China

Radio Record, Volume IV, Issue 47, 5 June 1931, Page 8

China

ON ey I had the pleasure of hear~ Dr. Guy 4H. Scholefield, ". B.E., ive another of his international talks from 2YA, Obviously having regard to the two distinguished gentlemen from China who are visiting us just now, the speaker chose China for the subject of ‘his talk. Considering the magnitude and vastness of his topic, the Doctor did very well. Without attempting to do more than skim over the more recent events which have changed that vast Republic, he explained something of the aims and ambitions of the leaders of modern China.’ With a civilisation which dates back to the time when our ancestors were running round. in dog’ skins and stealing each other’s wives (we no longer wear dog skins) China has always surrounded itself with an aura of mystery as intriguing as it is fathomless. As an example of the magnitude of the task which such modern leaders as the late Sun Yat Sen set themselves, let it be remembered that China represents a population of four hundred millions, all of one race but, although possessing a common language, using’ dialects which makes a man of the North incomprehensible to a man of the South, East or West, and having’ a conservatism which must be experienced to be believed. In face of this obstacle the Modernists sticceeded:in overthrowing the Dynasty of the Manchu Emperors, which had ruled the destiny of China for centuries: they have since established a‘responsible government in Nankin (overthrowing the power of ancignt Pekin), and have persuaded Great Britain that they are sufficiently capable of maintaining law and order as to’ permit the Mother Country to leave the safety of her subjects in China to the Chinese. This is an achievément at which we must all marvel. As to the future of Chinawho can prophesy?