“ The same man,” says he, “ which killed my father and mother took me home to his own house. His wife was an amiable woman, and very kind, and her husband also: yet ©n account of killing my parents I did not feel contented. After I lived with this man about a year or two, I found one of my uncles, who was a priest among them; but he knew not who 1 was, (for I was quite small when he saw me at home with my parents.) lie enquired the name of my parents — I told him. As soon as he heard the name of my parents, tears burst out and he weeped bitterly. He wish ed me not to go back and Jive with that man which killed my father and mother, but to live with him as long as I live. I told him I must go back and see that man, whether he was willing to give me a release. This was done. I went home, and told the man all what my uncle had told me. But the saying seemed to him very unpleasing. As soon as he had heard all what I said to him, he was very tormented with anger, as if he would look me in pieces that moment. He would not let me go, not till he die, or else be take my life away. Not long after this, I went and told my uncle what the man had told me, and he would no more let me go back to the man’s house, until the man come after me, then lie would converse with him on tins subject. After I had lived with my unde two or three days, the man came to his house, to take me home. But my unde told him that I was as his own child — that he would not let me go back and live with him; else if he take me, he should take both of us. Yet the man did say but little because my uncle was a priest. But 1m told my uncle that if I should live with him, he must take kind care of me as what he has done. He told him lie would by all means. When all this was done I lived with my unde a number of years.*’
“ At the death of my parents,” he says, “ l was with them,* I saw them killed with a bayonet— and with them my little brother, not more than two or three months old — so that 1 was left alone without father and mother in this wilderness world. Poor boy, thought I within myself, after they were gone, arc there any father or mother of mine at Lome, that I may go and find them at home? No; pool* boy am 1. And while l was at play with other children —. after we had made an end of playing, they return to their parents — but 1 was returned into tears; — for 1 have no home, neither lather nor mother- 1 was now brought away from my home to a stranger place, and 1 thought of nothing more but want of father or mother, and to cry day and night* “ While l was with my uncle, for some time l began to think about leaving that country, to go to some other part of the globe. I did not care where I shall go to. I thought to myself that if I should get away, and go to some other country, probably I may find some comfort, more than to live there, without father and mother. —. I thought it will be better for me to go than to stay. About this time there was a ship conic from New-York -.—Captain Brintnali the master of the ship. As soon as it got into the harbour, in the very place where I lived, 1 thought of no more but to take the best chance 1 had, and if the Captain have no objection, to take me as one of his own servants and to obey his word. As soon as the ship anchored I went on board. The Captain soon enquired whose bov I was. Yet 1 knew not what he says to nic, for I could not speak the English language*— But there was a young man wiio could sp^ak the English language, and he told the Captain that I was the Minister’s nephew— (the minister of that place.) The Captain wished me to stay on board the ship that night, and the next day go home. This very much satisfied me, and I consented to stay. At evening the Captain invited me to eat supper with him. And there sat another boy with us who was to be my fellow-traveller; by name Thomas Hopoo — Thomas, a name given him by the supercargo of the ship. After supper the Captain made some enquiry to sec if we were willing to come to America; and soon I made a motion with my head that 1 was willing to go. This man was very agreeable, and his kindness was much delighted in my heart, as if I was his own son, and he was my own father. Thus I still continue thankful for his kindness toward me.
“ The next morning the Captain wished me to go shore and see my uncle, whether ho was willing to let me go with him or not.
I then got into a canoe and went on shore and found my uncle. He was at home.— He asked me. where was I been through all that night before. I told him that I was on board the ship and staid there all the night. I told him what my object was, and all what the Captain invite me to. As soon as my uncle heard that I was going to leave him, lie shut me up in a room, for he was not willing to let me go. While I was in the room my old grandmother coming in, asked me what was my notion of leaving them, and go with the people whom 1 know not. I told her it is better for me to go than to stay there. She said if l should leave them I shall not see them any more. I told her that I shall come back in a few months if 1 live. Her eyes were filled with tears. She said that I was very foolish boy. This was all she said, and she w'ent out from the room. As soon as she went out, 1 looked around expecting to find a hole that 1 might escape out of the house. And as soon as I saw a little hole in the side of the house, I got through it and went on board the ship. When my uncle heard that l was on hoard the ship, he got into his canoe and came hoard the ship enquiring after me. No sooner after he made some enquirement 1 was there discovered by one of our countrymen who had the care of the ship, and was brought forth, and come to my uncle’s house. He would not let me go not unless I pay him a hog for his god:
(for I was taken under his care, to be made for a minister.)’9
“ My uncle,” he says, “ would now delay me no longer, and I took my leave of them and bid them farewell. My parting with them was disagreeable to them and to me, but I was willing to leave all my relations, friends and acquaintance; expected to see them no more in this world. We set out on our journey towards the Seal Islands, on the N. W. part of America. On (hesc islands the Captain left twenty or thirty men for scaling business on his way to Owhyhce. We found them safe. Among these men I found a very desirable young* man, by name Russell Hubbard, a son of Gen. H. of Ncw-IIaven. This Mr. Hubhard was a member of Yale College. He was a friend of Christ. Christ was with him when I saw him, but I knew it not. — « Happy is the man that put his trust in God!,? Mr. Hubbard was very kind to me on our passage, and taught me the letters in English spelling-book.
“ We continued on these Islands during six months, then took our course towards Owhyhee. Two of my countrymen were with me in the ship. One of them concluded to stay at Owliyhce, and the other to proceed on the voyage. The ship delayed no longer than a few days, and we set out for China, on our direct course to America. — On our way towards China my poor friend Thomas fell overboard. He was so careless, not knowing what he was about, he went outside of the ship and drew salt water to wash plates with (for he was a cabin’s boy.) When the ship rolled he got in thewater. The Captain calks all hands upon the deck, and ordered to have all the sails pull down in order to let about — While vve were working upon our sails, my friend Thomas was out of sight. While ike was in the water he pulls all off his clothes in order to he lighter — Wc turned our ship and went back after him. We found him almost dead. He was in the water during the space of two and a half hours, O how glad was I then to see him — for he was already gone.
“We took our direct course from hence as it was before. Soon we landed at an Island belonging to that part of China, and in the evening after the sun-clown we anchored. On the next morning we fired one of our cannon for a pilot. When we had fired once or twice, there was another ship of war belonging to the British, which stood about four or five miles apart from us.
As soon as they heard our cannon, they sent one of their brigs. We were then taken by it for a while. They took our Captain and he went on board the men of war’s ship. Ho was there for a number of days. After this the Englishmen agreed to let us go. We therefore leave that place, called Mocow or Mockow, (Mocao) and directed our course to the city of Canton. We were there until we sold out all our seal-skins and loaded our ship with other sort of goods; such as tea, cinnamon, nankeens and silk, &c. At the end of six months we steered a direct course to America. At the Cape of Good Hope, or before it, our sailors on hoard the ship began to terrify at us. —. They said that there was a man named Neptune who lived in that place and bis abiding place was in the sea. In the evening the sailors begun the act. — One of them took an old great coat and put on him, and with a speaking trumpet in his hand, and his head was covered with a sheep-skin; and be went forward of the ship arid making a great noise. x4bout this time friend
Thomas and myself were on the quarterdeck, hearing* some of them telling about Neptune’s coming with an iron canoe, and iron paddle. Friend Thomas questioned whether the iron canoe will not sink down in the water. “ No.” said some of them, “ he will make it light for he is a God.” While we were talking, the first we heard the sound of trumpet as follows. — “ Ship hail! from whence came your” — The Captain immediately giving an answer in this manner: “From Canton.” “ Have you got my boys,” said the old Neptune. — “ Yes,” answered the Captain. — “ Ilow many boys have you,” added the old Neptune. “ Two,” said the Captain, (that is myself and friend Thomas.) As soon as we both heard the Captain says « two,” we both scared almost to death; and wished we were at home. The old Neptune wished to see us; but we dare not come near at it. He continued calling to us to come to him, or else he would take both of us to be as his servants. We therefore went up immediately and shook our hands with him in friendly manner. 1 thought that he was quite an old age; by seeing his long beards and his head covered with gray hairs: for his head ^as covered with a sheepskin. After our conversation with him he wished for drink. So that I went and Ailed two pails full of salt-water, (as the sailors had told us,) and 1 set them before him. Then he took his speaking trumpet and put it in my mouth for tunnel, in order to make me drink that salt-water which I brought. But while he stoops down to reach the pail of water, I took hold of the speaking trumpet and hold it on one side of my cheek, so that 1 may not drink a drop of salt water: did not any body knew it for it was dark. But friend Thomas he was so full of scare, he took down a great deal of salt water. On the next morning he was taken sick, and puked from the morning until the evening.
