Chapter V

1826-1827.

Diary of my Labours Among the Indians.

The following extracts from my diary contain a detailed account of my mental and spiritual exercises and labours at this time, as well as many interesting particulars respecting the Indians, not mentioned in the foregoing chapter:--

_Credit, September 16th, 1826._--I have now arrived at my charge
among the Indians. I feel an inexpressible joy in taking up my
abode amongst them. I must now acquire a new language, to teach a
new people.

_Sept. 17th._--This day I commenced my labours amongst my Indian
brethren. My heart feels one with them, as they seemed to be
tenderly alive to their eternal interests. May I possess every
necessary gift to suffer labour, and teach the truth as it is in
Jesus.

_Sept. 23rd._--Greatly distressed to-night on account of a sad
circumstance. Three or four of the Indians have been intoxicated;
and one of them, in a fit of anguish, shot himself! This was caused
by a wicked white man, who persuaded them to drink cider in which
he mixed whiskey. [See letter below.]

_Sept. 24th.--Sabbath._--I tried to improve the mournful
circumstance that occurred yesterday, as the Indians seemed much
affected on account of the awful death of their brother.

_Sept. 25th._--We have resolved upon building a house, which is to
answer the double purpose of a school-house, and a place for divine
worship. In less than an hour these poor Indians subscribed one
hundred dollars, forty of which was paid at once. What a contrast,
a short time ago they would sell the last thing they had for
whiskey; now they economize to save something to build a Temple for
the true God!

_Sept. 26th._--To-day I buried two Indians, one the man who
committed suicide, the other a new-born babe.

_Oct. 8th._--For many days I have been employed in an unpleasant
controversy, for our civil and religious rights, which has taken
much of my time and attention.

_Oct. 9th._--One of my brethren has been suddenly called from his
labours, to his eternal home. Alas! my beloved Edward Hyland is no
more. He entered the field after me, but he has gone before me!

_Oct. 14th._--I have been employed the whole week in raising
subscriptions for the Indian Church; we have now enough subscribed.

_Oct. 19th._--[In a letter, to-day, to his brother George, who wished to hear something about the Indian work, Dr. Ryerson said: I have to attend to various things previous to settling myself permanently at the Credit. I preached there to the Indians the two succeeding Sabbaths after I left home, and have been employed since that time in building a chapel for them at the Credit. The Indians in general, appear to be steadfast in their religious profession. They are faithful in their religious duties, and exemplary in their lives. One unhappy circumstance occurred there. [See entry in Diary of 23rd September.] I preached a solemn discourse on the subject of guarding against temptation and intemperance the same day, illustrating it throughout by this lamentable example. The Indians appeared to be much affected; and, I think, through the mercy of God, it has, and will prove a salutary warning to them. The Indians were very spirited in building their chapel. They made up more than a hundred dollars towards it, and are willing to do more, if necessary. By going in different parts of the country, I have got about enough subscribed and paid to finish it. I have now permanently resided at the Credit Mission not quite a fortnight. I board with John Jones; have a bed-room, but no fire-place, except what is used by the family. I can speak a little Mississauga, and understand it pretty well. As to my enjoyments in religion, I have lately had the severest conflicts I ever experienced; but at times the rich consolations of religion have flowed sweetly to my heart and God has abundantly blessed me, especially in my pulpit ministrations. It is the language of my heart to my blessed Saviour, Thy will, not mine, be done. Our prospects in little York are favourable. The chapel is enlarged, and the congregation greatly increased, some having lately joined.--H.]

_Nov. 9th._--This evening in visiting a sick Indian man, I
endeavoured, through an interpreter, to explain to him the causes
of our afflictions, the sympathy of Jesus, and the use of them to
Christians. We afterwards had prayer, many flocked into the room.
The sick man was filled with peace in believing, insomuch that he
clapped his hands for joy.

_Nov. 26th.--Sabbath._--This has been an important day. We opened
our Indian Chapel by holding a love-feast, and celebrating the
Lord's supper. The Indians with much solemnity and feeling
expressed what God had done for them. Rev. Wm. Case addressed them.
In the evening he gave them most important instruction, as to
domestic economy and Christian duties. After this a short time was
spent in teaching them the Ten Commandments, the Indian speaker
repeating them audibly sentence by sentence, which was responded to
by the whole congregation. At the close, eight persons, seven
adults and one infant were baptized. Three years ago they were
without suitable clothes, home, morality, or God. Now they are
decently clothed, sheltered from the storm by comfortable
dwellings, and many of them rejoicing in the hope of a glorious
immortality.

_Nov. 29th._--Last evening, in addressing a few of the Indians, who
were collected on account of the death of one of them, (John
Muskrat) I felt a degree of light spring up in my mind. This Indian
was converted about a year ago, and has ever since maintained a
godly walk and holy conversation. Thus missionary labour has not
been in vain. This is the third that has left an encouraging
testimony behind of a glorious resurrection.

_Nov. 30th._--I have this day divided the Indian society into
classes, selected a leader for each, from the most pious and
intelligent. I meet these leaders once a week separately, to
instruct them in their duty.

_Dec. 7th._--I have been often quite unwell, owing to change of
living, being out at night; my fare, as to food _is very plain_,
but wholesome, and I generally lie on boards with one or two
blankets intervening.[10]

_Dec. 8th._--I am feeling encouraged in the prosecution of the
Indian language, and in the spirit of my mission. There is a
tenderness in the disposition of many of the Indians, especially of
the women, which endears them to the admirers of natural
excellence. One of them kindly presented me with a handsome basket,
which is designed to keep my books in. This afternoon I collected
about a dozen of the boys, to go with me to the woods, in order to
cut and carry wood for the chapel. Their exertions and activity
were astonishing.

