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NO.5]
Canto~,
[Mar.2l-26, l846J
Saturday, March 21st 1846.
The weather has become quite cold- the thermometer below
60 0 - and there is a drizzling rain which makes it uncomfortable
abroad.
Every thing seems,very gloomy in my present circumstances
the cheering rays or the sun shut out- the atmosphere so cold that
ill find it necessary to be wrapped in flannels with thick clothes-
surtout and cloak outside to keep me warm and, when sitting in
another room from the fire, with a blanket wrapped about my feet:
thus muffled up scarcely able to keep my body warm.
My mind too
has not been less cold and comfortless notwithstanding all my chidiug with my heart] and argumenttagainst unbelief.
My spirits will
feel dejection in spite of all my efforts to raise them.
I remem-
ber what the Psalmist says] and in his strain endeavor to say, Why
art thou cast down, 0 my soul? and why art thou disquieted within
me ? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him who is the health of
my countenance, and my God.
The weather doubtless has an effect upon my spirits,
aside from the state of my health and separation from my beloved
family] as well as the prospect of a long separation- the hazards
of a voyage to the U. state and theBce to the Islands.
things
rushi~g
endurance,
All these
at once upon the mind have been most too much for
~ave
been constrained to say, lTForsake me not., 0
Lord: 0 my God, be not far from me.
Make haste to help me, 0 Lord
of my Salvation.!l
The Rev. Geo. Smith of the Church Misslonary Society,of
E.ngland, took breakfast at Dr. Bridgman r s this morning, and has
spen~
considerable part of the day here, reading in manuscript part
-2-
of a journal of exploration & residence at Amoy; which he is about
to publish in the Chinese Repository.
The article is written in
a very pl.easing style, the descriptions are graphic and the facts
which he presents are of a very interesting nature.
The publica(j/c)
tion of it will doubtless be of service to the cause of protestant.missions in·China.
The health of MY. Smith requires that he should return
to his native land, and he has come recently
~rom
Shanghai the
most northern free port of China, in order to get passage for home.
Re had that. of 'going in the Lucas to New York; but the Captain
can take no more passengers, and thus he must seek some other vessel- he will pLobably take the over:':'land course.
Mr. S. has a
very youthful appearahce; and a feminine VOice, and I should not
have guessed him to be more than 23 years of age, whereas he is,
I understand, twenty-nine.
I shall be the only passenger in the Lucas, and on some
accounts I am glad of this.
I shall enjoy more quietness and re-
tirement and be· less tempted to use my voice.
Canton, Sabbath, March 22 1846.
'TIje weather continues to be cold and damp - th e thermometer in the house 548 the lowest mark at which it has been since
I have been in China (or rather I have not noticed it at a lower
stand)
The English service wE!s at the English Consulate and was
conducted by the Rev. Mr. Smith.
Mr. s. took tea and spent the evening with us, and was
p4esent at the Social meeting and made one of the prayers
por~ry)
(~xtem
lie appears to possess a good spirit and to have a warm
zeal for Missions.
He will doubtless wake up an interest for China
with Episcopalians in England if not in the U. states ..
-3-
Canton, bfunday, March 23rd.1846.
Had a call from Cap. Mlller, of ship Lucas, who informs me
that he has fixed Friday next for the day of embarkation.
He will
come up on Thursday, and on Friday he will take me down with my
baggage to Whampoa, where the vessel lies - being a distance of ?
or 8 miles down the river •. He .says the vessel is well provided
with comforts for the voyage, and
room.
h~
has assigned me a large state-'
I incruired respecting bedding, and learned that I should
not need to purchase anything of that nature" as the ship is provided with blankets.
I shall use my own sheets & pillow cases and
[S,'eJ
also matress.
1\
We. may calculate on a pretty long passage, as at
this season of the year light winds prevail, and the north east
lIJfunsoons are dying away.
It will be cold weather off the Cape of
Good Rope, as it may be the last of June or the first of July,
before we are up with that point of the Continent of Africa.
The
Captain however thinks he shall be at home by the middle of August •
. I hope we shall arrive earlier than that, as I shall wish to do up .
all my visiting before cold weather.
I am pleased with the appearance of the Captain, and I
learn that he is of a kind temper.
One of the mates had a letter
of introduction to Dr. Bridgman
took dinner with us a few
~d
days ago; he spoke of the Captain & his wife in terms of commendation.
They have however not a very heavy crew, about one half of
them being what
a~e
called boys;- probably young men on their first
voyage; but their experience and skill have increased and will continue to increase as time passes away on their homeward bound voyage.
States.
I can make no calculation in regard to visiting in the U.
I shall desire to visit Pennsylvania, and it seems to me
-4-
now, in case my health will admit
that it will be a saving
o~
o~the ~atigue o~ journe~ing,
time and expense to go on immediately
to Pequea and a~ter ~inishing my visit there, go on to Boston hy
the way
o~
East Hampton and visit Warren and Evarts
Bu t I must
+
every thing unsettled now: the Lord will order all things
lliea~e
right:
Canton', Tuesday, March 24 184'6.
The. weather is a little more mild to day; but the at..
mosphere is damp and the sun does not make his appearance.
I had
hoped to witness pleasant weather to day: for ·in the night there
was some thunder and lightning with rain, and I thought the
ning might clear the atmosphere.
The climate is very
here from what it is at the islands.
sunny days since I arrived in Canton.
dif~erent
There have been very
The place
l~ht-
dif~ers
~ew
from Hong
Kong in respect to temperature and cloudy sky. ·There it is not
so cold·and the weather is more pleasant (This applies however only
to the time· I resided there).
It is very clear to
to get away from here as ·soon as possible.
ITa
that I ought
The climate may not·be
an unhealthy one to persons of strong constitution and firm health;
but it seems to me not to be a place for an invalid.
o~
This view
the subject reconciles me to my present plan of going on forth-
with to the U. States.
The plan, it is true, will keep me a lon-
ger time from home than I contemplated; but it seems to be the Lord ,::
will.
