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THE

UNITED BRETHREN’S

Missionary ^Intelligence*,

AND

CONTAINING

THE MOST RECENT ACCOUNTS RELATING TO THE UNITED BRETHREN’S MISSIONS
AMONG THE HEATHEN;

With other interesting Communications from the Records of that Church.
No. X. SECOND QUARTER, 1830. VoL. III.

SOUTH AFRICA.

Extract of the Diary of the Missionaries of the Brethren among
the Tambookies on the Klipplaat’s river, for the first three
months of the year 1829.

January .—'We entered this year with prayer and supplication, in-
treating the Lord to assist us in our weakness, and to grant that 'by
our poor endeavours His gospel may be made known, and a reward
gained for the travail of His soul, also from the Tambookie nation.
On the 2nd, Brother Hoffman spoke with all the individuals of our
Hottentot congregation, previous to the festival of Epiphany. One
of the excluded said: “ I was a candidate for the Communion at
“ Enon, but I fell into transgression, and was not only excluded, but
“ sent from the place. I felt no remorse, on account of my bad con-
“ duct, till I came to work with a farmer, and was deprived of all
“ my privileges; I then perceived what a sore punishment I had in-
“ curred; I cried to the Lord for pardon, and now desire to be re-
“ stored to His favour, and preserved from future deviations.”

One of the new people related, that when he was removing from
Enon to hear the gospel, many people made him afraid, saying that
he would never subsist here with his children; but, added he, “ the
“ Lord proved my guide, and had mercy upon me. When we were
“ two hours’ walk from the Klipplaat’s river, and reached a Tam-
“ bookie kraal, all the people came running towards us: my wife
“ was half dead with fright, but I trusted in God; and after all, the
“ poor people only came to beg, and did us no harm. My only pray-
“ er is, that I may learn to know Jesus as my Saviour.”

Vol. hi. 55

434

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

On Epiphany we celebrated the first manifestation of our Lord to
the heathen, and particularly recommended the Tambookie nation
to His mercy.

7th. We had the pleasure to see Brother Halter arrive with us
from Enon on a visit. He and Sister Lemmertz spoke with all
the communicants, and found them humbly waiting for a new blessing
at the approaching communion. It was indeed a season of refresh-
ment from the presence of the Lord.

This evening a Tambookie arrived here, who had been interpre-
ter to the late Mr. Stockenstroem, Landdrost of Graafreynet. He
was present at the murder of that gentleman by the Caffres. This
man spoke Dutch well, and related, that the Tambookie Captain
Chelela had expressed himself willing, if Bowana would consent, to
move hither, for which also he himself had an inclination. In the morn-
ing, when Brother Halter arose, a serpent was found close to his bed,
having entered by a hole in the wall. It was of a most venomous
kind, and we were thankful that it did him no injury. Brother Hal-
ter left us on the 12 th. His visit has been of great encouragement
to us. He had also an opportunity of conversing with Bowana, who
declared his intention of visiting us. We do not wish to see this man
so often, as he is always making unreasonable demands.

On the 1 7thy heavy thunder-storms approached from all quarters
They are frequent in this country, and generally accompanied by
strong winds.

On the 22rao?, three Tambookies and a daughter of Bowana came
hither on horseback, and left us on the following day for the land for-
merly in their possession, which Bowana intends to occupy.

On the 25M, Brother Lemmertz returned from Cradock, where he
had been on business. We were surprised to see him accompanied
by six Hottentot soldiers. He saluted us with tears in his eyes, and
declared, that he had hardly expected to find us alive, for, with his
own eyes, he had seen Makomo and his people seize upon the whole
stock of cattle belonging to the Tambookies, being between 6,000
and 7,000 head. The Caffres even took their time, and were for se-
veral hours dividing the cattle among themselves. They also fol-
lowed the Tambookies beyond the frontier, and killed several of
them, but they did not disturb the cattle belonging to the farmers.
On being asked, why they treated the Tambookies so unjustly, one
of them, who could speak Dutch, returned for answer, that now, as
the Tambookies had lost their cattle, they might come and live with
them. Brother Lemmertz had feared everything from the violence
of the Caffres, and thought they might have come and murdered us;
he therefore immediately went to the military post to hear the cause
of this outrage. The Lieutenant, commanding the station, had given
him the six soldiers as escort. We had meanwhile enjoyed uninter-
rupted peace, and had neither perceived nor heard of the attack
made by the Caffres, for which we were very thankful to God. In
a former conversation with Bowana, he declared, that he did not re-

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

435

fuse Chelela’s removal to us, but wished that his own people might
first be instructed in the word of God. Being asked, how that could
be done, when he did not bring them to us, he replied, that he fear-
ed that his wives and children would be murdered in this defence-
less place; that it was indeed well to trust to God, but that we must
have soldiers besides for our protection.

At Cradock, Brother Lemmertz was treated in the kindest man-
ner by the minister and other friends.

The soldiers will remain with us, till the Lieutenant’s arrival, as
he means to scour the country. By the intercession of Mr. Miller,
Makomo is said to have returned half of the stolen cattle to Bowana.
On this occasion, the Caffres committed many murders, in the most
barbarous manner. Near the road, a Tambookie was seen lying dead,
both stabbed and strangled. Four dogs lay about him, probably with
a view to devour him. Whether the Tambookies will humble them-
selves under this misfortune, and seek comfort in the word of God,
or perhaps leave us altogether, time must shew. We could not but
consider them with pity, and endeavoured to make them attentive
to those things that are eternal, of which no earthly foes can rob
them.

February 1st. After the sermon, a child was baptized. At this
first baptism in this place several Tambookies were present, and we
prayed fervently to the Lord, that He would soon reveal Himself to
this benighted nation, and add to His Church from among them also,
such as shall be saved.

2nd, Early, we saw a number of people hastening towards us, and
fearing that they might be hostile Caffres, were not a little alarmed;
but they proved to be 28 Tambookies belonging to Mapas’ people;
their cattle had likewise been stolen, but they knew nothing of Bo-
wana’s loss. Their behaviour was remarkably friendly, and they had
halted in our neighbourhood for the night, not willing to frighten us.
More Tambookies arriving, we had a large number of them at church,
it being a monthly prayer-meeting; and we remembered them in an
especial manner at the throne of grace.

To-day some eels were caught in the river, and we were thankful
to find this species of fish in these waters. Some of our people pre-
pare the tops of the aloes for food, and find them wholesome when
boiled. Hitherto the juice of them has been considered the only
useful part. To-day Sister Lemmertz had nearly trod upon a large
snake, close to the bank of the river. We were thankful that she
was not bitten by the venomous reptile. The locusts have lately done
much mischief to the Indian corn.

5th. Three poor Tambookies, with their families, having lost all
their cattle, came to us, wishing to remain here. We grieved, that
we were not able to help these poor people. As they all attended
the Sunday’s service, several were obliged to sit before the door.
Their behaviour was so still and devout, that we hardly perceived
their presence. O how do we wish and pray that the word of God

436

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

might find entrance into their hearts, and create a desire in them to
learn to know their Saviour! We were to-day much encouraged by
letters from London and Gnadenthal.

As one of the three families above-mentioned persisted in their re-
solution to live on our land, we granted their request on the 1 2£/f,
with great pleasure, not having expected such an application under
present circumstances. This family consisted of eleven persons,
among whom was a young woman of the Mantatee nation. Six years
ago, she and her mother were carried off by the Tambookies in an af-
fray with the Mantatees, all the men being murdered. We made
known to these new-comers the rules by which they were to be go-
verned as inhabitants, explaining to them, that, by following the di-
rections given in the word of God, they would be made happy in time
and eternity; but that, as to their outward support, it must depend
upon their own industry. We believe, that the Lord has led them to
us, and pray fervently that He may reveal Himself unto them as
their Redeemer. The two other families are yet with us, and per-
haps may be willing to stay. When we represented to them, that
they must expect no help from us, and should rather seek another
place to dwell in, they seemed to be much cast down. Our Hotten-
tots also expressed their regret at the idea of their dismissal, and ob-
served, that they might now and then receive some assistance from
them. We were glad to hear these charitable expressions from our
people. They themselves declared their wish to abide here, and we
consider it as a proof that the Lord hears our prayers, and will gather
in a congregation from among this nation.

By a letter from Brother Hallbeck, we heard that no military post
will be established in our neighbourhood. Our dependence for de-
fence is upon Him, to whom all power is given in heaven and upon
earth .

Late in the evening, six Tambookies arrived, who said that they
were going to accompany Bowana into his own land. They left us
again at midnight, and we heard, on the following day, that they had
endeavoured to seduce our new inhabitant to follow them, which he
refused, rebuking them for their wicked conduct in laughing at and
mocking those who had lost their cattle. They observed, that the
enemy would soon come and kill them all, or drive them away. The
man answered, that they would on no account leave their teachers.
We entreat the Lord to keep him faithful to his convictions.

The weather was so uncommonly hot and dry, that the water in
the river became nearly stagnant, and we had little left for irriga-
tion.

19 th. Brother and Sister Hoffman spoke with all the communi-
cants, and to their joy discovered many proofs of the work of the
Holy Spirit in their souls, keeping them humbly dependent upon the
strength of our Saviour, under a consciousness of their own weak-
ness.

20 th* We had a fruitful rain, which lasted all night, and was still

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

437

more abundant on the Caffre frontier; and as our river rises in that
country, we soon experienced the benefit of it.

2,4th. A more tremendous thunder-storm than we had ever wit-
nessed here, brought with it so much rain that the river overflowed
its banks, and covered part of the gardens, but no damage was done;
for which we were truly thankful to our gracious Heavenly Father.

27th. Several Tambookies arrived with a large herd of cattle.
They attended the evening-meeting.

28 th. An immense flight of locusts passed over our place. The
whole air was darkened by them; they obstructed the rays of the
sun, and occasioned a rushing noise in the air, like that of a strong
wind in a wood.

March. — Having heard from some of the farmers on the frontier,
that there were timber-trees growing on the Windvogelsberg, and
wishing to be sure of it. Brother Lemmertz, accompanied by a
Hottentot, rode to that place; he returned in the evening with the
pleasing intelligence, that he had found very useful timber-trees,
growing all along the side of the mountain in a narrow line of wood.
They will be of great service for our future building. The country
was well stocked with game: buntebocks, hartebeests and gnoos ap-
pear in large herds, and lions are said to be numerous.

8 thy being Sunday, many Tambookies attended our worship. It
seems as if the Lord had made use of the Caffre Captain Makomo,
even by his robberies and murders, to alarm the Tambookies, and
make them more attentive to the riches of the kingdom of Heaven.
They begin to enquire after the word of God.

9 th. One of our Hottentots was so fortunate as to shoot an elland.
This antelope is as large as a full grown ox. It has cloven feet, a
long neck; long straight horns, and short tail.

13 th. Two Tambookies came hither, one of them an old man, who
said he would bring his children with him, and live with us. We
are glad to find that our Tambookies are willing to work.. They
have built their house and are employed in digging a garden. Their
four children visit the school, and improve in learning Dutch. Wil-
helmina is their teacher, and does every thing out of love to the Lord
and His cause. O that He would open the hearts and understandings
of old and young, that they might become acquainted with Him as
their Saviour.

15^. Shortly before the public sermon, Bowana arrived with his
whole retinue and a large herd of cattle. Several of his people at-
tended our worship, but he himself came afterwards to our house.
His head was wholly filled with the misfortunes he had lately expe-
rienced, and which in part he had brought upon himself. Far from
expressing himself desirous to hear more of the word of God, after
such a long absence, he would talk of nothing but the great loss he
had sustained, and was very troublesome to us with captious ques-
tions. One of his wives also had run away this morning; about
which, however, he seemed to be indifferent.

438

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

On the 17th, Bowana sent nine of his children to school, for we
had represented to him that he must give an account to God not only
of his own soul, but of those of his people and children, if he ne-
glected to have them instructed in His word.

19th. Brother Lemmertz and his wife spoke with all our commu-
nicants, and could rejoice over their state of heart. In general, their
walk is worthy of the gospel, and their desire is to grow in the know-
ledge of our Lord and Saviour.

The celebration of the Lord’s Supper on the 21s£, was a season of
great blessing. On Sunday the 9&nd many of Bowana’s people at-
tended the service, but he was gone to confer with the magistrate
on the frontier.

On the 23 rcl, a family of Fetkannas, consisting of four persons,
came to us from Chelela’s place. The father of the family was
very old; he said, that, having visited his daughter in Caffraria,
he should return and live with us. We hope that it is the Lord’s
will, that some of a nation, which but lately robbed us of our cattle,
and threatened to kill us, shall come hither, and believe the gospel
and be saved.

