duties of the Station, and who, I have reason to believe, will do all in their power for the good of the people. From these Gentlemen I received much kind attention; and to Dr. Henderson, especially, my warmest thanks are due for his generous and successful services to us during severe domestic afflictions.

It is surely high time that the Christian Governors of Idolatrous India should retrace their steps, and repeal Taxes which uphold and confirm a system of atrocious crime! See, also, Colonel Phipps's impressive statement and remonstrance on

this subject, at pp. 580, 581 of our

Volume for 1824.

MADRAS.

CHURCH MISSIONARY SOCIETY.

State and Progress of the Mission Seminary. THE Rev. William Sawyer, under whose superintendence the Seminary is conducted, thus reports its state and progress:―

The Church Missionary Society's Seminary, designed for the training up of Young Men as Schoolmasters and Assistants in the work of Missions, was commenced, upon a small scale, in the beginning of the year 1822. In January 1823, a considerable accession was made to this number, by the arrival of 12 Boys from the Society's Institution at Tranquebar.

From that time to the present, the numbers have been gradually increasing: the total number of Boys now under instruction is 30; of which 23 are Natives and 7 Country-born.

Since the establishment of the Seminary, eight of the elder Youths have been placed in different situations according to their qualifications: four are now employed as Schoolmasters and Assistants in the Madras Mission: two are employed as Writers in Offices; one as Schoolmaster in the English School at Tranquebar; and one in service. Of the Youths now in the Seminary, six are sufficiently advanced in learning to undertake the charge of Schools; but, not being of proper age to hold such appointments, they will be kept some time longer in the Institution; in the mean while they will be daily acquiring additional knowledge and experience. Of the Country-born Young Men, four have commenced the study of Latin, and two

of the more intelligent Native Boys are about to begin.

The Institution, from its commencement until the end of last year, was tried, in a peculiar manner, by the perverse tempers and blind prejudices of the Boys and their Parents. These things were not without their use, in giving the Mission practical experience, and a knowledge of the most effectual methods of overcoming the prejudices and gaining the esteem and affection of the Youths.

Proposed Enlargement of the Seminary.

Mr. Sawyer thus speaks of the permanent Establishment, which the opening prospects of the Seminary seem to require

Such an Establishment should be on a sufficiently extensive scale to allow of the efficient instruction of Sixty Students in English, Tamul, Gentoo, Sanscrit, Latin, Greek, and Hebrew. Of these Students, a fourth part might be Country-born and the rest Natives. The internal management of the Institution should be in the hands of two Missionaries, if possible; one of whom should confine his attention to the Theological Instruction of the Elder Youths, while the other could pay more particular attention to their Classical Learning. A Moonshee should be employed for every branch of Native Instruction; and a person well instructed in the National System of Education would be required as English Schoolmaster.

For the purposes of the proposed Establishment, the present situation at Perambore is by no means eligible. After mature deliberation, we are convinced that the piece of ground at Royopooram, known by the name of Urquhart's Garden, will be most suitable for the purpose. It is within one-mile-and-a-half of Madras, surrounded by Native Villages, from the sandy nature of the soil has excellent water, and is within a moderate distance of the sea. This part being as yet unoccupied by any religious body of Christians, is an additional advantage.

The Buildings requisite will be, a House for two Missionaries and Families; with suitable apartments for the purpose of Sleeping-Rooms, Day-Rooms, and School-Rooms, for the Country-born and Native Youths. These buildings should be erected as near as possible to the residence of the Missionaries in charge, in

order to a constant inspection of the whole Establishment.

A plan of the proposed buildings accompanied this Report.

Beginning and Progress of Female Schools. Mrs. Ridsdale has charge of these Schools: the following Report respecting them has been made by the Missionaries.

In the month of May 1824, a voluntary application was made at the Mission House for the Establishment of a Native-Girls' School, by several families living in the Great Parachary. Their request was complied with; and a School was opened with 15 Native Girls: the number soon increased to upward of 30; and, during the first year, they rose to above 40; of whom the average daily attendance was 35. Making due allowance for the difficulties unavoidably attending such an undertaking-such as, inefficiency and change of the Teachers, irregular attendance of the Children, and general objections to the introduction and maintenance of System-we have had much ground of encouragement in this School. It now contains 43 Girls of different castes, of whom five are reading the Gospel of St. Matthew and eight the First Catechism, and the rest are in different stages of advancement toward reading. They are instructed, also, in plain sewing, knitting, spinning, and marking; and some of them have made very creditable proficiency in all these branches of female employment.

