took the opportunity of mentioning to them the probability of some christian Indians visiting them, and he advised them to receive them in a friendly manner, and listen to what they had to say, but not to give them any answer until they held a general council and laid the subject before their father, Col. Givins; and should he think it best for us to become christians, we think we shall take his advice, and then we can learn to pray. He also requested me to accompany the Chiefs to York, as they would start about the time I should return home. By what this Chief said, we saw plainly we could do no more at present than endeavour to enlighten their minds, and thus prepare them for the reception of Christianity. Saw a Muncey who died yesterday from a wound he received in his forehead by firing off an old gun, the breach-pin of which flew out and struck him. It was reported that he was drunk when he fired off the gun, which will account for his want of care, and the sad consequences that followed. Oh! the ruining effects of Ishkodawahboo! God grant that these poor Indians may see the dreadful consequences of drunkenness!
Thursday 13th. — Peter Beaver and I visited Lower Muncey this morning in hopes of talking to some of the Indians about religion. We found, alas! many of them drunk, and as it was no use to talk to drunken people, we returned to Brother Carey's. My soul agonized in prayer for them. When will this blind people see their wretchedness, and flee to Mount Zion for refuge?
Sunday 16th. — About noon the Munceys and Ojebways assembled in number about 30, when I endeavoured to explain to them the leading doctrines of our holy religion. P. Beaver then gave an account of his conversion, telling them how he found the Great Spirit, when he immediately renounced his magical arts and drunkenness, and was now determined to be a christian as long as he lived. Brother W. Jackson also spoke
