Life and Journals of Kah-ke-wa-quo-nā-by/Chapter XII
| CHAPTER XII. |
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OUR general Council began to-day. Before entering into business we sung a hymn, and Chief Sawyer prayed, after which Sawyer gave a speech, which consisted in an acknowledgement of the goodness of the Great Spirit in sparing our lives as a people from the pestilence which passed through our country. — Tuesday, January 1st.
Thursday 17th, — During the day, in Toronto, we called a few minutes on the Bishop of Quebec, who received us in a friendly manner, and made several enquiries concerning the Indians at the Credit, &c. Here we also met with Dr. Strachan, who entered into a cheerful conversation with us. Bishop's chaplain was very friendly indeed.
Monday 21st — Employed at translating part of the day. Prayer meeting at Sister Cooke's. My soul happy in God, but was much grieved to hear that some of our young men had been drinking the fire-waters.
Wednesday 23rd. — I hardly know why it is I cannot go on with the translation of the Scriptures; everything seems to work against me in this undertaking; which has rather caused me to doubt whether it was my duty to confine my time to this work, and leave off visiting my Indian brethren at the different Stations. O that the Lord would lead me in a plain path!
Saturday 26th. — Employed in translating. At evening a few of us met to pray for holiness of heart. I felt the Lord to be very close to my face, and he breathed upon me. Blessed be God for what he has done for me! Wednesday 30th. — Engaged at writing. Rather poorly in body. In the evening met in general Council with the Indians at the school room to take into consideration the irregularities of some of our young people, who sometimes get overtaken by intoxication, &c.
Thursday 31st. — At writing, &c. Was much cast down in spirit. Felt as though the Lord had some great work for me to do.
Tuesday 5th. — According to appointment, I went to the Government Office to meet several Indian Chiefs from St. Clair, who have come to see the Governor on some important business.
Tuesday 12th. — We returned home this day, being much wearied with our ride.
Wednesday 13th. — Began to write out some Indian anecdotes for Brother E. Ryerson. Felt rather languid.
Thursday 14th. — This day having been set apart by the Lieutenant Governor's proclamation for a general public thanksgiving and praise to Almighty God, for having removed the pestilence with which we have been visited in our country, all labour was laid aside in our village. Several of the Indians went to hear Mr. McGrath at Springfield.
Sunday 17th. — In the afternoon rode up to Streetsville, and found Brother Bissell preaching to a crowded house. When he got through I preached a short sermon to them from John xvii. 15. The people were very attentive. Lodged for the night with Mr. Switzer, an Irish gentleman who treats us very kindly. The Lord bless the family.
Monday 18th. — Returned in the morning to the village, and was employed in writing a short account of the first introduction of the Gospel to my native brethren at the different Stations.
Tuesday 19th. — At writing in the forenoon. In the afternoon rode down to York in order to apply for a certificate, to perform the ceremony of marriage, from the Quarter Sessions, and met with much difficulty and discourtesy.
Tuesday 26th. — At writing to several persons in England. In the afternoon I preached a funeral sermon over the body of Sarah Oadahwah, from these words, “Dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.” We had a solemn time. Began in the evening to take lessons in short hand from Mr. Corry, F. W. M., and Professor of Penmanship.
Wednesday, March 6th. — In the forenoon made ready to leave for York, thence to Rice Lake, &c.
Saturday 9th. — Rode in the forenoon to Rice Lake Mission and were kindly welcomed by our Indian brethren. Some were so glad to see me that they wept aloud for joy, and thanked the Great Spirit for bringing me once more to see them.
Monday 11th. — In the morning we left for the Mud Lake Mission.
Tuesday 12th. — We arrived at the Rice Lake again, after dark, and not in time to hold a meeting with them as I intended.
Wednesday 13th. — Sister McMullen sent for the Indian sisters in order to distribute the articles I brought for them from the ladies in England. After the distribution, at the request of Sister McMullen, I spoke to the sisters on the subject of the Dorcas Society, and informed them that the sisters at the Credit had changed their Dorcas Society into a Missionary Society, and gave them the reasons for so doing.
Thursday 14th. — About nine in the morning we bade farewell to all our Rice Lake friends, with our hearts warmed with love and gratitude for the precious seasons we have had together. The Rice Lake people, in my opinion, are the most affectionate of all the Indians I know of.
Friday l0th. — About 9 o'clock we met Brother Case near Brother Cryderman's. We spent three or four hours with him and talked on the subject of our Indian Missions. He informed me that he had been up to York and the Credit, for the purpose of making arrangements with the Indian speakers for the coming spring and summer.
