School-children in his School at Wellington. In this state he continued, exhausting his strength with talking and outcries, and struggles to get up out of the bed, until Thursday Morning, when he came to himself. He then felt his weakness; and spent the morning in praying and speaking on passages of Scripture, till noon, when he could speak no more. All who were about him were much edified in his last hours. O may we all learn to glorify the Saviour in life and in death! [Rev. J. G. Wilhelm.

Inspectors of Schools' Report. The appointment of Inspectors of Schools has been attended with material advantage. Their business is, to visit the whole of the Schools, Quarterly, except the Quarter of the Rains. Their visits are directed to promote the efficiency of the Schools, by introducing plans of instruction adapted to their circumstances, and promoting an uniform system throughout the Colony. The following Extracts from the Report of the Rev. Messrs. Raban and Gerber, delivered to the Midsummer Quarterly Meeting, contains many valuable suggestions.

School-Houses-It is matter of regret, to find, that in Kissey and Wellington there is no proper School-House provided by Government; and, consequently, the School is, in both Villages, kept in the Church. This plan, though probably affording the best accommodation that can be obtained at present, is liable to various objections; one of which is, that such a method of employing the Church tends to lessen that reverence which should always be felt for a place specially devoted to the Service of God. A simi

lar want was observed at Hastings; but we have recently learned, with pleasure, that steps are taking to erect a SchoolHouse there.

Instruction on the Gallery-In most cases, there is a want of spirit and variety in this part of the School Exercises. It seems a rare attainment to be able to keep up the attention of so large a number of Children; and, at the same time, so to blend instruction with amusement, that they may at once receive profit and enjoyment. Yet, considering the length of time occupied by these exercises, full half of all that is allotted to the younger Scholars, it seems highly desirable that

they should be made as beneficial as possible.

In one case, the Native Schoolmaster was found asking questions from a printed book prepared for that purpose. We would not wish any one to confine himself to such helps, but rather to proceed, as far as he can, without them; yet we think that they may well be used occasionally, till the Schoolmaster becomes expert enough to do without them.

It appears to us, however, that in this, as well as in other parts of their duty, the Native Schoolmasters might reap considerable benefit by being allowed to visit the Model School at Regent; and we cannot help wishing that some they to make such a visit monthly or plan of this kind were adopted. Were quarterly, their absence from the School would not be greatly felt; particularly if the Catechist, under whom they are placed, would kindly undertake to supply their place for that day. Even if inconvenience should be experienced in consequence of such a plan being acted

on, it would probably be more than recompensed by the increased spirit and intelligence with which they would return to their work.

Discipline-In calling over the names of the Scholars, there is a want of uniformity, as to time. In some Schools, the names are read over at half-past ten o'clock; in some, not earlier than halfpast eleven. If this is not done when School commences, which seems the most proper course, would it not be an improvement to have the names called over just before the Children leave the Gallery? The Master would not then have the trouble of moving from Class to Class; nor be in danger, as at present, of disturbing the business of the Class by this needful operation.

Classes We were glad to see, that in the Schools of Regent and Bathurst, where alone Liberated Children attend, they are not taught separately, as has sometimes been the case, but are classed with the Children born in the Colony. This plan seems well calculated to counteract the unkind feelings which the Colony-born Children are too ready to imbibe toward those who have been liberated from Slavery.

The circular form of Classes, recommended in a former Report, has been adopted in some of the Schools: we think it might, with advantage, be adopted in all,

In some instances, Classes were observed containing too large a number to be well attended to. The Teacher's time, in such a case, is almost wholly occupied in keeping order.

Teachers -As the fault just mentioned generally occurs among those who are learning the Alphabet, it may not be out of place to remark, that particular care seems to be required in the appointment of Teachers for Children of this description. A lively manner, by which the attention of the little-ones is excited, a degree of vigilance in keeping them to their work, together with much patience, seem to be the qualifications most needful here. If Boys possessing these qualifications can be found, we think it probable that the care employed in selecting them will be well repaid, in the greater progress of the Children whom they teach.

