Изображения страниц
PDF
EPUB

with me, till I rest in his arms in heaven,, there to sing for ever his praises."

Cases of serious inquiry at Mayhew.

13. Sabbath. Our prayer meetings, morning and evening, were solemn. The Lord, we trust, was present by his Spirit to give power to his word. Two of the black women in our employment are under serious impressions. One of them was much affected during the exercises of the'evening. May the God of all grace pour out a spirit of grace and supplication, and revive his work.

17. The brethren, Jewell and Pride, left Mayhew for Elliot. Brother Jewell's visit has been refreshing and edifying. Brother Pride expects to remain some time at Elliot, in order to attend to the study of the Choctaw language. He has already commenced it: but as he cannot, at this place, bave the aid of a competent interpreter, he wishes to avail himself of the advantages for acquiring it, which will be enjoyed at Elliot. A knowledge of the language seems very necessary to his usefulness among this people as a physician; and much more necessary, in order that, when going among them to relieve their bodily complaints, he may be able to tell them of the dying love and glories of Emmanuel, and direct them to him, as the only physi cian of the soul. He was lately called to visit a sick child about 16 miles distant. The parents and friends of the child appeared much pleased with his attention.

Visit to a neighboring village.

17. Brothers Hooper and Stewart went out to a neighboring village. They took an interpreter with them, that they might be able to converse with the people, and tell them something about that great Being, who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is. They were kindly and hospitably received. The people cheerfully left their employments, and listened attentively to what they had to say. A woman, who appeared to be more than three score years old, with whom they conversed, was entirely ignorant of God; she had not the least idea of any superior being. This is the case with many of this perishing people. Some of them, indeed, have a confused notion of a great Being above; but they know not what his character is, or what he requires them to do. May the seed now sown, spring up and bear fruit to the glory of divine grace.

26. Brother Kingsbury returned from Elliot, laden with new experience of the goodness and faithfulness of God; and thankful for his favor and blessing upon that mission. The last Sabbath he was at

Elliot, he administered the sacrament of the supper, and enjoyed the precious privilege of commemorating, with that dear family, the dying love of our Lord and Savior.

Instance of hopeful conversion.

T

27. Sabbath. One of the black women, whose case was mentioned before, we hope has passed from death unto life. When she came to live in our family, a few months ago, she was quite unconcerned about the salvation of her soul, and continued so, till the last monthly concert for prayer. During that meeting, she saw herself, for the first time, to be a sinner, and justly exposed to the wrath of God. Thus, while the children of God were unitedly supplicating for the enlargement of Zion; yea, while they were yet speaking, did the Lord hear, and extend his omnipotent arm, as we hope, to pluck this precious soul from ruin.

[blocks in formation]

Oct. 1, 1821. Sisters Finney and Washburn, on account of sickness, are unable to attend to any business, and sister Minerva is inadequate to the multitude of labors and cares, in our numerous family. The black woman in our employ, is taken entirely, from labor, by an attack of the intermittent. In consequence of these circumstances, we sent up the river, about 25 miles, to obtain another black woman for relief in the present emergency; and that we might be furnished with sufficient female help, against the anticipated enlargement of our family, by the reception of scholars. But in this attempt we have failed. Our only hope is in God, who will proportion our strength to our day. In the

evening, joined our brethren throughout christendom, and among the heathen, in the "concert of prayer." Our faith was strengthened, and our supplications animated, by a consideration of the covenant faithfulness of God, and the immutable certainty, that all, even his largest promises, will be accomplished. The consideration, that multitudes remember us at the mercy seat, affords encouragement in our work.

Sickness of Mr. Hitchcock.

2. Brother Hitchcock, who has, through the season, enjoyed better health than any other member of the mission family, was to-day taken with the fever and ague, while riding in the sun. The extreme heat of the sun, in this climate, has more influence in bringing on this distressing complaint, than swamps, rain, cold, or the night air.

8. Sister Washburn had a return of ague and fever. We have reason to fear that this enervating sickness will afflict us through the winter, as it is seldom removed, after the commencement of cold weather, till the return of spring. The Lord, however, will direct, and we are sure his direction will be best for us.

18. Brother Finney left us to journey to the white settlements, for the purpose of hiring female help, and transacting other business.

21. Sabbath. Brother F. returned. He arrived within half a mile, last night, where he was obliged to wait the return of light, being unable to keep the path. He succeeded in hiring a young woman of good character, to aid in the domestic labors of our family. The usual number at public worship, was increased by neighboring white people.

