×

Warning

JUser: :_load: Unable to load user with ID: 1064
Print this page
Tuesday, 14 March 2017 05:26

Devils on the Loose

Written by
Rate this item
(0 votes)
Chinese junk Chinese junk Painting origin unknown

In my latest book, Dragons, Devils and Rebels, there's a chapter on what Chinese and westerners thought of each other in the early days of contact. The book's finished, but I've since been reading a biography of an Englishman who lived in Shanghai in the mid 1850's. To his shock, when he first arrived Shanghai had been overrun by rebels, and was under siege from imperial troops. Still, he was an intrepid traveller. One day he went on 'an interesting excursion' to Wusong, by boat down the Huangpu. He and his companions sailed into trouble on the way home.

 

He writes:

'...in the evening we were puzzled to know how we should pass the Imperial fleet in safety. They are somewhat random with their fire after dark, and might easily have taken us for Chinese, if not Rebel spies. Mr Edkins came to the rescue, proposing that we should sing as we passed them, that they might know we were foreigners. This suggestion seemed good and the boatmen were pleased with the idea... We approached some ships we took to be the fleet, and passed them singing lustily. But just as we were about to congratulate one another on our success, the boatmen shouted to us to recommence, as we had been mistaken in what we supposed to have been the fleet and were just coming within range of their guns. 

'So now we had to tune up again without delay...We concluded just opposite the largest ship of the fleet. It was now quite dusk.

'"What now?" cried Mr Edkins, as the alarm-gong struck on board the ship. 'There is not a moment to lose."

'He then commenced singing I know not what. Quaterman struck up a truly American tune...while I at the same moment raised a third with all the voice I could command. The men on the warship were shouting loudly, our boat's crew outdoing them if possible, and the whole thing was so ludicrous that I could control myself no longer. I burst into a fit of laughter most inappropriate to the occasion. 

'"Who goes there?" shouted a voice from the Imperial ship.

'"Bai-gui [white devils]," yelled our men, while we cried simultaneously, "Da Ying-guo" [Great Britain] and "Hua-qi-guo" which means Flowery Flag Country, or America. 

'After a little further explanation we were allowed to pass, upon which my companions began to lecture the boatmen for having called us 'white devils'. The poor men, who had not yet received their day's pay were very penitent.'

This story is taken from a letter by James Hudson Taylor of 20 September 1854, in Biography of James Hudson Taylor by Dr and Mrs Howard Taylor, Hodder & Stoughton, London 1983, pp111-112. 


Warning: count(): Parameter must be an array or an object that implements Countable in /home/alisonll/public_html/templates/rt_metropolis/html/com_k2/default/item.php on line 248
Read 2942924 times Last modified on Tuesday, 14 March 2017 09:51

214637 comments

  • Comment Link Volodyajenny Sunday, 16 March 2025 19:49 posted by Volodyajenny

    darknet links https://aasap-market.com/ - dark market url

    Report
  • Comment Link DennisBroro Sunday, 16 March 2025 19:42 posted by DennisBroro

    Хватит довольствоваться малым! Пришло время раскрыть весь свой потенциал и сорвать крупный куш!

    “Топ Рейтинг Казино” в Telegram – это твой детонатор к взрывным выигрышам!

    Мы не просто рассказываем о казино, мы даем тебе инструменты для победы:

    Разбор полетов каждого казино: От А до Я! Мы изучаем все аспекты, от лицензии и безопасности до RTP слотов и лимитов на вывод средств. Никаких сюрпризов! Секретные коды к бонусам: Получи доступ к эксклюзивным промокодам и фриспинам, которые увеличат твой банкролл с первого дня! Аналитика и стратегии от профи: Узнай, как играть умно и повысить свои шансы на успех! Мы делимся проверенными стратегиями, которые работают! Общение с единомышленниками: Делись опытом, задавай вопросы и получай советы от других игроков в нашем дружном сообществе!

    Прекрати терять деньги на сомнительных платформах! Присоединяйся к “Топ Рейтинг Казино” и начни играть как профессионал!

    https://telegra.ph/Sravnenie-luchshih-onlajn-kazino-2023-goda-Bonusy-igry-mobilnaya-versiya-i-nadezhnost--vse-v-odnom-rejtinge-ot-Rejting-TOP-Kazin-03-16-6

    Почему тебе стоит подписаться?

    Экономия времени и денег: Мы уже сделали всю работу за тебя! Не нужно тратить часы на поиски и сравнения.
    Максимальная выгода: Получай лучшие бонусы и промокоды, доступные только для наших подписчиков.
    Безопасность: Мы рекомендуем только проверенные и надежные казино с лицензией и хорошей репутацией.
    Не жди, пока удача постучит в другую дверь! Подписывайся на “Топ Рейтинг Казино” и стань повелителем азарта!