2 5th. Mapas, a son of Bowana, with about fifty armed men, paid
us a most unpleasant visit. His former kind and friendly behaviour
was changed into insolence and malice; each of his people was
armed with an assagay, and he immediately demanded to see our
interpreter. As he wished to have a conference with us, we pro-
posed to hold it out of doors; but he insisted upon going into our
dwelling, and that his people should keep their weapons; for in ge-
neral they leave their assagay s outside the house. He now began by
apologizing for his having left us; but we soon found that this was
all hypocrisy. After asking many insidious questions, he accused us
of having been the cause, that the English officers at Klaas Smit’s
river had sent a party to assist Chelela to take his people and his
cattle. We replied, that, according to the precepts of the word of
God, we never interfered with the outward affairs of Government,
that Chelela himself had complained, and the officer had done his
duty. In this affray the former had lost ten men. Though we
wished to avoid all interference, Mapas would not be pacified, except
we sent our interpreter to explain the matter to the officer. By him
Brother Lemmertz wrote a report of the transaction, and we sent a
message to Bowana, begging to be excused receiving such visits from
his son. Indeed, we felt much grieved to perceive, that we are re-
presented to a people, for whose salvation we offer up continual
prayers, as spies and traitors. Nor were we a little alarmed on see-
ing such a host of armed men before us. Not knowing to what ex-
tremities the devil might drive them, we thanked the Lord when
the conference closed. Mapas and his people now attended our
evening worship, at which we encouraged each other to trust in the
help of the Lord, who had so often delivered his people in the hour
of distress. We prayed to Him, that this event might turn, not to

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

439

the disadvantage, but to the benefit of His cause. The people were
remarkably quiet and attentive to what was told them of their Crea-
tor and Redeemer, and left us in silence. On the following day our
men had a conversation with Bowana and Mapas, in which they re-
presented to them the impropriety of their conduct in coming to us
with armed men, and calling us traitors; and declared to them, that
if they came armed, they must arm likewise. This produced such
an effect, that, on the 0,7th, Bowana and Mapas requested another
conversation with us. The former brought two aged counsellors with
him, who, in their discourse, sharply reproved him for his beha-
viour towards us, adding, that in future he should first inquire whe-
ther his complaints were well founded, and now ought to beg our
pardon. Bowana replied, that he was sorry for what had happened,
and supposed the devil must have instigated him to it. He begged
that we would forgive him, following his counsellors’ advice. We
could do nothing but look to the Lord for help, and thank Him, that
this affair had ended so well, which we ascribe to His mercy alone.
On the 29 th, Bowana came again to us on his way to the officer at
the post. He was remarkably kind and confiding, and said that he
came to consult us, how he should treat with the officer. We ad-
vised him to tell the truth, and to apologize for any offence. One of
the old counsellors confirmed it, and added, that if pardon was ask-
ed, it was always granted, and requested that we might not be weary
of giving Bowana good advice. Bowana now begged that we would
let our interpreter go with him to the officer, which we were willing
to do. We pray that these negotiations may end in a lasting peace.
The interpreter returned in two days, and brought unfavourable ac-
counts; but Bowana, on his return to us, assured us, that peace was
established between him and Chelela. The Government had also
declared, that if they did not keep it, more severe measures must be
resorted to, to enforce it. We were truly thankful to the Lord for
the protection we enjoy under a wise Government, and that we may
now hope for peace and safety. We commend ourselves at this
distant post to the remembrance of all our Brethren and Sisters,
and friends, in their prayers before the throne of grace; and with
cordial affection remain, &c. &c. (Signed)

J. LEMMERTZ,

J. F. HOFFMANN.

Letters received from Brother John Lemmertz.

Klipplaats River, April 0\th, 1829.

“ Your letters have given us great encouragement, and we are
truly thankful for the love and remembrance in prayer of our Bre-
thren and friends in Europe. Hitherto the kingdom of darkness has
prevailed in this country, and the blindness and ignorance of this

440

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

people are not to be conceived. The people have no notion of their
Creator, and their religion consists of witchcraft. If any one is taken
ill, or a hut is burnt down, it is ascribed to the influence of a witch.
The conjurer is sent for, and he collects a number of persons from
the whole neighbourhood, among whom he pretends to discover the
culprit. The accused person is then, without further proof, most
cruelly treated, and generally tortured to death. Polygamy is com-
mon among them. Quarrels ensue, and the stronger falls upon the
weaker and steals his cattle. But may we not believe, that this
wretched state of things will be put an end to by the power of the
word of the Cross, even as in other places, to the glory of our cru-
cified Saviour.

“ Bowana and his family visit us at present frequently, and send
ten children to the school. They are learning the Dutch language,
and attend with pleasure; we have likewise a young Mantatee wo-
man with us, and a family ofFetkannas, the tribe that stole our Hot-
tentots’ cattle. These tribes are our neighbours, and live near the
great Tambookie country. Thus, our attention is directed to va-
rious nations, from which we trust that the Lord, in His own time,
will collect a congregation of believers. May He send faithful la-
bourers into His harvest.

“ Our Tambookies have built their huts, and are diligent in their
gardens.

“ From the diary we send you, you will see under what peculiar
circumstances we exist in this place; and now let me add an humble
petition in behalf of our poor people. They are truly poor, having
lost their cattle, which is their whole substance. We beg our Eng-
lish friends to enable us to assist them with clothing, some books
for the school; and medicines, besides spades and other implements
for their grounds.

Enon, May Athy 1829.

“ I was obliged to come hither on business of the Mission. At
Somerset, I was most kindly received by the Rev. Mr. Morgan, who
is our true friend; and met five other ministers, who had assembled
in conference upon some church affairs. With them I spent a most
agreeable afternoon, and found them all friends to the Missions; I
likewise met there a minister who had made the voyage from Eu-
rope to the Cape with Brother Meyer.

“ Here, at Enon, I had the pleasure to receive your most accept-
able letter, and to find our Brethren and Sisters well in health.

Klipplaats river, June 25rdt 1829.

“ Your kind letter of November 8th, I received on the 14th of
May, later than that of January the 3rd. I beg to express my thanks
for the participation felt by the Brethren of the Society for the Fur-
therance of the Gospel, and our friends at Bedford; situated as we
are at such a distance from our Brethren, and employed in a work so

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

441

important, as the making known the salvation of Christ among igno-
rant heathen. We feel ourselves unworthy of such a commission, and
depend alone upon the mercy, help, and protection of our Almighty
Saviour.

“On the 19th of May, Bowana left us, with his family, on a pre-
tence that there was more grass on the Zwartskoy for his cattle. He
seems quite unconcerned about the state of his soul. But we are
sorry for his wives and children, who were eager to hear the word
of God, and to profit by attending the school.

“On the 23d, a Tambookie family, and on the 25th two more,
came to live on our land. These people had formerly visited us,
and intended to have removed hither before their cattle were stolen;
their captain opposed it, while they were rich, but since they have
grown poor, he gave them leave. Their declarations on being per-
mitted to reside here were much to our satisfaction, and we trust
that the Lord will have mercy upon them.

“ The Government has obliged Makomo to quit his situation on
the frontier, and taken much stolen cattle from him, of which our
Tambookies received a portion. One of them, having lost 110
beasts, had 30 returned to him.

“ Our Tambookies have already built their huts. Their custom
requires, that the single men should build a hut for themselves, and
the single women a separate dwelling. Of the former four, and of
the latter three, belong to the three families newly arrived. Mapas
has now removed to the eastward, and Bowana to the north of our
place. That this does not prevent the Tambookies from coming
to live with us, encourages us to hope, that it is the Lord’s doing,
and that He will gain their souls for Himself.

“ During Bowana’s last visit, one of his wives was ailing, and
begged us to give her some medicine; common salt was the only re-
medy we could administer suited to her case, which speedily re-
lieved her, and for which she expressed great gratitude. She would
otherwise have been treated in the customary way. A conjurer is
applied to, who immediately orders a bullock to be killed, and on
inspection of its flesh, this sagacious doctor declares the cause and
cure of the disorder, but takes care to secure the greatest portion of
meat for himself. If the pain is soon removed, he assumes the credit
of it; but if not, he pronounces the patient to be bewitched.

“We have here no wolves, but many wild dogs of a small size,
very hairy and bold. I have seen many of these creatures devour-
ing their prey on our land. Tygers are not common, but lions infest
uninhabited places. There are not as many serpents here as at
Groenekloof and Gnadenthal; but two hours’ ride from hence, there
is abundance of game, hartebeests, gnoos, and springbucks, &c.
They have been driven from our dwelling-place by the Tambookies’
dogs. I have often seen 50 of them in a troop ; the farmers speak
of thousands.

Brother Hoffmann and his wife join us in cordial salutation to
Vol. in. 56

442

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

your Society, and all our dear friends and benefactors in England ;
and commending ourselves to your prayers, we remain ever your
faithful, &c. JOHN & MARY LEMMERTZ.

Extracts of Correspondence from Brother H. P. Hallbeck.

Gnadenthal, June %7th, 1829-

“Dear Brother— -My last to you was of the 22nd April, in
which I reported the sudden departure of Brother Leitner. Ever
since that time we have been expecting an answer from the Colonial
Government, explaining its views as to the future management of
the Leper Institution, but hitherto in vain; whence it would appear
that Government finds it difficult to come to a determination on this
subject, which has already more than once been under discussion.
Meanwhile, I am thankful to learn, that a letter which I lately ad-
dressed to the colonial authorities, in reply to the aspersions of cer-
tain partizans, has been found satisfactory. I trust we are not dis-
posed to think highly of our own work : for none can be as fully
aware as we are ourselves of our manifold mistakes and deficiencies;
but on the other hand, it would be the height of folly and ingratitude,
to deny the blessings which our Saviour has been mercifully pleased
to vouchsafe to us His feeble servants. The more I consider who
and what we are, the more am I convinced that we are altogether
unfit instruments for the performance of the work committed to us;
but when, on the other hand, I look around me, and behold the
change which has been wrought, and which is in daily oporation, I
cannot refrain from the conclusion, that the foolishness of God is
reiser than men , and the weakness of God is stronger than men. To
God, therefore, must be ascribed the glory of whatever good has
been effected, and to us the blame, that so much has been left un-
done.

“ You may perhaps have heard from the public papers that im-
portant changes are in progress. On the eastern frontier of the
colony, Makomo, the son of Geika, had been for several years per-
mitted to reside in the neutral territory. But in consequence of his
robberies, and especially his late attack on the Tambookies, he has
latterly been expelled beyond the Kat river; and a plan is now in
progress, under the direction of my excellent countryman Mr.
Stockenstrom, to settle Hottentots in the neutral territory. Each
kraal or village is to consist of twenty armed men; and Mr. Stocken-
strom has visited the several Missionary stations in the interior, to
collect recruits for this novel kind of colony. He has also been at
the Klipplaats, and appears very anxious for the prosperity of that
settlement; promising to afford every facility and encouragement to
Hottentots, who are willing to go beyond the boundary, and join their
brethren. Though it is impossible to predict the consequences of

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

44S

this new measure, it is but natural to suppose that the collection of
a denser population in those districts, will contribute to the greater
security of the neighbouring Missionary stations, and to an increase
in the number of their inhabitants. With this impression, I cannot
help indulging the hope, that the Klipplaats may prove an import-
ant gathering-place for the native tribes of that portion of South
Africa.

“ From Enon, I have no very recent accounts, but am expecting
letters every day. With Hemel-en-Aarde we are better acquainted,
as one of our number pays a visit there every week. Sister Leitner
is tolerably well, and willing to remain at the hospital, till the plea-
sure of Government is known. The poor lepers are most anxious to
have a Missionary residing among them, and continually assail me
with the petition: ‘Pray give us another father; we own we have
been disobedient children, and have deserved to be abandoned; but
do not forsake us, 8cc.’

“ I inclose our Diary for the first quarter of this year. Nothing
very particular has of late occurred, to affect the uniform course of
this congregation, except the happy departure of a few individuals
to a better world. Among our young people, we indeed find, to our
sorrow, that the wheat is not unmixed with tares. The temptations
by which they are surrounded are numerous and powerful, and we
therefore do not wonder that they are occasionally overcome by
them, particularly when we reflect on the natural depravity of the
human heart, and the want of adequate parental controul. Yet
deeply as we grieve over every deviation from the mind and pre-
eepts of Christ, we cannot but feel thankful for the grace which
prevails generally in our congregation; and by which many of our
young people are led to consider their ways, and turn to the Lord.

“ It is now the season for planting and transplanting trees, and we
are therefore busily employed in operations of this kind. The whole
valley adjoining our vineyard will soon be one complete inclosure,
part of which will be prepared for the pasturage of calves and other
weak cattle: the rest is already planted with vines and tobacco. As
there is no room left near our Mission-premises for such a purpose,
a considerable plot of ground at Siebenfonteyn will be transformed
into a plantation of oaks and other forest trees. Through a friend
at Capetown, I have lately received a variety of seeds from Ger-
many, which have been just committed to the earth. The present
season is peculiarly favourable to vegetation; seeds which were sown
several years ago, but which for want of moisture never germinated,
now make their appearance. The Bedford wheat, which failed when
planted in our gardens, we have now sown on the fields of a friendly
farmer in our neighbourhood, where it seems less exposed to the rust
and the depredations of birds; and we hope it may produce a plenti-
ful return. Our little tanning business continues to prosper; not only
are most of the Missionaries, and many of our Hottentots, already
dressed in leathern trowsers of our own manufacture, but there be-

444

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

gins to be a demand on the part of our neighbours for shoe leather,
which I hope we shall be enabled to supply to their satisfaction. If
we could establish in addition, a manufactory of coarse hats, it would
be of essential advantage to us, as we should in this case be enabled
to turn to profitable account the quantity of wool which now accu-
mulates at the tan yard. By thus finding employment for our peo-
ple, and converting our place, by degrees, into a little manufactur-
ing village, we shall do more for our poor Hottentots, than by di-
rect charities, and lay a better foundation for their future prosperity,
than by urging them to engage in speculations, every way unsuited
to their circumstances.

“ As far as I am aware, all our Brethren and Sisters are well, with
the exception of Sister Stein, who has for some weeks been labour-
ing under what appears to be a consumptive disorder. Brother Stein
intends shortly to go to Stellenbosch to obtain the advice of a skilful
physician. We regret that the almost impassable state of the roads,
owing to heavy rains, prevents the patient herself undertaking the
journey, which would in every respect be preferable. A new road
is in course of construction over Hottentot Holland’s-kloof, which
will render that hitherto difficult pass a very convenient line of com-
munication with Capetown.

“ To-morrow, three adults will be baptized, and five received into
the congregation. Brother Sonderman and his wife, who last week
conversed individually with the candidates for baptism, were much
encouraged by the evident traces of a work of the Holy Spirit on
their hearts.”

August \7th.

“I am thankful to be able to give you a rather better account of
Sister Stein, than when I last wrote, on the 17tli July. The symp-
toms have assumed a less alarming character, and though the patient
is still confined to her room, and suffers more or less from fever, we
are not without hopes, that her valuable life may be spared.

“ I inclose a letter from Brother Lemmertz, which will afford you
much interesting intelligence from the Klipplaats station. Accord-
ing to accounts of a still later date, which reached me yesterday, it
appears, that besides the little Hottentot colony, which accompanied
the missionaries from Enon, 45 Tambookies, Caffres, Mantatees,
8tc. have become regular inhabitants of the settlement, exclusive of
those who live in the immediate neighbourhood. Our Brethren are
therefore under the necessity of thinking seriously about the erection
of a larger building, to serve the double purpose of school and church.
Brother Lemmertz writes: “We lately spoke individually with 38
Tambookies, and felt ourselves excited both to astonishment and gra-
titude, on discovering the advances they had made in the apprehen-
sion of divine truths This is indeed the work of the Holy Spirit,
and not ours.”

