seldom made use of. Upon reaching the appointed spot, the judges, with their assistants, take their places, surrounded by the insig- nia of their office, and with unsheathed weapons. The prisoner here receives from the executioner a cup of sake, with some of its regular accompaniments, as dried or salted fish, roots, mushrooms, fruit, or pastry; and this he is allowed to share with his friends. He is then seated upon a straw mat, between two heaps of sand, and his head is struck off with a sword. The severed head is set up upon a stake, to which is affixed a placard, announcing the crime that had incurred such punishment. It is thus exposed for three days, after which the relations are allowed to bury as much of the corpse as the birds of prey have left.
This is the description given by the Dutch writers of an execution, and doubt. less is what they have witnessed at Nagasaki. But a conjecture may be hazard- ed, that the forms are those practiced only towards criminals of the lower orders founded upon what was said in a former paper of the mode of putting high-born offenders to death; and perhaps a second, not improbable, conjecture might be added to wit, that however precise are the laws of Japan, much is left to the plea- sure of the judge, in relation to the mode of inflicting the immutable doom. But whatever be thought of the ideas here thrown out, it is very clear that both of these are the merciful forms of execution, as we elsewhere learn that prisoners are fre- quently and publicly tortured to death, and that the excellence of the executioner is measured by the number of wounds--sixteen is said to be the maximum-that he can inflict without causing death.* Upon these occasions, it is reported that the
nobles habitually lend the executioner their swords, as a trial of the edge and temper of a new blade. It is further asserted, that they take great delight in witnessing executions, especially such as are enhanced by torture. One species of torture, in which a shirt of reeds, the criminal's only garment, is set on fire, is considered so superlatively entertaining from the sufferer's contortions, that it has acquired the name of the death-dance.'t
While speaking of executions, it should be said that, in the Annals of the Sio- gouns, the abdomen-ripping is spoken of as a mode of punishment commanded by the monarch. This statement, though at variance with every other upon this subject, derives a character of authenticity from the book's Japanese origin. Yet, when it is considered that the nominal translator, Titsingh, was very little ac- quainted with Japanese; that his translation was, in fact, made by native inter- preters with their imperfect knowledge of Dutch; that the scientific philologist, Klaproth, finds the opperhoofd's other translations full of blunders; and, finally, that the work was first published long after Titsingh's death in a French version; the probability may be suspected of an imperial hint to a great personage, that he would do well and wisely to perform the hara-kiri, being converted into a com- mand.
* Titsingh.
+ Meylan.
Medical Philanthropic Society.
The prisons for slight offenses, and the treatment therein, are very tolerable. Captain Golownin describes the worst in which he and his companions were con- fined at Matsmai, as a row of cages in a building like a barn; and, despite his bitter complaints, it is evident, from his own account, that the cages were reason- ably airy, with provision for cleanliness and warmth; also that the prisoners were reasonably well fed, according to the dietary of the country, though inadequately for Russian appetites. That this was the ordinary prison is likewise evident from several circumstances; such as his having been told, when about to be removed thither from another place of confinement, that he was now to be in a real prison; his finding in one of the cages a native culprit under sentence of flagellation; and the name, roya, 'cage,' given by Golownin as designating this building, and also by old Kæmpfer as the name of a prison.
But this description by no means appplies to prisons destined for heinous offen- ders, tried or untried, and which every account represents as frightful, and appro priately named gokuya—Anglicè, hell. In these prisons * or dungeons, fifteen or twenty persons are crammed together into one room, situated within the walls of the government-house, lighted and ventilated only by one small grated window in the roof. The door of this dungeon is never opened, except to bring in or take out a prisoner. The captives are refused books, pipes, and every kind of recreation ; they are not allowed to take their own bedding in with them, and their silken or linen girdle is exchanged for a straw band, the wearing of which is a disgrace. The filth of the dungeon is removed through a hole in the wall, and through that same hole the victuals of the prisoners are introduced. These victuals are of the very worst description; and although the prisoners are allowed to purchase or to receive from their friends better food, no individual purchaser or receiver of sup- plies can derive any benefit from his acquisition, unless it be sufficient to satisfy the appetites of all his chamber or dungeon-fellows. The inmates of this detestable abode, a detention in which might be punishment adequate to most offenses, being left wholly to their own government whilst confined there, have established the law of the strongest, and that in its worst form; a ruthless democratic tyranny, where the weakest is the minority.
* Fischer.
ART. III. Prospectus of the Medical Philanthropic Society, fon
China and the East. London, 1840.
[From this prospectus our readers will learn with pleasure, that Mr. Lay is not unmindful of the promise made to the Medical Missionary Society at a public meeting in Canton. Along with the prospectus, we have the names of a provisional committee, consisting of the following gentlemen: G. Tra- descant Lay esq., Joseph H. Arnold esq., Horatio Hardy esq., M. Chalmers esq., M. D., Rev. Samuel Kidd, James Bennet esq., M. D., Hezekiah Clark esq., W. Alers Hankey esq. An early day was to be named to organize a society for carrying into effect the suggestions contained in the Prospectus.
Medical Philanthropic Society.
The efforts of this new Society we hope will be commensurate with the exigencies that have called it into being. In the prospectus, a reference Inight, we think, with propriety have been made to an institution established in Macao by Dr. Morrison, and thus noticed by Dr. Pearson in 1821. Dr. P. says: "Some months ago, Dr. Morrison instituted a dispensary for supplying the Chinese poor with advice and medicines, which he superintends himself from one to two hours every morning. I have also been able to give pretty constant attendance, and have had an opportunity of observing the details of Chinese practice, in from about ten to fifteen cases daily. * * * I am happy to say that the institution has already done much good-much human suf- fering has been relieved. Upwards of 300 patients have made grateful acknowledgments for renovated health." A native physician and apothecary was employed as an assistant in this establishment, with the occasional at- tendance of an herbalist. See the Anglo-Chinese Gleaner for January, 1821, pp. 6, 7.]
THE honor of founding the first institution, for conferring upon the Chinese the benefits of European science in medicine and surgery, is due to Dr. T. R. Colledge, surgeon to the English factory in China. Observing the prevalence of diseases of the eye among this people, and their entire unskillfulness in treating them, he opened, in 1837, an Ophthalmic Hospital in Macao, in which, during the five years of its continuance, more than four thousand persons were relieved, not only of those disorders, but likewise of other maladies. This establishment was closed in 1832, from an increase of medical duties devolving upon Dr. Colledge, in consequence of the departure of the late respected Dr. Pearson to England.
The success which had attended it led Dr. Colledge, in 1834, to suggest to Dr. Parker, a physician from the United states, to esta- blish a similar institution in Canton, which, after a course of increas- ing usefulness, has been brougnt to a close (only a temporary one it is hoped) by the political events, which have lately interrupted Brit- ish intercourse with China.
The eagerness with which the Chinese, not only of the lower, but the higher ranks,* availed themselves of the benefits thus afforded them; and the influence which the evident superiority of western science had over their own, in softening ther national prejudices, led the benevolent promoters of these measures to contemplate the prac- ticability of conferring, in union with them, blessings of a still higher order. It is well known, that the late eminent Dr. Morrison, and others associated with him, after translating the Holy Scriptures into the Chinese language, had for many years endeavored, by the circulation of them and other publications, to lead the people of that country to
* The author of the interesting work on China, entitled Fanqui, states the case of two young ladies, brought by their parents, persons of consideration, from Nanking, a distance of many hundred miles, to the institution in Canton, for dis- orders in their eyes, and who returned cured.
Medical Philanthropic Society,
a dispassionate consideration of the claims of Christianity, as a divine revelation.
To these benevolent efforts, the well known contempt of the Chi- nese for all that is foreign had placed a barrier, apparently insur- mountable. Experience has, however, since shown that even this inveterate prejudice could not always withstand the claims to atten- tion, which such convincing proofs of superior knowledge, united with disinterested kindness, carried home to the understanding and the hearts both of patients and observers. Sufficient tokens of such an improved state of mind were perceived, to justify the committee in China in saying in their report" We hope this is but the beginning of a great work, that will eventually remove from the Chinese nation. all those unfounded prejudices which at present prevent general inter- course, and lead this people to call those their enlightened benefac- tors whom they now call barbarians."
To bring these two important branches of Christian philanthropy into more obvious union before the Chinese people, it was resolved to form a society at Canton, under the title of "The Medical Mission- ary Society," a fundamental rule of which should be, that the agents employed by it should possess, in union with the requisite, medical and surgical skill, that sincere piety and religious know- ledge, which would incline and qualify them to impart to those who might become desirous of receiving it, an acquaintance with the evidences and truths of Christianity.
The plan was adopted, and the Society established accordingly at Canton, in February, 1838; and a valuable medical library, through the liberality of its friends, was attached to it... Considerable sub- scriptions were made for its support, to which some of the Chinese themselves contributed. Two large hospitals, one at Canton and the other at Macao, were opened, and so greatly were these institutions valued by the Chinese, that they were the last English establishments, interrupted by the late political events. Short as the duration of these institutions was, it served to evince the beneficial tendency of the principle
on which they were founded, and to encourage the ap plication of it on a more extended scale, as the means of so doing
hall allow.
therefore, to invite the benevolent British public to encou ormation of a Society in England, for the communication Sings of European medical skill, and of the Christian reli- Chinese and other eastern nations that the present ad- mitted to their notice.
Medical Philanthropic Society.
It is proposed that this Society shall stand in an intimate, though in its proceedings an independent, relation to the Society already formed in China; and that it shall extend its friendly coöperation, so far as medical assistance can avail, to all Missionary societies, in their labors in that quarter of the world. The individuals under the patronage of this Society will, in the first instance be sent to the institutions in China, for the sake of additional information, and will diverge from thence to their future spheres of labor, as circumstances shall direct.
The measures proposed to be adopted for the accomplishment of the objects of this Society (subject to the final decision of its direc- fors, when appointed by the members) are as follows :
I. To invite and send out pious and well qualified medical men to engage in this Christian labor, and furnish the means of their support.
II. To afford, under the superintendence of a medical committee, to young men, intended for missionary labors in China and contiguous countries, in connection with any Protestant society, such profession- al instruction as will qualify them for combining medical and surgi- cal benefits with their religious teaching.
III. To communicate to the public, by its Reports, such infor- mation as may enlarge their knowledge of the state of medical sci- ence among the Chinese.
The provisional committee trust that their object will approve itself to the best feelings of the friends of religion and philanthropy. It aims at communicating to the most numerous, and, in many respects, interesting portion of the human family, blessings which their pecu- liar social condition has hitherto kept them from attaining; and which, most probably, will still be long unenjoyed, unless the active benevolence of those whom they affect to despise, shall prove the means of introducing them. This office, the British nation seems especially called upon to undertake; and it appears to the friends of the proposed measure, that the present period invites it to make the needful preparations for the efforts without delay. It may reasonably be hoped, that the political differences between the two nations will shortly be terminated, and that a basis will be laid, in their adjust- ment, for a more amicable and dignified intercourse than has hitherto subsisted between them.
Life of Dr. Morrison.
ART. IV. Memoirs of the life and labors of Robert Morrison D. D., F. R. S., &c. Compiled by his widow. London, 1839. 2 vols. 8vo. pp. 362, 421
WITH thankfulness, coinmensurate to the eager expectation with which we have looked for its appearance, do we now receive this detailed account of the youth and education, the early efforts and matured labors, of a valued and venerated friend. In a series of faith- ful sketches,--the chief incidents of his life, delineated for the most part by his own hand, and his personal characteristics portrayed by those who knew him well, the loved wife and tried friends,--we are vividly reminded of one who lived among us, and with whom was our daily walk and conversation. Of these sketches, Mrs. Morrison thus speaks: "In the compilation of the work, it has been the constant aim of the writer to elucidate social, moral, and intellectual traits · of character, by a simple narrative of facts, which supplies in itself such evidence of sound wisdom and true piety, as to render unne- cessary the aid of editorial embellishment, or indeed any originál composition, further than was requisite to unite the different portions. of the narrative, and explain their mutual connection and depen- dence. But while fidelity and simplicity chiefly characterize the narrative, it is hoped that its deficiencies will be satisfactorily sup- plied by the very comprehensive analysis of Dr. Morrison's literary labors, given in the appendix, by one whose extensive acquaintance with the language and literature of China qualified him to fill the office of principal in the Anglo-Chinese College at Malacca, and now fits him for the professorship in the same department in the Universi- ty College, London.”
This is, indeed, so far as it goes, what biography should be, espe eially the biography of one whose literary life and extensive corres- pondence have afforded such ample materials for the depicting of himself. It sets before our eyes the person to be portrayed, in the same form and stature in which he appeared when living, neither exalting him to gigantic shape, nor reducing him to dwarfish size, according to the dimensions of the writer's own mind. And we are speaking not our own sentiments alone, but those also of others who have read this life, when we satisfy ourselves of the accuracy of the plan, by remarking that in these sketches, the lineaments of ripe age are most readily recognized in the self-drawn portraits of youth. Yet, with all this, it may be doubted whether something more might
VOL. X, NO, 1.
Life of Dr. Morrison.
not be superadded with advantage. Single portraits and separate sketches afford but glimpses of the man at specific periods, in a few only of the more marked characteristics, or incidents of his life. These we would not have altered or remodeled at the fancy of an- other. But might not one who had carefully studied these portraits, and sketches, and to whom also the man whom they represent had been well known,-with advantages of such a nature, might not such à one have presented to us a more complete and more perfect paint. ing? A painting wherein might be intimately conjoined (as on canvass Chinnery has not unsuccessfully aimed at conjoining), historical delineation with personal portraiture,-that we might see the man's life as a whole,—before tracing the features in each suc- cessive sketch. Such a painting would be, as it were, an index- picture to the separate and minute etchings. But if it were what we mean, it would be far more than this: for the painting that we seek should show, with accuracy of delineation and mellowness of color- ing, the man's own peculiar features, as displayed to view in all that he did or suffered, and should draw together around him, not the work of one day or one year, but the associated toils and endurances of youth as of age, of the plodding student and the earnest inquirer, as well as of the laborious scholar and the devoted missionary.
From one to whom Dr. Morrison's life, as well as the features of his mind, were so well known, we did hope,-we do still hope,-for such a portraiture. But that we have it not yet, is doubtless attribu- table to Mrs. Morrison's ill health, and the cares of a young family, combined perhaps with diffidence of her ability to do justice to a subject to herself so especially interesting. To attempt even an out- line of what Mrs. Morrison has declined to undertake will not, in this brief notice, be expected of us. Rather will we look to receive, hereafter, as the fruits of renewed health and increased strength such a view as we now seek of our friend's life. A view, it will be not simply of incidents and labors, but of a human mind of no low order, developing, in the varied incidents of fifty years, and the ar duous labors of a quarter of a century, many high powers and fine sensibilities, raising with itself our minds to the thankful adoration of Him who has endowed man with such capabilities. As one of lofty mind-when contemplating the influence of a parent over him in early years, not in any single trait but in all the character and con- duct-was so struck with admiration as to exclaim, 'O God, I thank thee for my father,'-so, in a kindred spirit, should we regard the me- mory of our departed friend, to whose walk and converse we are so
Life of Dr. Morrison
much indebted, for whose instruction and example we are so bound in gratitude to the Giver of every good.
An outline of the principal incidents of Dr. Morrison's life has been given in a former volume of the Repository, from the hand of one who is now also with the dead. What we have here proposed to ourselves is, to lay before our readers a few of the more observable - of the sketches with which these volumes furnish us. The sketches they give are no doubt of varied merit, and some perhaps are mere outlines, so imperfect or so barren of much that can serve to illus- trate the mind to which they relate, that they might with advantage have been excluded from the work. With such we have indeed nothing at present to do. Yet we may express the hope, that, in a future edition of these memoirs, they may be left out, and if others. more worthy cannot be found to supply their place, that the work may, by their omission, be reduced to a size more convenient to the general reader, and this too may be done without injury to those, who, more personally interested by kindred ties of blood, of friendship, or of similar pursuits,-would study the minuter traits of character. A republication will also afford opportunity for remodeling the arrange-. ment in some parts, where the pressure of a printer's demand for manuscript would appear to have interfered with a careful attention to method, to a bringing together we mean of all that bears on any one point, less in the order of dates, than in the order that true art would prescribe. But we must proceed to our selections.
Robert Morrison was born at Morpeth in Northumberland, in the year 1782. He was of poor but pious parentage. His early years, therefore, though without the advantages of learning, received a good moral and religious training. By this he was placed in a favorable position for finding,-without wasting time and energy in a long un- satisfying search, a distinct and clear view of the true aim of life,— a sojourn, whereof it is nowise the purpose to collect such things as may adorn our cabinets or fill our treasure-houses, (though these be lawful and well so long as they draw us not away from, nor render us regardless of, the true end,) but a sojourn the object of which is, that all malice, pride, and self-confidence may be destroyed in us, and that we may become loving, grateful, humble dependents and disciples of the meek and lowly Master of this world.
The advantages of such early religious training are well sketched by the youthful Morrison, shortly after he had been favored with a clear view of human life. Let us look at some fragments, selected chiefly for their brevity.
Life of Dr. Morrison.
The following account was written by himself on his application for admission into Hoxton Academy in the year 1802.
"In the early part of my life, having enjoyed the inestimable privilege of godly parents (a blessing for which I desire ever to be thankful), I was habituated to a constant and regular attendance on the preached gospel. My father was ever careful to keep up the worship of God in our family, and educated me in the principles of the Christian religion. When farther advanced in life, I attended the public catechising of the Rev. John Hutton, from whose instructions I received much advantage. By these means, (under the good hand of God,) my conscience was somewhat informed and enlight- ened; and I was kept from running to that excess of riot to which many persons in an unregenerate state do, though as yet I lived without Christ, without God, and without hope in the world. I was a stranger to the plague of my own heart; and, notwithstanding that I often felt remorse, and the upbraidings of conscience, yet I flattered myself, that somehow I should have peace, though I walked in the ways of my own heart.'
"It was, perhaps, about five years ago, that I was much awakened to a sense of sin, though I cannot recollect any particular circumstance which led to it, unless it were, that at that time I grew somewhat loose and pro- fane; and more than once being drawn aside by wicked company, (even at that early time of life,) I became intoxicated. Reflection upon my conduct became a source of much uneasiness to me, and I was brought to a serious concern about my soul. I felt the dread of eternal damnation. The fear of death compassed me about, and I was led to cry mightily to God, that he would pardon my sin; that he would grant me an interest in the Saviour; and that he would renew me in the spirit of my mind. Sin became a burden. It was then that I experienced a change of life, and, I trust, a change of heart too. I broke off from my former careless companions, and gave myself to reading, to meditation, and to prayer. It pleased God to reveal his Son, in me, and at that time I experienced much of the kindness of youth, and the love of espousals;' and though the first flash of affection wore off, I trust my love to, and knowledge of, the Saviour have increased. Since that time (soon after which I joined in communion with the church under the Rey. John Hutton, my present pastor, and likewise became a member of a praying society), the Lord has been gradually pleased to humble and prove me; and, though I have often experienced much joy and peace in believing, I have likewise experienced much opposition from the working of indwelling sin- 'the flesh lusting against the spirit, and the spirit against the flesh; and these. being contrary the one to the other, I could not do the things that I would.' I have gradually discovered more of the holiness, spirituality, and extent of the divine law; and more of my own vileness and unworthiness in the sight of God; and the freeness and richness of sovereign grace. I have sinned as I could; it is by the grace of God, I am what I am.'" Vol. I., pp. 4, 5.
Life of Dr. Morrison.
About the same time the following private record was also made by his own hand :
“O blessed Jesus, long have I sought for rest to my immortal soul, at one time in the gratification of the lusts of the flesh;' and at another of the mind.' When very young, I was a companion of the drunkard, the sabbath- breaker, the swearer, the profane person; but in these my heart smote me, 1 had no rest. Then I made learning and books my god; but all, all, are vain! I come to thee: Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest,'-Fatigued with unsuccessful pursuits after happiness, and burdened with a sense of guilt, Jesus, thou Son of God, I come to thee, that I may be refreshed, and my burden removed.
Jesus! my Lord, thou art possess'd
Of all that fills, th' eternal God!
Oh! bring my weary soul to rest,
Remove my guilt, that pond'rous load !”—Vol. I, p. 29. From the time (probably the early part of 1798) that such princi- ples laid firm hold upon his mind, the course of his thought and feeling was changed, and an ardent desire was kindled in his mind "to serve the gospel of Christ," and promote those views which had conduced to his own enlightenment. "At an early age he was ap- prenticed to his father, and learned the trade of a last and boot-tree maker, in which his industry was very commendable." But it was in a few years overruled by an invisible hand that that industry should be employed in a higher calling, and, after many exercises of mind he was induced to propose himself for admission into "Hoxton Aca- demy (now Highbury College);" one of the most valuable 'Institutions formed by Evangelical Dissenters,' for the purpose of affording an extended education to candidates for the holy ministry." This ap- plication was made in November of 1802, and in the following Janu- ary we find him commencing the regular curriculum of studies at that Institution. Meanwhile, as his mind developed, a field of labor seemed to offer itself to him among pagan nations. The record of his own views of this subject, and the whole correspondence with his friends respecting it, are peculiarly interesting; but we may not enter upon them. Having been recommended to the directors of the missionary society, generally known under the designation of “The London Missionary Society," his services were at once engaged by them, and he was shortly after appointed missionary to China, where it was designed he should lay the foundation of a Protestant mission. It was in the early part of the year 1807, that he embarked for Chi- na, when commenced a most interesting era of his life. That (ac- cording to the plan of the memoir which divides his life into five
Life of Dr. Morrison
periods) is the third period, and embraces incidents "from his embar- kation for China, to the foundation of the Anglo-Chinese College." It would, however, be impolitic to enter at any length on the narratives given of his checkered voyage to Canton, of his reception at Can- ton, of his incipient labors, of his appointment as translator to the English factory, of the mission to Malacca, of his successes in trans- lation, &c., &c. Suffice it to say, that in the larger part of the first volume, there is much matter to interest the historian, the politician, the merchant, and the missionary.
The second volume opens with the fourth period of our friend's "life and labors," and announces the translation of the whole Bible into Chinese as completed. This work had been commenced soon after Mr. Morrison's arrival in China in 1807, and terminated in 1819. He had been partly relieved in this labor by the late Dr. Milne, who join- ed him in 1813; and had derived some assistance in the translation of the New Testament from a MS. found in the British Museum; but the onus was borne mainly by himself. In writing to the directors of 'The London Missionary Society,' he speaks candidly his own senti- ments on the value to be attached to that translation, by no means regarding it as the ultimum. The following is an extract from the same communication expressive of his own views of the duties of a translator of the Sacred Scriptures.
"The duty of a translator of any book is two-fold, first, to comprehend ac- curately the sense, and to feel the spirit of the original work; and secondly, to express in his version faithfully, perspicuously, and idiomatically, (and, if he can attain it, elegantly,) the sense and spirit of the original.
"For the first part of this duty, a Christian student will be much more, competent than a heathen translator generally is; for the second part of the work, of course, a man who translates into his mother tongue (other things being equal) will much excel. Till those who are now heathen literati, cease to be heathens, these qualifications will not easily be found, in tolerable per- fection, in the same individual.
“That the first is of more importance than the second, is, I believe, true; for no elegance of composition can atone for a misunderstanding of the sense of the sacred page; whereas a degree of uncouthness in the style of any writ- ing destroys not the sense. Some think that the doggrel version of the Psalms used by the Church of Scotland is a better translation of the sense of that divine book than the most elegant that ever was attempted. And I know, by much experience in commercial and political translation, that a very inelegant written version of a foreigner, will enable a native student to comprehend very clearly the sense and spirit of the original, and that also much better than a verbal statement of the meaning can.
By these remarks, I can to convey it as my opinion, that a less pure
Life of Dr. Morrison.
and idiomatic translation, made by a Christian missionary of a sound judg- ment and moderate acquirements, is likely to convey the sense of divine revelation better than a translation made by the most accomplished pagan scholar, who has not studied the sacred writings, and who, if he possessed the adequate knowledge, in consequence of his dislike of the subject, rarely brings mind enough to the work, to comprehend clearly the sacred text. Not to mention the influence of his preconceived pagan notions in his composi- tion, and the dishonesty which generally characterizes most heathens, I think any of the Chinese I have ever seen would slur the work over in any way, or, if they were more zealous, would affect to amend the sense of the original, when it did not comport with their previous opinions.
"In my translations, I have studied fidelity, perspicuity, and simplicity; I have preferred common words to rare and classical ones; I have avoided technical terms, which occur in the pagan philosophy and religion. I would rather be deemed inelegant, than hard to be understood. In difficult pas- sages. I have taken the sense given by the general consent of the gravest, most pious, and least eccentric divines, to whom I had access.
"To the task, I have brought patient endurance of long labor and seclu sion from society; a calm and unprejudiced judgment; not enamored of novelty and eccentricity, nor yet tenacious of an opinion merely because it was old; and, I hope, somewhat of an accurate mode of thinking, with a reverential sense of the awful responsibility of misinterpreting God's word Such-qualifications are, perhaps, as indispensable as grammatical learning, in translating such a book as the Bible."
Of Dr. Morrison's Philological works, the second great object to which he devoted his time and strength, and of his Dictionary in par- ticular, we need not here say much. These works are well known by reputation to the literary world in general, and to those with whom Chinese study is an object, they are the daily and invaluable compa- nions. His Grammar was compiled, at an early period in his studies, chiefly for his own advantage; and others of more value have since been published: yet Sir George T. Staunton speaks of it, as “a work which will prove, both in regard to its plan and its execution, a most valuable acquisition to the student of the Chinese language." His Dictionary is such as no student of Chinese can, without great injury to himself, fail to make daily use of. A living sinologue of the highest merit speaks of it as being laid aside for other dictionaries, only by those whose means are so limited that they cannot afford to purchase anything so expensive as it is. The Vocabulary of the Canton dialect has till lately been the only publication for the advantage of those who, residing chiefly at Canton, choose the study of the local dialect in preference to that of the general language.
The next great work, in the promotion of which Dr. Morrison took
Life of Dr. Morrison.
a leading part, was raising the Anglo-Chinese College at Malacca. The foundation-stone of this institution was laid on the 11th of November, 1818, by major William Farquhar, formerly English resi- dent and commandant of Malacca. To the history of the College down to this time we cannot at present refer,-its fortune has been various. But for the benefit of our readers, we transcribe the "Anglo- Chinese College Deed," given in Vol. II. pp. 47-51, as it discovers the intentions of the original founders.
"I, Robert Morrison, D. D. of the University of Glasgow, having been sent to China in the year of our Lord, One Thousand Eight Hundred and Seven, by a Society of Christians meeting in London, and composed of men- bers of various British Churches for the purpose of learning the Chinese language, rendering the Sacred Scriptures into the said tongue, and compos- ing an English-Chinese Dictionary, with the ulterior view of the diffusion of the Christian Religion in China, and the Extra-Ganges nations; and having, in the
year 1818, nearly brought these several works to a conclusion, my mind was led to pray to God for direction, and to meditate on what further means could be used to bring about the final object of my mission.
"The Divine Providence having increased my personal property in a small degree, I determined to appropriate One Thousand Pounds sterling to found a College, to be called the Anglo-Chinese College, the object of which should be the cultivation of English and Chinese literature, in order to the spread of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
"As the above preamble shows, the cultivation of literature is not to be considered the final object of the Institution, but attended to as a means of effectuating, under the blessing of God's Holy Spirit, the conversion to the faith of Christ of the Extra-Ganges nations who read or speak the Chinese language; so, on the other hand, the College must never be considered as a mere dwelling-house for Christain missionaries, but as a place devoted to study, with apartments only for the Principal of the College, and such other persons engaged in tuition, or the appropriate studies of the College, as it can accommodate with rooms.
Having intrusted the building of the College to the Rev. William Milne, my first associate in the Chinese Mission, and we, unitedly, having laid our views and wishes before the public, soliciting their pecuniary aid, and they having confided in the sincerity of our intentions and deemed our object laudable, and deserving the pecuniary aid of Christians,-ull monies received from the donors and subscribers (whose names are written in the College record) are to be considered as appropriated solely and inalienably to the objects stated in the preamble.
"The College, then, and its funds, shall never be diverted from the original object, stated in this deed by any authority whatever; whether by the will of the Founder, or of the first Principal of the Anglo-Chinese College, the Rev, William Milne, or of any Trustees hereafter to be appointed.
Life of Dr. Morrison.
May He, on whose shoulders is the governinent of the world-who has all power in heaven and on earth-recognise this offering, humbly designed to operate as a means of bringing many sinners to obedience and happiness; and may He secure the performance of this Deed. To His Providence the Anglo-Chinese College is reverently committed; and may the whole Eastern hemisphere be soon filled with the glorious light of His gospel, and be taught to ascribe to Him the glories of creation! Amen and amen.
"Since neither Doctor Morrison nor Mr. Milne, although the Founders of the Institution, have any power to alienate either the building or the funds of the Anglo-Chinese College, so, as long as they adhere to the original object of it, as stated above, it is but equitable and seemly that the first named should be a perpetual Trustee, and the last-named perpetual Principal, during their lives.
"The Honorable the East India Company's Pinang Government having granted, at the request of Mr. Milne, a piece of ground in Malacca, to the Missionary Society (usually called the London Missionary Society), and that Society having, at the request of Dr. Morrison and Mr. Milne, allotted part of that ground to be the site of the College; the ground, as well as the build- ing and funds (already, or hereafter to be, received), cannot be alienated from the aforesaid object of the College. All books given by Dr. Morrison and various other doners (whose names are recorded) to the Anglo-Chinese College Library, shall be inalienable.
"I will not anticipate the failure of the object for which these grants have all been made, and therefore I shall not insert any reservation of my personal property, in case of the object failing; nor stipulate that, in case of such an event occurring, it shall revert to my heirs and successors. I have a firm reliance on the Divine Providence.
"But should it happen that circumstances render it impracticable to con- duet the studies of the College at Malacca, the premises shall, in that case, be sold, and the College be removed to some other place in Extra-Ganges India. No merely local difficulties shall put an end to the Institution. If it be stopped in one place from any unforeseen cause, let it be recommenced in another.
"The records of the College shall always be open to the inspection of the local Christian authorities in the place where it may be situated; and annu ally, at least, a statement of its affairs, whether showing its progress or its decline, shall be laid before the Christian public in a printed document.
"To the spiritual Church of Christ on earth,-to the learned, the scien- tific, and the opulent, and also to poor and unlearned Christians-to those who, next to their own salvation, desire the happiness of their fellow-crea- lures, of every nation and of every tongue, the Anglo-Chinese College is, by this Deed, respectfully commended.
"In case of a failure of Trustees, appointed according to the constitution of the College, or the demise of Mr. Milue, its temporary management shall devolve on the senior, in mber of the Chinese department, and the acting
VOL. X. NO. 1,
Life of Dr. Morrison.
committee of the Ultra-Ganges Missions; and in case of the failure of re- gularly appointed Trustees, and of such senior meniber and committee, the management of the College shall devolve on the above named Missionary Society in London.
“Sealed, signed, and delivered, at Canton, in China, where no stampsˇare used, this twentieth day of March, A. D. One Thousand Eight Hundred and Twenty.
(Signed):
ROBERT MORRISON.
In the presence of us, who have hereunto set our names,
"J. B. URNSTON,
“Chief for all affairs of the Honorable East India Company in China. ·
"J. REEVES."
On thinking of our revered friend and on perusing his memoirs, we are again and again constrained to use the common saying, He was far before his generation.' The object at which he aimed was great, and the means which he set on foot, or which he sought to iustitute, were, as far as a mortal could make them, proportionately. great. And though the result of such agency might not immediately or speedily appear, he was still encouraged by a confidence that "the anticipated harvest should be fully reaped." With such expectations it was that, in conjunction with the late sir T. Stamford Raffles, Dr. Morrison aided in commencing the "Singapore Institution," the object of which was to exert that influence on "the islands of the Archipelago, and the continental nations of Eastern Asia," which it was intended the Malacca college should use in enlightening and evangelizing China.
