Sketches from Formosa.

HAVING A BRIEF HOLIDAY 23
such ailments. They all belonged to the small crofter
class, as we would say in Scotland, and most of them
seemed to be people of good ordinary intelligence,
although very illiterate. I greatly enjoyed my visit to
Tek-a-kha, it being a positive treat to meet with brethren
who are so hearty and sincere. Some of the small-
footed women walked long distances to come to worship
that day.
On returning to Takow, we found Mr. lap Han-chiong
our arrival. He is a native minister of the
awaiting
American Reformed Church at Amoy, and had come
over for a short change, and to see a little of the churches
in Formosa. Of course, he was most cordially welcomed
as an esteemed co-labourer in the work of the Gospel.
Pastor lap has occupied his present position for many
years, is quiet in manner, a very capable man, and one
who cannot fail to be wielding an extensive influence
for good among his fellow-countrymen. He accompanied
us on our second journey, and assisted us in every way
he could.
Soon after starting again, we reached our quarters for
the night in the walled county town of Pi-thau. The
converts there have recently passed through some very
trying experiences. Twice has the chapel been torn
down by lawless mobs, and one of the native preachers
lay seven weeks in Pi-thau jail for nothing save his
faithfulness to Christian duty. And yet, matters seem
now to be in a thoroughly hopeful and prosperous con-
dition. I spoke to several who endured severe perse-
cution about a couple of years ago, and they impressed
me as being humble and earnest men who would be an
ornament to any such little company of believers.
remarked that
During the course of conversation, they
the administration of the present Chief Magistrate is so
oppressive that even former enemies of the Church are