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378 HONDA THE SAMURAI.
passages were often quoted from the Scriptures,
and
reference so often made to Bible history that I saw at
length that to understand European literature I must
know the Bible ;
for illustration of modern events
the authors quoted from the ancient sacred books as
a standard. While reading modern history I became
convinced that Christianity has an important place
in the course of modern civilization. Next I was
led to think that all science, art, and useful implements
of modern civilization are merely leaves and
branches, whilst the principal root which produces
them is the Christian religion. I can not tell now
why I thought so, nor do I think that was exactly
correct ; yet it wrought a wholesome effect on my
mind, for I commenced then continually to direct my
attention to the subject of religion.
I could understand
the New Testament pretty well in some things,
but in regard to many matters I had only confused
notions.
" I now had an intense longing to come to Yokohama
and see whether the Christians were much or
little like Jesus the lover of men. Fortunately the
resignation of my prince from the office of dictator
gave me the opportunity, and I came at once. In
Doctor Grey's house I was so kindly treated that I
was deeply impressed. When I saw the science, the
ability, the pity, and the healing power of Doctor
Bunner, I was overcome and ashamed of myself for
my former mean notions about foreigners. I got a
new idea of what moral, as apart from physical, courage
is when I saw Captain. McDougal,
and after-