Life and sport in China Second Edition

In this vivid snapshot of turn‑of‑the‑century China, a long‑time European resident shares what everyday life looks like for foreigners and locals alike. He sketches bustling treaty ports, the rhythm of river traffic, and the simple pleasures that fill a foreigner's calendar—from horse races on the Hankow grand‑stand to quiet evenings playing fantan in private homes. The narrative is peppered with practical explanations of local terms, giving listeners a handy glossary of the language that colors daily interactions.

Beyond the bustling streets, the author offers insight into the broader social fabric: the roles of coolies, compradors, and the complex dance between concession communities and Chinese society. He also reflects on how sport and recreation become a bridge between cultures, revealing both the comforts and the challenges of living in a land that resists easy conquest. Listeners will come away with a richer sense of the sights, sounds, and rhythms that defined expatriate life in early twentieth‑century China.