| Arrangement | The original papers [incoming: O1-133] were copied into the mission books, so that a legible copy was available for the use of the Committee. From 1820 until May 1839 the papers were numbered in the order in which they arrived at headquarters, each year numbering from May to April [being the Committee year]. The papers are not necessarily entered in the books in strict numerical order (and not all numbers are entered), but they are usually dealt with batch by batch. The numbers in the books correspond with the numbers, usually in red ink, on the letters. From June 1839 to March 1861 nothing is numbered but from April 1861 to April 1862 the system begins again, although note that a mixed batch received in 1861 is entered after April 1862. In January 1868 numbering starts afresh and until 1880 the papers are entered in strict numerical order.
The mission books to December 1874 consist of gatherings bound into volumes. The copying clerks wrote gathering by gathering, so that the handwriting and the individual items are split between gatherings.
The letters and journals from 1820 to those received May 1849 are copied out in full, while a note of receipt is made for the financial papers [as distinct from finance letters] and printed papers. From 1849 onwards the letters only are so copied and for 1869-1870 third person summaries alone are provided. Annual letters from those for 1871-1872 onwards, are copied out in [or (if printed) pasted or sewn into] the backs of the volumes. These letters are a yearly account by missionaries of their activities and cover a period from August to July. |