Sunday 17th. — My mind was much exercised on the subject of entire sanctification. My soul longed to be wholly set free from the power and dominion of sin.
Thursday 21st. — At translating the Book of Genesis. My dear father arrived to-day from the Grand River, looking tolerably well. Poor man, the weight of years is fast wearing away the use of his natural faculties.
Thursday, April 11th. — Went down to York and put our Brother Wilson to the Upper Canada College. The Board of Education, through the kindness of Dr. Harris, the Principal, have promised to educate him free. My brother John and I find him in clothing.
Saturday 13th. — At translating. Received a letter from Brother Case, containing an extract of a letter he lately received from Mr. Schoolcraft, Indian Agent at St. Marys, giving an account of the health, success, and labours of John Sunday and his two companions.
Monday 22nd. — At translating. In the evening we met to examine the young men reported to have been drunk at Burlington.
Sunday, May 12th. — In the afternoon I spoke to the Indian friends from John iv. 14. David Sawyer exhorted. After this I gave word that if any of the Indians desired to possess the translations of the Gospel of John and Matthew, and could make use of them, they might have them by calling at my study. Accordingly many came, and I distributed about thirty copies of each.
Monday 13th. — My mother was very happy in the Lord, and she asked me if it was the practice of the white women professing religion to fast once every week. I told her that some did, especially those who loved the Lord most. She then said that she scarcely ever omitted fasting on every Friday, and found it very profitable to her soul in so doing. Some, she said, had told her that it was no use to fast so much; but for her part she never felt right when she neglected to fast and to pray. O that the Lord Jesus might make her a perfect christian! Blessed be God for what he has done for my poor mother! May all my dear relations be numbered with the dear children of God!
Friday 17th. — This morning Bros. Wm. Herkimer, Thos. Magee and myself, left the Credit for Sault St. Marie, with the view of preaching the Gospel of Christ to our perishing countrymen in that quarter. The Indian Brethren at the Credit collected together in order to bid us farewell, and to commend us to the grace of God. I sensibly felt the need of Divine grace to be with us on our journey, in order to make our mission prosperous. O that the Great Spirit would bless us and our labours!
Thursday 23rd. — Made preparations for embarking at Buffalo, on the steamer Henry Clay for Sault St. Marie. Received instructions and money for my expenses from Brother Case.
Saturday 25th. — Shortly after landing at Detroit, we met Brother Thos. Hurlburt, the teacher from Munceytown. He has come by the request of Brother Case, to accompany us to the Sault. St. Marie, and there to commence a school among the Indians on the Canada side. We were very glad to meet him, and hope he may be useful to the poor Indians in the north west.
Saturday, June 8th. — By 10 o'clock we landed at St. Marie, at the house of Mr. Francis Andraine, the sub-Agent among the Chippeway Indians. This gentleman and lady received us very cordially, and made us welcome at their house. After supper we commended ourselves to the care of Him, who in his infinite mercy and goodness has safely brought us to our journey's end. I forbear inserting here what I have learnt from Brother Corbeach. I shall take an early opportunity to obtain all the necessary information respecting the work of God among the Indians here, and the prospects of further usefulness among them, from the Brothers who have been labouring among them.
Sunday 9th. — In the morning I saw Brother John Taunchy. The poor fellow was glad to see us. I was sorry to see him looking rather sickly. All the Indians I met were very glad to see me, and gave me a hearty shake of the hand. At half past 10 o'clock in the morning Brother Clarke preached in the meeting-house lately occupied by the Presbyterian minister. I was sorry to observe that many of the Indians who are inclined to become Christians, did not kneel during prayer, and kept their seats when singing, on account of the different modes of worship pursued by the too numerous sects and parties in this place. It is generally acknowledged that the good effected among the Indians, has been through the instrumentality of our Methodist Indian Missionaries.
Monday 10th. — Brother Hurlburt and myself took breakfast at Mrs. Johnston's, a kind friendly family. Mr. J. who died some time since, was an Irishman who married a Chippeway woman, and by whom he had raised a large family of well behaved and well educated children; one of them has been married to Henry B. Schoolcraft, Esq., Indian Agent among the Chippeways. In the evening we assembled at the preaching room with a pretty large congregation of our Indian brethren.
