Summary

Chapter 11 (Tao Chi’en). The story of Tao Chi’en continues. He goes from Canton to Hong Kong, eager to begin his own life. He quickly forgets the teachings of his mentor, though, and loses all his money gambling. Determined to start fresh, he tattoos his hand with the word “no” to remind himself never to place a bet again. He bargains in the marketplace for food, trading his medical services for essentials. He begins to build up a business. He also makes friends with a British doctor, Ebanizer Hobbs, who is interested in learning eastern medicine and will teach Tao Chi’en western techniques. As Tao Chi’en’s reputation grows, so does his bank account. He decides he wants to find a wife of good quality, meaning one from a good family who has bound her feet.

When he has accumulated enough money...