But I feel unwilling to take a step without the divine
guidance.
Unless it is his pleasure that I should go, I would
stay here and here would I die.
would say as MOses did,
~y
If his presence go not with me I
(@ee Exodus: Chap. 33. v. 12-16.)
presence go not with me carry us not up hence."
I~
nI~
=-
the Lord
/'.
go not with me, let me not g9 on that ship-'--..board
or sail away
-5-
from these region?; but the Lord provid.e me a direct conveyance
to the Islands.
These have been my feelings in view of the
~es-
ent attitude of my affairs.
I have been turning my thoughts to getting ready. I
think I shall not need anything more in regard to outfit.
I have
two dozen of shirts and of other clothing I suppose I have enough
for the voyage.
If I should arrive in the U. states with health
improved, I can get some new clothing made in order to appear
decent in company.
style.
I cannot get clothing made here in European
Chinese can make thin clothing very well after a pattern-
or muster; but they do not succeed in woollen clothing to make by
measure
nQ't~
I1s.
h.
L!-'Tote- At this point two pages;t are miSSing, c'ut out of
the" book. JfhJ
.F-.J
~
slight specimen of Chinese dealing.
I
have no doubt but the full worth of 75 cents had been expended
upon the article; but he should not have charged for ,it more than
I offered to give, and what, by' his making it, was a tacit agreement on his part as the price of the thing.
I have told this long story as an illustration of character, and to show how things are done here.
in~uired
If an article be
for in a ChinamanTs shop,if he has not got it- He will
say; can make it, or,can get it for you.
China, Wednesday, 251Iarch, 1846.
It continues to be cloudy with the wind still from the
north; but the temperature is a little more mild; the thermometer
standing at 65 0
•
Mrs. Bridgman has given me eight shirts and six collars
for the voyage; this will 'make my outfit abundant for these articles.
I have had the cloth for slippers, which was wrought by
Maria Jane and Martha Ann, made into a pair of shoes: and they
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are really
.ver~
pretty, and I must thank them for their work.
I
shall be constantly reminded of them, when these meet my eye. The
pr@tty mark for my Bible which Maria dane sent; bearing the appropriate motto:
n
Lord send prosperity", meets my eye every day, and
reminds me of the beloved daughter who sent it, while the sentiment affords comfort as a theme of prayer and encouragement to
lay hold upon the promise of God; uAsk and ye shall receive. tt
May
that dear daughter.ge taught by the Spirit to ask for the good
part, and so seek as to find it.
And may all of my children be
among the'followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, and early dedicate
themselves to his service, and be willing to profess his name before their fellow me·n.
If they refuse to confess him before
a
sinful world, and are ashamed of the profession of Christianity,
of them will lie be ashamed, and will reruse them admittance into
his heavenly kingd9m.
wi th
pI'
ayer to God.
I hope they will read the Bible every day
I do no t mean reading and praying in the
family; but I mean apart, by themselves.
Until they do thi's, they
will lack a very important evidence that they are seeking the salvation of their souls.
I have written more these two days than for a long time
before.
I have reason to think
~t
is injurious ·to me to confine
myself to writing; but I feel desiroUE to leave something to send'
to the islands after I have gone from here, and I am making an
unusual effort, and yet I
s~all
not write any_ private letters: the
brethren at the_islands, must excuse me.
I bear them and their
work constantly on my heart, and if the Lord will, I hope to join
them again with improved health, and to take some humble part in
helping on the great cause.
I feel more composed in mind in regard to the future- my
-7-
passage is paid- and I pave only to get my baggage together and
go on board.
This will be in a few days and when I am once under
way, directing my course towards my native land, I shall feel that
I am under the divine conduct.
I wish to
tr~st
Raving castmyselt upon the Lord,
in his guidance, and to feel in whatever takes
place a perfect acquiescence, believing that the Lordts plan is
marked before him" and that he will glorify himself in all that
-concerns me, being found in the path of duty I shall be safe - no
real evil can happen to me.
Death must come sooner or later:-
'for here we shall not live alway, and who would wish to live alway
in such a body, in such a state of sin with infirmities Of flesh
arid s:pirit constantly pressing. (Man at his best estate being vani ty) .
And yet I have a strong desire to live, and to return to
my island home -
to meet· my wife and children and praise the Lord
for his mereies to me and to them; Nor am I without hope that
through your prayers and the prayers of my fellow laborers at the
islands, I shall be restored unto you.
It has seemed to me that providence has been operating
,rather peculiarly to bring about what are now my prospects.
It
was no part of my plan to come to China, tho. the thought of its
practicability was early presented to my mind, but without any
intention on my part of pursuping it or following it up. AS my
L
inftJ:r-mi ties cont inued and the reasons for my taking a voyage
,a
became more urgent, passage to China st.ill presented itself to
/I
my mind, but there was an absence on my part of any will to go
forward.
I could see no way of getting back and onward t·o the U.
States was the only course which seemed open.
But here I was irres-
olute, my feelings would have been gratified with the prospect of
a visit, after so long an absence, to my native land.
But I must
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be absent for a long
t~e
from my family, and much
be incurred,· much hazard-dn.ust be risked.
br~thren
e~ense
must
My physicians, wife &.
pressed me to take a voyage - to go to Canton and trust
providence for a passage back.
I had another attack of bleeding:
I was brought to the point of submitting myself entirely to the
advice of my brethren and to the will of Providence.
I said ,nr
will have no will of my own: Tell me what I ought to do and I
'will do it.rt
They said, .tlTake passage in the Congaree and trust
to the Lord ~o open the way for your return.tl - I embarked- though
I had strong expectations that I should be'prevented from doing
i.e.
it~
I thought that some event WOUld. transpire by which I should
be prevented from taking passage.
cle in my way and' I went on board.
regard to the passage.
