Note 3 — Chapter XLI · BLAGOVESTCHENSK.

The results obtained by the Society in 1879 in the region of the Volga, inhabited chiefly by Mohammedans, are much less than in Asia, the opposition being so great that for the present the missionaries can only prepare the way. To this end, schools might become a powerful auxiliary. Some tribes, such as the Tcheremisses and the Votyaks, for example, show an inclination for instruction; but the want of funds prevents the extension of the Russian school system to the Mohammedan villages. The same is seen with the Kalmuks of Astrakhan, who would welcome schools, and gladly abandon their nomad and heathen congeners to settle upon lands assigned to them. At Noire-Cherinsk, 12 families began the construction of houses, but for lack of money failed to complete them, and asked the Government for an advance of £3 for each family. At Oulane-Ergansk, certain families have come to settle, and already are giving themselves to agriculture.