“ About this time our provision was almost out. We had no bread, meat and water, save only one biscuit a day and one pint of water; only when the cook put in our tea. We were looking out for a vessel for a long time. Within a few days we come close to a schooner going to the West Indies; sailed from Boston. We fired at her in order to stop her. So did she. We got from them as much provision as wc wished, and this^asted us until we got to New-York.
«« We landed at New-York in the year 1809: continued there a few weeks, and after the captain sold out all the goods that arc in the ship, we then parted with all our sailors: every one to go to their own home. But friend Thomas and myself continued with the Captain. One evening two gentlemen called on board the ship to see us. After our conversation was made with them, they wished us to go with them into a play-house, to show the curiosity. We then went with them into the play-house and saw a great number of peoples, as I ever saw before. Wc staid during the fore part of the evening, then went on hoard the ship. The next morning the same two gentlemen called again and invited us to come to their house that forenoon. So that wc both went. I thought while in the house of these two gentlemen how strange to see females eat with men.
« Within a few days we left our ship and went home with Captain B. to New-Haven; the place where lie lived. There 1 lived with him for some time. In this place I become acquainted with many students belonging to the College. By these pious students I was told more about God than what I had beard before; but I was so ignorant that 1 could not see into it whether it was so. Many times I wished to hear more about God, but find no body to interpret it to me. I attended many meetings on the sabbath, but find difficulty t<) understand the minister. 1 could understand or speak but very little of tbe English language. Friend Thomas went to school to one of the students in the College before I thought of going to school.
I heard that a ship was ready to sail from Ncw-York within a few days for Owhybee. The Captain was willing that I might take leave of this country and go home it 1 wish. But this was disagreeable to my mind. I wished to continue in this country a little longer. I staid another week— sa v Mr E. W. D. who first taught me to read and write. The first time 1 saw him, he enquired whether 1 was one who came over with Thomas, (for Thomas was known among many schollars in College.) I told him l was one who came over with Thomas. He then asked me if I wished t0 learn to read and w rite. I told him that I was. He wished me to come to bis room that night and begin to learn. So that I went in the evening ami began to read in the spelling-book. Mr. D. wished me to come to his room at any tune when i agreeable to the Captain with whom I then lived. I went home that night and the next morning 1 mentioned all this matter to the Captain. He was pleased, and he wished me to go to school to Mr. 1). Thus l continued in school with him for several months.”
no more to live with Captain any longer, but rather wished to live somewhere else, where I could have an opportunity to learn to write and read. I went to my friend Mr. D. who was to be my best and kind friend; I made known to him all my desire. I told him that I wished to live where I could have an opportunity to get in some school, ami work a part of the time. He then wished me to live with President Dwight. This satisfied me; I went with him to Dr. Dwight’s house. 1 lived with this pious and good family for some time, and went to school to the same man as betore. While I lived with these good people I have more time to attend to my book than I ever did before. Here was the first time I meet with praying family morning and evening. It was difficult for me to understand what was said in prayer, but 1 doubt not this good people were praying lor me while I was with them; seeing that 1 was ignorant of God and my Saviour. 1 heard of God, as often as 1 lived with this family, and 1 believed but little. Whilst X lived at Dr. Dwight’s, I went up to my school room one evening, and saw Mr. S. J. M., a son of Rev/ Mr. S J. I., of Tcrringford, sitting w ith Mr. D. my instructor. Mr. D. wished me to make acquaintance with Mr. M. So did I — (and shook hands with him.) Mr. M. continued in New-Haven for several months. During this time he wished me to go home witii him; he says lie has a good father, mother, brother and sister. This requesting was very pleasing to me—so that J consented. X then left New-Haven and went home with Mr. M. I lived with this family in the year 1S10. These people were the most judicious and kindest people, 1 was treated by them in the most affectionate manner — (yet not knowing who brought me there, for 1 was very ignorant of Him who gave me so many good friends in this country.) It seemed to me as my own home. It was. And I have made my home there frequently. I could say much of them, but what more can l do, but to remember their kindness toward me. While I was with them I continued my study in spelling, reading and writing, to Mr.,T. F. M. a brother of Mr. M. whom I was acquainted with at tho first. Here I learned some sort of farming business: cutting wood, pulling flax, mow ing, See. — only to look at the other and learn from them.”
“ 1 here now— this place, Torringford — I glad sec you very much. 1 laugh Tom Hoboo — he say — “ Obooki write me that? Me no write.” 1 want you tell Tom Mr. S. Mills say it we be good boys we shall have friends. One morning you know 1 come into your room in College, and you tell me — read— you say, what c.a.p. spell? then I say c.a.p. pig. 1 spell four syllables now, and I say what is the chief end of man. I like you much. I like your brother, and your friend Mr. Dean. I wear this great coat you gave me to meeting every Sunday. I wish you would write me a letter and tell me what Tom do.
(( Mrs. M. the wife of the Rev. Mr. M.” continues Qbookiah, « was a very amiable woman, and I was treated by her as her own child. She used me kindly and learned me to say the Catechism.
“Many Ministers called on the Rev. Mr. M. and I was known by a great number of Ministers. But on account of my ignorance of the true God, I do not wish to hear them when they talk to me. i would not wish to he in the room where they were; neither did I wish to come near to a Minister, for the reason that lie should talk to me about God, whom I hated to hear. I was told by them about Heaven and Hell, hut I did not pay any attention to what they say; for I thought that I was just as happy as the other people, as those who do know about God much more than 1 do. But this thought, as I see to it now, was the most great and dangerous mistake.
“At the close of the year 1810, 1 left this place and went to Andover. I continued there for some time. Here my wicked heart began to see a little about the divine things; but the more I see to it, the more it appear to be impenetrability. 1 took much satisfaction in conversing with many students in the Institution. I spent a little time with some of them, and m going to one room and to another to recite to them: for I was taken under their care. Whenever I got a lesson I had a right to go to any room in College to recite. While I was there fora longtime, my friend Mr. M. was there; one of my kindest friends that I had, who took me away from bis fathers house. This young Mr. M was studying Divinity at the College, where I was instructed by the students.”
“ My friend Mr. M. now thought it would be well for me to leave Andover, and go to some school, where 1 may improve my time much more than I could there. He said if l should go he would try to find some good people who would be willing to support me. This was a most kind offer, which I canot feel any more than to be thankful for all this kindness to me. Mr. M. now sent me to Bradford Academy; and there I continued for some time at school. The people where 1 boarded, at the house of Deacon FI. were a most pious family. But while l was herein the school, my serious feelings, which I had before, lost all; and become very ignorant of religion by being among some unserious company* talking many foolish subjects. 1 thought now I shall never have any more such feelings as I had before — I thought that I must always be miserable here and hereafter, I became prayerless and thoughtless— -no hope for mercy. — never attempted to be alene as I had done before. 1 sit and walked about all day — -took no opportunity to be at the throne of grace, but rather to he stupid— from the morning until evening never thought of him who kept me alive; neither when Hay down upon my bed, nor when I rose up. I was in this situation for a long time, while I was at school. At the close of the school I went back to Andover. Mr. M. was not there. It was vacation. I staid until lie returned. When he returned he enquired how I have been, and how f was pleased with the school, 1 answered well. But I did not let him know' what was my situation, and what trouble 1 had met with while I was there, but kept all these things in my ow n mind.
‘‘In the spring season of the year 1511, I hired myself out for a month or two, on a ount of iny health, with Mr. F. who lived about live miles from the College. Mr. F. one day sent me into the woods not far from the house to work. I took an axe and went and worked there till towards noon* But here ()! I come to myself again! many thoughts come into my mind that i was in a dangerous situation. I thought that if I should then die, I must certainly he cast off for ever. While l was working it appeared as it was a voice saying, “ Cut it down, why cumbereth it the ground.” I worked no longer — but dropped my axe, and walked, a few steps lrom the place (for the people in the house would soon send a lad after me, for it was noon.) I fell upon my knees and looked up to the Almighty Jehovah for help. I was not but an undone and hell-deserving sinner. I felt that it would be just that (Jod should cast me off whithersoever he would —that he should do witli my poor soul as it seemed to him fit, I spent some time here until [ heard a boy calling for me— and I went. The people in the house asked of my sadness— to which 1 gave but little answer. In the night my sleep was taken *ivvay from me. I kept awake almost the whole night. Many of my feelings and thoughts in past time came into remembrance — and bow I treated the me cy of God while I was at Bradford Academy.
