AFRICA - LIBERIA
Letter from Rev. John Day
The following extracts breathe the same spirit of devotion to the salvation of the heathen of Africa which
has ever characterized Brother Day.
MONROVIA, Feb. 10th, 1858
Rev. Jas. B. Taylor:
VERY DEAR SIR: — When I wrote you last I was very dangerously ill. I am still
confined to my bed, but feel that I may live another year. The loss of our teacher and a young
man who I expected would make a bright light in Liberia, has fallen heavily on me, but I have
learned the prayer, "Thy will be done." I am oppressed with, as I conceive, a sense of duty to
advise a change in the Liberian Mission.
My hope is gone, in a mixed missionary work. Men who labour among natives should
labour among them exclusively. When I was able I laboured with great delight among heathen.
Often have I preached in four country towns after having conducted prayer meeting, Sunday
School and preaching in my own little chapel, in the forenoon; and then returned in time to
preach at night. But I can not say that I had no partialities for the poor heathen. Often played on
my imagination, hosts of poor heathen sinking to flames, nerving my very soul to action. Often
have I left my sick bed, staggering as I walked, to carry the word of life to dying heathen. Once
Dr. Johnson said to me, "You will never come back again. Well, Dr., I fall with my face to the
foe."
No use in spinning a yarn. As soon as I am well enough I shall write what I think is the
best plan of action in this Mission.
I hope I shall not be understood as saying anything disparagingly of our men. No — they
work at home, but will not work among the heathen as I think they should. I can not. When I go
to the grave-yard, such palpitation, such faintness attend me, people say, don't go.
My strength fails me, and I can do but little, but hope to do what I can while I live.
I am, affectionately yours, &c.,
JOHN DAY
Home and Foreign Journal
May 1858
p. 44
