260 SHOOTING IN CHINA 



people and the language. Probably, in 

 theory, there was never devised a more 

 symmetrical and harmonious system for any 

 monarchical form, ancient or modern. 

 When solely studied, as a theoretical plan 

 of government, one is compelled to admit 

 and admire the nicely adjusted proportions 

 and the evenly distributed duties and 

 responsibilities, but when the practical 

 workings are studied there appear many 

 inconsistencies and much to condemn. 



For territorial administration China is di- 

 vided into about thirteen hundred districts, 

 exclusive of Manchuria, and in each dis- 

 trict there is an official known as the district 

 magistrate (Che-hien). This officer is the 

 last connecting link between official China 

 and the people, and one of the most 

 important in the entire administrative 

 system. He is the nearest to the people ; 

 his relations to them more intimately 

 concern their welfare, as the daily life of the 

 people of the district are under his im- 

 mediate supervision. When the magistrate 

 of a district is just and upright in the 

 performance of his duties the inhabitants 

 are usually peaceful and prosperous, but an 

 evil disposed and dishonest magistrate is a 