In January 1825, an English-Girls' School was opened in Popham's BroadWay with 11 children, under the care of an experienced and respectable Mistress. This School now contains 45 Girls: the average attendance is 40: they are instructed in needlework, reading, writing, and arithmetic: catechetical religious instruction is also given them, as often as other duties will admit. The National System has lately been introduced into this School.

In March 1825, a second Tamul-Girls' School was established in the Great Parachary, containing 16 children, under the care of the Teloogoo Schoolmaster's Wife. The number of Girls now in this School is 40; average attendance, 30: of these, seven are reading the Gospel of St. Matthew, and ten the first Catechism. The general course of instruction is as in the first Tamul-Girls' School.

In July 1825, a second English-Girls' School was opened in that part of the Black Town called John Pereira's Garden, in which such an institution was greatly wanted: this School now contains 32 Girls; average attendance, 26: the course of instruction is the same as in the first English School. At the same period, a third Native-Female School was begun under the same roof: this School now contains 15 children; but it is expected that it will increase considerably in numbers when more known.

An English School was established, some time ago, in Royapettah; which now contains 26 Girls, who are instructed in reading, writing, and needle-work. In the same place is a Native-Girls' School, containing 32 children, eight of whom are reading the Gospel in Tamul, and learning to sew, knit, &c.

From this brief account of our labours in this interesting department, it will appear that we have the greatest encou ragement to proceed: indeed we have every reason to believe, that, if we had Native Women duly qualified for the office of Teachers, and adequate funds, there would be no material difficulty in extending the blessing of a Christian Education to perhaps the majority of Native Females in this large and popu lous city.

This remark leads to a subject, the importance of which we are anxious to urge upon the Committee: it is the erection of a room in the Mission Compound to accommodate about 25 Native Girls, to be taken from the senior classes of the other Schools, for the purpose of receiving more constant and particular attention from Mrs. Ridsdale, with a view to qualify them for Schoolmistresses. The expense of this would be 100 pagodas; which, considering the great importance of the object, we would fain hope the Committee will furnish.

MAYAVERAM.

CHURCH MISSIONARY SOCIETY. THE removal of the Rev. G. T. Bärenbruck and his Assistants from Tranquebar to this New Station was noticed at p. 96 of the Survey. From his communications, and those of the Native Teacher, John Devasagayam, we shall extract various interesting particulars.

State and prospects of the Schools.
The Scholars under the care of

the Mission have varied from about 1720 to 1750. Mr. Bärenbruck thus speaks of the Schools:

It is pleasing to observe, that, during the last year, the applications for New Schools, by Heathen, have increased; although, on their coming to us, previous to making a formal application, we gave them copies of our Christian School-Books, with a request that they would read them, and inform us whether they chose their children to be instructed accordingly: we also tell them, that if they want to have a Free-School, they must do something to evince their real desire, by giving a place for the School; and direct them to get a Paper signed by the principal inhabitants of the place after the lapse of a few weeks, they have usually made the application. This shews, I think, the increasing desire of the parents to have their children instructed in a more regular way; and, while they thus acknow. ledge that they appreciate the value of a Christian School, they appear gradually to relinquish that prejudice against Christianity, which proved an obstacle, some years ago, in several places, to their establishment. The expense of keeping their own Schoolmaster cannot induce them to make application for Christian Schools; as it is so very trifling, especially in the country, and is defrayed by a few of the principal people of the place. On the other hand, the parents of those children which are instructed in our Schools cannot but perceive, that their children receive a good deal of information respecting the Christian Religion: that they are aware of this, and sometimes even alarmed at it, we have frequently had occasion to observe: I shall only mention one circumstance, which took place in the course of the year. I went one day to a School; and found, to my surprise, that it had greatly

decreased in numbers. I desired the

Master to account for this extraordinary circumstance: he replied

What shall I do, Sir? The parents have taken all these children from school; for, several weeks since, they observed, that, on the children coming home from school in the evening (who being tired lay down to sleep till supper was ready), when they were roused by their parents and called to supper, they arose; but, being quite drowsy, they commenced repeating Questions and Answers from our Catechism-as, "What has God done in order to restore us and save us?" "He had mercy upon us; and, that we

might not perish but have eternal life, He sent His only-begotten Son Jesus Christ to save us!"-"How has this our Saviour saved us?" &c.- and so they went on till they got quite awake, repeating the Questions which had been impressed upon their minds during the day. The parents, frightened by this, keep them at home.

