Nevada County picayune., 1888-03-21
of your State.

character of our people:
 Bishop G.:-I have had occasion more than once to remark upon the sturdy type of your citizenship. The agricultural classes are composed al most entirely of the frugal farmers of the older States. who have come into this younger section to locate advantageously their large families. And they are from all parts of our great country. As yet there may be some lack of homooeneity in local communities. but this will pass away in very few years. l have been pleased to note that persons from the different Northern States ident fy themselves readily with our peo- pie and become important factors in the localities where they reside There is no prejudice against the section from which one comes. l have observed a marked thrift among the people. and this without selfish ness, that mars true hospitality. The public spirit of the State is contagi- ous. Every citizen has visions of largeness. He talks hopefully of the future and cheerfully of the present, There is. l dare say, unusual con tentment among the masses. united with a spirit of vigorous enterprise. The growth of some towns and cit ies has excited rather abnormally the disposition to speculate. But l must say. you have an excellent people with whom to build great empire.
 Reporter Have you had occasion to examine into our educational ad- vantages;
 Bishop C G:-Yes. You have a good system of public schools, which only needs enlargement l notice a libe ral expenditure of money in locali- ties on school buildings which is to be commended. There may be some lack in providing for the higher edu- cation. but the University at Fay etteville is prospering and the sever al Christian denominations are es tablishing collegiate institutions The Methodist Episcopal Church, South. has number of District High Schools. College located at Atus. and is now projecting large Female College. which will probably be located at Searcv. which is near the geographical center of the State and noted as a health resort. Reporter:-Of course you are in- formed as to the status and growth of the churches in the State.
 Bishop G. Yes, especially as to work and progress of my own church. All the Christian denominations are represented. but. believe. the Meth odist Episcopal Church, south. stands first in numerical strength. wealth. and of necessity, social in- fiuence. We have seventy thousand communicant members. and three strong. growing annual conferences. l know of no more inviting field for evangelical enterprise and true Chris tan work than the State of Arkan- sas. The last was year of great prosperity in our church.
 Reporter How are you impress ed as to the future of the State: Bishop G. On that subject l could grow eXtrayagant. This is certainly State of immense posSi- blitics. You have scarcely begun to develop it's vast resources. If immigration plans will only look to the bringing of q certain class of pOpulaton-those that readily as simuate-you have future of inf- mite expansion. might enlarge up on these matters. but this l hope will suffice as to my impressions of Ar kansas.
 Reporter How long will you he in the Strte!
 Bishop G. Fl shall return to Mis- sissippi in about ten days. and l may say my visit thus far has been most enjoyable and profitable.
 Reporter Thank you, Bishop: our people were rejoiced to know you coming, and will he delighted to extend you a most cor dial welcome, whenever you may be able to come again. Arkansas Meth odist.