Li.
A Chinese Itinerary measure. 250 Li make a degree of latitude. Now, as a degree of latitude is estimated at 25 leagues of 2,280 toises each, it is equivalent to 57,050 toises. A li is consequently equal 228⅓ toises. The toise is six French feet. (Fr. Ed.)
Lingua.
This term is Portuguese.
Mahometans.
We find in the Mémoires Chinois, tom. 5, in 4to. page 24, that Gengis-kan introduced Mahometans into China, and that about 1650, the Emperor Chun-chy drove out those who were still in possession of the chair of mathematics.
As to the motive of the expulsion of the Mahometans from China in 1784, which agrees with that mentioned by the author, when speaking of the Mosque, which he found at Hong-tcheou-fou, a very circumstantial account of it is given in a letter from M. Aniot, a Missionary, dated the 15th of November, 1784, and also contained in the Mémoires Chinois, tom 11, in 4to. page 590. (Fr. Ed.)
Manchoo. See Tartars.
Measure.
As often as measures are not specially designated, they are French. (Fr. Ed.)
Miao.
A general term for temples dedicated to idols. They are very considerable buildings in China, and some of them cost immense sums. See Religion. (Fr. Ed.)
Money. See Tael.
