Letter from Rev. B. J. Drayton
CAPE PALMAS, LIBERIA,
November 16, 1859
Rev. A. M. Poindexter.
DEAR BROTHER ~ The work in which we are engaged is
highly worthy of our serious and constant reflection and rehearsal.
Nothing is of more importance than the cause of Jesus, who has
stamped his glorious image upon it, and has attached to it his own
glorious and heavenly “Insignia.” Every day discovers to me the
vast consequence which attends the operation of the church in a
land like ours, where the Prince of the power of the air has such
predominant sway, and whose destructive rule shall, at some
distant day, be overthrown by him whose government we
acknowledge and love, and who has so clearly promised to put all
things under Christ, and reward those who endure to the end with
him.
The ultimate success of the Redeemer’s kingdom, in these
parts, as well as it shall be in others, appears very clear and
encouraging; this feature is not a mere phantom of imagination, but
a positive reality, clothed with all the habiliments of heavenly
verification. We are labouring among men who are accountable;
and this, after proper representation, is understood by them to an
extent surprizing, when we take into consideration the great want
of light among them.
As you know, the work of reformation among them
requires time and patience; with these we may hope, through God,
to behold a great army rising up from here to praise him who has
said, “if 1 be lifted up from the earth, I will draw all men unto me.”
I am quite anxious to realize more fully further developments of
my Master’s power upon this poor, degraded people, who are to be
pitied, sought after, and prayed for, and aided to walk in the “true
light.” Can I hope that you will extend your influence more; do
more to bring them in juxtaposition with the interest of the cross?
How welcome to thousands would it be, and how pleasing to him
who says, “work while it is day!” I am glad that I am spared to see
this day, and to be blessed in saying we are, by the grace of God,
heaven-bound; and feel the great need of a Saviour’s strength.
I am happy to inform you that the work is going on, and
your several interest is still alive and advancing. Our schools, both