I he next morning I rose up before the rest, and went to a place where 1 was alone by myself. Here I went both morning night and noon. At this little place I find some comfort. And when I go there I enjoy myself better all the day.
“ At the end of two months I returned to Andover. Many times Mr. M. asked mo about my feelings, and I was neither willing to answer much, nor could I. on account of my unfruitfulness and wickedness.
« I continued licrc a few days and then hired myself out again, and went to labour for Mr. A. a farmer, in haying time. Mr. A. was a good man, and it was a religious family. 1 had here the same seriousness in my mind as before, but never did meet with real change of heart yet.”
“ I sometimes think about my poor soul, and that which God hath done. I will cry unto God — 44 What shall I do to be saved I know that God is able to take away blind eyes and wicked heart. We must be bom again and have a new spirit before we die. As soon as we shall be dead, all we must stand before the judgment seat of Christ. Friend, perhaps you have not done any thing wicked, so that God can punish you. I hope you have not. Bui if we are not hi* friends and followers he will cast us into Hell, and we shall be there for ever and ever. I hope you will think upon all these things. Friend to you,
“I irnproVe this opportunity to write to you. And I saw your beloved book which you sent by Mr. G. and that I very much thank you for it.. I am great joy to God to give me such a good friend in this land where we hear the words of God — God is kind to us and to the other — that is to every body else. God will carry through his work for us;
“ I do not know what- will God do with my poor soul. I shall go before God and also both Christ.
“ We must all try to get forward where God wishes- us fo do. God is able to save sinners if we have some feeling in him. is very great tiling to have hope in him, and do all the Christian graces. I hope the
Lord will send the gospel to the heathen land where the words of the Saviour never yet had been. Poor people worship the wood and stone and shark, and almost- every thing their gods; the Bible is not there, and Heaven and Hell they do not know about it. I yet in this country and no lather and no mother. But God is friend if l will do his will and no*t my own will.”
“ l improve this opportunity to write to you a letter. 1 received.your two letters and 1 had broken the seals of both of them, aiid 1 have read those sweet words that make my poor and wicked heart feel cold, as like cold water. O Lord how long shall 1 continue in my own sins? Lord wilt thou hear my secret prayer.
“ Hear Sir, 1 hope your prayer for the poor and blind immortal souls will be heard. 1 thank you to pray for me beside tny own prayer. Pray to God that he might pour down his Holy Spirit upon all our souls.— 1 do not know what will become of my poor soul, when my time is full come hereafter.
Butin my own feeling I wish his- will, and I am willing that God do what he please for my poor soul. What are sweet things in this world, sinners like better than their own souls which are going down to.the bottomless pit. O how wicked and sinful are we. How shall we go to the path of life and of his truth, and be with him in Heaven. No way at all; only we must give away ourselves to him ‘and leave all our sins behind. Some think they know not how. to pray; but they ought to know,, for Christ hath taught us. I went to Tyngebury last week to see a boy who came from Owhyhee. He- arrived last Juue — (this is not Thomas that came with me.) 'As the distance from this olace was small 1 went to visit him, 1 hope the Lord will have mercy upon his poor soul He knew nothing of the Saviour before I told him. I first mention^ to him Genesis 1. &c. telling him that God made the world by his own power; then he said, 0 how foolish we are to worship wood and stone gods; we give them hogs and cocoa nuts and banana, but they cannot eat. Yes, said 1, it is foolish. Then he asked me where that man was, that made every thing. I told him, he was every where with us. Does he hear when you and I talk? says he. I told him yes, and you must believe in bim if you would be bis friend. He said he did believe what I told bim. He has not learned to understand English, but I spoke in Owhyhee. I took him with me to the minister’s house on Sabbath evening, so 1 told him in Owbybee w bat Mr. Allen the minister said. He had been before but could not understand what was said. I told him what God did for him in keeping him alive, and bringing him to this country. He said he liked that man very much, (meaning God.) He asked me many questions again and again about, God, which I answered. After we went to bed be said lie’ would never forget what I had tofd bim. He said when be eat he would remember who gave him food. The people where he lived said he might stay there as he would; and when lie had learned English a little he might go to school. He did cry when I left him.
Rev. Mr. S. While I was in this place, I became more thoughtful about myself. I attended many of the young people’s meetings, and I was qute happy. But I was now taken sick of a fever at the house of Dea. B. I was very weak and was not able to answer to the questions of those who came to visit me. Then thought l, where shall I go for a physician, but unto thee! Death had but a little fear. I continued sick for live weeks. The whole iamily of Dea. B. were very kind. 1 was treated with the most affectionate care during the whole of my sickness. Doctor C. was a very kind and friendly man. He was a pious man and good Christian. Many times be prayed with me while I was upon my sick bed.
“ One day Mrs. B. asked me whether I was willing to die and leave this world of sin and go to the better. To which I replied that I should have no objection if God should do with me as it seemed to him fit. She added, “ Do you remember the goodness and the kindness of God toward you V9 I answered yes — For I have neither a father nor a mother, nor a brother nor a sister in this stranger country but He. But O! am 1 fit to call him my father? « Whosoever doeth his will the same is a child of
God.” No longer after my complaint was over I began to experience hope in religion. I thought often concerning the happiness of another world and eternal realities. But m v mind and my heart of wickedness would often turn back to this w orld: (if 1 do not think about the serious things.) Many times I meet with dark hour. But the greatest part of the time 1 took much comfort and happiness, both in my secret prayer and in serious conversation with others. I thought now with myself that 1 have met with a change of heart. It was so if I mistake not. For the Lord Jesus did appear as chiefest among ten thousand, and one altogether lovely; and his mercy appeared to be welcome to a sinner as I.”
mer (lie says) my friend, Mr. M. whom I loved, returned from his missionary tour. I received him with joyful salutation. Several times he asked me how my wicked heart get along while 1 was hoeing corn.— But I was still fearful to tell whether my heart was changed or not.
“ At this time, Mr. M* wished me to go and live with the llev. Mr. Harvey of Goshen. This was pleasing to me, and i went to live with Mr. H. and studied geography and mathematics. And a part of the time was trying to translate a few verses of the Scriptures into my own language; and in making a kind of spelling book; taking the English alphabet, and giving different names anil different sounds — for. this language was not written language.) 1 spent some time in making a kind of spellingbook, dictionary, grammar, &c..
“ While I* was in this place with. Rev. Mr. Id. I took more happiness upon my knees than I ever did before; having a good room to study, and being alone the greatest part of the time. Many happy and serious thoughts were coming into, my mind while I was upon my bed in the night. Every thing appeared to be very clear to my own view. Many times the Lord Jesus appeared in my mind to be the most great grace ami glorious. O what happy hours that I had in the night season! I thought sometimes before, that religion was a hard thing to get it — making many excuses for pray hour, and kept putting oil* frorh time to time^ and thought it would become easier sometime at hand. But this kind of feelingled me far beyond all happiness# Many times I lived as a man that travels up to a hill and then down. But it was nothing that hindered me hut my own wicked heart, and because [ did not repent for my sin.
fi I seeked lor the JLord Jesus for a long time, but found him not. It was because 1 did not seek him in a right manner. But still l do think that I have found him upon my knees. The Lord was not in the ivind, neither in the earthquake, nor in the Jire, but irt smalt voice.
“ About.this time I thought with myself to join with some church. 1 wished to give every thing up for the glory of God', to give up my whole soul to him, to do with* me as he pleaseth. I made known these things to the Rev. Mr. H. and he thought it would be better for me to make a profession of religion. He wished me to go and see the Rev. Mr. M. and the. people whom I have been acquainted with, and talk the matter over with them; for X longed to be.
I therefore went nml conversed with my good friend and father l\l* concerning* my case. AH the matter seemed to him well; He wished me to come over on the next Sabbath and attend my examination. X staid -at Goshen until the approaching of the Sabbath which was appointed, and then went over to Torringford. X thought while X was travelling, that 1 was going home to iNew Jerusalem - to the welcome gate.