It must be supposed that various shades of character were observed among the Teachers in general. There were a few, whose diligent and patient attention to their little charge afforded pleasure; while others appeared too fond of authority, and treated their Scholars in a rough and unkind manner. It was particularly unpleasant to see some using sticks, to keep order. We beg here to remind our Fellow-labourers, that, according to the Regulations agreed on in September last, a Teacher is not allowed to punish his Scholars, but only to report to the Master or Mistress. We think it advisable that a little more vigilance should be exercised on this point; as both Teachers and Scholars will be much injured if the Teachers be suffered to indulge a tyrannizing spirit.

Pronunciation-In many instances, the Children are far from being correct in their pronunciation. A number of short words are miscalled, and the th is very often not uttered distinctly. In one School, when answering the question in the Catechism, What dost thou chiefly learn in these Articles of thy belief!" the children said, "I learn tree tings."

On the subject of Spelling, we are aware that a difference of opinion prevails as to one point; viz. whether the syllables of a word should be separately pronounced before or after being spelled. We may state however, that, in our view, the distinct pronunciation of each syllable, whether before or after spelling that syllable, is of great importance; as it helps the child to form some idea of

all the syllables together, i. e. of the complete word.

Books-In most of the Schools, but not in all, Simpson's Primer was found in the hands of the Children. This is so valuable a book, that we cannot but recommend it to more frequent and careful use. The place that it seems best calculated to fill, is that of a First Reading Book; its lessons being not only suited to convey important instruction, but also to assist Children in their very first attempts to read; and to lead them on, by easy steps, through all the most common words of one syllable. When well versed in this, the Children would be fit to enter on the National School-book, the Parables and Discourses of our Lord, &c. These books, also, were found in most Schools; but in some they seemed almost banished. We conceive that they might be used more generally than they are, with much advantage, as a preparation for reading the New Testament.

We were glad to observe that Watts's Catechism was taught in several of the Schools in others, it did not make its appearance. At the same time it was remarked, that in some of the Schools where Watts's Catechism was in use the Church Catechism was scarcely to be seen; and, vice versa, where the Church Catechism was used, Watts's appeared to be disused. We conceive that both these Compendiums of Truth are calcu lated to be useful, and therefore wish that neither should be laid aside. Church Catechism seems too difficult for beginners; and there are some parts in it which are not suitable for the unbaptized. But it may very properly follow, when Watts's has prepared the way: and if taught to unbaptized persons, the parts alluded to may be omitted.

The

Here, we beg leave to suggest, that the practice of asking occasional Questions forms a valuable addition to the instruction communicated by these and similar books. This will lead the Children to reflect a little on what they commit to memory; or, at least, will serve to shew whether they understand it or not. Without some such plan, it is very possible that they may be able to repeat the words fluently, and yet have scarcely any idea of the truths with which they

seem so conversant.

Scripture Reading - The Report delivered by the Inspectors for the Quarter ending at Midsummer last justly mentioned, as a cause of congratulation, the

large number of Children under instruction who were able to read the Holy Scriptures. Having confined our notice to those whom we found actually reading the Sacred Book at the time of our visit to the Schools, we are not able to speak of an equal number: yet it affords some pleasure to be able to state, that not less than 302 were found so occupied, being nearly one-fourth of the number in actual attendance.

Writing The number of those who write in Copy-books seems small, not more than about 70, as far as we have ascertained, in all the Schools, including Freetown. Care seems to be taken, that the Scholars form letters tolerably well, before beginning to use books; and sometimes this is a privilege conferred only on those who take pains to improve. This is well: but when the Children have proceeded thus far, we think it desirable that they should be allowed to write in books; not only because a better opportunity would thus be offered of judging of their proficiency, but because it is questionable, whether, without some practice in this way, they will ever write a good hand. The plan of writing on slates, by dictation, may still be used occasionally, even for the most advanced : indeed, it is so valuable, that we would by no means interfere with it.

Devotions-We judge it a matter of great importance, that the devotions, with which the Schools are opened and closed, should always be conducted with the greatest seriousness; and that the Boy who leads should be one who is distinguished for good conduct.

To those who know the value of good method, even in the external part of devotion, it will not seem needless to pay some attention to the length of the clause recited at once. In some Schools, it appears to be too great: and there is, therefore, a danger that the Children should be tempted to hurry over the words in a thoughtless manner, or jumble them confusedly together.

While on this subject, we beg leave to add, that the final Amen" is a word of too much weight to be pronounced lightly. It should not, therefore, be uttered, as it generally is, in one breath with the last clause of the prayer, but separately, and devoutly.