24. Finished raising the body of the din ing hall and kitchen. This huilding is very much needed. Till it is done, the sisters must be subjected to great exposures from the weather, and many inconveniences: but we fear it will not be completed so soon as was expected, one of the men engaged on it, being taken from his work by the fever and ague.

Intelligence of the lost keel-boat.

26. A gentleman ascending the river, informs us, that the hulk of the keel-boat we lost last summer, had sustained no injury, till a white man, living near where it was lodged, wantonly set fire to it, to obtain the nails and iron. We feel it duty to compel him to pay for the boat.

28. Sabbath. A considerable number from the white settlements were present at public worship. Brother Finney preached from John v, 39, "Search the Scriptures."

Brother Washburn and his wife, brother Orr, and both the children, are afflicted with ague and fever.

30. Received a packet of letters from friends in New England, by which our hearts are made glad, and for which we would be devoutly thankful to the Father of mercies.

Nov. 4. Sabbath. Brother Washburn preached from Heb. xi, 1. We very much need an increase of that faith, which is the substance of things hoped for, and the evidence of things not seen. Lord, increase our faith.

5. Agam permitted to join with the children of the kingdom, in all parts of the world, in the concert of prayer for Zion. To give fervency to our petitions, and encouragement in our work, read and considered the eighth chapter of Zechariah.

Notice of Letters.

6. Brother Orr left us to journey down the river for some communications from the post office, of which we have heard.

our

11. Sabbath. Brother Orr returned in time to be present at public worship. He brought us a packet of letters, among which was one from the Treasurer, and one from the Rev. William Jenks. Brother Hitchcock also I received letters from Brimfield, by which we are informed, that two male and two female assistant missionaries left that place for this station, on the 3d of September. These letters, and the intelligence received from the Missionary Herald, which also came, encouraged and gladdened hearts; and we would devoutly praise our covenant God, that here in the wilderness, we are not entirely cut off from intercourse with the world; but may occasionally hear froin our christian friends, and our respected patrons, that they still hold us in affectionate remembrance, and are affording us consolation, encouragement, and assistance, in our arduous work. We conclude, that our brethren and sisters on their way, are already on this side of the Mississippi, and will, in the course of two or three weeks, be welcomed as fellow laborers with us.

Battle between the Cherokees and Osages.

15. The warriors of this nation, with a few allies, have, for about six weeks, been in pursuit of the Osages. To-day, a part of the Cherokees returned from the campaign. When they separated from the main body of the Cherokees, they were within one day's march of the main body of the Osages. This party, consisting of about eighty, fell in with a party of Osages, about 75 in number, nearly all of whom were killed or taken prisoners. O, when will

the time come, when these two tribes, already favored with Christian teachers, shall be cordially brought under the influence of the gospel of peace. The Lord hasten

it in his time.

18. Sabbath. Brother Washburn preached from Acts xx, 24; "But none of these things move me," &c. A noble pattern for imitation, was St. Paul as a missionary. After sermon, brother James Orr and sister Minerva Washburn were united in the ordinance of marriage.

23. The weather is now as cold as it usually is, at this season, in New England. During most of the afternoon the snow has been flying in the atmosphere, and this evening is falling with great rapidity. We are but poorly prepared for winter, as our dining hall and kitchen are not completed, and we have no place for taking our meals, but a passage way between two cabins, where we are exposed to all the severities of the season. We feel much solicitude for our brethren and sisters on their way. They are doubtless, in the wilderness, with no shelter but blankets. But the Lord is able to preserve them from sickness amidst their exposures, and he will doubtless, temper their trials to their strength, and overrule them all for their good. Surely there can be little real danger in following the path of duty. In view of all their trials, exposures, and labors, may they be prepared, like Paul, with confident reliance on the grace of God, to say, "but none of these things move me."

Interview with several chiefs.

Dec. 8. Brother Washburn had an interview with John Jolly, and two other chiefs. They were very urgent for the commencement of our school, and very particular in their inquiries relative to the progress of the establishment, and all the concerns of the mission. They expressed the fullest confidence in us and in our patrons at the north;-renewed the assurances of their protection of the mission, and their friendly co-operation in all our benevolent designs. Jolly expressed a strong desire, that our mission might be a means of great good to his people, whom he wished to see "walking in the best way." He hoped that this part of the tribe would shortly be as far advanced in civilization and its attendant blessings, as their brethren in the old nation. They are about sending a delegation to Washington, and they promised us a visit before that time, that they might be able to tell their great father, the President, "good words of us."

9. Sabbath. Brother Finney preached from John xiii, 27. Whatever is done in the service of God, for the edification of the church, the salvation of sinners, and

the conversion of the world, must be done quickly.