As l walked along X repeated these words, s< IV turn have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire besides Mee.” X was received into the church of Christ in Torringford, on the ninth day of April, in the year 1815. The following is the text which the Rev. Mr. M. preached.iron: *» I will b> ng.ihe blind by a way that they, Knew not; I will lead than in paths that they have not known.”
more than a year, and was treated with the most affectionate and kindest treatment. I was now taken under the care of the Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, with a view to my future employment to be as a missionary to my poor countrymen _ who are yet living in region and shadow of death — without knowledge of the true God and ignorant of the future world— -have no Bible to read— no Sabbath— and all these things are unknown to them. With them I feel and expected to spend the remaining part of my days in the service of our glorious Redeemer, if the Almightv should spare my life, i often feel for them in the night season concerning the loss of their souls, and wish many times to be among them before I am fit to come to them— for 1 long to see them. O that the Lord would pluck them from the everlasting burning! and that the Lord may be their God and may they be his people — and be' made partakers of Uie inheritance of the saints in light. O what a happy time I have now, while my poor friends and relations at home are perishing with hunger, and thirsty, wanting of Divine mercy and water out of the well of salvation. -May the Lord Jesus dwell in my heart and prepare me to go and spend the remaining part of my life with them. But not my will, O Lord, but ihy will be done. May J live with them as a stranger and pilgrim upon the earth as long as I live*: and spend and be spent in the service of tlfe Redeemer. May the Lord teach me to live in his fear, to do his will and to live devoted to his service.”
business when at first time I set out from home— only a boy’s notion. Because I have no lather and no mother, I therefore thought of it, I must go and see the world, and* see what I can find. I never heard any thing about Jesus, and heaven, and hell. Well, after I heard about these things, I heard that Jesus was the Son of God, and that he has came into the world to save sinners; the evil spirit then coming into my mind, and said that there was none neither heaven nor h.ell. i could not believe it. Sometimes when some good people talked with me on this subject, I was but just hate to hear it.
“ * hope that you and I may meet, though at present unknown to each* other, in the eternal Avorld; w here many come from the cast and from the wjest, and from the north and from the south, and sit down together in the kingdom of Christ But PdoVometimes think often that I shall never see that holy and happy world. I am \ery afraid, because [ was a' great enemy to God, and have fought against his grace and his loving-kindness towards me.
“Oh! my dear friend, do not forget to pri)y fpr me before our heavenly Father, when you are alone. Pray for me, and lor my poov. < - vestrymen, and for others, that we may tpe from the wrath to come..Those that have been faithful to the
Lord Jesus Christ, the same shall he saved; and those that have done evil shall coine to the resurrection of damnation.
« There is no great consequence wherever we may he called, if we only keep our hearts right before God. We are under peculiar obligation to consecrate ourselves wholly to the glory of God. But we know that our deceitful hearts are apt to run down, even as a clock or watch is. A good clock will keep good time by winding it up; but if we don’t, it certainly will run down. For « this people,” said our Saviour, “ draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoreth me with their lips, but, their heart is far from me.” My wicked heart lias been just as those clocks which run down very often. But I hope I love the Lord Jesus Christ. I am willing to give up every thing, both my soul and body, for time and eternity. God can do all this. “I can do all things,” said the apostle, “ through Christ,” &c.
« My dear friend, do not forget to pray for William — pray that he may ever have joy in the holy presence of God, and may lie be made a good soldier of the cross of Christ. There is reason to hope that his heart will be changed, for God will have mercy on whom he will. I wish that he could live with me, so that I could do all what I can for him. God* in his holy providence, has brought him and me from the heathen land. Because of the weakness of our faith and our selfishness, the gold and silver are tempting to the soul. O I can sinners expect to walk the golden streets without a perfect heart; or how shall we live with him without being born again.
“ There is no way I can see for sinners but to go to Christ. “ I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man comcth unto Jhe Father but by me,” said the Saviour. “ At that day shall ye know that I am in the Father, and ye in me, and I in you. 1 he Lord Jesus is all ready and waiting for sinners, and inviting them to come to him immediately without delay.
“ May the Lord direct you, and make you a faithful laborer in the Lord’s vineyard.”
“I received your kind letter which came into my hand this day with great pleasure. You desire me to let you know the present state of my feelings. I have no objection, but I have not much to say on this subject. You know when I was at Andover, there 1 was in full concern about my soul, and knew then that I was but a dying worm of the dust, and I knew I was poor sinner. And now I lupe that the Lord Jesus will be my eternal portion, and direct me evermore. I have nothing to do hut to be thankful for all the privileges and blessings which I enjoy. I know that God will have mercy on whom he will — and with such promise, our souls must rest in God.
“ 0 my dear friend, do not cease to pray for me, and for Tennooe, and for the poor ignorant people at Ovvhyiiee: and pray, for the poor people in this country as well as the heathen, for their hearts are not with God, and their ears are much deafer than that of the heathen — when they hear the word of God on every Sabbath, and can read the Holy Scriptures. O may the Lord bless us all with an increase of his grace. 1 hope you will never forget to write to me when you can, and tell me what religious experience you know 1 am ignorant of.
“I want to see you about our Grammar;#
I want to get through with it. I have been translating a few chapters of the Bible into the Owhyhee language. I found I could do it very correctly.
“ I hope that the great God will be gracious to you, and make you a faithful minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. « Walk by faith, and not by sight.’ ”
“ I improve this opportunity to write to you a few lines. When you was up here last, you know that I was quite unwell then. On that account I could not talk much with you when you was speaking on the religious subjects.
“ O my* friend, what is our rule? Is not the word of God, which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament: Certainly it is. But we are apt to hate to put away sins, for they are sweeter than the grace of God.
<kO my dear friend, let us continue in the hope of the glory of our Redeemer, with true hearts, in full assurance of faith. Cease not to pray for the fatherless as I am. O what a wonderful thing it is that the hand of the Divine Providence has brought me here, from that heathenish darkness where the light of.Divine truth never had been. And here have I found the name of the Lord Jesus in the Holy Scriptures; and have read that his blood was shed for many. And I remember his o\Vn words 'which he said, « Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.”
“ Do not forget to mention ms and Tennooe before our heavenly Father when you are alone by yourself, tijat we may not enter into temptation, and that our souls may have rest in God. I hope to hear from you before long.. When, you write to me, if agreeable. to you, L wish you to give me some information of religious experience, & c. and how a Christian feels, be. be. I hope that the Lord will be with you; and may your journey through this vale of tears be sweetened by the precious religion of the blessed Saviour. May He ‘Who is 'rich in mercy, and abundant in grace and goodness, bless you with an increase of: is mercy, and make, you a faithful soldier of the cross of Christ.”
.« “ i doubt not that you have seen some people in this country, as much as 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 years of age, still neglecting religion from year to year: and adding sin to sin as long’as. they live. This •will not do: for God hatlrsaid, “My Spirit shall not always strive with man.” But alas, sin is a lovely friend to a sinner. He ' will not get away from his sins for a thousand worlds. « O,” sinner, « taste and see that the Lord is good,”
“ Do write me a long letter without delay, and tell me how did God appear to you at first, and tell me what is your first object if you should return home,” &c.
March 5, 1816. This evening I attended a conference at the house of Dea. B. It was a very solemn time. Many appeared to be very serious and attentive; though J was in fear it was not so in the heart. Kev. Mr. P. made some observations from these words, *• Why sit we here until we die?” By hearing these words my mind was much concerned, and 1 felt as though I was still enough in my own sin. “ What shall I do?” said l to myself. The answer was. work faithfully with your own heart. With these thoughts coming into my mind, I found peace and joy. O that I might understand the work of my own heart.
. 6. I have just now been thinking of the prophet Elijah: how he prayed to his God, when he went up to the top of the Mount Carmel, and how he put his face between his knees and* prayed to the God of Heaven. O, how much better it is to spend time now in such a way of praying, than to wait until the time of prayer may be over. What should hinder the heart from being busy in prayer to God secretly, while the hands are full of any business whatever?
. 8. This day is very dark. My mind has been quite down by reason of my barrenness. But Christ lias appeared as “ chiefest among ten thousand, and altogether lovely.” In Christ have 1 found the light of comfort and joy. Whatever joy and comfort I receive from God, my heart is bound up with thanks; but at the other time I become forgetful; as if 1 was carrying away by my own sin, as far as where it was not to be remembered what God had done for my soul.
