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 Chinhtown 
 
 AS I SAW IT. 
 
 NEW YORK : 
 
 A. w. Knox, 56-58 Grand Strei 
 
 1895. 
 
 
Copyrighted, 1895, 
 
 — BY— 
 
 A. W. Knox, Publisher. 
 
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 CHINATOWN AS I SAW IT. *^ ^V/ 
 
 A.VTXG been invited to make a nocturnal tour 
 through the Chinese section of Xew York City, 
 in company with several Christian philanthro- 
 pists, to gain 'an insight of what, to the large majority, 
 is a mysterious and depraved terra incognito, 1 availed 
 myself of the opportunity it gave me to obtain an ac- 
 curate knowledge of the actual state of affairs there. 
 The object lessons, presented during the hour or so spent 
 in this investigation, enlarges on my memory as does the 
 picture drawn on the slide when thrown upon the screen. 
 
 Our facilities for securing correct information were 
 unparalleled, and what we saw and learned was abso- 
 lutely honest and unbiassed. 
 
 The usual method adopted, is to visit these localities- 
 in company with a detective or someone holding legal 
 authority. These are well known by the subjects sought 
 after, and naturally, knowing that they have no kindly 
 sympathy, the parties would be placed in antagonistic 
 defense and their hearts locked and barred. 
 
Oar contact was peculiarly opportune, and at one 
 v-disarmed them of suspicion, dispelled reserve and opene 
 tiearts that brought to light, candid, honest and thri 
 ling disclosures. 
 
 For once we were under the custody of a woman, an 
 for the time being as the instrument and servant c 
 Christ she carried our lives in her hand. 
 
 A most devoted woman is this female missionary, wh 
 has given her life to this work, and in spite of th 
 herculean task before her, has accomplished result 
 which struck me with dumb amazement. 
 
 Sustained by the irresistable power of the Holy Ghost 
 she has gained intimate access to the inner life; and th 
 appreciation of the Christ-love glowing in her heart fo 
 them, has induced, not only candor, but intense recipro 
 • cal love on the part of those she seeks so earnestly t<| 
 benefit, and her influence and power is simply marvelous 
 
 .Caesar's bulletin was " Veni, Vidi, Vici, " but ir 1 
 rmaking invasion of this stronghold of depravity, wV 
 :>may truthfully say, Veni, Vidi, but there we are com 
 pelled to halt. The Vici can be accomplished by Divine* 
 power alone. Gideon is" powerless, but "The sword oi 
 ■the Lord and of Gideon" is irresistable. 
 
 I am fully aware that, on that night, she only raise 
 ■_a corner of the vail which hangs before this awful 
 condition of affairs. 
 
 - 
 
What we did see and hear was appalling, but she could 
 have taken us to scenes far exceeding them in degradation 
 and vice. 
 
 But let us go forward, piloted by our devoted guide : 
 
 My companions being experienced and apt, both in 
 appeal and persuasion, my vocation resolved itself into 
 silent observation, by eye and ear — allowing no cir- 
 cumstance— no, not a flush or change of expression to 
 pass unnoticed and studying closely, not only actions 
 but words ; also, endeavoring to read the motives 
 prompting them, even though they be constrained by 
 passion or hidden by long training in crime. 
 
 Will the reader follow closely each statement in inter- 
 view, and in succeeding paragraphs will be found 
 comments and deductions therefrom. 
 
 " Follow me/' said our missionary guide. " Have you 
 any matches ? " And up narrow stairs we followed on — 
 Indian file — striking matches to light our steps. 
 
 The approaching vistas were a mystery, and we little 
 imagined what would burst upon our vision — we were 
 constrained to anticipate squalor, dirt and exhibitions 
 of deepest depravity that wonld make us sick at heart. 
 
 Our guide knocked at the door, and on response, in 
 we filed to view a scene that dazed us with amazement. 
 
 On entry, we were met by a finely built young woman 
 of superior bearing and carriage indicative of the fact 
 
that she did not emanate from the lower walks of life, 
 but had had the advantage of good education. 
 
 Though somewhat embarrassed by our presence, her 
 reception and conversation was respectful — I may say, 
 lady like. 
 
