It may be proper here to state something with reference to the object of the EXTRA, its mission, how often it is to be issued, how it is to be sustained, etc.
Those having the burden of the missionary work have long felt the need of a sheet published in behalf of the Tract Societies. Many things should be said from time to time in reference to the system of the tract work, and particulars relating to its minute workings should be given, which would be more fitting in a sheet devoted to that purpose than in the REVIEW. Then the REVIEW is becoming crowded with other matter of interest and importance, and will become more so as the work increases. Therefore, it has been thought best to issue an extra, quarterly or oftener, as the interests of the cause may require. It will contain reports of tract meetings, incidents, extracts from letters received by missionary workers; questions will be answered, members will be told how to work, etc., etc.
How it should be sustained was a question for much thought. At first it was suggested to have a subscription price, and to send it to regular subscribers; but our experience with THE TRUE MISSIONARY proved this plan not best; for those we most wished to benefit, had not interest enough to subscribe, and therefore did not see it at all. Then, too, as the laws of postage are at present, it would be better to send it as an extra. It was therefore decided to send it out in this manner, for the present, the expense to be borne by the General Tract and Missionary Society; and as this Society, like the General Conference, takes an oversight of the tract work generally and especially in fields outside the labor of other organizations, it should be sustained by the various Tract Societies, and by individuals making donations to it. We speak for a liberal support. The object of this society, the manner of its operation, the use of means, etc., will be more fully explained hereafter.