doubt that Mr. Hand values the missionary future
of the African in his native land; that he realizes the importance of
his religious training in this country, and that he appreciates the
need of the higher education of a portion of the race; but his gift,
large as it is, cannot cover everything, and he has, therefore, wisely
chosen the definite sphere in which his money shall accomplish its
work. Opportunity is thus given others equally liberal to provide for
other parts of the great work to be done for the negro race.

Mr. Hand may not live long enough to see for many years the practical
working of his far-reaching gift, but generation after generation of
the Negroes of the South will rise up to call him blessed.

* * * * *

THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE GIFT.

[Abridged from the _Providence Journal_.]

The Address of Secretary Strieby.

It is my privilege, and I esteem it a great honor, to be called upon to
announce one of the most surprising and gratifying facts, financially
considered at least, that has ever occurred in the history of this
Association. The American Missionary Association has this week received
the largest gift ever made in this country by a living donor to a
benevolent society. Daniel Hand, an aged resident of Guilford, Conn.,
formerly a merchant in the South, has given to the Association
$1,000,894.25, in interest-bearing securities, to be held in trust and
known as "THE DANIEL HAND EDUCATIONAL FUND FOR COLORED PEOPLE," the
income only to be used for the education of colored people in the
Southern States. Mr. Hand, having made his money in the South, and
having seen the ignorance and consequent disadvantages of the colored
people there, felt that he could not use it better than in providing
for their education, and has chosen to entrust to the American
Missionary Association, whose work is so largely devoted to the
elevation of that people, the care of this magnificent gift, and the
disbursement of its income in accordance with the provisions of the
trust.

* * * * *

This announcement was received with great enthusiasm, which was
prolonged for several minutes, and the most intense excitement
prevailed. An address was then given by John H. Washburn, Esq.,
Chairman of the Executive Committee, after which Rev. Dr. Mears made an
address, which was followed by the singing of the Doxology with great
fervor and emphasis.

*