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

445

“The mill at Enon is again in motion, plentiful and fertilizing
rains having, by God’s mercy, succeeded to the long and distressing
drought. The progress of the Mission appears on the whole satis-
factory, and the Lord has laid His blessing on the management of its
external concerns during the past year.

“ In regard to the Leper Institution, I am not yet able to make any
definite report, but have reason to believe that all will be arranged
according to our wishes.

“ The globe, which you lately announced as having been presented
to us by some generous friends in England, has at length found its
way across the mountains to Gnadenthal, and is now in use in our lit-
tle academy. We beg to return our warmest thanks to the kind do-
nors, for so excellent an instrument, and promise that it shall be well
cared for. You will be gratified to learn, that my young pupils are
already prepared for the use of it, by a competent knowledge of ma-
thematical geography, and that the progress in other branches of
education has been quite equal to my expectations. I never met with
boys, who mastered arithmetic with more ease than these Hotten-
tots; and if my time will admit of it, I have a mind, if it were only
by way of experiment, to go through the six first books of Euclid
with them. On the 23rd of June last, I examined them in the pre-
sence of the Missionaries, in reading, writing, orthography, arith-
metic and geography, when their progress appeared such as to ex-
cite general surprise and satisfaction. I hope* next year, that we
shall be able to employ them as under-teachers in our boys* school.
May the Lord hold His hand over them, and influence their hearts
by His grace and Spirit; for, without this, all our labour will prove
of little avail.

“ When I lately visited Groenekloof, all the Missionaries there
were in good health, and proceeding in their accustomed labours.
They had just resolved to build a horse-mill, for grinding corn, the
want of a mill of this kind having been long felt as an inconve-
nience. Of Elim, I leave Brother Teutsch to make his own report,
as I find he has written to you by a recent opportunity.

“ With our united salutations to the Society for the Furtherance
of the Gospel, I am ever, &c. your affectionate Brother,

H. P. HALLBECK.

From Brother L. Teutsch.

Elim, July 21 st, 1829.

“ Dear Brother — You will see by our Diary of last year, that
Elim continues to increase in number of inhabitants. At the close of
1828, there were 143 Hottentots residing on our land; and in the
course of the last six months, 19 others have obtained permission to
remove hither Any very striking manifestations of the power and

446

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

grace of God, we have not indeed as yet been permitted to behold
among our people. Our blessed Master commands us to sow the pre-
cious seed, and we believe that it is not cast into the ground in vain,
although we do not immediately gather in the harvest. If our faith
and courage are at times ready to droop, because the success of our
labours does not equal our wishes and expectations, we are comforted
and encouraged when we reflect, that our Lord Himself, who spake
as never man spake, and His Apostles, who were endowed with es-
pecial gifts of the Holy Spirit, encountered yet greater difficulties,
and experienced similar rejection of their testimony. We desire
therefore not to cast away our confidence, but to proceed in humble
dependence on the strength of Jesus, to preach that Gospel which
we know to be the power of God unto salvation to all that believe.
Nor are we left without cheering tokens, that the Lord is with us.
In speaking with the individuals composing the several classes of our
congregation, we not unfrequently hear expressions, which, simple
as they are, convince us that the heart from which they proceed is
under the operation of the Spirit of truth. This has been the case,
particularly with the new people, of whom eight were lately ap-
pointed candidates for baptism. At our last prayer-day, a Mosam-
bique negro was baptized, and three persons admitted as candidates
for the Lord’s Supper. It is a remarkable circumstance, that this
settlement, established in a neighbourhood which was and is still al-
most uninhabited, should in the space of a very few years have be-
come the resort of so many Hottentots; and that a district, which
was formerly considered insufficient for the maintenance of a single
farmer, should now afford subsistence to above a hundred persons.
Herein we cannot fail to recognize the hand of God.

“ The more our place increases in number of inhabitants, the bet-
ter does it become known, even in distant parts of the colony. One
might almost imagine, that the whole Hottentot nation consisted of
a single family. Most of those who visit us, say that they come to
see their relations; of course, we make them welcome, and encour-
age them to attend our public worship, and to call upon us, when-
ever they are so disposed. The result is, that many are induced to
ask leave to become inhabitants of the settlement; and this is in ge-
neral granted. We have at present several Mosambique negroes liv-
ing with us, and likewise a genuine Caffre, who was baptized last
Easter, and gives us reason to hope that he is a true convert. He
is, at the same time, one of our best and most diligent work-people.

“ Since the date of my last, Brother and Sister Thomsen have re-
moved to Gnadenthal, and have been succeeded here by Brother Nau-
hauss and his wife from Enon, who already seem quite at home in
their new situation.

“ By the blessing of the Lord, we have been preserved in good
health; my dear wife, who suffered severely from head-aches on her
first arrival in South Africa, seems to have nearly lost this distress-
ing ailment; for which mercy, we are both truly thankful. In con-

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

447

elusion, permit me to commend this congregation, and its servants,
to your faithful remembrance at the Throne of Grace. I remain, 8tc.

LEWIS TEUTSCH.

From Brother J. G. Fritsch.

Enon, May 1 1th, 1829.

“Dear Brother— -We thank you sincerely for the sympathy
which you express in all the trials and difficulties which have lately
fallen to our lot. The chastening hand of our Heavenly Father has
indeed been stretched out over us, and our faith and resignation to
His will have been consequently subjected to a severe test; yet we
can say, to the praise of His mercy and faithfulness, that He has not
chastened . us above what we were able to bear; He has supported us
in the hour of greatest need, and we doubt not will in His own good
time remove the present distress.

“ The drought by which this part of the Cape colony has been vi-
sited, proves of unexampled duration. In July last year, our mill
and pump, which had been busily at work for about three months,
stopped, owing to want of water in the Witte river, and up to the pre-
sent date they have continued in a state of inactivity. During the whole
of this long interval our labours in the fields and gardens have been
nearly unproductive. Our poor Hottentots have been so discouraged,
that they have allowed their gardens to run to waste; and the land
which we occupy for their benefit at Scheper’s farm, and which last
year yielded a double crop of rye, we have been under the necessity
of permitting to lie fallow. Our Mission-garden has been well cared
for, under all these discouragements, by Brother Nauhauss, and,
since his removal to Elim, by Brother Halter; the fence has been re-
paired and kept in order, and we trust that we may yet have a crop
of vegetables for the use of our table, some showers having fallen in
the last days of March. The fatigue of digging the hardened ground,
and of carrying water to afford a little temporary refreshment to the
plants, is great, and you will not wonder that we are occasionally
overcome by it, when I mention that the thermometer has continually
stood above 100° of Fahr. and once rose to 117°. Meanwhile we
are annoyed by swarms of locusts, which assist to devour what the
scorching heat of the sun has spared. Under these circumstances,
we have been obliged to send our cattle to a friendly German farmer
in the Zuurberg, where some pasturage is yet to be found, and to
buy milk and butter from our neighbours.

“The little water that remains in the Witte river has however
this advantage over that of most streams in this district, that it is
never brackish, and therefore always fit to drink. For this we are
truly thankful. In the neighbourhood of the ponds or tanks, to which

448

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

the water is at present confined, we have succeeded in raising 700
pumpkins, a seasonable provision amidst the prevailing scarcity.

“ The gift of two pounds from a kind friend in England, trans-
mitted to us by Sister Schmitt, has been faithfully applied, according
to the intention of the donor, for the benefit of the surviving families
of the Hottentots murdered in 1819. We beg to return our grateful
acknowledgments for this act of charity.

“ Our congregation continues to receive occasional accessions from
the heathen population around us.

“ On the 6th of January, four persons were admitted candidates
for baptism, three were baptized, three received into the congrega-
tion, and seven became candidates for the Holy Communion. And
in April, 18 persons of both sexes were admitted to similar advances
in the privileges of the church. It is our earnest prayer that they
may walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in
every good work. Commending ourselves and our Hottentot flock
to your intercession at the Throne of Grace, I remain, & c.

J. G. FRITSCH.

N. B. — From Brother Hallbeck’s letter of the 17th August, (see
p. 444,) we are thankful to learn that the unprecedented drought of
above a year’s duration, from the effect of which the settlement at
Enon suffered so severely, has at length been succeeded by abundant
rain .

GREENLAND.

From Brother C. Grillich.

New Herrnhut, June 2%nd, 1829.

“ Dear Brother —I have never yet had the pleasure of .writing
to you from hence, though I have been acquainted with you for a
considerable time, and you may have known me at Nisky. In 1786
I received a call to Greenland, and served the congregation atLich-
tenau fourteen years, as a single Brother. In 1799 I went to Europe,
was married at Christiansfeld, in Denmark, and returned to Green-
land. After some years’ residence, both at Lichtenau and Lichten-
fels, I came hither in 1826, having thus had the favour to be em-
ployed in the Mission in Greenland for forty-three years. I am now
62 years old, and the Lord has blessed me with health, for which I
am truly thankful, and serve the Greenland congregation with plea-
sure, being accustomed to all their ways. Our Heavenly Father sends
them a sufficiency of provision; and this year they have got so many
reindeer, that they could dispose of a great number of skins to the
merchants. Though so many of these creatures are destroyed every
year, their numbers seem to increase, for which we ought to be very

FROM GREENLAND.

449

thankful, as we are thus well provided with fresh meat. The Green-
landers are excellent marksmen, and seldom return without booty.
In the South they have no rein-deer, though they are said formerly
to have been numerous there.

“ I pray that these lines may find you in health and blessed activity;
and remain your affectionate Brother,

C. GRILLICH.

From Brother John Lehman.

New Herrnhut, July 20lh, 1829.

“ Dear Brother- — I received your letter of the 9th February
with great pleasure; and feel truly thankful for your yearly corres-
pondence. The kindness shewn to us by our British friends excites
us to praise and thank the Lord, who, by His Spirit, has disposed
their hearts to favour His poor servants, though often despised by
the world. Present our unfeigned thanks to them all.

“We are particularly grateful for their having considered our
want of fuel and affording the means of providing us with some coals,
which have been of very great service to us during the winter. This
season was in general milder than usual. During the severest cold
the thermometer did not sink below 24° under 0 Fahrenheit. In sum-
mer the weather was warm and dry. This year it appears as if spring,
summer, and autumn, would all be comprehended within a period of
three months. The weather is warm, but dense fogs come from the
North. May it please God to send us the usual quantity of drift wood;
that and eighteen tons of coal sent to us by the ship, will serve for
firing in three dwelling-rooms and our kitchen.

“ By an English whaler, which entered the colony of Holstenberg
as a wreck, we received divers articles of clothing, sent to us by some
friends at Peterhead in Scotland, together with a letter in the Eng-
lish language, which, alas! none of us understands. I, therefore,
send it to you, requesting you in our name to return our most un-
feigned thanks to our dear friends in that place; and to send us a
translation of it next year. We have divided the clothing with our
Brethren and Sisters in the other places.

“ Our Missionary family has in general enjoyed good health, short
indispositions excepted. I have suffered from the gout in both feet,
and am just able to leave my bed.

“ As to the Greenland congregation under our care, we have the
pleasure to inform you, that the Lord has been pleased to cause His
presence to dwell amongst us, accompanying the word of the cross
which we preach in weakness, with divine power, and by His Spirit
granting an increase of His love and knowledge in the hearts of our
people; insomuch that their walk and conversation have been an honour
to the Gospel. They delighted to assemble in His house, on Sun-
Vol. hi. 57

450

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

days, on festival and memorial days, and at the daily meetings, with
evident profit to their souls. We particularly rejoice at the work of
the Lord and His Spirit among our youth, of whom several have been
admitted to the privileges of the Church. * But we have had much
trouble with two excluded persons, who will not attend to any admo-
nitions, and give offence by their conduct. May the Lord have mer-
cy upon them and change their hearts.

“ Our congregation numbers 380 persons, old and young; 194 of
them are communicants. We are thankful that we have had no epi-
demical disorders prevailing among our flock. At present, colds
seem to be general.

“ Dear Brother, pray for us and our beloved congregation, that our
Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ would form us more and more accord-
ing to His mind and image, till He transplants us into the regions of
eternal safety. I remain, 8cc.

JOHN LEHMAN.

From Brother Michael Eberle.

Lichtenfels, June %3rd, 1829.

“ Dearest Brother — Your kind letter of February 9th, I re-
ceived with great joy on the 19th inst. by the arrival of the ship at
Frederickshaab. We are truly thankful to receive letters, giving us
such manifest tokens of the love and kind participation of our dear
Brethren and friends in England, to whom the welfare of the Mis-
sionaries here, and the cause of the Lord which they serve, are most
important, and a constant object of their prayers. We were to have
gone on a visit to Germany this year; but it appears as if circum-
stances would prevent it, especially as my place could not be well sup-
plied with a Missionary, sufficiently acquainted with the language.
I have often regretted the loss of Brethren, who understood and spoke
it well; but we have now some hopeful single Brethren here, who
take unwearied pains to become masters of it, and have already made
good progress.

“ We have no prospect of getting a sufficient supply of drift wood;
but having received coals from Copenhagen, we are not at a loss for
firing. Please to present our warmest thanks to those generous
friends, who have considered our wants. God will not withdraw His
blessing from England, as long as the substance with which He has
blessed her, is cheerfully employed for the promotion of His cause,
and the benefit of His children.

“ I and my family are at present in good health; but before Christ-
mas last year, just when I had arranged to speak with all our people
individually, I was seized with an inflammation in the throat, inso-
much that my life appeared to be in danger. Our Greenlanders ex-
pressed the greatest anxiety, and prayed the more fervently to the

FROM GREENLAND.

451

Lord for my recovery, as they feared to be deprived of the celebra-
tion of Christmas, which they always anticipate with great pleasure,
and expectation of special blessing. They said, they had slept but
little during my illness; and early every morning, we saw a great
number of them standing before our door, that, as soon as it was
opened, they might hear how I had spent the night.

“ I suffered great pain for six days, but when it was at the worst,
suddenly the ulcer broke, and I felt immediately so much relieved,
that I could speak with eighty of our people that day. You should
have witnessed their joy; tears of gratitude covered their cheeks,
while they exclaimed that our Saviour had heard their prayers, and
restored me. He also strengthened me to go through the services
of the festival without much difficulty.

