Directory_and_Chronicle_1842 — Page 407

1842.

Letter of Wang Tinglan

BS9

2. A Lexilogus of the English, Mulay, and Chinese languages; comprehending the vernacular idioms of the last in the Hok-keen and Canton dialects. Printed at the Anglo-Chinese College press: Ma- lacca, 1841. pp. 110. This little school-book, executed under many disadvantages, is nevertheless very servicable, particularly to those for whose use it was especially designed, namely,-Chinese who are learning English. The sentences are short and easy, and such as are constantly needed and used in the common business of life. It was designed evidently for the school-room, and not as a manual for reference. The phrases being thrown together in a miscellaneous manner, it is not easy to find any particular term, required for a special object or occasion. Had the phrases been arranged according to subjects, the value of the conection would have been considerably enhanced.

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3. First Lessons in the Tie-chew dialect. By W. Dean. Bankok, Siam, 1841. Pp. 43. This little work," Mr. Dean says,

“aims at nothing more than a few simple lessons for beginners." Its general character is quite like that of the Lexilogus-but it differs from that work in two particulars: the phrases are arranged into classes ac- cording to subjects, and are limited to one dialect. The Chinese in both these works, is printed with Mr. Dyer's new type.

4. Easy Lessons in Chinese, or progressive exercises to facilitate the study of that language, especially adapted to the Canton dialect. By S. Wells Williams. Printed at the office of the Chinese Reposi- tory. Macao, 1842. Pp. 287. On another occasion we will give an analysis of this work, like that given of the Chinese Chrestomathy in a former number—our object being to show what the works are, hoping thereby to secure for them a favorable reception by those who are desirous of promoting the study of Chinese literature. The Easy Lessons have been favorably noticed and recommended by the editors of the Canton Register and Canton Press.

ART. V. Letter of Wáng Tinglán, commissioner of justice in the province of Canton, addressed to his friend Tsang Wangyen, a native of Hiảngshan, and late memorialist to the throne. SIR, to you I respectfully address this communication. The soldiers collected from the several provinces, for the recent service in Canton,