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BRIEF VIEW

AMERICAN MURATHEE MISSION.

For the year 1836.

BOMBAY:

PRINTED AT THE AMERICAN MISSION PRESS.

1836.

Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2016

https://archive.org/details/briefviewofameriOOamer

A

BRIEF VIEW

OF THE

AMERICAN MURATHEE MISSION.

The comtnencement of another year reminds us that the time has also arrived to furnish to our patrons and oth.ers, who feel interested in the cause in which we are engaged, some account of our labors and proceedings. And we gladly embrace this occasion for doing so, not so much because we have gratifying intelligence of success to commu- nicate, as in the hope of exciting a greater interest for the spiritual good of those among whom we labor, and more fervent prayer for their salvation. The means which we have employed in the prosecution of this work, are of the same kind as are commonly employed to propagate Christianity among a heathen population. These means are, preaching the Gospel, translating, preparing, and distributing the Scriptures and tracts, and establishing and superintending schools for the education of children of both sexes. As the Mission now consists of two stations, Bombay and Ahmednuggur, the operations of each will be separately described.

BOMBAY.*

Rev. C. Stone, Missionary — Mrs. Stone.

Rev. S. B. Monger, Missionary — Mrs. Monger.

Rev H. Ballantine, Missionary — Mrs. Ballantine.

Mr. E. A. Webster, Printer — Mrs. Webster.

Mr. G. W. Hobbard, Superintendent of Schools — Mrs. Hobbard. Miss C. Farrar, Superintendent of Female Schools.

A. F. Fonceca, Assistant.

* At the annual meeting of the Mission held in Ahmednuggur in October, the following changes in location were determined ;

Mr Stone, to take charge of the schools on the continent in the vicinity of

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BRIEF VIEW OF THE

Preaching.

To the preaching of the Gospel we have always assigned the first place in our operations. We regard it as more fitted and more fre- quently blessed than any other means, to excite the attention, to en- lighten the understanding, and to impress the conscience. This kind of labor has been performed regularly and with some encouragement, through the year. At 9 o’clock every Sabbath morning, religious ser- vice is performed in Murathee in' the chapel. This service consists of the different parts of worship commonly performed in Christian con- gregations. The assembly consists principally of the larger children from the boys’ and girls’ schools, of the teachers of the schools, of the men employed in the printing establishment, and of other persons con- nected with the mission, or belonging to the families composing it. In addition to these, are generally some voluntary hearers of various clas- ses, the whole making a congregation, in number, appearance, and at- tention, quite respectable. A considerable number of these persons have acquired so much historical and doctrinal knowledge of Christi- anity, that they are now intelligent hearers. Some of them, we have no doubt, are convinced of the truth of the Gospel, but the fear of being suspected of a disbelief and neglect of their own religion, and conse- quently of being favorably inclined to Christianity, makes them gene- rally cautious and unwilling; to express their views and feelings on the subject. And so numerous and strong are the motives in this country, which induce people in this state of mind to follow, and apparently to practice the prevailing errors and superstitions, that we cannot expect

Bombay. It is expected he will reside at some convenient place for superintend- ing them.

Mr. Hunger, to Jalna should the way be open to commence missionary ope- rations in that place.

Mr. Ballantine, to Ahmednuggur.

Mr. Allen, who had been employed for some years principally in itinerating, to Bombay.

The above changes were made as soon as convenient after the annual meet- ing closed.

Miss Farrar having suffered much from ill-heath for two or three years past, in accordance with the recommendation of her physicians embarked for America early in January 1837, in the hope that a voyage and residence for a while in her native climate, might restore her health. Her place is supplied by Miss Graves, who it IS hoped will be able to continue in it during Miss. F.’s absence.

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they will openly renounce them and profess their belief in Christianity until the Spirit shall convince them of sin, and of righteousness, and of a judaiment to come. Nor can we reasonably expect there will be any considerable increase in the number of voluntary and constant hearers, until the same gracious influence shall incline the hearts of more to attend the preaching of the Gospel. Curiosity will sometimes induce people to attend for one or two Sabbaths, and more commendable motives may induce some who were educated in our schools to be occasionally present at our religious services ; but such are the usual engage- ments of business, or if not thus occupied, such are the enticetnents to scenes of amusement and pleasure, that few will devote the Sabbath to receiving Christian instruction, until their consciences shall become deeply impressed with divine truth, or until their hearts shall have ex- perienced its renovating influence. That such may soon be the state and character of the people around us, we would entreat all who desire their salvation to pray fervently to Cod for the gracious influence of his Spirit, which alone can effect so blessed a change.

