To the Editor of the "Norra-Cara Daty News."
Str,—As a matter of academic interest it is always worthy of observation to note the influence of Western ideas upon the Chinese mind, at times when no possible suggestion can be entertained that We see it exercised every day inj the aim of the parties concerned was to affect the Westerner, i.e. "for foreign consumption." This modification of ideas can often be noticed in the articles provided for burning' at funerals, for ceremonial purposes. Of course we have all seen the stacks of paper sycee. Of recent years it- has become not unusual to substitute cardboard stamped Mezican dollars. On one occasion I even picked up Mexican half dollar pieces, so Charon's tariff may admit of bargaining. During the last week I have noted two further innovations. One was the introduction of cardboard Yuan Shih-kai dollars. The other innovation did fairly astonish me. It was being carried to the Ningpo Mortuary, (across Siccawei Creek, halfway to Arsenal). It was nothing less than a complete model motor-car, with chauffeur, bonnet, ete., complete, with a fine wind shield. Nicely finished, and mounted on four spider ricsha wheels. Bearers seemed very proud of it.
As a matter of academic interest, only, such an innovation is worth record.
I did not ascertain name of family concerned with funeral, and mention the subject with all sympathy and no spirit of disrespect.
I am, ete.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.