Page:China- Its State and Prospects.djvu/248

222 have been derived from some indistinct traditions of gospel history. In the time of Han Hwan-te, A.D. 147, "the people of India, Arabia, and other parts, came by the southern sea to China, with tribute; and from this time trade was carried on with foreigners at Canton." Chinese history further mentions, that, about the same period, an extraordinary person arrived in China, who taught a doctrine purely spiritual; and drew the admiration of all, by the virtues he possessed and the miracles he wrought.

The next intimation of the introduction of Christianity into China, is given us in the famous marble tablet, which was dug up, at Se-guăn-foo, in the year 1625. This tablet is ten feet long, and five broad, surmounted by a cross, resembling that used by the Syrians, in Malabar. It contains an inscription in the Chinese and Syriac languages, describing the principal doctrines of the Gospel, and the history of its introduction into China. The Chinese inscription is entitled, "a tablet recording the introduction of the religion of the Ta-tsin country into China." It commences with stating the existence of the living and true God—the creation of the world—the fall of man—and the mission of Jesus Christ. The miraculous birth, and excellent teaching of the Saviour, are briefly described. His ascension is spoken of; the institution of baptism mentioned; and the cross declared to be effectual for the salvation of all mankind. The inscription goes on to state, that in the reign of Tan Tae-tsung, A.D. 636, a Christian teacher came from Ta-tsin to China; where the emperor, after examining his doctrines, published an edict, authorizing the preaching of Christianity among the people. The next emperor