The English service in the evening in the chapel has been regularly continued. This meeting has at no time been numerously attended, and sometimes the number present is small. It affords the privilege of worship on the Sabbath to the families belonging to the mission, and to some others who cannot conveniently attend at any other place. This service has also been blessed at different times to the conversion of several individuals. Of these some have died in the faith, and others are still living and sustain a consistent Christian character. This ser- vice, though not a prominent part of our operations, is yet deemed of sufficient importance to be continued. During most of the year a religious meeting has been held on some evening between the Sabbaths. At this meeting a lecture was sometimes preached, but the exercises oftener consisted of reading the Scriptures, ajid of prayer and praise. This meeting is still continued. The number who attend is nearly the same as at the English service on Sabbath evening. The monthly prayer meeting on the first Monday of each month has been regularly held. At these meetings, so interesting to all who sincerely desire that the kingdom of Christ may come, we have commonly enjoyed the happiness of having some Christian friends, who are not connected with the mission, unite with us.

In addition to the preceding services held in the chapel, the preach- ing of the Gospel, as far as the health, the engagements, and circum- stances of the Mission would admit, has been pursued in stated places,

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in our school houses, and when favorable opportunities present- ed, in places of public concourse, and by the way-side. At such times, though some people manifest their aversion to what is said by their impatience, sneering and cavilling, yet others listen with encouraging attention. In the present state and habits of the native population, this is the only way by which many of the present generation will ever hear the Gospel. And happily for the encouragement of those who engage in labors of this kind, instances are often occurring in India of the Gospel thus preached awakening a spirit of inquiry, which ulti- mately results in a convictioa of the truth of Christianity and public profession of it.

Schools.

The number of native free schools for boys in Bombay is 5. On the continent are 12 schools into which girls as well as boys are admitted. The schools in Bombay are examined often by some member of the Mis- sion. The boys of the two higherclasses assemble for religious instruc- tion in the chapel at 8 o’clock every Sabbath morning. They read some chapter inthe Bible, whichis previously assigned to them. This is then explained, and its truths are inculcated. They also rehearse the ten commandments and such other religious lessons, as they are required to learn in school. These are also explained, and the obligation of all fjeople to believe and obey them is inculcated. This exercise con- tinues till the regular Murathee service at 9 o’clock commences. The schools on the continent have been visited several times by different members of the Mission in the course of the year. They have com- monly more scholars than the schools in Bombay. In addition to the advantages which these schools afford to the children in the way of education and religious instruction, they furnish a medium of commu- nication with the inhabitants of the villages, and thus open the way for imparting Christian instruction, and distributing the Scriptures and tracts. The arrangement lately made for superintending the schools on the continent, it is hoped will have an important influence on their character and efficiency. An important part in this arrange- ment is, that the member of the Mission who shall have the super- intendence of the schools, shall have under his immediate care a school for the instruction of teachers and others, in the hope that by the divine blessing they may become useful in the missionary work.

The number of girls’ schools in Bombay now connected with the Mission is 9, in which are about 230 scholars. The teachers’ lists

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contain a larger number, but some of the scholars are inconstant in their attendance. The youngest scholars are commonly 4 or 5 years old, and the oldest 13 or 14 years. They belong to all the castes of which the native population is composed. The school in the mission house near the Bhendy Bazar, contains the scholars which formerly be- longed to 4 distinct schools in different places. It has been found by experience that theprogressof the scholars is alwaysmuch greater, when any school can have the frequent inspection of the superintendent. For this purpose these schools were united into one, in which the schol- ars are classed according to the progress they have made. The same number of teachers are employed in this school, as formerly when these scholars were in separate schools. The progress they make in their studies, as well as in religious knowledge, is much in favor of the arrangement. The highest classes read the Scriptures and other books in the l^lurathee language readily and intelligibly. They commit to memory a catechism, which is compiled principally from the Scriptures, and which is used in all the schools connected with the Mission. This catechism is partly historical and partly doctrinal, and contains 20 pages. The youngest classes read in easy books, and commit to memo- ry the Lord’s prayer and the Ten Commandments. The lessons which are committed to memory in these schools are often explained, and the duties prescribed in them, are frequently jinculcated. This is deemed important, not only that they may understand the meaning and appli- cation of what they commit to memory, but because instruction com- municated in connection with what they thus learn, becomes associated with it in the mind and is long remembered.

