Life and Journals of Kah-ke-wa-quo-nā-by/Chapter XI
| CHAPTER XI. |
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AFTER breakfast I went to Surrey Chapel and heard the Rev. Rowland Hill preach from these words, “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom:” Psalm 90. The congregation was large and very attentive. After the sermon, I was introduced to the Rev. R. Hill, who requested that I would dine with him; with which I complied, and spent two or three hours with him to my great satisfaction. I was much pleased to see in this aged and devoted servant of God, the testimony of a good conscience, and his spirit seemingly just hovering on the verge of immortality and eternal life. His conversation was of a truth in heaven. Many of his remarks were very serious. On speaking of the shortness of this life, he said,! “I am now in my eighty-eighth year: few and evil have been my days. When I laid the first foundation of this (Surrey) chapel, about fifty years ago, it seems only like yesterday. My greatest object now, is to end well, and to enter into immortality.” His mind appeared to be much concerned for the poor deluded Papists in Ireland. He also deplored the wickedness of the English, who profess Christianity in theory, but deny the Lord in their works. Speaking on the subject of singing in public worship, he remarked, “I like the plan of the whole congregation joining in singing with the organ; but I do not like the method used in some chapels of having a few paltry trumpeters stuck up in the gallery.” He advised me to speak in my own way this evening in his chapel, and said, “You see how I speak to them — we don't care about fine preaching — what we want is plain speaking, such as will reach the heart.” After dinner I walked up to Mr. Field's, in Lambeth, to tea. At 6 o'clock in the evening service began in Surrey Chapel. The Church Prayers are regularly read in this chapel. Before I went up into the pulpit, some consultation took place whether I should put on the robes or gown or not, to preach in. I rather declined, and told them that if it could be dispensed with, I should rather preach in my usual dress. The matter was then referred to Mr. Hill, who replied and said, “Never mind about the robes, let him preach in his own way.” I endeavoured to preach to them from Mark xvi. 15. The congregation was very large, and upon the whole very attentive. The organ in this chapel makes a tremendous noise, and fairly jarred the pulpit. At the conclusion of this meeting, the Rev. gentleman of this place, thanked me for my discourse. It is said that I am the first Methodist preacher that ever mounted the Rev. gentleman's pulpit. — Sunday, January 1st. 1832.
Monday 2nd. — At 11 o'clock I went and preached in a school in Thomas street, Kennington Commons, to a crowded audience, from Daniel xii. 3. The people paid good attention, and I felt that the word had taken effect upon some poor sinners. A collection was made for the Sunday School belonging to this place, to the amount of £6 10s. After the services were all concluded, the Rev. Mr. Storey asked me some questions about the Indian schools in Upper Canada; by what means they were supported, &c. Mr. S. then proposed to the congregation that he would stand with the plate at the door, and receive what they might give for the Indian schools, and which they must consider as a New Year's gift. To my astonishment Brother Storey collected the sum of £8, so that the leavings amounted to more than the first gatherings.
Wednesday 4th. — Employed in translating. In the evening I went to the Religious Tract Society, and called at Mr. Bagsters, in Paternoster Row, to tea. This gentleman made me a present of one of his Comprehensive Bibles, which, I believe, was principally arranged in its marginal references by my friend the late Mr. W. Greenfield, and on this account I shall more highly value the gift. Mr. Davies, of the Religious Tract Society, also presented me with a fine edition of the well known Pilgrim's Progress.
Sunday 8th. — In the afternoon I went to a Covenant meeting in Poplar chapel, and heard for the first time the covenant service performed. The Rev. W. Atherton officiated.
Thursday 12th. — I received information of an article inserted in the York Courier, by Mr. G — , stating that I was practising impositions on the English Methodists, by pretending that I was an Indian Chief, when I was not an Indian Chief, nor even an Indian at all; and then cast a most severe reflection upon my father's family. All this was done evidently to injure the Methodist Society in Canada. I found a reply in the Guardian, which refuted the Courier.
Thursday 19th. — Spent part of the day in translating, and in the evening went to tea at Mr. Jones, in company with Mr. Drew and the Misses Morleys. Mr. Drew entertained us with a very interesting account of the first setting out of Dr. Adam Clarke to acquire the languages. Mr. D. being in company with the Doctor one day, asked him what first induced him to acquire the dead languages. The Doctor then proceeded to relate, that he was a native of Ireland; that his father lived on a small farm, and kept a school. His father had two sons, of whom he was one. Being poor the father could not afford to have both of his sons at school at the same time, so they used to take it in turns. While his brother was at school, he would be employed on the farm, and when he went to school his brother would be at the farm. The Methodist preachers used to lodge at their house; and one day one of the preachers said to me, “Would you like to go to Kingswood School?” I replied, “Yes.” So the preacher wrote to Mr. Wesley on the subject, and afterwards he, Adam Clarke, received a letter from Mr. Wesley, stating that he might go to Kingswood School, and that his letter would be his introduction to the Governor of the School. Having considered the matter about leaving his parents, he went to his mother and told her that he was going to leave her. His mother asked him where he was going; he told her to Kingswood School. His mother thought he was only joking, and asked him how he would get there. He then shewed her Mr. Wesley's letter, which seemed to surprise his mother, and she said to him, “You have always been a dutiful son; but remember if you go you will positively break the 5th commandment, and the curse of God will follow you wherever you go.” After hearing the reasonings of his mother, he did not know what to do, whether to go or to remain at home; he prayed to the Lord about it, and then he would feel that it was his duty to go, but when he would look at his mother's remonstrance, he would think that he ought to remain at home. But Kingswood School was all the time in his mind, and he could not rest till he gathered up his little budget of clothes, and having found a vessel sailing to Holyhead, he engaged with the Captain for his passage. Before he left his father's, he was in great trouble about how to pay for his passage and expenses to Bristol; he had only enough money to take him across to Holyhead. He however made known his wants to some of his friends, who contributed their mite towards his expenses.
