Mr. Jackson
London, 18th January 1826
Dear Sir,
My friend Pazos, who is translating the Gospel of John into Aimará, was here yesterday, and he told me he had not received the Latin and Portuguese Bibles of which I was speaking to you, and which I think you promised to send him. Have the goodness to forward them to him as soon as you can as they will considerably aid him in the translation.
Yours truly,
J. Thomson.
Rev A Brandram
24 Northampton Square, 25th January 1826
Dear Sir
A particular friend of mine who has been in Italy, wishes to speak with you & your brother secretaries respecting the circulation of the Scriptures in that country.
If you please, we will call on you on Saturday next at eleven. Will that day & hour suit you? Have the goodness to let me know.
I am
My Dear Sir,
Very Truly Yours
J. Thomson.
To the Committee of the
B. & F. Bible Society
London 6 February 1826
Gentlemen,
When you did me the honour, about two months ago, to express your wish, that I should become a permanent Agent of your Society, I signified, that my other arrangements in South America would not allow me to accept of the honour you wish to confer upon me. At the same time I mentioned that my plans were not been finally arranged, and I was in consequence requested to consider the matter until I had made up my mind as to my intended operations on returning to South America.
I have, during this interval, maturely considered your proposal, in connection with other plans of usefulness in that country. I have earnestly besought the Lord to guide me to what is his holy will, and to what might prove most advantageous to that continent. After this deliberate consideration and earnest supplication, it appears to be my duty to adhere to my first intentions, and thus to decline the honourable situation offered me by the Committee of the British and Foreign Bible Society.
Whilst however I declined becoming the agent of the Bible Society as my main object, I shall ever deem it a sacred duty to forward in every possible way the circulation of the Holy Scriptures in South America; and I accordingly beg of the society to call upon me for this purpose as occasion may offer, and with all freedom. I have a person in view, who I think would suit the Society as an agent for that country. He is a pious man, speaks the Spanish language, and has been in South America. I beg leave to recommend this individual to your notice for this work; and if you wish it, I shall speak to him upon the subject.
Gentlemen, my warmest prayers are for the prosperity of your Society. May wisdom and strength be given to you, and may your path the altogether glorious.
I remain,
Gentlemen,
With Great Respect,
Your Most Obedient Servant,
James Thomson.
Northampton Square
London, 25 February 1826
Dear Sir,
In reply to your note of yesterday I send you the two letters of the 11th and the 31st October. I send you also the verbal correction of an indistinct passage in the letter respecting Latacunga. Will you be so good as to say to your printer, not to make the periods any longer than I have made them. You will oblige me much by a sight of the proof sheets.
Yours Truly,
James Thomson.
Saturday morning.
Rev A Brandram
24 Northampton Square
London
22 May 1826
Dear Sir,
I beg leave to state to you in writing the substance of what I formerly said regarding the Spanish Scriptures, that you may be able to lay the same before the Committee in intangible form. The first thing I would recommend, is the printing of the version of Torres Amat, it, instead of that of Scio. My reasons for doing this version the preference to Scio's, is on account of its being a better translation. This is my own opinion respecting it, but in recommending it to the society to give this version the preference, I do not rely on my own opinion of it, but on the judgment which has been decidedly pronounced upon its superiority by the Spanish emigrants now residing in London, and who can be referred to upon the subject.
There is one objection to this version. It contains a considerable number of supplementary words. These however may be left out in the editions to be printed by the Society. At the request of the Committee I have spoken with Dr. Villanueva, a Spanish Canon well known in the literary world, and this gentleman has offered to make the corrections required in the Spanish edition, and to give his name in the title page as to correcting it. Should the Society agree to adopt this version, the printing may be begun immediately, as Dr. Villanueva says he can do all that is required in a very short time and as the printing goes on.
Thus far I have spoken of the whole Bible, and I think, for the reasons addressed, that the Society should resolve on printing from this version when another edition of the Spanish Bible is required. But at present I speak of printing the New Testament only, in order that it may be soon got ready, and be put into circulation as extensively as possible in Mr. Matthew's intended journey through South America.
I beg leave to say further upon the subject, that as respects the introduction of the Scriptures into the schools, this version would be received with a decided preference, and the good that may be done in this way is very great.
The next thing I wish to recommend is the printing of an edition of the New Testament in Latin and Spanish in parallel columns. This should be done in a small type so as to make a little portable volume. I am sure this would be pretty generally acceptable among the priests and among hundreds of students at the different colleges throughout South America.
The only other thing I have to recommend is the printing of the New Testament with a large type for the use of the aged. This would besides form a kind of family volume, and would I am persuaded be very acceptable and very useful.
I remain,
Dear Sir,
Very Sincerely Yours,
James Thomson.
Informe XXI de la Sociedad de Escuelas Británicas i Estranjeras
a la junta general celebrada en Londres el 15 de Mayo de 1826 con su apendice
En este informe se da una concisa noticia do los trabajos de la Sociedad londinense, cuyo objeto es propagar la instrucción elemental en todos los pueblos, y particularmente en las clases inferiores abandonadas casi en todas partes a la mas tenebrosa ignorancia, y por consecuencia a la superstición y la depravación. Nuestro primer deber es tributar a este cuerpo, a nombre de la América, nuestra gratitud por sus servicios a la casa de la especie humana, y particularmente por el esforzado y generoso empeño que ha tomado en la difusión de las luces y de la moral en nuestro continente. Su informe presenta el campo mas basto a que jamás ha extendido su acción al espíritu de una desinteresada filantropía.
La Gran Bretaña, Irlanda, Dinamarca, Suecia, los Países Bajos, Francia, Grecia, África, la India Oriental, la Persia, la América, las Islas de la mar del Sur, tienen ya gran número de escuelas fundadas bajo los auspicios y según el método de la Sociedad central de Londres y en muchos de estos países se han establecido también sociedades que comunican y cooperan con ella en la grande obra de la civilización universal. Nosotros nos limitaremos á extractar del apéndice lo relativo á nuestros estados, en que vemos con particular complacencia la parte activa que el clero secular y regular ha tomado espontáneamente en esta santa empresa. Quiera el cielo conceder a la Sociedad de Londres y a sus dignos cooperadores en ambos mundos la más dulce de todas las recompensas, que es la de ver prosperar sus trabajos, mejorándose las costumbres con la educación, y dando así sus cimiento indestructible al imperio de la libertad y las leyes.
En un informe del Sr. don Vicente Rocafuerte, ministro mejicano, hallamos las noticias siguientes: "La primera escuela Lancasteriana se abrió en Méjico de 22 de Agosto de 1822 y por una de aquellas ocurrencias singulares a las revoluciones, las salas de las inquisición, aquella enemiga declarada de la luz, fueron trasformadas en un plantel de ciudadanos ilustrados y hombres. Enseñase á 300 niños en esta escuela según el nuevo sistema. Alguna tiempo después el gobierno franqueó á la asociación lancasteriana de Méjico el grande y hermoso convento de betlemitas, en que se formó otra escuela, dividida en tres departamentos, y dirigida por dos profesores, perfectamente instruidos en el sistema. En el primero, proporcionado para 660 niños, se les enseña á leer, escribir, y contar, y aprenden además el catecismo religioso y político, las Aritmética, la Gramática y ortografía castellana; contribuyendo sus padres, si tienen medios, con un peso mensual. El segundo contendrá 400 que pagarán dos pesos al mes, y servirá de matriz ó escuela central, en que se forman maestros y profesores para distribuirlos en las provincias, hasta que, llenándose los deseos del gobierno mejicana no quede una sola aldea en el territorio de la confederación que no tenga su capilla, su escuela lancasteriana y su imprenta. En el tercero habrá 300 niños, que pagarán tres pesos por mes y aprenderán latín, francés, matemáticas, geografía, dibujo, según el método lancasteriano.
En 1823 se introdujeron en Méjico las lecciones que se usan en Londres sacadas de la Sagrada escritura, sin nota ni comento alguno, y aunque se opusieron algunos de ello, alegando era prohibido leer extractos de la biblia sin notas, prevaleció la opinión contraria, apoyada por el Secretario de la Asociación, el Señor Gandera, sujeto de mucha virtud y celo por la religión."
En cuanto a los otros estados americanas nos referimos[1] á la carta siguiente de Mr. James Thomson, á la escuela central de Londres. El espíritu de caridad cristiana, que anima a este distinguido filántropo, su actividad, su celo verdaderamente apostólico, en promover la obra de la sociedad de Londres, son conocidos del uno al otro extremo de la América meridional, y exceden á toda alabanza. La sencillez y las amable modestia que brillan en la carta de Mr. Thomson creemos la harán particularmente grata á nuestros lectores.
A la Comisión de la Sociedad de Escuelas Británicas y Extranjeras.
Londres 25 de Mayo de 1826
"Señores,
"Cumpliendo con vuestros deseos, voy a daros un consejo del adelantamiento y estado actual de la educación en la América de Sur.
"Comenzaré por Buenos Aires, y hablaré de los otros estados en el orden en que los he recorrido. Cuando salí de Buenos Aires en Mayo de 1821, había en aquella cuidad ocho escuelas de niños protegidas por los magistrados; y todas conducidas , más o menos, conforme a vuestro sistema. Habría, según creo, como otras tantas escuelas en las aldeas vecinas, también bajo el cuidado de los magistrados, pero no se habían reducido todavía a vuestro sistema. Yo visité algunas de ellas para organizarlas con arreglo a el, pero los incesantes alborotos políticos de aquella desgraciada época impidieron se llevase a efecto la reforma.
"A mi salida de Buenos Aires se pusieron las escuelas bajo la dirección de un eclesiástico muy respetable, que yo creía fuese capaz de conducirlas bien; pero sea que no poseyese bastante el sistema o que quisiese aplicarlo con algunas modificaciones, lo cierto es que las escuelas, lejos de adelantar se atrasaron. Así continuaron las cosas algunos meses, hasta que las sociedad que se había formado poco antes de mi partida, se reorganizó y sacudiendo el letargo tomó a pechos la reforma de la educación según vuestro sistema. Mucho se ganó con esto; y tengo el gusto de deciros que he recibido noticias recientes de que la sociedad sigue trabajando con eficacia, y probablemente logrará más y más fruto cada año. Habiendo vosotros encargado que os nombrase los individuos con quienes me pareciese que podíais llevar correspondencia para promover la educación universal, objeto de vuestros cristianos trabajos, os hable de don Bartolomé Muñoz, dignísimo eclesiástico, secretario de la antedicha sociedad, que animado de una activa benevolencia, se interesa vivamente en él. Con este sujeto podéis entenderos utilísimamente y estoy seguro de que será gran satisfacción para el y para la sociedad toda el recibir carta vuestra, y ayudaros en esta santa causa.
"No se os he dicho en mis cartas que las primeras juntas de esta sociedad se celebraron en el principal convento franciscano de Buenos Aires. Circunstancia es está digna de mencionarse, por cuanto muestra la liberalidad del clero en el asunto de la educación. El provincial de la orden, fray Hipólito Soler, que residía en aquel convento, se prestó a ello de muy buena voluntad, y jamás olvidaré el agrado y cortesía que le debí cuantas veces tuve que ocurrir a él, que fueron muchas. El guardián nos hizo también mucho favor. A la lista de nuestros excelentes amigos en aquel clero debo añadir el respetabilísimo deán don Diego Zavaleta, cuyo sobrino don Ramón Anchoriz nos ha hecho también muy buenos oficios, y mil veces me alentó a no desistir de la obra, y a luchar contra los obstáculos que se ofrecían.
