above, $14,614.76. This improvement is due, in large part to legacies,
and yet there has been marked improvement in the donations as compared
with last year. We trust our friends will be encouraged to still further
increase their contributions, and enable us to rejoice in a triumphant
balance sheet.

* * * * *


OUR PRACTICAL, THOUGHTFUL FRIEND.

Nearly a year ago, we had the satisfaction of referring to a friend who
contributed regularly to all the Congregational Societies, and yet
reserved one hundred dollars for the society standing in need of special
help. We are glad to say that was not a transient purpose, for the
friend has appeared again this year and has doubled his special
contribution. We trust that he stands not alone in this thoughtful and
practical watchfulness over the missionary societies.

* * * * *


EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS.

"Enclosed find my draft for ---- for the good work doing among the
Freedmen. For nothing do I give money more cheerfully than for the
advancement of that race."

"The earnest plea of Mr. Pond for help in his California Chinese work
was brought to the notice of our Chinese teachers yesterday. We would