_Dec. 16th._--I have this week been trying to procure for the
Indians the exclusive right of their salmon fishery, which I trust
will be granted by the Legislature.[11] I have attended one of
their Councils, when everything was conducted in the most orderly
manner. After all the business was adjusted, they wished to give me
an Indian name. The old Chief arose, and approached the table where
I was sitting, and in his own tongue addressed me in the following
manner: "Brother, as we are brothers, we will give you a name. My
departed brother was named Cheehock; thou shalt be called
Cheehock."[12] I returned him thanks in his own tongue, and so
became initiated among them.

_Dec. 22nd._--My brother John, writing from Grimsby, thus
acknowledges the kind advice of brother George: I thank you for
your kind advice, and I can assure you I have felt of late, more
than ever, the importance of preaching Christ, and Christ alone. It
is my aim and constant prayer to live in that way, so that I can
always adopt the language of the Apostle, Romans xiv. 7, 8. I wish
you to write as often as convenient. Any advice or instruction that
you may have at any time to give, will be thankfully received.

_January 4th, 1827._--After the absence of more than a week, I
again return to my Indians, who welcome me with the tenderest marks
of kindness. Watch-night on New Year's Eve was a season of great
rejoicing among them. About 12 o'clock, while their speaker was
addressing them, the glory of the Lord filled the house, and about
twenty fell to the floor. They all expressed a determination to
commence the New Year with fresh zeal. My soul was abundantly
blessed at the commencement of the year, while speaking at the
close of the Watchnight services in York.

My engagement in controversial writing savours too much of dry
historical criticism to be spiritual, and often causes leanness of
soul; but it seems to be necessary in the present state of matters
in this Colony, and it is the opinion of my most judicious friends,
that I should continue it till it comes to a successful
termination.

_Jan. 10th._--[Having received a letter of enquiry from his brother George, Dr. Ryerson replied at this date, and said:--

I have been unwell for nearly two months with a continuance of violent colds, occasioned by frequent changes from a cold house and a thinly-clad bed at the Credit, to warm rooms in York. My indisposition of body has generally induced a depression of spirits, which has often unfitted me for a proper discharge of duties, or proficiency in study. However, in the midst of bodily indisposition, the blessings of the Holy Spirit have been at times abundantly poured into my soul, insomuch that I could glory in tribulation, and rejoice that I am counted worthy to labour and suffer among the most unprofitable and worthless of the labourers in my Saviour's vineyard. The Indians are firm in their Christian profession, and some of them are making considerable improvement in the knowledge of doctrine and duties of religion, and of things in general. They are affectionate and tractable.

I am very unpleasantly situated at the Credit, during the cold weather, as there are nearly a dozen in the family, and only one fire-place. I have lived at different houses among the Indians, and thereby learned some of their wants, and the proper remedies for them. Having no place for retirement, and living in the midst of bustle and noise, I have forgotten a good deal of my Greek and Latin, and have made but little progress in other things. My desire and aim is, to live solely for the glory of God and the good of men.

By the advice of Mr. M. S. Bidwell and others, I am induced to continue the Strachan controversy, till it is brought to a favourable termination. I shall be heartily glad when it is concluded.--H.]

_Jan. 16th._--One of the Indians (Wm. Sunegoo) has been tempted to
drink. I visited him as soon as he returned to the village. I
entreated him to tell me the whole truth, which he did. After
showing him his sin and ingratitude to God and his friends, he wept
aloud, almost despairing of mercy. I pointed him to the Saviour of
penitent sinners. He fell on his knees, and we spent some time in
prayer. After evening service he confessed his sin publicly, asked
forgiveness of his brethren, and promised in the strength of God to
be more watchful. Thus have we restored our brother in the spirit
of meekness.

_Jan. 26th._--Last Sunday we held our quarterly meeting at York.
About thirty of the Indian brethren were present; their
cleanliness, modesty, and devout piety were the subject of general
admiration.

_Feb. 4th._--To-day I preached to the Indians. Peter Jacobs, an
intelligent youth of 18, interpreted, and afterwards spake with all
the simplicity and eloquence of nature.

A scene never to be forgotten was witnessed by me in visiting an
Indian woman this evening; after months of severe suffering, she
sweetly yielded up the ghost in the triumphs of faith. She embraced
the Christian religion about eight months ago, and was baptized by
Rev. T. Madden. Notwithstanding her many infirmities, she went to
the house of God as long as her emaciated frame, with the
assistance of friends, could be supported. A few days previous to
her decease, she gave (to use her own words) "her whole heart into
the hands of Jesus, and felt no more sorry now, but wanted to be
with Jesus." While addressing a number assembled in her room, who
were weeping around her bed, her happy spirit took its triumphant
flight to the arms of the Saviour she loved so much.

How would the hearts of a Wesley and Fletcher burst forth in
rapture, could they have seen their spiritual posterity gathering
the wandering tribes of the American forest into the fold of
Christ, and heard the wigwam of the dying Indian resound with the
praises of Jehovah!

_Feb. 10th._--A blessed quarterly meeting--Elder Case preached in
the morning, and my brother George in the evening. The singing was
delightful, and the white people present were extremely interested.
At the close a collection of $26.75 was taken up, principally from
the Indians! Peter Jacobs was one of the speakers.

