2,

MEMOIRS

OF THE

RIGHT REV. DANIEL CORRIE, LL.D.

Woodman.

Fleet Street JanT 1847.

MEMOIRS

OF THE

RIGHT REV. DANIEL CORRIE, LLD.

il

FIRST BISHOP OF HABEAS.

COMPILED CHIEFLY FROM HIS OWN LETTERS AND JOURNALS,

BY HIS BROTHERS.

SEELEY, BURNSIDE, AND SEELEY,

FLEET STREET, LONDON

MDCCCXLVII.

At

MORSE STEPHENS

LEONARD SHELBY, PRINTER,
THAMES DITTON.

PREFACE.

As the greater portion of these Memoirs of a loved
and honoured brother, have heen derived from his
own papers, it is hoped that the risk of representing
him other than he really was has, in a great mea-
sure, been avoided. In making use, however, of
such materials as were in the possession of the Edi-
tors, they judged it to be desirable to give somewhat
copious details of their brother's earlier ministerial
labours, because they conceived that it was then
that the principles and motives by which through-
out life he desired to be actuated were most se-
verely tested. The Editors were of opinion, too,
that whilst many of the particulars connected with
their brother's earlier labours in Northern India,
would be new to the great proportion of the present
generation, these records of " the day of small
things " could not be without interest and use to
all who may be engaged in the work of Missions.

To account for the delay attending the appear-
ance of this Volume, it may be proper to state, that,
independently of the time consumed in the trans-

511660

VI PREFACE.

mission of some papers from India, many unfore-
seen circumstances prevented the brother who had
undertaken the task, from preparing any portion of
these Memoirs for the press until August, 1845.
At that time it pleased God to visit him with a
serious illness, which ultimately brought him to
the grave ; and thus the responsibility of complete-
ing what an abler hand had commenced, devolv-
ed on the only surviving brother, who, in his turn,
has not been altogether free from those interrup-
tions which arise out of the duties and afflictions
of ordinary life.

It remains to acknowledge, with thanks, the
obligation of the Editors to the Lord Bishop of
Oxford, for the Letters which the subject of these
Memoirs addressed to the Rev. D. Brown, the Rev.
H. Martyn, and the Rev. J. Sargent ; to the Lord
Bishop of Calcutta, for the account of the Visitation
of the Upper Provinces, which appears in pp. 529
and seq ; to the widow of the late Rev. J. Buckworth,
for letters addressed to her husband ; and to the
Archdeacon Harper for letters and information con-
nected with the Diocese of Madras. It will be seen
also, that the Editors of these Memoirs have been
much indebted to the correspondence of their brother
with Mr. Sherer, of the Bengal Civil Service, him-
self recently numbered with the dead who are
waiting for the resurrection to eternal life.

January 28, 1847.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I.

HIS EARLY LIFE AND MINISTRATIONS. . . page \

CHAPTER II.

DEPARTURE FOR INDIA VOYAGE ARRIVAL AT CALCUTTA . page 23

CHAPTER III.

AT ALDEEN APPOINTED TO CHUNAR. . . page 47

CHAPTER IV.

SETTLEMENT AT CHUNAR. .... page 66

Vlll CONTENTS.

CHAPTER V.

RESIDENCE AT CHUNAR. .... page 88

CHAPTER VI.

VISIT TO CALCUTTA ARRIVAL OF HIS SISTER. . page 118

CHAPTER VII.

REMOVES FROM CHUNAR ARRIVES AT CAWNPORE ILLNESS OF

MRS. MARTYN. ..... page 140

CHAPTER VIII.

RESIDENCE AT CAWNPORE. .... page 178

CHAPTER IX.

CAWNPORE COEL RETURN TO CALCUTTA. . . page 201

CHAPTER X.

CALCUTTA. ..... page 227

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XL

IX

page 245

CHAPTER XII.

VOYAGE TO ENGLAND. ..... page 280

CHAPTER XIII.

RETURN TO CALCUTTA.

page 295

CHAPTER XIV.

REMOVAL TO CALCUTTA.

page 320

CHAPTER XV.

CAWNPORE CALCUTTA RETURN OF MR. THOMASON DEATH OF
BISHOP HEBER. .....

CHAPTER XVI.

ARRIVAL OF BISHOP JAMES CONSECRATION OF THE BISHOP'S
COLLEGE DEATH OF BISHOP JAMES VISIT TO THE UPPER

PROVINCES. . . . . . . page 415

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XVII.

GOVERNMENT RETRENCHMENTS PLAN FOR A COLLEGE DEATH OF
MR. THOMASON ABOLITION OF SUTTEE ARRIVAL OF BISHOP

TURNER. . . . . . page 440

CHAPTER XVIII.

DISQUIETUDE CONCERNING THE ANGLO-HINDOO COLLEGE DEATH

OF BISHOP TURNER. .... page 481

CHAPTER XIX.

ARRIVAL OF BISHOP WILSON BAPTISM OF NATIVES ORDINATIONS
VISITATION OF THE UPPER PROVINCES. . page 519

CHAPTER XX.

DELAY IN HIS NOMINATION TO THE BISHOPRIC NARROW ESCAPE
FROM DEATH SUMMONED TO ENGLAND VISITS THE CAPE AND

ST. HELENA HIS CONSECRATION INTERVIEW WITH THE KING

ARRIVAL IN MADRAS VISIT TO TANJORE AND TINNE-

VELLY. ...... page 563

CHAPTER XXL

CHURCH-BUILDING FUND SUBSCRIPTIONS FOR THE IRISH CLERGY
THE MADRAS GRAMMAR SCHOOL MEMORIAL TO GOVERNMENT

PRIMARY VISITATION DEATH OF MRS. CORRIE ORDINATION

DEATH OF BISHOP CORRTE. . . page 603

MEMOIRS,

ETC.

MEMOIRS,

ETC. ETC.

CHAPTER I.

HIS EARLY LIFE AND MINISTRATIONS.

DANIEL CORRIE, the subject of this Memoir, was
born on the 10th of April 1777, and was the eldest
surviving son of the late Rev. John Corrie, for
many years Curate of Colsterworth, in the county
of Lincoln, and Vicar of Osbournby in the same
county, and afterwards Rector of Morcott, in the
county of Rutland. The history of the early part
of Mr. Corrie's life will be best told by the following
extract from his private Journal, dated on his
twenty-seventh birthday :

" Alas, when I look back, what a dreary waste appears !
Seventeen years spent at home without a thought of God or
salvation, though I had the benefit of family worship, and
abundance of good advice. The succeeding four years I spent

B

'2 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

with Mr. E,* principally in London, and its neighbourhood,
exposed to every temptation. The first serious resolution I
made of reformation was on the night of February 10, 1798,
on which I heard of my mother's death, which, occurring
suddenly, was a great shock to me. I loved her most dearly,
and had much reason to do so. Being totally ignorant,
however, of my own depravity, and in darkness as it regarded
the work of the Redeemer, I soon broke all my resolutions.
In May 1798, I returned to my father : and, being removed
from my temptations, I was in hope of effectually reforming
myself; but, alas ! on every convenient occasion, I became
the prey of my former temptations. In the October of that
year, we removed from Colsterworth to Grantham, where I
became still more strict, attending every month at the Lord's
Table ; but I was still ignorant of the way of salvation. In
the summer of 1799, 1 was entered of Clare Hall, Cambridge ;
and before going into residence, I met frequently with Mr.
G. N., who took much pains to direct my views aright ; but
I obstinately withstood him, and succeeded too fatally, I fear,
in hardening C. against his admonitions. Still, I was desti-
tute of true peace, and determined on greater strictness, such
as fasting and penance, &c. &c. I went into residence at
Cambridge, October 1799; but instead of further reforma-
tion, I spent my first year in a round of dissipation. Still,
however, I maintained appearances, being seldom out of
gates after ten o'clock, or being absent from chapel. I went
occasionally to Trinity Church, f though I was much dis-
gusted with what I heard there. During the summer of
1800, I had time for reflection, and returned to college in
the autumn, with some faint desires of doing better. At
Christmas of that year, I was appointed to an exhibition at
Trinity Hall, and removed thither in the January of 1801.

* A friend who had expressed an intention of providing in life
for Mr. C.

t The church of which the late Rev. Charles Simeon was then
Incumbent.

HIS EARLY LIFE. O

I now began to feel a growing attachment to Mr. Simeon's
ministry, although I seldom ventured to take a seat. Re-
turning home in June 1801, reformed in a great degree in
my outward conduct, and with desires the world could not
satisfy, it was my happiness to find John Buckworth,* at his
father's ; who, taking me to visit some religious people, I
insensibly began to love their society, and to perceive that it
was the way of life I desired to follow. I reflect with much
gratitude on the kindness and forbearance of my friend
Buckworth, who led me on by degrees, till I ventured to
speak to him of my state ; and from that time I have ex-
perienced a pleasure in the ways of God before unknown.
Yet, alas ! I began to be proud ; and returned to college in
October 1801 full of self-conceit. I now attended Trinity
Church regularly ; but my walk was very uneven. About
Christmas I fell grievously, and continued for about a fort-
night full of terror, and without resolution to proceed. It
pleased the Lord, however, to raise me up again ; and since
that period I have had no distressing apprehensions respect-
ing God's willingness, and the Saviour's sufficiency, to save
to the uttermost/'

With reference to what Mr. Corrie terms in the
foregoing extract, a grievous fall, he expressed
himself to his friend Buckworth, in a letter dated
Dec. 25, 1801, as follows:

" I was too forward and presumptuous in my notions of
acceptance with God, and of an interest in the Saviour ; and
God has thus left me to myself, to prove to me the pride and
deceit of my heart. I have been ashamed of my Saviour,
and he has withdrawn from me the sense of His presence ;
and dismay and a fearful looking for of judgment has taken

* The late Rev. John Buckworth, Vicar of Dewsbury, whose
father was an inhabitant of Colsterworth .

B 2

MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

possession'of my soul. Yet the anxiety and longing after
His presence, which I feel, leads me to hope that He will
not cast me off for ever. God, Thou knowest my heart :
Thou knowest that I trust not in my own self for strength
to serve Thee. O shut not Thy merciful ears to my prayers ! "

After keeping the usual number of Terms in
Cambridge, Mr. Corrie was ordained Deacon on
Trinity Sunday, June 13, 1802, by Dr. Tomline,
Bishop of Lincoln, to the curacy of Buckminster,
in the county of Leicester. His views and feelings
with respect to the Christian ministry, are expressed
in the following extract from a letter written about
the time of ordination to Mr. Buckworth :

" The ministry appears to be indeed an awful undertaking :
the nearer the time approaches, the more difficult do the
duties of it appear. At C. the obstacles seem to be greater
than elsewhere. for a firm reliance on that grace that
can overcome all obstacles, and make even a bed of thorns
easy ! "

Shortly after Mr. Corrie had been ordained to the
curacy of Buckminster, he received an appointment
to that of Stoke Eochford also. On this latter
curacy he resided, until in 1806 he accepted a
chaplaincy to the East India Company ; and his
correspondence with Mr. Buckworth, affords us
some notices of his early ministerial life. In a
letter dated November 10, 1802, he writes,

" I yesterday met a large party from Skillington at N.'s.
You know I never was among them before. I felt little
edification : their manner of expression, and many passages

HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. O

in their hymns, were not in unison with my frame. I felt
not that ' Nature's last agony was o'er ; ' or that ' all was
torn from my bleeding heart ; ' but thought that ' would to
God this were my experience ! ' that I might love Him
supremely that I might burn with love in return for His
matchless goodness ! But, what I most objected to was
a hymn, beginning, f Abraham when severely tried/ and
in the third line, ' He with the harsh command complied/
I may not be correct in any except the marked words ; but
surely nothing can be ' severe, ' or f harsh, ' which proceeds
from a God of love, who is engaged to make all things
work together for our good. Send me word, dear B. what
you think of these things : whether these remarks are not
the offspring of a captious and weak head ; or whether it is
an artifice of Satan to prevent me from profiting by their
company ; for, certain it is, I feel little of that elevation I
have often felt after religious conversation. I spent the
evening of Sunday at Mrs. B/s, I trust profitably. Some
of their relations were there, and went away seemingly
impressed. May God fix what was said on their hearts !
I spoke to them from my favourite subject, 2 Cor. viii. 9.
The subject of our poverty, and the way in which we were
made rich in Christ, were the principal topics I dwelt on.
that He would be pleased to own the labours of the very
least of his servants, who am not worthy to be called a
servant ! Blessed be He who has ' laid help on one that is
mighty ; ' and blessed be He who knows how to pity our
infirmities, and will send his Spirit to teach us what to ask
for. How my praise for ever flows, to the adorable Trinity
for that grand scheme of redemption ! While I write, I
feel the efficacy of Christ's atoning blood to purify souls
polluted as mine. when shall redemption in its fullest
import appear ! When shall we begin the triumphant song
of the redeemed, ' To Him who loved us and washed us
from our sins in his own blood ! ' "

MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

" March 7, 1803.

" My time, sorry am I to say, has passed heavily of late.
Such backwardness to communion with God, such sloth-
fulness in His service : so many painful apprehensions with
regard to temporal inconveniences : so many distressing
doubts with regard to retaining Stoke ! You, perhaps,
will not wonder when I tell you that, what with inward
conflict and outward service, I am brought very low; or
that these unbelieving fears have provoked the Holy Spirit
of God to leave me, in some measure, to wrestle with those
inward and hidden corruptions of my heart, which, like a
troubled sea, throw up mire and dirt in abundance. Yet
by this, if by nothing else, do I know that the Lord favours
me, since my enemies, who have assaulted me so continually,
have not prevailed against me. And though my soul is
cast down ; yet do I not doubt but that, when the Lord
sees fit, I shall praise Him, and again rejoice in the God of
my salvation.