We would request the reader to peruse pages 186-190 of the second volume, which will throw some light on the formation of this institution.
In the close of the same year, 1823, we find the subject of this inemoir returning to England with a view to recruit his strength; which had been for seventeen years spent in China, and to promote the great objects of his mission. It was by no means his original intention to detain himself long in his native country; but he saw fit to prolong his stay with a view to the formation of a Universal Lan; guage Institution. (See p. 298.) In this he met with some success.
"A universal language institution was formed, and brought into operationi and so far as there was opportunity of judging, the result was likely to prove successful; while from the catholic principles on which it was based, and the patronage it had obtained, there was every reason to hope for its continu
But, alas! the mover was not so supported as he should have been. The language institution waned with the departure of Dr. Morrison
Life of Dr. Morrison.
from his native shores; so vain and heartless is the applause and assent of man! Probably, if he had remained on the spot and con- tinued to set that example which we know he did during his visit, of promptness "to teach," and to forward those who attended at the institution, his coadjutors might have been stimulated. But it was not so, and we have at this day to lament the passing away of another promising institution, as a proof of the fickleness of humanity. However, we have to congratulate ourselves, that at length something has been done to afford the willing student an opportunity of study- ing the Chinese language in his own country. Dr. Morrison carried with him to England a Chinese library, numbering 10,000 volumes, "many of them scarce and expensive, so that the cost of the whole amounted to upwards of £2,000." With his characteristic liberality of mind, he proposed offering this library as a gift to either of the then existing universities, on condition of their instituting a professor- ship of the Chinese language, for the instruction of individuals desirous of studying it, for religious, or other, purposes.
To this effect he wrote to the Rev. J. Dealtry, during his stay in London:
"On Tuesday morning last, I had to regret that indisposition prevented your meeting us at Mr. Ware's, for the purpose of conversing on the in-- troduction of the Chinese language into one or both of the Universities. The' desirableness of such a measure may be made apparent to three different' departments of the community. First, the knowledge of Chinese language and literature by the Christian philanthropist, for the communication of re-: vealed religion to China, Japan, Corea, Loochoo Islands, and Cochinchina,, which countries contain a population equal at least to one fourth of mankind., As all these nations read the Chinese language, there is an immense reading, population, with, I believe, scarcely any other than pagan books to read. I believe that it is practicable to acquire the Chinese language in this country" sufficiently well, to write in it Christian Chinese books, for the instruction of all those nations.
"In the next place, as the British possessions in the East gradually ap- proach the Chinese empire and the territories of Cochinchina, and there is a very valuable commercial intercourse with China, which will probably require the attention of government at no distant period; a knowledge of the; Chinese language seems desirable to his majesty's government. The French Governinent, although it has no immediate connexion with China, has estab- lished, in Paris, a Royal Professorship of Chinese. Again, to the literary part of the British public, the knowledge of one of the most ancient languages of the world, in which is found a great variety of ancient and modern publica- tions, is surely a desirable acquisition. The philosophy of language is in- complete if it exclude the Chinese,
Life of Dr. Morrison....
"These, my dear Sir, are the thoughts which I have to suggest, on the reasons for attending to Chinese in this country. It is my opinion, that more attention, on the part of Christians generally, to the literature of pagan na- tions which possess any, would facilitate greatly the diffusion of Christian knowledge amongst them. I shall be happy to furnish
I shall be happy to furnish any further explana- tions, either by personal interview or otherwise, that may be in my power.
"Your's sincerely,
"ROBERT MORRISON.".
"To Rev. J. Doaltry. But, "owing to some cause which cannot now be satisfactorily ascertained, he was obliged to relinquish the hope of seeing a Chi- nese professorship instituted in either of the universities;" and the Chinese library was, on the doctor's embarkation for China, com- mitted to the shelves of an upper chamber, whence, it has often call- ed forth our surprise and sorrow, that in England, which boasts of her Cambridge and her Oxford, there was not zeal enough to encou- rage the study of that language, the repositories of which were spread before us, exposed to the corrosion of damp, and the ravages of insects.
At length, through the efforts of Dr. Morrison's personal and tried friends, sir G. T. Staunton, and Mr. W. A. Hankey, some 12 years after their introduction into England, a surer and more honorable place was found for these "10,000 volumes," in the building of the University College, London; in. connection with which institution the first Chinese professorship in England has been founded.
To return, however, to the "Memoirs." Dr. Morrison left England a second time on the 5th of May 1826, and with his family reached his former station. During the remaining eight years of his life, he was as laborious as before, adding to the number of his writings for the instruction of the Chinese, continuing his philological labors, aiding his younger fellow-laborers in the study of the language, and, amid many lesser duties and much official work on behalf of the East India Company's factory, commencing a commentary on the Scriptures, and a collection of marginal. references. He was ever diligent in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord;" and at last we have seen him sink into the grave. He has gone to his rest, to receive the crown of joy prepared for him; and, while his tomb reminds us of our friend, there are many works which remain to speak his merits, of each of which it may be written, (as was written by a friend, for a private tablet, of the version of the Sacred Scrip tures :)
"Moriensque reliquit,
Patronis honorem, Patriæ decus,
Genti humanæ lucrum."
Battle at Chuenpe.
Yes, our friend has gone to his rest; but we have often indulged a sacred pleasure in visiting "the spot consecrated by his honored remains," and, while we have mused on him, we have silently used- the panegyric which he passed on his lamented coadjutor Dr. Milne, "in the usual course of things there is reason to fear; that it will be long ere we shall see his like again."
ART. V. Battle at Chwenpe: the position and number of the respre- tive forces engaged in the action, with details of its progress and effects. PROCEEDING up the river towards Canton, about twenty miles from Lintin and about twice that distance from Macao, you reach the first two forts at the Bogue, one on Tycocktow (or Taikok) on the west side of the channel, and the other on Chuenpe (or Shakok) on the east side. Both Tycocktow and Chuenpe are islands: the battery on the first is built upon the south eastern point; that on Chuenpe stands near the northwestern point; and above it, on the top of the hill, a small battery, called the hill fort, has recently been built round the fold watch-tower;' further eastward are other' fortifi- cations. Three miles above Chuenpe, and on the same side of the river, are the batteries of Anunghøy, separated from Chuehpe by Anson's Bay. In the middle of the river, opposite to Anunghoy, is Wangtong; and three miles farther up is Tiger Island. · There is also a small fortification on the west side of the river opposite to Wangtong. On all these sites the batteries are strongly built, well furnished with men and guns, and are looked upon by many of the Chinese as impregnable and so they would be, were they in the hands of those who are trained in modern warfare.
'These notices of the positions occupied by the Chinese being kept in mind, the reader, though never having been at the Bogue, wiß be able to understand the moverpents of the British forces on the forenoon of the 7th instant.
At 8 o'clock, or sodn" after, the squadron, 'under' command of Sin I. J. Gardon. Bremer, having waited out the time that had been allowed for the concession of certain demands made on the Chinese government—was in readiness to move up the river, from its anchor, age off Sampanchow, three miles below the first forts.
Battle at Chuenpe.
Boats with the marines of the squadron and royal: artillery first shoved off; and these were shortly joined by the rest of the land force, conveyed from the transports into shallow water by the stea- mers, Euterprise, Madagascar, and Nemesis: the land force was to disembark near the watering-place on the south side of Chuenpe, and was then to march up a valley, extending from thence, with some windings, to the forts.
The Calliope, Hyacinth, and Larne, all weighed at nearly the same time, the Queen taking the Calliope in tow. These ships, under the command of captain Herbert, were to proceed directly up the river and bombard the lower fort on Chuenpe. The Queen and Nemesis, as soon as disengaged and able to get into position,' were to throw shells into the hill forts, and into, the entrenchments on the inner side of it.
The Samarang, Druid, Modeste, and. Columbine, getting under weigh soon afterwards, steered for Tycocktow, under the direction of captain Scott, to whose management the taking of the fort there had been committed.
These arrangements having been made, the Wellesley and the other large ships, weighed and moved on in midchannel, to take posi-. tion above these two forts preparatory to an attack on the batteries further up
the river. At half past eleven o'clock they came to anchor above Chuenpe, the action on both sides of the river having then closed, but not without great slaughter on the part of the Chinese. Never before had they met such a foe, nor witnessed such dreadful havoc. From those who were present, and from others who have visited the battle-ground, we will now detail the particulars, so far as we have been able to ascertain them.・・ : no
The action commenced on Chuenpe, and at nearly the same hour by both the land and naval forces. The troops for the field service, consisting of a battalion of royal marines, a detachment of royal artil- lery, having one 24 pr. howitzer and two 6 pr. fieldpieces, drawn by a party of seamen from the Wellesley, Blenheim, and ··Melville,— detachments of the 26th and 49th regiments, the 37th Madras native infantry and a detachment of Bengal volunteers, in all about 1400 men, under the command of major Pratt of the 26th of: Cameronian regiment, began to land about half past 8 o'clock; two miles south of the lower fort on Chuenpe near the watering-place, as before stated: They landed without opposition; and major Pratt having for med them, sent forward an advanced party of two companies of ma- rines; the guns came next, dragged by the seainen, and supported by
Battle at Churnpė.
detachments of the 26th and 49th; the remaining troops following in column-the ships meanwhile moving up to attack the lower fort, and the steamers getting ready to throw shells into the hill fort. After advancing about a mile and a half and reaching the top of a ridge, the troops came in sight of the hill fort and of a very strong entrenched camp, having a high breast work all round and a deep ditch outside, well palisaded, with two field batteries on its flanks, facing the way the enemy was expected to approach, and having one of its sides prolonged up the hill so as to connect it with and protect the hill fort. In the valley, to the right and eastward of this first entrenchment, there was a second, having also a large mound, on which were placed three guns in its front, and three more in ano- ther battery on its flank. Still farther to the right and eastward there was a third entrenchment of a circular form, with small bat- teries commanding the approach in every direction. There were deep ditches in the rear of the guns, for the purpose of sheltering the men from the enemy's fire. From the freshness of the materials, it would appear that all these field-works (except the round fort) were of recent construction, and they formed altogether a very forinis dable position, and one from which, if held by a determined enemy, it would have been very difficult to hive dislodged him. They were thickly lined with Chinese, as was also the crest of the hills in front of and near them.
The confused noise of the warrior was now heard. The Chinese in the entrenchments, seeing an advanced party approaching, cheered and waved their flags, as if in defiance, and opened their fire froin the field batteries, which was quickly returned by the field pieces of the artillery which had been drawn up and placed on the ridge of the hill. The Queen and Nemesis at nearly the same time began to throw shells into the hill fort. Though the Chinese were the first in this direction to fire on the troops; yet it was not till after several shells had been thrown that they began to return from the forts the fire of the vessels. It is said, that, in consequence of the firing on the Queen' from Chuenpe in November, the high commissioner had given an order, that not even the firing of shotted guns from the vessels should be returned, except after frequent repetitions. It is further 'said also, that, in consequence of this order, the friends of the late heětae are about to appeal to the emperor for redress,—they alledging that he fell in consequence of not being permitted at once to beat back the assailants.
The first hill: (to the right of the guns on the ridge) was soon
Battle at Chutenpå.
cleared by the advanced party of royal marines—who, descending juto the valley, drove the enemy from their entrenchments and from the field batteries behind them. Major Pratt then ordered two cóm- panies of the 37th native infantry (supported afterwards by another company), to circle round the other hill still more to the right of the guns which was also held by the Chinese.. These parties met with considerable opposition, but they drove all before them, killing and wounding not a few. Seeing that the guns on the ridge-the howitzer and two fieldpices, which had now been firing for twenty minutes were causing the Chinese to fly from their first and prin- cipal entrenched camp, the main column moved down the valley right upon it, the soldiers clearing the field batteries as they proceeded.
Two of the leading companies, the royal marines, were now ordered to drive the Chinese from a wooded hill which they still occupied, a little farther to the north, not far from Anson's Bay.
A small party, at the same time, passing through the first entrench- ment, already déserted, hastened up to the hill fort. Major Pratt, with only two men, was the first to reach it.' Finding the Chinese there at their posts, as he looked in over the walls, he ordered one of the men to fire, whereupon, they all fled in consternation. British flag was then hoisted on the fort.
Ere this was done, the guns in the lower fort had been silenced, by the ships which had taken up their position before that battery ; and now the guns of the ships also ceased firing, lest the shot might strike those who were advancing to attack the fort on the land side. Find ing themselves assailed from above by those in the hill fort, as well as from the ships, the main body of the Chinese had left the battery, and were retreating eastward, when they were met by the parties of royal marines and 37th native infantry that had circled round and taken possession of the wooded hill. At this unexpected encounter, they were mowed down with sad havoc those who escaped unhurt either hetaking themselves to the water, or retiring to the fort and there looking themselves in. Their pursuers, reaching the gate, applied their muskets to the lock, and so forced it open, dealing death in every direction as they entered. Resistance was unavailing; the Chinese were quickly overcome; their flag hauled down, and the Union Jack displayed from the ramparts. About a hundred, ac- cepting quarter, were taken prisoners; but were released by the com modore as soon as he landed. The rest, shutting themselves up in small out houses, or hiding themselves behind walls, and thence (when not perceived) attacking their captors, soon' drew down upon them- selves indiscriminate slaughter.
Battle at Chenpe
In the meantime, the fort on Tycocktow was attacked and carried by the division under the command of captain Scott. The Samarang led the division, and pushed straight on for the centre of the battery, heedless of the fire which, on this side, the Chinese commenced and continued, until her anchor was let go within less than a cable's length of its guns. At that moment three hearty cheers were given, and then came her broadside. The Modeste soon anchored close by her, and the Druid and Columbine were not far astern. The broud sides from the long guns of the Druid were terrific, and mass after mass of the solid masonry crumbled away beneath their concentrated shot......... Though silenced, the Chinese did not quit their posts until the crews landed from the boats, and, entering through the breach that had been made, carried the fort by storm. In doing this there was some hard fighting hand to hand, and opportunity afforded for the Chinese to display their best strength. But they could not long withstand the deadly fire of the musketry, and numbers of them were shot down while climbing up the sides of the hill, vainly endeavoring to escape. The guns of the fort were spiked and thrown into the river.
Thus, after an action of an hour and a half, fell the boasted strength of Tycocktow and Chuenpe-and the latter (fortunately for its moral effect) was carried chiefly by the land forces. The superiority of foreign ships and great guns had long been acknowledged; 'but on shore, hand to hand, the sons of Han believed themselves inferior to none. Their defenses on Chuenpe were not small; the lower and the hill fort, and the entrenchments beyond, were well constructed, containing in all probably not less than 2000 men, of whom full 500 were killed, and many more wounded.
Among the killed was the heĕtae, or brigadier, commanding in the fort, by name Chin Leënshing, a native of Hookwang, and a veteran of about 50 years. He had risen from the ranks, and ob- tained the honorary distinction first of a blue and then of a peacock's feather, for his services in the field against various insurgents and mountain-tribes, in Hook wang, Szechuen, Shense, and Kwangtung. He remained at Leënchow, in the northwest of this province, for several years
after the suppression of the troubles there in 1833: and last year he was called from thence to expell the English from Hong- kong. He received a bullet in his breast, standing at the head of his men; his son, who, though repeatedly urged to save himself, refused to leave him, when he found his father was dead, and himself unhurt, leaped into the water, and so perished. This and other
VOL. X. NO. 1.
Battle at Chaenpe.
Chinese officers, if we may believe many concurrent reports, well sustained the part of brave men and faithful soldiers, dying at their respective posts. Some, nay many, of the raen in the ranks too, fought bravely-desperately. Such warfare the Chinese seem never before to have witnessed. The storm burst on them like a thunder- bolt, and in the space of a few minutes, their forts, their entrench- ments, their batteries, their barracks, their magazines, were all in ruins-beaten-down, set-on-fire, blown-up. In some places, the dead lay, literally, heaps upon heaps.'
The superior advantages of armed steamers were very clearly seen during the engagements of the morning. The iron steamer in par- ticular did masterly. First, she disembarked the 37th regiment; next, as already remarked, taking a good position, she threw shells with great effect into the hill fort; then she rounded the point, pouring her grape and canister, and other missiles, into the lower battery as she passed; and after this, she pushed on into the shallow water in Anson's Bay, and her first Congreve rocket "took terrific and in- stantaneous effect, blowing up one of the largest of the war junks, with all her crew," the rocket having passed through its deck into the magazine. Aided by a number of boats, she kept on in the work of destruction, and junk after junk was set on fire and blown up, until eleven were destroyed. Then, to the great astonishment of the Chinese, she pushed quite across Anson's Bay and proceeded up a creek, where two more war junks were moored to the shore, which she grappled and dragged away, without giving or receiving a single shot. This was the Nemesis.
There were 97 guns in the forts and entrenchments when they were carried-25 in Tycocktow, the others on Chuenpe, 44 mounted and 38 dismounted. There were 80 or more in the junks. These, with a variety of stores and magazines, were destroyed. It is said also, that a sum of money, about $5000, which had been brought down to the Bogue for the half-monthly pay of the troops, was blown up in one of the junks, instead of being disbursed to the officers and soldiers on that day, it being the 15th of the moon, and their pay-day.
The Chinese suffered severely from the burning of their powder flasks, and garments padded with cotton, which were set on fire by their matches, as they fell. Wearing their cartridge-boxes around their waists, some of the men were literally blown up, by the ex- plosion of the powder contained in them.
The damage and loss sustained by the attacking forces were small,
Battle at Chuenpe.
exceedingly small in comparison with those of the Chinese. Not one was killed; and only 38 were wounded, and most of these slightly. Of the wounded, 3 officers and 27 men were on shore; and most of these were burnt by the accidental explosion of an expense ma- gazine in the lower fort.
Such are the details of the action of the 7th. A few remarks res- pecting the impression it has produced on the Chinese, with par- ticulars of what succeeded, the renewal of negotiations, &c., will find a place in the Journal of Occurrences: we close this article with the following
"GENERAL MEMORANDUM.
Wellesley, off Anunghoy, January 8th, 1841. "The commander-in-chief has to express his admiration of the gallant conduct of the whole force during the affair of yesterday, and requests that the captains and commanders of the squadron, and the commanders of the steam vessels, will accept his best thanks.
"To major Pratt, commanding the force on shore,-major Johnstone, commanding detachments of the 26th and 49th regiments,-captain Ellis, royal marines,-captain Knowles, royal artillery,-lieuts. Symons of the Wellesley, and Wilson of the Blenheim (employed on shore), captain Duff, 87th M. N. 1.-captain Bolton, Bengal volunteers, and lieut. Foulis, com- manding a detachment of the Madras artillery, together with the officers, non-comissioned officers, and privates,-his best thanks are also due.
"The commander-in-chief wishes to mark in an especial manner the conduct of the whole of the non-commissioned officers and privates of the European and native force, in abstaining from the least excess or irregulari- ́ty,—a circumstance alike honorable to themselves, and beneficial to the cha-
racter and interests of their country.
(Signed) "J. J. GORDON BREMER.
"Commodore of the 1st class, and commander-in-chief.
To the respective captains, commanders, and commanding officers of H. M. ships and vessels, and the Hon'ble Company's steamers; and to the military officers employed at the capture of Chuenpe and Tycocktow; the respective ships' companies, and the non-commissioned officers and privates of the marine and land forces."
Troops engaged at the assault and capture of Chuenper
Royal Artillery, under command of capt. Knowles,
Royal Artillery
Seamen, under Lt. Wilson of H. M. S. Blenheim Detachments of 26th and 49th regiments under
Major Johnstone of the 26th regiment,
non-com.officers and privates.
Total force
Royal Marine battalion, under capt. Ellis of the Wellesley, 37th Madras Native Infantry, under capt. Duff, 37th N. I. Detachment of Bengal Volunteers, under capt. Bolton
Address to Foreign Residents in China.
Major Pratt 26th regiment in command. Lt. Stransham of Royal Marines, from H. M. S. Calliope, acting Brigade Major. Lt, Stewart Mackenzie, of the 90th Light Infantry, and military secretary, acting ajd-de-camp. Capt. Ellis of the Royal Marines commanded the advance. Lt. Symons of the Wellesley superintended the landing and reëmbarkation of the troops.
ART. VI. Address to foreign residents in China: the new year; re- trospect; present position of affairs; opening · prospects.;, and increased responsibilities.
ABOUT Commencing a new era, in the relations of foreigners with this country, a glance at the past may aid in the guidance of future conduct. With the opening year, too, it is customary and befitting, that there be made some recognition of that bounteous Hand, which guides the seasons, and assigns to every man his lot with the number of his years. Our limits, however, will not allow, nor is it neces- sary, that we dwell long either on the past or the present-suffice. it, that coming days find each one of us readily "doing the things that are right.'
A retrospect, touching only on a few prominent points in the fo- reign relations with China, will furnish data sufficient for drawing a comparison between the past and the present.
'Raphael Perestrello arrived here in 1516.' Adventurers from Spain, France, Holland, Sweden, Denmark, and England, soon fol- lowed those from Portugal. The impressions made here by these early visitors, like those made by adventurers from the same countries to the New World at the same time, were far from being salutary. Their's was an age of chivalry. In both the Indies, bold enterprises were prosecuted with no regard to the native įnhabitants, whenever their rights could be disregarded with impunity. The famed riches of Cathay had no inconsiderable attraction; but the Chinese, was not so easily beguiled as the Indian. Queen Elizabeth saw this; and accordingly she wisely framed her policy, and addressed to the empe ror letters commendatory, which she intrusted to the chiefs of an ex- pedition destined to this country. That, and various other efforts, Inade at sundry times, even down to the present day, failed. Between
Address to Foreign Residents in China.
the Chinese and the other nations of the earth there never have exist: ed any relations, commercial or political, established on equitable principles. The intercourse with the sovereigns of Europe, barely enough to allow them to be claimed as tributary, has been wholly in- sufficient to secure for them an acknowledgement of independence. Ministers plenipotentiary from the states of Christendom never found a residence in these eastern capitals. Canton, Amoy, Ningpo, and Chusan, are the only commercial marts, of any note, ever opened in. this empire to western enterprise.
The few foreigners who have gone into the interior, have for the most part done so in disguise-if we can except only some of the Catholic fathers, who for a time were allowed to reside in the empire, aud remain close to the seat of majesty. But the privileges which Ricci and his companions enjoyed were of short duration; while from Chusan and Ningpo and Amoy the commercial establishments were by degrees withdrawn. In fact, all the privileges, of whatever kind, enjoyed by foreigners in this country, have been begged or bought ;, and hence they have been looked on by the Chinese as "special favors.' With such a condition of circumstances, honorable relations, were incompatible. Thus, during three centuries, the empire has remained closed against the free ingress of men from afar. European, embassies, not excepting Macartney's, served only, or at least mainly, to foster that spirit of exclusiveness which by their projectors it was intended they should overcome,
In Canton, the residence of European families has never been al- lowed; and in Macao, even the temporary residence of ladies (not Portuguese) used, to be obtained with much difficulty. In 1798, an American ship, the. Betsey, arrived off Macao, having on board Mrs. M'Clannon, her infant daughter and a servant maid, with part of the, crew of a vessel, wrecked on her way to Sidney. The morning after, his arrival, the captain "waited upon the governor, a mandarin, of high grade, who declared he would not only not allow the female passengers to land, but must also refuse a permit and pilot to enable the ship to proceed to Whampoa.” The next day, finding him “
"as stubborn as ever," he presented the case to the honorable Mr. Hall the president, of the select committee of the E. I. Co.'s factory; yet nothing was sufficient to induce the Chinese to allow the female pas- sengers to land. Thus, the second, the third, and the fourth days were passed, with no, more encouragement on the last than on the first. On the fifth day the case was finally arranged by Mr. Hall, who made the mandarin a handsome cumshaw, giving bonds that the
Address to Foreign Residents in China.
first English vessel or Company's ship that sailed should take the females away."
The Chinese were long, and until very recently, supported by foreigners themselves in this exclusive policy. British subjects, resort- ing to China for commercial purposes, in more than one instance, deemed it necessary to provide themselves with consulate certificates from foreign courts, in order to prevent their deportation in ships of their own country. And the man who has done more than any other, to improve the relations of his country with China, deemed it inex- pedient to be publicly known as an Englishman for months after his arrival here in 1807.
The foregoing instances, few as they are, present a faithful view of the policy hitherto maintained towards foreigners—a policy restric- tive and unfriendly in a degree exceedingly unjust and reprehensible. To the men from afar it allowed no rights; whatever was received by them was of grace, granted out of tender compassion. The sovereigns of Europe were enrolled as the 'liege subjects of the son of heaven, and both from them and their people implicit and unconditional obedience was claimed as rightfully due.
Thus affairs remained till the summer of 1840, when first an al- tered tone was assumed, and efforts for amelioration were commen- ced. As part of the means for gaining the proposed end, the submis- sion of Chusan was peremptorily demanded. This demand not being complied with, the island fell to the arms of H. B. M. Of the acts which have since occurred there, at the Pei ho, and in this vi- cinity, our readers need not be reminded.
'The interruption of negotiations on the 7th instant, was followed by such a stroke as the Chinese had never before felt. The horrors of war, however, lasted but for an hour; then peace became the order of the day. But will it be lasting and salutary? Will the terms of the treaty, now under consideration, be such as will lead to the pre- servation and extension of friendly relations?
These questions are not easily answered, in direct terms; nor is it possible in few words faithfully, nor even in many fully, to describe the opening prospects. It is safe to say, that things are not as they used to be. In some essential points they are improved. The false notion of foreigners being tributary has been exploded; and along with it have gone those assumptions of high preeminence which for so long a time prevented any acknowledgment of equality. The Chinese having once felt the power of the "rebellious foreigners," will in future be slow to repeat overt acts, affecting the lives and pro-
Address to Foreign Residents in China.
perties of those who (as they now know) have it in their power to ask, and, if need be, to take, redress. A safe channel for communi- cation has been opened, on fair and honorable grounds, so that, whenever necessary, complaints and demands may be made with equal facility. The rule of right must, we would fain hope, be here henceforth respected, and all enmities and violence laid aside.
War-an evil, and a great evil—is ever to be deprecated, whether offensive or defensive. The expedition of 1840 will be viewed very much according to the interest af those who look at it. If it termi- mates, as it seems likely soon to do, with a treaty of commerce and amity, and without more bloodshed, its projectors will no doubt be well satisfied. The belligerent parties have both suffered much, and will both rejoice at the restoration of peace, the advantages of which they can now more than ever before appreciate. Chastisement is sometimes necessary. It is an evident part of the divine administra- tion even in this world. And it was not an unnatural remark for a Chinese, “that the gods were angry with both his own countrymen and with foreigners because of their wickedness, and that when a few hundreds or a few thousands of each had fallen as sacrifices they would then be satisfied." But with such sacrifices, we know the God of heaver is not well pleased. It is happy there has been here comparatively so little suffering. It is matter for rejoicing that the scourge of war is stayed, and that there is a prospect of peace being henceforth maintained, and that, at the same time, foreigners will be more respected and enjoy such immunities as are usually possess ed in other countries. In these prospects, obscure as they yet are, we rejoice, and the more because the proposed objects of ameliora- tion are likely to be gained without protracted war.
Comparing now the present with the past, we see considerable advances have been made. However reluctantly, the Chinese are coming into-nay they are already within-the great circle of na- tions, from which they cannot recede. In the course of improvement there will be checks; these, however, by degrees will be all over- come or removed.
These new and altered relations are happily of a nature suscepti- ble of easy and rapid improvement; and to the means of effecting this, we wish to draw the attention of our readers, and of those par- ticularly who reside in China; for upon such, the events of the past year have devolved new obligations with increased responsibilities.
Firinness and decision-always accompanied with a mild, accom- modating, and straight-forward policy-are now more than ever
Address to Foreign Residents in China.
before required of those who may be in any way drawn into contact with the Chinese authorities. But these points are of such promi- ment importance that they cannot be overlooked, and we pass them by without further comment, assured they will receive all due atten- tion from those whom they concern. If the Chinese, as they profess, really wish for peace, then let them cast away their childish restric- tions; let them, like all enlightened and independent states, freely allow foreigners to come or to go, or to remain, as they please, only holding them responsible for good behavior;→→→→let them, talking no more of tribute, send and receive plenipotentiaries and consuls, open their ports and their highways, and on just and friendly terms reci- procate the honors and the favors duc alike to and from equals.
The acquisition of honorable gain, though it may be the main, yet may never be the only, nor the most important, object of pursuit with any man.
His strength, his power, his riches, his honors, are all fading, transient, uncertain. How much, during the last few months, have we seen fade and disappear! But though all that is earthly in man vanisheth away, yet it is not so with his being. That ceaseth not for ever; and so blended with the present is its eternal state, that it is only the part of wisdom carefully to guard and measure all the acts of our mortal life-never forgetting that "for all these things, whether they be good or whether they be evil, God will bring us into judgment."
Leaving it with the common sense and enlightened consciences of our readers-aided always by the light of Holy Writto determine the things that are right, and to choose the ways and means of pur- suing them-we hope to be excused in calling their attention to a few particulars of paramount interest.
The study of the Chinese language, to those who purpose long to remain in this country, cannot be too strongly recommended. Its acquisition will be not only of great personal advantage, but it will give us influence with others, will secure respect, and promote good- will and friendly feelings. It is, and well it may be, against us, in the eyes of the Chinese, that we know so little of their language, their literature, and their history.
The maintenance of high moral character, with special reference to the power of good example, claims from us in China very much more attention than it has been wont to receive. Such character is of great value; it can neither be counterfeited, nor dishonored. In its best estate, it causes wrath to be conquered by kindness, lovė to be exercised towards enemies, and friendly offices to be done even
Illustrations of Men and Things in China.
to those who hate us. Its acts are all unequivocal, and as salutary as they are powerful. And if moulded and adorned according to the precepts and rules of the Christian code, it is man's best safeguard and his richest ornament.
The observance of the Sabbath—last, not least-would we rècom- mend with the utmost earnestness and becoming deference. The great Author of our being, knowing the infirmities of our nature, doubtless saw that man needed the rest which this day affords from the excitements of ordinary business and pleasure, with the opportu- nity also which it gives for more undivided attention to spiritual and eternal interests, and therefore ordained the Sabbath for man's bene- fit. On this high ground, we recommend its observance. Careful recognition of Jehovah's government, cheerful obedience to his laws, are most suitable for such worms as we are. The nations are all his; and he exalteth and abaseth when and whom he pleaseth. Plague, pestilence, stormy winds, and volcanic fires, are all his ministers and fulfill his pleasure. And shall not we fear him, bow submissive to his will, and hallow his Sabbath? Judge, ye who have understand-, ing. Judge ye.
ART. VII. Illustrations of men and things in China: popular
tions and allusions to the powers of nature.
THE few sentences here given will exhibit some of the most current notions of the Chinese upon the heavens, and metaphors drawn from them! The explanations are also those of the Chinese. Few people relish racy sayings and neatly turned allusions better than this people,' and few use them more frequently.
1. When the primeval chaos was first separated, then the dual powers began to be fixed,
The idea of chaos is expressed by bubbling, turbid water; heaven and earth are the dual powers; before the chaos was separated, these two powers were mingled 'and 'pent up as a chick in ooo; but when the renowned Pwankoo appear- ed, who was the offspring of these powers, then their distinction and operation were apparent. Pican means a basin or receiver, referring to the shell of the engi
kòb' usually means'antient; But here 'it means (we are told) solid, to secure, intending to show how the first man Pwänkoo was hatched from the'primeval chau's by Mid dial powers wh then settled and exhibited the arrangement of the
VOL. X. NO. I. loud que plus
Illustrations of Men and Things in China.
causes which produced him-(we would add)—a mode of explaining the crea tion peculiarly Chinese.