One of the schools in the Mission house is the Poor School. This was commenced more than two years ago. The children receive what is supposed to be sufficient for their support. ITie reason of this is, their parents are very poor, and of that class in society who, if their children were not supported, would accustom them to begging and iniqui- ty, or allow them to grow up in a state which would soon lead them to some vicious course of life. The number ofchildren in this school is 20. They live with their parents or friends, and come daily to school. If they do not come, they receive nothing for their support. The expense of supporting them is about one and a half rupee per month for each scholar.

No important changes have been made in the schools for boys, or for girls, nor has any thing particularly interesting occurred, during the past year. In the high classes more attention than formerly has been given

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to tlie study ol geograptiy, and some ol tlie elcnientai'y piiriciples ol as„ ti'onomy. Attempts have .been made to render the study of these in- telligible and interesting by niaps_and drawings. The ignorance of the native population on these subjects, isamongtheobstacles which prevent the progress of Christianity. If a Hindoo begins to read the Scrip- tures, he at once finds the names of cities, countries, and nations of which he never before heard. He knows not in what part of the world, nor even in what direction these places are. He knows not in what age the events occurred, and the actions were performed, ofwhich he reads. His belief that such events ever occurred, and that such actions were ever performed, that there are now, or ever weroj countries and nations of such names, rests entirely upon the credit he gives to the book he is reading. This belief is supported by no previous knowledge, by no information he can find in native books, and by no intelligence he can obtain from the native population around him. Id such a state of ignorance and uncertainty, it is not strange that the Scriptures when read, are very imperfectly understood, that little desire is felt to know what they contain, and that the events they describe, and the doctrines and precepts they inculcate, are fi-equently not perceived to have any immediate connection with the people of this country, and consequently no application of their solemn truths is made to the mind. '

Nor is some knowledge of the first principles of astronomy less im- portant to the native population. Their absurd notions on this sub- ject are intimately connected with many of their religious rites and practices. The sun, the moon, and the planets, are among the objects of their worship and superstitious homage. Connected with the sup- posed influence of these, is their regard for lucky and unlucky days, which governs them in the common as well as important concerns of life, and which prevents their having correct views of the power and government of God. The manner in which they regard eclipses, the ab- surd causes to which these phenomena are ascribed, and the rites and ceremonies which are at such times performed, make a part of the prevailing system of superstition and idolatry. These absurdand wick- ed notions, wicked because they lead to the perfonnance of idolatrous rites and practices, can be done away only by communicating correct views of the universe, and of the laws and principles by which it is governed. To raise the native population from this state of ignorance, to remove those prejudices which keep them morally and intellectu- ally degraded, and above all to make them acquainted with Christianity

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so that they may feel the force of its great truths on their hearts, and may become wise unto salvation, is the end we aim to accom- plish in our efforts in the cause of education. With this view the books used for reading in all the schools, are the Scriptures and re- ligious works. No book not approved by the Mission is allowed to be used, or to be kept in any school.

The want of suitable qualifications in some of the teachers we are obliged to employ, for persons suitably qualified cannot often be obtain- ed, has long been much felt in our system of education. With a view as far as practicable to remove this disadvantage, we have a meeting of the teachers of the boys’ and girls’ schools in Bombay for instruction one afternoon every week. Though they manifest less desire for improve- ment than we wish, and less than might naturally be expected, yet the arrangement is evidently attended with advantage, and those teachers who have been for some time in our employment, have commonly far better qualifications than those recently employed. This meeting is frequently attended by some of the larger children from the schools. We hope to make this meeting more interesting and useful.

The Mission have long regarded the establishment of a female board- ing school in Bombay, as a desirable object. With the intention of commencing such an institution the Superintendent of female schools has taken charge ofa few native children, and formed them into a fam- ily under her immediate care and inspection. They occupy part of the buildings connected with the Mission liouse near the chapel. There are now 13 girls in this school. Of these 5 are negro children, originally from the coast of Africa. They are part of a larger number, who were taken in a ship engaged in the slave trade. These children are of a quiet and peaceable disposition, and they possess good natural capacity. The studies in this school do not yet differ materially from those of the higher classes in the common female schools. When not engaged in study or recreation for health, the children are employed in sewing. They are pleased with this employment and soon learn to do work very well. The scholars are always present at family wor- ship in the morning and evening. The school is yet an experiment, and not unlikely, considering the extensive and inveterate prejudice against female education which generally pervades the native popula- tion, it will be subject to much vicissitude before its fi lends and pa- trons will see it in a flourishing state.

