Difference between revisions of "Hao Qiu Zhuan/en-wilkinson/Chapter 9"

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''[Volume II, Book II, Chapters VII-VIII]''
 
''[Volume II, Book II, Chapters VII-VIII]''
  
−
CHAP. VII.*
+
CHAP. VII.<ref>CHAP. IX. In the Translator's manuscript.</ref>
  
−
ALTHOUGH tuh'chung'U wa»
+
[p. 177] ALTHOUGH Tieh-chung-u was not a little offended at the impertinence of the old man and the Mandarine of the village, yet sometimes he could not forbear laughing at the ridiculous distress in which he was involved; and when supper was brought, made no scruple to eat and drink heartily: then ordering Stow-tan to get ready his bed, without any ceremony lay down to sleep.
−
not a little offended 4t the in>
 
−
pertinence of the old man and the Man*
 
−
darine of the village, yet sometimes he
 
−
could not forbear laughing at the ri-
 
−
diculous distress in which he was in-
 
−
volved ; and when fuppet was brought,
 
−
made no fcruple to e^t and drink hearti*
 
−
ly : then ordering Stow- fan to get rea-
 
−
dy his bed, without any ceremony lay
 
−
down to flcep.
 
  
−
The moon f at this time was neap
+
The moon<ref>It may perhaps divert the Reader to mention here, that as our Rustics have fancied the dark shades in the Moon to represent a man with a bush, lanthorn and dog, &c. So the Chinese have conceived them to resemble a rabbit or hare pounding rice in a mortar. And in their first books, which are put into the hands of children, the Moon is so pictured. Again, as we paint the Sun with a human face, the Chinese represent it by a cock within a circle, &c. Vide plura apud P. Du Halde, vol. 1. pag. 374. et al. auth.</ref> at this time was near [p. 178] the full and shone very bright: now it happened that he awoke about midnight, and opening his eyes, saw very clearly, Thao-chie sitting on his bedside; who perceiving him to stir, stretched forth her hand to embrace him. Upon which he started and said, "Forbear, woman! How can you offer at an indecency so ill becoming your sex?" This said, he turned himself about again to sleep. The girl was so confounded at this rebuke that she answered not a word; but went and laid her [p. 179] self down near the feet of the bed. Lee-thay-cong, who did not sleep a wink all night, but sat watching without, heard him reprimand the girl for her forwardness: by which he clearly perceived him to be a modest and virtuous youth; and no way inclined to any thing bad.<ref>"Clean and free from any thing bad." Translator's MS.</ref>
  
−
the
+
"I am now convinced, said he to himself, that this woman's running away was all her own contrivance. The stranger is faultless, and I have certainly wronged him." For which reason he would gladly have set him at liberty; but reflecting that he was the Mandarine's prisoner and committed to his custody, he contented himself with saying, "To-morrow, when we go be- [p. 180] fore the audience, I will endeavour to set the matter right."
  
−
* CHAP. IX. In the TranflatoHs manufcript.
+
At break of day the old man carried with him a purse of money, and went to the Mandarine to desire him to drop the affair, and not bring it before a superior tribunal. The Mandarine [willing to shew his power] answered him sternly, "Did you send me hither, or invest me with this office, that I am to be directed by you in the execution of it? The order<ref>The Chin. MS.</ref> was written out last night, and you must all go this morning before the Tao-yee. Come; come; let us set out." The old man seeing there was no remedy, brought the persons in his custody [p. 181] and attended the Mandarine; who set out with them followed by a great crowd of people.
−
t It may perhaps divert the Reader to meq-
 
−
t'pn here, that as our Ruftics have fancied the dark
 
−
Vol. IL N ^-^^^v
 
−
the full and fhone very bright : now it
 
−
happened that he awoke about mid-
 
−
night, and opening his eyes, faw very
 
−
clearly, Tbao-cbie fitting on his bedside \
 
−
who perceiving him to ftir, ftretched
 
−
forth her hand to embrace him. Upon
 
−
which he ftarted and said, *' Forbear,
 
−
woman ! How can you offer at an in-
 
−
decency fo ill becoming your fex?'*
 
−
This fatd, he turned himself about
 
−
again to flecp. The girl was fo con
 
−
founded at this rebuke that Ihe anfwer-
 
−
ed not a word ; but went and laid her
 
  
−
(hades in the Moon to repre/ent a man luith a
+
Now it happened to be the birth-day of the Tao-yee, and a great number of Mandarines were come to visit him in compliment to the occasion: but as the trumpets had only sounded the first time,<ref>Near the great gate of a Mandarine's palace are two small towers, wherein are drums and other instruments of music; on which they play at different hours of the day, especially when the Mandarine goes in or out, or ascends the tribunal. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 284.
−
bujhj lanthorn and dog, isfc. So the Chinefe have
 
−
conceived them to refemble a rabbit or hare
 
−
pounding rice in a mortar. And in their firft books,
 
−
which are put into the hands of children, the
 
−
Moon is fo pidlured. Again, as we paint the
 
−
Sun with a human face, the Chinefe rcprefcnt it by
 
−
m cock fwiihin a circle, iffc.
 
−
Vide plura apud P. Du Halde, vol. i. pag.
 
−
374. etal. auth,
 
  
−
self
+
When they sound the first time, the Mandarines, &c. who wait without to receive orders, are to be in readiness: when the second time, they go in to do business: when the third time, the gates are shut again. Transl.
  
−
A CHINESE HISTokY. 179
+
N. B. It is a usual compliment to a Governor, &c. on his birth-day for all the other Mandarines of the place to visit him. At the same time the [p. 182] principal inhabitants of his district frequently go in a body and salute him at his palace. When the latter are admitted into his presence, one of them taking wine lifts it up on high, and with both hands offers it to the Mandarine, and says aloud by way of wish; "This is the wine that brings good luck." "This is the wine that brings long life." Then another presents sweetmeats, saying, "This the sugar of long life," &c. This ceremony is afterwards repeated by the rest. See P. Du Halde, vol. 1. 294.</ref> and the gates were not yet thrown open, they were all waiting without. When therefore they saw the concourse of people coming, they sent to know what was the matter: and were told that a young man had run away with another person's concubine. The people that were present asked him, how he, who seemed to be a gentleman, could be capable of such an action. Tieh-chung-u made them no answer. Then they asked the girl if that was the person, who had inticed her away. She replied, [p. 183] "Yes; it was he who persuaded me to do it." This answer she gave to every one that asked her; which did not a little please the Mandarine of the village. It happened that at the same time arrived the Pao Che-bien,<ref>He is here mentioned with his surname prefixed to that of his office. Transl.</ref> from whom Tieh-chung-u had so lately parted. He likewise was come to visit the Tao-yee, and to compliment him on the occasion of the day. As he came out of his chair, he looked round and saw the crowd that was gathered about the youth. Upon which he sent to the Mandarine of the village<ref>In the original, "Zhe-quan, or little Mandarine of the village."
  
−
self down near the feet of the bed. X^<-
+
Mandarine, or rather Mandarin, is a Portu- [p. 184] guese word signifying commander; from Mandar (q. a mandare Lat.) to rule, command, &c. Under this general appellation the Portuguese (who first entered China) have comprehended all the degrees of Chinese magistrates and officers, military and civil. In the language of the country they have the title of Quan or Quan-fu, Ruler, President, from their authority; and that of Lao- (or Lau-) yee, i. e. Lord or Master, on account of their quality. This last is properly the title of Literati of the first rank, whether in any employment, or not, but is sometimes given in compliment to others: even Shuey-guwin is in the original of Page 124, mentioned by a servant under the name of Shuey-u-lao-yee. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. 2, &c. Lettres edif. vol. iii. 132.</ref> to inquire what was the matter, and [p. 185] why they crowded so about that young gentleman? He came up and told him, that he had been taken along with a young woman, whom he had seduced; and that having been brought before him, he was willing to carry him to a higher tribunal. When the Che-hien heard this, he was very angry and said, "It is false. I do not believe it. Some villainous trick is played him. Do you know that his name is Tieh-chung-u, son of the Tu-cha-yuen or Superior of the viceroys.<ref>Although the Translator's interpretation of this Title hath every where been retained, it seems to be inaccurate. Tu-cha-yuen is the name of a tribunal; the Mandarines that compose it, being controllers of the court and all the empire. Tieh-ying was probably either president or first assessor of this tribunal. The former of these is equal in dignity to the president of the six superior tribunals, and is a Mandarine of the second order: and the first assessor is of the third, &c. Their employment is to take care, both at court and over all the empire, that the laws and good customs are observed; that the Mandarines perform their functions justly and truly; and that all the people do their duty. They punish slight faults in their own tribunals, but great offences they report to the Emperor. It is from this court that every three or four years visitors are dispatched over all the empire. P. Magal. p. 222. Lettres edif. xxv. 253, 255.</ref> He was at my city, and was pressed to marry a young lady of the first rank there, which for par- [p. 186] ticular reasons he declined: And is it likely that he would come to a paultry village and take up with such a dirty thing as this? No: there is some villainy at the bottom." "I know nothing of that, said the other: but he was brought before me by the old man, who was injured: and the woman herself accuses him of being the cause of her elopement. However I have not pretended to determine any thing about it: and for that reason have brought them hither."
−
thay-congj who did not sleep a wink
 
−
all night, but fat watching without,
 
−
heard him reprimand the girl for her for-
 
−
wardnefs : by which he clearly perceived
 
−
him to be a modcft and virtuous youth \
 
−
and no way inclined to any thing bad *.
 
−
" I am now convinced, said he to
 
−
himself, that thfs woman's running
 
−
away was all her own contrivance. The
 
−
stranger is faultlefs, and I have certain-
 
−
ly wronged him.*' For which reason
 
−
he would gladly have fct him at liber-
 
−
ty •, but rcflefting that he was the
 
−
Mandarine's prisoner and committed to
 
−
his cuftody, he contented himself with
 
−
faying, *^ To-morrow, whien we go be-
 
  
−
♦ "Clean and free from any thing bad."
+
The Pao Che-hien then ordered his people to look out for a convenient place, where he might sit down and examine into the matter.<ref>A Mandarine may in some cases act out of his own district, and can inflict the Bastinado [p. 187] any where; in the street, upon the road, or wherever he finds occasion. See P. Du Halde, v. 1. p. 311. Lettres edifiant. Rec. 22. p. 244. P. Le Compte, tom. 2. p. 28. P. Semedo, p. 240.</ref> When he was seated he said to the youth, "You have but just now left my city: how is it that you have caused this crime to be laid to your charge?" Upon which he told him all that had happened. "Well, said the other; and did not you inquire the name of the young man, whom you met with this woman?" "He replied, I did. He is cousin to the old man, and his name is Suan-yin." When the Che-hien heard this, he called for Lee-thay-cong and the girl; and reprimanded the for- [p. 188] mer, saying, "Are not you ashamed, thus advanced in years, to take so young a creature to be your concubine? You were unable to manage and govern her, so she struck up an intimacy with your cousin and would have run away with him. And now when people have endeavoured to restore her to you, you abuse them for it. Is it thus you repay the services which are done you? Your age protects you or I would have you bastinadoed.<ref>The Bastinado may be called the daily bread of the Chinese, being inflicted on all ranks and on all occasions: it is bestowed on the bare breech with an instrument many feet long, called Pan-tse, being a thick piece of split Bambu (a hard massy and heavy sort of cane) which is rendered flat on one side and broad as one's hand. If the number of blows does not exceed twenty, it is esteemed a fatherly correction, and not at all [p. 189] disgraceful: for the Emperor himself causes it to be inflicted on persons of distinction, and behaves to them afterwards as usual. A very small matter will incur this fatherly chastisement, as the giving abusive language, a few blows with the fist, &c. After the correction is over they are to kneel at the feet of their judge, bow their bodies three times to the earth, and thank him for his care of them.
−
Tranflator's MS.
 
  
−
N % ^^^'^
+
When a Mandarine sits in judgment he hath before him on a table, a Case full of small Sticks or Tallies, and is attended by officers called Upz, holding these cudgels in their hands rested on the ground: who when the Mandarine throws down these tallies, seize the offender, lay him on his face on the ground, pull his drawers over his heels, and give him alternately five blows a-piece for every tally on his bare skin. In slight cases the offender may by a dexterous bribe procure them to lay their blows on lightly: or even hire others to receive them in his stead.
  
−
i8o HAU KIOU CHOAAN.
+
When they are laid on very severely before [p. 190] the great tribunals, seventy, or eighty blows will dispatch a person, and many die under them. (P. Semedo.) At other times 200 have been received without loss of life. (Lettres edifiant xix. 69.)
  
−
fore the audience,! will endeavour to.
+
A Mandarine never stirs abroad without being attended by these Lictors, and if a person does not dismount when he passes by, or happens to cross his road, &c. he is sure to receive five or six blows, which are over in a moment.
  
−
kt the matter right/*
+
Parents give this correction to their children, Pedagogues to their scholars, and Masters to their servants: for they never use whips.
  
−
At break of day the old man carried-
+
All kinds of punishment, &c. begin with this as their first course, and it is so common, that all bestow it, all receive it, and all have felt it. So that as Japan is said to be governed by the Catana or scimitar, China may be said to be ruled by the Pan-tse or Battoon.
−
with him a purfe of money, and went
 
−
to the Mandarine to defire him to
 
−
drop the affair, and not bring it be-
 
−
fore a fuperior tribunal. The Man-
 
−
darine [willing to fliew his power] aa-
 
−
fwered him fternly, " Did you fend mc
 
−
hither, or inveft me with this office,
 
−
that I am to be direded by you in
 
−
the execution of it ? The order * was
 
−
written out laft night, and you muft
 
−
all go this morning before the Tao-yee.
 
−
Come J come; let us set out.** The
 
−
old man seeing there was no remedy,
 
−
brought the persons in his cuftody
 
  
−
• The Chj>. MS.
+
P. Semedo, p. 141, &c. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 311. P. Le Compte, tom. 2. p. 60. Lettres edifiant. Rec. 19. p. 437.</ref> Tieh-chung-u interceded for him and the young woman, and desired they might be released: which was immediately granted. After which the little Mandarine of the village came up and made his reverence, asking pardon for what he had done.
  
−
and
+
Then the Che-hien said to the young gentleman, "Yesterday I was desirous you should stay with me longer, but could not succeed. To-day I have the good fortune to meet with you again, and as you are detained by this [p. 191] accident, I hope now you will spend a day or two with me." The other told him he was so complaisant he knew not how to refuse him. The Mandarine charmed with his compliance, said, "With your leave then, I will go and present my compliments to the Tao-yee, and instantly come back to you."
  
−
A CHINESE HISTORY. i8i
+
When he had given his present to that magistrate and wished him joy on his birth-day, he returned home with Tieh-chung-u and made a splendid entertainment for him. When they were at table<ref>Anciently the Chinese used neither Tables nor Chairs, but sate and eat squat on the floor, like all the other Eastern Nations: but ever since the dynasty of Han (which ended about 180 [p. 192] years before CHRIST) they have used both Chairs and Tables: of which they have many very beautiful and of several fashions. At their great Entertainments, every guest hath set before him a little neat square Table beautifully japanned, on which are served the several dishes designed for him, either in bowls of the same japanned stuff, or of china. In some cases, when the great number of guests constrains them, they set two to each table. These Tables are set off in the fore-part with silk ornaments of needle-work or pieces of linen, hanging down from the edge: but have neither table cloths nor napkins. For the Chinese never touch their meat with their hands, neither use knives, forks, nor spoons; but only two small Sticks of ivory or ebony tipped with silver: all their meat being minced small. These Sticks are called by the Chinese Quay-tse, and by some of our Voyagers Chopsticks, which they manage so dexterously that they can take up a grain of rice with them. How they contrive to eat soup with them will be shewn in a future note. P. Semedo, p. 66, &c. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 299, 301, &c. Mod. Univ. Hist. viii. 277.</ref> he every now and then made the fair Shuey-ping-sin the subject of his discourse: which was ever in her praise. "Sir, said the youth, all you say of [p. 193] her is but just. I now look upon you as my friend, and shall tell you one thing very truly. When I saw her the first time at your audience, her beauty made the deepest impression on my heart. But afterwards when my ill fortune involved me in trouble, and she was pleased to take me into her house, where she treated me with all the tenderness of a sister: then was I forced to relinquish my hopes. For my having been her guest so long hath caused a suspicion, which, although at present it seems forgotten, would not fail to revive, should such a marriage take place; and we should both be involved in disgrace and unhappiness. Do not urge me therefore any more on this subject, lest you [p. 194] cause me to take an oath to you, that I never will think of it. After what hath passed, to prosecute this marriage would be against all good order." The Che-hien urged him no farther on the subject. When therefore they both had drank till midnight, they retired to rest.
  
