of sympathy and confidence that have come to us of late, with noble
gifts, large and small, repay the solicitude and incessant care. We
thank God and his people, and hold firmly our faith in Him who said,
"Knock, and it shall be opened unto you." He opened the door. Our
faith is in Him who also said, "Ask, and ye shall receive."



The year opened with the Association bereft of its honored President.
We come to this new year happy in our choice of the Rev. Wm. M.
Taylor, D.D., of New York, to fill this most important position. In
his acceptance we congratulate the Association.

Since the year began, the churches have missed the stirring appeals of
our beloved Secretary Powell, who had the especial oversight and
burden of the collecting fields. Such a life as that of James Powell
is not common. It was a grand sacrifice of undeviating love for those
whose poverty made him a debtor to them. His consecration will not be
forgotten.

His sudden departure--our great bereavement--made necessary the
transfer of the Rev. C.J. Ryder from the field to the District
Secretaryship of the Eastern District in New England, who has brought
with his energy and zeal such an experience, and personal knowledge of
the entire field, as to insure him the most hearty welcome and
co-operation on the part of our pastors and churches.

The Rev. F.E. Jenkins, a graduate of Williams College and of Hartford
Theological Seminary, for some time earnestly engaged in our Southern
work, has been appointed a field superintendent for personal