The English school formerly supported and superintended by the Mission, has been discontinued. Tlie results of this school were not

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in all respects what were anticipated. A considerable number of scholars commonly attended ; but it was not found practicable to ex- ert much moral influence over them, or to communicate religious in- struction to such an extent as appeared likely to be of much perma- nent benefit. There are several schools in Bombay in which the En- glish language is taught, and into which the scholars of this school could be received to complete their education. In these circum- stances the religious influence of the school did not appear to be of sufficient importance to warrant the expense and time requisite for carrying it on, and it was accordingly discontinued.

Tours.

Several short tours have been made to the villages on the continent, east and south-east from Bombay. These tours have been made in connection with visiting the schools supported by the Mission; but they were not limited to those villages. One reason for supporting these schools is, they furnish a medium of communication with the inhabitants of the villages. Such schools give the missionary while visiting them, favorable opportunities to preach the gospel, and to distribute the Scriptures and tracts. In places where schools have been for some time in operation, the proportion of people who can read is greater, and the inhabitants generally possess some knowledge of Christianity, which enables them better to understand religious books and instruction. For these reasons frequent tours among the villages where our schools are established, and also to the villages around them, are important and interesting.. In November Mr. Monger and Mr. Stone left Ahmednuggur, to which they had gone to attend the annual meeting of the Mission, and proceeded as far as to Jalna by way of Aurungabad. They returned by the way of Aurangabad, Ellora, and Byzapoor. On this tour they visited many large villages and found favorable opportunities for preaching and for distributing the Scriptures and tracts.

Mission Church.

No addition from the native population has been made to the church during the year. Several persons have at different times pro- fessed to be sincerely inquiring for the truth, and one or two express- ed a desire to be baptized. It has not, however, been thought expedi- ent to admit any to this ordinance. We have so often looked for better things from such persons than were eventually realized, that we have become impressed with the importance of using great caution in

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admitting any to a public profession of Christianity. One young man of the Indo-Briton class, who was partly educated by the Mission, was admitted into the church early in the year. He is an assistant in the printing office. He has good qualifications for business, and appears likely to be a useful and respectable man. Mrs. Hussy, a widow of the Indo-Briton class, who had for some years been in connection with the church, died in February, leaving her friends reason to hope she had fallen asleep in Jesus. Shevajee, of whom some account was given in the report of the Mission for last year, died after a short sickness in June, He continued to sustain a consistent Christian character, and was zealously employed in endeavouring to persuade people of all classes to whom he could obtain access, to renounce their idolatry and worship the true God, and to trust in the Savior of sin- ners for salvation. He died in peace, professing his reliance on the atonement and mediation of the Redeemer, and his hope in the mercy of God through him. In a few weeks after his decease, his only child, a boy about 4 years old, died. His widow remains in connection with the Mission.

The Evangelist and Reporter on the completion of the third volume was transferred to some gentlemen of the Church of England, by whom the work is still continued. — ^The printing department has been busily occupied through the year in printing the Scriptures, tracts and school- books. A considerable amount of English work has also been done. We are happy also in being able to inform our friends and patrons that the type-foundry is likely soon to be in successful operation. It will be a useful auxiliary to the printing establishment, facilitating its operations and diminishing its expenses.

MAHABULESHWUR.

To this place Mr. Graves removed more than two years ago on ac- count of his health, which had long been feeble. The same cause renders it necessary for him to continue there. During the past year he has been occupied, so far as his health would admit, in translating the Scriptures and other missionary labors. The printing of Leviticus, translated by him, was finished in the early part of the year. Psalms and Numbers have also been prepared, and an edition of each has been printed. Deuteronomy is in the press. It is his intention to continue the work of translating the Scriptures in the coming year, as far as his health will admit.

