Text
Christian Advocate
May 1824 (p. 232-236)
Religious Intelligence.
SANDWICH ISLANDS.
Within the month past a short letter, and part of a journal, has been received by the Editor from Betsey
Stockton, a coloured ; young woman, one of the missionaries to these islands, who is particularly attached
to the family of the Rev. Mr. Stewart—Extracts from the letter and journal are subjoined. It appears that
previous and more particular communications, which have not yet been received in this country, had been
made relative to the mission, after the arrival of the last reinforcement. The journal from which the
following extracts are given, was begun immediately after the writer left the house of the Editor, and has
been regularly continued ever since. It is only from the former part of this journal, after the
commencement of the voyage, that the subjoined selections have been made—To us they appear
interesting and instructive; especially when we consider that the writer is a young woman of African
descent, who was never sent to school a day in her life, but acquired all her knowledge by a careful
attention to the instruction which she received in a private family, and by her own efforts after she
obtained her freedom at the age of twenty ; her present age is about twenty- five. A missionary life at sea
has not been so often and so particularly described as that on land.
Lahaina, Maui (Mowee), June 15,1823.
Dear Sir—After a pleasant voyage of five months, we arrived in safety at these islands, on the 27th of
April last. We anchored off Honoruru on the island of Ohui (Wahaoo); but did not leave the ship till the
10th of May, owing to the state of Mrs. Stewart’s health, who had been confined two weeks before we
arrived. I am very much attached to both Mr. and Mrs. Stewart ; they treat me with the greatest kindness.
“ A missionary’s life is very laborious, but pleasant. Do, sir, pray for me. Were you on missionary
ground, you would know how to pray for us. I wish it were in my power to give you an account of some
of the trials to which we are called. But at present I cannot. Captain Gardiner, of the Dawn is waiting at
the door, and will sail in a few hours. You will please to excuse my sending so small a part of my journal.
It is all I have copied. I am ashamed of it; but I know you will view its faults with the eye of charity. I
have a few things for Mr. J—, but cannot send them at present. Remember me to all the dear family.
Eighteen thousand miles have not separated my heart from you. I dream of you all very often; and though
I cannot say that I wish to return, yet the thought of never seeing you again sometimes almost overcomes
me.
The natives are a very pleasant people. But indeed they are much dirtier than I expected to find them.
They eat baked dogs, raw fish • • • • The houses are so small that they have to creep in at the door. What
is considered a large house, is about the size of our old roothouse. The house we occupy, however, is
larger • • • •.
Two weeks after we arrived at the islands, we were sent to this place, which is considered the best part of
the whole. The productions are melons, bananas, sweet potatoes, &c. I have time to write no more. The
ship has not come to anchor, and will leave us in a few minutes. Ask Mr. J—
to tell my mother that I
am well and happy.—Please to write to me as often as you can. If you knew with what anxiety I look for a
letter, you would pity me. Mr. Stewart wrote to you a few days since • • • •.
I am still, with a grateful heart.
Yours,
Betsey Stockton.
JOURNAL.
Shift Thames, at Sea. Nov. 20, 1822.—Here begins the history of things known only to those who have
bid the American shores a long adieu. We were employed in arranging our births, clothes, &c. all day;
and as the weather was calm, we were enabled to go on without much difficulty.
21.
The weather became stormy, and the sea-sickness commenced.
22.
It blew very hard in the day, and in the night increased to a gale; sea-sickness increased with it. I
was myself very sick.
23.
Saturday morning at daybreak shipped a sea. The water rushed into the cabin. I saw it with very
little fear; and felt inclined to say, The Lord reigneth, let us all rejoice. I was so weak that I was almost
unable to help myself. At 10 o’clock I went on deck: the scene that presented itself was, to me, the most
sublime I ever witnessed. How, thought I, can “those who go down to the sea in ships” deny the existence
of God. The day was spent in self-examination. This, if ever, is the time to try my motives in leaving my
native land. I found myself at times unwilling to perish so near my friends; but soon became composed,
and resigned to whatever should be the will of my Heavenly Father. I believed that my motives were
pure: and a calm and heavenly peace soon took possession of my breast. Oh that it were always with me
as it is this day !
24.
Sabbath. The weather still squally, and our family still in bad health. We had no publick service
to-day. My soul longed for the courts of the Lord; but my heart was still rejoicing in the strength of my
God.
25.
The ocean has become much smoother than it has been for some time. Our family are recovering
very fast; nothing particular has occurred to-day.
26. The weather is delightful, and we feel much better. The ladies wanted a pudding for dinner. Two or
three volunteered their services and a pudding was made. I, for my part, felt no inclination either to make
or eat it. I stayed with Mrs. S. In the midst of their business the man on the mast called out, A sail ho ! We
were all elate for a few minutes. If we had seen a friend who had been absent for a long time we could not
have hailed him with more delight. We bore for the ship, and soon discovered her to be the Penn of
Philadelphia. Preparations were made for speaking her. The sea was too rough to permit us to send
letters. She came near enough to hail us, but we could only say All’s well after being at sea a week.