So be went on board of the vessel, and on the passage he talked to some of the passengers about Jesus, which led one of the gentlemen to enter into a long discussion on the subject of the Roman Catholic religion, which the gentleman endeavoured to defend. The Doctor said that he now began to feel as if his mother's words were about to be fulfilled, and the curse of God was going to overtake him before he got across the waters. He felt as if the gentleman would overcome him with his arguments, and that he should not be able to defend the doctrines of the Protestant religion; he, however, prayed and looked to the Lord for help, and he did as well as he could in defending the doctrines of Protestants; and saw a good deal of excitement was felt by all the company. After arguing with the gentleman for about two hours, he reached out his hand and shook me by the hand, and said that he was no more a Catholic than I was, he only had argued with me to know what stuff I was made of. Mr. C. was then so rejoiced when the man shook hands with him that he invited the people to join with him in prayer, and they knelt down and he prayed, and there was a solemn time. So he thought his mother's judgment had not yet overtaken him.
Before they landed the Captain asked him if he had friends at Holyhead, and where he was going; he told him that he knew no one at Holyhead, and would be glad to take the first coach for Bristol. The Captain told him the coach had left, and he would have to wait till the next day. The Captain invited him to his house, and told him to sit in one of the rooms, while he went to see his wife in the next room. By and by, as the Captain and his lady were coming into the room where he was sitting, the Doctor overheard the Captain say to his wife that he had brought a young lad from Ireland, who said one of the most beautiful prayers he ever heard, and thought she would be glad to hear him repeat it. He also told her that the lad seemed to be very poor. They gave him something to eat, and he was about going out to seek for lodgings when the Captain and his lady requested him to sleep there, and it should cost him nothing. Towards bed-time the Captain asked him if he would have the kindness to say the beautiful prayer which he said on board the vessel, for his wife; so he prayed and the lady seemed much affected. When Mr. C. went to enquire about the fare to Bristol, he found that he had not money enough by eight shillings to pay for his fare. Here he began again to think of what his mother said to him. The Captain and lady invited him to stay at their house, and in the evening some other ladies came in, and the Captain again asked him to say the prayer he said the night before, which he did. He stopped at the entreaties of those who had heard him say his beautiful prayer all the next day, and in the evening a much greater number assembled at the Captain's house, who came to hear him say his prayer. He gave them a word of exhortation and prayed with them, and many appeared to be much affected. All this time he did not know what to do about getting on his journey to Bristol. But at this time one of the ladies that had heard him say his prayer came to him and put something into his hand, which he found was some money, to the exact amount of what he was deficient. He now thought again that his mother's words were not yet fulfilled. Before he left the Captain he offered to pay for his lodgings, but they told him they were now indebted for the beautiful prayer he had said for them, and therefore would take nothing from him.
He left Holyhead for Bristol, and it rained all the way, and he got completely wet. When he arrived at Bristol he found that Kingswood School was three or four miles from Bristol, and to get his luggage there was his next difficulty. He left his clothes, however, at the Inn, and set off on foot for Kingswood, hungry and fatigued. He arrived at last at the School and knocked at the door, and asked if the Governor of the School was at home? The servant replied in the affirmative, and told him to wait there; so he stood shivering in the cold for some time, and at last the Governor came out to him and asked him what he wanted. He, Mr. C., told him that he was from Ireland, and was recommended by Mr. Wesley to come to Kingswood School. Here he showed him Mr. W.'s letter. The Governor then replied that they had more boys now than they knew what to do with. Mr. C. again began to think that his mother's denunciations had at last overtaken him. The Governor ordered him down into the kitchen to live with the servants who ridiculed him and called him the Irish boy.
One day while he was walking out in the garden he observed it to be in a shocking state, overgrown with weeds and briars. He asked the Governor if he might be allowed to put the garden into a better order, wishing to be employed about something, as he was not taken into the School. The Governor gave him permission, and he went to work with his spade and turned over the ground. While he was thus engaged in digging, he thought he saw something shining; he took it up and washed it in his mouth, and wiped it with his hand, and found it to be a half guinea. When the Governor came out he told him that he found a piece of gold, and asked him if he had lost such a piece. The Governor said he did not know that he had. Mr. C. told him he was sure he had not lost such a piece, and that the money was not his. The Governor then said that he might have lost it, so he took the money. After a while the Governor came to him and said that he did not feel right about taking the money from him, as he did not know that he had lost it; and as Mr. C. had found it, he begged he would take it. He did so. After wards he called all the boys to him as they were out at play, and asked them if any of them had lost a half guinea. The boys said one after the other that he had not lost any; but by and by one began hesitatingly to say that he had lost some money a good while ago. Mr. C. then said to him the money must be yours, for it is not mine, for he had not lost any money. The boy took the piece, but the next day the same boy came to him in great haste with the half guinea in his hand, and told him that he had dreamed all night about the money, and he would not have it any longer about him, and requested him to take it, which he did; and the boy ran off as if he had got rid of a great burden. It was now reported in the School that the Irish boy was honest, and some notice began to be taken of him.
