The work is fully illustrated by accurate, and in many cases, expensive engravings. The book is not made merely to sell. Sensational statements and mere padding have been neither added nor borrowed. The author has not drawn upon his imagination in the least. He has told a story which, though sometimes stranger than fiction, is nevertheless solid fact and not baseless fancy. Let it be remembered that this is a pioneer work. The author has had to blaze his pathway through a trackless forest. He has had no guide. He sincerely hopes that by its perusal his readers will be led to an increased appreciation of the infinite superiority of Christianity to all other religions; and that they may find a deepened interest in the welfare of the heathen world. It has been the purpose of the author and the publishers to place the subject-matter of this volume within the ready reach of all who consult it. An exhaustive Table of Contents has been given therefore, in which the chapter titles and all the sub-headings of the chapters will be found. A full index of the proper names and principal topics of the book is also added, by means of which it is believed any desired subject treated in the volume can readily be found. By such means as these the book has been made as complete and as useful as patient labor can make it. Thanks are specially due to Professor Isaac H. Hall, who not only gave careful consideration to the subjects specially under his care, but who in addition read all the MS., and gave the benefit of his extended learning and excellent judgment at every point. To Professor S. Wells Williams also, the author desires to make public acknowledgment. Though burdened with many onerous duties, yet he gave his closest attention to the chapters on those much misunderstood nations, China and Japan, and from the rich stores of his own extensive and well-digested knowledge, he made such suggestions as proved of inestimable value. To the Publishers, who were ever ready to meet the author’s largest desires, his thanks are especially due. Without such generous support the volume must have fallen far below its present excellence. Indeed, all concerned in the production of the book have proved themselves true helpers, to whom author and readers alike will be largely indebted. F. S. DOBBINS. STEEL-PLATE ENGRAVINGS. PAGE FRONTISPIECE, 2 TEMPLE OF THE TEN THOUSAND IDOLS, 47 HINDU FAKIRS PRACTICING THEIR SUPERSTITIOUS RITES, 217 THE HINDU MOTHER, 234 THE FULFILLMENT OF PROPHECY, 498 A SCENE ON THE JUMNA RIVER, 760 CONTENTS.