December 1. Sabbath. My soul longed again for the house of the Lord; I endeavoured to find him present
with me; and soon indeed found that he was near to all that call on him. I enjoyed the day although we
were prevented from having worship until afternoon—owing to the roughness of the weather and the
unsettled state of the ship.
2.
Employed in making arrangements in the cabin; the day fair and the ship running at the rate of six
miles an hour. The weather is much warmer than I have felt it since I left home. In the evening we had the
monthly concert of prayer.
3.
We are almost settled and things are in good order. The bell rings at daylight, and we have
prayers at sunrise. Mrs. Stewart is getting much better.
4.
Nothing particular has occurred to-day ; we are still on our course direct for Cape de Verd.
5.
The weather is good, and all of us are in good health and spirits. The captain and officers attend
our meeting, and the sailors appear to treat the missionaries with respect.
23.
The weather delightful; and the crew all engaged in making oil of two black fish killed yesterday.
This is fine amusement for the missionaries. We have had corn parched in the oil ; and doughnuts fried in
it. Some of the company liked it very much. I could not prevail on myself to eat it. I tasted the flesh and
liver of the fish, which were very good. The flesh is very much like beef, and the liver like a hog’s.
24.
At 11 o’clock we had a heavy gale. It did no damage to the rigging. I was amused very much
during the gale by one of the landsmen, as they call them; who was ordered to slack the weather bowling,
but not understanding the phrase he let it go. Such accidents in a squall cause no small noise, and make
our captain lift up his voice like a trumpet. Some of our family like a gale very much. I have not got quite
to that yet: however, I can view it with very little emotion in the daytime. In the night I sometimes feel
unpleasantly. My bed hangs so near the cabin windows, that I have a full view of the water: and during a
gale the waves appear as if they were coming directly into the cabin.
25.
Christmas. How unlike the last! But the day was pleasant, and I enjoyed myself very much; yet
could not forbear thinking of my native land. We expected to have made St Jago; but the wind not
favouring us, we were obliged to put about for Cape Horn, without landing. This was something of a trial,
as it disappointed all our expectations of communication with our friends.—Saw a large flock of flying
fish. They rise from the water a little distance, when pursued by larger fish, and sometimes fly on board.
They have a delicious flavour, and are equal to any fresh water fish I ever tasted.
30.
Sabbath. Had prayer meeting in the morning, and preaching in the afternoon at 4 o’clock. Mr.
Stewart preached from 1 Cor. i. 23. I enjoyed the Sabbath very much, and thought I felt something of the
love of God in my heart. But still I felt as if I was declining in the spiritual life. I attend a little to the
study of the Bible, and find it pleasant. Yet I find a void within my breast that is painful. "The scenes
which constantly present themselves to my view are new and interesting ; and I find they have a tendency
to draw my mind from Him who is, or ought to be, my only joy. With the poor publican I will say, “God
be merciful to me a sinner.” At six in the evening, we caught two sharks, and saw a number of dolphins.
The flesh of the shark is very good when young.
31.
I was much interested in witnessing the harpooning of a large shark. It was taken at the stern of
the ship, about 6 yards from the cabin window, from which I had a clear view of it. It was struck by two
harpoons at the same time. The fish (if we may call it one, for it has very little the appearance of a fish)
was so angry that he endeavoured to bite the men after he was on deck. His jaw bone was taken out and
preserved by one of the missionaries. We see a great number of them, and take them frequently. I have
not been able to preserve any curiosities for Mr. J—. If I were to return I could amuse him a long time,
with telling the simple facts that I have witnessed, and the things I have seen: and at the close of the
month and year I will mention a few. The colour of the water near land, is of a greenish hue; a little
farther out it is of a bluish tint; and in the middle of the ocean it is of a dark blue, and very clear. I never
saw a more beautiful green than the colour of the water off Cape Blanco, where we were nearly driven by
an unfavourable wind. From this we steered S. W. by S. between the African coast, and the Cape De Verd
islands; and then directed our course S. S. W. to the coast of Brazil. If it were in my power I would like to
describe the Phosphorescence of the sea. But to do this would require the pen of a Milton ; and he, I think,
would fail, were he to attempt it. I never saw any display of Fire-works that equalled it for beauty. As far
as we could see the ocean, in the wake of the ship, it appeared one sheet of fire, and exhibited figures of
which you can form no idea. We have bathed during this month frequently, and find the water very
refreshing. Yesterday, at 8 in the morning, the thermometer stood at 80°. The missionaries all went in to
bathe, with their pantaloons: Mr. B. wore his shirt also, and dived three times from the ship; the last time
he staid too long in the water, so that the strength of his arms was exhausted, and be was not able to get
into the ship alone. Mr. Lane, the second mate, dived from the bowsprit, with a rope, and tied it round
him. At the same time another was thrown from the side of the vessel. We felt alarmed for a few
moments, but there was no real danger. Had he even fainted, the number of swimmers was so great that
they could have kept him up until a boat was lowered. I must finish this year by saying with the Psalmist,
“When I consider the works of thy hands, Lord what is man that thou art mindful of him!”