“We had the joy to learn that most of our people had walked wor-
thy of our heavenly calling, during their absence from us. A few
indeed had suffered themselves to be seduced by their heathenish ac-
quaintance, all of whom, except one married pair, came and confessed
their deviations with repentance, and sought and found pardon with
the Lord. We think it our bounden duty to follow all poor straying
sheep with patience; and endeavour to lead them back into the fold
of the Good Shepherd; nor is our labour in vain.

“The winter was remarkably mild, but the snow abundant, and
violent storms prevailed in January. Our Greenlanders had good suc-
cess in procuring provisions, during the whole year; but we have to
regret the loss of two worthy Brethren, by the upsetting of their kay-
aks. Our missionary family has likewise suffered no want; though
neither grouse nor eider-ducks made their appearance. In place of
these, we bought eight hundred pounds weight of rein-deer flesh from
our Greenlanders; and having had a crop of eight tons of cabbages
and turnips from our gardens, we enjoyed plenty, and were truly thank-
ful to our Heavenly Father for His bounty. This summer appears to
promise a fruitful season; but we are subject to much inconvenience
in our necessary voyages from the rain and southerly winds. The
fiorde or bay from which we obtain our brushwood is still covered with
ice. The bushes get fewer, and are at a greater distance; we are
therefore put to much trouble, when the season for fetching it turns
out so unpropitious.

“We salute you and all our dear Brethren and Sisters, and re-
main, 8cc.

J. MICHAEL EBERLE.

From Brother J. C. Kleinshmidt.

Fredericksthal, July 1829.

“ I had the pleasure to receive your agreeable letter of the 8th of
February, on June 29th, for which I return many thanks, and par-

452

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

ticularly for the kind share taken by all our English and Scotch Breth-
ren and friends in the welfare of the Greenland Mission.

“ The Lord truly glorifies His name among us, notwithstanding all
our imperfections, of which the diary I send you exhibits many proofs.
I beg you to communicate an extract of it to my brother in Ayr.

“ Our dear children, Brother Ihrer and his wife, from Lichtenau,
will now come to reside with us. Their visit in July, last summer,
delighted and refreshed us. I was particularly pleased to find, that
my dear daughter Louisa had very soon regained her knowledge of
the Greenland language, by which she will afford great assistance to
my wife. May the Lord make them useful and blessed servants in
this part of His vineyard. Louisa sings well, and will support the
liturgical part of our worship, and assist me in the singing school,
which I began in winter. A brother at Stockholm will send us a little
organ with one stop, which will be of use. The Greenlanders are
very fond of music and singing, and many of the women have sweet
voices. We are not so much surprised at this, as that they are so
easily taught their lessons. Many of them can read well.

“ It is, indeed, true, my dear brother, that the all-conquering word
of the atoning sufferings and death of Jesus, approves itself the pow-
er of God in the hearts of these people; and I cannot describe the
impression made upon them, when this great subject is treated of, es-
pecially at baptisms and communions. I think the substance of all
our singing and preaching should be continually. Worthy is the Lamb
that was slain , and hath redeemed us to God by His blood. If I should
live here to see the Centenary jubilee of the Greenland mission, I
think I should enjoy a heavenly feast. As a youth, I often thought
what delight it would afford me, to see a congregation of converts
from among the heathen; and thanks to our Saviour, I have both
seen, and had the favour to serve such a flock of Christ for a num-
ber of years. I never wish to omit meeting the Greenland congre-
gation at church, and my greatest delight is to join this dear people
in singing the praises of their Redeemer, and to hear them declare,
what the Lord hath done for their souls.

“ You will find some account of the Eastern coast, and the expe-
dition undertaken to it, in the extract of our Diary. It is chiefly
compiled from the relations of our people, who have visited it. They
report it to be a very dangerous undertaking, on account of the dread-
ful currents and ice, there being no islands to defend the coast, as on
the western side, and consequently no safe harbours. I do not wish that
the English would attempt it, as no possible benefit can arise to them
from it. If those who have ventured to examine it escape with their
lives, they may thank God.

“ pur Greenlanders have had a sufficiency of provisions, and the
winter seemed to have left us, and to have more severely visited
Europe. Nor have we had many storms.

“ When our place is complete and the church put up, I will see
to get a drawing of it made for you. Our church has arrived, though

FROM THE WEST INDIES.

453

it will be some time before we receive the boards and planks neces-
sary for its completion. But we intend soon to lay the foundation.

“ I am sorry to say, that my eyes begin to fail me.

“ Commending myself to your prayers, and those of all our British
Brethren and friends, particularly of the Society for the Furtherance
of the Gospel, I remain your most affectionate brother,

J. CONRAD KLEINSCHMIDT.

WEST INDIES.

JAMAICA.

Extract of Letters from Brother J. Ellis.

Fairfield, July lsf, 1829.

“ Dear Brother — Since the date of my last, our Missionary
circle has, by the mercy of God, been preserved in the enjoyment
of good health, with the exception of Brother Scholefield, who has
been under the necessity of abstaining, for some weeks, almost en-
tirely from his accustomed duties. During his indisposition, Brother
Zorn and myself did what lay in our power, to serve the congrega-
tion at New Carmel, but we found it impossible to care for Mesopo-
tamia, and other out-places. The children of the various schools,
however, made a point of attending the meeting for religious instruc-
tion, held at New Carmel, on Sunday, and afforded us much satis-
faction by their good behaviour, and the progress which they ap-
peared to have made in the knowledge of the Scriptures, hymns, &c.

“The congregation at New Carmel is in a pleasing state. Among
its members are a considerable number of free people. Indeed,
there are more of this class residing in that neighbourhood than in
any other part of Jamaica, where we have settlements.

“ On the 17th of June, we held our mission-conference, for the
first time, in the newly erected dwelling-house at Irwin-hill: Brother
Scholefield having recovered sufficiently to be present at it, not one
of our number was missing on this interesting occasion. Brotherly
love and harmony prevailed among us, and we felt ourselves en-
couraged to persevere in the work committed to us, in dependence
on the blessing and support of our gracious Lord and Master, to
whom we promised anew fidelity. We sincerely rejoiced with our
dear Brother and Sister Light, that they had been thus far helped
through the difficulties attending the formation of a new establish-
ment, and joined them in imploring a blessing upon all those gene-
rous friends in England, who have so liberally aided the underta-
king.

“ My wife and myself remained over the following Sunday at Ir-
win; in the course of which I was favoured to address a pretty large

454

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

and attentive auditory; a number of Sunday scholars were present
at the service. The prospect of usefulness at this station appears
encouraging.

“ In regard to our congregation at Fairfield, and its outposts, we
find much more cause for gratitude than repining. It is true, that
instances of the .subtlety of our spiritual enemy, are not wanting.
His strong-holds, when fortified by ignorance and superstition, are
not easily forced; and, in some instances, he appears to regain a post
which we thought had been altogether wrested from him. Yet we
can and do triumph through One who is mightier than he. Since
my last, 12 persons have been confirmed for the first enjoyment of
the Lord’s Supper; 19 have been baptized or received into the con-
gregation; and 25 have become candidates for baptism . The day-
school in the Savannah Plains continues to be well attended; about
ten, who did not know a letter when they first came to us, can now
read easy Scripture lessons; several others can spell words of one
and two syllables, and commit to memory texts of Scripture. Our
adult auditory at the service which we continue to hold every fort-
night, is not large, but remains steady. It consists chiefly of free
brown people, who have scarcely before enjoyed an opportunity of
hearing the Gospel. Our own Sunday-school, at Fairfield, is attend-
ed by a considerable number; but we regret, that the children can
seldom come two Sundays in succession. This, of course, is a bar to
their making any rapid progress. We have lately begun to attend a
school, under Mr. Miller’s care, in St. Elizabeth’s parish, and hope
good may be the result; about 60 adults and children frequent it.

“ September %nd.

“We rejoice to learn, that we may, ere long, expect an additional
fellow-labourer; on whose arrival, we hope steps may be taken for
the renewal of the Mission at Mesopotamia. We quite agree with
you, that it. is our duty to do all we can for the recovery of old and
forsaken stations, before we attempt to establish new ones.

“Our several congregations at Fairfield, New Eden, New Car-
mel, and Irwin-hill, continue to enjoy the watchful care of the Good
Shepherd. New people are presenting themselves almost every
week, with the request that we would instruct them in the way of
salvation; some of them come from far; but many are left behind,
to whom we would gladly proclaim salvation in a crucified Saviour.
Meanwhile, may we diligently improve the opportunities afforded us,
and work while it is called to-day.

“ Last month, the Bishop of this diocese held a visitation among
his clergy in the county of Cornwall, and you will be interested to
hear, that I had a very agreeable interview with his Lordship at
Long-hill, the residence of j. Griffiths, Esq.; who, at the Bishop’s
suggestion, kindly invited me to meet him there. Our conversation,
which was conducted, on the part of his Lordship, with equal friend-

FROM THE WEST INDIE5.

455

liness and freedom, related chiefly to subjects connected with the
spread of the Gospel in this neighbourhood. He appeared gratified
with the account I was able to give him of our Missionary efforts,
and expressed a wish to peruse our Periodical Accounts, with which
we shall have great pleasure in supplying him. He is very anxious
to get the vestries to agree to the erection of two chapels of ease in
each of the parishes of Cornwall, and we trust he may succeed.

“ Our Mission-conference met again on the 13th of August, at Fair-
field, all our Brethren being present. Among other resolutions to
which we came, was one, to build a second school-house, at a place
called Botany Bay, situated about seven miles from New Carmel.
The expense, we have reason to hope, will be defrayed in a great
measure by friends in the neighbourhood. At New Eden, a female
mulatto has been engaged, to keep the day-school, which is now at-
tended regularly by thirteen scholars. The evening-school for the
negro children is kept as usual.

Our school in the Savannah-Plains, goes on well, and we have
reason to believe that our testimony of the love of Jesus to sinners,
makes some impression on the hearts of the adult negroes, who at-
tend our weekly service. The teacher whom we have latterly em-
ployed, appears to act from a higher principle than that of pecuniary
advantage. He takes evident delight in instructing the ignorant,
who come to him on Sundays.

“ My dear fellow-labourers, I am thankful to say, are well and
active. My own health has of late been somewhat precarious. I
am suffering at present from languor and loss of appetite, accompa-
nied by a sensible failure of bodily strength. With these is connect-
ed, (whether as cause or effect, I know not) a small but increasing
tumour on my right shoulder, which has become rather painful, and,
I must confess, occasions me some uneasiness. My trust is, however,
in the Good Physician, who will, I am persuaded, do what is best
both for me and mine. To His power and mercy, I commend my-
self. Remember me in your prayers, and believe me, 8cc.

J. ELLIS.

ANTIGUA.

From Brother Joseph Newby.

. St. John’s, August 25th , 1829.

“Dear Brother — Notwithstanding the increased exertions of
other Christian denominations in this island, for the religious instruc-
tion of the negroes, it is evident that the comparatively limited field
which we occupy in common, is still sufficient to provide employment
for all who labour in it. Two chapels of ease are about to be erect-
ed in the parish of St. John’s, and additional schools established in

456

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

connection with the Church of England; on which undertakings we
pray the Lord to lay his blessing. Meanwhile, the congregation un-
der our care continues to receive an increase from without: every
succeeding prayer-day witnesses the addition of a considerable num-
ber by baptism or reception; and the celebration of the Lord’s Sup-
per is always marked by the admission of candidates to that sacred
ordinance. Thus, on our last two prayer-days, on May 31st and
July 26th, there were baptized or received into the congregation at
St. John’s alone, 59 persons, and 64 admitted as candidates for these
privileges. On our three last communion-days, 48 persons partook
with us for the first time of the Holy Sacrament. The speaking with
the new people, candidates for baptism, and excluded, is generally
attended by about a thousand belonging to these classes. We have
of late had much sickness among the members of our congregation,
and many have departed this life: nearly a hundred since the com-
mencement of the present year. The hot dry weather, from the ef-
fects of which we have suffered in various ways, for a considerable
time, has at length given place to fruitful and refreshing rains.

“Several of our number have been attacked by the prevailing
bowel complaint. But I trust the Lord will bless the means used
for their recovery. Remember us and our negro congregation in
your prayers. I am, 8cc. J. NEWBY.

From Brother S. Wright.

Gracehill, August 29th> 1829.

“ Dear Brother— Since I last wrote to you, we have been busily
occupied at Gracehill: and thankful I am to be able to report, that
our labour has not been in vain. We have at length the pleasure to
see a substantial school-house erected, a novel and a truly interesting
feature in our Missionary premises. It is already covered in, and
we hope the floor will be laid and the building completed in a week
or two. There are four windows looking to the north, two to the
east, two to the west, and as many to the south, besides the two
doors. On the 27th of April we began to raise stones from a hill
about a furlong to the northward, and though the work was attended
with great labour and many difficulties, a sufficient quantity were
raised and prepared for use, to allow of our laying the foundation on
the 14th of June. This ceremony was performed in the usual so-
lemn manner, with singing and prayer, in the presence of a number
of our negroes and school children. On the 11th August the scaf-
folding fell down, but, though a number of workmen were upon or
near it at the time, all of them by God’s mercy escaped serious bo-
dily injury. By the 27th of this month the roof was finished, and I
trust to be able in my next, to report that the children are already

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

4 57

occupying the building, which the liberality of British friends has
enabled us to erect for their benefit. They appear highly delighted
at the prospect before them, and sincerely do we hope and pray, that
the Lord may lay His blessing upon our endeavours to train them up
in His nurture and admonition. About a hundred attend already,
and evince much eagerness to receive instruction. Brother Bayne
and myself take it in turns to visit the school every Sunday morn-
ing; on which occasion, we catechise the children, hear them repeat
texts of scripture, hymns, &c., and conclude with a short address.

October 6 th.

“ The 13th September was the joyful day, on which we were en-
abled to enter into our new school-house, dedicating it to the Lord with
prayer and praise, as a building appropriated to the religious instruc-
tion of the children of this congregation and neighbourhood. On
this interesting occasion, 241 children were present, and walked in
procession from the church to the school; after which they met at a
cheerful love-feast. Both young and old appeared highly delighted,
and testified aloud their gratitude to those kind friends in England,
to whose liberality they are so much indebted. The parents promise
faithfulness in sending their children to school, and the children, obe-
dience and attention. The attendance has hitherto averaged about
140, with which we are very well satisfied. Believe me ever, 8tc.