In some Schools, it is customary to sing a verse or two of a Hymn at 12 o'clock, when the Infant Children are dismissed to their homes: in others, their

dismissal takes place without any religious act whatever. We think the first of these plans much preferable; for little as the Children may be thought capable of profiting by it directly, it is not easy to say how soon a serious impression may be made upon their tender minds.

Conclusion-Before we close this Report, we beg to remind our Brethren of the fact, which we all acknowledge, but with which, probably, none are duly impressed, that the success of this, as well as every other branch of our labours, depends entirely upon the blessing of our Heavenly Master; a blessing which, though of unspeakable value, is promised to all who fervently implore it.

We wish, therefore, to suggest the propriety of each one offering up special prayer, for that blessing to attend the Schools with which he is more immediately connected, and all the Schools of the Mission; that the instruction there dispensed may prove, in many instances, to be seed cast into good ground, bringing forth fruit abundantly, to the glory of God, and the spiritual welfare of the rising generation.

Summary of the Mission.

in 1822, by the Hottentots of Bethelsdorp, in consequence of the produce of their corn-lands in that vicinity being found insufficient to supply the wants of that Institution.

The Catechist, who has acted in the capacity of Resident Missionary at Hankey, had laboured there about eight years; but, so far as related to SPIRITUAL results, almost in vain. Impressed with the idea that he was expending his time and strength uselessly, he was, at length, tempted to abandon the work in despair. At the commencement, however, of the ninth year, a change, as gratifying as it seems to have been unexpected, began to take place, which has afforded him a rich compensation for his former apparently useless toils: 17 persons, of whose genuine conversion and piety, satisfactorily evinced as it is by their exemplary life and conversation, the Catechist entertains no doubt, have, with their offspring, been baptized since the beginning of the present year; while 18 others, whose views of Divine Truth appear to be scriptural, and respecting whom favourable expectations are entertained, stand as Candidates for Baptism: among the recently baptized, is an aged man who was brought to the saving knowledge of the Gospel in his eighty-fourth year; and two slaves, who were released from their civil bondage, and from the slavery of sin, nearly at the same time. The attendance on Public Worship has so much increased, that the Chapel is no longer capable of containing the Congregation; a part of which now sit on the floor and in the windows. The house of the Catechist is daily frequented by the new Converts, that they may relate what the Lord hath done for their souls: for they cannot but speak of the things which they have heard, and seen, and experienced. Of the Slaves, who are in the employ of the neighbouring Farmers, and attend the Chapel, many seem now to have their chief delight in religious exercises.

During the first year of the Catechist's residence among the Hottentots here, he was exposed to gross insult and violent acts of intimidation; while the people, barbarous and immoral in their character, delighted in fighting, drunkenness, and other vices, which had, more or less, generally prevailed since. He describes the appearance of things as being now quite changed. Instead of hatred, and variance, and backbiting-love, and har

mony, and peace prevail; while the Catechist himself, instead of being, as formerly, cast down in despondency, is now exulting in the manifestations of the grace and mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ to the people of his charge.

WESLEYAN MISSIONARY SOCIETY.

NOTICES of an intended Station, among the Tribe called Amapondas, and at p. 14 of the present. The parappear at p.449 of our last Volume, ticulars here given are compiled from a Letter written by Mr. W. D. Boyce, who has been appointed to this Mission, on the 29th of November. Formation of a Station under the Chief Faku.

his future labours on the 22d of NoMr. Boyce reached the scene of vember: two days after, on the 24th, he writes

Faku, accompanied by about fifty of his subordinate Captains, paid his first visit to the Station. This is equivalent to a formal recognition of it as HIS School, under his protection; and we may now consider ourselves as by "law established." We testified our respect in the usual manner, by turning out of the kraal a beast for slaughter. With the present of a blue cloak, an iron cookingpot, a black ox, together with an assortment of beads, buttons, &c., which I presented to him in the name of the Society, he appeared highly gratified. He stated his intention of forming a FREE PLACE for his cattle, on the lower part of the ridge upon which we now are, within a mile of us, in order, as he expressed himself, that "We may be one house, and our cattle may graze together under the same herders. This, I understand, is one of the strongest proofs of confidence which a Chief can give; and such as, I believe, has never yet been shewn by any Chief at the commencement of the other Stations in this part of Africa. But, in many respects, Faku differs from the Caffre Chiefs; his authority is less limited, and he decides on matters of business chiefly on his own responsibility: his answers are given in plain and unequivocal language; so that it is possible even for a person not well versed in the intricacies of Caffre diplomatic phraseology to understand what he means by what he says, which is a rare case in this country.