The Doctor then said to Mr. Drew, “You may now ask what all this had to do with learning the languages, but I will tell you. I took eight shillings of the half guinea, and bought a Hebrew Testament, which I began to study, and this laid the foundation of my studying the languages. The remainder of the half guinea went towards bringing my clothes from Bristol.” By and by it was noised about that Mr. Wesley was coming to see the School. All was now in a bustle, cleaning and putting the things in order. He was now put with the rest of the boys, and Mr. Wesley's letter had its force and weight. Mr. W. came and examined the scholars in the various branches of their study. Mr. W. then asked Mr. - if there was not a lad from Ireland in his School, and he told him there was, and pointed him out. Mr. W. came to him and asked him how he went on. Mr. W. asked him if he ever preached. Mr. C. told him he had not, but had occasionally given exhortations. Mr. W. then put questions to him on various points of Scripture; on the fall of man, the atonement of Christ, justification, &c., which he answered as well as he could. Mr. W. then sat down with his arms folded up and eyes shut, and sat for some time with a heavenly countenance; he then came to Mr. C. and put his hands upon his head, and prayed that the blessing of God might rest upon him and make him very useful in the church of God. Mr. W. then told him that he should appoint him to such a circuit; and he went accordingly preaching and pursuing his studies at the same time. Thus the Lord lead him in the path of duty.” How wonderful are the ways of God! He chooses and appoints whom He will. Yea, he makes the weak things of this world to confound them that are wise and great.[1]
Friday 27th. — Took breakfast with Dr. Hodgkin according to promise, who gave me a letter of introduction to a number of Quaker friends on whom I might call for donations for the Indian schools.
Sunday 29th. — In the morning heard the Rev. Rowland Hill in Surrey chapel. In the evening I preached to a large congregation in Surrey chapel. I received the sum of £17. 5s. for our Indian Missions.
Saturday, February 11th. — Early in the morning, went to Parliament street and breakfasted with the Solicitor General of Ireland, and his pious lady. They were very kind and friendly.
Tuesday 14th. — At 4 o'clock in the afternoon, Mr. Thurston, Brother Ryerson and myself, took coach for Pinner, too see Dr. Clarke. We arrived there after dark and were welcomed at the house of the Doctor, who was very kind to us. Spent the evening very agreeably with him and his good wife. After supper the Doctor read and prayed, and then told me in his good humoured way that I should sleep in the Duke of Sussex' bed, where he always sleeps when he comes to see him.
Wednesday 15th. — After breakfast, the Doctor took us into his museum and library, and shewed us his curiosities, which consisted of minerals, precious stones, shells, petrefactions, metals, Indian implements of war, heathen gods, &c; &c.; and his library consists of thousands of books in various languages. Some of which are now of very ancient date. His MS. books in the Eastern languages, are very beautiful and richly ornamented with gold leaf. The Doctor shewed us a MS. book that he said was more than a thousand years old. What we saw and what the Doctor told us by way of explanation, was a great feast to our minds, and hope it will also be useful to us hereafter. In the evening I preached to a full chapel belonging to the Doctor, who began the meeting by singing and prayer, and then introduced me to the congregation. I then addressed them from Mark xvi. 15. The people were very attentive and looked upon me with wonder, as I was dressed in the Indian costume, which I was previously requested to do by Dr. Clarke. During the day the Doctor made me a present of 3 vols. of Taber on Pagan Idolatry, and a volume of his Sermons.
Thursday 10th. — At 7 o'clock in the morning we left the Doctor's house to return to London, after spending two nights and a day with this devoted servant of God, who paid every attention to us while under his roof. The Doctor and his lady live in a very plain style, just as a Methodist family ought to live. Every thing here is done in its proper order and season. The Doctor uses no tea or coffee, and never comes near tobacco. He is very industrious, although he is now more than seventy years old, yet he is active and is always employed about something. I wish that all preachers possessed the spirit that is in Dr. Clarke. How much more useful would they be to the Church of God; I am unable to estimate all the goodness and greatness that is in the man.
Thursday 23rd. — Went early in the morning to breakfast with the Solicitor General of Ireland and his lady. I was much pleased with the interview with this pious family. How pleasing to see persons in high rank devoted to the Lord! I shewed the Solicitor General my testimonials, who seemed very much pleased with them and desired to take copies of them, to which I had no objection. He promised to try to get an audience for me with the King. After breakfast, I went through Westminister Abbey, and saw everything that was to be seen in it. The statues, monuments, tombs, vaults, &c., of the kings, queens, and great men, were numerous. I also saw the place where the Kings of England are crowned, and the royal chairs that they sit on when they are thus crowned. I took the liberty to squat myself down upon them as we passed by, so that I can now say that I, a poor Indian from the woods of Canada, sat in the king's and queen's great crowning chairs.
Friday 24th. — I went to Islington and called upon some friends, among whom was Mrs. Mortimer, who was very intimately acquainted with the Rev. J. Wesley, and corresponded with him on religious things. It was quite a treat to me to have an interview with this old servant of the Lord. She talked a good deal of Mr. W, and said that she witnessed his triumphant death, and stood by his bed side when he gave up his spirit to God. We had a word of prayer before we parted. Went in the evening to see a friend at his lodgings, and I found him at Mr. Irving's meeting. He came out to me and afterwards prevailed on me to go into the meeting, which was in the vestry, for the purpose of strengthening the hands of the young men designed to be preachers. As soon as I entered the room, the Rev. E. Irving arose from his seat, and came up to me and took me by the hand, and in the name of the Lord welcomed me among them. While he was blessing me, a Mr. Baxter of Doneaster began to speak in the spirit, and said that one of the lost tribes of Israel had come among them; and that the Lord had chosen me to go in the spirit of Elijah, and to gather my countrymen and to bring them back to the land of their Fathers, even to Jerusalem. All this time I felt rather queer. Saturday 25th — I went on to Highbury Place, to the house of Thos. Wilson, Esq., where I was welcomed, and slept for the night.
Sunday 26th. — Went to tea at an old blind lady's, a very pious woman, who gave me £10 for our Indian Missions.
Monday 27th. — At 8½ p. m., I took coach for Oxford, the store house for Learning in this kingdom.
