A 
 
 HISTORY 
 
 OF THE 
 
 WEST INDIES, 
 
 COXTAIXIXG THE 
 
 NATURAL, CIVIL, AND ECCLESIASTICAL 
 
 History of each Island : 
 
 AVITH AX ACCOUNT OF THE 
 
 MISSIONS 
 
 IXSTITUTED IN THOSE ISLANDS, FROM THE COMMENCEMENT 
 OF THEIR CIVILIZATION ; 
 
 BUT MORE ESPECIALLY OF THE 
 
 MISSIONS 
 
 ^■ niCH HAVE BEEN ESTABLISHED IN THAT ARCHIPELAGO 
 
 BY THE SOCIETY 
 
 Lale in Connexion with the Rev. John JVesley. 
 
 Br THOMAS COKE, LED. 
 
 OF THE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD. 
 
 IN THREE VOLUMES. 
 VOL. 11. 
 
 LONDON: 
 
 PRINTED FOR THE AUTHOR, 
 
 AND TO BE HAD OF THE REV. MR. BLANCHARD, 
 14, CITY ROAD. 
 
 1810. 
 A. Palis, Priutcr, Took's Court, Chancery Lane. 
 
THE 
 
 HISTORY 
 
 OP 
 
 JAMAICA 
 
 (Concluded). 
 
 CHA^P. XVI. 
 
 Progress of the Mission o?i the repeal of the colonial 
 lazv. — Pleasing prospect in vatious quarters. — Restiic- 
 tive orders in contemplation. — Ordinance passed. — Effects 
 resulting from this measure. — Copi/ of the Ordinance.-—' 
 Copy of a laz^ prohibiting slaves from attending public 
 worship, or receiving any instructions fro/n Missionaries. 
 — Imprisonment of Mr. Gilgrass, one of the Mission- 
 aries. — Trial, sentence, and punishment of Mr. Gilgrass. 
 -—Spijit of persecution. — Preaching altogether prevent- 
 ed. — Application to the throne for redress. — Persecuting 
 lazi) repealed. — Loyalty due both from principle and 
 interest. 
 
 X HE repeal of that colonial law which imprisoned 
 Mr. Campbell and Mr. Williams, and finally drove the for- 
 mer from the island, established the professors of religion 
 in the possession of those privileges which they had previ- 
 ously enjoyed. These availed themselves of tlie returning 
 favor, and, M'ith gratitude to their God, and to their sove- 
 reign, began with renewed vigor to spread among the hea- 
 thens the unsearchable riches of Christ. The spirit of hear- 
 ing that had been suppressed, but not destroyed, during the 
 time of persecution, revived with the occasion ; and an 
 increase of the congregations, a seriousness of attention, 
 and a spread of the word, were the immediate consequences. 
 The Missionaries were now invited to many places from 
 which they had been before expelled ; the people of Mon- 
 
4 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 tego Bay began to wish for that gospel which they had 
 previously despised, and Morant Bay was no longer for- 
 bidden ground. 
 
 To the latter of these places Mr. Bradnock repaired, ' as 
 soon as liberty was obtained. Here he preached to a people 
 who had been greatly discouraged, but who had held fast 
 the beginning of their confidence with greater steadfastness 
 than might have been expected from the embarrassing cir- 
 cumstances under which they had labored. The pleasing 
 prospects which Mr. Bradnock saw before him, induced 
 him to use exertions to complete in this place a chapel which 
 had been already begun. 1 he people to whom he applied 
 for assistance, were liberal beyond expectation ; several un- 
 expected donations were transmitted from England ; and a 
 train of such favorable circumstances concurred, as seemed 
 to promise, under the Divine blessing, an assurance of 
 success. 
 
 From this place Islr. Bradnock endeavored to extend 
 his labors, by visiting some towns and plantations to ^^hich 
 he could previously hardly hope for access. " I bless God,'' 
 he observes, " that I only wish to live for his glory and the 
 good of souls. Mr. Gilgrass, my colleague, informs me, that 
 all things are still going on well in Kingston. By the last 
 calculation which I made when in town, 1 found an increase 
 of nearly two hundred members since my arrival, which is not 
 more than twelve months since. But what pleases me still 
 more, is the deepening of the work in many hearts ; so that, 
 though we have been constrained to expel many m ho walked 
 disorderly, I hope we shall have a good work in the island 
 after all our oppositions." 
 
 The first place in the country to which Mr. B. repaired, 
 was on the northern side, in the parish of St. Mary's, about 
 twenty-six miles from Kingston. Here he was kindly received 
 by a few individuals, whose attachment to the gospel had re- 
 peatedly urged them to repair to the towns for the purpose 
 of hearing its truths delivered. These were rejoiced above 
 measure at his arrival ; and, in conjunction with their neigh- 
 bors, appeared ripe for the sacred doctrines which he 
 came to impart. \\ith them he continued about five 
 days Avith much satisfaction, and then proceeded twelve miles 
 further, to an estate which he had been solicited to visit. 
 Here he preached to about fifty negroes, to many of wliom 
 his r\ord was attended wiih remarkable effects. On the 
 following day nearly double tiie number attended, and 
 the preaching of the word m as accompanied with still more 
 
WEST INDIES. 5 
 
 evident displays of the divine pouer. Many were awakened, 
 several fell to the ground in the utmost distress, and after 
 ** roaring aloud for the disquietude of their souls," were 
 set at liberty, and enabled to rejoice in the God of their 
 salvation. 
 
 From hence he proceeded about ten miles further, and 
 reaching the parish of St. Andrew's, found an asylum in 
 the house of a lady, whose heart had been so influenced by 
 divine grace, that she would have thought herself honored 
 by being permitted to wash the ' disciples' feet, tl ere the 
 congregation was not large ; but those who heard, supplied 
 by their seriousness their deficiency in number. About 
 three miles further, he stayed for a short season, and preached 
 to an attentive but not numerous people : the word appeared 
 to sink deeply into their hearts ; and some among them had 
 travelled nearly twelve miles, to hear again those truths 
 Avhich had been delivered to them in the parish of St. 
 ^lary. 
 
 After a short interval, Mr. B. went forward to Manchio- 
 neal, a place about seventy miles from Kingston. On his 
 journey thither, he was treated w tth the utmost khidness by 
 the people at whose houses he lodged, and with attention 
 and much respect on his arrival. In this place, preachijig 
 had been attempted on former occasions, but little or no 
 success had attended the word. At present, the congregation 
 tlid not exceed fifty, and these were rather careless than 
 <levout. Unhappily, the means of grace had been so long 
 placed beyond their reach, that even Christianity had lost 
 its importance ; and the charms of the present world had 
 nearly obliterated all the horrors and glories of another. At 
 this time, there was no public worship within thirty miles of 
 the villages ; and, consequently, there was no one to put 
 them in remembrance of their latter end. Six persons, who 
 seemed desirous to flee from the wrath to come, were here 
 formed into a little society, and requested not to neglect the 
 assembling of themselves together. But no permanent 
 assistance could be rendered to them, arising from the 
 peculiarity of their situation, and those other engagements 
 which occupied the attention of the Missionaries. Mr. 
 Bradnock having, therefore, exhorted them to continue in 
 the grace of God, took liis leave for the present, and re- 
 turned to Kingston. 
 
 In this place the word of God ran and was glorified. 
 jSIr. Gilgrass had labored with unwearied diligence tiuring 
 the absence of Mr. B. and many were brought nigh unto 
 God through his instrumentality. " I am happy," says Mr. 
 
6 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 B., " to observe, that Mr. G. and myself are united in our 
 labors both m town and in the country. He is now gone out 
 on the same round from which I have lately returned, and I 
 believe he will be made very useful. My prospects of the 
 rising generation, of which I formerly gave you some account, 
 have far exceeded expectation. I have a class of eighteen ; 
 and thirteen of these enjoy peace. Our Sunday School also 
 affords much ground for hope. Our numbers at Morant 
 Bay are two whites, and ninety-five colored people and blacks, 
 forty-three of whom have joined tlie society since December 
 last ; and of these thirteen enjoy peace through believing. 
 At Irish-town we have thirty-eight, in St. Mary's thirty-four, 
 St. Andrew's thirteen, Manchioneal six, and in Kingston 
 twenty-two whites, and six hundred and twenty-two colored 
 people and blacks. These are in addition to twenty-six who 
 have died, and twenty-four who have been expelled since our 
 last returns. Our total numbers at present in town and coun- 
 try are twenty-four whites, and eight hundred and eight color- 
 ed people and blacks ; so that our increase within the last 
 twelve months has been full three hundred." The letter from 
 which the above extracts have been taken was dated April 
 26th, 1806. 
 
 In the month of August, of the same year, the letters 
 ■which were transmitted bore the same pleasing appearances 
 which we have just surveyed. The friends of Christ were 
 enabled to hold up their heads and worship God, none legally 
 daring to interrupt them ; and those who m ished their doMn- 
 fal and extirpation were obliged to stiHe in silence that en- 
 mity which rankled in their hearts. At this time the harvest 
 was plenteous, but the laborers were few. The places 
 which Mr. Bradnock had visited, were still as open as 
 before, and the people anxiously waited for his return. 
 Here many were hungering and thirsting after righteousness, 
 without knowing how they should be filled ; of which the fol- 
 lowing letter will afford us a specimen. It is dated the 23d 
 of Sept, 1806, and was written by a private gentleman, 
 and addressed to the Author. 
 
 " About ten days ago, I had some serious conversation 
 with Mr. Bradnock, who gave me great hopes that he 
 would soon pay us a visit on the north side ; but he is now 
 ill, and I am afraid I shall never have the honor or the 
 pleasure of seeing him there. They are in great want of 
 laborers in this part of the island ; but, my dear Sir, we are 
 really in a pitiable situation at Falmouth and Montego Bay. 
 I hope you will take us into consideration, and do all in your 
 power to send us a minister. One might supply both places 
 
"WEST INDIES. 7 
 
 for the present, till another can be spared, as from Falmouth 
 to Montego Bay is only a pleasant ride of twenty-two miles. 
 Myself and family have resided at Falmouth nearly six 
 years ; and I have not the smallest doubt that the gospel 
 Avould spread if we liad a pious minister." 
 
 As the year drew towards a close, the congregations botli 
 at Kingston and Morant Bay grew larger, and more atten- 
 tive ; and those Avho belonged to the society appeared 
 in earnest for the salvation of their souls. This was evident 
 from their punctual attendance on all the means of grace, 
 and ardent zeal for the glory of God. " The society in 
 Kingston," says Mr. Gilgrass, " is the most devoted: we 
 have here many precious souls who are enabled to rejoice 
 in God their Saviour, and whose hearts are warm with divine 
 love. Many young persons have joined us of late, most of 
 whom are in good earnest, and promising fair for the king- 
 dom of heaven. Our congregations greatly increase with 
 both whites and colored people of respectability. These 
 give great attention ; and, therefore, we have reason to hope, 
 that God will soon lay hold of some of their souls. In St. 
 Andrew's, the work is going forward, ^^'e hear of none 
 going back, but of many turning to the Lord. One of our 
 local brethren told me, that when he preached there, sixteen 
 gave in their names who seemed desirous to serve God. St. 
 Mary's is much the same, but, probably, would have been 
 far better if we could have attended to the wishes of the 
 people. But the cause of their being neglected was from 
 God ; and it is our duty, our happiness, and our honor, to 
 submit to his dispensations, though they are afflictive.* 
 Undoubtedly, either here or hereafter, we shall know and 
 see through all these mysteries, to our eternal felicity. I am 
 
 in expectation of visiting these places very shortly —as soon 
 
 as Mr. B. returns. He is now at Morant Bay, and has been 
 there for two or three w eeks ; but, thank God, he is much 
 recovered. 
 
 " Irish-tow n is much as usual ; I think, on the whole, 
 rather on the increase. The last time ISIr. B. and I were 
 there, we had reason to believe that the members of the society 
 were growing in grace. The state of Morant Bay is not 
 
 * This expriession alludes to the indisposition of Mr. Bradnock, whose 
 illness was spoken of in a fonner letter. The fever under which he la- 
 bored, had constrained hini at this time to retire from Kingston on ac- 
 count of the air. 
 
8 HISTORY OF TRE 
 
 SO well as we could wish, our long absence having operatrd 
 to its disadvantage. IJerein we perceive the utility ot" 
 preachers and of preaching. Manchioneal is an object of 
 pity ; it has not been visited these four months, owing to 
 the illness of Mr. Bradnock ; and how they are going on 
 I cannot say. Of Port Royal I can speak nothing favor- 
 able ; — wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that lead- 
 eth to destruction, and many there be that go in thereat. 
 Our whole number in town and counti-y amounts to eight 
 hundred and thirt}'-two : of these twenty-four are whites ; 
 all besides are eitlier colored people or blacks." The above 
 letter bears date December 5th, 1806. , 
 
 In the month of January 1807, Mr. Bradnock, who had 
 spent some time in the country on account of his ill health, 
 returned to Kingston somewhat restored, but not per- 
 fectly recovered. " I am happy to say," he then observed, 
 " thai after a long and dangerous illness of nearly two 
 months, I am now recovering. I was raised from my 
 bed, after shivering with the ague for two hours, and 
 burning with the fever for three, on Christmas-day, amidst 
 the prayers and praises of the people ; but, after preaching 
 two sermons, Mas compelled to return to it again. 1 bless 
 God, I am much strengthened in body and in mind, and 
 highly pleased with the thoughts of receiving brother Know- 
 Ian, to assist us in our labors ; but the fleet is not yet 
 arrived. 
 
 " Brother Gilgrass enjoys a good state of health at 
 present, for which we feel gratitude to God. He is this 
 day gone out into the country-round, from which I have 
 lately leturned ; and many pleasing prospects there truly 
 are in many parts. At Morant Bay, I have admitted fifty 
 members this quarter, so that their number now amounts to 
 one hundred and fifty-five. There are many places to which 
 we have not been able to attend for want of another preacher, 
 and for money to erect chapels. Through my illness, Mo- 
 rant Bay chapel has been nearly neglected during some 
 months past ; for our funds being exhausted, the work was 
 at a stand, and we found no means of recruiting them till 
 my returning health enabled me to apply to our charitable 
 benefactors. I have lately collected fifty pounds, and the 
 tradesmen are again at Mork. 
 
 " 1 am happy to say, that my soul prospers, and continues 
 to enjoy that free and full salvation which 1 am again eiv 
 abled to preach unto others. The blessed work of God 
 not only spreads wider, but it sinks deeper in the hearts 
 
WEST INDIES. 9 
 
 of our members. We are constantly comforted with the 
 enlivening declarations of those who are born of the Spirit, 
 and made heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ. Our 
 whole number now in town and country exceeds one thou- 
 sand ; so that, during the last two years, an addition of 
 more than five hundred members has been made ; besides 
 many who have gone to glory, praising God for sending his 
 ministers among them to preach the '* Great Word" and 
 tell them of Jesus Christ." 
 
 In February, Mr. Gilgrass corroborated the above ac- 
 count. " The work," he observes, " is spreading, and would 
 more abundantly be extended if we had adequate help. It 
 evidently appears to me, and rests with weight upon my 
 conscience, that " Now is the accepted time, and that this 
 is the day of salvation" for Jamaica. In every quarter, and 
 on every hand, the people are crying, " come and preach 
 to us." No less than eight or ten places are now wanting 
 the gospel ; but, alas ! they cannot have it at present. 
 Mr. B. is laid up, and has been nearly so for some months 
 past ; he is dying a martyr for the gospel and precious souls. 
 The work in Kingston wins its way, chiefly among people 
 of color ; of these many young ones have lately been added 
 to our society, who bid fair for glory. Our morning meet- 
 ings at five o'clock are much attended, and the people 
 acknowledge the utility of them both for soul and body. 
 On Thursday evenings, our chapel is too small to contain 
 the congregations, and the people complain that we cannot 
 accommodate them with seats." 
 
 In the island of Jamaica there are many Jews ; these, as 
 it is natural to suppose, are not friendly to the cause of 
 Jesus Christ. Many of their slaves, however, found means 
 occasionally to attend our chapel, and several in the begin- 
 ning of the year 1807 were convinced of sin and converted 
 to God. This exasperated their proprietors in no small 
 degree, and induced them to threaten their slaves, that un- 
 less they desisted from attending the preaching, they should 
 be confined in the workhouse, and undergo a flogging. 
 These threats were not unfrequently carried into execution. 
 " I saw a woman, a few days since," says Mr. Gilgrass, " M'ho 
 told me, that her master had laid her down, and sentenced 
 her to receive thirty-nine lashes if she persisted in going to the 
 chapel. She replied, " Massa, me must pray." She then 
 received nine strokes with particular severity, when the blood 
 ran in streams from her back. A gentleman, pitying her 
 situation, inquired into the nature of her offence ; andlearia- 
 
 VOL. 11. B 
 
10 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 ing that It was only for worshipping God, interposed, and 
 instantly released her. A young black man, on the day he 
 was baptized, received thirty-nine lashes for a similar offence ; 
 indeed, he stood charged M'ith no other crime than that of 
 praying. But, glory be to God, the more Pharaoh afflicts, 
 the more the people prosper and multiply," 
 
 In the month of March, Mr. Knowlan, a Missionary 
 who had been long expected, arrived at Jamaica, much to 
 the assistance and gratification of those who Were establisli- 
 ed there before. Indeed, the health of Mr. Bradnock was 
 so impaired through affliction and fatigue, that the arrival 
 of Mr. K. w-as not only opportune, but essentially necessary 
 to preserve the congregations. " The Lord," says Mr. B. 
 *' is truly making bare his arm among the heathen. We have 
 numbers added every week, and many sound conversions 
 frequently take place. We have about three hundred who 
 regularly meet in band, and know that their sins are forgiven, 
 and are groaning for full redemption. A still greater num- 
 ber are laboring under strong convictions ; and I hope, that 
 as soon as brother Knowlan is seasoned to this climate, we 
 shall have a glorious work in different parts of the country." 
 
 In another letter, dated March 15th, Mr. B. observes 
 as follows : " We have now nearly completed the house 
 and chapel at Morant Bay, and hope to preach in it on 
 Easter Sunday, though the pews will not be made for some 
 time. Our society in this island hath prospered very much 
 for these two last years ; the little one is now more than a 
 thousand, and we have more than work enough for another 
 Missionary. If God bless our united labors, and favor us 
 with health, I hope, by the next Conference, that we shall 
 be able to say, our barren wilderness buds, blossoms, and 
 smiles. We have many Jews who come to hear the word ; 
 these give great attention, and our congregations are both 
 large and respectable." 
 
 In the month of April, the chapel at Morant Bay was 
 opened. A sermon was preached in it for the first time, 
 on Sunday the 26th, by Mr. Knowlan. A large and atten- 
 tive congregation assembled. At this place, he continued 
 till the 26th of May, when he returned to Kingston; 
 There were now three Missionaries in the island ; one of 
 whom was stationed in Kingston ; another in Morant Bay ; 
 and the third made excursions into the country, to visit tlie 
 distant plantations and villages to which they had been 
 previously invited. These stations they agreed to fill in 
 regulai" succession, unless sickness, or other unforeseen 
 
WEST INDIES. 11 
 
 events, compelled them to alter the arrangements of their 
 plan. 
 
 Mr. Bradnock, on Mhom the charge of Morant Bay 
 chapel had rested, having seen the top-stone brought forth 
 with shouting, soon found himself liberated from a weighty 
 burden. This, in conjunction with his precarious state of 
 health, induced him to visit the country as soon as possible ; 
 that he might know more particularly the condition of the 
 societies which had been long neglected, and enjoy the 
 salubrity of the mountain air. Prior to his departure, he 
 observes, " God is blessing our united labors to this people. 
 'Hie first year we added more than two hundred and fifty. 
 These last eighteen months we have made the addition of 
 five hundred and seventy-eight ; so that we have now one 
 thousand and seventy-eight in our society. JVIany of these 
 are savingly brought to a knowledge of the truth, and adorn 
 the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our congregations are more 
 than our chapels can contain, and we have some thoughts 
 of enlarging our borders in Kingston." 
 
 In the course of his journey, Mr. B. preached at most 
 of the places which he had visited before, and of which Me 
 have already given some account. He was received with 
 every mark of respect and attention ; his congregations were 
 as numerous and well-behaved as might be expected, and 
 the word which he delivered was attended with some happy 
 effects. In every place there seemed to be a desire kindled 
 for the sound of the gospel, though it glowed with different 
 degrees of fervor. Thus town and country presented a most 
 pleasing prospect ; the fields were m hite unto harvest ; and 
 sinners were flocking to Jesus, as doves to the windows, for 
 safety. W hat wonder then that the expectations of the 
 Missionaries should be raised to the highest pitch, and that a 
 sad reverse of all their hopes should heighten their disap- 
 pointments ? 
 
 Many leading persons in the town of Kingston, provoked 
 at the prosperity of the missions, resolved, if possible, to 
 oppose their progress by throwing some obstacles in their 
 way. Private opposition would not reach the point at which 
 they aimed ; they, therefore, resorted to measures which were 
 thought to be more effectual. It was in the month of June 
 1807, when the first reports of their proceedings transpired ; 
 at which time Mr. Bradnock was in the country, and Mr. 
 Knowlan in Kingston. The intelligence soon reached the 
 latter ; but not till the affair was brought before the corpo- 
 ration of Kingston, and actually taken into serious consi- 
 
12 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 deration. Mr. K. had not been many months in the island, 
 and scarcely knew how to act on this important occasion, to 
 avoid the charge either of negligence or indiscretion. His 
 first step was, to transmit to Mr. B. a brief account of what 
 was going forward, and to solicit his immediate return. 
 
 Mr. B. at the time that this message reached him, was in 
 the parish of St, Mary's. He had just visited a small society, 
 to whom he had preached about twelve months before, and 
 was preparing to preach to another M'hen the disastrous in^- 
 telligence arrived. " While preparing to preach and admi- 
 nister the sacrament," he observes, " I was sent for from 
 Kingston, to appear before the Common Council, as a law 
 was in contemplation to prevent all religious meetings from 
 being begun before sun-rise, or continued after sun-set. This 
 was a heavy stroke ; as all our meetings (Sundays only ex- 
 cepted) are begun at five in the morning and seven in the 
 evening, and so would fall within the reach of the prohibited 
 hours. After preaching at three o'clock, I rode twenty-seven 
 miles ; when we drew vip a petition to present to their wor- 
 ships ; but, after waiting in the Assembly-room about two 
 hours, we found that the meeting was postponed till the 
 following week. They have already taken a man into cus- 
 tody for praying too loudly in his own house. His crime 
 was committed between eight and nine o'clock at night, and 
 he is now in confinement. If, therefore, the law should be 
 passed, we may prepare for similar treatment. But, through 
 grace, I am not only willing to be bound at Jamaica, but 
 also to die, for the cause of Christ Jesus." 
 
 It had been reported, by those who wished to have the 
 law enacted, that " the meetings of the slaves and others 
 Were held at unseasonable hours ; — that people could not 
 pass through the streets without being annoyed with singing 
 and praying ; — that they were at it all night ; — that the or- 
 derly inhabitants could not rest in their beds without being 
 disturbed ; — and that there was nothing but singing and 
 praying through all Kingston." The last of these charges, 
 whatever may be thought of the others, was most assuredly 
 erroneous ; for riot, dancing, billiards, and theatrical amuse- 
 ments,* abounded ; nor was any one molested in the en- 
 
 * It is at all times unpleasant to record the failings and indiscretions 
 of a friend ; but more especially so, when we are convinced that he has 
 been actuated by the most pious intentions. It is, nevertheless, tlie duty 
 of the faithful historian, to give an impartial detail of every important 
 fact that lies before him, without considering whether it implicates his 
 friends or foes. Tliis task the author is now called upon to perform. 
 
WEST INDIES. 13 
 
 joyment of them. No one, we presume, will tliink lliat these 
 nurseries of dissipation were shut at an early hour ; or, if 
 kept open, tiiat those who frequented tiiem were studiously 
 attentive not to interrupt the silence of the night. The 
 professors of religion ought not, therefore, to sustain alone 
 
 The " Ordinance," by virtue of which Mr. Gilgrass was arrested anJ 
 confined, was passed on the I5th of Jnne 1807, and continued to 
 operate without finding any violator of its injunctions, till towards the 
 close of the November followin?. During this interval the theatres were 
 open, pubhc assemblies were held, and dances continued through the 
 night, in the same manner as before. About the middle of November 
 a public dance was held in a house not far from the Methodist chapti 
 in the great square in Kingston. The evening on which the dance began 
 was that of a Saturday. It was attended by some of the most wealthy 
 and most powerful individuals on the island, and continued till a late 
 hour. 
 
 Mr. Gilgrass and Mv. Knowlan, the two Missionaries who were then 
 in the city, heard with much painful emotion the infringement which ^vas 
 made on the approaching Sabbath ; and, availing themselves of the es- 
 tablished law, sent a message to the company desiring tliem to desist. 
 Irritated at what they deemed an insult, they refused to comply with 
 the mandate of an assumed authority, aiid, probably, continued sometime 
 longer than they otherwise might have stayed, from motives of defiance. 
 The above jMissionaries, finding their message disregarded, and the laws 
 trampled under foot, by gentlemen who should have supported their 
 dignity by holding out a laudable example to others, applied to the 
 town-guard, and insisted on their going to disperse them. This guard 
 Mr. G. accompanied thither, and soon accomplished his desires by causing 
 the assembly to break np. Under circumstances so peculiar, what less 
 than retiliation was to be expected? The occasion was afforded not many 
 days afterward, and Mr. Gilgrass was imprisoned accordingly. 
 
 The statement of this fact may serve as a warning to others, whose 
 zeal is not regulated by prudence, that it is not every thing whicli is 
 lawful that is expedient. The wisdom of the serpent must be united 
 to the harmlessness of the dove, or the character of the christian will be 
 incomplete. The muiisterial office is a sacred department, which cannot, 
 without sustaining an injury, either form alliances, or interfere, with 
 that of the civil magistrate. Civil society has its laws by which it is re- 
 gulated ; and coercive power is lodged in the hands of men, whom 
 either the appointment of government, or the suffrage of their peers, has 
 deemed worthy of exercising it. If these men grow remiss in the dis- 
 charge of their duty, the ministers of the gospel have no right to come 
 forward as vohmteers to supply their lack of service : nor can they possi- 
 bly interfere, without assuming a right which must cause them to deviate 
 from that rank which it is their indispensable duty to sustain. No religious 
 pretences, no inward conviction of duty, no calculations upon ultimate 
 benefits, can justify a breach of these lines of demarcation. It never can 
 be the duty of any man to do evil that good may come. 
 
 Should such principles and practices as would lead the minister of the 
 gospel to step mto the office of the civil magistrate, nnhappily gain the as- 
 cendency, it would be extremely difficult to fix boundaries to their opera- 
 tions. On the whole, the author cannot but think, that the Missionaries 
 on this occasion acted with considerable indi.«cretion ; and he hesitates 
 not lo declare, that he views their conduct with the most decided dis- 
 approbation. 
 
14 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 the charge of disorder, of which their accusers were crimi- 
 nally guilty. 
 
 Candor, however, and justice direct us to observe, that 
 these charges were not wholly without foundation, against 
 those who professed to worship God. Happily, on this 
 occasion, the Methodists were less liable to the imputation 
 than some others who made a profession of worshipping the 
 God of their fathers. Yet even the Methodists were not 
 wholly exempt. In every community there will always be 
 found certain individuals, whose zeal will outrun their know- 
 ledge, and hurry them into extravagancies which the less 
 ardent view with unaffected sorrow. This was the case with 
 some in Jamaica ; but nothing could be more injudicious 
 than to attribute to the whole body of professing christians, 
 tlie conduct of a few solitary individuals. 
 