2. The light and pure parts of chaos ascended and floated forming heaven.
3. The heavy and foul parts of chaos descended and solidified, forming earth.
Gods are the noble (yang) spirits of heaven; demons are the ignoble (yin). effluence of earth. The light and pure ether was 10,800 years in rising and forming heaven; the glorious and animated portions concreted and made the sun, moon, planets and stars, which when completed all moved in harmonious con- cert. The heavy and foul parts that descended were also 10,800 years in so- lidifying and forming the globe; from the best were made the hills, rivers, and. fountains, and when all were completed, cities and towns arose.
4. The sun is the focus of all the male principles.
5. The moon is the type of the great female principle.
The sun is the lord of life; like a great prince, he nourishes and bestows his favors; the moon, his spouse or queen, is matched to him; together they arrange and marshal their nobles and courtiers, i. e. the stars and planets.
6. The rainbow is called
of heaven and earth..
tae tung, and is the impure vapor
7. The toad in the moon is the bright spirit of the moon.
When the foul vapors rise from the earth, and meet those descending from the sky, a rainbow is the product; it is always opposite to and tallies with the sun, and is duplicated. The Chinese fable that Chang-go drank the liquor of immortality, and straightway ascended to the moon, where she was changed into a toad, which they always trace in the face of the moon.
8. A whirlwind is called a ram's horn.
9. A flash of lightning is called the Thunderer's whip.
10. When the flakes of snow fly in sixes, it is a sign of a fruitful
Snow and rain come from the earth, they do not descend from the high heaven. The flakes of snow and the petals of flowers are usually in fives, and when the snow is in sixes it shows a predominance of the yin principle, or that of the earth, and by consequence that there will be much rain.
The sun is up three rods," is to say that you are late.
12. "The dogs of Shuh barking at the sun," is a metaphor for those who learn little from what they see.
13. “The oxen of Woo panting at the full moon," ridicules those who are excessively timid.
The hills of the country of Shůh were so high that the days were very short, and the dogs on seeing the sun were terrified, and set up a simultaneous howl.— The country of Woo had oxen which feared the heat, and seeing the moon, be- gan to pant, supposing it to be the sun; just as Poo Fun, who, fearing the cold, shivered as he saw the north through a glass screen.
14. To cover ones-self with the stars, and to put on the moon, speaks of a fleet post traveling early and late.
Illustration of Men and Things in China.
15. To be washed by the rain, and combed by the wind,' is a figure for the hard toil of those who are exposed to the weather.
16. To be busy without a purpose is like the clouds driven about without a thought; i. e. such a man is at the mercy of circumstances,
as the clouds are driven by the wind.
17. A benevolence which extends to all around is likened to the vivifying spring having legs; i. e. its diffusive goodness is like the heat of spring upon vegetation.
18. When one makes a present to another to show his respect, hẹ
[In giving this] I have the simplicity of the man who presum-
ed to teach his betters to sun themselves.'
19. When one engages another to be his advocate, he [politely] says, "I wish to put my case upon a strength able to turn heaven.'
In the Sung dynasty, there was a clodpole sunning himself one day; and, being ignorant that the empire contained large palaces with deep apartments, or that peo- ple wore silks and furs, he said to his wife, 'people do not know that the sun is warm to their backs; I will go and report it to the king, and he will certainly givė me a large reward.'—"To turn heaven' refers to a talented statesman of the Sung dynasty, who by his wise counsels turned the purposes of the emperor, and saved the country from disaster.
20. The kindness which moves one to save another from death
is termed a second creation.
21. The affection which induces one to rescue another from death is called a 'second heaven.'
22. He whose power easily vanishes (i. e. depends on the whim of the sovereign) is called 'an ice hill.'
23. The morning stars resemble wise and good men who are neglected and forgotten.
24. The echo of thunder resembles different accounts agreeing. 25. The man who frets himself exceedingly to no use, how does he differ from the man of Ke who feared the sky would fall on him?
This man of Ke was so afraid lest the sky should fall on him, and he be able to find no place to escape to that he could hardly eat or sleep. One told him that the sky was made of solid ether, and would not fall. 'If so,' he replied, the heavenly bodies ought not fall down (i. e. set).' They are merely the bright spots of ether, and do not injure when they fall.' On hearing this, he was appeased.
26. He who undertakes an affair for which he is not capable nowise differs from Kwafoo who chased the sun.
27. When Confucius finished the Chun Tsew and Heaou
the rainbow was changed to pearls.
28. The Hyades desire wind, Sagittarius desires rain; they are like two people whose thoughts and wishes cannot agree.
Benevolent Societies.
ART. VIII. Benevolent Societies: Medical Missionary 'Society ; Morrison Education Society; Useful Knowledge Society; Sin- gapore Institution Free School; the Anglo-Chinese College. THE several benevolent institutions in China, hitherto supported chiefly by the foreign residents, have been kept very much from public view, by the disturbed state of political affairs, during the last two years; it is matter for congratulation, however, to know that in the meantime their operations have been only in part suspended. With the restoration of peace and a thrifty commerce, we trust the friends and patrons of these institutions will have the satisfaction of seeing them prospering and extending their influence more than ever before-an influence as salutary as it is benevolent, acting with nearly equal power both upon the benefactor and the beneficiary. Charity is like the exercise of mercy-'tis twice blessed. It is a pleasure to know, that there are in the foreign community not a few, who are not only ready as they have opportunity, but who seek for occasions, to do, or to aid in doing, those acts of mercy and of chari- ty which are ever due to the poor, the ignorant, and the afflicted.
By the Medical Missionary Society, a very great amount of suffer- ing has been alleviated or removed. The Society has established hospitals in three places-one in Canton, one in Macao, and one in Chusan,—at all of which collectively there have been received more than ten thousand patients. Most of them have been, from among the poorer classes, but there have been some from the highest ranks. The late imperial high commissioner and governor of these pro- vinces has, very recently, even since his removal from office, sought for medical aid from foreign practitioners. Four medical officers are connected with the Society,-two of whom are, for the time being, absent from China.
The Morrison Education Society, attracting less public notice, has not been less successful in its sphere. The effects of its labors are designed to be of the most beneficial and permanent character, for they touch the mainsprings of society, and give form and shape to the intellectual machinery of those who are to be the organs of com- munication between this and other nations. It is of great importance that such persons should be thoroughly trained. Hence we think the Society has acted wisely, in resolving so to limit the number of its pupils as to make their education as thorough and complete as pos- sible. In this plan we have had full opportunity to observe its pra-
Benevolent Societies.
gress and success.
Its school, under the tuition of the Rev. S..R. Brown, was opened early in November, 1839, with six boys; though there have been some changes in the individuals, the number still remains unaltered; and their course of studies has been so shaped as to secure to them, in addition to the principal benefits afforded in their own schools, the best that are now enjoyed in European institu- tions.
The want of proper school-books and apparatus has been very much felt; and it has already become desirable that there be an assistant or an associate tutor in the school. Since the new-year holydays, the trustees have visited and examined the pupils, and were much pleased and well satisfied with their proficiency.
Note. The Library of the Institution, containing between two and three thousand volumes, is open to those who desire to borrow books from it, at the' Society's house, near St. Paul's, Macao, under the care of Mr. Brown..
The Useful Knowledge Society, wanting both the literary and pecuniary means of carrying on its operations, has been compelled. during the last two years to restrict them to the printing of one work-a Chinese Chrestomathy in the Canton dialect-which is now nearly through the press, and will be ready for publication in two or three months.
The sixth Annual Report of the Singapore Institution Free School, for 1839–40, kindly forwarded to us,-though not drawn up in so perspicuous a manner, nor published in so neat a style, as we should like to see it,-shows that a very considerable advance has been made during the last year. The whole number of boys on the lists is 208-thus distributed: 15 Macao Portuguese, 4 Armenians, 1 Spaniard from Manila, 2 Jews, 25 Protestant Christians, 13 Klings, 2 Parsees, 3 Cochinchinese, 23 Roman Catholic Christians (not including the Macao lads), 50 Malays, and 70 Chinese. To the list of instructors in the schools, a very valuable acquisition has been made, by securing the entire services of the Rev. J. T. Dickinson. Of the Chinese department of the school, the Report says:
"If compared with European schools, and especially with those of the better sort, our Chinese school cannot be called good. But if it be compared with other Chinese schools (a much fairer criterion), it will not suffer in the comparison. There are some peculiarities of Chinese schools which strike Europeans unfavorably, such as the excessive noise, the committing of whole books to memory, and the exclusive attention paid for the first year or two to the mere learning of sounds without any reference to their meaning. In these respects the school is believed to be better than those schools which are un der the uncontroled management of Chinese masters.
The pecu- liarities referred to, however, are not so objectionable as might be supposed by those unacquainted with the Chinese language. So many characters are not to be learned without imposing an enormous
Calendar for 1841.
load upon the memory,
and accordingly Prémare, the great sinologist, would have even European students of the language commit to memory the Chinese classics after the manner of boys in Chinese schools. The noise of Chinese schools is also in some measure perhaps necessary, for words and tones so closely resembling each other are not to be acquired with closed mouths."
From the Anglo-Chinese College, Malasca, no report for the last year has reached us. By recent letters from the Straits, we learn, with deep sorrow, that its late principal, the Rev. John Evans, has been suddenly removed by the cholera-which in November and December was carrying off large numbers of the native inhabitants. The late Rev. J. Hughes was also one of its victims. By the death of Mr. Evans, the sole management of the Institution has devolved on the Rev. James Legge, who arrived at Malacca in January, 1840. We hope soon to be enabled to lay before our readers à particular account of the institution; for the present we can only say that its several classes of Chinese youth, and its printing department, are both continued as hitherto On page 32 of this volume will be found an account of the origin and design of this institution.
ART. IX.
Calendar for 1841; with lists of members of the im- perial cabinet; provincial officers at Canton; Portuguese govern- mentat Macao; British naval and military forces in China; foreign consuls, &c., and other foreign residents, commercial houses, and merchant ships.
A. D. 1841 corresponds to the 4478th year of the Chinese era, which is computed by cycles of sixty years, the present being the 38th of the 75th cycle, and the 21st in the reign of his imperial majesty Taoukwang. The Chinese at the present time date all their papers, official or otherwise, from the first year in the reign of each succes- sive emperor. Though the reigning sovereign ascended the throne in 1820, he was pleased to ordain that that year should be considered the last of his father and predecessor's, and the next the first of his / own reign. They reckon by lunar months; introducing occasional- ly an intercalary month; their 1st day of the 1st month of this year corresponds to January 23d; an intercalary month occurring between the 21st of April, and the 20th of May. The comparative calendar, on the next page, will enable the reader easily to find the corresponding date of any document, when given only in Chinese, and also vice versa.
Calendar for 1841.
2 & April 3m. May.
5 & Aug. 7 m.
Sep. 8 m.
21 12 20
25 115 /
25 17 20
26 18 t 27
28 120 t
LCD. EN LO C7∞
5 25 ƒ f
16 28 t 16
29 t 12 29 S
13 29 wo
12 30 f |
Lists of Chinese Officers
1. Nuy Ko, or Imperial Cabinet, Peking.
The presiding members of the Nuy Kõ, (lit. Inner Council,) are four principal (ta heŏszc) and two assisting ministers (heepan ta heõsze), alternately Mantchou and Chinese. The present incumbents are
1. 穆彰阿 Muchangah,
a Mantchou.
Pwan Shengan,
a Chinese.
Wang Ting
a Mantchou.*
a Chinese.
a Mantchou.†
5. 伊里布 Elepoo,
Tang Kinchaou, a Chinese.
2. Provincial officers at Canton.
The list contains only the names and common titles, of the officers who are at
the head of the provincial government, and most concerned with foreigners, or
who are resident at Canton and at Macao. For a complete list of the titles of the
provincial officers, the reader is referred to vol. IV., page 529.
督院 governor,
H: It.-governor,
Keshen (acting).
將軍 gen.-commandant, 阿精阿 Atsingah.
1st It.-general,
2d It.-general,
Yinglung.
literary chancellor,
Shen Mowheen.
com. mar. customs, E
Eleäng (acting).
提督 admiral,關天培 Kwan Teënpei.
com.administration
com. of justice, 王廷闌 Wang Tinglan.
'com. of gabel,
R Yu Paoushun. 梁星源 Leäng Singyuen.
Chang Eyu.
com. for grain,
廣府 Prefect,
南海 magistrate,
番 magistrate,
intendant at Macao,
軍民府 sub-prefect. 蒋立
香山縣左堂 sub. mag.楊維
Yih Chungfoo.
Tseäng Leihngang.
香山縣 magistrate, 吳思樹 Woo Szeshoo.
Yang Weishen.
Imperial high commissioner, and acting governor of Kwangtung & Kwangse,
† Governor of the two Keäng, and imperial high commissioner in Chekeäng.
List of H. B. M. Forces.
3. Portuguese government at Macao.
Adrião Accacio da Silveira Pinto, Governor. Jozé Maria Rodrigues de Basto, Judge.
João Teixera Lira, commandant.
Bernardo Estevão Carneiro. Procurador.
Present Members of the Senate.—Bartholomeo Barretto; Antonio Joaquim Cor- tella: João Damasceno Coelho dos Santos; Claudio Ignacio da Silva; Manoel Antonio de Sousa; Bernardo Estevão Carneiro.
4. H. B. M's ships and vessels on the coast of China, Jan. 1, 1841, Under the command of commodore, sir J. J. Gordon Bremer, knt., C. B., K. C. H., commander-in-chief in the East Indies.
Wellesley,
Blenheim,
Melville,
Calliope,
Samarang,
Hyacinth, Modeste,
Columbine,
Sulphur,
72, captain T. Maitland. (Flag-ship)
72, captain sir H. Le Fleming Senhouse, knt, K. c. H. 72, captain the hon. R. S. Dundas.
44, captain H. Smith.
26, captain Thomas Herbert.
26, captain James Scott. 26. captain Joseph Nias. 18, commander J. P. Blake. 18, commander W. Warren. 18, commander Harry Eyres. 16, commander T. J. Clarke.
8, surveying vessel, commander E. Belcher. Starling, schooner, tender to Sulphur, lieut-commanding H. Kellett. Jupiter, armed en flute as troop ship, master-commanding R. Fulton. Louisa, cutter, tender to flag-ship, T. Carmicheal. R. N., commanding.
Queen, master-commanding W. Warden. Enterprise, master-commanding C. H. West. Madagascar, master-commanding J. Dicey. Nemesis, master-commanding W. II. Hall R. N.
H. Co's arm- ed steamers
Blonde, Conway,
The above off Canton river-The following at Chusan.
42, captain Thomas Bourchier.
26, captain C. R. Drinkwater Bethune.
Alligator,
26, acting captain A. L. Kuper.
20, commander C. A. Barlow.
Pylades,
18, commander T. Y. Anson.
Algerine, 10, lieutenant-commanding T. H. Mason
Rattlesnake. 28, troop ship, master-commanding W. Brodie.
Young Hebe, schooner, R. R. Quin, tender to Conway, surveying.
Hon. Co.'s armed steamer Atalanta, commander J. Rogers. Indian Navy,
5. Detail of H. B. M's military force at Chusan on 1st January.
18th regiment, Royal Irish, Lt.-colonel Adams, 26th regiment, Cameronians, Lt--colonel James, 49th regiment, Lieutenant-colonel Bartley, Bengal Volunteers, Lieutenant-colonel Lloyd, Madras Artillery, Lt.-colonel Montgomerie c. B.
487 rank and file.
Madras sappers and miners, captain Cotton.
Staff officers with H. B. M. military force at Chusan, Jan. Ist.
Brigadier-general Burrell, 18th regiment,
Lieutenant Mitford, 18th Royal Irish,
Major Mountain, 26th Cameronians,
Major Becher, Bengal army,
Captain Moore, Bengal army,
Major Wilson, Bengal army,
Major Hawkins, Bengal army,
Captain Smith, Bengal army,›
Commanding.
Aid-de-camp.
Depy. udjutant-general. Depy. quarter-master-general. Depy, judge-advocate-general.
Paymaster-general.
Deputy commissary-general. Assistant
VOL. X. NO. I.
List of H. B. M. Forces.
Captain-Davidson, Bengal army, Surgeon Grant, Madras artillery, Major Stephens, 49th regiment, Captain Caine, 26th regiment, Lieutenant Dennis, 49th regiment, Lieutenant Dunbar, 18th regiment,
Assistant commissary-general.
Superintending surgeon.
Commissioner of public property.
Magistrate.
Assistant magistrate.
Assistant magistrate.
6. Establishment of Superintendents of the trade of British subjects.
Elliot, {
His excellency, capt. C. Elry, R. N., British plenipotentiary, A. R. Johnston, esq. Edward Elmslie, esq.
Mr. A. W. Elinslie,
Mr. L. d'Almada e Castro, Mr. J. d'Almada e Castro, John Robt. Morrison, esq. Rev. Charles Gutzlaff, Robert Thom, esq.
Mr. S. Fearon,
Mr. J. B. Rodriguez,
Mr. W. H. Medhurst, jr. T. R. Colledge, esq. (absent) A. Anderson, esq.
Chief Superintendent.
Deputy Superintendent. Secretary and Treasurer.
Clerks in the secretary's office.
Chinese secretary and interpreter. Joint interpreter," Joint interpreter,
Clerks in the Chinese secretary's office.
Surgeon.
Acting surgeon.
7. Foreign Consuls.
French.-Charles Alexandre Challaye, Esquire.
American.-P. W. Snow esq. (W. Delano, jr., csq., acting vice-consul.) Danish.-James Matheson, esq.
Foreign Residents.
Abeel, Rev. David,
Burjorjee Manackjec,
Almack, W.
Amroodeen Sumsudeen
Burn, D. L.
Anderson, Alexander,
Bush, F. T.
Ardaseer Furdoonjec,
Baldwin, T.`R.
Calder, A.
Bateman, J.
Burjorjee Sorabjee,
Byramjee Rustomjee,
Calder, D.
Cannan, John H.,
Challaye, C. A.
Compton, J. B.
Coolidge, J. jr., and family. am.
Cowasjee Pallanjec,
Cowasjee Sorabjee,
Baylis, H. P. Beale, Thomas, Bell, William, Blenkin, W.
Chinnery, George.
Clarke, W.
Board, Charles,
Bomanjee Eduljee
Boone, Rev. W. J., and fain. am.
Couper, W.
Bovet, L.
Boyd, W. Sprott,
Braine, George T.
Bridgman, Rev. E. C..
Brooks, George R.
Brown, Rev. S. R., and fam. am.
Bull, Isaac M.
Burd, John,
Burkhardt, F. S., absent
Burjorjee Manackjee,
Cowasjee Shapoorjee Tabac,
Cowasjee Shapoorjce Lungrali, Cox, Richard H.
Crawford, Adam
Croom, A. F.
Cursetjee Frommurjee, Cursetjee Rustomjce Dadabhoy Burjorjee,
* Lent to the government of Chusan.
+ Lent to the senior naval officer at Chusau.
Dadabhoy Byramjee, Dadabhoy Rustomjee, Dale, W. W.
Davis, J. J.
List of `Foreign Residents.
Henry, Joseph.
Heras, P. de las
Heron, George.
Hobson, B., M. B., and family.
Diver, W. B. m. d.
absent am.
Douglass, L. P.
Drysdale, A. S.
Drummond, F. C.
Dudgeon, Patrick,
Durran, J. A., jr.
Delano, Edward,
Delano, Warren, jr.
Denham, F. A.
Dent, John, jr.
Dent, Lancelot.
Dent, Wilkinson.
De Salis, J. H.
Dickson,
Hogarth,
Holgate, H.
Holliday, John,
Holmes, R.
Hormuzjee Framjee,
Dhunjeebhoy Nasserwanjee, par.
Dinshaw Furdoonjee,
Hooker, James,
Hormuzjee Sapoorjee, How, James absent Hubertson, Hughesdon, C. Hughes, W. H. Humpston, G. Hunter, W. C. Innes, James,
Jalbhoy Cursetjee,
Jardine, Andrew,
par. br.
Eduljee Furdoonjee,
Jardine, David,
Elliot, Charles, and family,
Jeaneret, A.
Ellis, W.
Johnston, A. R.
Elmslie, Adam W.
Jumoojee Nasserwanjee,
Elmslie, Edward.
Just, Leonard,
Erskine, W.
Just, L., jr.
Fanning, W.
Kay, Duncan J.
Fearon, Christopher.
Kennedy, G.
Fearon, Charles.
Fearon, Samuel.
Kerr, Crawford, and family,
King, C. W., and family, absent am.
Fessenden, Henry.
King, Edward,
Findlay, George,
Lane, W.
Fletcher, Angus,
Larruleta, M.
Forbes, D.
Le Geyt, W. C.
Fox, Thomas,
Framjee Heerajee,
Lejeć, W. R.
Framjee Jamsetjee,
Fryer, W.
Gemmell, W. absent
Limjee Bomanjee,
Gibb, John D.
Leighton, H. J., and family
Leslie, W.
Lloyd, Charles. Lockhart, W.
Gibb, T. A.
Gillespie, C. V.
Gilman, Daniel,
Gilman, J. T.
Gilman, R. J.
Low, W. H.
Macculloch, A.
Mackean, T. W. L. Macleod, M. A. Mahomedbhoy Alloo, Manackjee Bomanjee,
Gray, W. F. absent
Gribble, Henry, and family.
Gully, R.
Gutzlaff, Rev. C., and family. ", Halcon, J. M.
Hamilton, L., and family. Harker, Henry R.
Hart, C. H. and family. Harton, W. H.
Heerjeebhoy Rustomjee,
Manackjee Pestonjec,
Markwick, Charles
Martin, H.
| Matheson, James.
Matheson, Alexander. absent
Matheson, Donald. ·
McMinnies, H.
Melville, A.
Medhurst, W. H., jr.
Moller, Edmund,
Möllyer, A,
Monk, J.
List of Foreign Residents.
Scott, W.
Sucksen, C. F. absent
Shaikamod Dossboy,
Morgan, W.
Morrison, J. R.
Morsa, W. H.
Moul, Henry
Shaikassen Budroodin
Shawuxshaw Rustomjee,
Sherifkhan Kanjee,
Murrow, Y. J.
Mercer, J. A., and family, Merwanjee Dadabhoy, Merwanjee Eduljee,
Merwanjee Jeejeebhoy, Millar, John
Milne, Rev. W. C.
Shillaber, John
Shuck, Rev. J. L. and family
Silverlock, John
Simpson, J. W.
Skinner, John
Slade, John
Nacoda Elias
Smith, Gilbert
Smith, John, and family
Smith, J. M.
Nacoda Saboo
Snow, P. W. absent
Nacoda Seleman.
Somjee Visram,
Nasserwanjee Bhicajee,
Spooner, D. N.
Neave, Thomas D.
Stanton, Vincent.
am. moh.
Nowrojee Cowasjee,
Nye, Gideon, jr.
Staples, Edward A.
Nye, Thomas,
Oswald, R.
Stevens, T. Woodhouse
Stewart, C. E.
Stewart, Patrick, and family.
Palanjee Dorabjee,
Stewart, W.
Pallanjee Nasserwanjee Patell,
Still, C. F.
Parker, Rev. Peter. M. D.
abs. am.
Strachan, Robert
Paterson, A., and family,
Strachan, W.
Pattullo, Stewart E.
Sturgis, J. P.
Pestonjee Cowasjee,
Tait, James,
Pestonjee Dinshaw,
Talbot, W. R.
Pestonjee Jamsetjee,
Thom, Robert,
Pestonjee Ruttonjee Shroff,
Thomson, W.
Pestonjee Nowrojee,
Van Loffelt, J. P.
Pestonjee Rustomjee,
Pitcher, N. W.
Prosh, John
Pyke, W.
Ragoonath Juvan.
Racine, H. absent
Rees, Thomas
Rickett, John, and family
Ritchie, A. A. and family. Roberts, Rev. I. J.
Williams, S. Wells,
Wookerjee Jamsetjee,
Wright, Henry
Young, Peter
Yriarte, R.
Varnham, Warner, Walker, J. Waterhouse, B. Webster, Robert, Wetmore, S., jr. Wildridge, P.
Wilkinson, Alfred,
Robertson, P. F.
Rohin Raypall
Ryan, James.
A. A. Ritchie.
A. & D. Furdoonjee. Augustine Heard & Co. Bell & Co. Bovet, Brothers, & Co. Christopher Fearon. Daniell & Co. Dent & Co.
Yruretagoyena, G. de, and fain. sp.
Commercial Houses.
Dirom & Co.
D. & M. Rustomjee & Co. Elgar & Co.
Fergusson, Leighton, & Co. Fox, Rawson & Co. Gibb, Livingston, & Co. Gribble, Hughes, & Co. Gideon Nye., jr.
Heerjeebloy Rustomjee. Holliday, Wise, & Co. Hooker and Lane. Isaac M. Bull.
Innes, Fletcher, & Co. J. A. Mercer. James Ryan.
Jamieson & How.
Jardine, Matheson, & Co.
John Smith.. ·
Merchant Ships..
L. Just & Son, Lindsay & Co. Macvicar & Co. Olyphant & Co. Robert Webster. Russell & Co. Turner & Co.
W. & T. Gemmell & Co. Wetmore & Co.
William Scott.
Merchant Ships in China, Jan. 1841.
Jardine Matheson & Co.
294 tons
Dumaresq,
Russell & Co.
Jardine Matheson & Co.
Ann Gales,
Dent & Co.
Dent & Co.
Bengal Packet,
Steward,
Lindsay & Co.
Brigand,
Heerjeebhoy Rustomjee.
Caroline,
C. Fearon,
Charles Kerr,
Jardine Matheson & Co.
Danista Oak
Russell & Co.
Dos Amigos, sp.
Duchess of Clarence br.
J. P. Sturgis.
W. & T. Gemmell & Co.
Patterson,
Elizabeth,
Geffrey,
Jardine Matheson & Co.
Eben Preble
Russell & Co,
Fort William -
Jardine Matheson & Co.
Frances Smith
Edmonds,
Macvicar & Co.
George 4th,
Brownless,
Gertrudes,
Good Success
Jardine Matheson & Co.
Harriet,
Jardine Matheson & Co.
br. Baylis,
Jardine Matheson & Co.
Simpson.
Macvicar & Co.
Horatio,
Howland,
Gideon Nye, jr.
John O'Gaunt
Robertson,
Turner & Co.
Jardine Matheson & Co.
Konohasset,
Waterman,
Jardine Matheson & Co,
Kosciusko,
Peterson,
J. Shillaber.
Lambton,
Lady Hayes
W. Strachan,
Jardine Matheson & Co.
C. Hughesdon.
Lam heart,
Hopkins,
Dent & Co.
Lindsay & Co.
Lyra, Manly
Mellish,
Remmonds,
Russell & Co.
T. W. Stevens.
Huberston,
J. A. Durran.
Phillips,
Elgar & Co.
Dent & Co.
Monarch,
Robertson,
Holliday Wise & Co.
Mau Imein,
Guy, Swift, Hews,
G. Nye jr.
Dent & Co.
Parrock Hall.
Parsaus,
Dent & Co.
Premier,
Gribble Hughes & Co.
Prima Donna,
Dent & Co.
Sanderson,
Dirom & Co.
Scale by Castly,
Johnstone,
H. Rustomjee.
Scotland,
Cunningham. W. & T. Gemmell & Co.
Journal of Occurrences.
St. George.
Russell & Co.
Paterson,
Jardine Matheson & Co.
Syed Khan,
Horsburgh,
Ternate,
Cleverly,
Fergusson Leighton & Co.
Tomatin,
Jamieson & How.
Water Witch,
Reynell,
'Dent & Co.
Westmoreland, br.
Lindsay & Co.
Wilhelmine Maria, ham.
William,
Young Queen, br.
Valentin,
Underwood,
Jardine Matheson & Co-
Ships arrived in January.
1st Bella Marina, br.
Wickham, Sing, and Liv. Bell & Co.
Patterson,
3d Mysore,
Singapore,
4th Giraffe,
Jardine Matheson & Co.
Defiance, br.
5th Chieftain,
Innes, Fletcher & Co.
Florida,
Falcond,
U. S. & Manila, G. Nye, Jr.
Rafaela,
Isabella II,
14th Clifford,
15th Dartmouth, br. Jacob,
Jardine Matheson & Co.
H. M. F. S.
Danaide 18, Rosamel,
19th Lema,
am. Endicott,
21st Herald,
br. Watt,
Sing and Bom. Russell & Co. Loudon,
22d Kingston, br.. Maclean,
Sing and Bom. ·
Black Swan, br.
Singapore,
Hamilton, am. Kilham,
31st Folkestone, br. Jolly,
Manila, London.
ART. X. Journal of Occurrences; commercial business; negotia-
tions; cession of Hongkong; treaty; Chusan; public affairs. FEB. 18th. The occurrences during the past month, no space is left us now to detail: suffice it to say: 1; the blockade not being raised, commercial business remains in statu quo; a few merchants only are in Canton, and they, "in a very unpleasant neighborhood just now," are ready to leave: 2; negotiations have nearly reached their ne plus ultra: 3; Hongkong has been ceded to the British crown, and Chuenpe restored to the Chinese: 4; a trea- ty is understood to be in an advanced state, and must soon be exchanged or rejected: 5; the evacuation of Chusan has commenced; and the whole of the British forces there, with the prisoners at Ningpo, are soon expected to arrive at Hongkong: 6; the aspect of public affairs is indeed, at this moment, of a very ominous cast; and it is believed by almost every Chinese, so far as we know, that the emperor will discard the acts of his minister Ke- shen; and in this belief they are supported by the assembling of troops and other hostile movements, and by imperial edicts and other official papers. Some of these documents are in our possession, and shall appear in our next number. We are inclined to think, but are by no means strong in the opi- nion, that Keshen will stand. It is said three new commissioners are on their way to join or as some will have it-to supersede him. We subjoin three official papers.
Journal of Occurrences.
To Her Britannic Majesty's Subjects. Macao, 20th January, 1841. Her Majesty's plenipotentiary has now to announce the conclusion of per- liminary arrangements between the imperial commissioner and himself involving the following conditions.
1. The cession of the island and harbor of Hongkong to the British crown. All just charges and duties to the empire upon the commerce carried on there to be paid as if the trade were conducted at Whampoa.
2. An indemnity to the British government of six millions of dollars, one million payable at once, and the remainder in equal annual instalments ending in 1846.
3. Direct official intercourse between the countries upon equal footing.
4. The trade of the port of Canton to be opened within ten days after the Chi- nese new-year, and to be carried on at Whampoa till further arrangements are practicable at the new settlement.
Details remain matter of negotiation. The plenipotentiary seizes the earliest occasion to declare that Her Majesty's government has sought for no privilege in China exclusively for the advantage of British ships and merchants, and he is only performing his duty in offering the protection of the British flag to the subjects, citizens, and ships of foreign powers that may resort to Her Majesty's possession. Pending Her Majesty's further pleasure, there will be no port or other charges to the British government.
The plenipotentiary now permits himself to make a few general observations. The oblivion of past and redressed injuries will follow naturally from the right feeling of the queen's subjects:-Indeed it should be remembered that no extent of modification resulting only from political intervention can be efficacious in the steady improvement of our condition, unless it be systematically seconded by conciliatory treatment of the people, and becoming deference for the country, upon the threshold of which we are about to be established. The plenipotenti- ary can only presume to advert very briefly to the zeal and wisdom of the com- mander of the expedition to China: and to that rare union of ardor, patience, and forbearance which has distinguished the officers and forces of our arms at all points of occupation and operation. He is well assured the British communi- ty will sympathize cordially with him in their sentiments of lasting respect for his excellency and the whole force, which he is ashamed to express in such in- adequate language.
He cannot conclude without declaring that next to these causes the peaceful adjustment of difficulties must be ascribed to the scrupulous good faith of the very eminent person with whom negotiations are still pending.
