much less than they would have been if we | We have all been advised to study the Hindoshad separated. Yet, however economically we tane first, as it is spoken through all the plains may live, our expenses will be great. Our of India. Afterward, some of us will have to house-rent alone is 130 rupees a month. We study the Hindee, and perhaps some others the find that $100 will go but a little way towards Persian. We have got a Hindostane gramdefraying the necessary expenses of a mission mar, published by Mr. Yeats. Good dictionaas large as ours. ries are difficult to procure and very costly. Prospective Journey and mode of Travelling to Interesting Missionary Field. Mr. Trevelyan lately received a very interesting letter from his friend Captain Gordon, who is the political agent at Munipore, expressing a desire to obtain a missionary, who would establish an English school at that place; and also expressing a decided preference for an American missionary; and requesting Mr. Trevelyan to speak to Mr. Lowrie, (who Captain G. understood was in Calcutta,) and get him to lay the matter before the Society at home. As Brother Lowrie had sailed for the United States, Mr. Trevelyan applied to us. He was very anxious, indeed, that one of our number should go thither immediately; or, at least, commence the study of the language, which he might do in Calcutta. He showed With regard to the time of our departure for the Upper Provinces, we have not yet decided. All our friends advise us to stay here until two or three weeks after the commencement of the rains; as there is generally stormy weather when they commence, and traveling on the river is then dangerous. Hence, we will probably be detained here until about the 1st of July. As to the mode of traveling, we have decided, in accordance with the advice of friends, particularly Mr. Lowrie, to employ a kind of native boats, which, though not so neat as the budgerows, are considered much more safe, and, on the whole, more comfortable; as they are larger, and we will be able to take our baggage in the same boat with ourselves.me the letter, and presented all the arguments They have also this additional recommendation-which is to us important-that they are much less expensive. They have a kind of cabin, or house, erected on the deck, the sides of which are covered with mats. These have thatched roofs, which, when water-tight, are said to be comfortable. The probable expense of boat-hire alone from Calcutta to Futtyghur-about 30,000. The tribes, which inhabit the the place where we leave the river-will be 1500 rupees. That of the land journey we cannot yet ascertain. The Printing Establishment. which he could in its favor, some of which had great weight. He represents Munipore as a very inviting field. He describes it as a very pleasant and healthful valley, surrounded with mountains. It is about half way between Calcutta and Ava, and on the direct road between the two cities. The inhabitants amount to mountainous districts around them, are numerous, and in a great measure subject to Munipore. An extensive influence might, therefore, be exerted over them. A short time since, they were almost destitute of any religion. We find it will be impracticable to engage a But during the last half century, the Bramins printer here, who would go with us up the have been trying to convert them to Hindooism; country; but as we hope one will soon be sent and, to a great extent, have succeeded. us from America, it will not be necessary. In language is peculiar to themselves. There are the mean time, the brethren at Lodiana, are not, on the whole, more than eight or nine making all needful preparation to put the press books in the language, and these consist chiefinto operation. We have written to them re-ly of the history of their nation. Captain G. specting our purchase of type in the native and Mr. Trevelyan are now employed in precharacter, &c. but have not yet received their paring a dictionary of the language, in which answer on that subject. they are considerably advanced. Study of Languages. We have engaged a moonshe, or teacher, and commenced the study of Hindostane. He is quite an interesting young Mussulman, a native of Delhi, who studied several years in Mr. Duff's school. He came from Delhi with Mr. Trevelyan, who recommended him to us very highly. We have been only one week engaged in the study, and feel quite encouraged. We do not think it will be so difficult as we had feared; at least, as respects learning to read it. But it may be more difficult to acquire such a knowledge of it as to be able to use it freely in conversation. Our moonshe has engaged to go up the country with us. Their The Field recommended by Captain Pember ton. Captain Pemberton, who has been employed for several years in surveying that region of country, called on us one day with Mr. Trevelyan, and joined with him in recommending it to our attention. He owns a good house there; which he offered to give us for the use of the missionary; and, as provisions are very cheap, they say the expense of