"He mencionado la actividad de este cuerpo en abrir escuelas. Debo también decir (y lo hago con particular complacencia) que el empeño mostrado en ello por el Gobierno bajo la dirección de don Bernardino Rivadavia, ha tenido gran parte en el adelantamiento de nuestro noble objeto. Este caballero, dando a sus conciudadanos lecciones y ejemplos de la verdadera sabiduría política, y patrocinando con el mayor celo la difusión de los conocimientos útiles y de la educación popular, es uno de los que más han contribuido a elevar su patria al primer lugar (que sin duda ocupa) entre lo nuevos estados americanos. Su nombre quedará asociado para siempre con la época mas gloriosa de la revolución argentina, y largo tiempo se le mirara como el mejor de sus bien hechores. Acaban de llegar noticias de habérsele elegido presidente de las provincias unidas de Rio de la Plata, justa y honrosa recompensa de sus servicios en la regeneración de la independencia, y de la unión. Mucho hay que esperar de los esfuerzos del Sr. Rivadavia en el territorio de la federación. Creo que la sociedad debería escribir felicitándole por su elevación a la primera magistratura, y conozco bastante sus sentimientos, para asegurar que accedería gustoso a cualquier plan que la sociedad sugiriese para el establecimiento de escuelas provinciales.
"Por los medios arriba dichos ha crecido considerablemente el número de escuelas en Buenos Aires después de mi partida. El Rev. Mr. Armstrong, en carta que acaba de recibir la Sociedad Bíblica, le dice alcanzan a ciento, y que se educan en ellas como 5,000 individuos. Refiere además Mr. Armstrong haber regalado 500 ejemplares del Nuevo Testamento a dichas escuelas de parte de la Sociedad Bíblica, y que espera se usará antes de mucho tiempo este precioso libro en todas.
"A mi salida de Buenos Aires existía ya una excelente de niñas, conducida según el sistema británico, y se educaban en ella 250 personas. La organizo don José Catalá, natural de España, y activo promovedor de la educación. El fue el primero que estudió nuestro sistema en Buenos Aires, y habiéndoselo nombrado maestro de la escuela central, continuó en este encargo hasta pocas semanas antes de dejar yo aquella cuidad.
"En una de mis cartas os informe de mi visita a Monte Video, donde fui muy bien recibido por el vicario don Dámaso Antonio de Larrañaga, eclesiástico de entendimiento liberal e ilustrado, y grande amigo de la educación. Este respetable individuo presento a los magistrados los proyectos de establecimiento de escuelas según el método británico, y en consecuencia se me autorizó para que les enviase un maestro, ofreciéndole 1200 pesos de salario al año por todo el tiempo que estuviese ocupado en organizarlo y dirigirlas.
"El sujeto que me pareció más idóneo para este encargo fue el don José Catalá de quien dejo mención, el cual se trasladó allá con un surtido de los artículos necesarios para empezar. Sus progresos fueron lentos al principio, a causa de la guerra en que estaba envuelta la provincia; pero después adelanto bastante. Este mismo Catalá había organizado en Buenos Aires según el plan lancasteriano una escuela al cuidado de Mrs. Hine, con esta particularidad que la enseñanza era un día en ingles y otro en español. He tenido frecuentes noticias de la prosperidad de esta escuela, y me escriben que juventud de Buenos Aires muestra grande afición a la lengua inglesa, y hace rápidos progresos en ella.
"En esta reseña de las escuelas de Buenos Aires hay muchos motivos de satisfacción y regocijo para todos aquellos que se interesan en el bien estar de sus hermanos, y que para obtener este fin, emplean el más eficaz de todos los medios, que es la educación. Al ver como crecen estos rebaños juveniles, y se extiende y arraiga en sus tiernas almas el conocimiento de la más pura religión y moralidad, leyendo los divinos oráculos, y penetrándose de la sagrada doctrina de Jesu-Cristo, se llena de placer y esperanza el corazón, y no dudo experimentará iguales sentimientos la comisión de la Sociedad de Londres, y concebirá aliento para nuevos esfuerzos en beneficio de aquel país. Persuadido de vuestras favorables disposiciones, me atrevo a sugerir que se envié a Buenos Aires una persona de talento, perfectamente instruida en vuestro sistema, para que se ocupe en diseminar establecimiento de educación por todo el territorio de la federación argentina. Repito con este motivo mi intima convicción de que el presidente don Bernardino Rivadavia se presentara gustosísimo a vuestras miras.
"Llamo ahora vuestra atención a las provincias de Mendoza y San Juan, que forman parte de los estados del Rio Plata. Visité estas poblaciones en 1822, y encontré un gran deseo de establecimiento de educación. Mi excelente amigo el Dr. Gillies, que residía entonces, y reside todavía en Mendoza, ha contribuido mucho a inspirar este deseo, y hacia cuanto le era posible por satisfacerlo. Movido de sus continuas instancias, visite yo aquellos pueblos, y debo confesar que me dio gran gusto el espíritu de liberalidad y el ansia de instrucción que empezaban a desarrollarse en ellos. El gobernador de Mendoza era uno de los mas empeñados en el establecimiento de escuelas. A pocos días de mi llegada se formó una sociedad con este objeto, y se presentó una petición al gobernador, solicitando se pusiere a disposición de ella una pequeña imprenta que pertenecía a la cuidad, a fin de imprimir lecciones para las escuelas, y destinar a la manutención de estas la corta ganancia que pudiese reportarse de otros objetos a que se aplicase la imprenta. Accedióse a ello inmediatamente. De esta prensa ha salido por algún tiempo un periódico que ha esparcido ideas útiles. Durante mi residencia allí, se formó una escuela de niñas y se daban pasos para el establecimiento de otras destinadas a varones, como se efectuó después. Pero cuando todo presentaba tan buen aspecto, asaltó una furiosa tempestad a nuestros amigos, y por poco no sucumbieron a los ataques de fanatismo. Los enemigos del bien prevalecieron; pero su triunfo fue breve: la verdad apareció otra vez, y venció y afirmó su imperio. Los individuos que se habían ligado para el beneficio de país, y cuyas buenas intenciones embarazo algún tiempo esta oposición forman ahora el gobierno, y tienen facultades bastantes para ponerlas en obra.
"En la provincia de San Juan hallé mucho individuos celosos por el adelantamiento de la educación. Otros sin duda tenían miras y sentimientos contrarios. Expidióse por el gobernador una circular impresa a todas las personas de nota, convidándolas a una junta para discutir el punto de establecimiento de escuelas. Muchas concurrieron; hubo votos a favor, y votos en contra. El gobernador sostuvo nuestra causa, y cerró la junta, significando era la intención del gobierno promover los establecimientos de educación del mejor modo que pudiese. Yo dejé algunas lecciones bíblicas para las escuelas de aquel cuidad, como lo había hecho en Mendoza, cuyo precio igualmente que mis gastos de viaje, se me pagaron por los respectivos gobernadores.
"Antes de pasar adelante, deseo decir algo de la meritoria conducta de don Salvador Carril. En la junta de que acabo de hablar, fue este individuo uno de nuestros más esforzados defensores, e instó con mucho calor a que se adoptase el plan propuesto. Algún tiempo después se le eligió gobernador, y colocado en este empleo, quiso valerse de todo su influjo para el establecimiento de la libertad religiosa en su provincia nativa. Me es extremo grato deciros que su empresa tuvo el más completo suceso. Don Salvador Carril ha tenido la gloria de dar este ejemplo, siendo su provincia la primera de todas las de América que se ha declarado por la libertad religiosa. El 6 de Junio de 1825 dio principio esta era tan importante para los nuevos estados. El gobierno de Buenos Aires adoptó igual medida; pero el primer honor se debe a San Juan y a su gobernador Carril.
Tampoco debo pasar en silencia a Mr. Rawson de los Estados Unidos, que ha residido largo tiempo in San Juan, y tomado parte en cuanto se ha hecho por el bien de país.
Con respecto a las otras provincias del Rio de la Plata (Santa Fe, Entre Ríos, Corrientes, Paraguay, Tucumán, Salta y Córdoba), es poco lo que puedo decir: sino que creo que la educación está en malísimo estado. Pero el espíritu que ahora reina hace probable se le dé la mejor acogida a cualesquiera planes dirigidas a extenderla y mejorarla particularmente con el apoyo y protectora solicitud del presidente don Bernardino Rivadavia.
"Antes de atravesar las pampas, debí haber hecho mención de otra escuela y sociedad lancasteriana, situadas a 500 millas al sur de la ciudad de Buenos Aires cerca de la boca del Rio Negro, donde hay una pequeña población y fortaleza. El Coronel Oyuela, que fue nombrado gobernador de aquel distrito pocos meses antes de mi partida para el lado occidental de continente, asistió a nuestra escuela central a aprender el sistema y al trasladarse a su nuevo destino, llevó consigo un surtido de lecciones. Después supe que había tratado de interesar en ello a los habitantes, y que en efecto había logrado establecer una escuela y formar una pequeña sociedad para costearla, contribuyendo los vecinos con lo que podían, lo cual convertido en dinero se aplicaba al establecimiento. Si todos los gobernadores tuviesen igual celo que el coronel Oyuela por el bien de los pueblos, presto veríamos la ignorancia y el error desterrados del mundo.
"El sistema británico empezó en Chile en Julio de 1821. El Director don Bernardo O’Higgins manifestó un sincero deseo de ver propagado la educacion por todo el país, y estaba siempre pronto a oír y examinar cualesquiera planes que se le presentasen para perfeccionar el método de enseñanza. El Secretario de Estado don Rafael Echeverría mostraba también mucho interés en ello. Establecieronse tres escuelas en Santiago, un en Valparaíso y otra in Coquimbo; y algunos meses antes de dejar yo a Chile llego allá Mr. Eaton, enviado de Londres por don Antonio José de Irisarri, a plantar el sistema de Lancaster. El gobierno trataba de enviar a Mr. Eaton a Concepción para abrir escuelas en aquella provincia; pero como representásemos al Director cuanto mejor sería concentrar nuestros trabajos en la capital y distribuir desde allí maestros capaces a los pueblos del estado, se consintió en que Mr. Eaton permaneciese en Santiago. Allí seguimos trabajando, hasta que recibí yo una invitación de General San Martin, para trasladarme al Perú. Considerando la importancia de esta proposición, y los medios que así se ofrecían de extender y propagar la educación en un país tan interesante, considerando por otra parte que Mr. Eaton quedaba en Chile, y creyendo que bajo su cuidado sería fácil conservar lo hecho, y aun generalizarlo a todo el territorio chileno, resolví pasar al Perú. Mis esperanzas sin embargo no se realizaron, porque Mr. Eaton cayó enfermo poco después, y tuvo que volver a Inglaterra.