" You desire to know how I go on, that is, I suppose,
how the work of the Lord prospers. that I had more to
tell you on this head ! At Sewstern, I have reason to fear
that my hopes were too sanguine. Miss N. was last week
attacked very suddenly with a fainting fit. It happened to
be the day I was to drink tea with them. I found them
much alarmed ; and, it gave me an opportunity of speaking
on the necessity of a speedy application to Christ. . . .
May the Spirit of God apply it to their hearts ! At Easton,
I was called to visit a woman who has been long confined,
though till lately unknown to me. I trust that the Lord
has indeed visited her in mercy. I found her at first in a
very contented state, supposing, (in her own words), that
she had ' a good repenting heart.' I endeavoured to con-
vince her that by nature no one has a repenting heart, but
on the contrary that it is only evil, yea ' desperately wicked/
On my return a few days after, I found her in much anxiety,

HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 7

saying that she had been deceived in her opinion of herself,
&c. ; and though her doubts are not yet removed, I trust
she disclaimed all other ground of confidence but the Re-
deemer's merits. This is matter of much comfort to me ;
and what comfort that I have myself been taught these
things ! Might I not have been ' a blind leader of the
blind.' Might I not still have been the slave of Satan, and
been his instrument in destroying souls ? ' to grace how
great a debtor ! ' '

" April 25, 1803.

(e Soon after my last letter to you, peace began to dawn
upon my soul ; and by imperceptible advances gradually to
increase. I have since then enjoyed in general a settled
calm ; though of late I have been severely exercised by the
revival of corruptions which I had hoped were in a great
measure subdued. The Lord has let me plainly see that
the seeds of these evils still remain. At the same time I
have reason to bless His name, who has made me more than
conqueror. Mr. Newton's letter on Temptation suits my
experience on that subject ; and it has been the instrument
of much comfort and strength to me.

" You perhaps have learned from the newspapers the sudden
death of Mr. Cholmeley.* He was riding with some
friends near his own house, and fell from his horse in a fit,
and expired in a few minutes, without speaking a word :
he was buried last Saturday. How loudly do such provi-
dences call upon us to be in continual readiness ; not only
to awake from sin, but to be diligent in the improvement of
our talent, that when our Lord cometh, He may receive
His own with usury."

* Montague Cholmeley, Esq. of Easton Hall, near Grantham,
one of Mr. Corrie's parishioners, and grandfather of the present
Sir Montague J. Cholmeley, Bart.

8 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

" Colsterworth, June 8, 1803.

kl Your letter directed to High Street, followed me hither.
I should have answered it sooner, but have been much en-
gaged in catechising, attending visitations, &c., besides my
usual avocations. With yourself, I have to complain of
much deadness of soul; though I enjoy now and then a
passing glimpse of the Divine goodness, for which I have
much reason to be thankful, and which keeps my soul
athirst for God, and leads me to long for brighter manifesta-
tions of His love. I cannot but adore the condescension of
Jehovah,who, I trust, smiles upon my labours, and owns
His own work in the most worthless of His creatures."

" Stoke, October 31, 1803.

" What obligations am I under to you for the part you
have taken, in leading my feet into the ways of peace !
But, what infinitely greater obligations do I owe to the
Friend of Sinners ! That name, the ' Friend of Sinners/
endears the adorable Saviour to my soul ; and gladly would I
leave all things here below to see Him as he is, and love
Him as I ought. But His time is best : and it is infinite
condescension that He grants us here some visits of His
love, and gives us to taste a blessedness begun. When I
read your letter, I was almost ready to envy you the pleasure
you must have enjoyed during your stay in London ; but a
little reflection reconciled me to my confined situation.
Though you were feasted with spiritual dainties, yet unless
your spiritual appetite was good you would pine in the
midst of plenty ; and, blessed be His name, where He
creates an appetite, He will surely satisfy it, were it in a
desert. ' If Elijah wants food, ravens shall feed him/ . . .
I have in general enjoyed much comfort in private, but my
public duties have not brought me so much consolation.

HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS.

So much of self mixes with all I do, that it mars my peace j
and, I fear, hinders the success of my labours ; though it
seems the highest presumption to limit the Almighty, or to
suppose that a ' potsherd of the earth ' should obstruct His
designs. The Sunday preceding the Fast- day, I en-
deavoured to prepare the minds of the people for that oc-
casion; and was happy to find that it was not without
effect. The three churches were crowded. I took my text
from Psalm lix. 1, 2. I have read lately two of the Homilies,
' the Homily on the Misery of Man/ and ' the Homily on
Salvation/ By the advice of my father, I reserve the others
for the festivals for which they are appointed. I hope this
may have the effect of removing prejudice the Lord grant
it may ! I can appeal to Him that my desires are to be use-
ful in His vineyard. May that sovereign grace be magnified
which has inspired the desire ! Yesterday my father ad-
ministered the Sacrament for me at Buckminster ; the num-
ber of communicants was unusually large, though it is a
time of the year in which the people do not usually attend in
numbers. I hope this is a token for good, and an en-
couragement to persevere and wait the Lord's time

" My dear friend, forget me not at the throne of grace :
thither I always bear you in my mind, and I have much
need of your prayers, that I may have utterance given me
to declare the mysteries of the Gospel. This is all that is
worth living for, to make known the riches of Divine grace,
and to be instrumental in winning souls to Christ. Yet, O
what coldness and backwardness I feel even in this delight-
* ful service ! . . . .

" Did you, my friend, partial as you are, but know the
thoughts that haunt my soul, and pursue me even into the
pulpit, your good opinion would, I fear, be turned into
disgust. But ' this is a saying worthy of all acceptation,
that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners/
This is all my salvation, and all my desire ; and this shall
be all my theme, ' Worthy is the Lamb that was slain.

10 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

From this hold, Satan has not prevailed to drive me of late.
To this hold will I cling, for He that is my righteousness is
also my strength, and in His strength I shall be more than
conqueror. May the soul of my friend ' blossom as the
rose ; and be as the garden of the Lord, well watered every
where and fruitful ! ' "

" London, December 20, 1803.

" I rejoice that you seem to expect no further hinderance
to your ordination at Easter. I hope you will be abundantly
blessed in your labours, for truly nothing else can satisfy a
soul thirsting after the honour that comes of God. We need
much patience, dear B., that after having done the will of
God we may inherit the promises

' God moves in a mysterious way,
His wonders to perform,'

and, when our finite capacities can discover no good working,
He is bringing about the purposes of His own will.
Often has he given my impatient soul to see this : in a
moment hushed the storm of raging and impetuous
passions; and made, even when all in prospect seemed
gloomy, a great calm. This experience has been of great
service to me, in enabling me to impart consolation to others,
and to comfort them with the same comfort wherewith I
myself have been comforted of God. the heights and
depths, and lengths and breadths, of the love and con-
descension of God, to submit, as it were, to the caprices of
the creatures of His hand, yea, of the rebels against His
government ! { Is this the manner of men, Lord ? ' I
feel, indeed, according to your expression, that ' without all-
sufficient grace, quickly would my heart return to the indul-
gence of those things which my judgment tells me, are
nothing but vanity and sin/ In the review of my experience
since I came hither, much cause of praise appears. That

HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 11

promise has been very abundantly realized, ' He will not
suffer you to be tempted above what ye are able, but will
with the temptation make a way to escape/ And having
this experience I would gladly ' cast all my care upon Him/
who, I trust, ' careth for me,' in expectation that He will
' keep me by His mighty power through faith unto salvation.'"

" Stoke, February 14, 1804.

" I anticipate much pleasure in your company and from
hearing you preach in some of my churches. I have, how-
ever, I trust, learned in some poor measure to ( cease from
man ; ' nor do I expect either pleasure or comfort further
than as a Divine blessing shall attend our communications.
The work of the ministry seems to be followed with little
effect in this place : for my own part, however, I have felt
much freedom from slavish fear; and have delivered my
message with boldness. If it were the will of God, I
should rejoice in some visible effects ; but I desire to resign
myself to His pleasure.

" The Methodists have at length established preaching at
Sewstern ; and, I understand, some have been brought under
convictions by their means. If the work be of God, I
would gladly bid it God speed ; and if it be of man, it will
come to nothing. The ministers of the Established Church
labour under some disadvantages, from the necessity of

having so many parishes to attend to, &c Every day

convinces me more of the necessity of subordination in
religious, as well as civil affairs. The want of this is the
cause of that mania, if I may so speak, which prevails
among the Methodists, and bids fair in time to turn them all
into preachers and no hearers. They seem to look upon
preaching as the only instrument of conversion, and over-
look other means, such as reflection, self-examination, &c. ;
hence their various backslidings, falling from grace, &c., with

12 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

the many reproaches that are brought upon the gospel thereby.
These things make me lament sincerely, the defection which,
I fear, daily takes place from the Establishment. Pure in
her doctrines, and apostolic in her constitution, our Church
seems, indeed, ' the pillar and ground of truth ; ' and the
best means, under the great Head, of keeping men in the
simplicity of the gospel. I would not, however, say with
Mr. D. that there is no salvation out of her pale. I would
rather pray, earnestly pray, for a revival of vital godliness
in her sons that it would ' please God to illumi-
nate all Bishops, Priests, and Deacons, with true know-
ledge and understanding of His word ; ' and enable them to
shew its real power both in their preaching and living. . . "

" April 4, 1804.

"I should have answered your letter sooner, but have
been both very unwell and very much engaged. Mrs. B.
left this life for a better, in the night of the 26th ultimo. I
was in the house at the time of her departure, and I trust
profited by the awful event. She was sensible at the last,
though for some days she had been wandering. Frequently
during her illness, she confessed that she had no hope but
in the blood and righteousness of Christ, and wished to re-
ceive Him as her King to make her holy, as well as her
Prophet to teach her, and her Priest to atone for her trans-
gressions. It was matter of surprise to me to hear her ex-
press herself with a correctness on the work of the Redeemer,
which had been unusual to her ; and did not seem to be
expected from one who had become so late in life acquainted
with the way of salvation. I have felt more than I had
expected to feel from the departure of one of my most con-
stant and attentive hearers. May the effect be lasting !

" I have of late had reason to bless God for some visible
testimony of His acceptance of my labours. Soon after you
left us, I went to visit an old person and his wife at Sews-

HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 13

tern, and trust that the man is in a hopeful way. Some
persons at Easton, too, have been awakened, and now meet
for the purpose of social worship. The multitude, alas !
continue inattentive: but, one soul saved, and that the
meanest or weakest of God's creation, is abundant recom-
pense for a life of toil and labour.

" Last Sunday, I exchanged duty with Mr. G. at W. It
is grievous to observe so small an attendance at public wor-
ship. It seems a beacon to warn us of the ill consequences
of irregularity. When a man shews a contempt for the in-
stitutions of the church to which he belongs, the profanum
vulguSj though dull enough in general, can easily see the
motive that keeps him in the church, and they learn to de-
spise the person who, for the sake of emolument, will con-
tinue a member of the church/'

To the foregoing notices of Mr. Corrie's early
ministerial labours, may be added an extract from
his Journal, dated April 10, 1804.

"On Trinity Sunday, June 13, 1802, I was ordained
Deacon. I trust I had a desire to do good to the souls of
men ; but it was, as I now perceive, very faint, though I
hope my labours have not been in vain. And now, Lord,
I desire to adore that sovereign grace, which plucked me as
a brand from the mouth of the devouring flame ! I would
pour out my soul in gratitude, to that dear Redeemer, whose
intercession has delivered me from so great a death ; and
would bless the Holy and Eternal Spirit who has enlightened
my dark understanding, so that though I know not the hour,
nor the day, nor the month, nor even the year, when He
graciously wrought savingly upon me, yet I can say,
' Whereas I was blind, now I see/ Holy, Blessed, and
glorious Trinity, let thy choicest blessings descend on Mr.
Simeon, who, regardless of the frowns he might incur, faith-
fully warned me of my danger ; and let thy watchful Provi-

14 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

dence ever protect my friend Buckworth, dearer than a
brother ; and, 0, pardon my manifold sins ! This is all my
hope, that the blood of Jesus Christ eleanseth from all sin,
and that His Spirit is powerful to subdue the most inveterate
corruptions.

1 On thee alone my hope relies,
At thy dear cross I fall,
My Lord, my Life, my Righteousness,
My Saviour, and my all.'

Impart to me from thy fulness, and let me evermore be abound-
ing in thy work. I trust thou hast given me to desire the
furtherance of thy glory. Enable me to act accordingly, and
to live to Him who loved me and gave himself for me. Let
nothing ever prevail to allure me from Thee, neither the
hope of preferment, nor the fear of opposition. I have a
deceitful and desperately wicked heart, but I trust thou wilt
never leave me nor forsake me, seeing thou hast given me to
hope in thy word/'

During the Easter Term 1804, Mr. Corrie
returned to Cambridge for the purpose of keeping
his Law Exercises;* and on Sunday, June 10th, of
that year, was ordained Priest at Buckden, an event
which he thus notices:

" This day I have been admitted to the sacred Order of
Priests. I have much, Lord, to be grateful to Thee for !
I was kept calm and collected during the examination ; and,
(glory be to Thy name ! ) I have been given to feel, in
some measure, my insufficiency for these things. Make
me, I beseech thee, more sensible of this, and grant that
the solemn transactions of this day may never rise up in
judgment against me ! Let me be a light in the world,

* It was now that Mr. Corrie became more intimately acquainted
with Henry Martyn than he had before been.

HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 15

showing forth thy praise ; and make me, both in life and
doctrine, an example to Thy flock. Lord, excite in my
heart strong desires after the welfare of immortal souls ;
and grant that those to whom, I trust, thou hast sent me,
may be ' turned from darkness to light, and from the power
of Satan unto God.' To thee I look : on thee I would
depend. Blessed Jesus ! be thou my righteousness and my
strength. Fulfil all the good pleasure of thy will in me."