supporting the mission would be small. Captain Gordon would prefer a layman to an ordained missionary; and he, moreover, states that it would not do to introduce the subject of religion into the schools at once, or even to present it to the people at first; but that it must be introduced Vanities, Horrors, and Perishing State of the gradually. The Proposed Mission declined at Present. Mr. Trevelyan urged us to take it into serious consideration; which we did, and came to the decision that none of us could go thither at present. Our reasons were the following: Heathen. Since our arrival here, we have seen a little, and but a little, of the vanities and horrors of heathenism, but sufficient to convince us that, notwithstanding all that we had heard and learned of these things before, the half had not been told us. Indeed, to be able to form any just conception of heathenism, we must witness it. When we walk along the street and see the teeming multitudes by whom we are surrounded-many of them apparently without house or home, as they lay themselves down to sleep on the street, or by the way-side, wherever it is most convenient-the solemn thought arises in the mind, What is to become of all this vast multitude? Whither are they going? Not to Christ, the only way to that blessed abode; and besides, their unsanctified natures and abominable practices render them utterly unfit for that holy place. 1. Our instructions are to go and join the mission at Lodiana, and, after consulting with the Brethren there, to settle in that part of the country in such divisions and state as may be agreed upon; and we do not feel ourselves authorized to commence a new mission in any other part of the country-especially at such a distance from the other as Munipore. 2. We think the responsibility resting upon the individual who may commence a mission at that place greater than any one of us would be will-heaven; for they know not God, nor Jesus ing to assume; as he will have to form, not only a religion, but a literature for the people -a task for which no one of us feels himself qualified. 3. We learned from another source, that an application had been previously made to the Baptist Society, through the Burman missionaries, to establish a mission at Muni- truth? How are their unholy natures to be How are they to be instructed in divine pore, and that they have some idea of occupy; sanctified, and their lives reformed? How are ing that field. These considerations induced us to decline it at present. But we promised they to be saved from the wrath to come? The to lay it before the Society, for their considera- answer is, Give them the gospel. But another tion-which we now do. If you can procure the number of the Calcutta Christian Observer for June, 1834, you will find an article describing the valley of Munipore, (or Manipur, as it is there spelled,) which may aid you in deciding whether you will establish a mission there. Station at Sabbathu. We learned from Brother Lowrie, and by letters from the Brethren at Lodiana, that they have decided upon commencing a new station in the Hill States, at a place called Sabbathu, about thirty miles from Simla. [See the letter of Mr. Lowrie in the Chronicle for November, page 183.] Mr. Lowrie advised that Mr. Rogers and myself should occupy that station. His reasons he will state to you. I trust we will all be willing to go wherever we are likely to be most useful. An English school has been for some time established at Sabbathu. It is but small, however, and there is reason to believe that we will get it entirely under our direction as soon as we can take charge of it. Another Station to be Selected. The Gospel of Salvation must be Sent to Them. question arises. Who is to give them the gos- I find that much diversity of opinion exists among the missionaries and the friends of missions here in regard to the best mode of conducting them-whether by establishing schools, or by the direct preaching of the word. Probably here, as in most other cases, both parties have gone to extremes. The friends of The brethren have also decided to commence operations at another station, where one min-education have perhaps made too much of the ister and one teacher will be employed; but they have not yet made a selection of the place. The difficulty, however, is not where we shall find a suitable place, but among the numerous positions presented, all of them important, which shall we occupy first. India is indeed a field white to the harvest. O "that the Lord of the harvest would send forth more laborers into his harvest!" schools, and have not given to the preaching of the cross that prominence which it deserves; while the other party have not allowed to the schools that degree of influence to which they are entitled. Schools, conducted on Christian principles, will doubtless prove a powerful auxiliary in the missionary cause. But, still, from all that I have been able to learn of the state of religion in India, and the means which have been blessed of God, it only goes to confirm ences. We continued to preach