Tuesday 11th. — In the afternoon we crossed over to the Canada side, in order to talk to the head Chief, Shingwahkoons, and to hold a meeting among his people. He received us very cordially, and began to chat and pass the round of Indian ceremony. After this I told the Chief and those present the object of our coming to this part of the country, which was, first, that in view of his application which he made to John Sunday some time since for a teacher to come and instruct his children, and to aid them in forming a settlement, we had now come. 2nd, that the reason why we had not met his wish sooner, was on account of the Teacher taking sick while on his way hither, and consequently was obliged to return home. 3rd, that we considered ourselves as belonging to the English Government, and had therefore come with a view to locate ourselves by their permission on the Canada side. 4th, that we should now await their answer, wishing to know whether they desire our assistance or not. The Chief then replied that he was glad we had come to see them; that he had signified his desire to John Sunday for us to come and establish a Mission among them; and that he and the other old men would now take the subject into consideration.
Thursday 13th. — I spoke to the two brothers who have been labouring here during the winter, and asked them if it was true that they had not laboured among the Indians on the Canada side? They said that they had frequently gone over and held meetings with them, while there were any Indians there; and that when John Sunday first came to this place, he pitched his tent on that side, and lived there for some time. All impartial persons in this place also testify that all the religious impressions made on the minds of the Indians on both sides of the river, have been produced through the labours of our Native speakers.
Friday 14th. — Employed in the morning in writing, &c. In the afternoon Brother Hurlburt and some of our Indian Exhorters accompanied me over to the Canada side, to have a meeting with our Indian friends. Saturday 15th. — Went with our Indian speakers to all the lodges of those who wish to receive the ordinance of holy baptism, and examined each individual on their religious experiences, and the extent of their knowledge of Divine things. In the evening we assembled at the preaching room, and I addressed my Indian brethren from Matt, xxviii. 19; and talked to them on the nature and design of holy baptism, and of the duties required of all such as received this ordinance. Brother Fraser exhorted. The Good Spirit was present with us.
Sunday 16th. — At half-past 10 o'clock in the morning I preached by request to the white inhabitants at the chapel, from 2 Cor. x. 4, 5. The Lord helped me to speak, and there was good attention paid throughout the exercises of the meeting. At 3 p. m., I preached to my Indian brethren at the same place, from Matt. viii. 2, 3. After which we proceeded to the baptism of those Indians whose names we took yesterday. In the first place we arranged them in the order of their names; 2nd, repeated the Ten Commandments in Indian. I read the words, and all repeated after me; 3rd, Proceeded to question them on the leading points of the Apostles' Creed; and 4th, baptized them in the name of the Holy Trinity.
Tuesday 18th. — In the afternoon I took down an account of the labours of John Corbeach and John Taunchy, as delivered from Corbeach's own lips. Their account begins when John Sunday left them, which was on the 16th of November, 1832.
Thursday 20th. — In the evening our hearts were made glad by the arrival of Br. John Sunday from his field of Missionary labours at Kahkewaoonahning, vulgarly called by the whites, Kewywenon, which lies about 240 miles on the south shore of Lake Superior. We were glad to learn that the Great Spirit whom he served, had taken care of him, and that his health has been continued. The Lord has been with him, and blessed his labours among the poor Chippeways in the west, some of whom found the Gospel, preached by John Sunday, to be the power of God unto their salvation.
Tuesday, July 2nd. — After breakfast I went to see an Indian, brought from the Indian country, on the charge of murder, and now lying in jail. Mr. Ashman, the Sheriff, was very polite and conducted us to the prisoner. The Chippeway Chief from Snake River spoke to me this day about having his children baptized. Who cannot admire the noble design of this Heathen to offer up his children to the Christian's God, and to have come the distance of 700 miles, with a view to have them initiated into the visible Church of Christ!
Wednesday 3rd. — In the morning made preparations for our departure to Mackinaw, &c. In the forenoon we met at the chapel in order to attend to the baptism of ten Indians whom Sunday had brought from Kahkewaoonahning. At about 5 o'clock in the afternoon, we got ready to start. All the Indian friends and our kind friend, the Agent, accompanied us to the water to see us off, and appeared very sorry that we were leaving them. Our birch bark was manned with three Indians, besides John Sunday and myself. We had a fine breeze in our favour, and we made a pretty good speed down the river, taking the best channel on our way. A little after dark we arrived at the Sailor's Encampment, where we pitched our tent. Here we found three wigwams of Indians who were on their way to the Sault.
Thursday 4th. — Took an early breakfast, and whilst our canoe was loading, Brother Sunday and myself held a short meeting with our Indian friends, who heard us with attention, and hope the hearts of the Christian Indians were comforted, and those of the heathen convinced of the truth of the Christian religion. We landed and took refreshment at the old fort on the Island of St. Joseph's, where he found abundance of strawberries. We got to De Tour by 5 o'clock in the afternoon, where we were obliged to lay all night, on account of the head wind. On the spot where we landed Brother Sunday pointed out to us where he used to hold meetings with a parcel of Indians, two or three years ago; and said that they listened with attention and offered their children for baptism. Sunday did not know what became of these Indians, having never seen them since. Here we found the frame of a juggler's house, made in the form of a sugar loaf, of about seven feet high, and about three feet in diameter at the bottom. The poor superstitious Indians put great dependance on the prognostications of these jugglers.