During the greater part of the year, Mr. Graves has been able , te

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devote some part of liis time to preaching the gospel to the native pop- ulation. In the rainy season, for three or four months the population which continued atMahabuleshwur was small. Still a few persons met every Sabbath in Mr. G.’s house for worship. Except in the rainy sea- son, be has performed religious services on the Sabbath in the school- house. At this meeting 50 or 60 persoi.s have generally been present. Of these more than half are in some way connected with the school. In May two Chinamen were baptized and admitted to the Lord’s supper. They had been receiving instruction in the truths of Christi- anity for a long time previous, and they gave so much evidence of having experienced its enlightening and renovating influence, that Mr. G. believed it was his duty to comply with their request to bap- tize them. Their conduct and the character they sustain, so far as these are known, have been in accordance with the profession they made. Four or five others of their countrymen commonly attend worship on the Sabbath, and appear somewhat atfected with the truths of Christianity. When his health would admit, Mr. Graves has often gone into the village to converse with such persons as could be found and would listen to the truths of Christianity. The villages in tlie vicinity are generally small, and often diffi- cult of access. More than 20 of these villages have been visited by Mr. G. The people were attentive, but generally very ignorant. Of all these villages, only 3 or 4 contained any persons who could read. A few children from these villages have been induced to attend school, in the hope that they will become able to read the Scriptures and tracts for the instruction of the inhabitants. In such villages people are often more inclined to receive instruction in the truths of Christianity than those who live in more public and populous places. They have more simplicity of manners, and more integrity of character. They have not so much attachment to caste and to the usual forms and ob- jects of idolatrous worship. For these reasons such villages offer a more encouraging field for missionary labor than is generally supposed, and they are worthy of more attention than has commonly been bestowed upen them.

The school in connection with Air. Graves’ family, and under the care and instruction of Airs. Graves and their sister, has been contin- ued through the year. At the commencement of the rainy season, nearly half the scholars removed with their parents and friends to Sat- tara. These were there formed into a school by Aliss O. Graves, who removed to S. and resided there during the monsoon. The scholai's

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who remained at Mahabuleshwur during the rainy season, continued under the care and instruction of Mrs. Graves. At the close of the rainy season the scholars who were in Sattara returned to Maha- buleshwur, and were united again with those who had remained there. The number of scholars has varied from 40 to 50. Of these, nearly half are boys who live with their parents or friends in the village, but come daily to school. Of the girls, 17 are boarders, and live together in a family under the superintendence of Mrs. Graves. They have been able in part to support themselves by obtaining and preparing arrow- root, and also by needle-work, which some of them can now do quite well. All the children connected with the school are present at the daily family worship in the native language. They also attend the religious services on the Sabbath. An examination of the school was held in May. It was attended by many gentlemen and ladies who were then residing at Mahabulesliw'ur. In a sketch of the ex- amination, written by a gentleman who was present, and published in the Oriental Christian Spectator, it was stated that the progress which the children had made, considering the time the school had contin- ued, much exceeded expectation, and was highly [gratifying. Several persons who attended the examination manifested their interest in the school by donations for its support^ — a still stronger recommendation in its favor.

AHMEDNUGGUR.*

Rev. D, O, Allen, Missionary.

Rev. G. VV. Boggs, Missionary — Mrs. Boggs.

Mr. A. Abbott, Superintendent of Schools — Mrs. Abbott.

Dajeba, Native Assistant.

In the early part of the year a large room or hall on the ground floor of the house occupied by Mr. Boggs was prepared to be used for a chapel. Religious worship has been performed in it Sabbath mornings, and the place has been well filled. The assembly consists mostly of the teachers of the Mission schools, of the scholars in the higher classes, and other persons in some way connected with the Mission. There are commonly some others present, but the number of this class is small. A more spacious and convenient place of

* At the annual meeting of the Mission in Ahmednuggur in October it was determined that Mr. Allen should remove to Bombay, and that Mr. Ballantine should remove from Bombay to Ahmednuggur ; these changes were made soon af- ter the meeting closed.

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BRIEF VIEW OF TKE

worship being required, it was determined at the late annual meeting of the Mission to erect a suitable chapel. The work has been com- menced on ground belonging to the Mission premises, and it is ex- pected that it will be completed in a few months. We hope and pray that when this house, erected for the worship of the true God, shall be finished and dedicated to his service, many who have hitherto served imaginary gods, will begin to say one to another, “ Come let us go to the house of Jehovah; let us worship before the Lord our Maker, for he is God.”

