matter of
joy, though no better religion were introduced in its stead. But
the Burman system of morality is superior to that of the nations
round them, and to the heathen of ancient times, and is surpassed
only by the divine precepts of our blessed Saviour. Like all other
merely _human_ institutions, it is destitute of saving power; but
its influence on the people, so far as it is felt, is salutary, and
their moral character will, I should think, bear a comparison with
that of any heathen nation in the world. The person who should
spend his days in teaching them mere human science, (though he
might undermine their false tenets,) by neglecting to set before
them brighter hopes and purer principles, would, I imagine, live to
very little purpose. For myself, sure I am, I should at last suffer
the overwhelming conviction of having labored in vain.

"With this view of things, you will not, my dear sir, be surprised
at my saying, it is impossible for me to pursue a course so utterly
repugnant to my feelings, and so contrary to my judgment, as to
banish religious instruction from the schools in my charge. It is
what I am confident you yourself would not wish; but I infer from a
remark in your letter that such are the terms on which Government
affords patronage. It would be wrong to deceive the patrons of the
schools and if my supposition is correct, I can do no otherwise
than request, that the monthly allowance be withdrawn. It will
assist in establishing schools at Maulmain on a plan more consonant
with the wishes of Government than mine has ever been. Meanwhile I
trust, I shall be able to represent the claims of my pupils in such
a manner, as to obtain support and countenance from those, who
would wish the children to be taught the principles of the
Christian faith.

"Allow me, my dear sir, to subscribe myself,

"Yours, most respectfully,

"Sarah H. Boardman."

"My dear Madam,

"I cannot do otherwise than honor and respect the sentiments
conveyed in your letter, now received. You will, I hope, give me
credit for sincerity, when I assure you, that in alluding to the
system of instruction pursued by you, it has ever been a source of
pride to me, to point out the quiet way, i