but no extensive good can flow from the labours of any, till the Scriptures are ready to be delivered to them. I am therefore more delighted with your intention of publishing the Hindoostanee gospels, than the Arabic, whilst I pray you God’s speed with both. About one fifteenth of the population of this country is Mahomedan, and of that fifteenth part, not one in five hundred knows Arabic; but many of them are acquainted with and admire the Persian, and all of them understand the Moors, as it is called. Many too of the Hindoos understand it, and a skilful reader could easily make it understood by all. “Sep. 12. Thus far I had written as above, but your frequent letters from and to Martyn, made me think it unnecessary to send this. In consequence of your last, Martyn intends leaving this, as soon as boats can be procured for himself and Sabat, but it is uncertain when that may be, as boats are in great request for the General and his suite. Martyn had frequently expressed to me his opinion respecting the incorrectness of Sabat’s Arabic, as well as complained of his slow progress. It is likely, however, that his work will be found better than your last would suggest: so few are qualified to criticise Arabic, that probably many of the objections raised, will be found groundless. I think, however, dearest Sir, to give the light of life to the population of India is no small honour put upon your Committee, and I hope you will put the Hindoostanee translation, Martyn is bringing down, to the press straightway. We have, during last week, been often on the river in a borrowed pinnace, and the effect has been good to us all. Our dear brother continues to mend, but the length of his life will depend much on his desisting, or not, from public duties. He would soon be laid up again, were he to begin to preach. He would, at all events, take half of the duty last Sunday, but beside not being heard by half the Regiment, he was obliged to shorten the service, and with the Faqueers in the evening, brought on the old pain in his breast. The same employments as before occupy me, so I have nothing new to write to you. Our society of soldiers increases, and we are inexpressibly happy together. Mrs. S. has been unwell, but is recovering, and indeed we have mercies multiplied upon us without number. May we have grace to be more thankful.”