 To remove impressions which were at once unfavorable 
 and erroneous, was the great object of the petition which 
 Mr. Bradnock and his colleagues had drawn up to present to 
 the Council of Jamaica. In this petition, they set forth, 
 that the earliest hour at which their meeting began in the 
 Chapel alone M'as five in the morning, and that they broke 
 up at six ; and that in the evening the latest hour was seven, 
 and they dispersed at eight o'clock. They further laid down 
 the doctrines which were taught, the precepts which M'ere 
 inculcated, the principles of loyalty m hich had distinguished 
 us as a body ; and pointed out some of those beneficial 
 effects which had resulted from the establishment of Metho- 
 dism in several places. These were stated to be both known 
 and acknowledged by many of the most exalted characters 
 in his Majesty's dominions. 
 
 An unexpected delay, which succeeded the intention of 
 enacting the law immediately, furnished the Missionaries 
 with an opportunity of consulting some professional gentle- 
 men upon the purport of their petition, and the impending 
 edict. These, unanimously, were of opinion, that as the 
 requests of the petitioners to be exempted from the operation 
 of such a comprehensive mandate, were founded upon the 
 most obvious of all principles, they had every reason to 
 flatter themselves with the success which they desired. But 
 in these calculations they found themselves most dreadfully 
 deceived. 
 
 Mr. Bradnock, relying on the purity of his intentions, 
 and the favorable estimation which he had made of human 
 nature, repaired again to his place of appointment in the 
 country ; as the resumption of the business had been post- 
 
WEST INDIES, 15 
 
 poned for a week, and he had been led to entertain a pleas^ 
 ing opinion of its termination. The petition was, therefore, 
 consigned to the care of Mr. Knowlan, who waited till the 
 day appointed, but had the mortification to see it treated 
 witli disregard, if not with contempt. 
 
 " I inclose," says he, " in this letter a copy of the law. I 
 was present when it passed. Our address was read, but 
 finally rejected. I was asked several questions, and my 
 answers appeared to give satisfaction to the most prudent 
 and best informed; but there were some in the Council 
 who appeared determined to pass the " Ordinance." These 
 would hearken to nothing that we could advance. In the 
 whole Council, though several seemed to view the 
 *' Ordinance" in a dubious light, only one among them 
 openly espoused our cause. This gentleman did not hesi^ 
 tate to avow, that he thought they had no legal right to pass 
 such a law ; and that, however he might differ from others 
 in modes of religion, he was utterly averse to those princi- 
 ples which contracted the liberties, and fettered the con^ 
 sciences, of such as wished to worship God. 
 
 But opposition from a solitary voice was utterly unavai!* 
 ing. A decided majority appeared to sanction the measure ; 
 and on the 15th of June 1807, the following edict was 
 passed into a law : 
 
 JAMAICA, ss. 
 
 AN ORDINANCE 
 Fo7' preventing the profanation of religious rites and false 
 zcorshipping of God, under the pretence of preaching and 
 teaching, by illiterate, ignorant, and ill-disposed pcrso7is, 
 and of the mischief consequent thereupon. 
 
 WHERExA.S it is not only highly incumbent upon, but 
 tlie first and most serious duty of all magistrates and bodies 
 politic, to uphold and encourage the due, proper, and 
 solemn exercise of religion and worshipping of God : And 
 whereas nothing can tend more to bring true devotion, and 
 the practice of religion, into disrepute, than the pretended 
 preaching, teaching, and expounding the word oir God as 
 contained in the Holy Scriptures, by uneducated, illiterate, 
 and ignorant persons, and false enthusiasts : And w hereas the 
 practice of such pretended preaching, teaching, and ex- 
 pounding the Holy Scriptures, by such descriptions of 
 persons as aforesaid, to large numbers of persons of color^ 
 and negroes of free condition, and slaves, assembled together 
 ni houses, negro-houses, huts, and the yards thereunto 
 
l6 HiStORY OF THE 
 
 appertaining, and also in divers lands and by-places withirt 
 this city and parish, hath increased to an alarming degree ; 
 and during such pretended preaching, teaching, and ex- 
 pounding, and pretended worshipping of God, divers inde-" 
 cent and unseemly noises, gesticulations, and behavior, 
 often are used, and take place, to the great annoyance of 
 the neighbours, and to the disrepute of religion itself, and 
 also to the great detriment of slaves who are induced, by 
 divers artifices and pretences of the said pretended preachers, 
 to attend the said irregular assemblies, whereby such slaves 
 are continually kept and detained from their owners* 
 necessary business and employ, and in some cases the 
 minds of slaves have been so operated upon, and affected, 
 by the fanaticism of the aforesaid description of persons, as 
 to become actually deranged : Be it therefore enacted, and 
 ordained by the Common Council of the city and parish of 
 Kingston (the Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council- 
 men of the city and parish, or a competent and legal 
 number, or quorum of them, being in Common Council 
 assembled), and it is hereby enacted and ordained by the 
 authority of the same. That from and after the first day of 
 July next, no person not being duly authorized, qualified, 
 and permitted, as is directed by the laws of this island, and 
 of Great Britain, and in the place mentioned in such license, 
 shall, under pretence of being a minister of religion of any 
 sect or denomination, or of being a teacher or expounder of 
 the gospel, or other parts of the Holy Scriptures, presume 
 to preach, or teach, or offer up public prayer, or sing 
 psalms, in any meeting or assembly of negroes, or persons 
 of color, within this city and parish : and in case any person 
 shall in any ways offend herein, every such person, if a white 
 person, shall suffer such punishment by tine not exceeding 
 one hundred pounds, or by imprisonment in the common 
 gaol for any space, not exceeding three months, or both ; or 
 if a free person of color, or free black, by fine not exceeding 
 one hundred pounds, or imprisonment in the work-house for 
 a space of time not exceeding three months, or both ; or if 
 a slave, by imprisonment and hard labor in the work-house, 
 for a space not exceeding six months, or by whipping, not 
 exceeding thirty-nine stripes, or both ; as shall be in those 
 cases respectively adjudged. 
 
 And be it further enacted and ordained by the authority 
 aforesaid, that no person or persons whatsoever, being so 
 as aforesaid licensed or permitted, shall use public worship 
 in any of the said places within this city and parish which 
 
WEST INDIES. 17 
 
 may be so licensed as aforetaid, earlier than the hour of sir 
 o'clock in the morning, or later than sun-set in the evening, 
 under the penalty of such punishment by fine, not exceeding 
 one hundred pounds, or by imprisonment in the common 
 gaol not exceeding the space of three months, or both, as 
 shall be in Uiat respect adjudged. 
 
 And be it furiher enacted and ordained by the authority 
 aforesaid, that from and after the said first day of July 
 next, in case any owner, possessor, or occupier of any 
 house, out-house, yard, or other place v.hatsoever, shall 
 permit any meeting, of any description of persons, for the 
 purpose of hearing or joining in any such pretended teach- 
 ing, preaching, praying, or singing of psalms, as aforesaid, 
 such owner, occupier, or possessor, being a white person, 
 shall incur and suffer such punishment by fine, not exceeding 
 one hundred pounds, or by imprisonment in the common 
 gaol not exceeding three months, or both ; or if a person of 
 color, or black, of free condition, by fine not exceeding 
 one hundred pounds, or by confinement in the workhouse for 
 any space not exceeding three months, or both ; or if a slave, 
 by confinement and hard labor in the workhouse, for any 
 space not exceeding six months, or by whipping not exceed- 
 ing thirty-nnie stripes, or both, as shall in these respective 
 cases be adjudged. 
 Passed the Common Council, this loth day of Jam, 1807. 
 
 Daniel Moore, Recorder. 
 Thomas Dennis, City Clerk. 
 
 Nothing could be more effectual than the clauses of this 
 act for preventing the slaves from hearing the gospel on six 
 days out of seven. Before the sun rises, they are compelled 
 to be at their labor ; and this they are not permitted to quit 
 until it sets. The law, iheretore, leaves them free to attend 
 preaching during those hours that they are confined, and 
 forbids them from attending when they have an opportunity ! 
 Such are the methods which were adopted " for preventing 
 the profanation of religious rites, and false worshipping of 
 God !" 
 
 Tlie ordinance in question was, however, only local in 
 its operation, being confined solely to the city and parish of 
 Kingston ; for, beyond these precincts the jurisdiction of the 
 framers of it did not extend on the present occasion. 
 
 The spirit, however, which caused it to be enacted, reached 
 much farther than the letter of it, and operated in many 
 respects to the detriment of the missions. ** A general 
 
 VOL. II. C 
 
18 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 sorrow," says Mr. Knowlan, " prevails among our people at 
 present. They are more than ever the butt of slander and 
 calumny ; and what makes their situation still worse is, that 
 a man of color cannot prosecute a white man ; hence many 
 assume the liberty of saying what they please." 
 
 There is one circumstance which was very peculiar on 
 the present occasion, and ought not to be omitted. The 
 French and Spanish priests, who either had chapels, or 
 wished to erect any, were permitted to worship God agree- 
 ably to the dictates of their consciences, without meeting 
 "with the least legal molestation : while those who could pre- 
 sent a still more powerful claim, by being free-born subjects 
 of the British empire, labored exclusively under the inter- 
 diction. 
 
 Religion has often been compared to the palm-tree, 
 which flourishes with the greatest luxuriance when it is 
 most oppressed. This was now in no small degree realized 
 in Jamaica. The people, convinced of the precariousness 
 of their privileges, M'ere stirred up by the restrictions 
 under which they labored, to live nearer to God, and 
 ardently to improve the opportunities which yet remained. 
 Several who, prior to this time, had viewed the gospel 
 with indifference, began now to manifest an attachment 
 towards it. 
 
 Among these was a gentleman of Kingston, who volun- 
 tarily offered to the Missionaries a spot of ground on which 
 they might build a chapel. It lay in the suburbs, but was 
 admirably adapted for the purpose, and placed beyond the 
 influence of the edict. Of this, however, they could not 
 avail themselves. The building of that at Morant Bay had 
 exhausted their finances, and the late act had in no small 
 degree disconcerted their measures. Such conduct, they 
 were sensible, would also have had an appearance of oppo- 
 sition ; and would have tended to provoke those whom they 
 wished to convince of their improper conduct, by a demeanor 
 that should bear no resemblance to deflance. 
 
 In the country, the societies increased considerably. " We 
 have formed," says Mr. Bradnock, " one little society in St. 
 Thomas in the Vale, of thirty members, who bid fair to 
 adorn the christian character. They are all free people, and 
 belong to one family. Many of them are under deep 
 awakenings, and one found peace with God the day I left 
 them." 
 
 In September, they write that nothing very remarkable 
 at that time had taken place ; nothing, indeed, but what 
 
WEST INDIES. 19 
 
 they had reason to anticipate. To the public sessions, and 
 tlie common council, they had applied for a license for 
 the chapel at Morant Bay ; but in both places they met 
 with a pointed refusal. The same spirit \\hich had led to 
 the " Ordinance" in Kingston, they could still perceive, 
 was full of vigor ; but they had no conception that it was 
 just then at work to introduce a more effectual barrier to 
 the propagation of the gospel. A few weeks, however, 
 convinced them of their mistake ; as the following extract 
 from a law which was passed in November w ill most fully 
 prove. 
 
 Extract of an Act for the protection, subsisting, cloth- 
 ing, and for the better order and govern/uent of 
 staves, and for other purposes. 
 
 Preamble. WHERE.AS it is for the public good, that 
 
 all the laws respecting the order and govern- 
 ment of slaves should be consolidated and 
 brought into one law : May it please your 
 Majesty, that it may be enacted ; be it therefore 
 enacted by the Lieutenant-Governor, Council, 
 and Assembly of this your ^lajesty's Island of 
 
 ^ Jamaica, That from and after the commencing of 
 Masters, Over- .1- 4. 11 4^ j • 4^ • 
 
 seers &c. of ^"^'^ ^^'' ^'^ masters and mistresses, owners, or, ni 
 slaves, to en- their absence, overseers of slaves, shall, as much 
 deavor to iu- jis in them lies, endeavor the instruction of their 
 the christiaii slaves in the principles of the christian reli- 
 rtligion. gio"> ^^ hereby to facilitate their conversion ; and 
 
 shall do their utmost endeavors to fit them for 
 baptism, and, as soon as conveniently they can, 
 cause to be baptized all such as they can 
 make sensible of a Deity, and the christian 
 faith : 
 II. Provided, nevertheless, that the instruction 
 of such slaves shall be confined to the doc- 
 trines of the Established Church in this island ; 
 and that no Methodist Missionary, or other 
 sectary, or preacher, shall presume to instruct 
 our slaves, or to receive them into their houses, 
 chapels, or conventicles, of any sort or descrip- 
 tion, under the penalty of twenty pounds for every 
 slave proved to have been there, and to be 
 V recovered in a summary manner before any 
 
 three justices of the peace ; who, or the ma- 
 
20 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 jorlty of whom, are hereby authorized and 
 empowered to issue their warrant for recovery 
 of the same ; and on refusal of payment, to 
 commit the offender or offenders to the county 
 gaol until payment of the said fine or fines ; 
 which shall be paid over to the church-wardens 
 of the parish where the offence shall be com- 
 mitted, for the benefit of the poor of such 
 parish. 
 
 Passed the Assembly, this 1 \th day of November, 1807. 
 Philip Redwood, Speaker. 
 
 Passed the Council, this 11 th of November, 1807. 
 
 R. Robertson, CL Cone. 
 
 J consent this Q8th of November, 1807- 
 Eyre Coote. 
 
 On the nature and tendency of this act, which was con- 
 sidered as a clause belonging to the consolidated slave 
 laws, iiv, is almost needless to animadvert. The instruction 
 of their slaves is indeed recommended to the owners, pro- 
 prietors, and overseers respectively ; but no penalties are 
 annexed to enforce an observance of the recommendation. 
 On the contrary, the prohibition, which is pointedly di- 
 rected, forbids the Missionaries to admit the slaves among 
 their public congregations, or even in their houses, and is 
 accompanied with a fine of twenty pounds for every such 
 slave as presumes to enter their chapels or dwellings. No- 
 thing can be more evident, than that the design of the 
 legislature of Jamaica, in enacting this law, was, to cut off 
 all intercourse betMeen the Missionaries and the slaves, and 
 thus defeat, by legal measures, the end for which the Mis- 
 sionary establishment was instituted. This intention, indeed, 
 is openly avowed by the express language which is used in 
 the edict. 
 
 The same disposition that induced the legislators of the 
 island to frame this new law, led the magistrates of 
 Kingston to seek after offenders against the " Ordinance," 
 which, from June to November, had operated M'ithout 
 finding its intended victims. 1 he obedience which had 
 hitherto been yielded to its requisitions had rendered its 
 coercive clauses nearly useless, and partially defeated the 
 severe design for which, it had been thought by some, it 
 was first enacted. This, in a certain degree, had tended to 
 
WEST INDIES. 21 
 
 soften the apprehensions of danger which had been enter- 
 tained, and attbrded its supporters a fairer opportunity of 
 seizing offenders, when they trespassed upon its Inniis with- 
 out being conscious of their own transgressions. Of these 
 facts, the following narrative will probably furnish us with 
 a clear elucidation. It was written by Mr. Gilgrass, and 
 bears date the 2d of February, 1808. 
 
 " To ease my heavy-laden soul, I shall lay before you 
 the lamentable state of our church in this island. 'J lie 
 original cause of this raging persecution unquestionably is, 
 a rooted enmity to the things of God^ reigning in the hearts 
 of men. 
 
 " The first step which w as taken by the common coun- 
 cil, was the passing of the late " Ordinance," prohibiting all 
 unqualified preachers ; and under this denomination all were 
 ranked who were not sanctioned by the laws of England, 
 and of this island. At that time we were permitted to 
 preach as usual, on certain conditions, which restricted us 
 as to time, as specified in the " Ordinance," and subjected 
 us to certain penalties in case of violation. 
 
 " The above restrictions were very disadvantageous to 
 Hs. We lost many of our constant hearers, it being im- 
 possible for them to come at such hours of the day as w ere 
 deemed legal. Many also of those who truly feared God, 
 labored under the same impediments, particularly slaves. 
 We continued to act in conformity to the injunctions under 
 which we were laid, hoping that in a short time the " Ordi- 
 nance" would be repealed, and that all our local preachers 
 and class-leaders might commence teachers as before. The 
 people here require great care and attention from the 
 preachers and leaders in the pastoral way ; for, without this, 
 our preaching from time to time would avail but little. 
 And no m onder can be made that they would run from God, 
 considering the prevalency of iniquity, and the conduct of 
 many around them. 
 
 " The next step they took, was that of casting me into 
 the Kingston common gaol. The night we were taken 
 prisoners, I was unwell ; and the cause of our arrest was as 
 follows : I have been in the habit of teaching our young 
 people to sing hymns from five o'clock in the evening until 
 six. But this night, November 20th, 1807, Mr. Firth, a 
 Missionary just arrived from England, introduced a new tune, 
 w hich we heard attentively ; he, and his wife, being excellent 
 Singers. It was fifteen minutes after six, when the police 
 officer, and a magistrate with a night guard, entered into. 
 
22 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 and surrounded the house, taking Mr. Knowlan and myself 
 into custody, to carry us, by the police officer's request, 
 down to the cage ; a place where all vagabonds are confined 
 for misdemeanors. On hearing us call for our hats to go 
 with them, the officer said he would take our words for our 
 appearance. Several of the respectable young men then 
 present became verbal sureties for us, promising that we 
 should meet him at the court-house, the next morning, at 
 ten o'clock. Amidst this scene of injustice I felt resignation 
 to the will of God. 
 
 *' At seven in the morning, some of our friends importun- 
 ed us to write to the officer to let the affair drop. VV^e did 
 so, and two of lliem carried the letter. His answer was — 
 " Give my compliments to the gentlemen, and tell them I 
 shall let it drop." On the 23d, behold, Me heard that an 
 information was lodged with the city magistrate ; and on the 
 26th, we were summoned to appear at the court-house before 
 the corporate body. On the ;30th, after standing there up- 
 wards of two hours, I received the following judgment pro- 
 nounced by the Mayor : — "^ William Gilgrass, you are found 
 guilty of a large majority of this assembly, of a breach of 
 the resolution of the late " Ordinance," keeping your house 
 a receptacle for that purpose ; for which you are to be con- 
 iined in Kingston common gaol one calendar month." I 
 looked him in the face, saying, I thank you, and am very 
 happy under the judgment." 
 
 *' After being in prison a few days, several came to see 
 me. About four o'clock one evening, I gave out a hymn ; 
 and the singing brought many of the debtors mto the room, 
 and the rest round the door. One of the company asked 
 mc to pray ; and 1 gladly embraced the invitation. Ihey 
 then solicited me to preach on the ensuing Sabbath. To 
 thijj also I readily agreed. But this design was soon frustrat- 
 ed ; for, on the day following, a prohibition of all singing 
 and praying in the gaol was sent, said to be by order of the 
 magistrates. This eficctually prevented our assembling for 
 divine worship, but could not deter me from singing. In 
 this place of conlinement, my wife accompanied me ; and 
 we fully expected, that we should be obliged to suffer in 
 solitLtde the wliole time the '^ Ordinance" prescribed. 
 
 " Mr. Knowlan's time of trial came on ; but, from the 
 indisposition of body under which he had long labored, they 
 granted him pardon. My pumhhment they also remitted, 
 after I had lahi in prison about a fortnight." 
 
 It was while Mr. Gilgrass was confined in Kingston, that 
 
WEST INDIES. 23 
 
 tlie law which was annexed to the consolidated slave laws as 
 a new clause, began its operations. From this law we have 
 already given some extracts, by which the reader Avill per- 
 ceive, that all slaves are forbidden to come under the instruc- 
 tion of the Missionaries, either hi their houses or chapels ; 
 and that, if such can be proved to have been at any of the 
 above places, the preachers respectively are to be tined twenty 
 pounds for each slave ; and on nei;lect of payment, to be cast 
 into the public gaol until sucli tines shall be discharged. This 
 Jitep completely shut up the chapel while Mr. Gilgrass Mas 
 in confinement, because it was almost impossible to ascer- 
 tain, among the multitudes that crowded for admittance, who 
 were slaves, or who wer€ free. Thus, by one single act, 
 about tive hundred souls were removed from tlie society, and 
 from an opportunity of hearing the word of God expounded 
 by ministers, ^hose preaching had been made a blessing to 
 them. 
 
 " When I came out of prison," continues !Mr. G. " I 
 found the chapel shut up, Mhich almost broke my heart. 
 But, at the price of my liberty, which I had but just regained, 
 and in the faces of my avowed enemies, I ventured to open 
 the chapel, appointing door-keepers to ascertain the slaves as 
 accurately as possible. Thus i continued preaching for a 
 lortnight, to the restoration of many of the people who were 
 daily falling into sin." 
 
 Scarcely had the above time elapsed, before the four 
 Missionaries, Messrs. Bradnock, Gilgrass, Knowlan, and 
 Wiggins, the latter of m hom had lately arrived, were sum- 
 moned to appear before the sitting magistrates. They at- 
 tended accordingly ; and, after being interrogated, were told 
 that they should not preach without being licensed by them. 
 They answered, that they were already licensed according to 
 the laws of England. It was replied — " What are the laws 
 of England to us ? what have we to do with them .?" Mr. 
 Knowlan then moved for a license ; but was thus answered — 
 " Indeed you will not get one." 
 
 *' Mr. Wiggins," continues Mr. G. " will apply to the ap- 
 proaching quarterly session ; but upon a refusal, what shall 
 we do ? If we preach, the consequences are, one hundred 
 pounds fine, and three months imprisonment in the common 
 gaol. The former, neither the preacher nor the society is 
 able to pay. Suffer me to say, if we can have no redress 
 from home, we must leave the island. But I hope better 
 things. Till then we must p,a4.iently wait in expectation of 
 hearing from you, and learning what we are to do. At 
 
24 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 present, I cannot read in the family, or pray, without being 
 cursed worse than a pick-pocket, and that by while men who 
 are called gentlemen." 
 
 Mr. G. concludes his letter by observing as follows : 
 " We dare meet no more classes ; the corporate body having 
 given orders to the police officer, that if he can discover us 
 preaching (one or more) either by day or night, he is im- 
 mediately and irresistibly to take us down to that offensive 
 prison, the cage ; and that all the punishment which is in their 
 power shall be inflicted. Nothing appears to satisfy them 
 but our banishment." 
 
 On the 18th of Januar}', 1808, Mr. Wiggins, pursuant 
 to his intention, applied at the quarter sessions for a license ; 
 but his application was made in vain. He pleaded the laws 
 of England, by which he was tolerated; but these were 
 disregarded, and he was dismissed to mourn over his disap- 
 pointed hopes. Mr. Bradnock presented his license, M'ith 
 the seal of the Lord Mayor and City of London ; but this 
 was treated with no more respect than had been shewn be- 
 fore to the act of toleration. A determined opposition to 
 their further proceedings seemed to be resolved on, and 
 their only hope of redress lay in an appeal to the foot of the 
 throne. 
 
 Laws that are sanguinary and severe, are never suffered 
 to lie inactive for want of instruments to execute them. 
 On the contrary, when they are enacted against religion and 
 virtue, the spirit of them operates beyond their letter, 
 through those evil propensities which are lodged in the 
 human heart. In the month of April, a friend in Jamaica 
 writes as follows : " This night we were assaulted on both 
 sides of our house at prayer with a volley of stones, so that 
 some were obliged to fly to the windows to secure the blinds 
 for fear of our sustaining personal damage. A report is in 
 circulation, that some people or persons unknown intend 
 setting fire to our chapel under the shelter of darkness." 
 
 Prior to the law which was passed in November, Mr. 
 Johnston and Mr. Wiggins were sent out to assist as Mis- 
 sionaries those who had been established in the island before. 
 But, alas ! they were called on their arrival to behold those 
 sad reverses which we have been describing. " It appears," 
 says Mr. Johnston in the month of May, " by letters which 
 some of our friends have lately received from England, that 
 you suppose we are still preaching in the country ; but this 
 is totally prevented by the late act of the Assembly, wliich 
 imposes a heavy fine upon the preachers for every slave that 
 
WEST INDIES. 25 
 
 is found in the congregation ; and it is impossible to keep 
 them out. It gives us great pleasure to learn, from recent 
 letters, that you are about to interpose in our behalf, by 
 making an application to the King and Council. May God 
 grant you success ; for if you do not obtain redress from 
 that source, I fear it ^vill never be procured. 
 • " Supposing we could get licenses in this place to preach, 
 it would only be to such people as are free. But the poor 
 slaves, who are the primary objects of our mission, must be 
 left to perish for want of the gospel. May the God of love 
 prevent this !" 
 
 At the Lady-day quarterly meeting of the society, held in 
 Kingston, at which but few attended, it was appointed to 
 set apart the 15lh of April as a day of fasting and humilia- 
 tion before God, on account of the afflicted state of the 
 church, that he might grant a sanctified use of his judgments. 
 It was also proposed, that the preachers should wait upon 
 his Excellency the Governor with an address, and solicit his 
 favor ; and that an attorney-at-law should be employed to 
 draw up a petition in their behalf, and present it to the 
 quarter-sessions, praying for permission to take the oaths 
 of allegiance, and for licenses to preach to free people. But 
 all these endeavors proved abortive. To the mandate of 
 the colonial laws they were compelled to submit, and were 
 doomed to view, with unavailing sorrow, the progress of un- 
 controlled iniquity, without being permitted to lift their 
 voices in the behalf either of virtue or of God. 
 
 Unhappily, they beheld the dreadful evil reach to the 
 members of the church which the labors of their prede- 
 cessors had been exerted to raise. They saw multitudes 
 compelled to quit that fold in which they had found con- 
 solation, and, apparently, doomed never more to enter the 
 doors of that house m which they had learned to rejoice in 
 the God of their salvation. These were sensations of a 
 most afflicting nature, which both recollection and anticipa- 
 tion conspired to heighten. Frequently, before the chapel 
 was completely shut, while men of free condition entered 
 to hear preaching, the slaves crowded about the doors, which 
 the edict forbade them to enter, with looks of the most ex- 
 pressive sorrow, and words of the most penetratmg elo- 
 quence. We do not envy the feelings of that man who 
 could hear unmoved these pathetic expressions, accompanied 
 with tears : " iVIassa, me no go to heaven now." " White 
 man keep black man from serving God." " Black man got 
 |io soul." " Nobody teach black raau now." If ever the 
 
 VOL. II. D 
 
26 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 words of Sterne had a meaning, when he says, " I heard 
 '' his chains, and the iron entered my soul" — it must have 
 been on this occasion ; and the men who stood at the chapel 
 doors to forbid the entrance of the slaves, must have felt 
 them in all their force. 
 
 Under the circumstances which have been stated, it must 
 be obvious to all, that no relief was to be obtained for the 
 Missionaries from the colonial legislature of Jamaica. The 
 Missionaries had, from time to time, communicated the trans- 
 actions which had taken place, and the events that had 
 occurred to themselves and the society, to their religious 
 correspondents in England; and all were unanimously of 
 opinion, that our only hope of redress lay in an appeal to 
 the throne. 
 
 The framers of the law, av»'are of this measure, were 
 exceedingly tardy in presenting the act for his Majesty's 
 sanction ; perhaps from a conviction, that by a Prince so 
 tolerant it would be disallowed. This delay furnished them 
 with an opportunity of wearying out the affections of many 
 of those, who were destined either to suffer, or to abandon 
 their principles. These ends were, in part, accomplished. 
 Many grew weary of well-doing ; others fell into open vice ; 
 and some sunk into a state of indifference, from which they 
 have not since been awakened. A much greater number, 
 however, continued to persevere ; and these were rather 
 refilled than injured by the severity of their trials. 
 
