222 
TRANSACTIONS OF THE PLYMOUTH INSTITUTION. 
THE SHU KING; 
OR, THE OLDEST OF THE SACRED BOOKS OF CHINA. 
SYLLABUS OF LECTURE BY REV. S. VINCENT. 
(Read 14th March, 1889.) 
A collection of Chinese historical documents, said to extend 
from the twenty-fourth to the seventh century B.C. Its place 
amongst the Chinese classics. Its compilation and probable 
sources. The legendary character of its earlier portions, with 
some clear indications of true history. A date fixed by the 
mention of culminating stars. The triad of great emperors, Yao 
and Shun and Yii. Their ministers, maxims of government, &c. 
Early mention of war and drunkenness. Degenerate kings ; e.g. 
Thai Kia. His punishment and reformation. Yiieh the Builder 
and his sayings. The hounds of Lu. The Duke of Kan and 
the metal-bound coffer; a story of singular devotion. Against 
luxurious ease. And a general view of the teaching of the whole 
book upon : 1. Human nature. 2. Religion — (a) divination ; 
(b) fate ; (c) ancestral worship. 3. Statecraft— (a) the people, 
their worth, need, and claims; (b) rulers, their duties, and their 
rights as depending upon the performance of their duties. Some 
wise sayings quoted. General estimate of the book. 