The Mission has two small houses in the town, which were erected for occasional and stated preaching. They were built at small ex- pense, and being open on one side and generally unoccupied, they are often used by travellers and strangers, as places for resting and lodg- ing. Their being occupied often in this way never interferes with the purpose for which they were erected, while it prevents their being abused, and perhaps destroyed by ill-disposed people. In this way also many hear the Gospel and receive tracts and the Scriptures, who would not, were they to stop in other places. One of these houses is on a large road in the south part of the town. It is so near the Poor Asylum that the inmates, if not prevented by sickness, or nearly help- less from age and infirmity, can attend without inconvenience. But those who are able generally come to the stated meetings, especially on the Sabbath. The number of people who attend at this house has been very unequal ; sometimes only a few individuals, and at other times the place has been crowded. Some remain only for a few minutes, and ■others continue to listen as long as any thing is addressed to them. The people at this house, so long as they remain, are commonly atten- tive to what is said to them. If they dislike what they hear, or grow weary, they go away quietly.

The other house is on a large road in the north part of the town. The truths of Christianity and the obligations of all men to receive and .obey them, have been much inculcated here on the Sabbath and other days, when people were found who would listen. The Sabbath, however, has been found to be more favorable for obtaining attention, as many of the people who live near, being in the service of Govern- ment, have then more leisure, the Government offices being closed. It has also been thought desirable that some one of the Mission should go to each place erected for preaching at some stated time every Sabbath, and that such should be the expectation so that any persons so inclined might then be there. The number who have been

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present at this place has been very unequal, and has often consisted principally of people who were passing in the road and came in for a short time. Some have generally given respectful attention, probably more from feelings of curiosity than any desire to know the truth. But many have manifested a different spirit — some urging their objec- tions, some zealous in defending their own opinions and practices, some striving to show their ingenuity in argument, some endeavoring to occupy the time by useless inquiries and foolish cavils, and some man- ifesting their ill-will in the more offensive manner of abuse, reviling, and blasphemy. Still, notwithstanding this opposition, this is an im- portant and encouraging place. The people who live near are ac- quiring a knowledge of Christianity,, and many who have come from other places to Ahmednuggur on business, often at this house hear some- thing of the way of salvation, and obtain tracts and the Scriptures. The labours of the missionaries in preaching have not been confined to the places mentioned. They have endeavored to embrace oppor- tunities as they could find at the school-houses and other places, dai- ly to expose the wickedness of idolatry,- to inculcate the worship of the true God, and to persuade men to repent of their sins and trust in Jesus Christ for pardon and salvation.

Tours.

In January, February, and March, Mr. Allen performed a long tour in the country south from Ahmednuggur. During most of this tour he was accompanied by the Rev. C. P. Farrar, of the Church Mission in Nasik. On the way to Sholapoor they visited the large villages of Merritchgaum, Kurmulla, Purinda, Barsee, and Wyrag. Front Sholapoor they proceeded to Beejapoor, which was found to be the li- mit of the Murathee language in that direction. Indeed, before reach- ing Beejapoor, the Canarese language was found to be in common use,, but Brahmuns and intelligent people generally understood Murathee. From Beejapoor they proceeded to Punderpoor, and from thence tO' Mahabuleshwur by the way of Sattara and Waee.- At Mahabuleshwur, after resting for a few days, they parted, Mr. Farrar proceeding to Na- sik by the way of Bore, Poona and Joonnur, and Mr. Allen returning to Ahmednuggur by the way of Waee and Jejoory. In small villages they commonly remained but one day, but in large villages two days, and in some places three days. This tour included some large villages which had not before been visited by any missionary. As usual in such places, they were listened to with attention, and much eagerness

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was inauifested fur tracts and the Scriptures. A large quantity of tracts, and of the Scriptures were distributed — not so many as people wanted, hut to such an extent as appeared likely to secure the greatest amount of reading. In July and August, Mr. Allen made a tour in the country east and northeast from Ahmednuggur. On this tour he pro- ceeded as far as Jalna. Mr. Boggs and Mr. Abbott have made sever- al short tours to villages in the vicinity of Ahmednuggur, principally in connection with commencing and visiting schools. On the tours mentioned above some thousand tracts and parts of the Scriptures have been distributed. It is not easy to know how much these are read. Many of them are probably read but little, and not unfrequent- ly they are laid by or given away again without being read at all. But evidence is not wanting that some of them are read in places where they are distributed, and are sometimes carried into places where no missionaries have been, and are there read. It is an encouraging and gratifying fact that in roost villages some persons are found who have acquired so much knowledge of Christianity as to know that the two great truths of tlie system are — the worship of one eternal, almighty, invisible, and omnipresent God, and trust in Jesus Christ for salvation. And wlien people are acquainted with these truths, and have the means of acquiring further religious knowledge from tracts and the Scriptures in their possession, or in their village, there is encouragement to pray that the influence of the Holy Spirit may be bestowed upon them to convince them of sin, of righteousness, and a judgment to come, and by purifying their souls, make them the spiritual worshippers of .Tehovah.

