Prefatory Note

IT is a privilege to accede to a request to write a few words in order to introduce this book, in the publication of which I have been allowed to assist, to the friends and supporters of the S.P.G. I knew Mr. Maclaren well both in Australia and in England. What struck me most about him was his almost unique power of sympathy, which rendered any formal introduction to him unnecessary, and which in a brief space of time made it possible for acquaintanceship to develop into friendship and friendship into love. Again, he gave others credit for his own high ideals, and by his transparent sincerity and by refusing to believe that his friend or acquaintance could be moved by motives less high than his own he exercised a compelling influence, of which few could fail to be conscious who had spent even a short time in his company. The highest and most necessary gift which a missionary can aspire to gain is sympathy, and it was because Maclaren possessed the grace of sympathy in so high a degree that the brief work which he was called to do has been fruitful of lasting results.

Few will read this brief sketch of Maclaren's work without feeling the contagion of his enthusiasm, and without becoming conscious of an increased desire to obtain some measure of the Christlike sympathy which was the secret of his power.

CHARLES H. ROBINSON,
S.P.G. Editorial Secretary.

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