Friday 12th. — By sunrise we were up, and after taking breakfast, we again pursued our voyage, having a calm most of the day. Our route was now on the north side of the Mannitoolin Islands.
Saturday 13th. — About midnight we anchored ourselves behind an Island and slept in our canoe. Towards day, I awoke and found ourselves a-drift, and almost upon some rocks. But the Lord mercifully preserved our lives.
Wednesday 17th. — Started early in the morning with a fair wind, which took us at a pretty good speed, and arrived at Penetanguishene about noon. Here we met with a number of Indians receiving their presents from Government.
Thursday 18th. — Had a long talk with a Chief from Lake Nepissing, who desired teachers to go among his people.
Monday 22nd. — Took stage this morning for York, where we arrived in the afternoon, and met Brother Case, who had been waiting for our arrival for some days. He seemed glad to see us, as we were glad to see him. Then to the Credit. Sunday, August 4th. — In the morning at prayer meeting. Several prayed fervently. At 11, a. m., Brother Ezra Adams preached an excellent sermon from “Strive to enter in, at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” In the afternoon, I spoke to the Indian brethren from Gen. i. 31.
Sunday 11th. — Early in the morning Brother Sawyer came and informed me that Katy Youngs had died last evening. Sister Y. was one of the most faithful and devoted Christians we have ever seen among the Indian converts; none could find ought against her.
Tuesday l0th. — Wrote a short account of the life and happy death of Widow Youngs for the Christian Guardian. Employed part of the day in translating. In the evening at Class meeting.
Wednesday 14th. — At the translations, &c. Got some hands to repair our chapel.
Saturday 17th.— Employed in dividing the lumber at the mills.
Tuesday 20th. — Got the men to white wash our chapel inside and outside.
Wednesday 21st. — Engaged at the translations, &c.
Saturday 24th. — In the morning heard that Sister L. Brant was dead. She was brought to the knowledge of the truth through the instrumentality of Brothers Stoney and Matthews. Brother Metcalf, the Presiding Elder, performed the burial service. The Lord sent his good Spirit to comfort our hearts.
Wednesday 28th. — Went in the morning with Joseph Sawyer and Crane, to see the Governor about selling the remainder of the Reserve at the Twelve Mile Creek.
Saturday 31st. — About 10 o'clock in the morning Mrs. J. Sawyer departed this life in the full triumphs of faith. It appears the Lord has a controversy with his people in this village, no doubt for some wise ends. Monday, September 2nd. — Attended the funeral of Mary Stephens. Engaged in making preparations for my intended trip to New York, in order to meet my dear intended wife, Miss F., from England, in company with Brother E. Ryerson. I shall cheerfully give my hand and heart to my dear friend, and hope the blessing of the Great Spirit will rest upon us, and cause us to be eminently useful in his glorious cause, and be happy in each other's Society.
Sunday 8th. — Arrived at New York. Brother E. Ryerson and company had arrived in port on Tuesday last, having had the remarkably short passage of 25 days from Liverpool. The following are the persons who came in company with Mr. Ryerson from. England, Rev. George Marsden, Representative from the English Conference to the Canada Conference; Rev. Joseph Stinson, Superintendent of the Indian Missions in Canada; and a lady and two children; Miss Chettle and Miss Field from London. This day began a new era in my life's history. I hope and pray the important step I have been led to take by Divine Providence, as I think, may prove a blessing to me and to the Church. Dr. Nathan Bangs sah ming nebahweegoonon.
Tuesday, January 14th, 1834. — Left the Credit in company with Mrs. J. for York, from whence I am to go in company with Mr. Stinson to the Lake Simcoe Missions. Slept at Mr. Taylor's in York. * * * *
Thursday, July 17th.— Left the Credit this morning very early, in order to make a Missionary tour to Lake Simcoe, Penetanguishene, Savgeen, Munceytown, &c. * * *
Saturday 26th. — Left the Narrows early in the morning for the Holland Landing, where we arrived about 6, p. m. Lodged at Mr. Tyson's. Heard of the death of Mr. John Hartman, an old inhabitant of Newmarket, and a kind friend to all the benevolent institutions of the place. Monday 28th. — Took stage for Toronto, where we arrived at about 2, p. m. Here I met my dear newish, and our hearts rejoiced together in the mercy of our God. Found the cholera had been raging in this city for several days.