16. The weather, for more than a week, has been very cold; the ground is frozen hard, and has for several days been covered with snow. We feel no little solici tude for our brethren and sisters, who are coming to us. We know not why they are detained so long, and fear they are but illy prepared to encounter the inclemency of the weather. To the Lord, in whose service they are called to suffer, we would affectionately commend them.

Arrival of the expected reinforcement.

22. This morning, about 9 o'clock, our hearts were made to rejoice, by the arrival of our dear sisters, Ellen Stetson and Nancy Brown. They left the waggon about two miles back, and walked to Dwight. Brother Asa Hitchcock arrived with the waggon, about twelve o'clock. Our joy at the termination of their fatiguing journey, and exposures in the wilderness, during this inclement season, and at this accession to our number and strength, was mingled with heart-felt sorrow that one of their number,* was left by the way.

Reflections on the death of Mr. Hitchcock.

In view of this providence we are constrained to say, "surely clouds and darkness are round about Jehovah;" but there is abundant consolation in the undoubted assurance, that "justice and judgment are the habitation of his throne." We would be "dumb and open not our mouths, because the Lord has done it." While, in view of this providence, we can but mourn, we would "not mourn as those who have no hope." We would praise the God of grace for the assured hope, that what is our loss, is his infinite gain; that our brother now rests from his labors, in the kingdom of his God. His mouldering dust does not, as he had fondly hoped, slumber on mission ground; but it is not, on that account, less the object of the Redeemer's care; and while his happy spirit is enjoying the felicities of heaven, we are confident that he, who "became the first fruits from the dead," will, in the morning of the resurrection, raise the body of our dear brother, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body. The same God, who put it into the heart of our deceased brother to do something for the heathen, has now called him from the work,-from his own work; and we are confident this work will never suffer by the removal of any engaged in it. May we, may our patrons, and

* Mr. Daniel Hitchcock. See vol. xvii, p. 367.

[ocr errors]

christians generally, be taught, by this providence, that dependence on creatures, is falsely reposed, and be induced to trust in God above. We would look to God, the only efficient repairer of breaches, to supply the place vacated by the death of our brother, and to sanctify it to his surviving friends, to us, and to all. We would, also, render thanksgiving and praise to God, that any of the company survived to join us in this delightful work. The Lord make us all holy, humble, aud heavenly minded, "steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord," faithful even unto death; and finally give us a crown of life.

[On the 25th, Mr. Jacob Hitchcock and Miss Nancy Brown, entered into the marriage relation. They were affianced to each other, before Mr. H. left New England.]

29. Brother Washburn rode out to give notice that our school would be opened at the commencement of the year. We have

limited the number of scholars, which we shall be able to take this winter, to fifteen.

Second visit from the chiefs.

They

31. John Jelly, the head chief, with three others, visited the establishment. They minutely examined the buildings, inquiring the estimated expense of each. were very particular in their inquiries respecting the school, the mode of instruction, the number of hours daily appropri ated to study, the employment of scholars out of school; how children, who have no parents or friends, were to be clothed, &c. To all these questions our answers were satisfactory. They expressed their cordial approbation of all that was done, and of the plan of future operation. After the interchange of mutual congratulation and friendship, they departed with the promise of frequently renewing their visit, when the school should be in operation.

Closing reflections.

In the goodness and forbearance of our covenant God, we are called to record the close of another year of our fleeting lives. On a review of the past, we find much occasion for devout thanksgiving to the Author of our mercies, for the preservation of our lives, for the temporal blessings enjoyed, for christian privileges and experiences, and for permission to do any thing for the heathen. But, if possible, we have more occasion to be covered with shame and confusion of face, that we have been

so ungrateful, so remiss in spiritual things, so cold in our affections, so slothful in the service of Christ, and so much conformed to the world.

PALESTINE MISSION.

LETTER FROM MESSRS. PARSONS AND FISK TO THE CORRESPONDING SECRETARY.

Very dear Sir,

Smyrna, Dec. 13, 1821.

we

IT is with emotions of gratitude and satisfaction, that, after a year's separation, we once more sit down together, to address you. During the past year, we have encountered disappointments, have endured afflictions, and we have experienced mercies, which we hope never to forget, and which we trust may be useful to us as long as we live. We separated, hoping to meet in Judea. The event has shewn that the divine purpose was, that we should meet again where we separated. Thousands of our fellow men have fallen around us, but we still live. One of us has lain for weeks on the very borders of the grave; yet life is spared, and every thing now indicates a speedy restoration to perfect health. We would, therefore, call upon all within us, and upon all our friends, to praise the Lord for his great goodness. After a year of hopes, and fears, and anxieties; of plans, and labors, and disappointments, such as before we knew nothing of; we were permitted to meet again, Monday, December 3d, and unitedly join with those friends of Zion, who, on that day, raise their supplications to heaven for the conversion of the world. It was particularly pleasant to meet on that day. We met with earnest desires, that the past may prove instructive and useful to us; and that for the future we may be wholly devoted to our work, to the service of our Redeemer, and of the souls of men. If we know our own hearts, we wish to live for nothing else.