. 9. I have had this morning a solemn visit from two joung gentlemen* (miknown before,) who were of the most pious and amiable characters Their conversations were sweet to my soul. They continued with me in my room during the space of two hours, then we prayed together. — Soon they bid me farewell and went..1 then returned into my retirement and oflfered up thanks to God for such serious and solemn conversation. I prayed with a free and thankful heart. 0 what a glorious time it was! 1 never prayed to God with so full view of God’s goodness as 1 did then. It seemed as if God was teaching my wicked heart how to pray. I felt so easy that I could not help crying, Lord, Lord, increase my faith. ] continued thus for several days, then that dark hour came on; though not very dark, for I had a little spark of light — and that spark of light was given for an answer to such secret prayer as I offered up to God in my heart. O that I might continually watch in my heart that I may not enter into temptation and snare of the Devil.
hear many glorious news from almost every quarter and town in the state, that many sinners were brought to bow to Jesus, and many were enquiring for what they should do to be saved.
. 19* I attended this evening a very solemn meeting as ever I attended. A sermon was preached by the Rev Mr. H. from these words: “ The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit,” kc. Many appeared with a thoughtful and serious look But O, may they not be as those hearers who hear the words, and after all hide them from their hearts, as I do fear there are many.
No doubt but many young people attend frequently such meetings, for the purpose of seeing others: their looks, dress, &c. by these their minds are drawn away.
O how many thoughtless and careless are there in the world I Sinners,
« You live devoid of peace,
A thousand stings within your breast.
Deprive your souls of ease.”
. 23. This morning my friend Thomas come to me with a sad countenance, and wished that we might pray together in our own language. I told him that I had no objection— that I would willingly do it.— We then prayed. to that Almighty God who was aide to help us; and I believe that our prayers were graciously answered. Wo offered up two prayers in our tongue — the first time that we ever prayed in this manner. And the Lord was with us.
April 1. This evening my friend Thomas and myself conversed about what we would do first at our return to our own country; and how we should begin to teach our poor brethren about the religion of Jesus Christ, #c.: and many other kinds of conversation that we thought of. And we both thought that we must first go to the King; or else we must keep a school to educate the children, and get them to have some knowledge of the Scriptures, and then we must give to them some idea ol God. But these thoughts seemed to be blind on some accounts— not knowing how to do better without God's direction. The most thought that come to my mind, was to leave all in the hand of the Almighty God as he seeth fit. The means may easily be done by us, and all other duties which God commands, but to make all others believe in the reality of religion, no one could do it, to open blind eyes of sinners, but God only. He is able i( to bring the blind by a way that they know not, and he will lead them m paths which they have not known.”
...... 2. As I was just rising up this morning and looked out of my bed room’s window, I saw the sun rising in the east, (Sabbath) and 1 wondered that my life should be kept so safely during the nig! it past, and that I was brought to see another day of the Son of man. As soon as I went to bed my eyes were wide open during the whole night. I thought how many unready lives were taken before the morning comes. This made my heart cry, Lord, Prepare me, prepare me for death. I spent the greater part of the night in secret pray* ers in my bed, and found sweet communion with my God. « Commune with your own heart upon your bed and be still.” 0 that the grace of God may be sufficient for me! Lord, fill my hungry soul with spiritual food.
. 3. This day I set apart for secret prayer, and the Lord was graciously with me, and lias given me. some spirit to pray. It seemed as if I could not enjoy myself better in any worldly conversations thnn I did in prayer, i can say as I trust, that the spirit of God has been with me this d v. God appears to begracious and lovely. Holy them art, 0 Lord God of Hosts! O Lord, look down with a pitying eye upon t his thy servant, whom thou hast brought from a heathen land! Be gracious to all the rest of niy heathen brethren who are now in this country. Do now, 0 Lord, hear my call. Let not the Lord remember former sins which were known t< thee.
. 7. This afternoon I attended the funeral of an aged person. Many people attended, and many tears were shed upon almost every cheek for the loss of their friend. But O weepers, weep for yourselves, (he was a friend of Christ it is hoped) for he has gone in peace.
f thought with great astonishment how little idea we have of death and eternity. Who can stop the approaching of death? May the Lord teach me to know the number of my days! Oh! that the everlasting arm may raise my soul from deepest hell; and direct my step toward the peaceful shore of blessed Eternity!
...... 9. To-day is my first year since I made a profession of religion. I set apart this day for prayer, and retur ned thanks to Cod for his wonderful grace and kindness towards me as a lost sinner. Though how little have I done towards him! how little have I done for his glory! Shall I live to see the end of another year? Lord, increase my faith.
. 12. To-day the Lord turned me to look into my heart, to see whether there be any holiness in me. But I found nothing but “ wounds and bruises and putrifying sores.” I saw my sins were very great, and never were known before. 1 had seen my own sin before, but the Lord never shew me so much as I recollect, to make the soul sink in deep sorrow for sin, as he did this day. But it was my own blindness too. When I considered my former life, and looked into it, nothing but a heavy bundle of sin was upon me. I pray the Lord that he may not remember my past sin. 0 may not the God of Isaac and Jac: b hide from the tears of such dying sinner as L
I enjoyed myself much this day in fasting, prayer, and supplication.
. 44 1 have been thinking this day to know what is the state of man; whether they are pure from all sin: — for last eve- iiing T had a dispute with a young man. —. He asked in*1 whether I do believe that we sin by words, thoughts and deeds. I answered him Yes Certainly we do, unless we take heed to our ways — as David speaks for himself in.Ps, 39. “ 0 mortal man,” says he,
“do we then always sin?” Yes, 1 answered. The Apostle speaks, “ If we say we have no sin we deceive ourselves.”
O how many wTays that a creature can he deceived!
. 15. 1 attended a prayer meeting this afternoon and a number have been examined to be brought forward to the Church. 1 have thong:t a great deal this day about my unfaithfulness and ban* nncss since I made a profession of religion: — how my wicked heart has turned away from trod in a most evil and unkind manner. But when I consider that I sin against my Maker, I always feel sorry; and all sins which I commit raise my tears from my eyes: as I have this afternoon been weeping very deeply because of my sins. Many times I am apt to fall into sin; but if God hears my crying for forgiveness, I shall still live devoted to him. Is there any thing that we can be cleansed by from our sins but the blood of the Lamb of God? No in no wise.
. 21. O what a solemn meeting to- day at the house of Dea. B. It was a serious and joyful time. It seemed to me that the Lord was with us. I took notice that almost every person in the room appeared very joyful. Many persons kept their heads downwards with tears on their faces. We had then neither sermon nor any discourse delivered, but many prayers were offered up for those who were rolling sin as a sweet morsel under their tongue. A number of pious men tried to speak, but they could not. For the fear of the Lord had fell upon them, that they could not finish their discourse, but to weep. O how myself felt then. 1 saw that it was the Lord’s work, who hath power to make sinners feel, and to shew himself that he is God alone. O that the Lord may carry on his work!
May 5. This day I have attended the sacrament of the Lord’s supper. I felt guiN ty of my unfruitfulness, and had but little faith in him whose blood is drink indeed and whose flesh is meat indeed. I could not help weeping whilst the minister addressed those w'ho were to be admitted into the Church — warning them to be faithful. On account of this warning I could not put a stop to my weeping eye— For I felt that I had had a stupid and cold heart, wanting of divine grace.
. 8. I have been reading this morning the history of pious women, and I was very much pleased to see and to know how Christians feel. Their employment every day was to address their heavenly Father in secret, and to read some portion of the holy Scriptures.
exercise at the distance of two or three miles. On my way home I met an aged man, unknown before, who I judge to be about sixty years of age. He was travelling on the same way that l was, and I thought in myself that I would take this opportunity to converse with him upon religious subjects: as it was my duty, (and as I have done with many other unacquainted persons before.) As we were walking, 44 What had going is this!” said he, 44 l have never known such time as this.” With this observation I spoke thus — Ought we not to be thankful to our Maker for such a season as this, as well as we do for the finest weather? 44 O yes, Sir,
I think we ought to,” says he, 44 though I do not feel thankful as 1 ought.” With this saying, I then asked him to know whether he was one that was born again of the Holy Spirit. To which he replied, 44 O
I hope so; though 1 was one of the sheep that was almost gone, forever lost, yet 1 hope that 1 am found/’ I asked him whether lie ever met with any difficulty or trouble in his mind. He answered, “ 0 yes, great deal; but when 1 meet with any trouble, I wish' to be alone, and pray to God, and ask J i n for sucii comfort as 1 need. Before I was brought into lig it 1 thought many times that the religion of Jesus, was hard thing to seek for— but it was nothing else but my own wicked heart. When i came to it in mv own heart, i found no holiness at all, but all manner of evils are lodged in it.”