En consecuencia de esta desgracia decayó la causa en Chile, y creo que las escuelas establecidas antes de aquella fecha se hallan ahora en muy deplorable estado, si es que no se han abandonado enteramente. Mucho es de sentir, que la grande obra de la educación sufra tanto en Chile, progresando tanto en otras partes. Estando yo en el Perú, recibí noticias del rumbo que llevaban las cosas, y del fin en que probablemente vendrían a parar, a menos que yo tratase de volver, o enviase un maestro capaz. A pesar de mis deseos de volver a Chile, no me atreví a verificarlo, temeroso de otro contratiempo igual en el Perú. Resolví pues procurar un maestro que fuese en mi lugar; pero entretanto el ejército español se apoderó de Lima, y el General Rodil que mandaba en el Callao no quiso permitir la salida del maestro, aunque se le representó sobre ello.
"De los representantes del gobierno de Chile en Londres he sabido que se ha sentido mucho en aquel país el atraso de las escuelas, y que se anhela remediar el mal sin dilación. Paréceme pues que convendría enviar una persona competentemente instruida, que reuniendo las cualidades necesarias, no dudo hallaría la mejor acogida, y haría mucho bien al país. Para que sirva de gobierno y de satisfacción al que tome sobre sí este en cargo, debo decir que el clima de Chile es delicioso, y sus habitantes, según yo creo, de mejor moral, que los de otra parte de América de las que yo he visitado.
"Las personas con quienes pudierais seguir correspondencia en Chile, son: el actual Director, General Freire, don Rafael Echeverría, don Camilo Henríquez, y don Manuel Salas. El general Freire, quien tuve ocasión de ver en Santiago, se me mostró tan complacido de las buenas esperanzas que daba nuestro método, como inclinado a favorecer su establecimiento en Concepción, de cuya provincia era entonces gobernador; y estoy seguro de su cordial cooperación con la sociedad en todo lo que ésta emprendiese tocante a Chile, así como de los buenos oficios de los otros tres individuos que dejo nombrados. El Sr. Echeverría, con el objeto de animar el establecimiento, enviaba sus propios hijos a la escuela central, a donde concurría frecuentemente por la tarde, cuando sus ocupaciones no se lo embarazaban. Don Camilo Henríquez trabajaba, y aun creo que trabaja en ilustrar a sus compatriotas en ésta y otras materias, publicando una obra periódico en que se trata de ellos exclusivamente. Don Manuel Solas, de quien os he hablado en mis cartas de Chile, es hombre ya entrado en años y que solo piensa en procurar la felicidad de su patria por todos los medios posibles, entre los cuales mira la educación como el mas propio para producir bienes permanentes. Solo me resta decir con respecto a Chile que don Mariano Egaña, Ministro de aquel gobierno en la corte de Londres, está pronto a daros cuantos auxilios y noticias pueda en prosecución de este objeto.
"Llegue al Perú en Junio de 1822, y no tardé en daros cuenta por menor de las escuelas que se establecieron allí. Pero estos días de prosperidad fueron poco después anublado por la guerra. Habíanos dado ya este azote mucho que sufrir, particularmente en Buenos Aires; pero las ocurrencias del Perú fueron, (a lo menos para mí) de una especie nueva. Nuestras guerras anteriores habían sido entre nosotros mismos, y cualquiera partido que dominase, las escuelas seguían, con poca o ninguna molestia, pero en Lima llegamos a estar en contacto con los españoles, declarados mantenedores de la ignorancia a lo menos en cuanto concierne a la América. Dos veces cayó Lima en su poder durante mi residencia en aquel país. La primera vez salí de la cuidad, acompañándome con algunos millares de fugitivos. En esta su primera visita, estuvieron cerradas nuestras escuelas tres meses. La segunda vez, deseoso de evitar igual interrupción, me quedé en la cuidad, y las escuelas continuaron pero no con la prosperidad que era de desear. Después de haber permanecido allí seis meses bajo el dominio español, viendo que no era posible avanzar, me dirigí hacia el norte, y sucesivamente a Inglaterra.
"La escuela central establecida en el convento de dominicanos de Lima contenía, a la entrada de las tropas españoles, 230 niños, y seguía bastante bien: otra escuela se abrió según el mismo plan, con 80 discípulos; y en ambas se usaba como principal libro de escuela el Nuevo Testamento impreso por la Sociedad Bíblica de Londres. Este sagrado libro leían los niños de las clases superiores, y se les hacían preguntas sobre su contenido. Llevábanle también a casa, y allí aprendían algunos pasajes de memoria, los cuales se recitaban después en la escuela, confiriéndose premios a los que sobresalían en la exactitud e inteligencia de ellos. Manejábanse asimismo libros impresos que contenían pasajes escogidos de las escrituras, y algunos padres mandaban a pedir ejemplares de ellos; extendiéndose de este modo el conocimiento de la palabra de Dios, y acaso también la veneración y obediencia a los divinos oráculos.
"No estoy seguro de haberos hecho mención antes de ahora de un estimado y hábil colaborador mío, y creo faltaría a mi deber, si pasase en silencio el nombre y carácter de este individuo. Hablo de don José Francisco Navarrete, sacerdote de Lima. Habiéndole conocido dos años, y disfrutado la mitad de este tiempo el beneficio de su celosa cooperación, no puedo menos de recomendarle a la atención de la Sociedad para la prosecución de sus miras en aquel estado. Tres cartas he recibido suyas después de mi vuelta a Inglaterra, y por ellas he tenido el gusto de saber que continúa promoviendo con fervor la enseñanza de la juventud, y que las escuelas que están a su cargo prosperan. Informóme de haberse organizado en Guánuco una escuela, dirigida por un hijo de aquella cuidad, que asistió algunos meses a nuestros establecimientos, mientras yo estaba en Lima. Guánuco está bellísimamente situado para una escuela, en medio de un país interesantísimo y es como la llave de la numerosa inculta población que habita orillas de Huallaga, el Ucayali, y el Amazonas. Guánuco es un punto central desde donde creo que pudiera hacerse mucho en beneficio de aquellas pobres gentes, que a pesar de haberles cabido en suerte una de las más fértiles regiones del globo, viven errantes, casi desnudos, sin lo necesario aun para satisfacer el hambre, en absoluta ignorancia de todas las artes y comodidades, y lo que aun es más lamentable, sin que penetre a sus almas una vislumbre de mundo venidero, y de la felicidad eterna a que somos llamados en Jesu Cristo. Roguemos al cielo, que empiezan a recibir estos infelices gentiles alguna educación; que se ponga en sus manos la santa escritura; y que baje sobre ellos el espíritu de Dios, como lo hizo en otro tiempo sobre nosotros, para que sean lavado sus culpas y alcancen gozar la herencia de los santificados.
"Otra favorable circunstancia ha ocurrido después de mi partida del Perú, con respecto a la parte de que acabo de hablar. En Ocopa, no lejos de Guánuco, había subsistido por muchos años un convento de religiosos por la mayor parte europeos. Hase mudado el instituto de este convento; y en vez de ser, como era antes, un semillero de frailes, se le ha convertido en un seminario para la educación de la juventud según el sistema británico, y sus cuantiosas rentas se han aplicado a este objeto: feliz transformación que se debe enteramente al General Bolívar. Después de referir este hecho, parecerá superfluo decir más acerca del carácter de Bolívar, pues por lo dicho se echa de ver suficientemente, que procura la felicidad de América, no solo combatiendo por ella, sino también por los medios suaves de la instrucción temprana; que son sin duda los mas eficaces. Creo con todo que debes añadir dos hechos mas, en prueba del vivo interés y alentados esfuerzos de Bolívar en la causa de la educación. Algunas meses después del decreto para la reforma del hospicio de Ocopa, expidió otro mandando se estableciese una escuela central según el método de Lancaster en cada capital de provincia del Perú, para que de estas escuelas centrales se enviasen maestros a todos los demás ciudades y aldeas: providencia la mas a propósito para difundir rápidamente la instrucción. Pero no contento con esto, dispuso también que de cada provincia del Perú se enviasen a Inglaterra dos jóvenes, para que recibiesen a expensas del gobierno la mejor educación posible, de manera que concluidas sus estudios vuelvan a su patria, a trabajar en la grande empresa de la ilustración general. Estoy seguro señores, de que esta sencilla exposición bastara para interesaros vivamente a favor de tan meritorio individuo, ensalzado por el Omnipotente para bien de sus compatriotas y para poner fin al reinado de la opresión y la ignorancia, en que gemían.
Diez de los jóvenes enviados por Bolívar han llegado a Inglaterra, y se instruyen cerca de Londres: uno de ellos era monitor de nuestra escuela central de Lima; los restantes llegarán en breve. Me sirve de gran satisfacción poder confirmar con tan incontestables pruebas la opinión que tiempo hay os manifesté acerca de este grande hombre, después de haber tenido el gusto de conversar con él sobre la materia. Sin duda tenéis presente su donativo de 20.000 pesos a Mr. Lancaster para las escuelas de Caracas.
"En el lustre de Bolívar, se me había casi olvidado otra cosa que tenía que decir de nuestro amigo Navarrete, hombre que para hacer tanto como Bolívar en la causa de la educación, no hay menester más que iguales medios. En una carta suya, llegada recientemente a mis manos me dice haber obtenido del gobierno que se destine para escuela de niñas parte de un Convento de monjas situado al lado de la escuela central de varones, establecimiento que deberá ser centro y el modelo para la educación de sexo femenino, de la que hay grandísima falta en el Perú. ¡Prospere Dios los afanes de nuestro caro amigo, y embálsame su memoria el perfume de las bendiciones de las buenas madres, hijas y hermanas en las edades venideras!
"Sabéis, señores, que no trato de volver al Perú, y que mi intención es fijarme en otra parte de América, y pasar allí los días que me restan. Me atrevo, pues a recomendaros enviar al Perú una persona idónea, que trabaje con actividad en la organización de escuelas, en la segura inteligencia de que hallara buena acogida, y será inmediatamente colocado.
"Poco os he dicho antes de ahora con respecto a la educación en Colombia, y eso poco se contiene en una carta de Quito, de mes de Noviembre de 1824. Allí os dije que se trataba de establecer un seminario para la enseñanza de niñas en aquella cuidad destinando a ello un monasterio de religiosas; proyecto que tiene sus dificultades, y cuyo progreso no puedo hablar con individualidad, aunque miro como seguro su logro. En una carta de uno de los miembros del congreso he visto la noticia (y es lo mas reciente que ha llegado a la mano) de estar ya para discutirse esta materia en aquel cuerpo. Espero que antes de largo tiempo tendremos el gusto de saber que se ha obtenido el más completo suceso: y por consiguiente creo que convendría poner los ojos desde ahora en una persona a propósito para la organización de esta escuela, punto que me ha parecido digno de inculcarse, por las benéficas consecuencias que puede tener sobre la cultura y prosperidad de aquella gran ciudad (la mayor de toda Colombia) y del populoso y bello distrito que domina.
"En mi transito de Quito a Bogotá vi tres escuelas según el plan británico de monitores, una en Yahuara y dos en Popayán, una de estas para cado sexo. El establecimiento de estas escuelas en las provincias de Colombia es la ramificación de un plan general, cuyo centro se halla establecido tiempo ha en la capital Bogotá. Luego que llegué a esta cuidad fui a visitar la escuela matriz; pero no pude ver al director del establecimiento, como lo deseaba, para tomar informes del numero y fruto de las escuelas provinciales. El director estaba entonces ausente, visitando algunas de las provincias y tratando de establecer escuelas en ellas. No puedo pues deciros qué número de escuelas existía, pero tengo fundamento para creer que es el suficiente para dar aliento y esperanza a los amigos de la educación, y que sigue aumentándose.