In answer to a letter received from Mr. Buck-
worth, who, the Easter previously 3 had been ordained
to the curacy of Dewsbury, he writes, August 24th,
1804:

"I rejoice to hear of the success of your ministerial
efforts. that the Lord would hasten the time when
Satan's kingdom shall be finally demolished, and the king-
dom of the Messiah established on its ruins ! You will now
have another snare to contend with ; the Lord having been
pleased to own you for his servant, Satan will now seek to
exalt you beyond measure. We tread in a narrow path :
dangers stand thick around : a single false step may lead to
consequences most ruinous. what need of watchfulness !
May the ' Watchman of Israel ' guard you ; then will you
be secure indeed ! For myself, I can but just discern the
pulse of spiritual life to beat, and that chiefly by the strug-
gle between sin and grace. Alas ! I have no active exer-
tions to reflect on. That I am not the willing captive of
natural inclination is all that I can say. Since you were
here, I have been obliged to apply for medical aid, and have
found considerable relief (thanks be to the chief Physician !)
so that I am now in usual health, except that I am op-
pressed with a languor which distresses me exceedingly, and
leaves me only able to sigh and cry. How cheering the
consideration that ' our life is hid with Christ in God ! '
There it is secure. How animating the thought that ' when

16 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

Christ who is our life shall appear, then shall we also appear
with him in glory ! ' the wonders of redeeming love,
that worms, rebellious worms, may not only hope, but
confidently expect such transcendent blessedness ! For
Christ our Head having endured the cross, to deny Him the
rewards of His sufferings would be an injustice incapable of
entering the Eternal mind. What shall I render [to the
Lord] that amidst all my deadness, this hope is not taken
from me ? My help it standeth only with the Lord ; and
though I am destitute of sensible comfort, yet I am ena-
bled to rest upon the unchangeable word of promise, that
those whom He has justified, and to whom He has given
the love of holiness, the inseparable companion of justifi-
cation, He will infallibly glorify. With respect to the
work of the Lord, I hope it prospers among us. I hear of
good being done, and that is some comfort to me. Amongst
your numerous friends, let me beg of you to remember me
at the throne of grace : none more stands in need of your
earnest supplications. Whilst I can keep hold of the pro-
mise, I am encouraged : but I assure you, it is indeed a
warfare, a struggle, a race. You are often, often present
to my mind ; and while I have any apprehension of the in-
estimable value of spiritual blessings, I will not cease to
pray that you may be enriched with the choicest of them ;
and that we may be permitted to join in the songs of the
redeemed."

" Stoke, November 12, 1804.

" It is some time since I heard of you, but hope you are
well : if so, the less matter whether I hear of you or not.
However, pray snatch some passing hour to let us know
how the work of the Lord goes on at D. ; for, let matters
go how they may with ourselves, still will we say respecting
the success of the Gospel, ( Good luck have thou ! ' There
is in man a desire to be something, somewhere ; and this

HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 17

desire is, beyond a doubt, the moving spring of much of
that forwardness we see in many touching the promotion of
religion. Howbeit, the Gospel is furthered.

<f You will be surprised to hear of the death of James P.
He was buried at Colsterworth about a fortnight since.
With my father's permission, I preached at his funeral to a
crowded church. The effect I know not, but my own heart
seemed hard and insensible as a rock ; and, indeed, though
I have proof that my labours are owned by my gracious
Lord, yet I seem like Gideon's fleece, dry in the midst of
divine dew. My hope, however, and my confidence, is kept
immoveably fixed on the rock of ages ; and I have to bless
God for a growing devotedness to his service, an increasing
determination to be the world's fool for the sake of Christ,
and to count His reproach my highest honour."

An entry in his private Journal, dated January
27th, 1805, manifests the same distrust of self, and
the same earnestness for the good of his people.

" At Skillington, this morning, I felt an earnest desire,
had it been God's will, that I were able to preach extempore.
I had so strong a desire to communicate to the people what
I felt of God's goodness, that it seemed a restraint to con-
fine myself to my paper. But, Lord, thou knowest what a
proud creature I am. Thou seest how I covet the praise of
man, and in mercy to my soul hast made me 'slow of
speech/ make me of quick understanding in the ways
of godliness ! At Stoke, I felt something of the same spirit
remaining, some longings after God in prayer, and some
breathings for his blessing on the people during the sermon ;
but at Buckminster, how changed ! Wandering thoughts
and imaginations. How manifold are the mercies, how
infinite the patience of God ! O when will it be that my
heart shall be immoveably fixed on God : when shall my
soul become as a weaned child ? Blessed Saviour ! thou art
my Friend, my Advocate, my Head of influence : visit me

c

18 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

with thy salvation : smile upon my poor, imperfect, defiled
labours, and glorify thy name in my weakness ! "

April 10th, being his 28th birth-day, is thus no-
ticed :

" Yesterday, I was twenty-eigKt years of age : but, my
heart ever prone to forget the Lord's mercies, I forgot to
make any reflections on the Divine goodness in bringing me
thus far. Lord, I would remember, to the glory of thy rich
and free grace, that thou forgivest my transgressions, and
coverest all mine iniquities. I have to praise thee that thou
hidest me from the strife of tongues : thou makest my way
very pleasant : thou strewest my path with flowers : thou
hast also given me some tokens that I have not run unsent,
by blessing my poor attempts to the consciences of my peo-
ple, and awakening some of them, I trust, from the sleep of
sin, making them to hear thy sweet voice speaking peace to
their souls. If a worm may be permitted to plead with his
Maker, let my cry enter into thy ears, and awaken many
sinners amongst us to come to Christ that they perish not !
Yea, Lord, give me to see Jerusalem in prosperity : nor
would I cease to plead with thee till thou hast answered my
prayer. I would praise thy holy name for a growing de-
termination to glory in nothing save in the cross of our
Lord Jesus Christ. I would bless thee for a disposition to
count reproach for his sake as my highest glory. I plainly
perceive that ' all who will live godly must suffer persecu-
tion.' I cannot hope to enter into heaven but f through
much tribulation/ even as thy choicest servants have done.
enable me to keep my eye ever fixed on Jesus, that I may
not be weary, or faint in my mind ! When I look back, the
brightness of thy favour makes my unprofitableness dark in-
deed ; and I should have just cause to fear, that the aveng-
ing sword of thy justice would cut me down as a cumberer
of the ground ; but Jesus liveth, making intercession, and
therefore I am not consumed. Nor shall I ever be con-

HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 19

sumed, seeing, { He is able to save to the uttermost/ To
all thy other favours, O Lord, add a heart to trust thy word ;
and henceforth let the love of Christ constrain me to a more
constant and uniform obedience. Thou knowest that I love
thy law ; and though I come far short of its requirements,
yet there is not one jot or tittle that I desire to have altered.
I consent to it that it is f holy, just, and good/ and desire
to conform my whole spirit, soul and body, to its divine
precepts. Let thy Holy Spirit, then, carry on the work
thou hast begun ! Write thy law upon my heart ; put it
into my mind ; and let me be changed from glory to glory,
till I become ' meet for the inheritance of the saints in
light : ' whither, in thine own good time and way, bring me
of thine infinite mercy, for Christ's sake. Amen/

In the Easter term of 1805, Mr. Corrie was ad-
mitted to his L.L.B. degree. It was during this
visit to Cambridge that the subject of a chaplaincy to
the East India Company was strongly urged upon
him by the late Mr. Simeon. After much and serious
consideration, it seemed to Mr. C. to be his duty to
devote himself to the spread of the Gospel amongst
the heathen. An appointment to India was according-
ly obtained for him, through tbe influence of the late
Mr. William Hoare ; and the following extracts from
Mr. C.'s journal and letters will exhibit the state of
his mind, in the prospect of quitting his curacy, for
the purpose of exercising his ministry in a distant land.

"July 25th, 1805. I have for a long time neglected to
note down the workings of my soul ; but I would now re-
mark, that when I have been in my best frames, my mind
has been most resigned to the work of the Lord in India.

C 2

20 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

Yet I feel much cleaving to creatures, and a want of resigna-
tion. Lord, teach me to know, and do thy will !

" Oct. 6th. As the time approaches for leaving England,
more anxiety of mind arises ; though blessed be God, no
desire to draw back from the work. may I be found but
faithful ! Lord, strengthen and support me in the work.
( Give what thou commandest, and then command what
thou wilt : ' let thy will be done in me, and by me ; and in
life and death let me be thine, through Jesus Christ, thy
dear Son, and my beloved Saviour. Amen ! "

TO THE REV. J. BUCKWORTH.

" November 12, 1805.

" From my last you would, perhaps, expect to hear from
me before this; which might have been the case, but that I
received information, when in London, that the fleet does
not sail for India before January next. It is not likely,
therefore, that I shall leave this place [Stoke] before that
time; unless, indeed, Mr. D. should meet with a curate to
supply my place. He is now in London ; and, as my en-
gagement with him ceases at Martinmas, should he meet
with any person at liberty to enter on the curacy, I cannot
expect, nor do I desire, to continue longer. He returns
this week, when it will be determined. On my way from
London, I stopped at Cambridge, and read prayers for Mr.
Simeon on the Thursday evening. It was highly gratifying
to see very many gownsmen attentive hearers of God's word.
One might compare it to so many messengers waiting for
instructions, with which they were about to post off in all
directions. The Lord increase their number, and long con-
tinue Mr. Simeon at Cambridge, an invaluable blessing to
the church and nation ! I feel some degree of regret at
leaving [this place] ; and, especially on account of some
who manifest an attachment to the cause [of God] , whilst
yet they are far from being what I could wish them. I ex-

HIS EARLY MINISTRATIONS. 21

perience something of what the Apostle expressed towards
his people, when he declared he f travailed in birth of them
till Christ were formed in them.' that the Lord would
' cut short his work in righteousness/ that I might leave
them with a prospect of rendering an account of them with
joy ! I reflect with much dissatisfaction on my conduct
whilst among them : so little of the example of Christ, so
little of warmth in public, so little of zeal in private, so
much ignorance, and inexperience in stating the truths of
God, that I fear lest their blood should be required at my
hands : almost involuntarily my soul cries out, e Deliver me
from blood-guiltiness, Lord, and my mouth shall sing
aloud of thy righteousness ! ' the horrid wickedness of
soul-murder ! How infinitely valuable must that blood be,
that can wash out so foul a stain ! may I ever experience
its healing and cleansing power ; and may the consideration
of the richness and the fulness of redeeming love animate
me to greater exertions, and fill my mouth with more ex-
alted praises ! Lord Jesus, let thy power rest upon me, and
thy strength be perfected in my weakness ! Out of the
mouth of a babe and suckling in Divine knowledge, ordain
praise and glory to Thyself ! Let my dear friend say,
' Amen/ to these unconnected petitions ; whilst, through
grace, my prayers shall continue to ascend, that every need-
ful gift and grace may be bestowed upon you, that you may
be enriched with all spiritual knowledge and understanding ;
and that you may have utterance given f to declare the whole
counsel of God.' "

" January 13th, 1806.

" I have not heard further respecting the time of sailing
for India, but am getting ready for a removal on the
shortest notice. With much thankfulness I inform you,
that my mind is quite tranquil in the prospect of leaving
everything dear to human nature. I have, indeed, some-

22 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

times, painful convictions of my insufficiency for the great
work before me ; but am in general enabled to believe, that
e as my day is, so shall my strength be/ The affection my
people express for me fills me with shame, that I do not
more deserve it, and with fear lest I should be tempted to
think of myself more highly than I ought to think. It has
pleased my gracious Lord, however, to give me of late a
deep experience of my own depravity, and of my unwor-
thiness of the least of his mercies. My dear friends seem
entirely reconciled to a separation. I trust that we shall
be able to part without the sorrow of those ' who have no
hope/ how great the condescension of our Redeemer
God, who stoops to so close an union with sinful worms :
who allows the sons and daughters of corruption to address
Him as their Husband and their head ; and salutes them
as His spouse and His beloved ! Methinks such honour,
so undeserved, might well engage our every thought, and
make our every inquiry only, ' What shall I render, &c ? '

CHAPTER II.

DEPARTURE FOR INDIA VOYAGE ARRIVAL AT CALCUTTA.

EARLY in the year 1806, Mr. Corrie took leave of
his relatives and parishioners to embark for India.
At that time, a voyage to India was looked upon
as a much greater undertaking than it is considered
at the present day. Accordingly on Mr. Corrie's
departure from his father's house, the parishioners
pressed round to take their leave of him ; many
of them deeply affected, believing " that they should
see his face no more."

After v a prosperous journey to London and Ports-
mouth, he embarked (March 30, 1806) on board
the Asia East Indiaman, bound to Calcutta. Mr.
C. was accompanied by a brother- Chaplain, the Rev.
Joseph Parson, one of his most attached College
friends. Among the passengers were many cadets,
to several of whom Mr. C. was made useful, and be-

24 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

came in after life their friend and counsellor. Some
particulars of the voyage are subjoined from Mr.
Corrie's Journal and Letters, which shew the lively
interest he took in the welfare of all around him, and
indicate the steady purpose with which he kept in
view the great work before him.

In his journal, Mr. C. writes under date of

"April 10th. This day I have completed my twenty-
ninth year. In the review of the past year, what reason
have I to adore the divine mercy. Soon after I had deter-
mined on going to India, which was in June last, it pleased
God to work by his word, and to raise a general attention to
eternal things, amongst my people at Buckminster and
Stoke, giving me real favour in their sight, for which I
desire to praise Him, confessing that I am not worthy to be
ranked amongst the meanest of His ministers. Some
amongst them, I hope, were brought to God. that they
may continue to walk in the truth ; and may each amongst
them become Christians, not in name only, but in deed and
in truth ! Since I have been on the point of departing
from England, every objection to the undertaking has been
removed from my mind. My heart is set on the work of
the Lord in India ; and I would not draw back, as far as I
know myself, to be made Archbishop of Canterbury. I
have taken leave of my dear friends, most likely for ever in
this world. I would dedicate every faculty of my soul and
body to my redeeming God. Lord, accept me, working in
me that which is well-pleasing in thy sight, through Jesus
Christ my Lord and Saviour ; to whom with Thy blessed
self, and Holy Spirit, Three persons in one Jehovah, be all
glory, and honour, and praise, now and for evermore.
Amen !