_Feb. 16th._--The importance of fostering our school among the
Indians, and of encouraging the teacher in this discouraging and
very difficult task, cannot be overestimated. Rev. Wm. Case,
thinking that I had some aptitude for teaching, wrote me a day or
two ago, as follows:--

Do you think the multitude of care, and burden of the school does
sometimes mar the patience of the teacher? If so, you would do well
to kindly offer to assist him occasionally, when he is present, and
so by example, as well as by occasional kind remarks, help him to
correct any inadvertencies of taste. I know the burden of a teacher
in a large school, and a perpetual sameness in the same employment,
especially in this business, is a tiresome task. I consider this
school of vast importance, on several accounts, and especially
considering the hopes to be entertained of several interesting
youths there.

_Feb. 27th._--I have written from fifteen to sixteen hours to-day
in vindicating the cause of dissenters against the anathemas of
high churchmen.

_March 5th, 1827._--To-day I am on my way to see my parents. My
Father is becoming serious, and my younger brother Edwy has joined
the Methodist Society. I thank God for this blessed change.

_York, March 8th._--[As an interesting bit of personal history, descriptive of Dr. Ryerson's manner of life among the Credit Indians, I give the following extract from a letter written by Rev. William to Rev. George Ryerson. William says:--

I visited Egerton's Mission at the Credit last week, and was highly delighted to see the improvement they are making both in religious knowledge and industry. I preached to them while there, and had a large meeting and an interesting time. The next morning we visited their schools. They have about forty pupils on the list, but there were only thirty present. The rest were absent, making sugar. I am very certain I never saw the same order and attention to study in any school before. Their progress in spelling, reading, and writing is astonishing, but especially in writing, which certainly exceeds anything I ever saw. They are getting quite forward with their work. When I was there they were fencing the lots in the village in a very neat, substantial manner. On my arrival at the Mission I found Egerton, about half a mile from the village, stripped to the shirt and pantaloons, clearing land with between twelve and twenty of the little Indian boys, who were all engaged in chopping and picking up the brush. It was an interesting sight. Indeed he told me that he spent an hour or more every morning and evening in this way, for the benefit of his own health, and the improvement of the Indian children. He is almost worshipped by his people, and I believe, under God, will be a great blessing to them.--H.]

_March 14th._--After several pleasant days absence I return again
to my Indian brethren. Have been much profited by reading the lives
of Cranmer, Latimer, Burnet, Watts, Doddridge, and especially that
of Philip Skelton, an Irish Prelate. The piety, knowledge, love,
zeal, and unbounded charity, are almost beyond credit; except on
the principle that he that is _spiritual_, can do all things.

_March 19th._--An Indian who has lately come to this place, and has
embraced the religion of Christ, came to Peter Jones, and asked
him, what he should do with his implements of witchcraft, whether
throw them in the fire, or river, as he did not want anything more
to do with them. What a proof of his sincerity! Nothing but
Christianity can make them renounce witchcraft, and many of them
are afraid of it long after their conversion.

_March 20th._--Busy to-day selecting suitable places for planting,
and employed the school boys in clearing some land for pasture.

_March 24th._--I am this day twenty-four years old. During the past
year my principal attention has been called to controversial
labours. If the Lord will, may this cup pass by in my future life.

_March 25th--Sabbath._--This day is the second anniversary of my
ministerial labours. My soul has been refreshed, my tongue
loosened, and my heart warmed.

_April 1st, 1827--Sabbath._--In speaking to my Indian brethren, the
word seemed deeply to affect their hearts.

_April 2nd._--In meeting Class this evening, I spoke for the first
time in Indian. My mind was much affected. The Indians broke forth
in exclamations of joy to hear a white man talk about God and
religion in their own tongue.

_April 6th._--My dear brother William and Dr. T. D. Morrison have
spent a night here, and greatly refreshed me by their converse.

_April 9th._--Another lesson of mortality in the death of Brother
John Jones' only child. I have been trying to comfort the parents,
who seem to bear their trial with Christian fortitude.

_York, April 15th._--[In a letter to his brother George at this date, Dr. Ryerson thus speaks of the work under his care:--

We are all well, and are blessed in our labours at this place, and at the Credit. I think the Indians are growing in knowledge and in grace. They are getting on pretty well with their spring work. But in some respects they are Indians, though they have become Christians.

I came from Long Point with a full determination to live wholly for God and His Church. Through the blessing of God I have received greater manifestations of grace than I had felt before during the year. I have lately read "_Law's Serious Call to a Devout and Holy Life_," which has been very beneficial to me. My greatest grief of late is, that my love to God and His people is not more humble, more fervent, and more importunate. O could I feel as Jesus felt when he said, "My meat and drink is to do the will of him that sent me." How much more happy and useful I would be! I pray that I may.

John and Peter Jones seem to thirst after holiness, and are growing in grace. The Society in this place (York) appears to be increasing in grace and in number. I was abundantly assisted by heavenly aid to-day, while preaching. The congregation seemed to be deeply affected this evening. I hope the word has not gone forth in vain. The Sunday-schools are prospering in this place. I proposed the new method of increasing the Sunday-schools, by giving a reward ticket to every scholar who would procure another that had not attended any other school. In two Sabbaths between twenty and thirty new scholars were procured in one school.--H.]

_April 16th._--The last part of last week I was powerfully assailed
by the devil, and became greatly dejected. Alas! I fear I was more
disturbed on account of my own reputation than for the cause of
Jesus. While preaching on Sabbath evening, heavenly light broke in
on my soul, and all was peace.

I am now among the dear objects of my care. My heart leaped for joy
as I came in sight of the village, and received such a hearty
welcome. Much refreshed with meeting them in Class, and
particularly in private conversation with Peter Jones, about the
dispensations of God towards us in the increase of our graces and
gifts. We had about thirty boys out at work this evening clearing
land. They are very apt in learning to work.

