HUBERT FLETCHER by Hubert Fletcher

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D.C. · Mar 10, 1904

HUBERT FLETCHER

By Hubert Fletcher

Jamaica

Like other tropical countries, the island of Jamaica abounds in a large variety of fruits, which are in season throughout the entire year, making it very favorable for those who delight in the healthful and delicious dishes of nature. It is very mountainous and picturesque, with verdant fields, purling streams, and small villages here and there among the mountains. On the whole, the island is healthful. There are not many large trees, the cedar (greatly inferior to those of Lebanon) the fig, bully, broadleaf, and cotton being of the greatest size. The latter is the largest of all, some being mammoth trees. The only use that is made of it is for canoes. There is quite a superstitious legend connected with this tree. It is generally believed by the natives that it is the abode of the duppies (spirits of the dead); and they can not be persuaded to fell one, without indulging in a free use of rum, some of which they throw around the root, believing that otherwise the duppies would haunt them. If the tree falls, they are afraid to pass by after dark. Such is the baneful result of decades of erroneous teachings. But praise the Lord, this darkness and superstition are being gradually dispelled as the light of the third angel's message reaches the hearts and homes of these poor, benighted souls. There are about one thousand baptized members who are rejoicing in present truth,—one thousand to help in sending the message to those who are still groping in darkness. The calls for help are already coming from every side, but our laborers are few, and the means limited. Who is willing to help? who is ready to invest in a most prosperous business? The income is great—eternal life, and a home of boundless joy and happiness, with treasures of untold value.