Sketches from Formosa.

2Q8
SKETCHES FROM FORMOSA
of all kinds obtains higher prices." Monthly Messenger
of the Presbyterian Church of England for March 1901, p. 73.
I hope I have not drawn too largely on the reader's
patience by quoting these lengthened extracts. Some
persons may think that much of what they contain is
irrelevant here, but my point is this : if an extensive
missionary work, covering two-thirds of the Island, and
administered by three times as many foreigners as those
belonging to the mercantile class, is not only tolerated
but even encouraged, and this by officials who could
easily put obstacles in the way, then I say that the position
of "An Occasional Correspondent" in his statement of
22nd June is untenable, and that he cannot himself be
regarded as a reliable guide in forming public opinion on
the matters now under discussion. The puzzle to me is
that this self-appointed spokesman on our behalf should
exert himself so much in ransacking for materials to build
up a case against the officials of Formosa, and especially
against Dr. Goto, the Chief of the Civil Administration ;
and, while I have no desire to be uncharitable, it will not
cause much surprise for me to state that others besides
myself would be sorry if this sort of thing should go forth
among cultivated Orientals as a sample of the way in
which English gentlemen usually act. Further, I venture
to say that the prospect which " An Occasional Corre-
spondent " has placed before himself of
"
moving semipublic
bodies like the Chambers of Commerce and the
China Association," that they impress his views on the
British Government, does not concern the Japanese very
much and for this ;
reason, that, besides being shrewd men
of business, those connected with such important Corporations,
like our own Mission Convener, the late Mr. Hugh
M. Matheson of 3, Lombard Street, are also sensible men
of honour, who believe in both sides of the " Live and
Let-live "
principle ; and who, therefore, may be trusted