Book Description

From the Preface: THE aim of the following pages is to give the names of the men who have been canonized as followers of Confucius, with a few notices of the circumstances in which these men, were born, and lived, and of the work which they severally accomplished. A slight general sketch of each individual is all that has in most cases been attempted, but the authorities given in the foot notes will supply more complete information to those who wish to pursue the study, and will also enable the reader to correct errors and mistranslations in the present work. The differences of opinion to be found in these authorities are often considerable and they occasionally do not agree as to matters of fact. Sometimes the difference arises from a misprint, sometimes from carelessness in transcribing, and sometimes from imperfect information. The reader has consequently often to exercise his judgment in the selection and rejection of conflicting statements. Much valuable assistance in compiling the Guide has been derived from the writings of several western authors whose names are generally given. The kindness of one or two native scholars deserves mention also, and one of these, the Principal of a College, supplied some books not easily obtained. But the Compiler's thanks are specially due to the Rev. W. S. Holt, of the American Presbyterian Mission Press, who has performed the arduous and wearisome task of revising the pages in going through the press