ed in our hands, from various sources, during twenty years of ordinary study and labor as missionaries. It has been our cherished hope that ultimately they might assume a permanent form, so as to be of service to others who may follow us in the study and use of the Chinese language; and it is with much satisfaction that we are now permitted, in the providence of God, to realize that hope: at the same time we recognize the entire truthfulness of Dr. Johnson’s remark, that while "every other author may aspire to praise, the lexicographer can only hope to escape reproach".
The work is now offered to the public, with the earnest desire that it may be useful to students of the Chinese language; that it may tend to facilitate friendly intercourse between Western nations and China; and, above all, that it may promote the cause of Christian Missions among the Chinese.
R. S. MACLAY.
Foochow, June 14th 1870.
