Letters from Rev. A. P. Davis
BUCHANAN, July 6th, 1 860
REV. A. M. POINDEXTER, Richmond.
Dear Brother ,-1 have been acquainted with brother Yates
ever since my arrival in Liberia, which is nearly twenty six years
ago. And it was from my acquaintance with him, that lead me to
recommend him as superintendent of the Board’s affairs in Africa.
I have known him a Christian, and a gentleman — polite,
affectionate and kind. Has been faithful in that which is least, and
I really believe him trustworthy of the confidence reposed in him
by the Board. — I was called to meet him at Little Bassa, about half
way between Grand Bassa and Jonk, where we had an important
conference of which brother Yates will inform you. I wrote from
Marshall last April; supposing the Board to have received that
communication, I make no reference to that time. I have
endeavored in all faithfulness, at all times and suitable places, to
preach the word to the best of my ability; but yet, I fear that I may
have acted amiss some way, that my labours are not blessed to
have scores added to my congregation, as I hear of others who are
laboring in other fields, and some denominations in this field.
Sometimes I attribute the slow growth of our denomination here, to
the faith and practice, principles of us as a denomination. As
Baptists, we receive none but penitent persons, if we know it, or if
any circumstances render it doubtful. Nor is it our practice to
receive the excluded members of other churches; while on the
other hand, all other denominations take persons, penitent or not, if
they will only attend their congregation; besides, receive any
excluded member from any other church. But it appears most in
accordance with the scriptures, and the nature of Christ’s
commands, to build up the church with proper materials, if it be by
slow degrees. I am now the only missionary living, who was
appointed when brother Day first received his appointment after he
left the Northern Board. So I am the oldest missionary now
belonging to our Board in Africa.
I have reported my entire labors to brother Yates for the
half year, although I have from time to time given account of the
same to the Board. I have nothing but what will be before the
Board on the arrival of documents from brother Yates, save three
candidates for baptism, one restored.