their protection, the restraint in many parts is only nominal, and the effects of French and German strong drinks are disastrous.”
“In China of recent years the work has, presumably, been much interfered with, owing to the fanatical outbreaks there?”
“Yes; but the latest news from China is everywhere so encouraging that we are able to let our missionaries return to their stations, and also to send reinforcements. In almost all cases the British Consuls have allowed the return of the ladies as well as of the men. How soon disturbances may break out again we never know. The unexpected always happens in China. We have adopted the policy of asking for no compensation, and certainly would take none for life—blood-money we absolutely refuse. Nevertheless, at one time we thought we ought to be compensated for the destruction of buildings. The Government approached us to know what we were going to do, but we deemed it wise to leave the matter alone, and I think that course has had a good effect. There have been cases where the Germans and Roman Catholics have claimed large sums of money, and it has done them distinct injury. During the recent disturbances, a good many of our missionaries were brought down to the treaty ports, but I am glad to say that none of them experienced such terrible perils and sufferings as those of the China Inland Mission, the S.P.G., and
