of the average Japanese has not increased thirty per cent.
In China, Siam, India, the Philippine Islands, and Syria I
found substantially similar anxieties though the proportions
naturally varied. ``True, there has been commerce since the
early ages, but caravans could afford to carry only precious
goods, like fine fabrics, spices and gems. These luxuries did
not reach the multitude, and could not materially change environment.
But modern commerce scatters over all the world
the products of every climate, in ever increasing quantities.''

So the economic revolution in Asia is characterized, as such
revolutions usually are in Europe and America, by wide-spread
unrest and, in some places, by violence. The oldest of continents
is the latest to undergo the throes of the stupendous
transformation from which the newest is slowly beginning to
emerge. The transition period in Asia will be longer and perhaps
more trying, as the numbers involved are vaster and more
conservative; but the ultimate result cannot fail to be beneficial
both to Asia and to the whole world.

It is therefore too late to discuss the question whether the
character and religions of these nations should be disturbed.
They have already been disturbed by the inrush of new ideas
and by the ways as well as by the products of the white man.
Like their ancient temples, the religions of Asia are cracking
from pinnacle to foundation. The natives themselves realize
that the old days are passing forever. India is in a ferment.
Japan has leaped to world prominence. The power of the
Mahdi has been broken and the Soudan has been opened to
civilization. The King of Siam has made Sunday a legal holiday