y, in
which they have been so long concealed, noting the claim that this was
the first time since Apostolic days, that a Congregation had formed
itself into such a "Society",--a "Gemeinschaft".

"In our gathering we read Acts 2, and spoke of the 'Gemeinschaft',
for we are planning to work, to sow and reap, and to suffer with one
another. This will be very useful, for many a man who has not understood
or exerted himself, will by this means see himself and be led to
improve. Others also will see from it that we love each other, and will
glorify the Father in Heaven. There has been no "society" like that at
Jerusalem, but at this present time it becomes necessary, for material
reasons. Were we only individuals all would fear to give one of us
credit, for they would think, 'he might die', but nothing will be denied
the 'Society', for each stands for the other. Each member must work
diligently, since he does not labor for himself alone but for his
brethren, and this will prevent much laziness. No one must rely on the
fact that he understands a handicraft, and so on, for there is a curse
on him who relies on human skill and forgets the Divine power. No one
will be pressed to give to the 'Society' any property which has hitherto
belonged to him.--Each person present was asked if he had any remarks
to make, but there were no objections raised. Moreover the brethren were
told that if one should fall so low that he not only withdrew himself
from the brethren, but was guilty of gross sin, he would be forced
to work for another master until he had earned enough to pay his
transportation here and back again, for we would not willingly permit
such a man to remain in the land as an offence to the Indians."

It is interesting to observe that care for the poor Indians is the
argument given for the course to be pursued in dealing with a recreant
member! They had come to preach the Gospel to the Indians, and did not
propose that evil should be learned through fault of theirs.

At his earnest request, John Regnier was now admitted t