uch an attempt; and that
after examining all the information which they can obtain, they
consider themselves as devoted to this work for life, whenever God
in his providence shall open the way.

They now offer the following inquiries, on which they solicit the
opinion and advice of the association. Whether, with their present
views and feelings, they ought to renounce the object of missions,
as visionary and impracticable; if not, whether they ought to
direct their attention to the Eastern or Western world? Whether
they may expect patronage and support from a missionary society in
this country, or must commit themselves to the direction of a
European society; and what preparatory measures they ought to take
previous to actual engagement?

The undersigned, feeling their youth and inexperience, look up to
their fathers in the church and respectfully solicit their advice,
direction and prayers.

ADONIRAM JUDSON JR.
SAMUEL NOTT JR.
SAMUEL J. MILLS.
SAMUEL NEWELL.

The names of Rice and Richards were struck off "for fear of alarming
the Association with too large a number."

This paper was referred to a special committee, who indorsed the
sentiment and submitted a plan to the association, which was carried
into effect by the appointment of a Board of Commissioners for
Foreign Missions.

After much exertion and inquiry at home, Judson was sent to England
to learn if help could be expected from the London Missionary
Society. He found that society willing to take the young men under
its care and support, but not ready to assist the new Board.

The American society soon received aid within its own boundaries,
which was a far better beginning than to be dependent upon outside
resources. Mrs. Mary Norris, the wife of one of the founders of
Andover Seminary, bequeathed thirty thousand dollars to the Board.
God's Spirit generally revived the churches, opening the eyes and
hearts of His people, their purses as well, though not many of the
latter were well filled in those days.

God only has a full record of the anxious courage and faith which was
exercised by the supporters, managers, and appointees of the Board
during those first struggling years. Under the care of this board
Mills and his friends placed themselves, and by