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and more humble, yet not less genuine, exhibition of the literary taste of the Chinese, and what is considered a respectable mediocrity of attainment among them. Their prevailing sentiments are here developed, in documents of unquestionable fidelity; and no inconsiderable light is thrown upon their characteristic manners, and their general tone of intellect and morals.
The translator, the Rev. Robert Morrison, is a person of established character and talents. With the benevolent design of introducing and promoting scriptural christianity among that astonishing population, which probably comprises a third of the human race, he has devoted the flower of his life; and has now spent several years, first in England with an accomplished Chinese as his tutor, and during the last five years at Macao, Canton, or other favourable situations, in the assiduous and indefatigable study of the