Recibí del Sr. Restrepo, Ministro del Interior, ejemplares de las lecciones que se usan en las escuelas, y es sensible no ver allí la Sagrada Escritura, ni extracto alguno de aquel inestimable volumen, dictado para nuestra felicidad y consuelo, en la juventud y en la vejez, en el tiempo y en la eternidad. Con esta sola excepción son buenas las lecciones, y bajo todos respectos superiores a la broza que solía darse a leer a los niños americanos. Una parte de ellas merece mencionarse. Léese en las escuelas la constitución del Estado. De este modo aprenden los niños desde su infancia las instituciones que los rigen, lo que deben a su país como ciudadanos, y lo que se deben unos a otros; cosa que me parece digna de imitarse en otros países. Es de esperar que el plan adoptado para imbuir la tierna alma del niño de este temprano informe de su gobierno y leyes nacionales, se extenderá en breve a los estatutos de Dios, revelados en los sagrados libros.
"No habiendo visitado las provincias de Centro-América, es poco lo que puedo decir de estado de la educación en ellas, y eso por informes ajenos. Entiendo que se han establecido escuelas en la capital y en otras partes, aunque no sobre el plan monitoreo. Los señores Zebadúa y Herrera, representantes del gobierno en Londres, me aseguran que han allí gran deseo de procurarse un buen profesor de este sistema para fundar una escuela central y sucesivamente otras en el territorio de la república. Espero que la Comisión tendrá presente esta parte de América como las otras arriba mencionadas, cuando se le proporcionen maestros que posean las cualidades necesarias.
"Me falta solo hablar de Méjico; pero en esta parte basta remitirme a la interesante comunicación de nuestro excelente amigo don Vicente Rocafuerte, encargado de negocios de aquel gobierno.
"En la reseña que acabo de hacer del estado y progresos de la educación en Hispano-América, se presentan sin duda muchos motivos de satisfacción y esperanza para todos aquellos que se complacen en acelerar la carrera de los conocimientos, y contribuir a la dicha del género humano. Prescindiendo de lo que se ha hecho en los pocos años de libertad que han gozados estos pueblos, basta para inspirar las más alegres esperanzas contemplar los sentimientos que ya se desarrollan en aquel continente, y el celo de todas las clases en el importante asunto de la educación. Durante los siete anos que residí en él, tuve que tratar con gentes de todas condiciones y estados y por su modo de expresarse, como por otros medios, creo haber llegado a entender cuál es el modo de pensar del pueblo, y cuáles sus deseos en esta materia; y puedo asegurar sin la menor vacilación, que la voz pública se ha declarado decididamente por la educación universal. A nadie oí decir allí lo que todavía se oye decir en otras partes, “que no se debe dar instrucciones a los pobres”. Contrarios son de todo punto a estos sentimientos los de los clérigos y lejos, gobernantes, y gobernados en América. Echando pues una mirada sobre toda la escena y extendiendo la vista a lo por venir, creo que el adelantamiento de la cultura intelectual y moral en aquel vasto y hermoso continente, nos ofrece una perspectiva brillantísima; juicio, señores, que estoy seguro no dará a nadie más complacencia y satisfacción, que a Vosotros."
Senores,
Tengo la honra de ser con el mayor respeto,
Vuestro mas obediente servidor,
James Thomson
(El Repertorio Americano, Tomo II; Londres, 1827: pág. 58-80.)
[1] Nota: El editor de la revista fue Andrés Bello. (BM)
To the Committee of the British and Foreign School Society.[1]
London, 25th May, 1826.
Gentlemen,
Agreeable to your wishes I sit down to give you a sketch of the progress, and of the actual state of education in South America. I shall begin at. Buenos Aires, and shall take the different states in the order in which I travelled through them. When I left Buenos Aires, in May 1821, there were eight schools for boys in that city, supported by the magistrates, and all of them conducted, more or less, on your system. There were, I think, about as many more schools in the small villages around the city. These were also under the care of the magistrates, but had not been put upon your system at the time mentioned. I had visited some of them for the purpose of organizing them upon this plan, but the never-ending revolutions of that unhappy period, prevented the proper measures from being carried into effect for their improvement.
Upon my leaving Buenos Aires, the schools were put under the direction of a very respectable clergyman, who, I thought, would conduct them with much advantage, but, from his not being well acquainted with the system, or from his being peculiar in the application of it, the schools did not improve, but rather grew worse. This state of things lasted for several months, until the Society, which had been formed some time before my leaving that place, becoming re-organized, and arousing from its lethargy, began to take a particular interest in forwarding education according to this system. Much was done through this means; and, I am happy to say, that I have lately heard that, the Society continues its useful exertions, and is likely to become more efficient from year to year. As you wish me to mention some individual or individuals in the different countries in South America with whom you could advantageously correspond in furtherance of your Christian object, universal education, I give you here the name of the Secretary to the respectability, he possesses a spirit of active benevolence, and is a warm friend to education. With this gentleman you may correspond with great advantage to the furtherance of your object; and I am sure it will afford much satisfaction to the individual mentioned, and to the rest of the Society, to hear from you, and to labour with you in this good cause.
I am not sure whether I mentioned to you in my letters from Buenos Aires, the circumstances of the meetings at the first formation of this Society, being held in the chief Franciscan convent of that city. This is worth mentioning, as it shows the liberality of priests and friars on the subject of education. The Provincial of the order, Don Hipólito Soler, lived in this convent, and was very friendly indeed to our object. The uniform kindness and courtesy which I experienced in my many calls upon him in his cell, I shall never forget. The Prior of the convent was also very friendly. To the list of our excellent friends among the priests, I must not omit the highly respected Dean of Buenos Aires, Don Diego de Zavaleta. The nephew of this gentleman, Don Ramon Anchorez, was also a very particular friend, and often encouraged me to go forward when obstacles lay in the way.
I have mentioned the labours of the Society in promoting Schools in that city. I must also mention, and very particularly, that the interest taken by the government, under the direction of Don Bernardino Rivadavia, greatly contributed to carry forward this noble object. The labours of the gentleman now mentioned, in instructing his countrymen in true political wisdom, by precept and by example, and his exertions in forwarding the cause of knowledge and general education, have mainly contributed to give to Buenos Aires, (what it indisputably enjoys) the first rank among the new American states. His name will ever be associated with the happiest part of the revolution of that country; and he will long be looked upon as its best benefactor. Accounts have just reached London, that this gentleman has been recently elected President of the United Provinces of the Rio de la Plata, an honour justly due to him as the regenerator of their independence of Spain, and of their dependence upon each other. We may, I think, fairly augur, that much good will be done in the advancement of education by this individual throughout the various provinces of the Union, at the head of which he is now placed. I think a letter of congratulation from the Society is justly due to him, and, from what I know of his sentiments, I have no doubt of his readily acceding to any plans the Society might suggest for the establishing of schools throughout the provinces.
Through the means above stated, the number of schools has greatly increased in Buenos Aires since I left it. The Rev. Mr. Armstrong, in a letter lately received by the Bible Society, reckons them to amount to about one hundred, and thinks they may contain about five thousand scholars. In the letter now referred to, Mr. Armstrong states, that he had presented 500 New Testaments to these schools on the part of the British and Foreign Bible Society, and he expresses a hope that this precious volume is likely to be generally used in all the schools before long.
At the time I left Buenos Aires, there was a very good girls' school, on the British system, containing 120 scholars. I have not heard particularly of this school since that time, but hope it continues to prosper as it then did. The person who organised this school was Don José Catalá, a native of Spain, and a zealous promoter of education. This gentleman was the first who studied the system at our schools in Buenos Aires. He was afterwards appointed to be master of the central school, and continued in that situation until a few weeks before I left that place.
I mentioned to you, in some of my letters, that I had paid a visit to Monte Video, where I was kindly received by the first ecclesiastic of that place, Don Damaso Antonio de Laranaga, a priest of a liberal and enlightened mind, and a friend to education. This gentleman laid the subject of the establishment of schools on the British system before the magistrates, and, in consequence, I was authorized to send a master to them, who was to receive a salary of 1200 dollars a-year, whilst engaged in establishing and superintending the schools. The person most qualified for this undertaking was Don José Catalá, already mentioned. He was, accordingly, sent there with a supply of the necessary articles for making a commencement. I received, whilst in South America, different letters respecting his progress, which was at first slow on account of the war in which that place was involved, and the scarcity of funds consequent upon it. Afterwards he was enabled to get on better. The last letter I had from him is encouraging, of which I shall give an extract:—
"The school which I formed here has produced upwards of eighty children well instructed in elementary education. These have given satisfaction to those best qualified to judge, and to the public in general, in two public examinations which have taken place. The number of children now in the school is 208. Two years ago, I formed a private school upon the Lancasterian system. It contains at present forty children belonging to the best families of this city, who pay for each child six dollars a quarter. The master of this school is a young man of excellent talents, and of good conduct. He attended the central school for a whole year, in order to learn the system well, and to approve himself capable of conducting a school upon these principles. He expected to be employed in one of the schools which the magistrates were about to establish, but as it was impossible for them to carry forward their purpose, owing to the disturbances of the times, I advised him to establish a private school. The young man had not means to do this, as he was the son of a poor widow. The Society, however, gave him lessons, slates, and pencils, and Mr. Noble gave him the wood to make the seats and desks. Thus provided, he offered to instruct, under the auspices of the Society, and by my direction,—elementary education, and also the principles of geometry, trigonometry, and geography, and to hold a public examination of his pupils every year. I am happy to inform you that the children are making very great progress, owing to the steadiness and fidelity of the master, and to the six well instructed monitors whom I sent him from the other school, each of whom knows more than any of the masters of this place.
"I am sorry to inform you that the master of the central school died about three weeks ago. In consequence of this misfortune, I have been obliged to take the school into my own hands until another master be appointed.
"I mentioned to you, in a former letter, that I had organized Mrs. Hyne's school in Buenos Aires on the Lancasterian system, with this peculiarity in the arrangement, that the children are taught in English one day, and in Spanish the other; as she has scholars who speak these languages respectively, I sent her some of the lessons printed here for the use of her school."
The school here referred to is kept by an English lady, and was just beginning when I left Buenos Aires. It was afterwards fully established on your system as above mentioned. I have had frequent information respecting the prosperity of this school, and am told that the youth of that city show a great desire to study the English language, and are making progress in it. Their parents have thus shown their desire for the education of their children, in instructing them in our tongue, and they have shown their liberality in sending them without scruple to be educated by an English lady belonging to the Protestant church.
