West Africa by D. C. Babcock

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · May 12, 1910

West Africa

By D. C. Babcock

BOURRE SHERBRO.—From the beginning of our effort at this point, it seemed that Satan hindered us. There were many obstacles in our way. And just when we were ready to start, news reached us that Brother W. H. Lewis and family would be here by the next boat. We spent a few days with them, and left them to care for our home for six weeks. It seemed a little hard to leave so soon after their arrival; but the Lord's work must come first. Thursday morning we boarded the steamer, but we did not sail until midnight. They would not sell us second-class tickets, so I bought a first-class ticket for Mrs. Babcock, and I took deck. Things went pretty hard with us, and finally I frankly told the steward that I never had met such treatment aboard a steamer in all my life. He told the captain what I said, and that officer sent for me. He was a tough old Englishman; but we entered into conversation calmly, and I was frank with him. It worked like a charm, and when we left the ship, they gave us food, and our little boy was loaded with presents.

Our ship lifted anchor on Thursday, at midnight. On Friday morning, a little after daylight, about ten miles from shore we struck a rock, and stuck fast. About noon we got off the rock, but soon found we were on a sand-bank, with only six feet of water. There we stopped until Sabbath evening about four o'clock, when we were freed again. When in good water, we anchored until Sunday morning. At daybreak we started up the Sherbro River. Bouthe is an inland town fifty miles up the river.

We have many difficulties to encounter, but my courage was never better. We have received kind treatment since our arrival, and the prospects are bright. Every night the tent is crowded, and many have to stand outside. The first night the Sabbath question was called for. D. C. BABCOCK.