But providence threw no obstaThere was nothing maj:ked in
I had two sli,ght turns of raising blood,
one a few days after my embarkation &. the other a few days before
my arrival at Hong Kong.' What effect these returns of bleeding
were to have upon my plans I could not see 1
the~.
doubtless have
had same influence
in determining to my present course.
,
currence of bleeding from the lungs indicates
~he
The re-
existence of
disease; to remove which a voyage was recommended; and, while existing, there would remain on my part inability for labor; so
that should I return to the islands it must be to go through what
I had previously experienced- cessation of labor and repeated
attacks of illness,- or perhaps to take another voyage in some'
other direction -
I had Previously to leaving Hong Kong made up
my mind to proceed in the Congaree to the U. states- that is, in
case that vessel should have that destination.
/
But as the Conga-
ree had a destination unfavorable to my continuing in her, I re-
-9-
moved my relations, and I came to Canton, hoping that Providence
~he
might open
way for my return to the islands, my mind being
strongly set on returning home.
I submitted the subject to the
advice 0'1' my' friends here who understood the state of my feelings.
I was also examined by an able physician on Whose advice I was
disposed to rely.
.A way of re turn to the .islands seemed to be
open, as the Commodore of the U~ S. Eas4 India Squadron consented
to. my taking passage in, the Columbus, which he assured Dr. Parker
should be afforded free of expense, though it would be necessary
to wait some months here.
The point was settled in my mind of
waiting for the Columbus, and so I dismissed the thought of a,
passage to the U. States in ships that were to sail about the first
of March.
And I should here say that
th~
inquiries in regard to
duty were instituted in reference to those opportunities, as I
was desirous to avail myself of one of them, should it be the advice of my
fr~ends
to proceed to my native land.
Had there been no change in my health I should not propably have thought of a change of course.
But raising blood again,
and the time of my being able to get away being Quite doubtful
as well as my condition on board a large Man of War not likely to
be very comfortable as a sick man, and the entire uncerta,inty as
to what time I
shoul~
get back to the islands, in connection also
with the fact that a favoTable opportunity of a passage to the U.
s. was presented, induced me to agitate the subject again, the
result of which has been stated.
All these things I cannot but
look upon as Providential; and moreover I get a passage on very
reasonable terms, in a vessel in all respects comfortable, and
with a Captain and his lady, who are well spoken of; myself the
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only passenger.
The passage I mentioned as reasonable -the usual price
is ,from $400 to $500.
Another vessel of which in~uiry was made
had for terms $450, and accommodations not so desirable for me.
was to have
r
Cap. D~ane ,290, and that was thought a very low
giv~n
price, the terms being agreed
~n ~t
the islands.
I give for the passage in the Lucas $300 : but I must
pay according to the value of currency here, which makes the sum.
$8.46 more: i.e. $308.46
These I consider reasohable terms.
The indications of Providence in favor of a vayage to
the
U. S. seem to be referable to these:
1st.
The continuance of' the "cause for which a voyage was
undertaken.
2.
Advise of "a p.gysician in regard to its imm.ed.iate prose-
cution, with the hope or benefit.
3.
Accommodations in a Ship of War undesirable "for one in
my circumstances.
4.
Delay in regard to a passage to the islands, with un-
certainty in regard to going direct & the time of arrival theremight not be before J"anuary."
5.
A favorable opportunity for the U. S.- a desirable
vessel & moderate terms.
Canton, Thursday March 26,1846.
There was some thunder last night and again this morning with rain, the'atmosphere continuing damp and the sky lowery.
One reason for my not waiting in China an indefinite
t~e
for a
passage to the islands ia the nature of the atmosphere: the Doctor
17
&1<.J
has said the sooner I am at sea the better.
f\
"
I continue to feel
quite reconciled to the decision of
. . ' _ ......'O. .
-ll-
a voyage to the U. States.
needed pro§perity.
f~ly
The Lord will doubtless grant me all
I am aware it will be a disappointment to my
not to have me return to the islands by the vessel that
shall bear these communications.
I sha.:l:-l put up a'small box to be sent by the first epportuni ty.
In the box I shall put th,e two shawls fo I' Maria J"ane and
Martha Ann, and the seals for' James and Levi.
nated a comb for you and a box of envelopes.
obtained an:r\thing fO~ Isabella.
I have also desigI have not as yet
If I am no table to ge t anything
for ,her, you may buy some little thing to give her as a present
from father.
It is very unpleasant going out among the shops to
make purchases ,particularly on account of the jockeying character
of the Chinese to which I have referred,
even gone into the streets.
And of late I have not
It will be necessary during the re-
mainder of my stay that I exercise,great caution to avoid another
turn of bleeding: it is now 12 days since my last attack; and my
expectora'tlons have been very limited during the whole of the time.
I feel encouragement in regard to my state from the fact that I
have very little cough qr expectoration from the lungs, and keep
my ordinary amount of flesh.
I am q,ui te sure that I have as much
flesh and as much bodily strength as I had when I left the islands.probably more -
My appetite has been uniformly good, though I
am a little inclined to constipation, and am, under the'
n~/ces'si ty
of using occasionally some opening -medicine.
Dr. Parker prescribed sugar of lead to be taken on occasion of bleeding.
Ris recommendations have bean essentially the
same as Dr. Woodts & Dr. Smith ts.
'}
I., think my case is one which
presents uncertainty to the mind of a physician.
All who have
seen me think that with care I may live a considerable time- say
",~,
ten years: though of course my disorder may take a tUrn to carry
me off soon.
Perhaps the single act of raising olood may not
prove the qause of death, but I may take cold and have some violen~
attack upon the lungs, which will prove fatal.
I refer all
the future to the Lord.
I must not close my notes without saying something more
of Mrs Bridgman.
acquainted with
Her maiden name ·was Eliza J. Gillet and she was
~ITs.
Paris of our mission,
She oelonged to Dr.
Milnorts Church and came to. China in the care of the Rev. Dr.
Boone, Bishop· of the Episcopal Board of Missions.
There were two
other single ladies who came out with her under the same care.