Jan. 4, 1823. Crossed the line. In the evening, old Neptune visited us, a little before we came to his
garden, as he called it. His appearance was the most ludicrous thing I ever saw in my life. He announced
his coming by blowing a large trumpet. The sailors were most of them new hands; and the poor fellows
were all put down in the forecastle, and afterwards brought up, one at a time, before his majesty, with
their eyes covered, to answer to a number of questions respecting their lives, business, &c. and why they
had come to sea. He told the mission family, that as there were so many ladies on board, he had thought it
expedient to bring his wife with him; and that she was as clever an old lady as ever was in the world. He
introduced her to the family; but said he thought it not best for her to shake hands with them, as she had
been handling so many of her dirty boys. Nor did he think it proper to have any one farther aft, among the
ladies. But he would like something else Accordingly they sent him some Spirits and Cakes, and he and
his lady withdrew, telling us that we might cross his garden at all times. The manner in which they shave
is very disgusting.
5.
Sabbath. Pleasant and clear in the morning; a little squally in the afternoon. Had our usual
worship. The day was solemn; Mr. Bishop preached for us: but “in vain I sought Him whom my soul
loveth.” I felt very much inclined to despair, and feared that I had indulged the hope of the hypocrite.
Shall I after all become a castaway! Forbid it, O Lord! nor suffer me to injure the cause I have espoused.
6.
Nothing new to-day. All going on in good order. I find my mind still dark; and do not feel quite
happy. Yet for the sake of those around me I endeavour to appear cheerful. I am becoming more and more
attached to Mr. and Mrs. S—, and trust that God will make me a comfort to them.
8. Going very rapidly, at the rate of nine and a half miles an hour. The weather very pleasant. We have
not suffered so much with the heat since we came near the line, as we did some time ago. The air is more
like that on land than we have felt it for three weeks past. Saw a large tortoise, but could not take it,
without delaying the ship too long. We regretted the loss very much. Fresh meat would be very acceptable
to us; we have had none since Christmas. Pork and beef are our standing dishes. Our table makes a
curious appearance. It is spread over with frames ; every plate, dish, and cup, is fastened ; and even thus
we cannot get a meal, at times, without holding with one hand, while helping ourselves to eat with the
other. We have very little conversation at the table; all of us get through as soon as we can. There are
eleven persons at each table: at the first, the captain and one of the mates, with nine of the missionaries.
At the second, two mates, three of the missionaries, the four natives and myself. The provisions of both
tables are alike. In the division of the missionary stores I always have my share, so that I have indeed a
double portion of the good things of this life; for Mr. and Mrs. S. give me always a share with them. The
last apple and orange were cut in three pieces, and divided between us. The impression that such little
things make on my mind will not easily be erased. O that I were worthy of such favours, but I fear I am
not.
(To be continued.)
As we were about to send the foregoing extracts to the press, we received two letters from the Rev. Mr.
Stewart. They were written, it appears, at the distance of five months from each other, and sent in
different directions, so as to divide between them a circumnavigation of the globe; and yet they both came
to us by the same post. The one under date of October 22d, 1823, contains the latest intelligence of the
Sandwich Islands mission that has yet been published. We give large extracts from both. We have lately
seen an article in the publick papers, which states that the king and queen of the Sandwich islands had
arrived at Rio Janeiro, on their way first to England, and then to the United States. The correctness of this
statement we have since seen confirmed by a private letter. We should hope that if their majesties should
live to return, they will be more desirous, and better qualified than ever, to favour and promote the
civilizing and christianizing of their people.
Mission House at Honoruru,
Port of Oahu, Sandwich Islands, May 24th, 1823.
Respected and beloved Sir—I have time merely, before the sailing of the Arab, which carries letters for
America to Canton, to inform you of our safe arrival at this place, on the morning of the 27th of April,
after a most prosperous and pleasant voyage. Betsey and myself have both kept regular journals, copies of
which we design, according to our engagement, to transmit to you; and shall send them by the next ship
that sails from this port for America, which will be in about six weeks: we could not possibly prepare
them in time for the Arab.
We are all in excellent health, Betsey says she never felt better, looks remarkably well, and is very happy
in her situation. Sometimes during the voyage she felt a little lonesome, being without any bosom friend,
which all the rest of the family had. But since the 11th April, she has felt nothing of the kind. Mrs.
