98 is taken. In the first place it is a habit to which in the minds of the Chinese a certain amount of discredit attaches and indulgence in the same has a demoralizing effect upon the character and subjection instead of resistance to any other form of temptation. It is in the minds of the Chinese in the nature of a secret vice, and though in other directions conscience may become deadened by familiarity with the practice, I am nevertheless of opinion that in every instance the habit and the adoption of it is a wound to the moral instincts.