 The Committee appointed by the Methodist Conference 
 to apply for legal redress, when occasions rendered the ap- 
 plication necessary, were compelled to remain almost in a 
 state of inactivity through these artful manoeuvres, notwith- 
 standing their ardent w ishes to render their afflicted brethren 
 some essential service by their exertions. In the month of 
 jSlarch, 1808, an application was made to his Majesty's 
 Most Honorable Privy Council ; but the answer returned 
 was, that no such act as was alluded to, had yet arrived. 
 In April, the same request met with the same reply ; and 
 in August the same silence prevailed. Every attention was, 
 indeed, paid by the Board of 1'rade to the chairmaa of the 
 Committee ; but it was impossible for either his Majesty, or 
 his Most Honorable Privy Council, to grant relief from the 
 operation of an edict, the existence of which was officially 
 doubtful. 
 
 In the mean time, while this event was hanging in sus- 
 pense, the following Petition was presented by the Com- 
 mittee to his most gracious ^Majesty : 
 
WEST INDIES. C7 
 
 « TO THE KING'S MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY IN COUNCIL, 
 
 " The Memorial of the Committee appointed by the Animal 
 Conference, of the people culled iSIethodists, late in 
 connexion with the Reverend ^ons Wesley, to regu- 
 late all important matters relating to their religious and 
 secular concerns, 
 
 " MOST HUMBLY SHEWETH, 
 
 " Tliat the said Society, late in connexion A;ith ISlr. 
 Wesley, by mIiohi your Petitioners have been appointed 
 as atoresaid, have expended about seventy thousand pounds 
 of money, contributed by them out of their private property, 
 as individuals, united in a religious Society under the 
 description aforesaid, in establishing ^Missions in various 
 parts of the world, for the instruction and conversion of the 
 Heatl'.en. 
 
 " 1 hat they have so expended many thousands of pounds 
 in sending Missionaries to your Majesty's Island of Ja- 
 maica, and in erecting chapels for the instruction of tlue 
 negroes, and also dwelling-houses for the residence of the 
 Missionaries, in different parts of that island: and that 
 the said Society is at this present time possessed of con- 
 siderable property, in chapels, and dwelling-houses for 
 their ]Slissionaries, in that island, 
 
 " And youi Petitioners further humbly shew, that about 
 twelve or thirteen hundred of the negroes in the said 
 island have been so fully instructed in our holy religion, 
 through the labors of the ]Mi,>sionaries employed by the 
 said Society, and hive so sincerely embraced the same, as 
 to have become pious and exemplary christians ; \^ hile many 
 thousands more of that poor ignorant people have been m 
 some measure instructed bv the said Missionaries. 
 
 " But your Petitioners most humbly beg leave to repre- 
 sent to your Majesty, that by force or color of an Act of 
 the Assembly of Jamaica, entitled, " The consolidated 
 Slave Act," which was passed by the Governor, Council, 
 and Assembly, about five months shice, a grievous religious 
 persecution has been commenced against the Missionaries, 
 the members of the said Society, and the congregations 
 established by tliem in the said island: that their chapels 
 have been shut up ; all their property in that island rendered 
 useless ; and that charitable work, the instruction of the 
 slaves, on \\hich so much labor has been employed, and 
 so much money expended by them, is now totally at a 
 stand. 
 
28 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 " Your Petitioners humbly beg leave to lay before your 
 Majesty, that part of the said Act of Assembly, under 
 which this severe persecution has arisen. < 
 
 " Every proprietor of slaves shall, as much as in him 
 " lies, endeavor to instruct his slaves in the priiK:iples of 
 " the christian religion ; and shall do his utmost endeavor 
 ** to iit them for baptism ; and as soon as he conveniently 
 *' can, cause to be baptized all such as can be made sensi- 
 *' ble of a Deity and the christian faith. 
 
 " Provided, that the instruction of such slaves shall be 
 " confined to the doctrine of the established church in this 
 " island ; and that no Methodist Missionary, or other Sec- 
 " tary or Preacher, shall presume to instruct our slaves, 
 " or to receive them into their houses, chapels, or con- 
 " venticles of any sort or description, under the penaltv' of 
 " twenty pounds for every slave proved to have been there, 
 " and to be recovered in a summary manner before any three 
 " justices of the peace, who, or the majority of whom, are 
 " hereby authorized and empowered to issue their warrant 
 " for recovery of the same ; and on refusal of payment, to 
 " commit the offender or offenders to the county gaol, until 
 " payment of the said tine or fines ; which shall be paid over 
 ** to the church-wardens of the parish where the offence 
 " shall be committed, for the benefit of the poor of such 
 " parish. 
 
 " Your Petitioners humbly beg leave to represent to your 
 Majesty, that the injunction contained in the said Act, 
 *' That the proprietors of slaves shall endeavor to instruct 
 '* them," is only an artifice to cover the irreligious nature 
 of the said persecution, and the antichristian principle on 
 which it is founded : for the same injunction, which was 
 enacted in former Acts of the said island, in and subsequent 
 to the year 1788, has been generally and notoriously disre- 
 garded; and the proprietors and managers of slaves, with 
 very few exceptions, do not in any degree endeavor to in- 
 struct the negroes under their care, either in the doctrines of 
 the Established Church, or in any other form of Christianity ; 
 but leave them, whether imported from Africa, or born 
 under your Majesty's dominion, in the darkest pagan igno- 
 rance and depravity, completely destitute both of religious 
 and moral education. 
 
 " That the established clergy of the island are by far too 
 few in number for the work of instructing the slaves, did 
 they consider it their duty so to do ; but, without meaning 
 the least disrespect to them, your Petitioners humbly beg 
 
WEST INDIES. 29 
 
 leave to state, that the beneficed and regular clergy of that 
 colony contine their ministerial instructions almost wholly, 
 if not entirely, to the white and other free inhabitants : 
 That the Right Reverend the Lord Bishop of Loudon, in 
 behalf of the Society for the propagation of the gospel in 
 foreign parts, a few years ago, sent a Missionary to instruct 
 the negroes in the said island of J amaica ; but that the said 
 Missionary, soon after his arrival, died of the yellow fever : 
 since which time, as your Petitioners are hiformed and be- 
 lieve, there has been no Missionary for the instruction of the 
 negroes in that island, .who had been ordained by any Bishop 
 of the Established Church. 
 
 " It is, therefore, a melancholy truth, as your Petitioners 
 humbly beg leave further to represent to your Majesty, that 
 about four hundred thousand of the human race are effectu- 
 ally excluded by this law from all public worship, and from 
 all public and private instruction ; and that it amounts to a 
 prohibition by a christian legislature, not of any particular 
 doctrines or modes of worship, but of the propagation of the 
 gospel itself among your Majesty's subjects above-mentioned, 
 in this view, it is a measure of persecution miexampled in 
 the christian world. 
 
 " It is, however, as your Petitioners gratefully acknow^- 
 ledge, a measure not more repugnant to the spirit of religious 
 toleration which characterizes our age and country, than it 
 is to the just and liberal intentions of your Majesty, as re- 
 cently manifested in the rejection of a former act of the 
 same colonial legislature, founded on the same persecuting 
 principles, when transmitted for your royal approbation. 
 
 " Your Petitioners, therefore, impressed with heart-felt 
 gratitude for that liberal spirit of toleration which has so 
 eminently distinguished your Majesty's reign, and which was 
 also so conspicuous in the reigiis of your royal ancestors of 
 the illustrious house of Hanover, humbly throw themselves 
 at your Majesty's feet, and implore your royal protection for 
 that large and loyal body of your Majesty's subjects, on be- 
 half of whom they petition, against this most oppressive and 
 unconstitutional Act of Assembly. 
 
 " Ihey also pray your Majesty, that on the arrival of an 
 official copy of the said Act, your Petitioners may be heard 
 by their counsel against the same, if to your Majesty, and 
 your Most Honorable Privy Council, it shall seem expe- 
 dient. 
 
 " And, finally, your P€titioners most humbly pray, in 
 behalf of the large body of your Majesty's loyal and faithful 
 
30 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 subjects whom they represent, That your ^lajesty will be 
 graciously pleased to disallow the said Act, and to order that 
 the same may no longer be enforced or acted upon in your 
 INlajesty's said Island of Jamaica. 
 
 " And your Petitioners, as in duty bound, will ever pray. 
 " Signed in behalf of the said Committee, 
 
 « THOMAS COKE, 
 
 *' XEW CHAPEL, CHAIRMAN. 
 
 City-Road, London, 
 MarjlSth, 1808." 
 
 Some time * after this Petition was presented, a Memo- 
 rial was laid before the Right Honorable the Coirimittee of 
 Council for Trade and Foreign Plantations, of which the 
 following is an exact copy : 
 
 « TO THE RIGHT HONORABLE THE LORDS OF THE COM- 
 MITTEE OF PRIVY COUNCIL FOR TRADE AND 
 PLANTATIONS, 
 
 ** The humble Memorial of the Committee of Deputies of 
 the Three Denominations of Protestant Dissenters 
 
 *' Sheweth, 
 
 " THAT your Memorialists have learned with deep re- 
 gret, that in an Act lately passed by the Assembly of the 
 Island of Jamaica, entitled, " An Act for the Protection, 
 Subsisting, Clolliing, and for the better Order and Go- 
 vernment of Slaves, and for other purposes," certain 
 provisions have been introduced respectmg Preachers and 
 Teachers dissenting from the Established Church of Eng- 
 land, highly injurious to many peaceable and loyal subjects 
 of his ]Majcsty's crown and government, and in direct con- 
 travention of the rights and privileges secured to them by 
 tiie Toleration Act, 1 W. & M. cap. 18. 
 
 " That if any of those persons, agahist whom the said 
 provisions appear to have been directed, had been guilty of 
 seditious practices, or other misdemeanors, tending to en- 
 danger the safety, or to distmb the peace of the said island, 
 your Memorialists apprehend that the individuals so ofFend- 
 mg were answerable to justice ; and might have been re- 
 sitramed or punished according to the nature and urgency of 
 jhe occasion, without confounding the innocent with the 
 guilty ; whereas, in the present case, your Memorialists be- 
 
 * To\Tards the close of the whole business. 
 
■WEST INDIES. 31 
 
 Heve themselves justified in stating, that, so far from such 
 misconduct having been proved, or tlie existing laws having 
 been charged with such insuthciency as to demand additional 
 legislative provisions (much less any so vexatious and unjust), 
 it has appeared from most respectable and impartial testimo- 
 nies, alluded to in a representation made to your Lordships 
 in the year 1804 by your present Memorialists, that great 
 advantage had been derived by the colonists from the labors 
 of that very description of persons who have been silenced 
 and oppressed by the late Act, which, although unsanctioned 
 by the authority of his Majesty, has, nevertheless, been put 
 in full execution. 
 
 " That your Memorialists will not trespass on the respect 
 due to your Lordships, by entering, uncalled, on a discussion 
 of the policy or equity of the long-established West- India 
 system, by which the common rights of himianity are de- 
 nied to Africans ; but they confidently trust in the wisdom 
 and justice of his Majesty's government, not merely that a 
 power so anomalous and exorbitant will at least be limited 
 by that fancied necessity in which it is alleged to originate, 
 but that the spirit of arbitrary domination, nourished by such 
 indulgence, will never be permitted by any incidental con- 
 nexions, or for any imaginary expedience, to infringe on 
 the rights and privileges of the other classes of society. 
 And your Memorialists, on behalf of his Majesty's dutiful 
 subjects for whom they act (a body incomparably out-num- 
 bering all the Mhite inhabitants of the British West Indies), 
 beg leave to state, that the rights now attacked are, in their 
 esteem, among the dearest and most important -vvliich, as 
 freemen and Britons, they Iiave the happiness to enjoy. 
 
 " \ our Memorialists therefore, regarding the enactments 
 against which they have taken the liberty to remonstrate, as 
 unconstitutional in their principle, and oppressive in their 
 operation, and looking up to your Most Honorable Board 
 as the moie immediate guardians of the law, and trustees 
 for the liberties of tlie subject, in the dependencies of the 
 empire, humbly pray that your Lordships will, in your 
 wisdom, be pleased to advise iiis Majesty to prevent the 
 said Act from passing into a law, by refusing thereto his 
 Royal assent. 
 
 " And your Memorialists, &c. 
 
 On the effects produced by tliese papers, it would display 
 both piesumptiou and foliy m ere we to attempt making tuiy 
 calculations. The wisdom and vigilance of those honorable 
 und august characters to whom they were addressed, were 
 
32 HiSTOItY OF THE 
 
 adequate to all the purposes that could excite our wishes, 
 and sufficient to beget our confidence, and destroy our fears. 
 The only light in which these Memorials were viewed by 
 those who felt solicitous for their being presented was, that 
 of stating facts which the preamble of the Act had concealed 
 under a delusive varnish, and of pointing out, from painful 
 experience, the sad extent of its operations. 
 
 Many months, however, elapsed from the passing of the 
 edict in Jamaica, before it officially arrived in England ; and 
 when it came, it was accompanied by an agent, who ap- 
 peared to be delegated to enforce all its clauses, though 
 they had been executed with so much severity. But the 
 etforts of unrestrained power were ineffectually made against 
 the tolerant principles which have on all occasions distin- 
 guished the illustrious house of Hanover. Against a spirit 
 of persecution, both his Majesty, and his august ancestors, 
 have uniformly manifested a determined opposition ; and the 
 enlightened liberality of his Most Honorable Privy Council 
 has induced them to support the Protestant cause, and, hap- 
 pily, to concur in his liberal designs, whenever the rights of 
 conscience have been invaded by delegated authority. 
 
 The year 1 808, nevertheless, passed away, and, through 
 the cause which has been mentioned, left the important 
 subject which remained at issue undecided. In the spring, 
 however, of 1 809, the cause was heard and duly considered 
 at the Board of Trade : and, at last, the following letter, 
 addressed to the Author of this History (who had given 
 regular attendance in London upon this business for about 
 eight months in two successive years), announced the mo- 
 mentous decision, and afforded a convincing proof that our 
 expectations were well founded : 
 
 " OFFICE FOR TRADE, 
 
 " Whitehall, 26th April, 1809. 
 " Lord Bathurst presents his compliments to Dr. Coke, 
 and acquaints him, that the late Act passed in Jamaica, in 
 November 1807, " for the protection, subsisting, clothing, 
 and for the better order and government of slaves, and for 
 other purposes," w as this day disallowed by his Majesty in 
 Council." 
 
 That a decision, so congenial to our wishes, so consonant 
 to justice, and so conducive to the interests of the gospel, 
 should produce among the friends of Christianity the liveliest 
 emotions of grateful joy, was rather a matter of expectation 
 
WEST INDIES. 33 
 
 than surprise. In this light, an act of justice confers a favor, 
 and heightens the obligation which it created, by the manner 
 of its communication. The account was immediately trans- 
 mitted to all the Methodist societies throughout the United 
 Kingdom and the colonies, that all might participate in the 
 common gratification, and be conscious, on the event pre- 
 sented, of the conspicuous displays of that paternal affection 
 ■which has invariably marked the conduct of our most gra- 
 cious Sovereign towards all the subjects of his extensive 
 empire, both on this and on all similar occasions. 
 
 Under circumstances so favorable to the propagation of 
 the gospel, which is the important object that we have in 
 view, no measures can more effectually bind us in loyalty to 
 the throne, than those which our most gracious Sovereign has 
 adopted on the present occasion. In this view, both grati- 
 tude and interest concur with our fixed principles. Our 
 religious rights and privileges form our dearest interests ; 
 these we enjoy at home ; and they are extended to our fellow- 
 creatures, without any regard to complexion, in the remot- 
 est extremities of the empire, as far as our Sovereign and 
 his government can infiuence the subjects of the realm. We 
 enjoy, in our auspicious day, the greatest blessings which it 
 is in the power of any government to bestow. The laws 
 that are established in our favor, are adequate to all the pur- 
 poses which they were designed to embrace ; and the many 
 decisions that have taken place, most convincingly assure 
 us, that those who have the administration of justice will 
 not suffer them to be infringed. May the spirit, as well as 
 the letter of them, be transmitted to generations which are 
 yet unborn ; and may those who feel their genial influence, 
 perpetuate that loyalty to their Sovereign, and gratitude to 
 God, which it shall be our endeavor to set before them as 
 an example ! * 
 
 * The Author is sorry to inform his readers, that the persecution in 
 Jamaica still continues, notwithstanding his Majesty's gracious inter- 
 ference : but the particulars, as well as the issue, of this melancholy event 
 must be xeservcd for the Appendix. 
 
 VOL. II. E 
 
34 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 CHAP. "KYl. 
 
 kiSTORY OF TRINIDAD. 
 
 Trinidad. — Discover^/, Inhabitants, Original and present 
 Condition. — Conquest and Revolutions. — Proximiti/ to 
 the Continent. — Extent. — Soil.— Early and natural 
 Productions. — Negligence of the Spaniards. — Natural 
 Advantages and capability of Improvement. — Reason 
 rtihy no attempts have been made to establish a Mission iii 
 the Island. 
 
 X HE Island of Triniddd has obtained but little notice in 
 the history of the Western World. It is the most Southern 
 of the Charaibee Islands ; which, in some measure, has pre- 
 cluded its intercourse with the nations of Europe. 
 
 It is well known, that the discovery of the West India 
 Islands was made by Columbus in his different voyages into 
 these distant, and, at that period, unknown seas. This 
 island was discovered by that celebrated navigator in his third 
 Voyage, and was named by him Trinidad, in honor of the 
 Holy Trinity. It still retains that name ; and there is no 
 probability that, in this respect, it will undergo any changie. 
 Jlerrera observes, that m hile Columbus was prosecuting this 
 his third voyage, he Avas overtaken by a violent storm, and 
 exposed to dangers of the most serious nature. In the midst 
 of his distress, he made a solemn vow, that in case he survived 
 his present disasters, and was permitted to prosecute those 
 discoveries which he was then pursuing, the first land m hich 
 he discovered should bear that sacred name. It Svas not long 
 afterward that a sailor, at the mast-head, descried three 
 points of land, apparently emerging from the ocean : this 
 was communicated to Columbus ; and the appearance, as 
 well as his recent vom , seemed to demand the name A\hich 
 he had previously determined to bestow. 
 
 It was in the year 1498 that Columbus first landed on 
 this island ; and from its contiguity to the southern conti- 
 nent, which he intended to explore, he found it admirably 
 calculated for a place of rendezvous to himself, and to 
 
M'EST INDUES. 33 
 
 these future adventurers who might engage in expeditions in 
 these little known regions of the globe. 
 
 The discovery of Trinidad was accompanied by that of 
 the river Oronooko, to the mouth of which it lies almost 
 contiguous. But Trinidad produced no gold, and was 
 therefore deemed an unimportant acquisitioii : calls of a 
 more seductive nature soon diverted Cohnnbus's attention, 
 and it was passed by with inditltcrence and neglect. 
 
 The river Oronooko, however, which had been descried 
 soon after the discovery of Trinidad, was considered as 
 an ol)ject of too much importance to be utterly abandoned. 
 The gold, which had been found in most of those places 
 where settlements had been made, continually glittered at 
 a distance ; it associated itself \\ ith every prospect of any 
 new discovery, but particularly with those wliicli were 
 made on the continental shores. It was this circumstance 
 which caused both Trinidad and the river Oronooko^' to 
 
 * The river Oronooko, which discharges itself by upwards of fifty 
 mouths into the ocean, is presumed to take its rise in the vast mountains 
 of the Cordeliers ; and it traverses a course of five hundred and seventy- 
 five leagues, in which it is joined by various other rivers, before it diseni- 
 bo;;nes itself into the sea. Its impetuosity is so great, that it prevails 
 over the most powerful tides ; and by its rapidity, preserves both its 
 freshness, and its current, to the distance of twelve leagues, after it has 
 forsaken the continent through which it had travelled, and has entered 
 the bosom of the deep. 
 
 But though this river is of sufficient power to repel the tides by which 
 it is assailed, it has tides peculiar to itself. Like the Nile in Eirypt, it 
 occasionally swells with periodical regidarity, but without overflowing 
 those banks which the great Creator has made its boundaries. It begins 
 to swell in the month of April, and continues gradually rising till Septem- 
 ber. Ill October the waters begin to subside ; and they regularly decrease 
 from that period till the return of tlie vernal equinox, when it proceeds as 
 already described. 
 
 The reasons which have been assigned for this extraordinary pheno- 
 menon are various, and some of them improbable in the highest degree. 
 The most reasonable account that can be given, seems to arise from the 
 varied seasons of the year. The mountains in which this river takes its 
 rise are perpetually covered with snows, but more particularly so in the 
 winter season of the year. When the sun, returning from the southern 
 limb of Capricorn, proceeds to cross the equator, the snows aie exposeil 
 to its perpendicular rays, through which it is probable that they begin to 
 meit, and within a month the waters commence their swell. Tills con- 
 tinues during the whole season of the northern summer, while the sun has 
 any northern declination ; but on its return from the tropic of Cancer, 
 when it crosses the line in its departure to the southern regions, the waters 
 begin to decrease, and the river returns to its usual state. 
 
 These circumstances, which are so correspondent with fact, afford us 
 also an additional argument in favor of the supposed source of the river. 
 The subsiding of the waters in October, if we admit the melting of 
 the snows by the action of the sun's vertical rays, will prove that the 
 source of this river must be iu some northern latitude ; an<l, therefore, it 
 
36 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 be soon revisited by the nation which had first made the 
 discovery of them ; the island was considered as an inlet 
 to the river, and the river as a path which led to gold. 
 
 The conquest of these immense regions, which are water- 
 ed by one of the largest rivers in the world, was soon 
 resolved on ; and in order to facilitate and ensure the 
 completion of so vast an enterprize, the island was peopled, 
 and made at once a depot and a place of common rendez- 
 vous. It does not however appear, that it was peopled 
 with any view to its improvement, or that the Spaniards 
 entertained any serious thoughts of settling a colony in this 
 remote comer of their insular possessions. It Mas con- 
 templated by them in a subordinate light, as leading to 
 
 must be in the northern parts of that rampart of moinitaiiis which God 
 has fixed to divide the waters of the globe. And though it may appear 
 problematical to suppose, that waters which begin to swell in April, 
 sliould subside in October, admitting the cause which is here assijL;iied ; yet 
 a solution appears obvious. April and October bear the same relation to 
 their respective equinoxes; and nearly a monthj in each case, elapses 
 before the effects are felt in cither towards the Orouooko shores. Inde- 
 pendently of this, it is not improbable, that through the immense body 
 of waters which flow during the six summer months, the snows are con- 
 siderably exhausted. And though the heat may continue intense, yet, tlie 
 exhalations being great, the supply of snows considerably diminished, and 
 the eai-th through which tlie solar rays had penetrated, and over the sur- 
 face of which the river and its tributary streams are obliged to pass, im- 
 bibing vast quantities of water — these circumstances may reduce this 
 mightj' river to its usual size. 
 
 But though the Oronooko is so immensely long and large, its rapidity 
 tends in some measure to impede the progress of its navigation. In 
 some places it is sufficiently deep for vessels of the largest burdens ; but 
 its appearance has often been found delusive. Obstructing rocks, and 
 concealed impediments, render the voyages upon it dangerous ; and it 
 frequently happens, that those who venture on this rapid stream are 
 obliged to land on its banks, and cany their canoes as well as their mer- 
 chandize, to a considerable distance, before they can again find a naviga- 
 ble part. 
 
 The various little islands, which break the mouth of this amazing 
 river into upwards of fifty streams, are inhabited by a race of men as 
 extraordinary as their situation. " Their country," says the Abbe Ray- 
 nal,* " thougli covered with water six months of the year when the 
 " river is swelled, and overflowed the rest of the year twice a da}' by 
 " tiie sea, appears to them preferable to any other. They live perfectly 
 " secure, in cabins raised above the reach of the waters, upon stakes 
 " sunk deep in the sands. Tliese sands are covered with palm-trees, 
 " which supply the savage inhabitants with food, drink, furniture, and 
 " canoes." 
 
 Such was the original discovery of this astonishing river, and such are 
 the leading, features of those peculiarities which relate to it. The vast 
 territories which are washed and intersected by it are at present but 
 little known ; so that many of the adjacent parts may be reckoned among 
 the undiscovered regions of the globe. 
 
 * Vol. iv. p. 92. 
 
WEST INDIES. 37 
 
 the river M'hich almost washed its shores, and as a necessary 
 step to large possessions, to empire, and to wealth. 
 
 On the arrival of Columbus at Trinidad, in 1498, he 
 found the island inhabited by a race of men who, though 
 in a state of barbarism, and ignorant of those arts Mhich 
 enrich and embellish life, possessed those soft traits of 
 character, which so particularly distinguished the Aborigines 
 of the great Leeward Islands. The Charaibean nations, who 
 inhabited the contiguous spots, were fierce, warlike, and 
 barbarous, and evidently of an origin distinct from those of 
 Trinidad. But of this strange diversity we have already 
 spoken. The Leeward Islands, as before observed, were 
 inhabited by a soft, effeminate, friendly people, in all pro- 
 bability of the Apaiachian tribe, who emigrated from tlie 
 Florida shore ; while the Charaibees were restless, ferocious, 
 and cruel, delighting in slaughter, and in disturbing the tran- 
 quillity of the larger and more populous islands. Tiie cus- 
 toms and manners, the language and modes of life, which 
 prevailed in Trinidad, bore an obvious resemblance to those 
 of the more inoffensive tribes. And though surrounded 
 by the Charaibees, it appears by the testimony of the most 
 respectable historians, that they were further removed from 
 them in language, in government, in religion and pursuits, 
 than they were in distance from the Apalachians of the 
 Leeward Islands. But by what means a soft effeminate 
 race should have been thus encircled by hostile neighbours 
 in their insular possessions, m hile they were separated from 
 their native tribe by intervening islands, and waters which 
 they were unable to cross, must remain a problem veiy 
 difficult fully to solve. 
 
 " It was not," says Raynal, " till the year 1535, that the 
 " Spaniards thought of paying another visit to the river 
 " Oronooko. But having been disappointed in their ex- 
 *' pedition, which was fitted out in search of mines, they 
 " never formed more than one small settlement upon it. 
 *• This is situated at the lower part of the river, and is 
 " called St. Thomas." 
 
 Trinidad having been considered by Spain as an ap- 
 pendage to the river, and to those romantic objects which 
 were theii so highly in repute, we have little reason to 
 wonder, that the failure of the expedition should termi- 
 nate in the utter neglect of an island which had, in their 
 estimation, no intrinsic value. The few inhabitants who 
 settled on it were Spaniards, and their characteristic in- 
 dolence is visibly niarked in every place tliat they have 
 
38 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 possessed ; we may, therefore, naturally conceive, that ik» 
 great improvements were made in the cultivation of the soil, 
 'ihe island, on its discovery, was covered with thick and 
 almost impenetrable forests, and in that state nearly the 
 whole of it was suffered to continue for a considerable time. 
 The small and feeble garrison which had been established on 
 it, served rather to possess it, than to defend it against any 
 foreign assailants ; and necessity, rather than industry, be- 
 came the principal incentive to that languid activity which 
 appeared on some diminutive spots, 'i hough capable of 
 producing many valuable commodities in the greatest abun- 
 dance, the richness of the soil seems to have been utterly 
 neglected, excepting in a few particular portions, which 
 were rather selected for conveniency than trade. 
 
