The agricultural work is progressing quite nicely. The coffee farm is in quite a good condition, and Brother Anthony is now having it cleaned.
Travels into the Interior—The Heathen—The Country—The Opportunity.
REV. ALBERT P. MILLER, GOOD HOPE.
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.