The New Civilization y Laws, etc, 139 
and customs. As a consequence, the " new civilization " 
and the views and practices of " young Japan " present 
much material for thoughtful and pleasing reflection, to the 
student of national and religious history. Japan has de- 
* veloped, nationally, politically, and religiously. 
From 1863, to 1867, the people were much disquieted. 
Foreign complications and internal strife united to produce 
war, disagreement, unrest, and a general feeling of turmoil. 
A revolution took place, which ended in placing the supreme 
power once more in the hands of the Mikado, or Emperor, 
while the Tycoon, or Shogum, retired into private life. On 
January 3rd, 1868, a proclamation was put forth, announc- 
ing that the rule was henceforth in the hands of the Mikado. 
Very shortly, the Daimios, or magistrate -nobles, were 
abolished, being pensioned off; and the Mikado swore 
solemnly that he would rule the country by the aid of a 
deliberative assembly, or parliament. But even at this date, 
the old laws against the Christian religion were in force, and 
not only so, but after this revolution, notice-boards were put 
up all over the country, bearing, among other things, the 
following prohibition. These boards faced the missionary 
at every turn. 
"The evil sect called Christian is strictly prohibited. 
Suspicious persons should be reported to the proper officers, 
and rewards will be given.'' 
In 1873, however, in deference to public opinion, all 
these notices were withdrawn, although the laws were not 
rescinded. In a future chapter, the progress of Christianity 
from this date will be more fully entered into. The primary 
object of this chapter is to describe the social, political, and 
commercial progress of Japan as a country. 
Upon the abolishing of the clan system, and the office of 
the Daimios, who were bound each to provide a certam 
