It is a common conviction nowadays that “the future of the world depends largely on what happens in China during the next few decades.” To know China, and to know her intimately, is the first step towards a better international understanding and the assurance of future peace in the Far East. The present volume serves as an admirable guide. Since the days of Marco Polo scores of books describing China, both good and poor, have been written. As an intimate friend and careful observer of China, Miss Kemp’s new production together with her previous works are certainly to be classified among the best ones. From cover to cover, this volume contains facts and experiences that are entertaining, informative, and valuable. SAO-KE ALFRED SZE. CHINESE LEGATION, WASHINGTON, D.C. _October 24, 1921._ _Contents_ PROLOGUE BY HIS EXCELLENCY SAO KE ALFRED SZE (Chinese Minister at Washington) CHAP. PAGE INTRODUCTION 11 I THE LONG ROAD 17 Provinces visited: =1 Shansi=, the Progressive—Railway Journey from Shanghai to Taiyuanfu. =2 Chihli=—A few words about Peking. =3 Shantung=—The Japanese domination—Tsinan, a great Educational Centre. =4 Kiangsi=—Shanghai, the centre of Great National Movements. =5 Chekiang=—Railway Trip to Hangchowfu—Down the Coast by Steamer to Hong Kong and Tongking. Through Indo-China by Rail to =6 Yünnan=. From Yünnanfu by Chair into =7 Kweichow=, a most backward Province. From Chen Yüen by House-boat through =8 Hunan=. By Steamer from Changsha into =9 Hupeh=. Down the Yangtze from Hankow through =10 Nganhwei=, =11 Kiangsi= to Shanghai. II THE MODEL GOVERNOR—YEN HSI-SHAN 49 Description of Taiyuanfu, the Capital—The Hall of Public Worship—Girls’ Schools—Sports—New Institutions for Cattle Breeding, Agriculture, Sericulture—Beggars removed into Workhouses—Introduction of the New Script—Unification of the Language—The Governor as Author—Famine Relief Works—Four Hundred Miles of Road-making—The Model Gaol—Quick Methods of Communication—Transport Lorries from England. III THE PROVINCE OF YÜNNAN 67 French Influence—Activity of Brigands—A Modern Robin Hood—Chinese Home Missions—Women’s Initiative—A Visit to the Lake and its Places of Pilgrimage—Mineral Resources of Yünnan—Preparations for Road Journey—Wonderful Scenery and Flora—Stormy Weather—Opium Culture—The Chinese View of Opium Smoking—Sale of Children—Difficulties with Coolies—Weather Symbols. IV THE PROVINCE OF KWEICHOW 87