 She answered questions put to her, naturally somewhat 
 reluctantly, but, modestly and without a sign of arro- 
 gance or vulgarity, and throughout the interview there 
 was nothing to offend the most fastidious sensibilities. 
 
 Her style of dress was neat and refined as any in more 
 reputable walks of life, and the apartment, instead of 
 what we anticipated, was as tidy, clean and tasty a little 
 home as could be wished for under more auspicious 
 conditions. 
 
 On enquiry, we found that she had come from a good 
 family, that she had been well brought up, and that she 
 has a mother in good circumstances. 
 
 But, sad to state, this young woman is a victim to the 
 accursed opium habit, and is living in concubinage with 
 a Chinaman. On this latter relationship, particular en- 
 quiry was made, resulting in emphatic declaration of 
 kindness and consideration on his part, which could but 
 induce reciprocal attachment. 
 
 To earnest prayers and pleadings she listened respect- 
 fully, but whether they impressed her, we had little indi- 
 cation, as she held her words and feelings under control. 
 
We parted from her, heart sick that one who could 
 have heeu an ornament to any household, should be en- 
 slaved by such a soul destroying habit and buried alive 
 in such sad surroundings. 
 
 The scene changes as we visit another of these lament- 
 able abodes, and as we enter the room I will endeavor to 
 describe the surroundings. Never have I seen more im- 
 maculately clean or tidy a room on either side of the 
 Atlantic; the furniture was not expensive, but showed 
 emphatically the industry of the housekeeper — my eye 
 scanned every item carefully. The mirror was bright, 
 without a bloom on it. The table was covered with a 
 neat cloth, and the lamp was clean and bright. In the 
 alcove, I could see the full sized bed properly made, and 
 the linen was white as driven snow. New England 
 ladies, I have been told, are fastidious housekeepers, but 
 my impression is, that, as far as these rooms are concern- 
 ed, they could not exceed them in order, neatness and 
 cleanliness. They would find here a close competitor. 
 I have enlarged on this point, and shall make my com- 
 ments later on. 
 
 A sad, sad spectacle then presented itself ! Sitting at 
 the table was a young girl of exceptional and classic 
 beauty. Her features were regular and beautiful — a 
 fitting model for the chisel of a Ohantrey or a Powers. 
 As I sat opposite her, I scanned her countenance 
 
most intently during the interview, to divine the dis- 
 position unexpressed, or the working of repressed emo- 
 tions. As I watched the variations of expression, I noted 
 that rigidity indicative of sad schooling. 
 
 She was not communicative, but the information had 
 to be drawn from her by skilful persuasion, but what 
 we did learn made hearts ache. 
 
 This beautiful girl is now only eighteen — ruined as a 
 child, she became a mother, and then as an outcast enter- 
 ed into Mongolian concubinage. 
 
 The endeavor was made to learn somewhat of her 
 family origin and training, and what was our surprise to 
 gain the confession that she has a mother, who, she said, 
 is a Presbyterian, and a church member in good stand- 
 ing. This was made the means of appeal, and tenderly 
 was depicted a Christian mother's tearful prayers. 
 
 She had hitherto been stolid, but this allusion to her 
 mother's love was too much for her — her head bowed on 
 her hands and she burst into a flood of tears. While this 
 interview was proceeding a knock came to the door. The 
 lady missionary went calmly to the door; " John, you 
 cannot come in yet." He left, leaving our guide in 
 power in his own apartment. This will show the self- 
 possession, or rather the Christ-possessing-power this 
 noble woman has. It seemed a vivid repetition of the 
 words of the disciples to the Master, "Lord, even the 
 
devils are subject unto us in Thy name." 
 
 We know not the verity of this girl's statement, but we 
 do know that the just retribution of an all avenging God 
 will be meeted out to the prime factor in her downfall. 
 
 We pass on from this scene, with hearts made sadder 
 and sympathy and pity deepty stirred. 
 