"April 14th. On Saturday afternoon, and yesterday
morning, the wind blew quite a hurricane. In the night of

VOYAGE TO INDIA. 25

Saturday, I could not sleep for the tossing of the ship : I
lay meditating on death, and found my mind calm and re-
signed ; but saw nothing in whatever I had done on which I
could rely for a moment; saw nothing, in fact, but what
was deficient and defiled with sin. Yet, in the consideration
of the atonement, and intercession of Jesus, I could look
without dismay, though not with any sensible joy, to a
judgment-seat.

"Yesterday the wind was too high to admit of divine
service. Much consideration about our danger during the
preceding night ; but. alas, little disposition to praise the
Lord for his goodness ! Some few of the passengers listened
with attention, whilst I read a sermon on the poop. I had
much conversation at intervals with several of them, on the
subject of religion; and found some disposed to attend.
Yesterday, passed one of the Salvage islands : to-day one
of the Canaries (Palma.) No one who has not been for
some time out of sight of land can conceive the delight
which the view of these created ; or the refreshment they
afforded the eye. As stupendous monuments of the divine
power, they ought to have raised more adoration in my heart
to the great Supreme. But, alas ! I find the more I get
familiarized to the wonders with which I am surrounded,
the less sensibly I feel my dependence on Him in whom I
live and move. Blessed Saviour, let me be accepted, and
ever preserved through thy intercession, and kept by thy
power through faith unto salvation. Amen."

Whilst off the coast of Africa, Mr. Corrie relates
that the Lady Burgess, one of the Indiamen in
company with the Asia, struck upon a rock :

" The masts were cut away : the pinnace, contrary to ex-
pectation, floated, (for she filled with water,) and soon after
was driven clear of the breakers, with about forty persons.
As many as could swim plunged in, and about seventy at
length got into her. The boat also was manned, and, by

26 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

the exertions of the chief mate, the ladies, (six in number,)
were put into her, and none allowed to go with them, lest,
being crowded by too many, she should be swamped. The
captain and some others who could not swim, were saved by
laying themselves on planks; and, being drifted by the
waves, were afterwards picked up by the boats. The Leo-
pard's boats saved about twenty-five. The ladies were re-
ceived on board the Nelson ; the greater part [of the crew]
were taken up by the Melville, and some by the Sovereign
and Alexander. About fifty perished ; amongst whom were
the first and sixth mates, the purser, and twenty-four
cadets ; the greater part of the others were Asiatics, with
some soldiers."

With reference to this melancholy occurrence, Mr.
C. writes :

" Sunday, April 20. This morning has been spent in
great anxiety. About two o'clock, I heard guns firing as
signals of distress. When day broke, the wreck of a vessel
was seen on the rocks, off the island Benevento. About
eight boats were observed at a distance, and at ten o'clock
we perceived one making towards the Asia. Soon after, a
passenger of the Nelson, and one of the mates of the Lady
Burgess, came on board, from whom we learnt that the un-
fortunate ship was the Lady Burgess, which was gone down
with every part of the cargo. Six ladies, passengers,
reached the Nelson in safety. The mate, after putting the
ladies on board the Nelson, returned to the wreck, when
her poop remained above water sufficiently to preserve life :
on returning a second time, nothing was seen but part of
the bowsprit, every creature had disappeared ; but the Com-
modore, having sent several boats to their assistance, sug-
gests a hope that all are saved. What reason have we of
this ship to adore a kind Providence for being directed a
different course! Alas, that such indifference, nay base
rebellion [against God] should still appear ! let me not

VOYAGE TO INDIA. 27

be as those who know not God, but grant me such a due
sense of all thy mercies, Lord, that my heart may be un-
feignedly thankful, and that I may show forth thy praise
not only with my lips, but in my life ! Amen."

The Journal proceeds :

"April 23rd, St. lago. Went on shore with the purser.
On landing was struck by the scenery, which was quite new
to me, and highly picturesque. Within the beach there is
a low valley, having the appearance of a marsh, with shrubs
growing in the shape of a pine-apple ; it had a very pleasing
effect. Water was here procured for the fleet. The town
stands on a hill, on the right of the valley ; and within the
fortifications. At the foot of the ascent, and on the beach,
were three officers riding on small lean ponies. Their
clothes, ragged and much worn, were such a contrast to an
Englishman's idea of the word ' officer,' as to excite a smile.
Further on were some slaves, in a state of nature, employed
in breaking cocoa-nuts. At the entrance of the garrison
stood a sentinel, without shoes or stockings, his other clothes
hanging in rags, and having no lock to his musket ; alto-
gether, he reminded me of one of Sancho Panza's guards.
In the town, which consisted of two rows of huts, we found
poultry, pine apples, cocoa-nuts, &c. &c. for sale. The
natives perfectly understood what are called ' the tricks of
trade/ I am told they sell a kind of Port wine of in-
ferior quality, mixed with rum to keep it from going sour ;
they have also a kind of gin, extracted from the sugar-cane.
Their women are the most disgusting figures that can be
conceived ; many of them having only a covering round the
waist ; the men too like men in general ; but one, a Caffre
slave, was about seven feet high. The country presents a
most barren appearance, being very hilly, and seldom visited
with rain. After staying about three hours, I returned to
the Asia, most thankful that my lot had been cast in Bri-
tain, and admiring the kindness of providence to that happy

28 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

isle. Long may a gracious God exercise the same fatherly
care over it ! Long may England flourish, as the place
which God hath chosen to put his name there !

" Sunday, April 27th. I had service on deck to-day, the
sailors being very attentive ; was much affected with languor,
so that the day has passed in an unprofitable manner. I
had a long conversation with G., and hope well of him again.
Thought much of my dear relations ; and had an affecting
sense of the value of former privileges, ' when I went to the
house of God, with the voice of joy and gladness/ for
the happy time when I shall be privileged to draw near to
God without restraint ! Blessed be His name for some
sweet seasons in private. may the impression of them
remain, and be productive of holiness in heart and life !

" May 3rd. Yesterday the wind sprung up, a light breeze,
and continues to drive us two knots an hour, after a calm of
three days. In the night, we had a very narrow escape from
running foul of the Alexander ; the boats were about to be
lowered from the idea that the ship might go down by the
concussion. What reason to be thankful for preservation !

for a due sense of all thy mercies, my God and Saviour !
"Friday, May llth. This day had divine service on

deck : in the evening had a conversation with V. on the
doctrine of the Atonement. He seemed much impressed,
and said he had never before considered it ; but hoped he
should now make it the study of his life. Lord, work in
him both to will and to do for Jesus Christ's sake ! Amen.

1 would record, to my shame, how feeble my efforts are for
the eternal welfare of those around me \ and, when I think
of the shame I feel, I desire to be roused to greater exer-
tions, lest Jesus Christ should profess himself ashamed of
me at the last day. the piercing thought of being ex-
cluded from thy blessed vision ! Prevent it by thy grace !
let me not fall, I pray.

" May 18th. Service on deck. Found much sweetness
in private devotion, with a disposition to pray for my dear

VOYAGE TO INDIA. 29

relatives and friends by name. My mind tolerably fixed on
divine things, with boldness to speak to any that came in
my way, on the subject of religion. I have of late observed
with pleasure a great change in P.'s views and sentiments
respecting scriptural truths ; and a practice more corre-
spondent thereto than formerly. This morning, he spoke
with much feeling, on several experimental truths of Chris-
tianity ; and I humbly hope, is no stranger to the power of
them. that I may be enabled to walk in wisdom towards
him, and that he may be an honoured instrument in turning
many to righteousness !

" Sunday, June 1st. I have neglected to make memo-
randa during the past week, and fear it is a symptom of
spiritual decay : yet, I find, in general, much fixedness of
mind in private prayer ; and sometimes much tenderness of
spirit. The Bible is my delight and daily counsellor ; and
I think I watch every opportunity of calling the attention
of those around me to the things of eternity. Yet, I would
confess to my shame, that these attempts are feeble,
generally very unskilfully conducted, and little calculated
to produce a good effect, and chiefly confined to more in-
timate associates. I plainly perceive that without a great
exercise of divine power, I am totally unfit for the work of
introducing the Gospel amongst the heathen; and much
fear lest the objects of time and sense should divert me from
that pursuit. Yet, Lord, thou knowest that to be instru-
mental in turning many unto righteousness is my highest
ambition. This is the determination of my judgment;
though, alas ! my affections draw me powerfully to court
the favour of man, and to covet ease. I perceive myself
poor and blind, and miserable, and wretched, and lost, and
undone ; but the joyful sound of wisdom, righteousness,
sanctification, and redemption in Christ Jesus for ruined
sinners ! Blessed Lord, grant me a spirit of faith, that I
may apprehend this dear Redeemer ; and by virtue of union
with Him may obtain acquittal from all condemnation, and

30 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

daily become more like Him, in righteousness and true
holiness ! "

To the Rev. J. Buckworth he wrote as follows :

" We are in hopes of reaching Madras in nine weeks from
this time ; so that before you receive this, which comes by
way of St. Helena, I shall, by the divine permission, be in
India. Indeed, on this element, in a peculiar manner is
the apostle's limitation to be attended to, * If the Lord will,
we shall do this or that/ My dear friend will be ready to
fear that an account of our spiritual voyage is to be ex-
cluded from this paper. Would that I could gladden your
heart with tidings of a large fleet steering for the haven of
everlasting blessedness ; but on this subject my materials are
scanty, though, blessed be God, some news of this kind I
can send you. . . . We have twenty-two youths on board,
going as cadets to India : of these a few allow me to
talk freely and familiarly on the best subjects ; the others
treat me with civility, though sometimes they are shy of my
company. One I sincerely hope is pious, though very
volatile in his disposition : another attaches himself very
much to me, and is much separated from his companions.
These are the most promising among us, ' the gleaning
grapes, one or two, on the top of the uppermost boughs/ I
have distributed several Testaments, and other books ; but
observe no increase at present. . . .

" My thoughts lead me now to Dewsbury, where I fancy
I behold my dear friend and his dear partner, happy in
each other, and happy in the love of Jesus ; but not with-
out some thorn, to remind them that their God has a more
complete happiness in store for them. You will not need
assurances that my daily prayers ascend on your behalf; nor
need I ask you to believe that words cannot express the
interest I feel in your welfare. May the richest blessings of
Providence and of grace descend upon you both ; and may
you bring much honour to the ways of truth, by your lives

VOYAGE TO INDIA. 31

and conversation, till, full of days, and full of grace, like
shocks of corn in harvest, you be gathered into the heavenly
garner ! I long to be publishing glad tidings of salvation
to poor Indians, and am daily studying their language for
this purpose : an Asiatic on board helps me in acquiring the
pronunciation, and in return, receives instruction in the
New Testament : he evidences a teachable disposition ;
laments the folly and idolatry of his countrymen, and
I trust will one day become a witness against their
abominations."

But to return to the Journal :

"June 8th, 1806. On a review of this week, I feel
much cause for humiliation, and much for praise ; for hu-
miliation, that I gather no more boldness in the cause of
God and of his Son. Yet, I am thankful that my silent
refusal to conform to the vanities around me is not un-
observed ; and that a sneer about saintship is not unfre-
quently indulged in, when I am present. I rejoice in these
tokens of my separation from the temper and practices of
the world ; yet I would look to more certain evidence of my
love to Jesus than this, even in the devotedness of my heart
to His service and glory ; and in the love I feel for perishing
souls around me. Alas, my evidences are very few : yet I
think I would rather be a door-keeper in the house of God
where I might see His face, than live in the richest palace
on earth ; and to be instrumental in turning sinners f from
the power of Satan unto God/ is more desired by me than
to be Emperor of the world. These are my sentiments and
desires : O Lord, let them not evaporate in empty specula-
tions for Jesus Christ's sake ! "

" Thursday night. I would record to the honour of
Divine grace, the goodness of God to my soul. Rose this
morning at half-past five, found much earnestness in prayer,
and my mind much disposed to that duty, but little if any
sensible comfort. Prayed particularly for a believing,

32 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORR1E.

waiting spirit, which has been graciously vouchsafed. I
have observed two or three instances of answers to prayer,
in the waiting frame of my mind ; in the attention I have
been able to give to study, and in some other particulars.
Lord, keep me humble and thankful for Jesus Christ's sake,
Amen !

" June 29th. I have neglected to make memoranda of
my state. Abstained from dinner, with a view to afflict my
soul before God, on account of my own sins, and the sins
of those around me. Lord, without thy divine influence
I fast and pray in vain. The sins in myself I would par-
ticularly note are, a backwardness to think on divine sub-
jects ; a general deadness in religious duties ; a coldness of
affection towards the Lord Jesus Christ ; a want of zeal for
God, and of love for souls; and a fear of censure and
reproach, which leads me to suffer sin on my neighbour
unreproved. With respect to those around me, their profane
swearing, their neglect of God and His worship. will
not God be avenged on such a people as this ? Will not
this floating city be sunk in the mighty waters, for the
wickedness of its inhabitants ? Lord, let my cry come
before Thee, in behalf of this ship's company, through the
mediation of Jesus Christ !

" Sunday, July 6th. This morning a most tremendous
gale came on. Went on deck at five o'clock. The vessel
rolling so as once to ship a sea on the lee-side ; every person
seemed apprehensive of danger. For my own part, I , do
not recollect to have been afraid, but I felt much awe and
seriousness, in the thought of appearing before God. In
the afternoon (two o'clock,) a man fell overboard from the
foremost main-yard. By the uncommon exertions of Mr.
Walker, the third mate, and four of the men, he was taken
up alive, and gives hopes of recovery. Mr. W/s conduct
on this occasion merits the greatest praise, and has much
endeared him to every one on board.

"July 20th. Read Church History and Persian. The

VOYAGE TO INDIA. 33

Commodore spoke an American, which left Calcutta on May
28, and which on June 22nd, spoke a ship at sea, and re-
ceived information that a frigate, supposed to be detached
by Jerome Buonaparte,* put into the Cape and was cap-
tured by Admiral Popham ; from whence it is concluded
that Jerome Buonaparte either followed the frigate into the
Cape and was taken, or proceeded to India. Two country
ships had been captured in the straits of Malacca.