−
and attended the Mandarine ; who let
+
In the morning when Tieh-chung-u was about to prosecute his journey, the Pao Che-hien ordered his servants to bring him twelve shoes, or pieces of silver;<ref>Our merchants give the name of Shoes to those wedges or oblong pieces, into which the Chinese commonly cast their gold. [See notes, vol. 4. pag. 109. & pag. 153.] but it is not usual with them to give this name to their wedges of silver: however there is no doubt but these are meant by the expression in the Text.
−
t)ut with them followed by a great
 
−
crowd of people.
 
  
−
Now it happened to be the birth- day
+
N. B. These "shoes of silver" are perhaps the same with what Kaempfer calls "Shuers of silver:" one of which, he says, weighs about five ounces, and is worth about a pound of sterling. See Hist. of Japan page 318.</ref> which he presented to the young [p. 195] gentleman in order to defray his expences on the road. When he would have returned him thanks, he prevented him, saying, "This is not worth mentioning: I only desire you to hear me a word or two. You must not go travelling about the world in this manner. You had better return to your house, and pass your time with books in study. And when the day of examination arrives, you may come to be made a great doctor, and have your name famous throughout the world. But if you proceed in your present method, you will never acquire reputation and glory." "Sir, said the youth, I thank you for your good counsel; and shall not forget it." Then bidding adieu to each other, they parted.
−
t)f the TCao-yee^ and a great number of
 
−
Mandarines were come to vifit him in
 
−
compliment to the occasion : but as
 
−
the trumpets had only founded the firft
 
−
time *, and the gates were not yet thrown
 
  
−
open,
+
[p. 196] When Tieh-chung-u was got upon the road, he could not help reflecting on the change so visible in the Che-hien's behaviour: and especially on the earnestness with which he had urged him to prosecute the marriage. "Is it, said he to himself, from any private views of his own, or from a sincere inclination to serve me? Whatever were his intentions, I have said nothing that can bear an ill construction." Then he reflected on the lovely features and fine person of Shuey-ping-sin; as well as on her great ingenuity and sense. "What a capacity must she [p. 197] possess, would he say; to extricate herself out of so much danger? Again, what goodness must she have, when I had left her house so abruptly upon the discourse of her uncle without taking leaving of her, that she did not resent it: but on the contrary sent me a present for my journey? Another woman would have been highly affronted at my going away in so unhandsome a manner. Whoever can obtain her will be very happy. I am the most unlucky of all mankind. Had I been fortunate, I should have come to the [p. 198] city where she lives like myself, without any disturbance; Then I might have heard of her in such a manner, as with a good grace to have proposed a treaty of marriage, and might perhaps have succeeded. But as my acquaintance commenced with her through trouble and misfortune, there is no touching upon such a subject. I am very unhappy. Her age is exceeding suitable, and so is her condition and temper to mine." As he was going on in this pensive manner, his servant intreated him to mind his way, which they should be in danger of losing, and begged of him not to be so much cast down. "Siow-tan, said he, I was thinking of Shuey-ping-sin, what a lovely and what a sensible lady she is: and how great is my misfortune not to have known her but through troubles and disturbance.<ref>The Chinese expression is, "Through troublesome times."</ref> Were I to search the world through, I should never meet with one of so many perfections, and such transcendent goodness." "I believe, Sir, said he, her equal is not be found under heaven.<ref>In the original it is, "Under the copes of Heaven."</ref>" [p. 199] "Now, said his master, I will go home and stay a year, and when the examination is held, will offer myself a candidate. If I come off with credit and success, I shall have fulfilled my duty to my father and mother. Whether I am promoted to an office or not, I shall be unconcerned, provided I can but acquire a name. Then will Shuey-ping-sin hear of it, and be convinced how steadily I adhere to my word, and how punctually I follow the advice she gave me."
  
−
• Near the great gate of a Mandarine's pa-
+
Having confirmed himself in these resolutions, he put forward on the [p. 200] road towards the city of Tah-ming, the place of his birth.
−
lace arc two small towers, wherein are drums
 
−
and other indruments of muiic ; on which they
 
−
play at. different hours of the day, efpecially
 
−
when the Mandarine goes in or out, or afcends
 
−
the tribunal. P. Du Halde, vol. i. p. 284.
 
−
 
 
−
When they found the firft time, the Manda-
 
−
rines, &c. who wait without to receive orders,
 
−
are to be in readinefs : when the second time,
 
−
they go in to do bufinefs : when the third time,
 
−
the gates are fhut again. Trawf.
 
−
 
 
−
N. B. It is a ufual compliment to a Governor,
 
−
&c. on his birth-day for all the odicr Mandarines
 
−
of the place to vifit him. At the fame time the
 
−
N 3 \^'v^-
 
−
open, they were all waiting without.
 
−
When therefore they faw the concourfe
 
−
of people coming, they sent to know what
 
−
was the matter : and were told that a
 
−
young man had run away with another
 
−
person's concubine. The people that
 
−
were present alked him, how he, who
 
−
seemed to be a gentleman, could be
 
−
capable of such an aflion. Tieh-cbung-u
 
−
made them no anfwer. Then they
 
−
aflced the girl if that was the person,
 
−
who had inticed her away. She replied,
 
−
 
 
−
principal inhabiunts of his diftrift frequently go
 
−
m a body and falute him at his palace. When
 
−
the latter are admitted into his prefcncc, one of
 
−
them taking v/ine lifts it up on high, and with
 
−
both hands oHers it to the Mandarine, and fays
 
−
aloud by way of wi(h ; " This is the ivine that
 
−
* ' brings gr.cd luck*^ * * This is the njuine that Brings
 
−
'* long life»^ Then another presents sweetmeats,
 
−
faying, ** Thi< the fngmr of long life,'* Sec. This
 
−
ceremony i<; afterwards repeated by the rcfl.
 
−
See P. Pu if aide, vol. i. 294.
 
−
 
 
−
had
 
−
** Yes ^ it was he who pcrfuaded me
 
−
to do it.*' This anfwcr fhe gave to
 
−
every one that alked her; which did
 
−
not a little pleafe the Mandarine of
 
−
the village. It happened that at the
 
−
fame time arrived the Pao Che-bien*
 
−
from whom J^ieihcbung-u had fo lately
 
−
parted. He likewise was come to
 
−
vifit the ^ao-yie^ and to compliment
 
−
him on the occasion of the day. As
 
−
he came out of his chair, he looked
 
−
round and faw the crowd that was ga-
 
−
thered about the youth. Upon which h«
 
−
sent to the Mandarine of the village -j-
 
−
to inquire what was the matter, and
 
−
 
 
−
why
 
−
 
 
−
* He is here mentioned with his furnamc
 
−
prefixed to that of his office. Tranf.
 
−
 
 
−
f In the original, ** Zhe-quan, or little Man-
 
−
darine of the village.'*
 
−
 
 
−
Mandarine^ or rather Mandarimy is a Portu-
 
−
N 4. ^'iJ^.
 
−
why they crowded fo about that young
 
−
gentleman? He came up and told
 
−
him, that he had been taken along with a
 
−
young woman, whom he had feduced ;
 
−
and that having been brought before
 
−
him, he was willing to carry him to a
 
−
higher tribunal. When the Cbe-bien,
 
−
heard this, he was very angry and said.
 
−
 
 
−
guefe word signifying commander ; from Mandar
 
−
(q, a mandare Lat.J to rule, command. Sec, Un-
 
−
der this general appellation the Portuguefe (who
 
−
firft entered China) have comprehended all the
 
−
degrees of Chinefe magiflrates and officers, mi-
 
−
litary and civil. In the language of the country
 
−
they have the title of^an or ^an-/u, Ruler, Pre-
 
−
sident, from their authority ; and that of Lao^
 
−
(or Lau')yee, i.e. Lord or Master, on account of
 
−
their quality. This laft is properly the title of
 
−
Literati of the firft rank, whether in any employ-
 
−
ment, or not, but is sometimes given in compli-
 
−
ment to others : even Shuey-gunvin is in the ori-
 
−
j;inal of Page 124. mentioned by a servant un-
 
−
dcx the nami^ oi Shuey-u-lao-yee.
 
−
 
 
−
P. Du I-hlde, vol. 1. 2, &c. Lettres edif.
 
−
vol. iii. 132.
 
−
 
 
−
"It*
 
−
** It is falfe. 1 do not believe it. Some
 
−
villainous trick is played him. Do
 
−
you know that his name is Tieh-cbung-Uj
 
−
son of the Tu-cba-yuen or Superior of
 
−
the viceroys*. He was at my city,
 
−
and was preffed to marry a young lady
 
−
of the firft rank there, which for par-
 
−
 
 
−
* Although the Tranflator's interpretation of
 
−
this Title hath every where been retained, it
 
−
seems to be inaccurate. Tu-cha-yuen is the name
 
−
of a tribunal ; the Mandarines that compofe it,
 
−
being controllers of the court and all the empire.
 
−
Tieh-ying was probably either president or firft
 
−
afleflbr of this tribunal. The former of thefe is
 
−
equal in dignity to the president of the fix fupe-
 
−
rior tribunals, and is a Mandarine of the second
 
−
order : and the firft affefTor is of the third, &c.
 
−
Their employment is to take care, both at court
 
−
^nd over all the empire, that the laws and good
 
−
cuftoms are observed ; that the Mandarines per-
 
−
form their functions juftly and truly; and that
 
−
all the people do their duty. They punifh flight
 
−
faults in their own tribunals, but great offences
 
−
tliey report to the Emprror. It is from this court
 
−
that every three or four years vifitors are di(^
 
−
patched over all the empire.
 
−
P. Magal. p. 222. Lettresedif. xxv. 253, 255.
 
−
 
 
−
tlculac
 
−
ticular reasons he declined : And is it
 
−
likely that he would come to a paultry
 
−
village and take up with such a dirty
 
−
thing as this ? No : there is some vil-
 
−
lainy at the bottom." '* I know nor-
 
−
thing of that, said the other : but he
 
−
was brought before me by the old man^
 
−
who was injured : and the woman her-
 
−
self accufes him of being the cause of her
 
−
elopement. However I have not pre-
 
−
tended to determine any thing about
 
−
it : and for that reason have brought
 
−
them hither.'*
 
−
 
 
−
The Too Cbe-bien then ordered his
 
−
people to look out for a convenient
 
−
place, where he might fit down and
 
−
examine into the matter*. When he
 
−
 
 
−
was
 
−
 
 
−
• A Mandarine may in some cafes a6l out of
 
−
hii own diftri&9 and can in^OL \iw& B^iUnaLdo
 
−
was feated he said tQ the youth, "You
 
−
have but juft now left my city : how
 
−
is it that you have caused this crime to
 
−
be laid to your charge ?" Upon which
 
−
he told him all that ha4 happeried.
 
−
"Well, said the others and did not
 
−
you inquire the name of the young
 
−
man, whom ypu met with this wo-
 
−
man?'* "He replied, I did. He is
 
−
coufm to the old m^n, aud his name
 
−
is Suan^yin.** When the Che-him heard
 
−
this, he called for Lee-tbay-cong -and
 
−
the girl •, and reprimanded the for-
 
−
mer, faying, " Are not you afliamed,
 
−
thus advanced in years, to take fo
 
−
young a creature to be your con-
 
−
any where; in the ftreet, upon the road, or
 
−
wherever he finds occaiion.
 
−
 
 
−
See P. Du Halde, v. i. p. 31 1. Lettres edi-
 
−
iiant. Rec. 22. p. 244. P. Le Compte,
 
−
torn. 2. p. 28. P. Semedo> p. 240.
 
−
 
 
−
cubine ?
 
−
"Cubine ? You were unable to manage
 
−
and govern her, fo (he (Iruck up an
 
−
intimacy with your cousin and would
 
−
have run away with him. And now
 
−
when people have endeavoured to
 
−
reftore her to you, you abufe them
 
−
for it. Is it thus you repay the
 
−
ferviccs which are done you ? Your
 
−
age protcfts you or I would have
 
−
you baftinadoed *. Tieh-cbung-u in-
 
−
terceded for him and the young wo-
 
−
man, and defired they might be re-
 
−
leafed :
 
−
 
 
−
• The Baftinado may be called the daily bread
 
−
of the Chinefey being inflifted on all ranks and on
 
−
all occasions : it is bellowed on the bare breech
 
−
with an inflrumcnt many feet long, called Pan^
 
−
ifey l>eing a thick piece of fplit Bamhu (a hard
 
−
mafTy and heavy fort of cane) which is rendered
 
−
flat on one side and broad as one's hand. If
 
−
ihe number of blows does not exceed twenty, it
 
−
ii crcccmcd a fadicrly corredion, and not at all
 
−
 
 
−
difgrace-
 
−
 
 
−
^ CHINESE HISTORY. 189.
 
−
 
 
−
leafed : which was immediately grant-
 
−
ed. After which the little Mandarine
 
−
of the village came up and made his
 
−
reverence, aflcing pardon for what he
 
−
had done.
 
−
 
 
−
Then
 
−
 
 
−
diferaceful : for the Emperor himself causes it to
 
−
be mflidled on persons of diftindion, and behaves
 
−
to them afterwards as ufual. A very small
 
−
matter will incur this fatherly chaftifement, as
 
−
the giving abufive language, a few blows with
 
−
the 1^^, Sec, After the corrcdiion is over they
 
−
are to kneel at the feet of their judge, bow their,
 
−
bodies three times to the earth, and thank him
 
−
for his care of them.
 
−
 
 
−
When a Mandarine fits in judgment he hath
 
−
before him on a table, a Cafe Ml of small Sticks
 
−
or Tallies, and is attended by ofHcers called Uft\
 
−
holding thefe cudgels in their hands relied on
 
−
the ground : who when the Mandarine throws
 
−
down thefe tallies, feize the offender, lay him on
 
−
his face on the ground, pull his drawers over his,
 
−
heels, and give him alternately five blows a-piece
 
−
for every tally on his bare (kin. In flight cafes
 
−
the offender may by a dexterous bribe procure
 
−
them to lay their blows on lightly : or even hire
 
−
others to receive them in his flead.
 
−
 
 
−
When they are laid on very fcverely before
 
−
 
 
−
I90 HAU KIOU CHOAAN.
 
−
 
 
−
Then the Cbe-hien said to the young
 
−
gentleman, ** Yefterday I was defirous
 
−
you Ihould day with me longer, but
 
−
could not fucceed. To-day I have
 
−
the good fortune to meet with you
 
−
again, and as you are detained by this
 
−
 
 
−
the great tribunals, ievcnty, or eighty blows will
 
−
difpatch a perfbn, and many die under them. (P.
 
−
SemedoJ At other times 200 have beeh received
 
−
without loss of life. (Lettres edifiant xix, 6g.J
 
−
 
 
−
A Mandarine never flirs abroad without being
 
−
attended by thefe Liclors, and if aperson does not
 
−
difmonnt when he pafles by, or happens to crois
 
−
his road, &c. he is sure to receive &wq or fix blows,
 
−
which are over in a moment.
 