I made some inquiries, whether this statement of the Schoolmaster was correct; and, finding it so, directed him to go on quietly with his School, and to take no further notice of what had happened. In the course of several weeks, the Scholars gradually returned, most likely at their own request.

On the gratitude of the children and his own encouragements, Mr. Bärenbruck adds

Could many of my Scholars mark down their feelings and express their thankfulness, I have little doubt but this paper would convey the best report, by being filled with names of dear little Children who wish to express their great obligations for the instructions received: but now they leave it to me; and I cannot do it better than by expressing my own feelings. I am exceedingly encouraged in the work of love, though sometimes a work of particular trials.... The Gentlemen who reside in this part of the Country take a warm interest in our Society's School-Establishment, and are always ready to aid the work.

In the latter part of last year, John Devasagayam thus speaks of the Schools

The progress of the children, especially in Christian Knowledge, under the inde. fatigable superintendence of Mr. Bärenbruck, is very considerable: a sight of them, to any of our Superiors and Friends Our Schoolmasters are strictly watched; would give ample gratification and joy. and the inspecting of them is not a paintimes the case, but most agreeable. ful duty to me, as formerly was someimportant duty of our Institution; viz. Next to this, comes the most pleasant and the catechizing of the children; which we do now more frequently and regularly than ever, as they have committed to memory great portions of the Historical and Doctrinal Catechisms: they take great delight in this exercise, when we explain to them according to their capacity. The neighbours and passengers of both sexes frequently attend, many of whom receive suitable instructions for themselves at the same time:

the eagerness to hear us is frequently much to our encouragement; and I sometimes saw even bearers, with heavy loads on their backs, stand for a time, and hear the Word attentively. We consider our Schools as little Chapels; and feel now more than ever the great importance of our Schoolmasters being instructed in Catechizing: in this duty, a commencement was, therefore, made in our last Examination and Quarterly Meeting, when some of them were directed to catechize their Fellow-Schoolmasters in our presence; and the necessary instructions were given them, to practise catechizing frequently in their Schools. The improvement of the children by this exercise is very evident.

Many of the Parents are adverse to the Christian Instruction of their Children. Mr. Barenbruck gives an affecting instance of the difficulties felt from this quarter by the well-disposed Scholars: he writes in April last

The Scriptures and Christian Books are not only introduced into all the Schools of the Society, but are really taught. We do not confine the instruction of the children to the Schoolmasters, but teach them ourselves to know that Blessed Saviour who died for these little

But

lambs. Feed my lambs, is the charge which we have received from our Lord Himself. By catechizing and examining the children, we not only explain to them the Scriptures, but apply the truth to their hearts; and sometimes it appears that they feel the truth: they promise that they will pray to the True God, and will love the Blessed Redeemer who has done so much for them. the parents often endeavour to extinguish every spark in the souls of their children; and, if they cannot succeed, will keep their children from School. This having occurred to me, I have asked them-"Tell me now, my Children, do you love the Saviour ?" They have replied, "Yes, we love Him." "But do you worship Him as your Redeemer, according as I told you when I was with you the last time to go to a retired place and say, 'O Lord God, who hast created and redeemed me, teach me by Thy Word, through Thy Blessed Spirit: shew me my sinfulness, and Thy divine power to rescue me from my sin'-tell me the truth, did you ever thus pray to the True God?" Some would reply,

"No, Sir." "Why not?" I asked.— "Our parents will not have it."

Some time ago, a father sent his son, who was instructed in our Schools, to return me all the Christian Books which the Boy had received, and had SECRETLY kept in the house, and only read them in the ABSENCE of his father: the Boy told me, with tears in his eyes, that he did not like to return them, but his father had punished him and forced him to do it; and he requested me to protect him: he did not like to return to his father's house, but wished to learn the good books. Though I interfered and John went to the house of his father, we could do nothing, nor prevent his taking him from school. However, Dear Sir, be not discouraged by such facts, which we must expect: the good seed is not lost, though hid for a time; and if we believe, we shall see the glory of God also heaven, we shall never regret having in this country. When we meet in put too much trust in the Lord, nor having loved Him too much; but if regret can be felt there, it will surely be that we put not more confidence in Him, and loved Him no more.