Schools.

The number of native schools has been increased to 12. Of these 5 are in Ahmednuggur, anl 7 are in villages in the vicinity. These schools are subject to the same regulations both in respect to their course of instruction and the compensation which is given to the teach- ers, as the schools connected with the Bombay branch of the Mission. The teachers and the scholars in the highest classes in the schools in Ahmednuggur attend the religious services on Sabbath mornings. After the services are finished, the scholars are formed into a Sabbath school to read the Scriptures, and to be examined on lessons which have been previously assigned to them. Efforts are made to improve the qualifications of the teachers, and introduce among them a better mode of instructing and managing schools than is now understood and practised. The schools in the villages not only furnish means of edu-

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cation to those who must otherwise remain in ignorance, but tfiey are a medium of communicating a knowledge of Cliristianity, by conver- sation, by preaching, and by furnishing any who may be able to read (and there are commonly a few such in villages) with Jthe Scriptures and religious books. Applications are frequently received from other villages for schools, and it is in contemplation to establish a few more, as soon as arrangements can be made for efficiently superintending them. The Mission have 2 schools for girls in Ahmednuggur. The scholars have generally made good progress. The large girls are en- gaged a part of the time each day in learning to sew. In this em- ployment they receive the avails of their labor. This arrangement, while it is gratifying to their feelings, gives value to the acquisition, and makes them desirous to improve.

Seminary.

Soon after Ahmednuggur became a missionary station, the Ameri- can Board authorized the Mission to attempt the establishment of a seminary for education, if they should think it practicable. Uneitpect- ed events and unfavorable circumstances for some time prevented any effort from being made. In 1835 a small house was erected for the purpose, and a school was commenced in it. But sickness in some of the Mission, and their being required to remove from A. for a while on account of it, did not allow of much being attempted immediately, and for some months this school differed but little from the other native schools. Early in the present year, the state of the Mission becoming more favorable, a plan, embracing a system of regulations and a course of instruction, was drawn up and communicated to the native population as occasion and opportunity offered. This plan included the support as well as the instruction of all who should be admitted into the institution. They were required to attend worship on the Sabbath, to be present at the daily worship in the native language, and to sleep on the premises. As it was supposed they would be of different castes and the Mission had not accommodations provided for their living on the premises, they were allowed to board in such families as the Superintendent should approve. This arrangement, however, was designed to be temporary, as it was intended to provide acccommodations for them all to live on the premises.

A few boys, after considerable consultation among their friends, consented to sleep in the school-house under the care of the teacher. These received an allowance sufficient for tlie expense

3

J8

BRIEF VIEW OF THE

of tlieir food. It was not long before several others applied to be received in the same way. They were informed that all who would eat as well as sleep on the premises, should receive enough for their food and clothing. For some time only one boy did so, but his exam- ple was gradually followed by others, and for some months past all the scholars have lived on the premises. Their food is not cooked on the premises, but is previously prepared, and then brought to them. This circumstance, however, is of no great importance in the present state of the school. All the scholars are young. Their intercourse with each other, and their increase in knowledge, are diminishing the prejudices of caste, apparently as fast as the fears and anxiety of their friends and the sensitive state of the native population on this subject, render desirable. The studies have differed but little from those of the other native schools. The highest class are engaged a part of the time in learning English. The course of study, which it is intended all shall pursue, will require several years, and include such a know- ledge of the English language as will enable them to read intelligibly the best religious and scientific works.

