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A Novel Examination

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jan 26, 1911

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 88, No. 4.

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A Novel Examination

THE following story shows how one missionary candidate was examined, and how searching was the test.
It was winter. The examiner sent the candidate word to be at his home at three o’clock in the morning. When the appointed man arrived at the appointed time, he was shown into the study, where he waited for five hours. At length the examiner appeared, and asked the candidate how early he had come.
“Three o’clock, sharp.”
“All right; it’s breakfast time now. Come in and have some breakfast.”
After breakfast they went back to the study.
“Well, sir,” said the examiner, “I was appointed to examine you as to your fitness for the mission field. Can you spell, sir?”
The young man thought he could.
“Spell baker, then.”
“B-a ba, k-e-r, ker—baker.”
“All right; that will do. Now, do you know anything about figures?”
“Yes, sir, something.”
“How much is twice two?”
“Four.”
“All right; that’s splendid. You’ll do first-rate. I’ll see the board.”
When the board met, the examiner reported. “Well, brethren,” he said, “I have examined the candidate, and I recommend him for the appointment. He’ll make a tip-top missionary—first-class.”
First, I examined the candidate on his self-denial. I told him to be at my place at three o’clock in the morning. He was there. That meant getting up at two o’clock, or earlier, in the dark and cold. He got up, and never asked why. Second, I examined him on promptness. I told him to be at my place at three o’clock sharp. He was there not one minute behind time. Third, I examined him on patience. I let him wait five hours for me when he might just as well have been in his bed; and he waited, and showed no signs of impatience. Fourth, I examined him on his temper. He didn’t get excited; met me perfectly pleasant; didn’t ask me why I kept him waiting on a cold morning from three to eight o’clock. Fifth, I examined him on humility. I asked him to spell words a five-year-old child could spell, and he didn’t show any indignation; didn’t ask me why I treated him like a child.
Brethren, the candidate is self-denying, prompt, patient, obedient, good tempered, humble. He’s just the man for a missionary, and I recommend him for your acceptance.”—Kansas City Journal.