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Tuesday, 14 March 2017 05:26

Devils on the Loose

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In my latest book, Dragons, Devils and Rebels, there's a chapter on what Chinese and westerners thought of each other in the early days of contact. The book's finished, but I've since been reading a biography of an Englishman who lived in Shanghai in the mid 1850's. To his shock, when he first arrived Shanghai had been overrun by rebels, and was under siege from imperial troops. Still, he was an intrepid traveller. One day he went on 'an interesting excursion' to Wusong, by boat down the Huangpu. He and his companions sailed into trouble on the way home.

 

He writes:

'...in the evening we were puzzled to know how we should pass the Imperial fleet in safety. They are somewhat random with their fire after dark, and might easily have taken us for Chinese, if not Rebel spies. Mr Edkins came to the rescue, proposing that we should sing as we passed them, that they might know we were foreigners. This suggestion seemed good and the boatmen were pleased with the idea... We approached some ships we took to be the fleet, and passed them singing lustily. But just as we were about to congratulate one another on our success, the boatmen shouted to us to recommence, as we had been mistaken in what we supposed to have been the fleet and were just coming within range of their guns. 

'So now we had to tune up again without delay...We concluded just opposite the largest ship of the fleet. It was now quite dusk.

'"What now?" cried Mr Edkins, as the alarm-gong struck on board the ship. 'There is not a moment to lose."

'He then commenced singing I know not what. Quaterman struck up a truly American tune...while I at the same moment raised a third with all the voice I could command. The men on the warship were shouting loudly, our boat's crew outdoing them if possible, and the whole thing was so ludicrous that I could control myself no longer. I burst into a fit of laughter most inappropriate to the occasion. 

'"Who goes there?" shouted a voice from the Imperial ship.

'"Bai-gui [white devils]," yelled our men, while we cried simultaneously, "Da Ying-guo" [Great Britain] and "Hua-qi-guo" which means Flowery Flag Country, or America. 

'After a little further explanation we were allowed to pass, upon which my companions began to lecture the boatmen for having called us 'white devils'. The poor men, who had not yet received their day's pay were very penitent.'

This story is taken from a letter by James Hudson Taylor of 20 September 1854, in Biography of James Hudson Taylor by Dr and Mrs Howard Taylor, Hodder & Stoughton, London 1983, pp111-112. 


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Read 3250152 times Last modified on Tuesday, 14 March 2017 09:51

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  • Comment Link Juniorimpop Tuesday, 10 December 2024 13:59 posted by Juniorimpop

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    Hey everyone! If you’ve ever been curious about the traditional foods of England, you’re in for a treat. I’ve been diving into the rich and varied world of English food culture, and let me tell you, it’s more than just fish and chips—though that’s a classic for a reason!

    The beauty of exploring UK food lists lies in its diversity. From hearty Sunday roasts with Yorkshire puddings to savory pies and puddings (think steak and kidney or shepherd’s pie), there’s so much to discover. And if you’re into desserts, England has you covered with treats like treacle tart and spotted dick. Trust me, they’re better than they sound!

    What’s great is that many of these dishes are easy to recreate at home. If you’re looking for recipes, try making a simple ploughman’s lunch—a plate of cheese, bread, chutney, and pickles—or a comforting bowl of pea and ham soup. They’re quick to prepare but full of authentic flavor.

    For lunch, the list of lunch food in the UK is just as exciting: sausage rolls, Cornish pasties, or a fresh egg and cress sandwich are perfect options. And don’t forget the classic afternoon tea experience with finger sandwiches and scones—it’s a must-try!

    What I love most about English food is how it reflects the country’s history and traditions. Every dish has a story, from the influence of medieval feasts to global spices brought home by explorers. It’s more than just eating; it’s a cultural journey.

    If you’re into discovering food cultures or just want some new dishes to try, dive into the traditional foods of England. Let me know if you have a favorite dish or need tips—I’d love to chat!

    Report

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