Letter from Rev. B. J. Drayton to Brother Poindexter, April 14, 1859

Letter of Rev. B. J. Drayton Cape Palmas, April 14, 1859 Dear Brother Poindexter: I am in receipt of your communication of January 24th, which came to hand the 1 0th of the present month. I am happy to have it in my power, to a large extent, to answer your important queries: Is'. "What amount of preaching is done? ” To this, I am permitted to say that till within a few months past, 1 generally preached and lectured three times a week, besides the catechizing of the native youths, under our supervision, by the teacher. We also sustain a regular prayer-meeting. 2d. "What is the size and character of the congregations? ” In this, we have always been blessed with large and interesting congregations, more particularly when we were in possession of a meeting-house. The membership are generally prompt and spiritual, and perfect decency and order mark the conduct of those generally who meet with us. I delight to meet them. 3d. "What degree of success attended the preaching, &c., the past year? ” Judging from visible signs and conduct, much impression, it seems, has been made on the minds of many who attended our ministry. Several who had backslided were persuaded to return, together with those who have never tasted of the good things of the kingdom. While we cannot record large numbers of converts and brilliant revivals during the past year, I am truly thankful that the Lord has made the preaching of the gospel subservient in keeping up and together his little flock. 4'1'. “ What are present prospects of usefulness? ” Ten years ago, when the foundation of our mission was laid, I was ushered as it were in darkness — things were dreary, and the prospect cheerless; but now there is every prospect of