Tuesday, 28th. — After breakfast Mr. Howse, the Cree white Indian, called upon me, and I went with him to see the Colleges and the curiosities in the place. The buildings, chapels, halls, libraries, museum, &c., were all in the most splendid style, and in the most extravagant manner. I was much pleased with what I saw, especially in seeing Lincoln College, where the Rev. J. Wesley began his ministerial labours. In the afternoon spent a few hours with Mr. Howse in giving him specimens of the Chippeway language for his Cree Grammar. Here I met with an old gentleman by the name of Penn, who told me that William Penn was his grandfather.
March 1st. — At Bristol went with Mr. Alder to see the ships of the generous J. Irving. Esq.
Saturday 10th. — After breakfast Mr. Budgett, of Kingswood Hill, sent his gig to take me to his house.
Friday 16th. — In the afternoon went to Hackney and dined at a friend's house, in company with Dr. Burder, a very fine gentlemanly and pious christian man.
Monday 19th. — Went to the British and Foreign Bible Society's House, and made an application for Testaments and Bibles to the Committee then sitting. They readily made a grant of 200 Testaments and 50 Bibles. They expressed the most friendly feeling towards me, and to the work among the Indians in Upper Canada.
Tuesday 20th. — In the morning I left Lambeth and went to the Sunday School Union, where I met Mr. Jackson, who assisted me in making the selection of Sunday School Books, to the amount of £10. which was some time ago granted by the Society, for our Indian Sunday Schools in Upper Canada. The Sunday School Society also made a grant of £10 for the above purpose. Went about noon to Mr. Jones, of Coleman street, where I was informed that a gentleman of great influence among the Dissenters had proposed the plan of my preaching in the Dissenting Chapels, in London, on the week day evenings, and that a collection in each chapel should be made in behalf of my object. Consulted with the Rev. John Clayton and Rev. A. Tidman on the subject.
Thursday 22nd. — In the evening at a Missionary Meeting in the Rev. Mr. Arundel's chapel, in Union street, Southwark. John Wilkes, Esq., M. P., was in the Chair, and the meeting was addressed by a number of ministers and gentlemen, among whom were Revs. E. Carey, Campbell, Clayton, and myself.
Saturday 31st. — Employed in the morning at writing. Called again at Lord Goderich's Office. In the evening rode to Kennington Common, and slept at Mr. T. Farmer's, who was very kind to me.
Sunday; April 1st. — Walked with Mr. Farmer to hear the Rev. Jabez Bunting preach at Chelsea. He gave a good discourse from John xvii. 15.
Wednesday 4th. — At 1 called at the Colonial Secretary's Office to enquire whether the articles sent by the Indian women, had been presented to Her Majesty the Queen. I was informed that they had been presented some time last summer. I informed the gentleman whom I saw at the Office, that I was going to-morrow to see the King and Queen at Windsor.
Thursday 5th. — I took an early breakfast and set off at 8 o'clock in the morning by a Windsor coach, and arrived there about noon. On getting out of the coach, I saw a gentleman with an Indian and a boy going straight to the Royal Palace. I at once thought that this party were going to be introduced to the King and Queen at the same time I was. I went to the Inn and put on my Indian dress as soon as I could, but to my great disappointment I found I had forgotten my medal, so I had to go without it. On arriving at the Palace. I enquired for Mr. Hudson, the person whom I was recommended to enquire for. He came out and I shewed him the note from Mrs. Vansittart; he replied and said it was all right, and then informed me that a Chief and his son were here, and asked me if I knew them? I said I did not. He then said that they were now going round to see the different apartments, and asked me if I would like to go with them? to which I was glad to consent. I met with the Indian Chief and his party in the room where the King's gold plate is deposited. I shook hands with him, and we tried to talk to each other in our own language, but we could not understand one another, so we were obliged to speak to each other in the English, which, he spoke very well. This Chief and his son were from Nova Scotia, and were of the Micmack Tribe, and belonged to the Roman Catholic religion. Went through the castle and saw all the state rooms, which I had seen before, and we were highly pleased with what we saw. I was struck with the manner in which the kitchen was fitted up. A long table is heated with steam, which keeps all the provisions hot till they go on the King's table. We then went to the King's hot houses and gardens, and the fountain, which were all in the best style. Two or three of the Lords in waiting, or those who surround the throne, were with us all the time, and seemed desirous to shew us that which might be interesting to us. At 2 o'clock word came to us that their Majesty's would soon be ready to receive us. We then went to the waiting room, and in a few minutes we were conducted to the drawing room, where the King and Queen received us very graciously. The gentleman who was with the Micmack Chief, was introduced first to the King, and then introduced his friend the Micmack. I was introduced by one of the Lords. Their Majesties bowed their heads when we bowed to them. They were standing when we entered the room, and stood the whole time while we remained with them. The King asked whether we were of one party, and one of the Lords answered that we were not. He then enquired if we could talk English, and when he was informed that we could, he asked us what nation we belonged to; I told him that I belonged to the Chippeway nation, residing in Upper Canada. He then asked how many of us there were in the nation. I told him about 40 or 50,000. He asked me how old I was. I replied thirty-one. When I was baptized? I told him about nine or ten years ago. What my name was? I replied, Kahkewaquonaby, in the Indian — Peter Jones in the English. Similar questions were put to the Nova Scotia Indian. On being introduced to the King, one of the Lords in waiting informed the King that I wished to present to him a copy of the Chippeway Translation of the Gospel of St. John, which he received out of my hand and opened it, and said “Very good.” Some one asked who was the translator. The Queen then replied, “It is his own.” The King asked the Micmack if he was a Catholic; to which he replied “Yes.” The King then pointing to me, said to him, “He is not.” I told the Queen that the Indian women in Canada had sent by me a few articles of Indian work, to be presented to Her Majesty, which I had sent to Lord Goderich. She replied that she had received them, and was happy to accept them, and hoped the Indian women would do well in their undertaking. The King and those around him talked for some time about our dress. The King remarked that my dress was the real Chippeway costume. The Nova Scotia Indian's son, the King said, was a complete model of the American Indians; and that he should have known him to belong to that country, if he had soon him any where in the street. After being with them about half an hour, the King made a signal that the interview was over, so we bowed to them, and retired with the Lords into a Lower room, where we sat down to take a lunch.
