154 Sporting Notes in the Far East. 



is the voluntary association of the Chinese officers with their men, 

 and of course the latter very soon lose all their respect for their 

 superiors : and I also believe, that the national and fatal vice of 

 gambling, has much to do with the lamentable state of affairs. 



As long as the British admiral is en evidence, all goes like clock- 

 work; but, immediately his back is turned, " Fantan " is the 

 mot dejour ; and for the mild, though withal, festive punters, it is 

 speedily a case of, " shake up the bright brass counters, and call the 

 rattling main ! " Truly a queer phase in the internal economy of a 

 man-of-war, but well worthy of the characteristics of this 

 remarkable nation. 



BUSH ISLAND. 



This island lying in the Yang-se ; off the mouth of the Woosung 

 river, is a good resort in winter for all kinds of water-fowl. 



Procure two day's leave, and ask Mr. M y (the Royal Navy 

 pilot), to lend you his boat in an off time. Anchor her off the 

 island, and then after shooting, you will have the satisfaction of 

 returning to dine and sleep on board a comfortable pilot boat, 

 instead of having to " pig it out " on the island all night. 



A heavy gun is of great assistance here, when after geese. 



SHANGHAI. 

 Qf Shanghai and its surroundings, I can give but little 