Tuesday 29th. — Went home to the Credit this day. Found all well. Thanks be unto God!
Friday, August 22nd. — By the request of Mr. Stinson, I set out, accompanied by Mrs. Jones, for Grand River Mission, and from thence to the Munceytown Mission. Before we reached Wellington Square one of the axle-trees of our little waggon broke, and we were obliged to walk.
Saturday 23rd. — After getting our waggon mended, we started on our journey. Arrived at the Salt Springs Mission after dark. Had some difficulty to find our way, on account of the rain and darkness of the night; but the Lord safely brought us to the Mission house. Found our Mohawk brethren assembled at the Chapel. The Rev. Mr. Douse was preaching to the Indians through an interpreter. Lodged with the Mission family. The cholera is making great havoc among the Grand River Indians.
Wednesday 27th. — After breakfast we left father's, and proceeded on for the Munceytown Mission.
Thursday 28th. — Left in the morning, and proceeded on for Talbot Road, Rode through fine romantic woods, without seeing any house or person for many miles. We aimed to get to Wynan's Inn by night. About three miles from this place one of the staples, which fasten on the shafts, gave way, and we were completely stuck, and being now dark we did not know what to do; but fortunately two men happened to come by, who got a torch-light from a neighbouring house, and procured a log chain, with which we fastened the shaft, and we made out to get to where one of the men lived, who kindly offered us a bed. such as it was. My dear newish never saw such hard times before in her life; but the thoughts of being useful in the cause of Christ enables her to bear all these trials.
Friday 29th. — Dined at Mr. Murdock's, where we saw the Rev. Mr. Rose, who pressed us much to attend his Camp meeting, to be held in this neighbourhood on the fifth of next month.
Saturday 30th. — Left St. Thomas after breakfast, and proceeded on to the West Street, where we met with Mr. and Mrs. Adams, of the Munceytown Mission. We had not gone far before the coupling bolt jolted out, and down we came to the ground. We took and fastened the buffalo skin on the horse, and slung the carpet bag and writing desk over the horse, on which I mounted, and my dear wife on behind my back, and thus we went through mud and trees till we arrived at Munceytown in safety. Brother Adams took us to the Mission house, beautifully situated on the banks of the river, near the residence of Mr. Clench, the Indian Agent and having a fine view of the Indian settlement, both up the river and down. Brother A. gave us a warm reception in his house. Sent word we would have meeting in the evening. At early candle-light we met the Indian brethren at the council house, and stated to them the object of my visit to them at this time, namely, to tell them about the words of the Great Spirit, and to exhort them to perseverance in the good way.
Sunday 31st. — At 11, a. m., I preached to the Indian friends. In the evening we had a powerful prayer meeting — many came forward to be prayed for; and several souls were made happy in God. To God be all the glory! Here we met with our Credit brethren, who came on a mission to this place and Amherstburgh, viz : Wm. Herkimer, William Jackson, and Jas. Kezhegoo. Herkimer had been to the St. Clair Mission, and from thence went down to Amherstburgh, accompanied by Brother J. Evans, the Missionary at St. Clair. He informed me that Brother Evans and Thos. Magee were doing all in their power to convert the Indians at St. Clair, but had not as yet been able to see the fruits of their labours. The Indians there are hardened.
Monday, September 1st. — Visited the houses of the Christian Indians, and was happy to find they had made great improvements in civilization: their houses looked pretty comfortable, and their crops of corn and potatoes promise more than sufficient for their own consumption. The Lord has done much for these people since I was here last, which is upwards of four years.
Wednesday 3rd. — Early in the morning I met my Indian brethren, and addressed them on the importance of vigilant watching and constant praying. I appointed to meet the pagan Indians on the Point this day at noon at the council house. In the afternoon we bade farewell to the kind Mission family, rode out to the Back Street, where we arrived before sunset, and lodged with Mr. Stafford for the night. I trust our visit to the Mission has been of some profit to the poor Indians.
Friday 5th. — We left Brother B.'s about noon, and went to the Camp ground, where we found scarcely any person except the Indian brethren from Munceytown. The Rev. W. Ryerson arrived on the ground about the time we came. He is the Presiding Elder of this District.
