We acknowledge also the kindness of ladies in furnishing books and papers adapted to the need.  The young people, especially among the Negroes, are acquiring a taste for reading, and with their emotional and excitable natures, they take readily to sensational literature, with its startling illustrations.  A neighborhood or society collection of books and papers will usually contain some of such a stamp, and you maybe sure they will not always discriminate in favor of the most instructive reading.  Therefore select for them as you would for your own sons and daughters, what is attractive and healthful, and withhold all else.

And now we are just starting upon a new year.  Four hundred and seventy-six laborers have been called into the missionary ranks of the American Missionary Association.  One hundred and ninety missions are in operation, with their widening influence and ever growing needs.  Of our one hundred and forty-two churches there are fifty-seven which have not at present any Northern missionary associated with them.  The difference in the development of these churches, as contrasted with those which have the influence and help of Northern teachers, is so marked, as to constitute a most urgent appeal for more missionaries—­faithful women—­to gather in the young people, interest and instruct them, to live among them, an example of economy and thrift in housekeeping, of neighborly kindness, of faithfulness in church obligations and of consistent Christian life.  I do not hesitate to affirm that in the field of the American Missionary Association such provision is next in importance to the preached word.  Neither can take the place of the other.  Either is at a disadvantage without the other.  And yet there are fifty-seven of these mission stations this year, now, without such beneficent woman’s ministry, waiting only for additional funds, the new money necessary to provide reinforcements.

I appeal to you, Christian women, in your organized capacity as State Unions; and as individuals—­stewards to whom perchance our Lord has entrusted a goodly inheritance—­for help to the American Missionary Association in this almost overwhelming responsibility.  Send us the missionaries for these needy fields.

I appeal to you in behalf especially of the wronged and helpless women and girls of these ten millions of our own countrymen, American born, whose only hope is in the sympathy and the help of the Christian people of our own land.  We do not live in the day of small things, but of great needs and large opportunities.  Surely now, if ever, is the time to “enlarge the place of thy tent and stretch forth the curtains of thy habitation.  Spare not, lengthen thy cords and strengthen thy stakes, that thou mayest spread abroad on the right hand and on the left, and possess the nations of our land.”

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WOMAN’S STATE ORGANIZATIONS.