much to raise the character of the English Nation-of which, in many instances on our journey, we have reaped the advantage. We have great reason to feel thankful that our situation is, to all human appearance, a very safe one; as, from the nature of the country and the difficulties of the road, should an enemy come suddenly, we should have but little chance of making our escape. But, in reference to all these matters, we must remember that the Lord reigneth.

Number and Character of the Natives.

Description and Advantages of the Station. The site of the Station is tolerably pleasant for this part of the country. To the right and left of the ridge upon which we intend to build, are ranges of green hills, covered with the finest grass, a yard high, up to their tops: in front, we have a prospect of a distant range of mountains. Below our ridge, is a large and rather wide kloof, which contains a few acres of very good land for cultivation through this kloof, the small stream Dangwana runs, which is commonly dried up in the dry season; at which time our water must be fetched from a more distant fountain, and the cattle will have to go to the Umgazi to drink, a distance of about three or four miles. There is very little timber suitable for building, nearer than in a fine bush called Purvey's Bush, about ten miles distant, to which the road is very bad perhaps we may find timber in the kloofs near the Zimvooboo, about the same distance from us. We are at about an equal distance from the Great and Little Umgazi Rivers, and about fifteen miles from the sea. Since we have been here, the heat has been extreme in the former part of the day; but, about 2 P. M., we have been favoured with a fine breeze from the sea, which has made the latter part of the day comparatively pleasant. On the whole, we have every reason to be satisfied with the place it is THE ONLY PLACE SUITABLE FOR A STATION; and we have chosen it for our abode, at the particular request of the Chief, which gives us a special claim upon him for protection.

We are favoured with peace in our immediate neighbourhood. 'Api, the Ficani Chief, who was last April living above Faku, near the sources of the Zimvooboo, has been driven thence by a commando from Dingaan the Zulu Chief. He has fled (according to what we can learn) to the Amasuta Tribes, near the sources of the Orange River; and has made an inroad into part of the Tambookie Country, above Mr. Haddy's Station. I think we are as safe here as in any part of this country beyond the frontier. I do not suppose that, in the event of any war, we should be molested; as the late expeditions, under Colonel Somerset and Major Dundas, against the marauding tribes, have left on the minds of the Natives a salutary impression of the power of the English; and the humane and equitable conduct, pursued and enforced by the commanders, has tended very

The population is very great, and not thinly scattered; but chiefly confined to the kloofs of the two Umgazis, and the descent of the Zimvooboo. Faku's power extends over Umyeiki's Tribe, near the Umtata; and over the Amawell Tribe, on the other side of the Zimvooboo: his own people cannot be estimated at less than 20,000 in number; for, from one hill near the Great Place, Mr. Shepstone counted a hundred kraals, each of which contained from 20 to 40 houses, which, after the usual manner of calculating population in this country, will give more than 10,000 inhabitants; and the view from the hill took in the population of one river only, and the parts adjoining.

Most of the land suitable for cultivation is occupied with corn-fields and gardens, on which the inhabitants chiefly depend for food: they have two crops of corn in a year; and, as the rains are more regular than in Caffreland, the harvest seldom fails.

Both sexes are very industrious, compared with other tribes: and here, for the first time on this side of the Fish River, an intimation was conveyed to us, that the value of time was understood. A woman said one morning, "Pay me now for my milk, for IT IS TIME: I want to work in my garden." This trifling circumstance speaks volumes, as to the regular and systematical industry of the people. Br. Shepstone, to whom this was spoken, while we were at the Great Place, was quite enlivened at the sound of such words; and observed, that, after living seven years in Caffreland, this was the first time that he had heard such an expression from a Native, whose only care about time, generally speaking, is how to kill it.

The people around us are well behaved, and give us no trouble: they are willing to conform, in regard to dress, to our feelings of decency. A hint is suf ficient.