_April 18th._--I was impressed to-day with the fact that the
untutored Indian can display all the noble feelings of gratitude,
love, and benevolence. An Indian, who has lately come to this place
and embraced the Christian religion, has ever since shown great
attachment to me. He has, without my knowledge, watered, fed, and
taken care of my horse, saying he lived closer to the stable than I
did. Yesterday I got out of hay, and could not get any till this
afternoon. When I came to the stable I found grass in the manger;
the Indian was there, and had just fed him. I said I was very glad,
for he must be very hungry, but the Indian replied, "No, he not
very hungry. I took him down where grass grow, and let him eat
plenty." Oh, God, thought I, do such principles dwell in the people
whom the white man despises? Is not this as noble and pure as it is
simple? Though the circumstance is small in itself, it involves a
moral principle to which many mighty men are strangers. He gave the
widow's mite. Enfeebled by sickness, he exposed himself; touched by
compassion, he relieved the sufferer. A few weeks ago, a heathen
from the forest, he now performs an act that might make many
Christians blush. How many professing Christians consider it a
condescension to attend upon the servant of Christ and his beast,
but this wild man of the woods esteems it a privilege to wash His
disciple's feet. "Many that are first shall be last, and the last
shall be first."

_April 25th._--Last Sunday, four Indians came from Lake Simcoe,
over fifty miles, to hear the words of eternal life, while many
professors will scarcely go a mile. Does not this fulfil prophecy,
"Many shall come from the east, and the west, and sit down in the
kingdom of God, while the children of the kingdom are thrust out?"
Last summer they heard Peter Jones, at Lake Simcoe, tell the story
of the Saviour's love. They then determined to renounce ardent
spirits, and pray to the Great Spirit. With this little
preparation, they had been enabled to totter along in the path of
morality from that time till now. The old man (Wm. Snake) seems
under deep convictions, weeps much, and expresses much sorrow for
his former bad doings. They have gone back, determined to get as
many of their tribe as possible to return by the first of June.
Surely this is "hungering and thirsting after righteousness."

_April 29th--Sabbath._--In our Class-meetings, one of the Indian
Leaders expressed himself thus:--"I am happy to-day. It is not with
my life alone I love Jesus, but I love Him right here (pressing his
hand upon his heart.) If I did not serve Him, what would I tell Him
when He came? Would I tell Him a lie? No, my brothers, I will tell
Him no story. I will serve Him with my whole heart. When I hear any
of my brothers or my sisters praying in the daytime alone,[13] it
makes my heart feel so glad. The tears run out of my two eyes, I
feel so happy. I love Jesus more and more. Pray for me, that I may
hold on to the end; and when Jesus comes, I may go with Him and all
of you up to heaven." Another one said, "Three of us have been two
or three days in the bush, but we prayed, three poor souls of us,
three times a day, and Jesus did make our souls so happy."

_April 30th._--According to announcement, we assembled in the
Chapel to examine into the cases of several who had acted
disorderly. We were compelled to expel two from the Society. Many
were deeply affected, and groans, and sighs might be heard in the
different parts of the house. After a long and wise address from
the old Chief, Joseph Sawyer, I said, "We must turn them out of the
Society. What do you think about sending them away from the
village? Tell us." Several spoke, and it was at last decided, by
holding up the right hand, that they must go. I then said, "I am
sorry to hear one or two have been drinking." I asked one if this
was true. He confessed that he drank some beer, being coaxed by a
white man. He felt very sorry, as he wished to be a good Christian.
I then reproved with considerable severity, and showed him it was
as bad to get drunk on cider or beer as whiskey. The devil often
cheats us in this way, but we are exhorted not to "touch, taste, or
handle" the accursed thing. This talk was explained to them in
Indian by Peter Jones, and their opinions requested. Several spoke,
but Brother William Herkimer, with a pathos that affected us all,
said, "Brothers, the white man can't pour it down your throat, if
you will not drink. When white man ask me to drink, I tell him, 'I
am a Christian, I love Jesus,' and they go right away and look
ashamed." He then concluded with a most pathetic prayer: "Oh,
Jesus, let us poor, weak creatures be faithful, and serve Thee as
long as we live." Having adjusted these matters, I next observed,
"Our God has given us another commandment which was, 'To keep holy
the Sabbath day.' Now, brothers, if a man gave you six dollars, and
kept only one for himself, would you not think it very bad to rob
him of that one? Oh, yes, you will say. Well the Lord has done more
for us. He has given us our lives, our clothes, our health, nay,
everything we have, and six days too, to do all our work in; but He
has kept out one day for Himself. Let us not rob God of this day,
but let us keep it holy. I am sorry to hear that one of you went to
York on Sunday." I turned to the guilty Indian, and told him I
wanted him to tell us why he had done so. He stated he had got out
of provisions, and he was afraid the wind would rise on Monday, and
unthinkingly he started on Sunday afternoon. He promised to do so
no more. I then spoke a few words from Gal. vi. 1, and Peter Jones
closed with an affecting exhortation and prayer.

_May 2nd._--Yesterday I was almost in despair, and I was really
devising means to relinquish my present work; when in the height of
agitation I took down a package of tracts, and providentially
(surely not by chance) cast my eyes upon one entitled,
"Disobedience Punished, Repented of, and Pardoned." This was no
other than the history of Jonah; and was made the means of reviving
my expiring faith, and showing me how God alone could give me
victory over myself. I cried to Him like Jonah, and He delivered me
out of my distress.