 In the progress of years, however, the fertility of the soil 
 called forth some vigorous exertions, and the inhabitants 
 commenced a productive traihc. It was, however, circum- 
 scribed in its nature, and contined to cocoa, which was the 
 only article for exportation that they ever attempted to raise. 
 This was cultivated in such perfection, that its reputation 
 soon became great : it was even preferred to the cocoa of 
 Ccnacca, and soon obtained a mercantile superiority that 
 would admit of no rival either in price or fame. The supe- 
 rior excellency of this article soon brought on a competition 
 among the Spanish merchants. Ihe quantity raised was 
 insufficient to supply the vast demand ; and various methods 
 were, therefore, made use of, to obtain an exclusive posses- 
 sion. Its price was enhanced ; the approaching crops were 
 ajiticipated ; and many paid for tlie article in advance, to 
 ensure their bargains and to prevent disappointments. 
 
 This avidity in the purchasers, ^^hich would have been an 
 invincible stimulus to a people habitually industrious, had, 
 on the planters of Trinidad, a contrary effect. Having 
 recei\ed more money in advance than tlie anticipated crop 
 was sufficient to repay, they fell into a state of languor, 
 and neglected the cultivation of an article, which would not 
 only have cancelled every obligation, but have raised them 
 to a state of affluence and independence. Ihey had anti- 
 cipated their future wealth, and therefore had nothing to 
 hope ; the departure of hope gave them up a prey to despair ; 
 they sunk down in a state of apathy ; and by degrees, \\hich 
 at lirst w ere imperceptible, abandoned all thoughts of labor. 
 Commerce took its flight w ith industry ; their credit and 
 their cocoa departed together, and the moilier-coriutry no 
 longer deemed the island of any importance. 
 
AVEST INDIES. 59 
 
 Bttt ihonoh laziness, and cliaiaclcristic indolence, pre- 
 vailed Over industry, interest, and wealth, hostility toward 
 the natives unit'orndy continued. They considered the 
 island as a conquered country, because the inhabitants were 
 both unable and unwilling to resist the power of European 
 arms. We cannot specify any cruelties that were exercised 
 against the natives. But one fact is certain, that in the 
 course of a few generations the poor Aborigines disappeared 
 from the face of tlie earth. 
 
 The golden dream which enchanted Europe soon after 
 the discovery of America, and which continued for more 
 than a century, extended its delirium to this country ; andj 
 in loOo, drew Sir Walter Raleigh to the Western Continent 
 in quest of gold. His designs Mere, to enter the river 
 Oronooko, to explore the country of Guiana, and to pro- 
 cure that wealth ^hich the Spaniards had sought in vain. 
 AN ith these views, he departed from Plymouth on the 6th 
 of February, reached Trinidad on the 2'2d of ^larch, and 
 came to an anchor at Cape Curiacon, called by the Spaniards 
 Piinto dc Gallo. Great Britain was at this period engagetl 
 in a war with Spain ; the conduct, therefore, of Raleigh on 
 this occasion Mas nothing more than an exertion of a rival 
 nation contending for eui^iire, and attempting to enrich itself 
 with the spoils of a conquered foe. 
 
 Having secured his ships in the harbor where they had 
 cast anclior, he took his barge and skirted along the shore, 
 in order to make the better discovery of the coasts ; landing 
 iii every convenient cove to converse with the native inhalji- 
 tants, that he might obtain from them an adequate knoM ledge 
 of the rivers, creeks, watering-places, harbors, and de- 
 fenceless situations. In the progress of this circuitous voy- 
 age " between Perico and Piche, or Tierra de Brea, (says 
 " Barrow in his Naval History, vol. i. p. 21.5.) in a salt water 
 " ri\ er, he met m ith the Oyster Tree mentioned by Pliny ; 
 " and at Tier/a de Brea, he found such quantities of 77iiiie- 
 " ral pitch, that he declares all the ships in thcMorld might 
 *' be freighted with it from thence ; and that it is preferable 
 " to the Xorway pitch for trimming ships, as the sun can- 
 " not melt it." 
 
 By thus coasting the island, he had an opportunity of 
 entering into a tratiic with tlie natives, and from them he 
 acquired a competent knowledge of the Spanish forces. '1 he 
 behaviour of the S})aniards toward the unfortunate Indians 
 interested the latter in his favor, vvho well knew how to 
 imj)rove by their disatiection, and to draw them over to his 
 
40 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 own party. The landing-place was guarded by a few soldiers, 
 but tlieir strength was insufficient to make any resistance. 
 To these he oftered peace ; w hich being readily accepted, 
 he took hostages for their good behaviour, and began to cal- 
 culate upon the reduction of the island. 
 
 The fort was in a state nearly as defenceless as the landing- 
 place; badly manned; ill provided; and in all respects 
 unable to resist the attack which Raleigh meditated upon it. 
 At this critical juncture, his ships, v. hich had been parted 
 from him in a storm that had overtaken them on their voyage, 
 opportunely arrived. The season appeared particularly fa- 
 vorable, and prudence would not justify a moment's delay. 
 The arrival of his ships, the friendship of the natives, the 
 securing of the landing-place, and the feebleness of the 
 garrison, were circumstances not to be overlooked ; and the 
 place itself was of too much importance to his intended 
 expedition, to be passed over with neglect. To sum up all, 
 while the welfare of his nation justified the measure that he 
 was about to adopt, private resentment * gave ardor to the 
 enterprize. 
 
 Thus invited, thus equipped, and thus impelled, Raleigh 
 waited the approach of night to carry his schemes into 
 execution. He landed in the evening, fell immediately 
 upon the Corps de garde in a moment when they least ex- 
 pected him, and put every man to the sword. He then 
 sent forward Captain Ccdjield with sixty soldiers, Mhile he 
 followed with forty more, and immediately began an attack 
 upon the little town or city of St. Joseph. They entered 
 it about day-break, after meeting with a feeble resistance, 
 and put all to the sword, except Berreo the Governor and 
 his companion. These he sent on board his ship, and after- 
 ward obtained from Berreo a more explicit account of 
 Guiana than all his previous information amounted to. He 
 
 * The preceding year Sir Walter Raleigh had sent out a Captain 
 Whiddon to reconnoitre the Oronooko shores, as preparatory to this ex- 
 pedition. The governor of Trinidad, whose name was Don Antonio de 
 Berreo, had found means to decoy on shore eight of Captain Whiddon's 
 men; and, contrary to his promise, had made them prisoners. This, 
 therefore, had not been forgotten by Sir Walter ; and he determined to 
 revenge the insult that had been offered to his country, as well as to 
 secure a retreat for himself in case any disaster should befal him in his 
 intended expedition. On the river Oronooko the Spaniards had but one 
 settlement, which was both smail and defenceless ; but at the time of Sir 
 Walter's expedition this circumstance was not known ; it was, therefore, 
 but an act of prudence to provide for accidents which misiht be unfore- 
 seen. 
 
WEST INDIES. 41 
 
 learned from the Governor, \vho had been several times up 
 tiie river Oroiiooko, that liie counlry of \vhich he vias in 
 jHirsuit, lay ahoiit six hundred miles further inland than he 
 liad been led to believe ; a circumstance uhich had nearly 
 defeated his whole project, and which, finally, prevented 
 him from ever attaining his favorite object. 
 
 After the conquest of the town of St. Joseph, iind the 
 almost indiscrimuiate massacre of the Spaniards, Sir Walter 
 Raleigh began to be humane. Jn searching the places of 
 loniinemcut, he found five Indian Chiefs, or Caciques, con- 
 fined in a loathsome dungeon, quite exhausted with cruel 
 tortures, and almost starved to death. These he instantly 
 released ; and to complete his conquest, and gratify the 
 Indians, who had sutU'ered the utmost indignities from the 
 Spaniards, he consumed the town with fire, as he had de- 
 stroyeil the inhabitants with the sword. 
 
 Having thus executed his intention, and completely sub- 
 dued the island, Raleigh, full of his future discoveries, 
 collected together the Caciques of the island who were ene- 
 mies to the Spaniards, and told them, through the medium 
 of an interpreter, " Ihat he was the servant of a Queen, 
 " who was a great Cacique of the north, and a virgin, and 
 '' had more Caciques under her than there Mere trees 
 " on the island ; that she was an enemy to the Spaniards, 
 ** because of their cruelty and oppression ; and that, having 
 *' freed all the coasts of the northern world from their servi- 
 *' tude, she had sent him to deliver them also, and withal 
 " to defend the country of Guiana from their invasion and 
 ** conquests."* 
 
 A speech so astonishing, and accompanied with actions 
 wliich released their captives, and destroyed their oppressors, 
 overpowered the natives, and filled them with such exalted 
 notions of Queen Elizabeth, that they were almost ready to 
 pay divine honors to her picture, which was presented for 
 iheir inspection. And to promote a work which promised 
 to rid tiie world of their greatest enemies, the Caciques gave 
 Sir Walter all the information which lay in their power, 
 relative to the distance, situation, strength, and riches of 
 Guiana, which now engrossed all his thoughts, f 
 
 * Naval History, vol. i. pa<>e 216. 
 
 t Upon the information which Sir Walter received from the Indian 
 
 <'aciques, and Berreo the Governor, he left his ships at Triniiiad, and em- 
 
 baikPtl on board his small craft with one hundred men, lakin^ with bini 
 
 provisions for one mouth. With these he entered tlie river Oronooko, 
 
 VOL. II. • F 
 
43 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 The expedition of Sir Walter proving unsuccessful, Tri- 
 nidad was soon abandoned. It afforded no gold, and but 
 little plunder ; and, the end for which it had been seized 
 proving abortive, he consigned it over once more into the 
 hands of its indolent possessors, 
 
 " The court of Madrid," says Raynal, " still maintains 
 " possession of this island and the Margaritta, which neg- 
 '' ligence had before ruined, more for the sake of keeping 
 " nations of greater industry at a distance from the conti- 
 " nent, than with a view of deriving any advantages to 
 ^' itself." The inhabitants he describes as " a mixed race, 
 " descended from Spaniards and In(iian women. They live 
 " on what fish they catch, and on bananas, which nature 
 " produces there of a larger size and better quality than in 
 " any other part of the Arcliipelago. They have a breed of 
 " lean and tasteless cattle, with which they carry on a frau^ 
 " dulent traffic with the French colonies ; exchanging them 
 " for camlets, black veils, linens, silk stockings, white hats, 
 " and hardware. The number of their vessels does not 
 ^' exceed thirty sloops, without any decks." 
 
 Tlie tame cattle, both of Margaritta and Trinidad, have 
 degenerated from their European docility. They have es- 
 caped from their indolent masters, and filled the forests with 
 a breed that is completely wild. Though no longer under 
 
 and proceeded about four hundred miles ; but the intense heat of the sun, 
 accompanied with violent storms of rain, together with the rising of the 
 waters, as mentioned in a preceding note, overpowered his resohition and 
 strength, and obliged him to return without accomplishing his design. 
 Several of the petty kings of the counti y through which lie passed resigned 
 their sovereignty into his hands, for the use of Queen Elizabeth. But, as 
 if Europeans only roamed about the earth for the same purposes that wolves 
 and tigers prowl the desert, he set fire to the town of Cumana, because 
 the inhabitants refused, or were unable, to bring in the contributions 
 which he had laid them under. Rio de la Hacha, and part of St. Mary's, 
 shared the same fate. 
 
 But, notwithstanding these barbarous sallies of disappointed ambition, 
 he found means to gain upon the natives in general, and so far ingratiated 
 himself into their favor, that an alliance was entered into with several, 
 who promised to assist him on some future day, when more favorable 
 circumstances should enable him to attack the Spaniards with a probabi- 
 lity of success. This, however, was, in ail likelihood, an alliance which 
 self-preservation obliged them to make. It was not made because they 
 loved Raleigh, but because they hated the Spaniards, and were willing to 
 change their masters, from a full conviction that they had notliing more to 
 lose, but that from any change they had every thing to hope. He left 
 with them a pair of colours, which it has been said they still preserve ; 
 and their posterity cherish the remembrance of the alliance to the present 
 kour 
 
WEST INDIES. 4^ 
 
 the command of the inhabitants, these M'ild cattle furnish 
 them with some employment. They shoot them in the 
 woods, and, cutting their flesh into narrow slips, about three 
 inches in breadth and one in thickness, melt out the fat, and 
 dry them in the sun. By this means the flesh is preserved 
 from putrefaction, and made capable of being kept in good 
 condition for several months. This also was a diminutive 
 article of traffic with the French colonies. 
 
 Such, with the variations which local circumstances uni- 
 formly occasion, was the original condition of the island ; 
 such were its produce and inhabitants, and such the vicissi- 
 tudes to which it was exposed until the year 1676; when it 
 \\ as attacked, conquered, plundered, and abandoned, by the 
 French. Nothing remarkable occurs in this depredatory 
 excursion ; it again returned to its original conquerors, and 
 continued in their possession till its capture, by us, in 1 797, 
 in whose hands it remains to the present day. 
 
 This newly-acquired addition to the British colonies in the 
 West Indies, being ceded by Spain to the crown of Great 
 Britain, in virtue of the third article of the definitive treaty 
 of peace of 1802, ofi*ers a wide field for commercial enter- 
 prize, with well-founded hopes of considerable profit. In 
 the hands of the Spaniards, owing to their characteristic in- 
 dolence, it remained in an unimproved, and for the most 
 part, in an uncultivated state ; but from the combined enter- 
 prizing spirit, liberality, and industry of our merchants and 
 planters, we may expect to see it become, in a few years, a 
 very flourishing settlement. 
 
 Its situation is highly advantageous, in times of war, for 
 receiving a formidable fleet ; which may not only protect it 
 from the attempts of an enemy, but likcM'ise be so stationed 
 at this island, as readily to command and secure all the other 
 British Leeward Islands. It possesses the additional advan- 
 tage of bays, in which vessels of considerable burden may 
 float in a sufficient depth of water, enjoy safe anchorage, 
 and be completely sheltered from the prevailing winds. 
 These advantageous circumstances indicate its future pros- 
 perity, and point it out as a valuable portion of the globe. 
 Future generations may, probably, look back with astonish- 
 ment, when they learn that this tract of land remained in 
 the possession of one of the civilized nations of Europe 
 nearly three hundred years, exhibiting a scene of wild fertility, 
 ^\hich scarcely served any other purpose, than to invite the 
 hand of industrious cultivation, and to reproach its original 
 conquerors with their habitual neglect. 
 
44 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 Trinipad is situated betAveen CO" and 6l" SO' of 
 longitude Mest from Londoii ; and n\ 10 of ut.rih latitudo. 
 It is separated from the Terra Firma of South America 
 b_v the straits of Paria, which are nearly eight miles over : 
 and it lies to the south Me>t of Tobago, at the distance 
 of about twenty miles. T]\e leugtli of the island does not 
 exceed eighty miles : and its shape is so siniiular, that in some 
 parts the breadth is only six miles, whilst in others it extends 
 to thirty. It is, however, entirely out of the tract of hurri- 
 canes. The soil is represented as uncommonly fertile, and 
 capable of producmg abundant crops of sugar : tliere being 
 no less than four miihons two hmidred thousand acres of un- 
 cultivated land lit for plantations of that article ; and the soil 
 in general is so rich, and so easilv wTOUght, that forty negroes 
 could perform the same quaritit) of labor in its cultivation, 
 as would require one hundred in any of tlie old established 
 islands. Tobacco of a fine qualitv, excellent cottons, indigo, 
 ginger, iadian corn, and in general all tlie products of the 
 larger islands, besides a variety of fi^its, might here be 
 raised in plenty, w itli comparative ease and considerable ad- 
 vantage. But tlie air is said to be uuliealtliy, occasioned by 
 frequent and dense fogs : and this, perhaps, may form tlie 
 best excuse for the negligence of the Spaniards in not settling 
 it in the most advantageous manner. 
 
 Between the point of Naparin, and that of the Carenage, 
 lies a broad bay : at the boitom of which stands the tow u, 
 on a plain of small extent. This plain is extremely incom- 
 moded with marshes, which are permitted to exliale their 
 noxious miasma, although capable of being cleared, drained, 
 and cultivated : the island having considerable rivers, which 
 would facilitate the draining and cultivating of all the low 
 lands. Ibe town itself is large, and divided into streets 
 disposed rectangularly ; but the houses, being constructed of 
 wood or mud, are, in general, mean and inconvenient. 
 
 Islands and continents iuiiabited by savages, who hold 
 no intercourse with the rest of mankind, atibrd but little 
 history ; and, retaining their native w ilderness state when in 
 the hands of civilized nations, they become subjects rather 
 for plulosophical reflections, than historical research. The 
 few incidents which have occurred in the hisiory of this 
 island we have already noticed, together with the changes 
 through which it has already passed ; and the v\hole narrative 
 may be simimarily comprised in the follow ing paragi^aph : 
 
 It was one of the earliest discoveries of Loiumbus in die 
 year 1493, who gave it its present name. It was first taken 
 
WEST INDIES. 45 
 
 fr<^m the Spaniards by that celebrated English navigator Sir 
 Waiter Raleigh, in 159.5 ; and afterwards by the P'rench in 
 KiTCi, who plundered and then abandoned it. From this 
 period, until its capture by Rear Admiral Harvey, and the 
 land forces under General Abercroniby, in the month of 
 February 1797, it remained one of the islands in America 
 belonging to the crown of Spain. By the treaty of Amiens, 
 in 1802, it was ceded to our crown in perpetuity. 
 
 To gi\e 'permanency to the establishment of a newly- 
 acquii cd territory, must always be the w ork of caution, of 
 circumspection, and of time. The removal of ancient pre- 
 judices, which have, through a series of ages, acquired all the 
 iiiiluence of natural habit, demands calculations which must 
 wind through human actions, as well as trace them in their 
 relative connexions and remotest consequences. The latent 
 purposes and propensities of the human heart diffuse them- 
 selves in an almost intinite variety of directions ; and expe- 
 rience has shewn us, that there are cases where violence will 
 be productive of the most fatal effects, though persuasion 
 can have no access. At present, the Roman Catholic reli- 
 gion, with the old Spanish attachment to its most rigid dis- 
 cipline and frivolous superstitions, prevails throughout the 
 island ; and, periiaps, a generation must elapse, before these 
 superstitious, which have taken deep root, will be wholljr 
 extirpated. 
 
 To form a permanent settlement, the lands also must be 
 examined w ith more exactness than that which submits to 
 general description in historical detail. Tlie distinct portions 
 must be adjusted to all the various species of production 
 and cultivation ; the soil and its uses must be adapted to 
 one another ; and experiment, after a process of years, must 
 finally complete what observation and general know ledge onlj 
 can begin. 
 
 To investigate with accuracy these hitliertc uncultivated 
 region?, Colonel Fullarton, with two or three other com- 
 missioners, w ere sent out. The Colonel is since dead ; but 
 the survey and report of those w ho have succeeded him in 
 the inquiry, respecting the exact state of those lands which 
 may be deemed best litted for cultivation, will, in some 
 measure, determine the extent of commerce and population 
 that may be expected to appear in tliis island m the progress 
 of a few years. Its general character appearing advanta- 
 geous, has already dissipated gloomv apprehensions, and 
 induced many to anticipate that prosperity which promises 
 to crown their endeavors with success. 
 
46 HISTOKY OF THE 
 
 The certainty that this colony was to be established under 
 a British form of government has already drawn multitudes 
 to these distant shores. Intelligence has lately been received, 
 that no less than ten thousand persons, of different countries 
 and of different professions, have lately arrived, with a view 
 of establishing themselves and families on the island. These 
 settlers will, of course, introduce new customs, new habits 
 of reflection, and new modes of life. Example, ever more 
 powerfid than precept, may have a tendency to soften the 
 violence of hereditary prejudice ; it must loosen those 
 shackles which bind the mental powers ; it must enlarge 
 the horizon of human thought, and may, through Divine 
 grace, awaken to reflection tlie souls of the most superstitious 
 devotees. 
 
 From the establishment of a British government we ne- 
 cessarily infer an establishment of religious toleration ; which 
 will open the door to the introduction of the gospel, and 
 call forth the exertions of the evangelical ministers of Jesus 
 Christ. The circumstances that we have enumerated ren- 
 der these pleasing prospects highly probable. We contem- 
 plate them with pleasure, and wait their arrival with confi- 
 dence and joy. The habits af thinking which must be in- 
 troduced by such an influx of people cannot but be various ; 
 many therefore, without doubt, will, through the blessing 
 of G od, be prepared for a reception of those divine realities 
 which are able to make them wise unto salvation. 
 
 The Missionary society, originally established under the 
 direction of the Reverend John Wesley, whose exertions 
 have been crowned with such success in other islands of this 
 Archipelago, will avail themselves of the earliest favorable 
 opportunity, of sending some pious ministers into this island. 
 That period they hope is fast approaching : it is their duty 
 to plant and water, and to pray to the Father of Mercies for 
 success. Without the divine blessing, every exertion must 
 prove abortive ; but he who has hitherto blessed their endea- 
 vors, still continues his promises ; and on these we rely for 
 fmal success. 
 
WEST INDIES. 47 
 
 CHAP. XVII. 
 
 HISTORY OF GRENADA. 
 
 Grenada and the Grenadines. — Situation. — Extent. — Dis-^ 
 coverif. — Original inhabitants. — Conquest. — Cruellies to- 
 vard the unfortunate Savages. — Settlement. — Internal 
 dissention among the invaders. — Revolutions. — Popula- 
 tion; and ravages of the yellow fever. — Topographical 
 divisions. — Estahlishments, intrigues, and domestic ani- 
 mosities. — Tozcns. — Harbours. — Religious edijices. — Ci- 
 vil government, atid natural productions. — Author s fist 
 visit to the island. — Reception. — Friendships. — Prospects 
 •^Establishment of a Mission. — Progress of the gospel; 
 and present state of religion in the island. 
 
 JL HIS valuable British colony, though smaller than 
 Tobago, if its length alone were measured, being only tw enty- 
 four miles, is much broader in its centre, which is reckoned to 
 be twelve miles ; but toward the extremities, it is narrower. 
 It is one of the Windward Charaibee Islands, is thirtj' leagues 
 north west of Tobago, and the same distance south Avest from 
 Barbadoes. It is situated in 12" 30" north latitude, and 62' 
 west longitude. The extraordinary fertility of the soil has 
 been proved by long experience ; and it is acknoA\ledged, 
 that the timber and other useful trees which abound in this 
 island, are much better than those of the same species in 
 the neighbouring islands, the cocoa-tree excepted. It is 
 computed to contain upwards of eighty thousand acres of land, 
 fifty thousand of which are in a state of perfect cultivation, 
 piT)ducing sugar, coffee, cocoa, indigo, cotton, and tobacco; 
 and, if it were in a course of progressive improvement, it 
 might be made the most productive, in proportion to its size, 
 of any of the British settlements in the West Indies. 
 
 The cultivated land produces every kind of vegetable 
 known in Europe, for the use of the inhabitants ; as well 
 as the usual products for exportation, such as sugar, ginger, 
 and excellent tobacco. The air in general is salubrious. 
 
48 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 It is amply supplied with springs of good fresh v/ater. The 
 plains are intersected with a few mountains ; and the harbor 
 to leezmrd is so capacious, that it will contain a fleet of 
 sixty ships of the line, which may ride there with ease, and 
 with so much safety that they need not cast anchor ; though, 
 if necessity require it, the anchorage is remarkably good. 
 
 This island was first discovered by Columbus about the 
 year 1498. It was at that lime inhabited by a numerous 
 race of native Charaibees. Of this intrepid and warlike 
 people we have already spoken in our third chapter of the 
 lirst volume. On t!ie approach of the Spaniards toward 
 their shores, they not only exhibited marks of the most stern 
 deiiance, but appeared to be well prepared to defend tl^eir 
 country against the hostile attempts of their invaders. But 
 Grenada, holding forth no promises of gold, afforded no 
 allurements to entice them to her shores. Land and wood 
 abounded on every island ; it would, tlrerefore, have been a 
 mark of consummate folly in the adventurers, to have en^ 
 tered into all the severities of contest with a savage people, 
 from whom nothing valuable could be obtained ; and when, 
 even admitting the issue to have been successful, woods and 
 uncultivated lands must have been the only spoils of war. 
 
 The prospect of easier, of richer, and of more extensive 
 discoveries, afforded no time fol" deliberation on the re- 
 duction of this island. 71ie impetuosity and promptitude of 
 action which the important occasion inspired, deterred them 
 from attempting any settlement, and directed their attention 
 to more accessible regions of the new world. Under these 
 circumstances, Grenada appears to have been either neglected 
 or forgotten ; in consequence of which, its native inhabitants 
 were permitted to enjoy tranquillity and independence, till 
 nearly the middle of the sixteenth century. 
 
 It was about the year 1638, that the French became ac- 
 quainted with the extraordinary fertility of this island ; and 
 from that time they meditated a settlement upon it, either by 
 violence or fraud. Whether the intervening years were taken 
 up in reconnoitering the island, in estimating the population 
 of its inhabitants, in calculating upon their mode of warfare, 
 in making preparations for the enterprize, or in giving sta- 
 bility to those settlements which they had already begun in 
 Martinico and Guadaloupe, does not appear ; but it is evi- 
 dent, that the settlement was not established in Grenada 
 until the year 1 6 j 1 . 
 
 Previously to this time, the artifices of fraud had in a 
 great measure prevented the calamities and horrors of war. 
 
WEST INDIES. 49 
 
 But these methods, eventually proving ineffectual, were soon 
 succeeded by those sanguinary deeds which usually stain the 
 annals of conquest, and which, in the present instance, proved 
 in this island the extermination of the Charaibean race. 
 
 The restless ambition of Du Parquet, the Governor of 
 Martinico, had directed his avaricious eyes towards this 
 island. The prospect of conquest must have promised gra- 
 tification to his vanity; and the possession of a territory 
 which he did not want, though drenched with the blood of 
 all its natives, must have tempted his sanguinary disposition 
 with a reward. \V ith these views before him, he planned 
 its reduction; his schemes finally succeeded, and the un- 
 happy savages fell. 
 
 'Ihus far the different historians of these events seem 
 perfectly agreed ; but, on the methods that were adopted to 
 obtain the destruction of the natives and possession of the 
 island, a diflf'erence of opinion prevails. Raynal observes, 
 that " on their arrival, they gave a few hatchets, some knives, 
 " and a barrel of brandy, to the chief of the savages they found 
 " there ; and, imagining that they had purchased the island 
 " with these trifles, actually assumed the sovereignty, and 
 " soon became tyrants. The Charaibees, unable to contend 
 " with them by open force, took the method which weakness 
 " always inspires to repel oppression ; they murdered all 
 " whom they found defenceless and alone." (vol. v. p. 60.) 
 
 Du Tertre, who appears deeply interested in the transac- 
 tion, relates the same facts with an air of solemnity, which 
 might at once provoke our indignation, and excite our smiles. 
 That the French had any pretension for invading this island, 
 he does not even presume to assert : it was sufficiently known 
 that it was inhabited by savages ; and this circumstance <(^, 
 probably, thought sufficient to extract all injustice from the 
 deed. Du Parquet, according to this account, having collected 
 about two hundred of his fiercest desperadoes, caused them, 
 in conjunction with their commanders, to receive the holy 
 aacrament on their embarkation ; estimating, most probably, 
 the success of their enterprize, by their ardor to serve God 
 in embruing their hands in savage blood. 
 
 On their arrival at Grenada, a cross was erected ; and 
 the banditti were compelled to kneel before it, and join 
 in devout prayer to God for success in those murders wlaich 
 they were about to perpetrate. 
 