We had roasted chickens, beef, potatoes, tarts, wines, &c., and ate out of silver dishes. I ate very heartily of the roasted chickens and potatoes. The gentleman at the head of the table, filled his glass full of champagne, and proposed the King's health. All rose up and drank the King's health. After eating a little while, the same gentleman said, “The Queen” upon which all rose up and drank the Queen's health. I understand one of the gentlemen to say, “The King's squaw.” Before we rose up from the table, a message was sent to us that Lady - and the family would like to see the Indian Chiefs after lunch. Another word came to inform us that the King had ordered two medals to be struck and presented to the two Chiefs as soon as possible. After dinner we went into a long beautiful hall, where we met the ladies and the children belonging to the Royal family, amongst whom was Prince George. Some of the children shook hands with us. After this we were shown the King's private apartments, which were the most beautiful I ever saw — all glittered with gold tapestry. We were also taken to see the horses belonging to the Royal family, and they were the most handsome creatures I ever saw.
I forgot to mention in its proper place, that while we were present with their Majesty's, one of the Lords in waiting, asked me in their presence if I was a Wesleyan Methodist. I replied I was, and that they (the Methodists) were the first who came and preached to us. I moreover replied to the gentleman who asked me the question, that the doctrines taught by the Methodists were the same as those of the Church of England, only differing a little in the mode of government. He said there was no difference. Mr. Hudson told me that when the Queen received those articles sent by the Indian women, she had ordered him to send a reply to their address, but not knowing my address, he did not know where to send it, and consequently it had been omitted till the present time. He would now be most happy to forward the same to me. So I gave him my address in London, where he might send the Queen's talk and also the Medal. The Nova Scotia Chief, I was informed, came over to England to purchase farming implements, which business he and his people were going to follow. Left the Palace about 4, p. m.; called and took tea with Mr. Ford, who afterwards drove me in his gig to the Bath road, where I met with a coach and rode to London, highly gratified with my visit to our great father the King, and our great mother the Queen. The King and Queen were dressed very plain, and were very open, and seemed not at all to be proud. They both looked very healthy and in good spirits. Long may they live to be a blessing to their nation and people! May God direct them in the good and right path of righteousness! God bless the King and Queen!
Saturday 7th. — In the evening I preached in City Road Chapel from 2 Thes. iii. 1. The Chapel was very much crowded. I had but little liberty in speaking.
Monday 9th. — Dined with the Rev. John Mason. In the evening I preached to a crowded congregation in the Rev. Mr. Tidman's Chapel from these words, “What hath God wrought!” I received the sum of £20 for our Indian Missions.
Thursday 12th. — Called to bid my friend, the Rev. John James, from whom I have received every attention, farewell, as I intend to leave London this evening for Liverpool, from thence to New York. Mr. James would take nothing for the postage on letters, which he has paid for since I came to London, which probably amounted to £2 or more. My washing has also been done at the expense of the Mission House. I feel much indebted to Mr. James and his good lady for their kindness to me ever since I came under their roof. I called on Dr. Townley and had a word of prayer with him, and so bid him good bye. Poor man! I may never see him again this side of eternity, he has long been severely afflicted. He made me a present of a book or two. The Rev. J. James informed me that the Committee of the Wesleyan Methodist Missionary Society had, as a token of their good will to me, voted me a grant of a complete set of Mr. Wesley's Works, Fletcher's Works, and Benson's Commentary; all neatly bound and lettered. These Works will be of great service to me in enabling me to understand the way of the Lord more perfectly, and I am truly thankful to the Committee for their esteem and affection for me. Surely these are the people of the Great Spirit, whose God shall be my God, and their people shall be my people!
Friday 13th. — We got to Liverpool at about 4, p. m., just twenty-four hours from London, about 220 miles.
Sunday 15th. — In the morning I preached to an attentive congregation in Pitt street and Brunswick Chapels. O Lord, take the heathen for thine inheritance!
Monday 16th. — In the evening heard the Rev. Dr. Raffles preach in Brunswick Chapel, in behalf of the Wesleyan Missionary Society, to a large congregation. His text was in Luke xv. 10. The Doctor is a very eloquent speaker, and is very popular as a minister of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Wednesday 18th. — In the morning breakfasted with a large party of Ministers, (Methodists and Dissenters,) at the Rev. J. Bunting's. At their request I gave them an account of my inverview with the King and Queen at Windsor. In the evening went to the Missionary meeting at Pitt Street, in my native costume. Several Missionary boxes were presented and opened before the people; one was in the shape of a chest, another a steam carriage on the railway, and another a coach. These depositories contained perhaps nearly a hundred pounds!
Thursday 19th.— At 2, p. m., I left Liverpool by the Railroad for Manchester.
Sunday 22nd. — In the evening heard the Rev. D. McNichol preach at Oxford Street Chapel. Mr. McN. speaks nearly like our Rev. David Wright.
Monday 23rd. — Returned to Liverpool after 2, and dined with Dr. Raffles, who informed me that he had published for me to preach in his chapel this evening at 7, and would allow a collection to be made at the doors for the Canada Missions and schools.
