As we sat and talked (for I was too early for my interview) my host told me all about his uncle's {323} family, and the while I wondered at the austerity of the dwelling of the greatest man in China after those of royal blood. His Excellency was then ready to receive me, and we adjourned to another equally simple room where the usual table with tea, sweetmeats, and wine was laid out. Chang during the whole interview smoked a long pipe, which required all the efforts of what I took to be two boys, but who really were slave-girls, to keep alight. He wanted to know where the money was to come from. I assured him that there are many generous people in England and America who, desiring to leave a good name behind them, and convinced that education confers on humanity incalculable benefits, are willing to give largely to such a cause. Then he inquired what line we should take with regard to Confucian learning; I said Christianity and Confucianism need not be opposed, and we should respect and encourage the teaching of the sage. He clearly approved, and gave me advice as to the course of study to be followed--first, Chinese letters, then foreign languages; and he advised as the site for the University some place near Wuchang and not Peking. He then assured me that I might tell my countrymen that he approved of the scheme. "Who," said he, "could but approve of such a scheme?" As I left he accompanied me across the courtyard, though I protested, and I felt I had been honoured {324} by this interview with one of China's greatest men. He was the embodiment of all that was fine in China. He belonged to an age that is passing away. The Chinese statesman of the future will learn Western luxury with Western knowledge. {325} CHAPTER XXVII CONCLUSION