Brother Parsons's health is still feeble; but his disorder has entirely left him, and nothing is now wanting, but the recovery of flesh and strength. On his arrival here, the English consul was so good, as to offer him the rooms usually occupied by the chaplain, where he is very favorably situated for the recovery of his health; which will be for the present, his principal object.

The English chaplaincy having lately become vacant, brother Fisk preaches on the Sabbath, and continues to instruct the children of the Messrs. Vanlenneps. We also find, every week, more or less opportuni ties to distribute the Scriptures and tracts, and to converse with individuals concerning religion. It is true, we do but little.

If,

We hope, however, that this little may ultimately be productive of great good. We never expected, nor did you ever expect, that the Scriptures could be circulated, and true religion revived, in this country, without meeting with many disappointments, and encountering many obstacles. however, you ask us, after the events of the past year, what are now our feelings, our resolutions, and our expectations, we are constrained to answer, we never loved our work more sincerely than we do now; we never felt a more consoling conviction,

that we are in the field where our Lord and master would have us labor; we never entertained more confident hopes of usefulness and ultimate success. Still we desire to feel, that we are nothing, and that our fondest wishes may be disappointed.

Our last letters were forwarded by the Sally Ann. We send this to Marseilles, hoping that it may be forwarded from thence without delay. The Leander, Capt. Ray, of Salem, is now here, and will probably be here some time. By this vessel, you may expect to hear from us more fully. -Were we both in health, one or both of us would sail immediately for Alexandria, with the view of being at Jerusalem before the passover. As the case is, we both purpose to remain a little while in Smyrna, hoping to receive letters from you, and waiting for the direction of Providence. We remain, dear Sir, very affectionately yours,

LEVI PARSONS, PLINY FISK.

We find the following paragraph in the "Missionary Notices," a monthly publication of the Wesleyan Missionary Society of England.-"One of the missionaries of this Society, (the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions,) is now at Jerusalem, distributing the Holy Scriptures and useful tracts. This is among the singular events of the present day. A Christian missionary, from a part of the world unknown to exist by the first preachers of the Gospel, is now rekindling the light of the holy doctrines in the very place from which it first emanated!"

The above quotation refers to the visit of Mr. Parsons to Jerusalem, during the early part of the last year. The reflection is a striking one, and brings to view the wonderful changes in the moral aspect and condition of the world, which, a lapse of ages may produce.、

VOL. XVIIL

SANDWICH ISLANDS MISSION.

WE had strong hopes of receiving, before this time, the journal of the mission at these islands; but have been disappointed. In the mean time, we present to our read

ers extracts from two letters of Thomas Hopoo, the date of which is just three months later, than any from that mission, heretofore published.—It will be seen, that the church, for the erection of which provision was made as early as July, was completed in September.

Hopoo mentions the arrival of Tamoree at Woahoo. In explanation of this fact, we learn from a gentleman, who recently left the islands, that the king Reho-reho,— contrary to the wishes of Kaamanoo and Krimakoo, who seem to possess much the largest share of influence and authority,— went over to Atooi. What his object was in making this visit, or whether he had any definite object in view, is not known. He is said to have left Woahoo in the night, in an open boat, and with few attendants; and on landing at Atooi, was received by Tamoree in a friendly manner. The two kings then held a consultation, the result of which was, that Tamoree resigned his authority, and agreed to remove, for the present at least, to Woahoo; and Tiamoko (Gov. Cox,) was constituted chief of the island. Though Tamoree was not before an independent prince, this must be considered a singular occurrence; and the reasons of it do not clearly appear. It will however, be a satisfaction to the friends and patrons of missions to be informed, that no special evil was apprehended to the mission, excepting that the contemplated voyage to the Society Islands, was, in consequence of it, probably relinquished. Tiamoko possesses much influence, and is said to be friendly to the missionaries.

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM THOMAS

HOPOO TO THE REV. MR. DAGGETT,
HIS FORMER INSTRUCTER, AT CORN-
WALL.

Woahoo, Oct. 6, 1821.

My dear Friend, I am glad to receive your most affectionate letter, that you send by George Sand 19

« ПредыдущаяПродолжить »