OUR ALASKA MISSION.

Letters received from Rev. Dr. Sheldon Jackson and Mr. Lopp give us the
gratifying assurance that the mission is by this time opened under
favorable auspices. Dr. Jackson found on reaching Alaska that Mr. Lopp
had visited the mission at Cape Prince of Wales this spring and
discovered that the buildings, furniture and supplies were in good
condition. Mr. Lopp, in response to our request, has consented to return
to the Cape and re-open the mission. He greatly regrets that an ordained
minister was not sent, and expresses the earnest hope that another
season this necessary addition will be made, but he consents to return
and do the best he can. He has little fear of violence from the natives,
finding them completely intimidated by the threats of the captain of the
revenue cutter "Bear."

The experiment of introducing the reindeer into Alaska is thus far very
encouraging. Mr. Lopp has had a herd under his care at Port Clarence,
and although the winter has been unusually severe one hundred and fifty
fawns were added to the herd. The Government has promised to our mission
at Cape Prince of Wales this season one hundred reindeer, and Mr. Lopp,
with adequate help, will have the care of them. The ultimate success of
this experiment with reindeer in Alaska is one of great promise. It
indicates a food and clothing supply for the natives, with increased
facilities for transportation, thus laying the foundation for growth in
population and in civilization.

It will be remembered that of the three men connected with the horrible
murder of Mr. Thornton, two were at once arrested by the natives and
shot. The third, Titalk, who was the leader, escaped for the time. Mr.
Lopp thus describes his death: "After the 'Bear' had left for the South,