"Riis from Ussu"

Parts printed in Heidenbote 1844, pp 21a-24 Beginnings of settlement in Akrokong. Request for the erection of schools put to Adum. Urged to Christiansborg: Wesleyans want to take up work, Governor offers first to Basel Mission. They promise to begin a school at Christiansborg. Not printed: Account of death and funeral of David Robertson (p 7). Difficulties with Thompson (p 12-13). He should have a separate household and a salary of his own. He does not need less money than a European. The Christianity of the settlers was mostly an attachment to a community they got to like and which became necessary to then, but not more. They show little initiative (p 13-14). Difficulties with the good to be got from Christiansborg for the paying of provisions. They are forbidden to sell guns and gunpowder, but the Africans want this especially. What shall they do? (p 14 f). Their labourers are mostly Christiansborg people. They had to give them 20 rigsdaler in advance, since they mostly were in bad debts. Three people they have even bought free, one who accompanied them to London and two who looked after their house during their absence (p 15f). It is a difficult job to treat these many labourers justly and to employ them rightly. Riis has experience in it, but when he is away, it is more difficult. Halleur has not the gift for treating people, Widmann is learning it, but fell sick – headaches. They have left Widmann now, but he feels tired, cannot sleep, has lost weight, is only skin and bones. He dares to walk a little in the room and is not able now to write letters to Basel. Riis’ wife is on the way to get better (p 17). Requirements: Schoolbooks, Portwine (one barrel) bear (2 barrels), medicines. Mr. Young will send them. Riis hopes that they will find a better agent than poor Young (p 17). Notes concerning the plan of the mission buildings under construction: a) dining hall, b) sleeping room, c) study, d) living room, e) sleeping room, f) small hall g) rooms for bachelor brethren (p 17 bottom). Why such a house? Reasons given (p 18). Orders for good sent to Mr. Christ Sarasin in Basel.

14.09.1843

14.09.1843

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18 pages