NEW VIRGINIA
Letter of Rev. J. T. Richardson
New Virginia, Oct. 20th, 1858
Rev. James B. Taylor:
Very Dear Brother , -- With much pleasure I sit down this
morning to write you a few lines, to inform you that I am still
spared in the land of the living, and am laboring in the mission-
field with some little success. There is quite a religious excitement
at our mission station at Cape Mount, which has lasted something
over six weeks. The result of which is great. Fourteen added by
conversion. The few laborers having had to labor so constant, and
the interest of the meeting being so encouraging, they made
request that some one would come up and assist them a few days,
and also, baptize for them. It fell to my lot to go. So on the 13th
instant, I went on board the Mary Atwell of Baltimore, Capt.
Ashton, who received me very kindly on board, and treated me
with every mark of respect. On the 14th instant, at one o’clock, P.
M., we anchored at Cape Mount. I went immediately on shore,
and was received by brother Wilson and many others with great
joy; in half an hour’s time I was invited to the chapel — held
meeting — after which had an experience meeting; received two for
the water. I preached every afternoon up to Sunday. Sunday
forenoon, preached on baptism, from the 28th chapter of Matthew,
1 9 and 20th verses. Had good attention. After service, moved off
for the river, where there was much water and baptized those who I
believe were truly converted. The blessed work continued to grow
in interest up to Monday afternoon. After preaching, opened a
door, and received two more for baptism. Tuesday morning,
received one more. By this time the vessel that gave me passage
up, was ready to sail for Monrovia; so I was obliged to baptize the
three received Monday and Tuesday immediately. After which, I
had to give the parting hand to the beloved ones, (the church,) and
go right on board, homeward bound. This little town, of two years
growth, bids fair to be, in the providence of God, a great place;
here superstition reigned without molestation but a few years ago,
and every other vice. But, behold! I see the banner of Jesus
unfurled with great success, and the light of the gospel penetrating
the dense forest, shining with such brilliancy that sinners have, and
are, being brought out of nature’s darkness into the marvelous
light.
