FROM A MOUNTAIN MISSIONARY.

I write to acquaint you with the facts concerning Columbus, N.C., both
as regards church and school work. You are already aware of the good
work accomplished there by our Brother Olinger. Something like thirty
young people were converted through his efforts, and now the call comes
for the organization of a church. The only church organization there has
monthly meetings only and a minister uneducated.

The County Commissioners have signified their willingness to turn over
the upper room in the Court House for church purposes, until some other
arrangement could be made.

The most active person in the new enterprise is a member of another
denomination, but is in favor of a Congregational church, as it would
most likely meet the wants of new-comers of different churches.

As regards the school matter, I understand that a friend proffers to
give to any church or individual who will establish and maintain a
college an excellent site of ten acres, on a prominence affording a
beautiful view of the surrounding country; and it is further reported
that he will give, in addition to the site, one thousand dollars.

Columbus is situated in a very thickly populated section of the country,
and Mr. Stearns, of Cleveland, Ohio, has erected two school buildings
suitable for primary work, and already has employed two Congregational
teachers at his own expense. The results obtained after two years' work
are marvelous, thus showing that the mountaineers are extremely anxious
to obtain an education; and in proportion to the increase of facilities
for so doing, the results would increase.