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132 disorder, and the gentle coercion of a vast population, it appears to us to be in general mild and efficacious." "There is nothing here of the monstrous verbiage of most other Asiatic productions; but a clear, concise, and distinct series of enactments, savouring throughout of practical judgment and European good sense; and, if not always conformable to our improved notions of expediency in this country, in general approaching to them more nearly than the codes of most other nations."

These encomiums are certainly high, and the general laws of China are, undoubtedly, much indebted to their elegant translator, and still more lavish admirer. In our humble opinion, many of the penal laws are just and good, and indicative of a knowledge of human nature, not to be met with in the savage state. Among the Chinese, the code is highly prized; and their only wish is, to see their enactments justly and impartially administered. The whole is divided into six sections, according to the six tribunals above named; and regard civil office, revenue, rites, military proceedings, punishments, and public works.

The civil laws refer to the system of government, and the conduct of magistrates. According to these statutes, hereditary rank is allowed, but only such as commenced with the present dynasty, and has been purchased by extraordinary services to the state. The appointment and removal of officers depend entirely on the will of the emperor. No officer of government can quit his station without leave, and no superior can interfere with his subordinates, except in the regular discharge of his duty. All officers engaged in cabals, and state intrigues, are to be beheaded; while those who neglect the orders of government, or fail in their duty, are liable to the appropriate penalties of the law. No magistrate can hold office in his own province;