Soon we parted from each ot.er, and we both wished to he remembered in our prayers.
June 1. This morning I have been walking out for some secret duty. As l walked through tfie field alone, lo! 1 heard the sweet songs of many birds, singing among toe branches; for it was a beautiful Sabbath morning. While l thus hearked, this part of a Psalm came into my soul very sweetly —
“ Sweet is the mem’ry of thy grace,
My God, my heavenly King.
Let age to age thy righteousness,
In sound ot glory sing,*'
I thought of Christians as soon as 1 heard these birds tuning their joyful songs around the tree. Christians as soon as they leave their fleshly songs, with their bodies, in the silent tomb, will be at rest beyond all pain, death, sorrow and trouble; and come around their King of glory, and tune their golden harps to Immanuel’s praise; And then say one to another,
u Come let our voices join to raise,
A sacred song of solemn praise,” kc.
. £6* This evening I attended some serious exercises of prayer with a few young men of pious character. Five pious young men came to our room for this purpose. They appeared to be very much engaged in the cause of the great Redeemer. M e spent onr time in solemn prayer for two or three hours. I found comfort myself easy in every duty which i was commanded by my God to do.
. 23. I was visited this morning by a pious and good Rev* Mr. H. of L. who instructed me in a most affectionate and tender manner; and has given me some of the clearest views of Christian character, such as 1 needed.
i was intreated by this friend of Christ concerning my future happiness, and was warned to live above this wdrld with humble and tender heart. But O who can know my own unfruitfulness and vilencss, but He who “ searchetli the heart and trieth the reins of the children of men*” I felt in my own heart that I needed the teaching of all the people of God. Many times I have thought of myself being deceived, because many evil thoughts come into my mind and put me out of the right way; but in my secret prayers I have always found happy rest to my poor and immortal soul, as if 1 was in the right path. O that the Lord Jesus, who doth « bring the blind by a way that they know not” may be the director of such blind as 1.
. 24. We have heard to-day much good news from every quarter of the country. A work of grace has been begun in many places, and there are hundreds of hopeful converts, or newly born by the influences of the Holy Spirit. O how great and how wonderful is the arm of the Lord! reading forth his hand toward sinners, ami kindly taking them in his bosom of love. But are there not many sinners yet in the gall of bitterness and in bonds of iniquity, rejecting the free offer of salvation? Are not many opposers yet set against the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ? O when slf.:il these never-dying s< Is find rest I It is very strange to me that so many careless and stupid sinners never think or have any concern for the worth of their immortal souls. O Lord, I intreat thee to look down with compassion upon such dying sinners as are here in this land of th Gospel light! O save them, 0 Lord God of Hosts, save them! Glorify the riches of thy free grace in making them the heirs of thy holy kingdom. O glorious Jesus, thou son of the Most High, have mercy on the neverdying souls of men. Thou canst do the helpless sinner good; for all homage, honour, glory, and worship are due to thee; the true promised Messiah and Redeemer of the world. Thou canst work among sinners, and none can hinder thee. O Lord save us or we perish. I am a sinner as well as other; I feel myself an unfruitful creature; and yet I choose the Lord Jesus for my everlasting portion. I have nothing of my own to recommend myself to his holy favour. All the present that I can make unto Jesus is myself. He seeks not mine, but me only.
prayer meeting, and enjoyed great comfort to my soul. I thought how Christians all agree in their feelings toward each other, in lovely manner. I once thought while we were in the room, in such a little circle and enjoyed ourselves in conversing alter the manner of the flesh? how much happiness will be found at the great court of the Almighty, when all the children of God are gathered together, from the East and the West, and are set down in the kingdom of Heaven. What a happy time w ill it be for Christians!
July 3. My health being weak, I get out to walk, and at the place to which I caine, 1 found a sick woman lying upon a sick bed. She had been in that case for p^ht years. When she heard of my beng m the house she wished to see me. I conversed with her concerning her case; and though she was weak in her body and mind she could answer whatever question i put to her. I asked her whether she was willing to leave this world of sin, and to be present with her lovely Jesus. She replied " 0 1 1 Shall reach that peaceful shore where I shall have neither sickness nor pain, as I have now.” Before 1 was about to leave her, she wished me to pray with her, and this was done. She took hold of my hand and begged me to remember her, thus — O my friend, do not lorget me in your prayers, and if I do not see you again in this life, 1 shall in better life than this.”
.... 17, I have just returned from a visit to my friends. As I was walking through the woods I came to a house which stood at some distance from the town. As soon as I was come near the house, I found an old grey-headed man, next to the road hoeing corn. I saw he was very aged man, and I thought it was my duty to converse with him. 1 stood by the fence and asked him how he did. He answered, *< Well.” I asked him whether he was well within also. But he did not understand what I mean. (This old man was about ninety years of age, and had been living without hope and without God in the world) Immediately I went to the old man, and spoke to him in a friendly manner, thus — My friend, said I to him, you are a stranger to me, and I unto you; and I see that your head is full of grey hairs, and no doubt your days will soon be over. “ I know that,” said the aged man, « so every one has got to be as I am.” Well, said I, what do you think of the great day of judgment? are you ready for that day? “ 0,1 don’t know,” said he, 66 I do sometimes think that I am too far off for that day.” Why do you not now begin to make your peace with God, before death overtake you? said I to the old man; repent and believe in the
Son of God. Eat the old man seemed to he very careless and stupid. I talked to him but lie kept hoeing his corn; and I followed him to the end of the field, pursuing mv discourse. But he seemed to be unwilling to hear me any further, and I returned thanks to the Almighty God for the opportunity which I had with this poor old man. and bid him farewell.
babbath afternoon, August 5> To-day I felt more anxious for prayer than 1 ever did. After I returned from meeting, I entered in my retirement, where I always find comfort and joy in my secret prayer and supplications before the great Jehovah. I now wished to see my friend Thomas, wno lived a little apart from me, and 1 set out to meet together in prayer for our own good. I went and found him reading the Bible. I urged him to go up to bis room with me and be there a little while; and we took a Bible and went up. We spent some tmie together m prayer till the sun was down. O how good and pleasant it is ror brethren to dwell together in unity/*
ZG b°.th1 lmtZa in Payers, two of each. Ye m*d ^ Godfop help in the language of good old David, “ Search us. O God and know our hearts, and try us and know our thoughts, and see if there be any wick- cd way in us, and lead us in the way everlasting.” May the Lord be pleased to lead us both in the right way, and not in the « way which seemeth right unto a man. but the end thereof are the ways of death.” We cried to God further, that he would teach us his way, in order to walk in his truth; and to unite our hearts both to fear his holy name.
I told my friend Thomas how I felt that day, and how much I longed to he with him together in prayer for our poor countrymen, as well as for ourselves. We both wished to have our little meeting kept up until wc should be separated far from each other. We wished to have no one know it, but to look to God whenever we both come together.
“ Ho! every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come, buy wine and milk without money and without price,” —,[sa. lv.
*£ Except a man be born again, lie cannot see the kingdom of God.”— —John iii.
“ Not ev^ry one that saith unto me, Lord! Lord! shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.”— Mat. vii.
“ Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my Gospel.”— 2 Tim. ii.
" Young men likewise exhort to be soberminded.” — Tit. ii.
“ 0 magnify the Lord with me, and let us
exalt his name together.” - Psalm
xxxiv.
But speak thou the things that become sound doctrine.”— Tit. ii.
“ Only let your conversation be such asbecometh the Gospel of Christ.” _ Phil, i
“ 0 that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men.”— Psalm evii.
** Keep thy heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life.” _ Prov iv
‘ l must work the works of him that* sent me while it is day: the night cometh m which no man can work.”—.John ixe
“ And they went out and preached every where that men should repent.”-Mark vi.
« He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.” ► — Matt. xi.
“Your letter I have received, dated the tenth of September. It was with great pleasure. I shall take your advice in the all-important things which belong to me to attend to as a professor of religion. I know the eyes of the Lord are upon me day and night, and beholding all my wicked actions and motions in every thing which I do. O that the Lord would be my help? Am I yet in the gall of bitterness and in the bonds of iniquity? I neither do justly, nor love mercy as much as T ought, nor walk humbly with my God.