The following Extract, however, from one of Mr. Bärenbruck's Journals will serve to shew the estima

tion in which the Schools are held by those who desire the instruction of their children :

A Relation of the Rajah of Tanjore, who sends his son to our School for instruction, sent me word, that if I would examine the School at his house, he should feel obliged, and would be present. I wished him to allow me to occupy his verandah instead of the house, which he got in readiness for the examination. When I was examining the children, a crowd, and among them some very respectable Heathens, came to the place, to be present; but, as I had anticipated, his servants were posted to keep the people at such a distance, that but very few could hear me: on my observing to him that the Word of God should be made known to every one who has a desire for it, he ordered his servants to let the people come near the verandah. I had now an advantage, by having more hearers than usual; and the place and air being kept cool and comfortable, I was not so much exhausted, and could give more time to the children. After catechization, he de

sired me to stay a little longer with him, which I did; and, following him into his house, I endeavoured to get into some profitable conversation with him; and looked to God for mercy upon this Heathen, that his eyes might be opened. I hope I gave him a more correct idea of the Divine Attributes than he had before-at least, he displayed much ignorance on this subject, in his conversation with me; and in explaining to him the love and mercy of God toward men, and His justice, I told him what we understood by the work of Redemption and by the Day of Judgment. He seemed to have been very much pleased with the examination. He said, "I shall continue to send my son to your School, if you allow me." I told him that the School did not belong to me, and how it and the others were supported. He replied

I know they are Free-Schools; and this very name had made me hesitate for some time to send my child, as my people told me it would be degrading for me. I kept a Master for him for some time at my house; yet observing that some children of my Servants that attended the Free-School made

good progress, and my son remained ignorant, I sent him to that School without further hesitation, and do not mind what the people say.

Mr. Bärenbruck spent some time at Combaconum, and much wished to settle there permanently; but, on various accounts, his present station was preferred: the Society has, however, several Schools at and near Combaconum, of a visit to which Mr. Bärenbruck gives the following pleasing report :

On proceeding to the School of Carpoor, near Combaconum, I found 56 children, drawn up in three lines, in an open place near the road, with their books under their arms. It was a delightful morning: the gates of day, as it were, were opening; and the first beams of the rising sun were saluting this noble company of children, standing as messengers of peace to their parents, in obedience to whom many still wore the heathenish mark, yet in their hands kept the glad tidings from heaven-the Word of Eternal Life. My soul was pouring out for them supplications "Oh that the day may appear when the Sun of Righteousness shall arise upon this nation with healing in His wings! Oh that Thou wouldest rend the heavens, Νου. 1827,

that Thou wouldest come down, that the mountains might flow down at Thy presence!"

In the afternoon of the next day I visited the second School, which, for the present, is kept in a pagoda, which is pretty large. I was pleased that the people did not hesitate to give up their pagoda for a time, to be used as a School, where the Sacred Name of Jesus is named and His doctrine taught. Oh that the time may be at hand for India, when these places shall be turned into the Temples of the Living God! I had scarcely arrived and inspected the School Lessons, when I was surrounded by Brahmins: some of my old acquaintances made their appearance, to whom I spoke; and I trust a few, at least, will profit: however, under the little encouragement which we do receive, it is delightful work to be employed in the Lord's service.

The day following I examined the Tamul and English School in the Palace, and the second Tamul School. Mr. Featherston, the Registrar of the Station, honoured us with his presence: in the evening, when I dined with Mr. Featherston at the Judge's, Mr. Cherry, he expressed himself very kindly with re gard to our School Establishment: he renders great assistance, also, to the new Missionary, Mr. Mead, from the London Missionary Society, who has fixed him. self at Combaconum; and who enters on a promising field of labour: on his ar rival here, he obtained subscriptions from the Gentlemen of the Station, which enabled him to make a good beginning with Schools. If any place calls for a Missionary, it is Combaconum. May the blessing of God rest upon him who enters into these fields, which I so much desired to do! but this also is our dutyDeny thyself: take up thy cross, and follow me and may all be to the glory of God!

Views and Feelings of the Natives.

The following extracts of different communications from Mr. Bårenbruck throw light on the state of the Native Mind.

-An indescribable indifference of the the people is one of the great difficulties which we have to struggle with. They hear for hours, and admit that all which we say is true; but if asked, "What do you think of doing? You cannot possibly desire to become subjects of 4 B