Both these positions offered me a salary much greater than a missionary gets. Though not now doing much active work in teaching in the college, I yet feel that my work and influence here are very important. Having embarked in the work of Bible translation, I cannot turn my back upon it, unless the conditions of the work itself constrain me to do so. Also I am anxious to preach,—especially to work in revival meetings amongst the native churches. I also value highly the opportunity I have to preach to the students of the college. One of the minor but notable honors that came to Dr. Mateer was the celebration of his seventieth birthday at Wei Hsien. The Chinese have a curious custom as to the birthday of the emperor, and perhaps of other distinguished persons; they celebrate it a year, a month, and a day in advance of the true date. This custom was followed on the occasion of Dr. Mateer’s seventieth birthday. An eyewitness has given the following graphic description of the affair: “The alumni and students of the college planned the “birthday party”; and a most elaborate affair it was. In the morning a long procession of hired rejoicers, with gay banners and doleful native bands, marched into the compound from the city and were reviewed at the great gate by Dr. Mateer and the college faculty. Wasn’t it a fortunate thing that the doctor-of-laws hood of Dr. Mateer agreed so well with the Chinese idea of crimson as the most appropriate color for any celebration? At the chapel, which was packed to the limit with natives and out-of-town guests, presentation speeches which none but Orientals would ever have sat through, and responses were made, world without end. The most successful native pastor in this part of China, who was once Dr. Mateer’s table boy, spoke first. The highest officials of the country were present in all their grandeur, looking properly haughty and impressive,—though I shall never cease feeling that the typical expression of dignity and authority in China resembles the lime-in-the-mouth look more closely than anything else. If a concrete argument for the existence of the college were necessary, I can think of none better than a look at the alumni. Such splendid, manly fellows they were, with keen, intelligent faces! Some have become wealthy business men, who show their appreciation; and many are native pastors and teachers. A double quartet of college students furnished the music; and it was remarkable how well they sang the complicated part tunes. They have had no regular training, but have kept at it by themselves, and have surprised us all by their progress. But for the music, the real, soul-uplifting music, give me the native band! Imagine several bagpipes and flutes, diminutive drums, and two or three toy trumpets which sound only one note;