Tainan
Council Minutes,January 16, 1878.
Revs. Campbell, Barclay, and Smith. 1.
A draft copy of
the statement relative to Dr. Dickson’s resignation was read and
entered on our
minutes； copies being sent to Dr. Dickson and Mr. H.M. Matheson；
it reads as follows：-
On te occasion
of the departure of Dr. Dickson from Formosa, where for the last
seven years he has been labouring as Medical Missionary, his
colleagues in Taiwanfu desire to express their sense of the loss
which, personally and as a Mission, they thereby sustain. They
remember with gratitude to God his constant labours.as Medical
Missionary both in the Hospital at Taiwanfu and throughout the
country at the various stations, as well as his general interest
in all matters that concerned the welfare of the Church and
people. More particularly, they rejoice that there was given him
such an amount of discrimination and knowledge of the native
character as enabled him materially to assist in detecting and
arresting what would otherwise have proved sympathy for the
difficulties of the people, or in appreciation of the better
qualities which they displayed. They feel also their
indebtedness to him as their medical attendant； not only for the
professional skill always placed willingly at their service, but
also for the kindness and friendly sympathy shown to them in
their illness. It was with sincere regret that they heard from
Dr. Dickson of his intention on his return home to serve his
connection with the Mission. They have no desire to discuss the
motives that may have led to this, but they rejoice to know
that, at least in his relations with his colleagues, there has
never been anything of such a nature as to prompt the step.
Without seeking to forecast the future, they desire to say that
they would offer him a sincere and hearty welcome back should he
ever see his way to resume his post as Medical Missionary in
Formosa. In any case, wherever his lot in life may be cast, they
will follow him with their best wishes and with the earnest
prayer that God in His mercy may give to him and his an abundant
blessing.
