Bridgman and Abeel studied Chinese and Elijah soon began the literary labors to which he devoted much of his life. In 1832 Bridgman started a mission press and began publication of "The Chinese Repository", which he edited until 1847.
Bridgman and Abeel explored Chinese language studies, while Elijah devoted considerable time to intellectual pursuits. In 1832, Bridgman established a mission publishing venture and released "The Chinese Repository" under his editorial guidance until 1847.