BIBLE HOUSE, CONSTANTINOPLE

[s. 102] : One of the perplexing problems connected with mi ion enterprise is that of providing a place for the Mi ions have transaction of its secular affairs. many of the qualities of a great busine . There is first the financial responsibilities for the different departments involving the expenditure of you sands of dollars annually. There is, too, a great amount of publication involving a stock of printed sheets, bound volumes, electrotype plates, etc. The treasurer must have a safe deposit for his money. The Bible society or Mi ion Publication Department needs storage room for its books, the more nearly fire proof the better. This problem early became a most serious one in Constantinople. That city was the center of four mi ions of the American Board, and of the agencies of the American, and the British and Foreign Bible Societies, and many other mi ions looked to it for the transaction of important busine . At first a room was hired by each agency in one of the numerous khans; but this was soon too small. Then a whole building was rented for all together in the busine section of the city, but that was insufficient. The existence of the Bible House in New York suggested a similar building in Constantinople; but when applied to, the American Bible Society did not feel justified in doing more than permit its agent, the Rev. Isaac G. Bli , D.D. to raise the money for a Bible House. This he did is 1866 and secured a number of prominent New York busine men There were to act as trustees of the property. the usual delays attending such an enterprise, but in 1872 the building was complete and ready for occupancy. It is excellently adapted to its purpose, providing for the different mi ionary organizations, office room, safe vaults, storare room for publications, editorial rooms for publication v/ork, as well as for Bible revision committees. All these are supplied at a merely nominal rent. Other rooms are occupied by printing and binding establishments, and on the street are stores, the income from which has been Bible Distribution Dibie Translation 85 applied to completing the property and to furnishing a Sunday service for the transient crowd always to be found in such a great city. Viewed simply as a busine investment for the care of the secular part of mi ionary enterprise, the Bible House has been well worth all that it cost; but it has had another and even greater value, as a proof of the practical character of Protestant mi ions. It is known all through the city and indeed throughout the Empire as the “American Khan,” and as the center of those influences which have done more than all else to arouse ambition for a better life. Enemies have recognized its influence and shaken their fists at it in impotent rage, and many a poor despised Christian has rejoiced in its simple beauty and strength as the token of the power that is yet to redeem If ever there were sermons in stones the land. they have spoken from the walls of the Bible House. 103