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to the state: to the mind of the convert it may savour of ido-

latry, particularly if he feels his spiritual head is in sympa-

thy with his views. Fortunately, though I hear of friction at

various centres, it has not up to the present developed into a

serious issue.

76. In western districts where the ongols are in the

majority, the authorities appear to be in sympathy with lamaism.

Judging from local regulations for the running of government-

recognized primary schools by the lamas, their efforts are

devoted to weaning the coming generation from the crass super-

stitions of the old, by giving the pupils if only a smattering

of modern education and inculcating ideas of public duty.

77. In passing it may be mentioned that from the start the

government has done its best to conciliate the Mongol population

of Manchuria in order that their neighbours in Inner Mongolia

may feel encouraged to throw in their lot with the new state.

78.

(2) Teaching of Christianity.

Christian missionaries have cause for anxiety as to the

future. In September 1938 a religious law was passed under

which missionaries have to register and they are required to

obtain sanction for such acts as the opening and closing of

From churches and the appointment and dismissal of pastors.

the wording of the law it is clear that the authorities had

Buddhist, Lama and Confucian temples in view in framing it. The representative of one mission was assured that though it was necessary for foreign missionaries to comply, the govern- ment had no intention of exercising rigid control in their case. This may be a promise but it is certainly not a guarantee. Missionaries have cause, therefore, to fear that their activities may be circumscribed. They are considering at present whether

to register or to risk not doing so.

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