Page:Chinese Characteristics.djvu/371

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GLOSSARY OF TECHNICAL TERMS.


BOY, a term used by foreigners in China to denote the head-servant, irrespective of his age.

CATTY, a Chinese pound, equal by treaty to one and one-third pounds avoirdupois.

COMPRADORE, a steward or agent.

FÊNG-SHUI, literally, "wind-water." A complicated system of geomantic superstition, by which the good luck of sites and buildings is determined.

K'ANG, a raised platform of adobe or of bricks, used as a bed, and heated by means of flues.

K’O TOU, or KOTOW, the act of prostration and striking the head on the ground in homage or worship.

LI, a Chinese measure of length, three or more of which equal an English mile.

SQUEEZE, a forced contribution exacted by those through whose hands the money of others passes.

TAEL, a weight of money equivalent to a sixteenth of a Chinese pound; an ounce.

TAOTAI, an officer of the third rank, who is intendant of a circuit.

YAMEN, the office and residence of a Chinese official.

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