Who the “foreigner” may have been, that thus supplied an ignorant people with a Divinity, or object of worship; or what were his motives in so doing, will probably always remain a mystery.

If we have devoted considerable space to this notice of the Karens, their subsequent history will prove that they are not unworthy of such notice.

FOOTNOTES: 

[Footnote 8:  Gammell.]

[Footnote 9:  See Gammell.]

CHAPTER VII.

LETTER FROM MRS. B.—­MR. B.’S VISIT TO THE KARENS IN THEIR VILLAGES.—­DEFECTION OF DISCIPLES.—­ITS EFFECT ON MR. AND MRS. B.

Extract of a letter from Mrs. Boardman to a “beloved sister,” dated Tavoy, 1828.—­“Nothing especial has occurred since I last wrote.  We are still in good health, and happy in our work.  We are now destitute of all religious society, and feel that our responsibilities are great indeed....  We have to suffer many little inconveniences in this country, but have no disposition to complain.  We rejoice in the kind providence that has directed our steps, and would not exchange our condition.  Our desire is to labor among the poor heathen until called to our eternal home.”  She then, with characteristic earnestness and affection, inquires after her sister’s spiritual state.  “Oh if you are a child of God, how great is your happiness; you can think of death without fear.  The troubles and griefs of life do not distress you as they do the poor worldling, who looks only to the enjoyments of this life for comfort.  If a Christian, you have sweet foretastes of that joy which is unspeakable and inconceivable by mortals.  Though a sinner still, you feel that your sins are pardoned, and that through the merits of a crucified Saviour you will at last be accepted of God.  I would fondly hope, my dear sister, that this is your happy case.  But if not, oh who can tell your dreadful danger?  Who can paint the alarming prospect before you?  Every moment exposed to death, and yet without hope.  Subject to disappointments and afflictions in this world, and yet no refuge for your anguished spirit.  The weight of sins daily accumulating, and every day less prospect of obtaining pardon.  The awful prospect of eternal banishment from all that is holy, oh my sister, reflect....  If you have not yet turned to the Saviour, delay no longer....  Oh may you, and all my beloved brothers and sisters, be early brought to a knowledge of the truth.  I cannot express the anxiety I feel for every one of you.  I also feel the solicitude of a tender sister for your temporal good.  Write me particulars of the health of my dear parents, grand-parents, and each of my brothers and sisters.  Though separated from you, I always wish to share your joys and sorrows.

“Your little niece is in charming health.  She sends many kisses to you all, and I shall teach her to love you, though she cannot see you.”