In the preceding review of the schools in Buenos Aires, there is much to cheer the minds and hearts of those who interest themselves in the welfare of their fellow-men, and who use their best exertions for this end, in the way in which they can be most effectual, namely, in the instruction of the young. To see the youthful flocks increasing in numbers, and growing in the knowledge of the purest religion and morality, by reading and imbibing the sacred oracles, is a sight truly gratifying, and to hear of this will, I am sure, afford much satisfaction to the Committee of the British and Foreign School Society. It will also, I trust, lead you to renewed exertions on behalf of that country, and, knowing your readiness to do so, I beg leave to suggest the propriety of sending out a person possessing good talents, and well acquainted with your system, that. he may be employed in extending education through the various provinces of these United States; and, in recommending this measure, I repeat my conviction, that the gentleman now elected President of these States, Don Bernardino Rivadavia, will take a pleasure in seconding your views.
I now turn your attention to the provinces of Mendoza and San Juan, as these form a part of the United Provinces of the Rio de la Plata. In March 1822, I visited these places, and found a very great desire existing there, in regard to education. Our excellent friend, Dr. Gillies, was at that time (and still is) residing in Mendoza. He had contributed much to create such a desire, and was very active in using every means for satisfying it. It was through his very urgent request, that I visited these places, I was much gratified with what I saw there, as regards a growing spirit of knowledge and liberality. The governor of Mendoza was very friendly to the establishment of Schools. A Society for promoting them was established a few days after my arrival, and a petition was presented to the Governor, that a small printing press, belonging to the town, might be placed at their disposal, that they might print lessons for the schools, and might otherwise gain a little for promoting their objects. Thin request was immediately acceded to, and the press and the types were transferred accordingly. A newspaper has been printed at this press for some time, and it has greatly contributed to enlighten that quarter. A girls' school was begun whilst I was there, and measures were taken for establishing schools for boys, which were afterwards carried into effect. After these favourable circumstances had been some time in operation, a storm overtook our worthy friends. They were like to be overwhelmed by a spirit of fanaticism, which had raised itself against the promoters of education and reform, by those of a contrary mind. The enemies of righteousness prevailed for some time, but at length they stumbled and fell, and truth and improvement again appeared, and prevailed, and now reign in triumph. Those individuals who had combined together to benefit their country, and whose benevolent arrangements were thus for some time impeded; these very individuals are now the chief persons in the government, and are thus enabled to carry their measures into effect.
In the Province of San Juan I found many enlightened individuals who wore warm friends of education. There were, no doubt, many of other feelings and wishes. A printed circular was sent to the different persons of note in that place by the Governor, inviting them to a meeting in his own house, for discussing the subject of establishing schools on your system. A good many attended, and some were for the measure, and some against it. The Governor was a warm friend to the object, and the meeting broke up by his signifying, that it was the intention of the government to use its best endeavours to forward this object, I left some Scripture lessons for the schools in that place, as I had done in Mendoza, the price of which, together with the expenses of my journey there, were paid by the Governors of these two places.
Before I leave San Juan, I wish to notice the meritorious conduct of Don Salvador Carril. In the meeting referred to, he was one of the principal defenders of our objects, and strongly urged the adoption of the proposed plan. Some time after, this gentleman was appointed Governor in that province. When holding that situation, he wished to use all his influence for the establishment of religious liberty in his native province. I have great pleasure in stating that in this he completely succeeded. He has thus had the honour of leading the way in this important matter, and of making his own province the first part of South America, to declare for Religions Liberty. The date of this era, for such it may be called to this new continent, is the sixth of June, 1825. The province of Buenos Aires has adopted the same wise and liberal policy, but the first honour is due to San Juan, and to its Governor Carril.[2] I must not omit to mention here, Mr. Rawson from the United States, and who has long resided in San Juan. His name is connected with every measure for the improvement of that country.
In regard to the other provinces of the Rio de la Plata, I can say very little, but I believe education is in a very low state in all of them. The names of these provinces are, Santa Fe, Entre Rios, Corrientes, Paraguay, Salta, Tucuman, and Cordova. It is, however, very probable, from the general spirit diffused through these countries, that plans for the improvement and extension of education would be very favourably received, particularly under the recommendation and fostering care of the President, Don Bernardino Rivadavia.
I omitted to mention before stretching across the Pampas, another Lancasterian School and Society. This School and Society are situated about 500 miles to the South of the City of Buenos Aires, at the mouth of the Rio Negro, where there is a small fort, and town. Colonel Oyüela, who was appointed Governor of that quarter some months before my leaving the eastern side of the continent, attended our central school to get acquainted with our system, and on going to the place of his appointment, he carried with him a supply of lessons for the commencement of a school. I afterwards learned, that he had endeavoured to interest the inhabitants of that place in the education of their children, and that he had succeeded in establishing a school, and in forming a small society for its support. To this small society, contributions were made by the inhabitants of such things as they had, and these were turned into money, and kept the school going forward. The conduct of Colonel Oyüela in this matter is truly praiseworthy, as it springs from a sincere desire to promote education, and to benefit those over whom he is placed. If all governors, far and near, were to act in the same manner, we should soon see ignorance turned into knowledge all the world over.
The British System was begun in Chile, in July 1821. The Director, Don Bernardo O'Higgins, manifested a sincere desire to extend education throughout the country over which he was placed, and was ready to listen to any improvements in the manner of communicating knowledge, which might be brought before him. The principal Secretary of State, Don Rafael Echevarría, was also much interested in the subject. Three schools were established in Santiago, the capital, one in Valparaiso, and one in Coquimbo. Some months before I left Chile, Mr. Eaton arrived there, having been sent from London, by Mr. Irisarri, to promote education on the Lancasterian plan. The government intended to send Mr. Eaton to Conception, in (278) the south of Chile, to establish schools in that province, but, on representing to the director, that it would be better to concentrate our labours in the capital, and from thence to send qualified masters to the various provinces, it was acceded to that Mr. Eaton should remain in Santiago. Our labours were continued there together until I received an invitation from General San Martin to go to Peru. Upon considering fully the importance of this invitation, as affording an opportunity for extending the blessings of education, in that interesting country, I thought it advisable to accept of it, considering that Mr. Eaton would remain in Chile, and that thus what had been begun there, would be maintained, and that by degrees, through his labours, the system would be generally extended in that quarter. These expectations, however, were not realized, as Mr. Eaton, in a few months after I went to Peru, fell sick, and was obliged to return to England. In consequence of this misfortune, the cause in Chile began to decline, and I believe, at the present moment, the schools formerly established are in a very low state, if not given up altogether. It is much to be regretted, that things should remain in this state in Chile, and that the great work of education should be retarded there, whilst it is making progress in other quarters. During my stay in Peru, I had some notices of how things were going on, and where they might probably end, unless I should accede to their invitation to return there, or at all events send a well qualified master to sustain the system. I could not go myself to Chile, although I had a great desire to go, because my leaving Peru at that time, might have occasioned a retrogression similar to what had taken place in Chile. In consequence of this, I looked out for a well instructed master to go there. Before I succeeded in obtaining one, the Spanish army took possession of Lima, and General Rodil, who commanded the fortresses of Callao, refused to allow the master to go when I called on him to obtain a passport.
From the representatives of the Chilian government, now in London, I have learned that there is a great regret at the disappointment met with in regard to the schools; and that there exists a sincere desire to remedy the evil as much as possible, and without delay. I mention this to the Committee agreeable to your request that I should point out the best means for forwarding education in South America. I would suggest the propriety of seeking out a well qualified person to go to Chile, and if the one selected is well fitted for conducting education, I have no doubt of his obtaining a favourable reception, and of his being the means of greatly benefiting that country. For the encouragement of such a one, I would say, that Chile enjoys a delightful climate, and its inhabitants are, I think, more moral in general than in any other part of South America where I have been.
The persons you might correspond with in Chile upon this subject, are the present Director, General Freire, Don Rafael Echevarría, Don Henrique Camilo, and Don Manuel Salas. General Freire was Governor of Conception when I resided in Chile; but, on a visit he paid to Santiago when I was there, I had an interview with him, in which he manifested his satisfaction at the progress of our schools on your system, and his readiness to encourage the introduction of the same plan in the province of Conception, when we should be able to send a master there. I have, indeed, no doubt of his hearty co-operation with any measures which the Society may adopt on behalf of Chile. The other three persons mentioned will lend all their aid in this good work. Mr. Echevarría was First Secretary of State at the time I was there, and encouraged education on this system by sending his own son to our central school, and by a frequent attendance himself in the afternoons when his public business was over. Mr. Camillo was, and I believe is, contributing to the enlightening of his countrymen respecting education and other improvements by publishing a periodical work which had these things for its sole object. Don Manuel Salas is already known to you by my letters from Chile. He is a man up in years, and his only desire is to benefit his countrymen in every way he can, and he looks upon education as the most effectual means of doing permanent good.
I have only further to mention respecting Chile, that Mr. Egaña, the present envoy from that government now in London, will be ready to give the Committee any information or assistance in his power to the furtherance of this object.
My arrival in Peru, in the end of June 1822, and the favourable circumstances in the establishment of schools there, is detailed in my letters written about that period. Some time after these prosperous days, the war in that country greatly hindered the progress of education. We had often been scourged by this foe before, particularly in Buenos Aires, but the occurrences in Peru were to me, at least, new. Our former wars were among ourselves, and whatever party gained the ascendancy the schools went on unmolested, or nearly so; but in Lima we came in contact with the Spaniards, the well known encouragers of ignorance, at least so far as South America is concerned. Twice was Lima taken possession of by the Spanish armies during my residence there. On the first occasion I left the city along with some thousands, who fled at that unhappy time. The schools suffered an interruption of three months by the first visit of the Spanish troops. On the second occasion, to prevent a like interruption, I remained in the city, and the schools went on, though not so prosperously as we could have wished. The protection we enjoyed at this time was owing, I believe, in a good measure, to the general feeling in the place in favour of education. After remaining six months under the Spanish dominion, in that city, and finding it impossible to advance, I left that place on my way northward, and finally came to England. Of the result of this journey you are already acquainted, through the publications of the Bible Society.
The Central School established in the College of the Dominican Friars in Lima, contained, on the entrance of the Spanish army, 230 children, and was going on well; there was another school on the same plan which had 80 scholars in it. In both these schools printed sheets of extracts from the Scriptures were used for lessons, the same as in Buenos Aires and Chile. But in addition to this, in Lima the New Testament entire, printed by the British and Foreign Bible Society in London, was used as our principal school-book. In this precious volume the children in the higher classes read, and were questioned as to its contents. The same volume was carried home by the children, and read by them there, and portions of it also were committed to memory. These portions were recited in school, and premiums were awarded according to the accuracy of the recitation, and the clearness of the views which the children gave in their own language, of what they had recited. Besides the sheet lessons, the Scripture extracts were printed and used in the form of little books. Requests at times came from the parents to have a copy of these to read, which requests were complied with, and thus the word of God became more known, and I trust more revered and obeyed.
