In reference to the reasons which induced Miss Nightingale to enter on
the present field of inquiry, it may be stated that the conversion of
the natives of this island to Christianity, so far from its exerting
any fatal or injurious effect on health and life, has vastly improved
their condition socially as well as physically. Christian civilization
is doing much for them; and the only hope we have of raising the people
from that state of moral degradation in which they are found throughout
the country is by imparting to them the knowledge of Christian truth,
which never fails to produce the happiest effects on their habits of
life in general, though it may occasionally happen, that by intercourse
with foreigners, vices inimical to longevity are learnt by the
aborigines. On the whole, however, it cannot for a moment be doubted
that it is to the introduction of Christianity, and, along with it, of
European science and European literature, that we have to look for the
gradual amelioration of the condition of the races that inhabit this
island; and, consequently, it appears to me that no effort should be
spared to extend the benefits of a sound Christian education (giving
it as much as possible a practical tone and character) throughout the
length and breadth of this beautiful and interesting country. It must
be admitted that there has been but little done as yet in the island in
the way of Christian civilization; but those who are in a position to
compare the state of things at present with what it was 20 or 30 years
ago admit that there are signs of progress to be seen in various parts
of the island, and surely this as a ground of encouragement is not to
be despised or underrated.
W. C. MACREADY,
Acting Asst. Agent.
Matura, 20th December 1860.