SINSULL - I was struck by the fashions, even in the less modern cities, where many lived in what we would consider rustic or primitive homes, the ladies would all be pedaling to and from work on bicycles in skirts, heels and hose; modern, if primarily functional clothing. Men, likewise would wear functional clothing that may be classified business casual. It was easy to tell the Japanese tourists at a glance (and I only saw them in Beijing).

I understand your attahcment to the embroidered cape. Regretably I did not bring home any of the beautiful silk clothing I saw there, for my wife - but I was lucky enough to find her a hand made alpaca sweater from a trip to Equador. She has kept it carefully, and worn it on a few occasions.

I was also well aware of the harder times my Chinese friends had recently endured. They spoke freely of their life, their hopes and dreams - but were silent about the politics, and spoke carefully of the hardships they had suffered during the Red Guard days.