Luebo, Oct. 2, 1921
Dear Mother and Daddy:
It is hard to realize that a year ago, we have just reached London on our way out, but such was the case, and have now been on the field just about eight months.
There is hardly a month that passes, but that we have some unexpected news of some kind, not always bad. A few weeks ago, the Kellersbergers found that Mrs. Kelly has sleeping sickness and had to return to England to have her treated. Now in this last mail, we have news that Dr. Egbert W. Smith was due to leave the states sometimes in October for a visit to the Congo Mission. Also that a Mr. Carson, who gave $10,000.00 for our Industrial School, is coming for a visit to us along with Dr. Smith (to sail in November instead of Oct. as above mentioned.) We are all eager for this visit from Dr. Smith, as we have been trying to get some member of the Committee out here for some time. During the last few years Africa has had a bit more attention from our folks at home, but before this our field came about last in everything, China occupying the foreground when it came to new missionaries as well as interest. It isn't possible to give a very accurate description of our work, our surroundings, and our needs as they are, for there isn't much with which our folks at home are acquainted to compare them with. This perhaps is true of every field to a large extent, but not so much as with us because we are so far removed from the world's highways, and you find so very few people who have been here, even on the "outskirts," even the ubiquitous press agent or reporter very seldom penetrates our country. So we are looking forward quite eagerly to Dr. Smith's visit, and I think he would be our preference if one was stated.
The springs and mattress that Dorothy and I ordered from Montgomery Ward, or rather that I added to the grocery order, reached us a few weeks ago. The mattress was badly soiled on one edge, but otherwise in good shape, and the springs were all right, so we are enjoying them. The ones we had were not bad but these are much better.
Our chicken yard is in "full bloom" now, for we have about 35 little biddies and two more hens setting. But raising these chicks brings on more discussion, for it's a problem.
We have a new stove, just come from Montgomery W., not ordered especially for us, but several ordered for the station. We have been using a brick oven up to the present, and which has been quite satisfactory, but not as neat or convenient as a stove; and it takes up too much space in the kitchen.
Later. As I've had to write one of these "Church" letters I'll have to close here.
Love to all,
B. M.
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