British Central Africa by T. H. Branch

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Sep 6, 1906

British Central Africa

By T. H. Branch

PLAINFIELD MISSION, CHOLO.—The mails in this protectorate for the last three months have not been delivered very regularly, on account of the slaughtering of the carriers by the lions, which infest that part of the country through which the native carriers pass to and from the post-office. These lions are in the game reserve, so could not be killed until the authorities of the protectorate received permission from the proper ones in London to destroy them. In the meantime, the beasts became very bold, and entered into a small town, and tore to pieces young children, before their parents’ eyes. Also, many women and children in the villages, and eleven of the mail-carriers, have been eaten by them. Just now they have been driven back into the woods, by the Europeans, whose interests demanded the natives’ services.

We are enjoying the blessings of the Lord here in the work. This is a wandering people, not only walking about here and there, and returning again to their homes, but sometimes all the people of a village, with their scant belongings, move away, believing, from the result of lot casting, that there is danger for them if they do not shift their village.

It was good news to hear that there were those who are willing and anxious to help in the work by supporting native teachers; for we have had to stop one of our out-schools, for the lack of funds. But since receiving promise of help, we have sent a boy to call the people together again for school. You may be sure that we shall appreciate any help that the brethren may think fit to send to this mission. A worker can be supported for two dollars a month. Some of our more advanced teachers are receiving about three dollars. I am so

glad that the Lord is working on the hearts of his children to help support teachers.

We are glad as we see the work advancing into regions beyond, scattering and penetrating the darkness of superstition and sin. I long for the time when there shall be a strong force of workers in this part of Africa, stretching on and on to the ends of the earth, till all have heard of this saving message. This will be when God shall, in the near future, put his Spirit upon young men of every tribe, and fit them for this work. To this end we are laboring and praying and trusting. T. H. BRANCH.