LONDON MISSIONARY SOCIETY
(Contd.)
or its influence by creating a written language, as in the South Seas, both language and literature as in Madagascar, or by teaching industrial arts as in South Africa. It has not been backed by a powerful church as was the case when it came to our own forefathers in Kent. Its history here has, in fact, resembled the general history of the Colony. Situated as this island is just outside a great empire, it has been a good starting point, both as regards commerce and Christianity, for reaching the south of China. But the history of the evangelisation in the Colony itself has not been without interest. Combined efforts have resulted in the founding of five native churches with over 600 members, and over 80 schools where more than 3,000 children receive a Christian education. As with the schools, so with the hospitals; 25,000 out cases and 6,000 in cases have been dealt with in the last eight years. These are departments of philanthropic work which in England owe their continuance to those great voluntary associations of which we are all justly proud. In Hongkong, the agents of the missions represented here are solely responsible for both the origin and continuance of missionary work.
After Mr. Whiting's speech Bishop Burdon moved a resolution congratulating the London Missionary Society on having completed 100 years' work among the nations.
Dr. Eitel seconded the motion which was carried by acclamation.
643
66.