 But again the curtain is raised for another living 
 picture, and we enter a room to find four women engaged 
 in dress making. This room had the aspect of the dwell- 
 ing of an ordinary mechanic, and the women were in- 
 dustriously making their clothes. One of the party was- 
 sitting at the machine, sewing. She told us that she was- 
 married to a Chinaman, with whom she is satisfied; and 
 gets good treatment. Another of the women acknow- 
 ledged that she is living with a Chinaman. Since we saw 
 her, the tidings has reached us that, influenced by the 
 advice and pleadings, she has quit the evil life and its 
 surroundings and rejoined her family. Thank God foiv 
 that spark of hope. 
 
 Another of the company, we were delighted to find^ 
 was only a friend or relative, and that she was under 
 religious influence; and her power would be felt in this, 
 family circle. 
 
 Our missionary guide pointed to us a photograph on 
 the wall — of a young girl, a brand plucked .from the 
 burning, and now a jewel in Christ's Crown — taken but 
 
a week before she died. 
 
 Parting from this family circle, after admonishing 
 and praying with them, we went into Doyers Street 
 Mission, and though nearly midnight, the evangelistic 
 work was in full blast. 
 
 One of the young women followed us thither, and my 
 friend secured the opportunity to drive the matter 
 /nearer home to her heart. 
 
 It is not apposite to give details of the incidents at 
 v the meeting; they were thrilling, but did not relate to 
 the subject I am now considering. 
 
 The meeting being closed, our worthy missionary 
 parted from us, and turned homeward. 
 
 Though past midnight, we were transported into a 
 neighboring Chinese restaurant to sample a dish, the 
 name of which I will not venture to pronounce. In 
 our party, was a lady from the mission — a lion-hearted 
 woman — whose influence, if not equal to our missionary, 
 is a close parallel in her own sphere; she was followed 
 by a pleasant and agreeable young woman, who clung to 
 her with fond attachment. Respecting her, I shall al- 
 lude later on. At the adjoining table, sat a young girl 
 pale faced, hollow eyed, and smoking cigarettes — evi- 
 dently fast hastening to eternity. 
 
 In the small hours of the morning we wended our way 
 .homeward — wiser, thoughtful and soul-stirred men. 
 
Xow, reproducing these vivid scenes in my memory, 
 allow me to deduce some conclusions therefrom. 
 
 On the start, let me say, that I anticipate the retort 
 that I have not depicted the condition in anything like 
 its actual abomination. My friend, I did not set out to 
 describe a "Chamber of Horrors/' I could surfeit the 
 most sensual if I wanted to, but my object is far di- 
 verse. If you wanted to study drunkenness, would you 
 go to the alcoholic ward at Belle vue Hospital and wrestle 
 with a man violent with the ''Jim-Jams?" I guess not! 
 
 I have known men on whom liquor held dominion, and 
 whose money went like water through a sieve. Possess- 
 ing reasoning power, they saw whither they were drift- 
 ing and put the foot down firm and quit its use. To-da}^, 
 the family have a devoted and self-denying father, and 
 the employer a reliable, steady man. 
 
 In like manner, I do not seek my subject from the 
 most besotted by this soul-destroying drug or those given 
 over to utter beastiality. I prefer the milder types, 
 where the mental faculties are not wholly stunted or 
 obliterated, and where, in the intervals of sanity, influ- 
 ence can be exerted on the intellect, reason and the finer 
 sensibilities. The physician prefers to treat disease in 
 the incipient stage, and not when the fever has raged its 
 worst, and the patient is beyond hope. 
 
 I leave others to depict the superlative horrors — the 
 
positive degree is positive enough and base enough for 
 my purpose, God knows ! If these are mild cases, then, 
 Great God, Human effort wilts and contemplation almost 
 despairs of success. 
 
 I have already alluded to the young woman we met in 
 the restaurant. The lion-hearted lady, who had joined 
 our party, has wrestled with her for four years — yes — for 
 four weary years has she kept up the fight. 
 
 She has drawn her closer to her, evoking the tender- 
 est affection— she has opened to her the social freedom of 
 her home, and she visits her daily. Rut in spite of all 
 this. I may almost say superhuman effort, the damnable 
 passion holds its sway, and she cannot — no she cannot 
 release herself from its thraldom. Gnat God in Heaven, 
 what is to be done, what can be done? 
 
