The church was filled last Sabbath to its utmost capacity with hearers. Brother S., I think is the right man in the right place. The only charge I am able to bring against him is overwork. He has the confidence of the people, which is so necessary to success. Services were conducted by Brother Jackson and myself.
I find the people kind and obliging. They are very happy to have us, of their own race, come and teach and labor among them. Some seem ready to shout. We are well pleased with our new home, and are in a good state of health. The heat is very intense. All things seem to indicate a better day for the sable sons of Ham. Africa is not what rumor represents it to be—at least, what I have seen of it.
April 3, 1878.—To-day has been one of great interest, both to parents and children. The day-school, under the general management of Brother White, turned out. An examination took place in the forenoon, after which the schools (day and Sabbath), with two banners waving o’er head, came marching to a place near the mission-house, where a dinner had been prepared for them. Brother Snelson led the schools, and the children, full of joy, followed him. He led them through the principal streets of this our city, the sides of the streets being filled with lookers-on. All this seemed new to them, and I dare say it is new to this part of Africa. We had music, but very different from such as our American friends are accustomed to. An old tin box served as kettle-drum. This, with other instruments, made music sufficient for the children to march and keep pretty good time. Returning to the tables, the little ones ate dinner, using spoons, which is something very new to them. Each one seemed to be happy. The patrons were called upon to contribute for the giving of this dinner. Many responded, sending chickens, rice, etc. Of course, the whole affair was devolved upon Brother Snelson. He received contributions from traders and officials, many of whom are here on the coast. These, you will remember, are white, the friendship and kind favor of whom Brother S. has gained. They did not attend the exercises of the day, but came out at night, and listened to speeches from members of the school. The pupils spoke and sang well, and reminded me very much of my past experience in the South—so Southern-like.
All were highly pleased with the exercises of the evening. The American flag was on one side of the house, that of England on the other—thus bringing all in attendance between them. These two flags during the day were unfurled to the gentle breeze with which we were favored. Many of the leading men of Bonthe were here, and, with those from other places, took tea with us. I gain more interest daily for this my field of labor. I shall not wait to become acclimated, but shall proceed to labor at once.
Advantages of Colored Missionaries.
EXTRACT OF LETTER FROM A. E. WHITE.
You would like to know what I think about colored missionaries doing good here. My firm belief is, that they can do more than any other missionaries under the sun. These people have always been used to colored people. Most of the white men whom they have seen were traders, seeking their own good. They robbed the people of their produce and children, and destroyed their confidence. A white missionary has to be more careful than a colored one. The natives look upon a white person as unnatural, and think he is above them in every way, and that God made him so. They also think it is of no use for them to try to do the things they see the white man do. But, on the other hand, when they see a colored man do anything, they think if he can do it they can do it themselves. They are a great people to imitate. For a proof of what I have said, look at the Shengay Mission. It is conducted altogether by colored missionaries, and stands ahead of others on the coast. Do not think I say this because I am a colored man. I say it because I know it is true.