S. WRIGHT.

SOUTH AFRICA.

Extract of the Diary of the Mission at Hemel-en-Aarde, from
January to July , 1829.

Jan. 1st.—' We entered upon the new year with a renewed deter-
mination, to run with patience the race that is set before us , looking
unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith , and with a believ-
ing hope, that He would continue as hitherto to command His bless-
ing upon our feeble and imperfect services in His house.

On the 12 th and 13 th, we were occupied in speaking individually
with those of our people who belong to the classes of baptized, can-
didates for baptism, and new-people. In many, we rejoiced to per-
ceive an increased desire after th e one thing needful. Of these,
fifteen were subsequently admitted to further privileges in the
church.

On the 18 thy three of the above-mentioned persons were solemnly
baptized into the death of Jesus; and six admitted as candidates for
baptism, and for the Holy Communion.

In the following week, we were under the painful necessity of ex-
Vol. in. 58

458

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

eluding two individuals of our little flock, on account of their impro-
per and sinful conduct.

Feb . IsL Our church was filled with attentive hearers, among
whom were the work-people at present employed in the repair of the
buildings belonging the hospital.

8 th. A waggon arrived from Capetown with eight patients; of
these, three were Mahommedan slaves. Some weeks after, we had
a further accession of 17 from the districts of Uitenhage and Graaff-
Reynet, for whom we had some difficulty to find suitable accommo-
dation.

March 1 7th. A female slave (one of the Mahommedans mentioned
in the preceding paragraph,) came to Brother Leitner, and requested
him to write a letter for her to her mistress at Capetown. Among
other expressions which she dictated, was the following: “I feel
very happy and comfortable at this place, where I have obtained
what has been the desire of my heart from my youth.” To the in-
inquiry, what she referred to, she replied: “ An opportunity of hear-
ing the word of God, and seeking the salvation of my soul.”

On the 19th, another slave, who was baptized last year, came with
a similar request. The letter contained an earnest wish, that his
master, his mother, brothers and sisters, and all his friends, might
henceforward seek to live to God alone, and learn to know Jesus as
their Redeemer. A request was added, that they would all remem-
ber the writer in their prayers.

Afirtt 6M. We conversed with the baptized, candidates for bap-
tism, and new people.

Peter , a baptized slave, who, though he understands the Dutch
language, can only utter a few detached words, said, “ I wish that
nothing of what passes around me may disturb me; my desire is fixed
on Jesus.”

Jonathan — “ I have learnt, by bitter experience, what it is to forsake
our Saviour; I therefore pray fervently to Him, that He would sup-
port me by His grace, and preserve me from straying from Him any
more.”

Benjamin , an excluded communicant, observed, “ It is indeed true,
that I have forfeited my privilege as a member of the congregation,
by my own fault: but I pray the Lord to forgive my sins, and to re-
store me to the enjoyment of the blessings which He has so dearly
purchased for sinners.”

Edward , a baptized Hottentot, who has for some time absented
himself from the meetings, came to us to ask forgiveness for his in-
difference and obstinacy, and to tell us how much ashamed he felt,
at the remembrance of his foolish and improper conduct.

On the 11M, we entered into the Passion-week, with fervent pray-
er to the Lord, that He would cause our meditation on His bitter
sufferings and death to be productive of renewed blessing and re-
reshment to our hearts.

14 thy was the funeral of the Hottentot Samuel Arts , who departed

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

459

on the preceding day, as we hope and believe, in the faith of Christ.
He was baptized on the 16th September, 1827, and shortly after was
attacked by the lazarus-sickness. During the last half-year of his
life he suffered much, and frequently expressed his longing to depart
and be with his Saviour, in whose fellowship he assured us he spent
his waking hours.

[Thus far our late Brother Leitner was able to continue the Diary.
The remainder is from the report of his widow.]

On the 1 6th, being Maundy Thursday, we met for the celebra-
tion of the Lord’s Supper, and experienced, while partaking with our
Hottentot flock, of the body and blood of Christ our Saviour, that
He was verily in the midst of us, to bless us, and to explain to our
hearts, by His Spirit, the great mystery of His love unto death,
which we in these days more particularly commemorate.

On Easter Sunday morning, we prayed the Litany appointed for
the day, in our burial-ground; all who were not prevented by bodily
weakness were present on this occasion; and the remaining services
of the day were likewise well attended.

On Easter-Monday, the 20 th April , a meeting was appointed for
the baptism of an adult Hottentot. Brother Leitner, who had offici-
ated at the foregoing public service, during which he had delivered
a discourse on the great subject of the day with peculiar earnest-
ness, proceeded to the performance of this solemn rite, to all ap-
pearance in very good health. During the prayer, which he offered
up over the candidate, his voice was observed to falter considerably,
and when, in the act of baptism, he came to the words, Into the
death of Jesus , I baptize thee , &C., his hand suddenly sunk, and he
had to be conveyed from the church, amidst the loud weeping of the
whole congregation. He had still sufficient consciousness remain-
ing to observe to those around him, that he had yet to pronounce the
blessing upon the candidate; but, shortly after, he became speech-
less, and it was evident that he was labouring under an apoplectic
attack. A messenger was immediately dispatched to Caledon for
medical assistance, but before the doctor could arrive, the redeemed
spirit of our Brother had taken its flight into the mansions of eter-
nal bliss. He breathed his last about 7 o’clock in the evening, hav-
ing attained to the age of 59 years and 10 months.

On the following morning Brother Hallbeck, to whom an express
had likewise been sent, arrived at the Hospital; and the necessary
preparations were made for conveying the corpse to Gnadenthal for
interment. The funeral took place on the 22nd, and the concourse
of persons by whom it was attended, and the many tears which were
shed, afforded a gratifying proof of the affection and esteem with
which the services of our late Brother in this Mission were regarded.
A short memoir of his life is annexed to the Diary.

April 23 d. Brother Hallbeck accompanied Sister Leitner on her

460

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

return to Hemel-en-Aarde, to assist her in arranging the private and
official concerns of her late husband.

On the 2§th, the female Hottentot, whose baptism was interrupted
in a manner calculated to make so deep an impression on herself and
all who witnessed it, appeared again in the presence of the Lord, for
the reception of this solemn rite. She was baptized by Brother Hall-
beck, and named Amelia; all present being deeply affected. On the
2,8th, Brother Hallbeck returned to Gnadenthal, promising to make
an arrangement, by which the duty at the Hospital should be suc-
cessively undertaken by Brethren from that settlement.

May 2nd. The female slave Elizabeth departed this life happily.
She was brought hither 1824, and in the course of the following year
baptized, on her sick bed, at her earnest request. She afterwards
recovered sufficiently to allow of her leaving her room, from which
time she became one of the most diligent and devout attendants at
Church. In December, 1826, she was admitted to the Lord’s Sup-
per, and her conduct proved that the grace bestowed upon her was
not in vain. During her last long and painful illness, she manifested
great patience, at the same time earnestly desiring to depart and to
be with Christ.

During the following fortnight we enjoyed the services of the Bre-
thren Luttring and Stein from Gnadenthal, who conversed individu-
ally with the different classes of our small congregation, besides
caring for the public and private meetings.

1 7th. A young slave, named Jonathan , departed this life. For
some years after his removal hither, he showed no concern whatever
for the salvation of his soul; and we were obliged to exercise much
patience towards him. But within the past year, he seemed to un-
dergo a great change, expressed himself convinced of his need of a
Saviour, and earnestly entreated to be baptized. This privilege was
accordingly conferred upon him, in January last. He was not long
confined to his bed, but during the progress of illness gave satisfac^
tory evidence of his faith in Christ, and his state of preparation for
the change which awaited him.

On the 27th , he was followed into eternity by Charles Francis , a
slave who had been brought up in the Mahommedan religion. Soon
after his arrival at the Hospital, he gave us to understand, that he
•wished to be a Christian, and evinced the sincerity of his purpose,
by diligently attending the means of grace. In September, 1828, he
was baptized; and we can give him the testimony, that, from this
period till the day of his death, his walk and conversation were to
the praise of that Lord, who had called him out of darkness into His
marvellous light.

The celebration of the festival of Whitsuntide, on the 7th and 8th
of June , was less numerously attended than it would have been, had
not the weather proved so boisterous, that it prevented many of our
patients from quitting their habitations.

On the 14 th, departed the Hottentot Johannes Kleinhaus. He had

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

461

been baptized at Zuurbrak, by one of the Missionaries of the London
Missionary Society, and during his abode here always conducted
himself to our satisfaction. When he perceived his end approaching,
the thought, that he should never see his wife again in this world,
appeared to distress him greatly; but he was at length enabled to
give up this last cause of anxiety, and to resign his spirit to his Lord
aad Saviour, in the assured hope of a heavenly inheritance.

In concluding this Diary, permit me to commend myself and the
small flock of Hottentots which I have had the favour to see collect-
ed in this place, deprived as it is. at present of a regular pastor, to
the kind remembrance and intercession of all our Brethren, Sisters,
and friends. E. LEITNER.

Memoir of the Life of our late Brother John M. P. Leitner, who
departed at Hemel-en-Aarde , April %0th, 1829.

(Compiled in part from his own manuscript.)

I was born on July 1st, 1769, at New-Barnim, near Wrietsen, on
the Oder, in the Duchy of Brandenburg. My parents were emi-
grants from Upper Austria, having been induced during the reign of
the Empress Maria Theresa, to forsake their native land, and to
seek a place of refuge in the Prussian territory, where they might
enjoy, though deprived of all their worldly substance, the blessings
of civil and religious liberty. They were pious people, who feared
the Lord, and desired to bring up their children in His nurture and
admonition. Often, during my childhood, did they relate to me with
much emotion, that before they left their native country, they used
to assemble with other serious persons, for the purpose of reading
the Holy Scriptures; and that these meetings had to be held in cel-
lars, during the night, to avoid the persecution of the Roman Ca-
tholic priesthood. Nor did they fail to remind me of the great-
ness of the privilege we enjoyed, in being permitted to have the
word of God in our own hands, to peruse its sacred pages, and
hear its truths explained without molestation. These conversations
made a deep impression on my mind, and excited an earnest desire
in me to read the Bible for myself, and to attend diligently at a place
of worship. This love and reverence for the Holy Scriptures, so
early implanted, continued ever after, by the grace and mercy of
God, to exercise a wholesome influence upon my views and conduct.

The Spirit of God was pleased to convince me at an early age of
my sinfulness and need of true conversion of heart, and through his
teaching I was also led to seek pardon and peace from Jesus the
Friend of sinners. In my 12th year I was confirmed for the first
enjoyment of the Lord’s Supper; and on this solemn occasion, our
Saviour revealed His love to my heart in so powerful a manner, that
I felt assured of the forgiveness of my sins, and that in Him and for

462

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

His sake I was accepted, as one of the children of His Heavenly-
Father.

In my 13th year my mother departed this life, very happily.
After continuing some years with my father, and learning his trade,
which was that of a saddler, I set out, in 1786, to travel through
Germany, working at my profession, at the several places which I
visited, agreeably to the custom of the country. In this manner, I
passed nearly four years of my life, chiefly in the Austrian states, at
Ratisbon, Nuremberg, and other towns of greater or less note. The
acquaintance which I formed with various members of the so-called
German Society, assisted to keep alive my religious feelings; but
I remained a stranger to the blessed doctrine of free grace in a cru-
cified Saviour.

In the year 1790, I arrived at Herrnliut; and to my great joy ob-
tained permission, on the 30th July, to become an inhabitant of the
place. In January following, I had the favour to be received into
the congregation, and, some months after, was admitted to the en-
joyment of the Holy Communion. Soon after, I removed to Gna-
denfrey, in Silesia, where I spent a period of seven years; a period
which will always be memorable to me on account of the many bles-
sings which I enjoyed, and the clearer insight which I obtained into
my own weakness and depravity, and the unspeakable love and
faithfulness of my Redeemer. I call to mind with especial gratitude
the trials and the mercies, which marked the year 1792, during
which the greater part of the settlement was destroyed by an awful
conflagration, but subsequently rebuilt, through the generous assist-
ance afforded by our Brethren and friends both on the continent of
Europe and in Great Britain.

In 1798, I undertook the management of the saddler’s business in
the Brethren’s house at Niesky, and experienced on many occasions
the gracious help of the Lord: He approved Himself as my best and
most faithful friend in every difficulty, whether outward or spiritual.

In 1803, 1 received a call to the service of the Mission among the
Indians at Hoop on the Corentvn, in the Dutch colony of Surinam;
in pursuance of which, I set out for Altona, on the 29th August,
having previously married the single Sister Joanna Eleanor Schnei-
der. From this port we were obliged to direct our course first to
North America, on account of the circumstances of the war. After
a detention of five^weeks, we embarked on board a vessel bound to
Baltimore, where we arrived in safety on the 31st December, having
experienced the gracious protection of our Saviour, during several
severe gales. Hence we paid an agreeable visit at Bethlehem, the
principal settlement of the Brethren’s Church in North America,
and as soon as a suitable opportunity to Surinam presented itself, pro-
ceeded to our ultimate place of destination. We sailed from New
York on the 2nd May, 1804, and reached Paramaribo on the 8th of
the following month, thankful to the Lord for His mercy and pro-
tection vouchsafed to us during our various journeys and voyages.

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

463

The eleven weeks which we spent with our dear Brethren and Sis-
ters and the negro congregation at this place, proved a season of
blessing and profit to our own hearts: yet we sincerely rejoiced,
when we could at length take up our abode among the Arawacks on
the Corentyn, to whose service we were properly called. We ar-
rived at Hoop on the 28th August, in company of Brother Loesche,
and commenced our Missionary labours in reliance upon the help
and support of the Lord. The state of the Indian congregation was
at this period so little to our satisfaction, that our faith was put to a
severe trial. We had indeed to sow in tears; and for my own part,
I must declare that, had not God my Saviour cheered and strength-
ened me amidst all difficulties, and granted me the assurance that
He pardoned all my mistakes, and mercifully accepted my feeble
and inexperienced endeavours, I should have sunk under the oppres-
sive burden of my situation.

