Letter from Rev. J.H. Cheeseman
Edina, January 25th, 1 858
Rev. J. B. Taylor,
Richmond, Va., U.S.A.
Dear Brother — Your favour by the M. C. Stevens reached
me safely on the 4th inst., and as she is expected to leave this port
soon, I hasten to drop you a line. 1 could wish, however, that I had
something of interest to communicate, as I presume our friends in
America are anxious to know that scores of the aboriginals of the
country are being Christianized and brought into the church of
God. Such intelligence would be as pleasing to me as to them; but
I am denied the privilege of making any such communication.
That efforts are being made to ameliorate the condition of the poor
heathen, is true, but the work is the Lord’s, and to him alone I look
for success. I do not feel discouraged, knowing that the word of
God requires that I should sow in the morning and not withhold in
the evening. And again, it is said and very truly that, “Paul may
plant and Apollos water, but God must give the increase.” Being
aware of these facts, I see no reason why I should be at all
discouraged, only I have not the means of doing all that I wish. I
find, however, that our friends in America are still inclined to do
what they can for Africa, notwithstanding the money pressure
which they have recently experienced.
I have entered upon the duties of the year, hoping that my
labours may be blessed. If I should be so happy as to see any souls
brought to Jesus during the year, however few, I shall feel myself
more than amply rewarded for all my toil.
I preached to a congregation of natives yesterday, — had a
number of Chiefs and head men present, and have promised to
meet them again at Old Soldier’s town this week. My school
commenced with fifty-two scholars. I need books for the school,
and hope you will be able to send me a supply by the first
conveyance, whether first or second-handed, is not material with
me. Send me some if possible.
The Commission
May 1858
p. 341-342