OLD CREDIT MISSION. (_From a sketch by Mrs. E. Carey._)]

_May 3rd._--To-day I have felt peace with God and good will towards
men. Several Indian women have arrived from Scugog Lake. They
report that the Indians there have all stood firm, daily meeting
for prayer to the Great Spirit, and that there has only been one
case of intoxication since Peter Jones was there last autumn. This
unhappy circumstance was caused by one (Carr) an old Methodist
back-slider (a fit emissary of the devil), who took his barrel of
whiskey, in order to trade with the Indians. He tried in vain to
persuade them to taste, till at length he made some of the whiskey
into bitters, which he called medicine, and prevailed on one unwary
man to take for his health. This he repeated several times, till at
length the poor fellow got to relish it, and becoming overpowered
he fell into the water! The Indians immediately assembled for
prayer, and through the mercy of God, he is now restored to his
former steadfastness. They then ordered Carr to take his whiskey
away, or they would destroy it. He took it on the ice, on the lake,
no doubt hoping that it would tempt some of them to drink. But in
this the devil was disappointed, the ice thawed, and the barrel
floated on the water. What an instance of human depravity, does
this man's conduct exhibit, and what a picture of the power of
Divine grace is seen in the inflexible firmness of the Indians!
May we not sing in the language of Paradise Regained--

"The tempter foiled
In all his wiles, defeated, and repuls'd,
And Eden raised in the waste wilderness."

The Indian woman who related the above, gave another proof of the
amiable and benevolent character of her race, especially when
sanctified by grace. In token of their esteem for Peter Jones, who
had been the means of opening their eyes to immortality and eternal
life, they brought him several pounds of maple sugar, which one of
them presented in a wooden bowl. No doubt this sugar, which they
had carried sixty miles, was nearly their all. Is not this a
feeling of gratitude and love to the disciple for the master's
sake? Oh! that I may learn lessons of simplicity and contentment
from these children of the forest, for they are taught of God only.
Oh! that I may have Mary's lot in time and in eternity.

_May 6th--Sunday._--A number of white people being present this
morning I addressed them on the subject of the barren fig-tree. In
the evening we had a precious time; the Indians were enraptured,
and we all, as it were, with one heart, dedicated ourselves afresh
to God. In the class meeting we all wept tears of joy and holy
triumph. Several of them said, "Jesus is the best master I ever
served." "I love Jesus better than anything else."

_May 8th._--I witnessed an affecting instance of how pleasant a
thing it is for brethren to dwell together in unity, in the
departure of two Indians who had paid us a few days' visit from
Belleville. Nearly the whole village, according to Apostolic
custom, collected to bid them farewell in John Crane's house, when
an Indian arose (in the absence of the chief) inviting any of the
Belleville Indians who might like to come and settle amongst them.
Others rose and spoke on Christian love, pointing them forward to
that period when they should meet to part no more. How does the
spirit of primitive Christianity lead to the adoption of the same
customs which were practised by the first followers of our Lord,
when the multitudes of them that believed were of one heart and
soul. We then sang a few verses and all knelt down, commending our
dear brothers to the care of Him who never leaves nor forsakes his
children. After this one of the Indians from Belleville delivered a
pathetic parting address; they then all shook hands, exhorting one
another to cleave to Jesus. This Indian appeared to me to be one of
the most heavenly minded men I ever saw, not an able speaker but
with a peculiar nervousness in his words, spoken with energy and
pathos that deeply affected us all.

_May 13th--Sunday._--I spent the last week in assisting the Indians
in their agricultural pursuits. They are teachable, willing, and
apt to learn. This constant change of employment debars me from
literary and theological improvement, and leaves me less qualified
to expound Scripture to refined assemblies. Thus I am perplexed to
know what is best for me to do. The Lord direct me in this
momentous matter!

_May 14th._--The temporal and spiritual interests of the Indians
bring upon me much care, and weigh me down. I experienced some
comfort in the class meeting. Spoke in Indian, and for the first
time repeated the Lord's prayer in Chippewa. Many of my dear
brethren praised the Lord.

_June 9th--Sabbath._--This day we held quarterly meeting at
York--about twenty Indians present. I am informed that some of the
Indians on Lake Simcoe are hungering for the bread of life, and
that twelve of them were at worship at Newmarket, and expressed a
desire to become Christians. Sixteen Indian children attend a
Sabbath-school established there whose parents encamp near, for
that purpose. Several of these children learnt the alphabet in four
hours. This awakening arose through four of the Rice Lake Indians
influenced by the divine love, traversing in their canoe the back
lakes to tell their benighted brethren about Jesus, and exhorting
them to become Christians.

_June 7th._--The first quarterly conference ever held amongst
Indians in British America was held to-day. After deliberating on
several subjects, that of sending some of their pious and
experienced men on a missionary tour to Lake Simcoe, and the Thames
was proposed for consideration. Four of them soon volunteered their
services. Their hearts seemed fired at the thought of carrying the
news of salvation to their benighted brethren. At their own
suggestion $12 was soon taken up to help pay expenses.

_June 10th._-About fifty converted Indians from Rice Lake, Scugog
Lake, Mud Lake, and the Credit, assembled in York to-day for the
purpose of worshipping God. The Rice Lake Indians have come to see
the Governor about building them a village, and deduct the money
due them from the lands their fathers have ceded to the British
Government, and likewise for getting boundaries of their
hunting-grounds established. The other Indians have come for the
purpose of attending the approaching camp-meeting, as they have
never had but three days' instruction from Peter Jones last autumn.
As soon as any of them experience the love of Jesus in their own
souls, they begin to feel for others, and, like the ancient
Christians, go wherever they can preaching the Lord Jesus. Here is
a whole tribe converted to God, with the external aid of only three
days' instruction, except what they communicate to one another, and
who for six months have proved the reality of their Christian
experience by blameless and holy lives. Surely "this is the Lord's
doing, and marvellous in our eyes."