Stewart then committed to her care an infant son, who seems to have filled the vacuum in B.’s heart, and
beguiles her already of the moments which before left an opening for thoughts of sadness. I am happy to
say that Mrs. S. enjoys the most perfect health: and is greatly pleased with her situation in these distant
isles, and in the prospect of usefulness to this people.
It is not determined where we shall be permanently established, but probably at Lahaina on the island of
Maui: (Mowee.) If not there, either at Kouruah or Ohido, on the island of Hawaii, (incorrectly Owyhee.)
The Mission is in prosperous circumstances, and the hopes of its supporters here were never brighter.
Truly the fields are already ripe for the harvest, and we may add, “The harvest is great, but the labourers
are few.” We have been received with open arms by the government and people, and twice the number of
missionaries would have been joyfully hailed. But I must leave all for a future communication.
Join us in our praises, and still remember us in your prayers, and believe me
truly yours,
Chas. Saml. Stewart.
Mission House at Honoruru,
Port of Oahu, Sandwich Islands,
October 22d, 1823.
My venerable and beloved Friend,—I take my pen hastily to inform you, that by the present opportunity
of sending to America, by the ship Staunton, of New Bedford, I transmit my private journal of our voyage
and arrival at these islands. A journal of the last six months, may be expected to follow it, in the course of
a month or six weeks. I would send it now, but it is at my station at Lahaina on the island of Maui.
I sent a letter to you by the brig Arab, captain Meek, via Canton, in May last; but think it probable, that
this will reach America first. Betsey also wrote at that time, and has since, by the Dawn, captain Gardiner,
of New York, and by the Hero, captain Starbuck, of Nantucket There is no want of opportunities of
sending. There are thirty ships and two brigs now at this port: four or five of which are bound directly
home. My haste, at present, does not arise from the immediate departure of the Staunton, but from the
expectation of embarking myself for Maui. I have been absent almost a month, and have become
extremely anxious to return. No opportunity has offered for some days, but the king this morning
hastened off in a small yacht, and left orders for the barge (the celebrated Cleopatra) and Waverley, to
follow to Lahaina: they are now preparing to get under weigh, and I must secure a passage.
The prosperity of the mission is uninterrupted, and its prospects most encouraging. The journal from this
station and Lahaina, by the next ship, will give many interesting particulars: and one or two separate
documents are preparing for the press, which I think will be received with much satisfaction by the public
in general. Our hearts do not faint, though we are buried in corruption. We have, almost daily reason to
believe that the time is not very far distant, when this ignorant and degraded nation will “rise and shine.”
We feel that we are in a heathen land —a land of moral and spiritual death;— we feel that many sorrows,
and many afflictions must be ours, however great our encouragement—however happy our success : and
that we shall often be compelled to sigh, from the midst of these parched regions, for the shadow of some
rock in which to repose from the toils and the heat of the open field. This rock, I trust, we have, and may
ever find, the Rock of Ages—Abraham’s God and Israel’s friend; and the God and friend of all his
covenant people.
Mrs. Stewart and son, and Betsey, were well when I last heard from them. B.'s health is generally good.
She is kind and faithful, and will be greatly useful. We are very comfortably located at one of the most
beautiful and important spots on the islands. Mr. Richards and myself have an island with 20,000
inhabitants committed to our spiritual care—a solemn—a most responsible charge ! But I must close my
present communication—Affectionate remembrance to all the members of your own family, and to all
friends. May every blessing and perfect peace rest on your head, my venerable and beloved friend; and
may we meet in heaven, to part no more for ever.
Chas. Saml. Stewart.
P. S. I have broken open my letter to inform you of the first Christian marriage among the chiefs of this
nation. The king’s mother died about a month since; and was buried in the Christian mode instead of their
former heathen abominations; and her husband, on Sunday last, was married, according to the Christian
institution of marriage, to one wife, and to have her only. As both persons are the particular patrons of the
station at Lahaina, it would please me to have the death and marriage both published in the Christian
Advocate ; and if you please, in some of the papers of the city.
Death.— “Died at Lahaina, on Maui, one of the Sandwich islands, Sept. 16th, 1823, Ke-o-pu-o-la-ni
mother of the present king Rihoriho, aged 45 years. She was the particular patroness of the Missionary
station at Lahaina, under the direction of the Rev. Messrs. Richards and Stewart; was a hopeful convert to
the Christian faith, and received the ordinance of baptism before her death.”
Marriage.—“Married, in the Missionary Chapel, at Lahaina, Maui one of the Sandwich islands, by the
Rev. Mr. Richards, October 19th, 1823, Hoa-pori, a chief of high rank, to Ka-la-ku-a, (Ka-ni-o) one of the
queeiis of the late king Ta-me-a-me-a, and mother of the present favourite queen Ka-me-ma-ru.— Ka-nio,
until late, was the most common name of Kalakua. The chiefs have as many names as a Spanish grandee
has titles.