−
 
 
−
Parents give this corrcilion to their child ren.
 
−
Pedagogues to their fcholars, and Mailers to their
 
−
servants : for they never ufe whips.
 
−
 
 
−
All kinds of punifhment, &c. begin with this
 
−
as their firft coorfe, and it is fo common, that all
 
−
bellow it, all receive it, and all have felt it. So
 
−
that as Japan is said to be governed by the Ca^
 
−
tana or fcimitar, China may be laid to be ruled
 
−
by the Pan-t/e or Battoon.
 
−
 
 
−
P. Semedo, p. 141, &c. P. Du Halde, vol. i.
 
−
p. 3 1 1 . P. LrC Compte, torn. 2. p. 60. Let-
 
−
tres ediiiant. Rec. 19. p. 437.
 
−
 
 
−
accident^
 
−
accident, I hope now you will fpend a
 
−
day or two with me." The other told
 
−
him he was fo complaifant he knew
 
−
not how to refuse him. The Man-
 
−
darine charmed with his compliance,
 
−
said, *^ With your leave then, I will
 
−
go and present my compliments to the
 
−
Tao-yiiy and inftantly come back to you.'*
 
−
 
 
−
When he had given his present to
 
−
that magiftrate and wifhed him joy on
 
−
his birth-day, he returned home with
 
−
^kh'Chur^'U and made a fplendid enter-
 
−
tainment for him. When they were
 
−
at table * he every now and then made
 
−
 
 
−
the'
 
−
 
 
−
♦ Anciently the Chme/e ufed neither Tables nor
 
−
Chairs, but (ate and eat fquat on the floor, like
 
−
all the other Eaftem Nations : but ever since
 
−
tlic dynafty of Han (which ended about 180
 
−
the fair Shuey -ping- fin the fubjeft of his
 
−
difcourfe : which was ever in her praise.
 
−
*' Sir, said the youth, all you fay of
 
−
 
 
−
years before Christ) they have ufed both Chairs
 
−
and Tables : of which they they have many
 
−
very beautiful and of several falliions. At their •
 
−
great Entertainments, every gueft hath set before
 
−
him a little neat fquare Table beautifully ja»
 
−
pannedy on which arc ferved the several diihes
 
−
deAgned for him, either in bowls of the fame
 
−
japanned fluff, or of china. In some cafes, when
 
−
the great number of guefls conftrains them, they
 
−
set two to each table. Thefe Tables are set off
 
−
in the fore-part with filk ornaments of needle-
 
−
work or pieces of linen, hanging down from,
 
−
the edge : but have neither table cloths nor nap-
 
−
kins. For the Chtnefe never touch their meat
 
−
with their hands, neither ufe knives, forks, nor
 
−
fpoons ; but only two small Sticks of ivory or
 
−
ebony tipped with filver : all their meat being
 
−
minced (mail. Thefe Sticks are called by the
 
−
Chtnefe ^uay-tfey and by some of our Voyagcri
 
−
Choffticks, which they manage fo dexteroufly
 
−
that they can take up a grain of rice with them.
 
−
How they contrive to cat foup with them will
 
−
be shewn in a future note.
 
−
P. Semedo, p. 66, &c. P. Du Halde, vol. i.
 
−
p. 299, 301, ^c. Mod. Univ. Hill. viii. 277.*
 
−
 
 
−
her
 
−
 
 
−
A CHINESE HISTORY, igj
 
−
 
 
−
her is but juft« I now. look upon
 
−
you as my friend, and shall tell you
 
−
one thing very truly. When I faw her
 
−
the firft time at your audience, her
 
−
beauty made the deepeft impreflSon
 
−
on my heart. But afterwards when
 
−
my ill fortune involved me in trou*
 
−
ble, and (he was pleafed to take me
 
−
into her house, where fhe treated me
 
−
with all the tendcrnefsof a sister: then
 
−
was I forced to relinquifh my hopes.
 
−
For my having been her gueft fo long
 
−
hath caused a suspicion, which, al-
 
−
though at present it seems forgotten,
 
−
would not fail to revive, should such
 
−
a marriage take place y and we should
 
−
both be involved in difgrace and un-
 
−
happinefs. Do not urge me therefore,
 
−
any more on this fubjcft, left you
 
−
«94 HAU KIOU CHOAAN.^
 
−
 
 
−
cauie me to take an oath to you, thM
 
−
I never will think of it. After what
 
−
hath pailed, to profecute this marriage
 
−
would be againft all good order/' The
 
−
de-hren urged him no farther on the
 
−
fubjeftr When therefore they both
 
−
had drank till mklnight^ they retired
 
−
to reft.
 
−
 
 
−
' jfn the mormng when ''Tieh''-cbung-u
 
−
was about to profecute his journey,
 
−
the Pao Cbe-bien ordered his servants
 
−
to bring him twelve Jhoes^ or pieces of
 
−
filver i which he presented to the young
 
−
gendeman in order to defray his expen-
 
−
ccs on the road. When he would
 
−
have returned him thanks, he prevent-
 
−
ed him, faying, " This is not worth
 
−
mentioning : I only defire you to hear
 
−
 
 
−
me
 
−
me a word or two. You muft not-
 
−
go travelling about the' world in this
 
−
manner. You had better return to
 
−
your house, and pafs your time with
 
−
books in study. And when the day
 
−
of examination arrives, you may come
 
−
to be made a great doftor, and have
 
−
your name famous throughout the
 
−
world. But if you proceed in your
 
−
present method, ypu will never acquire
 
−
reputation and glory.** " Sir, said
 
−
the youth, I thank you for your good
 
−
counfel ; and shall not forget it.*^
 
−
Then bidding adieu to each other, they
 
−
parted.
 
−
 
 
−
When Tieh'chung'U was got upon
 
−
 
 
−
the road, he could not help refledling
 
−
 
 
−
on the change fo vifible in the Che-hieif's
 
−
 
 
−
O 2 beha-
 
−
behaviour: and elpccially on the ear^
 
−
neftnefs with which he had urged hin>
 
−
to profecute the marriage. " Is it,
 
−
said he to himielf, from any private
 
−
views of his own, or from a sincere
 
−
inclination to ferve me? Whatever
 
−
were his intentions, I havQ fald nothing.,
 
−
that can bear an. ill conftru£tioil.**
 
−
Then he reflefted on the lovely features
 
−
and fine person of Sbtay-png-Jini as
 
−
well as on her great ingenuity and
 
−
sense. " What a capacity muft flie^
 
−
poflefs> would he fay ; to extricate hcr-
 
−
fclf out of fomuch danger? Again,
 
−
what goodnefs muft Ihc have, whca
 
−
I had left her house fo abruptly upon
 
−
the difcourie of her uncle without ta-
 
−
king leaving of her, that (he did not
 
−
leient it : but on the contrary lent m^
 
−
 
 
−
a pre-
 
−
a present for my journey? Another
 
−
woman would have been highly aflfront-
 
−
ed at my going away in fo unhand-
 
−
some a manner. Whoever can obtain
 
−
her will be very happy. I am the mofl
 
−
unlucky of all mankind. Had I been
 
−
fortunate, 1 fliould have come to the
 
−
city where (he lives like myself, with-
 
−
out any difturbance; Then I might
 
−
have heard of her in such a manner,
 
−
as with a good grace to have pro-
 
−
pofed a treaty of marriage, and miglit
 
−
perhaps have fucceeded. 3ut as my
 
−
acquaintance commenced with her
 
−
through trouble and misfortune, there
 
−
is no touching upon such a fobjeft.
 
−
I am very unhappy. Her a^e is eX"
 
−
ceeding fuitable, and fo is her eond^
 
−
tion and temper to mine.'* A? he
 
−
Q 3 ^^
 
−
was going on in this penfive manner,
 
−
his iervant intreated him to mind his
 
−
way, which they fhouid be in danger
 
−
of lofing, and begged of him not to
 
−
be fo much call down. " Siow-tan^
 
−
said he, I was thinking of Sbutf-fing-Jin^
 
−
what a lovely and what a fenfible
 
−
lady (he is : and how great is my mif-
 
−
fortune not to have known her but
 
−
through troubles and difturbance *.
 
−
Were I to search the world through,
 
−
I (hould never m.et with one of fo
 
−
many perfe6tions, and such tranfcendent
 
−
goodnefs." ** I believe, Sir, said he,
 
−
her equal is not be found under hea-
 
−
ven -f-." "Now, said his rpafter, I will
 
−
 
 
−
• The Cbine/e cxprcflion is, " Through troa*
 
−
*• fomc times."
 
−
 
 
−
t In the original it is, ** Under the copes of
 
−
•• Heaven."
 
−
 
 
−
go
 
−
 
 
−
A, CHINESE HISTORY, i^
 
−
 
 
−
go home and stay a year, and when
 
−
the examination is held, will offer my-
 
−
self a candidate. If I come oflf with
 
−
credit and fliccefs, I shall have fulfilled
 
−
my duty to my father and mother,
 
−
y/hether I am promoted to an office
 
−
or not, I shall be unconcerned, pro-
 
−
vided I can but acquire a name. Then
 
−
will Shuey-png-Jin hear of it, and be
 
−
convinced how fteadily I adhere to my
 
−
wqrdt and how pundually I follow
 
−
the advice fhe gave me.**
 
−
 
 
−
Hayii}g confirmed himfclf V] thef^
 
−
resolutions, he put forward op the
 
−
rqad towards the city oi^^ab-ming^ tl^K
 
−
{dace of his birth.
 
−
 
 
−
O 4 CHAP.
 
−
 
 
−
^00 HAU KIOU CHOAAN^'
 
  
 
CHAP. VIII.
 
CHAP. VIII.
  
−
CHUET'ping'Jln having fcnt her fcr-
+
[p. 200] SHUEY-PING-SIN having sent her servant with a present of money and sweetmeats [as was before related] was not a little impatient, when she found he did not return. Her fears suggested some mischief had happened, so that she was plunged in great anxiety and concern, till the afternoon, when her mes- [p. 201] senger came back. She inquired the reason of his stay, and was informed that the young stranger was but just departed from the city: that her present had been delivered to him, and that with it he had hired a mule for his journey. She asked what he had said at his departure. Then Shuey-yeong faithfully related all that he was ordered to report. She said nothing to him farther at that time, but bidding him refresh himself retired to her apartment. When she was alone, she reflected, that although Tieh-chung-u had met with disturbance on her account, she had made him all the returns in her power: that he was now fully recovered, and was no longer involved in trouble for her sake. This gave her a satisfaction, which was alone interrupted by her fears of some new attack from Kwo-khe-tzu and her uncle: to prevent and obviate these would, she thought, require her attention.
−
vant with a preient of money and
 
−
Iwcetmcats [as was before related] was
 
−
not a little impatient, when fhe found
 
−
he did not return. Her fears fuggefted
 
−
some mifchief had happened, fo that (he
 
−
was plunged in great anxiety and con*
 
−
^rn, till the afternoon, when her me&
 
−
fenger came back. She inquired the
 
−
reafbn of his (tay, and was mformed
 
−
that the young ilranger was but
 
−
juft departed from the city : that
 
−
her present had been delivered to him,
 
−
and that with it he had hired a mule
 
−
for his journey. She afked what he
 
−
bad laid at bis departure. Then Shuy^
 
−
 
 
−
A CHINESE HISTORY, lot
 
−
 
 
−
yeong faithfully related all that he was
 
−
ordered to report.. She said no-
 
−
thing to him farther at that time, but
 
−
bidding him refrelh himself retired to
 
−
her apartment. When Ihe was alone,
 
−
flic refleftcd, that although Tielhcbuftg-u
 
−
had met with difturbance on her ac«
 
−
count, ihe had made him all the retumt
 
−
in her power: that he was now fully
 
−
recovered) and was no longer involved
 
−
in trouble for her iake. This gave
 
−
her a > {atisfa£tion, which was alone
 
−
interrupted by her fears of fbme new
 
−
attack from Kwo-kbe-lzu and her un-
 
−
cle : to prevent and obviate thefe would,
 
−
ihe thought, require her attention.
 
−
 
 
−
Shame for the ill fuccefi of hit
 
−
^hemes had kept Sbug-gmnn for feme
 
−
 
 
−
days
 
−
days from her boufe ; when one morn*
 
−
ing fhe faw him enter with a vifible
 
−
iatisfadion in his countenance. He
 
−
came up and afked if Ihe had beard
 
−
the news. ^^ How (hould I who ^m
 
−
a woman and live reclufe, (be anfwer*
 
−
ed, know what pai&s abroad io the
 
−
world ?** J^c replied, " I will tell you,
 
−
When you brought home to your houie
 
−
the young stranger Tiib^ I thought fo
 
−
highly of hinx, as to propoie him to you
 
−
for a hufband. Your ileady refuial
 
−
was a great proof of your judgment
 
−
and penetration. If you had consentr
 
−
0d9 yoy would have been very unhap*
 
−
py. Whom could you believe thi^
 
−
stranger to be ?'* She replied, " I know
 
−
nothing of hicp or his family. But his
 
−
ilHcourfe and a^ons ihewed him to
 
−
 
 
−
be
 
−
 
 
−
A CHINESE HISTORY. • aoj
 
−
 
 
−
ht a man of sense and honour." Her
 
−
wncle aflfc6bed to laugh at this very
 
−
heartily : " Ay, ay ! said he, a man of
 
−
great sense iand honour to be sure ! You
 
−
have always difcoveredgreatdifcernnient
 
−
hitherto. Your eyes were like the fun.
 
−
How came they now to be fo eclip-
 
−
fed ? Tiib'cbung'U is an impoftor ; his
 
−
pretended ficknefs was all a cheat.
 
−
What ill intentions he had, I know
 
−
not : but you gre very lucky, that he
 
−
did nothing here to involve you in dif-
 
−
grace. The pitcher goes often up anci
 
−
down the well, but is broken at laft*.
 
−
 
 
−
He
 
−
 
 
−
• The Tranflator hath here fabjoined the ori-
 
−
ginal words, JVauh quoan poo ly tfthing fi?an fe.
 
−
The Reader will remark the difference between
 
−
this proverb and its correfpondent one with us,
 
−
^he pitcher goes many times to tht inelU hut comts
 
−
fjome broken at laft.
 
−
 
 
−
The Cbintfe apply their Eaithen-ware to
 
−
He had no sooner left this city^ but
 
−
coming to the village Tong-cbin he was
 
−
 
 
−
guilty
 
−
 
 
−
snore nfes than we» but we are not to fapjpofe
 
−
that it U all of that kind, which we call China*
 
−
ware or Porcelain. Thb is eren with Uiem a
 
−
dear and valuable commodity. They have
 
−
many forts of common potters ware inade a!l
 
−
over the empire ; but this laft is mapnfadored
 
−
only at one place called King-te-ching. This is
 
−
a large town in the province of Kiang-fi^ three
 
−
miles long and containing near a million of fools :
 
−
which hath something lo peculiar in the temper
 
−
of the air or quality of the waters, that although
 
−
none of the principal ingredients are fo^nd ia
 
−
its neighbourhood, the Manufa^ure could never
 
−
be made to fucceed any where elfe.
 
−
 
 
−
P. Dentrecolles a French Jefuit hath obliged
 
−
the world with a very ingenious and txidt De-
 
−
fcription of the whole procefs, from which and
 
−
the other authors referred to below, we (hall ex-
 
−
tract such an account as may anfwer all the pur-
 
−
pofes of amufement.
 
−
 
 
−
The Chinefe call this curious ware Tfe^M* ^^
 
−
name of Poreeiain is derived from the Portu-
 
−
 
 
−
Sefe, with whom PoreeUana iignifies a (up, or
 
−
son, or (aucer ; and was firft applied to thoie
 
−
white glofly fliells called Cowrie^^ which jpaft
 
−
for money on the coaft of Africa\ and aner-
 
−
- wards to china-ware, probably ftropi an opinion
 
−
tjutf it m»;ht be composed of them.
 