Elder Case told me that on his way from Cobourg to York, he saw an
Indian sitting by the road-side, he asked him where his brothers
and sisters were, he replied, encamped in the woods. Elder Case
told him to call them, as he wanted to talk some good words to
them. They soon came together to hear the _me-ko-to-wik_, or black
coat man. They pitched a little Bethel of logs, about breast high,
over-topped with bushes, for the purpose of worshipping
_Keshamunedo_ (God.) After kneeling down to implore God's blessing,
they took their seats. As soon as Elder Case commenced to speak,
their hearts seemed to melt like wax. So much for the Scugog and
Mud Lake Indians. The Rice Lake Indians appear to be more
intelligent, and are the handsomest company of men I have seen.
Potash, their chief, is very majestic in appearance, possesses a
commanding voice, and speaks with great animation.

_June 12th._--My brother William, who came from Newmarket
yesterday, informs me that he preached to more than fifty of these
bewildered enquirers after truth on Sunday--none of them could
interpret, but some could understand English, and they told others
what the good man said. An Indian woman came to a little white boy,
holding out her book (as most of them have bought books) and said,
"boy, boy," showing great anxiety that the boy would teach her, but
the little fellow was afraid, and slipped off. Then a little Indian
boy about his age, held out his book that he might teach him, the
white boy complied, and by the time he had showed him three or four
letters, he was unable to contain his grateful feelings, clasped
the white boy round his neck, and began to hug and kiss him.

_June 15th._--A camp-meeting commenced this afternoon on Yonge
street, about twelve miles from York. A large number of white
people have assembled, and about seventy-five Indians. About a
dozen of these embraced Christianity about six months ago, the rest
are heathens from the forest. How interesting a sight that they
should travel forty miles to hear about the Great Spirit, and what
he would have them do. As soon as they arrived they commenced
building their tents. Our Saviour said to His disciples, "Go ye
into all the world, &c." but we here see heathens coming to the
disciples of Jesus and asking for the Gospel. The services were
commenced by Rev. James Richardson, followed by the Rev. Thaddeus
Osgood, who is a great lover of Sunday-schools, Peter Jones
interpreted, when they were directed to Jesus, who came to save the
Indian as well as the white man, they were melted to tears.

_June 16th._--Rev. D. Yeomans preached this morning, also the Rev.
Thaddeus Osgood, first to the children, then to the Indians, which
was interpreted by Peter Jones. A lame boy, fourteen years old,
seemed to have his whole soul broken under the hammer of the word.
The Ten Commandments were recited in their own tongue, and they
repeated them sentence by sentence. It was a very impressive
exercise, giving great solemnity to the sacred decalogue.

_June 17th, Sunday._--The first sermon this morning was delivered
by Rev. John Ryerson, on the sufferings of Christ, followed by Rev.
James Richardson. By this time the concourse of people was
immense--when the Rev. William Ryerson preached from Gen. vii. 1, a
most able and affecting discourse, interpreted by Peter Jones, who
afterwards addressed the white people, telling of the former
degradation of his people, their present happy condition, the
feeble instruments God had made use of to accomplish this glorious
work; he thanked the white people for their kindness, and earnestly
entreated them to pray on, that the good work might go on and
prosper--he concluded by saying, "My dear brethren, if you go
forward the work will prosper, till the missionary from the western
tribes, shall meet with the missionary from the east, and both will
shake hands together."

_June 18th._--About mid-day the Camp-meeting was brought to a
close, it was very solemn and refreshing, three hundred and
thirteen whites partook of the Communion, and about forty Indians.
Thirty-five Indians, men, women, and children were baptized; with
others it was deferred till further instructed.

_July 3rd._--Peter Jones has just returned from Lake Simcoe,
bringing a glorious account of the steadfastness and exceeding joy
of the Indians there. Thirty more are added to their number; a
school is established, taught by Bro. Wm. Law, in a temporary
building, put up by themselves. The traders are showing great
opposition, threatening to beat the Indians and burn their camps if
they will attend the meetings; their craft is in danger. They that
trust in the Lord need not fear.

_July 5th._--Rev. Wm. Ryerson, under this date, writes from Lake
Simcoe: If Yellowhead, the Head Chief, embraces religion, his
influence will counteract the opposition of the traders, which is
very strong. I think if Peter Jones can come and remain with them
awhile, as soon as possible, they will embrace Christianity.

_July 15th._--Peter Jones and I arrived at Lake Simcoe this
evening, for the purpose of being present during the distribution
of Indian goods. The change in their appearance since a year ago is
most striking. The traders are still very hostile.

_July 16th._--In the morning I gave the Indians a long talk. I
showed them the superiority of the Christian religion over that of
those who worshipped images. At this remark, the French traders
present looked very angry, muttering, but making no disturbance.
Peter Jones then spoke at length, answering and correcting
statements the traders had made. Colonel Givens soon arrived and
the meeting closed.

_July 17th._--Collected the Indians again, and preached from Matt.
xi. 28. Peter Jones expounded the Lord's Prayer. The Frenchmen were
much displeased at his remarks on the subject of forgiving sins.
They afterwards tried to force some of the Christians to drink, but
failed. The Lord have mercy on these wicked men, and open their
eyes before it is too late! When the presents were to be given out,
the men were seated by themselves, and also the women; the boys
and girls according to their ages. The chiefs then requested all
who were Christians, or wished to be, to sit together, and about
150 rose and did so. The difference in their countenances, as well
as their appearance and manners, was most marked. They looked
healthy, clean, and happy, whereas many of the others were almost
naked; some with bruised heads, and black faces, and almost burnt
up with liquor. When the distribution of presents ended, an Indian
Council was held at Phelps' Inn, at which I was invited to be
present. Chief Yellowhead spoke first, saying "The desire of his
heart was that their Great Father would grant them a place where
they might all settle down together. His people wished to throw
away their bad ways, and worship the Great Spirit." Many others
spoke, particularly requesting the Indian Agent to do what he could
to quiet the rage of the French traders. We have reason to thank
God for the kind friendly influence the Indian agents exert,
especially in closing the mouths of the traders. Oh, Lord, I will
praise Thee!

