Consulting the principle of comity between the two societies—the A. H. M. S. and the A. M. A.—and that traditional policy of Congregationalists which ignores caste and color lines, and also in view of the present relative position and strength of the two societies, we, the Joint Committee, give as our judgment:
1. That, as heretofore, the principal work of the American Home Missionary Society should be in the West, and the principal work of the American Missionary Association should be in the South.
2. Whatever new work may be called for in any locality should be under the charge of the society already occupying the ground. No exception to this rule should be allowed unless it be by agreement between the two societies.
3. Concerning work already established by either society, we would recommend that if either comity, economy or efficiency will be advanced by it, such a transfer of the work should be made as shall bring the work of the societies into harmony with the preceding recommendations.
4. We would recommend to the two societies to consider the practicability of using a common superintendent in those portions of the field where an economical and efficient administration will be secured by it.
ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS A DAY.
What can be done with it? We can sustain efficiently our current work of educating teachers and preachers and the planting of churches. In the progress of development, more requires more. If the Association did not need increased receipts it would be evidence of lack of growth. There is no such lack. New demands are springing up at every point, and it is wise economy to meet these demands. They are simply the healthy development of legitimate missionary work.
Just now there is urgent demand for the increase of facilities for promoting industrial education. The South is arising into a new life. New fields of labor are rapidly opening. Skilled workmen are wanted. The possibilities of agricultural prosperity are becoming better understood. The aspiring youth of both sexes are comprehending their opportunities, and the industrial departments in connection with our institutions are patronized as never before. We ought to make the most of them now.