−
Tliia sne jnanufa&uxc u of ^o\oTi^^t)^v&!^
 
−
guilty of a very fcandalous aftion."
 
−
She eagerly inquired, " What he had
 
−
 
 
−
done?*'
 
−
 
 
−
among the Cbiuefe^ tfhat their oldeft recordf
 
−
mention nothing of its inventor or difcovery.
 
−
The town abovementioned hath been famous for
 
−
making it upwards of thirteen hundred years.
 
−
 
 
−
There are, exclufive of (he colours, three prin-
 
−
cipal ingredients in china : thefe are a dry
 
−
Earth, a moift Clay, and a ftony Oil.
 
−
 
 
−
The firft is a kind of done, of a very fine
 
−
grain, ground to powder, which being mixed
 
−
with water and reduced to a cream, is brought
 
−
tb the coniiftence of pafle*
 
−
 
 
−
The second is a kind of fullers earth, of a greyi(h
 
−
white, full of ihining particles. Thefe two are
 
−
brought to King-te-cbingf in the form of bricks : the
 
−
former of them is called by the Cbim/e, ** the fielh'*
 
−
and ** the latter the bones'* of the china.
 
−
 
 
−
The third ingredient is the oil, which is drawn
 
−
from a particular ftone by a very curious pro-
 
−
cefs, and mixed with another liquid extraded
 
−
^ from lime and fern afhes. The former are
 
−
the materials of which china is corapofed ; the
 
−
latter, the vamilh which gives it the glofly
 
−
whitenefs.
 
−
 
 
−
It would be ufeleis to trace the work through
 
−
all the different hands of the manufadturers :
 
−
let it fuffice to fay, that their firft care is to pre-
 
−
pare the materials to the highefl dmee of fine- '
 
−
nefs and purity, a hair or grain of fand bein^
 
−
fu£cicnttofpoilthcpi6C«itum« "IV&i&ax^-
 
−
done ?" " He went into the house, said
 
−
be, of a rich man there, who had a
 
−
 
 
−
beautiful
 
−
 
 
−
rials are then delirered over to the Potttrs, where
 
−
it paiTes from wheel to wheel and from hand
 
−
to hand ; one applying it to the mold, ano^tr
 
−
thinning it with the chizzel, a third fmootk-
 
−
iftg the edges : thus a cap or fancer (hall fomc*
 
−
times pafi through feventy hands before it it
 
−
compleated ; each of which uies foch difpatch,
 
−
that a workman at the wheel j'eqoirei bat tifrt£
 
−
dimers [half a farthing] for twcnQr-iix pieces.
 
−
 
 
−
From thefe it pafiei to be painted and vamifli*
 
−
ed with the oil abovementioned Of the Pain-
 
−
ters, one flrikes the circle at the edge, a iecond
 
−
iketches the figures, which are painted by a
 
−
third, &:c.
 
−
 
 
−
Laft of all it is sentto the furnace, of whidi
 
−
there are not lefs than three thoafand in Kin^
 
−
U'cbing.
 
−
 
 
−
•* I have been surprized, fays P. DentncoUet^
 
−
** to fee a porter ballance upon his (hoaldert
 
−
** two long narrow boards ranged with china-
 
−
*' ware, and pafs through fo many croaded
 
−
** ftreets without breaking them. It is true,
 
−
** people are careful to avoid hitting them
 
−
*< never fo little ; for in that cafe tbty * would
 
−
*' be obliged to make good the damage ; bat
 
−
^ still it is furprizing mat he can prclerve his
 
−
*' cquilibrinm.
 
−
 
 
−
When
 
−
^ Moi^ Porter oi it it cibfardl;^ e9(VreJ)td tn P« IHc
 
−
Uaidg, £ng. 'voL i.^. ^49*
 
−
 
 
−
A CHINESE HISTORY, toy
 
−
 
 
−
beautiful concubine, of whom he was
 
−
very sond. What brought him there I
 
−
 
 
−
know
 
−
 
 
−
When brought to the- oven the chma is in«
 
−
clofed in earthen cafes ; one or more pieces in a
 
−
cafe: which are afterwards piled up within
 
−
the oven in fach a manner, that the bottom of
 
−
one ferves for a cover to the top of another.
 
−
 
 
−
The Ovens or Furnaces are each about twelve
 
−
feet high, and twenty four wide ; and will re-
 
−
quire at one baking one hundred and eighty bur-
 
−
dens [charges frJ\ of wood. At firft the oven
 
−
is heated for a day and a night : the fire is after-
 
−
wards kept up by two men, who relieve each
 
−
other and throw in wood. The Chinefe are of
 
−
opinion that the whole mafs is reduced to a state
 
−
of fluidity, which they infer from hence, that
 
−
if a small copper coi^ f be put on the top
 
−
of one of the piles in the furnace, it will pierce
 
−
all the cafes and veiTels, fo that each will have
 
−
a hole in the middle. When the ware is baked,
 
−
&c. they difcontinue the fire, and keep the door
 
−
of the ovsn (hut for some time. It is afterwards
 
−
taken out for fale.
 
−
 
 
−
After fo much care and labotu', we are
 
−
not to wonder that fFne china-ware is dear in
 
−
Europe^ efpecially if we add, that few bakings fac-
 
−
ceed quite well, and that often the whole is loft,
 
−
the ware and cafes being reduced to a fubfUnce
 
−
as folid as a rock. Too fierce a fire, or infulE-
 
−
 
 
−
cient
 
−
 
 
−
t N. B- No kind: of mtt&\ can >at xcvai^it \a vcwst*
 
−
porate withForcdain.
 
−
know not, but ''Tieh''-cbung-u carried this
 
−
woman away. The rich men in the
 
−
 
 
−
villages,
 
−
 
 
−
cient cafes, may fpoil all. Thus a Handred
 
−
workmen are rained for one that gets rich ; to
 
−
which the rigoroas demands of £e Emperor
 
−
and the Mandarines do not a little contribate*
 
−
Thefe often require works impoilible to be
 
−
performed*
 
−
 
 
−
Every trade in China hath its tutelar deitj^^
 
−
and that of the Potters owes its original to
 
−
the following accident. The Emperor sent
 
−
down models, which after many vain attempts^
 
−
the workmen huml)ly represented it was not
 
−
poliible to execute : they received no other an-«
 
−
iwer but blows, and flill more pre^g inflahces :
 
−
at laft one of the workmen in despair thrcfir
 
−
himself into the burning oven and was confumed
 
−
in an inftant. The china«ware then baking
 
−
it is said proved perfedly fine, and entirely ta
 
−
the Emperor^s liking. The defperado became
 
−
an hero, and was thenceforth worihipped as the
 
−
divinity prefiding ove rthe Porcelain works, under
 
−
the name of Pu-fa.
 
−
 
 
−
A Ithough the Cbine/i Workmen cannot execute
 
−
all the models which are brought them, yet they
 
−
compleat many furprizing works : thus we are
 
−
told they cannot make muare Slabs of china
 
−
of one piece big enough lor the top of a table,
 
−
or feat, or pidure-firame, &c : the largeft th^
 
−
can attain to beine but about a foot fquare, all
 
−
tfxcreding that are lore to warp ; jtxP.Dintri^
 
−
villages, have a greater authority over
 
−
the inhabitants, than thofe of the city ;
 
−
So that a great many people were dif-
 
−
patched after them, who overtook them
 
−
both together ; when they came up with
 
−
them, blows enfued, in confequence of
 
−
which they beat him till he was almoft
 
−
killed. Then they carried him before
 
−
 
 
−
the
 
−
 
 
−
coUes aiTares us that he hath feen a large Lan-
 
−
thorn, like that of a fhip, all of china, through
 
−
which one candle enlightened a whole room.
 
−
He tells us alfo that they make Flutes, Flage-
 
−
lets, and other mufical inilruments of porcelain ;
 
−
as like wife Ducks and Tortoifes to float on the
 
−
water: and that he hath feen a Cat fo painted to
 
−
the life, with a lamp placed in its head to re-
 
−
present the eyes, that Rats were frightened at
 
−
it. The fame Writer informs us that they have
 
−
made Urns, which have coft more than eighty
 
−
crowns a piece at the furnace.
 
−
 
 
−
To conclude this long Notc,-wc are told the
 
−
Chinefe are almoft as curious in European glafies
 
−
and cryftals, &c. * as we are in china-ware :
 
−
and that if a sondnefs for Old china prevails
 
−
 
 
−
• M B, The Chinefe Mirrours are of polified fictU
 
−
P, Du Halde 1. 196. Leiirti cdifiant* 3cv;^u* \^v
 
−
 
 
−
Vol. II. ? ^xcwCiTi^
 
−
 
 
−
a 10 HAU KIOU CHOAAN.
 
−
 
 
−
the Mandarine of the village. There he
 
−
difputed with, and fo provoked thac
 
−
magiftrate, that he gave out an or*
 
−
dcr to carry him before the ^ao-^yii.
 
−
The refult I have not heard : but
 
−
when he came before that audience, I
 
−
doubt not but he would let fall sonic
 
−
provoking word, and procure himself
 
−
to be beat fo fevercly, as not to ftir-
 
−
 
 
−
vive it.'*
 
−
 
 
−
" Pray, Sir, said Sbuey-ping-finj how
 
−
 
 
−
ai^ong our Virtuofosy it is carried to flill greater
 
−
height in China^ w)^ere the smalleft uteniil which
 
−
is of great antiquity will setch an extravagant
 
−
price. It is believed that the fuperior beauty
 
−
and excellence of the ancient china, was owing
 
−
to their taking greater time to mature and pre-
 
−
pare their materials, than the present quick
 
−
demands from Eurofe will allow them.
 
−
 
 
−
See Lettres edifiant. Rec. 12. p. 258—360.
 
−
 
 
−
Rec. 16. p. 320 — 366. P. Du Halde. vol,
 
−
 
 
−
I. p. 338 — 353. Mod. Univ. Hill. vol. 8. p.
 
−
 
 
−
243, &c. See alfo a curious memoir on.
 
−
 
 
−
tlutf fttbjed in Harris^ njayages^ &c. ii. 940.^
 
−
- came you to know all this ?" He re-
 
−
plied, " The Cbe-hien having been to
 
−
pay his compliments* to that Man*
 
−
 
 
−
darine.
 
−
 
 
−
* The Chinefe Expreffion is, " Having been
 
−
to with him a good feaft."
 
−
 
 
−
Feafling is a very important article among
 
−
the Chinefe. There is no meeting, departure
 
−
or slrrival ; no profperous event, nor occasion of
 
−
grief, but what is fubjeft matter for an enter-
 
−
tainment either of welcome or farewell, con-
 
−
gratulation or condolence. At their grand feafts
 
−
it is common to have twenty or twenty- four
 
−
[little] dilhes [chiefly of ragooYkivcd. up one
 
−
after another on each table, none of which are
 
−
removed till all. is over. Between every feven
 
−
or eight di(hes they bring in Soup either of flefh
 
−
or fifn, with a fort of small loaves or pies, which
 
−
they take with their Chop- flicks, dip inte the
 
−
foup and eat without any ceremony: all the,
 
−
reft is condu£led in great form.
 
−
 
 
−
The French, vfho have refined fo much on
 
−
the art of eating, are far out-done by the Chinefi
 
−
cooks. With nothing but the Beans which
 
−
grow in their country, and with the meal of
 
−
Rice and Corn, together with Spices and Herbs, '
 
−
they can prepare a great many diflies very dif-
 
−
ferent from each other. ,
 
  
−
The Chinefe are not only sond of hogs-flefh,
+
[p. 202] Shame for the ill success of his schemes had kept Shuey-guwin for some days from her house; when one morning she saw him enter with a visible satisfaction in his countenance. He came up and asked if she had heard the news. "How should I who am a woman and live recluse, she answered, know what passes abroad in the world?" He replied, "I will tell you. When you brought home to your house the young stranger Tieh, I thought so highly of him, as to propose him to you for a husband. Your steady refusal was a great proof of your judgment and penetration. If you had consented, you would have been very unhappy. Whom could you believe this stranger to be?" She replied, "I know nothing of him or his family. But his discourse and actions shewed him to [p. 203] be a man of sense and honour." Her uncle affected to laugh at this very heartily: "Ay, ay! said he, a man of great sense and honour to be sure! You have always discovered great discernment hitherto. Your eyes were like the sun. How came they now to be so eclipsed? Tieh-chung-u is an impostor; his pretended sickness was all a cheat. What ill intentions he had, I know not: but you are very lucky, that he did nothing here to involve you in disgrace. The pitcher goes often up and [p. 204] down the well, but is broken at last.<ref>The Translator hath here subjoined the original words, Wauh quoan poo ly tzhing shan se. The Reader will remark the difference between this proverb and its correspondent one with us, ''The pitcher goes many times to the well, but comes home broken at last.''
−
&c. but of that of horfes and dog^s \ viV^vOci ^^
 
−
Pa ^^^
 
−
darine, all his people give this ac-
 
−
count/' His niece upon this, laugh-
 
−
not rejedled by the common people, the* they die
 
−
of age ordifeafe. Even Cats, Rats, and fach like
 
−
animals, are fold openly by the butchers. And
 
−
here it may be observed, that the beef is fold
 
−
there without an/ bones, thefe being always firft
 
−
taken out.
 
  
−
But the mod delicious food of all are flags
+
The Chinese apply their Earthen-ware to more uses than we, but we are not to suppose that it is all of that kind, which we call China-ware or Porcelain. This is even with them a dear and valuable commodity. They have many sorts of common potters ware made all over the empire; but this last is manufactured only at one place called King-te-ching. This is a large town in the province of Kiang-si, three miles long and containing near a million of souls: which hath something so peculiar in the temper of the air or quality of the waters, that although none of the principal ingredients are found in its neighbourhood, the Manufacture could never be made to succeed any where else.
−
pizzles, birds nefis, and hears cla*ws. The Jirfi arc
 
−
dried in the fun in fummer and rolled in pepper
 
−
and nutmeg : before they are drefTed they are
 
−
foaked in rice-water to make them foft, and, after
 
−
being boiled in the gravy of a kid, are seasoned
 
−
with various fpices. T/?e birds nefts are com-
 
−
monly found on the rocks along the coafts of
 
−
' Tonquirty &c. and are built by birds not unlike the
 
−
fwallow ; they are supposed to make them with
 
−
little fea-fiflies cemented by the fcum of the fca
 
−
and fomc vifcous juice, which dilHls from their
 
−
backs. Thefe nefts contradt a tranfparent fo-
 
−
lidity and greenifh hue when dried ; and re-
 
−
femble the rind of a large candied citron in fhape
 
−
and fize : mixed with other meats they give
 
−
them a very agreeable reliih. The bears pa-ws^
 
−
of which the hindmoft are in highcft cllecm,
 
−
are ftrippedof their (kin and prefervcd like flagb
 
−
pizzles.
 
  
−
SeeP. Du Halde, vol. i. p. 208— 303. p. 314.
+
P. Dentrecolles a French Jesuit hath obliged the world with a very ingenious and exact Description of the whole process, from which and the other authors referred to below, we shall extract such an account as may answer all the purposes of amusement.
−
Lettrcs edifiant. xi. 2<;o. P. Scmedo, ^. 4,
 
−
65. Mod. Univ. Hill. viii. 277.
 
  
−
ecT
+
The Chinese call this curious ware Tse-ki. Its name of Porcelain is derived from the Portuguese, with whom Porcellana signifies a cup, or bason, or saucer; and was first applied to those white glossy shells called Cowries, which past for money on the coast of Africa; and afterwards to China-ware, probably from an opinion that it might be composed of them.
−
td and said, " Why do you tell me,
 
−
that ^ieb'chung-u is a bad man and
 
−
a cheat ? If you should come and re-
 
−
port that CoN-Fu-CEE * was guilty
 
−
'of murder ; what were that to me ?"
 
