The Cross and the Dragon - Or Light in the Broad East #226678

The Empire of China presents a country so vast and diversified, a people so numerous and peculiar; constant intercourse with people from other lands is opening up its inland domain so extensively; while the studies and researches of scholars and specialists are unfolding such masses of information concerning the history, customs, and resources of the land, — that it is impossible, within the compass of a single volume, to take even a cursory glance at the whole; the time has come when it must be studied in sections. In pursuance of this plan, the southern portion of the Empire, in one particular feature of progress, is treated of in the present volume.<br><br>Canton — or Kwong-Tung, as it is pronounced by the natives — means literally the Broad East; and Kwong-Si the Broad West.<br><br>The title of the book indicates the nature of its contents. The Dragon is the national emblem of China ; it plays an important part in political, literary, and social life. The throne of China is the Dragon Throne; the national ensign is the yellow flag with a blue Dragon; the scholar leaps the "Dragon Gate" when he passes a successful examination. The Dragon is seen in the earth and in the sky.