Table of Contents

Author's note.

Acknowledgements.

Cast of major characters.

Maps.

Introduction.

Timeline.

No joy shall be equal...

The coming of the Manchu.

Concubine, third class.

The Great Within.

Rebels and foreign devils.

The Emperor flees.

Acts of barbarism.

Silent conspiracy.

An auspicious beginning.

Death of a favourite.

The Emperor's 'good fortune'.

Slicing the melon.

When a bird is dying.

'Retirement'.

Rebel Emperor.

Coup and countercoup.

Self-strengthening.

The Righteous Harmonious Fists.

Siege at Beijing.

Flight ... and return.

Reluctant departure.

Epilogue.

Postscript.

References and notes.

Bibliography.

Index.

About the Author

Keith Laidler is an anthropologist, author and filmmaker. He is the author of seven books and producer of a large number of films, for some of which he did his own camera work. Originally concentrating on nature films, Dr Laidler worked with Sir David Attenborough on The Living Planet. His production company, Wolfshead Productions has made a number of highly acclaimed documentaries for a variety of broadcasters. He holds a PhD in Anthropology from Durham University.

Dr Laidler has a strong interest in China, which he visits regularly as founder of The Panda Trust, an organisation formed to protect the panda. He has, over recent years, turned his investigative techniques towards history and religion.

Reviews

"a fascinating story" (Publishing News, 19 July 2002)  "…he tells a tale of love betrayal, murder and intrigue…" (Sunday Telegraph, 12 October 2003)