the rulers take counsel together against the Lord, and against his Anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asun der, and cast away their cords from us? He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh; the Lord shall have them in derision." In view of a scene like this, the primitive disciples offered the prayer, and we are encouraged to adopt it: "And now, Lord, grant unto thy servants that with all boldness they may speak thy word."

Uncertain whether their continuing at Rangoon were at all practicable, and desirous of securing a place of retreat in case of their being ordered from Burmah, it was judged expedient that Mr. Colman and wife should visit the people of Arracan. Here the labours of the Serampore missionaries had already been blessed. The language of the Arracanese differs little from the Burman, and the contiguity of the country to Burmah inspired the hope that, under the protection of the East India Company, they might still be able to make an impression on the country they might be constrained to leave.Mr. Colman has arrived at Islamabad, or as it is more usually called, Chittagong, and is actively engaged in acquiring the language. Scarcely had this brother sailed, before Mr. Judson was delighted with the discovery, that several Burmans were inquiring the way to heaven. They intreated him not to leave them. He resolved on acquiescing with their wishes, and has had the pleasure of baptizing ten of the natives, nine of whom are men, and among them one, whose talents, and influence, and ardour, inspire the hope that he will become a preacher of the unsearchable riches of Christ.

The consolations of the Christian missionary, like those of the private believer, are often mingled, or succeeded with painful considerations. While rejoicing in this precious accession to the Baptist church in Burmah, brother Judson had the affliction to witness the decaying health of his inestimable part

ner.

It became necessary that he should convey her to Calcutta, for the purpose of procuring medical aid. She was placed under the care of Dr. Chalmers, a gentleman eminent in his profession; to whom the Board tender the sentiments of affectionate respect and heartfelt gratitude. Dr. Chalmers often and cheerfully crossed the Hoogly, to visit his patient at Serampore, and notwithstanding his assiduous attentions, generously refused all pecuniary compensation. The God of missions will not suffer such services to lose their reward. Mr. J. had at first concluded to return alone to the few sheep in the wilderness, leaving Mrs. Judson for a while in the bosom of christian friendship, and under the shadow of the wings of an Almighty Protector. Her health, however, a little improved; and receiv ing some encouragement from a medical gentleman in Calcutta, she resolved on accompanying him to Rangoon.

Information has lately been received, that war has broken out between the Burmans and Siamese, and fears have been entertained that the mission may fall a victim amid the popular tumult. The Board cannot discover any rational ground for such apprehensions. The two nations have been engaged in frequent conflicts for many years. In the present instance, it would seem the Burmans are the aggressors, and will have to commence battle out of their own territories; so that Rangoon may be as safe as Ava. Besides, there is reason to hope that the public mind being turned to fields of slaughter, the religion of Jesus may be able to pursue, unobserved, a silent, extended, and triumphant course. It is nothing uncommon in the history of the church, for "the wall" to be built, "even in troublous times." Amid scoffing and craft, rumour and menace, the wall of Jerusalem rose in the days of Nehemiah. "And it came to pass," says this distinguished reformer, "that when all our enemies heard thereof, and all the heathen that were about us saw these

things, they were much cast down in their own eyes: for they perceived that this work was wrought of our God."

Should Mr. Judson be able to continue at Rangoon, the Board have made provision for his obtaining a printer; so that no obstacles may impede the circulation of the sacred scriptures, and of such religious tracts as may be thought advisable. They have also had the pleasure of sending out to Calcutta, with a view of his settling in Rangoon, or Chittagong, as circumstances may dictate, Dr. Price, a young brother who, under the patronage of the Board, has pursued a course of medical studies, and whose whole heart seems engaged in missionary work. Himself, his wife, and infant daughter, have sailed in the Acasta, from Salem, Massachusetts. It is hoped he will prove a blessing to the mission as a physician, and especially as a preacher of the everlasting gospel. The Board are grateful to their brethren in Boston and Salem, who superintended the outfit of Dr. Price and family, a duty which the early sailing of the ship prevented the Board from having fulfilled in Philadelphia. They have heard that Mrs. Wheelock, the widow of the deceased missionary, is married, and resides at Calcutta. On a general review of the station in Burmah, much is seen to excite sympathy and supplication, and much to awaken pleasing expectation and grateful praise.

Indian Missions.