Sunday 7th. — Religion appears to be at a low ebb in these parts, and it was hard work to preach to stone. However, the Lord appears to be at work among the people. The Indian brethren had a powerful time, and the four pagan Indians; who came to this meeting, were brought down to the ground under the power of God, and they rose up, testifying that God for Christ's sake had forgiven them their sins. * *
Wednesday, October 15th. — About noon I left the Credit for the Saugeen Mission, via Goderich. Friday 17th. — Started early in the morning, and breakfasted at a miserable inn. Dirt in abundance. A drunken man sprawled in the middle of the bar-room floor. I had hard work to eat my breakfast. Dined at Stratford-on-Avon — poor enough. Here the Canada Company have an agent. There are two mills. Lodged at the Big Thames, in a miserable hovel, where the inmates appeared more rude than the wild Indians.
Saturday 18th. — I was off early in the morning, and breakfasted at the Bayfield Creek. Was overtaken with a heavy storm of rain, so that I was detained at Weight's Inn for some time. Reached Brother S. Vanderburgh's, where I put up for the night. Saw some of the wild Saugeen Indians, who informed me that most of the Indians had left Saugeen, and were gone to their hunting; and that the interpreter, D. Sawyear, was going also to hunt, and had probably left Saugeen before this.
Sunday 19th. — In the afternoon I rode to Goderich, 12 miles onward, and was kindly received at Mr. John Wilson's. In the evening I preached to a large congregation in the school house, from John ix. 25. The people paid good attention. The people in these parts are very destitute of the means of grace, and have only now and then an opportunity of hearing the word preached.
Tuesday 21st. — I determined to wait no longer for a passage to Saugeen, but return immediately, as it is quite uncertain when the boat will go up, and it is very doubtful when I should find any Indians at Saugeen, — under these considerations I feel justified in returning home. Travelled to Brother Vanderburgh's.
Saturday 25th. — Left Bro. Keagy's after breakfast, and arrived at sweet home in the afternoon, and found all well. Blessed be the name of God! Brother Stinson was here. Thursday 30th. — Rode down to Toronto in company with Brother Nankeville, in order to attend the Wesleyan Missionary Anniversary, which was to be held this evening. Before we left we had a meeting in the chapel, it being the day set apart by our Lieut. Governor for a public thanksgiving to Almighty God, for the disappearance of that wasting disease, the cholera, from the Province. May God accept the offerings of his people!
December 5th, 1834. — Worked on the road. In the evening visited Jacob Herkimer's family, and talked to them on religion.
Friday, May 29th, 1835. — Went to the Camp ground and found the Indians busily engaged in preparing their tents.
Saturday 30th. — After breakfast I preached in Indian from Exodus iii. 5. Thos. Magee and David Sawyer exhorted. The spirit of the Lord was present on the occasion. After this we had a prayer meeting — several penitents came forward to be prayed for. Some of whom found Him of whom Moses and the Prophets did write. After dinner, Brother T. Hurlburt preached in Indian from 1 Cor. 4, 20. It was very pleasing and encouraging to hear our white friend declare the words of the Great Spirit in our native tongue. Bros. Wm. Madwayosh, Wahgosh, and Joseph Sawyer, exhorted. The second exhorter spoke with much feeling and power; and told his brethren that it was only a few months since he first found the Great Spirit, and had already found the benefit of serving Him, and therefore he could freely recommend them to set out and get the same blessings. At 4, p. m., Brother J. Evans preached from Malachi iii. 16. David Sawyer interpreted. The first exhorter was the Indian who brought the Beldoon people to Muncey, and was the means of their conversion to the number of about twenty.
Sunday 31st. — Several sermons and exhortations were delivered this day, attended with much of the Divine blessing. But the Lord seemed more especially to bless the prayer meetings. I saw many fall to the ground under the mighty power of God, and rose up rejoicing in the love of God. Brothers Stinson and Slight, who came this morning, preached to us through an interpreter. The Indian Exhorters and Class Leaders were very active in bringing the pagan Indians into the Camp ground; and when they succeeded in getting them to enter their prayer meeting, they soon had pleasure and joy in seeing them set at full liberty. Before the meeting commenced, I met with a very aged man who wore a human face on his neck, about the bigness of a man's thumb, as a god. I saw the same man again this day, and, behold! there was no god to be found hanging about his neck. I enquired what he had done with it, and was informed that he had found a better god in his heart, and had thrown his old ugly one away, never more to worship gods of his own making. It was truly delightful to see the fervour and zeal of my Indian Brethren. Brother Thomas Magee was quite a Boanerges amongst them, and the power of the Lord attended his word. May God bless him and keep him humble! The prayer meeting continued till late in the evening, and the Brethren appeared as if they were inclined to pray all the night.
