MISSIONARY OPERATIONS IN CHINA - Burns, William Chalmers

 chapter 20

1865

pekin, february 7 th , 1865

I have now finished the “pilgrim’s progress” in the mandarin colloquial, which, after being looked over by one or two native friends, will be printed. This will occupy some months at least. I had begun to make an attempt to put the second part of the “pilgrim” also into chinese, when my teacher a few days ago left me on business of his own, which may occupy him at least two months. Perhaps he may, after his matters are arranged, return and proceed with the work, but meantime it is at a stand, and its accomplishment will depend upon future events. The second part would need a great many changes to render it suitable for china, and i would commend the matter of its translation to the prayers of all who value the original. The preaching of the gospel goes on here still without outward hindrance, but the interest arising from novelty has in a good degree passed away, and the need is more felt of a work of the spirit to awaken souls to a genuine concern about salvation. During the last three months, i have preached but seldom. Now, however, that the weather is beginning to be a little milder, and my work indoors, without a teacher, is at a stand, i hope by the gracious help of god to speak to the people more frequently. I now close these hurried and barren lines with my usual and all-important request that we may be remembered continually by god’s people at the throne of grace. With christian regards for all friends.

Ever yours, William c. Burns

A more recent letter has been received from Mr. Burns, from which we learn that he had gone into the country south of pekinese to preach the gospel at a station lately opened by Mr. Eakins of the London missionary society. Dr. Martin of the American missionary society writes that Mr. Burns had been there addressing large and attentive congregations.