(Signed) CHARLES ELLIOT, H. M. Plenipotentiary in China.
Circular. To Her Majesty's subjects.
Macao, 20th January, 1821. Her Majesty's plenipotentiary considers it incumbent upon himself to lose no time in assuring the commercial community that he will use his best efforts with her majesty's government to secure an early and entire advance of their claims for indemnity. And mindful of the interests of parties in India, he will not fait respectfully to move the Right Honorable the Governor general of India to second these purposes as far as may seem just to his lordship.
(Signed) CHARLES ELLIOT. Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary.
PROCLAMATION. By Charles Elliot, esq, a captain in the royal navy, Chief Superin
tendent of the trade of British subjects in China, and holding full powers, under the Great Seal of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, to execute the office of Her Majesty's commissioner, procurator, and plenipotentiary in China............ THE island of Hongkong having been ceded to the British crown under the seal of the Imperial minister and high commissioner Keshen, it has be come necessary to provide for the government thereof, pending Her Majesty's further pleasure.
By virtue of the authority therefore in me vested, all Her Majesty's Rights, Royalties, Privileges of all kinds whatever, in and over the said island of Hongkong, whether to or over lands, harbors, property, or personal service, are hereby declared, proclaimed, and to Her Majesty fully reserved..
Journal of Occurrences.
And 1 do hereby declare and preclaim, that, pending Her Majesty's further pleasure, the government of the said island shall devolve upon, and be exer- cised by, the person filling the office of Chief Superintendent of the trade of British subjects in China for the time being.
And I do hereby declare and proclain, that, pending Her Majesty's further pleasure, the natives of the island of Hongkong, and all natives of China thereto resorting, shall be governed according to the laws and customs of China, every description of torture excepted.
And I do further declare and proclaim, that, pending Her Majesty's further pleasure, all offenses committed in Hongking by Her Majesty's subjects, or other persons than natives of the island or of Chura thereto resorting, shall fall under the cognizance of the criminal and admiralty Jurisdiction, present- ly existing in China.
And I do further declare and proclaim, that, pending H. M.'s further plea- sure, such rules and regulations as may be necessary from time to time for the government of Hongkong, shall be issued under the hand and seal of the person filling the office of Chief Superintendent of the trade of British sub- jects in China for the time being.
And I do further declare and proclaim, that, pending Her Majesty's fur- ther pleasure, all British subjects and foreigners residing in, or resorting to the island of Hongkong, shall enjoy full security and protection, according to the principles and practice of British law, so long as they shall continue to con- form to the authority of Her Majesty's government in and over the island of Hongkong, hereby duly constituted and proclaimed.
Given under my hand and seal of office,
on board of Her majesty's ship Wellesley, at anchor in Hongkong Bay, this twenty- ninth day of January, in the year one thou- sand eight hundred and forty-one.
GOD SAVE THE QUEEN.
(Signed) CHARles Elliot.
(True Copy) EDWARD ELMSLIE Secretary and Treasurer, &c.
BREMER, Commander-in-chief, and ELLIOT, plenipotentiary, &c. &c., by this Proclamation make known to the inhabitants of the island of Hongkong, that that island has now become part of the dominious of the Queen of Eng land by clear public agreement between the high officers of the Celestial and British Courts and all native persons residing therein must understand, that they are now subjects of the Queen of England, to whom and to whose officers they must pay duty and obedience.
The inhabitants are hereby promised protection, in her majesty's gracious name, against all enemies whatever; and they are further secured in the free exercise of their religious rites, ceremonies, and social customs; and in the enjoyment of their lawful private property and interests. They will be governed, pending her majesty's further pleasure, according to the laws, customs, and usages of the Chinese (every description of torture excepted), by the elders of villages, subject to the control of a British magistrate; and any person having complaint to prefer of ill-usage or injustice against any Englishman or foreigner, will quietly make report to the nearest officer, to the end that full justice may be done.
Chinese ships and merchants resorting to the port of Hongkong for pur- poses of trade are hereby exempted, in the name of the Queen of England, from charge or duty of any kind to the British government.
The pleasure
of the government will be declared from time to time by further proclama- tion: and all heads of villages are held responsible that the commands are duly respected and observed.
Given under Seal of office, this 1st day of February, 1841.
CHINESE REPOSITORY.
VOL. X.-FEBRUARY, 1841.- No. 2.·
ART. I. Notices of China, No. V: marriage ceremonics, translat- ed and abridged from the Annales de la Propagation de la Fei From a letter of M. BOHET, missionary in Fuhkeën. By S. R.
Ir is no uncommon thing in China, to contract matrimonial alliances for children before they are born, as follows. Two women mutually promise to marry their expected offspring, provided they be of differ- ent sexes; and to render the promise more obligatory, pledges are given; as for instance, a' ring and bracelet for her who shall be the mother of a daughter, and two fans of the same shape and color, for the one who shall give birth to a son. When this agreement is enter- ed into, it is almost impossible to withdraw from it. The mutual promise is afterwards written in a book with gilt leaves, consisting of a single sheet of paper. After the birth of the daughter, her name is recorded upon this document, together with those of her father and mother, and the place of her birth. As a matter of etiquette, the book is then sent to the parents of the boy, who receive it, and on their part› return a similar one to the other party. These formalities being finished, it is impossible to draw back, and the marriage must take place, except in case one of the children becomes a leper. We see then, that the affair of marriage is not a question of consent between the affianced parties, since it is concluded by the parents, long before the children are of an age to give it. This is the reason
·Dated Hinghwa foo, March 4th, 1832.
VOL. X. NO. I.
Notices of China, No. V.
why there are so many unhappy women who find no end to their domestic troubles, but in suicide. Ordinarily, the parents take the first steps towards concluding a matrimonial contract, but there are persons in the country, men and women, intrusted with the business of match-making. These people make it their profession, get their livelihood by it, and generally follow no other. Marriage is a sort of trade, of which these go-betweens are the monopolists!
It is dishonorable to a girl ten years of age not to have been be- trothed, and after that period, the saying is, 'the market is dull.' At the age of fourteen or fifteen years, a girl can no longer go out of the house, though she may be pardoned if curiosity has led her now and then to peep out at the door. But when strangers enter the house she is obliged to hide herself in the most retired apartment. Every thing being ready for the espousals, the parents of the lad inform those of the girl, that they may fix the day. At the appointed time, the go-between, attended by two men and as many women, goes to the house of the future spouse with the usual presents in baskets. In one are found the two gilt books, mentioned above, around which are arranged diverse kinds of fruits, according to etiquette; and in the four corners are coins ranged in piles. Another contains a small fresh ham, the foot of which must be sent back to the intended fa- ther-in-law. A third basket has vermicelli in it. On the arrival of the bearess of the presents, crackers are fired to proclaim the news to the neighbors, and two red tapers are lighted in the hall of entrance. Afterwards, the betrothed apportions the ham to those present, but the number is often so great, that there is scarcely a morsel for each. She also sends the little book, containing the promise of marriage, to Her intended husband; and her parents send him as many baskets. containing articles of the same value as those presented to her. They are, however, of a different kind, and consist of various fruits, of which they make six separate parcels, each having a certain flower, set upon red paper, fastened to its four corners. ¡
The affianced boy likewise receives from his mother-in-law (that is to be) some small tokens of trifling value, which he immediately distributes to those who may be present. The seed of the gourd, dried in the sun, forms one of the latter. After these ceremonies; the youth cannot upon any account see his espoused; he has never sgen her yet, nor will he till the day of their nuptials. If he has not done it already, the father of the girl is not tardy to demand her price, about $32 being the most moderate sum for a wife. More commonly it is from 66 to 80 taels. In all cases, the young man
Notices of China, No. V. -
cannot have his bride till the stipulated price has been paid, and he is furthermore obliged to pay the additional expenses incurred when she quits the paternal roof, and goes to live with her husband..
At length; when the money is paid, and the time for the marriage comes, the guests resort to the house of the bridegroom, to celebrate it. The courier, who acts as guide to the chair-bearers, accompanied by a person appointed to direct the movements of the bride, takes the lead; yet before starting, they consult an astrologer, to ascertain whether the day is propitious or unfavorable. In the latter case, they take care to provide themselves with a large piece of pork, so that the demon, which in the form of a tiger, may be likely to oppose them, being wholly occupied in devouring the meat, may leave them unmolested. Mean time the maiden, rising before dawn, makes her toilet in the haut ton of elegance, dressing herself with her richest jewels and apparel. The best garments are concealed by others less beautiful worn over them, and the whole is covered by a bridal dress, which is simply a large mantle that completely envelops her. She is also muffled up in an enormous hat, resembling a flat wide basket, that descends to the shoulders and covers the whole figure. Thus attired she takes her seat in a red [and gilt] sedan, borne by four men. All who meet her upon the road are obliged to yield the path, even though it be the viceroy of the province that passes by. The sedan is entirely closed, so that she can neither see nor be seen. At a little distance from it, one or more chests of the same color as the sedan, contain, ing the apparel of the bride, are borne in state. Most commonly they contain nothing but old petticoats and small linen, the sport of all sorts of vermin. Custom requires that, during the time of the pro- cession, all those who form the train should weep and cry, and until they arrive at the bridegroom's house, no music is heard but that of wails. [?] If however the distance is great they make a pause, and only resume their lamentations when near the end of the journey.
At last, the courier, who is in advance of the train some minutes, arrives at the house all panting for breath, knocks loudly at the door, and cries out with vehemence, "There she is!" and at once a multi- tude of crackers, to the noise of which are added the discordant sounds of many instruments of music, announce to the neighborhood the arrival of the bride. As she stops at the door, the bridegroom hastens to conceal himself in the most retired part of the house, and there closets himself, now and theu putting his eye to the key-hole to see what is transpiring without. The go-between, who accompanies
spouse, then takes a little child, if there be one in the house, and ·
Notices of China, No. V.
makes him salute the young bride, after which she also enters the chamber of the intended husband, to inform him of his bride's arrival. He at first affects indifference to all that is going on around him, and seems occupied in other matters; however he goes out with the go-between, advancing with a grave step, and approaching the sedan, opens the door with an air of agitation and trembling: the bride steps out, and they both go forward together to the ancestral tablet, which they salute with three genuflections, and then seat themselves_at table opposite to each other face to face. The go-between serves them, and the bridegroom eats and drinks, but the bride merely makes a pretense of it, for the large hat, which all the time screens her and conceals her figure, prevents her from raising anything to her mouth. The repast being finished, the now wedded pair enter their chamber.
All the guests have a lively curiosity to know the result of this first interview, for it is then only that the husband removes the mask from his wife's head, and for the first time in his life beholds her features. Whether pretty or ugly, blind, blear-eyed, or deformed, he must make up his mind to have her for his lawful wife, and whatever may be his disappointment, he must disguise it, and outwardly ap- pear content with his lot. After he has considered his wife for some time, the guests, parents and friends, men and women, all enter the apartment to do the same, and view her at their leisure. Every one is allowed to express his opinion aloud, but the criticisms of the women are most severe. They closely scrutinize the newly married lady, and make every little natural defect which they observe, the subject of remark and malicious exaggeration. They are the more severe in their censures, from the recollection that they themselves have been ill-treated in like circumstances, and find great pleasure in having an opportunity to be avenged. This cruel examination, during which she who is the object of it, must keep silence, and cannot in any manner complain of the severe remarks that are made upon her per- son, being finished, she is at first introduced to her father-in-law and mother-in-law, who respectively salute her according to etiquette, and afterwards into the presence of her own father and mother.
It should be observed that neither of the parents of the bride ap- pear at that wedding. Neither of them can be invited on the oc- casion, that matter belonging entirely to the bridegroom, who invites his parents and friends a fortnight beforehand.
The cards of invitation are peculiar in their form. They consist of a large red sheet of paper folded into two small ones, in the forın
Notices of China, No. V.
of letters, but on which there is nothing written. Only those who have received these cards in due form can be present at the nuptials. The bridegroom is always the bearer of them, and in delivering them to the guests, he at the same time makes to each a present of two cakes made of rice flour, cooked in water and colored red. The persons invited must, a few days before the fête, send him a sum of money equal to and even greater than the expenses they will be con- sidered as occasioning. The least sum is eighty cash for a child, and a hundred and forty or more for an adult. This contribution serves not only to cover the cost of the bridal feast, but the additional
expenses.
The second day of the wedding, the husband carries to the same gests, another card of invitation, like the first and with the same formalities, and everything passes off as on the preceding day. On the second day, the bride goes to present her respects to the ladies who have honored the nuptials by their presence, and makes a genu- flection to each. They, in return, each make her a present of a ring, or something else, of indeterminate value. The smallest they can give, however, must be worth at least 40 cash. The young gentlemen, invited to the wedding, unite together after the feast, and make the bridegroom a present of two Chinese lanterns. In the course of the night the guests in concert get up a hurly-burly to the wedded pair. In the midst of the uproar, and when the latter are supposed to be asleep, the former try to break into their apartment, either by forcing the door, or by making a hole in the wall, in order to carry off some of the garments, or other things belonging to the married couple... If they succeed, the husband is obliged to repur- chase the stolen articles.
In the ceremonies that accompany marriage entertainments, the gravity of Chinese manners does not allow of those animated signs of mirth, which we often see among us under similar circumstances, but on the other hand they indulge in many indecencies which our morals forbid. Throughout the whole of the fête, music is incessant, and the scene closes with a comedy, performed by professional actors, whose theatrical pieces are in as bad taste as those of the merry- andrews that go about our country to amuse people with their farces. Before the guests retire, they make an image of paper, or something else, representing a little child, which they carry to the bridal bed, to secure a son for the first-born. The comedians receive a handful of cash for their services. Should the father and mother of one of the betrothed happen to die, the marriage is postponed during the season
Notices of China, No. V.
of mourning. An interdict to the same effect is laid upon the whole empire when the emperor dies.
Marriage among the poor is more simple. They often purchase for a small sum, a little girl whom they train up to be their son's wife, when he is of a suitable age, and in that case the expenses are very much reduced. On the other hand, poor parents, who have a daughter already affianced, whom they find it difficult to maintain, send her with ceremony to the parents of her intended husband, who are obliged to receive and support her.
The 12th, 13th and 14th days of the Chinese moon, are holidays, consecrated to the worship of the genii or spirits, to whom the people address themselves praying for health and riches, the only blessings, alas! which these poor idolaters know or desire. At these times, in villages, where there are persons that have been married in the course of the year, the inhabitants, men and women, join together on one of these days, and go by night to visit the new wife, who, shut up in the house from which she cannot go out, as yet knows nobody in the place of her confinement.
The young woman receives her visitors standing by her bed, with her husband at her side. The men enter first, and carefully scruti- nize her, but no one can say a word. She too is silent, but her husband being the speaker on the occasion, makes a pompous pane- gyric upon his wife, especially upon her external perfections, calling their attention to her pretty little feet, her beautiful hands, &c., &c. Meantime they are going and coming incessantly, and from their eager appearance, one might take them for people going to see rare beasts shut up in a menagerie. As fast as they retire, they are regal- ed with a cup of tea and a pipe of tobacco. After the men have satisfied their curiosity, then comes the women's turn. The husband withdraws, and leaves them the open field with his young wife. They notice her person with the closest scrutiny from head to foot, and afterwards every article of her apparel. She must take good heed not to be abashed, and to be very discreet in her words, for her per- son, her conversation, her carriage, everything about her is noticed, remembered, and very soon divulged and maliciously exaggerated. Every defect which they can discover becomes the common topic of conversation for a long time, among those of her sex, so that we may say that her reputation for life turns upon her discretion at that time, and besides, however grave and reserved may be her manner, how- ever wise her words, however accomplished her
the person, tongues -of jealous women will always find matter for their censures.
Notices of Japan, No. VI.
poor creature, well knowing that she cannot please every body, some- times resolves to say nothing, and remains motionless as a statue, with an elongated visage, her eyes half-shut and fixed upon the ground, making no reply to any address, and suffering herself to be examined without uttering a word.
After the wedding is over, the son-in-law will not enter the house of his father-in-law, and vice versa, unless they are mutually antici- pated by a formal invitation to a feast, in which no point of etiquette can be dispensed with. When this duty has been performed they can visit each other at pleasure.
As the husband's father is considered as having purchased his daughter-in-law, she belongs to him, and he has the right to dispose of her. Hence it is, that many sell their son's widow to other per- sons, and often at a low price. If she has had children by her first marriage, they appertain by right to the father-in-law, and she cannot take them away with her. Henceforth these children have no rela- tion to her, and no longer regard her as their mother.
In China, no account is made of relationship on the mother's side, and therefore the children of sisters may lawfully marry each other; but on the side of fathers and brothers it has no end, and relatives by the male line, though of the hundredth generation from the com- mon stock, can in no case intermarry. The laws severely forbid it, and such a marriage would be null.
A woman cannot visit her parents for at least a year after her nuptials, unless the most urgent circumstances, such as the death of one of her parents, oblige her to do so. Before she
Before she pays them a visit, they must call upon her. After that she is at liberty to go, accom- panied by her husband, carrying presents with her, in great formali- ty, with a sedan, music, &c., and returns to her home only when her father-in-law recalls her ip state, after having repeated her presents
Note. These notices of Chinese usages are by us the more valued, because they afford information concerning things which exist in the interior of the coun- try, where they have been described by eyewitnesses; but more notes are requir ed than are here added, especially where the usages described are different from what we find in this part of the empire. Thus, in the present article, the writer speaks of the weeping and crying of those who go in procession when carrying the bride to the home of her new husband; in this part of the country, nothing of the kind, so far as we know, exists; but previously to her leaving the home of her parents and usually some ten or twenty days previously-there is a long season of weeping and wailing, in which she is joined by many of her, friends and relatives.
Notices of Japan, No... · VI
ART. II.
Notices of Japan, No. V1: anecdotes illustrative of Japanese character; the visit of the Phaton; a conspiracy; a wrecked ship; a magistrate's sagacity &c., &c.
Or this kind of illustration, the Dutch writers afford very little, and thạt little is chiefly found in Doeff's Recollections; though from Titsingh's unreadable An- nals a few anecdotes may be gathered, that strongly exemplify some national peculiarities both of mind and manners for example, the vindictive 'spirit' and inflexible constancy of the Japanese, the slight account they make of human life (save as its loss would imply an act of injustice), their love of a jest, and their ideas of good breeding. Upon the established principle, that tragedy should pre. cede farce, we will begin with an instance given by Doeff of the abdomen-ripping, He does not give it as an anecdote, but relates it as part of the history of his presidentship. His story is too prolix to be given in his own words, to say noth- ing of his ignorance of the object of the English officer.
In the year 1808, Capt. Pellew of the Pheton, while aruizing in the Indian seas, projected the capture of the annual Dutch vessels trading with Japan. His search for them proved unsuccessful, that being one of the years in which none were dispatched; but he prosecuted it even into the bay of Nagasaki. The con- sequences of this' step, unintentionally and unconsciously on his part, were such as to excite a fierce hatred of England in the minds of the Japanese.f
Upon captain, Pellew's making the coast, and the report of a strange vessel in sight reaching. Nagasaki, the usual deputation was sent forth the previous, in- quiries and taking of hostages, described by Siebold, have been ordered in conse- quence of this transaction. The boat bearing the members of the Dutch factory was in advance of that with the Japanese commission, and, as the ship displayed Butch colors, advanced joyfully to meet her shallop, when, as soon as they were; within reach of each other, the Dutch officials were grappled, dragged for. cibly into the ship's, hont, and carried on board. · The Japanese police-officers and interpreter, in utter dismay at sa unexpected, so incomprehensible a catastrophe, rowed back to relate the misadventure of their foreign colleagues. The governor of Nagasaki, to whom the loss of two of the strangers in his charge was matter of life and death; ordered the two go-banyosi to Sting back the captured Dutch- men, or not to return alive; and then sent to ask Doeff what could be the mean- ing of the occurrence, and whether he saw any means of recovering his people. Doeff replied, that he conceived the ship to be an English man-of-war, and that the Dutchman, being civilians, might be recovered by negotiation. But even whilst these › messages were passing, the Phatom made her way, unpiloted, into the harbor, and the Japanese, confounded at an exploit altogether 'unprecedented, raised a cry that she was bearing down upon Dezima.
The governor, who now feared to lose his whole factory, ordered all the Dutch- men, with their most valuable effects, to the government-house, there, at least, to be as safe as himself. They found him in a fearful rage, and he greeted Doeff with the words: "Be you easy, opperhoofd; I will have your Dutchmen back for you." Soon afterwards came a note from one of the captives, stating that the ship was English, and that captain Fellew requested provisions and water.
Notices of Japan, No. VỈ.
With this demand the governor declared himself little disposed to comply; and he was busily engaged in making preparations for destroying the strange vessel, ac- cording to the general tenor of his instructions. His first measure was to summon the troops from the nearest post, one of the prince of Fizen's, where a thousand men were bound to be constantly on duty; only sixty or seventy were found there, the commandant himself being amongst the missing. This neglect of orders by others nearly sealed the governor's own fate: but he did not intermit his efforts to regain the Dutchmen, and his scheme for succeeding by negociation was truly Japanese. The chief secretary waited upon Doeff, informing him that he had received orders to fetch back the captives; and to the question, “How ?" replied, “Even as the ship has seized the Dutchmen, treacherously; so shall I go on board quite alone, and with the strongest professions of friendship; I am then to ask for the captain, to request the restoration of the Dutchmen; and in case of a refusal, tó stab him first, and then myself." Doeff's representations to both the secretary and the governor, that such an act must infallibly cause the death of the captives by the hands of the enraged crew, could with difficulty induce them to abandon this wildly-vindictive project.
One of the Dutch captives was now sent on shore, on parole, to fetch the pre. visions asked for. He reported that he and his comrade had been strictly inter- rogated as to the annual Dutch ship; and that the English captain threatened, should he detect any attempt at deception respecting them, to put both captives to death, and burn every vessel in the harbor, Japanese or Chinese. The go- vernor was most unwilling to let his recovered Dutchman return to captivity, but was at length convinced of the necessity of suffering him to keep his word, for the sake of the other. He then gave him provisions and water to take on board, but in very small quantities, hoping thus to detain the ship until he should be ready for hostilities. Capt. Pellew had by this time satisfied himself that his intended prizes were not in Nagasaki bay, and in consequence, upon receiving this scanty supply, he sent both Dutchmen on shore. Their release was to the two police officers, who were still rowing despondingly round and round the Phæton, meditating upon the impossibility of executing their commission, a respite from certain death.
difficult
Meanwhile, the governor was collecting troops to attack the English frigate : but his operations proceeded slowly, and other subsidiary measures were suggest. ed. The prince of Omura, who came to Nagasaki with his troops before dawn, advised burning her, by means of fifty small boats filled with combustibles, the Dutch president preventing her escape by sinking vessels laden with stones in the passage out of the harbor. But whilst all these plans were under con. sideration, whilst troops were assembling as fast as possible, and commissioners rowing from shore to shore to gain time by proposals to negociate respecting com. merce, the Englishman, who had no further object in remaining, sailed out of the harbor as he had sailed in, unpiloted, leaving the Japanese even more confounded than before.
The Dutch now returned to Dezima, and as far as they were concerned, the whole affair was over.
Not so with respect to the Japanese. The governor had, involuntarily indeed, disobeyed his orders, by suffering the escape of the intruder ; and he felt that he had been negligent in not knowing the state of the coast-guard
YOL. X. NO. II.
Notices of Japan, No. VI.
posts. To a Japanese, his proper course under such circumstances could not re- quire deliberation. Nor did it. The catastrophe is thus told :*
"He so well knew the fate awaiting him, that, within half an hour of our departure, he assembled his household, and in their presence, ripped hunself up.. The commanders of the deficient posts, officers not of the siogoun but of the prince of Fizen, followed his example; thus saving their kindred from inevitable dishonor. That their neglect would indeed have been punished with the utmost severity, ap. pears from the circumstance that the prince of Fizen, although not then in his dominions, but compulsorily resident at Yedo, was punished with a hundred days of imprisonment, because the servants whom he had left behind him had not duly obeyed his orders. On the other hand, the young son of the governor of Nagasaki, who was altogether blameless on the occasion, is at this hour in high favor at court, and has obtained an excellent post. When I visited the court of Yedo in 1810, I was told the following particulars respecting this youth. The prince of Fizen, considering that the death of the governor of Nagasaki might in a great measure be imputed to him, inasmuch as the desertion of the guard posts, though occurring without his fault, had mainly contributed to it, requested permission of the council of state to make a present of two thousand koban (about £2,650) to the son of the unfortunate governor. Not only was this request granted, but the wholly unexpected and unsolicited favor was added, that, to spare him further applications, he might repeat the gift annually. This permission, being equivalent to a command, compelled the prince of Fizen to pay an annuity to the governor'a orphans." +
This story, falling within Heer Doeff's personal knowledge, accurately cha racterizes the spirit of the Japanese government, and the occasions rendering suicide imperative. It is melancholy to be obliged to add that, according to re. port, Dr. Von Siebold has had the misfortune of causing a similar catastrophe, though upon a smaller scale. The details are not yet before the public, but are said to be these. The high reputation of the doctor for science, and the favor of influential Japanese friends, obtained for him permission to remain at Yedo for the purpose of giving instruction to the learned members of the college, when Col. Van Sturler returned to Dezima; and afterwards permission, more extraordinary still,. to travel in the empire. He was, however, prohibited from taking plans or making
* Doeff.
+ Both Meylan and Fischer, in speaking shortly of this unfortunate visit of the Phaeton to the bay of Nagasaki, assert that captain Pellew insisted upon a supply of fresh beef, as the ransom of his Dutch prisoners, threatening to hang them in case of a refusal; that the governor, out of pure humanity, sacrificed a bullock to save the lives of two men, and killed himself to expiate this sin of com. mission, this violation of a positive law. Now, to say nothing of the improbability of an English gentleman's being guilty of an act so idly and so foolishly violent and cruel, neither Meylan nor Fischer, who were not then in Dezima, could know this story save by hearsay; while Doeff was not only on the spot, but one of the chief actors in the prologue to the final tragedy; and the narrative in the text is taken from his pages, with no other alteration than compression, explanation of captain Pellew's views, and omission of some vituperation of that officer in par- ticular, and his countrymen in general. Doeff, who explicitly states the governor'a reasons for killing himself, says not a word of beef; and he assuredly desires not to favor England or the English, to whom he imputes every body's misdemeanors. The tale had grown more marvelous by tradition when told to the later writers- that is all.
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maps, but was detected in the transgression of this prohibition, and imprisoned. His escape was effected by the fidelity and attachment of his Japanese domestics; but the
person or persons who were responsible for his safe custody had no re- source but the hara-kiri. This is the story circulated on the Continent; the ac- of the details cannot be avouched; but of the fact, that the German curacy doctor's escape, like the British sailor's, caused Japanese suicide, there seems to be, unhappily, no doubt.
But to leave the subject of self-slaughter. The following fragment of history, from the Annals of the siogouns of the Gongen dynasty, is characteristic alike of the vindictive temper, resolution, high sense of honor, and ferocity in punishment of the Japanese, and also of their long enduring hereditary gratitude.
During the civil wars (which will be related in a succeeding paper on Japan. ese history) between Gongen and his grand-daughter's husband, Hideyosi, the prince of Toza had been a faithful adherent of the latter; after whose discomfiture, he fell into the conqueror's hands. He endured much cruel, much degrading treatment; and at last, his hands were ordered to be struck off, which in Japan is the very extremity of dishonor. The prisoner upbraids the usurper, who thus appears to have been present throughout, with his perjury to Hideyosi, and his barbarity to himself. The answer to his reproaches was sentence of decapitation. The prince's son, Marubasi Chuya, instantly resolved to avenge his father's death; but being then a destitute and helpless child, but nine years old, he careful. ly concealed his purpose until he should find himself in a condition to effect it. This did not happen until the accession of Gongen's great-grandson, Minamoto no Yeyetsuna, in 1651, when he was appointed commander of the pikemen of Yorinebu, the new siogoun's uncle. Chuya now deemed the moment of revenge arrived. He concerted his schemes with Ziositz [or Yuino Siosits], the son of an eminent dyer but a man of such talent, that he had been tutor to Yorinobu. This prince himself was suspected of being implicated in the conspiracy; if he was, the presence of mind and firmness of his confederates effectually screened him. Yet, when we are told that the drift of the plot was to exterminate the whole race of Gongen, and to divide the empire between Chuya and Siosits, this seems a design so unlikely for a prince of the proscribed family to participate in, that we must suppose the views of the conspirators to be misrepresented, or Yorinobu to have been duped by his accomplices, as the issue of the transaction renders it hardly possible to acquit him of all knowledge of the plot.
measures
An act of indiscretion on the part of Chuya, after so many years (nearly fifty) of prudence, betrayed the conspiracy, and orders were issued for his arrest, and that of Siosits. It was deemed important to seize both, or at least Chuya, who resided at Yedo, alive, in the hope of extorting further disclosures; and were taken accordingly. An alarm of fire was raised at Chuya's door, and when he ran out to ascertain the degree of danger threatening his house, he was suddenly surrounded and attacked. He defended himself stoutly, cutting down two of his assailants; but, in the end, was overpowered by numbers, and secured.
His wife, meanwhile, had heard the sounds of conflict, and apprehend- ing its cause, immediately caught up those of her husband's papers which would have revealed the names of his confederates (amongst whom were men of distinc- tion and princes of the land), and burnt them. Her presence of mind remains
Titsingh, page 14.
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even to this day a topic of admiration in Japan, where the highest eulogy for judg- ment and resolution that can be bestowed upon a woman, is to compare her to the wife of Chuya. Such qualities, it may be conjectured, had procured her the honor, contrary to Japanese custom, of being her husband's confidant.
The plans of government being thus foiled, even in their apparent success, the next orders were to arrest all the known friends of Chuya. Siosits avoided cap. ture by the usual form of suicide; but two of his friends, named Ikeyemon and Fachiyemon, were seized and interrogated. They promptly acknowledged their participation in a conspiracy which they esteemed honorable, but refused to betray a confederate. The destruction of Chuya's papers left no possible means of discovering the parties implicated, except the confession of one of the prisoners, and they were therefore subjected to tortures sickening to relate, but which must nevertheless be known, if we would justly appreciate either the firmness or the ferocity of the Japanese character.
Chuya, Ikeyemon, and Fachiyemon were, in the first instance, plastered all over with wet clay, then laid upon hot ashes, until the drying and contracting of the clay, rent and burst the flesh into innumerable wounds. Not one of them changed countenance, and Fachiyemon, taunting his tormentors like a Mohawk in the hands of hostile Cherokees, observed, "I have had a long journey, and this warming is good for my health; it will supple my joints, and render my limbs more active." The next form of torture tried was making an incision of about sight inches long in the back, into which melted copper was poured; and this cop. per, when it had cooled, was dug out again, tearing away the flesh that adhered to it. This likewise failed to conquer the fortitude of the victims: Fachiyemon af- fected to consider it a new-fashioned application of the mora, a Japanese mode of medical treatment by actual cautery; and Chuya thus replied to the judge. minister, who urged him to avoid further suffering by revealing his accomplices: "Scarcely had I completed my ninth year, when I resolved to avenge my father, and seize the throne. My courage you can no more shake than a wall of iron. I defy your ingenuity! Invent new tortures; my fortitude is proof against them!” The government now despaired of obtaining more victims than those they already held, and the day of execution was appointed. When it dawned, the death-doomed, amounting in number to thirty-four, were, conducted in procession through the streets of the town, headed by Chuya; his wife and mother, with Ikeyemon's wife, and four other women, closed the melancholy train. It may here be remarked, that, out of thirty-four prisoners, only three were tortured; pro. bably because the ringleaders only were supposed to possess the knowledge desir- ed; and Chuya's wife, who was manifestly in the secret of the names so keenly and ferociously sought, could, as a woman, give no available evidence, even if confession were extorted from her.
