tion of Hwochow in T

uxuriant southern plains; cartloads of tobacco and paper from the large cities in the south of the province, and caravans of travellers; whole families packed into large carts moving to some new home; mat-covered litters swung between two mules and heavily curtained, in which the wives

f the famous opening lotus. For many months, stretching into years, this hope has sustained them through the weary pilgrimage. From the threshold of their Lhama home they have walked every step of the

e Fen River, and before him is the city gate. To this brazen image is committed the important function of guarding Hwochow fr

ith snow, and in warmer seasons touched with the beauty of ever-changing colour. These moun

ape is of a uniform shade which is best described as khaki. Owing to the friable nature of the soil formation kno

um poppy, and for miles over the plain the wonderful iridescent bloom gave th

h, and so vigorously has the law been enforced that the poppy has completely disappeared from v

the physical condition of a journey may be comparatively easy. Ease of mind, however, can only be attained by the philosopher who,

o men each produce a pipe, and it is good practice for the impatient Westerner to see them sit on their heels and talk the matter over. Time passes, but the carter is untrammelled by any artificial measure thereof, and after endless discussion, amid comforting whiffs of tobacco, he proceeds to think of a plan whereby the deadlock may be overcome.

y being hidden in the black mass. Your only hope at such a moment is to throw yourself with the grace of an expert gymnast on to the bank, thankful if you escape unhurt and only bespattered by mud. These pits are carefully kept in condition by a small group of men who appear, as by magic, to offer assistance at the suitable moment. No plight, however, excites the

e the traveller to rest, the red scrolls at the door assuring him that "From the four s

fine tower, but all the smaller streets are alike, running between blank walls, from which access to as many as twelve courtyards may be through one small door. Numerous pigs walk unhinder

t next door to this, with the money given by his wife, Mr. Hsi secured small premises and announced that he was opening an opium refuge, and was willing to recei

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of the irresistible. In the presence of the irresistible the conventional is a crazy str