“ The work of grace in the town ot S. is still going on very powerfully. By the
3ast account which I Iiave heard, about one hundred and forty are in a hopeful state. They are now rejoicing in the hope of the glory of God. And many others are enquiring the way to Zion, crying, “ Men and brethren, what shall we do?” In this place also, many are in deepest concern about their souls. 0 where have sinners been so long since they had discovered the name of the Saviour, who was crucified upon the cross, and yet they have not come to him until now? They have known their Master’s will, but they have not done it. They are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge. O wretched sinncrs will you come to the foot of the cross at this very moment, and ask forgiveness of sins? Hark and hear the voice' of him that knocketh at the door of everv sinner’s heart! “ Behold 1 stand at the door,” &c. Christ the Saviour is knocking, saying, “ °Pcn to me my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled, for my head is filled with dew, and my locks with the drops of the mght.” 1 cannot help weeping. My tears are running down for joy to hear and see sinners flocking to the Almighty Jehovah, u that all sinners may come to Christ f
' Stop, poor sinners, stop and think,
Before you farther go!
Will you spoil upon the brink Of everlasting wo?”
“ O that we may stop and think where we are, and upon what ground we are standing, whether it be holy or whether it be unholy, or whether it be our duty to do the will of God or not. We now live here upon this earth, and how long we shall live we know not. Death will soon overtake us, for we are not far from it. My dear friend, I entreat you to be much engaged in prayer for thoughtless and stupid sinners, both in this country as well as in other.
« I would thank you to present my humble respects to all your family. I hope I shall see them, though at present unknown to each other, in the^eternal world; if I do not in this present world. May God be gracious to you all. Remember me in your sweet sacrifice of prayer before our Heavenly Father.
Your affectionate friend.”
“Having received yonr most kind and affectionate letter a few days ago, it much satisfied me. Notwithstanding that you are ever so far from me, yeti expect to me, t you at the bar of God. O howr glad am I to hear from you Ephraim. 1 am glad to hear that your mind has been more engaged in regard to the subject of religion, than when we lived together. If it is so. my friend, that you have such thoughts in your mind, 1 urge you to be careful, for if is an awful tiling to be deceived. Set your heart toward Christ,, and in him you may find help. Our sins are very great and roach over our heads, and there 'is nothing wmen can make them smaller or stop them, but the precious blood of the Lamb of God. who has all power to take away sin from the world. The Lord Jesus expressed him self thus— « I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.”
“ You mentioned in your letter that the religion of Jesus Christ is glorious privj- lege. 0 my friend, it is so. We can say or think that his religion is a very important thing, if any one should have it, but we are not willing to seek for it. If the Lord has been pleased to operate on your mind by the influences of Ids Holy Spirit, as you trust he has, i hope the Lord will still continue his work in you through life. But let me entreat you to put your whole trust in God; make him sure as your own friend, and above all, give yourself entirely into the hands of your Saviour; who came to seek and to save that which was lost. When you write to me let me know all about your feelings. I long to sec you, my friend, and all your father’s familyr. I remember all your father and mother’s kindness while I was with them; though I am in fear that I do not feel thankful enough to God for it.
“ if you should ever come to Connecticut do (afe some pains to find me where I am, for I long to see you with brotherly love.
“ I would desire your solemn prayer before your heavenly Father for
Your affectionate friend.5’
« 1 hope you will not think it strange that such an one as I should write to you; for 1 am full of concern for the souls of others. O that the Lord would direct you in the right path — May the Lord teach me what I ought to write this day. I have heard that your, sickness is still continuing. But O, how is it with you now? Look now, my dear Elijah, and see whether you are prepared or unprepared, or whether you are fit to die or unfit — whether you are the Lord’s or not. 0 my friend, consider how many are there who have been wheeled down to endless torments, in the chariots of earthly pleasures; while others have been whipped to Heaven by the rod -of affliction. 0 how good had it been for some of them if they had never known the way of life by the crucified Saviour. We have great reason to tremble when the Holy- Scripture teaches us that few shall be saved. Much more when it tells us, that of that rank of which we are, but few shall he saved: for it is written, “ Many are called, but few chosen.” I often think of you, my dear friend Elijah, since I heard of your sickness. You perhaps sometimes think about dying - and what must be your end— and how you have misimproved your best opportunities, &c. O what a dreadiul thing it is to die in a sinful state! My friend, how do you expect to find joy and peace in Heaven if you should die in your sin? How have you neglected the free offer of salvation, which is offered to you “ without money and without price Haste, O my poor friend, and get up out of your sleep of sin and death, and the Lord Jesus Christ will give you life, comfort, health and strength —.For there is none but Christ can do a helpless sinner good. Now, therefore, my friend, haste to look to Christ with faith, and ask for mercy and forgiveness of your sin. I feel for you, my dear friend, for the worth of your poor and never dying soul. O don't refuse tins lovely and welcome Saviour any longer: — the more yo.u reject him, the more you grow worse; the more you hate him, the greater will be your condemnation. O poor Elijah, choose the meek and lowly Jesus for your everlasting portion. Consider the danger in which you now live upon the brink of everlasting woe. Your sickness, I fear, will take you away from the world into a solemn and silent grave. O Elijah, Elijah W. where are you? Are you willing to leave this world of sin and death and be at rest? Are you willing to die now? In time of sickness we ought to keep our hearts right towards God, in order to be cheerfully willing to die. For “ death is harmless to tiie people of God.” — The righteous hath hope in his death, but the wicked is driven away in his wickedness.” Follow not, my dear friend, after the example of mankind, but after Christ’s— make no kind of excuse, turn unto God and live. Be not offended because i have taken this opportunity to write to you in such a manner. Let all be taken into serious consideration. It cannot hurt you tny earthly friend. And it may keep your heart from shrinking hack to consider that death is necessary to fit you for the full enjoyment of God. Whether you are willing to die or not, there certainly is no other way to complete the happiness of your soul. The happiness of the eternal world of heaven commences immediately after death. Now can you, my dear Elijah, say, “ I will arise and go to my Father and say, Father 1 have sinned,” &c. O why are you so unwilling to accept the free offer of mercy? And why will you still shut Christ out of the door of your heart; when he still is knocking, and saying, « Open to me my sister, my love,” &c. O poor friend of mine! I do not speak of your being poor in body, but your soul is poor: wanting of the bread of life. This is why I need to speak of your being poor: — for without the love of God in the heart of a man, that man is poor.
“ If you are a friend of Christ, be not afraid of death and eternity; for death cannot hurt you, nor your soul. Why then are you afraid that your sickness is unto death? If you were to die in sin — if death were to reign over you “ as a tyrant — to feed upon you as a lion doth upon Ids prey” — if death were to you to be the prison of hell, then you might reasonably startle and shrink back from it, with horror and dismay. But if your sin has been blotted out of the Book of God’s remembrance; or if the Saviour hath begun his good work in you, why should you be afraid of being taken away from the world? and why not bid welcome to the King of terrors? My dear Elijah, our lives are short, and they like the smoke of the fire, are hastening away.
“ Well if our days must fly,
“ We'll keep their end in sight,” &tc.
“ Remember, my dear Elijah, that I am not the teacher of the heart, nor the judge of it. The Lord Jesus is your teacher — He can make you feel. He can make the blind to see — and the lame to walk— and t’ue sick to be healed— and above all, He can make you and I happy or miserable in eternity. All what 1 have said to you, my friend, will be remembered in the day of God's wrath. You and I shall both render our account to that God who hath made us, at the Day of Judgment, for what deeds we have done in the body. Whether we have done every thing right in the sight of Jehovah, or whether we have not. May the Lord God of Hosts bless you. May Jesus make you faithful unto death, and that you may have at last the crown of life in the eternal world of glory.
“ You, O parents of Elijah, you have the means of doing good to your own souls— to improve your time in the service of God. Where then shall you be after the return - ing of your bodies to the dust — when your bodies shall become food for the worms of the earth?