_July 20th._--I left the Holland Landing this morning for the
purpose of visiting the islands north-east of Lake Simcoe, to
ascertain their desirability for a settlement. I find the situation
very pleasant. The chief has a comfortable house containing four
rooms, with everything decent and convenient. This island contains
about four hundred acres of beautiful basswood, beech, and maple.
The chief told me that the Mohawks once had a village there,
probably a century ago; as there is a navigable creek running to
the mouth of the river, there was every attraction for a convenient
settlement. The chief also offers any one who will come and teach
the children, two rooms in his house for that purpose, and the
Indians will support him. Such is the field of philanthropic and
Christian labour in this place, and which demand most vigorous
cultivation.

_July 22nd._--I assembled the Indians this morning, and gave them
my parting advice; after which the Chief (Wahwahsinno) spoke with
great power. He is the most interesting, intelligent Indian I ever
saw. He warned them to beware of the evil spirit which was lurking
around them on every side; to be honest and cheat nobody; not to
get drunk, but buy food and clothing for their children. You know,
he said, how our fathers, grandfathers, and great-grandfathers have
been killed by liquor--now, don't do as they have done. We are
thankful to our Great Father, over the waters, for the clothes he
has given us, and to our good brother for the good things he has
taught us. We then embraced each other and bade farewell.

_July 23rd._--Arrived again at the Narrows, and found the Indians
firmly established in the faith. I have now spent eight days among
these long-neglected and injured people, and happy are my eyes that
have seen these glorious things.

[The missionary efforts of these times were in Upper Canada chiefly directed toward the Indians. Of this abundant evidence is given in the preceding pages. That these efforts were also put forth by the Church of England, may be gathered from the fact that at a public meeting held in York, on the 29th of October, 1830, a Society was formed, under the presidency of the Bishop of Quebec, "for the converting and civilizing of the Indians of Upper Canada." In his address, on that occasion, the Bishop stated that the Rev. G. Archbold, with true missionary zeal, had resided among the Indians on the north side of Lake Huron during the greater part of the summer, and at his departure had left them in care of Mr. James W. Cameron. Mr. Cameron was, in 1832 succeeded by Mr. (now Archdeacon) McMurray at Sault Ste. Marie. Funds for the support of this Indian Mission were collected in England, by the Bishop in 1831, and also by Rev. A. N. (subsequently Bishop) Bethune. The scope of this Society was soon enlarged to "Propagating the Gospel among Destitute Settlers." The missionaries employed in 1831 were Rev. J. O'Brian (St. Clair), Rev. Salteen Givens (Bay of Quinte), and Mr. James W. Cameron (La Cloche, Saulte Ste. Marie, etc.)

That this interest was not confined to spiritual matters is evident from many letters and other references to the domestic and material improvement in the condition of the Indians, which I find in Dr. Ryerson's papers. I select the following, which touch upon many different matters relating to the temporal and spiritual interests of the Indians:--

In a letter written by Rev. William Case, from Hallowell, to Dr. Ryerson, he thus speaks of the success of a school established by the Conference among the Indians. He says:

Last evening (10th March) was exhibited the improvement of the
Indian School, at Grape Island, one boy, whose time at school
amounted to but about six months, read well in the Testament.
Several new tunes were well sung and had a fine effect. The whole
performance was excellent. More than twenty names were given in to
furnish provisions for the children of the school. These
exhibitions have a good effect. It animates the children and the
teachers, and affords a most gratifying opportunity to the friends
of the Missions to witness that their benevolence is not in
vain.--H.]

[Shortly after this letter was written, Elder Case went to New York, to solicit aid on behalf of the Indian Schools. He was accompanied by John Sunday and one or two other Indians. Writing from there, on the 19th April, to Dr. Ryerson, then at Cobourg, he says:

We have attended meetings frequently, and visited a great number of
schools and other institutions, both literary and religious. This
has a fine effect on our Indian brethren. The aid we are obtaining
will assist us for the improvement of our Indian Schools. We have
an especial view to the Indians of Rice Lake. Please look well to
the school there, and to the comfort of the teacher. The Indians
should be encouraged to cultivate their islands. The most that we
can do is to keep them at school, &c., and instruct them in their
worldly concerns.

The managers of the Missionary Society in New York, as well as in
Philadelphia, are very friendly. In case we shall be set off as a
Conference, they will continue to afford us assistance in the
Mission cause. You will judge something of the feeling of the
people here, when I inform you that a niece of the unfortunate Miss
McCrae, who was killed by the Indians in the revolutionary war, has
given us $10 towards the Indian schools, and two sets of very fine
diaper cloths for the communion table. We shall bring with us an
Indian book, containing the decalogue, the creed, hymns, and our
Lord's Sermon on the Mount. This will stimulate our schools, as
well as afford instruction to the Indian converts. I wish you to
encourage the Indian sisters to make a quantity of fancy trinkets,
we could sell them to advantage here. They should be well made. We
have been introduced to Mr. Francis Hall, of the New York
_Spectator_, and about forty ladies, who are engaged in preparing
bedding, clothing, &c., for our missions and schools. We gave them
a short address on the happy effects of the gospel on the mind and
condition of Indian female converts. John Sunday's address to them
in Indian was responded to with sobs through the room. Brother
Bangs addressed those present on behalf of the Indians exhorting
them to diligence and faithfulness. He said that we would always
find in the Christian females true encouragement and aid.--H.]