On
the arrival of those missionaries· in Hong Kong some circumstances
threw this Miss Gillet into the Society of Dr. Bridgman and a
match was pretty soon formed, much to the dissatisfaction of Dr.
Boone, who had valued much on the talent and character of this
single lady, whom he supposed proof against all propo s·als of a
matrimonial nature.
4erein he was saqly disappointed for she
became Mrs. Bridgman and Dr. Boone was under the stern necessity of
.
~
r
leaving her behind and of going on to his station at Shanghai in
the north with the other two single ladies & the other missionaries
associated with him.
I understood that he was at first very se-
vere on Miss Gillet for leaving her mission & uniting herself with
a gentleman of another denomination & another mission, out he has
oecome more reconciled to the arrangement and now speaks in pleasant terms in regard to the alliance, and the manner of his losing
this helper in his Mission.
I will also say a word or two in regard to the relations
of Dr. Parker and the manner of his
support~
lie has charge of the
Hospital and receives from the Merchants in Canton from private
subs'.9ription ·for medi cal practice, tl;1e sum of
:;P1000~ ..
.a:ld h3
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re-ceives from the Government of the U. states a salary of $2500 as
Interpreter to Legation.
Board and the Mission.
There is not perfect
He still retains his connection with the
But receives no support from the Board.
sa~isfaction
felt I believe in regard to the
application of these sums rec d • by Dr. Parker for his services,
retaining as he does his nominal relations with the Board & Mission
I should be sorry to have such_a case as this in our Mission.
It is felt to be one at variance with the principles of the Board.
But it is a difficult case to manage and it would be better in
my opinion that so far as support is concerned the Doctor were
not connected with the Mission.
The Dr. has been very kind and
attentive to me, and I feel under many obligations to him, for his
aid as a physician & his counsel & sympathy as a friend- & Christian brother.
Since the foregoing memorandum was made I have purchased
a fan for Isabella which cost 25 cents.
12 paintings.
20 of them.
MI. Dimond wanted 10 -or
I have got Dr. Ball to procure some - there are
If Mr. D1mDnd does not want all of them I have re-
quested him to let the children have half of them, if you think it b
best to take them.
Half of them will be one dollar.
I did not see until I qverhauled my chest this afternoon
the umbrella frame which you put up with a view to get it covered
in Canton.
This of course I cannot get done now t and I doubt
whether I could get it done to my satisfaction if I should try. I
am bringing everyt4ing up to a close now t as I hope to embark
tomorrow.
Dr. Bridgman has rec~ letters from the Missionary Rooms
to day.
I saw one addressed to Mr.
~ames
G. Bridgman by Dr.
-l4-
Anderson dated Dec~ 22nd.
It contained a copy of a vote of the
Pru. Com.. accepting him. as an assistant Missionary of the Board,
.
and he is to be
at,
ord~ned
hereafter.-
-15-
Maxims.
Anger .resteth in the bosom of fools.
A wise man
deferre~h
his anger.
He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he
that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a ,ci ty.
He that is soon angry deal'eth foolishly.
He that hath no rule over his own s:pirit is like a city that
is broken down & without walls.
~
soft answer turneth away wrath; but grievous words stir
up ang'e];.
A wise son heareth his fatherts instruction.
A righteous man hateth lying.
Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that
fear-
eth the commandment shall be rewarded.
Good understanding giveth favor; but the way of transgressors is hard.
Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction;
but he that regardeth reproof shall be honored.
He that walketh with wise men shall be wise.
There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword; but the
tongue of the wise is health.
The lip of truth shall be established forever; but a lying
tongue is but for a moment.
Deceit in in the heart, of them.. that imagine evil: but to the
counsellors of peace is joy.
Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord: but they who deal
truly are his delight.
In the way of righteousness is life; and in the pathway thereof there is no death.
-16-
To
Isabella-
Even a child. is known by his doings,' whether his
work be pure and whether it be right.
There is gold and a multitude of rubies: but the lips
of knowledge are a precious jewel.
Train up a child in the way he should go: and, when he·
is old, he will not depart from it.
Happy is the man (for Isabella I will say, child) that
feareth alway; but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into
mischief.
To . Maria
J"ane .'
The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom:; and
before honor is humility.
Everyone that is proud in heart is an abomination to the
Lord.
Pleasant words are as an honey-comb, sweet to the soul
and health to the bones.
He that followeth after righteousness and mercy, findeth
life, righteousness and
~onor.
Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman
thatfeareth the Lord, she shall be praised.
To
Levi
Tenny
Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge.
ThE?re shall no evil happen to the just.
The hand of the diligent shall bear rule.
The way of the slothful is as a hed§B of thorns; but
the way of the righteous is made plain.
-1?-
He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul;
but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.
To
James
Patton.
The fear of the Lord ,is the beginning of wisdom; ahd
the knowledge of the Holy is understanding.
For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years
of thy life shall be increased.
If thou be Wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself; but if
thou scornest, thou. alone shalt bear it.
The Lord will not suffer the soul of the righteous to
famish; but he casteth away the sUbstance of the wicked.
A wise son maketh a glad father.
My son, be wise, and make my heart glad.
Wisdom is the principal thing,therefore get wisdom.
Forsake not the law of thy mother: and despise not thy
mother when she is old •.
An obedient child makes glad the heart of his parents:
and to such as honor their parents the LDrd hath left a promise
of long life and prosperity, if that should be best for them.
The fear of the Lord prolongeth days; but the y:ears
of the wicked shall be shortened.
Provo 10 c. 2? v.
To
Martha
Ann.
ltWisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that
may be desired are not to be compared to it. It
Prov. 8 chap. 11 v
I love them that love me; and those that seek me early
shall find me.
v. l?
Whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain ravor
-18-
of' the Lord.
v. 35.
Wisdom in the highest sense is the fear of the Lord.
In this sen·se may m.y daughter seek it first; and in the subordi.-
nate sense seek it also.
L. C.
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NO.5]
Canto~,
[Mar.2l-26, l846J
Saturday, March 21st 1846.
