By Rev. MALCOLM GILLIES.
I HAVE to report that by an arrangement between Rev. William Grant, who was then Interim-Moderator of Wick congregation and the Fishing Stations Committee, Mr. Donald Matheson, missionary, supplied Wick in July and August last year. Mr. Matheson kept Gaelic as well as English services on Sabbaths and week days, and he had large gatherings, especially during the first part of the season. As the fishing was a failure, many of the girls returned home sooner than was expected. Mr. Matheson’s services were highly appreciated both by the fisher folk and the Wick Congregation. The Committee will endeavour to send supply to Wick this coming season, should the prospects of the fishing industry improve.
As to Yarmouth, owing to the uncertainty of our people being sent there, the Committee, after making every possible enquiry, decided not to send a deputy. It turned out that some few did go, but not in such numbers or for such a length of time as to prove the Committee’s decision a mistake. Our people who
follow this calling have suffered much disappointment and hardship in late years owing to unsuccessful seasons. We trust that (D.V.) this year’s fishing will be more prosperous, and that the Committee will be able to give our people the public means of grace at the stations where they follow their calling.