“The nature of missions seems little understood, even by those whose hearts the Lord inclines for the work, till they come into it. Mr. Cecil’s sermon, before the Church of England Missionary society,[37] of which I have only seen extracts, is, I think, an excellent discourse on this subject. The work requires the patience of a Job, with the prudence of an Apostle: and O, the self-denial required! How little I am fit for the work, my brother well knows; yet here, by the good providence of God, I am well content, and determined to count not even ‘life dear’ so that I may make ‘full proof of my ministry,’ and ‘finish my course with joy.’ I could fill sheets with conversations respecting religion, which I have had most days, with some one or other of the natives. Their duplicity makes it, beyond measure, difficult to know when they are convinced, or even silenced. The least appearance of impatience on my part makes them consider me angry; and not a word more will they argue, but yield every thing. I may say to you, the friend of my bosom, that my natural impatience is somewhat abated; and I am not conscious of having offended in this way often; but even what is the effect of eagerness and zeal, is construed into a passion, by a people whose highest perfection consists in restraining the feelings, and whose despotic government rendered disguise necessary to existence and peace.