As the procession reached the place of execution, a man, bearing two gold-hilted swords broke through the encircling crowd, approached the minister of justice whose duty it was to superintend the work of death, and thus addressed him: "I am Sibata Zabrobe, the friend of Chuya and of Siosits. Living far remote, I have but lately heard of their discovered conspiracy, and immediately hastened to Yedo. Hitherto I have remained in concealment, hoping that the siogoun's clemency would pardon Chuya; but as he is now condemned to die, I am come to embrace him, and if need be, to suffer with him."" You are a worthy man,'
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replied the judicial officer, "and I would all the world were like you. I need not await the governor of Yedo's permission to grant your wish; you are at liberty to join Chuya."
The two friends conversed awhile undisturbed; then Sibata produced a jug of sake, which he had brought, that they might drink it together, and as they did so, they bade each other a last farewell. Both wept. Chuya earnestly thanked Sibata for coming to see him once more. Sibata said: “Our body in this world resembles the magnificent flower asa-gawa, that, blossoming at peep of dawn, fades and dies as soon as the sun has risen; or the ephemeral kogero (an insect), But after death, we shall be in a better world, where we may uninterruptedly enjoy each other's society." Having thus spoken, he rose, left Chuya, and thanked the superintending officer for his indulgence.
All the prisoners were then fastened to separate crosses, aud the executioners brandished their fatal pikes. Chuya was first dispatched, by ripping him up with two cuts in the form of a cross. The others were then successively execut. ed; Chuya's wife dying with the constancy promised by her previous conduct.
It may here be observed, that the difference between this execution and all the descriptions given in the last paper, tends to confirm the conjecture there hazard- ed that the manner is not fixed, but depends much upon the judge. The different writers describe what they have seen, rather than what is prescribed. This rip- ping up of Chuya does not affect what was there said of the hara-kiri, the essence of which is, its being suicidal, or the proper act of the sufferer. This is merely a substitute for decapitation. But our story is not yet finished.
When this judicial massacre was over, Sibata presented his two valuable swords to the official superintendent, with these words: "To you I am indebted for my conversation with my lost friend; and I now request you to denounce me to the singoun, that I may suffer like Chuya."--"The gods forbid that I should act thus!" rejoined the person addressed. “You deserve a better fate than to die like him; you, who whilst all his other friends were consulting their own safety by lurking in concealment, came boldly forward to embrace him.”
As the name of Sibata Zabrobe does not again occur in the Annals, it may be hoped that this stout-hearted and faithful friend was suffered to return safely to his distant home. But the fate of another of the suspected conspirators is still to be told, and the manner of his escape exemplifies one of the lofy characteristics of the nation—their devoted fidelity.
The burning of Chuya's papers had destroyed all proof, if any had existed, of Yorinobu's complicity; but circumstances were strong against him. His palace was searched, but nothing found that could decidedly inculpate him; and now his secretary, Kanno Heyemon, came forward with a doclaration, that he, and only he, in the prince's establishment, had been cognizant of the conspiracy, confirming his assertion by ripping himself up. The fruit of this self-immolation was, that Yorinobu, although still suspected, remained unmolested at Yedo; and that a suspected prince did so remain, may show how modified and bound by law is Japanese despotism. Some generations afterwards, Yosimune, descendant of Yorinobu's, became siogoun, and evinced the gratitude of the family for the preservation of their ancestor, by raising the posterity of Kanno Heyemon to some of the highest honors of the state, and rendering them hereditary in his race. The next anecdote, taken from the same source, will both show that the wo-
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men share in this lofty contempt for life, whether their own or another's, when they conceive duty, or the public interest, to require the sacrifice; and that,
if a siogoun possesses despotic power, there is little disposition to let him exercise it arbitrarily.
Early in the eighteenth century, the siogoun Tsunayosi, a profligate prince, who by his vices had destroyed his constitution, accidentally lost his only son, and resolved to adopt an heir, the dignity of siogoun having never been inherited by a daughter. This is a constant practice in Japan with the childless, whether sovereign or subject; but the established rule is, to select for adoption the son of a brother, or other near relation; in direct contravention of which, Tsunayosi, disregarding the claims of his nephew, fixed his choice upon an alien to his blood, the son of a mere favorite of inferior birth.
The prime minister, Ino Kamon no kami, remonstrated, alleging that a step sɔ unprecedented would exasperate not only the princes of the blood, but all the grandees of the empire. His representations proved unavailing against the fa. vorite's influence; whereupon he sought the empress, or midai. To her the minister revealed his master's illegal and dangerous design; explained the pro- bability, if not certainty, that a general insurrection would be its immediate con- sequence; and declared that, unless she could avert it, the adoption and its fearful results were inevitable. The midai-a daughter of the reigning mikado, and high-minded, as became her birth and station-meditated profoundly for some minutes; then raising her head, she bade the alarmed minister be of good cheer, for she had devised means of prevention. But what these means might be she positively refused to tell him.
Upon the day preceding that appointed for the adoption, the daughter of the 'son of heaven,' who had long been wholly neglected by her libertine husband, invited him to take sake with her; and upon his assenting, prepared a sumptuous entertainment. While he was drinking, she retired for a moment to her private apartment, wrote and dispatched a note of instructions to Ino Kamon, and then, placing in her girdle the ornamented dagger worn by women of exalted rank, she returned to the banqueting-room. Shortly afterwards, she announced her wish for a private conversation with the siogoun, and dismissed her attendants.
The Japanese annalist relates, that when they were alone, the princess ear- nestly implored her consort to grant the request she was about to prefer to him. He refused to pledge his word until he should know what she desired; and she then said: "I am assured that you purpose adopting the son of Dewa no kami as your heir. Such a step, my most dear and honored lord, must grievously offend all those princes whose claims are thus superseded; it will unavoidably provoke a general insurrection, and occasion the destruction of the empire. My prayer therefore is, that you would renounce so ruinous a design." The siogoun was incensed at such feminine interference with his project, and indignantly replied; "How darest thou, a mere woman, speak upon state affairs? The empire is mine, to rule at my pleasure. I need not female counsel, nor will I see or speak to thee more !"* With these words he arose, and was leaving the apart ment in a rage. The midai, followed, and detaining him by his sleeve, persisted with humble urgency. "Yet bethink you my sovereign lord. Reflect, I implore
Whether this lady's high birth would have saved her from divorce or not, is not said. This threat might imply only neglect.
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you, that should you execute this baneful resolution, to-morrow's sun may see all Japan in rebellion." The siogoun was inflexible; her expostulations, gentle and subinissive as they were, serving only to exasperate his resentment. The heaven-descended lady, finding argument and solicitation fruitless of otherwise averting the impending disaster, suddenly plunged her dagger into his breast, and, withdrawing it, repeated the blow. Her aim was true; the monarch fell, and his consort, sinking on her knees by his side, implored his pardon for having in an emergency so critical, employed the only possible means left of securing the throne to the Gongen dynasty. She concluded with an assurance that she dreamed not of surviving him. The moment the siogoun Tsunayosi had breathed his last, she stabbed herself with the same dagger, and fell lifeless upon his corpse. Her ladies, hearing the noise of her fall, ran in and found both weltering in their blood.
At this moment appeared Ino Kamon, who, startled by the purport of the empress's billet, had flown to the place. He was instantly admitted to the cham. ber of death, and stood confounded at the fearful spectacle it presented. After a while, recovering himself, he exclaimed, "Lo! a woman has saved the empire! But for her bold deed, Japan would to-morrow have been convulsed, perhaps destroyed!"
The self-slain princess had not it seems, thought it sufficient thus effectually to prevent the siagoun from executing his illegal design: she had further given Ino Kamon, in her note, precise instructions as to the course he was to pursue. By obeying them, the minister secured the accession of the lawful heir, and alleviated the disappointment of the youth whom Tsunayosi had intended to adopt, by obtaining a principality for him from Yeyenobu, the monarch he had been intended to supplant. Ino Kamon's own services were recompensed by the new and grateful siogoun, who rendered the office of governor of the empire hereditary in his family; and the midai is said to divide the admiration of Japan with the wife of Chuya.
In a subsequent reign, that of Yosimune, the following incident occurred.* He reigned thirty years, and from Titsingh's account, would appear to have been elected siogoun, after the death of the preceding, who was a mere boy.
One of the inferior servants of the siogoun, named Iwaso Gozo, had a daughter. who was constantly ill; he took her to the hot baths, in hopes of reestablishing her health. He had been there three weeks, when three men befonging to the retinue of the prince of Satsuma came to see him, and requested him to lend them ten koban, promising to repay him at Yedo. Gozo declined, alleging that he was poor, and his daughter's illness very expensive, and expressing his regret that it was not in his power to accommodate them. They appeared to be satisfi ed with his excuses; and as he was to set off the next day, they invited him to supper, purposing to detain and make him drunk with sake. Gozo, having no suspicion of their design, accepted the invitation, and after supper, finding that it was late, he returned thanks, and begged permission to retire, that he might take a little. rest before his departure. Next morning, very early, he set out, but had scarcely proceeded three miles, when, on examining his sabre, which seemed heavier than usual, he discovered that it was not his own. He immediately re- turned, went to the persons with whom he had supped the preceding night, and
Titsingh, page 70.
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delivering to them the sabre, begged pardon for having taken it away in a mis- take. Instead of accepting his excuses, they replied, that this was an affair which could not be so lightly passed over; that he could not have offered them a great- er affront than in exchanging his sabre for one of theirs; and that they would be dishonored, if it were known at Yedo that they had not taken a signal revenge for it. They, therefore, declared, that he must fight them, and urged him to fix the time and place for the combat. Gozo complained of their injustice; remind. ed them that he had with him a sick daughter, who would be left destitute if be were to perish by their hands; and again intreated them to pardon him, assuring them that his daughter and himself would never cease to bear their kindness in grateful remembrance. All his remonstrances were fruitless. Finding, therefore, that he could not appease them, he was compelled to accept the challenge, and agreed to meet them the following day.
Gozo, on leaving them, reflected on his situation, which was in reality terrible; for he had no other alternative than either to perish in the combat, or, if he vanquished his enemies, to die by his own hand. Such was the law established by the prince of Satsuma. In this dilemma, he called upon one of his friends, who was a servant of the prince of Mito, related to him what had happened, and begged that he would lend him a pike to equip him for opposing his anta- gonists. His friend not only gave him his pike, but assured him that he would accompany him as his second, and assist him if he saw him in danger.
Next day, Satsuma's three servants repaired to the field of battle, where they were met by Gozo. They were armed with long sabres, while he had nothing but his pike, which, however, he plied with such dexterity and success, that with the two first thrusts, he extended two of his adversaries at his feet: the third, ap- prehensive of sharing their fate, ran away. Gozo, after pursuing him for some time, but without being able to overtake him, because fear lent him wings, re- turned to the place of combat for the purpose of dispatching himself. At this moment his friend ran up, wrested his arms from him, and cheered him, by repre- senting that justice was on his side, as he had been provoked in an unwarrantable manner, and obliged to defend himself. "I witnessed the combat,” added he; "I will make my report of it, and be bail for you. Meanwhile, the best thing you can do is to lose no time in acquainting the governor of Yedo with what has happened."
The governor wrote, in consequence, to the prince of Satsuma, who soon afterwards returned for answer, that on inquiry he learned that the malefactors were not his subjects, but must have come from some other province. Gozo was in consequence set at liberty, and thus the affair terminated.
We may now turn to anecdotes less painful, illustrative of lighter parts of the Japanese character. The following will prove that, if an implacable vindictive spirit, over which time can exert no softening influence, be part of that character, at least it is not excited by petty provocations, and may likewise afford a specimen : of the good-humor and love of drollery that mingle rather oddly with the national ferocity and passion for ceremony.
About the middle of the last century,* Fota Sagami no kami, a man of high reputation for learning and talent, was advanced to an eminent place in the coun. cil of state by the young siogoun, Yeye-sige, upon his accession. In the business.
* Titsingh.
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of administration, Fota Sagami fulfilled all the expectations to which his reputed ability had given birth; but he provoked great, if partial, animosity, by the in- exorable severity with which he treated the officers of the old siogoun, who had abdicated, depriving them of the rewards their former master had bestowed upon them for their services.
The despoiled men, having vainly petitioned for redress, meditated revenge, but determined first to make an effort for the recovery of their lost wealth by intimidation. In pursuance of this scheme, a pumpkin, carved into the form of a human head, appeared one morning over the state counselor's door, with the following inscription attached to it: "This is the head of Fota Sagami no kami, cut off and set up here in recompense of his cruelty."
Fota Sagami's servants were enraged at the insult offered to their master, but yet more terrified at the idea of the fury they anticipated it would awake in him, and which they feared might in some measure fall upon themselves, as though their negligence had given the opportunity for so daring an outrage. Pale and trembling they presented themselves before him, and reported the ominous appari. tion of the pumpkin-head, with its inscription. The effect was far different from what they had expected. Fota Sagami's fancy was so tickled by hearing, whilst full of life and health, that his head was announced to be actually cut off and set up over his own door, that he laughed heartily at the joke; and, joining his col- leagues in the council-chamber, felated his vicarious decapitation in the person of a pumpkin. There, likewise, the jest excited bursts of laughter, amongst which, however, unbounded admiration was expressed of Fota Sagami no kami's fortitude. Whether the jesters were permitted again to enjoy the rewards assigned them by the ex-siogoun, does not appear.
Another incident of the same reign, at a later date, exhibits a Japanese view of good breeding, and mode of testing talent and character.* Oka Yechizen no kami, one of the governors of Yedo, was directed to seek out able men for the service of the siogoun, and amongst others, a skillful accountant. A person named Noda-bounsa was recommended to him as an able arithmetician, and in other respects well fitted for office. Oka Yechizen sent for Noda-bounsa, and when the master of the science of numbers presented himself, gravely asked him for the quotient of 100, divided by 2. The candidate for place as gravely took out his tablets, deliberately and regularly worked the sum, and then answered 50. "I now see that you are a man of discretion as well as an arithmetician," said the governor of Yedo, "and in every way fitted for the post you seek. Had you answered me off-hand, I should have conceived a bad opinion of your breeding. Such men as you it is that the siogoun wants, and the place is yours."
Yeye sige did, indeed, want men of discretion about him, to supply his own deficiency, for he had by this time so completely destroyed his intellectual facul- ties by excesses of various kinds, as to reduce himself to idiotcy. To have plainly stated the fact, however, or to have applied to the monarch the appellation be longing to his mental disease, would have been treason. The wit of his subjects devised means of guiltlessly intimating his condition, by giving him the name of a herb that is said to cause temporary insanity, and Yeye-sige was surnamed Ampontan.t
Titsingh.
+ [The disposition to caricature and ridicule high officers is very common
VOL. X. NO. II.
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An instance of the quick talent and ingenuity ́evinced by the least educated portion of the community, akin to this sort of wit, occurs in the history of the transactions at Dezima during the long administration of president Doeff; but, upon the occasion in question, these qualities were directed towards a more useful purpose than nicknaming a sovereign. An American ship, hired by the Dutch at Batavia to carry on their permitted trade with Japan, whilst the Eng- lish cruizers rendered the service too hazardous for their own vessels, or for any but neutrals, as she set sail in the night, laden with her return cargo of copper and camphor, struck upon a rock, filled, and sunk. The crew got on shore in boats, and the problem that engrossed the attention alike of the American cap. tain, the Dutch factory, and the constituted authorities at Nagasaki, was how to raise the vessel.
"The first idea was to employ Japanese divers to fetch up the copper; but the influx of water had melted the camphor, and the suffocating effluvia thus disengaged cost two divers their lives. The attempt to lighten her was neces. sarily abandoned, and every effort to raise, without unloading her, had proved equally vain, when a simple fisherman, nanied Kiyemon, of the principality of Fizen, promised to effect it, provided his mere expenses were defrayed; if he fail ed, he asked nothing. People laughed at the man, who now, perhaps, for the first time in his life, ever saw an European ship; but he was not to be diverted from his purpose. He fastened on either side of the vessel under water fifteen or seventeen boats, such as those by which our ships are towed in, and connected them all with each other by props and stays. Then, when, a high spring-tide favored him, he came himself in a Japanese trading-vessel, which he similarly attached to the stern of the sunken ship, and at the moment the tide was at the highest, set every sail of every boat. Uprose the heavy-laden, deep-sunken mer. chantman, disengaged herself from the rock, and was towed by the active fisher- men to the level strand, where she could be conveniently discharged and repaired. Kiyemon not only had his expenses repaid to him, but the prince of Fizen gave him permission to wear two swords, and to wear as his arms a Dutch hat and two Lutch tobacco-pipes!
Without making any remark upon either the extraordinary coat-of-arms assign. ed to the fisherman, or the yet more extraordinary want of liberality evinced in the payment, or rather the apparent non-payment, of his successful exertions-for no hint is given that either the American captain, or the Dutch president made him any pecuniary recompense-it may be observed, that the permission to wear among the Chinese, and we should infer from this instance, and from others relat- ed by differen: authors, that it is also common in Japan. One, more allied to a pun than anything else, we give, which was made on the present siogoun, Tenpo, by taking the elements of his title, and making a sentence out of it. The two
characters Ten po are made into the following sent-nce: - 大人
ichi dar shtono kuchi hōzo, which means that "people's mouths are not well supplied" by the monarch. This was made of him in consequence of a famine that occurred about ten years ago, in 1831. The point of it is, that these five characters, when combined, make the imperial title; and their meaning when read is an imputation upon his want of goodness and carefulness, by which the people suffer from hunger. The last character does not mean wood, as it usu- ally does in Chinese, but is the Japanese word ho, to nourish, which is written in this way.]
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two swords is a satisfactory proof that the line of demarcation beween the different classes of society is not absolutely impassable.
Another Japanese fisherman seems to have displayed ingenuity equal perhaps to Kiyemon's, though in a less honorable and useful form, for the mere purpose of making money by his countrymen's passion for everything odd and strange.* He contrived to unite the upper half of a monkey to the lower half of a fish, so neatly, as to defy ordinary inspection. He then gave out that he had caught the creature alive in his net, but that it had died shortly after being taken out of the water; and he derived considerable pecuniary profit from his cunning in more ways than one. The exhibition of the sea-monster to Japanese curiosity paid well; but yet more productive was the assertion that the creature, having spoken during the few minutes it existed out of its native clement, had predicted a certain number of years of wonderful fertility, and a fatal epidemic, the only remedy for which would be, possession of the marine prophet's likeness. The sale of these pictured mermaids was immense. Either this composite animal, or another, the offspring of the success of the first, was sold to the Dutch factory, and transmit. ted to Batavia, where it fell into the hands of a speculating American, who carried it to Europe, and there, in the years 1822-23, exhibited his purchase at every capital, to the admiration of the ignorant, the perplexity of the learned, and the filling of his own purse, as a real mermaid.
Ere closing this paper, let us for a moment recur to the Japanese Annals for a gratifying proof of the care with which justice is administered by the delegated representatives of the council of state; although even that care, it must be allowed, smacks somewhat of despotic power in the whole manner of the transaction. The mode of trial alone renders the story worthy of attention, especially considering the asserted success of the Japanese tribunals in eliciting the truth. The incident occurred at Ohosaka.
An usurer,† named Tomoya Kiugero, lost a sum of money, amounting to 500 koban (upwards of £650). As no stranger had been seen about his premises, suspicion fell upon his servants, and after considerable investigation, finally settled upon one of the number called Chudycts. No proof was found, and the man, in spite of cress-questioning, menaces, and cajolery, positively denied the crime imputed to him. Tomoya now repaired to the governor of Ohiosaka, preferred his complaint, and demanded that Chudyets should be tried and punished. The go. vernor, Matsura Kawatche no kami, who had been promoted to his post in conse quence of his reputation for ability, wisdom, and virtue, sent for Chudyets, and examined him. The accused protested his innocence, and declared that torture itself should never compel him to confess a crime of which he was innocent. Matsura Kawatche now committed Chudyets to prison, sent for Tomoya and his other servants, told them the result, of his inquiries, and asked what proof they had of the prisoner's guilt. They had none, but persisted nevertheless in their firm conviction that Chudyets was the thief, and Tomoya insisted upon his immediate execution. The governor asked if they would set their hands to this conviction. of guilt, and demand of execution. They assented, and master and men, together with the master's relations, signed a paper to the following effect ;—“ Chudyets, to Tomoya Kiugero, has robbed his master of 500 koban.
This we attest by these presents, and demand that he be punished with death, as a warning
+ Titsingh, page 38.
Fischer.
Sketch of Teen Fe, or Matsoo Po.
to others. We, the kinsmen and servants of Tomoya Kiugero, in confirmation of this affix to it our signatures and seals. The second month of the first year Genboun (1736)." The governor, taking the paper, said to the complainant, "Now that I am relieved from all responsibility, I will order the head of Chudyets to be taken off. Are you so satisfied?" Tomoya replied that he was, returned his thanks, and withdrew his party.
Soon after, a robber, who was taken up for a different offense, and put to the torture, confessed, amongst other crimes, the theft of Tomoya's money. This discovery was communicated to Matsura Kawatche, who immediately sent for Tomoya, his relations and servants, laid before them the true thief's confession, and thus addressed them:-" Behold! you accused Chudyets without proof, attesting your accusation under your hands and seals. 1, upon the strength of your assertion, have commanded the death of an innocent man. In expiation of this crime, you, your wife, kindred, and servants, must all lose their heads; and I, for not having investigated the business with sufficient care, shall rip myself up." At these dreadful words, Tomoya and his friends were overwhelmed with despair. They wept and beinoaned their sad fate, and implored mercy, whilst the magistrates and officers present united in praying for some mitigation of so terrible a sentence. But the governor remained sternly inflexible.
When this scene of agony had lasted a considerable time, Matsura Kawatche suffered his features to relax into a milder expression, and said, "Be comforted; Chudyets lives. His answers convinced me of his innocence, and I have kept him concealed in the hope that the truth would come to light.” He then ordered Chudyets to be introduced, and proceeded thus:-" Tomoya, your false accusa- tion has caused this innocent man to suffer imprisonment, and nearly cost him his life. As this irremediable misfortune has been happily averted, your lives shall be spared; but as some compensation for what he has undergone, you shall give him 500 koban, and treat him henceforth as a faithful servant. Let the pangs you have this day experienced be graven on all your minds, as a warning how you again bring forward accusations upon insufficient grounds."
This decision of Matsura Kawatche's gave universal satisfaction, and in testimony of the siogoun's approbation, he was soon afterwards promoted to the more important and lucrative government of Nagasaki.
ART. III. Sketch of Teën Fe, or Matsoo Po, the goddess of Chi-
nese seamen. Translated from the Sow Shin Ke.' By J. L. S. FE's surname was Lin. She formerly dwelt in the department of Hinghwa, and district of Ninghae, being the present Pooteën heën, about eighty le from the sea-board, in the village of Mechow. Her mother, whose family name was Chin, dreamed that she saw the goddess Kwanyin3 of the southern ocean, who presented her a fig flower which she swallowed. This done a pregnancy of fourteen
Sketch of Teen Fe, or Matsoo Po.
months ensued, at the end of which period she gave birth to the god- dess Fe. Her birth took place in the first year, third month, and twenty-first day of the reign of Teënkwan of the Tang dynasty. At the time of this birth a wonderful fragrance was perceptible for a mile around, and at the end of ten days it was not dispersed. In her infancy her intelligence was extraordinary. During her first year, while she was carried in the keung paou,' when beholding any of the gods she folded her hands, and manifested desires to do them
At the age of five she could recite the sacred books of Kwanyin; and at eleven she was able with gravity to attend upon the feasts and music of the gods.
reverence.
Now Fe concealed her sacred proceedings, thus rendering them obscure to vulgar eyes. She would attend to her toilet, but would speak but little. She had four brothers, who in their mercantile pursuits proceeded backward and forwards among the islands of the sea. Upon a certain day while Fe was busily engaged, all her ener- gies were suddenly paralized, and closed were her eyes for a time. Her father and mother perceiving that a great storm had arisen call- ed out for her. Fe, upon awaking, sighed and said, why did you not allow me to assist my brothers that there might have been no misfortune? To her father and mother her meaning was inexplicable, nor did they make any further inquiries of her. Her brothers having gained a competency and returned, they, weeping, said, three days ago a mighty gale of wind arose, the waves reached the heavens, and we brethren being each in different vessels, our oldest brother's ves- sel was driven by the storm beneath the surge. Each one of them declared that during the prevalence of the gale they beheld a female child leading the vessels along, and proceeding over the waves as if upon level ground. The parents now at once perceived that when formerly Fe had closed her eyes, her spirit had gone to the rescue of her brothers. The eldest brother was not saved, owing to Fe's being too hastily aroused, and the spirit therefore could not achieve his deliverance, which caused the parents unceasing regret. When Fe became of sufficient age to wear the hair-pin," she made oath that she would not become the bride of any man, nor did her parents presume to force her to marry. She did not remain long with them, for sud- denly while sitting in a grave dignified posture her spirit passed away. Again the fragrance was perceptible for several miles around, just the same as upon the day of her birth. At first her spirit was frequently observed, and in aftertimes there have been many who have seen her. These persons who saw her, supposing her to be an
Sketch of Teen Fe, or Matsoo Po.
attendant upon the mother of Sewang," said she thoroughly under- stands the superintendency of posterity.
A whole city publicly worshiped her, and in that city there was a certain woman who had been ten years married but had no son. She traveled into various regions to worship the gods, but in the end received no favorable response. At last she paid her adorations to Fe, and then she became the mother of sons. Thus all who have no sons let them forthwith come and worship Fe, and at once will their prayers be answered.
During the Sung dynasty Yuenteĭh and Le Foo were followers of the imperial messengers, who were dispatched to the country of Co- rea, and as they were proceeding by the village of Mechow, a mighty wind arose, and when their vessel was about to be engulfed, bright clouds of variegated beauty suddenly appeared, and they saw a per- son ascending the mast, and then proceeding round and taking hold of the helm. This person's strength being exerted for a long time, they were at length enabled to cross over the sea. The above honora- ble officers made inquiries about the matter of the people of the boats. Their followers Yuenteĭh and Le Foo both placing themselves in respectful attitudes towards the south, and thankfully worshiping said, now as we have the golden paper and ruby book, we have therefore verily escaped being devoured by the monsters of the deep. His majesty diffuses rain and dew throughout the various regions of foreign lands, and his aid is afforded to his embassadors who do not disregard his commands. The gods lend their assistance, and special- ly are we assisted by the soul of Fe. These gentlemen remember- ed this, and on their return represented it to the court, and it was royally declared that she was a divine personage. A temple was erected for her in Mechow, at which a hundred families maintained their worship, and they caryed images of wood for the use of vessels.
At the beginning of our country, in the seventh year of the reign of Ching Tsoowan, an imperial officer named Tsangwo, was deputed to the south-western barbarians. He worshiped at the shrine of Fe, and obtained a favorable response, as those did in the time of Sung, so he returned, and made the matter known to the court, and she was proclaimed the safeguard of the nation, the assister of the people, the 'excelling spiritual essence, the illustrious answerer of prayer, of enlarged benevolence, affording universal aid, THE CELESTIAL FE! Those who worship her are to be found throughout the empire.
Fe when living obtained the essence of highest spirituality, and cherished the perspicuity of the divine excellence, and dying she
The Emperor Tavukwang.
Thus men are not deficient in progeny.
controls posterity. rules the seas, and their waters therefore cannot become billows. She creates happiness, and largely bestows it upon men. I, having examined the historical annals of the district of Hinghwa (Fe's native region), and uniting the traditions of the people with the re- corded tablets, have herewith drawn up this abridgement, and thus submit the information.
1. The 搜神記
Sow Shin Ke, or Record of Researches concerning the Gods, are comprised in 3 octavo vols., and was compiled during the Ming, the last Chinese dynasty. The compiler's name is not attached to the edition which we` have translated from, nor are any dates affixed. The work contains brief sketches of one hundred and eighty-one popular Chinese deities, and a pretty good idea is given of what the natives themselves regard as the origin of their idols, and an enlightened mind will perceive how debased must be a people who worship as divine, objects whose history according to their own accounts, is enveloped in such unreasonable and superstitious fancy. There are other different traditions of Matsoo Po besides the notice found in the Sow Shin Ke. Mr. Medhurst bas written a Christian tract entitled the "Birthday of Matsoo Po," which well ex- poses the absurdity of the history and worship of the idol.
2. Pooteën heën is in the province of Fuhkeën, and hence the Fuhkeen sea- men are more attached to Fe than any other class of seafaring men.
3. Kwanyin is the Chinese goddess of mercy, and is a very popular idol. A sketch of her history is also contained in the Sow Shin Ke.
4. The keang paou is a cloth by means of which small children are carried upon the backs of their mothers and nurses. It has four bands attached to if, one of which goes over each shoulder, and two around the waist of the nurse, and are tied upon the breast. The cloth is sometimes of various colors, and highly wrought with ornamental figures.
5. That is became of a marriageable state. Young ladies do not put up their hair with pins, but allow it to hang down until they are about to be married.
6. Se wang is the superintendent of the female genii, as Tung wang kung is of the male genii.
7. The golden paper and ruby book have reference to the dispatches of the great emperor.
ART. IV. The emperor Taoukwang: his succession to the throne of his father, coronation, with notices of his character and go-
vernment.
WHEN the destinies of an empire so vast and populous as the Chi- nese, are swayed by one man, wẹ naturally wish to know something of the history and character of such a monarch.
At the present time, this wish is strengthened by an expectation that his imperial majesty is about to change (or to have changed) his relations with the other potentates of the earth, with whom he is to fellowship as brothers,
The Emperor Taoukwang.
consins, &c. Hitherto men from afar, albeit richly imbued with his great favors, have known, or had the means of knowing, but little of the son of heaven.' Once we saw what was said to be a portrait of his august person; and once we had in our possession an auto- graph, written with the vermilion pencil. A great many and very diverse sayings, touching the character and conduct of H. I. M. we have heard first and last; but having failed to write them in a book at the time, we dare not now trust to memory for a portraiture of one whose person and character are so sacred as his majesty's are. Could we borrow the note-books of certain historiographers, then perhaps a faithful and full picture might be given. But being without these ample materials, we hope our readers will not be displeased with the few fragments we have been able here and there to collect.
We subjoin three state papers, to which we add a few explanations and some brief notices.
The chainber of ministers (Nuy Ko) has received with due respect the following imperial edict :
"From the late emperor, who has now gone the great journey, I received the utmost possible kindness and care; and from him I derived my being; his gracious kindness was infinite, like that of the glorious heavens above. Although his benevolent life had been continued more than six decades of years, his celestial person was still robust, and his energy and spirits undi- minished. I, the emperor, who continually waited on him in the palace, desired his days to be protracted, and hoped he would reach his hundredth year. This year, on a tour, he was to solace with his presence Lwangyang, in Tartary, and I, the emperor, followed in his train. His sacred person was on the journey as strong as usual, till he happened to be affected by very hot weather; however, he still ascended his chair without weariness; but finally he became ill, and after three days, a great encroachment on life was apparent. I, the emperor, beat the ground with my head, and called on heaven to bring him back-but, in vain! With reverence I meditate on his late majesty's reign during twenty-five years,-how effectually he sup- pressed banditti and rebellion, and gave tranquillity to millions of common people. Night and day he diligently labored; and never idled away a single day. His official servants, and the black-haired race, all looked up gratefully to his benevolent rule, under which they enjoyed the happiness of a glorious tranquillity. Now, when but a few days of his tour had elapsed, the great event has occurred; the dragon on horseback has ascended and be- come a guest on high. All creatures, endued with blood and breath, mourn with grateful feelings, proceeding from the most perfect sincerity; and how much more deeply do I, the emperor, feel; and how much more durable will be my grief, who have received such vast benefits, ten thousand times re.
The Emperor Taoukwang.