 Contrary to his expectations, and probably in opposition 
 to his hopes, Du Parquet was received by the natives with 
 
 VOL. II. G 
 
50 HISTORY Ot TttiE 
 
 a degree of civility which created in his mind some scruples 
 on the justice of his intentions ; and, instead of commenc- 
 ing open hostilities, he turned his thoughts to the purchase 
 of that country, which he came with the avowed design to 
 steal. A treaty was immediately opened with the Charaibean 
 chief, for what the invaders called the purchase of the coun- 
 try — " They gave (says Du Tertre) some knives and hatchets, 
 " and a large quantity of glass beads, besides two bottles 
 " of brandy for the chief himself; and thus was the island 
 " fairly ceded by the natives themselves to the French nation 
 " in lawful purchase." 
 
 The Charaibees, however, looking upon the hatchets, the 
 knives, the beads, and the tzm bottles of brandy, in a light 
 somewhat different from Du Tertre and Du Parquet, ab- 
 solutely refused to surrender their country, which they had 
 thus ceded to their invaders in lawful purchase. This cir- 
 cumstance presented a fair occasion for the commencement 
 of hostilities : the natives were, therefore, declared to be 
 in a state of rebellion against the lav\'ful possessors of the 
 land, and war and devastation^ immediately began. 
 
 Du Parquet, who had commanded the expedition, being 
 Governor of Martinico, after having purchased Grenada as 
 before related, and erected a fort, gave the command of it 
 to La Compte, his khisman, and retired. Whether La 
 Compte made religion his stalking-horse, like his prede- 
 cessor, does not appear ; but his conduct towards the un- 
 happy victims of his injustice, plainly proves that he was 
 not less inhuman, nor took less delight in the sheddino- of 
 human blood. Extermination appeared to be the object 
 which was pursued. To be a Charaib was a proof of guilt: 
 so that men, women, and children, were indiscriminately put 
 to the sword. 
 
 The Charaibees, however, defended themselves with the 
 most undaunted resolution and bravery ; so that the final 
 issue from many skirmishes appeared to hang in the most 
 doubtful suspense. For, though they were unable to with- 
 , stand the superiority of European weapons, they supplied 
 by vigilance what they were deficient in power. And by 
 seizing every defenceless moment which their invaders af- 
 forded, they retaliated those murders which their countrvmen 
 had sustained, and which they themselves were shortly to 
 imdergo. 
 
 La Compte, harassed by the unremitting watchfulness 
 and bravery of the natives, was driven to the necessity of 
 applying to Du Parquet for a reinforcement, to assist iu 
 
WEST INDIES. 51 
 
 quelling the rebellion, and in the reduction of the island. 
 On the arrival of this reinforcement from Martinico, new 
 scenes of devastation were opened. The natives, overpow- 
 ered by a decided superiority, fell in almost every direction, 
 though they missed no opportunity to revenge their wrongs. 
 But the moment Mas fast approaching, which was to decide 
 their doom in this world, and aimiliilate their power for 
 ever. 
 
 The unhappy Indians collected together about fourscore 
 from the remnants of their countrymen ; and with this 
 number they determined to make a vigorous stand against 
 their murderous oppressors. But, alas ! about one-half of 
 them were immediately put to flight. These unhappy fugi- 
 tives, retiring from their pursuers, betook themselves to a 
 rock or precipice which overhangs the sea. But this retreat 
 was soon discovered, and they were driven to the dreadful 
 alternative of suffering death either by water or by the sword. 
 They preferred the former ; and chose rather to precipitate 
 themselves headlong into the ocean, than to fall into the 
 hands of a barbarous enemy, that appeared thirsting for their 
 blood. Tlie French, to commemorate an event so extraor- 
 dinary, denominated this precipice le Morne des SauteurSy 
 " the hill of the leapers ;" m hich appellation it retains to the 
 present day.* 
 
 The inhuman conquerors having murdered the natives, 
 and subdued the country, soon quarrelled about dividing 
 the spoils. The officers of the troops, who first settled on 
 the island, disputing the claims of the leaders of the last 
 expedition, a civil war ensued, and in this contest many 
 lives were lost. At length, the original invader Du Parquet, 
 and his party, prevailed, and obtained complete possession 
 of the government. But being unable to support the ex- 
 penses of his elevated station, he negociated privately, in 
 France, tlie sale of his newly-acquired honors and domains 
 in Grenada ; and found a purchaser in the Count de Cerii/ac, 
 a French nobleman, for the trifling sum, in comparison with 
 the real value, of thirty thousand crowns. The Count, con- 
 
 * Du Tertre observes, tliat in this expedition a beautiful young Indian 
 girl fell into the hands of the French, and became an object of dispute 
 between two officers, eacli claiming her as his la^vful prize. A third 
 officer, however, coming up, soon put an end to the contest by shooting 
 the girl immediately through tlie head. Sucli was the progress of conquest 
 smd murder ! 
 
52 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 sidering the acquisition only in the light of an advantageous 
 purchase, determined to make the most of it ; and for this 
 purpose sent out a Governor to act despotically, and by the 
 most oppressive measures to levy an extravagant salary for 
 himself, and a princely revenue for his master. All com- 
 plaints, all remonstrances to Cerillac, on the conduct of his 
 deputy, proved ineffectual to produce an alteration. Thus 
 circumstanced, the principal settlers abandoned the planta- 
 tions which they had improved at a considerable expense, 
 and fled to Martinico. I'his defection, however, instead of 
 reforming the Governor, raised his indignation to such a pitch 
 against the poorer classes of the inhabitants, whom he thought 
 incapable of resisting fresh cruelties and extortions, that 
 existence itself became almost insupportable ; so that, in- 
 stead of yielding to tyranny, they meditated revenge. 
 
 There are occasions when avarice and cruelty defeat their 
 own purposes, and directly lead to those mischiefs which 
 they intended to avert. The cord of oppression may be 
 drawn with such violence as to burst asunder, by those ex- 
 ertions which are made to strain it ; and under such circum- 
 stances, the parts which separate can never be brought to 
 reunite. It was exactly thus in the case before us. That 
 unjustifiable extortion which had banished the wealthy, and 
 oppressed the poor, led at length to a general insurrection. 
 The inflexible tyrant was seized ; and a court of justice was 
 instantly formed. It was composed of such of the lower 
 people as his tyranny had suffered to remain on the island, 
 and who were exasperated by those crimes for which he was 
 now to suffer. There was only one, in this whole court, 
 who could write his name ; the office of secretary, therefore, 
 of course devolved upon him. His Excellency the Governor, 
 being brought to trial, was impeached by a blacksmith ; M'ho 
 used a horse-shoe instead of a seal, to close those documents 
 which were to be sent to France with a detail of these ex- 
 traordinary transactions. 
 
 Accusation and impeachment, as it is natural to suppose 
 under these circumstances, were but a prelude to condem- 
 nation, i he criminal was found guilty of those offences 
 with which he stood charged, and received sentence of 
 death. Against the decision of such a court, there could 
 be no appeal. He had been condemned to be hanged ; but 
 this became a subject of expostulation. He pleaded his 
 exalted rank and noble descent, and solicited the honor of 
 being beheaded. Against this, some objections were raised, 
 
•WEST INDIES. 53 
 
 and the request was finally refused for want of an expert 
 executioner. '1 Hey, however, found means to coniproniise 
 the matter, and discovered a middle mode of death, between 
 the ignominy of the gallow s and the honor of decapitation. 
 It was finally agreed, on all sides, iliat he sliuuld be shot ; 
 and in this manner he quietly submitted to his fate. 
 
 Ihe chief justice of this mock tribunal, together witli 
 the rest of the judges, and other persons concerned in the 
 execution, apprehensive that the court of France would not 
 approve of this extraordinary tiial, which had been attended 
 with such unusual formalities, began to consult their own 
 safety. For, how just soever the cause of their complaint 
 might have been, they v\ ere fully conscious that they had 
 exposed themselves to punishment, by acting in opposition 
 to a lawfully-constituted authority. In consequence of this, 
 the parties concerned thought it prudent to quit the island, 
 and seek an asylum against the approaching storm. And 
 such, indeed, was the reduced state of its population in the 
 year 1700, that the following estimate was delivered to the 
 Count's new Governor, soon after the revolt : white people 
 two hundred and fifty-one, free mulattoes and negroes fifty- 
 three, negro slaves live hundred and twenty-five. '1 he whole 
 culture consisted of three plantations of sugar, and lifty-two 
 of indigo ; and there then remained only sixty-lour horses, 
 and five hundred and sixty-nine head of horned cattle. 
 
 This deplorable state of the island was happily changed 
 about the year 1714 ; for the avaricious Count de Cerillac, 
 linding he could no longer expect a revenue equal to his 
 wishes from a ruined colony, made over all his right and 
 property in it to the French West India Company. That 
 company, having likewise a considerable interest and esta- 
 blishments at Martinico, engaged the merchants and plan- 
 ters there in speculations, to restore and improve the culture 
 of Grenada. Thus the two colonies became, as it were, 
 united by the ties of commercial interest. The trading 
 vessels of Martinico, laden with the rich manufactures of 
 France, and the products of their own colony, destined for 
 the Spanish coasts, Mere ordered to touch at Grenada. 
 There tliey were to take in water and other necessaries, and 
 at the same time to supply the inhabitants, many of v\hom 
 were new settlers from Martinico, with slaves, and proper 
 implements for the cultivation of the soil, and for erecting 
 new habitations, and sugar works. An open mercantile ac- 
 count was now established between the two islands ; and the 
 activity which industry excites, soon enabled Grenada to 
 
o4i HISTORY or THE 
 
 liquidate a considerable part of its debts, by the abundant 
 produce of its increased plantations. But, when the French 
 West India Company was dissolved, the island became the 
 property of the crown of France : by which* change, it ac- 
 quired the protection and assistance of that government. 
 Its advancement and importance were now yearly increasing ; 
 insomuch, that the balance due to Martinico was on the 
 point of being discharged, when the war which broke out 
 between us and France suspended the progress of its im- 
 provement, and hiterrupted its intercourse with Martinico. 
 
 The cessation of hostilities, and the ensuing peace of 
 1748, revived all the labors, and opened all the former 
 sources of wealth. The inhabitants redoubled their efforts, 
 and succeeded so well, that at the end of live years, i. e. in 
 1 753, the population of Grenada consisted of one thousand 
 two hundred and sixty- three M'hites, one hundred and seventy- 
 five free people of color, and eleven thousand nine hundred 
 and ninety-one slaves. The nupiber of horses and mules 
 amounted to two thousand two hundred and ninety-eight, 
 and the horned cattle to two thousand four hundred and fifty- 
 six ; together with three thousand two hundred and seventy- 
 eight sheep, nine hundred and two goats, and three hundred 
 and thirty-one hogs. '1 he cultivation rose to eighty-three 
 sugar plantations ; two millions seven hundred and twenty- 
 five thousand six hundred coffee trees, one hundred and fifty 
 thousand three hundred cocoa trees, and eight hundred cot- 
 ton trees. Their. stock of common vegetable provision con- 
 sisted of five millions seven hundred and forty thousand four 
 hundred and fifty trenches of cassada, nine hundred and 
 thirty-three thousand five hundred and ninety-six banana trees, 
 and one hundred and forty-three squares of potatoes and yams. 
 
 This rapid prosperity was succeeded by another vicissi- 
 tude — a new war with England in 1755, when the colony 
 was neglected by the French ministry, whose attention was 
 engrossed by more important objects on the continents of 
 Europe and America. The result of this false policy was 
 the capture of Grenada, and the other Charaibee islands, 
 then belonging to France, by the superior naval pox^er of 
 Great Britain. On receiving intelligence that Martinico 
 and Guadaloupe had been taken by the British naval and 
 land forces, in 17^2, the iiil)abitants of this island surrender- 
 ed on the approach of the fleet and army, without making the 
 least resistance, having obtained an honorable capitulation. 
 And by the treaty of peace in the following year, Grenada, 
 and its dependencies, (small islands called the Grenadines,), 
 were ceded in perpetuity to the crown of Great Britain. 
 
WEST INDIES. 55 
 
 In the course of the next war, the French once more be- 
 came masters of G renada by conqnest ; and it remained in 
 their possession from the year 1779 till 1783 ; when it was 
 finally restored to us by an article of the general peace be- 
 tween Great Britain, France, Spain, and America. 
 
 It is to be lamented, that soon after that aera, owing to 
 political dissensions between the old French inhabitants, 
 and the new British settlers, a temporary decline of cultiva- 
 tion, and consequently of foreign commerce, was experi- 
 enced. The exports, in 1787, were considerably less than 
 those of the year 1776; and of late years, it has sutfered 
 other calamities, of which the following affecting relation is 
 given by Dr. Chisholm, inspector-general of the ordnance 
 medical department in the West Indies.* 
 
 " Since the year 1794, this devoted island, together with 
 the scourge of pestilence, has cruelly experienced all the 
 evils which an insidious, a merciless intestine enemy could 
 devise, and give efficacy to. Blessed with abundance of 
 those good things which are considered as the necessaries of 
 life, united under a mild and fostering government, and en- 
 joying that tranquillity, v^'hich their unhappy neighbours in the 
 French islands in vain looked for, from the machinations of 
 designing and unprincipled demagogues, or from the dreams 
 of theorists in philanthropy, their only wish w as to be per- 
 manently relieved from the infection of a disease, which had 
 hitherto but imperfectly yielded to the best means that could 
 be suggested. The usual series of such awful visitations 
 was, however, reversed ; pestilence began the career ; civil 
 war augmented, and famine, for a time combined with 
 these, seemed to complete the measure of their misfortimes. 
 The year 1 79'5 produced a scene of horrors seldom equalled. 
 Confined to the narrow limits which their arms could com- 
 mand, almost all the inhabitants of the island were exposed 
 to the common calamity. 7 he certainty of massacre, should 
 they remain on their plantations, drove all the inhabitants of 
 the country into town ; where an almost equal certainty of 
 falling victims to pestilential infection awaited them. The 
 great increase of new subjects to act on, \\hich thus took 
 place, augmented the virulence of contagion ; and, seconded 
 ; by fear, fatigue, a privation of accustomed food and com- 
 forts, despondence of mind, intemperance and irregularities 
 of conduct, gave rise to even a greater mortality than marked 
 
 * See an Essay on the Malignant Pestilential Fever, introdaced into 
 the West India Islands. By C. Chisliohn, M, D. 5; voL. 8vo. LondoB : 
 publislied by Mawman, lau'i. 
 
56 ' HISTOKY OF Ttfli 
 
 the two preceding years. The young and the aged; the 
 uuhabituated and the assimilated to the climate ; the tempe- 
 rate and the dissipated, equally suffered by it. People who 
 had hitherto carefully avoided the source of infections, and 
 liad scarce ever visited the town since the introduction of the 
 pestilence, now perceived that their sedulity had only warded 
 off, not prevented, the evil hour. Men who had long resided 
 in the climate, and considered themselves as secure against 
 the attacks of the usual diseases incident to it, found that 
 assimilation to climate was no security against the undis- 
 criminating malignity of this contagion, 'ihose who, from 
 a peculiarity of constitution, had escaped infection hitherto, 
 now fell sacrifices to it. 
 
 " The contagion pervaded every quarter of the town : 
 the fortresses were, as usual, particularly exposed to it ; the 
 ships employed in the departments of government, more 
 especially the hospital ships, became sinks of pestilence ; but, 
 as formerly, the resorts of low dissipation seemed to possess 
 it in a degree of concentration almost peculiar to themselves. 
 Whilst this calamity threatened universal destruction, au 
 unhappy contrariety of opinions, a want of decision in the 
 measures pursued, the formidable appearance of a barbarous 
 and implacable enemy, to whom these circumstances gave a 
 strength which, if properly exerted, must have proved fatal ; 
 prevented the general mind from perceiving or adopting the 
 means of eradicating the infection. Almost every house was 
 considered as the abode of death : the intercourse of the in- 
 habitants, therefore, experienced an almost total cessation, 
 except wheji defence against the common enemy demanded 
 united exertion. Funerals were not permitted ; or were not 
 attended ; and, in most instances, the bodies of the deceased 
 were draggeii out to sea, and deposited in a watery grave." 
 
 Insurrections and fires, in addition to the yellow fever, de- 
 solated the island ; and the contagion did not entirely cease 
 till the year 179B. The restoration of health, the return of 
 peace, the fertility of the soil, and the assistance it will re- 
 ceive from its mercantile coimexions w ith the united kingdom 
 of Great Britain, hold out, however, a prospect of its future 
 prosperity excelling that of its former state at any given 
 period. 
 
 Grenada is divided into six parishes, of which the princi- 
 pal is St. George's, so named after the capital town ; St. 
 David's, St. Andrew's, St. Patrick's, St. Mark's, and St. 
 John's. The largest of the Grenadines, Cariacou, is a; 
 distinct pariih, having its own church and rector. Provision I 
 for the clergy of the church of England could not be pei-j 
 
WEST INDIES. 57 
 
 munently appointed by the law of the island till the year 1784, 
 on account oi" the unsettled state of its ecclesiastical appoint- 
 ments, after the cession of the island to Great Britain, in 
 virtue of the peace of 1763. In this interim, a strong contest 
 arose respecting the claims of the French Roman Catholics, 
 who found means to prevail with the Secretary of State for 
 the Colonies, to grant them certain privileges, which were 
 considered as incompatible with a British constitution, and 
 contradictory to the royal proclamation, which promised the 
 establishment of a government conformable to the principles 
 of that constitution. These privileges were, also, in direct 
 opposition to the advice of Governor General Melville, the 
 then existing Council, the Speaker, and the majority of the 
 members of the house of Assembly, or Commons. As it 
 was in virtue of the conditions offered to the King's Protes- 
 tant subjects, who might emigrate from any other part of 
 his Majesty's dominions, that several persons of that descrip- 
 tion purchased lands, and settled with their families on the 
 island, it was thought extremely hard, and even unjust, to 
 admit Roman Catholic inhaliitants to become members of 
 the Council and of the Assembly ; since, by the laws of 
 Great Britain, they could not even be candidates for any 
 public station in the government at home. Nor did they 
 so much as express any wish or hope of that kind, when the 
 first Assembly held their session in ITO'o. But, in 17G8, a 
 French agent in London secretly carried on a negociation 
 with our ministry, which finally terminated in a grant, that 
 allowed two of the Roman Catholic inhabitants, formerly 
 F"rench subjects, to be members of the Council ; and which 
 declared all of them to be eligible, as representatives of the 
 people in the Assembly, in the same manner as were the 
 Protestants ; and, also, authorized them to appoint from 
 among themselves, one justice of peace in each district of 
 the island. Instructions for these purposes Mere sent out to 
 Governor Melville, who found himself in the disagreeable 
 predicament, of being obliged to enforce measures of which 
 he disapproved, or incur the displeasure of the Secretary of 
 State. 
 
 The animosities between the two parties in the island 
 went to such lengths at last, that General Melville either 
 reiigned, or was recalled. These religious dissensions im- 
 peded the progress of cultivation, and of commerce with 
 foreign countries, and protracted the regular appointment of 
 parochial clergy. Many of the Protestant members of the 
 i^ssembly were elected ; but, for want of a sufficient uuin- 
 
 VOL. 11. H 
 
53 HisTony of tkie 
 
 ber to make a house, public business was at a stand, and 
 the colony remained in an unsettled state for many years. 
 
 At length, in 1784, civil, social, and religious order was 
 established, and stipends were granted by an act of the 
 Assembly to five clergymen of the church of England of 
 three hundred and thirty pounds per annum (Grenada mo- 
 ney), and sixty pounds for house-rent. These clergymen 
 were distributed in the following manner : One for the town 
 and its environs in the parish of St. George; — three to do 
 duty by rotation in tlie five out-parishes ; and one at Cariacoii. 
 This small number would be insufficient, even if they all 
 gave due attention to their sacred functions, and took pains 
 to convert the poor negro slaves. 
 
 The glebe lands which had belonged to the Roman Ca- 
 tholic priests, while their religion constituted a part of the 
 government, became the property of the crown, and were 
 granted by his Majesty to the legislature of the island, for 
 the better support of the Protestant churches ; deducting a 
 decent allowance for the maintenance of the Roman Catholic 
 priests, who are tolerated for the pastoral care of the French 
 and British inhabitants of that persuasion. 
 
 When the town of St. George was first erected, the 
 buildings were chiefly constructed with timber. This article 
 was chosen, because the necessities of the inhabitants were 
 urgent, and because it enabled them to prosecute their de- 
 signs with greater expedition and less expense, than if they 
 had selected more durable materials. This circumstance, 
 exposed the town to the ravages of a dreadful fire, which, 
 in the year 1771, reduced the greater part to a heap of ruins. 
 The people, thus painfully instructed, took every necessary 
 precaution to prevent a recurrence of the calamity which 
 they had experienced. The new town, which was destined 
 to rise upon the ashes of the old one, they laid out on a plan 
 of greater regularity and extent, and raised the walls of most 
 of the houses with brick. This gives to the whole an ap- 
 pearance of great uniformity and beauty. The government^ 
 house, which is an elegant edifice, the church, and an anti- 
 quated fort which stands on an adjacent promontory, and is 
 a building of considerable extent, are all formed of stone. 
 
 Nearly through the middle of the town runs a kind of 
 natural rampart, on the ridge of which the church is erected. 
 This rampart divides the town into two parts, which are 
 distinguished by local appellations. Both of these open to 
 the sea, one on each side of the hiil which projects into the 
 water, and contributes to the formation of the harbor. 
 
■WEST INDIES. 59 
 
 and to ensure that shelter, whicli ships, equipped either for 
 trade or war, are always sure to find. On the one side is 
 Ba^-tozcn, and on the other Carenage-tozon. In the former 
 is the government-house, a commodious market-place, and 
 an elegant square ; and in the latter, the merchants and 
 others, who are engaged in commercial transactions, take 
 up their abodes. Before the latter town lies the harbor, 
 ■which affords excellent anchorage, and a considerable depth 
 of water close to the wharfs. To this the shipping resort, 
 to repair the damage they may have sustained at sea, and to 
 take in their respective cargoes for foreign markets. The 
 entrance into it is by no means difficult : but, m hat chiefly 
 tends to enhance its importance is, that through the inter- 
 section of the neighbouring lands, the ships are completely 
 sheltered from the injurious violence of every wind that 
 blo\\s. 
 
 Besides George-town, there are numbers of others scat- 
 tered through different parts of the island ; but they are too 
 inconsiderable to merit any distinct description. They have 
 been erected at the various bays and inlets, to which vessels 
 resort to take in the productions of the contiguous planta- 
 tions ; and consist of a greater or less number of houses, iti 
 proportion to the advantageous nature of those creeks which 
 invite the traders to their shores. On the little isle of Ca- 
 riacou, which is one of the appendages of Grenada, is a 
 respectable little town, which, during the administration of 
 Lord Hillsborough, obtained the name of that nobleman. 
 
 Through some causes, which have not yet been fully ex- 
 plored, the inhabitants of Grenada and its appendages, both 
 whites and blacks, have been for a series of years gradually 
 on the decline. The pestilential fever, which raged with 
 unexampled violence during a few summers, will sufficiently 
 account for the sudden diminution of the inhabitants in these 
 periods ; but, the decrease of which we speak, was gradually 
 felt, and publicly noticed, long before these ravages were 
 known. In 1771, the white inhabitants amounted to about 
 one thousand six hundred ; in 1777, they were reduced to 
 one thousand three hundred ; and are at present supposed 
 not to exceed one thousand souls. The vicissitudes whicli 
 war has occasioned in this island have, without all doubt, ope- 
 rated considerably to the disadvantage of the planter ; and 
 introduced a degree of lassitude into his conduct, which a 
 stability of government would have rendered unknown. In 
 1 779, the number of slaves amounted to thirty-live thousand ; 
 at present they are considerably short of twenty-six thousand. 
 
60 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 These observations extend to its dependencies, and include 
 their various inhabitants, as well as those of Grenada. 
 
 The civil government of this island bears a strong resem- 
 blance to that of Jamaica, diftering only in such local 
 regulations and subordinate particulars, as occasional cir- 
 cumstances call into being. The privileges, however, enjoyed 
 by such persons as have obtained their freedom, are much 
 greater in Grenada than in most other islands. They are 
 permitted to hold possessions to the utmost amount which 
 they can legally acquire, and are entitled to the protection 
 of the law, equally, in most respects, to the whites, but 
 without being eligible to public offices. In all the courts of 
 justice and law, their evidences are deemed as valid as those 
 given by the whites; and if criminal charges are brought 
 against them, they must be attended with the same formali- 
 ties. But these immunities are somewhat restricted in their 
 application. They extend to all such as were free on the 
 island when it last fell into our hands, and likewise to all 
 their descendants. Every native subject stands on the same 
 footing ; but all aliens, who come merely as temporary 
 visitants, or even to take up a more permanent residence, 
 are totally excluded. 
 
 The Governor of Grenada, like the Governors of most 
 other islands belonging to the British empire in the West 
 Indies, holds a station of considerable honor and authority, 
 though less lucrative than many others. The various powers 
 which the chancellor, vice-admiral, and ordinary, possess, 
 are inseparable from his office ; and in all these respective 
 courts he presides alone. His residence, however, on the 
 island is rendered necessai-y, by the principles of its consti- 
 tution. ISo excuses whatever can justify his absence for 
 more than twelve months, except those which arise from an 
 express command of his Majesty, or an evident want of 
 health. Should his absence on any other occasion exceed 
 the stipulated period, his salary immediately ceases with the 
 expiration of the term. This salary, which amounts to 
 about one thousand pounds sterling per annum, arises from 
 a poll-tax, which is levied on all the slaves on the island; 
 so that each planter contributes in proportion to the number 
 which he holds. 
 
 The other branches of the legislature consist of a council 
 and an assembly. The former is composed of twelve mem- 
 bers, and the latter of twenty-six. The nomination of the 
 council is vested solely in the crown ; and the members of 
 
- WEST INDIES. 61 
 
 the assembly are chosen by the suflfrages of such freeholders 
 as are eligible to vote. The quaiitication for a candidate in 
 the town and country, are somewhat different. A freehold 
 or life inheritance arising from house-rent, amounting to fifty 
 pounds per annum, is all that is required in the former case. 
 In the latter, an estate consisting of tifty acres, held during 
 life, satisfies the demands of the constitution, and qualifies 
 the possessor for a seat in the assembly. The same propor- 
 tional variation is preserved in the eligibility of those free- 
 holders in town and country, who vote the members into 
 office. An annual rent amounting to twenty pounds in the 
 town of St. Georo;e, whether arising from freehold or a life 
 estate, gives the possessor a right to vote for that place. 
 And in each of the out-parishes, an estate consisting of ten 
 acres, whether in fee, or only for life, or an annual rent of 
 ten pounds, confers the same qualification for their respective 
 departments. 
 
 The forms of proceedings, and the decisions of the courts 
 of justice and of law, are precisely similar to those of the 
 other British West India Islands, Indeed, their constitutions 
 bear a strong resemblance to one another ; and as far as 
 local circumstances will admit, they all look up to the 
 mother-country, and endeavor to adopt her examples. To 
 fiuter, therefore, into any minute detail, would only be to 
 repeat what has been already given in the history of Jamaica, 
 with such trifling variations, as must for ever be inseparable 
 from islands which are detached from one another. 
 
 Tlie unfortunate Africans have found in the island of 
 Grenada, and its dependencies, a degree of humanity, libe- 
 rality, and indulgence, which not many of their sable brethren 
 can boast of in any other part of this Archipelago. Several 
 Jaws have been passed, from time to time, in their behalf. 
 And, admitting the previous principle to be just, not many, 
 perhaps, of the human race, who are held in bondage, have 
 less reason to complain of severity than these. But the 
 previous principle has been publicly condemned by a solemn 
 decision of the British legislature. This glorious deed will 
 confer upon our country more lasting honors than her 
 most brilliant successes : — honors that are interwoven with 
 laurels which will never fade, — that will shine with renewed 
 i lustre in the page of future history, and be repeated with 
 smiles and tears of joy by nations which are yet unborn. 
 
