268 
WANDERINGS IN CHINA. 
Chap. XVII. 
tiled roof sparkle as if covered with precious stones. It 
looked more like an enchanted palace than the dwelling- 
place of man. And yet it was melancholy to think that, 
however fair and enchanting to look upon, and however 
beautiful ihe scenery around it, a cloud more dark than 
the thundercloud rested upon it, for it was but " an altar 
erected to the unknown God." 
When China is really opened these mountains may 
become important stations for the labours of the Christian 
missionary. It will doubtless be a sacrifice of no ordi- 
nary kind for men to immure themselves and their 
families in such places, far away from any means of 
communicating with their friends or relations at home. 
But the Roman Catholic church has led the way, and, 
amidst many dangers and difficulties, has given us some 
noble examples of self-denial and heroism. I know very 
weU that some persons imagine that these men have 
other objects in view than the advancement of the 
Redeemer's kingdom upon earth. I trust I am a 
consistent Protestant, but I am not one of those who 
are uncharitable enough to try to find out other 
reasons than the true one to account for the conduct 
of men who have left all that is dear on earth — friends, 
home, and country — in many instances for ever, to 
preach the Gospel to the heathen. A good cause can 
always afford to give praise where praise is due. I 
confess it pains me to hear the labours of these men 
undervalued, for I know well what they have to un- 
dergo. 
The Protestant church has many champions as bold 