On the 18th August, 1806, our Mission premises, and all the pro-
perty they contained, fell a prey to the flames, a calamity by which
both ourselves and our people were reduced to great distress. A
reduction in the number of Missionaries employed at this station ap-
pearing expedient under existing circumstances, I received an ap-
pointment to assist in the care of the negro congregation at Som-
melsdyk, whither we accordingly removed in November. On the
16th March, in the following year, my dear wife was safely deliver-
ed of a daughter, who was dedicated to the Lord in holy baptism,
and named Salome, and for whom, as the Lord has been pleased
thus far to spare her life, it is my earnest prayer that she may re-
main his property, and devote herself to His blessed service. In
August following, my dear wife was attacked by a violent fever, and,
on the 9th September, I had the grief to see her taken from me.
This loss I the more painfully felt, as my own declining health, and
the various outward trials with which I had to contend, rendered the
care of an infant, scarcely six months old, a difficult and anxious duty.
Under these circumstances, Brother Schroeter and his wife, of Pa-
ramaribo, kindly undertook the charge of the little orphan, and
nursed it with a degree of disinterested faithfulness, for which I shall
always feel grateful.

In April, 1809, I obtained leave to visit England with my little
daughter. We left Surinam on the 12th June, and, after a very long
and tedious voyage, reached London in safety on the 15th Septem-
ber. Thence we proceeded to Fairfield near Manchester, where I
found a suitable situation for my little girl, and a temporary employ-
ment for myself, as an assistant in the boy’s school. The conclusion
of the year brought with it many a serious reflection upon the way
which the Lord had hitherto led me; I called to mind with grati-
tude His numberless mercies, and His support amidst various trying
circumstances, and felt ashamed of my own disobedience, sloth of
heart, and want of zeal in His service. He was pleased to accept
the confession of my sins and my unworthiness, to assure me of His

464

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

pardon, and that His thoughts over me were thoughts of peace,
which, in His own good time, He would not fail to bring into accom-
plishment. Early in the following year, I received a call to assist
in the Mission among the Hottentots at the Cape of Good Hope, and
felt disposed cheerfully to accept it, in reliance upon the grace and
strength of my Saviour. On the 7th February, I entered a second
time into the marriage state, with the single Sister Elizabeth Leech,
and, shortly after, we proceeded to London, to await a favourable
opportunity to the Cape.

[The narrative of our late Brother here closes: the remainder is
added by his widow.]

After a favourable voyage of about 16 weeks, we landed at Cape-
town, on the 26th December, 1810 in company of the Brethren
Fritsch and Schultz. At Groenekloof, where we were first station-
ed, my dear husband soon found sufficient employment; he applied
himself successfully to the acquisition of the Dutch language, and in
a short time was able to take an active part both in the spiritual and
outward concerns of the Mission. The following year we removed
to Gnadenthal. Here my husband established a cabinet maker’s and
joiner’s business, which subsequently proved a considerable advan-
tage to the Mission, and a still greater to the Hottentots, whom he
successfully instructed in these useful arts, and of whom many are
at present engaged in business on their own account, in our several
settlements and in different parts of the country. We had at the
same time the management of the girls’ school, and rejoiced to per-
ceive that our endeavours to train up the children confided to our
care in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, were accompanied
by His blessing. After a service of above six years in this flourish-
ing settlement, we were again called to Groenekloof, as successors
to Brother and Sister Schmitt, who had been meanwhile appointed
to begin a Mission at Enon on the Witte River. Our removal thither
took place in January, 1818; and the same duties were allotted to us
which we had discharged at Gnadenthal. Our situation proved how
ever in many respects very different, and we had to struggle with
difficulties, which were not in every instance to be ascribed to the
circumstances in which we were placed, but for some of which we
must take blame to ourselves.

In November, 1822, His Excellency Lord Charles Somerset, at
that time Governor of the Cape colony, who had become acquainted
with my husband in the course of frequent visits at Groenekloof, pro-
posed to him to undertake the superintendance of the Institution for
Lepers at Hemel-en-Aarde. His object in making this proposal was,
as he himself gave us to understand, the promotion of the spiritual
welfare as well as the outward comfort of these unfortunate outcasts
from society. Being ourselves aware of the earnest desire of the poor
lepers to enjoy the benefit of religious instruction, we felt no freedom

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

465

to decline His Excellency’s proposal, but declared our readiness to
remove to Hemel-en-Aarde, as soon as we should be informed of the
acquiescence of our superiors in the Mission. This having been ob-
tained, and the needful arrangements made for our removal, we took
up our abode at the Hospital in January, 1823; the patients testify-
ing the liveliest joy and gratitude on our arrival.

Although the first sight of so many of our fellow-creatures, de-
formed and crippled in various ways, by a loathsome disease, and
exhibiting human infirmity and wretchedness in their most appalling
forms, could hardly fail to make a painful impression upon our minds,
yet I can say with truth that every feeling of aversion and disgust
gave way before the conviction of our duty, to endeavour even in
this place to gain souls for our Saviour. Never did my departed
husband appear to be more completely in his element, than while
discharging the various incumbencies of his arduous office: by day
and by night, in season and out of season, he was ever ready to ad-
minister both to the spiritual and temporal necessities of the patients.
His management of the outward concerns of the Hospital was mark-
ed by the utmost order and punctuality, and obtained the approba-
tion of all concerned. Nor were the Missionary labours less accepted
of His Heavenly Master: one after the other of the poor lepers came
to inquire what he might do to be saved, and, on being directed to
Jesus as the only Saviour, received faith to believe in Him, and power
to rejoice in His salvation. Many a wild and depraved outcast from
society has there been transformed into a lamb, and rendered willing
to submit with patience and resignation, and even with inward joy,
to the chastening rod of a wise and merciful Father.

During the six years of our service at this station, he had the fa-
vour to baptize 95 adults, the greater number of whom have already
departed into eternity, in humble reliance on the merits of that Sa-
viour, whose mercy they had so richly experienced. This comforted
him, under the difficulties and privations inseparable from our situa-
tion; particularly during the first year of our abode at the Institution.
By God’s blessing, he was enabled to introduce various improvements
in the outward management of the Hospital and in the attendance on
the patients, and to bring about the erection of a building distinct
from the rest of the premises, in which Divine worship could be so-
lemnized at all times, without interruption and disturbance.

For many years my dear husband suffered much from rheumatic
affections, and occasionally from oppression on the breast; but for
the last twelve months he had been almost entirely free from these
complaints, and appeared to enjoy remarkably good health. It is
however more than probable, that he himself argued unfavourably
of the relaxation of these symptoms, and that he looked forward to
a sudden removal from this world. Though he said but little on this
subject, I could not help entertaining some anxious thoughts, when
I saw him, on the Saturday before his departure, busily occupied in
Vol. in. 59

466

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

arranging his papers, and setting his house in order, as if he antici-
pated an early summons.

He is now resting from his labours, and enjoying, in the presence
of His gracious Master, bliss unspeakable, and without alloy. May
the Lord sanctify to me the loss I have sustained, and meanwhile
enable me by His grace “ to give all diligence to make my own call-
ing and election sure, that so an abundant entrance maybe minister-
ed even to me, into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour
Jesus Christ. ”

Extracts of Letters from Brother H. P. Hallbeck.

Gnadenthal, September 1829.

“ Dear Brother — In my last to you of the 17th August, I men-
tioned, that Brother Tietze and his wife, had cheerfully accepted a
call to Hemel-en-Aarde, and I can now add, that the appointment
has been approved by the Colonial Government. Owing to Brother
Tietze’s want of sufficient acquaintance with the English language,
his Excellency the Governor, has requested me to prepare the re-
ports, and to undertake the correspondence which is necessarily con-
nected with the superintendance of this Institution; and although a
considerable addition will thus be made to my official burthens, I
have felt, it my duty to assent to this proposal. The subordinate de-
tails of this new arrangement are left to our discretion; and thus far
all the suggestions which we have offered, have been most favoura-
bly received and confirmed: a most gratifying proof of confidence
and good will on the part of our benevolent rulers. May we be en-
abled, at all times, and under all circumstances, to shew ourselves
worthy of them; but, above all, may we never forget that our first
and highest concern should be, to find favour in the sight of our
Heavenly Master, and to approve ourselves as His faithful stew-
ards.

“ Brother Tietze will leave Groenekloof to-morrow, and hopes to
arrive at the Institution by the 26th instant, where I purpose meeting
him, and introducing him to his arduous but interesting sphere of du-
ty. Sister Leitner will, for the present, retire to Gnadenthal, whence
she will proceed to Europe by some suitable opportunity. I need not
tell you how sincerely we all rejoice at the prospect of a continuance
of our Missionary labours at the Leper Institution; the blessing which
it has hitherto pleased the Lord to lay upon our feeble ministry, and
the earnest entreaties of the patients themselves, that we would not
abandon them, made it increasingly clear to us, that it was our duty
not to desert so important a post, without absolute necessity.

By the removal of Brother Tietze from Groenekloof, the num-
ber of Missionaries at that settlement will again be reduced to three,

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

467

which we hope may be found sufficient, particularly as there is an in-
tention of gradually reducing the extent of the farm, the manage-
ment of which has long been attended with much difficulty. The
erection of a horse-mill for grinding corn will, we hope, prove, a con-
siderable advantage to the settlement and to all its inhabitants.

*i On the 24th of August, all the Brethren and Sisters on the
Klipplaat were well. On the day preceding, they had opened a
larger place of worship for their increasing congregation. Though
nothing can as yet be said of real conversions, still the attention and
remarkable declarations of some of their hearers seem to prove,
that the preaching of the gospel, even under the unfavourable cir-
cumstance of imperfect interpretation, is accompanied with Divine
power on the hearts of those who hear it. Much as I could wish,
according to the repeated request of Brother Lemmertz, to visit the
Klipplaat, I must abandon the idea for the present, as my close con-
nection with the Leper Institution will necessarily keep me confined
to this neighbourhood. The accounts relative to the Hottentot colo-
nies on the Caffre boundary are so contradictory, that it is difficult
to ascertain the real state of affairs. So much, however, appears to
be true, that the new colonists are molested by the Caffres, who en-
deavour to steal their cattle, and that some of the depredators have
been actually shot. The Commissioner-General, Mr. Stockenstroem,
has kindly reserved some land for the Hottentots of Enon; hitherto,
however, only a few of their number have gone thither to examinje
for themselves. About a week ago I was at Elim, and was glad to
find that our Brethren are not labouring in vain. On Sunday last,
two adults were baptized, and three became candidates for that or-
dinance. On the 7th of September, four adults were baptized here,
at Gnadenthal, and ten became candidates for the Holy Communion.
At Groenekloof, three were likewise added to the Church by bap-
tism, and eight were present at the Communion, previous to confir-
mation. My last letters from Enon were dated the 4th of Septem-
ber; the Missionary’ family was well, and the weather very seasona-
ble. This has, indeed, been the case almost throughout the colony,
and no where more so than in our immediate neighbourhood. Un-
less the rust destroys our hopes, we may look forward to an abund-
ant harvest; never was there so much seed committed to the ground
as during this season, which is partly owing to the enactment of a
law for the free exportation of grain.

“For the papers respecting the origin of rws£and the cure of lep-
rosy, I beg to express our sincere thanks to your friendly correspond-
ents; we shall not fail to attend to the hints and suggestions so kindly
offered. In incipient cases of leprosy, I have occasionally effected
a cure by means of sulphuric acid, but in most instances this remedy
is found to fail.

“ The various articles of clothing which your letter announces,
have arrived safe at Cape-town, but have not yet found their way hi-
ther; mean-while, I beg to return our cordial thanks to the kind friends

468

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

who have contributed to this donation, and, in particular, to those
benevolent ladies, a list of whose names you forwarded to us; they
may rest assured that we shall not forget to commend them in prayer
to the Source and Dispenser of every blessing. The donation of ano-
ther valued friend to our school cannot be better applied than in the
way proposed.

November 3d, 1829.

“ In the beginning of last month, we had the pleasure to receive
the very valuable present of materials for clothing alluded to in my
last, and likewise some wearing- apparel for the use of the Hotten-
tots. The last-mentioned articles have been mostly given to the
Brethren who have charge of the schools, for distribution among the
children, as rewards for diligence and good conduct. That portion
destined for the Missionaries has been distributed. as directed, and I
am requested by our whole Mission family, to return their warmest
thanks to their unknown benefactors. The thought that a number
of Christian friends are employed for a length of time in administer-
ing to our comforts, even without our knowledge, has in it something
so very encouraging and affecting, that I am really unable to describe
the pleasing sensations that pervaded every breast when the distri-
bution was made. Such acts of benevolence prove the steady and
continued interest felt in the cause of Missions, even more strikingly
than the charitable donations occasionally drawn forth by the power-
ful pleadings of a public speaker; nor can we doubt, that those who
devote so much of their time and substance to the furtherance of this
blessed work, will also remember in their prayers the Missionaries
more immediately engaged in it. We pray that the Lord may abun-
dantly bless them for the encouragement they have thus administered
unto us, and grant us grace to serve Him with more zeal and faith-
fulness, seeing how kindly we are remembered and supported by His
children in other climes.

“ From the Tambookie country my last letters were dated Sep-
tember the 27th, at which date all our Missionaries were well, and
were favoured to carry on their work undisturbed, and not without
hope that the blessing of God rests on their labours. They had the
cheering^prospect of a good harvest of barley and wheat, and were
considering about building a mill on the Klipplaat, to convert their
grain into flour. Though some time may elapse before this plan is
executed, the proposal proves they consider their situation more se-
cure than some time ago. In Enon there is now abundance of water;
the parched desert is once more converted into a blooming field, and
the mill is busily at work. Elim has 167 inhabitants. At Hemel-
en-Aarde there are 121 patients, who are extremely thankful that
they have a Missionary again residing on the spot. The commence-
ment of Brother Tietze’s ministry has been attended with cheering
circumstances. Last Sunday, 20 of the lepers became candidates
for baptism, 8 adults were baptized, and 4 appointed for confirma-

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

469

tion. Here, at Gnadenthal, several persons have also been ad-
mitted to further privileges in the church; 6 became candidates for
baptism, 6 adults were baptized or received into the congregation,
and 12 became candidates for the Holy Communion.