Friday 27th. — Took an early breakfast, and, at 7 o'clock Mr. Sands drove me in his chaise down to the ship, which had just got out of the docks. A little after 8 we all got on board, and bade farewell to our friends, who accompanied us to the ship. This packet ship is called the Napoleon. I left the shores of England under a pleasing recollection of the very kind reception I had met with since I have been among this people; and after being among them a year, lacking two days, I have not received a single abuse or unkindness from any one, but on the contrary, much good will and sincere friendship. How grateful and humble I ought to be thus to be honoured by a christian people! I do feel thankful for the token of friendship and esteem that has been shown to me. May God bless the English Nation and make them a peculiar people! During my stay in England I have visited the following places, viz: — Liverpool, London, Bristol, Birmingham, Chester, Manchester, Halifax, Huddersfield, Leeds, Hull, York, Stockton, Bradford, Sheffield, High Wycombe, Brighton, Lewes, Rochester, Reading, Windsor, Oxford, Lynn, Bury St. Edmond, Woolwich, Greenwich, Deptford, Lambeth, Norwood, Limehouse, Millhill, Pinner, Tottenham, &c, &c. I have addressed congregations in public 100 times, and preached 62 sermons in the different places above named. It is a matter of great satisfaction to me to know that my talk in general has been well received, and that many a heart has been made glad to know that their labour of love in the cause of Missions to the heathen has not been in vain. A fine Missionary spirit prevails in every part of this kingdom, and in this feeling they pray for the conversion of the world, and send Missionaries to all parts of the globe. May God abundantly bless their efforts in the great and laudable cause! I have succeeded in the object of my mission to this country, in collecting the following amount for the Canada Indian Missions, viz:
| Grant from the Wesleyan M. Society, | £300 | 0 | 0 |
| From Benevolent persons, | 557 | 19 | 0 |
| From Quakers, | 174 | 1 | 6 |
| Total, sterling, | 1032 | 0 | 6 |
I have also received various articles in school rewards, clothing, books, edge-tools, &c., &c., to the amount of about four or five hundred pounds, sterling, for the benefit of the said Missions. The British and Foreign Bible Society have printed a thousand of the Gospel of John in Chippeway. In addition to all this, the prayers of thousands of faithful Christians have been enlisted in our behalf; and as the prayers of the righteous avail much, this is no small gain in the permanent establishment of the good cause among us, and in the general spread of the Gospel to all the thousands scattered in the vast wilderness of North America. Many of our Wesleyan Brethren and also the Dissenters have expressed a strong desire that I might visit them again at a future day. I feel in my heart that I should be most happy, if it should be the will of the Lord, to pay them another visit. Sunday, May 27th. — About 6, p. m.; after a disagreeable voyage, we landed at the city of York; thankful to God.
Tuesday 29th. — Our passage down the River Delaware was most delightful. The day was fine, and the accommodation in the boat very good. The scenery along the river is very delightful, but not equal to that of the North River. The lands on the Delaware are excellent. We landed at Philadelphia about 6, p. m., and were met by Mr. S. Chubb, who conducted us to their house in South Second Street. Here I met Bro. Case, and our hearts were made glad to see each other once more. We gave thanks to God for permitting us to meet again in safety. Brother Case also informed me that the Conference had granted $1,500 a year to our Canada Indian Missions, which I was very happy to hear.
Thursday 31st. — Early in the morning we bade farewell to our friend Mr. Chubb, and took steamboat at half-past 6 in the morning for New York. Up the River Delaware we passed the residence of Joseph Bonaparte, and it is a delightful place. We arrived at New York a little after 6 in the afternoon. Slept at Brother Hall's in 41 John Street. The Rev. W. Fisk, D.D., the Rev. Mr. Spicer, and another preacher accompanied us in our journey.
Tuesday, June 19th. — Arrived at York after sunset, and were welcomed by our Canada friends.
Wednesday 20th. — Got to the Credit Village in the afternoon, and came upon them quite unexpectedly. Word soon spread through the village that I had arrived, and the Indian brethren came from all parts to welcome me among them. Some were so much affected that they shed many tears. When a number had collected at my brother's, we all knelt down and had a prayer meeting or giving of thanks. In the evening we had a meeting in the chapel, and the Rev. R. Alder preached to the Indians. Messrs. Alder and Turner seemed highly pleased with what they saw of the work of God among these Indians, and said that the reality exceeded what they had heard concerning the change and improvement made by this people.
Thursday 21st. — In the morning we started for York, intending to get to town by 10 o'clock, that I might take the stage for Newmarket, and so accompany Brother Richardson to Lake Simcoe, where he has a Quarterly Meeting with the Indian brethren.
Saturday 23rd. — Called upon Dr. Rolph, who is now residing in this town. He appeared to be glad to see me, and gave me some directions on the subject of preventing the infection of the cholera. Dr. R. has taken a brother of ours, (Francis) in order to make him a doctor.
Tuesday 26th. — Spent the day in overhauling my papers, &c. Many of the Indian brethren calling upon and asking me questions about what I saw and heard in England. Everything I told them seemed to be interesting to them.
Friday 29th. — In the afternoon Bro. Crawford, from Grape Island, came, who is on his way to Penetanguishene to preach to the Indians in that quarter. He informed us that four more were coming on behind, engaged in the same work. There are now about a dozen Native Preachers engaged in preaching the unsearchable riches of Christ to the poor perishing heathen. Who would have thought ten years ago that so many of the poor drunken Messissaugas would now have been employed in spreading the word of life among their perishing countrymen!
Wednesday, July 4th. — Left Toronto for Lake Simcoe in the afternoon, and rode to Brother Davis' for the night. In the evening at prayer meeting in Cumer's Chapel.