−
" It is true, said her uncle, this is
 
−
nothing to you. I only tell you a
 
−
fad I have he^rd. I could not but
 
−
be sorry to fee you receive a person into
 
−
your house, whom you neither knew,
 
−
nor whence he was. If you would
 
−
look out for men that are truly wife
 
−
and learned, you Ihould go nearer
 
−
home; where their charaders and fa-
 
−
milies are well known; where you
 
−
may eafily be informed what ftudies
 
−
they follow, and what repute they are
 
−
in for their learning." " Uncle, said
 
  
−
* Confucius. Sec above note pag. 1 16.
+
[p. 205] This fine manufacture is of so long standing among the Chinese, that their oldest records mention nothing of its inventor or discovery. The town abovementioned hath been famous for making it upwards of thirteen hundred years.
  
−
P 3 ftvt^
+
There are, exclusive of the colours, three principal ingredients in china: these are a dry Earth, a moist Clay, and a stony Oil.
−
ike, although what you have been td-
 
−
ling me were true, I am no way con*
 
−
cerned in it ; nor is it any bufinefs of
 
−
mine to enter upon its confutation. Yet
 
−
such is the opinion I have of that young
 
−
gentleman, and such proofs have I
 
−
feep of his integrity and worth, that
 
−
I am persuaded this is a malicious
 
−
and groundlefs calumny." " This
 
−
young man, he replied, is no enemy
 
−
of mine. Why then should I report
 
−
this, if it were not true? It was re-
 
−
lated to me thus, by the Cbe^biefCs
 
−
people. You are miftaken therefore
 
−
if you think him an honeft man ; you
 
−
might as well fay, ^be yellow river is
 
−
clear *." ** Till I fee it with my own
 
  
−
eyes,
+
The first is a kind of stone, of a very fine grain, ground to powder, which being mixed with water and reduced to a cream, is brought to the consistence of paste.
  
−
, • The second river in China is the Whang-HO.
+
The second is a kind of fullers earth, of a greyish white, full of shining particles. These two are brought to King-te-ching, in the form of bricks: the former of them is called by the Chinese, "the flesh" and "the latter the bones" of the china.
−
or (as it written by the Portuguefe with whom M
 
  
−
h^th
+
The third ingredient is the oil, which is drawn from a particular stone by a very curious process, and mixed with another liquid extracted from lime and fern ashes. The former are the materials of which china is composed; the latter, the varnish which gives it the glossy whiteness.
−
eyes, Ihe replied, I (hall still deem him
 
−
incapable of any thing bafe. This story
 
−
is incredible : It cannot be. Perhaps
 
−
it was some one, who refembled him
 
  
−
hath the nafal soond of N G) Hoam-HO *, i. e.
+
[p. 206] It would be useless to trace the work through all the different hands of the manufacturers: let it suffice to say, that their first care is to prepare the materials to the highest degree of fineness and purity, a hair or grain of sand being sufficient to spoil the piece it is in. The materials are then delivered over to the Potters, where it passes from wheel to wheel and from hand to hand; one applying it to the mold, another thinning it with the chizzel, a third smoothing the edges: thus a cup or saucer shall sometimes pass through seventy hands before it is compleated; each of which uses such dispatch, that a workman at the wheel requires but three deniers [half a farthing] for twenty-six pieces.
−
the yellonv Ri*ver, which rifes not far from the
 
−
fource of the Ganges in the Tartarian mountains
 
−
weft of China^ and having run through it with
 
−
a conrfe of more than fix hundred leagues, dif-
 
−
charges itself into the eaftem Yea. It hath its
 
−
name from a yellow mud, which always ftains
 
−
its water, and which after rains compofes a third
 
−
part of its quantity. The Watermen dear it
 
−
for ufc by throwing in alum. The Chinefe
 
−
{zy, its waters cannot become clear in a thoufand
 
−
years ^ whence it is a common proverb among
 
−
them for any thing which is never likely to hap-
 
−
pen, *' When the yellow river (hall run bright.**
 
  
−
This river is in some places half a league over,
+
From these it passes to be painted and varnished with the oil abovementioned. Of the Painters, one strikes the circle at the edge, a second sketches the figures, which are painted by a third, &c.
−
and every where fo Yapid, that it would make
 
−
terrible ravages if the Chinefe did not reftrain it
 
−
with very strong dykes, one of which is ten
 
−
leagues long: they are even said to have turned
 
−
its current out of one province into another.
 
  
−
Vid. Martin. Atlas Sin. p. 14. P. Le Comp^e,
+
Last of all it is sent to the furnace, of which there are not less than three thousand in King-te-ching.
−
tom. I . p. 1 69. P. Du Halde, vol. i . p.
 
−
40, 326. Lettres edifiant. vii. 170, &c.
 
  
−
• Hot Hoambo, as it is errbneoujly giifen in Mod. Univ,
+
"I have been surprized, says P. Dentrecolles, to see a porter ballance upon his shoulders two long narrow boards ranged with china-ware, and pass through so many crouded streets without breaking them. It is true, people are careful to avoid hitting them never so little; for in that case they would [p. 207] be obliged to make good the damage; but still it is surprizing that he can preserve his equilibrium."*
−
Hift. 'viii, $t^c. inLockman^s Jefuitis trofudfi ''• *7*
 
−
and in many ctber books.
 
  
−
p 4 ^'^
+
''* Not the Porter as it is absurdly expressed in P. Du Halde, Eng. vol. 1. p. 349.''
  
−
2i6 HAU KIOU CHOAAN.
+
When brought to the oven the china is inclosed in earthen cases; one or more pieces in a case: which are afterwards piled up within the oven in such a manner, that the bottom of one serves for a cover to the top of another.
  
−
in person, that was taken for him.
+
The Ovens or Furnaces are each about twelve feet high, and twenty-four wide; and will require at one baking one hundred and eighty burdens [charges fr.] of wood. At first the oven is heated for a day and a night: the fire is afterwards kept up by two men, who relieve each other and throw in wood. The Chinese are of opinion that the whole mass is reduced to a state of fluidity, which they infer from hence, that if a small copper coin** be put on the top of one of the piles in the furnace, it will pierce all the cases and vessels, so that each will have a hole in the middle. When the ware is baked, &c. they discontinue the fire, and keep the door of the oven shut for some time. It is afterwards taken out for sale.
−
Uncle, be fo good as to make farther
 
−
inquiry into this affair : and if you find
 
−
it to be, as you have related, I will
 
−
venture to give up both my eyes. For
 
−
certain I am, that he cannot have been
 
−
guilty of fo dilhonourable a thing."
 
−
Sbuey-guwin laughed and said, " I would
 
−
not have you lofe your eyes, but keep
 
−
them in their places. However^ to con-
 
−
vince you, I will go again and in-
 
−
quire ; and when you find it true, how
 
−
will you be able to look me in the
 
−
face ?" *' I rather believe. Sir, said (he,
 
−
you will be afliamed to fee me, when
 
−
you find you are miftaken."
 
  
−
Sbuey-guwin was a little piqued at
+
''** N. B. No kind of metal can be made to incorporate with Porcelain.''
−
her anfwer, and haftcd to the Cbe-hien^s
 
−
audience. He inquired of the officers.
 
−
5ome said that ''Tieh''-cbung-u was guilty.
 
−
Others believed he was falfely accufed.
 
−
At laft he met with one who had been
 
−
present at the examination. From
 
−
him he learnt the whole > truth of the
 
−
matter. Sbugy-guwin was fo ashamed
 
−
of his miftake, that he did not venture
 
−
at firft to return to his niece. ** This
 
−
girl, said he, is as cunning as a witch.
 
−
She is miilaken in nothing. What
 
−
ftiall I now do to get clear of this
 
−
affair? I will go and confult Xw^-^i^/-
 
−
/z«." To his house he repaired j where
 
−
he told him all that had pafTed, and how
 
−
afliamed he should be to contradift
 
−
his story. " Sir, and^ father-in-law, he
 
−
replied/ you are surely a faint. Who
 
−
in thefe days, bcflde yourself, makes
 
−
any fcruple of reporting a faft, as they
 
  
−
would
+
[p. 208] After so much care and labour, we are not to wonder that fine china-ware is dear in Europe, especially if we add, that few bakings succeed quite well, and that often the whole is lost, the ware and cases being reduced to a substance as solid as a rock. Too fierce a fire, or insufficient cases, may spoil all. Thus a hundred workmen are ruined for one that gets rich; to which the rigorous demands of the Emperor and the Mandarines do not a little contribute. These often require works impossible to be performed.
  
−
2i8 HAU KIOU CHOAAN.
+
Every trade in China hath its tutelar deity; and that of the Potters owes its original to the following accident. The Emperor sent down models, which after many vain attempts the workmen humbly represented it was not possible to execute: they received no other answer but blows, and still more pressing instances: at last one of the workmen in despair threw himself into the burning oven and was consumed in an instant. The china-ware then baking, it is said proved perfectly fine, and entirely to the Emperor's liking. The desperado became an hero, and was thenceforth worshipped as the divinity presiding over the Porcelain works, under the name of Pu-sa.
  
−
would have it f Who fcruples to fay the
+
[p. 209] Although the Chinese Workmen cannot execute all the models which are brought them, yet they compleat many surprizing works: thus we are told they cannot make square Slabs of china of one piece big enough for the top of a table, or seat, or picture-frame, &c: the largest they can attain to being but about a foot square, all exceeding that are sure to warp; yet P. Dentrecolles assures us that he hath seen a large Lanthorn, like that of a ship, all of china, through which one candle enlightened a whole room. He tells us also that they make Flutes, Flagelets, and other musical instruments of porcelain; as likewise Ducks and Tortoises to float on the water: and that he hath seen a Cat so painted to the life, with a lamp placed in its head to represent the eyes, that Rats were frightened at it. The same Writer informs us that they have made Urns, which have cost more than eighty crowns a piece at the furnace.
−
thing that is not* ? ''Tieh''-cbung uhzxh
 
−
given us a good handle, and (hall not we
 
−
make a song or history of him ? There
 
−
are thofc, who can convert the lead
 
−
fhadow into fubflance ; and if they catch i
 
−
hold of a word, will compofe a vo-
 
−
lume.'* " You fay true, replied the
 
−
other: but whom (hall we get to draw up
 
−
this ballad ?'* " Who (hould do it but
 
−
myself, said Kwo-kbe^tzu? Am not I
 
−
a student ? I can do that surely !" Sbuey-
 
−
fwwin said, •' If you will do it, it will
 
−
be very fufficient/' ** But although I
 
−
ifaould compofe this song, said the other,
 
−
I do not chufe to write it.** " That,
 
−
replied his father-in-law, may be per-
 
  
−
• To th€ original, «« They will make any thing
+
To conclude this long Note, we are told the Chinese are almost as curious in European glasses and crystals, &c.*** as we are in china-ware: and that if a fondness for Old china prevails [p. 210] among our Virtuosos, it is carried to still greater height in China, where the smallest utensil which is of great antiquity will fetch an extravagant price. It is believed that the superior beauty and excellence of the ancient china, was owing to their taking greater time to mature and prepare their materials, than the present quick demands from Europe will allow them.
  
−
^d CO be alive/'
+
''*** The Chinese Mirrours are of polished steel. P. Du Halde 1. 196. Lettres edifiant. xxviii. 194.''
  
−
foimc4
+
See Lettres edifiant. Rec. 12. p. 258--360. Rec. 16. p. 320--366. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 338--353. Mod. Univ. Hist. vol. 8. p. 243, &c. See also a curious memoir on this subject in Harris's voyages, &c. ii. 940.</ref> He had no sooner left this city, but coming to the village Tong-chin he was guilty of a very scandalous action." She eagerly inquired, "What he had [p. 206] done?" "He went into the house, said he, of a rich man there, who had a [p. 207] beautiful concubine, of whom he was very fond. What brought him there I [p. 208] know not, but Tieh-chung-u carried this woman away. The rich men in the [p. 209] villages, have a greater authority over the inhabitants, than those of the city; So that a great many people were dispatched after them, who overtook them both together; when they came up with [p. 210] them, blows ensued, in consequence of which they beat him till he was almost killed. Then they carried him before the Mandarine of the village. There he disputed with, and so provoked that magistrate, that he gave out an order to carry him before the Tao-yee. The result I have not heard: but when he came before that audience, I doubt not but he would let fall some provoking word, and procure himself to be beat so severely, as not to survive it."
−
formed by another hand. To .pro-
 
−
cure it to be written shall be my care.
 
−
Come, let us fee what you will make of
 
−
it/' KwO'kbe-izu ftood a little to recoi-
 
−
led himself, and thus began, f
 
  
−
Kwo-kbe-tzu having repeated the fore-
+
[p. 211] "Pray, Sir, said Shuey-ping-sin, how came you to know all this?" He replied, "The Che-hien having been to pay his compliments<ref>The Chinese Expression is, "Having been to wish him a good feast."
−
going lines, Sbuey-guwin^ who had lif*-
 
−
tened to them with great attenticm,
 
−
clapped his hands and cried out, " Ex-
 
−
cellent ! Excellently good ! But I am
 
−
afraid, said he, from the particular
 
  
−
.+ In the Tranflator*s M.S. there is left a
+
Feasting is a very important article among the Chinese. There is no meeting, departure or arrival; no prosperous event, nor occasion of grief, but what is subject matter for an entertainment either of welcome or farewell, congratulation or condolence. At their grand feasts it is common to have twenty or twenty-four [little] dishes [chiefly of ragoo] served up one after another on each table, none of which are removed till all is over. Between every seven or eight dishes they bring in Soup either of flesh or fish, with a sort of small loaves or pies, which they take with their Chop-sticks, dip into the soup and eat without any ceremony: all the rest is conducted in great form.
−
blank of a page and half in folio for this curious
 
−
lampoon, which it mud have been entertaining
 
−
to have feen, as a fpecimen of Cbinefi fatire.
 
−
manner of the defcription, my niece
 
−
will fcarcely believe they are of any bo-
 
−
dy's compofing but our own.'* «* Let
 
−
her think fo, if fhe pleafes, replied the
 
−
other ; that signifies nothing.'* Sbu^-
 
−
guwin procured a person to write them 5
 
−
and then took them with him : but
 
−
before he went, the other said to him,
 
−
*' If your niece will be influenced in
 
−
my favour by thofe lines, it will be well.
 
−
If not, I (hall fbon be able to plague
 
−
her; for in a short time there will
 
−
come a Ngan-yuen or Grand Vifitor
 
−
into this province *, who was a pupil
 
  
−
of
+
The French, who have refined so much on the art of eating, are far out-done by the Chinese cooks. With nothing but the Beans which grow in their country, and with the meal of Rice and Corn, together with Spices and Herbs, they can prepare a great many dishes very different from each other.
  
−
* Bcfidc the Viceroy, there is fcnt occasionally
+
[p. 212] The Chinese are not only fond of hogs-flesh, &c. but of that of horses and dogs; which are not rejected by the common people, tho' they die of age or disease. Even Cats, Rats, and such like animals, are sold openly by the butchers. And here it may be observed, that the beef is sold there without any bones, these being always first taken out.
−
inter each of the Provinces, fays P. Magalhaens^
 
−
a Vifitor called Ngan-tai or Ngan-yuen *. His
 
−
ofHce continues but for one year, and is very
 
  
−
formidable.
+
But the most delicious food of all are stags pizzles, birds nests, and bears claws. The first are dried in the sun in summer and rolled in pepper and nutmeg: before they are dressed they are soaked in rice-water to make them soft, and, after being boiled in the gravy of a kid, are seasoned with various spices. The birds nests are commonly found on the rocks along the coasts of Tonquin, &c. and are built by birds not unlike the swallow; they are supposed to make them with little sea-fishes cemented by the scum of the sea and some viscous juice, which distils from their backs. These nests contract a transparent solidity and greenish hue when dried; and resemble the rind of a large candied citron in shape and size: mixed with other meats they give them a very agreeable relish. The bears paws, of which the hindmost are in highest esteem, are stripped of their skin and preserved like stags pizzles.
  
