Rev. Edward Payson Scott, Baptist missionary in Assam, was
strongly moved to visit a wild hill tribe--the Nagas--three
days’ journey from his station, whereas yet he had made only a
start in the Naga language and had to take a Naga teacher along.
He was strongly urged by the British resident officer not to run
such risk, but he could not be deterred; and, when an escort of
soldiers was offered him, he firmly declined, as it would defeat
the very end in view, which was to go as a messenger of peace.
A military escort would give a false impression of his whole
spirit and motive.
So with a native companion he set out, and when they reached the
base of the mountain ridge where the native village crowned the
summit, and began the ascent, the alarmed villagers forming in
battle-line, waved their spears in menace, the chief crying out,
“Halt! we know you! You are the man of the British Queen, come
to make us prisoners and carry off our children. Come no nearer!”
The missionary drew out his violin, and began to sing in the
native tongue, “Alas, and did my Savior bleed!” When he had sung
one verse, the chief and his warriors had already thrust their
spears into the ground and broken ranks. As Mr. Scott sang
on, about the amazing pity, grace, love shown when the Maker
died for the sin of the creature, the wild men began to creep
down the hillside, nearer and nearer; and the chief cried out,
“Where did you learn that? Sing us more; we never heard the like
before.” The savages were subdued. The stranger was safe from
their spears, and welcomed to their huts and best hospitality.
The cross has never lost its charm. (Text.)--_Missionary
Review of the World._
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