I am not sure whether I mentioned to yon or not, on former occasions, the name of an esteemed friend and an able coadjutor in the work of education. It would in me be a dereliction of duty to pass over in silence the name and the character of this individual. The gentleman I speak of is Don José Francisco Navarrete, a clergyman in Lima. After an acquaintance with him for about two years, and experiencing during the half of that time his able co-operation, I beg leave to recommend him to the attention of the Society, in reference to the furtherance of education in Peru. I have had three letters from him since my return to England, and am happy to find that he continues his exertions unabated in promoting the instruction of youth, and that the schools left under his charge are doing well. He informs me that a school has been established in Huánuco, and that it is conducted by a native of that place, who attended our school in Lima several months when I was there. Huánuco is a very happy station for a school. It is situated in an interesting country, and is the key to the large uncivilized population which inhabit the banks of the Huallaga, Ucayali, and Amazon. From Huánuco as a centre I am persuaded much may be done on behalf of these poor creatures, who, though living in one of the richest portions of the world, wander about almost naked, half fed, and in complete ignorance of the arts and comforts of life; and what is still more to be regretted, no cheering ray breaks in upon them of a world to come, and of the everlasting felicity to be enjoyed there through our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us hope, and let us pray for it, that education may soon begin among them, that the Holy Scriptures may be put into their hands, and that the Spirit of God may descend upon these poor Gentiles, as it did on us in former days, that their sins may be washed away, and that they may enjoy an inheritance among all them that are sanctified.
Another favourable circumstance has taken place since my leaving Peru, in regard to the quarter I am now speaking of. In Ocopa, not far distant from Huánuco there has existed for many years a College of Friars, most of whom were natives of Spain. This College has been made to change its object, and instead of being as formerly a nursery of Friars, it has become a seminary for the education of youth on the British System, and its ample funds are now applied to this object. This happy change has been effected entirely through General Bolivar. After mentioning this circumstance, as bearing on the character of Bolivar, it might be thought unnecessary to say more respecting him, as the instance now mentioned very plainly indicates his desire to benefit South America, not by his military exertions only, but also by the gentler, more effectual means of early instruction. I must however add two circumstances more, in proof of Bolivar's deep interest ami active exertions in the cause of education. Some months subsequent to the decree referred to for changing the object of the College of Ocopa, he issued a decree for establishing a Central School on the Lancasterian System, in the capital city of each province throughout Peru, and from which Central Schools, masters are to be sent into all the towns and hamlets of the respective provinces. This is a most effectual measure for speedily enlightening all the inhabitants of that country.
The other circumstance I have to mention in regard to Bolivar is a decree he issued about a year ago for sending two young men from every province in Peru to England, to receive here, at the expense of the Government, the best education that can be obtained. After finishing their studies in this country, these young men are to return to their native land, and to fill important stations in the great work of general illumination. I am sure the hearts of the Committee are by this time warmly attached to this useful individual, whom God Almighty has raised up to be so great a blessing to his country, in breaking their chains of oppression and of ignorance. Ten of the young men sent by Bolivar have arrived in this country, and are now pursuing their studies in the neighbourhood of London. One of these was a monitor in our central school in Lima. The rest of the young men are expected to arrive here soon. I am happy in being thus able to confirm, by unexceptionable instances, the opinion I formerly gave you of this great man, after enjoying the pleasure of an interview with him, and conversing upon these subjects.—To these things must be added the appropriation of 20,000 dollars for promoting schools in Caracas through Mr. Lancaster.
In the lustre of Bolivar, I had nearly forgotten something more I had to say of our friend Navarrete, a man who only needs the station of Bolivar to do all that he does. In one of the letters I lately received from him, he says, he has obtained from the Government the grant of part of a nunnery for establishing a girls' school. This nunnery is close beside the college where the boys' central school is. This school, about to be established, is to be the model and the central establishment for the education of the female sex, a branch of education very much wanted in that country. May God speed the labours of our dear friend in this matter, and may mothers, and daughters, and sisters, embalm his memory for ages to come!
I believe the Committee is now aware that I have given up any intention of returning to Peru, and that I have fixed on another spot of South America, where I intend to spend my remaining days. I would beg leave, therefore, to solicit the attention of the Committee to Peru, and would suggest the propriety of their sending out a fit person to that place, to be actively employed in the establishment of schools. I have no doubt of such an individual meeting with a favourable reception, and of his being immediately employed by the Government in this work.
Before leaving Peru, I wish to notice one of the articles of the constitution of that state, as it has an important bearing upon the cause of education. The article in question states, that the elective franchise is open to all, but with the express preliminary qualification, that the voter be able to read and to write. It is, however, added that in consequence of the ignorance in which the Spaniards have kept, the people in general, this prerequisite shall not be required until the year 1840. The measures which the Government is pursuing for promoting general education, bid fair, I think, to qualify all by the given time, in the manner referred to.
In regard to education in Colombia, I have hitherto said but little, and that little is contained in a letter to you from Quito, in November 1824. In that communication, I mentioned a plan for establishing a seminary for the education of the female sex in that city. The difficulties of converting a monastery into such a seminary are considerable, and although I am pretty confident of the ultimate success of that measure, I cannot speak definitely as to its progress. The last notice I had upon the subject, was in a letter from one of the members of Congress, in which he says, that the question was to be forthwith discussed in Congress. I hope no long time will elapse before we have the gratifying intelligence of the complete success of this measure, and, in expectation of this, I suggest the propriety of having a well qualified person ready to occupy this station, I am thus particular upon this point, as I conceive the carrying into effect the proposed plan, will have a most, beneficial tendency on the welfare of that large city (the largest in Colombia), and on that of the populous and interesting district in which it is situated.
In passing along from Quito to Bogota, I found three schools established on the British or Monitorial System; one was in Yahuará, and the other two were in Popayan; one of the latter was for boys, and the other for girls. The establishment of these schools, in the provincial parts of Colombia, is the result of a general plan of education upon this system in connection with a central school established some time ago in Bogota, the capital. On arriving at that city, I visited this model school, and hoped to meet there the director of the establishment, to converse with him in regard to the number and efficiency of the various provincial schools. I was however disappointed of seeing him, as he was then actually engaged on a tour through some of the provinces to promote the formation of new schools. I cannot, therefore, state how many schools were then in operation, but I have good reason to think the existing number is calculated to encourage the friends of education, and that it goes on increasing.
I received from Mr. Restrepo, the minister of the interior, a set of the lessons used in the schools. One regrets to find the Scriptures not there, nor any extracts from a volume so much calculated to benefit us, in youth and in age, in time and in eternity. With this important exception, the lessons are good, and every way superior to the trash formerly used in the schools of South America. One part of the lessons is worthy of notice. The constitution of the country is divided into portions and sections, and is read in the schools. By this means the children get acquainted in early life with the real nature and circumstances of their native land, and thus become better citizens, and more useful to each other. This plan is worthy of imitation in other quarters. It is to be hoped that ere long this judicious plan, which has been adopted for imbuing the early mind with a knowledge of the statutes of their country, will be adopted also with regard to the statutes of God unfolded in the Holy Scriptures,
The next part of what was formerly called Spanish America is Guatemala. This is properly neither in North nor South America, and it has, in consequence, been denominated Central America. Not having visited that quarter, all I have to say of it in regard to education is but little, and that is, of course, from the information of others. I understand several schools have been established in the capital and elsewhere, but none of these are on the monitorial plan. In conversing with Mr. Zebadúa the envoy of that government in London, and with Mr. Herrera, a gentleman from that country who feels a great interest in education, I have learned that they are very desirous of obtaining a person thoroughly versed in this system, in order to establish a central and other schools in that republic. I hope the Committee will have this quarter in view as well as the others recommended above, when properly qualified teachers can be obtained.
The only other part that remains to be noticed is Mexico; and for information respecting the state and prospects of education there, I beg leave to refer you to the interesting communication of our excellent friend, Don Vicente de Rocafuerte, Chargé d'Affaires from that government.[3] In reviewing the state and progress of education in South America, there is undoubtedly much that is calculated to gratify and to cheer the hearts of those who delight in the progress of knowledge, and in the welfare of man. Besides the pleasure that arises from seeing what has actually been done in the few years in which these new states have enjoyed the boon of liberty,—there is yet more to cheer us in contemplating the general feeling which pervades the country upon the important subject of education. During my seven years' residence in that country, I have had intercourses with all classes of society there, and, through repeated conversations and otherwise, have come, I think, to understand what are the actual feelings and desires of the people upon this point. I have no hesitation in saying, that the public voice is decidedly in favour of UNIVERSAL EDUCATION. I never heard, even once, what is still to be heard elsewhere, "that the poor should not be taught." The very opposite feeling most undoubtedly exists and prevails among the clergy and the laity, the governors and the governed. On a survey, therefore, of the whole scene, and in looking into futurity, the brightest views may, I think, be entertained as to the progress and best interests of man in that large and interesting continent; and, from this view of things, I am sure none will derive more real gratification than the Committee of the British and Foreign School Society.
Gentlemen,
I have the honour to be,
With great respect,
Your most obedient servant,
James Thomson.
Report of Mr. Rocafuerte, Chargé d'Affaires in England from the Government of Mexico, delivered in a Speech at the Twenty-first Annual Meeting of the British and Foreign School Society, May 15th, 1826.
The independence of South America is the consequence of that growing spirit of modern civilization which, having crossed the Atlantic Ocean on the wings of trade, has penetrated into those remote countries, and liberated them from the Spanish yoke. What more gratifying picture can there be for a true and liberal Christian, than that which the new world now presents, overturning a bad system, and establishing a good one, without being attended with scenes of violence and cruelties. It may truly be said that the characteristic feature of the Mexican revolution is that spirit of moderation and generosity which the maxims of the Gospel recommend, and which are the best means for establishing true liberty. Our revolution, in its object, its means, and end, is very different from that of France: among us, it is not an overthrow of all principles; it is a natural tendency to create a new order; it is a general combination to promote the happiness of a vast continent; it is a necessary transition from darkness to light, from superstition to Christian morality.
From the ruins of Greece and Italy, sprung some rays of light, which, illuminating the darkness of the middle age, prepared the epoch of the discovery of the printing-press, the mariner's compass, and the new world. From that time, the constant progress of the arts and sciences has converted knowledge into power, and nations have been more or less opulent and happy in the ratio of their scientific attainments, of their industry, and above all, of their moral and religious principles, which form the solid basis of true freedom. To these effects of liberty, England owes her greatness, her happiness, and that very first rank which she holds in the catalogue of civilized nations. Spain, that beautiful country, worthy of a better fate, has been ruined by her ignorance and monkish superstition; she has only one advantage over the Turkish nation, and that is, that she lives under the glorious standard of the cross; and this standard, I hope, will soon lead the valiant and heroic Greeks to victory, and thus enable them at length to spread Christianity over the land of their tyrants.
Those lessons shall not be lost in South America. We are convinced that the foundation of our future and permanent prosperity rests on the moral improvements of the lower classes of society. It is not enough for a man to know how to read and write, and gain a livelihood; he must have religious habits, must know exactly his duties towards God and towards society; and no institution is so well calculated for obtaining those great objects as the British and Foreign School Society. What an admirable undertaking it is, to bestow the blessing of scriptural knowledge on all mankind, to unite all the nations of the globe, by the brotherly ties of science and religion. Ye noble promoters of this institution! be assured you have many warm friends in South America. The general desire with us of all true and enlightened patriots, is for education; the general cry all over our continent is, give us education. This is the reason that the Lancasterian System has been immediately adopted in almost every part of South America.
Mr. Lancaster is now living at Caracas, and promoting public instruction there.
