The American Missionary — Volume 33, No. 09, September, 1879Various
Religion
The American Missionary — Volume 33, No. 09, September, 1879
Various
Congregational churches -- Missions -- Periodicals; Home missions -- Periodicals
It was my privilege to visit, during last mouth and part of this,
a large extent of country toward the interior of this broad
continent, directly in front of the Sherbro Islands, to form an
opinion as to the prospects of “stretching our lines.” I cannot
promise to give you a detailed account of all incidents of interest
that came under my observation, but shall dwell upon that which
presses my mind most in regard to our work--the opening up of new
places for missionary operation.
On the 13th of May ultimo, Brother Jackson and I left Avery with
a view of visiting places in the Bargroo country, and at the same
time of getting children to be trained at Avery for missionaries.
We skimmed along nicely on the Big Bargroo River, passing many
neatly built and arranged villages. We stopped at some to ask for
children, but the chiefs informed us, generally, that they would
have to hold consultations with the people on the matter.
On every side signs of heathenism exhibited themselves. Little
mounds, built by certain insects of the country, neatly covered
by the natives, are bowed down to and worshipped. Small pots or
bottles are placed before their doors to keep away evil spirits.
COCONANNY AND DODO.
Late in the evening we arrived at Coconanny, the extreme military
post of the English. This is kept here to suppress the slave-trade,
though much of it is carried on, I am informed, clandestinely. It
is a beautiful place, elevated and healthy; vegetation, too, grows
luxuriantly. The trader, Mr. Hayes, with whom we put up for the
night, has built, at his own expense, a small chapel, in which
services are conducted mornings and Sundays. Mr. Hayes is a friend
of the Mission and our work, and desires very much to have us come
and begin missionary work in behalf of those among whom his lot is
cast. The villages round about are abundant, and I think a good
work could be done in this community. The people are willing to
have us come and establish a permanent Christian work among them.
British protection being here would render property safer and less
liable to plunder.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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