and confidence won. This has been the foundation of Chinese politics from the earliest ages of antiquity; it has prevailed through every successive dynasty; and even now succeeds in binding together their vast and increasing population. We could tell them of a better system, which, inculcating universal love, is equally effectual in restraining oppression on the part of the ruler, as well as insubordination on the part of the subject; which, while it requires servants to be "obedient to their own masters," insists on "masters doing the same things to them, forbearing threatening, knowing that they also have a master in heaven." But for a heathen country, where the light of the Gospel has never shone, we cannot but admire the wisdom of a legislative principle, which so effectually unites and tranquillizes so vast a nation.
The policy of the Chinese government will appear in the mutual responsibility, and universal espionage which prevail throughout all the offices of state, and to the remotest corner of the empire. Though the "Great Emperor,"—the "Imperial Ruler,"—and the "Holy Lord," as he is called, claims and exercises universal and unlimited control over all "within the four seas;" though he dwells in the "pearly palace," and sits on the "dragon throne;" with the designation of "Ten thousand years," for his title, and the meed of divine honours for his gratification; yet he finds that he cannot rule the empire without assistance, or regulate its multifarious affairs without the aid of his ministers. These he calls his "hands and feet," his "ears and eyes," and to these he condescends to delegate a portion of his authority; holding them responsible for its exercise, with their fortunes, their liberties, and
