METHODIST REPORTS WILLAMETTE MISSION 337
the temptations, which continually beset them, to connect themselves with pecuniary enterprises."
It is, however, but just to say that the Superintendent seems quite disposed to make great allowance for the connection with some of the missionaries with secular matters. He remarks : "They have suffered much from exposure and privation ; and as they were not able to do so much as they had hoped to do in their ministerial ca- pacity, they have seemed to think it admissible to provide for themselves and their families. But though they may not have accomplished all that may have been expected of them as ministers, yet I think they have done much to correct the morals and enlighten the views of the com- munity and that the Territory is altogether better than if they had not been here."
In reference to an occasional change in the ministry, Brother Gary reiterates his opinion as follows: "I am more and more convinced that an occasional change in our ministry would be of essential service to the spiritual interests of this mission. But very great care is neces- sary in the selection of the men who may be appointed to labor here. I am aware it would take much time and money to effect such changes, yet I think the spiritual advantages such a course would secure to this region greatly outweighs them all."
The only statistical report we have of the mission is contained in Brother Gary's latest dispatches. From these we learn that there at the Willamette Station 41 whites in Society and 8 Indians ; at the Willamette Falls, 16 whites and no Indians ; at the Balls, 3 whites, Indians not reported ; and 5 whites at the Clatsop station mak- ing in all 65 whites and 8 Indians. Among these were three local preachers, one at Clatsop and two at the Upper Willamette. It is presumable that most of the Indians to be found in Society, at this mission, are at the Balls. But as Brother Gary had not visited that station when he wrote, he was unable to give their number.