Sunday 8th. — The firm adherence of the Lake Simcoe Indian brethren to the truths of the Gospel is a matter of great satisfaction to my mind, and I am enabled to bless God on this account. The leaders manifested a strong attachment to Methodism, having no desire to be any other than Methodists.
Monday 9th. — In the forenoon we left the Narrows for Coldwater. Captain Anderson, the Indian Agent, appeared very friendly to us.
Wednesday 11th. — Brother Hurlburt still continuing very sick, we advised him to give up the idea of going to St. Mary's under present circumstances, and to remain quiet at Brother Clarkson's, till he would be able to return home, to which he consented. At noon we left Coldwater in a birch bark canoe for Penetanguishene. Captain Anderson and the christian Indian Chiefs, and many of their young, all went in a fleet to the above place. On the way there was a race of birch canoes, which was a fine sight to, see the painted Indians pulling away with all their might. The Christian Indians from St. Mary's outwent all the rest. We arrived at Penetanguishene a little before sunset. The heathen Indians had their wigwams on the north shore of the bay. We heard that there were four or five hundred of them. We pitched our tent near the council house, which is made of barks and poles. Had prayers in the evening. Here we met several of the Chippeways from Sault St. Marie who were converted to christianity last year through Brother John Sunday's labours. They appeared very glad to see Brother Sunday again.
Thursday 12th. — Shortly after breakfast all the Chiefs of all parties, with their young men, came together at the Council house to hold a Council. The contrast between the looks of the christians and the heathen was very great. When the Agent had finished his opening address, Chief Yellowhead rose up with a white string of wampum in his hand, and went and shook hands with the Chippeway and Menoominee Chiefs, and then addressed them. Many Chiefs spoke. The agent told the heathen Chiefs not to hinder any of their people from becoming christians or attending the schools, but to leave all to act and think for themselves. Before the council broke up, Brother John Sunday also addressed them and gave the heathen Indians a short account of his conversion to Christianity.
Friday 13th. — This morning one of the Chippeway Chiefs who was among the number of those who danced, took early in the morning his medicine bag containing the ornaments he wore yesterday, and two balls of wood to denote the number of enemies he had killed, and said to the christian Indian to whom he gave it — “Go, Brother, and take it to the ministers, that they may see that I have done with these things. Tell them I mean now to become a christian and worship their God.” In the morning the Indians from the west assembled at the King's store-house to receive their presents, to the number of about 650. Each person got about eight or ten dollars worth. Some of these Indians have come about a thousand miles! What a waste of time for eight or ten dollars in half a year! In the evening Brother Sunday and myself examined and took down the names of those to be baptized, who were converted through the labours of Brother Sunday and his companions, during his tour last year to St. Marie.
Saturday 14th. — Began after breakfast to finish the taking down the names of those to be baptized, and at 10 o'clock I gave them a discourse on the subject of baptism; many of the pagan Indians were present. Brother John Sunday also exhorted, and then proceeded to put the usual questions to them, to which they responded very heartily, and after this they knelt down on the ground and were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, and some were deeply affected and trembled. After this I had a conversation with the Chief who gave up his medicine bag the other day, whose name I ascertained to be Moozoomoonee. He told me that there were a great many Indians in the country from whence he came, who he thought would soon become christians. No doubt but the Lord is now opening a door of salvation in that remote region. I gave our Brothers who are going to St. Marie, some instructions how to proceed in their work. I recommended, them, if possible, to send some of the labourers to the country of Moozoomoonee, in order to preach the Gospel to his people. Before we seperated we had a word of prayer, and after commending each other to the protection and blessing of God we parted.
Thursday 19th. — Early in the morning I left the Holland Landing for York, where I arrived before dark, and lodged with Brother S. Taylor for the night. The cholera was still raging in this town, and had takeu off a number since I was here last.
Friday 20th. — Rode to the Credit by stage and found all well. Blessed be the name of God!
Monday 23rd. — Wrote a letter to the Governor on the subject of the Missions at the Narrows and Coldwater. Felt feeble in body.
Tuesday 24th — Heard of the sudden death of some of the wicked Indians at the Humber by cholera. An awful warning to drunkards and obstinate sinners.
Thursday, August 2nd. — Left the Credit for York in company with Sister Barnes, from thence to go on to Conference, which is to be at Hallowell, on the 8th inst.
Wednesday 8th. — The Annual Conference began its Session in this village at 9 o'clock. The Rev. W. Case in the chair, and Rev. J. Richardson, secretary.
Thursday 9th. — Conference began at eight in the morning. A Report of the Board of Missions of the Canada Conference at York, recommending a Union between the British Methodists and the Methodist Church in this Province, was read, and a Committee of nine persons appointed to take it into consideration and report thereon. I voted in favour of the Union, and advocated that cause. During the Conference Brother John Sunday was received on trial as a Missionary, in the travelling connexion. I hope he may do well, and be extensively useful among the poor Indians.
Sunday 19th. — I felt very unwell at Grape Island during the day. I was happy to find my Indian brethren at this place happy in God, and zealously engaged as much as ever in the service of our Lord and Master. But I was very sorry to learn that a number of the Kingston Indians had left the Mission and gone to their old enchanted ground at Kingston and Gananoque, where some white savages at Kingston, had succeeded in their hellish designs in getting them to take and ndulge in their greatest enemy, the fire-waters!
Wednesday 22nd. — Brother Case left us this afternoon. My sickness increased, and I was taken into Brother Case's room.
Friday 24th. — Very low all the day — unable to help myself. Brother James Crawford, Jacob Shippegaw, and other brethren waited upon me, and all the Indians on the Island lifted up their hearts in prayer to the Great Spirit in my behalf, that the Lord might be pleased to spare my life.
