The author “tells us just as much of the history of the subject as we need to know, sketching the annals of China in particular from the earliest times, and then describing in greater detail the commercial relations of Europe and America not only with China, but also with Korea and Japan. Relations of journeys into the interior and along the coasts give a picturesque glimpse of present Far Eastern conditions. We are shown Sir Robert Hart’s Service at work, the Germans introducing their characteristic methods at Kiao-chau, Dr. Morrison watching the Legations through a glass door at Peking, and the Marconi mast standing ready to signal for help to Ta-ku. There follows a fairly elaborate history of the Russo-Japanese war, and a severe criticism of its operations; and we are told finally what the Chinese are thinking and intending, what Mr. Weale expects the future to bring forth, and what policy seems to him most likely to serve British interests. In fact, we have an embarrassing choice of topics which equally invite discussion.”—Lond. Times.
“Despite some loose history, exaggerated statements, and rather wild speculations, the work is the best account of twentieth-century China in existence, and affords useful, though far from infallible hints as to the possibilities of the next decade in the Far East.”
+ + – Ath. 1906, 1: 193. F. 17. 1070w.
“One of the most readable and valuable books which have appeared in recent years.” John W. Foster.
+ + Atlan. 97: 543. Ap. ’06. 180w.
“For a work of undoubted weight, in the sense that it shows throughout a remarkably intimate acquaintance with the affairs of the East ... the style is a delight, though style is altogether too big a word to describe the absolutely nonchalant, personal, pungent way of the author with his book.” S. S. Trunsky.
+ + Bookm. 23: 656. Ag. ’06. 1120w.
“Is by no means a perfect work of its kind, but its indisputable merits far outweigh the faults which even the most captious critic could ascribe to it.” Frederick Austin Ogg.
+ + – Dial. 40: 317. My. 16, ’06. 2600w.