Monday, June 1st. — Whilst some of the Indian brethren were speaking I took down part of their remarks. Mahskenoozh: “I am happy in my heart to see my brethren turn to the Great Spirit. Wm. George — Three years ago I found the Lord, and threw all the firewaters away which had made me so very poor, and placed me in the mud. I love all my brethren, and will always trust in Jesus. Captain Johnson — I was once very poor. Two years ago I found the Good Spirit. I have only spoiled my religion but once since then. I am glad God has forgiven me. I will always trust in Jesus. Wahbahneeb — I was once very poor. I first heard the words of the Great Spirit at the Grand River, from the mouth of Brother P. Jones. I have ever since been trying to be faithful. James Thomas — I am glad that I have found the Great Spirit. I set out to serve the Lord at the time Brother Peter Jones talked to me at Delaware. I was then poor and dirty. The Great Spirit has done much for me. I want to go to heaven. I hope to see all my brethren in heaven. Solomon — I thank God for what he has done for me, and for what he is doing for my brethren, who have come from a distance. Moses Logan — (Muncey) — I am thankful to see my brethren so happy in God. I feel very happy myself. I hate all my past sins. I cannot bear to think of them. I will now give myself wholly to the Great Spirit. I will always trust in Jesus. Zhewetogun — When I first heard the preacher I was very poor. I went to the meeting house and gave up all my crooked ways, (medicine bags.) I then found the love of God in my heart. Thos. Magee — (Exhorter.) — I have been thinking of my former state. Before I found the Great Spirit, I went to see my brethren at the Credit, who had already become Christians. When I went to St. Clair, I went amongst drunken Indians, and shed many tears for them. Now I see what I desired to see. Kewetah — (woman) — I have found the Lord since I came here. I think the Lord is here. David Sawyer — Once we used to be at variance with each other, but now we all love one another. Wawanosh — I only speak a little. When I left home my children were sick and I almost gave up coming here, but I am now glad I came. I will always try to be faithful. I am very happy in my heart. I will always trust in Jesus.” After this the Holy Communion was administered to a great number of the Indians, and the power of the Lord was present to bless his own ordinance. After the Communion there were several adult Indians and children baptized by Brother Stinson. Mr. John Carey desired me to baptize his infant daughter, which I did. May God keep the lambs of his flock! Amen and Amen!
Monday, July 20th. — Made preparations at the Credit to take a journey to Coldwater Mission, with the intention of stopping there a few weeks. Attended business belonging to the tribe, and in the evening we had a council, and I delivered the public books to the tribe, that they might be able to go on with their business during my absence.
Thursday 23rd. — Left Toronto about noon in the stage for Lake Simcoe. Before I left my beloved newish, we bowed together in prayer and commended each other to God. May the Lord keep us and bless us! Amen and Amen!
Wednesday, August 19th. — Returning, arrived at Holland Landing about breakfast time. From thence we hired a waggon to take us on to Toronto. A Catholic Priest and myself had a long controversy on various subjects relative to the errors of Popery. He spoke plainly about the errors of the Protestant religion, and I was as plain about his. He said he should be glad to baptize me and my people into his Church. I replied that I should be glad to baptize him and his people into our Church. We parted in good friendship, without converting either the one or the other.
Monday, August lst, 1836. — At the particular request of my beloved wife, I again commence keeping a journal, after having left keeping one for some time. I shall endeavour at least to write once every week, and give the occurrences of each week, and if I have time I shall try to write a little each day, especially if anything remarkable should take place. This evening a little before midnight, John Summerfield departed this life, we trust in the favour of God. The history of the deceased is briefly this — He was the son of White John, who was killed by the Americans during the last war. His mother's name is Polly John. J. S. was about 20 years of age — was baptized at the Grand River, in the year 1825. For some time he attended the Mission school at this place, but was afterwards sent to the Seminary at Cazenovia, by the benevolence and kindness of some ladies in New York, who had him named J. S., and paid for his education. Whilst at Cazenovia, he made considerable progress in learning, and by reports was very steady and pious. During his stay at C; he wrote and composed a small grammar of the Chippeway tongue, the first ever printed.
Thursday, September 1st. — Started this day from the Credit in order to visit the Munceytown and St. Clair Missions.
Sunday 4th. — After meeting in London, started immediately for Munceytown, with the intention of getting there in time for the evening meeting. About sunset I arrived at Mr. J. Carey's, where I stopped for the night — and met with very kind attention.