the gospel the declaration of Scripture, that "it pleased regularly on board every Sabbath since our God by the foolishness of preaching to save arrival, and hope that our labors among those them that believe." The population of India present on these occasions have not been in must be instructed in the principles of true vain in the Lord. After we had delivered our science. But it is a question yet sub judice farewell discourse last Sabbath, we felt somewhether that is the appropriate work of a mis- what like shepherds without a flock. We have sionary or of a missionary society. taken leave of them since with many prayers and tears; and now, we "commend them to Shepherd and Bishop of souls;" and to the enGod and the word of his grace;" to Christ "the lightening and sanctifying influences of the Holy Spirit. Conclusion. As the ship Eclipse, of Boston, is expected to sail for America about two weeks hence, and our own ship, the Charles Wharton, about the first of July, you may expect to hear from us again before we leave Calcutta. We will be anxious to hear from America, and to be particularly informed on various subjects; especially regarding the proceedings of the General Assembly. Hoping that the Lord is with you, and prospering you in all your endeavors to promote his glory and build up his kingdom, I remain yours in Christian fellowship. Postscript. Dear friends, do not cease to pray for us, that an abundant door of usefulness may be opened for us among the heathen. LATEST FROM THE MISSION TO NORTHERN INDIA. Health of the Missionaries. 66 During the last three weeks, several members of our family have been laid on beds of sickness. First, Mrs. Campbell had another attack of fever, which at one time appeared to be of a serious and alarming nature; but it gave way in the use of the usual remedies, and she is now quite well. Brother M'Ewen was next seized with symptoms of liver complaint, and brother Jamieson with intermittent fever; both of whom suffered much for some days; but they are now convalescent, and we hope will be entirely well in a few days. Thus, you perceive we have cause to sing of Extract of a Letter from Rev. James R. Camp-ever, has been in a Father's hand, and he mercy and of judgment." The rod, howbell, to one of the Corresponding Secretaries, has not laid more upon us than was needful, dated Calcutta, June 27, 1836. or than he enabled us to bear. We pray that DEAR BROTHER SWIFT: these light afflictions may be so sanctified as It has not been owing, I hope, to any ne- to bring us to feel more of our entire dependglect of duty or want of affection, that I have ence upon God, and to a more humble resignanot written to you before this time. I was tion to his will. "The Lord reigneth:" we aware that you were duly informed of the will rejoice, and be encouraged to go forward very interesting particulars of our voyage, and in his service, under the firm assurance that he of the comfortable manner in which, through will make all things work together for his the timely assistance of Brother Lowrie, we glory and our good. He has raised up for us had been settled here, in "our own hired many dear friends in this city, who have symhouse;" and, therefore, thought it unneces-pathized with us in trouble, and rendered us sary to repeat the same subjects. It is now many kind services. O what shall we render some weeks since a letter has been addressed to the Lord for all his goodness! to you; and as the Charles Wharton is about to leave the river, we consider it proper to add Preparation for the Passage to Lodiana, &c. a few thoughts respecting our proceedings and For some time past, we have been at conprospects by such favorable conveyance. siderable trouble and expense in procuring such articles in the bazar as are necessary for Officers and Seamen of the Charles Wharton. house keeping which are not to be obtained in We have felt it difficult to part from the offi- the Upper Provinces. We think we have cers and seamen of this consecrated vessel; saved much in this business by attending to it many of whom we now recognize as brethren ourselves, instead of employing sircars, as is in Christ Jesus, and some of whom are an or- customary by Europeans; and we are certain nament to their profession. We hope our mu- that the things purchased are more suitable tual acquaintance has been greatly blessed, to our wants by having made the selection perand will be productive of the happiest results. sonally. After consulting with many of our We have great cause of constant gratitude to friends, who have had experience on the subGod for having afforded us so many opportuni-ject, and examining for ourselves, we have at ties of usefulness, and rendering us so mutually happy during so long a voyage; but, above all, for the gift of the Holy Spirit, by which his ordinances were rendered effectual in the conversion of so many souls, and all our hearts refreshed and animated by his reviving influ length concluded to take budgerows for our families, in preference to native boats; and have just engaged five fourteen-oared