" Thursday, July 24th. In addition to the news heard
on Tuesday, learned from the Commodore, that the Ame-
rican told him a general peace had been broitght about in
India. that ' the Prince of Peace ' would establish His
dominion among those perishing heathens ! Every day
brings me acquainted with some new proof of that wretched
slavery which they are under to the powers of darkness.
My mind is bent on the work of the ministry amongst them.
I think with delight on the time when I shall be able to
address them, in their own language, on the glorious truths
of the gospel ; and am thankful that I find diligence and
ardour in the acquirement of Hindoostanee. Yet, when
I reflect on the backwardness and timidity that possesses
my mind in this matter, among my present associates, I am
ready to fear lest I should be diverted from my purpose.
Lord, hold me up, and bring me through, more than con-
queror, for His sake who, I believe and feel, ' loved me,
and gave himself for me ! '

"Thursday, August 21st, . . This morning heard that
Ceylon was in sight ; went on deck soon after, and saw
land, but very indistinctly. At half-past one the shore pre-
sented a beautiful object ; a great variety of trees, hills, and
plains. My mind more affected than I can express, with a
sense of the goodness of God, in bringing me thus far in
health and safety. I feel no inconvenience from the climate,

* In 1806, Napoleon placed his brother, Jerome Buonaparte, in
command of a squadron of eight ships of the line, which were
ostensibly destined for the West Indies.

D

34 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

and very little of that listlessness I so much feared. for
a heart to praise the Lord ! Surely, surely, I am more un-
grateful than any of God's children ; for His child I feel I
am ! write thy law on my heart ; and let my obedient
life bring glory to Thee, through Jesus Christ ! how I
long to be declaring the way of salvation to perishing souls !
let me /have] that faith which overcomes the world ; set
me free from every entanglement ; keep through thy word
those on board whom thou hast disposed to consideration ;
fortify their minds, and keep them from the tempter's
power, to the glory of thy grace, Amen, Amen ! "

" Sunday, August 24th . Rose this morning at five o'clock.
After prayer in which I found earnestness, and tolerable
fixedness of mind, though no stirring of affection went on
deck. Read in the epistle to the Hebrews, and found much
light flash on my mind in reading. Saw more clearly than
ever the distinction, yet consistency, between the old and new
covenant. At eleven, read a sermon from Walker ; after-
wards joined in prayer with W, P, G, and V.* I found
much enlargement of heart, and much freedom of expres-
sion in prayer. Lord, keep me humble ; and, bless these
my associates ! Convince them of sin ; lead them to Jesus ;
make them strong in the Lord ; and be a spirit of adoption
in their hearts, for Jesus Christ's sake ! Lord, bless my
dear relatives. give them grace to walk before thee with
perfect hearts ; and supply them with every needful earthly
blessing. Feed them ' with food convenient ' for their
station, and finally crown grace with glory. Amen ! No
prayers on deck, or in the cuddy."

" Monday. Yesterday afternoon, a strange sail came in
sight to the northward. Cleared for action, and lay at
quarters all night. Expect to reach Madras to-morrow
morning by six o'clock. Every one seems unsettled in pros-
pect of going ashore ; my own mind has caught the conta-

* Cadets.

OFF MADRAS. 35

gion. Nothing to advantage has been done to-day. ' Lord,
save or I perish. '

" Wednesday. Were disappointed in our expectation, by
a strong current which set us so far to the westward that
we were obliged to tack, and wait for the sea-breeze, which
to our great joy sprang up about three o'clock; and brought
us into Madras roads, where we cast anchor exactly at ten
at night. Yesterday morning the air was much impregnated
with the flavour of the productions of Asia, having a smell
like the sickly smell arising from sweetmeats. The en-
trance into the roads was very delightful : the light-house
before us, the European residents' houses on the left, show-
ing lights from various quarters; the Nabob of Arcot's
palace lighted so as to appear brilliantly illuminated. All these
were pleasing objects to eyes accustomed to look only upon
the wide extended ocean for four months past. The striking
of clocks, too, was most gratifying to the ear. My mind
was much affected with a sense of the Divine goodness, in
bringing us thus far in safety and peace. As soon as we
were anchored, two boats came from Admiral Trowbridge
for despatches; and a Catamaran,* with three natives
charged with letters from the Town-major to the Command-
ing Officer. These natives presented a most disgusting ap-
pearance to a stranger, especially an European stranger.
They have no covering, save a small piece of cotton round
their waists ; and a cap, like a fool's cap, of fine basket-
work, in which they carry their letters : and, being entire
strangers to our language, my mind was affected with dis-
may and horror. Retiring to my cabin, despondency almost
overcame me. My native country, with its healthy climate,
and hospitable inhabitants, came forcibly to my mind. Those
loved objects seemed for ever gone : dear relatives for ever
fled ! In exchange, a sickly climate, a burning soil, a hea-
then population, were to be my associates. Alas ! how these

* A species of raft used by the natives of Madras.
D 2

36 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

considerations depress my spirits, while a sense of ray own
unfitness to encounter any of these obstacles, leads me to
consider this as a place of banishment, and an untimely
burial-ground ! Yet have I not freely chosen this under-
taking ? And, has not God power to bring me through ?
And, is He not sovereign of Asia, as well as of Europe ?
And, is He not ready to save here, as there ? my foolish,
unbelieving heart ! I see the truth of these suggestions ;
yet unbelief prevents me from taking the comfort of them.
Lord, work faith in my heart ; and enable me to glorify
thee by a firm reliance on thy promise, that thou wilt not
leave me, but wilt make me ' more than conqueror through
Him that loved me/ even Jesus thy Son : to whom with Thee
and the Holy Ghost be glory for ever !

" This morning several boats filled with natives came
off : the rowers, like the Catamaran Jacks in appearance
and dress : the masters or duboshes,* having white muslin
coats and petticoats. These duboshes are very obsequious,
very pressing of their services ; and have written characters,
as from former masters ; but many of these are evidently
forgeries. Many of our Bengal passengers are gone on
shore. I felt too depressed to go ; and too much interested
in V. and Y. to leave them on board. Y. I hope, seems
in some measure, established in sound principles and
practice. V. alas, discovers a backwardness to converse
on religious subjects ; and I fear, shuns me, lest I should
trouble him with them : he is, however, very regular in
his conduct ; and much respected by his associates. But,
Oh ! what avails a mere name to live ? He is now gone on
shore. Y. remains on board, with the other Madras cadets,
until an order for their disembarkation arrives. Lord,
keep them by thy power ! let not Satan triumph over
them, for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.

* A kind of general Agent.

MADRAS. 37

"MADRAS, Wednesday evening, Aug. 27th, 1806. Went
on shore, and was much annoyed by the clamorous impor-
tunity of the natives, who were waiting in hundreds on the
beach to carry the luggage, or otherwise serve the new
comers : their harsh language, and their almost naked bodies^
their eager and obtrusive offers of service disgusted and
wearied me exceedingly. With some difficulty, I got through
the crowd ; and, on arriving at the New Navy Tavern,
found some of my old shipmates. Here we were again im-
portuned by duboshes who were eager to serve us. We
made choice of one who proved a notorious cheat : he made
off with six rupees given him to hire a bandy ;* and I know
not yet how much linen he may have stolen. The profusion
of silver or gold rings which the natives wear on their arms,
their ancles, their ears, and their toes, appeared odd to me ;
their offers of service and their whole conduct, whilst I was
on shore, have impressed my mind with an opinion of their
deep depravity, and their entire want of principle

" On Thursday, August 28th. Parson and I went to call
on the London Society's missionary. Though unknown to
him, and though carrying no letter of introduction, yet I
was certain that if he were a real missionary, we should be
welcome ; and I was not disappointed in this expectation.
We received a cordial reception : Martyn having mentioned
my name, we soon became cordial. He appears a humble
pious man, not destitute of ability, with a degree of zeal :
his education appears to have been confined. Here we
learned that Dr. Ker, the Senior Chaplain, had a letter for
me from Martyn ; and that, being obliged to go to Sering-
apatam for the recovery of his health, he had left it at the
house of Mr. Torriano. Thither Mr. L. drove me in his
bandy, leaving Mr. Parson to walk back to the inn. On
arriving at Mr. T.'s, I found the letter, enclosed in one from

* A kind of gig.

MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

Dr. Ker, recommending me to accept Mr. T/s invitation to
take up our abode with him ; which we did, and experienced
much hospitality and kindness. Mr. T. is a self-taught
Christian indeed : his son is a sensible and very pious youth,
and showed us much brotherly love ; and from the Lieu-
tenant we received great regard. Next day Mr. P. and
myself called on Mr. V. and found him very reserved : he
afterwards, on further intercourse, became more sociable ; and
engaged me to preach for him on Sunday the 31st; which I
did, and took for a subject the character of Josiah. The
Governor, &c., were present; and the church was pretty
full : the congregation was very attentive ; though some, I
hear scoffed; but others expressed their approbation. In
the evening P. officiated at the chapel, Black Town, and ex-
pounded the first chapter of the Epistle to the Romans. I
went to hear Mr. L. who preached from Psalm xxxvii. 40.
During our stay on shore, I went often to the cadets' tents,
and have reason to be thankful. Found V. and Y. kept
free from the vices of the place.

" Friday evening, Sept. 5th. I read a portion of the
church prayers, and addressed an exhortation to the boys at
the Asylum. There are about two hundred half-caste boys
educated there, and maintained by public subscription. Dr.
Ker is Superintendent; and Mr. L. is acting Master.
During our stay at Mr. Torriano' s, our apartment was a tent
comfortably fitted up, where Mr. T. generally (his son V.
always), comes morning and evening to join in worship.
The fort is a most complete structure, seemingly defying
the power of man to take it : the buildings within it are
very sumptuous. The Black Town far exceeds my ex-
pectation, in the commodiousness of its houses, and in their
structure ; but the streets are narrow ; and the dust and
filth in them render the town exceedingly unwholesome. I
do not find the heat by any means so oppressive as I ex-
pected : morning and evening it is as cool as summer in
England. I frequently walked several miles. The Euro-

MASULIPATAM. 39

peans are, in general, very averse to the idea of evangelizing
the natives. The chaplains consider it as a hopeless case;
and others look upon it as needless and impolitic. I lament
that my mind was not more affected with the stupid idolatry
of these depraved people. Their pagodas abound ; and their
attention to them might shame people of purer principles ;
whilst their depraved morals show that their religion is
confined wholly to externals ; and that they are incapable of
communion with a holy God. These considerations ought
to impress me more. the unconquerable hardness of this
stupid heart ! Yet, blessed be God, who has reconciled my
mind more to the work of the ministry here ; and has in-
fluenced me to prefer the honour which cometh of God,
more than the favour of men. I think I am more de-
termined than ever on publishing salvation to these ignorant
heathen. I have to lament that my mind seldom ex-
perienced any sensible comfort in God> whilst on shore :
deadness and oppression overspread my soul for the most
part ; yet, I do not recollect, except on one occasion, that I
attempted to shun the reproach of the cross ; and, in general
I was enable to introduce serious subjects.

" Sunday, Sept. 7th. Came on board the Alexander, in
consequence of the Asia being ordered round by Penang, to
take troops to Bengal : much heaviness of mind on account
of the state of those around me

" Saturday, Sept. 13th. On Tuesday evening last, we
came to anchor off Masulipatam. During that day, in
making in to the shore, the ship was found in three and a
half fathoms (she draws three fathoms ; ) consequently great
alarm prevailed, every one expecting that she would strike
instantly. The wind being brisk, the ship answered the
helm; and, by the Divine favour, we got clear of the
danger. In the afternoon, a ship which had been in sight
for some days, hauled her wind and stood our course : this
raised a suspicion of her being an enemy ; the drum beat to
quarters and every preparation was made to prevent her

40 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

boarding us. After some time, she hoisted Danish colours,
and came to anchor near us off Masulipatam. During these
two times of alarm, I recollect to have been much more
anxious as to the event, than on former times of danger
during the voyage ; and have reason to fear I have suffered
damage, especially since we left Madras. This I know has
been the case, and I bless God who has given me to feel it,
and to lament it, and to strive and pray against it ; and
(blessed be His name) not in vain.

" On Wednesday, Parson and myself went off together
with two officers of the king's regiment : after a most un-
pleasant passage of twenty -four hours, we arrived at Masu-
lipatam, a distance of not more than six miles in a straight
line. Our delay was owing to the land wind, which, blow-
ing directly opposite, drove us far to leeward, and obliged
the men ^to push the boat along shore with long poles ; a
tedious and laborious operation. On entering the fort, we
found that Colonel Norris (to whom we had a letter of in-
troduction from his father-in law, Mr. Torriano,) was in the
fort. We went to his house, and on being introduced to
his lady, presented our letter, which she opened, and sent to
the Colonel, who was on a committee at the barracks.
Breakfast was got for us immediately, and every attention
shown us ; after breakfast, the Colonel came in, and ordered
us change of clothes ; after we had dressed, he came and
shook us very kindly by the hand, and said, he had an
order in his pocket, which obliged him to be particularly
kind to us. This order he punctually obeyed, shewing us
every mark of attention possible, and even regard. ....
The propriety of conduct necessary in ministers, the
characters of many eminently pious missionaries, and of
Christ and His Apostles, were the principal subjects of
conversation. May God give a blessing to our poor attempts
to spread the savour of Jesus' name ; and may the Colonel's
kindnesses to us be abundantly repaid out of the fulness of
Christ ! After passing twenty -four hours very agreeably,

MASULIPATAM. 41

and I trust not unprofitably, we left Masulipatam yesterday
about three o' clock, with the purser ; and though detained
a short time at the entrance of the river, from want of
water, we got on board the Alexander by five o'clock : the
anchor was weighed, and we set sail as soon as possible.

