Letters March 24, 1923 Issue

Letters from the Field

Joel H. Benson

The following report has been received by The Christian Science Board of Directors from Chaplain Joel H. Benson, stationed on a United States ship in the harbor of Constantionople, and in charge of the Christian Science relief work in the Near East:—

"I was glad to receive your cable to-day, and shall be able to use the additional money to good advantage. The relief work is going on apace. There are several camps here in Constantinople where the little ones are suffering from starvation; and it is in these camps that I am trying to concentrate my work. The refugees there are in very straitened circumstances. A few days ago a miniature bread riot occurred. I had a peddler bring bread and distribute it among the women and children. They were so desperate in their endeavors to get the bread that the peddler was put to his resources to preserve the little burro which carried the baskets. They all seem so grateful for anything that is done for them that it is a real Christian pleasure to help them.

"I have received letters from the Greek Patriarch thanking me for the relief measures. He has requested a rendezvous at The League of Nation's Inquiry Building. In this building there are a few orphans whom I have selected as of the better class of refugees; and an effort is being made to have them adopted into good families. These children are much improved; they are now bright and very appreciative. Two of them frequently weep, saying they cannot see their papa or mamma any more. I have learned that at a small cost I can select a likely refugee as a protégé of this committee in an educational institution in Constantinople. This has been done heretofore, by the Near East Relief; and if it meets with your approval I shall select a girl for the Women's College and a boy for Robert's College, both American institutions in this city. The president of the former is a student, and has expressed interest in our services.

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