[Elder Case was anxious to re-open the school for Indian girls at Grape Island. In writing from the Credit, he says:

"When we gave up the female school it was designed to revive it,
and we had in view to employ one of the Miss Rolphs. If she can be
obtained we shall be much gratified. We wish everything done that
can be done to bring forward the children in every necessary
improvement, especially at the most important stations, and the
Credit is one of the most important. Can you afford any assistance
to Peter Jacobs? We are very solicitous to see some talent in
composition among some of our most promising scholars.

We are authorised by the Dorcas Society, of New York, to draw for
$20 to purchase a cow for the use of the mission family at the
Credit, and you are at liberty to get one now, or defer it till the
Spring. As probably the $20 will purchase a cow, and pay for her
keeping through the winter.

Our way this far has been prosperous. I never saw the pulse of
Missionary ardour beat higher. Tickets of admission at the
anniversaries might be sold by hundreds for a dollar each. But they
were distributed gratis. The collection at the female anniversary
was $217, and a handful of gold rings (about 20). The
superintendent is truly missionary; rejoicing in the plan of our
aiding them in the conversion of the Indians on this side of the
lines. Bros. Doxtadors and Hess' visit is well received, and a good
work commenced at the Oneida."--H.]

[In a letter written to Dr. Ryerson, by the Rev. James Richardson, on the 2nd Oct., 1829, referring to the privilege granted to the Indians of taking salmon (as mentioned on p. 66), he said:

As I came home, I stopped at James Gages', and found that he was
much displeased with the Indians for holding their fish so high. He
says his son could obtain them for less than 1/3d. currency (25c.).
Some of them were not worth half that. He remarked that Wm. Kerr
and others expressed great dissatisfaction with the Indians for
taking advantage of the privilege granted to them, and also for
haughtiness in their manner of dealing with their old friends. I am
afraid that unless they be moderate and civil, a prejudice will be
excited against them, which may prove detrimental to the missionary
cause. The respectable part of the inhabitants would be pleased to
have the Indians supported in this privilege, if they could
purchase fish of them at a moderate price.--H.]

[Elder Case, who was greatly interested in the success of the Indian Schools, and who--with a view to demonstrate the usefulness of the schools--proposed to take two of the Credit Indian boys to the Missionary Meetings in January, 1830, says:--

I should be glad to have something interesting at the York
Anniversary. Perhaps we may have a couple of promising boys from
this Station. Henry Steinheur will accompany me to Lake Simcoe, and
perhaps Allen Salt[14] will come up as far as York. They are both
fine boys, and excellent singers.]

[A providential opening having occurred for getting the Scriptures translated into the Indian language, Rev. Wm. Ryerson, in a letter to Dr. Ryerson, dated York, 24th February, 1830, says:--

I lately received a letter from the Rev. Mr. West, one of the
agents for the British and Foreign Bible Society, expressing the
anxiety he felt that the Scriptures should be translated into the
Chippewa language. He said that if proper application were made, he
would take great pleasure in laying it before the Committee of the
Parent Society, and use his influence to obtain any assistance that
might be wanted. Viewing this as a providential opening, I think
that steps should be taken to have the translation made. From your
residence among the Indians, and knowledge of their manners and
customs, and your acquaintance with those natives that are the best
advanced in religious knowledge and experience, do you not think
that the Joneses are the best qualified to translate the
Scriptures?--H.]

Note.--[The reply was in the affirmative, and Peter Jones was entrusted by the U. C. Bible Society with the work.[15]--H.]

_April 7th_, 1829.--[Writing to Dr. Ryerson, from Philadelphia, at this date, Elder Case says:

There is a fine feeling here in favour of the Canada Church and the Mission cause. Peter Jones and J. Hess are in New York overlooking the printing of the gospels, etc. We hope to bring back with us the Gospel of Mark, with other portions contained in the Book of Common Prayer, the Spelling-book and a Hymn book in Mohawk, and a Hymn-book in Chippewa. They are all in the press, and will be ready by 5th May, when we leave to return.--H.]

FOOTNOTES:

[10] My home was mostly at John Jones', brother of Peter Jones; sometimes at Wm. Herkimer's, a noble Indian convert, with a noble little wife.

[11] See page 78.

[12] _Cheehock_, "A bird on the wing," referring to my going about constantly among them.

[13] They often retire to the woods for private prayer, and sometimes their souls are so blessed, they praise God aloud, and can be heard at a considerable distance.

[14] These Indian boys subsequently became noted for their piety and missionary zeal on behalf of their red brethren.--H.

[15] An unexpected delay occurred in getting the translation made by Rev. Peter Jones printed, as explained in a letter from Rev. George Ryerson to Dr. Ryerson, dated Bristol, August 6th, 1831. He says:--

Peter Jones, after his return from London, experienced several weeks' delay in getting his translation prepared for the press, in consequence of a letter from the Committee on the Translations of the U. C. Bible Society--Drs. Harris, Baldwin, and Wenham--stating that the translation was imperfect. He had, in consequence, to go over the whole translation with Mr. Greenfield, the Editor of the Bible Society Translations. Mr. Greenfield is a very clever man, and has an extensive knowledge of languages. He very soon acquired the idiom of the Chippewa language so that he became better able to judge of the faithfulness of the translation. Mr. Greenfield went cheerfully through every sentence with Mr. Jones, and made some unimportant alterations, expressed himself much pleased with the translation, and thinks it the most literal of any published by the Bible Society. It is now passing through the press, and will soon be sent to Canada.