The school from its commencement has been under the care and superintendence of Mr. Abbott. The number of scholars is now 45, and their ages vary from 5 to 14 years. The house which was first erected, not furnishing sufficient accommodations, the Mission determi- ned at their annual meeting^^n October to erect another building. Sev- eral English gentlemen at the station subscribed liberally to defray the expense, and the house will soon be finished. It will be a substantial structure, 48 by 24 feet, within the walls. It is designed to be used as a chapel, as w'ell as for the accommodation of the school. Thus far the school has succeeded beyond our expectations, and we are en- couraged to hope it will exert an important influence in diffusing a knowledge of Christianity. But much must not be expected immedi- ately ; and it is not unlikely, considering the ignorance of the native population generally, and their strong prejudices of religion and caste, that the institution will be subjected to many unhappy vicissitudes be- fore its friends and patrons will see their expectations and prayers realized.

CONCLUSION.

During the year some changes occurred in the Mission which are not mentioned in the preceding sketch of its operations. In December of last jear, Mr. Stone, iii accordance with the advice of his physi- cians, proceeded to Ceylon for the benefit of his health. lie remained

AMERICAN MURATHEE MISSION.

19

in Ceylon and the south part of India for some months, during which he visited, among other places, the stations of the American Mission in Jatfna and Madura. He returned to Bombay in improved health in May. In March Mr. Boggs removed to Mahabuleshwur, on ac- count of Mrs. Boggs’ ill-health. While at M. they were called to mourn the death of their yourgest child, a son, 14 months old. Mrs. B.’s health was much improved by the cool climate of Mahabulesh- wur. They returned in June to Ahmednuggur. In June, Mrs. Samp- son * with her two children embarked for Liverpool, intending to pro- ceed thence to New York. On arriving at St. Helena, she concluded to remain there until an opportunity should occur for proceeding di- rectly to America. While in St. Helena, she experienced much kind- ness in the family of W. Carroll, Esq. United States Consular and Commercial Agent in that place. In September she embarked for America in the ship Palm. She probably arrived in America in No- vember or December, but the intelligence has not yet reached India. In J une, Mr. Monger, in accordance with the recommendation of physicians, removed into the Deckan for the benefit of Mrs. M.’s health. They remained in Poona more than three months. While there ho was able to render important asssistance to Rev. Mr. Mitchell in the English department of his labors. Mr. Munger was principally occu- pied in acquiring a further knowledge of the Murathee language. The change proved salutary to Mrs. M.’s health.

Thus another year has passed in our exertions to communicate a knowledge of the gospel, and to impart the blessings of Christianity to the people of India. We have not seen that success following our oxertions which we have desired, and for which we have prayed. Yet we are encouraged in the persuasion that our labours have not been wholly in vain. Success, however, is apparent rather in general ef- fect on the character and the state of religious knowledge of the native population, than in instances of conversion to Christianity. It is cause for thankfulness that after ages of moral darkness and delusion, the light of Christianity has begun to beam on India. Many are now furnished with the Scriptures, and can read in their own language the wonderful works of God.” Many now hear that “ God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Many now hear of the works and character of Jesus Christ, and that “ there is no other name under heaven given among men whereby they can be saved.” And

* Mr. Sampson died December 22d, 1835.

20

BRIEF VIEW, &C.

some have given evidence that tiie gospel has been to them the power of God unto salvation. But how few attend with earnestness to w'hat they hear! how few manifest any particular anxiety for their salvation! how few feel any conviction of sin ! how few have any just views of their guilty state! how few renounce theiridolatry for the worship of the true God ! how few, looking to Jesus as their Savior, yield their hearts to the purifying influence of the Holy Spirit ! If the state of people who are ignorant of the w^ay of salvation is affecting, and should excite Christ- ians to make exertions to furnish them with the means of obtaining this most important of all knowledge, their state is not less affecting when they possess this knowledge or the means of acquiring it, but refuse to give to God the glory which is his due, and to receive the testimony he has given concerning Jesus Christ. Such is now the state of many people within the sphere of our operations, and we ear- nestly entreat all, who honor the Lord with their substance by giving it to extend a knowledge of his character and government, and purpose of mercy towards mankind — all, who love our Lord Jesus Christ, and desire that the heathen may be given to him — all, who are ac- customed to say in the language in which he taught his disciples, “Thy kingdom come, and thy will be done on earth” — all such we entreat to strive together with us in prayer to God that the Holy Spirit, by his enlightening, convincing and renovating influence, may make the know- ledge of Christianity which many of the people around us now possess, and what others are acquiring, effectual to their salvation.

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