Page:The Chinese Repository - Volume 01.djvu/59
Chinese tongue. The fourth explains the advent of Jesus Christ by his incarnation. In the same column is the word Tacin, which must here signify Judæa; and there is also a reference to the star in the east. Mention is also made of baptism, and of several ceremonies practised by the Christians. In the sequel of this inscription, there is reference to the preaching of the gospel in China; and it is said that in the time of Taizan-ven, a holy man called Olopuen or Lopucn, came hither from Tacin, conducted by the blue clouds, and by observing the course of the winds.'
Here we close our extracts from Renaudot; and with one or two remarks must leave the subject, our limits not allowing us to say more. These Syrians seem to have been of the sect of the Nestorians; and, entering the country in the seventh century, to have continued a succession of labours for three or four hundred years; but to make this matter perfectly satisfactory, much more ample testimony is needed. As a topic of ecclesiastical history, this subject opens a wide range, and invites the attention of those who ore interested in such inquiries.
Journal of a residence in Siam, and of a voyage along the coast of China to Mantchou Tartary, by the Rev. Charles Gutzlaff.
(continued from page 25.)
Great numbers of the agriculturists in Siam are Peguans, or Mons (as they call themselves). This nation was formerly governed by a king of its own, who waged war against the Burmans and Siamese, and proved successful. But having, eventually, been overwhelmed, alternately, by Burman and Siamese armies, the Peguans are now the slaves of both. They are a strong race of people, very industrious in their habits, open in their conversation, and cheerful in their intercourse. The new palace which the king of Siam has built, was principally erected by their labour, in token of the homage paid by them to the 'lord of the white elephant.' Their religion is the same with that of the Siamese. In their dress, the males conform to their masters; but