Ever since we returned to this field from the last General Conference, it has been our purpose to revive the canvassing work, if possible, and we have always believed it possible. But with our general meetings, visiting the churches to become acquainted with them, making out our yearly reports, etc., the time has passed, and only recently have I been able to take up the canvassing work.
The canvassing that has been done in this field has been principally among foreigners; namely, Englishmen, Frenchmen, Germans, and Scandinavians. The impression has prevailed that among the Catholic Spanish-speaking population very little could be done in selling books. While it is true that one finds it more difficult, especially with our large books, yet we believe that there is success for the canvasser even here in these Catholic countries.
The first attempt in this work since we returned, I made recently in Uruguay in company with Brother Luis Ernst, one of our native laborers. We worked together two days and a half in the country, principally among Italians, with horses and cart, taking with us a supply of “Christ Our Saviour,” “Steps to Christ,” “Gospel Primer,” and a quantity of tracts and Testaments, all in Spanish. During the time mentioned we sold for cash twelve copies of “Christ Our Saviour,” three of “Steps to Christ,” five of “Gospel Primer,” two Testaments, and several packages of tracts. Our receipts were $12.40, gold. This is small in comparison with what our canvassers at home do; but under the circumstances, we feel much encouraged. With the proper training, we see no reason why our canvassers here may not continue to meet with as much success as we had during the time we were together.
The accompanying picture shows the “rig” with which two of our colporteurs worked for some time. The one Brother Ernst and I had was similar, except that the horses were not so thin. Our supply of books we carry behind and under the seat.
On account of the long distances between houses, and also the state of the roads, lack of bridges, etc., it is not practicable to canvass in the country here on foot. Then, too, we find that the most successful way to work is to carry a supply of our small books, and sell for cash as we go. To do this kind of work, our canvassers need horses and wagons. We have determined to make a special effort to push this branch of the work, but at the outset the question of how to supply the canvassers with the necessary outfits confronts us. Besides the horses and wagons that are needed, there is a tax to pay on each wagon, and another tax for the privilege of selling. The young men who desire to give themselves to this work are not able to meet all these expenses, and must have help from some source. I have already presented this matter to some of the churches here, and the brethren are willing to help as far as they are able. We shall have no difficulty in getting all the horses we need from among the brethren here. As vehicles suitable for this work are all imported, and consequently are very dear, we have requested the Mission Board to send us three good, strong buckboards in case contributions come in to pay for them. We believe that some one will respond.
In a few months, when our school closes, several young men will be ready to enter the work. We hope to be prepared to set them all at work as soon as they leave school.