May 1824 (p. 232-236)
Religious Intelligence.
SANDWICH ISLANDS.
Within the month past a short letter, and part of a journal, has been received by the Editor from Betsey
Stockton, a coloured ; young woman, one of the missionaries to these islands, who is particularly attached
to the family of the Rev. Mr. Stewart—Extracts from the letter and journal are subjoined. It appears that
previous and more particular communications, which have not yet been received in this country, had been
made relative to the mission, after the arrival of the last reinforcement. The journal from which the
following extracts are given, was begun immediately after the writer left the house of the Editor, and has
been regularly continued ever since. It is only from the former part of this journal, after the
commencement of the voyage, that the subjoined selections have been made—To us they appear
interesting and instructive; especially when we consider that the writer is a young woman of African
descent, who was never sent to school a day in her life, but acquired all her knowledge by a careful
attention to the instruction which she received in a private family, and by her own efforts after she
obtained her freedom at the age of twenty ; her present age is about twenty- five. A missionary life at sea
has not been so often and so particularly described as that on land.
Lahaina, Maui (Mowee), June 15,1823.
Dear Sir—After a pleasant voyage of five months, we arrived in safety at these islands, on the 27th of
April last. We anchored off Honoruru on the island of Ohui (Wahaoo); but did not leave the ship till the
10th of May, owing to the state of Mrs. Stewart’s health, who had been confined two weeks before we
arrived. I am very much attached to both Mr. and Mrs. Stewart ; they treat me with the greatest kindness.
“ A missionary’s life is very laborious, but pleasant. Do, sir, pray for me. Were you on missionary
ground, you would know how to pray for us. I wish it were in my power to give you an account of some
of the trials to which we are called. But at present I cannot. Captain Gardiner, of the Dawn is waiting at
the door, and will sail in a few hours. You will please to excuse my sending so small a part of my journal.
It is all I have copied. I am ashamed of it; but I know you will view its faults with the eye of charity. I
have a few things for Mr. J—, but cannot send them at present. Remember me to all the dear family.
Eighteen thousand miles have not separated my heart from you. I dream of you all very often; and though
I cannot say that I wish to return, yet the thought of never seeing you again sometimes almost overcomes
me.
The natives are a very pleasant people. But indeed they are much dirtier than I expected to find them.
They eat baked dogs, raw fish • • • • The houses are so small that they have to creep in at the door. What
is considered a large house, is about the size of our old roothouse. The house we occupy, however, is
larger • • • •.
Two weeks after we arrived at the islands, we were sent to this place, which is considered the best part of
the whole. The productions are melons, bananas, sweet potatoes, &c. I have time to write no more. The
ship has not come to anchor, and will leave us in a few minutes. Ask Mr. J—
to tell my mother that I
am well and happy.—Please to write to me as often as you can. If you knew with what anxiety I look for a
letter, you would pity me. Mr. Stewart wrote to you a few days since • • • •.
I am still, with a grateful heart.
Yours,
Betsey Stockton.
JOURNAL.
Shift Thames, at Sea. Nov. 20, 1822.—Here begins the history of things known only to those who have
bid the American shores a long adieu. We were employed in arranging our births, clothes, &c. all day;
and as the weather was calm, we were enabled to go on without much difficulty.
21.
The weather became stormy, and the sea-sickness commenced.
22.
It blew very hard in the day, and in the night increased to a gale; sea-sickness increased with it. I
was myself very sick.
23.
Saturday morning at daybreak shipped a sea. The water rushed into the cabin. I saw it with very
little fear; and felt inclined to say, The Lord reigneth, let us all rejoice. I was so weak that I was almost
unable to help myself. At 10 o’clock I went on deck: the scene that presented itself was, to me, the most
sublime I ever witnessed. How, thought I, can “those who go down to the sea in ships” deny the existence
of God. The day was spent in self-examination. This, if ever, is the time to try my motives in leaving my
native land. I found myself at times unwilling to perish so near my friends; but soon became composed,
and resigned to whatever should be the will of my Heavenly Father. I believed that my motives were
pure: and a calm and heavenly peace soon took possession of my breast. Oh that it were always with me
as it is this day !
24.
Sabbath. The weather still squally, and our family still in bad health. We had no publick service
to-day. My soul longed for the courts of the Lord; but my heart was still rejoicing in the strength of my
God.
25.
The ocean has become much smoother than it has been for some time. Our family are recovering
very fast; nothing particular has occurred to-day.
26. The weather is delightful, and we feel much better. The ladies wanted a pudding for dinner. Two or
three volunteered their services and a pudding was made. I, for my part, felt no inclination either to make
or eat it. I stayed with Mrs. S. In the midst of their business the man on the mast called out, A sail ho ! We
were all elate for a few minutes. If we had seen a friend who had been absent for a long time we could not
have hailed him with more delight. We bore for the ship, and soon discovered her to be the Penn of
Philadelphia. Preparations were made for speaking her. The sea was too rough to permit us to send
letters. She came near enough to hail us, but we could only say All’s well after being at sea a week.