" Tuesday. Yesterday I was very unwell in consequence
of drinking too much water : the day passed in a restless,
unprofitable manner to myself. In the evening, I was en-
abled to speak to the surgeon on the utility of prayer;
which I did because of some sarcastic remarks made, as to
the uselessness of the Bible and Prayer-book in time of
action ; we being suspicious that there was an enemy's ship
in view. He was silenced, and afterwards showed me more
than usual attention. We were looking out all the after-
noon of yesterday for a pilot ; and came to anchor at ten
in the evening in Saugor roads, amidst a fleet of Indiamen
homeward-bound two ships of war, with many country
ships a most gratifying sight ; though, I confess, I felt
little pleasure. The remembrance of dear relatives filled me
with deep regret, whilst the prospect of being instrumental
in furthering the Lord's work in India filled me with joy ;
and I felt I could forsake all for Christ's sake.

" Thursday. We came to anchor in Diamond harbour.
The sailing up the river was delightful ; the green herbage
and foliage most refreshing to the eye ; and the numerous
population raised wonder how provision could be found for
so many persons. The whole shore, as far as the eye
could reach, appeared one continued village on each side.
The sight of a bury ing- ground for Europeans at Diamond
harbour, with several monuments erected therein, tended

to lessen my joy ; as did the death of Captain of the

77th, for whom the colours were hoisted half-mast high,
and who was buried in the sea the evening we lay at anchor,
in Saugor roads. Captain. C , Ensign W, Parson, and
myself, left the Alexander in a budgerow,* about nine o'clock,
* A native travelling boat.

42 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

and sailed from Diamond harbour about half past ten in the
evening.

" Friday, Sept. 19th. I went on shore in the morning
at Fulta, and sending some provisions on board to my
chums, remained till flood-tide, which was not till two
o'clock. My mind was much gratified with the scene ; the
green fields appearing here and there between the groves,
were very much like scenes I remembered in England ; many
birds were singing much like the nightingale; herds of
cattle, of the buffalo breed, with herdsmen tending them
here and there on the bank. A dead body floating on the
river created much horror in my mind ; and the bird called
the adjutant excited much surprise. At Fulta I found a
very elegant inn, and accommodations very reasonable.
Having placed a chair at the gate-way on the elevated si-
tuation on the bank of the river, the opposite bank appeared
covered with villages, and the surface of the river with
boats. I took out my bible, and read the 60th chapter of
Isaiah. The precious promises of the enlargement of
Christ's Church came with much power to my mind ; the
last verse was very encouraging, and raised mufch joy, from
the hope that I might be honoured to be one of ' the little
ones ' who should ' become a thousand, and a strong nation.'
The prospect of all these swarms of people bowing to the
sceptre and dominion of Jesus, filled my soul with exul-
tation. I found much freedom in prayer, and spent some
time in joy and rejoicing. The budgerow being much longer
in coming up than was expected, occasioned great anxiety ;
and, to my shame be it spoken, impatience. O how fickle
is my mind : but Jesus liveth, and He changeth not !
Blessed be God for Jesus Christ ! I came on board about
two o'clock this afternoon ; and we are now at anchor about
ten miles below Calcutta.

" Sept. 21st, 1806. Yesterday morning, being tired of
waiting any longer for a fair wind, I left the budgerow about
five o'clock, and came up in the tow-boat to Calcutta. The

ARRIVAL AT CALCUTTA. 43

scene on each side of the river was much the same as during
the preceding day; but being indisposed from want of
food, and by exposure to the sun, I felt but little lively joy.
Read in the Bible, and Newton's Hymns ; and found much
desire to be grateful for preservation during the voyage, for
meeting with kind friends, and for the abundant supply of
every temporal want; above all, that notwithstanding my
manifold failings, some sense of my obligations to God in
Christ still remains. The sight of Calcutta afforded me
great satisfaction : the approach to it was tedious ; and I
felt some impatience at the perversity of the boatmen.
Alas, the depravity of my nature is but little subdued ! I
walked up to the church, and inquired in vain for Martyn :
went to Doughty's hotel, where I met V. at the door, who,
I feared, was oppressed in spirit and suffering from the
effects of climate. I took some refreshment, and was about
to go forth in quest of Martyn, when a note arrived from
him, desiring me to go to him in the college.* I set off
immediately, and was received by him with the most lively
demonstrations of joy. Here I was desired to take up my
abode ; and here I am fixed for the present. Mr. Brown, f
to whom I am indebted for my present entertainment, ap-
pears a sensible, determined, pious man ; very different
from the descriptions I heard of him during the voyage."

On the same day, in which these particulars are
noticed in his journal, Mr. C. sent a letter to his
sister ; written, as it appears, at intervals during his
voyage, and communicating information up to the
period of his arrival at Calcutta. The letter itself is
not less remarkable for its plain good sense, than as

* The College of Fort William.

t The late Rev. David Brown, at that time Chaplain at the
Presidency, and Provost of the College of Fort William.

44 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

manifesting that strong natural affection and love of
country, which entered so largely into the character
of the writer :

"From the date of this letter, (Sep. 21st.) you will
perceive how much longer our voyage has proved than at
the beginning of it we hoped it would. Twenty weeks are
completed since we left Portsmouth : the usual time a
voyage of the kind occupies is about fifteen weeks. The
chief part of our delay was between St. lago, and the Cape
of Good Hope. Before we arrived at St. lago, we had fair
and strong winds ; and since we got round the Cape, the
weather has proved most agreeable. A thousand anxious
thoughts daily fill my mind on your account: separation
from you has only tended to show how much my comfort
depended on you : scarcely for two successive waking hours
has your image been out of my remembrance. I am very
anxious that you should come out to me ; and I am very
anxious respecting your voyage. You have little, humanly
speaking, to fear from dangers of the sea. Your greatest
inconvenience will arise from not having a person with whom
you can communicate freely : to be under a restraint of this
kind, for five months, is a greater evil than you can at
present suppose. You will, no doubt, hear of some lady
coming out, with whom you can take half of a cabin ; and
if such an opportunity offers, you need not hesitate to em-
brace it. But you will need to use great caution how you
trust strangers ; and by no means be too familiar with any of
the passengers, till you have had time to observe their dis-
positions : the evil of a contrary conduct has appeared very
strikingly with us ; and still more so in some other of the
ships of our fleet. It is very easy to assume an appearance
of gaiety and good-humour, when people only meet occa-
sionally, and for a short time ; but when they come to live
together, and are obliged to meet each other at every turn,
without Divine grace, few tempers are found sufficiently ac-

CALCUTTA. 45

comtnodating to maintaiD that forbearance, and to make
those concessions, which are absolutely necessary to peace
and comfort. Hence, when by an unguarded confidence,
persons of contrary dispositions and habits have committed
themselves to each other, they soon become mutually dis-
gusted ; family circumstances are exposed ; weaknesses ridi-
culed ; and contempt and hatred follows. You see I write
under the idea that you will not leave England till you hear
of my arrival in India. I have only to add, that my health
is much improved since I left you.

" Since I began this letter, a variety of events have taken
place, and crowd so fast on my mind, that I know not where
or how to relate them. On entering Madras roads in the
evening, the lights reflected from the houses built on the
shore, with the sound of the sentinels' voices passing the
word, and the striking of the clocks, formed altogether the
most remarkable impression I recollect in life. After having
for five months been separated from the civilized world in a
great measure, and having seen only the boundless ocean,
and occasionally hailing some of our consorts, you may sup-
pose the entrance into society was highly gratifying. My
joy was silent, and chiefly expressed in ejaculations of praise
to Him who had so graciously preserved us through the great
deep ; nor were wanting prayers for my native land, and for
the many dear objects left behind. This pleasant temper
of mind was, however, of short continuance , as soon as we
came to anchor, some of the natives came off in catamarans ;
they were almost naked, and very savage in appearance. The
consideration of being, in all probability, to spend the re-
mainder of my life among such wretched beings, filled me
with melancholy; and rendered me sleepless during the
greater part of the night ; and the whole of the next day, I
was very unhappy. But you will perceive my sin and un-
belief in this matter; as their wretchedness should ' rather
have excited compassion and anxiety for bettering their con-
dition : the idea of no further comfort remaining for me,

46 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

certainly arose from the absence of the proper influence of that
precious truth, f If He give peace, who then can cause trou-
ble ? ' I perceive this clearly now ; and I am thankful that
I am able to take the comfort of it to myself. During the
whole of our stay, the anniversary festival of one of their
idols was celebrating at a pagoda or temple, in sight of the
house where we were. Their chief solemnities were celebra-
ted during the night ; and consisted in most wretchedly bad
music, something like bad bag-pipes, accompanied with a
tom-tom, or small drum unbraced, and incapable of music j
with these, at intervals, loud shouts were set up by the peo-
ple, and something of a song in praise of their idol sung in
alternate strains, which were responded by the people to each
other in a sing-song tone of voice. what a blessing is
the Gospel to mankind ! Well might the angels sing at
Messiah's birth, ' goodwill towards men/ no less than
' glory to God ! ' How lovely does Christianity appear, con-
trasted with the absurdities of these pitiable heathen ! 0,
how privileged is Britain, where Divine truth shines forth in
all its purity ! May my happy native land know the value
of her privileges, and improve them : that, to latest ages,
her rulers may continue nursing fathers, and nursing mothers
to the Church ; and use their widely-extended influence in
rendering their colonies happy as themselves \"

CHAPTER III.

AT ALDEEN APPOINTED TO CHUNAK.

ON Mr. Corrie's arrival in Bengal both he and Mr.
Parson took up their abode with Mr. Brown at
Aldeen, a short distance from Calcutta, and remained
under the same hospitable roof until they proceeded
to the stations that had been assigned to them re-
spectively by the government. Henry Martyn was
their fellow-guest for a time, and with that honoured
servant of God Mr. Corrie's intimacy was close and
brotherly. Mr. C. was also in the habit of preach-
ing regularly during his residence with Mr. Brown,
and of maintaining constant intercourse with the
whole body of Christian Missionaries in Calcutta and
Serampore. In his Journal, too, occur many intima-
tions of the anxious affection with which he regarded
such of the Cadets as remained within reach of his
visits, or were willing to correspond with him. A
peculiar regard for the welfare of young persons

48 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

was, in fact, a distinguishing feature of Mr. Corrie's
character.

Early in December 1806, Mr. Corrie and Mr.
Parson left Aldeen, the one having been appointed
at Chunar, the other at Berhampore. As respects
Mr. C. it will be seen, that during the whole of his
journey to the place of his destination, the subject
of the conversion of the heathen occupied a large
portion of his thoughts.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS OF CALCUTTA.

" Calcutta strikes me as the most magnificient city in the
world ; and I am made most happy by the hope of being
instrumental to the eternal good of many. A great oppo-
sition, I find, is raised against Martyn, and the principles
he preaches ; this gives me no uneasiness by the help of
God, I will stand fast in the doctrine of Christ crucified, and
maintain it against all opposition. But, Lord, grant me the
wisdom that is from above, that I may act with discretion,
and in nothing give unnecessary offence !

" At three o'clock,* Martyn preached from Rom. iii. 21
23, the most impressive and best composition I ever heard.
The disposition of love and good will which appeared in him
must have had great effect ; and the calmness and firmness
with which he spoke raised in me great wonder. May God
grant a blessing to the word. may it silence opposition,
and promote religion for Jesus Christ's sake, Amen.

" Tuesday, Sept. 30th. I have neglected for some time
to make a memorandum of occurrences ; but remember, that
in general, my mind has been without any lively sense of
divine things ; though my heart has been going out much

* On Sunday, Sept. 21.

CALCUTTA. 49

after God. The joy expressed by the few serious people here
is very great ; and were not those comforts withheld which I
have been some time favoured with, their kindness would
have a tendency to make me proud : for, Oh ! I feel an evil
heart cleaving to the world, though not under its former
shape. I am not without a secret uneasiness, that I have
not talents to render me equally acceptable with others.
This is not to be content with God's appointments ; though,
I think, I would not have others brought to my standard,
but would rise to their 5 s, that God may be more glorified.
I have received great kindness from Mr. Brown, and much
benefit from his conversation. Blessed be God, I feel no
disposition to shrink from the shame of the cross, but hope,
with boldness, to declare myself a fellow-labourer with
Martyn, in the controversy excited by his preaching.

" I preached on Sunday [Sept. 28,] evening, at the
Mission Church, from 2 Thess. i. 7 10 : my mind was
somewhat impressed with the importance of my office, both
before and during the service. I trust the furtherance of
God's glory, and the good of souls, was, and is, my prevail-
ing desire. Went up to Serampore yesterday, and in the
evening was present at the marriage of Mr. Desgranges.*
Mr. Brown entered into their concerns with much interest.
The pagodaf was fixed on, and lighted up for the celebration
of the wedding ; at eight o'clock the parties came from the
Mission house, [at Serampore] attended by most of the
family. Mr. Brown commenced with the hymn, ' Come,
gracious Spirit, heavenly dove ! ' A divine influence seemed
to attend us, and most delightful were my sensations. The
circumstance of so many being engaged in spreading the

* One of the London Society's Missionaries.

t The Hindoo temple of the idol Bullub, which the Brahmins
had deserted. Mr. Brown had repaired, and fitted it up as a family
chapel and study. The pagoda was, also, sometimes appropriated
to the accommodation of Mr. Brown's particular friends. MEMO-
RIAL SKETCHES OF REV. D. BROWN, p. 137.

E

50 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

glad tidings of salvation, the temple of an idol converted
to the purpose of Christian worship, and the Divine presence
felt among us, filled me with joy unspeakable. After the
marriage service of the Church of England, Mr. Brown gave
out ' the Wedding hymn ; ' and after signing certificates of
the marriage, we adjourned to the house, where Mr. Brown
had provided supper. Two hymns given out by Mr. Marsh-
man* were felt very powerfully. He is a most lively, san-
guine missionary; his conversation made my heart burn
within me, and I find desires of spreading the Gospel grow-
ing stronger daily, and my zeal in the cause more ardent.
But ' my leanness * in comparison of these ' burning and
shining lights ' around me. Yet, in the strength of Jehovah
will I go forward, and will tread in their steps, and pursue
them at a distance, though I may not hope to come near
their attainments.