I received his late majesty's last will, funeral mourning should be the same as formerly.
commanding that the That in twenty-seven days I should put off deep mourning, is what my heart submits to with difficulty; but I yield obedience to ancient rules, and will reverently wear mourning for three years; and shall thereby, in some small degree, manifest the affectionate grief which I feel. Let the governmental officers and people, throughout the empire, observe the former laws for national mourning. The kings and great officers of state are hereby ordered to assemble to deliberate and report to the emperor. Respect this."
Copies of this paper were circulated in Canton early in Oct., 1820. Doubts were then entertained of its authenticity, the document being, contrary to what is usual on such occasions, without the names of the ministry or any titles for the emperor, excepting only his kwo haou, or national designation,' which was 元徽 Yuenhwuy, meaning "an original assemblage of natural beauties." (See the Indo-Chinese Gleaner, for January and February, 1821, from which we borrow these papers.) This first one purported to have been issued on the 9th of September, six days after the demise of Keäking, which occurred on the 2d. On the 20th of October, the governor of Canton received a dispatch from the Board of Rites, ordering him "to close the seals of office on the 20th of the 12th month of the 25th year of Keäking, and to open them on the 19th of the 1st month of the first year of Tavukwang," which, instead of Yuenhwuy, was to be the national designation, or imperial title of the new em- peror. Dr. Morrison, commenting on this title says, "the meaning of the taou, is similar to the 'eternal reason' of some European writers, the ratio of the Latins, and the Ayos of the Greeks; in a political sense, the Chinese use it for a perfectly good government, where reason, not passion, dictates its acts: kwang means light, lus- tre, glory, illustrious, and so on. The new imperial title of Taou- kwang may be rendered by the two words, reason illustrious,' by which the monarch wishes to intimate that his reign shall be the glorious age of reason' in China, that he will rule gloriously, accord- ing to the pure dictates of eternal reason.” adds, referring to this first paper, and the title Yuenhwuy therein as- sumed,
"Whether it be supposed that the people dared to print and hand about a spurious imperial proclamation, or that the
emperor and his advisers changed their minds on the subject of the title, the pre- ceding appears very strange."
Dr. Morrison further
The second of the three papers is called he chaou, or joyful pro- clamation,' and was thus prefaced: "On the 17th of the 8th mouth (September 23d, 1820), the great emperor, who has received from
VOL, X, NÓ. LỆ,
The Emperor Tavukwang.
heaven and revolving nature, the government of the world, issued the following proclamation."
"Our Ta Taing dynasty has received the most substantial indications of heaven's kind care. Our ancestors, Taetsoo and Taetsung, began to lay the vast foundation (of our empire); and Shetsoo became the sole monarch of China. Our sacred ancestor Kanghe, the emperor Yungching the glory of his age, and Keënlung the eminent in honor, all abounded in vir- tue, were divine in martial prowess, consolidated the glory of the empire, and moulded the whole to peaceful harmony.
"His late majesty, who has now gone the great journey, governed all under heaven's canopy twenty-five years, exercising the utmost caution and industry. Nor evening nor morning was he ever idle. He assiduously ained at the best possible rule, and hence his government was excellent and illustrious; the court and the country felt the deepest reverence, and the stillness of profound awe. A benevolent heart and a benevolent administra- tion were universally diffused; in China proper, as well as beyond it, order and tranquillity prevailed, and the tens of thousands of common people were all happy. But in the midst of a hope that this glorious reign would be long protracted, and the help of heaven would be received many days, unexpec- tedly, on descending to bless, by his majesty's presence, Lwanyang, the dragon charioteer (the holy emperor) became a guest on high.
My sacred and indulgent father had, in the year that he began to rule alone, silently settled that the divine utensil (the throne,) should devolve on my contemptible person. I, knowing the feebleness of my virtue, at first felt much afraid I should not be competent to the office; but on reflecting that the sages, my ancestors, have left to posterity their plans; that his late majesty has laid the duty on me-and heaven's throue should not be long vacant—I have done violence to my feelings, and forced myself to intermit awhile my heartfelt grief, that I may with reverence obey the unalterable decree; and on the 27th of the 8th moon (October 3d), I purpose devoutly to announce the event to heaven, to earth, to my ancestors, and to the gods of the land and of the grain, and shall then sit down on the imperial throne.
Let the next year be the first of Taoukwang.
"I look upwards and hope to be able to continue former excellencies. lay my hand on my heart with feelings of respect and cautious awe. When a new monarch addresses himself to the empire, he ought to confer benefits on his kindred, and extensively bestow gracious favors: whatevce is proper to be done on this occasion is stated below.
"First. On all persons at court, and those also who are at a distance from it, having the title of wang (a king) and downwards; and on those of, or above the rank of a kung (a duke), let gracious gifts be conferred.
"Second. On all the nobles below the rank of kung, down to that of kih-kih, let gracious gifts be conferred.
"Third. Whether at court, or abroad in the provinces, Mantchou and Chi- nese officers, great and smalk civil and military, shall all be promoted one step.
The Emperor Tavukwang
"Fourth. Those officers, whose deceased parents have received posthu- mous titles of honor, shall have those titles increased, to correspond with, the promotion of their sons.
"Fifth. Officers at court of the fourth degree of rank, and in the pro- vinces those of the third, shall have the privilege of sending one son to the national college (Kwo-tsze-keën).
"Sixth. Officers who have been deprived of their rank, but retained in office, and whose pay has been stopped or forfeited, shall have their rank and pay restored.
"Seventh. Let the number of candidates to be accepted at the literary examinations, in each province, be increased from ten to thirty persons.
"Eighth. Let the required time of residence in the national college be diminished one month on this occasion.
"Ninth. Let all the graduates of the degree of A. M. be permitted, as a mark of honor, to wear a button of the sixth degree of rank.
"Tenth: Let officers be dispatched to sacrifice at the tombs of departed emperors and kings, of every past dynasty; at the grave of Confucius, and at the five great mountains, and the four great rivers of China.
"Eleventh. Excepting rebels, murderers, and other unpardonable offen- ders, let all those who may have committed crimes before daybreak of the 27th of the 8th moon (the day of ascending the throne) be forgiven. If any person again accuse them with the crimes already forgiven, punish the ac- cuser according to the crime alleged.
"Twelfth. All convicts in the several provinces who have been transport- ed for crimes committed, but who have conducted themselves quietly for a given time, shall be permitted to return to their homes.
"Thirteenth. Tartars under the different banners, and persons of the imperial household convicted of the embezzlement of property, and punished by forfeits, if it can be proved that they really possess no property, let them be all forgiven.
"Fourteenth. Let all officers of government whose sons or grandsons were charged with fines or forfeits on account of their father's crimes, be forgiven. "Fifteenth. Let officers and privates in the Tartar army, to whom go- vernment may have advanced money, not be required to repay it.
Sixteenth. Let all old soldiers of the Tartar and Chinese armies, who have seen service, and are now invalided, have their cases examined into, and have some favor conferred on them in addition to the legal compassion they already receive.
"Seventeenth. Let there be an inquiry made in all the provinces, for those families in which there are alive five generations; and for those persons who have seen seven generations; and rewards be conferred in addition to the usual honorary tablet conferred by law.
"Eighteenth. Agriculture is of the first importance to the empire-let the officers of government everywhere, and always, laud those who are dili- gent in ploughing and sowing.
The Emperor Taoukwang,
"Nineteenth. Old men have in every age been treated with great respect; let a report be made of all above seventy, both of Tartars and Chinese, with the exception of domestic slaves, and people who already possess rank.
"Twentieth. Let one month's pay be given to certain of the Mantchou and Mongolian Tartar soldiers, and also to the Chinese troops who joined the Tartar standard at the conquest.
"Twenty-first. Let men who belonged to the Tartar army, and who are now above seventy years of age, have a man allowed to attend upon them, and excuse them from all service. To those above eighty, give a piece of silk, a catty of cotton, a shih measure of rice; and ten catties of flesh meat; and to those above ninety, double these largesses.
"Twenty-second. Let all overseers of asylums for widows and orphans, and sick people, be always attentive, and prevent any one being destitute. “Lo! now, on succeeding to the throne, I shall exercise myself to give repose to the millions of my people.-Assist me to sustain the burden laid on my shoulders! With veneration I receive charge of heaven's great con- cerns.-Ye kings and statesmen, great and small, civil and military, every one be faithful and devoted, and aid in supporting the vast affair; that our family dominion may be preserved hundreds and tens of thousands of years, in never ending tranquillity and glory! Promulge this to all under heaven- cause every one to hear it!”
The following paper was issued previously to the august ceremony to which it relates, which took place on the 27th of the 8th month, and was called tăng keìh, 'ascending the summit,' meaning evidently the summit of power, honor and glory. There does not seem to have been literally any coronation or putting on of a crown; the term, however, is a fair equivalent for the ascension act.
· No. 3.
"The members of the Board of Rites beg respectfully to state the usual ceremonies observed at the ascension of the emperors. the day appointed for the ceremony, the commander of the foot- guards shall lead in the troops to take their station at the several gates of the imperial city. The members of the Board of Rites, and of the Hung-loo office, shall assemble in the imperial Council Cham- ber, and set the seal-table (on which the imperial seal is to be placed) in the palace of Peace, to the south of the imperial throne, and exactly in the middle. Let them set the report-table (on which the petition, requesting his majesty to ascend the throne, is to be laid) on the south side of the eastern pillar of the palace; the edict-table (on which is to be placed the imperial proclamation, announcing the ac- cession,) on the north side of the eastern pillar. Let the writing-table (on which the pencil and ink, used on the occasion, are to lie) be set on the right or left of the western pillar; and the yellow-table (from which the proclamation is to be promulged) on the red steps, (or elevation at the foot of the throne, where ministers advance to pay
The Emperor Tuonkwang.
their obeisance,) exactly in the middle. The imperial guards, both officers and men, shall then enter, and set forth, in order, the impe- rial traveling equipage, in front of the palace of Peace. They shall next make ready his majesty's foot-chariot, (i. e. one usually drawn by men) without the palace gate. The five (ancient) imperial car- riages shall then be set forth without the Woo gate. The docile elephants shall be placed to the south of the five carriages. Let them draw up the imperial horse-guards, on the right and left of the middle path of the vestibule, fronting each other, east and west. Let the imperial canopy and cloud-capt basin (in which the imperial pro- clamation, announcing the emperor's ascension, is placed) be set within the vestibule. After this, the members of the Board of Music shall arrange the ancient musical instruments, used by Shup, to the east and west, on the palace causeway; and the musical instru- ments, used on state occasions, they shall set in order within the palace. These shall be thus placed, but not (for the present) used. Next, the musical instruments, used at the arrival and departure of his majesty, together with the dragon-dome, and the incense- dome, (i. e. a kind of portable shed, or portico) shall be set forth without the Woo gate. The officers of the Board of Public Works shall place the golden phoenix at the gate of Celestial Repose, direct- ly in the middle; and set the stage, from which the proclamation is to be made, in the first chamber, on the eastern side of the gate. The second officer of the Board of Rites, having ready the petition, (re- questing the emperor to ascend the throne) shall take it, reverently, in both his hands, and place it on the petition-table, already set on the southern side of the eastern pillar. One of the officers of the Coun- cil Chamber, taking the proclamation, to be subsequently issued, in both his hands, shall place it on the edict-table, standing to the north of the eastern pillar. One of the secretaries of the Council Chamber shall, in the same manner, take the pencil and ink-stone, and put them on the table, on the western side of the palace.
"The prime minister shall then lead forth the members of the Coun- cil Chamber to the gate of Celestial Purity (i. e. his majesty's private apartments), and beg for the imperial seal. One of the members shall receive it with profound reverence, and the prime minister shall follow him from the gate of Celestial Purity to the palace of Peace, where it shall be laid on the seal-table, which is in the middle of the hall, on the south of the imperial throne; after which they shall re- tire. Then the officers of the Hung-loo office, shall bring up the kings and nobles of the imperial kindred, from the highest down to those of the eighth rank, on the elevation at the foot of the throne. Then the great officers of state, civil and military, all in their court dresses, shall range themselves in order acccording to their rank, within the vestibule.
"At the appointed hour, the president of the Board of Rites shall go and intreat his majesty to put on his mournings, and come forth by the gate of the eastern palace, and enter at the left door of the middle palace, where his majesty, before the altar of his deceased
The Emperor Tamukwang
imperial father, will respectfully announce, that he receives the decree-kneel thrice, and bow nine times.
"This finished, the emperor will then go out by the eastern door, into the side palace. The president of the Board of Rites shall issue orders to the governor of the palace, officers of the imperial guard, and the chief ministers of the interior, to go and solicit his majesty to put on his imperial robes, and proceed to the palace of his mother, the empress-dowager, to pay his respects. The enpress-dowager will put on her court robes, and ascend her throne; before which his majesty shall kneel thrice, and bow nine times. After the perform- ance of this ceremony, the governors of the palace shall let down the curtain before the door of the emperor's private apartments, and the officers of the interior imperial guards shall have in readiness the golden chariot, directly in the middle, in front of the door of the imperial residence The president of the Board of Rites shall then bring forward the officer of the Astronomical Board whose business is to observe times, to the gate of his majesty's residence, to announce the arrival of the chosen and felicitous moment. His majesty will then go out by the left door of his apartments, and mount the golden chariot. The president of the Board of Rites, together with ten of the great officers of the same Board, shall take their stations in front of the imperial chariot, to lead on the procession. Two officers of the personal guard shall walk behind. Ten chief officers of the leopard- tail legion of guards, holding spears (perhaps muskets), and ten bear- ing swords, shall form the wings of the personal guard. The proces- sion shall then move in order, to the palace of Protection and Peace, where his majesty will descend from the chariot. Here the president of the Board of Rites shall solicit his majesty to sit down in the roy- al middle palace.
"Then the president of the Hung-loo office shall lead forward the great officers of the interior, the officers of the imperial guard, of the Council Camber, of the National Institute, of the Chin-sze office, of the Ke-keu office, of the Board of Rites, and of the Censorate, arranging them, in front and rear, according to their rank. He shall then call upon them to kneel thrice, and bow nine times.
This ceremony over, the president of the Board of Rites step- ping forward, shall kneel down, and beseech his majesty, saying, Ascend the imperial throne.'-The emperor shall then rise from his seat, and the procession moving on, in the same order as above described, to the imperial palace of Peace, his majesty shall ascend the seat of gems, and sit down on the imperial throne, with his face to the south. At the Woo gate the bells shall then be rung, and the drums beaten; but no other instruments of music shall be sounded. The chief officer of the imperial guards shall say aloud, 'strike the whip' (a brazen rod called by this name). The whip shall accord- ingly be struck below the throne. The master of the ceremonies shall command the attendant ministers to arrange themselves in ranks. The president of the Hung-loo office shall bring up the kings and dukes on the elevation, at the foot of the throne; and the master
The Emperor Tavukwang
of the ceremonies shall lead forward the civil and military officers, and range them in due order within the vestibule.
He shall say-
' advance;' they shall accordingly advance. He shall say kneel ;' then the kings, and all the ranks downward, shall kneel. When he says-bow your heads to the ground,'-and, ' rise,'-then the kings, and downward, shall kneel thrice, bow the head to the ground nine times, and rise accordingly. When he says--' retire,' the kings, and downward, shall all retire, and stand in their former places.
"Then the prime minister, entering by the left door of the palace, shall go to the table, and taking the proclamation in both his hands, shall place it on the middle table; after which he shall retire for a moment, and stand with his face to the west. The president of the Council Chamber, advancing to the middle table, with his face to the north, shall seal the proclamation, and retire. The president of the Board of Rites shall then approach near; and the prime minister, taking the proclamation in both hands, shall walk out with it by the imperial door of the palace of Peace, and deliver it to the presi- dent of the Board of Rites, who shall kneel and receive it. After rising, he shall carry it to the table, in the middle of the elevation, below the throne, and lay it thereon, with profound reverence-shall kneel once, and bow to the ground three times. Next, he shall kneel and take up the proclamation in both hands-shall rise, and descend by the middle steps. The president of the Board of Rites, kneeling, shall take up with both hands the cloud-capt basin, into which he shall receive the proclamation, and then rise. The officers of the imperial guard shall spread out the yellow canopy (or umbrella) over the said basin, and go out with it by the middle door of the palace of Peace. The civil and military officers shall follow out by the gate of Resplendent Virtue, and the gate of Virgin Felicity. The chief officer of the guard shall then say strike the brazen whip;' it shall accordingly be struck thrice, below the steps.
"His majesty shall then rise, step to the back of the palace, mount his chariot, and go forth by the left door, to the outside of the door of his private apartments, where he shall descend from the chariot ; aud, entering the side palace, by the left door, shall change his robes, and return to the mat (where the funeral obsequies are perform. ed). The prime minister shall lead forward the presidents, who shall reverently take the imperial seal, and deliver it at the door of the im- perial residence, to one of the great officers of the interior.
"At this time the proclamation-bearer, taking the document in both his hands, shall proceed to the outside of the Woo gate, and place it in the dragon-dome-shall kneel once, and bow to the ground thrice. Then the officers of the guard, and sword bearers, shall carry for- ward the domes, in the following order the incense-dome in front, and the dragon-dome behind. The officers of the Board of Music shall lead on the procession, immediately behind the imperial insignia, but shall not play (the national mourning forbidding this). One of the judges of the Board of Rites shall then ascend to the tower on the wall, opposite the gate of Celestial Repose, and they shall set
The Emperor Taoukwang
down the incense-dome: the proclamation being placed there also, in the middle of the dragon-dome. The proclamation-bearer shall then kneel once, and bow to the ground thrice; after which, taking the proclamation in both hands, he shall lay it on the yellow-table, which is placed on a high stage. The dragon and incense-domes shall be removed, and set down directly in front of the gate of Celes- tial Repose. The officers, civil and military, shall arrange them- selves at the southern end of the golden bridge. The master of the ceremonies shall say form ranks;'-also, 'enter.' The officers, civil and military, shall accordingly form ranks, and the venerable elders of the people, a little behind, shall form themselves into two files; and all stand facing the north. The herald-minister shall then ascend the stage. The master of the ceremonies shall say— 'an edict!' Then all shall instantly fall on their knees. The herald shall next read the proclamation, in the Chinese language, after which he retires to the table. The words bow' and 'rise' being pro- nounced (by the master of the ceremonies), and answered by three genuflections and nine prostrations, from all present, the proclama- tion-bearer, taking the said document in both hands, shall place it again in the cloud-capt basin, and suspend it, by an ornamental cord, from the bill of the golden phoenix. The judge of the Board of Rites, receiving the same, shall set it again in the dragon-dome, and going out by the gate of Exalted Purity, the procession shall be led on as formerly, by the officers of the Board of Music, behind the imperial insignia, but without playing, to the office of the Board of Rites, where, an incense-table being placed, the president of the Board of Rites shall bring forward the judges, who shall kneel thrice, and bow to the ground nine times.. These ceremonies all finished, let the proclamation be reverently printed, and promulgated throughout the empire.. Such is our statement laid before your majesty."
The imperial pleasure, has been received thus: 'Act according to the statement. Respect this.'"
Shortly after the new emperor had assumed the reins of govern- ment, he issued another paper. It begins abruptly, and some of the first words of the original are probably wanting.
“Mine is not a vacant office. For a long period the whole empire receiv- ed from the late emperor the most gracious beneficence; the utmost liberali. ty in times of distress; and the most perfect admonition and correction. It sometimes happened that individuals willfully violated the laws; but when the time of signing death-warrants occurred, he examined the papers con- taining the cases of capital offenders with the utmost care; and if any way of saving them could be discovered, he exercised benevolence beyond the laws. All my people should be dutiful to their parents, respectful to supe- riors, ashamed of crime, and cherish a dread of punishment, to aid me in imitating his late majesty, wllo showed a love of the lives of others, such as heaven displays. Now, in consequence of all the kings, Tartar nobles, great statesmen, the civil and military officers, having said with one voice, Heav-
The Emperor Tavukwang.
en's throne must not be long unoccupied, it is incumbent thật, by the con- sent of the imperial manes, and the gods of the land, a sovereign do early assume his sway.' In consequence of their again and again remonstrating with me, I forced myself to yield to the general voice, and interrupting, for a short time, my keen sorrows-on the 3d day of the 8th month (September 9th, 1820), having announced the circumstance to heaven and to earth, and to the manes of my imperial ancestors, I sat down on the imperial throne. Let the next year be the first of the reign of Taoukwang.
"I look up reverently to the altars of the land and of the grain, and desire to receive, and to continue the will of my predecessors: and I profoundly hope that the imperial throne will remain eternally.
"Do all of you my relations behave as eminent worthics, you civil and military officers be unitedly faithful and devoted, and exert yourselves, that the dominion may be continued to an illimitable period, and that you may for ever enjoy the repose of a well regulated government.
"Proclaim this to the whole empire, and cause every one to know it."
From the several foregoing papers, the reader will be able to form an opinion respecting the character of the one man who now rules, as absolute monarch, the 360,000,000 of human beings inhabiting the Chinese empire. Whether the imperial title was or was not chang- ed, there are in the history of his reign repeated instances of some. thing very much like change. Repugnant as this idea may be to the mind of a true son of Han, changes there have been, and changes there will be. There are in this, as in all other human governments, imperfections with abuses of administration, which ought to be cor- rected. It augurs well, therefore, that there are changes and signs of changes. How have Turkey and Egypt changed their relations! And must not China and Japan likewise change? If illustrious reason, instead of brute force, is to have ascendency here, then well; and the changes, for the amelioration of the condition of the people, and the improvement of the state, shall be hailed with acclamations of joy.
It is not right to speak evil of dignities, and we forbear to repeat sundry idle tales which have been told derogatory to the character of his majesty. During the twenty years he has filled the throne, there has been a very tolerable degree of prosperity, though the present state of affairs is by no means flattering or pleasing to the imperial mind. But we will not dwell on this topic. Some noble and valorous acts are put to the credit of the emperor. In the 18th year of his illus- trious father's reign, when a plot was formed to destroy the monarch and subvert the government, the young prince (though ignorant of his being the heir, the will of his father not having then been made
VOL. X. NO. IL
The Rebellion of the Yellow Caps.
known,) with his own hand destroyed two of the rebels who were at- tempting to climb over the palace walls. This bold act caused the other rebels to fall back with terror, and thus the sacred abode was preserved in quiet. Judging from the protrait which we have seen, his majesty is tall, thin, and of a dark complexion. He is now sixty years of age, and apparently strong and robust. He is reputed to be "of a generous disposition, diligent, attentive to government, and economical in his expenditure." He is greatly revered by his subjects, and apparently much swayed by the counsels of his minis- ters, of whom some are very able men,-though we much fear as he says, "they know not what truth is." Of the emperor's present line of policy much remains to be said. It will be questioned and scanned as that of his predecessors never was. The old order of things is passing away, and now-
Magnus ab integro séclorum nascitur ordo.
ART. V. The Rebellion of the Yellow Caps, compiled from the
History of the Three States.*
As the insurrection, that ended in that dismemberment of the Chi- nese empire which became the foundation of the popular San Kwă Che, or "History of the Three States," forms the subject of an in- teresting passage in the records of former times, we take the liberty of inserting, in the pages of the Repository, a short digest of the account of the rise and progress of the Yellow Caps to the death of their first leaders, as given in the first and second sections of that work.
The history of the Three States-Shuh, Wei, and Woo-opens by dating the origin of those causes, which led to the division of the empire into three kingdoms, at the reigns of Hwan (A. D. `147) and Ling (A. D. 168), the immediate predecessors of Heuen, the last emper- or of the Han dynasty. The historian finds occasion for the civil wars, that caused the downfall of that house and disjointed the whole em- pire, in the corrupt state of the government, which had shut up the avenues to preferment against the good and the wise, and admitted See volume seventh, number fifth, pp 232-249, for a brief account of this
The Rebellion of the Yellino Caps.
eunuchs,—that class of weak, low, and depraved courtiers,—into the councils of the state. It was the emperor Hwan who began this course of degeneracy, and the dire consequences of it were gradually evinced during the reign of his successor, more weak than himself. Soon after Ling had ascended the throne, signs most strange and alarming appeared in the heavens and on the earth, all portentous of some approaching calamity. The sagacious and patriotic of the princes knew full well the occasion of all this, and presumed to warn their sovereign of a crisis at hand. His own fears were to some de- gree excited, but they were speedily dispelled by the craft of the eunuchs, who induced their master to degrade those ministers, who had dared to remonstrate with imperial majesty. Finding that their opportunity had now come, the eunuchs formed themselves into a body of counselors, called the shìh chang she, or "the ten constant attendants," and, enjoying the emperor's implicit confidence, they took the reins of government into their own hands. Having thus briefly pointed out the causes of future calamities, the historian, like a patriot, sighs over the weaknesses of his sovereign and the misfor- tunes of his country, Alas, my father! The imperial government waxed worse every day, until there was universal disaffection, and marauders rose up like wasps."
At this time, when the country had become disposed for change, a leader appeared in a family of the principality of Keuluh. In this family there were three brothers, whose surname was Chang. Chang Keo, the eldest of them, was chief in the insurrection, to which he bad been incited by an interview with a singular personage, who gave himself out to be one of the mountain genii. This sage of Nanhwa called Chang Keo aside, and put a book into his hands, at the same time announcing that he was to be the "liberator mundi,” and threatening the worst of evils, if he should decline his appoint- ment. On this, the stranger vanished. Keo took the book and de- voted himself to its study, till at length he gained superhuman power, and was able to control the elements of nature.
It happened, that in the eighteenth year of Ling's reign, and in the first month, a pestilence broke out, and raged furiously among the people. During that plague, Chang Keò rendered himself po- pular, in curing large numbers by the successful use of magical papers and charm-waters, and increased his own influence by send- ing forth, to every part of the country, men who had been inspired by him, with supernatural virtue to overcome the same distemper. In This way he gained the confidence of myriads, who were disposed by
The Rebellion of the Yellow Caps.
him in various districts under regular leaders, and he only waited for a fit time when to carry his projects into execution.
Very shortly after, he gave out that the time had arrived, when the reigning family should cease and give place to another line of em- perors; and he assured his countrymen that heaven would favor them, as a new cycle was just opening. Thus he won an immense body of the nation over to his side. To render the plot complete, he sent one of his trusty followers to form an alliance with one of the eunuchs, and, lest they should lose the present opportunity through delay, he dispatched a second confidant to apprize the intriguing party at court of the badge adopted by their allies, and of the day when they would rise; but the messenger, who had been intrusted with the final instructions, repented and discovered the scheme to the imperial cabinet.
This disclosure led to the immediate seizure and imprisonment of Fung Seu and his party, who formed the court cabal;
who formed the court cabal; and the imperial troops were ordered out to crush the first symptoms of insurrection.
When the rebel generals Chang Keo, Chang Paou, and Chang Leäng heard that their secrets had been betrayed, they took it as a sign for an instantaneous rise, and, assuming high sounding titles, they put forth a public manifesto, calling for the aid of their countrymen- They were at once joined by 400,000 or 500,000 men, who all wore yellow caps, in sign of their attachment to the new cause, from which circumstance this insurrection is generally designated in history, "the rebellion of the Yellow Caps." While the rebels were scattering themselves over the country, orders were issued by the emperor that every district should be in readiness to defend itself, and that three of his chung lang tseäng (high generals) should proceed with troops to subdue the Yellow Caps.
The first act of aggression, on the part of the malcontents, was in the district of Yew, the lieutenant of which immediately issued a pro- clamation for a general levy of troops. This call brought forth the famous Lew Pe Heuentih, a descendant in the line of the Han family, who, it had been predicted by his relatives and comrades, would some day rise to eminence. It, at the same time, brought Heventih in contact with the heroes Chang Fei and Kwan Yu, the result of which interview was that these three persons entered into a solemn covenant, to stand by each other in supporting the interests of the house of Han, and to keep the unity of mind and purpose inviolate.
Thus leagued, these heroes of the San Kwo Che sally forth to join the ranks of lieutenant Lew Yen, who gladly welcomed them.
The Rebellion of the Yellow Caps,
His excellency, hearing in a few days that a party of the enemy was coming down upon one of his districts, gave orders to his officer Tsow Tsing, to proceed against them and avail himself of the assistance of Heuentih, whose comrades signalized themselves in the first onset, by killing-the one a colonel, the other the general of the rebel troops. On this, a large body of the enemy seeing themselves thus early de- prived of some of their leaders, joined the imperial party; and the lieutenant of Yew conferred rewards on the victors.
But, on the day following the victory, he received a dispatch from the governor of Tsing department, to 'the effect that he was placed in imminent danger by the siege, which had been laid against him. His request, that auxiliaries should be sent to him, was forthwith grant- ed; and in a very little time the siege was raised, chiefly through the stratagems of the three brothers:
Immediately on the distribution of rewards by the gov. of Tsing, Heuentih and his comrades separated themselves from the troops of Yew, to hasten to the relief of Loo Chĩh, (Heuentih's former tutor, and one of the chunglang tseäng already spoken of,) who was then en- gaged in contest with Chang Keŏ, the leader of the rebellion. On their reaching the scene of warfare, Loo Chih was much pleased with this mark of attachment in his late pupil, but directed him to proceed to the assistance of his colleagues Hwangfoo Sung and Choo Sun who were, in the Ying district, waging war against Chang Keo's brothers. While Heuentih was advancing towards Ying, the imperialists had routed the Yellow Caps,-who fled in all directions before the con- querors. At that instant, another hero of those times, Tsaou Tsaou, (called by a Spanish writer the Buonaparte of China,') made his appearance, to share in the glory and the spoils of the day.-This Tsaou Tsaou displayed early in life a roving and wily disposition, which it was impossible for his father or his uncle to curb. However, men perceived that he was qualified for the times, and foresaw his future eminence, at the prediction of which Tsaou Tsaou was not a little delighted. At the age of twenty, he entered office, and con- ducted himself with strict impartiality, so that he became a terror to evil-doers. After a few minor promotions, he was made an officer of cavalry, and it was then he led forth a company to assist the im- perial house.
Heuentih arrived only in season to congratulate the victors on the repulse of the enemy, and detailed his interview with his tutor Loo Chih, to whom the two chung lang tseäng directed the three bro- thers to return, as they felt persuaded the fugitives would immediate-
The Rebellion of the Yellow Caps.
ly resort to Kwangtsung, where Chaug Keo was besieged by Loo Chih. The brothers at once retraced their steps, but had proceeded only half the distance, when they met Loo Chih confined in a cage and guarded by a party of soldiers, who were conducting him to the capital. The captive explained that he had been maligned at court, and that, under the false representations of a crown officer, who had been sent down to extort money from him but had failed in his at- tempts, he had orders from the emperor to hasten to the capital for examination, and that meanwhile Tung Cho was appointed to super- intend those hostilities against the chief Chang Keŏ, which had wel uigh been closed, but for this unhappy interruption. Chang Fei, when he heard this account, got furious, and was on the point of cutting down the guards with his sword, when Heuentĩh quieted him by the irresistible argument that, as it was the emperor's will, nothing could be done in opposition to it. So Loo Chĩh was allowed to pass on to meet his doom.
At the advice of Kwan Yu, the sworn brothers resolved to returů without delay, to their native district. But on their progress north- ward, they perceive, from the din of war, that conflicting parties are at hand. It is the imperial bands routed and put to flight by Chang Keo's overpowering numbers. Heuentih and his friends take a stand and, by a vigorous attack, beat the rebels back, and saved the honor of the throne. It was Tung Cho (Loo Chih's substitute,) who had been thus rescued by an unknown branch of the imperial house, but this general treated his deliverers only with disrespect, which the ever ardent Chang Fei could not brook, and he swore that nothing should appease him, short of the blood of the haughty and uncivil Tung Cho.
