Missionary Labours and Scenes in Southern Africa

John Snow. The preliminary chapters deal with the opinions of the author on the origin of the Hottentots, and give a synopsis of the early work of the London Missionary Society in South Africa, reference being made to the labours of Drs. Vanderkemp and Philip, and other pioneer missionaries who preceeded Mr. Moffat. The volume gives a valuable account of mission work amongst the Bechuanas, with notes on the customs of the natives, and a description of the earlier travels of the author, and some information is afforded respecting the reformed savage Namaqua chief"Africaner". The appearance in Cape Town of this convert was the cause of much wonder and astonishment, his arrival having been awaited with considerable scepticism by Lord Charles Somerset, who was much struck with this example of the results of missionary enterprise, and who "expressed his pleasure at seeing thus before him one who had been the scourge of the country and terror of the border colonists." An interesting account of Moselekatse and his people is given, and it is remarked that this well-known potentate" seemed anxious to please and to exhibit himself and his people to the best advantage." There was, however, considerable difficulty in ascertaining the chief's real character, as no one in his dominions" dared breathe a syllable that was not calculated to set him forth as the best and noblest of beings, immaculate in his actions, the very perfection of all that was lovely, just, and good." He was very gracious to the missionaries, and appreciated their previous kindness to his envoys, and Moffat gained considerable influence over him, and was instrumental in obtaining his permission to allow a mission station to be established in his country. There are some particulars concerning Dr. Andrew Smith's expedition into the interior in 1835, and there is an ample account of the labours of the various missionary societies engaged amongst the Bechuanas, Matabeles, Basutos, and other races at this period. (Mendelssohn, vol.2, pg. 29). Hand coloured frontis, title page vignette and 20 engraved illustrations as called for and a folding map. Spine neatly rebacked. Marginal foxing to about half of the plates and a small repair to the map. No date printed but published 1842. 1st Edition. Condition: Very good. Binding: Hardcover. Original pebbled cloth binding. Faded at the spine.