Historically interesting letter from George Hills (1816-1895), the first Anglican bishop of British Columbia (in 1860-1892). The letter contains an extensive quote from the letter by Rev. James Reynard, who built the famous St. Saviour church in Barkerville. Written in the midst of the construction, the letter describes the process: "I have just had an interesting letter from Cariboo in which Mr. Reynard details his recent trials, his difficulty in getting his church built which some have opposed - he had however been at last rewarded by being able to make a start. He says "as a result of all these efforts we do start tomorrow. I am paying two clever builders ten dollars (2 £) a day each to superintend, make foundations & doors, windows, and on Tuesday next I call "a Bee". The freshet has put many men out of work & I have had many offers of free labour. I am under obligation to pay 500 dollars (100 £) as soon as possible for the lumber & the baland 1545 dollars (310 £) by installments. All the church proceeds will be devoted to reduce this and therefore I shall still be almost beggared for another year. I hope soon to send you a sketch of the Church among the Golden Hills." This letter is dated Oct. 10..." Hill also expresses his gratitude "for the kind mention of the Columbia Mission in your interesting work & for the response which you name. It will do if you send the amount you have received to us at the end of the year."
Letter is addressed 70 Upper Berkeley St., London, 23 November 1869.