However, his brothers Heuentih and Kwan Yu successfully remon- strated with him; but, as it was their united opinion, that, rather than join the corps of such an officer, they should put themselves under the banner of Choo Sun one of his colleagues, they accordingly pro- ceeded to enter his ranks, and were treated by him with all urbanity. As that general was engaged in an attack on the rebel Paou's forces, he took the faithful three with him. In this instance, Heuentih also signalized himself in a close combat with one of the enemy's colonels, whom he left dead on the field. A general engagement instantly ensued, when general Paou, by some magical art (which produced a storm of wind and thunder, and drew down a black cloud from -heaven, in which appeared a countless host of matchless warriors,)
drove his opponents back in fear and consternation.
The Rebellion of the Yellow l'aps.
But, on the next assault, Paou's juggle was not so successful, as it was rendered futile by the superior stratagem of Choo Sun. He, im- mediately after he found Paou having recourse to his magical powers, had arranged that a quantity of the blood of pigs, sheep, and dogs, should be collected and carried up to a neighboring height, and that, on the first appearance of the same phenomena which had occurred before, this should be poured down. When the assault was made, “Chang Paou acted the magician, there was a tremendous wind and thunder, the sand flew, and the stones ran (along the ground), a black cloud overcast the sky, and an immense number of men and horses fell from heaven.' Heuentih turned his horse and hastily retreated, while Chang Paou pursued him, with all his men, as far as the ris- ing ground, when the mixture was thrown down from its top, and then there could be seen. "in the air, paper-men and grass-horses, falling in confusion to the ground. The wind and thunder ceased, nor did the sand and stones continue to fly about." Chang Paou, finding himself baffled in this attempt, was obliged to flee for his life, and, with difficulty reached one of his fortresses, where he shut himself up and his troops.
While Choo Sun was occupied in besieging Chang Paou, he heard that his colleague Hwangfoo Sung, had been appointed to take the place of Tung Cho, whose frequent losses had occasioned his degrada- tion from office; that, when Hwangfoo entered upon his office, Chang Keŏ died, and was succeeded in command by his brother Chang Leang; that Chang Leäng had been cut off by Hwang, for which achievement the emperor promoted him, and yielded to his interces- sions in behalf of the defamed Loo Chih, whose misfortune has been noticed; and that Tsaou Tsaou also had been promoted in consi- deration of the services, he had lent in support of the imperial cause. Choo Sun, on hearing all this intelligence was stimulated to a simul- taneous attack of the town, in which Chang Paou had taken shelter, and he brought the besieged to such a stress at length, that one. of Paou's own officers beheaded his master and delivered up the city to the imperial general. Thus fell the first leaders of “the rebellion of the Yellow Caps."
Illustrations of Men and Things in China.
ART. VI. Illustrations of men and things in China: priest col lecting paper; uses of blood; mode of cutting glass; a 'China-
PRIEST collecting paper.-I met a respectable looking Budhistic priest one day, perambulating the streets with two small baskets slung on his arm, on which were written the four characters
king seih tsze che, meaning, 'respect and pity paper having charac tera on it.' I asked him what he was doing; 'I am going about picking up all written paper,' said he, lest sacred names should be defiled.' His baskets, 90 far as I could see, høld as much orange peel' as paper; but I suppose he thought that all useful things coming in his way, were not to be passed by, any thore than pieces of written paper. This respect for paper with characters on it is universal among the Chinese, and among this class of religionists it is deemed meritorious to go about and rescue all printed and written paper from defilement. The reader must not infer, however, that this is done gratuitously, for the priests collect money, from shopmen and others who write much, in order to pay themselves for picking up waste paper in the streets in their stead; thus making gain out of their reverence for holy characters.
Uses of blood:-The butcher receives the blood of the ox or hog intò a tub, and after it coagulates, drains off the watery serum, and sends the rest to market. It is cooked in various ways by the people, both alone and combined with other viands. The blood of ducks, after co- agulation, is warmed over a fire, and when the color has changed, and the mass become a little concrete, it is cut into cakes and ex- posed for sale lying in water; the purchaser adds salt and other condiments when he cooks it a second time. The blood of hogs and cattle is also extensively used as a paste. It is, after coagula- tion, thoroughly worked by squeezing it through a handful of straw, to separate the fibrine, and then simmered over a slow fire with the addition of a little lime. When made it is of a dingy red color›; it must be used soon, for it spoils in a day or two; the shopmen paper tea-chests, boxes of goods, &c., with this paste.
Mode of cutting glass.-The diamond and corundum are both employed by glaziers; they select the natural grains, or break them into fragments, and insert them in a pencil, so as to expose a corner; none of the lapidaries here can cut these genis. The
Illustrations of Men and Things in. China;
itinerating workmen who mend and clamp broken glass and china-. ware, have one set into the point of their drill. But the corundum js. far too expensive for a common workman, and he employs another method of trimming his pane of glass. He marks an ink-line where he wishes it to be divided, and then files a notch on the edge to com- mence: after this, he slowly follows up the line with a lighted joss- stick; the glass cracks pretty evenly after the fire, which is detained upon a spot until it splits; the edge of the pane is rather uneven, but the putty, says he, will hide all those defects.
A Chinaman.'-What a number of things there are to which we prefix the adjective China as a convenient mode of designating them! Porcelain and China are synonymous with many persons; a set of chi- na, or chinaware, China silks, China sweetmeats, China root, China orange, China rose, are all sufficiently marked merely by the adjec tive; for ages have the productions of this country excited the com- mercial enterprise of other lands, so that the terms China ship, China merchant, and China cargo, in common life, designate a peculiat branch of commerce. But among all the odd things this country produces, a Chinaman himself is the oddest. Ever since the day when Milton sang,
• Of Sericana, where Chineses drive,
With sails and wind their cany wagons light,'
down to these matter-of-fact times of tea and Patna, a Chinese has remained an image of himself. He is, in truth, a curious speci- men. Judge him by our standard, and he is to it a very antipodes, but weigh him in his own scales, he is of great gravity; try him by his own measure he is faultless. It is hard to say which of the two standards is the best for arriving at a fair decision. Next to the son of heaven, a true Chinese thinks himself to be the greatest man in the world; and China, beyond all comparison, to be the most civilized, the most learned, the most fruitful, the most ancient-in short, the best country under the starry canopy. It is useless te toll him to the contrary, for he will no more believe you than you do him; If your country is so good, why do you come here after tea and rhubarb?" is a puzzler ;"If your people are so good why do you bring opium here to destroy us?" is unanswerable in his mind to prove his own goodness and our wickedness;—" We can do with- out you, but you cannot live without us," says he, to clinch them both;
and when a Chinese is thus intrenched in his own wisdom, he is beyond persuasion.
If we examine some of the minuter shades of his character we
VOL. X. NO. II.
Illustrations of Men and Things in China.
shall at once perceive that he was cast in a different mold from us barbarians;' and albeit the outlines of the two are alike, their finish is quite diverse. Let us glance at some of these lesser traits, as they are grouped in the following sketch:
“On inquiring of the boatman in which direction our port lay, I was answered west-north; and the wind, he said, was east-south. We do not say so, in Europe,' thought I, but imagine my surprise when in explaining the utility of the compass, he added that the needle pointed south. On landing, the first object that attracted my attention was a military mandarin, who wore an embroidered petticoat, with a string of beads around his neck, and a fan in his hand. His insignia of rank was a button on the apex of his sugar- loaf cap, instead of a star on his breast, or epaulettes on his shoulders; and it was with some dismay, I observed him mount on the right side of his horse. Several scabbards hung from his belt, which of course I thought must contain dress-swords or dirks, but on venturing near through the crowd of atten. dants, I was surprised to see a pair of chopsticks and a knife-handle sticking out of one, and soon his fan was folded up and put into the other, whereupon I concluded he was going to a dinner instead of a review. The natives around me had their hair all shaven on the front of their head, and let it grow as long as it would behind; many of them did not shave their faces, but their mustaches were made to grow perpendicularly down over their mouths, and lest some straggling hairs should diverge cheek-ways, the owners were busily employed pulling them down. We arrange our toilettes different- ly in Europe,' thought I, but could not help acknowledging the happy device of chopsticks, which enabled these gentlemen to put their food into the mouth endwise, underneath this natural fringe.
“On my way to the house where I was to put up, I saw a group of old peu- ple, some of whom were graybeards; a few were chirruping and chuckling to singing birds, which they carried perched on a stick or in cages; others were catching flies to feed the birds; and the remainder of the party seemed to be delightedly employed in flying fantastic paper kites, while a group of boys were gravely looking on, and regarding these innocent occupations of their seniors with the most serious and gratified attention. As I had come to the country to reside for sometime, I made inquiries respecting a teacher, and the next morning found me provided with one who happily understood English. On entering the room, he stood at the door, and instead of coming forward and shaking my hands, he politely bowed, and shook his own before This breast. I looked upon this custom as a decided improvement upon our mode, especially in doubtful cases; and requested him to be seated. I knew I was about to study a language without an alphabet, but was somewhat astonished to find him begin at what I had all my life previously considered the end of the book. He read the date of the publication, The fifth year. tenth month, and first day.' We arrange our dates differently,' I observed, and begged him to begin to read, which he did from the top to the bottom, then proceeding from the right to the left. You have an odd book here,
Illustrations of Men and Things in China.
remarked 1, taking it out of his hands; and looking farther, saw that the running title was on the edge of the leaves instead of the top; that the pag- ing was near the bottom; that the marginal notes were on the top of the page; that the blank space at the top of the page was very much larger than at the bottom; that the blanks for correction were large black squares in the middle of the column instead of white openinge ;* that the back was open, and the name written on the bottom edge; and lastly that the volume had d heavy line near the middle of every page, which he said separated the two works contained in it. I asked the price of the work, and he said it was a dollar and eight thirds, and on counting out $34 he gave me back $21, say- ing I had paid him too much; 1 asked an explanation, and learned that in China eight thirds meant three eighths; a long time after I learned still fur- ther that it was really eight divided by three, a mode of expression, which, by placing the numerator after the denominator, is just opposite our own. An- other small volume which he took out of his pocket, had the number and caption of the chapters at the foot instead of the head; and my astonishment was increased, when on requesting him to find a word in a small dictionary, he told me the words were arranged by the end instead of the beginning→ ming, sing, king, being all in a row.
"Giving the book back to him, I begged him to speak of ceremony. He commenced by saying, When you receive a distinguished guest, do not fail to place him on your left hand, for that is the seat of honor; and be cautious 'not to uncover the head, as it would be an unbecoming act of familiarity.' This was a severe 'below to any established notions, but re- quested him to continue. He reopened the volume, and read with becoming gravity, The most learned men are decidedly of opinion, that the seat of the human understanding is in the belly.' 'Better say it is in the feet, and done with it,' exclaimed I, for this so shocked all my principles of correct philoso- phy, that I immediately shut up the book, and dismissed my moonshe to come another day.
"On going abroad, I met so many things contrary to all my preconceived ideas of propriety, that I readily assented to a friend's observation that the Chinese were our antipodes in many things besides geography.' 'Indeed,' said I, it is so; I shall almost, expect shortly to see a man walking on his head; look, there's a woman in trowsers, and a party of gentleman in petticoats; she is smoking a segar, and they are fauning themselves;' but I was taught not to trust to appearances too much, when on passing them, I saw the latter wore tight under-garments. We soon after met the comprador of the house dressed in a complete puit of white, and I stopped and asked him what mer. ry making he was invited to; with a look of the deepest concern, he said, he was just returning from burying his father. Soon we passed a house, where we heard sobbing and crying, and desiring to alleviate grief, I inquir- ed who was ill. The man, suppressing a smile, said, it is a young girl just about leaving her father's house to be married, and she is lamenting The black places which occur in some books, as for instance the Court Ca- lendar, are 'caused by the block being left uncut for subsequent correction.
Memorial from Keshen.
with a party of her fellows.' I thought, after these unlucky essays, I would ask no more questions; but carefully use my eyes instead. Looking into a shop, I saw a stout strapping fellow sowing lace on a bonnet; and going on to the landing-place, behold, there all the ferry-boats were rowed by women; and from a passage-boat just arrived, I saw the females get out of the cabin which was in the bow. What are we coming to next?' said 1, and just by I saw a carpenter take his foot-rule out of his stocking, to measure some timber, which his apprentice was cutting with a saw that had the blade set nearly at right angles with the frame. Before his door sat a man busily engaged in whitening the soles of a pair of shoes with white lead. We next passed a fashionable lady who was just stepping out of her chair, hobbling,' I should rather say; for unlike our ladies with their com- pressed waists, her feet were not above three inches long; and her gown; instead of having gores sewed into the bottom, was so contracted by embroi- dered plaits as apparently to restrain her walking. Come let us return home,' said I, for I am quite whirled about in this strange land.'”
This sketch will somewhat illustrate a Chinaman's ideas of pro- priety; it is very manifest from it that there is no accounting for or reasoning against tastes, and that if we wish to judge fairly of many things that he does, and of many of his notions, some know- ledge of their rationale is desirable. If this his outer man is unlike what we deem good taste, we shall find, alas, that his inner man is much more unlike, much farther estranged from what we are taught to regard as (and know to be) good morals.
ART. VII. Memorial from Keshen, concerning the attack on Chuen- : pe; with replies thereto from the emperor.
MEMORIAL from your majesty's slave, Keshen, with reference to the English foreigners' not waiting for replies, but straightway attacking the forts of Shakok and Taikok ;—even now, while the contest, yet rests undecided, is this report sent with all speed, by an express, traveling diligently more than 500 le daily, in order to be humbly submitted to your majesty's sacred perusal.
After your slave had this morning dispatched his respectful re- port, regarding the communication he had prepared to send in answer to the English foreigners, and regarding the actual warlike display of banners,—a dispatch was received by express, at a later period of
Memorial from Keshen.
the day, from your minister, Kwan Teenpei, the commander-in-chief of the naval forces. It reported, that all the vessels of the English foreigners had weighed anchor, during the morning of the 7th, and in distinct squadrons had proceeded to attack the forts of Shakok and Taikok, outside the Bocca Tigris: that the fire of the guns was kept up incessantly, and the contest sustained all around, from 8 a. M. till 2 P. M., during which the foreign vessels had fired above 10 [rounds of] cannon: that our forces, with all their strength and energy, responded to the attack, till about 2 P. M., when from a dis- tance some of the foreigners were seen to have fallen into the water: that, as it happened, the tide began to ebb, and the foreign vessels ceased firing, and are now anchored in the middle of the stream, between Shakok and Taikok, each side maintaining its ground: that, probably, with the making of the flood, the next morning, the con- test would recommnence; and, further, that there were four steam- vessels, which fell upon the war junks, but finding the attack res- ponded to by our vessels, drew off again without having decided the contest on either side.
Your slave, since his arrival at Canton, has in repeated instanceș exchanged communications with the English foreigners; and hás at all times given them admonitory commands, with mildness: and as regards the several things solicited by them, though he has not been able completely to satisfy their rapacious cravings, still he has with a liberal hand granted a measure of what they desired. Yet these foreigners, on the present occasion, having, upon the 6th, sent in a foreign letter, hastily, on the morning of the 7th, without waiting for a reply, proceeded straightway to attack the forts → to such a degree has their presumptuous overbearing and unruly violence been car- ried! Some, giving their advice on this matter, express it as their opinion, that if the whole defensive and preventive guard be firmly maintained, that will suffice in time to weary them out. Or, it is said, if they only be granted commercial intercourse, a restraining cordon may then be kept around what they have. Whether or not these schemes. are worthy of confidence, your sacred majesty's wisdom and thorough knowledge will determine,-and to escape it would be impossible.
These foreigners, now, having dared to commence this attack, and having begun troubling and disturbing, the present quarrel is then of their own creation; in their behalf nothing can be said; and, as they would not wait for the communication prepared for them, there would be no propriety in now sending it to them.
Memorial from Keshen.
The fort of Shakok stood solitary, cut off by the sea; and it is to be observed, that, before this collision, from apprehension that it was insufficiently protected, 200 men of the lieut.-governor's brigade had been sent to occupy the important entrance into Tungkwăn district; and 200 of the personal brigade of the commander-in-chief had been sent to defend such places as should need increased protection.
The fortified point of Taikok nearly adjoins the range of land call- ed Nansha (the southern sands), and it is to be apprehended, lest the said foreigners, making a cireuit behind the hills should make their way inwards. Having sent an express to your majesty's minister, Kwan, the commander-in-chief, to inquire of him what points will require the addition of forces, he has himself personally examined those positions near to that place, where it will be suitable to post military guards, and having reported the same he has received in- structions accordingly to post forces thereat. At the same time direc- tions have been given, to prepare, with all celerity, large quantities of gunpowder, iron ball, and so forth, sufficient, it is hoped, for many months' use,-in order thus to facilitate the defense of the various places.
The Bocca Tigris is the post of which the commander-in-chief retains the defense. To cooperate with and aid him in its defense, your slave has sent Le, general of the Chaouchow division, who will be able to give him efficient counsel and assistance.
A detachment of naval forces has also been posted on shore at Woochung kow, distant about sixty le (roughly, about 20 miles) from the city of Canton; the river has been filled up by sinking stones ; and rafts of spars have been so placed as to prevent any passage beyond. These arrangements were all, on the 27th of December, successively reported complete, under the superintendence of the chungheë, Keshow, and the foosze, Cho Szeleäng.
At Canton itself, adjoining the walls of the city, are the houses of the people, rendering it a matter of difficulty to fire from thence. But at the same time, the river flows all round, leaving no place for the encampment of troops. There are found, however, on the river Jitself, forts of old standing, for the better defense of which the gar- risons have been increased;—and to such as have flats adjoining khem, encamped forces have also been attached, to aid in the defense
of each pluco. 1:
With regard to the provinces of Fuhkeën and Chěkeáng, your slave, as early as the first decade of last month (the close of Novem- ber), having carefully inquired into the actual and daily more press-
The Emperor's Reply.
ing condition of things with all the said foreigners, felt reason to apprehend that they might go to other ports and inlets; and therefore communications were immediately sent to your majesty's minister Woo Wanyung, governor of Fuhkeën and Chěkeäng, and to the high commissioner in Chěkeäng, Elepoo, to afford them every informa- tion; and they were moved to transmit the same information to the adjoining government of Keängsoo, that there also all requisite ob- servation and defense might be maintained. The distance being however considerable, and the regulation of the governmental posts being rather lax, it is uncertain whether the dispatches then sent will have yet arrived, and whether the information sent has been communicated to the various provinces along the coast.
Whether or not our forces have suffered in this conflict, and tò what extent wounds may have been inflicted, shall be reported with all haste as soon as ascertained. And of the state of things hencefor- ward, full reports shall be transmitted from time to time. The me- morial is now first sent by an express, traveling with diligence to exceed the rate of 500 le daily, in order to convey intelligence of the circumstances attending the attack made by these foreigners, with- out waiting for replies, and of the collision which in consequence took place. The memorial is respectfully submitted, imploring the august sovereign to cast on it his sacred glance. (Jan. 8th, 1841.)
Imperial edict issued on the 5th day of the 1st month (January 27th, 1841).
A report has been received from Keshen, setting forth the circum- stançes, of an attack on, and capture of, certain forts, by the English foreigners...
These rebellious foreigners, from the time of their return to Can- ton, have been daily increasing in disorderliness and insubordination. And we have therefore issued repeated and strict commands to all the provinces, that the most attentive and well ordered guard of pre- vention; should be maintained; and that fit occasion should be taken to proceed against them for their destruction. With what care, then, did it become all the high officers, civil and military, of the pró- wincés, to have arranged their defense! But to-day, the report is - received: from Keshen, that where he is, the fort of Shakok has been attacked and taken by the rebellious foreigners, and that that of Taikok: also has been destroyed; and withal that the soldiery of the government have fallen, dead and wounded, and the naval vessels have been carried off and plundered. It is plain from this, that the
The Emperor's Reply.
said acting governor, and his fellow-officers, have in no way taken the needful preparative arrangements for prevention and defense. Let the proper Board take into its severest consideration the conduct of Keshen. At the same time, let him have direction of the forces sent from all parts, and exert his utmost efforts to drive off or destroy these foreigners, speedily reporting an entire victory.-Kwan Teën- pei, though, filling the post of commander-in-chief, and having under his control the whole naval force, has shown himself at all times devoid of talent to direct, and, on the approach of a crisis, perturbed, alarmed, and resourceless. Let his button and insignia of rank be at once taken from him,—but let him, at the same time, bearing his offenses, labor to attain merit, and show forth his after-endeavors. The said acting governor and his colleagues will make clear inquiry and full report as to all the officers, subalterns, and soldiers, wounded or slain. Respect this.
On the same 27th day of January, this further imperial edict was issued.
An express from Keshen reports that the rebellious foreigners have attacked and destroyed certain forts. In consequence of the daily increasing disorderliness and insubordination of these rebellious fo- reigners, our commands were before repeatedly issued, declaring it as our pleasure, that secure preparative arrangements should be made, and fit occasion taken to proceed to their destruction-considering that they have coveted Canton, and that not merely for a day.
The said high commissioner,-sustaining a most weighty trust,— and knowing, as he did, that the temper of these foreigners is proud and overbearing, seeing also that the military condition of the pro- vince where he is has fallen into decay for this long time past,- should have begun with defensive precautions, with the view of being prepared to avert any disaster. Yet is this report now received from kim, that the rebellious foreigners have seized upon the fort of Sha- kok, and further attacked that of Taikok. From the fact that, when, these foreigners, on the 7th of January, let loose their passions, and began firing upon these two forts, they were at once able to destroy them, it is to be seen, that no preparations whatever could have been made in that province: such neglect calls forth bitter indigna- tion. Our commands have therefore been plainly declared, that Keshen and Kwan Teënpei be, the last deprived of his button and other insignia of rank, and the former subjected to the severest con- sideration of his conduct.
The Emperor's Reply.
The rebellious dispositions of these foreigners being now plainly manifested, there remains no other course than, without remorse, to destroy and wash them clean away, and thus to display the majesty of the empire. What room can there yet be left for showing them consideration and exhibiting to them reason! Expresses have con- sequently been sent to Hoonan, Szechuen, and Kweichow, to direct that forces be sent from each of those provinces, with all speed, to Canton. And to Keängse, an express has also been sent, directing that the 2000 men before ordered from thence shall proceed with all haste to join these. All the forces of the province of Kwangtung itself shall be under the control and direction of the said acting governor. And, the posture of affairs being at this time urgent and pressing, let him at once proceed to occupy each several post and passage of im- portance: let him not suffer the least remissness or negligence to appear. The forces ordered from various parts may all successively reach Canton within the second month (beginning 21st February). And let him then proceed immediately to take command of all the officers and subalterns, and lead them on to the extermination of these foreigners, thus hoping to atone for and save himself.
Regarding the forts of Kwangtung, it was before represented by Tăng and his then colleagues, that they were protected by rafts and chains thrown across so as to stop the progress of the foreign vessels. Let Keshen, then, ascertain and duly report, whether or not these places now taken, Shakok and Taikok, are the same places (as those where the rafts were thrown across). That these commands may be made known-let them be sent by an express traveling 600 le (about 200 miles) daily. Respect this.
Upon the same day this further imperial edict was also received·: Our ruling dynasty has kept in good order and discipline the ex- terior foreigners, wholly by the perfect exercise of good favor and of justice. So long as those foreigners have been truly compliant and dutiful, they have unfailingly been treated with generous liberality,- in the hope that all might rejoice together in the blessing of peace.
Some time back, owing to the daily increasing prevalence of the poisonous opium, introduced by western foreigners, commands were issued to make vigorous endeavors to arrest the growing contumacy. But the English alone, staying themselves upon their pride of power and fierce strength, would not give the required bonds; and for this it was commanded, that they should be cut off from commercial intercourse. But, in place of repenting themselves, they daily in- creased in boastful arrogance. And suddenly, in the 6th month of
VOL. X. NO, II,
The Emperor's Reply.
last year, they went so far as to invade with several tens of vessels, the district of Tinghae, seizing and occupying its chief town. And they further came and went, as they would, along the coasts of the several provinces of Fuhkeën, Chěkeäng, Keängsoo, Shantung, Chĩh- le, and Moukden, causing disturbance and trouble in many ways. The violence, presumption, and disobedience, of these rebellious foreigners having reached such a degree, it would have been no hard thing to array our forces, and to exterminate and cut them off utterly. But, considering that these foreigners had presented letters, complaining of what they called grievances and oppressions, it was deemed unsuitable to refuse to make investigations for them, and thus to fail of displaying the perfect justice of our rule. Hence special commands were given to our minister, Keshen, to proceed with speed, to Canton, and to examine and act according to the facts. Had these foreigners possessed a spark of heaven-bestowed goodness, they would assuredly all have returned to Canton to await his arrange- ment of matters. But a half only weighed their anchors and proceed- ed southward, while a half still remained at Tinghae,—thus exhibit- ing the craft and slipperiness of their dispositions, too clearly to need pointing out. And we have recently received intelligence, that at Tinghae, during these months past, they have debauched and ravish- ed women, 'plundered and carried off property, erected fortifications, and opened out canals,—even setting up a mock officer, to issue pro- clamations demanding of the people payment of the revenue. What evil have our people done, to be subjected to this bane and hurt? To speak, or to think, thereof removes even from sleep and from food their enjoyment. After the arrival of Keshen at Canton, when he proceeded plainly to admonish and point out the right course, they still continued insatiable in their covetous desires. Having first thought to extort the cost of the opium, they further requested that places of trade should be given them.
We had anticipated finding them changeable and inconstant, and had estimated them as persons not to be influenced by truth and jus- tice we had, therefore, made provision, last year, for the selection of veteran troops, of the provinces of Szechuen, Hoonan, and Keängse, to be ordered for service in Kwangtung; and we had also ordered forces from Hoonan, Hoopib, and Nganhwuy, to proceed to Chěkeäng, as a precaution against attack. And now the report received by express from Keshen is, that on the 15th day of the 12th month of last year (7th January, 1841), these foreigners, in combina- tion with Chinese traitors, proceeded on board many vessels, directly
The Emperor's Reply.
for the offing of the Bocca Tigris; and that, having opened the thun- der of their fire, they inflicted wounds upon our officers and soldiers, and also destroyed the fort of Taikok, and possessed themselves of that of Shakok. Thus rebellious have they been against heaven, op- posers of reason, one in spirit with the brute beasts,-beings that the overshadowing vault and all-containing earth can hardly suffer to live,-obnoxious to the wrathful indignation alike of angels and of men. There can only remain one course, to destroy and wipe them clean away, to exterminate and root them out, without remorse. Then shall we manifestly discharge our heaven-conferred trust, and show our regard for the lives of our people.
The various forces that have been ordered for service must now speedily reach their posts. Let Elepoo instantly advance with the forces under him, and recover Tinghae, that he may revive its peo- ple from their troubles. And let Keshen on his part, stir up the soldiery, and with energy and courage proceed right on, making it his determined aim, to compel these rebellious foreigners to give up their ringleaders, that they may be sent encaged to Peking, to re- ceive the utmost retribution of the laws. The base and vile fellows among those foreigners, and the Chinese traitors who abet their re- bellious practices, are yet more to be sought after. Measures must be devised for seizing them, nor must proceedings cease till they be utterly slain.
Regarding the coasts of all the maritime provinces, it has repeatedly been declared to be our pleasure, that strict and well arranged mea- sures of precaution be everywhere taken. Let all the authorities,— generals, governors, lieut.-governors-with increased diligence main- tain a constant plan of observation, and, as soon as any come, attack them. And let them also proclaim it to all, whether officers or people, that it becomes them to regard these foreigners with a hostile spirit, to cherish towards them the asperity of personal enemies. Speedily report perfect victory, and all shall enjoy rewards from their sove- reign. That it will be so, we indeed cherish strong hopes.
Be these our commands made known universally. Respect this.
ART. VIII. Journal of Occurrences: perfidy with interruption of
negotiations; battle at the Bogue; rewards for Englishmen ; detention of prisoners at Chusan; imperial edict declaring war of extermination; present state of affairs; shipwrecked Japanese..
Journal of Occurrences.
FROM the following notices, and from the documents contained in the preceding article, may be seen of what sort of government, aud of what sort of men, the celestial empire is composed.
No. 1. Circular to her majesty's subjects.
The imperial minister and high commissioner having failed to conclude the treaty of peace, lately agreed upon by H. M.'s plenipotentiary, within the allotted period, hostilities were resumed yesterday afternoon. A Chinese force, employ- ed, under cover of a masked battery and strong field-work, in blocking up a channel of the river at the back of Anunghoy, was dislodged, the obstructions effectually cleared away, the guns in battery and deposit, amounting to about 80 pieces of various calibre, rendered unservicable, and the whole of the military materiel destroyed. This effective service was accomplished without loss, in two hours, by captain Herbert, of H. M.'s ship Calliope, having under his com- mand the steam vessel Nemesis, and pinnaces of H. M.'s ships Calliope, Sam- arang, Herald, and Alligator. The extent of the enemy's loss has not been ascertained.
On board H. M.'s ship Calliope, off South Wangtong, February 24, 1841.
(Signed) CHARLES ELLIOT, H. M.'s Plenipotentiary. No. 2. To her majesty's subjects.
The batteries of the Bocca Tigris have this day fallen to her majesty's forces. Several hundred prisoners have been captured, the enemy is in flight in all directions, and no loss reported up to this hour on our side.
H. M. ship Calliope, off North Wangtong, 26th February, 3 p. M.
(Signed)
CHARLES ELLIOT, H. M.'s Plenipotentiary.
No. 3. Public notice.
H. M.'s ship Wellesley, at anchor off North Wangtong, 20th Feb. 1841. The batteries at the Bocca Tigris having this day fallen to her majesty's arms, notice is hereby given that all British and foreign merchant vessels are permitted to repair to that point, and that they will be allowed to proceed higher, as soon as it is ascertained that the river is clear of all obstructions.
(Signed)
J. J. G. BREMER, Commander-in-chief.
This failure to conclude the treaty of peace, this perfidy with in- terruption of negotiations, can be rightly understood only when view- ed in connection with the whole course of events since the arrival here of H. B. M.'s expedition last June. Its objects were to obtain redress and indemnity for the past, with securities and immunities for the future. However; the instructions to the plenipotentiaries not having been here published, their import can only be conjectured from what has transpired. It should be carefully borne in mind, as we pro- ceed, that to make war on the Chinese, formed professedly no part of the objects of the expedition, provided its ends could be secured by other means; consequently a trial of pacific measures must needs first be made.
The first question with the plenipotentiaries was (or appears to have been) whether the forts at the Bogue should be demolished or left standing, while they with the naval and military force should move northward. The feeling of the British and foreign community here was almost unanimous in favor of the first measure; they chose the latter, and wisely-at least so we were inclined to think.
It having been determined on-we presume in accordance with in- structions from the queen's government at home-to take immediate possession of Chusan, an advanced force under commodore Bremer moved forward for that purpose. The plenipotentiaries, with the
Journal of Occurrences,
remainder of the expedition, followed soon after. When off the coast of Fulikeën, one of the vessels, bearing a flag of truce, was sent with. a dispatch to the port of Amoy. The ship was fired on, and the communication refused. As Chinese policy forbade the reception of this dispatch, it would have been wise, perhaps, not to have given opportunity for the committal of such an outrage.
As to the right and expediency of occupying Tinghae-which fell on the 5th of July, we have been in doubt. Indeed, the occupation of any insular position has always seemed to us objectionable. There may have been reasons for, and advantages resulting from, taking Chusan, of which we are ignorant; but judging from what we know, it would have been better to have rendezvoused at some small island (of the size of Shachow in this vicinity). This would have prevented the long detention of the expedition at Chusan, and would have al- lowed the entire force to have gone up-a part upon the Yangtsze keäng, and a part to the mouth of the Pei ho, early in July: and at these two positions-the nearest to the court that it was possible for them to reach the forces should have remained until all questions at issue were settled. "Let us a great desideratum" says Mr. Warren,
penetrate to Peking, and learn what is the real state of things there; and let us cheerfully yield to what we shall find to be the reasonable and just wishes of the emperor." So we have always argued; and accordingly would have abstained from attacking Chu- san, and from every other hostile act, save only to lay on a blockade. A different course was resolved on, and it may have been the right With its principal details, our readers are familiar. After a month's delay, and the rejection of lord Palmerston's communication by the provincial authorities, the plenipotentiaries proceeded north, and arrived off the mouth of the Pei ho, August 9th.