−
• Called Chn-yitcn, h; P. SemedOf probably from
+
See P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 298--303. p. 314. Lettres edifiant. xi. 250. P. Semedo, p. 4, 65. Mod. Univ. Hist. viii. 277.</ref> to that Man- [p. 213] darine, all his people give this account." His niece upon this, laughed and said, "Why do you tell me, that Tieh-chung-u is a bad man and a cheat? If you should come and report that CON-FU-CEE<ref>Confucius. See above note pag. 116.</ref> was guilty of murder; what were that to me?" "It is true, said her uncle, this is nothing to you. I only tell you a fact I have heard. I could not but be sorry to see you receive a person into your house, whom you neither knew, nor whence he was. If you would look out for men that are truly wise and learned, you should go nearer home; where their characters and families are well known; where you may easily be informed what studies they follow, and what repute they are in for their learning." "Uncle, said [p. 214] she, although what you have been telling me were true, I am no way concerned in it; nor is it any business of mine to enter upon its confutation. Yet such is the opinion I have of that young gentleman, and such proofs have I seen of his integrity and worth, that I am persuaded this is a malicious and groundless calumny." "This young man, he replied, is no enemy of mine. Why then should I report this, if it were not true? It was related to me thus, by the Che-hien's people. You are mistaken therefore if you think him an honest man; you might as well say, The yellow river is clear.<ref>The second river in China is the Whang-HO, or (as it written by the Portuguese with whom it hath the nasal sound of N G) Hoam-HO*, i. e. [p. 215] the yellow River, which rises not far from the source of the Ganges in the Tartarian mountains west of China, and having run through it with a course of more than six hundred leagues, discharges itself into the eastern sea. It hath its name from a yellow mud, which always stains its water, and which after rains composes a third part of its quantity. The Watermen clear it for use by throwing in alum. The Chinese say, its waters cannot become clear in a thousand years; whence it is a common proverb among them for any thing which is never likely to happen, "When the yellow river shall run bright."
−
the trihunal ivhicb d'ij'putcbcs tbem. See note abo*ve
 
−
/ag. i«5.
 
−
of my father's. Him will I get to
 
−
oblige her to marry me. And as
 
−
your brother hath no son, inftead of
 
  
−
bringing
+
This river is in some places half a league over, and every where so rapid, that it would make terrible ravages if the Chinese did not restrain it with very strong dykes, one of which is ten leagues long: they are even said to have turned its current out of one province into another.
  
−
formidable. He takes cognizance of all caofes
+
Vid. Martin. Atlas Sin. p. 14. P. Le Compte, tom. 1. p. 169. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 40, 326. Lettres edifiant. vii. 170, &c.
−
criminal and civil ; of the militia, revenue, &c. He
 
−
vifits, inquires and informs himself of every thing.
 
−
He receives the accufations of the people againft
 
−
all their governors, not excepting the Viceroy
 
−
himself The inferior Mandarines he paniQies
 
−
or cafhiers : he gives in a memorial againfl the
 
−
greater, and they are immediately iufpended
 
−
from the fundlion of their offices 'till an anfwer
 
−
comes from court.
 
  
−
Besides this, there are often private Infpedors,
+
''* Not Hoambo, as it is erroneously given in Mod. Univ. Hist. viii, &c. in Lockman's Jesuites travels, ii. 57, and in many other books.''</ref>" "Till I see it with my own [p. 216] eyes, she replied, I shall still deem him incapable of any thing base. This story is incredible: It cannot be. Perhaps it was some one, who resembled him in person, that was taken for him. Uncle, be so good as to make farther inquiry into this affair: and if you find it to be, as you have related, I will venture to give up both my eyes. For certain I am, that he cannot have been guilty of so dishonourable a thing." Shuey-guwin laughed and said, "I would not have you lose your eyes, but keep them in their places. However, to convince you, I will go again and inquire; and when you find it true, how will you be able to look me in the face?" "I rather believe, Sir, said she, you will be ashamed to see me, when you find you are mistaken."
−
or Spies, sent into the provinces to observe the
 
−
condud of the Mandarines, and to report them
 
−
accordingly.
 
  
−
It is eafy to conceive what excellent purposes
+
[p. 217] Shuey-guwin was a little piqued at her answer, and hasted to the Che-hien's audience. He inquired of the officers. Some said that Tieh-chung-u was guilty. Others believed he was falsely accused. At last he met with one who had been present at the examination. From him he learnt the whole truth of the matter. Shuey-guwin was so ashamed of his mistake, that he did not venture at first to return to his niece. "This girl, said he, is as cunning as a witch. She is mistaken in nothing. What shall I now do to get clear of this affair? I will go and consult Kwo-khe-tzu." To his house he repaired; where he told him all that had passed, and how [p. 218] ashamed he should be to contradict his story. "Sir, and father-in-law, he replied, you are surely a saint. Who in these days, beside yourself, makes any scruple of reporting a fact, as they would have it? Who scruples to say the thing that is not?<ref>In the original, "They will make any thing dead to be alive."</ref> Tieh-chung-u hath given us a good handle, and shall not we make a song or history of him? There are those, who can convert the least shadow into substance; and if they catch hold of a word, will compose a volume." "You say true, replied the other: but whom shall we get to draw up this ballad?" "Who should do it but myself, said Kwo-khe-tzu? Am not I a student? I can do that surely!" Shuey- [p. 219] guwin said, "If you will do it, it will be very sufficient." "But although I should compose this song, said the other, I do not chuse to write it." "That, replied his father-in-law, may be performed by another hand. To procure it to be written shall be my care. Come, let us see what you will make of it." Kwo-khe-tzu stood a little to recollect himself, and thus began.<ref>In the Translator's M.S. there is left a blank of a page and half in folio for this curious lampoon, which it must have been entertaining to have seen, as a specimen of Chinese satire.</ref>
−
thefe inititutions might anfwer ; but thefe good
 
−
ends are too often defeated by the corruption
 
−
and avarice of the officers, who are seldom found
 
−
proof againfl bribes and presents, notvvithiland*
 
−
ing the rifk they run in taking them.
 
  
−
P. Magal. p. 241. P. Semedo, p. 129. P, Du
+
Kwo-khe-tzu having repeated the foregoing lines, Shuey-guwin, who had listened to them with great attention, clapped his hands and cried out, "Excellent! Excellently good! But I am afraid, said he, from the particular [p. 220] manner of the description, my niece will scarcely believe they are of any body's composing but our own." "Let her think so, if she pleases, replied the other; that signifies nothing." Shuey-guwin procured a person to write them; and then took them with him: but before he went, the other said to him, "If your niece will be influenced in my favour by those lines, it will be well. If not, I shall soon be able to plague her; for in a short time there will come a Ngan-yuen or Grand Visitor into this province,<ref>Beside the Viceroy, there is sent occasionally into each of the Provinces, says P. Magalhaens, a Visitor called Ngan-tai or Ngan-yuen*. His office continues but for one year, and is very [p. 221] formidable. He takes cognizance of all causes criminal and civil; of the militia, revenue, &c. He visits, inquires and informs himself of every thing. He receives the accusations of the people against all their governors, not excepting the Viceroy himself. The inferior Mandarines he punishes or cashiers: he gives in a memorial against the greater, and they are immediately suspended from the function of their offices till an answer comes from court.
−
Halde, vol. i. 258, &c.
 
  
−
N. B. We are told by some author?, that since
+
Besides this, there are often private Inspectors, or Spies, sent into the provinces to observe the conduct of the Mandarines, and to report them accordingly.
−
the conqueft of the Tartars, it having bee^;i
 
−
found that the Spies or private Infpcdlors men-
 
−
tioned
 
  
−
122 UAU KIOU GHOAAN.
+
It is easy to conceive what excellent purposes these institutions might answer; but these good ends are too often defeated by the corruption and avarice of the officers, who are seldom found proof against bribes and presents, notwithstanding the risk they run in taking them.
  
−
bringing her home to my houie, 1 will
+
P. Magal. p. 241. P. Semedo, p. 129. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. 258, &c.
−
go and folemnize the marriage at her
 
−
own*. Then what tricks will flic
 
−
find to evade it ?" Here Sbuty-guwin
 
−
ftarted, and said, " I thought, at firft,
 
−
you only wanted my niece. Now I
 
−
find you would have all (he is pofliefied
 
−
of. I cannot consent to this. You
 
−
muft carry her home, otherwise her
 
−
house and effeds will be yours ; nor
 
−
will it be in my power to handle then
 
  
−
tioned above abufed their tni(l, the/e have been
+
N. B. We are told by some authors, that since the conquest of the Tartars, it having been found that the Spies or private Inspectors men- [p. 222] tioned above abused their trust, these have been laid aside. However the Mandarines are obliged to transmit from time to time to court a full and just account of their administration, noting all the miscarriages and mismanagements laid to their charge; and in case they are found to have concealed or palliated them, they are liable to be severely punished. See Mod. Univ. Hist. viii. 148, &c.
−
laid aside. However the Mandarines are obliged
 
−
to tranfmit from time to time to court a fu.l and
 
−
juft accoent of their adminiftration, noting all
 
−
the mifcarriages and mifmanagements laid to
 
−
their charge ; and in cafe they are found to have
 
−
concealed or palliated them, they are liable to
 
−
be feverely punifhed.
 
−
Sec Mod. Univ. Hift. viii. 148, &c.
 
  
−
• This is frequently the Chittefe cuHom in such
+
''* Called Cha-yuen, by P. Semedo, probably from the tribunal which dispatches them. See note above pag. 185.''</ref> who was a pupil of my father's. Him will I get to oblige her to marry me. And as your brother hath no son, instead of [p. 222] bringing her home to my house, I will go and solemnize the marriage at her own.<ref>This is frequently the Chinese custom in such circumstances.</ref> Then what tricks will she find to evade it?" Here Shuey-guwin started, and said, "I thought, at first, you only wanted my niece. Now I find you would have all she is possessed of. I cannot consent to this. You must carry her home, otherwise her [p. 223] house and effects will be yours; nor will it be in my power to handle then so much as a straw." "Sir, and father-in-law, said Kwo-khe-tzu, can you think I have any thing in view beside your niece? You cannot but know I want for nothing. I am son of a prime minister; and have every thing at command. As for your brother's house, when I am once possessed of his daughter, you may depend on that and all that belongs to it." "I am satisfied, said the other, I will go and carry the verses to my niece. If she acquiesces, it is well. If she scolds, or is angry, I will give her a hint about the Grand Visitor. And whatever she says, I will come and impart to you." "Well, go then, replied the youth; I will wait here till you bring me an answer."
−
circumdances.
 
  
−
fo
+
[p. 224] What the young lady says to this, we must look for in the next chapter.
−
fo much as a ftraw." " Sir, and fa-
 
−
ther*in-law, said Kwo-kbe-tzu^ can you
 
−
think I have any thing in view befidc
 
−
your niece ? You cannot but know
 
−
I want for nothing. I am son of a
 
−
prime minifter ; and have every thing
 
−
at command. As for your brother's
 
−
house, when I am once possessed of
 
−
his daughter, you may depend on that
 
−
and all that belongs to it." **I am
 
−
satisfied, Taid the other, I will go and
 
−
carry the verfes to my niece. If (he
 
−
acquiefces, it is welL If (he fcolds, or
 
−
is angry, I will give her a hint about
 
−
the Grand Vifitor. And whatever (he
 
−
faysi I will come and impart to you.''
 
−
** Well, go then, replied the youth ;
 
−
I will wait here till you bring me an
 
−
anfwer.'*
 
  
−
,What
+
<references/>
−
What the young lady lays to this,
 
−
we muft look for in the next chapter.
 
  
 
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Chapter 9: Fabricating Ghosts to Frighten a Beauty, Only to Make Her Burst Out Laughing

From: Hau Kiou Choaan, or The Pleasing History. Translated by James Wilkinson, edited by Thomas Percy (London, 1761)

Note: This text was digitized via OCR from the original 1761 print. Page numbers preserved as [p. N]. Some scan errors may remain -- compare with the modern translation and Chinese original to verify.

[Volume II, Book II, Chapters VII-VIII]

CHAP. VII.[1]

[p. 177] ALTHOUGH Tieh-chung-u was not a little offended at the impertinence of the old man and the Mandarine of the village, yet sometimes he could not forbear laughing at the ridiculous distress in which he was involved; and when supper was brought, made no scruple to eat and drink heartily: then ordering Stow-tan to get ready his bed, without any ceremony lay down to sleep.

The moon[2] at this time was near [p. 178] the full and shone very bright: now it happened that he awoke about midnight, and opening his eyes, saw very clearly, Thao-chie sitting on his bedside; who perceiving him to stir, stretched forth her hand to embrace him. Upon which he started and said, "Forbear, woman! How can you offer at an indecency so ill becoming your sex?" This said, he turned himself about again to sleep. The girl was so confounded at this rebuke that she answered not a word; but went and laid her [p. 179] self down near the feet of the bed. Lee-thay-cong, who did not sleep a wink all night, but sat watching without, heard him reprimand the girl for her forwardness: by which he clearly perceived him to be a modest and virtuous youth; and no way inclined to any thing bad.[3]

"I am now convinced, said he to himself, that this woman's running away was all her own contrivance. The stranger is faultless, and I have certainly wronged him." For which reason he would gladly have set him at liberty; but reflecting that he was the Mandarine's prisoner and committed to his custody, he contented himself with saying, "To-morrow, when we go be- [p. 180] fore the audience, I will endeavour to set the matter right."

At break of day the old man carried with him a purse of money, and went to the Mandarine to desire him to drop the affair, and not bring it before a superior tribunal. The Mandarine [willing to shew his power] answered him sternly, "Did you send me hither, or invest me with this office, that I am to be directed by you in the execution of it? The order[4] was written out last night, and you must all go this morning before the Tao-yee. Come; come; let us set out." The old man seeing there was no remedy, brought the persons in his custody [p. 181] and attended the Mandarine; who set out with them followed by a great crowd of people.

Now it happened to be the birth-day of the Tao-yee, and a great number of Mandarines were come to visit him in compliment to the occasion: but as the trumpets had only sounded the first time,[5] and the gates were not yet thrown open, they were all waiting without. When therefore they saw the concourse of people coming, they sent to know what was the matter: and were told that a young man had run away with another person's concubine. The people that were present asked him, how he, who seemed to be a gentleman, could be capable of such an action. Tieh-chung-u made them no answer. Then they asked the girl if that was the person, who had inticed her away. She replied, [p. 183] "Yes; it was he who persuaded me to do it." This answer she gave to every one that asked her; which did not a little please the Mandarine of the village. It happened that at the same time arrived the Pao Che-bien,[6] from whom Tieh-chung-u had so lately parted. He likewise was come to visit the Tao-yee, and to compliment him on the occasion of the day. As he came out of his chair, he looked round and saw the crowd that was gathered about the youth. Upon which he sent to the Mandarine of the village[7] to inquire what was the matter, and [p. 185] why they crowded so about that young gentleman? He came up and told him, that he had been taken along with a young woman, whom he had seduced; and that having been brought before him, he was willing to carry him to a higher tribunal. When the Che-hien heard this, he was very angry and said, "It is false. I do not believe it. Some villainous trick is played him. Do you know that his name is Tieh-chung-u, son of the Tu-cha-yuen or Superior of the viceroys.[8] He was at my city, and was pressed to marry a young lady of the first rank there, which for par- [p. 186] ticular reasons he declined: And is it likely that he would come to a paultry village and take up with such a dirty thing as this? No: there is some villainy at the bottom." "I know nothing of that, said the other: but he was brought before me by the old man, who was injured: and the woman herself accuses him of being the cause of her elopement. However I have not pretended to determine any thing about it: and for that reason have brought them hither."