budge. rows-a large baggage boat, and a small cook boat. The whole will be manned by about 100 men, and will afford us comfortable accommo dations. The price is to be for all 1500 rupees, | Opening for Christian Books and Missionaries. if we stop at Cawnpore, or 1650 rupees, if we go as high as Futtyghur. This is considered very low for so many boats. We have provided, in the agreement, that we shall rest every Sabbath, and, in addition to this, we have reserved thirty days for the privilege of stopping at the various military and missionary stations on the way. We hope to be able to leave Calcutta in about ten days, as the rains have now fairly commenced. The voyage to Futtyghur, including rests by the way, will be about four months. The transportation of our own baggage from thence by land, in addition to the printing press, types, Bibles, and tracts, which we take with us, will require a great number of hackeries and camels, and be attended with considerable expense. We shall endeavor in all things to have regard to the strictest economy: but our friends inform us that they have learned by experience that it is not economy at all times to purchase the cheapest articles, or to neglect procuring our necessaries till we arrive at a place where they are not to be obtained, except at a most extravagant price. Intelligence from the Brethren at Lodiana. We have just received letters from the brethren at Lodiana. They all appear to be in good health and spirits. They continue to give us much information about our journey, and the best mode of surmounting its difficulties. They say: "Our printing house is at length completed; and as we have proceeded thus far in preparations, and excited the expectations of those who have contributed towards the press, we think it as little as we can do to make an effort to get the work under way as soon as a pressman can be brought from Delhi; that is, if no part of the apparatus shall be found wanting when we come to open the boxes. This we hope to do in a day or two. We are very anxious, however, to hear of the arrival of the printer from America; as we know little about the work ourselves. Our dwelling houses, two in number, will probably be finished in two or three weeks. With the outhouses, well, &c. they will cost probably 1200 rupees each. They are to be in the same yard, about fifty yards apart. They are outside of the city, and the ground connected with them is spacious enough to afford a large garden with room for another house or two. It would be out of the question to undertake any other buildings till after the rains; and what is done then must depend on your counsels in conjunc. tion with ours. Houses cannot be rented in Lodiana without going into the cantonment; and then, not only would the rent be so high as to equal in three or four years the cost of building, but the tenure by which it must be held is altogether uncertain, as military officers must first be supplied." Some time since, I forwarded to the American Sunday School Union and Tract Society, the copy of an application made by Dr. J. S. Login to Mr. Trevelyan, as Secretary of the National Education Society, for books to supply several schools established and privately supported by pious military gentlemen at Nagbut which, much to the disappointment of Mr. poor, Ellick poor, and Hingolu, in the Deccan, T. the Committee refused upon the ground that they were religious schools. He felt anxious that I should send the application to America; and I do, persuaded that such a call and such a fine opening in Providence, for the introduction of Christian books will cordially be responded to by those excellent institutions. A note a reply from the latter, in which he states—“ I from Mr. Trevelyan and Dr. Login have brought done, could a missionary be established at am convinced that something good might be Nagpoor; and if the American gentlemen have not yet determined upon the scene of their labors, I would earnestly recommend it to them. The chaplain there, Mr. Jefferson, is a very good man, but sadly wanting in Christian zeal, and of this even the soldiers complain. There is now an interesting state of things among many of the soldiers, who meet together for prayer on Wednesday evenings. The station is very large, and there is no clergyman or missionary, except Mr. Jefferson, within 350 miles. Hyderabied, Sangur, Ahmednuggur, and Cuttack, being the nearest missionary station that I am aware of. It would have given me very sincere pleasure to have met the American missionaries; as I might possibly have induced them to think favorably of the establishment of a mission at Nagpoor." Thus, dear brother, you see that the Lord is opening up prospects of usefulness for the church in the very heart of satan's empire. Streams, that shall fertilize the vast moral wilderness, are breaking forth in the desert; and Providence is calling us from various parts of the whitening field. The question with us is not, where shall we find a place to labor, but which of the numerous and inviting fields should we occupy