The weather has become quite cold- the thermometer below
60 0 - and there is a drizzling rain which makes it uncomfortable
abroad.
Every thing seems,very gloomy in my present circumstances
the cheering rays or the sun shut out- the atmosphere so cold that
ill find it necessary to be wrapped in flannels with thick clothes-
surtout and cloak outside to keep me warm and, when sitting in
another room from the fire, with a blanket wrapped about my feet:
thus muffled up scarcely able to keep my body warm.
My mind too
has not been less cold and comfortless notwithstanding all my chidiug with my heart] and argumenttagainst unbelief.
My spirits will
feel dejection in spite of all my efforts to raise them.
I remem-
ber what the Psalmist says] and in his strain endeavor to say, Why
art thou cast down, 0 my soul? and why art thou disquieted within
me ? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him who is the health of
my countenance, and my God.
The weather doubtless has an effect upon my spirits,
aside from the state of my health and separation from my beloved
family] as well as the prospect of a long separation- the hazards
of a voyage to the U. state and theBce to the Islands.
things
rushi~g
endurance,
All these
at once upon the mind have been most too much for
~ave
been constrained to say, lTForsake me not., 0
Lord: 0 my God, be not far from me.
Make haste to help me, 0 Lord
of my Salvation.!l
The Rev. Geo. Smith of the Church Misslonary Society,of
E.ngland, took breakfast at Dr. Bridgman r s this morning, and has
spen~
considerable part of the day here, reading in manuscript part
-2-
of a journal of exploration & residence at Amoy; which he is about
to publish in the Chinese Repository.
The article is written in
a very pl.easing style, the descriptions are graphic and the facts
which he presents are of a very interesting nature.
The publica(j/c)
tion of it will doubtless be of service to the cause of protestant.missions in·China.
The health of MY. Smith requires that he should return
to his native land, and he has come recently
~rom
Shanghai the
most northern free port of China, in order to get passage for home.
Re had that. of 'going in the Lucas to New York; but the Captain
can take no more passengers, and thus he must seek some other vessel- he will pLobably take the over:':'land course.
Mr. S. has a
very youthful appearahce; and a feminine VOice, and I should not
have guessed him to be more than 23 years of age, whereas he is,
I understand, twenty-nine.
I shall be the only passenger in the Lucas, and on some
accounts I am glad of this.
I shall enjoy more quietness and re-
tirement and be· less tempted to use my voice.
Canton, Sabbath, March 22 1846.
'TIje weather continues to be cold and damp - th e thermometer in the house 548 the lowest mark at which it has been since
I have been in China (or rather I have not noticed it at a lower
stand)
The English service wE!s at the English Consulate and was
conducted by the Rev. Mr. Smith.
Mr. s. took tea and spent the evening with us, and was
p4esent at the Social meeting and made one of the prayers
por~ry)
(~xtem
lie appears to possess a good spirit and to have a warm
zeal for Missions.
He will doubtless wake up an interest for China
with Episcopalians in England if not in the U. states ..
-3-
Canton, bfunday, March 23rd.1846.
Had a call from Cap. Mlller, of ship Lucas, who informs me
that he has fixed Friday next for the day of embarkation.
He will
come up on Thursday, and on Friday he will take me down with my
baggage to Whampoa, where the vessel lies - being a distance of ?
or 8 miles down the river •. He .says the vessel is well provided
with comforts for the voyage, and
room.
h~
has assigned me a large state-'
I incruired respecting bedding, and learned that I should
not need to purchase anything of that nature" as the ship is provided with blankets.
I shall use my own sheets & pillow cases and
[S,'eJ
also matress.
1\
We. may calculate on a pretty long passage, as at
this season of the year light winds prevail, and the north east
lIJfunsoons are dying away.
It will be cold weather off the Cape of
Good Rope, as it may be the last of June or the first of July,
before we are up with that point of the Continent of Africa.
The
Captain however thinks he shall be at home by the middle of August •
. I hope we shall arrive earlier than that, as I shall wish to do up .
all my visiting before cold weather.
I am pleased with the appearance of the Captain, and I
learn that he is of a kind temper.
One of the mates had a letter
of introduction to Dr. Bridgman
took dinner with us a few
~d
days ago; he spoke of the Captain & his wife in terms of commendation.
They have however not a very heavy crew, about one half of
them being what
a~e
called boys;- probably young men on their first
voyage; but their experience and skill have increased and will continue to increase as time passes away on their homeward bound voyage.
States.
I can make no calculation in regard to visiting in the U.
I shall desire to visit Pennsylvania, and it seems to me
-4-
now, in case my health will admit
that it will be a saving
o~
o~the ~atigue o~ journe~ing,
time and expense to go on immediately
to Pequea and a~ter ~inishing my visit there, go on to Boston hy
the way
o~
East Hampton and visit Warren and Evarts
Bu t I must
+
every thing unsettled now: the Lord will order all things
lliea~e
right:
Canton', Tuesday, March 24 184'6.
The. weather is a little more mild to day; but the at..
mosphere is damp and the sun does not make his appearance.
I had
hoped to witness pleasant weather to day: for ·in the night there
was some thunder and lightning with rain, and I thought the
ning might clear the atmosphere.
The climate is very
here from what it is at the islands.
sunny days since I arrived in Canton.
dif~erent
There have been very
The place
l~ht-
dif~ers
~ew
from Hong
Kong in respect to temperature and cloudy sky. ·There it is not
so cold·and the weather is more pleasant (This applies however only
to the time· I resided there).
It is very clear to
to get away from here as ·soon as possible.
ITa
that I ought
The climate may not·be
an unhealthy one to persons of strong constitution and firm health;
but it seems to me not to be a place for an invalid.
o~
This view
the subject reconciles me to my present plan of going on forth-
with to the U. States.
The plan, it is true, will keep me a lon-
ger time from home than I contemplated; but it seems to be the Lord ,::
will.
