p. 16 | F. W. FIELD by F. W. Field

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D.C. · Sep 22, 1904

F. W. FIELD

By F. W. Field

Japan

It is nearly two months since my last report from Japan; but the work is progressing steadily. During June one candidate was baptized in Tokyo, and seven in Kōbe. These include the two Korean brethren mentioned in Dr. Lockwood's report.

We have heard from one of these brethren since he left Japan. On his way home he met a fellow countryman, a Christian, and at once presented present truth to his new acquaintance. As a result this man also gladly received the truth as far as he was shown it. They wish to return as soon as possible to study and learn further. Surely, we have turned our attention to Korea none too soon. We hope and pray that laborers may enter this field erelong.

We are glad to report that thus far all our young men have been excused from military service. Those examined are divided into three classes. Those of good physique and good health are placed in the first class, and are required to serve in the army for three years. Those wholly unfit for military service are placed in the third class. The second class is composed of those who do not quite come up to the standard required for the first class. They, too, are excused from service unless there is a deficiency in the first class, when the required number is made up from the second class. The three young brethren examined this summer were all assigned to the second class. One passed a satisfactory examination on every point, and was just about to be assigned to the first class, when the examining officer noticed that his little fingers were uncommonly short and weak. For this reason only he was placed in the second class, and so is free to engage in service as a soldier of the Lord. I need hardly say that earnest prayers were offered in behalf of these young brethren; but now our prayers are turned to praise. We make no protest or appeal to the authorities in such cases, but depend entirely upon the Lord to deliver our brethren; and he surely has heard our prayers.

Another of our young men has recently taken up the canvassing work, and will unite with Brother Noma in labor near Wakamatsu. So now we have six who are devoting their time to the sale of our literature.

Recently one of the students in my Bible class has been studying the Sabbath question very earnestly. He is a professed Christian, a graduate of the higher normal school, and so understands English quite well. Last evening I spent some time with him studying the sealing work of Revelation 7, and the third angel's message of Revelation 14. He freely expressed his intention to observe the Sabbath hereafter. He goes home to-day for the summer vacation, and will take a supply of reading-matter which I furnished him for distribution among his friends and neighbors. We are praying for him, that he may come fully into the truth, and become

a useful laborer; for he has good ability. We renew our request for a continued interest in the prayers of our brethren.

F. W. FIELD

Tokyo.