“ In the course of our congregation nothing very remarkable has
occurred for some time, but though no striking instances of conver-
sion can be pointed out, we have no doubt, that the word of the Cross
is to many the power of God unto salvation. Yesterday an elderly
Hottentot came of her own accord to converse with me, having been
strongly impressed during divine service, and said, with great emo-
tion: “ When I was a child, and heard the old people talk of Brother
G. Scmidt, I wished to have been so fortunate as to live in those
times. But, O how much more blessed are the present times, when
we have not one, but seven teachers, and daily opportunities of hear-
ing the word of God. O were we but truly thankful for these pri-
vileges, lest, by our ingratitude we should grieve that Lord who has
sent us teachers. ”

“ The barley-harvest having commenced, our place looks compa-
ratively like a deserted village, most of the Hottentots who are fit for
labour being employed on the neighbouring farms. Of barley and
oats there appears to be an abundant crop. The wheat is not quite
out of danger, and the rust having shown itself here and there, the
return may perhaps be not quite so great as was anticipated. Thus
far, the Bedford wheat looks healthy, and I hope will produce a few
muids,

“ I am sorry to say that Sister Stein was so ill a few days ago, that
her departure was hourly expected; but she has since revived, and
may linger yet for some time. The cure of her disease appears to
be beyond the power of medicine; at present it most resembles spas-
modic asthma, though many symptoms occur which must prQceed
from some other cause. Sister Leitner resides here at present, but
is gone on a visit to Cape-town and Groenekloof. She will probably
return to Europe in February next, taking with her three or four
children of various Missionaries.

44 Our Governor is now at the frontier, and intends to honour
Gnadenthal with a visit on his return, probably in the course of next
month.

44 We beg a continued interest in your prayers, in behalf of our-
selves and our Hottentot congregation. Believe me, &c.

H. P. HALLBECK.”

[The following extracts of private letters from the same hand,
communicating some further particulars, relative to the Mission and
School at Gnadenthal, will, it is believed, not be unacceptable.]

44 Our Missionary family at this place consists of 13 adults and as
many children: on an average, we have upwards of 20 Hottentots
in our service and employ, and not unfrequently, from ten to twelve

470

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

additional work-people, so that victuals are daily prepared in our
kitchen for above 50 persons. Hence, you may imagine, that our
premises exhibit a busy scene; and that my wife, who, in addition to
the care of the school for needle-work, has this extensive house-
keeping under her superintendance,' finds herself pretty well em-
ployed. We have, however, two very excellent Hottentot servants
in our kitchen, who have been there for abont 30 years, and on whom
we can place full confidence; and thus the burden is considerably di-
minished. In the vintage and fruit season, the bustle is greatly in-
creased by the additional hands occupied in the labour of gathering
and drying the fruit.”

“ Our girls-school, exclusive of a number of bigger girls who re-
ceive instruction on Sundays, contains at present 125 scholars, and
the average daily attendance is about 100. Through the blessing of
God on the labours of Brother Luttring, who is assisted by a faithful
Hottentot sister, these children are now more forward than at any
former period of the Mission, so that one half of the number consti-
tutes the first class of Bible readers; and a spirit of emulation has
been excited among them, of which the Hottentots were not long ago
considered incapable. We have already among our married sisters
a considerable proportion of such, as, by their general conduct, their
careful education of their children, and their unfeigned love to our
Saviour, prove, in the most pleasing manner, that the pains bestowed
on their education in our school have not been in vain; and we trust,
that when the present generation of children shall have attained to
years of maturity, the fruits of our school-labours will also be seen,
and redound to the glory of our Saviour, and the furtherance of His
cause.”

“ The Brethren and Sisters in the country of the Tambookies are
well. Besides the people from Enon, upwards of 40 Tambookies are
regular inhabitants of the new settlement, and a larger place of wor-
ship has, in consequence, been constructed, and opened on the 23rd
of August. Such a “ rondavel” house, as it is called, is erected at
little or no expense. A number of strong branches of willows are
put into the ground, bent and tied together by thongs, and connect-
ed with cross-pieces of the same wood; after which the roof is co-
vered or thatched with a species of reed, growing along the river,
so as to resemble in some degree a rounded or broken roof of a
house. But, simple as the contrivance is, it make a tolerably com-
fortable dwelling, and answers remarkably well under the circum-
stances of our mild and healthy climate.”

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

471

From Brother A. Halter.

Enon, August %§th, 1829.

“ Dear Brother — I gladly comply with your request, to furnish
you, from time to time, with some particulars of the state and pro-
gress of this mission, in which I know that both yourself and so
many worthy friends in England take a peculiar interest. With the
difficulties and trials which have befallen us during the last twelve
months, you are not unacquainted; the extraordinary drought, and the
innumerable swarms of locusts by which we were visited, produced
such distress, that our people were obliged to wander from our set-
tlement, and to seek a scanty maintenance in more favoured situa-
tions. Yet, notwithstanding these unfavourable circumstances, we
can testify, with thankfulness to the Lord, that He has continued to
carry on His work of grace in the hearts of our people. He has
blessed our testimony of His great love, and established the hearts
of many in the knowledge and practice of His holy will. In some
we have indeed seen with sorrow the effects of those temptations, to
which our Hottentots are always particularly disposed, when they
remove to a distance from us; others, however, have proved that the
advantage of the religious instruction which they have enjoyed, haa
not been thrown away upon them;, and we have even heard of in-
stances in which their declarations of the love of Christ, as experi-
enced by themselves, have been profitable to their heathen coun-
trymen.

“ The number of inhabitants at Enon amounts at present to above
500. Since the beginning of the year 9 adults have been baptized,
and as many have been admitted to the Holy Communion. At pre-
sent we cannot expect much further increase, particularly as the
attention of the Hottentots is directed by the Government to the for-
mation of free colonies in what has hitherto been called the neutral
territory on the Kat river. This measure appears indeed to have
given umbrage to the neighbouring Caffre tribes, who have, in con-
sequence, made hostile incursions upon the new settlers, and mur-
dered several of them. We are therefore very thankful that
none of our people have hitherto removed to the contested district;
indeed, we doubt whether many of them will be induced to give up
the advantages, both spiritual and temporal, which they enjoy at this
place, in the vague expectation of bettering their circumstances else-
where. In every instance, however, we think it our duty to leave
them entirely to their own free choice.

“ Since the middle of June, a great change has been gradually in
progress in the outward appearance of this settlement. Fruitful and
abundant rains have fallen, by which our mill has again been put in
motion, and our fields and gardens restored to their former flourish-
ing state. Our pump renders us essential service, and adds greatly
to the productiveness of our mission-garden, which is at present uu-

472

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

der my care. Our people have derived great advantage from the
occupation of a piece of ground, which is peculiarly well adapted to
garden culture, and through which, as you will already have heard,
Brother Fritsch has succeeded in leading a water-course. The be-
nefit derived from this arrangement does not merely consist in the
increased means of subsistence which it promises to afford, but like-
wise in its tendency to keep our people together, and to afford their
children the opportunity of more regular attendance at school. The
schools, both for boys and girls, are at present well attended, and
the children give us much pleasure by their diligence and good con-
duct.

“ Though I have every reason to be thankful for the favour con-
ferred upon me to serve the Lord in this part of His vineyard, you
may easily suppose that I do not forget the Esquimaux congregations,
among whom I was first called to labour. Every account of the con-
tinued prosperity of that Mission rejoices my heart.

4 4 My fellow-labourers beg to unite with me in affectionate remem-
brance to the Society for the Furtherance of the Gospel, and to all
our British friends. I am, &c. See.

ADAM HALTER.

MISSION AMONG THE TAMBOOKIES.

Extracts of Letters from Brother John Lemmertz.

Klipplaats River, July 8 th, 1829.

44 Dear Brother — I hope you have received my last letter of the
3d of June. Having to send our diary of the last four months, I
wish to add a report of our present welfare and proceedings. Being
in want of corn, I was obliged, on June 8th, to undertake a journey
to the Eyland river, as there was none to be had in this neighbour-
hood. It cost twenty dollars fier muid. I hoped to return in three
days, but it began to snow, and, besides riding a day and a half in
the snow, I was detained a whole day at a farm. At our place, the
snow did not lie long, and the poor cattle could pick their food; but
in the upper country, the oxen and sheep were three days without
any thing to eat. I have lived fourteen years at the Cape, but never
witnessed such an European winter. The Lord, however, preserved
me, and made my journey very agreeable, by my introduction to the
families of several farmers, who were serious inquiries after the
truth as it is in Jesus, and at whose houses I was desired to hold
meetings.

“June the 17th, three Tambookie families; consisting in all of
twenty-three persons, obtained leave to live in our place, We pray
to that Lord, who will have all men to be saved, and cousequently
will have mercy also upon the poor Tambookies, that He would gain

FROM SOUTH AFRICA.

473

them for Himself by the gospel. They are, indeed, a nation hitherto
immersed in darkness and vice; but He can make them partakers of
His salvation by the power of His word. As yet, the greatest abomi-
nations are practised by them without shame or fear. Polygamy and
fornication, witchcraft, murder, and theft, seem the order of the day.
Bowana, who has seven wives, offered to sell one of his concubines
to our Wilhelmina for a cow. She gave him a very proper answer,
and told him that all his proceedings were contrary to the law of
God. He answered, that if God Almighty forbade such things, He
might as well forbid us to eat. I was once conversing with him, and
reproved him for lying, saying, that it was not only sinful in the sight
of God, but considered disgraceful among men. He answered, “ If
we dare not lie, we could not live.” You see, dear Brother, in what
a state these poor people are brought up. I beg you and all our breth-
ren and friends, fervently to pray the Lord to have mercy on them
and convert their hearts. His blood has power to wash them clean,
and to make them heirs of life and salvation through faith in Christ
Jesus. Assist us, therefore, with your prayers, that He would bless
our weak endeavours.

"Fora long time, we were not troubled with wild beasts, but, of
late, wolves have approached our dwellings, and the barkings of the
dogs occasioned much disturbance during the nights. Lions also have
visited our cattle-kraal. On the fifth of July, Sebastian Stoffel, who
was tending the cattle, an hour’s walk from hence, saw seven lions
busily engaged in devouring an ox which had strayed from the Caf-
fre country. They had half-devoured it, but, on his approach, took to
flight. He placed a stick upon the carcase, over which he hung his
kaross, to represent a man, intending the next day to fetch the re-
mainder of the carcase for his own use; but when he went with two
pack-oxen to fetch it, he found to his sorrow, by the footmarks, that,
though the lions had left it, the wolves had devoured all but the
horns, and left of his kaross only a few shreds. This species of the
wolf is called sea-wolf; numbers haunt the coast, and are very bold,
and I have seen them in the day-time fearlessly devouring their prey
near the road.

July 1 \tk.

“ Our hall, in which we have hitherto met for worship, being too
small, we determined to build a church, in the shape of a haarte-
beest-house, which is like a roof, raised upon low' walls, and made of
rushes covered with clay. As such a building will not admit of breadth,
we made it sixty-two feet long, and twelve feet wide inside, taking
off twelve feet in length for a kind of vestry. The reason for building
houses of this kind is, first, the great expense of wood and workmen,
for there are neither carpenters nor smiths in the whole country, and
wood fit for building must be fetched from a great distance: and, se-
condly, because the strong north-west winds prevailing here cannot
much injure a pointed roof.

Vol. III.

60

474

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

“ At the usual time, Brother Hoffman spoke with thirty-eight Tam-
bookies individually; the report made by himself and his wife caused
us to praise the Lord for the evidences of a work of grace, which He
by His Spirit has begun in the hearts of several of the Tambookies;
and encouraged us greatly to proceed in our labours.

“ We have upwards of forty Tambookies living on our land; among
our inhabitants is a family of Mantatees, who give us much pleasure.
They belong to a party, recommended to us at Enon by the magis-
trates. Their tribe was driven out of their country, robbed of their
cattle, and most of them murdered by the Fetkannas. Their lan-
guage differs from that of the Tambookies, but our interpreter,
Daniel Caffre, having lived in their country as a child, under-
stands it.

“ Six Tambookie huts are put up on our land, and a seventh is
building. Their shape is like a bee-hive. Half of the people sleep
in the open air near our cattle-kraal. They are rather slow in build-
ing huts, owing to their being without clothes, and the weather too
cold to allow them to go out and procure materials.

“ We cannot call ourselves quite safe from the plundering Fetkan-
nas, and therefore live close to our cattle and sheep-pens. If the
country gets more secure, we shall prevail on the Tambookies to
build better houses.

August 25 th , 1829.

“ My last to you was of the 8th and 11th of July, in which I men-
tioned that we were putting up a building for a church, as our hall
will not contain the number of our hearers. By God’s blessing, we
finished this work on August 21st, and on the 23rd consecrated it as
a place of worship. On that day, we assembled early in our hall,
and offered up prayer and praise, thanking the Lord our Saviour for
the blessings He has bestowed upbn us in this place, granting us the
comfort of His presence and peace, whenever we met together in His
name. The whole company then walked in regular order towards
the new house, singing a hymn of thanksgiving, and we devoted it
to the service of God, praying Him to cause the word of salvation to
find entrance into the hearts of all who may now or hereafter assem-
ble in it.

“ After the sermon, we held a special meeting with the Tamboo-
kies; and in the evening, another, with our own congregation. Our
people rejoice with us, that we have been permitted to build this
place of worship, which will hold as many again as our hall. The
windows are in frame without glass, and the wood chiefly used is wil-
low wood, wattled with reed grass. The benches are made of the
same materials, and covered with straps of leather.

“We are thankful, that, during the building, we enjoyed perfect
rest; though not very far from us, there was nothing but war, and
rumours of war, among the Tambookies. Mapas and his people
have lost five herds of cattle, stolen by the Fetkannas. Bowana,

FROM GREENLAND.

475

who left this region for fear of Machomo, and went towards the fron-
tier of the colony, was followed by the latter, and lost a portion of
his cattle.

“ Thus you may perceive that we are in some danger of losing our
property, and particularly our cattle, and we ascribe our preserva-
tion to the mercy and power of God alone. We confidently believe
that He will continue to protect us, and not suffer His work begun
here to be destroyed. We know that all things shall work together
for good, for the benefit of His cause.

“ One day, a wolf ventured to come close to our dwelling, on a visit
to the sheep-kraal; but he was soon brought down by the many dogs,
and killed with an assagay.

