such ecclesiastics as are sent by any Christian church into Pagan or Infidel countries, to convert the natives, and establish the Christian religion among them.

There are in France, and other Popish countries, several congregations of missionaries, whose principal end is to be employed on missions, and to inspire into the young clerks that spirit of piety and devotion which is necessary for the worthy discharge of their ministry. Such are the congregations of the priests of the mission, the Eudists, the missionaries of Lyons, and some others. The most remarkable of these congregations is that of the priests of the mission, which consists of secular clergy; who nevertheless make four simple vows, of poverty, chastity, obedience, and perseverance. Their habit is distinguished from that of other ecclesiastics only by a linen-collar four fingers broad, and by their wearing a little tuft of beard.