THE DUNGANS 615 



Another proof of the theory that the Chinese Mohammedans are 

 of Turki origin, is found in the derivation of the title " Hui-hui," 

 by which they are known throughout the Empire. This term, 

 according to Dr. Bretschneider, was given formerly to the Uigurs 

 of Northern Mongolia, a people of pure Turki origin who were 

 afterwards driven out of Mongolia, and formed a kingdom in 

 Southern Dzungaria and Chinese Turkestan. These people em- 

 braced Islam, and were no doubt the main source from which 

 emanated the Turki Moslem communities in China Proper, 

 It is easy to understand how, in time, the name came to be 

 applied to all Moslems. 



The next great movement which brought China into close 

 communication with Western Asia and Islam was that resulting 

 from the conquests of Jenghis Khan. This great Mongol con- 

 queror destroyed the capitals of the Islamic civilization, and 

 the seats of Mohammedan learning, and, by virtue of this, China, 

 under the Mongol Emperors, became almost the sole protector 

 of Islam in Central Asia. Vast numbers of Mohammedans now 

 began to flock into China. Jenghis Khan himself spared the lives 

 of all those who could be of use to him, and transported Arab 

 and Persian skilled artisans, and men of learning into Cathay. 

 This resulted in the establishment of a strong Mussulman com- 

 munity in China, which increased rapidly in power and in 

 wealth, which kept its religious independence, although it lost 

 its individuality as a nation, and which rapidly assimilated 

 its neighbours and surroundings, until the entire community 

 became Chinese in all but name. 



The Chinese Moslem can generally be distinguished from 

 other Celestials by his physiognomy, his build, and some small 

 details in his habits. So closely, however, do they sometimes 

 approach each other in type, that they are almost indistinguish- 

 able except for certain differences discovered only after much 

 observation. On the whole, it was the manner and bearing 

 of the Dungan that most impressed me and proved him as 

 different to his fellow-subjects. Energy and keenness, even if 

 mixed with some insolence, make him preferable to deal with. 

 Usually of a fine build, with a bridged nose and a modified 

 almond-shaped eye, the Moslem always shows some trace of his 