The Pao Che-hien then ordered his people to look out for a convenient place, where he might sit down and examine into the matter.[9] When he was seated he said to the youth, "You have but just now left my city: how is it that you have caused this crime to be laid to your charge?" Upon which he told him all that had happened. "Well, said the other; and did not you inquire the name of the young man, whom you met with this woman?" "He replied, I did. He is cousin to the old man, and his name is Suan-yin." When the Che-hien heard this, he called for Lee-thay-cong and the girl; and reprimanded the for- [p. 188] mer, saying, "Are not you ashamed, thus advanced in years, to take so young a creature to be your concubine? You were unable to manage and govern her, so she struck up an intimacy with your cousin and would have run away with him. And now when people have endeavoured to restore her to you, you abuse them for it. Is it thus you repay the services which are done you? Your age protects you or I would have you bastinadoed.[10] Tieh-chung-u interceded for him and the young woman, and desired they might be released: which was immediately granted. After which the little Mandarine of the village came up and made his reverence, asking pardon for what he had done.

Then the Che-hien said to the young gentleman, "Yesterday I was desirous you should stay with me longer, but could not succeed. To-day I have the good fortune to meet with you again, and as you are detained by this [p. 191] accident, I hope now you will spend a day or two with me." The other told him he was so complaisant he knew not how to refuse him. The Mandarine charmed with his compliance, said, "With your leave then, I will go and present my compliments to the Tao-yee, and instantly come back to you."

When he had given his present to that magistrate and wished him joy on his birth-day, he returned home with Tieh-chung-u and made a splendid entertainment for him. When they were at table[11] he every now and then made the fair Shuey-ping-sin the subject of his discourse: which was ever in her praise. "Sir, said the youth, all you say of [p. 193] her is but just. I now look upon you as my friend, and shall tell you one thing very truly. When I saw her the first time at your audience, her beauty made the deepest impression on my heart. But afterwards when my ill fortune involved me in trouble, and she was pleased to take me into her house, where she treated me with all the tenderness of a sister: then was I forced to relinquish my hopes. For my having been her guest so long hath caused a suspicion, which, although at present it seems forgotten, would not fail to revive, should such a marriage take place; and we should both be involved in disgrace and unhappiness. Do not urge me therefore any more on this subject, lest you [p. 194] cause me to take an oath to you, that I never will think of it. After what hath passed, to prosecute this marriage would be against all good order." The Che-hien urged him no farther on the subject. When therefore they both had drank till midnight, they retired to rest.

In the morning when Tieh-chung-u was about to prosecute his journey, the Pao Che-hien ordered his servants to bring him twelve shoes, or pieces of silver;[12] which he presented to the young [p. 195] gentleman in order to defray his expences on the road. When he would have returned him thanks, he prevented him, saying, "This is not worth mentioning: I only desire you to hear me a word or two. You must not go travelling about the world in this manner. You had better return to your house, and pass your time with books in study. And when the day of examination arrives, you may come to be made a great doctor, and have your name famous throughout the world. But if you proceed in your present method, you will never acquire reputation and glory." "Sir, said the youth, I thank you for your good counsel; and shall not forget it." Then bidding adieu to each other, they parted.

[p. 196] When Tieh-chung-u was got upon the road, he could not help reflecting on the change so visible in the Che-hien's behaviour: and especially on the earnestness with which he had urged him to prosecute the marriage. "Is it, said he to himself, from any private views of his own, or from a sincere inclination to serve me? Whatever were his intentions, I have said nothing that can bear an ill construction." Then he reflected on the lovely features and fine person of Shuey-ping-sin; as well as on her great ingenuity and sense. "What a capacity must she [p. 197] possess, would he say; to extricate herself out of so much danger? Again, what goodness must she have, when I had left her house so abruptly upon the discourse of her uncle without taking leaving of her, that she did not resent it: but on the contrary sent me a present for my journey? Another woman would have been highly affronted at my going away in so unhandsome a manner. Whoever can obtain her will be very happy. I am the most unlucky of all mankind. Had I been fortunate, I should have come to the [p. 198] city where she lives like myself, without any disturbance; Then I might have heard of her in such a manner, as with a good grace to have proposed a treaty of marriage, and might perhaps have succeeded. But as my acquaintance commenced with her through trouble and misfortune, there is no touching upon such a subject. I am very unhappy. Her age is exceeding suitable, and so is her condition and temper to mine." As he was going on in this pensive manner, his servant intreated him to mind his way, which they should be in danger of losing, and begged of him not to be so much cast down. "Siow-tan, said he, I was thinking of Shuey-ping-sin, what a lovely and what a sensible lady she is: and how great is my misfortune not to have known her but through troubles and disturbance.[13] Were I to search the world through, I should never meet with one of so many perfections, and such transcendent goodness." "I believe, Sir, said he, her equal is not be found under heaven.[14]" [p. 199] "Now, said his master, I will go home and stay a year, and when the examination is held, will offer myself a candidate. If I come off with credit and success, I shall have fulfilled my duty to my father and mother. Whether I am promoted to an office or not, I shall be unconcerned, provided I can but acquire a name. Then will Shuey-ping-sin hear of it, and be convinced how steadily I adhere to my word, and how punctually I follow the advice she gave me."

Having confirmed himself in these resolutions, he put forward on the [p. 200] road towards the city of Tah-ming, the place of his birth.

CHAP. VIII.

[p. 200] SHUEY-PING-SIN having sent her servant with a present of money and sweetmeats [as was before related] was not a little impatient, when she found he did not return. Her fears suggested some mischief had happened, so that she was plunged in great anxiety and concern, till the afternoon, when her mes- [p. 201] senger came back. She inquired the reason of his stay, and was informed that the young stranger was but just departed from the city: that her present had been delivered to him, and that with it he had hired a mule for his journey. She asked what he had said at his departure. Then Shuey-yeong faithfully related all that he was ordered to report. She said nothing to him farther at that time, but bidding him refresh himself retired to her apartment. When she was alone, she reflected, that although Tieh-chung-u had met with disturbance on her account, she had made him all the returns in her power: that he was now fully recovered, and was no longer involved in trouble for her sake. This gave her a satisfaction, which was alone interrupted by her fears of some new attack from Kwo-khe-tzu and her uncle: to prevent and obviate these would, she thought, require her attention.

[p. 202] Shame for the ill success of his schemes had kept Shuey-guwin for some days from her house; when one morning she saw him enter with a visible satisfaction in his countenance. He came up and asked if she had heard the news. "How should I who am a woman and live recluse, she answered, know what passes abroad in the world?" He replied, "I will tell you. When you brought home to your house the young stranger Tieh, I thought so highly of him, as to propose him to you for a husband. Your steady refusal was a great proof of your judgment and penetration. If you had consented, you would have been very unhappy. Whom could you believe this stranger to be?" She replied, "I know nothing of him or his family. But his discourse and actions shewed him to [p. 203] be a man of sense and honour." Her uncle affected to laugh at this very heartily: "Ay, ay! said he, a man of great sense and honour to be sure! You have always discovered great discernment hitherto. Your eyes were like the sun. How came they now to be so eclipsed? Tieh-chung-u is an impostor; his pretended sickness was all a cheat. What ill intentions he had, I know not: but you are very lucky, that he did nothing here to involve you in disgrace. The pitcher goes often up and [p. 204] down the well, but is broken at last.[15] He had no sooner left this city, but coming to the village Tong-chin he was guilty of a very scandalous action." She eagerly inquired, "What he had [p. 206] done?" "He went into the house, said he, of a rich man there, who had a [p. 207] beautiful concubine, of whom he was very fond. What brought him there I [p. 208] know not, but Tieh-chung-u carried this woman away. The rich men in the [p. 209] villages, have a greater authority over the inhabitants, than those of the city; So that a great many people were dispatched after them, who overtook them both together; when they came up with [p. 210] them, blows ensued, in consequence of which they beat him till he was almost killed. Then they carried him before the Mandarine of the village. There he disputed with, and so provoked that magistrate, that he gave out an order to carry him before the Tao-yee. The result I have not heard: but when he came before that audience, I doubt not but he would let fall some provoking word, and procure himself to be beat so severely, as not to survive it."

[p. 211] "Pray, Sir, said Shuey-ping-sin, how came you to know all this?" He replied, "The Che-hien having been to pay his compliments[16] to that Man- [p. 213] darine, all his people give this account." His niece upon this, laughed and said, "Why do you tell me, that Tieh-chung-u is a bad man and a cheat? If you should come and report that CON-FU-CEE[17] was guilty of murder; what were that to me?" "It is true, said her uncle, this is nothing to you. I only tell you a fact I have heard. I could not but be sorry to see you receive a person into your house, whom you neither knew, nor whence he was. If you would look out for men that are truly wise and learned, you should go nearer home; where their characters and families are well known; where you may easily be informed what studies they follow, and what repute they are in for their learning." "Uncle, said [p. 214] she, although what you have been telling me were true, I am no way concerned in it; nor is it any business of mine to enter upon its confutation. Yet such is the opinion I have of that young gentleman, and such proofs have I seen of his integrity and worth, that I am persuaded this is a malicious and groundless calumny." "This young man, he replied, is no enemy of mine. Why then should I report this, if it were not true? It was related to me thus, by the Che-hien's people. You are mistaken therefore if you think him an honest man; you might as well say, The yellow river is clear.[18]" "Till I see it with my own [p. 216] eyes, she replied, I shall still deem him incapable of any thing base. This story is incredible: It cannot be. Perhaps it was some one, who resembled him in person, that was taken for him. Uncle, be so good as to make farther inquiry into this affair: and if you find it to be, as you have related, I will venture to give up both my eyes. For certain I am, that he cannot have been guilty of so dishonourable a thing." Shuey-guwin laughed and said, "I would not have you lose your eyes, but keep them in their places. However, to convince you, I will go again and inquire; and when you find it true, how will you be able to look me in the face?" "I rather believe, Sir, said she, you will be ashamed to see me, when you find you are mistaken."

[p. 217] Shuey-guwin was a little piqued at her answer, and hasted to the Che-hien's audience. He inquired of the officers. Some said that Tieh-chung-u was guilty. Others believed he was falsely accused. At last he met with one who had been present at the examination. From him he learnt the whole truth of the matter. Shuey-guwin was so ashamed of his mistake, that he did not venture at first to return to his niece. "This girl, said he, is as cunning as a witch. She is mistaken in nothing. What shall I now do to get clear of this affair? I will go and consult Kwo-khe-tzu." To his house he repaired; where he told him all that had passed, and how [p. 218] ashamed he should be to contradict his story. "Sir, and father-in-law, he replied, you are surely a saint. Who in these days, beside yourself, makes any scruple of reporting a fact, as they would have it? Who scruples to say the thing that is not?[19] Tieh-chung-u hath given us a good handle, and shall not we make a song or history of him? There are those, who can convert the least shadow into substance; and if they catch hold of a word, will compose a volume." "You say true, replied the other: but whom shall we get to draw up this ballad?" "Who should do it but myself, said Kwo-khe-tzu? Am not I a student? I can do that surely!" Shuey- [p. 219] guwin said, "If you will do it, it will be very sufficient." "But although I should compose this song, said the other, I do not chuse to write it." "That, replied his father-in-law, may be performed by another hand. To procure it to be written shall be my care. Come, let us see what you will make of it." Kwo-khe-tzu stood a little to recollect himself, and thus began.[20]

Kwo-khe-tzu having repeated the foregoing lines, Shuey-guwin, who had listened to them with great attention, clapped his hands and cried out, "Excellent! Excellently good! But I am afraid, said he, from the particular [p. 220] manner of the description, my niece will scarcely believe they are of any body's composing but our own." "Let her think so, if she pleases, replied the other; that signifies nothing." Shuey-guwin procured a person to write them; and then took them with him: but before he went, the other said to him, "If your niece will be influenced in my favour by those lines, it will be well. If not, I shall soon be able to plague her; for in a short time there will come a Ngan-yuen or Grand Visitor into this province,[21] who was a pupil of my father's. Him will I get to oblige her to marry me. And as your brother hath no son, instead of [p. 222] bringing her home to my house, I will go and solemnize the marriage at her own.[22] Then what tricks will she find to evade it?" Here Shuey-guwin started, and said, "I thought, at first, you only wanted my niece. Now I find you would have all she is possessed of. I cannot consent to this. You must carry her home, otherwise her [p. 223] house and effects will be yours; nor will it be in my power to handle then so much as a straw." "Sir, and father-in-law, said Kwo-khe-tzu, can you think I have any thing in view beside your niece? You cannot but know I want for nothing. I am son of a prime minister; and have every thing at command. As for your brother's house, when I am once possessed of his daughter, you may depend on that and all that belongs to it." "I am satisfied, said the other, I will go and carry the verses to my niece. If she acquiesces, it is well. If she scolds, or is angry, I will give her a hint about the Grand Visitor. And whatever she says, I will come and impart to you." "Well, go then, replied the youth; I will wait here till you bring me an answer."

[p. 224] What the young lady says to this, we must look for in the next chapter.