at once? Thousands of missionaries might be employed over this extensive continent, and thousands more would still be needed. Will not many devoted young men come over and help us to proclaim the gospel to these perishing multitudes before they die in their sins, and perish without having heard of the Lord Jesus, and the way of salvation by him? We do hope that many, whose souls have been lighted with heavenly wisdom, will soon come, bearing the Lamp of life to these benighted and degraded men; and that soon the gloomy cloud, which now broods over them, shall be dispersed by the rising and healing beams of the Sun of Righteousness. Had we a thousand lives, they would be too small a sacrifice to devote to this noble enterprise, or to promote the glory of Him who died, that we might live, and has commanded us to "preach the gospel to every creature." Kindness of Mr. Trevelyan. about the of November for the place of his destination, in company with several reputable passengers, and upwards of fifty colonists, some of them superior men as to intelligence and good deportiment. Before his departure, he received the instructions of the Committee from W. Lowrie, Esq. Cor. Secretary; from which we make the following brief extracts. Mr. Trevelyan has proved to be a very kind friend to us, and he takes a deep interest in lected by Mr. Pinney. "You will proceed to Boblee, the station seAt this station a our mission. He frequently visits us, to con- house has been erected. At least, Mr. Pinney sult on important subjects, and to find out our wants. He is now making application to ob-verbal information that one has been erected. paid the natives for erecting one; and I have tain an authority for me to draw such medicines from the depot at Agra belonging to government, at reduced prices, as I should require for use among the natives, &c. He sends to you by this conveyance a number of the Calcutta Christian Observer, in which you will find an interesting article written by him on Munipur. He also sends a specimen of a dictionary he is having prepared in that language. He continues to feel a great interest in that field, and he expects you will send him a missionary. We do believe that a man of the right kind might do much and exert a powerful influence in that quarter. The expense to the Society would be small, and probably it would be entirely met by friends here. Give the subject a prayerful consideration. Schools at Calcutta. We have visited several schools under the care of the Episcopalians, Baptists, and Scotch Presbyterians; and have been much pleased with their appearance and prospects of usefulness: but we are sorry to know that there are so few missionaries, even in Calcutta, who preach to the ratives directly, and tell them, in their own tongue, the wonderful works of God in the great plan of redemption. Annual Bathing of Juggernaut. We visited Serampore on the 30th of June, to witness the great annual bathing of Juggernaut. The scene could not be adequately described. There were not less than 100,000 idolaters present, who appeared to be mad upon their idols. It was sickening to the Christian heart to behold the mighty mass of immortals bowing down before a hideous idol that could neither hear nor help his brutish votaries. We assisted the brethren there to dis. perse a number of tracts, and to pray for their success in "opening their blinded eyes; in turning them from darkness to light, and from the power of satan to God." MISSION TO WESTERN AFRICA. Some time since, the Ex. Com. resolved, with the blessing of God, to renew their mission to Africa. They recently received, on good recom. mendations, Mr. Ephraim Titler, as a missionary for that important field; who embarked You are sent by the Executive Committee to station, will be to preach the gospel of the The "In connection with the preaching of the gospel, and indeed to qualify you fully for that blessed employment, you will at once turn your attention to learning the native language. This you will consider as of great importance, and as one great object of the mission. Executive Committee are desirous, as soon as possible, to have the language of Bassa reduced to a written form. A portion of your time will, therefore, be employed in promoting this object. On this point further instructions will be sent to you, with directions how you are to proceed in all the details of this difficult work. The sooner you learn to speak the language, the sooner will you be able to aid in reducing it to a written form. "Another part of your business will be teaching the native children the English language. Until we hear from you, and until further instructions, you will not be at the expense of boarding any of the native children. It is believed a number will attend from day to day to receive instruction. will, by every means in your power, endeavor "In your intercourse with the natives, you to convince them that you have come to do them good. In the great work of sending the gospel to the heathen, the churches are in earnest, and the Executive Committee are in ear |