December 1. Sabbath. My soul longed again for the house of the Lord; I endeavoured to find him present
with me; and soon indeed found that he was near to all that call on him. I enjoyed the day although we
were prevented from having worship until afternoon—owing to the roughness of the weather and the
unsettled state of the ship.
2.
Employed in making arrangements in the cabin; the day fair and the ship running at the rate of six
miles an hour. The weather is much warmer than I have felt it since I left home. In the evening we had the
monthly concert of prayer.
3.
We are almost settled and things are in good order. The bell rings at daylight, and we have
prayers at sunrise. Mrs. Stewart is getting much better.
4.
Nothing particular has occurred to-day ; we are still on our course direct for Cape de Verd.
5.
The weather is good, and all of us are in good health and spirits. The captain and officers attend
our meeting, and the sailors appear to treat the missionaries with respect.
23.
The weather delightful; and the crew all engaged in making oil of two black fish killed yesterday.
This is fine amusement for the missionaries. We have had corn parched in the oil ; and doughnuts fried in
it. Some of the company liked it very much. I could not prevail on myself to eat it. I tasted the flesh and
liver of the fish, which were very good. The flesh is very much like beef, and the liver like a hog’s.
24.
At 11 o’clock we had a heavy gale. It did no damage to the rigging. I was amused very much
during the gale by one of the landsmen, as they call them; who was ordered to slack the weather bowling,
but not understanding the phrase he let it go. Such accidents in a squall cause no small noise, and make
our captain lift up his voice like a trumpet. Some of our family like a gale very much. I have not got quite
to that yet: however, I can view it with very little emotion in the daytime. In the night I sometimes feel
unpleasantly. My bed hangs so near the cabin windows, that I have a full view of the water: and during a
gale the waves appear as if they were coming directly into the cabin.
25.
Christmas. How unlike the last! But the day was pleasant, and I enjoyed myself very much; yet
could not forbear thinking of my native land. We expected to have made St Jago; but the wind not
favouring us, we were obliged to put about for Cape Horn, without landing. This was something of a trial,
as it disappointed all our expectations of communication with our friends.—Saw a large flock of flying
fish. They rise from the water a little distance, when pursued by larger fish, and sometimes fly on board.
They have a delicious flavour, and are equal to any fresh water fish I ever tasted.
30.
Sabbath. Had prayer meeting in the morning, and preaching in the afternoon at 4 o’clock. Mr.
Stewart preached from 1 Cor. i. 23. I enjoyed the Sabbath very much, and thought I felt something of the
love of God in my heart. But still I felt as if I was declining in the spiritual life. I attend a little to the
study of the Bible, and find it pleasant. Yet I find a void within my breast that is painful. "The scenes
which constantly present themselves to my view are new and interesting ; and I find they have a tendency
to draw my mind from Him who is, or ought to be, my only joy. With the poor publican I will say, “God
be merciful to me a sinner.” At six in the evening, we caught two sharks, and saw a number of dolphins.
The flesh of the shark is very good when young.
31.
I was much interested in witnessing the harpooning of a large shark. It was taken at the stern of
the ship, about 6 yards from the cabin window, from which I had a clear view of it. It was struck by two
harpoons at the same time. The fish (if we may call it one, for it has very little the appearance of a fish)
was so angry that he endeavoured to bite the men after he was on deck. His jaw bone was taken out and
preserved by one of the missionaries. We see a great number of them, and take them frequently. I have
not been able to preserve any curiosities for Mr. J—. If I were to return I could amuse him a long time,
with telling the simple facts that I have witnessed, and the things I have seen: and at the close of the
month and year I will mention a few. The colour of the water near land, is of a greenish hue; a little
farther out it is of a bluish tint; and in the middle of the ocean it is of a dark blue, and very clear. I never
saw a more beautiful green than the colour of the water off Cape Blanco, where we were nearly driven by
an unfavourable wind. From this we steered S. W. by S. between the African coast, and the Cape De Verd
islands; and then directed our course S. S. W. to the coast of Brazil. If it were in my power I would like to
describe the Phosphorescence of the sea. But to do this would require the pen of a Milton ; and he, I think,
would fail, were he to attempt it. I never saw any display of Fire-works that equalled it for beauty. As far
as we could see the ocean, in the wake of the ship, it appeared one sheet of fire, and exhibited figures of
which you can form no idea. We have bathed during this month frequently, and find the water very
refreshing. Yesterday, at 8 in the morning, the thermometer stood at 80°. The missionaries all went in to
bathe, with their pantaloons: Mr. B. wore his shirt also, and dived three times from the ship; the last time
he staid too long in the water, so that the strength of his arms was exhausted, and be was not able to get
into the ship alone. Mr. Lane, the second mate, dived from the bowsprit, with a rope, and tied it round
him. At the same time another was thrown from the side of the vessel. We felt alarmed for a few
moments, but there was no real danger. Had he even fainted, the number of swimmers was so great that
they could have kept him up until a boat was lowered. I must finish this year by saying with the Psalmist,
“When I consider the works of thy hands, Lord what is man that thou art mindful of him!”
