THAT THREE HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS.
It is needed, and that is just why we fixed upon the amount. We are not seeking to put forth a single effort or to carry out a solitary measure not strenuously demanded by the circumstances. We think Providence has plainly indicated to us that we should enlarge our operations at some points and inaugurate new work at other points. Of this we have been doubly assured by proffered gifts for specific work that needed greatly to be done.
We have accepted the gifts in faith, fully aware that by so doing we have placed ourselves under greater obligations than ever. If God, however, has moved upon the hearts of good people to provide buildings and funds for aggressive missionary endeavors, is it not evident that He designs to sustain the work in its proper development? His promises and providences surely warrant us in this belief. The funds needful for carrying out the Lord’s plans can be secured. Our concern is to understand and perform what we ought to do to obtain them.
We make our appeal, first, to the churches. Is this Association on your list of charities, and does it receive attention at least once a year? Do you take the collection for it in the best way? Do you give it a place in the monthly concert? Is it remembered in the Sabbath School?
We appeal, secondly, to individuals. When you provide for the charities of the year, do you make a liberal provision for the redemption of the colored races in our land? Do you keep in mind their relations to the highest welfare of the country? Do you remember what part the negroes and Chinamen may take in the conversion of Africa and China? May we not rely upon your gifts even by hundreds and thousands as the months go on? We want that three hundred thousand dollars; and nothing is more sure than that it will come, provided churches in their several capacities, and individuals in their large-hearted benevolence, will respond promptly and prayerfully, according to their ability. If men and women are ready to enter the dens of darkness and sin, to baffle and destroy not the troublesome wolf—like young Putnam in our nation’s early history—but Satan and his wicked devices, surely we ought to be willing to furnish and hold the ropes.