In Mexico, the first Lancasterian School was opened on the 22d of August, 1822; and by one of those singular occurrences in revolutions, the halls of the Inquisition, so inimical to this Institution, were converted into a public school, into a nursery of free men, into a true temple of reason. Three hundred children are taught to read in this school according to this new system of education, a system which will lead to the moral perfection of the world, as the mariner's compass led to the geographical perfection of the globe. This first school was called Escuela del Sol.
Some time afterwards the Government granted to the Lancasterian Association of Mexico the large and beautiful convent of Bethlehem, and a second school was formed there. This establishment is divided into three departments, and directed by two professors well acquainted with the system; one of them is a Frenchman, who went purposely for that object from Paris to Mexico.
The first department is calculated for six hundred and sixty children; they learn to read, write, and cypher; they are also instructed in the political and religious catechism, orthography, arithmetic, and Spanish grammar. The parents of the scholars who can pay, give a dollar a month, which is about two pounds ten shillings a year; the children of the poor pay nothing.
The second department will contain four hundred scholars, who pay two dollars per month, or nearly five pounds a year. It is a model or central school for forming teachers and good professors; and these are afterwards to be sent into the different provinces, in order to fulfil the desire of our Government, which is, to place in every village throughout Mexico a Lancasterian school, a printing-press, and a chapel.
The third department will contain three hundred scholars; and these pay three dollars a month, or seven pounds a year. The object intended in this department is, to teach Latin, French, geography, and drawing, on the principles of the Lancasterian system. This trial has been made, but I am not sure whether it has answered or not.
In 1823, there were introduced into the Lancasterian school in Mexico, the lessons used in your school in London, taken from the Bible, without note or comment. Some old priests opposed the introduction of these, stating that it was prohibited to read extracts from the Bible without notes. The Secretary of the Lancasterian Association, Mr. Gandéra, a very enlightened clergyman, and distinguished for his virtue and zeal in the cause of religion, supported the opposite opinion, and succeeded in establishing in the school the use of these extracts. The consequence is, that our children are acquiring a taste for the perusal of the Scriptures, and they are hence learning to be virtuous, charitable, tolerant, and free. This moral education will promote the cause of religious toleration, and will effect that regeneration which our new political system requires. We cannot remain as we are; we must go forward; and, as said in Parliament by Mr. Canning, (whose name is dear to all our hearts in South America,) "we must go forward, and keep pace with the growing spirit of the. times, and the great change that has been wrought in the opinions of the world." This great change in the general opinion is, that nations can only be happy under "the banners of liberal sentiments and true morality; that, in short, the combination of political and religious freedom is as necessary for the moral happiness of mankind, as that combination of the two gases, forming the atmospheric air which we breathe, is to our physical existence. This vast plan of human improvement is the great object of your noble Institution, an Institution which truly deserves the gratitude of the world, and the most cordial support of all who are influenced by the love of their country, and the principles of Christianity.
[1] James Thomson. Letters on the Moral and Religious State of South America. London: James Nisbet, 1827, pp.266-296; Twenty-first Report of the British and Foreign School Society (1826), pp.112-125; in Spanish: “Informe XXI de la Sociedad de escuelas británicas y extranjeras a la junta general celebrada en Londres el 15 de Mayo de 1826”. El Repertorio Americano, (1827) Tomo II: 58-80.
[2] At page 32, it is stated that religious liberty was publicly acknowledged in Peru, under San Martin. This acknowledgement, in Peru, of this sound principle of policy and of justice, certainly preceded the one here referred to in San Juan. But the circumstances were different. In Peru it was the single act of General San Martin, as Protector, or Dictator of Peru, and the people of the country had no share in it, whereas in San Juan, the declaration of Religious Liberty was a legislative act.
[3] This communication, bearing upon the subject of education in Spanish America, will be added at the close of this letter. When this communication is considered as the production of a native of that country, a gentleman intimately acquainted with its concerns, and actually holding a high official situation under the Government of the most populous of these new states, it may tend to confirm the favourable accounts from that quarter of the world contained in the preceding letters. The enlightened and liberal mind of Mr. Rocafuerte, and his truly zealous endeavours to raise his country high in political wisdom, in literature, in morality, and in pure religion, are truly praiseworthy.
Rev A Brandram
Greenwich 3rd July 1826
Dear Sir,
Agreeably to your request I marked out what appears to me the most suitable route for Mr. Matthews it to take in pursuing the objects of the British and Foreign Bible Society throughout South America and Mexico.
-------------------------------------------------
It appears I think every way best that Mr. Matthews should go first to Buenos Aires, where he can have an opportunity of consulting with Mr. Armstrong respecting the circulation of the Scriptures in that city and neighbourhood. At Buenos Aires he should supply himself with a considerable number of copies of the Scriptures for distribution on his way across the country to Chile. In this journey across the country should visit the towns of Santa Fe, Córdoba, San Juan, and Mendoza, stopping a few days in each place, and making the sale of the Scriptures as publicly known as possible. I would recommend the printing of an advertisement for the purpose similar to the one I used from Guayaquil to Bogota, and which produced such favourable results. This advertisement might be printed here, having blanks in it for inserting the places and times of sale in the different towns that may be visited. After leaving Mendoza Mr. Matthews will cross the Andes to Santiago the capital of Chile, stopping a few days in the town of Aconcagua, to drop a few seeds there as he passes. Perhaps also it might be proper to leave some copies there for the supply of those travelers who pass this way in crossing the mountains.
A public sale for a week or two should be held in Santiago, during which time it is likely many copies may be sold to the inhabitants of that city, and to various individuals from the interior parts of the country, who would resell them on their return to their respective provinces. The next place to be visited is of is Valparaiso, and there also a public sale for some days should take place. The port of Valparaiso is a very important station as a depot for Bibles and Testaments, from which all parts on the Pacific could be supplied with convenience. Arrangements should in consequence been made there for such a depot. The store of some English merchant friendly to the object would be the best place for it.
From Valparaiso Mr. Matthews should go to Arequipa touching at as many of the little ports between as the vessel in which he sails will permit. Two or three weeks perhaps will not be too much to pass in Arequipa. From that city who should go to Potosí, Chuquisaca, and La Paz, and from thence onward to Cuzco, the ancient capital of the Incas of Peru. In the four places just mentioned it may be it expected that much may be done to put into circulation a considerable number of copies of the Scriptures. The time to be spent in these places will be regulated by the circumstances which may occur when on the spot. It is in these quarters that the Quichua and Aimará languages are spoken, and every means should be taken in traveling there to ascertain the correctness of the versions of the Scriptures which have been made into these languages. Mr. Matthews should of course be furnished with these versions. Two or three weeks should be spent in Cuzco, and after that Mr. Matthews should direct his course to Lima passing through Huamanga and Huancavelica, where also the Peruvian language is spoken. A month will not be too much to spend in Lima, as it is a large place, and an important station for the general depot for the towns on the coast, and in the interior. From Lima he should go to Truxillo, touching at as many of the intermediate towns on the coast, as he can. He should next go to Caxamarca and Lambayeque, and from the latter place he might sail to Guayaquil.
Guayaquil is one of the most important stations on the western coast of South America, and much might be done there for the Bible cause by means of a well arranged depot. From this depot supplies might be sent to Cuenca, Loxa, Riobamba, Quito, Pasto, and Popayan, including many populous towns adjacent. From Guayaquil also supplies might be sent to Chocó, Panama, Realexo, Sonsonate, Acapulco, and San Blas, and to all the lesser ports along the whole of that coast.
After making arrangements in Guayaquil for the proper supplies to be sent to the places above mentioned, Mr. Matthews should proceed through Riobamba, Quito, Pasto, and Popayan, to Bogota. Three or four weeks might be profitably spent in the latter place, being the capital of Colombia, after which he might sail down the River Magdalena to Carthagena, where a fortnight or so might well be employed in the public sale of the Scriptures.
The next quarter that should be visited is Guatemala. A vessel may be found at Carthagena for the mouth of the river Sun Juan and conveyance might be got up the River into the great lake of Nicaragua. The town of Leon, not far from the lake should be visited, and arrangements made there for regular supplies in future, as it is not likely from its interior situation, to be soon visited again. The city of Guatemala, the capital of the country of the same name, and now called Central America, comes next in order in journey onwards. From Guatemala Mr. Matthews should bend his course to Oaxaca, which is a very populous quarter, and from that to La Puebla de los Angeles, and thence to the city of Mexico.
Some three or four months might be spent in that capital, and in visiting the several large and populous cities of that republic. In passing through Guatemala and Mexico, Mr. Matthews should have particular instructions to inquire about the native languages of these parts, and to use all his endeavours to procure a translation of the whole New Testament into those extensively spoken, and one of the Gospels perhaps into the rest. Leaving the city of Mexico Mr. Matthews will go to Veracruz, where he should make arrangements for the safe reception of the cases of Bibles and Testaments to be sent to Mexico, and for their being expeditiously forwarded to that city. The last place to be visited is the Havana, and from thence Mr. Matthews will sail for England.
Hoping the above sketch will be serviceable to you in drawing up your instructions for Mr. Matthews.
I remain,
Dear Sir,
Sincerely Yours,
James Thomson.
Rev A Brandram
Greenwich 4 August 1826
My Dear Sir,
At the time I declined the kind offer of your Committee to become your agent in South America, I had in view an object which from what has occurred since I find cannot be immediately carried into effect. I think therefore that I could spend a year and a half in your service in traveling to Guatemala and Mexico. I have traced Mr. Matthews' route through these places, but should I go direct to them it will be the means of circulating the sacred volume there two years sooner than it would be in the course of Mr. Matthews' visit. At the end of two years Mr. Matthews might go over the same ground with perhaps a double advantage. Besides, the early procuring of translations of the Scriptures into the native languages of those parts makes an anticipated visit to them desirable.
I wish to combine with Biblical operations some endeavours to promote education in the establishment of schools, but in the intervals of time I should be so engaged I would not be chargeable to the Society. By thus combining the two objects, the work of the Society will be carried forward more effectually and at less expense than it would otherwise be. I need not say how congenial in every way these two objects are.
I beg you will have the kindness to lay the contents of this letter before the Committee on Monday next, and an early communication from you as to the reception this proposition meets with in the Committee will be a particular favour.
I remain,
My Dear Sir,
Very Sincerely Yours,
James Thomson.
P.S. Should you think my attendance necessary on Monday to answer any questions, please let me know.
Mr Tarn
London 8th January 1827
Dear Sir
Mr. Pazos has finished the copy of the Gospel of St. Luke, and begs you to send the Acts of the Apostles to be copied. Please send it to him tomorrow morning as early as you can. The original & copy of St. Luke are now in my possession.
I remain,
Dear Sir
Truly Yours
J. Thomson.
James Miller Esq.
BFSS
45 Museum Street
Bloomsbury
Northampton Square[1]
10th January 1827
My Dear Sir
I beg leave to introduce to you Mr. Garcia, a native of Spain, and who wishes to be allowed to attend the Borough Road School. Mr. G. is a Christian man and is very desirous of being usefully employed in South America, and I hope one day to see him so employed. In the mean time and till I have an opportunity of conversing with you, please give him a note to Mr. Pickton that he may attend the school at his leisure hours.
I am
My Dear Sir
Truly Yours
J. Thomson.
[1] Letter in BFSS Archives, Brunel University, London.