But I feel unwilling to take a step without the divine
guidance.
Unless it is his pleasure that I should go, I would
stay here and here would I die.
would say as MOses did,
~y
If his presence go not with me I
(@ee Exodus: Chap. 33. v. 12-16.)
presence go not with me carry us not up hence."
I~
nI~
=-
the Lord
/'.
go not with me, let me not g9 on that ship-'--..board
or sail away
-5-
from these region?; but the Lord provid.e me a direct conveyance
to the Islands.
These have been my feelings in view of the
~es-
ent attitude of my affairs.
I have been turning my thoughts to getting ready. I
think I shall not need anything more in regard to outfit.
I have
two dozen of shirts and of other clothing I suppose I have enough
for the voyage.
If I should arrive in the U. states with health
improved, I can get some new clothing made in order to appear
decent in company.
style.
I cannot get clothing made here in European
Chinese can make thin clothing very well after a pattern-
or muster; but they do not succeed in woollen clothing to make by
measure
nQ't~
I1s.
h.
L!-'Tote- At this point two pages;t are miSSing, c'ut out of
the" book. JfhJ
.F-.J
~
slight specimen of Chinese dealing.
I
have no doubt but the full worth of 75 cents had been expended
upon the article; but he should not have charged for ,it more than
I offered to give, and what, by' his making it, was a tacit agreement on his part as the price of the thing.
I have told this long story as an illustration of character, and to show how things are done here.
in~uired
If an article be
for in a ChinamanTs shop,if he has not got it- He will
say; can make it, or,can get it for you.
China, Wednesday, 251Iarch, 1846.
It continues to be cloudy with the wind still from the
north; but the temperature is a little more mild; the thermometer
standing at 65 0
•
Mrs. Bridgman has given me eight shirts and six collars
for the voyage; this will 'make my outfit abundant for these articles.
I have had the cloth for slippers, which was wrought by
Maria Jane and Martha Ann, made into a pair of shoes: and they
-6-
are really
.ver~
pretty, and I must thank them for their work.
I
shall be constantly reminded of them, when these meet my eye. The
pr@tty mark for my Bible which Maria dane sent; bearing the appropriate motto:
n
Lord send prosperity", meets my eye every day, and
reminds me of the beloved daughter who sent it, while the sentiment affords comfort as a theme of prayer and encouragement to
lay hold upon the promise of God; uAsk and ye shall receive. tt
May
that dear daughter.ge taught by the Spirit to ask for the good
part, and so seek as to find it.
And may all of my children be
among the'followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, and early dedicate
themselves to his service, and be willing to profess his name before their fellow me·n.
If they refuse to confess him before
a
sinful world, and are ashamed of the profession of Christianity,
of them will lie be ashamed, and will reruse them admittance into
his heavenly kingd9m.
wi th
pI'
ayer to God.
I hope they will read the Bible every day
I do no t mean reading and praying in the
family; but I mean apart, by themselves.
Until they do thi's, they
will lack a very important evidence that they are seeking the salvation of their souls.
I have written more these two days than for a long time
before.
I have reason to think
~t
is injurious ·to me to confine
myself to writing; but I feel desiroUE to leave something to send'
to the islands after I have gone from here, and I am making an
unusual effort, and yet I
s~all
not write any_ private letters: the
brethren at the_islands, must excuse me.
I bear them and their
work constantly on my heart, and if the Lord will, I hope to join
them again with improved health, and to take some humble part in
helping on the great cause.
I feel more composed in mind in regard to the future- my
-7-
passage is paid- and I pave only to get my baggage together and
go on board.
This will be in a few days and when I am once under
way, directing my course towards my native land, I shall feel that
I am under the divine conduct.
I wish to
tr~st
Raving castmyselt upon the Lord,
in his guidance, and to feel in whatever takes
place a perfect acquiescence, believing that the Lordts plan is
marked before him" and that he will glorify himself in all that
-concerns me, being found in the path of duty I shall be safe - no
real evil can happen to me.
Death must come sooner or later:-
'for here we shall not live alway, and who would wish to live alway
in such a body, in such a state of sin with infirmities Of flesh
arid s:pirit constantly pressing. (Man at his best estate being vani ty) .
And yet I have a strong desire to live, and to return to
my island home -
to meet· my wife and children and praise the Lord
for his mereies to me and to them; Nor am I without hope that
through your prayers and the prayers of my fellow laborers at the
islands, I shall be restored unto you.
It has seemed to me that providence has been operating
,rather peculiarly to bring about what are now my prospects.
It
was no part of my plan to come to China, tho. the thought of its
practicability was early presented to my mind, but without any
intention on my part of pursuping it or following it up. AS my
L
inftJ:r-mi ties cont inued and the reasons for my taking a voyage
,a
became more urgent, passage to China st.ill presented itself to
/I
my mind, but there was an absence on my part of any will to go
forward.
I could see no way of getting back and onward t·o the U.
States was the only course which seemed open.
But here I was irres-
olute, my feelings would have been gratified with the prospect of
a visit, after so long an absence, to my native land.
But I must
-8-
be absent for a long
t~e
from my family, and much
be incurred,· much hazard-dn.ust be risked.
br~thren
e~ense
must
My physicians, wife &.
pressed me to take a voyage - to go to Canton and trust
providence for a passage back.
I had another attack of bleeding:
I was brought to the point of submitting myself entirely to the
advice of my brethren and to the will of Providence.
I said ,nr
will have no will of my own: Tell me what I ought to do and I
'will do it.rt
They said, .tlTake passage in the Congaree and trust
to the Lord ~o open the way for your return.tl - I embarked- though
I had strong expectations that I should be'prevented from doing
i.e.
it~
I thought that some event WOUld. transpire by which I should
be prevented from taking passage.
cle in my way and' I went on board.
regard to the passage.
But providence threw no obstaThere was nothing maj:ked in
I had two sli,ght turns of raising blood,
one a few days after my embarkation &. the other a few days before
my arrival at Hong Kong.' What effect these returns of bleeding
were to have upon my plans I could not see 1
the~.
doubtless have
had same influence
in determining to my present course.