The presence of so large a squadron, (though not the half it might have been) so near the capital, had no small effect. The tone of the imperial go- vernment was changed, and in correspondence it became respectful and courteous and pacific. No doubt the blow on Chusan helped to produce this effect; and perhaps it may on this account be justified. Negotiations soon commenced between the plenipotentiaries and the imperial minister Keshen. The twice rejected letter was at once received; a long interview was held; and at length it was agreed, that Keshen should meet the plenipotentiaries at Canton, that half the forces should immediately withdraw from Chusan, and hostilities cease all along the coast.
The emperor's participation in this agreement, is fully attested by H. I. M.'s own edict, 'dated September 17th at Peking, appointing Keshen high commissioner, and ordering his officers in the provinces to observe the armistice. See vol. IX. page 411.
The accepting of this agreement was an act of great generosity on the part of the plenipotentiaries, who, at the moment the edict above alluded to was being issued, were on their return with the squa- dron to Chusan. There they found that the Kite had been lost, and that her crew, with others, had fallen into the hands of the Chinese:
Journal of Occurrences.
Rewards for Englishmen were offered, under the seals of the high provincial officers, on the 25th, the day before the battle. For each of the ringleaders, $50,000 were offered; for others a smaller sum. This measure was devised some days previously to the interruption of negotiations!
On the 27th a battery of some 50 guns was demolished, about 200 Chinese killed, the Chesapeake burnt, and a squadron of 40 vessels dispersed at or near Whampoa. The next day the Calliope, Herald, Alligator, Modeste, Sulphur, with the steamers Nemesis and Madagas- car were at anchor above the First Bar off the Brunswick Rocks.
On the present state of public affairs it is not easy to form any opinion which may not be shaken or changed the next hour. The Chinese are dumb, and some of them even deny the capture of the forts at the Bogue. It is certain, however, that they have been de- molished, excepting one which is to be reserved by the captors.
What, now, is the proper course to be pursued ? With whom can the plenipotentiary now treat, and where? At Canton and with the imperial commissioner? But can his promises be received? Will he not again make false pretenses?
Shipwrecked Japanese.-The American brig Argyle, captain F. Codman, which arrived from South America on the 19th instant, brought three Japanese sailors who had been rescued from a wreck in the North Pacific (June 9th, 1840), in lat. 34° N., long. 170° 30′ E., more than 2500 miles from their home. They were bound to Yedo, and, driven beyond their port by a westerly gale, had been. drifting about for 181 days when found; the vessel was a single masted boat, loaded with a cargo of 400 peculs of rice. They are from the village of Okinosu in the principality of Toötomi, lying about 100 miles SW. from Yedo. Their names are Akahori Shentarō, aged 37, the captain of the vessel; Kamiyama Matsunoski, aged 50, who has left a family at home; and Asayama Tatsuzoü, aged 28. They were much pleased to find some of their countrymen in China. From them we learn that in many parts of the empire, especially among the eastern principalities of Nippon, severe famines have been ex- perienced for three or four years past, so that the poor had died by the roadside of starvation; some of the princes had prohibited the ex- portation of all provisions out of their own dominions. The cargo of this vessel was designed for one of the princes of Toötomi then at Yedo. They represent the country as generally at peace internally. Much praise is due to capt. Codman for the kindness he has shown to these men since they were rescued, and the hope is not a groundless one that they may still be returned to their native land.
P. S. March 5th. We learn that the prisoners at Ningpo have been released, and are with the troops and transports on their way down from Chusan. Some of them have already arrived.
On Wednesday the 3d the ships were at Whampoa, and a force was preparing to move on Howqua's fort, when a flag of truce came off, and a conference was held between the plenipotentiary and offi- cers from Canton at 3 P. M..
CHINESE REPOSITORY.
VOL. X.-MARCH, 1841.- No. 3.
ART. 1. Chronology of the Chinese; their era and mode of reck- oning by cycles, with a complete series of their successive dy- nasties and sovereigns.
Chronology is so intimately connected with the record of historical events, so essential to the proper arrangement of facts, that the study of the latter cannot be pursued with pleasure, without some attention to the former. Without chronology, history will be dark and con- fused, and its study devoid of the advantages it would otherwise possess. Waving here all questions respecting the accuracy of the Chinese mode of computing time, it will suffice for our present pur- pose, if we can lay before our readers a concise account of their cycle, with complete series of their successive dynastics and sovereigns.
For the cycle of sixty years, which the Chinese call hwa keǎ tsze, they acknowledge themselves indebted to Naou, or Naou the Great, one of the ministers of Hwang te, or the Yellow emperor. By command of his sovereign, in the sixty-first year of his reign, Naou the Great, taking the sheih kan, or ten
horary characters,甲乙丙丁戊己庚辛壬癸 keă, yeih, ping, ting, mow, ke, káng, sin, jin, kwei, and together with them the+sheih urh che, twelve other horary characters, 子丑寅辰巳午未申酉戌亥tsze, choro, yin,
maou, shin, sze, woo, we, shin, yew, seah, hac, he formed this cycle. The sheih kan have been called the 'ten stems,' and the sheih urh che, the twelve branches.' Naou, commencing with
VOL. X. NO. III.
TABLE OF THE CHINESE CYCLE OF SIXTY YEARS, OR HWA KEA TSZE.
Chronology of the Chinese.
keď tsze
keǎ seuh
kěa shin
keă shin
-1745 乙丑
yeih chow
yeih hae
yeih yew
yeih sze
yeih maou
ping yin
ping tsze
ping seuh
ping shin
ping woo
ping shin
ting maou
ting chow
ting hae
ting yew
ting sze
mow shin
mow tsze
mow seuh
mow shin
Tăng 2000.
kăng shin
kăng yin
sin maou
jin shin
jin shin
kwei sze
sin chow
kwei maou
jin tsze
1793 癸丑 1853 kwei chow
· sin yew
jin seuh
kwei hae
kăng tsze
kăng seuh
kăng shin
Chronology of the Chinese.
the first of the stems and the first of the branches, formed coup- lets, and by repeating the first series six, and the second five times, framed the cycle-a tabular form of which stands on the opposite page. This being completed, was, according to tradition, imme- diately adopted by the emperor, and the 61st year of his reign thus became the first year of the first cycle,-seventy-four of which, mak- ing 4440 years, were completed A. D. 1803.. The present year 1841 is the 38th year of the 75th cycle; it is called sin chow.
Besides the mode of indicating time by the cycle, the Chinese date from the commencement of each successive monarch; thus the first day of the present month of March they write according to their
calendar, thus, 道光二十
Taoukwang, 21st year, 2d month, 9th day.
We now proceed to give, in their order, the names of the several
dynasties with the titles of the sovereigns in each.
1. THE THREE AUGUST SOVEREIGNS;
1. 三皇紀 SAN HwaNG Ke.
1. Pwan koo, the first on earth.
2. Teen hwang, the celestial sovereign.
3.Te hwang, the terrestial sovereign.
4.Jinhwang, the human sovereign. 5. 有巢 Yew chaou.
6. KA Suy jin.
The 2d, 3d, and 4th, in this series, are generally considered, by way of eminence, as the three sovereigns. For an explanation of Pwankoo, see page 49; for the meaning of the imperial and royal titles, see volume II., page 309.
This period, even by the Chinese, is regarded as wholly mytholo gical. After the separation of the heavens from the earth, Pwankoo was, the first that appeared in the world. Teën hwang is, sometimes regarded as a line of sovereigns, thirteen in number, reigning 18,000 years. Te hwang is another line, eleven in number, reigning 18,000 years; and Jin hwang, a third, nine in number, reigning 45,600
Chronology of the Chinese.
2. 五帝紀 Woo TE KE.
Names of the Sovereign.
1. 伏羲 Fuhhe.
Cotemporary Chinese Events.
Fishing, grazing, &c., instituted.
Shinnung.
Agriculture commenced.
Hwang te.
Calendar adopted.
4. Shaouhaou.
5. 顓頊 Chuenhcuh.
Destruction by a deluge, K 洪水 hung shwuy wci hwan.
Fuhhe, Shinnung, IIwang te, Yaou, and Shun are regarded, by most historians, as the five sovereigns. During this period, from 2852 B. C. to 2204, very little can be ascertained concerning the persons who then lived, or the events that occurred; in Chinese his- tory, a few particulars are recorded, handed down by tradition. They are worthy of notice, chiefly because they are so frequently referred to by the Chinese in all their writings."
The capital of Fuhhe is reputed to have been situated on the southern bank of the Yellow river, in the province of Honan, near the present provincial capital Kacfung foo, lat. 34° 52′ 5′′ N., long. 1° 55′ 30′′ W., from Peking.
Shinnung, the Divine Husbandman, known also as Yen te Shin- nung, is chiefly renowned for his attention to agriculture.
To Hwangte credit is given for several useful inventions, of which that of the cycle is the most notable. The honor of inventing letters, the calendar, &c., are claimed for him and his principal ministers. He was born in Kaefung the ancient capital.
· Of Shaouhaou called also Shaouhaou Kinteën, of Chuenheuh called also Chuenheuh Kaouyang, and of Kuh called also Kuh Kaousin, little comparatively is recorded.
· Of Yaou and Shun, volumes have been written; they are by the Chinese even to this day regarded as the illustrious patterns of all that is good in everything...
Chronology of the Chinese.
THE FIVE SOVEREIGNS.
Number and Year
Cotemporary Events.
The creation 4000, or accord-
ing to Hales 5411 B. C.
Adam dies, aged. 930 years,
Noah born 2944.
of Cycle.
115 2852
140 | 2737
100 2697
78 | 2513
The universal deluge 2344, or according to Hales 3155.
The tower of Babel commenc- ed, 2230.
The Assyrian and Egyptian em- pires commenced, about 2229.
The numbers of sovereigns in each successive dynasty, given on the right hand page,
in the first column, correspond to the same num- bers on the opposite or left hand page.
The cycle era is that of the Chinese, it begins with the 61st year in the reign of Hwang te, who occupied the throne 100 years, conse- quently his successor's reign commenced in the 41st year of the 1st cycle, marked :41, the next reign, in succession, commenced on the 5th year of the 3d cycle, and is marked 2:05; and so on of the rest, as indicated in the fourth column of figures. Thus 2:05 shows two complete cycles and five odd years, or a total 125—which number, 125 is the year in which Chuenheuh's reign began. In like man- ner 6:23 indicates six complete cycles and twenty-three odd years, or a total 383 years, this number 383 being the first year of Shun's reign, dating from the 61st of Hwang te, which is adopted as the commencement of the Chinese era.
A few cotemporary events, on the remaining part of the page, are selected from Lempriere and' Calmet, (the former following Dr. Blair's chronology;) unless it be otherwise stated.
The Chinese names are copied from the Kang Keën E Che; and
the Chinese chronology is selected from a native work, called the
三元甲子 San yuen kextsze.
Chronology of the Chinese.
3. 夏紀 HEA KE.
Tae Kang.
Chung Kang.
Names of the Sovereign.
4. 大禹 2. 帝啓
Te Choo.
Te Hwae.
Te Mang.
Te Seäng.
With cotemporary Chinese Events.
It was in this age that 雨金
yu kin, it rained gold.
About the same time, also, IK HEteih tsò tsew, Eteih
made wine: Yu banished him and interdicted the use of the tsew- a strong and alcoholic liquor, and not simple wine, since it is known that the grape is not indigenous in
Shaou Kang. China.
11. 帝不降 Te Puhkeäng.
12. 帝局 Te Keung. 13. 帝廑
14. ♬ Te Kungkeð.
Te Kaou.
Keě Kwei.
19 183 1
21816 (13
Paing the commence
, and presumin
mankind eastward
Sable, that Yu w
This dynasty, commencing B. c. 2205 and terminating 1767, oc- cupied the throne 439 years, the records of which are brief and of doubtful authenticity. Of all the seventeen emperors, the first, Ta Yu, or Yu the Great, was the most celebrated, for his virtues; last, Keě Kwei, was the most notorious for his vices. Of the other monarchs of this family, little is recorded besides their names, and these read like mere chronological characters.
ike to his draining o sposition. All the
doubtful authentic!
Chronology of the Chinese.
3. THE HEA DYNASTY.
Year of Cycle.
Cotemporary Events.
1. 8 2205 7: 13 Division of the earth, 2200; Gen. xi. 18.
92197 7:21
3. 29 2188 7:30
2159 7: 59
2146 [8 : 12
21188: 40 The kingdom of Sicyon established,
2089, and the first pyramid built
7. 17 20579:41
8. 26 2040 | 8:58
9. 18 2014 10:24
1996 10:42 Abraham born 1992.
11. 59 1980 10:58
1921 11:57 Abraham goes into Egypt, 1916.
13. 21 1900 12:18
14. 31 1879 12:39
1848 13:10 Kingdom of Argos founded 1856.
16. 19 1837 13:21 Memnon, the Egyptian invents letters,
17. 52 1818 13:40
Dating the commencement of the building of Babel from about the year 2230, and presuming that the dispersion, which soon followed, drove mankind eastward to the Yellow river, it is possible, and haps probable, that Yu was the founder of the Chinese empire. The allusion to his draining off the waters of a deluge seems to support this supposition. All the records extant, regarding this dynasty, are of very doubtful authenticity.
Chronology of the Chinese.
4. 商恕 SHANG KE.
Names of the Sovereign.
Chingtang.
Wuhting.
4. 太庚 Taekang.
Seaoukeǎ.
Chungting.
Tsooyeih.
12. Fill
10. Hotankeă.
TTsooting.
With cotemporary Chinese Events.
Seven years of great drought, 大早七年 ta han tseih nein. The emperor then 幬于桑 taou yu sang lin prayed in a grove of mulberries: he prayed,
saying 無以予 - 人之 不敏傷民之命 Woose
yu yeih jin che puh min, shang min che ming, do not, on account
of the negligence of Ourself, de- stroy the lives of the people.
With regard to his own conduct. in six particulars he blamed him-
self, 言未已大雨 yen 20e
e, ta yu, his words were not end. ed, when the rain descended co- piously.
In the 25th year of the 16th cy- cle (B. c. 1713), # Yin-
E hung, E Yin died, loaded with honórs. "In ancient or modern times, no one has ever used power better than E Yin, nor any dis-
coursed of it better than Mencius."
This dynasty reigned 644 years, the throne being occupied in the meantime by twenty-eight sovereigns in succession.
The first emperor of this line is reputed to have been a very pious, deyout, discreet, and humane prince, distinguished by the worship and honor which he paid to Shang Te, the Supreme Ruler. In the chronological table before us, his name first appears B. c. 1783, seventeen years before he ascended the throne. He was a descendant of Hwang te, and saw with grief and indignation the abuses that pre- vailed at court and throughout the empire. Some of the ministers of state were beheaded, others fled, and found a safe retreat at his resi- dence. Among these, was the renowned E Yin. This minister
2. 33 1753
3. 29 1720
Chronology of the Chinese.
3. THE SHang Dynasty.
of Cycle.
Cotemporary Events.
14:32 The deluge of Ogyges in Attica, 1764.
14:45 Joseph born 1741.
15:18 The shepherds, expelled from Egypt, set-
tle in Palestine, 1714.
15:47 The seven years of famine begin in
Egypt, 1704.
5. 17 1666 16:12
6. 12 1649
16:29 Joseph dies, aged 110 years, 1631.
16:41 Moses born,' 1571, according to Blair.
The kingdom of Athens begun under 17:56 Cecrops, who came from Egypt with a
colony of Saites, 1556.
18:09 Scamander migrates from Crete, and be-
gins the kingdom of Troy, 1546.
7.75 1637
12. 16 1506
13. 25 1490
18:33 The deluge of Deucalion in Thessaly
18:52 Cadmus comes into Greece, and builds
the citadel of Thebes, 1493.
The ten plagues inflicted by Jehovah on 14. 32 1465 19:33 the Egyptians, begin 1887.
again and again remonstrated with his degenerate sovereign, but always in vain. At last he advised Chingtang to assume the reins of government; in this counsel, he was joined by many other high officers. With great reluctance, he yielded to their solicitations, and took the throne, 1766. Upon the fall of the Heä dynasty, two suns were seen fighting in the firmament, the stars lost their brightness, mountains were precipitated, and the earth quaked! So deeply did all nature sympathize with the suffering state.
The wars which broke out during this dynasty were numerous; nearly every succession was followed by a state of anarchy. The droughts, famines, and other calamities which occurred, were like- wise frequent, and were attended by dreadful omens and fearful sights. Now and then were found a few who respected virtue and
VOL. X. NO. III.
Chronology of the Chinese.
4.SHANG KE (Continued).
Names of the Sovereigns.
15. 南庚 Nankăng.
16.Yangkeň.
17. 盤庚 Pwankăng.
18. Seaousin.
19. Z Seaouyeih.
20. T Wooting.
21. 租庚 Tsookáng.
22. Tsookeǎ.
23. 廩辛 Linsin.
Kǎngting.
Wooyeih.
T Taeting.
27. Z Teyeih.
28.Chowsin.
Cotemporary Chinese Events.
The seventeenth emperor of this
dynasty, Pwankăng,-having re- moved his capital to Yin, 改國 號日殷 kae koǒ haou, yuè
yin,-changed the name of the nation, and called it Yin.
The conduct of the twenty-fifth
emperor is most notable: the his- torian thus describes it:
「武乙無道爲偶人謂 之天神與
合人 爲行天神不
神不勝乃僇 辱之
Wooyeih, devoid of reason, made
images, called them gods, and gambled with them, having order. ed a man to play for them; the
gods, being unable to win, he dis- graced them,
Tanke, the infamous fe-
male companion of Chowsin.
truth, and acted the part of good men; but the great mass of the people were vicious and miserable in the extreme.
Of the rulers none could be more wicked than Wooyeih. Having made his images of clay in the shape of human beings, dignified them with the name of gods, overcome them at gambling, and set them aside in disgrace, he then, in order to complete his folly, made leathern bags and filled them with blood and sent them up into the air, exclaiming, when his arrows hit them and the blood poured down, I have shot heaven-i..e. I have killed the gods of heaven, Afterwards, when abroad hunting, he was suddenly overtaken by a storm and killed by a thunder-bolt. This is the first instance of idolatry recorded in the Kang Keën E Che.
Chronology of the Chinese.
4. THE SHang DynasTY.
Year of Cycle.
Cotemporary Events.
1433 20:05 Servitude of the Israelites in Egypt, under
Cushan-Rishathaim, king of Mesopotamia,
20:30 eight years, 1409.
20:37 Othniel delivers them, 1401.
21:05 The Eleusinian mysteries introduced at
Athens by Eumolpus, 1356.
1352 21:26
1324 21:54 Servitude of the Israelites renewed, 1339
and 1321.
1265 22:53 The Argonautic expedition, 1263.
1258 | 22: 60 Gideon delivers Israel, and governs them
during nine years, commencing 1241. 1225 23:33 The Theban war of the seven, heroes
against Eteocles, 1225.
1219 23:39
1198 23: 60
Æneas sails to Italy, 1184.
1194 24:04
The city of Troy taken, 1184. Samuel born, 1151.
1191 24:07 Samson marries at Timnath 1133, and 20 years afterwards kills himself under the
28 32 1154 24: 44 ruins of the temple of Dagon.
sessed of
The last of this line of emperors was also remarkable for his crimes and his follies. He was proud, cruel, and debauched. Pos- great strength and good natural abilities, he abandoned him- self to every species of vice, and to the most dreadful cruelties. every thing that was base and wicked, he found a fit companion in the infamous female slave Tanke. “'
They collected a vast concourse of people devoted to pleasure and dissipation; they had made for' them a lake of wine, and surrounded it with meat suspended on trees; to this banquet naked men and women resorted, and passed long nights in drunkenness and debauchery. Profligacy to this ex- tent is more than the common sense of mankind, in the worst of times can approve. The king and court fell into contempt." Most horrible crimes and punishment followed.
Chronology of the Chinese.
5. CHOW Kɛ.
Names of the Sovereigns.
1. it Woo wang.
2. 成王 Ching wang.
3. E Kang wang.
4. E Chaou wang.
5. Mo wang.
Kung wang.
7. 懿王E wang.
8. Heaou wang.
9. 夷王E wang.
10. Le wang.
11. Seuen wang.
12. Yew wang.
Ping wang.
14. 桓王 Hwan wang
Chwang wang.
Le wang.
17. Hwuy wang.
Cotemporary Chinese Events.
With this line of emperors, posthumous titles commenced; and from their being inscribed on tablets deposited in temples,
they were called廟號
haou, or temple titles.
Woo wang is thus explained, 諡法克定禍亂曰武 she få, keih ting ho hoan, yuě woo, according to the rules for pos- thumous titles, one able to settle the calamitous disorders is called martial.
周公作指南車 Choo
kung tso che nan chay, the duke of Chow made the compass, about 1112.
馬化人 ma fa jin, a horse
transformed into a man.
川竭山崩 chuen keè, shan
păng, rivers became dry and
mountains fell.
星隕如雨 sing yun joo yu.
stars fell like rain.
(Falling rocks and stars appear
to have been very frequent in these early times.)
Amidst all the cruel and shameful abominations that marked the close of the Shang dynasty, a few able and virtuous men were con spicuous; among these, the members of the Chow family were chief. Wăn wang 'the king of letters,' or civil king as he has sometimes been called, was born about the year 1231 B. C., and in the reign of Taeting was raised to the rank of prime minister. He was a ta-
Chronology of the Chinese.
5. THE CHOW DYNASTY.
Year of Cycle.
112225:16
Cotemporary Events.
1122 25:16 The ark taken by the Philistines, 1112.
1115 25:23|| Saul made king over Israel, 1095.
26 1078 25:60 The kingdom of Athens ends in the death
of Codrus, 1070.
26:26 The migration of the Ionian colonies from Greece, and their settlement in Asia Min-,
1001 27: 17|or, 1044.
The temple of Solomon finished, 1000. 28: 12 Visit of the queen of Sheba, 988.
28:24 Solomon dies, 971.
28: 49 Homer and Hesiod flourished, according
to the Marbles, about 907.
29:04 Elijah the prophet taken up into heaven
Jabout 892.
29: 20 Lycurgus establishes his laws; the Olym-
pic games restored about 884. 30: 11 Carthage built by Dido, 869.
781 30:57 Fall of the Assyrian empire, 820.
31:08 Kingdom of Macedonia founded, 814.
31:59 Kingdom of Lydia begins, 797.
17 25 676
32:22 Isaiah begins to prophesy, 757.
Rome built, 753.
32:37 End of the kingdom of Israel, 717.
32:42 Draco establishes his laws at Athens, 623
From his
lented and upright man, and for his fidelity was thrown into prison, where he completed the Yeih King, or Book of Changes. incarceration he is said to have been liberated by the influence of his son Woo wang-the first monarch of the Chow dynasty; grieved at the imprisonment of his father, the son sent to the emperor a beautiful lady, with whom he was charmed, and by whose influence the libera- tion of the minister was effected. Wan wang is celebrated for erudi. tion, and for the good counsels which he gave to those who were in authority.
Chronology of the Chinese.
With cotemporary Chinese Events.
6. 秦紀 TIN KE.
Name of the Sovereign.
莊襄王 Chwangseing wang.
This emperor meě chow,
exterminated Chow.
Note. These two dynasties-if they are to be separated-may be considered
as one. They are separated here because they are thus arranged in the work
from which we obtain them-the History Made Easy.
7. How 'T'sin Ke.
Names of the Sovereigns.
With cotemporary Chinese events.
始皇帝 Che Hwangte. 築長城 chuh chang ching, 二世皇帝 Urhshe Hwangte Che built the great wall, and 焚 ** fun shoo, burnt the books.
Parts of the Chinese history are involved in much obscurity, and few more so than that of this period. The 'unravelment of history,' has
been made an object of particular attention with some of their best scholars, and one of their works bears such a name. But it forms no portion of our present object of enter upon the discussion of these entanglements, or to attempt their unravelment.
In the year 250 B. C., a prince named Heaoumăn wang obtained the throne, but died a few months afterwards; in the Kang Keën E Che, his name does not appear upon the list of sovereigns; it has a place however in the chronological tables, San yuen keå tsze.
Che Hwangte, the successor of Chwangseäng was a remarkble person, and his acts more memorable than those of any other sover- eign who ever occupied the throne of this empire.
With all his greatness there was much that was base and execrable in his character. His name was Ching, and his sirname or the name of his family was Leu: he was of mean parentage and an illegitimate son—at least, our historians so affirm. He had reigned twenty-five years when he gained possession of the whole empire. Hitherto he had borne the name of Tsin wang ching; he now, on becoming universal monarch'of the whole world as he supposed, took the name
Chronology of the Chinese.
6. THE TSin Dynasty.
Year of Cycle.
24939:49
Cotemporary Events.
The sea-fight at Drepanum in Sicily, and the Romans defeated by Adherbal.
Note. It may be remarked here, once for all, that the object of the writers of the History Made Easy is to give, in this concise form, only what they regard as the true imperial line; consequently, all the minor and cotemporary states are omitted; but in the body of their work they supply the details.
7. THE After Tsin Dynasty.
Year of Cycle.
Cotemporary Events.
246 39:52 Hamilcar passes with an army and his son
Hannibal to Spain, 237. The temple of
40:29 Janus at Rome closed, 235.
Plautus, Evander, Zeno, Ennius, Epi- cydes, flourished about this time..
Che hwangte, the First Emperor, and entertained the vain and am- bitious purpose of obliterating the names of all those who had pre- ceded him.
The building of the great wall, and the order for destroying all the sacred and classical books in the empire, are the principal acts that give character to his reign. The first was achieved at an amazing expense, and will remain among the wonders of the world down to the end of time. How far the other was executed it is impossible to determine. It was an iron rule that could draw forth men and means sufficient to erect, in the course of a few years, that immense pile which stretches along the whole northern frontier of the empire; a power that could do all this, would be able, we may suppose, to achieve almost anything in the range of possibilities. The emperor did cause great numbers of the literati to be put to death; and he did command all the sacred and classical books to be burnt, but it seems to us impossible that such a decree could be obeyed. Over so great an extent of territory thousands of copies had been multiplied; and on the promulgation of decrees, it were easy for the admirers of the classics to conceal them in secret places, utterly beyond the reach of the public authorities. However, many of the Chinese believe that no entire copy remained undestroyed.
VOL. X. NQ. III.
Chronology of the Chinese.
8. 漢紀 HAN KE.
Names of the Sovereigns.
Kaoutsoo.
Hwuy te.
Leu how.
5景帝 King te.
Chaou te.
Seuen te.
Yuen te.
Ching te.
11哀帝 Ngae te.
Ping te..
13 孺子嬰 Jootsze ying.
14 Hwaeyang wang
With cotemporary Chinese Events.
韓信國士無雙 Han
Sin was without an equal.
yu heuě, it rained blood.
Leu how (i. e. the empress Leu)
the first female sovereign.
Paper said to have been invent- ed by the Chinese in this reign.
地震二十二日 earth quaked for 22 successive days.
司馬談 Szema Tan received
the title of first historiographer.
司馬遷 Szema Tseën, his
son, the Herodotus of China, was born 145 B. C.
In the time of Seuen te the
Chinese empire extended to the Caspian sea.
劉向作烈女傳 Lew
Heäng wrote the Memoirs of Dis
tinguished Women.
(This dynasty down to the time
of Ping te is sometimes called the Western Han, in contradistinc-
tion to that which arose soon after.):
Lew Pang--for this was the name of the first emperor of the new dynasty-did not gain full possession of the empire till 202 B. C., which year is marked in the tables before us, as the 5th of his reign; by most writers, however, 202 is regarded as the 1st year of the Han dynasty.
It should be remarked here that the sovereigns of this line intro- duced what is known as the kwo haou or national title;' historians however have preferred to give the first place to the meaou haou, and to regard it as the proper name of each emperor; but it could be used only after the sovereign's demise; while the other, the kwo haou was used during his lifetime, and by some of the emperors was often changed, and frequently more than once. In this concise view, we venture to omit the introduction of all these kwo haou.
Chronology of the Chinese.
8. THE HAN DYNASTY.
of Cycle.
Cotemporary Events.
202 40:36 The battle of Zama, 202.
The first Macedonian war begins, 200.
The luxuries of Asia brought to Rome among the spoils of Antiochus, 189.
179 40:59 Numa's books found in a stone coffin at
Rome, 179.
15641:22 After the fall of the Macedonian empire 168, the first library was erected at Rome 140 41: 38 with books from Macedonia, 167.
Restoration of learning at Alexandria,
8642:32 137.
Sylla conquers Athens, and sends its li- 42: 55 braries to Rome, 86.
The reign of the Seleucidæ ends in Sy- 43: 10 ria about 65.
101 26 32
44:03 Ovid banished to Tomos, 9.
44: 20 Augustus dies at Nola, 14.
Alexandria taken by Cæsar, 47. The 43:26 war of Africa, and Cato kills himself, 46.
Egypt reduced into a Roman province. About this time flourished, Virgil, Stra- bo, Horace, Livy, Ovid, &c.
JESUS CHRIST born.
5 A. D. 1 43: 58
For a pretty full explanation of imperial naines and titles, the reader is referred to our last volume, page 389; those who wish for the kwō haou will find them in Dr. Morrison's View of China, Mr. Gutzlaff's Sketch of Chinese history, and in the introduction to the Kang Keën E Che.
This dynasty has been more celebrated than any other that ever occupied the throne of China. Its heroes and its literati were nu- merous, and of high and noble character. To be called a Han isze, or a son of Han, even at this day, is regarded as a high- honor.
As remarkable coincidence is noticable" in the name of the 12th emperor, who ascended the throne in the year of Immanuel's advent, and after a reign of five years received the title of Ping 'te, "prince of peace." In
Chronology of the Chinese.
9. 東漢 TUNG Han Ke.
Names of the Sovereigns.
1光武 Kwang woo.
2明帝 Ming te.
3章帝 Chang te. 4 和帝 Hote. 5殤帝 Shang te. 6 安帝 Ngan te. 7順帝 Shun te 8冲帝 Chung te. 9質帝 Cheih te. 10 桓帝 Hwăn te.
11 靈帝 Ling te.
12 獻帝 Heën te.
With cotemporary Chinese Events.
東都洛陽故日東漢
('This emperor) eastward built his capital Loyang, (the modern Ho- nan foo) and therefore the dynasty was called the Eastern Han.
Mingle, A. D. 65, sent messen- gers to India to search for and bring back the religion of Budha.
Shang te becoming emperor when a child, his mother establish ed a regency, placed herself at its head, and on the demise of her son placed her nephew on the throne. She was a pupil of the great authoress Pan Hwuypan.
In the reign of Hwăn te people came from India and other west- ern nations with tribute, and from that time foreign trade was carried on at Canton.
Note. It was near the close of this dynasty that the three states-Shub, Wei, and Woo-arose and flourished.
10. 後漢 How Han. Ke.
Names of the Sovereigns.
1昭烈帝 Chaouleě te. 2後帝
With cotemporary Chinese events.
A law passed by the state of Wei, viz. From this time queens shall not assist in the government.
The messengers of Ming te, according to the wishes of their mas- ter, proceeded to India, where they found the doctrines and disciples of Budha; and, having obtained some of their books with skamun, they brought them to China. It is said that the emperor dreamed that he saw a golden man walking in his palace, and in the morning
Chronology of the Chinese.
9. THE EASTERN Han Dynasty
Year of Cycle.
Cotemporary Events.
44:22 St. Paul converted to Christianity, 36.