Jan. 4, 1823. Crossed the line. In the evening, old Neptune visited us, a little before we came to his
garden, as he called it. His appearance was the most ludicrous thing I ever saw in my life. He announced
his coming by blowing a large trumpet. The sailors were most of them new hands; and the poor fellows
were all put down in the forecastle, and afterwards brought up, one at a time, before his majesty, with
their eyes covered, to answer to a number of questions respecting their lives, business, &c. and why they
had come to sea. He told the mission family, that as there were so many ladies on board, he had thought it
expedient to bring his wife with him; and that she was as clever an old lady as ever was in the world. He
introduced her to the family; but said he thought it not best for her to shake hands with them, as she had
been handling so many of her dirty boys. Nor did he think it proper to have any one farther aft, among the
ladies. But he would like something else Accordingly they sent him some Spirits and Cakes, and he and
his lady withdrew, telling us that we might cross his garden at all times. The manner in which they shave
is very disgusting.
5.
Sabbath. Pleasant and clear in the morning; a little squally in the afternoon. Had our usual
worship. The day was solemn; Mr. Bishop preached for us: but “in vain I sought Him whom my soul
loveth.” I felt very much inclined to despair, and feared that I had indulged the hope of the hypocrite.
Shall I after all become a castaway! Forbid it, O Lord! nor suffer me to injure the cause I have espoused.
6.
Nothing new to-day. All going on in good order. I find my mind still dark; and do not feel quite
happy. Yet for the sake of those around me I endeavour to appear cheerful. I am becoming more and more
attached to Mr. and Mrs. S—, and trust that God will make me a comfort to them.
8. Going very rapidly, at the rate of nine and a half miles an hour. The weather very pleasant. We have
not suffered so much with the heat since we came near the line, as we did some time ago. The air is more
like that on land than we have felt it for three weeks past. Saw a large tortoise, but could not take it,
without delaying the ship too long. We regretted the loss very much. Fresh meat would be very acceptable
to us; we have had none since Christmas. Pork and beef are our standing dishes. Our table makes a
curious appearance. It is spread over with frames ; every plate, dish, and cup, is fastened ; and even thus
we cannot get a meal, at times, without holding with one hand, while helping ourselves to eat with the
other. We have very little conversation at the table; all of us get through as soon as we can. There are
eleven persons at each table: at the first, the captain and one of the mates, with nine of the missionaries.
At the second, two mates, three of the missionaries, the four natives and myself. The provisions of both
tables are alike. In the division of the missionary stores I always have my share, so that I have indeed a
double portion of the good things of this life; for Mr. and Mrs. S. give me always a share with them. The
last apple and orange were cut in three pieces, and divided between us. The impression that such little
things make on my mind will not easily be erased. O that I were worthy of such favours, but I fear I am
not.
(To be continued.)
As we were about to send the foregoing extracts to the press, we received two letters from the Rev. Mr.
Stewart. They were written, it appears, at the distance of five months from each other, and sent in
different directions, so as to divide between them a circumnavigation of the globe; and yet they both came
to us by the same post. The one under date of October 22d, 1823, contains the latest intelligence of the
Sandwich Islands mission that has yet been published. We give large extracts from both. We have lately
seen an article in the publick papers, which states that the king and queen of the Sandwich islands had
arrived at Rio Janeiro, on their way first to England, and then to the United States. The correctness of this
statement we have since seen confirmed by a private letter. We should hope that if their majesties should
live to return, they will be more desirous, and better qualified than ever, to favour and promote the
civilizing and christianizing of their people.
Mission House at Honoruru,
Port of Oahu, Sandwich Islands, May 24th, 1823.
Respected and beloved Sir—I have time merely, before the sailing of the Arab, which carries letters for
America to Canton, to inform you of our safe arrival at this place, on the morning of the 27th of April,
after a most prosperous and pleasant voyage. Betsey and myself have both kept regular journals, copies of
which we design, according to our engagement, to transmit to you; and shall send them by the next ship
that sails from this port for America, which will be in about six weeks: we could not possibly prepare
them in time for the Arab.
We are all in excellent health, Betsey says she never felt better, looks remarkably well, and is very happy
in her situation. Sometimes during the voyage she felt a little lonesome, being without any bosom friend,
which all the rest of the family had. But since the 11th April, she has felt nothing of the kind. Mrs.
