C. H. C.
Talladega College.
Dear Sir,—I am glad to have the opportunity of writing you this my third letter. You know that this is my third year in the seminary, and that I was to finish my course of study at the close of it. Among all my benefactors there are none to whom I feel so grateful for my education as to you. By the assistance, which I have received from your charitable hand, I shall be enabled to complete my studies and enter upon a field of labor at our next Commencement. It would be impossible for me to repay you for what you have done for me during these last years of my course, though I had bags of “fine gold.” I know that my getting an education was not the ultimate motive that actuated you to give your money; but that I might be prepared thereby for the Master’s service, and to go into His vineyard and help build up His kingdom. This is the fruit which, I perceive, you expect to find growing upon the vines which you have planted and watered; and, by the help of my Master, this shall be the labor of my life. I feel that I have a work here in the South among my people, which God would have me do, that no other man can do. When I look abroad and see what is to be done to raise this people out of chaos, and the almost overwhelming responsibility that is resting on us who are being prepared for the work, it almost discourages me; but I have made up my mind to die in the work.
The most encouraging thing among us is the fact that most all of the schools and colleges which have been founded here for the education of the colored people are conducted and taught by Christians. The colored people, though the majority of them are unlettered men, seek for Christian teachers—even in our common public schools—as a general thing.
The mission work carried on by the theological students is still full of interest, and promises a bright future for the many thousands who are being brought to a knowledge of the truth. The students of the college go out into all parts of the State and teach day and Sunday-schools, and by so doing exert a Christian influence over their pupils.
I trust that the good Master, who sees the doings of all His children, will increase your store, that you may continue to help lift up those who are bound to ignorance and degradation. Remember especially the American Missionary Association, which has been instrumental in doing so much for the Christian elevation of this people. It has pressing need of funds to carry its work successfully.
If I never have the opportunity of writing you again, or of hearing from you at any time, I trust we shall meet each other in the kingdom above, where we shall remain together forever, and give God all majesty and praise.
From your ever grateful servant,
J. D. S.
Howard University.