,
currence of bleeding from the lungs indicates
~he
The re-
existence of
disease; to remove which a voyage was recommended; and, while existing, there would remain on my part inability for labor; so
that should I return to the islands it must be to go through what
I had previously experienced- cessation of labor and repeated
attacks of illness,- or perhaps to take another voyage in some'
other direction -
I had Previously to leaving Hong Kong made up
my mind to proceed in the Congaree to the U. states- that is, in
case that vessel should have that destination.
/
But as the Conga-
ree had a destination unfavorable to my continuing in her, I re-
-9-
moved my relations, and I came to Canton, hoping that Providence
~he
might open
way for my return to the islands, my mind being
strongly set on returning home.
I submitted the subject to the
advice 0'1' my' friends here who understood the state of my feelings.
I was also examined by an able physician on Whose advice I was
disposed to rely.
.A way of re turn to the .islands seemed to be
open, as the Commodore of the U~ S. Eas4 India Squadron consented
to. my taking passage in, the Columbus, which he assured Dr. Parker
should be afforded free of expense, though it would be necessary
to wait some months here.
The point was settled in my mind of
waiting for the Columbus, and so I dismissed the thought of a,
passage to the U. States in ships that were to sail about the first
of March.
And I should here say that
th~
inquiries in regard to
duty were instituted in reference to those opportunities, as I
was desirous to avail myself of one of them, should it be the advice of my
fr~ends
to proceed to my native land.
Had there been no change in my health I should not propably have thought of a change of course.
But raising blood again,
and the time of my being able to get away being Quite doubtful
as well as my condition on board a large Man of War not likely to
be very comfortable as a sick man, and the entire uncerta,inty as
to what time I
shoul~
get back to the islands, in connection also
with the fact that a favoTable opportunity of a passage to the U.
s. was presented, induced me to agitate the subject again, the
result of which has been stated.
All these things I cannot but
look upon as Providential; and moreover I get a passage on very
reasonable terms, in a vessel in all respects comfortable, and
with a Captain and his lady, who are well spoken of; myself the
-10-
only passenger.
The passage I mentioned as reasonable -the usual price
is ,from $400 to $500.
Another vessel of which in~uiry was made
had for terms $450, and accommodations not so desirable for me.
was to have
r
Cap. D~ane ,290, and that was thought a very low
giv~n
price, the terms being agreed
~n ~t
the islands.
I give for the passage in the Lucas $300 : but I must
pay according to the value of currency here, which makes the sum.
$8.46 more: i.e. $308.46
These I consider reasohable terms.
The indications of Providence in favor of a vayage to
the
U. S. seem to be referable to these:
1st.
The continuance of' the "cause for which a voyage was
undertaken.
2.
Advise of "a p.gysician in regard to its imm.ed.iate prose-
cution, with the hope or benefit.
3.
Accommodations in a Ship of War undesirable "for one in
my circumstances.
4.
Delay in regard to a passage to the islands, with un-
certainty in regard to going direct & the time of arrival theremight not be before J"anuary."
5.
A favorable opportunity for the U. S.- a desirable
vessel & moderate terms.
Canton, Thursday March 26,1846.
There was some thunder last night and again this morning with rain, the'atmosphere continuing damp and the sky lowery.
One reason for my not waiting in China an indefinite
t~e
for a
passage to the islands ia the nature of the atmosphere: the Doctor
17
&1<.J
has said the sooner I am at sea the better.
f\
"
I continue to feel
quite reconciled to the decision of
. . ' _ ......'O. .
-ll-
a voyage to the U. States.
needed pro§perity.
f~ly
The Lord will doubtless grant me all
I am aware it will be a disappointment to my
not to have me return to the islands by the vessel that
shall bear these communications.
I sha.:l:-l put up a'small box to be sent by the first epportuni ty.
In the box I shall put th,e two shawls fo I' Maria J"ane and
Martha Ann, and the seals for' James and Levi.
nated a comb for you and a box of envelopes.
obtained an:r\thing fO~ Isabella.
I have also desigI have not as yet
If I am no table to ge t anything
for ,her, you may buy some little thing to give her as a present
from father.
It is very unpleasant going out among the shops to
make purchases ,particularly on account of the jockeying character
of the Chinese to which I have referred,
even gone into the streets.
And of late I have not
It will be necessary during the re-
mainder of my stay that I exercise,great caution to avoid another
turn of bleeding: it is now 12 days since my last attack; and my
expectora'tlons have been very limited during the whole of the time.
I feel encouragement in regard to my state from the fact that I
have very little cough qr expectoration from the lungs, and keep
my ordinary amount of flesh.
I am q,ui te sure that I have as much
flesh and as much bodily strength as I had when I left the islands.probably more -
My appetite has been uniformly good, though I
am a little inclined to constipation, and am, under the'
n~/ces'si ty
of using occasionally some opening -medicine.
Dr. Parker prescribed sugar of lead to be taken on occasion of bleeding.
Ris recommendations have bean essentially the
same as Dr. Woodts & Dr. Smith ts.
'}
I., think my case is one which
presents uncertainty to the mind of a physician.
All who have
seen me think that with care I may live a considerable time- say
",~,
ten years: though of course my disorder may take a tUrn to carry
me off soon.
Perhaps the single act of raising olood may not
prove the qause of death, but I may take cold and have some violen~
attack upon the lungs, which will prove fatal.
I refer all
the future to the Lord.
I must not close my notes without saying something more
of Mrs Bridgman.
acquainted with
Her maiden name ·was Eliza J. Gillet and she was
~ITs.
Paris of our mission,
She oelonged to Dr.
Milnorts Church and came to. China in the care of the Rev. Dr.
Boone, Bishop· of the Episcopal Board of Missions.
There were two
other single ladies who came out with her under the same care.
