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Show 1916 The Twin Hospitals at Tehchow 11 through the building. And this was in a city where a few years ago foreigners were so hated and dreaded that a foreign consular representative could be, and was, mobbed with impunity! Next day, May 23, was Sunday, and was church members' day, with special meetings in the city chapel, in the hospital chapel, and with dedicatory services for the buildings. Then on May 24 came the greatest crowd of all. In one hour, by actual count, 5,000 visitors passed through the compound gate and probably 25,000 squirmed their way about the corridors or wriggled up the stairways-stairways were new. to them, and go up they would, whether or no. Promptly at the appointed time came a huge wooden tablet prepared by friends in the city. It was carried by eight bearers, in a huge frame, and was accompanied by about a hundred gentry and by two energetic bands of native music. The tablet, the bands, the invited guests, were ushered into the men's chapel, and there the chief official of Tehchow quite outdid himself in an eloquent and appreciative address. The tablet was most elaborate in its inscriptions. In the center was the motto, "Saving the World by Helping Mankind." "Given to the Hospital and Training School staff by the nobility, business men, and scholars of the city"; while side tablets declare: "The five continents all share alike in this grace. From the West to the East comes the Jesus Church, diagnosing and curing disease, protecting the weak and helpless, and raising to life-all a proof of the power and mercy of the Heavenly Father. From centuries ago has sprung this heart of love, and to eternity it will add grace and mercy to these people (of China), bringing them out of the depths of fire and water into safe places. The sick, the feeble-minded, the weak, the crippled, all shall be cleansed and praise Almighty God." By the end of this day the hospital was formally open and dispensary patients were treated, with in-patients to follow a few days later. The heavy OUTSIDE THE GATEHOUSE OF THE TEHCHOW HOSPITALS ON THE OPENING DAY Note the ilags of China and of the United States |