Newfoundland: The Norway of the New World
By W. H. Thurston
NEWFOUNDLAND is called The Norway of the New World. It is only ninety miles by sea from Canada. There is a first-class steamer running between North Sydney, C. P., and Port au Basques, connecting the Intercolonial Railway from Montreal with the Reid Newfoundland Railway to St. John's. There is also a line of steamers plying between Montreal and St. John's, calling at Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, and North Sydney, C. P. St. John's is located on the southeast point of the island, and Port au Basques on the southwest, and the railway connecting these points makes a half circle, taking in the northern portion of the island. The population of Newfoundland, including Labrador, is about two hundred and twenty thousand, and the chief industry is fishing. The majority of the men from the bays go to Labrador, and spend the summer fishing, as they have better success than when fishing around the island. There are many nice lakes and rivers in the island, and some timber; but the interior is largely a barren, rough region, uninhabited except by wild animals. The island is under British rule, and the people are very religious. The Church of England, the Methodist, and the Presbyterian are the leading denominations. The schools are denominational, each being assisted by the government. The people are taught that obedience to the church is a test of loyalty, and there are very few nonconformists. There are about fifty Sabbath keepers in the island, and the advent message is being given in several places, and considerable interest is manifested. Quite a few books have been sold in different localities, and we are now planning a systematic effort in the book business. There is only one ordained minister in the island, but we are in hopes soon to have two more there. The health institute started in St. John's last May, with Drs. A. E. and Carrie J. Lemon in charge, is having a good patronage. It is wielding an influence for right principles, and is a light in a city set on a hill. More help is needed to meet the demands in this work, and we trust that it is forthcoming. It was my privilege to visit Newfoundland recently in the interests of the work, and I found the few laborers there all of good courage, but much in need of help. The people are kind, courteous, and lovers of truth, but not easily turned until fully convinced. We have a truth, a special truth, for this time and people; and the people of Newfoundland should have the opportunity of knowing the truth as it is in Jesus, —the last message of mercy to the world. In your prayers and in your offerings, brethren and sisters, please remember Newfoundland, that ways and means may be provided for speedily giving that people the third angel's message.