of the gospel, which she, according to her own expression, believed to be the same with the wondrous stories of the Virgin Mary.
In relating these facts I would only remark, that I maintained intercourse with the individuals here mentioned, against my inclination; for it is burdensome and disgusting to cultivate friendship with the Siamese nobles. They used to call at midnight at our cottage, and would frequently send for me at whatever time it might suit their foolish fancies. At the same time, it must be acknowledged that, in this manner. Providence opened a way to speak to their hearts, and also to vindicate the character of Europeans, which is so insidiously misrepresented to the King.
I will mention also a few individuals in the humbler spheres of life, but who profited more by our instructions than any of the nobles. Two priests,—one of them the favorite chaplain of his Majesty, the other a young man of good parts, but without experience,—were anxious to be fully instructed in the doctrines of the gospel. They came during the night, and persevered in their application, even with neglect of the study of Bali, the sacred language, and of their usual services in Budhism. The elder, a most intelligent man, about 20 years of age, continued for months, to repair with the Bible to a forest, boldly incurring the displeasure of the King. He also urged his younger brother to leave his native country, in order to acquire a full knowledge of Christianity and European sciences, so as afterwards to become the instructor of his benighted fellow citizens; a Cambojan priest was willing to embark for the same purpose; and, finally, a company of friends invited me to preach to them, that they might know what was the religion of the Pharangs, or Europeans.
Siam has never received, so much as it ought, the attention of European philanthropists and merchants. It is one of the most fertile countries in Asia. Under a good government it might be superior to Bengal, and Bankok would outweigh Calcutta.
