ng;" insomuch, that Oxindono, who had
been so favourable to them, all on the sudden was turned against them. It
is true, that as the Japonese value themselves above all things, in the
inviolable observation of their word, when they have once engaged it, he
durst not revoke that solemn edict, which he had published in favour of
the Christians; but to make it of no effect, he used the faithful with
great severity, even so far as to seize upon their goods, and began with
men of the first rank in his dominions. At the same time, the Bonzas,
grown insolent, and swelled with this new turn of tide, wrote letters and
libels full of invectives against Xavier. They said, he was a vagabond
beggar, who, not knowing how to maintain himself in India, was come to
Japan to live on charity. They endeavoured above all things to make him
pass for a notorious magician, who, through the power of his charms, had
forced the devil to obey him, and one who, by the assistance of his
familiars, performed all sorts of prodigies to seduce the people.

But neither this alteration in the king, nor these calumnies of the
Bonzas, hindered the progress of the gospel. The number of Christians
amounted in few days to three thousand in Amanguchi, and they were all so
fervent, that not one of them but was ready, not only to forego his
fortunes, but also to shed his blood for the defence of his faith, if the
king should be carried on to persecute the growing church with fire and
sword, as it was believed he would. The reputation of the apostle was
also encreased, in spite of the false reports which were spread
concerning him; and his name became so famous in the neighbouring
kingdoms, that all the people round about were desirous to see the
European Bonza.

Xavier had of late some thoughts of returning to the Indies, there to
make a choice himself of such labourers as were proper for Japan; and his
design was to come back by China, the conversion of which country had
already inflamed his heart. For discoursing daily with such Chinese
merchants as were resident at Amanguehi, he had entertained a strong
opinion, that a nation so polite, and knowing, would easily be reduced to
Christianity; and on the other side, he had great hopes, that when China
should be once converted, Japan would not be long after it; at least the
more unbelieving sort of Japonese often said, "That they would not alter
their religion till the Chinese had led the way. Let him carry his gos