We commend ourselves to the prayers of all our Brethren and
Sisters in London, Bedford, and elsewhere; and salute you in the fel-
lowship of Jesus, as your affectionate Brethren,

JOHN LEMMERTZ,

J. C. HOFFMAN.

GREENLAND.

Extract of the Diary of Fredericksthal, from the end of June
1828, to the beginning of July , 1829.

June 23rd.— -Our friend Captain Gram informed us, that he had
arrived safe at Julianenhaab on the 17th, with the frame-work of our
new church on board h?s ship.

On this day a boat’s company of heathen arrived, and staid some
days with us. They attended the church, and heard a discourse on
that hymn, “ 0 world , see thy Creator .” Though they were igno-
rant heathen, they behaved with great stillness and propriety. . A
widow, with her four children, who had never been here before, came
immediately to our house; and declared that it was her wish to re-
main here with her children. She related, that during last winter
she had dreamt, that Europeans, looking like ourselves, came to her,
and invited her to come hither and to believe the gospel, that she
might be saved. Since that time she had had no rest in her mind.
When we spoke to her of our Saviour’s desire to save all men, she
replied, “ Oh yes, I now begin to have some thoughts of Him who
dwells in heaven, and I am sincerely desirous of being converted to
Him.” In the sequel she removed hither with her family.

Among the company was a man and his younger brother, wh® had
come from the eastward across the Icefiorde, and confirm ed*the re-
port, that many Greenlanders live on that coast. He was a man of
very friendly and quiet manners, and considerably taller than his
companions. We asked him, whether all the inhabitants on the east-
coast were as tall as he? He replied, smiling, that there were many

476

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

of low stature. We then asked, whether it was not very dangerous
to cross the Icefiorde? They answered in the affirmitive, on account
of the turbulence of the sea under the ice. They also declared, that
in winter the sea was always frozen over, that they used dogs in
sledges, and often suffered hunger, as they could get neither eider-
ducks nor herrings. We inquired, whether they had ever seen a
ship approach; they answered, that the people on the east-coast had
no idea how a ship looked.

When we conversed with them in their tent on the happiness of
believers, and the misery of impenitent sinners, they were filled wi?h
astonishment, and frequently exclaimed, “ Are these things indeed
true?” We asked, whether they knew that their souls were immor-
tal: that hereafter the believers would dwell with God in heaven,
but the wicked, with the devil in hell? They replied, “ No, of that
we have never heard any thing.” We observed, that we had come
purposely to live with them, to teach them the one thing needful,
and that we were no merchants, come to trade with them. To this
they made answer, “ Then you are come to us merely out of com-
passion: how wonderful is this.” Indeed, one cannot help feeling
the greatest compassion on beholding such a company of blind, igno-
rant heathen, living carelessly without God in the world. True, in-
deed, is that declaration of our Saviour, “ Blessed are they that hear
the word of God , and keep, it.” May the word sown in the hearts of
these poor heathen bring forth fruit in due season.

July 10 th. We to-day heard the following account. A Danish
Missionary Society had sent a church, built for Julianenhaab, which
has been wanted for upwards of 50 years.. For this purpose they
hired a private vessel for 1300 Spanish dollars, to convey it to Green-
land. This ship struck upon a rock not far from Frederickshaab,
and was wrecked, but the cargo being all timber did not sink, and
with the crew was brought safe to Frederickshaab. We felt much
compassion for the sufferers, and the more thankful to the Lord, for
having brought our church safe to Julianenhaab, from whence Bro-
ther De Fries returned to-day, with two boat-loads of provisions and
planks. We offer our most cordial thanks to our friends and bene-
factors, for all the kindness shewn towards us, and especially to the
congregation at Christiansfeld, for the many proofs of their love, as
likewise to our English Brethren for their generous gifts towards the
support of our poor.

On the 13/A, early, a Greenland brother came to us to inform us,
that he meant to go and fetch his brother and family from among the
heathen to live here. We directed him first to ascertain whether
it was his brother’s own wish, and mean while to be faithful in de-
scribing to him the way of salvation through Jesus. This he pro-
mised to do.

On the 21 s/, we sent one of 6ur boats to Lichtenau, to fetch Bro-
ther Ihrer and his wife on a visit to their parents, Brother and Sister
Kleinschmidt, having been two years in Greenland without meeting

FROM GREENLAND.

4 77

with them. By the Lord’s mercy they had a safe and prosperous voy-
age, and arrived here on the 25th, when the joy of parents and chil-
dren was great. They had scarcely landed, when a storm arose from
the south, with violent rain.

On the 28 th, we were informed, that the ship which brought our
church, would return to Europe with a full cargo of seal’s blubber.
From the northern settlements, however, we heard with sorrow, that,
both this and last year, the trade has failed, and moreover that last
year above an hundred persons had died of famine.

On the 31s£, Brother Ihrer and his family returned toLichtenau.

August 1 1th. The Greenland assistants, John Michael and his
wife, returned from their visit to the east-coast, whither they went
on the 6th of June, and gave the following account of the voyage—
That they suffered considerable distress among the drift-ice; that
they had seen none of the heathen from the north, who most likely
had met with the same obstructions, or perhaps had been lost in the
ice, which may account for their not arriving at all this year. As
such misfortunes often deter them from taking these voyages for
some time, John Michael could, therefore, only visit his heathen
countrymen in the nearest places, to whom he faithfully declared
the word of life, and directed them to Jesus. The heathen were at-
tentive, promising to come to us next year, which, added John Mi-
chael, they may do, if they tell truth. They love to hear our people
sing Hymns. One of them began to sing some heathenish song, but
was told, as long as he did that, he was not worthy to live with be-
lievers, who had wholly discontinued such wicked practices. This
reproof moved the heathen singer to tears. It led to conversation
concerning the promises made at baptism, and how unsuitable it was,
one day to sing of our Saviour and His righteousness, and to praise
Him for delivering us from the power of the devil; and the next, to
join in heathenish and indecent songs.

On the 12 thy a post-kayak from Lichtenau brought us the un-
pleasant news, that Brother Ihrer had received a hurt, by which
his life was endangered. No medical assistance could be procured
nearer than this place. It pleased God to bless the means afforded
for his perfect restoration.

On the 22 nd> Brother De Fries set out for the east-coast, but re-
turned on the 25th, being unable to proceed on account of the quan-
tity of drift-ice. He and his female rowers were once in such dan-
ger, that they expected every moment to be crushed among its
masses. They could get no farther than the place which Sir Charles
Giesecke reached, and reported, that, immediately on turning the
point, the coast consists of nothing but steep rocks, and ice blinks,
(ice-clad mountains). It appears, therefore, that we were directed
to the right spot for this settlement, to which the heathen from the
east-coast may come, though we could not well have settled among
them, nor, indeed, nearer to them than we are.

29 th. Our congregation increasing so fast, our place of worship

478

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

becomes too small, being only 20 feet broad, and 28 feet long, and
scarcely able to contain 300 persons. Now, as our church will hardly
be put up next summer, and as the walls of our provision-house and
the stable connected with it were finished, we determined to raise a
roof above both, and to use this building for our church and school-
house.

October 1st. We held our first meeting in it. The presence of
God filled our hearts with joy and thankfulness. About this time,
16 heathen arrived here, and begged us to write down their names.
The family mentioned on the 16th of July was among them. They
were all very attentive, and astonished at what they heard of our
Saviour, and the way of salvation through Him. May it sink deep
into their hearts !

When we spoke with the communicants, who had returned from
the out-places, where, mixing among the heathen, they are often
apt to be led astray, we had the satisfaction to perceive, that they
had walked worthy of the grace bestowed upon them. They all de-
clared, that, day by day, they had prayed to the Lord to preserve
them from the snares of the enemy, and had experienced His poWer
and grace to be sufficient for them. We cannot attend them in the
out-places, and rejoice at the fulfilment of the word of the Lord,
given by the Prophet Ezekiel: “ Behold! /, even /, will both search
my sheep, and seek them out.”

On the 5th and 6th , we gathered the crop of turnips and cab-
bages from our garden. All its produce has thriven well, and we
are well provided for the winter, and thankful for the vegetables,
which we can rear ourselves, and contribute so much to our health.

On the 25M, we spoke with all the baptized, and were glad to
hear many declarations of faith and trust in Jesus, being proofs that
the Holy Spirit instructs them in the right way. A brother confess-
ed, that he felt great uneasiness, at having allowed himself to hum
a heathenish tune, accompanying improper words. They have been
accustomed from their childhood to hear these tunes; otherwise, it
is not to be conceived, how any one can have pleasure in such
wretched bellowings, which chiefly consist in three notes, following
each other up and down. When they hear a beautiful church-tune
or anthem, and we ask them, whether they do not think it more
pleasing than their heathenish songs, they always exclaim, “ Oh, it
is delightful to hear it!”

On the 2 6thy a widower named Abia , departed this life. He with
his wife and 8 children joined us in this place, in company of 39
heathen Greenlanders. He was baptized on the 19th of December,
1824, and walked worthy of the grace he received. As a heathen,
he had distinguished himself by an uncommonly frolicksome temper,
but, after his baptism, he grew serious, quiet, and very modest.
Having, as a heathen, led a very loose life, we sometimes could
not help fearing, and cautioning him against a relapse into his former
habits. He replied, “I have found true happiness in communion

FROM GREENLAND.

479

with our Saviour, and that I will not by any means forego.” To
this resolution he remained faithful to his end. When Brother
Kleinschmidt visited him, on his death-bed, weak as he was, he
lifted himself up, and said, “ Pray sing that Hymn,” pointing to one
which showed that his heart was in communion with the Lord.

He was followed on the 5th of November, by Seth , a communi-
cant, and a very aged man; for some of his children were already
far advanced in years, by whom he was well nursed and cared for.
He came to live here soon after we settled in this place. After his
conversion, it was edifying to see how cheerful and happy he was
in his soul, and how attentive to all instruction, public and private;
as if he was determined to make up for lost time. Whenever we
spoke with him of the love of Jesus to sinners, and especially to His
people, his whole countenance seemed lighted up, and by various
signs, he confirmed every word. He was indeed an instance of what
the grace of God can effect, even in one long buried in heathenism,
and, if his spiritual enjoyments were so great on earth, what will
they be now that he is with the Lord for ever. Yes, indeed! if we
have to travel ever so far through snow and ice, to gain one soul for
Christ, such a decided proof of His power would be a sufficient
reward.

December 8th. We spoke with all the unbaptized people, and
found almost all of them seriously concerned for their souls’ salva-
tion. An old woman said, “ I moved hither with my children, that I
might not come too late, but hear what I must do to be saved. I
earnestly desire to know my Saviour.” On the next prayer-day she
was appointed a candidate for baptism, when she exclaimed, “ My
only heart’s wish is to go to my Saviour into heaven.” The conver-
sations we have with such poor heathen, make us value our calling,
as most important and precious; for we may assuredly venture to
believe, that there is not one of them whom the Good Shepherd will
not bring into His fold. We feel for them the greatest compassion,
and only desire to lead them to Him as their Saviour.

On the 13 th, winter seemed to set in, in good earnest, for hitherto
we had had but little snow, and the Greenlanders were able to col-
lect berries and angelica roots. The wind was not very high, but
the sea seemed in a tremendous uproar. Its waves rose like moun-
tains and broke over the whole coast, carrying the spray over the
highest promontories with terrible fury, insomuch that the oldest
Greenlanders declared, that they had never seen the like. They
were frightened and asked our opinion. We told them, that it only
exhibited a proof of the power and majesty of the Lord of the uni-
verse, and if we believed on Him, we need fear nothing. Standing
upon our coast, no sight could be more magnificent, than to behold
the enormous waves dashing and foaming; but we felt much anxiety
about several of our brethren in their kayaks; they, however, by
God’s mercy, found means to escape to different places of shelter on
the coast.

480

MISSIONARY ACCOUNTS

On the 21 a?, we considered the history of St. Thomas, with a pe-
culiar impression upon the hearts of our people.

On the 23rd, we spoke with all our children, and had much plea-
sure in perceiving that they increase in the knowledge and love of
Jesus, as a friend of children. A mother related, that, whenever her
little boy awoke in the morning, he exclaimed, “ Jesus is my Sa-
viour, He alone is worth loving.”

On Christmas-eve an hundred and five children met and sung
Hosanna with cheerful voices; young and old joined with heart and
voice in the song of the heavenly host, Glory to God in the highest ,
peace on earth , good will towards men .’’ All were decently and
cleanly clothed, and we were delighted to hear them sound forth the
praises of their incarnate God and Saviour.

On the 31s?, we concluded the year with praise and prayer; surely
the Lord’s mercies have been every morning new, and this congrega-
tion also has experienced numberless proofs of the faithfulness and
loving kindness of the Lord and His spirit, leading them in the way
of salvation. For though, among the Greenland heathen, there are
no idols made with hands, nor visible temples and altars erected in
honour of them, yet these things are in their hearts, and many of
them have grown old and grey in the service of the devil. To de-
stroy his work is out of the power of man, and can only be effected
by the power and grace of our Almighty Saviour. We pray daily,
that He would preserve those whom He has delivered out of the
hands of the enemy and brought into his fold.

1829.

January Is?. We commenced this new year, commending our-
selves and our Greenland flocks, with confidence, to the mercy and
protection of our God.

On the 5?A, the sea rose again as before. The view of it was
terrific, and when the Greenlanders saw it lighten in the night, be-
ing unaccustomed to this phenomenon, they expected it was the fore-
runner of the last judgment. We replied that we had nothing to
fear, but .only to remember our Saviour’s words, “ Be ye also ready ”
On the 1 5?A, speaking with the baptized, we heard many curious
accounts of their proceedings, while they were yet heathen. A wo-
man said, “ When for the first time I sat down in your church, and
heard how I ought to live, I was so much ashamed, that I durst not
lift up my eyes.” Another said, “lam not worthy to be admitted to
the enjoyment of the Holy Communion.”

Speaking with the communicants on the 23rd, we rejoiced at the
proofs we received of the total change wrought in the hearts of many
persons, who but lately lived in ignorance, and in the commission of
all manner of evil. Each may truly say: “ By the grace of God
alone, I am what lam.”

( To be continued.)

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