  1. ↑ CHAP. IX. In the Translator's manuscript.
  2. ↑ It may perhaps divert the Reader to mention here, that as our Rustics have fancied the dark shades in the Moon to represent a man with a bush, lanthorn and dog, &c. So the Chinese have conceived them to resemble a rabbit or hare pounding rice in a mortar. And in their first books, which are put into the hands of children, the Moon is so pictured. Again, as we paint the Sun with a human face, the Chinese represent it by a cock within a circle, &c. Vide plura apud P. Du Halde, vol. 1. pag. 374. et al. auth.
  3. ↑ "Clean and free from any thing bad." Translator's MS.
  4. ↑ The Chin. MS.
  5. ↑ Near the great gate of a Mandarine's palace are two small towers, wherein are drums and other instruments of music; on which they play at different hours of the day, especially when the Mandarine goes in or out, or ascends the tribunal. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 284. When they sound the first time, the Mandarines, &c. who wait without to receive orders, are to be in readiness: when the second time, they go in to do business: when the third time, the gates are shut again. Transl. N. B. It is a usual compliment to a Governor, &c. on his birth-day for all the other Mandarines of the place to visit him. At the same time the [p. 182] principal inhabitants of his district frequently go in a body and salute him at his palace. When the latter are admitted into his presence, one of them taking wine lifts it up on high, and with both hands offers it to the Mandarine, and says aloud by way of wish; "This is the wine that brings good luck." "This is the wine that brings long life." Then another presents sweetmeats, saying, "This the sugar of long life," &c. This ceremony is afterwards repeated by the rest. See P. Du Halde, vol. 1. 294.
  6. ↑ He is here mentioned with his surname prefixed to that of his office. Transl.
  7. ↑ In the original, "Zhe-quan, or little Mandarine of the village." Mandarine, or rather Mandarin, is a Portu- [p. 184] guese word signifying commander; from Mandar (q. a mandare Lat.) to rule, command, &c. Under this general appellation the Portuguese (who first entered China) have comprehended all the degrees of Chinese magistrates and officers, military and civil. In the language of the country they have the title of Quan or Quan-fu, Ruler, President, from their authority; and that of Lao- (or Lau-) yee, i. e. Lord or Master, on account of their quality. This last is properly the title of Literati of the first rank, whether in any employment, or not, but is sometimes given in compliment to others: even Shuey-guwin is in the original of Page 124, mentioned by a servant under the name of Shuey-u-lao-yee. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. 2, &c. Lettres edif. vol. iii. 132.
  8. ↑ Although the Translator's interpretation of this Title hath every where been retained, it seems to be inaccurate. Tu-cha-yuen is the name of a tribunal; the Mandarines that compose it, being controllers of the court and all the empire. Tieh-ying was probably either president or first assessor of this tribunal. The former of these is equal in dignity to the president of the six superior tribunals, and is a Mandarine of the second order: and the first assessor is of the third, &c. Their employment is to take care, both at court and over all the empire, that the laws and good customs are observed; that the Mandarines perform their functions justly and truly; and that all the people do their duty. They punish slight faults in their own tribunals, but great offences they report to the Emperor. It is from this court that every three or four years visitors are dispatched over all the empire. P. Magal. p. 222. Lettres edif. xxv. 253, 255.
  9. ↑ A Mandarine may in some cases act out of his own district, and can inflict the Bastinado [p. 187] any where; in the street, upon the road, or wherever he finds occasion. See P. Du Halde, v. 1. p. 311. Lettres edifiant. Rec. 22. p. 244. P. Le Compte, tom. 2. p. 28. P. Semedo, p. 240.
  10. ↑ The Bastinado may be called the daily bread of the Chinese, being inflicted on all ranks and on all occasions: it is bestowed on the bare breech with an instrument many feet long, called Pan-tse, being a thick piece of split Bambu (a hard massy and heavy sort of cane) which is rendered flat on one side and broad as one's hand. If the number of blows does not exceed twenty, it is esteemed a fatherly correction, and not at all [p. 189] disgraceful: for the Emperor himself causes it to be inflicted on persons of distinction, and behaves to them afterwards as usual. A very small matter will incur this fatherly chastisement, as the giving abusive language, a few blows with the fist, &c. After the correction is over they are to kneel at the feet of their judge, bow their bodies three times to the earth, and thank him for his care of them. When a Mandarine sits in judgment he hath before him on a table, a Case full of small Sticks or Tallies, and is attended by officers called Upz, holding these cudgels in their hands rested on the ground: who when the Mandarine throws down these tallies, seize the offender, lay him on his face on the ground, pull his drawers over his heels, and give him alternately five blows a-piece for every tally on his bare skin. In slight cases the offender may by a dexterous bribe procure them to lay their blows on lightly: or even hire others to receive them in his stead. When they are laid on very severely before [p. 190] the great tribunals, seventy, or eighty blows will dispatch a person, and many die under them. (P. Semedo.) At other times 200 have been received without loss of life. (Lettres edifiant xix. 69.) A Mandarine never stirs abroad without being attended by these Lictors, and if a person does not dismount when he passes by, or happens to cross his road, &c. he is sure to receive five or six blows, which are over in a moment. Parents give this correction to their children, Pedagogues to their scholars, and Masters to their servants: for they never use whips. All kinds of punishment, &c. begin with this as their first course, and it is so common, that all bestow it, all receive it, and all have felt it. So that as Japan is said to be governed by the Catana or scimitar, China may be said to be ruled by the Pan-tse or Battoon. P. Semedo, p. 141, &c. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 311. P. Le Compte, tom. 2. p. 60. Lettres edifiant. Rec. 19. p. 437.
  11. ↑ Anciently the Chinese used neither Tables nor Chairs, but sate and eat squat on the floor, like all the other Eastern Nations: but ever since the dynasty of Han (which ended about 180 [p. 192] years before CHRIST) they have used both Chairs and Tables: of which they have many very beautiful and of several fashions. At their great Entertainments, every guest hath set before him a little neat square Table beautifully japanned, on which are served the several dishes designed for him, either in bowls of the same japanned stuff, or of china. In some cases, when the great number of guests constrains them, they set two to each table. These Tables are set off in the fore-part with silk ornaments of needle-work or pieces of linen, hanging down from the edge: but have neither table cloths nor napkins. For the Chinese never touch their meat with their hands, neither use knives, forks, nor spoons; but only two small Sticks of ivory or ebony tipped with silver: all their meat being minced small. These Sticks are called by the Chinese Quay-tse, and by some of our Voyagers Chopsticks, which they manage so dexterously that they can take up a grain of rice with them. How they contrive to eat soup with them will be shewn in a future note. P. Semedo, p. 66, &c. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 299, 301, &c. Mod. Univ. Hist. viii. 277.
  12. ↑ Our merchants give the name of Shoes to those wedges or oblong pieces, into which the Chinese commonly cast their gold. [See notes, vol. 4. pag. 109. & pag. 153.] but it is not usual with them to give this name to their wedges of silver: however there is no doubt but these are meant by the expression in the Text. N. B. These "shoes of silver" are perhaps the same with what Kaempfer calls "Shuers of silver:" one of which, he says, weighs about five ounces, and is worth about a pound of sterling. See Hist. of Japan page 318.
  13. ↑ The Chinese expression is, "Through troublesome times."
  14. ↑ In the original it is, "Under the copes of Heaven."
  15. ↑ The Translator hath here subjoined the original words, Wauh quoan poo ly tzhing shan se. The Reader will remark the difference between this proverb and its correspondent one with us, The pitcher goes many times to the well, but comes home broken at last. The Chinese apply their Earthen-ware to more uses than we, but we are not to suppose that it is all of that kind, which we call China-ware or Porcelain. This is even with them a dear and valuable commodity. They have many sorts of common potters ware made all over the empire; but this last is manufactured only at one place called King-te-ching. This is a large town in the province of Kiang-si, three miles long and containing near a million of souls: which hath something so peculiar in the temper of the air or quality of the waters, that although none of the principal ingredients are found in its neighbourhood, the Manufacture could never be made to succeed any where else. P. Dentrecolles a French Jesuit hath obliged the world with a very ingenious and exact Description of the whole process, from which and the other authors referred to below, we shall extract such an account as may answer all the purposes of amusement. The Chinese call this curious ware Tse-ki. Its name of Porcelain is derived from the Portuguese, with whom Porcellana signifies a cup, or bason, or saucer; and was first applied to those white glossy shells called Cowries, which past for money on the coast of Africa; and afterwards to China-ware, probably from an opinion that it might be composed of them. [p. 205] This fine manufacture is of so long standing among the Chinese, that their oldest records mention nothing of its inventor or discovery. The town abovementioned hath been famous for making it upwards of thirteen hundred years. There are, exclusive of the colours, three principal ingredients in china: these are a dry Earth, a moist Clay, and a stony Oil. The first is a kind of stone, of a very fine grain, ground to powder, which being mixed with water and reduced to a cream, is brought to the consistence of paste. The second is a kind of fullers earth, of a greyish white, full of shining particles. These two are brought to King-te-ching, in the form of bricks: the former of them is called by the Chinese, "the flesh" and "the latter the bones" of the china. The third ingredient is the oil, which is drawn from a particular stone by a very curious process, and mixed with another liquid extracted from lime and fern ashes. The former are the materials of which china is composed; the latter, the varnish which gives it the glossy whiteness. [p. 206] It would be useless to trace the work through all the different hands of the manufacturers: let it suffice to say, that their first care is to prepare the materials to the highest degree of fineness and purity, a hair or grain of sand being sufficient to spoil the piece it is in. The materials are then delivered over to the Potters, where it passes from wheel to wheel and from hand to hand; one applying it to the mold, another thinning it with the chizzel, a third smoothing the edges: thus a cup or saucer shall sometimes pass through seventy hands before it is compleated; each of which uses such dispatch, that a workman at the wheel requires but three deniers [half a farthing] for twenty-six pieces. From these it passes to be painted and varnished with the oil abovementioned. Of the Painters, one strikes the circle at the edge, a second sketches the figures, which are painted by a third, &c. Last of all it is sent to the furnace, of which there are not less than three thousand in King-te-ching. "I have been surprized, says P. Dentrecolles, to see a porter ballance upon his shoulders two long narrow boards ranged with china-ware, and pass through so many crouded streets without breaking them. It is true, people are careful to avoid hitting them never so little; for in that case they would [p. 207] be obliged to make good the damage; but still it is surprizing that he can preserve his equilibrium."* * Not the Porter as it is absurdly expressed in P. Du Halde, Eng. vol. 1. p. 349. When brought to the oven the china is inclosed in earthen cases; one or more pieces in a case: which are afterwards piled up within the oven in such a manner, that the bottom of one serves for a cover to the top of another. The Ovens or Furnaces are each about twelve feet high, and twenty-four wide; and will require at one baking one hundred and eighty burdens [charges fr.] of wood. At first the oven is heated for a day and a night: the fire is afterwards kept up by two men, who relieve each other and throw in wood. The Chinese are of opinion that the whole mass is reduced to a state of fluidity, which they infer from hence, that if a small copper coin** be put on the top of one of the piles in the furnace, it will pierce all the cases and vessels, so that each will have a hole in the middle. When the ware is baked, &c. they discontinue the fire, and keep the door of the oven shut for some time. It is afterwards taken out for sale. ** N. B. No kind of metal can be made to incorporate with Porcelain. [p. 208] After so much care and labour, we are not to wonder that fine china-ware is dear in Europe, especially if we add, that few bakings succeed quite well, and that often the whole is lost, the ware and cases being reduced to a substance as solid as a rock. Too fierce a fire, or insufficient cases, may spoil all. Thus a hundred workmen are ruined for one that gets rich; to which the rigorous demands of the Emperor and the Mandarines do not a little contribute. These often require works impossible to be performed. Every trade in China hath its tutelar deity; and that of the Potters owes its original to the following accident. The Emperor sent down models, which after many vain attempts the workmen humbly represented it was not possible to execute: they received no other answer but blows, and still more pressing instances: at last one of the workmen in despair threw himself into the burning oven and was consumed in an instant. The china-ware then baking, it is said proved perfectly fine, and entirely to the Emperor's liking. The desperado became an hero, and was thenceforth worshipped as the divinity presiding over the Porcelain works, under the name of Pu-sa. [p. 209] Although the Chinese Workmen cannot execute all the models which are brought them, yet they compleat many surprizing works: thus we are told they cannot make square Slabs of china of one piece big enough for the top of a table, or seat, or picture-frame, &c: the largest they can attain to being but about a foot square, all exceeding that are sure to warp; yet P. Dentrecolles assures us that he hath seen a large Lanthorn, like that of a ship, all of china, through which one candle enlightened a whole room. He tells us also that they make Flutes, Flagelets, and other musical instruments of porcelain; as likewise Ducks and Tortoises to float on the water: and that he hath seen a Cat so painted to the life, with a lamp placed in its head to represent the eyes, that Rats were frightened at it. The same Writer informs us that they have made Urns, which have cost more than eighty crowns a piece at the furnace. To conclude this long Note, we are told the Chinese are almost as curious in European glasses and crystals, &c.*** as we are in china-ware: and that if a fondness for Old china prevails [p. 210] among our Virtuosos, it is carried to still greater height in China, where the smallest utensil which is of great antiquity will fetch an extravagant price. It is believed that the superior beauty and excellence of the ancient china, was owing to their taking greater time to mature and prepare their materials, than the present quick demands from Europe will allow them. *** The Chinese Mirrours are of polished steel. P. Du Halde 1. 196. Lettres edifiant. xxviii. 194. See Lettres edifiant. Rec. 12. p. 258--360. Rec. 16. p. 320--366. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 338--353. Mod. Univ. Hist. vol. 8. p. 243, &c. See also a curious memoir on this subject in Harris's voyages, &c. ii. 940.
  16. ↑ The Chinese Expression is, "Having been to wish him a good feast." Feasting is a very important article among the Chinese. There is no meeting, departure or arrival; no prosperous event, nor occasion of grief, but what is subject matter for an entertainment either of welcome or farewell, congratulation or condolence. At their grand feasts it is common to have twenty or twenty-four [little] dishes [chiefly of ragoo] served up one after another on each table, none of which are removed till all is over. Between every seven or eight dishes they bring in Soup either of flesh or fish, with a sort of small loaves or pies, which they take with their Chop-sticks, dip into the soup and eat without any ceremony: all the rest is conducted in great form. The French, who have refined so much on the art of eating, are far out-done by the Chinese cooks. With nothing but the Beans which grow in their country, and with the meal of Rice and Corn, together with Spices and Herbs, they can prepare a great many dishes very different from each other. [p. 212] The Chinese are not only fond of hogs-flesh, &c. but of that of horses and dogs; which are not rejected by the common people, tho' they die of age or disease. Even Cats, Rats, and such like animals, are sold openly by the butchers. And here it may be observed, that the beef is sold there without any bones, these being always first taken out. But the most delicious food of all are stags pizzles, birds nests, and bears claws. The first are dried in the sun in summer and rolled in pepper and nutmeg: before they are dressed they are soaked in rice-water to make them soft, and, after being boiled in the gravy of a kid, are seasoned with various spices. The birds nests are commonly found on the rocks along the coasts of Tonquin, &c. and are built by birds not unlike the swallow; they are supposed to make them with little sea-fishes cemented by the scum of the sea and some viscous juice, which distils from their backs. These nests contract a transparent solidity and greenish hue when dried; and resemble the rind of a large candied citron in shape and size: mixed with other meats they give them a very agreeable relish. The bears paws, of which the hindmost are in highest esteem, are stripped of their skin and preserved like stags pizzles. See P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 298--303. p. 314. Lettres edifiant. xi. 250. P. Semedo, p. 4, 65. Mod. Univ. Hist. viii. 277.
  17. ↑ Confucius. See above note pag. 116.
  18. ↑ The second river in China is the Whang-HO, or (as it written by the Portuguese with whom it hath the nasal sound of N G) Hoam-HO*, i. e. [p. 215] the yellow River, which rises not far from the source of the Ganges in the Tartarian mountains west of China, and having run through it with a course of more than six hundred leagues, discharges itself into the eastern sea. It hath its name from a yellow mud, which always stains its water, and which after rains composes a third part of its quantity. The Watermen clear it for use by throwing in alum. The Chinese say, its waters cannot become clear in a thousand years; whence it is a common proverb among them for any thing which is never likely to happen, "When the yellow river shall run bright." This river is in some places half a league over, and every where so rapid, that it would make terrible ravages if the Chinese did not restrain it with very strong dykes, one of which is ten leagues long: they are even said to have turned its current out of one province into another. Vid. Martin. Atlas Sin. p. 14. P. Le Compte, tom. 1. p. 169. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. p. 40, 326. Lettres edifiant. vii. 170, &c. * Not Hoambo, as it is erroneously given in Mod. Univ. Hist. viii, &c. in Lockman's Jesuites travels, ii. 57, and in many other books.
  19. ↑ In the original, "They will make any thing dead to be alive."
  20. ↑ In the Translator's M.S. there is left a blank of a page and half in folio for this curious lampoon, which it must have been entertaining to have seen, as a specimen of Chinese satire.
  21. ↑ Beside the Viceroy, there is sent occasionally into each of the Provinces, says P. Magalhaens, a Visitor called Ngan-tai or Ngan-yuen*. His office continues but for one year, and is very [p. 221] formidable. He takes cognizance of all causes criminal and civil; of the militia, revenue, &c. He visits, inquires and informs himself of every thing. He receives the accusations of the people against all their governors, not excepting the Viceroy himself. The inferior Mandarines he punishes or cashiers: he gives in a memorial against the greater, and they are immediately suspended from the function of their offices till an answer comes from court. Besides this, there are often private Inspectors, or Spies, sent into the provinces to observe the conduct of the Mandarines, and to report them accordingly. It is easy to conceive what excellent purposes these institutions might answer; but these good ends are too often defeated by the corruption and avarice of the officers, who are seldom found proof against bribes and presents, notwithstanding the risk they run in taking them. P. Magal. p. 241. P. Semedo, p. 129. P. Du Halde, vol. 1. 258, &c. N. B. We are told by some authors, that since the conquest of the Tartars, it having been found that the Spies or private Inspectors men- [p. 222] tioned above abused their trust, these have been laid aside. However the Mandarines are obliged to transmit from time to time to court a full and just account of their administration, noting all the miscarriages and mismanagements laid to their charge; and in case they are found to have concealed or palliated them, they are liable to be severely punished. See Mod. Univ. Hist. viii. 148, &c. * Called Cha-yuen, by P. Semedo, probably from the tribunal which dispatches them. See note above pag. 185.
  22. ↑ This is frequently the Chinese custom in such circumstances.
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