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toasted bread served to be eaten with silver and ebony chopsticks, and tea to drink holding the saucer with the cup in it and drinking so. The finger bowl was a large wash-rag wrung out of hot water. The next time I went there was a regular feast of seven bowls and four plates, my teacher said that was paying me honour, but I objected and told the lady if she was going to so much trouble I would be afraid to come, so now it is only tea and cakes which requires practice to pick up off of the table with the silver tipped chopsticks.
The monotony of Taiho has been varied too by a visitor, a young man came and took some pictures for us, will send you one when I get them.
Christmas was livelier than usual this year as we tried to make the best of it for the children. Chinese New Year was less busy than usual because snow and mud kept the immense crowds away. Classes and meetings and school go on as usual, encouragements there are, and next time I may tell you about one or two. Some of the women are coming on nicely. I go to an out station again on Monday if nothing happens to prevent, after being hindered several times lately in the starting. When I return it will be time to get ready to pay the promised visit to my Presbyterian friends at Huai Yuen. I do not like to leave my women but feel it is necessary for my health's sake and future work.
It is already summer, the cherry blossoms are gone and peach blossoms all but done and we have a long time of heat to look forward to.
With much love to you and to the children.
Affectionate yours,
EDITH