 Of the natural history of Grenada we have nothing very 
 
 remarkable to relate, except a brief account of an animal 
 
 I called by the Indians a tatore, and by the Spaniards an ar- 
 
02 filSTORY OF THE 
 
 madilto ; v>hich, acording to dii Tertre, and Hochefort, wlno 
 probably copied from him, will not live on any other island 
 of the West Indies. But these are idle tales. It is certain, 
 however, tliat these do not breed so m ell in any other island, 
 and that they abound in all parts of Grenada. They are 
 about the size of a pig of a month's growth. The head is 
 small, long, and pointed, like that of a fox ; the mouth is 
 well armed with sharp teeth ; the eyes and ears are small. 
 The back is entirely covered with scales in small circles : 
 the tail has no hair, but is covered, likewise, with scales. 
 The legs are short and thick, and it has four claws to each 
 of its four feet. Occasionally it roUs itself like a ball, con- 
 cealing its head and tail witliin its shell. The flesh of this 
 animal is white, fat, and delicate ; but requires to be well 
 seasoned with spices, being rather insipid. The fruits and 
 vegetables of tliis island do not vary from those of the other 
 isiands of the West Indies. The coast abounds with a va- 
 riety of fish ; and there is plenty of game, both in Grenada 
 and the Grenadines. 
 
 '^1 he Grenadines are a set of small islands, twelve in num- 
 ber, dependant on the government, and subject to the laws, 
 of Grenada. They are of different extents, from three to 
 eight leagues in circumference. Most of them might be 
 cultivated to advantage, were it not prevented by the M'ant 
 of fresh water ; not a single spring being found in any of 
 them. 
 
 The principal Grenadine is Cariacou. It contains nearly 
 seven thousand acres of fertile land, which, by the industrious 
 hand of cultivation, has been rendered very productive, and 
 consequently advantageous. Ihe first who attempted any 
 settlement upon it were some French fishermen, who fre- 
 quented its solitary shores for the pur})Ose of catching turtles, 
 and employed their leisure in clearing the ground, for the 
 purposes of agriculture. In process of time, they were 
 joined by a considerable emigration of their countrymen 
 from Guadaloupe; whose plantations having been destroyed 
 by a peculiar species of ants, they sought for a new soil 
 in Cariacou, where, they were informed, their industry might 
 be profitably employed, and amply rewarded. These new 
 settlers, having brought with them a certain numl^er of slaves, 
 applied themselves so assiduously to the cultivation of cotton 
 in particular, that they were soon enabled to purchase more 
 slaves; so that, at the peace of 1763, when Grenada and 
 *ts dependencies were ceded in perpetuity to Great Britain, 
 the revenue from the annual produce of the exportation of 
 
 I 
 
WEST INDIES. 6j 
 
 cotlouwas computed at four or five hundred thousand llvres, 
 taking one year with another — on a medium, about nineteen 
 thousand five hundred pounds sterling. Its fertility encou- 
 raged a more general cultivation by the British planters, who 
 have considerably increased its population and commerce ; 
 insomuch, that it now produces, in seasonable years, above a 
 million of pounds weight of cotton for exportation. In addi- 
 tion to this, there is an abundant supply of corn, together 
 with common food which is in use for the slaves, such as yams, 
 plantains, &c. There are but two plantations of sugar on 
 this island ; the cultivation of this article not having succeeded 
 so well as that of cotton ; though, according to the Abbe 
 Raynal, the French had found its cultivation remarkably suc- 
 tessful in anotlier of the Grenatlines, which he calls Becouya, 
 and describes its situation to be not more than two leagues 
 distant from St. Vincent's. It is remarkable, that this author 
 rails it the largest and most fertile of all the islands ; yet 
 lidwards makes not the least mention of it. 
 
 L'Isle Ronde is a small island, situated about half m ay 
 from Cariacou to the northern extremity of Grenada. It 
 rontains about five hundred acres of well-cultivated land, anci 
 affords good pasturage for fattening cattle for die use of the 
 ialiabitants of Cariacou. It also yields an overplus for Gre- 
 nada : a small portion, however, is planted with cotton trees. 
 Most of the other Grenadines are either uninhabited, or so 
 poorly peopled, and so little cultivated, that they do not 
 merit particular notice. The air, however, so far as they 
 have either been visited or inhabited, has been found remark- 
 ably wholesome. This peculiar salubrity has been attributed 
 to tlie openness of their situation. As there are no trees to 
 shelter the noxious vapors which, in general, prove fatal to 
 the first settlers, the sun has been permitted to act upon the 
 whole surface of the land without any obstructions, and to 
 remove those effluvia, which, in more woody islands, the 
 actions of his rays have been unable to reach. 
 
 Having taken a general survey of the island of Grenada, 
 and contemplated its history in its original, its natural, and 
 civil departments, the progress of the gospel now claims 
 our immediate regard. We have already observed, that in 
 the year 1784, five clergymen of the Church of England 
 were established in this island, and placed in the several 
 parishes into which the whole territory had been divided. 
 But how ardent soever the desires of the pious in the \\ est 
 India Islands might have been to spread the gospel of Christ, 
 '. t^e while inhabitants have been almost the sole objects of 
 
64 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 tlieir attention. The benighted African has, in genefaly 
 been disregarded, and considered, in relation to futurity, as 
 an outcast from the works of God. 
 
 It was a conviction of this truth, operating in its various 
 branches, that gave rise to the Missionary Society established 
 by the Rev. John Wesley, It is to till up this vast vacuity, 
 and to supply this melancholy defect, that the labors of its 
 ministers have been directed in these distant islands ; and it 
 is to their successes that we shall now direct our thoughts. 
 It was with an eye to this object, that the author of these 
 pages forsook his native land, and proceeded from island to 
 island, to spread among the heathen the unsearchable riches 
 of Christ ; and to lead them, through divine grace, from the 
 darkness of pagan idolatry, into that light, which the gospel 
 has diffused through the world. 
 
 In the history of Antigua, the early introduction of the 
 gospel, and the instruments whose labors God has blessed 
 in a singular manner, will be seen recorded somewhat at 
 large. In the history of that island, those peculiar features 
 of divine providence which baffle all calculation, and excite 
 our grateful admiration, while they bid defiance to our full 
 'comprehension, will be particularly noticed. We must, 
 therefore, refer the reader to that account, for a supply of 
 those deficiencies which are unavoidably connected with the 
 history of this and of other islands. From that island, it 
 Avill be seen, that the gospel spread into others, through a 
 train of connexions, which the providence of God seems 
 evidently to have called into existence. Followuig the lead- 
 ings of that providence which has hitherto been our guide, 
 and having no previously-concerted plan, every island afforded 
 us employment, because every island abounded with vice. ' 
 The swarms of uncultivated negroes who inhabited every 
 spot, living without either hopes or fears of an hereafter, 
 afforded a most melancholy spectacle ; and, in many cases, 
 their aversion to the gospel became with us an additional 
 motive for its introduction among them. Impelled thus, 
 both by duty and inclination, diminutive objects were scarce- 
 ly considered in the light of impedmients : they occasionally 
 retarded those exertions which were urged by our most san- 
 guine hopes ; but they rather produced perseverance than 
 apathy and languor. In every region of the globe the carnal 
 mind is enmity against God; and he who waits till the ar- 
 rival of a period, when the unsanctified propensities of the! 
 human heart shall cordially approve of those truths whichj 
 shall destroy their dominion, waits the arrival of such 
 
VEST INDIES. 
 
 6S 
 
 phenomenon, as the MOild has not hitherto been able to 
 afford. 
 
 Confident of this truth, the author of these voKunes sailed 
 from St. Vincent's (an island which he had visited from 
 similar motives), on the 27th of November, 1790, for that 
 of Grenada, at which he arrived on the following day. In 
 this voyage he was accompanied by Mr. Baxter ; who, for 
 several years preceding, had taken up his residence in An- 
 tigua, and had formed an acquaintance with many vrespect- 
 able inhabitants in several of the other islands. Mr. Baxter 
 being well known in Antigua, as well as to many who occa- 
 sionally visited it either for business or pleasure, became a 
 medium of introduction, through which we obtahied access 
 to those who appeared most inclined to favor our design. 
 
 On our arrival at Grenada, we first waited upon a Mr. 
 Jj\nch, of the town of St. George, This gentleman had 
 formerly lived in Antigua, had shewn himself friendly to the 
 gospel, and was, at that time, an acquaintance of Mr. Bax- 
 ter. By Mr. Lynch we were received with politeness ; 
 Mere entertained with the warmth of friendship ; and accom- 
 modated with comfortable lodgings. Being the Lord's day, 
 we repaired to the Established Church, though at a time 
 which unavoidable necessity rendered late. I'he reverend 
 ]SIr. Dent, the officiating minister, was in the midst of his 
 sermon, surrounded by a respectable congregation, many of 
 whom felt themselves interested in those truths which were 
 delivered as the genuine emanations of his heart. 
 
 There is a certain something in the expression and gesture, 
 which distinguishes the genuine minister of Jesus Christ 
 from the mere official character : the latter surveys his rou- 
 tine of duty as a task ; the former aims at the benefit of 
 those souk that are committed to his care. The latter moves 
 heavily through the drudgery of his office, and engages in its 
 performance to cancel obligations ; while the former feels 
 himself interested in the truths w hich he delivers, and adopts 
 every expedient to impress conviction on the mind. The 
 christian world is but too much chequered with those motley 
 characters, that seem to move by mere mechanical impulse. 
 The West Indies will furnish us with many unpleasant ex- 
 amples ; but then it must be remembered also, that Grenada 
 has furnished a iSIr. Dent, whose character forms a strik- 
 ing contrast, and gives a deeper coloring to the opposite 
 shades. 
 
 After the service was ended, we waited on this pious 
 minister in the vestry-room, and were received by him with 
 
 VOL. II. I 
 
66 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 every mark of truly christian kindness. He entered into our 
 views, so far as the occasion would afford Us time to unfold 
 them, expressed his approbation of our designs, and intro- 
 duced us to several serious colored people, who were then 
 with him. His letters, which we shall have some occasion 
 to insert hereafter, will sufficiently show, that his friendship 
 was not the result of a momentary paroxysm, excited by 
 novelty and supported by complaisance, but flowed from a 
 heart that had been softened by Divine grace, and which re- 
 joiced in hope of seeing many souls converted to God. 
 
 To Mr. Dent I was not altogether unknown. When I 
 visited Barbadoes in the year 1788, he was curate of Bridge- 
 town, in that island. At that time he manifested much of 
 the same spirit ; and exposed himself to much censure, be- 
 cause he would not set his face against those who, he had 
 reason to believe, were sent of God ; and who aimed at the 
 salvation of souls. It is but justice to say of Mr. Dent, 
 that he was, at that time, the only clergyman in these islands 
 who had avowedly shown any regard for the Methodists. 
 He defended them in every company that afforded him an 
 occasion, even at the expense of his own personal reputa- 
 tion. Thus did he continue, till he became a subject of re- 
 proach ; when that amicable man. General Matthews, the 
 Governor of Grenada and Commander-in-chief of the forces 
 hi the Charaibee Islands, selected him out, and presented 
 him with the living of St. George's, in Grenada, which he 
 held at the time that we visited the island. 
 
 Having taken our leave of Mr. Dent, we seized the 
 earliest opportunity of waiting upon the General, to commu- 
 nicate to him the purport of our visit, that we might estimate 
 how far it met with his concurrence and approbation. We 
 found him perfectly accessible, communicative, and free. 
 He honored us with about an hour's conversation ; during 
 which time, he inquired into the design of our visit, — the 
 object we had in view, — the doctrines we taught, — and the 
 principles by which we were governed. To these various 
 questions our answers were so far satisfactory, that he begged 
 we would forthwith send Missionaries to the island ; declar- 
 ing at the same time, that it was his earnest vvish that the 
 negroes might be fully instructed in the principles of Chris- 
 tianity. He at the same time declared his full conviction, 
 that it was not only a branch of duty, which, as men, they 
 had a right to clarni at our hands, but that it would make 
 them better servants, and instruct them to fill up all the 
 relative situations which they were destined to sustain in life. 
 
VEST INDIES. 67 
 
 Instead, therefore, of viewing us as men who attempted to 
 oppose the regular establishment, he considered us as co- 
 operating in the same common design, observing, " there 
 " xcill he zcork enough both for you and the established 
 " clergy of the island!' 
 
 To language so undisguised and so ardent, expressive of 
 wishes so cordial, we had no room left for indecision. We 
 promised him, m ithout further hesitation, that a iSIissionary 
 should be forthwith sent to the island ; and our next consi- 
 deration was, in what manner \Ae could fultil our engage- 
 ment. After this \\e dined with him ; and thereby were 
 introduced to other company ; by which means our inten- 
 tions became more public, and our prospects enlarged for 
 our field of future action. 
 
 Among those who dined with us were, the President of 
 the Council, and the Speaker of the Assembly. The 
 Speaker, during our conversation, expressed a strong desire 
 that we would pay him a visit at his seat in the country : 
 offering, at the same time, to supply us with horses ; and not 
 only to ride with us through the island, but to introduce us 
 to most of the gentlemen in it. This generous offer, while 
 it demanded our acceptance, could only be requited with 
 grateful acknowledgments ; because it would have required 
 time that could not be spared from other engagements. 
 
 Thus far the way was clear ; a door was now open for 
 the introduction of the gospel among the negroes, and we 
 proceeded to try how far the promises of theory were redu- 
 cible to practice. Accordingly, in the evening I preached in 
 a large room to a numerous and deeply attentive congre- 
 gation. But though, in general, those who attended behaved 
 well, even charity will not prevent us from suspecting 
 that some came from motives of curiosity, if not from worse 
 <^lesigns. About the middle of my discourse, two or three 
 young men near the door began to be noisy ; this broke in 
 upon the silence of the congregation, and in some degree 
 disturbed that deep attention, and evident solemnity', which 
 had apparently rested upon all. This disturbance was how- 
 ever of a transient nature ; it lasted but a few minutes, and 
 peace was again restored. For, on my observing on the im- 
 propriety of their conduct, that there were magistrates in the 
 island who \\e\e disposed to do us justice, whenever we 
 found it necessaiy to make an appeal, they thought proper 
 either to sink into silence, or to retire from the door ; and 
 ivith them interruption disappeared. 
 
 The intelligence of preaching, having been circulated in 
 
68 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 the neighbourhood, had drawn together those Mho were 
 seriously disposed ; and, to our surprize, we found, after our 
 service was concluded, that a society of about twenty souls 
 who were seeking after salvation had been already formed 
 on the island, by the pious exertions of a free mulatto, whose 
 name was Painter. This man had formerly lived on the 
 island of Antigua, where he had been a member of our 
 society, and had tasted that the Lord is gracious. Remov- 
 ing to Grenada, through those changes which are inseparable 
 from life, he had carried wiih him the sacred flame. This, 
 through grace, he had imparted to his fellow-creatures ; and 
 God had blessed his endeavors with success. The pious 
 reader may enter into the feelings of these servants of God ; 
 and may feel something of that joy which glowed in their 
 hearts, at hearing that same gospel, of the experimental 
 part of which they had known something before, and which 
 they were now about to have established among them. To 
 those who are ignorant of God, these remarks may appear 
 trifling and msignificant ; but it is not to these that vve ex- 
 clusively appeal. Those who have knovvn what it is to 
 hunger and thirst after righteousness, will join with those 
 dear Afiicans m grateful acknowledgments to the Father of 
 all mercies, who makes his providence subservient to his 
 gracious purposes, and feeds his children in the wilderness 
 with the bread of eternal life. 
 
 The attention which had been manifested in the evening, 
 induced us to renew our efforts at an early hour, that by 
 this means we might be able to make some distinction be- 
 tween those who were actuated by novelty, and those who 
 were desirous of being instructed in the kingdom of God, 
 With these views, Mr. Baxter preached on the following 
 morning at six o'clock, and was favored with an attentive 
 congregation that nearly filled the room : and so far did he 
 feel his soul warmed with love toward these outcasts of 
 society, that in the course of his preaching he made them a 
 promise, that if no other Missionary could be found to dis- 
 pense among them the truth as it is in Jesus, he would again 
 revisit ihe island, take up his residence among them, and 
 become their pastor. 
 
 Having business of some importance to transact, I was 
 obliged to remain at our lodgings ; which prevented me 
 from joining in the public service. I felt solicitous, however, 
 to speak to the congregation before we took our leave ; and 
 had, therefore, requested to be informed when Mr. l^axter 
 concluded his discourse. A neoro soon called to let me 
 
"WEST INDIES. 69 
 
 know that he had nearly finished ; and, at the same time, im- 
 parted the following little anecdote respecthig himself: " He 
 *' had dreamt," he observed, " some time since, that tMO mi- 
 *' nisters came to the island for the benefit of the negroes ; 
 *' and having in his dream leisure to survey them attentively, 
 " (as it appeared to him) and feeling himself interested in the 
 '^ issue, he took the opportunity to mark their features with 
 *' such exactness, that their images were forcibly impressed 
 *' upon his memory. And so strongly was the impression 
 " made, that he knew, the instant he saw us enter the 
 " church on the preceding Sunday, that Mr. Baxter and 
 " myself were the men presented to him in his sleep." 
 
 Proceeding with this man to the chapel, just as INlr. Bax- 
 ter had concluded, I gave the people a short exhortation to 
 seek mercy while it might be found, and to accept of those 
 overtirres of salvation which were now made to them through 
 the Saviour of the world. Scarcely had we dismissed the 
 congiegation, before a genteel black woman, who was free, 
 and possessed of some property, came forward to accost us. 
 Taking brother Painter by the hand, and addressing herself 
 to me, she observed as follows : " Sir, this good man has 
 I " kindled a spark among us ; and I hope you will send us 
 " assistance, that it may be preserved and increased." I could 
 ' only renew the promise which I had previously made to the 
 ' Governor, and confirm that ^\hich JMr. Baxter had just 
 , made to them. But %^hether my promise to them, or their 
 anxiety to receive it from me, occasioned the greater joy, I 
 take not upon me to decide. In both cases, it seemed to be 
 the gratification of wishes that were mutual, arisfng from 
 the same source, and aiming at the same object ; how much 
 soever they might be diversified in the manner of their 
 operation. 
 
 Tliat morning we breakfasted with Mr. Dent, the worthy 
 minister of St. George's ; and soon afterward made a visit 
 i to a Mr. Williams, Comptroller of the Customs, and mem- 
 ber of the Assembly for the town of St. George. To the 
 truths of the gospel, Mr. Williams was not an entire stranger; 
 he had heard the gospel in England, without its adulteration; 
 and evidenced by his conduct towards us, that he felt an 
 attachment to what he had heard. To persevere in our un- 
 dertaking he gave us great encouragement, and expressed 
 his desire that we would visit him at his country-house ; 
 assuring us, at the same time, that he should be glad to 
 exert himself iu behalf of any Missionary we might in 
 
70 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 future send ; and that nothing in his power should be wanUM 
 ing to promote so laudable an undertaking. ^ 
 
 About eieven in the morning, having taken leave of our 
 friends, Ave quitted the town, and began a journey of about 
 thirty miles, over lofty hills, to a distant part of the island. 
 After having ascended to a considerable height, we found 
 ourselves in a new climate, totally distinct from that of the 
 vales in the torrid zone. On the summit of the highest, we 
 found the air comparatively cold. The action of the solar 
 rays operating upon us, ceased to produce its accustomed 
 effects ; and we felt ourselves transported, as in an instant, to 
 those climates which are felt in the northern parts of the 
 temperate regions. Our great coats were not only sufferable/ 
 but actually necessary ; and we found it convenient to keep 
 them buttoned, to shield us against the cold, which, from 
 our sudden transition, appeared somewhat severe. But 
 these temporary inconveniences were of short duration. 
 . Our descent soon brought us again into the tropical region ; 
 and the sun quickly acquired his irresistible fierceness. 
 
 On this hill we found an excellent inn. The proprietor 
 appeared at once both kind and accommodating ; his charges 
 were moderate, and his house was commodious. This is called 
 Grand Etaiig, and derives its name from an extraordinary 
 lake which lies in its vicinity. The lake is deep ; it is in 
 itself, as it were, a spacious fountain, which, by subter- 
 raneous passages that are invisible to the human eye, sup- 
 plies, according to common report, no less than twelve 
 diminutive rivers which water the island. It is surrounded 
 by romantic peaks of different elevations, which are covered 
 with trees of various kinds and dimensions. 
 
 The adjacent scenery is picturesque and romantic beyond 
 all description. It is a region in which the philosophic mind 
 may survey with pity the votaries of wealth and ambition 
 practising the arts of fraud and injustice ; and from whence 
 he may behold mankind immersed in licentious dissipation, 
 pursuing and pursued, each other's prey. Were I disposed 
 to seclude myself from all intercourse with the world, I 
 know of no spot that I should prefer as a place of residence. 
 The varieties of vegetation would furnish the botanist with 
 employment; and an observatory, erected on one of the 
 peaks, would enable the astronomer to trace the various 
 movements of those heavenly bodies, which roll tlnough 
 the etherial vault. Their extensive circles would insensibly 
 expand the mind \\ hile engaged in contemplation; and lead 
 
VEST INDIES. 71 
 
 the pious soul to adore that power which communicated mo- 
 tion to their enormous bodies ; while a sense of his di\ine 
 favor would lead it to hold an uninterrupted communion witli 
 God. But such a mode of life, how congenial soever it 
 may be to the wishes of individuals, can be of but little 
 benetit to mankind ; at best, recluses are " like lamps iu 
 sepulchres ; their shine enlightens but themselves," 
 
 xVt this iim we ujet with a servant of John Rae, Esq. 
 tlie gentleman whom we were about to visit. This to us w as 
 an agreeable surprize ; as the day was declining apace, and 
 we should, otherwise, have found it extremely unpleasant, 
 and perhaps almost impossible, to have prosecuted our 
 journey by night, in these partially unfrequented regions. 
 Through the guidance of this servant, we were conducted 
 by a much nearer road than we had designed to travel ; its 
 wretchedness, however, counterbalanced its nearness. AVe, 
 neverthelciis, prosecuted our journey in safety, and reached 
 tlie house of Mr. Rae about nine at night. 
 
 This gentleman is an agent of two principal West India 
 merchants in London ; from one of Avhom I had received 
 and brought with me a recommendatory letter. We were 
 received w ith nuich attention, and treated with that kindness 
 and hospitality which almost uniformly distuiguish the inlia- 
 bitants of the new world. We were informed by him, that 
 he had about nine hundred negroes under his care ; and, that 
 so far as his influence could extend, they should be open to 
 the instruction, and his house to the entertainment, of any 
 Missionai-y that I should recommend. These negroes had, 
 however, been much exposed to the superstitious instruc- 
 tions of some Romish priests who had gained a footing 
 among them, and had instilled into their uncultivated minds 
 some of those idolatrous rites which are interwoven with the 
 ceremonies of that communion ; and to the influence of 
 which, ignorance is always prone. 
 
 The day following, after taking leave of Mr. Rae, we rode 
 to the town of Guave ; hi which place, however, we remained 
 but a short lime. Here we embarked, and took our leave 
 of the island for the present ; fully satisfied with the excur- 
 sion we had made, and resolved to improve the opening 
 which God had, through his providence, afforded us. x\nd 
 after touching at St. Vincent's, and taking up Mr. Lumb 
 and Mr. Werrill, we arrived at Antigua on the 5th of 
 December. 
 
 On the author's fifth tour in America, and third in the 
 W^est Indies, he made a second excursion from St. Vmcent's 
 
^2 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 to Grenada. Tliis visit was chiefly made on account of Mr* 
 Bishop, one of our late Missionaries, who had resided in' 
 !Nova Scotia for some considerable time. He came to the 
 West Indies at the particular request of the author, who 
 felt himself solicitous to introduce him, personally, to those 
 friends whom he had found on this island in 1790, and who, 
 from that period to the present, had continued to evince the 
 sincerity of their attachment, by assisting in promoting the 
 infant work of God that was now begun. We accordingly 
 set sail for Grenada on the 7th of January, 1793, and 
 reached the island on the following day. 
 
 Tlie kind reception we met with during this visit, as M'ell 
 as that which I had received on a former occasion, could 
 EOt but give me a peculiar predilection for the island and 
 its inhabitants. We found that Mr. Dent, the pious and 
 worthy rector of St. George, whose name has been already 
 introduced, had retained his former friendship and piety, 
 and had contributed his assistance towards the support of 
 tliat mission which had been partially established. 
 
 During the intermediate year that had elapsed, Mr. Owens^ 
 one of our Missionaries, had occasionally visited the island, 
 and experienced that love and hospitality, M'hich the early 
 promises of the inhabitants had given us reason to expect* 
 Preaching liad been established in several places, and many 
 had flocked to hear ; irregularity had given place to order, 
 but not many had been added to the society. Peace and 
 tranquillity, however, uniformly prevailed ; but the reward 
 of our exertions rather lay in prospect than possession. 
 
 It would be ungenerous, to pass over in total silence 3. 
 noble instance of generosity and fortitude that this island 
 presented, during the interim of which we speak. Mr. 
 Owens was highly esteemed by General Matthews, the 
 Governor, whose generosity prompted him to reward both 
 his talents and his zeal. It happened at this time, that the 
 living of Cariacou, one of the Grenadines, was vacant* 
 This was offered to Mr. Owens, if he would go to England, 
 under his Excellency's recommendation, and be ordained] 
 by the Bishop of London, But Mr. Owens, influenced by] 
 a sense of duty, with all the fortitude of a man of God, ex-^ 
 pressing his deep sense of the Governor's generosity, nobly] 
 declined the oft'er, and chose to continue a poor dependant' 
 Methodist preacher. The living of Cariacou is worth about 
 four hundred pounds currency per annum, a sum which is 
 regularly paid from the treasury of Grenada. To this must 
 
AVEST INDIES. 73 
 
 be added the surplice-fees ; which perhaps, on an average, 
 will nearly equal the above sum. 
 
 The station which Mr. Owens had been called to occupy 
 as a MissionaiT, had removed him from the island of Gre- 
 nada, some time prior to our arrival ; so that his little flock 
 was left without their accustomed preaching, and their ac- 
 customed guide. I had, however, informed Mr. Dent by 
 letter, that another Missionary would soon be sent ; and we 
 found on our arrival, that he, and the little society which 
 Mr. Owens had left behind him, had already provided a 
 house for Mr. Bishop, the ^lissionary whom I accompanied 
 thither. 
 
 Mr. Dent entreated me to make his house my home, 
 during my residence in the island. It is one that he has 
 lately erected on the side of a hill, which affords a delightful 
 prospect of the town, harbor, and shipping. While on the 
 island, I preached once in Mr. Dent's church on a Sunday 
 morning, and several times in Mr. Bishop's house, to con- 
 gregations that had, evidently, been accustomed to hear the 
 word of God. The society, though few in number, not 
 more than thirty, was much alive to God. When I met 
 them, they expressed themselves with much clearness and 
 rationality, when giving an account of what God had done 
 for their souls. Far the greater number enjoyed a strong 
 evidence of their adoption ; they knew in whom they had 
 believed, and felt an interest in Jesus Christ. 
 