To the Committee of the B. & F. Bible Society
London 15th January 1827
Gentlemen
In order to forward the Bible cause in South America I beg leave to make the three following requests.
1st. - That 500 of Bagster's Latin Bible, and 500 of his Latin and Spanish, be granted for Mexico. I would suggest that in the purchase the number be at least doubled, to reduce the price and to supply other parts of South America.
2nd. - That there be presented by the Society, elegantly bound a Bible in Latin and Spanish interleaved to Colonel Araujo, Guaranda; the Prior of the Convent of St. Dominic, Tacunga; and to the Marques of San Jose, Quito; and to Mr. Gual, Bogota.
3rd. - That a copy of the Bible in Hebrew, Spanish, French, and Italian, also the New Testament in Ancient and Modern Greek, be presented to Dr. Araujo of Ambato, who is addicted to Biblical Literature, and who requested me to procure him some of these versions. There is a great probability that this gentleman will materially forward the Bible cause in that country.
I remain,
Gentln.
Your Most Obdt. Servt.
James Thomson.
P.S. I beg also to renew a former request, that an edition of the Spanish Bible, similar to the English Pearl edition, be printed as soon as convenient.
James Thomson.
James Miller Esq.
BFSS
45 Museum Street
Bloomsbury
Northampton Square[1]
10th January 1827
My Dear Sir
I beg leave to introduce to you Mr. Garcia, a native of Spain, and who wishes to be allowed to attend the Borough Road School. Mr. G. is a Christian man and is very desirous of being usefully employed in South America, and I hope one day to see him so employed. In the mean time and till I have an opportunity of conversing with you, please give him a note to Mr. Pickton that he may attend the school at his leisure hours.
I am
My Dear Sir
Truly Yours
J. Thomson.
[1] Letter in BFSS Archives, Brunel University, London.
Rev. A. Brandram
London, 30th January 1827
My Dear Sir,
In reply to your note (too long unanswered) in regard to my movements in Mexico, I observe: That, as it appears to me the best plan is, that I should reside for about three months in the City of Mexico to promote the circulation of the Scriptures there, and to make arrangements for carrying forward the Bible Cause throughout that country. After this residence, I would propose to visit all the populous parts of the Republic of Mexico. The places containing the greatest population I should like to visit first, for obvious reasons. Having visited the different large cities lying at no great distance from the City of Mexico, and on all sides of it, I should like to make a general tour over all that country. In the event of this, it is probable I would go to northwards first, and extend my journey as far as Santa Fe, which lies in latitude 36° N. and longitude 105 W. After returning from Santa Fe to Mexico I would go to the East, extending my journey not only to the limits of the Republic of Mexico, but also into that of Guatemala. In the city of Guatemala I should probably reside for two or three months, as it is the capital of the republic of the same name. After this residence, I should like to visit the populous parts of Guatemala lying to the east of the capital, going as far as the city of Cartago in the province of Costa Rica.
These are the ideas now in my mind regarding my movements in that quarter of the world, and they have thus been arranged in my mind for some time. To determine however to pursue these plans undeviatingly before reaching that country would be unwise, as various things may come to one's knowledge on the spot which might make another plan of operations necessary. Circumstances must direct if wisdom is our plan.
Two objects I would endeavour to keep in view in these journeyings. The first is the circulation of the Scriptures in the Spanish language as extensively as possible, & the second is the procuring translations of the Scriptures with the native languages spoken throughout the country. It is not supposed that these two objects can interfere with each other, but should there be an occasional contact the second will give place to the first.
The above hints may be turned in your mind in your arrangements.
Believe me,
My Dear Sir
Very Truly Yours,
James Thomson.
James Miller Esq.
45 Museum Street
Bloomsbury
Northampton Square[1]
7th February 1827
My Dear Sir,
I have the pleasure of introducing to you Mr. John Wright. This gentleman I mentioned at last committee meeting as a very fit person to go to Chile. Mr. Wright will explain his objects to you and his wishes, and I am sure he will leave you more than satisfied of the correctness of all I have said of him.
I am
My Dear Sir
Truly yours,
J. Thomson.
[1] Letter in BFSS Archives, Brunel University, London.
Mr Joseph Tarn
London 20th February 1827
My Dear Sir
I beg of you as a particular favour to remit on my account the sum of Fifteen Pounds sterling to Archd. Smith Esq. 27 Dundas Street Edinburgh on the 1st day of April, of July, and October ensuing to be by him remitted to my sister Mrs. McMinn. These sums you will please put to the account of my salary. I wish this remittance to be continued quarterly until you receive further notice.
I remain,
My Dear Sir
Truly Yours
James Thomson.
Rev. A. Brandram
Falmouth 24th February 1827
My Dear Mr. Brandram
On the evening of the 22nd Mrs Thomson & myself arrived here in health & comfort. The signal gun is fired, and in about an hour hence (at noon), we set sail, the wind fair, the weather delightful, and the Lord smiling on us in body & mind. We go rejoicing in the blessed work to which we are called. I have only time to say that we count on the prayers of our dear friends in Earl Street.
I remain,
My Dear Sir
Most Truly Yours
James Thomson.
Mr Tarn's letter to Mr. Fox is just arrived.
Rev A Brandram
10 Earl Street
Blackfriars
London
Kingston, Jamaica 18th April 1827
My dear Sir,
I have the pleasure of informing you of my safe arrival in this island. We cast anchor yesterday in Port Royal Harbour after a voyage from a Falmouth of 52 days. In my note to you on the eve of the sailing I stated to you how favourable for us the wind and the weather were. On the day after our sailing the wind turned against us and continued so for three weeks, at the end of which time we found ourselves no further advanced than the Bay of Biscay. On the 22nd day of our voyage the wind became favourable and remained generally so for that week, and thus brought us into the Trades which wafted us on our way very pleasantly until our arrival in this place. I need not trouble you with many words as to how I fared during the voyage. You know I am a bad sailor, and that length of time makes no improvement on me as to the state of my health at sea. The first half of the voyage I passed my days and my nights in bed, laid up through sea sickness. During the other half of the voyage I enjoyed pretty good health and passed my days comfortable on deck.
I came up from Port Royal to Kingston yesterday to make inquiry as to the Bible cause here, and to salute a few Christian friends whom my last visit to this island two years ago[1] made my acquaintance with. I have great pleasure in saying to you that the Redeemer's cause here does not stand still, but goes forward. The little leaven which has been cast into the mass is working its way as it did in the woman's mass and is gradually leavening all around. Before the whole however is leavened, years must pass I am afraid or more leaven must be added. Some of the leaven you have got and you should send some to this place as soon as you can. I mean to say send here without delay 400 English New Testaments.
Many slaves and free people of colour are hungry and thirsty for them. Let 300 of these be the common school edition, and let the other 100 be assorted so as to contain specimens of all your editions. There is still a supply of Bibles on hand, there being more difficulty in disposing of the Bibles from the price being greater. Please send these New Testaments to the Rev. William Knibb, Kingston apprising him by Packet of the vessel they are sent by, for otherwise they may be weeks or months without their arrival being known
I have received from Mr. Knibb 48 dollars on account of sales, and which you will please charge to me. Mr. Tinson has received Mr. Jackson's letter of December last, and will write you in a month. Much good has been effected of late by the Bibles and Testaments you formerly sent here.
The two letters enclosed please forward by post, paying the Liverpool one and sending another to the person for whom it is for, £2:12:0 which place to my account.
We sail tomorrow at daylight for Veracruz and expect to be 10 days or a fortnight in getting there. I shall seize the earliest opportunity of writing you from that quarter, and in the meantime trusting in our Lord Jesus Christ, and counting on your prayers, I remain Most Truly Yours,
James Thomson.
[1] Note (BM) -- i.e. on his return visit to England from Colombia in 1825.
Rev. A. Brandram No.3
Vera Cruz, 2nd May 1827.
My Dear Sir,
I am now called to the pleasing duty of informing you that our Heavenly Father has once more conducted me safely over the great ocean, and has set me down again on the shores of America. On the 29th ultimo we cast anchor in this port. Our voyage from England to this place has been in all nine weeks and one day, and though longer than usual and far from pleasant during the first three weeks, yet to complain would be a manifest stepping aside from Christian duty. On the contrary I have great cause to be thankful for the many mercies enjoyed on so long a voyage. Of my progress to Jamaica you are already acquainted by my letter to you from Kingston of the 18th ultimo. On the 19th we sailed from Port Royal, and had a pleasing passage to this port. From the well-known character of this city as a most unhealthy spot, you will not expect that I should stay longer in it than what is absolutely necessary. Everybody who touches here dispatches business quickly, and leaves the place as soon as possible. I act upon this plan also, but must not leave my post through fear if a little longer stay would be likely to forward our Sacred Cause.
I thought it right to stay here till today expecting the return of Mr. Rocafuerte from Mexico on his way to England. This gentleman is fully acquainted with the objects I have in view in this country from the many conversations we had regarding them when in London. He warmly enters into such matters and is truly desirous of forwarding them. Today he arrived here as expected and I have had a great deal of conversation with him regarding my intended plan of operations. To be acquainted with the leading people in Mexico will be of great consequence to me whilst residing there, and that acquaintance will be yet more useful to me when I travel into the interior parts of the country with letters from them of introduction to their friends in the provincial towns. Mr. Rocafuerte has furnished me with an ample supply of introductory notes to persons in the Government and to others who have influence in society in the Mexican capital. He has also furnished me with much information in a private way in regard to public feeling and the character of individuals in this quarter. These notices will I trust prove very serviceable to me in the prosecution of my objects.
The command we have received from our Lord and Master is, to be wise as serpents and to be harmless as doves. To enable us to do so, we must acquire all the information we can as to the best means of forwarding the work we are called to, and when we receive such information we are to use it to the best advantage. I trust I do in some measure acknowledge the Lord in all my ways, and I believe he will fulfill his promise in directing my steps. The benefits I have derived from Mr. Rocafuerte's counsel and assistance I look upon as the answer of God to our prayers, and I know you will join with me in thanksgiving to our Father and our Guide for thus vouchsafing to hear us and direct us. Let us join also in continued supplications for that unceasing direction and support we still stand in need of. The Lord is the hearer of prayer; let us not doubt it.
I leave Veracruz tomorrow for Mexico and am told that our journey will require twelve days.
Today is the first Wednesday of May, and the anniversary of the B & F Bible Society. You may be sure I do not forget this coincidence, far as I am removed from you. I was present with you today in spirit, and almost heard your report read and the speeches delivered on the occasion, and was sure I saw the elated countenance of every individual in the assembly. I could hear but few compliments to men in such a heavenly reunion, but I heard aloud and on every side, "Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, O Lord, but unto thy name be all the praise and glory."
My dear Friend, and all my dear Friends and companions in the Bible cause, I beg you to aid me with your prayers, that I may be faithful and successful in the work to which I am called. Through your prayers already offered up for me I have been conducted safely over the ocean, and through the same I enjoy in this pestilential city, a flow of health and many blessings. These things encourage me to go forward. I trust the same hand will lead me which has led me hitherto, and that in every place in passing along we shall be enabled to raise and Ebenezer stone, and to sacrifice upon it, not to ourselves but to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom in all things the glory, both now and for ever: Amen.
I am, My Dear Sir, Most Truly Yours,
James Thomson.