    Report
  • Comment Link Juniorimpop Sunday, 16 March 2025 19:37 posted by Juniorimpop

    https://discuss.ilw.com/forum/immigration-discussion/521724-experience-using-ceylon-cinnamon-supplements


    Hi everyone!

    I wanted to share my recent discovery of Ceylon cinnamon, which has quickly become my go-to spice in the kitchen. If you’re tired of using the usual cinnamon and want to try something truly special, then Ceylon is the way to go. Trust me, once you experience true cinnamon, you won’t go back to the regular Cassia.

    Grown in the lush hills of Sri Lanka, this spice is considered the “true” form of cinnamon. Unlike the more commonly used cassia cinnamon, Ceylon cinnamon has a lighter, sweeter flavor that’s perfect for both sweet and savory dishes. I’ve been using Ceylon cinnamon powder in my coffee, desserts, and even curries, and the taste is just incredible—smooth and aromatic without being overpowering.

    But what’s even more exciting are the benefits of Ceylon cinnamon. It’s rich in antioxidants, helps regulate blood sugar, and can even support heart health. I’ve noticed a real difference in my energy levels and digestion since adding it to my diet. Plus, it’s a great natural anti-inflammatory, so it’s perfect for anyone dealing with aches or joint discomfort.

    If you’re wondering where to buy Ceylon cinnamon, you’ll find it at a variety of online stores. I’ve found some great deals on Ceylon cinnamon sticks and powder, often on sale, so you can stock up without breaking the bank. Just make sure to look for products that are organic and sourced directly from Sri Lanka to ensure you’re getting the authentic true cinnamon.

    So, if you’re ready to take your recipes (and health) to the next level, I highly recommend trying Ceylon. You’ll love the flavor, and your body will thank you for the benefits. Don’t miss out on this incredible spice!

    Report
  • Comment Link Tolikjenny Sunday, 16 March 2025 19:36 posted by Tolikjenny

    dark web market https://github.com/darknetmarketslist/darknetmarketslist darknet drugs

    Report
  • Comment Link KxyuGor Sunday, 16 March 2025 19:26 posted by KxyuGor

    darkmarket 2025 https://cannahomemarket.link/ - darknet markets onion

    Report
  • Comment Link KxyuGor Sunday, 16 March 2025 19:25 posted by KxyuGor

    dark market list https://kingdomdarknetdrugstore.com/ - dark web markets

    Report
  • Comment Link Aviator - cg4 Sunday, 16 March 2025 19:24 posted by Aviator - cg4

    The Growing Popularity of Aviator Casino Games

    As the fame for the Aviator game grows globally, its developers are introducing new features. From improving the gameplay to creating limited-time promotions, the Aviator official website keeps the game fresh.

    For players looking for the most recent innovations, keeping an eye on the site is highly recommended. As Aviator games evolve, their fanbase will likely continue to grow, solidifying the Aviator betting game as a top contender in the online casino industry.

    The {aviator|aviator game|aviator game download is not just a game of chance; it’s a journey that keeps players engaged with its innovative mechanics. Whether you’re looking to explore the best Aviator game, discovering its bonus features, or simply seeking entertainment, this online betting game caters to all tastes.

    As you dive into the Aviator online game, remember the importance of strategy. While the excitement of watching the plane climb the skies is irresistible, careful planning will increase your chances of success. The real Aviator game is about balancing risk and reward, and it offers a feeling of triumph every time you play successfully.

    As the Aviator game captures more players worldwide, it’s clear that this standout title is here to stay. Whether you’re playing for fun or serious rewards, the Aviator crash game guarantees hours of excitement.

    So, what are you waiting for? Visit the Aviator official website - https://aviators-india.web.app/, place your bets, and join the community of Aviator winners today.

    The Aviator game shines in the world of digital entertainment due to its unique mechanics and captivating appeal. From its straightforward setup to its dynamic gameplay, it’s obvious why the game has gained a global following among gaming enthusiasts.

    One of the key draws of the Aviator game is its wide availability. Whether you’re exploring the Aviator game online, you’ll find that the game is optimized for all devices. This universal availability makes it ideal for players who value flexibility.

    Report
  • Comment Link DonaldExpef Sunday, 16 March 2025 19:16 posted by DonaldExpef

    dark markets https://github.com/darkwebmarketslinks/darkwebmarkets dark web market links

    Report
  • Comment Link DonaldExpef Sunday, 16 March 2025 19:14 posted by DonaldExpef

    darknet marketplace https://github.com/darkwebmarketslinks/darkwebmarkets darkmarket link

    Report
  • Comment Link modifikatsiiZer Sunday, 16 March 2025 19:04 posted by modifikatsiiZer

    На modifikatsii.ru ты найдешь только безопасные и бесплатные моды для Android. Мы проверяем все файлы на вирусы и угрозы, чтобы ты мог скачать их без опасений. Моды обновляются регулярно, и все они абсолютно бесплатны. Скачивай моды с полной уверенностью — только проверенные и безопасные файлы!

    Report