108 
HAI-TEEN. 
The house intended for the accommodation of the Commissioners 
was sufficiently comfortable, both in itself and its situation, and had 
been the residence of Chou-ta-jin, one of the worthy conductors of 
Lord Macartney’s Embassy, who was now on the frontiers of Russia. 
It consisted of apartments communicating by door-ways covered 
with rolling screens formed of rattan. Its furniture, exclusive of 
tables and chairs highly varnished, consisted of large couches covered 
with embroidered scarlet silk. It stood in an enclosed space of some 
extent, laid out in a tasteful manner, and ornamented with showy and 
interesting plants. Suites of rooms for the accommodation of the 
other members of the Embassy were comprised in detached build- 
ings in its neighbourhood. These had not much to recommend 
them, being little better than counterparts of our reception-room in 
the palace. W e passed to them through archways and circular open- 
ings * in walls surrounding small gardens. In one of these, a large 
building, open in front, and supported by pillars covered with yellow 
silk, was prepared for the reception of the presents. 
Having partaken of a splendid breakfast, consisting of the choicest 
Chinese fare, we retired in search of the repose which should enable 
us to enjoy the inviting scenes in our neighbourhood. We were 
too much fatigued by the journey of the preceding night, to wait the 
unlading of our cots, but throwing ourselves on benches or chairs, were 
soon in a deep sleep. But scarcely had we begun our dreams of all the 
beauties of Yuen-Ming-Yuen, when we were roused by the noise of 
preparation. It was the preparation for our instant return to Tung- 
Chow. The Emperor, incensed at the Ambassador’s refusal to visit 
him, had commanded our immediate departure. Chang brought 
the order, and was soon followed by a Mandarin, who, in a loud 
* It is very common in China to see the apartments of dwelling-houses and temples, 
and the out-door enclosures, communicating with each other by round door-ways. De 
Guignes observes, “ La porte du bonheur est celle de forme ronde, celle ci a la vertu, 
suivant les idees Chinoises, d’arreter les genies malfaisans et de garanter le proprietaire du 
logis de leur malignes influences.” 
