174 Japan and the Japaiiese, 
most missionary societies. Yet, with all this, light is spread- 
ing over the empire, and more toleration is daily shown. 
A striking incident is reported from the army, which would 
naturally be largely governed by official views. It has 
always been the custom for soldiers to make a small contri- 
bution on the death of each comrade, to pay for funeral 
rites, and to assist the widows. Quite lately, a young 
Christian soldier, on being called upon for a contribution, 
refused, saying, that while willing to assist the widow and 
children of a deceased comrade, he would give no money 
to pay for heathen funeral rites. The soldier was placed 
under arrest, and the matter was referred to the Govern- 
ment. Much anxiety was felt as to the decision, and even 
the Christian comrades of the imprisoned soldier counselled 
him to join in the subscription, for the sake of peace. The 
Government, however, released the young man without 
punishment, stating that he need not pay for Buddhist rites, 
if he conscientiously objected. This recognition by the 
Government of the rights of conscience, greatly encouraged 
Christian hearts, as it practically defended them from per- 
secution, official and social. 
JAPANESE VASES. 