Prophecy assures us, that "the heathen shall fear the name of the Lord." Its declarations are to be considered, not merely as affording assurance to the anticipations of the servants of God, but as prescribing the duties which it becomes them to discharge. If the nations are to be converted to the Messiah, and converted through human instrumentality, then every prediction relative to the enlargement of the church, involves in it an injunction to holy exertion. In justification of their turning

to the Gentiles from the Jews, who judged themselves unworthy of everlasting life, Paul and Barnabas said"So hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldst be for salvation unto the ends of the earth." Prophecy and injunction were viewed by the apostles as, in a manner, the same. The western, as well as the eastern ends of the earth, have a claim on our pity, our prayers, and our toils. In addition to the numerous channels opened in the providence of God, by christian benevolence, along which streams of salvation are flowing, who is not cheered at the sight of the refreshing influence now spreading through the forests of the West? Never, since the first settlement of America, has the condition of our Aborigines presented a prospect of melioration equal to the present. Solitary exertion is no longer employed, as in the days of Elliott, and Edwards, and Brainerd. Whole bands of christian missionaries have gone out to teach the wandering native the arts of civilization and the way to heaven; large societies are formed for their support, and the national government is contributing of its influence and funds to promote the glorious design. The Convention has sought a share in this blessed charity; and the Board have the happiness of announcing, that the stations under the care of the Rev. Mr. Posey and the Rev. Mr. M'Coy, the one among the Cherokees, the other in the northeast section of Indiana, are prospering. About 30 Indian children in each of the principal schools, are receiving subsistence and instruction. In addition to these, several associate schools, it is expected, will soon be in operation.

The sums necessary to bring the stations into a state of stability, and to prepare them for useful exertion, have far transcended the expectations of the Board, and, we believe, of the missionaries themselves. This circumstance created some anxiety. The Rev. Mr.

Posey has been induced to visit the Board, at its late annual meeting, and state explicitly the unavoidable items which occasion an unexpected expenditure. These, in the case of himself and of the Rev. Mr. M'Coy, the Board have examined with the utmost care. They have also compared the demands of these their missionary brethren, with the demands of other stations under the direction of other christian societies, and are satisfied that, though great, they are not extravagant or unnecessary. It will be recollected, that the purchase of improvements, the erection of buildings, and the securing of stock whose increase will supersede the procuring of future similar supplies, are not to be placed to the account of monies that have vanished in the using. On the contrary, they embrace a body of existing property, under the care of the Convention, and sacred to missionary service.

To impart the greater efficiency to the Indian stations, the Board have selected in their respective vicinity, brethren of well known piety and discretion to fulfil the office of superintendents; who, by their counsels may direct the views of the missionaries, and by the voice and hand of encouragement invigorate their efforts. Auxiliaries, at each station, are greatly needed; particularly a miller, a blacksmith, a carpenter, a farmer and others, who would be willing to unite with the families, and consecrate their abilities to the improvement of the Indians, and the promotion of the cause of God among them. Surely, among the thousands of christians amply qualified for this labour of love, there are those who will cheerfully come forward and sup ply the lamented deficiency.-To assist in clothing the Cherokee children, a number of ladies in Baltimore have formed themselves into a society. A considerable quantity of garments have been already made and transmitted. It is confidently hoped that other ladies, in different parts of the Union, will imi

tate their fair and generous example. Several presents of valuable articles have been made to brother Posey, for the use of the Cherokees, both in Philadelphia and Augusta, for which the Board beg leave to tender their grateful acknowledgments. They return their cordial thanks, also, to the benevolent friends who have contributed to the comfort and prosperity of the station under the direction of brother M'Coy. It has been estimated that ten dollars expense of annually will cover the clothing an Indian child. A gentleman of Philadelphia has led the way in this easy career of christian kindness. It is hoped many will tread in his steps.

On the relinquishment of the station at St. Louis, it was the wish of the Board that the Rev. J. M. Peck should have removed to Fort Wayne, to have become an assistant to brother M'Coy. Brother Peck, before the views of the Board could reach him, had engaged in the tenancy of a farm for twelve months. He has since expressed his conviction, that the demand for preaching in the vicinity of his residence is so great, and the prospect of usefulness so encouraging, that it is his duty to continue in his present sphere. He has mentioned, that the state of Mrs. Peck's health is so imperfect as to render travelling almost impracticable, and to forbid the hopes of her becoming useful among the In dians. He has also proposed to meet the expenses of his situation from his personal labours and the benevolence of christian friends. The Board has concurred with his wishes, and trust that the Lord, by the influences of his Holy Spirit, will transcend his expectations.

By a communication from the Hon. Judge Noel, the Board has learned, that the brethren in Kentucky have concluded, at the request of some of the influential Indians, to discontinue their school at the Great Crossings, and attempt the establishment of another, under the patronage

of the Board, at Rogersville. Possessing an entire confidence in the views of their brethren, and hoping the change may be attended with the blessing of the Lord Jesus, the Board have expressed their approbation of the measure, and the continuance of that readiness, which they have ever felt in concurring with their western friends in every important and evangelic design. Some alteration has taken place, as to the particular shape of the missionary exertions among the Creek Indians contemplated by the Georgia and Ocmulgee Associations. From an affectionate communication received from the Rev. Jesse Mercer, the Board perceive that the desire after evangelic exertions retains its steady ardour, and are happy in renewing an assurance of their willingness to mingle with those respected bodies, as fellow-labourers in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ.

African Mission.