 Now let me ask a few questions, and answer them : — 
 
 Who is to blame for this lamentable state of affairs? 
 
 Is it just to lay the blame and obloquy on the head 
 of the Mongolian? I challenge refutation of my state- 
 ment that the cases are rare in which " John Chinaman" 
 is prime factor in this iniquity. He simply takes the 
 white man's leavings, and picks up the white man's 
 squeezed and discarded orange. Whatever abhorrance 
 we may have for the life he leads it is our duty to fix 
 the blame on the right culprit. 
 
 Is the girl wholly to Mame? 
 
Whatever evil tendency she may have, the instances 
 are rare in which she will not jealously defend her hon- 
 or, and it is only by vile machinations, by seductive 
 promises or inducements that she yields that honor, or 
 else it is robbed from her by force. Where then shall we 
 search for the right criminal to bring him to the bar of 
 righteous condemnation? 
 
 It is far from my object to impugn the purity of the 
 franchise, but this I will say — It is my belief, that not 
 only in America, but in every other so-called civilized 
 country, there is scarcely one of these villains who is not 
 a voter, and dares to march boldly to the polls as a mock 
 patriot. I make this statement for a specific object, for 
 such hypocritical scoundrels will dare to legislate against 
 the Chinaman or the Indian. 
 
 Let us do a little figuring — say that only the mini- 
 mum of one per cent of the voters are thus impugnable, 
 the result would be appalling, even in the total votes cast 
 in New York City alone; and such a host of social 
 pirates and propagators of beastiality are thus to be 
 palmed on society, as honest, pure men, and patriotic 
 citizens. Would that God would raise up in this day a 
 Nathan, the prophet, who would identify and challenge 
 these social cancers — "Thou art the man." 
 
 Now a step further: What elements have we to contend 
 with in the existing condition of affairs ? 
 
I. — Chronic Laziness. This feature may not have 
 been observed by the casual reader, but by careful en- 
 quiry and observation I am led to this conclusion. I 
 have alluded emphatically to the scrupulous neatness 
 and cleanliness of the rooms we visited. If the reader 
 imagines that this is attributable to the industry of the 
 woman, let him forthwith dismiss such error from his 
 mind. " John " stands in constant fear that he may lose 
 his hold on his victim, and that any day she may quit his 
 company. He,, therefore, allows her to live a life of — I 
 may say — luxurious idleness. It is he, and he alone, who 
 keeps the home — if it may be styled a home — neat and 
 clean. Such rneritricious praise is due to him alone — she 
 is the idle toy of his lust. He waits on her, hand and 
 foot, and satisfies all her desires. 
 
 77. — The kind and attentive treatment she receives 
 from the Chinaman, as compared with the treatment the 
 "unfortunate" receives under more, so-called, civilized 
 conditions. We have only to ask those noble women, the 
 S. A. Rescue Lasses, to learn the life these most unhap- 
 py creatures lead, say in the " Tenderloin " in New York, 
 •or the Kegent Street section of the City of London. 
 
 ]S T o difference can be found wherever we look. In ad- 
 dition to the curse and disgrace they bear, they are 
 •chased around, bullied and harried on, to provide the 
 wages of corrupt avarice of those who live sumptuous- 
 
ly on their sinful life. Is it to be surprised at, that 
 possessing neither moral nor religious restraint, having 
 suffered the tyrannical persecution of -'civilized" sur- 
 roundings, she flees such brutality, and submits to Mon- 
 golian concubinage, which brings with it an easy life, 
 and the satisfaction of every desire ? 
 
 III. — The damning power and fascination of the opium 
 habit. I have already alluded to the young woman I 
 met in the restaurant, who has been for four years wrest- 
 ling with the demon that holds such a power over her. 
 Once yield to its influence, and its power is, humanly 
 speaking, insurmountable. Scarcely a girl comes into 
 companionship and influence of a Chinaman, but she is 
 drawn into the snare of this habit, and once engaged in, 
 it is too sadly apparent what a hold it asserts on soul and 
 body. Now, in conclusion, let me summarize and focal- 
 ize the whole matter. 
 