Monday 5th. — In riding from Mr. C.'s to the Mission, I met several of the Indian Brethren on their way to the St. Clair Camp meeting. Brother Waldron, the Missionary, was absent at a Camp meeting, held in Malahide. I was informed that about one half of the Muncey Indians had now embraced the Christian religion. To God be all the glory! To-day on my way to the Mission, I met the old Indian who lately visited the Credit. I asked him where he was going? he said, “To St. Clair Camp meeting. The lady I saw at your house, told me to go to the Camp meeting, and old as I am, I am going at her request, as I wish always to obey those who wish to do me good.” What an example of obedience, to go with a heavy pack on his back sixty or seventy miles through woods, and very bad roads, in order to attend a Camp meeting, and that at the desire of a stranger!
Friday 9th. — Rode on this morning to the St. Clair Mission, and found the Mission family in health, except Mr. George Henry, the Interpreter at this Mission. Here we met Brother Gladwin, the Missionary at Amherstburgh, and Brother T. Hurlburt from Saugeen. In the afternoon we all went to the Camp ground, which is two or three miles from the Mission house. A great number of the Indians collected at the ground, which is situated a few yards from the River St. Clair.
Monday 12th. — I felt very happy during the meeting to see what the Lord has done for the St. Clair Indians, and was led to cry, “What hath God wrought!”
Tuesday 13th. — Towards noon the St. Clair Chiefs and the Chiefs from the Credit, Munceytown, and Saugeen, met in Council. The subject discussed was the late surrender of the Saugeen Territory to Government. Brother Evans informed me that the Society among the Indians numbered about 104; and that the schools averaged about 40 scholars. Mr. Price, an exhorter, is the present teacher.
Wednesday 14th. — Made preparations for starting home this morning. About 10, a. m., I bade the Mission family and the Indian brethren farewell. I took the road that leads through Adelaide. I travelled about 32 miles, and lodged at a Mr. B's.
Thursday 15th. — Towards day was awoke out of my sleep by the coming home of the landlord and others. I soon heard the woman who kept the house tell him that a stranger had put up there for the night, and that he was an Indian preacher, and had been preaching to the Indians on the Creek that evening; and that my horse had been turned out on the pasture. The landlord began to curse the Indian preachers in an awful manner, and all the Methodists. I paid my bill and left.
Friday 16th. — A heavy thunder storm came on early this morning, which prevented me from starting as early as I had intended. Travelled only about 25 miles this day. Felt much blest in reading Carvosso's Memoir. Sunday 18th. — After breakfast I went with father and his family to an Indian Camp meeting, now going on back of Brantford.
Tuesday 20th. — Rode to the Credit this day, and once more found ourselves seated in our own wigwam.
Tuesday 27th. — Engaged in attending to business in Toronto. Purchased a large boat for the Credit, for about £29.
Sunday, October 9th. — Preached at Middle Road in the morning; Conover's at 3 p. m., and in the evening preached to the Indian brethren at the village, from these words: “What I say unto you, I say unto all, watch.” It was a time of deep solemnity.
Tuesday 18th. — The village was quite lively this morning, flags hoisted, and the Indians under arms, ready to give Sir F. B. Head a salute on his entrance into the village. His Excellency and attendants arrived about 2, p. m., and the men fired three rounds. The Governor then rode to the east end of the village and began to inspect every house inhabited by the Indians, and went into almost every house and the Mission school. After he had seen all that was to be seen, he said that the Credit village was the cleanest, neatest, and the most civilized of all the Indian settlements he had visited; and that he had now visited nearly the whole of them in this Province; and expressed great satisfaction at what he had witnessed. He called at our own wigwam, and said of it, that it reminded him of a pretty cottage in England. I rode with the party to the harbour at Port Credit, and His Excellency seemed much pleased with the works there. The Governor made no remarks about our Reserve whatever. In the evening wrote a letter to Mr. Stinson, asking of him permission to go to England early next spring.
Monday, November 7th. — Received a letter from my brother Henry, at the Grand River Station, saying that our aged and respected father was lying at the point of death, and wished me to come up and see him before he dies. God, prepare his soul for thine everlasting abode in glory! In the afternoon Mrs. Jones and myself left for father's.
Tuesday 15th. — Arrived at Hamilton, on our return, about 1, p. m., and took the steamboat for the Credit, where we arrived a little after dark.
Friday 18th. — My brother John and I came to Hamilton last evening, and this morning took stage for Brantford, and we were the whole of the day in reaching the above place, which is only 28 miles. When we arrived at Brantford, we there heard the melancholy news of the death of our respected parent, who had departed this life on Wednesday morning last, without a struggle or a groan. We proceeded to the house of mourning.
[In this place as in several others there is a blank left in the Journal, evidently with the intention of filling up afterwards; and it is a cause of regret that so little is said of the death of a father for whom he had a strong affection, and who was possessed of many excellencies.]
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