Kolo Mission, South Africa
By M. E. Emmerson
We are greatly encouraged by what is being done in Basutoland. The Lord has shown in a special manner that the work is taking deep root. The attendance at our Sabbath meetings is not large, but those who do come are deeply interested in the studies. They listen closely to the explanation of the prophecies of Daniel, and ask many questions at the close of the service on what has been told them. This shows they are interested. Often people come long distances to secure the books. They always inquire for the book telling about the Sabbath and the second coming of Christ. We were made glad a few weeks ago when several young men from central Basutoland called at the mission, saying they had seen some of our books which had been sold in South Bald. They mentioned especially “Sabbath Restored” and “Second Coming of Christ.” We sold several small books to each. Some returned home, and some went to work in the mines; but they carried with them the silent messengers, which we trust will do good in many different parts of this country. This is only one of many similar instances. People come for miles to be treated for bodily ailments, and we are glad it is our privilege to follow in the Saviour’s steps by caring for the sick and suffering. A few days ago, when I returned from mission duty to the station, a woman came down with a sick child, who had been suffering from a boil on the arm, as large as a man’s fist. After lancing the affected part, I washed it carefully with a solution of permanganate of potash, and then did it up neatly with a bandage. The mother said: “I am so thankful, but why do you leave the mission station? We don’t know where to go to get help when you are away.” I explained to her that I had work elsewhere as well as here. I told her that sometimes as I ride along the road, I am called in to help the suffering. When I am called away to care for the sick, I take one or the other of the mission helpers along, so they can gain a practical experience in giving treatments. Both my native helpers can give good fomentations, sweats, and also know how to care successfully for sores. The number of persons who come to the mission to be treated for bodily ailments has increased steadily during the past two years. The school is another encouraging feature of the work, though it was rather hard to get it started. One year ago we felt greatly encouraged when the roll registered twenty-five. This year when we began the vacation, there were fifty-five in attendance. Many of these children attend Sabbath-school, and are learning of Jesus, who died for their sins. For some time, mission help has been scarce. Much work has been done on the place. The old wall had fallen down, and the barn caved in; and the necessary repairs on these, with other things, have taken so much time that it has been impossible for me to pursue my wagon work. Now we have more help, and soon I expect to go south with books again. This year we are doing a little farming in connection with the mission. Seven and one-half bags of mealies has been put in, and is doing well. Ten and one-half bags of forage has been sown, and three bags of potatoes planted. The produce all looks well, though the ground is in need of rain. We are of good courage in the work of sowing the gospel seed, and praise God for his guiding hand. Pray for the work in Basutoland.