PREFACE. 
^ 
T he name of Thomas Comber is widely known 
amongst the friends of Christian Missions to 
the heathen. Many of those who knew him 
personally have intimated their desire for a 
memorial record of his life and labours. There are, 
however, more general considerations which make 
such a record appropriate. Mr. Comber was one of 
two — Mn Grenfell being the other— who were the 
first missionary pioneers to enter Congo country. 
From that entrance until his death, he was the 
acknowledged leader of the Mission he thus helped 
to originate. And when the Dark Continent ” shall 
be no longer dark, but shall have become “ light in 
the Lord,” it may be that African Christians will 
gratefully recount his services on behalf of their land, 
and ‘‘ glorify God in him.” 
It will be remembered that the character of this 
volume necessarily excludes any general reference to 
the various societies having missionary operations in 
Africa ; and, indeed, does not even admit of more 
V 
