AFRICAN MISSION
Journal of Mr. Day
We are encouraged to hope that the mission to Africa, under the
auspices of the Southern Board will be carried on with vigor and success.
The services of brother Day having been secured, and other
arrangements being made for the increase of laborers in that field, it will
not be too much to expect, with the blessing of God, that his people will
be cheered by the tidings of his mercy realized in the salvation of sinners.
The following journal contains a reference to the first journal of our
missionary. As he may continue these evangelistic labors among the
native towns of Liberia, shall he not be followed by the supplications of
his brethren in this country? Will not all pray that his life and health may
be preserved, and that the gospel he preaches may come to the heathen,
"not in word only, but in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much
assurance.” We hasten to lay before our readers portions of the journal
to which allusion has just been made. Being authorized by the Liberian
government to enter into treaty with the petty tribes of the coast, Mr. Day
thus refers to his visit to one of the towns: -
Jan’y lsl, 1847 — Went to Tatton’s town, he having
requested to be taken, together with his people, under the
protection of the colony. Drew up an instrument in which the old
king, in behalf of his people, agreed to relinquish the superstitions,
manners and customs of the Bassa people; to have the Sabbath
strictly observed, and in all particulars to conform to the laws,
manners and customs of the colonists. I, in the name of and in
behalf of his excellency, J. J. Robert, agree that his people shall be
protected and enjoy all the rights and privileges of colonists.
When the old king took the pen in hand to sign the
instrument, he said, if I put my mark here, must I give up my
women? 1 said, king, the instrument implies that, but it shall not at
present be so construed. There is much prepartion necessary
before this instrument in all its bearings can be carried out. A
school must be established here; your children and people
instructed, &c. then your people will be prepared for citizenship, -
one wife, -the service of God, -and even for heaven, if they seek it.
The old king signed the paper, but said he would decline taking the
oath of allegiance until many of his people were present, whom he
said it was necessary should take the oath with him, and who were
then absent burying one of his subjects.