“ Brothers and sisters of the sick man— Your days will soon be over; and the road upon which you are all riding towards eternity soon will be ended. Remember, 0 my friends, that the eyes of the Lord are upon you all, beholding the evil and the good. Your souls are worth a thousand and million times more than such a world as this. Be careful lest they be lost in the snares ami temptations of Satan: for they arc many and ready to carry away your souls into darkness and despair. O that the Lord would smile upon you in pity and compassion, and save you from eternal death. Look up now, my friends, to Christ — which is jour life.”
“ Our interview yesterday was but short, and our short conversation with each other was sweet to my soul. You requested me to write to you, for which I am now taking my pen to begin our correspondence: not because I am destitute of companions here, but for our everlasting good. There is one of the best friends who is above all earthly friends; even Christ Jesus the Lord. But we are all by nature the greatest and strongest enemies to him. « All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” We are naturally opposers to God, and to the holiness of his nature, and unable to accept of his mercy which is offered to us without money and without price.”
“ I have reason to bless Jesus Christ that he hath wonderfully turned my feet from the path that leadeth down to an endless woe. There is nothing more that I can do for him, for his great and wonderful work in the soul of such an one as I, than to be thankful for all which I now enjoy. But this is not all— « Give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.” _ I hope that the God of all grace has been gracious to you, as he has to me. 0 that we both may rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory here and hereafter. The religion of Jesus which we now have embraced (as we hope we are passed from death unto life) is a strong helper of the soul, to help us on to the peaceful shore.
“ I wish I could express my weak feelings to you, but alas! I cannot. It is a difficult thing to tell you that I love my Maker more than 1 do any thing else. Truly I do not love him enough. I have faith in him but a little — but I am sure I wish to love him more and serve him better than I now d°* 0 what a stupid wretch and hard hearted sinner am I! Why, should I have been spared so long, while many of my fellow mortals are gone over the other side of the gloomy graves; and I am yet on this side of eternity. G where are those now who have gone before me? Remember, my dear friend, that we will soon return to the dust, and leave this world of perplexity and trouble, and all the useless pleasures in it, and be for ever miserable, or happy in the presence of the King of glory. O how happy it will be for Christian souls to meet together and uniting their hearts in love at that time.
When shall I reach that happy place,
And he for ever blest?
When shall I see my Father’s face,
And in his bosom rest?”
“ It is no matter however long or short the lives of Christians are, if their besfmoments are well improved, in order to meet their lovely Jesus in peace whenever they are called for. Let us live, my dear friend, as a stranger, and pilgrims < n earth — let us feel lively in the faith of the Son of God — let us both seek for a better country than this — let us be faithful and humble believers of Jesus. 1 think I can truly say to my Lord, Lord my body and soul an* in thine hands, do with them according to thy holy will. Thy will be done and not mine. The happiness of this world is nothing but a dream. It will soon pass away as the wind that blowcth. We must give up all for Heaven, lest we perish at the presence of the Judge. The best present that we ought to make to Christ, is to give our whole hearts to him — and not “gold and frankincense and myrrh,” as wise men of the East did.
“ Ho remember, my friend, those that are around you whose sins are unpardoned. Do pray for them. Remember my poor countrymen, who know not the way of life by a Redeemer. Do not forget to pray for your affectionate friend,
“ 1 lonS to see you all. You may perhaps be glad to hear from me, and to know how I am. I hope you are doing well, both in your studies, and your religious exercises of the morning and the evening, which is the duty of prayer.
I have seen one of our own countrymen at Enfield, about nine miles from this place. He has been in that place for ten years, and two years at Boston. Thus, he continued in this country just twelve years. He did come from Owhyhce and also his native place was Knihi, (well known such place.) From that place Capt. John took him on hoard the ship, and brought him over here, when he was not but fourteen years of age. His native name was JNablemah-hownah. Since I saw him I could converse with him hut little, for he has lost the greatest part of our language. But he could recollect the names of many things, as tar as he was able to describe them to me. While I was with him he could not keep ],is eyes away from me for wonder and gladness, to see such an one who came from liis own country. I staid with him two days at Enfield not Iona; since. I s pended the whoje of my time with him while I was there. The first that I did, I took him by my side, to converse with him upon serious subjects. Bj his own words I judged him to be as one who was willing to accept of the free offer of mercy, though 1 fear he may in a time of temptation fall away, and all that which is sown in the heart. O my dear brethren and friends, lie needed your prayers. Pray for him, that he may be brought to see the goodness of the Lord, and that he may be faithful to his own soul. Do not delay your prayers to the Almighty God for such an one, that is very dear to you. He now feels as though he was one of the greatest sinners that ever lived. Do you not all feel anxious for the soul of your own countryman, here now in this country? O that he may devote himself to the service of his Creator! I observed many times while I prayed with him, lie would deeply cry with such a dismal gloomy, as if the wrath of -tlie Almighty was upon him. I have heard last Sabbath noon, by a man who was well known to him, that this young man becomes more thoughtful ever since I come away. If this be the case, I would humbly beg at the mercy seat for your prayers, that they may not be hindered. I shall see him again before a long time. He longs to see you,
May God be with you all.”
“ I take my pen to embrace this opportunity in writing. Indeed, on this very day l received a most affectionate letter; and when I come to unseal it, lo! it was from my dear beloved friend, Mr. S. W.! How, or what an answer can I give for it? My dear friend, I received your letter with a thankful heart. I rejoice to hear that you have still a lively thought concerning the great things of eternity. O that our thoughts and hearts may he united together in the fear of God, and in love of the Lord Jesus — whom you spoke well of. Indeed, my dearest friend, we are in a great debt, both to God and to his Son Jesus Christ. We have owed them ten thousands of talents! and alas! how would we repay for all? Notwithstanding the greatness of our due to God for all his goodness and kindness towards us, yet we can repay it, by giving up ourselves to him: for lie does not wish for ours, but us: for thus it is written, “My son give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways.” Your observations which you observed in this your letter, are just as the thoughts of a true and humble believer in God — and as one that fears God. Surely it is as you say, that the supreme love and affection must we give to him, who is the Lord over all and blessed for ever. Pray that these thoughts may not be mislaid in our hearts.
“ Since I received your letter, my companions had the curiosity for knowing the person from whom the letter was sent. I told them from one of my friends at the place where I was kindly treated by them. They were very much pleased with the letter — supposed that you was a friend of Christ, and a true believer in God, by what you spoke well, both of Christ and his character. To whom I answered that I had a strong love for you, and hope that you may be a fellow-traveller through the journey of this wilderness world. 6 that we both may meet in the presence of God in the eternal world above, where sin will never enter there. Let us not neglect the duty which we owe to God to love him with our hearts, souls and strength— and let us pray without censing.
“ With this I must leave you, my dear friend, in the hand of God. Look to him to receive instruction and to know his holy character.”
“ Your letter of late gave me a great satisfaction, And since I have received it, I do now think that I was in a fault for not giving you an answer for it sooner; hut be so kind as excuse me. You know not what joy and pleasure I had since I received your letter. O what happy news! It gives me a suitable joy to hear that the Lord has visited Amherst once more, with the influences of his Holy Spirit, and that he has already plucked as brands from the burning, some of those who once had been destitute of the Grace of God, and yet are now bowing down to the sceptre of King Jesus. O that the professed followers of the meek and lowly Jesus, be more and more lively in this most glorious work of our blessed Redeemer. Let every Christian be more and more deep sensible that the glory of every good work here below must come from God; as we read that he is the giver of every good gift, and every perfect gift is from above. AVe cannot expect to see a single soul comingoutof the kingdon of Satan, into the kingdom of Christ, unless we see one or more faithful and humble Christians, running forward in spirit without any least of doubt, nor fail from doing whatever duty God required of them. 6 let us all entreat of the Lord that he would show unto us of his holy character a perfection, that we may be able to love and to serve him more and far better than we now do. Let us have a more realizing sense of our ingratitude and unfruitfulness in the eyes of the all-seeing God; let us be faithful in our duty, and may the great grace of God be sufficient for us all.
<# I have not heard any news since I came away from Amherst. The only information that I can give is the present situation of this Institution, under which we are placed. Our school is going on very regularly, and the scholars are making some progress in ther studies. One of our members is become a born in Christ, since he has been here, and 1 trust there is no small degree of happiness. He is now rejoicing in the hope of the glory of God. O that the Lord would be pleased to bless this school I humbly beg of your prayers for this school, that each member of it may become a member of the household of God. Please to remember me to Mr. and Mrs. P and family^ Tell Mr. P. that I shall write to him as soon as I can, but 1 dare not make any promise to set a time when.