Stewart then committed to her care an infant son, who seems to have filled the vacuum in B.’s heart, and
beguiles her already of the moments which before left an opening for thoughts of sadness. I am happy to
say that Mrs. S. enjoys the most perfect health: and is greatly pleased with her situation in these distant
isles, and in the prospect of usefulness to this people.
It is not determined where we shall be permanently established, but probably at Lahaina on the island of
Maui: (Mowee.) If not there, either at Kouruah or Ohido, on the island of Hawaii, (incorrectly Owyhee.)
The Mission is in prosperous circumstances, and the hopes of its supporters here were never brighter.
Truly the fields are already ripe for the harvest, and we may add, “The harvest is great, but the labourers
are few.” We have been received with open arms by the government and people, and twice the number of
missionaries would have been joyfully hailed. But I must leave all for a future communication.
Join us in our praises, and still remember us in your prayers, and believe me
truly yours,
Chas. Saml. Stewart.
Mission House at Honoruru,
Port of Oahu, Sandwich Islands,
October 22d, 1823.
My venerable and beloved Friend,—I take my pen hastily to inform you, that by the present opportunity
of sending to America, by the ship Staunton, of New Bedford, I transmit my private journal of our voyage
and arrival at these islands. A journal of the last six months, may be expected to follow it, in the course of
a month or six weeks. I would send it now, but it is at my station at Lahaina on the island of Maui.
I sent a letter to you by the brig Arab, captain Meek, via Canton, in May last; but think it probable, that
this will reach America first. Betsey also wrote at that time, and has since, by the Dawn, captain Gardiner,
of New York, and by the Hero, captain Starbuck, of Nantucket There is no want of opportunities of
sending. There are thirty ships and two brigs now at this port: four or five of which are bound directly
home. My haste, at present, does not arise from the immediate departure of the Staunton, but from the
expectation of embarking myself for Maui. I have been absent almost a month, and have become
extremely anxious to return. No opportunity has offered for some days, but the king this morning
hastened off in a small yacht, and left orders for the barge (the celebrated Cleopatra) and Waverley, to
follow to Lahaina: they are now preparing to get under weigh, and I must secure a passage.
The prosperity of the mission is uninterrupted, and its prospects most encouraging. The journal from this
station and Lahaina, by the next ship, will give many interesting particulars: and one or two separate
documents are preparing for the press, which I think will be received with much satisfaction by the public
in general. Our hearts do not faint, though we are buried in corruption. We have, almost daily reason to
believe that the time is not very far distant, when this ignorant and degraded nation will “rise and shine.”
We feel that we are in a heathen land —a land of moral and spiritual death;— we feel that many sorrows,
and many afflictions must be ours, however great our encouragement—however happy our success : and
that we shall often be compelled to sigh, from the midst of these parched regions, for the shadow of some
rock in which to repose from the toils and the heat of the open field. This rock, I trust, we have, and may
ever find, the Rock of Ages—Abraham’s God and Israel’s friend; and the God and friend of all his
covenant people.
Mrs. Stewart and son, and Betsey, were well when I last heard from them. B.'s health is generally good.
She is kind and faithful, and will be greatly useful. We are very comfortably located at one of the most
beautiful and important spots on the islands. Mr. Richards and myself have an island with 20,000
inhabitants committed to our spiritual care—a solemn—a most responsible charge ! But I must close my
present communication—Affectionate remembrance to all the members of your own family, and to all
friends. May every blessing and perfect peace rest on your head, my venerable and beloved friend; and
may we meet in heaven, to part no more for ever.
Chas. Saml. Stewart.
P. S. I have broken open my letter to inform you of the first Christian marriage among the chiefs of this
nation. The king’s mother died about a month since; and was buried in the Christian mode instead of their
former heathen abominations; and her husband, on Sunday last, was married, according to the Christian
institution of marriage, to one wife, and to have her only. As both persons are the particular patrons of the
station at Lahaina, it would please me to have the death and marriage both published in the Christian
Advocate ; and if you please, in some of the papers of the city.
Death.— “Died at Lahaina, on Maui, one of the Sandwich islands, Sept. 16th, 1823, Ke-o-pu-o-la-ni
mother of the present king Rihoriho, aged 45 years. She was the particular patroness of the Missionary
station at Lahaina, under the direction of the Rev. Messrs. Richards and Stewart; was a hopeful convert to
the Christian faith, and received the ordinance of baptism before her death.”
Marriage.—“Married, in the Missionary Chapel, at Lahaina, Maui one of the Sandwich islands, by the
Rev. Mr. Richards, October 19th, 1823, Hoa-pori, a chief of high rank, to Ka-la-ku-a, (Ka-ni-o) one of the
queeiis of the late king Ta-me-a-me-a, and mother of the present favourite queen Ka-me-ma-ru.— Ka-nio,
until late, was the most common name of Kalakua. The chiefs have as many names as a Spanish grandee
has titles.