the example of the missionaries in leading out water to their gardens,
and raised crops, not only of their native grain, pumpkins,
kidney-beans, and water-melons, but also vegetables, such as the
missionaries had introduced, maize, wheat, barley, peas, potatoes,
carrots, onions, and tobacco--this latter they had formerly purchased
from the Bahurutsi, but now it became a profitable article of traffic.
They also planted fruit trees.

As an illustration of their zeal, which was not always according to
knowledge, the following may be given. The course of the missionary's
water-trench along the side of a hill, appeared as if it ascended,
therefore several of the natives set to work in good earnest, and cut
courses leading directly up hill, hoping the water would one day follow.

The spiritual affairs of the station kept pace with the external
improvements. The temporary chapel continued to be well filled, a
growing seriousness was observable among the people, progress was made
in reading, and there was every reason for encouragement. Early In
1830, after the second mission-house had been finished and occupied by
Mr. Hamilton, the foundation of a new and substantial stone church was
laid. Circumstances, however, and especially the difficulty of procuring
suitable timber for the roof delayed its completion for several years.

The work of translation had been kept steadily in view. In June, 1830,
Robert Moffat had finished the translation into Sechwana, of the Gospel
of Luke, and a long projected journey to the coast was undertaken by him
and his wife. The journey had for its objects, to put the two elder
children to school, to get the translation of Luke printed, and to
collect subscriptions among friends in the Colony towards the building
of the new place of worship.