" Oct. 10th. I have for some time past been oppressed
with a sense of the want of spiritual affections : my heart
as cold as ice, no mouth to speak of, or for God : deadness
in prayer, and languor in every spiritual duty. I perceive
my great insufficiency for the work of the ministry ; and
lament exceedingly my small opportunities of education, f
and my sinful negligence in not better improving those I
had. ' God be merciful to me a sinner/ and perfect praise
to Himself out of my weak and unskilful mouth ! Last
night I went to the Mission-house, [at Serampore] and sup-
ped at the same table with about fifty native converts. The
triumph of the cross was most evident in breaking down
their prejudices, and uniting them with those who formerly
were an abomination in their eyes. After supper, they sang
a Bengalee hymn, many of them with tears of joy ; and
they concluded with prayer in Bengalee, with evident ear-
nestness and emotion. My own feelings were too big for

* Baptist Missionary.

t During the four years that Mr. Corrie resided in the neigh-
bourhood of London, little or no attention was paid to his education.

ALDEEN. 51

utterance. may the time be hastened when every tongue
shall confess Jesus Christ, to the glory of God the Father !

"On Friday evening, [Oct. 10th.] we had a meeting in the
pagoda, at which almost all the missionaries, some of their
wives, and Captain W. attended : with a view to commend
Martyn to the favour and protection of God in his work.
The Divine presence was with us. I felt more than it would
have been proper to express. Mr. Brown commenced with
a hymn and prayer, Mr. Desgranges succeeded him, with
much devotion and sweetness of expression : Mr. Marshman
followed, and dwelt particularly on the promising appear-
ance of things ; and, with much humility, pleaded God's pro-
mises for the enlargement of Zion ; with many petitions for
Mr. Brown and his family. The service was concluded by
Mr. Carey,* who was earnest in prayer for Mr. Brown : the
petition that ' having laboured for many years without en-
couragement or support, in the evening it might be light/
seemed much to affect his own mind, and greatly impressed
us all. Afterwards we supped together at Mr. Brown's.
The influence of this association remained on my mind, and
shed a divine peace and composure through my soul.

" Sunday 12th. This day I preached at the New Church
from Gal. vi. 14. The Governor General, &c., attended. I
felt a good deal of palpitation before I ascended the pulpit,
but afterwards experienced great composure of mind; and
had no idea that any one would be offended, being conscious
that I was speaking the truth. I found much earnestness
in prayer before, and after, divine service. God grant an
increase to His own word for Jesus Christ's sake !

" Oct. 13th . I came to Serampore to dinner. Had a
pleasant sail up the river : the time passed agreeably in con-
versation. In the evening a fire was kindled on the opposite
bank ; and we soon perceived that it was a funeral pile, on
which the wife was burning with the dead body of her hus-
band. It was too dark to distinguish the miserable victim

* Baptist Missionary.
E 2

52 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

of superstition; but by the light of the flames we could
discover a great crowd of people: their horrid noise, and
senseless music, joined with the testimony of some of the
servants, convinced us that our apprehensions were founded
on fact. The noise continued till ten o'clock, and the fire
was kept burning till that time. My mind was struck with
horror and pity. On going out to walk with Martyn to the
pagoda, the noise so unnatural, and so little calculated to
excite joy, raised in my mind an awful sense of the presence
and influence of evil spirits. that the Lord would com-
mand his word to run and be glorified, in casting them out,
and placing in their stead the mild influence of his Gospel !
" Oct. 18th, 1806. On Wednesday last, Mr. Brown,
Parson and myself proceeded up the river with Martyn, to
set him on his way to Dinapore. We landed at 'Ghyretee,
and walked through a most delightful avenue ; afterwards
through a neat village (for this country), and arrived at
Chandernagore about seven o'clock : we took tea at a tavern,
and went on board our budgerow, about nine o'clock. After
joining in prayer, we retired to rest. On Thursday morning,
we proceeded to Chinsurah, on foot, through groves of fruit-
trees ; we arrived at Chinsurah soon after seven o'clock, and
received a most hospitable reception from Mr. Forsyth : *
after dinner, we went with Mr. F. above Bandell ; and after
worship, returned to Chinsurah in a paunchway .f Yester-
day morning, the weather having commenced rainy, we
determined to return to Aldeen, on account of Mr. Brown's
boat becoming uninhabitable. We first engaged, according
to arrangement, in alternate prayer. Mr. Brown commenced
with reading a portion of Scripture, singing a hymn, and
prayer, which order was observed by P., myself, and Martyn.
A sense of the Divine presence was experienced by each of
us, and our consolation in Christ Jesus abounded ; so that
we left our friend without regret, and he parted with us

* One of the London Society's Missionaries,
t A small covered boat.

ALDEEN. 53

cheerfully ; each persuaded that God was with us, and would
be our ' shield and exceeding great reward/

" Oct. 22nd. On coming down the river, I saw the
figures of Doorga * paraded on the river, and the indecencies
of idol- worship. My mind was inexpressibly grieved ; and
most earnestly did I desire to be able to address the poor
deluded heathen.

" Nov. 3rd. For some time past I have made no memo-
randa of the state of my mind. Alas, my wretched back-
wardness to any really good thing ! In general my heart
has been hard and insensible, though my desire has been to
the contrary ; and I have had but little inclination to pray,
though no disposition to give up prayer; and sometimes
have experienced enlargement of heart, and melting of soul
in prayer. I have preached several times at the Old Church,
and once at the New. My purposes of labouring among
the heathen are, I bless God, more fixed ; and a desire to be
at my station, and about my proper work, grows upon me.

" When I hear of a spirit of covetousness which has
affected many, I fear and tremble ; and I think something
of that disposition was working within me this morning.
Oh ! how often have I said that I desire not to leave one shil-
ling behind me at death. I would record my own declara-
tion, beseeching thee, Lord, that I may be enabled to
trust thee for future supplies, and to live by faith upon thee
for daily bread !

" 24th> For some days past my mind has enjoyed quiet
and peace with God ; my indisposition has been in a great
measure removed, and I can speak and act as usual. t Praise
God from whom all blessings flow.' My mind has been calm
and resigned to the will of God, in the prospect of my des-
tination, and in my preparation to set out for Chunar ; but
little, alas ! of lively affection, with much wandering of heart
in prayer. The youths who came out with me have been
much on my mind. My dear relatives have not had so par-

* One of the principal Hindoo female deities.

54 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

ticular an interest in my prayers as at some other times ;
but their welfare is exceedingly dear to me, and the prospect
of having my sister with me very cheering.

" Nov. 29th. This morning Mr. Brown, Parson, Mr.
Thompson* (of Madras), and myself, met in the pagoda at
Aldeen, to consult in what way we may most effectually
promote the glory of our redeeming God in the earth. After
prayer by Mr. Brown, and after some conversation, we
agreed, 1st. To join in the views, and aid to the utmost of
our power, the purposes of the British and Foreign Bible
Society : 2ndly. To help forward the translation of the
Scriptures into the languages of the East, as much as in us
lies; and to take the expense of the Sanscrit and Greek
Testaments upon ourselves : and 3rdly. To make a quarterly
report of our prospects, our plans, and actual situation in
our various stations, as far as the Church is concerned, to
Mr. Brown ; who will add his own, and cause a copy of the
whole to be transmitted to each individual. After prayer we
separated.

" Dec. 8. To-day set off for Chunar. In the strength of
the Lord God I go forth. 0, prepare a people for Thyself,
and make me the instrument of gathering them into thy
fold ! Keep me by thy mighty power in body and soul ; and
enlarge my heart that I may delight in Thy will, and lay
out all my time and labour in Thy service ! Amen, Lord
Jesus. Amen ! "

"Dec. 13th. On Monday last Parson and myself left
Aldeen, to proceed to our stations ; Mr. Brown and Mr.
Thompson accompanying us. We arrived at Chinsurah
about three o'clock, after a quick sail up the river, the tide
being in our favour : we called on Mr. Forsyth, with whom
we spent the evening. Mr. F. conducted family worship,
and was excellent in the application, and very fervent for
the fulfilment of many precious promises. The presence of
God was with us. Mr. F. gave me favourable intelligence

* The Rev. Marmaduke Thompson, late Chaplain at Madras.

CHINSURAH. 55

respecting General M. at Chunar, to which place Mr. L. had
sent tracts, which had been noticed with approbation by the
General. I hope the Lord has prepared my way. Yester-
day morning, after breakfast and family worship, we set
forward, Mr. Forsyth accompanying us. In the evening
we walked on the bank, whilst the boatmen hauled our boat
along. The encouragement and comfort his conversation
raised in my mind will, I hope, never be forgotten : much
lively and spiritual conversation passed, chiefly on the means
most suitable for us to employ under present circumstances.
We concluded by commissioning Messrs. Brown and T. to
buy Bibles, Testaments, and Common Prayer-books, to
be sent to us from time to time for distribution. Our friends
left us to return to Calcutta. A sweet composure fills my
heart : and, without regret, I leave all that earth and sense
hold dear, to do thy will, my God ! Let me find strength
according to my day ; and call Thou me to any thing in
which I may most glorify Thee. Leave me not for a
moment; for though now, ( by thy goodness, thou hast
made my mountain strong/ yet if thou hide thy face I shall
be < troubled ! '

" Dec. 14th. Yesterday morning we left Sook Saugur :
in the afternoon our attention was arrested by loud lamenta-
tions : we observed a dying man put into the river to expire ;
this, in the opinion of the Hindoos, insuring Paradise. We
were much shocked at the spectacle. Lord, how long, how
long shall Satan triumph ? Four out of six are killed in
this way, and hurried out of life."

On the 16th of December, Mr. Corrie writes to
his father :

" I am now on my way to my station at Chunar, five
days' journey from Calcutta, and three from Berhampore.
To this last place Parson is appointed, and we are together
in the same boat ; after which I have eight weeks' journey
alone. I have, however, several introductions to Christian

56 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

friends on the way, and Martyn's station is before me, where
I intend to stay a few days with him. My mind is at per-
fect ease, and my soul happy in the love of God, and over-
flowing with gratitude to the Giver of all good. Much and
unexpected kindness has been shewn me in this strange land ;
and I have found that whosoever forsaketh aught for Christ
shall reap an hundred-fold ' in the present life : ' how, then,
can I doubt the fulfilment of that part of the promise which
relates to the life to come ? In the house of Mr. Brown,
every attention that affection could think of has been shewn
me. . . . The country through which we have come, is, in
general, very pleasant, though flat. We walk on the bank
morning and evening ; and amuse ourselves with finding out
resemblances, or fancied resemblances to scenes we remember
in Britain. We have every comfort we can wish for ; and
our morning and evening worship, consisting of singing,
prayer, and reading the Scriptures, tends to revive our souls ;
whilst we walk as friends, and take sweet counsel together
on the ends and means we purpose in our ministry. I have
written so often that I forget what I may have said to you ;
but you who know how much I am the creature of impulse in
every thing except my expressions of affection for you all,
and in matters of fact, will not judge of the state of my
mind from one single letter. I allude especially to what I
have written respecting the conversion of the heathen. You
know, what / now know, how sanguine I am in schemes
that my soul enters into ; and oft have I made calculations
and statements which have afterwards made me blush.
The state of society among our own countrymen here is
much altered for the better within these few years. The
Marquis Wellesley openly patronized religion ; whether from
motives of state policy or not, it is not ours to judge. He
on every possible opportunity, made moral character a
sine qua non to his patronage, and sought for men of
character from every quarter to fill offices of trust. He
avowedly encouraged, and contributed to, the translation of

PLASSEY. 57

the Scriptures into the native languages ; and wherever he
went, paid a strict regard to divine worship on the Sunday.
Before his time, all causes were tried in the courts of
justice, through the medium of interpreters; but by the
College which he instituted, he furnished the natives with
judges capable of determining from their own knowledge of
the language, and judgment on the evidence ; and has thus
laid the foundation of peace and justice, such as Asia before
knew not. He has been the saviour of India to Britain.
The state of the natives in a moral point of view is deplora-
ble; the most shocking indecencies form a part of their
worship; and lying, cheating, &c., are not considered crimes.
Two youths who were seriously impressed during the voyage,
and one who was our fellow-passenger, and has since been
brought to consideration, are going on consistently in the
ways of wisdom. These first-fruits of our Indian en-
gagement afford me the most lively encouragement, and the
strongest hope that God is with me of a truth. O may He
be a spirit of power in my own heart, and a word of power
in my mouth, that many may be turned unto righteousness :
then I am sure that you will bless the day that took me
from you, and we shall rejoice together in the loving-kind-
ness of our God \"

But to return to the Journal :

" December 18th. This evening we are at Plassy.
Walking on the bank of the river, we passed an old man
brought down to die by the river-side : he exhibited signs
of considerable vitality ; and certainly no symptoms of im-
mediate dissolution. My spirit was stirred within me ; and a
Brahmin coming past, I began to talk to him on the wicked-
ness of killing men in this way. He said his shasters*
commanded it, and that the doctor had pronounced the man
dying. I told him that God did no injury to man ;
that He was good; and, therefore, the shasters were not

* Holy books.

58 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

God's word ; and that God was displeased at such proceed-
ings ; he understood me, and pleaded their customs. I
answered, that the custom, the shasters, and the people,
were all bad ; and that when he died he would go down
and lie in fire for ever. He evidently understood me
and seemed confounded. I then told him that at Cutwa, a
Sahib lived, who would give him the true word of God, and
recommended him to go there. It appeared, however, that
he came from Moorshedebad, and showed no disposition to
return to Cutwa. Passing on, we found a party going to
Juggernauth. I asked one of them, Why he went there ?
What use it would be to him, and what good it would do
to him ? He seemed confounded, and made no reply. I
told him also of the anger of God, and of the fire after death.
A Birajee* came running after us to beg ; he was an old
man. On being told by him what he was, I said to him,
that he was a lazy man that would do no work, but only
eat, and that God was angry with him, and that when he
died he would go down to fire for ever. He was surprised
at this reception, and could only plead his age. I recom-
mended him to Cutwa. This is my first effort at missionary
work : but 0, how I blush, and abhor myself, for the imper-
fect manner I speak for God. I know enough of the language
to have conveyed different ideas, and more of them, but
I am nothing, and know nothing. Lord, grant me wisdom
and utterance ; and, 0, smile on my feeble attempts for the
furtherance of thine own glory, through Christ Jesus !