 The inhabitants of this island are a mixture of French 
 and English ; and, notwitlistanding the intercourse which 
 subsists between them, they retain their respective lans-uages. 
 A Missionary, therefore, who speaks but one, cannot be 
 profitable to all ; hence, a careful selection became neces- 
 ssLvy, that indiscretion m choice might not defeat our primary 
 design, Mr. Bishop, being a native of Jersey, could speak 
 both languages with tlue-acy, and was, therefore, admirably 
 adapted for the mission in Grenada. His zeal was, perhaps, 
 more than equal to his fluency ; and an ardent desire for the 
 salvation of others, was the predominant feature of his soul. 
 
 Finding that every thing had been happily adjusted in 
 the to\Mi of St. George for the accommodation of Mr. 
 Bishop, on the jMonday after we landed we proceeded to 
 visit the Honorahh Mr. Smith, one of the members of the 
 Council, who lives not far from the town of Guave. We 
 were received with much poiiieness and respect, and found 
 in Mr. Smith a friend to that cause in which we were en- 
 gaged, and which such kindness tended not a little to pro- 
 
 VOL. TI. K 
 
74 History of the 
 
 mote. With this hospitable gentleman I spent a day, and 
 felt highly delighted with that sweet retirement which he 
 had selected for his residence. It is somewhat removed 
 from the tumultuous hum of men, and receives a solemnity 
 from the adjacent woods, while it is enlivened with a line 
 rivulet which meanders through the shade. 
 
 Mr. Smith, apprized of our arrival, had prepared for the 
 reception of Mr. Bishop, and had set apart a large out- 
 house for his use. In this it was mutually agreed that the 
 negroes should assemble, at such times as might be deemed 
 convenient, to hear preaching, and to receive such instruc- 
 tions as the peculiarity of their cases might require. From 
 Mr. Smith's, we proceeded to visit the Reverend Mr. Ca- 
 rew, Rector of Guave, and found him not destitute of that 
 courtesy and affability which had marked the Rector of St. 
 George. We were informed by him, that Mr. Bishop 
 should be at all times welcome to his house ; and that his 
 negroes, who were about two hundred in number, should be 
 collected to receive instruction, whensoever Mr. Bishop could 
 make it convenient to visit his estate. Thus individuals after 
 individuals concurred Math us in our designs, and were ren- 
 dered instrumental, through the providence of God, of in- 
 troducing the gospel into the island, in many places where 
 it had never yet been preached, and of causing multitudes 
 to hear the joyful sound, who had hitherto been unacquainted 
 with a Saviour's name. 
 
 During my stay at this time upon the island, a little cir- 
 cumstance occurred, which, as it has a claim upon every 
 feeling heart, precludes the necessity of all apology for its 
 insertion* Mr. Dent, who with his amiable lady lives quite 
 a retired life, thought that they wanted in their family another 
 servant girl. He accordingly went one day, agreeably to 
 the custom of the country, to a sale of negroes, who had 
 just been imported for that purpose; and fixing his eye on 
 a little girl about ten years of age, said to her, *' Will you 
 " come Vv'ith me ?" The poor child, though ignorant of the 
 language of England, understood that of the countenance 
 and of the heart, though she had never heard of Lavater, 
 and nodded her head in token of assent. Mr. Dent then 
 turned from the child, and entered into a conversation with 
 the proprietor about incidental matters ; in consequence of 
 which, for a few minutes, the poor girl was forgotten. He, 
 "howevei", soon recollected himself; and, turning once more 
 towards her, repeated his former question, " Well, will 
 you come with meV The little naked child, who had 
 
WEST INDIES. 75 
 
 watched his movements from the time of his speaking, Mas 
 now overcome by those emotions which, it is natural to 
 conceive, must agitate the bosom of an infant stranger ex- 
 posed to sale in a foreign land. Viewing him as her pro- 
 tector, she immediately threw her arms around him, and 
 gave vent to her feelings by a flood of tears. Mr. Dent felt 
 himself much atfected by this little incident ; he therefore 
 instantly purchased her, and brought her home. She was 
 inmiediately well clothed and domesticated ; and before I 
 left the island could speak several words of English, and 
 had begun to sew. 
 
 It must be repeated, to the honor of the inhabitants of 
 Grenada, that they treat their slaves with less severity than 
 those of any other of the islands. They have among them 
 a law, which provides guardians in eveiy parisli, who are 
 ol)liged upon oath to oversee and protect the negroes from 
 injurious treatment. The investiture of these men with such 
 extensive powers, to be exercised in behalf of the unfortu- 
 nate slave, is a demonstration of that compassion and hu- 
 manity which prevail. '^Fhis humane law was enacted about 
 the year 1789 ; and soon afterward a lady felt its force, for 
 a mode of conduct which proved the necessity of its estab- 
 lishment. She was lined live hundred pounds for cruelty 
 towards her negro. I'his was certainly a noble act of jus- 
 tice, which did honor to the guardians, the judges, the jury, 
 and the whole island. 
 
 After remaining about a week in Grenada, and endeavor- 
 ing to establish such plans as were most conducive to the 
 general benetit of the mission, I took my leave of this affec- 
 tionate people, under an uncertainty of ever seeing them 
 again, in time ; and sailed in the Dashwood packet for Tor- 
 tola. The annexed extracts, from the correspondence of 
 the Missionaries, will shew the progress and success of their 
 christian labors. 
 
 [From Mr. Bishop to Dr. Coke. Grenada, June, 1793.] 
 
 " I thank God, I am enabled to tell you, that he has 
 idone wonders amongst us lately. Many souls have been 
 set at liberty ; and we have now in town, and at the Point, 
 ■one hundred in society. Our chapel is finished, and will 
 iCQBtain near four hundred persons ; but at times it is too 
 little. I humbly hope you will not forget us, but will apply 
 to the Conference for a preacher. For if I have no help, we 
 must beseech the Lord to have mercy upon us. I can pene- 
 
76 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 trate but a little way into the country, till I have one to take 
 my place in the town and its environs. I hope God will be 
 graciously pleased to stir up the hearts of several of our dear 
 brethren, to come over and help us. There is a great open- 
 ing in the West Indies for the gospel ; and what a pity it is, 
 that we should not embrace the blessed opportunity, and rush 
 through every open door. Do, my dear brethren, when you 
 assemble in Conference, think of us ; and dispatch to us a few 
 bold champions, to assist us. Our situation calls loudly for 
 aid ; and you know well, that if any help is sent us, it must 
 be from the British Conference. We had, thanks be to the 
 Almighty, a blessed time at our love-feast on Sunday. It 
 is the second we have had since my arrival in this island. 
 
 " I was this week with the manager of Mr. Harvey's es- 
 tate, who behaved very kindly to me ; and I promised to 
 visit the estate shortly. Indeed, I could form three circuits 
 in this island, and should have wherewithal to supply the 
 preachers, if we only had them. May the Lord, in tender 
 mercy, continue to give me health in body and mind ; for 
 the work is great. Various, and at times many, are the 
 trials of my poor mind ; but God is very merciful. Having 
 found help from above, I continue to this day ; and I desire 
 to spend and to be spent for the good 'of precious souls. 
 To remain in the body, is more needful for them ; but at 
 times, I would prefer to be dissolved, and to be with Christ, 
 which is far better. My soul pities those around me who 
 are destroying their own souls, while thousands of others 
 are perishing for lack of knowledge. My heart bleeds for 
 them. O, my dear friends, pray for us ! And may God deal 
 graciously with us, and send some to call sinners to repent- 
 ance. 
 
 " There are two little islands near us, which I am desired 
 to visit, where there are neither ministers nor preachers ; and 
 I hope to go thither, if, when the superintending preacher 
 visits us, he can stay a few weeks in town, and at the Point.' 
 
 N. B. The letter from zchich the foregoing extracts are 
 made, Mr. Bishop did not live to finish ; as appears from 
 the follozving account, addressed to the author, by the Reve- 
 rend Mr. J3entj and written en the same sheet zvith ^Ir. 
 Bishop's letter. 
 
 " June 18, 1793. 
 
 " Thus far had our departed brother written about; 
 the first week in this month. On the 11th he was seized 
 
WEST INDIES. 77 
 
 with a violent fever, and died at the cliapel, about two o'clori 
 on the morning of Sunday the l6th. He was buried in 
 the yard on the evening of the same day. His mental fa- 
 culties were much deranged, from a very early stage ; and, 
 though we had the assistance of three of the principal physi- 
 cians, were never perfectly restored. Yet, though thus 
 afflicted, he bore his sufferings with great patience, and 
 prayed or exhorted, though in broken accents, to the last. 
 1 preached in the chapel, after the interment, to a very full 
 congregation, on these words, which he had written on a 
 paper of directions left with me a few weeks ago : Blessed 
 are the dead zckich die in the luordJ^ 
 
 [From Mr. R. Pattison ; dated Grenada, August 26, 1793.] 
 
 " I suppose, that, long before this comes to hand, you 
 will have heard of the death of oiu- dear departed friend and 
 brother, Mr. Bishop ; who was truly indefatigable in the 
 work, and whose labors were particularly blessed in this 
 island : — but not among the French ; for not one of them 
 has received the gospel, or seems in the least inclined to it 
 at present. I was told by a pious woman in society, who 
 can speak French and English, that after they had heard Mr. 
 Bishop preach, and were informed by him of the absolute 
 necessity of forsaking the vices they have been so long ac- 
 customed to, and the impossibility of obtaining absolution 
 from any but God ; they immediately turned their backs on 
 him, and said, " We like our own religion best," Not one 
 of them attended his preaching after, except at Guave ; and 
 the chief reason of their attending him there, I am informed, 
 was, that they had quarrelled with their priest at that part 
 of the island. 
 
 " Among the English, I think there is a prospect of a 
 great and glorious work ; notwithstanding that Satan has 
 stirred up his emissaries to stop the progress of the gospel 
 among the poor Ethiopians : for, an act, two or three days 
 ago, passed the Assembly, establishing the Romish clergy 
 with the Church of England, in every parish throughout the 
 island; allowing them two hundred pounds per annum; and 
 absolutely prohibiting preachers of any other denoniination 
 whatever from exercising the functions of the ministry here ; 
 and in case of such ministers preaching in the island, they are 
 to be taken up, and treated as rogues and vagabonds. How- 
 ever, it met with much opposition ; and it has not yet passed 
 
78 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 the Council, which will sit in three weeks. What may be 
 the issue, God only knows. 
 
 " After the death of Mr. Bishop, our dear friend, the 
 Reverend Mr. Dent, wrote to Mr. Baxter for a preacher. 
 Mr. Baxter wrote to Mr. Harper to send one, there being 
 three at St. Kitt's ; who, after receiving the letter, asked 
 me, if I was willing to go ? I consented ; and immediately 
 took my departure from Antigua, and from thence sailed for 
 Grenada. We stopped one day at St. Vincent's, which I 
 spent with Mr. Clarke. He and I visited the prison in 
 which Mr. Lumb had been confined. I likewise was in the 
 chapel ; and felt strange emotions, that such a fine house of 
 worship should have been shut up, where the everlasting 
 gospel should be proclaimed. I arrived here on the 2d of 
 August. The dear people shewed every niark of gratitude 
 to God for a preacher. The Reverend Mr. Dent received 
 me with all possible kindness, and cheerfully delivered up 
 the care of the society into my hands ; which he had kept 
 together since Mr. Bishop's death, with the assistance of 
 Mr. Hallett, who cast in his lot amongst us under Mr. 
 Bishop's ministry. 
 
 " Mr. Dent is heartily engaged in the work. His labors 
 have been made a blessing to many. Our congregations 
 much increase ; and the chapel is crowded, in general, an 
 hour before preaching-time.' The people hear with great 
 attention, and seem as if they would be doers of the word. 
 I have joined six since my arrival. Mr. Bishop preached 
 once a fortnight at Guave, and at the barracks of the 
 black corps, a little beyond the toM'n. The latter place I 
 have attended twice, and intend to preach there once every 
 ■week. I hope to form a society in Guave, as soon as I can 
 make it a part of my circuit. I am informed that Mr. Carew 
 will give us his church to preach in. There is a little island 
 about four hours sail from this, called the Isle of Ronde, 
 which is the property of Mr, M'Dowall, now m England, 
 who, I am told, is desirous to have his negroes instructed. 
 Most of them are natives of Antigua, and, I hear, were in 
 society there. I only wait for the manager's coming over 
 here, as there is no conveyance but in his own vessel. Mr. 
 Owens, when in Grenada, spent two days with them very 
 agreeably. The poor negroes would hardly let him leave 
 them. 
 
 " I heard this day of the death of Mr. Graham in Bar- 
 badoes. — I earnestly hope that the deaths of the preachers 
 in the West Indies will not discourage our brethren from 
 
"WEST INDIES. 79 
 
 coming out ; for I am sure the islands, at this time, cry to 
 those on your side the Atlantic, Come over, and help us ! 
 Respecting myself, I bless God, I never enjoyed better 
 health in England, than I continue to do in the VVest Indies : 
 And I likewise bless God, I never found my heart more 
 engaged in the work, than since I have been in Grenada. I 
 know, for me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 1 plainly 
 see the preciousness of souls, and the uncertainty of our 
 abode on earth. I wish to be a good steward of the grace 
 of God, and to do what my hand findeth to do, with all 
 my might. May a pure intention to please God be the 
 spring of all my actions !" 
 
 [From Mr. Ilallett; dated Grenada, May 19, 1794.] 
 
 " I have received a letter this day from Mr. Dobson, of 
 Barbadoes, acquainting me with the melancholy news of 
 the death of Mr. Pearce, who, agreeably to your desire, 
 left Barbadoes, and arrived here on the 11th of February. 
 After making some necessary arrangements in the society, 
 such as appointing class-leaders, &c. he left us on the 8th 
 of April to go for ISIrs. Pearce, and then to return. But 
 God, who is infinite in wisdom, has taken him to glory. His 
 death, I believe, m ill be a great loss to the connexion ; but 
 with respect to himself, I am persuaded the change is glo- 
 rious. He, more than once, after his arrival, declared to 
 me, that he wished, and it w as his prayer to God, that he 
 might live no longer than he could travel and be useful to 
 his fellow-creatures. Little did I suspect he was so shortly 
 to be withdrawn. But, glory be to God, whatever he does, 
 is well done ; and I am persuaded it is our duty to bear, and 
 suffer, and endure unto the end. 
 
 " \V ith respect to the society here, I have endeavored to 
 keep them together ; — to hold the different meetings as usual ; 
 — to read a sermon on preaching nights ; — and to speak to 
 the people on the mornings following ; — which before Mr. 
 P. left us, he allowed me to do. I cannot be certain as to 
 the number in society ; as time will not allow me to go to 
 the different leaders, to see their papers ; though, I think, 
 when I say ninety, I do not exceed the number. In a for- 
 mer letter, I took notice of one hundred, or more, in con- 
 nexion ; but all the black troops being called away, the 
 number is diminished, as many of those soldiers were in our 
 society." 
 
80 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 [From the Reverend Mr. Dent, dated St. George^Sf 
 Grenada, May I9, 1794.] 
 
 " I am happy to inform you, that the attempt on our 
 glebes, &c. and, in short, on the whole of our establishment, 
 in order to favor the Romish priests, has failed. The bill 
 is dead ; and Mr. Dundas, in consequence of a letter from 
 
 me to the Bishop of , has put the whole into a fair and 
 
 honorable way. So far we bless and praise God for all his 
 mercies. 
 
 " But, my dear Sir, we are again called to submission : 
 i\gain have 1 to say, " O Lord, thy will be done." Brother 
 Pearce is called to his everlasting rest ! H e arrived here 
 on the 11th of February; was very acceptable to us, and 
 to the people in general ; and having regulated the society, 
 and left it under my care, (assisted by that valuable young 
 man, Mr. Hallett, who is likely to be a very able preacher,) 
 he sailed on the 8th of April for Barbadoes, in order to 
 bring down Mrs. Pearce. He died at sea on the 1st of 
 May ; and, as far as we can learn, in great peace, and in 
 full assurance of faith. He had good health whilst here, 
 and never looked better since I knew him." 
 
 [ From the Rev. Mr. Dent ; dated Duke Street, Portland 
 Chapel, Nov. 21, 1795. London. 
 
 " I received a letter yesterday from our truly useful friend, 
 Mr. Hallett, my parish-clerk and schoolmaster in Grenada. 
 The following extract will give you satisfaction : 
 
 " Is Dr. Coke in England ? If so, give my kind love 
 ** to him, and tell him that the society still keep together, 
 " and that the Lord is with us. We set apart yesterday 
 " (October 1st) for fasting and humbling ourselves before 
 " God. In the morning, I endeavored to shew the neces- 
 " sity and uses of fasting ; and, I trust, many were blessed 
 " in using the means. Sunday next, if the Lord permit, 
 " we are to have a love-feast. — There are a few here who 
 " love God ; with such I wish to live and die. The Lord 
 " make me faithful to the end." 
 
 " Both Mr. Hallett and his brother have been on severe 
 military duty ; the latter, in fight with the enemy; as has Mr. 
 Clearkly. We have lost none of our friends since the Insur- 
 rection, either by battle or sickness." 
 
VEST INDIES. SI 
 
 [From Mr.HaUett; dated Grenada, Jan. 0.2, 1796.] 
 
 " As I conceive it will give you pleasure to have a line 
 or two from tliis, at present, distracted isle, I gladly em- 
 brace the opportunity which now offers. I should have 
 written some time ago, but that I was led to believe you 
 were not in England, lliis objection is done away by a 
 kind letter which I have received from my dear friend, the 
 Rev. Mr, Dent, now in England. I trust you have seen 
 him ere this, and that you have been made acquainted with 
 the religious state of this community, down to the period of 
 his embarkation ; since which time, it has pleased the good 
 Lord, in his kind providence, to spare me to labor liere, and 
 1 hope not in vain. I believe the cause has not suffered. 
 There are now seventy-seven in society ; and, I trust, they are 
 gaining spiritual strength every day. We are much revived 
 by a visit from brother Owens, from St. Vincent's, who is 
 on his vAay to St. Kitt's. He very kindly delivered to us 
 two instructive sermons, which, I hope, will never be for- 
 gotten by us. 
 
 " It is now three months since I have been under the 
 necessity of lending our chapel as a barrack for one of the 
 black corps, raised here ; to whom I preach twice a week ; 
 though I do not perceive a readiness in them to hear. I 
 have also liberty to preach to another corps ; but seldom 
 can get more than twenty, frequently a lesser number, to 
 hear. 
 
 " I hope shortly to have the chapel returned to us. With 
 respect to our political state, we have been greatly distressed. 
 
 ■ 1 entreat your prayers, that, if it be the will of the 
 
 Lord, the dreadful scourge may be removed from us ; but, 
 above all, that God may be glorified, and sinners saved." 
 
 [From the Rev. Mr. Dent, dated Fehruary 2, 1796.] 
 
 " I was last night favored w ith another letter from Mr. 
 Hallett, dated Dec. 12, 1795 ; in which he says — 
 
 " I think it proper to inform you of our prospects here. 
 " Know then, my dear Sir, that in consequence of the re- 
 " treat from G uave. Colonel Webster's corps of negroes, con- 
 " sisting of about seventy, has been stationed at the chapel. 
 " I soon considered it my duty to endeavor to do some good 
 " among them ; I therefore spoke to the Colonel and Major 
 " Hay ; and they immediately acceded to my wish of trying 
 " to spread the gospel among them. I have for some weeks 
 ^ OL. II. L 
 
82 
 
 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 " been preaching to them on Sundays and Tuesdays. At 
 " first they laughed, and seemed to think lightly of it. But 
 " I now perceive, they are becoming more serious ; and I 
 " humbly hope, that, as the glory of God and the salvation 
 " of souls are my aim, the Lord will bless my weak at- 
 " tempts. 
 
 " In addition to this increase of duty (viz. military duty, 
 " and the duties of clerk and school-master), I applied to 
 " Colonel Gahagan, for leave to exhort his company of 
 " blacks. The Colonel apprehended that they were all of 
 " the Romish persuasion : but consented, if there were any 
 " of them of the English church, that I should make a 
 " trial ; which I have done, and continue to preach to them 
 " twice a week. I confess I am warm in my expectations, 
 " yet hope I shall not be disappointed. War is an enemy 
 ** to religion. It creates, what is, perhaps, thought a ne- 
 *' cessary fierceness, and seems to increase men's natural 
 " antipathy to things serious. Yet I shall not think my 
 " labor lost, if I can only introduce morality among them. 
 " Besides, I think this point will be gained ; — as it is not 
 ** likely that these corps will be discharged, in case of 
 '' peace— when the Lord shall grant us that blessing, here 
 " will always be a field for Methodist preachers. 
 
 ** I observe among them all, the custom of crossing 
 .*' themselves ; but this, when they really receive the gospel, 
 " will disappear. I think my plan should be simply to 
 ** preach the gospel, and not perplex them with the differ- 
 " ence of churches, &c. Love in the heart, will produce 
 " loving actions, and unity among all who possess it. I 
 ^' think also of applying for permission to preach to Major 
 " Ker's black corps." 
 
 " I cannot help mentioning a singular instance of the 
 goodness of Divine Providence to our poor little flock in 
 society at Grenada. They have all been eminently loyal 
 from the commencement of our troubles, and exemplary in 
 Jtheir whole conduct; and though the men have been as 
 much exposed as any other soldiers, and have undergone as 
 much fatigue, yet I know not of one that has been killed or 
 -wounded, or that has died of disease, either of the men or 
 women. We are assured, that when the righteous are re-i 
 moved by death, thei^ are taken away from the evil to come. 
 But to be spared, when inhabitants are so much wanted, is 
 a very great mercy and kindness to the living," 
 
WEST INDIES,, i 85 
 
 [From the same; dated July Q.5, 1796.] 
 
 '' I have been reflecting upon what you remarked, of the 
 little good which Mr. Bishop had done among the French 
 negroes ; and wish to repeat what I observed, that he had 
 not time to visit any of the plantations, and only preached a 
 few times in town to some French people, almost all of 
 whom turned against us ; and none of them were so much 
 affected, as to be awakened. 
 
 " His discouragements, with respect to the French ne- 
 groes, arose from the influence and interference of the 
 French priests ; but as they have been in rebellion, and are 
 not likely to be re-established, nor are any more likely to be 
 permitted to come in their room, I apprehend that a door is 
 now opened, I am, therefore, more anxious than ever to have 
 the gospel preached to the French negroes in that language 
 which they in general prefer, and which most prevails, and 
 will prevail, among them. If it should please the Lord to 
 raise up French preachers (such as the young man you 
 mentioned), whose political principles could be depended on, 
 both by the French inhabitants who may remain at Grenada, 
 and by ourselves, I am lirmly persuaded, that they would 
 be most kindly received by the white French, and might be 
 eminently useful. 
 
 " 1 mentioned Mr. Pattison's having visited the little 
 island of Cariacou, and Isle Ronde. They are both under 
 the Grenada government, and with two or three other small 
 islands form one parish, which has become vacant for 
 nearly two years. One of these islands is owned and inha- 
 bited by French mulattoes, viz. Petit ^lartinique. Several 
 others of the Grenadines are under the St. Vincent's govern- 
 ment, viz. the Union, Mostique, and Carouan. In all the 
 last-mentioned, the negroes speak English ; and as they are 
 a plain simple people, being separated from the rest of the 
 world, they are well worth visiting ; and, if their owners, or 
 overseers, were converted, might form little societies of emi- 
 nent christians. ISIr. Clarke, from St. Vincent's, visited 
 some of them in 1789: I ^vas at Mostique in August that 
 year, and was much pleased. 
 
 iFrom Mr. Hallett; dated Grenada, May 23, 1797.] 
 
 " I have been blessed m ith a safe return to Grenada, and 
 with the enjoyment of good health. I found my colleague 
 well, and rejoice that his labors have not been in vain. He 
 
84 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 has joined several to the society ; and we have now in con- 
 nexion one hundred and fifteen members, of whom only 
 three are whites." 
 
 [From the same ; dated November 9y 1804.] 
 
 " I have been wading through deep waters ever since I 
 left England, but hitherto the Lord hath helped me. I in- 
 formed you in a former letter of the death of an only and 
 beloved brother. In this I have to acquaint you Avith the 
 death of my truly valuable friend, the Reverend Mr. Dent; 
 with whom, after my return to this island, I spent many 
 profitable hours. His death was rather sudden ; for it was 
 not till within the last five hours of his life, that any appre- 
 hension Mas entertained of his approaching dissolution ; 
 during which period it was impossible to converse with him, 
 on account of his affecting situation ; his disorder (the gout) 
 being fixed in his stomach. But he is now with that Sa- 
 viour, whose cause he loved, and labored to promote. I 
 miss him very much, on account of the loss of his company 
 and conversation, which loss is not likely to be made up to 
 me in any other person. I sorrow indeed, " but not as one 
 " without hope." 
 
 " These circumstances, added to much indisposition of 
 body, and sore temptation, make my way rough and thorny; 
 but, blessed be the Lord, I have not lost my zeal for his 
 cause, nor ceased from my endeavors to be useful. I have 
 been under the necessity of repairing the chapel, at the ex- 
 pense of two hundred pounds currency. The repairs were 
 absolutely necessary ; as it would otherwise have been im- 
 possible, humanly speaking, for the chapel to have stood 
 the very heavy weather we have had this year. 
 
 " I now administer the Lord's supper monthly ; and we 
 have some precious seasons of refreshing grace. Indeed, all 
 the means we use are blessed to us ; and I think there is 
 deepening of the work of grace in the hearts of the people. 
 We have prayer-meetings in various parts of the town almost 
 every evening. They begin to be well attended ; and we 
 are earnestly praying and looking for a general revival. I 
 have some blessed opportunities in preaching, and am con- 
 vinced that the people feel the power of the word. My 
 own soul is greatly blessed, and I am longing to see the 
 prosperity of Zion. May the Lord lengthen out your days, 
 and make you more abundantly useful." 
 
 We cannot but be impressed, from a perusal of the abov< 
 
•WEST INDIES. 8,5 
 
 letter, with the uncertainty of human life. Mr. Dent, Mho 
 but a few years before had recorded the death of Mr, Bishop 
 upon the same letter which he had begun, but which he did 
 not live to tinish, was now called from his pious labors to 
 join the church triumphant above, leaving the memorial of 
 his departure to be recorded by Mr. Hailett. 
 
 The most important business of life is, to prepare for 
 death. The intelligence of the death of the pious ministers 
 of God conveys an awful lesson to survivors ; and at once 
 informs them how to live and how to die. In many cases, 
 they are taken away from the evil to come ; but, in certain 
 cases, they are removed as a punishment upon those, to 
 whom God has stretched forth his hands, while they have dis- 
 regarded his threatenings and his invitations. But in every 
 case it shall be well with tire righteous ; they shall be pre- 
 served in life, and shall be secure in death, and be blessed 
 through eternity. What rank soever the servants of God 
 may hold in his church, he has pronounced those blessed, 
 who die in the Lord ; but in a particular manner he has as- 
 sured us, that they who turn many to righteousness, shall 
 shine like the stars in the firmament, for ever and ever. 
 
 The island of Grenada is not without evidence that the 
 word of God has not been preached in vain. Many living 
 witnesses can set to their seal, that God is true ; and many 
 more have departed this life, with a full conviction of enjoy- 
 ing felicity in another. As in the sight of God the death of 
 all his saints is precious, those M'ho love the cause of their 
 Heavenly Master will find pleasure in perusing the follow- 
 ing letter : 
 
 [From Mr. Hailett; dated February/ 13, 1805.] 
 