 What remedy and action can be adopted to counteract 
 and correct this appalling evil ? 
 
 Most assuredly, not by invasion of the general public, 
 either prompted by philanthropy or idle curiosity. 
 
 Finding themselves under continual espionage, will 
 either irritate them, and induce antagonistic violence, 
 and thus frustrate the beneficial influence now being ex- 
 erted over them — or else, being made a show of, will ' 
 flatter their vanity and perpetuate the evil. 
 
This acute but chronic moral disease needs most skil- 
 ful treatment, and rare indeed is it to find the man or 
 woman competent to grappb with it. God raises up 
 one and another in His good time, and to them should 
 be left this important work — the church and philanthro- 
 pists upholding them in it. 
 
 In i Sam. xxx, 24, is recorded an important decision, 
 made by David, that those who guarded the " stuff ^ 
 merited reward equally with those who went to the front 
 to fight. My province is not aggressive warfare, but I 
 can guard and look after the "stuff," and "stuff" is 
 absolutely necessary to enable the warfare to be ag- 
 gressive. This paper is the spontaneous result of im- 
 pressions made by my visit, and prompted or suggested 
 by no one. 
 
 Though no intimation has been made to me, I know 
 fully the condition in which matters now stand. Mrs. 
 Booth's Kescue Home is full to repletion, and Mrs. 
 Whittemore's Home is equally congested, and to-day 
 there is not a single home to which a plucked brand 
 could be sent. 
 
 My impression is, that girls of this class require speci- 
 fic surroundings, and to be removed utterly from this 
 festering hot-bed of vice. A home in the country, where 
 God's nature replaces man's corruption, and where the 
 sight of the pure Water-lily, the modest and retiring 
 
Violet, or the innocent though suggestive Forget-me-not 
 may excite thoughts far divergent from those inspired 
 by their present environment. 
 
 In spite of the demoralization to which they have sunk, 
 I affirm emphatically, that these girls are human, and, 
 though hardened by vice, are still amenable to finer sen- 
 timents. Love of elegance and beauty is shown by their 
 inordinate love of dress and ornaments; but they can be 
 led to admire a pure lily — more glorious than Solomon 
 in all his glory. 
 
 Many a gentleman, or lady expends a vast sum for a 
 ball, dinner, or other social or public entertainment. 
 
 My views are far from plebian, and I maintain that it 
 is justidable to uphold the station of life in which we are 
 placed. But I appeal to such a man of influence, when 
 you retire to rest, and lay your head upon your pillow, 
 committing to God the care of your body for the night, 
 would it not give a thrill of joy to know that, by your 
 benificence, a home was at that moment in active opera- 
 tion, in which many a poor girl would look to you as her 
 benefactor and rescuer ? And how would God think 
 about it ? Should my words awaken suggestion, or this 
 humble effort be the nucleus to create such an oasis, my 
 heart would rejoice, and I would thank God for thus 
 crowning my labor with success. 
 
 Only a faint allusion can be made in this brief paper 
 
to the work before ns. We have a very peculiar condi- 
 tion of things to contend with — ordinary methods would 
 be futile and powerless. Special and peculiar means 
 must be resorted to, if we look for success. 
 
 The wail from Macedonia, that appealed so forcefully 
 to the Apostle Paul, was not more distinct than the 
 ceaseless and pitiable cry : " Won't you come down to 
 Chinatown to help us?" This earnest plaint is ad- 
 dressed not to a general public — they don't want them — 
 but to certain Christian workers, whom they know have 
 their interests at heart, and whom they feel they can 
 trust, and to whom they can look for deliverance. 
 
 — Pilgrim. 
 
-4juF interest be excited by the perusal of 
 this paper, and more definite informa- 
 tion be sought, I would refer the reader to 
 the Pastor, Camp Memorial Church, Chrystie 
 Street, New York City. His experience en- 
 ables him to form accurate judgment, and what 
 information he gives will be reliable, and funds 
 entrusted to him for this work will be wisely 
 administered. 
 
I 
 
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