ὙΣΤΕΡΟΝ ΠΡΟΤΕΡΟΝ.
The preachers of the Gospel in China are not yet agreed among themselves as to who is God in that country. Some say it is "Shin," others say it is "Shang-te"; while a few declare it is neither.
Our own knowledge of the subject is, we regret to say, very limited. For we have never been in China; and our acquaintance with Chinese literature is as yet only slight. But, in common with many, we earnestly wish to see the Gospel have free course in China, instead of being hindered there by those who preach it. If, therefore, they and their friends at home, will not disdain a few hints from one who has no prior claim to their notice, we will venture to suggest a few points at issue between them, which, when calmly considered, may possibly tend to level difficulties in the way of a mutual understanding.
"Favete, adeste æquo animo, et rem cognoscite
Ut pernoscatis, ecquid spei sit reliquum."
But, although we had no alternative, in giving