On
the arrival of those missionaries· in Hong Kong some circumstances
threw this Miss Gillet into the Society of Dr. Bridgman and a
match was pretty soon formed, much to the dissatisfaction of Dr.
Boone, who had valued much on the talent and character of this
single lady, whom he supposed proof against all propo s·als of a
matrimonial nature.
4erein he was saqly disappointed for she
became Mrs. Bridgman and Dr. Boone was under the stern necessity of
.
~
r
leaving her behind and of going on to his station at Shanghai in
the north with the other two single ladies & the other missionaries
associated with him.
I understood that he was at first very se-
vere on Miss Gillet for leaving her mission & uniting herself with
a gentleman of another denomination & another mission, out he has
oecome more reconciled to the arrangement and now speaks in pleasant terms in regard to the alliance, and the manner of his losing
this helper in his Mission.
I will also say a word or two in regard to the relations
of Dr. Parker and the manner of his
support~
lie has charge of the
Hospital and receives from the Merchants in Canton from private
subs'.9ription ·for medi cal practice, tl;1e sum of
:;P1000~ ..
.a:ld h3
-13-
re-ceives from the Government of the U. states a salary of $2500 as
Interpreter to Legation.
Board and the Mission.
There is not perfect
He still retains his connection with the
But receives no support from the Board.
sa~isfaction
felt I believe in regard to the
application of these sums rec d • by Dr. Parker for his services,
retaining as he does his nominal relations with the Board & Mission
I should be sorry to have such_a case as this in our Mission.
It is felt to be one at variance with the principles of the Board.
But it is a difficult case to manage and it would be better in
my opinion that so far as support is concerned the Doctor were
not connected with the Mission.
The Dr. has been very kind and
attentive to me, and I feel under many obligations to him, for his
aid as a physician & his counsel & sympathy as a friend- & Christian brother.
Since the foregoing memorandum was made I have purchased
a fan for Isabella which cost 25 cents.
12 paintings.
20 of them.
MI. Dimond wanted 10 -or
I have got Dr. Ball to procure some - there are
If Mr. D1mDnd does not want all of them I have re-
quested him to let the children have half of them, if you think it b
best to take them.
Half of them will be one dollar.
I did not see until I qverhauled my chest this afternoon
the umbrella frame which you put up with a view to get it covered
in Canton.
This of course I cannot get done now t and I doubt
whether I could get it done to my satisfaction if I should try. I
am bringing everyt4ing up to a close now t as I hope to embark
tomorrow.
Dr. Bridgman has rec~ letters from the Missionary Rooms
to day.
I saw one addressed to Mr.
~ames
G. Bridgman by Dr.
-l4-
Anderson dated Dec~ 22nd.
It contained a copy of a vote of the
Pru. Com.. accepting him. as an assistant Missionary of the Board,
.
and he is to be
at,
ord~ned
hereafter.-
-15-
Maxims.
Anger .resteth in the bosom of fools.
A wise man
deferre~h
his anger.
He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he
that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a ,ci ty.
He that is soon angry deal'eth foolishly.
He that hath no rule over his own s:pirit is like a city that
is broken down & without walls.
~
soft answer turneth away wrath; but grievous words stir
up ang'e];.
A wise son heareth his fatherts instruction.
A righteous man hateth lying.
Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that
fear-
eth the commandment shall be rewarded.
Good understanding giveth favor; but the way of transgressors is hard.
Poverty and shame shall be to him that refuseth instruction;
but he that regardeth reproof shall be honored.
He that walketh with wise men shall be wise.
There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword; but the
tongue of the wise is health.
The lip of truth shall be established forever; but a lying
tongue is but for a moment.
Deceit in in the heart, of them.. that imagine evil: but to the
counsellors of peace is joy.
Lying lips are an abomination to the Lord: but they who deal
truly are his delight.
In the way of righteousness is life; and in the pathway thereof there is no death.
-16-
To
Isabella-
Even a child. is known by his doings,' whether his
work be pure and whether it be right.
There is gold and a multitude of rubies: but the lips
of knowledge are a precious jewel.
Train up a child in the way he should go: and, when he·
is old, he will not depart from it.
Happy is the man (for Isabella I will say, child) that
feareth alway; but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into
mischief.
To . Maria
J"ane .'
The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom:; and
before honor is humility.
Everyone that is proud in heart is an abomination to the
Lord.
Pleasant words are as an honey-comb, sweet to the soul
and health to the bones.
He that followeth after righteousness and mercy, findeth
life, righteousness and
~onor.
Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman
thatfeareth the Lord, she shall be praised.
To
Levi
Tenny
Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge.
ThE?re shall no evil happen to the just.
The hand of the diligent shall bear rule.
The way of the slothful is as a hed§B of thorns; but
the way of the righteous is made plain.
-1?-
He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul;
but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.
To
James
Patton.
The fear of the Lord ,is the beginning of wisdom; ahd
the knowledge of the Holy is understanding.
For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years
of thy life shall be increased.
If thou be Wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself; but if
thou scornest, thou. alone shalt bear it.
The Lord will not suffer the soul of the righteous to
famish; but he casteth away the sUbstance of the wicked.
A wise son maketh a glad father.
My son, be wise, and make my heart glad.
Wisdom is the principal thing,therefore get wisdom.
Forsake not the law of thy mother: and despise not thy
mother when she is old •.
An obedient child makes glad the heart of his parents:
and to such as honor their parents the LDrd hath left a promise
of long life and prosperity, if that should be best for them.
The fear of the Lord prolongeth days; but the y:ears
of the wicked shall be shortened.
Provo 10 c. 2? v.
To
Martha
Ann.
ltWisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that
may be desired are not to be compared to it. It
Prov. 8 chap. 11 v
I love them that love me; and those that seek me early
shall find me.
v. l?
Whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain ravor
-18-
of' the Lord.
v. 35.
Wisdom in the highest sense is the fear of the Lord.
In this sen·se may m.y daughter seek it first; and in the subordi.-
nate sense seek it also.
L. C.