Wednesday, Sept. 5th. — This day I received a letter from my brother John, giving an account of the death of our dearly beloved Sister Sally, who died at our father's residence, on the 20th of August, 1832. Jesus was precious to her. What more can we desire for our departing friends, than to see them filled with Jesus and his love, and to hear them shouting victory over the grave!
Thursday 27. — Breakfasted with Mr. S. E. Taylor, whose mother and sister have come from Ireland, to reside in this country. The family very friendly. Dined at Mr. Armstrong's. In the afternoon rode up to the Credit and found all well. Blessed he God who has done all things well, and brought us together once more! The Lord has preserved this people from the pestilence. O may we be humble and thankful.
Tuesday, October 16th. — Arrived at the Credit village by 9 o'clock in the morning from the Grand River.
Tuesday 23rd. — Went to the Secretary of the York Auxiliary Bible Society, to obtain some translations of the Gospel of St. Matthew in the Chippeway, which have been printed by the Society in this town, to the number of a thousand copies. I obtained a few copies and was sorry to see that the Committee who superintended the work had mangled it in a shocking manner, so that I fear the Indians will find it difficult to understand.
Wednesday 24th. — Called at the Government office to see the Governor, but did not see him. In the evening at the Anniversary Meeting, which was pretty well attended by a respectable congregation. The Rev. John Ryerson in the chair. After singing and prayer, the Secretary read the Report, and the following persons addressed the meeting: Rev. King Barton, Mr. W. P. Patrick, Rev. E. Ryerson, Peter Jones, Rev. W. Case, Mr. Long, and some others. The meeting was far more interesting than I had expected.
Sunday, November 18th. — Before sunrise we had a prayer meeting. At 9 our love feast began. Many of the white people flocked in from the neighbourhood, and our chapel was pretty well filled. During love feast the Lord was present to bless our souls, and we had a melting time. Many of the Indian brethren were so full of the new wine of the kingdom that they could hardly contain themselves. I enjoyed the meeting exceedingly well. At about 11 Brother Bissell preached to us at the Credit.
Monday 19th. — Soon after breakfast the Chiefs and principal men of this tribe met in Council in the Chapel. After singing and prayer we proceeded to business; 1st. On the appointment of a person to act as a sexton for our chapel. 2nd. The raising of the store house at the mouth of the river, which they intend to do this week. 3rd. The timber taken for the bridge over the Credit. It was agreed to give it free for the benefit of the public. 4th. The sawyer's business came under discussion.
Tuesday 20th. — Employed in dividing a parcel of work bags, pincushions, needle-cases, needles, scissors, thread, bodkins, thimbles, and a few articles of clothing, for the following Missionary Stations: Credit, Grape Island, Rice Lake, Narrows. Coldwater, Saugeen. These are the articles I collected from our good English sisters for the benefit of the Indian women and schools among the Indians, while I was in England.
Wednesday 21st. — Engaged this day in distributing the articles as mentioned above to the Indian women belonging to the Credit. Called the Indian women together in the chapel, where we had placed the things on benches in rows, and in full view. After they all collected together I explained to them by whom these articles they now saw were given. Joseph Sawyer, (Nawahjekzhegwaby) the head Chief of this tribe, stated to them the gratitude he himself felt in his heart in seeing them receive the liberality of their christian sisters in England, &c. Several of the elder women immediately rose up, one after the other, and expressed this feeling; one said, “I will always stretch out my hand towards that Country, to pray for them, and to shake hands with them in my heart.” Bro. J. Sawyer concluded by saying, “All of you whose hearts feel thankful to your sisters over the great waters, and who wish to shake hands with them in your hearts, stretch out your hands towards heaven.” All then at once raised their hands and stretched out their arms towards heaven. The articles for the School were distributed by Miss Cook, the teacher, and she informed me that the children received them eagerly, and were much pleased with them. Each girl obtained a frock, a workbag, a pair of scissors, thread, needles, a thimble, &c.
Friday 23rd. — Began to translate the book of Genesis into the Chippeway tongue. I endeavoured to fast, that the Lord might direct my mind to a right understanding of the Word of God.
Sunday 25th. — At 3 I preached to the Indian brethren from Prov. xxii. 6., when I endeavoured to lay down the importance of family government in order to train up their children in the path of duty and virtue, and to have them in complete subjection, and not to suffer them to cry and scream for every trilling thing. Whilst I was on this subject the children cried and bellowed as if Satan himself had got into them.!
Tuesday 27th. — Assisted our people in raising a store-house (30 by 40) at the mouth of the River Credit.
Wednesday 28th. — In the morning saw to the box which contained 300 proof engravings of my likeness in miniature, painted by Miss Matilda Jones, of London. I am highly pleased with the engravings.
Thursday, December 27th. — Employed at translating. Father Whitehead visited us this day and gave us a short discourse at our evening prayer meeting. He gave an interesting account of his late visit to the Saugeen Mission, and our hearts were made glad to hear of the welfare of our brethren at that place.
Sunday 30th. — Feeling the need of enjoying holiness of heart, I could not rest without seeking some one to assist me in obtaining this great and important blessing, so I accordingly went over to Sisters Barnes and Cooke and requested them to pray for me that the Lord might bless and sanctify my soul. The sisters prayed in my behalf with enlarged expectations. I was then called to give glory to God. I had an evidence, which I held with a trembling hand, that God had cleansed my heart. My heart was now enlarged to be for God, and for him only.
- ↑ The foregoing particulars agree, for the most part, with what is said in the Life of the Doctor; but in it is stated that his parents submitted to his leaving Ireland, and he represents more favorably than it is here, his reception at Kingswood, at a period when Mr. Wesley was not satisfied entirely with the School.