" Dec. 21st. We are now by the kind providence of God
at Berhampore. On Friday Mr. Grant and Mr. Ellerton
stopped our boat, about one o'clock, and we stayed at that
place all night. We met, also, with Messrs. B. and their
friends ; one a youth from England, by the Nelson. They
also stayed with us ; and in the evening, we were joined by
two officers, going down to Calcutta. We made a party of
eight, and sat up till twelve, talking to little profit, chiefly

* A kind of religious mendicant.

BOGWONGOLA. 59

about the siege of Bhurtpore. Yesterday morning we
separated, and were accompanied the whole of the day by
the Messrs. B, who joined with us in morning and evening
worship.

"Dec. 23rd, 1806. (Bogwongola) . Yesterday morning
we waited on General P. and afterwards visited the place
appointed for public worship, a large upper room. In the
afternoon, we visited the hospital. I drew near the bed of a
man apparently in the last stage of disease, who received the
word with tears, and requested me to pray with him. Hav-
ing made this known, P. invited the others to draw near :
a large party collected from all parts of the hospital. I ex-
pounded the third chapter of St. John's Gospel, and prayed.
Much attention in the poor men.

" I left Berhampore this morning at seven o'clock ; and,
after passing through a well-cultivated and fertile country,
arrived here at twelve. I am now on the great river, pro-
ceeding to Mr. Creighton* at Gomalty. I am much pained at
heart on account of separation from dear Parson, and disheart-
ened at the prospect of being so long on the way to Chunar ;
and tired with the importunity of the natives. Never, never
have I felt so keenly the separation from dear relatives ; but
I have no wish to draw back, but would pray and hope that
" God will be the strength of my heart, and my portion for
ever/' in and through Jesus Christ.

" Dec. 26th. Last night I arrived at Gomalty, and found a
very kind reception from Mr. Creighton. In the course of con-
versation, I have learned that he, with Messrs. Ellerton and
Grant, have instituted about twelve schools in the villages, in
this neighbourhood, in which many children of the poornatives
are taught to read and write ; and Christian tracts, and the
New Testament in Bengalee are read to them, and by them.
One Brahmin objected to the reading the Holy Scirptures ;
but, some parts of them being read to him, his objections
were removed, and he considered that they were very good.
* Superintendent of Indigo works.

60 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

In one of the schools the master is a Brahmin, who teaches
these tracts, &c. ; though he says, that if the sentiments
contained in them prevail, the Brahmin's power will soon be
at an end. The salary allowed the teachers is five rupees *
per month ; for which they teach as many children as choose
to come. In one school about seventy or eighty children
attended at first ; and about forty still continue to come. In
this school thirty have been taught, and are gone off to dif-
ferent employments. Many of the boys have made con-
siderable proficiency in reading and writing ; and through
them, the knowledge of the Scriptures is diffused to a con-
siderable extent; the consequence is, that much less dis-
sension is found in the neighbourhood ; so that when the
native missionaries come amongst them, the people are
much more ready to hear them than in other districts. They
hear, also, with much attention, and in general approve of
Christian truth.

' Dec. 27th. To-day Mr. Creighton sent for the school-
master of the place with his little charge, about fourteen :
some others were in the habit of attending, but were at this
time absent. The method of teaching is by writing the charac-
ter in the sand, and then pronouncing the letter ; thus they
learn both to read and write at the same time : some of the
children have made considerable advancement. The manners
of the children are much the same as those of children at
home ; and much gratification did their contented faces and
their little tricks afford me.

'Dec. 29th. Yesterday morning Messrs. W. the two
B's and A. came over to attend Divine worship. At ten
o j clock we went and heard the Bengalee missionaries preach
to their countrymen : the three appear to be humble and
sincere Christians. Those who understood them say, that
the preaching was very energetic and eloquent.

" Gomalty, Jan. 1st. 1807. I would begin the new year
by reviewing the old. The mercies of the past year are
* About ten shillings sterling.

GOMALTY. 61

many and great ; and, for these mercies, I am bound to be
exceedingly thankful. During the voyage, my attempts
were not without some good effects on the minds of V. and
Y. especially : the Lord made my presence a restraint on
some who would otherwise have been more profane, and gave
me favour in the sight of many : kind friends have been raised
up for me in India, wherever I have come, and all my wants have
been abundantly supplied. These mercies call for the loudest
praise to Him who rules on high ; but especially do spiritual
mercies call for gratitude : that I have been kept from gross
sins before men ; that I have not been permitted wholly to res-
train prayer before God, or to cast off His fear ; that I have
been enabled in public preaching to declare what I believe
to be the whole counsel of God ; and that some tokens of
Divine approbation have been granted to His word. I feel a
growing boldness to speak for God in private, and something
more of a power to cast off the fear of man. These are
subjects which may well furnish matter for everlasting songs.
I would record what I feel still wrong, that I may be dis-
posed to live more simply on Christ for strength as well as
righteousness. I find a disposition to seek the applause of
men, which sometimes leads me into words and actions
which grieve the Holy Spirit, and wound my own soul.
There is a sinful nature ; a disposition to rest in the form
of godliness ; and a spirit of indolence which causes me to
waste hours and days to no profit. These things grieve and
bow down my soul. I would, also, record my purposes,
that I may be bound to perform them. I intend to keep
aloof from visiting parties at Chunar, as much as I can ; to
establish worship as often as possible ; and to teach and
preach Jesus Christ, ' publicly and from house to house,'
both to professed Christians, and to the heathen. But,
when I reflect how most of my resolutions have hitherto
come to nothing, Lord, let thy power rest upon me ! I
would record my most earnest desires, to mark the Lord's
dealings with me, and His answers to prayer. My first

62 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

desire is, that a ' door may be opened ' at Chunar, and that
I may have power to enter in thereat, that so ' the word of
God may have free course and be glorified ' in the conver-
sion of souls. Secondly, that my dear family may be the
special objects of the favour of Jehovah ; and that my dear
sister may come out to me, if it be the will of God, other-
wise not. Thirdly, that V., Y., and B., may be kept from
the power of the devil, the world, and the flesh ; and that
they may be redeemed and preserved from all iniquity, and
have liberty to serve God without fear. Fourthly, that the
choicest mercies both of Providence and Grace, may descend
on all whose hearts have been disposed to favour me ; and
that the Government of India may be disposed to permit,
at least, attempts for the conversion of the natives ; and that
the kingdom of Christ may come. And, Lord, I would
devote my life, my strength, my every faculty, and every
gift of grace, nature, or providence, wholly to thy service
and glory ! I offer myself to Thee. pardon, accept, and
bless me, through Jesus Christ ; and bring these purposes
to good effect, for thy name's sake !

" Jan. 6th. Left Mr. Creighton at Gomalty yesterday morn-
ing. Jn travelling, found my mind somewhat stayed on God.
I welcomed the budgerow, and the dreary river, as old though
inconvenient friends, who would put me in the way of active
usefulness. I was much pleased with the school in Mr. C/s
bungalow ; and, from the pleasure the Brahmin showed,
in making the scholars read the Bengalee New Testament,
I have a hopeful presentiment that the kingdom of Satan,
thus divided against itself, cannot stand long.

" Jan. 16th. This morning, I visited the wells near
Monghyr.* One of the wells is cold ; but close to it,
another bubbles up water, like the bubbles that rise from
the bottom of a caldron as the water grows hot. I found
this water so hot, that I was scarcely able to bear my hand

* The celebrated hot-well named " Seetacoom," the fountain of
Seeta. BISHOP HEBER'S JOURNAL.

DINAPORE.

63

in it. Here, they say, Ram's wife bathed, after she had
been stolen away, and recovered again by her husband.
Many Brahmins and Faqueers were staying there ; and were
very importunate for money. With a buckshish* I offered
tracts, and was immediately told that a Sahib, a short time
since, had left many. A very interesting boy, about fifteen
years of age, read in one of the tracts, and told me that it
meant, There is only one God, and that all their poojahs,
&c., are vain. I spoke to him, and an old man, with
several around; the boy seemed to understand perfectly
what I meant; and said, that when he understood the
matter thoroughly, he should leave off poojah ; and, as I
spake of hell as the portion of wicked men, several behind
showed symptoms of scorn. The old man discovered much
impatience, but, for the buckshish, stayed till I had said all
that I thought necessary. The boy's father manifested un-
easiness, and evidently wished his son away ; but for the
same reason permitted him to stay. The father said, that
Adam was first created, and that all men are his children :
that the world was drowned, and then Noah became the
parent of us all. I replied that it was true ; and that Adam
and Noah worshipped God, and paid no regard to poojahs
and the river. Why, then, did they pay that regard to the
creature, which was due only to God ? He answered, that
when God should give all the world to be of the same
opinion, it would be so. To which I replied, That it was
true ; and that in England we worshipped God as Adam
and Noah did ; and that now the word was sent to him.

" Jan. 26th. On Friday, I left the budgerow, and came
through a most fertile country to Dinapore. I observed
some of the customs of the natives which explained passages
of Scripture. In the evening, the conversation of dear
Martyn seemed to drive away all pain ; but weakness soon
made me wish for rest. Yesterday, I preached here to an
attentive people, from Matt. vii. 21 23. Some of the
* Present.

64 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

officers scoffed. Oh ! what cause for thankfulness in the
sweet communion I am favoured with in Martyn, and in the
kindness I meet with on all hands ! for a heart to praise
the Lord for his goodness ! for power to do His will,
to love His work ; and for a spirit of compassion for
perishing souls !

" Jan. 29th. Just leaving Dinapore to proceed to Chunar,
in tolerable health and spirits. I have found but little
of spiritual comfort ; though much pleasure in communion
with dear Martyn. My purposes of labouring amongst the
heathen are much revived, encouraged and strengthened, by
the conversation of this dear friend : we agreed to exchange
letters every other Monday. I found the vanity of worldly
pursuits in the society I went into ; and perceive afresh
that God is alone the tit and satisfying portion of the soul.
may I live under this impression, and may my life and
conduct testify that it is a divine impression !

"Feb. 15th. On approaching Chunar, the appearance
of the fort struck me as beautiful ; but, from the reports of
its unhealthiness, I was ready to consider it as my grave,
and approached it with a heavy heart. I have found some
earnestness and liberty in praying for a blessing on my
entrance in amongst them. I trust the Lord will be entreated."

CHAPTER IV.

SETTLEMENT AT CHUNAR.

CHUNAR, the first scene of Mr. Corrie's stated ministry
in India, used to be a place of greater importance
than it is now that the frontier of the British Empire
has been so much extended in all directions. The
fortress is spread over the sides of a high rock which
is washed by the Ganges ; and although the place is
not considered unhealthy, yet during some months
in the year, the heat at Chunar is intense. The
Europeans stationed there, when Mr. C. was chap-
lain, were all military, and for the most part invalids,
who, though unfit for active service, were equal to
garrison-duty. Besides those Europeans and some
Sepoys, there were a few half-castes of Portuguese
extraction, and some native women who followed the
army. Without the cantonments was a Hindoo and
Mahomedan population amounting to 10,000 or

F

66 MEMOIRS OF BISHOP CORRIE.

12,000 souls. The Europeans, also, at Secrole
(about twelve miles from Chunar) became afterwards
part of Mr. Corrie's charge ; whilst the vast heathen
population of Benares, with its cruel and senseless
superstitions, opened out a large field for the exercise
of missionary zeal and Christian philanthropy.

The extracts given below from Mr. Corrie's journal
and Letters, will explain the nature of his official
duties, and missionary operations. It will be seen
that he had many obstacles to encounter in his efforts
to impart the knowledge of Christ to those " who lay
in darkness and in the shadow of death. "* Among
the many trials, too, which his faith had to sustain, not
the least will appear to have arisen from the determined
hostility to all missionary labours, manifested by the
Government of India; in forgetfulness, it may be
presumed, of the great truth, that as " the kingdoms
of this world are " destined to " become the kingdoms
of our Lord and of His Christ," all opposition to the
spread of Christianity is hostility to the " King of
kings, "t

" Sunday, Feb. 22nd. This day I begin my labours at
Chunar, and have much reason to adore him who heareth
prayer, for smoothing my way, and opening a door of hope
that good will be done. I arose at five o'clock this morning
and prepared for divine service. At seven o'clock, I went
to the place of worship, and found there the effective artillery-
men, the garrison invalids, and several of the others, with the

* Luke i. 79. t Rev. xi. 15 ; xix. 16.

CHUNAR. 67

Colonel, Captain P., Lieut. A., and the invalid officers D.
and H. with some other officers of the Fort. Observed
several very attentive. At half past nine o'clock I went to
the hospital, and found a table set, and the people very ready
to hear, and attentive. Now, Lord,

" Do thou the gracious harvest raise,
And thine alone shall be the praise."

" Feb. 25th. This evening I went to see the Roman
Catholic chapel, a small place of about eight feet square,
surrounded with a veranda. A dish with spices, and another
with flour, were placed on the altar. A Padre comes occa-
sionally, but he has not been here for the last two years ;
he has baptized several native women connected with Euro-
peans ; but I cannot find that any other natives have been
baptized by him.

" Feb. 27th. Yesterday and to-day, I had an opportu-
nity of talking with some poor women, Portuguese Roman
Catholics, about Jesus Christ ; and found some relief to my
own mind in recommending Him to their regard. From
one I learned (what indeed I had heard before) that at
Bettiah, situate in what used to be the old kingdom of Ne-
paul, eight days' journey inland from Chuprah, all