Page:Journal of the Straits Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society (IA journalofstrait341879roya).pdf/23

 Passing through the Circle, out of the West door of the "Pavilion," we reach the "Two Planked Bridge," guarded by the spirits of deceased brethren, "Kiet-Beng-pu"(42 結明富) and "Ban-Bun-beng," (43 萬文明) whose "spirit throne" (44 亡兄故弟神位) or tablet, is on the left side of the bridge-head. On this tablet is the inscription.


 * "When will the day of vengeance arrive?
 * Until then, we will cherish our resentment, though it be myriads of years.

The right hand plank of the Bridge is supposed to be of copper, and that on the left, of iron.

At the bridge-head is the couplet.


 * "Staggering across, we leave no traces behind.
 * "While all creation is silently expectant, seeing that the day is already beginning to be red.

In the centre of the Bridge, underneath.


 * "A true prince will accomplish everything ho takes in hand.
 * "A true man will bring to perfection all he undertakes to do.

On the Bridge, are hung, "Ang" (45 洪錢) coin to the value of 30,821 cash, and underneath are three stepping-stones, arranged in a triangular figure, over which we pass to the "Fiery valley" (46 火坑) or "Red Furnace," (47 紅爐) guarded by a malignant though just spirit, called the "Red youth," (48 紅孩子) who enviously scrutinises the hearts of all who approach him, and mercilessly slays all traitors with his spear, and consigns their souls to the flames.

According to the testimony of the Head men, many victims have fallen by his spear in Singapore.

Having passed scatheless through this ordeal, we arrive at the Market of Universal Peace," (49 太平墟) and the Temple of Virtue and Happiness," (50 福德寺) which are at the end of our dangerous journey.

In the market is Chia-pang-hong (51 謝邦行) who sells the precious "Ang" fruits, of five kinds, and in the Temple, besides the inscription already noticed on the Spirit throne of deceased brethren," is the following couplet.


 * "In this happy place, if there be any impurity, the wind will cleanse it away.