In January last, Collin Teage and Lott Carey, two brethren of colour, adopted as missionaries by the Board, from the baptist church at Richmond, sailed from Norfolk, Virginia, to Africa. A letter has been received, which states that they have arrived in safety. They rejoice at finding themselves in the country of their forefathers, and hope the Lord will crown their endeavours with his gracious approbation. Their passage was tedious; but the captain of the vessel was friendly and accommodating. Their letter was dated from Freetown. Their health and spirits were good.

Columbian College.

The committee appointed by the Board to procure an incorporation of the Convention, endeavoured at the last session of Congress to fulfil the duty assigned them. They have with much labour succeeded in obtaining a charter, which completely covers the education concern. It imparts a full legal character to a College which shall

embrace a classical and a theological department; leaving room for arrangements, which by the Trustees of the College have already been made, and which place the whole Institution, virtually and for ever, under the power of the Convention. The Board have since obtained an incorporation of the Convention, from the state of Pennsylvania, which secures legal protection also to the missionary interests.

To bring into operation the act already procured, and to organize the College in such way as its provisions require, and as the interests of the Convention rendered desirable, a meeting of the Board, in March last, was resolved upon in the city of Washington. The proceedings of that meeting are, in substance, exhibited in the subsequent pages. It was gratifying in a high degree, to behold, on one of the most beautiful and commanding sites in the metropolis of the Union, a substantial brick edifice, of 117 feet in front by 47 in depth, completely covered in, a large part of the interior carpentry finished, and the whole promising in a short time to become a nursery of science and of ministerial talent, which shall diffuse its blessings not only around the district of Columbia, but through every section of the United States, and by the agency of christian missionaries, to the uttermost parts of the earth. The Board could not but feel grateful for the indefatigable and selfdenying exertions of their brother, the Rev. Mr. Rice; and could not but pray, that his useful life may be prolonged for years to come, and that his endeavours and resolutions, in the name of the Lord, by perservering appeals to the benevolence of the churches and the public, to extinguish every unsatisfied claim, may be crowned with the most entire success. He is again affectionately commended to the obliging and universal attention of all who rejoice in the spread of learning and piety.

The claims of the Washington operations on the labours of the Agent of the Board, during the past year, had

been so imperious and incessant, as to have prevented that attention to missionary concerns which marked his conduct during preceding years. This the Board regretted, and wished some expedient might be adopted, that, while the interests of education advanced, might leave time to cherish the interests of the mission. A temporary loan was suggested. The Board, on serious inquiry, found that the monies belonging to the Convention, which were lying in United States stock, were capable of being sold to considerable advantage, the stock being much above par. They found too, from the sums already paid on the buildings at Washington, and from the good subscriptions which, at a period not distant, will also be realized, that the education department could offer to the missionary ample security for the repayment of a loan, and that in a very short period. Several of the Trustees of the College, who are also members of the Board, tendered their individual responsibility, in addition to that which the ground, already paid for, and the buildings supply; but the Board could not conceive it at all necessary. They resolved that a Loan not exceeding $10,000, should be granted to the Columbian College, to be returned at an early period, and any part of it when called for. As stewards of the Convention, required to be found faithful, the Board have acted under the solemn conviction, that the stock created by the loan is as sacred to its original design, as it could be in any investment whatever; and that in this arrangement, the mission merely offers to the education department a temporary convenience, which, exigencies changing, the education department by a similar exhibition of fraternal kindness, may abundantly compensate.

The College is divided into a classic and a theological department. The duties of the latter, it is expected, will commence at Washington in September next; those of the former, with the beginning of the year 1822.

Domestic Missions.

Among the resolutions lately adopted by the Board, they meditate with pleasure on the plan for bringing domestic missions into operation; and in such a way, as may demonstrate the affinity between the spirit which creates these, and that which gives birth to foreign missions. It is proposed, that influential, pious, and zealous ministers of the gospel, be selected from the various parts of the Union, who shall perform preaching tours in destitute sections of the country, and make collections, which shall be in part appropriated to meeting the engagements of the Board with them, and the remainder applied, as the collections may have been made, to the concerns of the missionary or education department. The remuneration, however, is at no time to exceed the sum collected. It is believed that men of a right character and temper for the work may be found, that, with the blessing of the Lord, the waste places of the earth may become fruitful, and a missionary spirit be greatly promoted.

Conclusion.

The Board cannot forbear calling upon their brethren to rejoice in the age in which we are permitted to live. The Bible is spreading through the earth; missionary societies abound; the islands of the sea are casting away their idols with sacred scorn, and rejoicing in the faith of Jesus Christ. Means are in operation for assisting godly young men, devoted to the ministry of the gospel, in their preparatory improvements, not only among professing christians, but also in the midst of the miseries and errors of heathenism. Witness the bold and spacious edifice now rising at Serampore, for the interests of which the Rev. Mr. Ward, from India, has been successfully soliciting in these United States. Tract societies are dispensing blessings, and Sunday schools multiplying with an unparalleled rapidity.

To be ourselves inactive, when chris