 " The happy death of a saint is as great a proof of the 
 efficacy of divine grace, as the conversion of a sinner ; and 
 is, no doubt, equally a cause of joy to the angels of God. 
 To christian spectators and survivors, it affords matter of 
 the greatest encouragement and consolation. Such was the 
 death of Dutchess Simmons, a free colored woman, a native 
 of the island of Barbadoes. She had lived without hope, and 
 widiout God, for the long period of seventy-three years ; and 
 being a wealthy person, and having it in her power to enjoy 
 the world without restraint, she had pursued its pleasures, 
 followed its customs, and been influenced by its maxims. 
 
 " About the year 1 790, Mr. Samuel Painter, a free co- 
 lored man, of Antigua, and a member of the Methodist 
 
86 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 Society, came to reside in Grenada, and to labor as a me- 
 chanic. This good man, full of zeal for God, under the 
 patronage of our worthy friend, the Reverend Mr. Dent, who 
 had the year before been inducted into this living, held 
 meetings for prayer and exhortation. Our deceased sister 
 attended these meetings, at which she received her first re- 
 ligious impressions, and was deeply awakened. She was 
 afterwards fully converted to God in the year 1793, under 
 the ministry of that truly evangelical young man, our late 
 dear brother, Bishop. And she has often blessed God for 
 sending him and Mr. Painter to this island ; and will, no 
 doubt, find it a cause of thanksgiving for ever. 
 
 " Her conversion was evidenced immediately, in a most 
 striking manner. 1 hough she had attained such an advanced 
 age, yet in her dress and appearance she had been wont to 
 discover all the gaiety of youth. But she now laid aside all 
 the gold and silver with which she had been accustomed to 
 adorn herself, and assumed the appearanfce of christian 
 plainness. — A change tliis, which, considering her great love 
 of dress, \\ as an evident proof of the power of divine grace. 
 
 " She had, some years before her conversion, formed a 
 connexion with a gentleman of this island : a practice very 
 common with the gentlemen and colored females in the West 
 Indies, and m hich is one of the greatest hindrances to the 
 progress of the gospel in these parts. . But this evil was also 
 pat away, and the connexion immediately dissolved. On 
 the sabbath-day, Mhich is the principal market-day in these 
 islands, she had been in the habit of trafficking all her life. 
 This custom is also another grand obstacle to the spread of 
 the gospel. Our late friend, Mr. Dent, informed me after 
 my arrival, that he had endeavored to get the Sunday market 
 abolished ; but without success. But this holy day Mrs. 
 Simmons now devoted to the service of God. Her love to 
 the people of God was another strong evidence that she 
 had passed from death unto life ; her house, her heart, were 
 always open to them. I may add, that as a class-leader, in 
 which office she acted many years, she was very useful. 
 
 " On the night of January 3, 1805, after she had met her 
 class, she was taken sick, I was out of town at that time, 
 and did not see her until the oth ; when she appeared to be 
 very ill, but perfectly recollected. I spoke to her about the 
 stale of her mind ; and she replied with the greatest confi- 
 dence, that she was fully saved from the fear of death. I 
 asked if 1 should pray witli her ? she answered, " Yes ;" and 
 
West indies. 87 
 
 aid, " But do not pray that I may live : pray for accept- 
 
 • ance." 
 
 " The day following, being the sabbath, when the sacra- 
 nent of the Lord's supper was administered at our chapel, 
 he sent for me, and desired to communicate; expressing her 
 >ersuasion that it would be the last time. This day she gave 
 lirections concerning her funeral, which she desired might 
 ►e conducted in the plainest manner. To those who know 
 he extravagance manifested in funerals in the West Indies, 
 ler desire will not appear to have been unnecessary ; par- 
 icularly as she was an old, respectable, and wealthy inha- 
 )itant. 
 
 " Her friends could not prevail upon her, at first, to call 
 n a physician ; as she signified that it would be useless, and 
 )egged that they would let her die in peace. They, however, 
 ifterwards overruled her in this point ; and two of the most 
 :minent physicians attended her. I visited her every day, and 
 "ouud her confidence unshaken. Whenever I asked her how 
 ihe was, she replied, " I am looking to my Master." When 
 [ exhorted her to rely on Jesus, she observed, " He is my 
 
 * all in all ; there is no other." The violence of the fever 
 )ccasioned a temporary derangement of her intellects ; but 
 !ven then, when I spoke to her of the excellencies of 
 Christ, she regained her recollection. She was in a state of 
 nsensibility from four o'clock in the afternoon till seven in 
 he evening of the 10th of January; when she fell asleep in 
 Jesus, in the eighty-eighth year of her age." 
 
 The Missionary work in this island has continued nearly 
 n the same state ever since the above letters were written 
 ay Mr. Hallett. We are, however, in hopes, that we 
 shall soon find out one or two French Missionaries in the 
 Norman Isles, who will consent to visit this place on the 
 sacrifice of their faith, and prove through the grace of God 
 in unspeakable blessing to the numerous French negroes iu 
 Grenada. 
 
88 HISTOEY OF THE 
 
 CHAP. XVIII. 
 
 HISTORY OF BARBADOES. 
 
 Barbadoes. — Discovery. — Name and first settlement. — O//" 
 gin. — Mutations. — Establishment and termination of 
 the proprietary government. — Governors. — Vicissitudes 
 and calamities of the island. — Civil constitution. — Go^ 
 veinor, Council, and Assembly, their respective rights.—^ 
 Courts of Justice. — Lazes. — Fortifications. — Military 
 establishments, and JPopulation. — Situation and extent 
 of the island. — Fertility, and nature of the soil. — Ar- 
 ticles of exportation. — Ginger plant described.— -Towns^ 
 rivers, and articles imported. — Beautiful appearance of 
 the island. — Internal resources. — Variety of productions ^ 
 Salubrity of the climate.'— Reflections, ^c. 
 
 XT has so happened- in the progress of our inquiries, that 
 almost every island which we have been called to survey, 
 has led us to contemplate the important discoveries M'hicli 
 were made by the daring genius of Columbus ; but Barba- 
 does must be admitted as an exception to the general rule. 
 The honor of its tirst discovery has uniformly been attributed 
 to the Portuguese^ M'ho viewed it in much the same light as 
 the Spaniards surveyed the Bermudas ; — as an insiguiticaut 
 trifle, too contemptible to seduce them from their path to 
 gold. 
 
 In what year this island was discovered, we are not pre- 
 cisely informed ; but it is highly probable, from a train of 
 circumstances, that it had remained for many ages unknown : 
 to Europe, till about the year 1600; upwards of one hun-j 
 dred years after the new world was tormented by the old. 
 In the sea charts of these regions, Barbadoes, it is confi- 
 dently asserted, claimed no place prior to 1600; it there- 
 fore could not have been discovei'ed by the Portuguese longj 
 before. Within a few years from the above period, it be- 
 came knov> n tu the English ; but prior to this time the Por- 
 tuguese had evidently visited its shores. 
 
 The origin of its name is as destitute of certainty, as the 
 period of its primary discovery is unknown in point of time.! 
 
WEST INDIES. 89 
 
 By the Portuguese it was found without cultivation or inha- 
 bitant, and witliout any visible vestiges whatever, that before 
 that time it had been visited by any human being.* And 
 from this circumstance it has been presumed, that its rude 
 condition suggested its present appellation ; and, that it was 
 called by these adventurers, Los Baibadosa, by way of in- 
 dignity and contempt. 
 
 But, though these Portuguese neither took any formal 
 possession of it, nor once attempted any settlement, they 
 were so far provident, that they furnished it with a breed of 
 hogs, which they turned into the woods to multiply, and to 
 provide for their own sustenance by such fruits as the forests 
 might atFord. Their motive for acting thus, was, undoubt- 
 edly, to establish a source of provisions, either for themselves, 
 or for their countrymen, who might in future navigate the 
 same tract, and stand in need of such refreshments as the 
 island, at this period, could not afford. Thus they found, and 
 thus they abandoned Barbadoes, to such future adventurers 
 as choice or misfortune might cast upon its shores. 
 
 Long before this period, both the West India Islands and 
 
 * Raynal has asserted, vol. v. p. 14. that " the island of Barbadoes, 
 " which is situated to the windward of all the others, appeared never to 
 " have been inhabited, not even by savages." In this assertion he has, 
 however, been evidently mistaken. On its first discovery, indeed, every 
 appearance which it exhibited, seemed to confirm tlie truth of the obser- 
 vation which he has made ; and the early settlers were induced for a con- 
 siderable time to believe, that, prior to the airival of the Europeans, it 
 had never been trodden by the foot of man. But a more intimate ac- 
 quaintance with Barbadoes, has long since corrected the error. No 
 doubt at present remains, that it had in former periods been inhabited by 
 the Charaibees, though it had evidently been abandoned by them through 
 some causes which we are unable to comprehend, perhaps some ages 
 1)efore either the English or Portuguese visited its solitary shores. 
 
 Ligon, who took a survey of this island so early as 1647, an account of 
 which he published soon afterward, observes, that he examined many 
 domestic utensils which the natives had originally manufactured in their 
 potteries, and bnrned in their kilns ; and that the workmanship was not 
 inferior to that of the common earthenware in England, eitlier in strength 
 or elegance. Mr. Hughes, in his Natural History of Barbadoes, confirms 
 the above account given by Ligon. 
 
 These testimonies in favor of its having been inhabited at an early 
 period, continue to be corroborated by visible memorials even in the pre- 
 sent day. Detached pieces of broken earthenware continue to be digged 
 up even by the planters, who now occupy particular spots which these 
 ancient residents more frequently visited ; much in the same manner as 
 the remains of the Druids are to be occasionally found in various parts of 
 "England. The kilns in which their manufactures of clay were burned, 
 are at present rarely to be discovered ; though many years have not elapsed, 
 since they were well known as matters of curiosity, and, probably, are 
 still well remembered by several of the old iqhabitauts. 
 VOL. XI. M 
 
90 HI5T0RY OF THE 
 
 the contiguous Continent were well known to the maritime 
 nations of Europe, and ships from each had frequently tra- 
 versed these seas. It was in the year 1605, that an English 
 ship called the Olive, or Olive Blossom (probably from Sir 
 Olive Leigh, the proprietor), in prosecuting a voyage from 
 London to Surinam, fell in with this island, and landed 
 some men on it, as the Portuguese had done before. These 
 Englishmen, however, finding it uninhabited, immediately 
 took that possession of it, which the Portuguese, dazzled 
 with their more splendid possessions on the continent, had 
 entirely omitted. On their landing they erected a cross on, 
 or near, the spot on which James-town was afterwards 
 built, carving at the same time on an adjacent tree, the fol- 
 lowing inscription : " James, King of England, and of this 
 " island." 
 
 By this time the hogs which the Portuguese had turned 
 ashore on the island, had so far multiplied, that the woods 
 were furnished with a breed that was entirely wild ; and 
 from this source the new inhabitants obtained an ample sup- 
 ply of fresh provisions. Parrots and pigeons, together with 
 other birds, were also plentiful in the island ; and the adja- 
 cent coasts were found to abound with fish. On this solitary 
 spot, however, they made no long stay ; their only object 
 was to supply their temporary wants ; and, when this was 
 accomplished, they took their leave, and prosecuted their 
 intended voyage. These were the first Englishmen that were 
 ever known to visit these desolate shores. 
 
 How far the reports, which the seamen of the Olive 
 Plossom circulated on their return to England, might be 
 considered favorable, we can only gather from this circum- 
 stance, that but little notice was taken of their discovery. 
 No person, it seems, entertained any thoughts of establisii- 
 ing a colony on the island ; and it was accident, or rather 
 a providential circumstance, M'hich afterwards called Barba- 
 does into further notice. 
 
 Some years had elapsed from this period, when, in the 
 course of a trading voyage, a ship which had been fitted out 
 by Sir William Courteen, a merchant of considerable re- 
 spectability in London, returning from the Brazils, was 
 driven towards it by the violence of a tempest with ^^ hich 
 she was overtaken. Necessity rather than choice compelled 
 the seamen to enter a harbor that oifered them protection. 
 These, during their stay, had an opportunity of noticing 
 that exuberant fertility which every where abounded. Ard 
 finding themselves refreshed with the provisions that the 
 
WEST iNDisa. 91 
 
 hogs and birds afforded, and guarded with that protection 
 wiSi which the harbor had shielded them from the boisterous 
 elements, the whole of which was heightened by those 
 calamities to which they had lately been exposed, they 
 departed highly prepossessed in favor of the asylum that 
 this island had yielded. Both the master and seamen, on 
 their return to England, circulated such favorable reports of 
 the beauty, the fertility, and the advantages of it, that it 
 ceased in an instant to be an object of contempt. 
 
 The report soon reached Lord Ley, aftervvard Earl of 
 Marlborough and Lord High Treasurer. This nobleman, 
 to secure for himself a possession which promised much 
 future wealth, made an immediate application to King James, 
 and obtained from him a grant of the island, and had it 
 confirmed not only to himself but also to his heirs for ever. 
 In the mean while, Cou/teen, a man whose enterprizing 
 spirit was almost invincible, concerted his measures for the 
 establishment of a settlement upon this new possession, which 
 the captain of his own vessel had called into public notice, 
 and in part discovered. 
 
 How far Courteen acted under the auspices of Lord Ley, 
 or what private connexion subsisted between them, cannot 
 with precision be ascertained. But be this as it may, Cour- 
 teen found means to collect together, and engage in the enter- 
 prize, about thirty persons, who Mere furnished with such 
 seeds and implements as were deemed necessary for the un- 
 dertaking. In addition to this, they were amply supplied 
 with provisions, and with the means of fortifying the most 
 vulnerable parts of the island ; so that while they were sti- 
 mulated to industry, they were furnished with the means of 
 protection against the invasions of a foreign enemy, and the 
 private depredations of those pirates who occasionally ravaged 
 these seas. 
 
 That Lord Ley was privy to this expedition, it is natural 
 to infer from his silence on the occasion. He could not 
 but have known the designs of Courteen; and it is highly 
 improbable that he would have suffered the island, of which 
 he held the patent, to be planted by another with whom he 
 had no kind of connexion. 
 
 Of this infant colony one William Deane was appointed 
 Governor ; and he and his subjects, properly equipped, em- 
 barked, in 1624, on board a ship called the IVilliam and 
 John, commanded by one John Powel, and reached Bar- 
 badoes in safety, at the close of the same year. On their 
 arrival, they proceeded to lay the foundation of a town, near 
 
92 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 that spot on which an inscription had been previously carved 
 on a tree, as already related. This town, in honor of their 
 Sovereign, they denominated James-town. From hence, 
 they began to clear some land for cultivation,* and thus to 
 lay the foundation of a settlement, which reached its zenith 
 of prosperity with a degree of rapidity, unexampled, perhaps, 
 in the annals both of the old and the new world. 
 
 It so happens in the deranged condition of the world, 
 tliat the prosperity of another awakens envy in the sordid 
 mind ; and avarice and ambition conspire together, to snatch 
 from the hand of enterprizing industry, that wealth which 
 injustice never yet deserved. In such views, power usurps 
 the place of right ; dislodges it by violence ; and establishes 
 its pretensions by sophistry and the sword. 
 
 While Barbadoes was thus for the first time peopled with 
 Europeans, and while it promised an ample reward to the 
 industrious hand that first broke the glebe, the Earl of Car- 
 lisle, who had engaged with vigor in the establishment of 
 foreign colonies, was busily employed in planting a colony 
 on the island of Saint Christopher's. But this nobleman 
 wanted Barbadoes also. How far he had been made ac- 
 quamted with the patent which Lord Ley had obtained, does 
 not exactly appear ; but conceiving that it interfered with 
 that indefinite grant, which he had previously obtained, of 
 all the Charaibee Islands, a misunderstanding immediately 
 arose between these two noblemen. 
 
 The Earl of Carlisle, to insure his indefinite claims, in 
 the first year of the reign of Charles I. obtained a grant by 
 letters patent under the great seal of England, whicTi secured 
 to himself barbadoes, the object of contention, as well as 
 the other Charaibean Islands. This grant, however, when 
 it came to be passed, was strenuously opposed by Lord Ley, 
 
 * Barbadoes at this time was completely covered with forests, which, 
 in many places, were absolutely impenetrable. The trees, in genera), 
 were enormously large, and exceedingly high ; and so entangled with one 
 another, as to be nearly impervious to the solar light and the refreshing air. 
 To cat them down was soon found to be a work of more difficulty than 
 the early settlers at first imagined ; for the timber was so excessively 
 hard as to resist the stroke of the axe, when only applied with ordinary 
 force. An uncommon degree of resolution in the colonists, was therefore 
 necessary, to induce them to persevere in clearing the ground of these in- 
 cumbrances, under such disadvantageous circumstances. This, however, 
 was soon effected when their numbers began to multiply ; and tlie exalted 
 pitch cf cultivation to which the whole island was raised within a few 
 years, stands as a lasting monuraejat of what laborious patience is capable 
 «f accoiiaplishing. 
 
■\VEST INDIES. 93 
 
 On the ground of a previous patent, and, consequently, pri- 
 ority of right. The contention between them was long and 
 jsevere; neither Mould relinquish what neither could peace- 
 ably secure and enjoy. Their differences were, however, 
 finally adjusted by compromise. Carlisle succeeded in se- 
 curing the patent which he had been so solicitous to obtain, 
 by paying to Lord Ley, and his heirs for ever, the annual 
 sum of three hundred pounds. In consequence of this com- 
 promise, all opposition was Avithdrawn, and the Earl of 
 Carlisle's patent received the great seal, on the 2d of June 
 1627 ; so that he now became sole proprietor of the island. 
 
 In the mean while, Courteen, through whose enterprizing 
 spirit Barbadoes was rescued from forgetfulness and waste, 
 ■was passed over with as much neglect as if no such man 
 had ever existed. Lord Lei/, under whose auspices lie 
 had acted, having secured to himself and his posterity the 
 gratuity we have already specified, consigned him over to 
 the power of Carlisle, without protection and without a legal 
 right. But in what light soever we view these transactions, 
 it is evident that Courteen had been considerably injured. 
 He had claims that were clearly founded upon justice, though 
 they might be excluded from the patent and the cognizance 
 of law. 
 
 Scarcely had Lord Lei/ deserted him, before he found an 
 active friend in Ifilliam Earl of Pembroke. This noble- 
 man, viewing Courteen in the light of an injured character, 
 espoused his cause, and undertook to represent his situation 
 to the throne. Tlie King, listening to the representations of 
 Pembroke, viewed the claims of Courteen in a favorable 
 light; and, in order to repair the injuries that he had sus- 
 tained, actually revoked that patent which he had previously- 
 given to Carlisle. At the same time, he granted another to 
 Pembroke ; by means of which he contrived so to transfer 
 the right, that it might be held in trust for Courteen, who 
 was at this time cultivating the island. 
 
 \\ hile these changes were transacting. Lord Carlisle was 
 absent from the kingdom on an embassy, and knew nothing 
 of the transfer which had taken place. On his return to 
 England, he, however, soon obtained the information, and 
 loudly complained of the injustice he had sustained. He 
 pleaded, that he had been condemned without committing an 
 act of injustice, and without being present to remte the 
 allegations which wei;e made ; or without being permitted 
 to point out the fallacious grounds on which the pretensions 
 of Pembroke and Courteen had been set up. — -That in 
 
94 HISTORY OF THl! 
 
 addition to this privation of property, which lay in the island, 
 as he had engaged to pay to Lord Ley an annual sum for 
 the withdrawing of his prior patent, the injustice he thought 
 was too manifest to require any further comment. 
 
 King Charles, who appears from these transactions to 
 have been always captivated by the last tale, listened with 
 much attention to the importunities of Carlisle ; and, pro- 
 selyted once more to an opinion which he had previously 
 abandoned, Pembroke and Courteen were again forsaken, 
 and Carlisle obtained, once more, a renewal of his grant. 
 This event, memorable from the peculiarity of its concomi- 
 tant circumstances, took place in April 1629; from which 
 period the Earl of Carlisle became the sole proprietor of 
 the island. 
 
 Secured now, in some measure, in his contested possession, 
 and fearful, from \\hat he had seen, of a second relapse, 
 Lord Carlisle proceeded, immediately, to avail himself by 
 inheritance of what was guaranteed by patent ; and in con- 
 sequence of this resolution distributed the lands of Barba- 
 does into such parcels as were deemed most convenient, and 
 granted them to such persons as thought proper to accede 
 to the terms proposed. About eight or nine respectable 
 merchants in London, forming themselves into a company 
 for this purpose, obtained a grant of ten thousand acres, 
 much in the nature of a lease. These lands were to be 
 settled according to their own directions, under the manage- 
 ment of a person of their own nomination, who was to 
 preside over their affairs. The person thus selected, whose 
 name was Charles VVoolferstone, took under his direction 
 sLxty-four adventurers, each of whom was authorized to 
 appropriate to himself one hundred acres of land. They 
 sailed from England with the necessary equipments, as those 
 of Courteen had done before, and landed at Barbadoes 
 on the 5th of July 1629, at which time they found the 
 settlement of Courteen in a very flourishing and promising 
 condition. 
 
 Woolferstone, acting agreeably to his instructions, soon 
 after his arrival, set his face against the Courteen settlement. 
 He accordingly issued a proclamation, in which he declared 
 himself hostile to their proceedings, and treated them as 
 usurpers of the Carlisle right. These early settlers, habi- 
 tuated to industry, were quite unprepared for such a mode 
 of treatment ; and, indeed, being inferior in number, they 
 were unable to make resistance, had they been so disposed. 
 While these affairs were in agitation between fVoolferstom 
 
WEST INDIES. ^ 
 
 and Deane, (he arrival of Sir William Tufton, whom the 
 Earl of Carlisle had sent out the same year with forces suf- 
 ficient to ensure his pretensions and his rights, in an instant 
 decided the dispute. Avowing himself the supporter of 
 Woolferstone, Dearie and his followers had no time for de- 
 liberation. They found themselves abandoned by tliat 
 patronage which had hitherto supported them. They were 
 overawed by compulsory measures in a foreign land, from 
 which it was useless, even in England, to appeal, if an occa- 
 sion could have been found ; and, therefore, they had no 
 alternative left, but to yield an unconditional surrender, and 
 submit quietly to irresistible necessity. From this period, 
 the interests of Courteen were lost in the island ; all other 
 pretensions were abandoned ; and the rights of Lord Carlisle 
 thenceforM'ard admitted of no dispute. 
 
 But, though Sir William Tufton had been deputed by the 
 Earl of Carlisle to act as Chief Governor, and to enforce his 
 claims, his continuance in office was but of short duration. 
 His chief act was that of assisting Woolferstone in annihi- 
 lating the pretensions of Courteen. But, disobeying the 
 Earl, he was deposed soon afterwards from his office, and 
 was succeeded by Captain Henry Hawley, in 1631, who 
 was sent over on purpose to supersede him, Hawley, on his 
 inauguration, acted with all the insolence of power, and 
 capricious vengeance of a despot, whose actions had made 
 him an object of detestation, 
 
 Tufton, probably feeling himself hurt at being superseded 
 by a man so unprincipled as Hawley, joined his signature to 
 those of others in a petition to the Earl, in which they com- 
 plained of the tyranny of Hawley's conduct. Men, whose 
 actions will not bear a rigorous investigation, are justly sus- 
 picious, and ever forward to employ spies to watch the 
 movements of those from whom they dread a retaliation of 
 the wrongs they themselves have administered. This was 
 particularly the case with Hawley. He soon obtained 
 notice of the petition Avhich had been framed, and finding 
 to it the signature of Tufton, marked him as an object of 
 his vengeance. ITie petition was instantly construed into an 
 act of mutiny on the part of Tufton ; and, being tried and 
 found guilty by a court martial, he was sentenced to be 
 shot ; which sentence was almost instantly executed upon 
 him, with as little ceremony as there was justice in the 
 proceedings. 
 
 An action so atrocious, which violated even the common 
 rights of humanity, awakened the indignation of all the settlers; 
 
9(5 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 and Hawley was viewed in the light of a detestable murderer, 
 and looked upon by all with a mixture of terror, detestation, 
 and contempt. The perpetration of a murder so flagrant, 
 produced a ferment in the colony, and even endangered its 
 existence. The Earl, in consequence of reiterated clamors, 
 found it necessary to recal him from the island ; but, though 
 he returned to England, loaded with execrations, his noble 
 patron not only shielded him from justice, but invested him 
 with renewed powers. He was, accordingly, once more 
 sent out to Barbadoes in his former capacity, in which office 
 he continued till the year 1638. 
 
 The same sanguinary disposition which had marked his 
 conduct prior to his removal, accompanied him in his rein- 
 statement, though it stood detached from his former overt 
 acts. His oppressions were, however, too daring to be 
 borne with patience. The inhabitants with one voice de- 
 clared against him; and in 1638, he was obliged to quit an 
 island, in ^^hich he had rendered himself odious to the 
 inhabitants, who would no longer submit to his imperious 
 mandates, nor act under his authority. 
 
 The Earl of Carlisle, satisfied with the accusations that 
 were lodged against him, of cruelty and mal-administration, 
 contirmed Henry Hunkes in the possession of the government, 
 which he had assumed till another should be appointed to 
 succeed Hawley. His residence, however, was but of 
 short duration. At the end of three years he retired from 
 the island, appointing Philip Bell, Esq. his deputy ; in 
 which capacity, Bell acted from l64l to 1645 ; when he 
 became vested with full authority, and supported his cha- 
 racter of Chief Governor, with honor to himself, and with 
 much advantage to the infant colony. It was during his 
 administration, that the settlement and government began to 
 acquire a degree of permanency, to which the island had 
 been so long a stranger. A constitutional system was 
 established, and laws were enacted, which gave security to 
 property, by defining the rights of the inhabitants ; which 
 discountenanced vice, and promoted the cause of virtue ; 
 and which prepared Barbadoes as an asylum for those fugi- 
 tives who fled from the calamities which began, at this time, 
 to afflict the mother-country. 
 
 " Then it was," says an account of this island, published 
 by Dodsley in 1768, " that the calamities of England 
 " served to people Barbadoes. Then it was that this infant 
 " colony afl'orded a safe retreat to the inhabitants of her 
 " mother-country ; where many families, ancient and opu- 
 
WEST INDIES. 97 
 
 ** Ifent) having expended their property In support of 
 " monarchy, or having been piunderejfi of their wealtli by 
 " usurpers, sought in this distant island, the re-establishinent 
 " of that fortune of which they had been robbed, and tlie 
 " enjoyment of that peace they had been denied in their 
 " native land." 
 
 " These new adventurers, many of whom were of respect- 
 " able families, and possessed of no inconsiderable fortunes, 
 " planted," says Lord Clarendon, " without any body's 
 " leave, and without being opposed or contradicted by any 
 " body." Indeed, the commotions which prevailed at home 
 so far engrossed the attention of the proprietors, as to aflford 
 them no time, either to assert their claims, or enforce their 
 rights to foreign possessions. The Governor availed himself 
 of the negligence which resulted from this confusion, and 
 embraced it as a favorable moment to push his own private 
 fortune. Those lands, of which he had been made the sole 
 guardian by the Carlisle family, he granted proportionably 
 to every applicant, on receiving for himself a handsome 
 consideration, without once regarding the interest of those 
 who had invested him v/ith power. The sums which were 
 paid, were rather viewed in the light of tributes of acknow- 
 ledgment, than as valuable considerations to the proprietor ; 
 and their claims degenerated from bad to Morse, till sophistry 
 contrived to render their justice problematical. These mea- 
 sures were, at length, tried at the bar of interest, and pro- 
 nounced to be a species of privileged usurpation. The 
 support, indeed, which Hawley had previously received from 
 the Earl of Carlisle, had tended to alienate the affections of 
 the people from him ; while the convulsions which agitated 
 the kingdom, furnished them with a favorable pretext for 
 questioning his authority, and throwing off the yoke. 
 During these commotions, — these extraordinary emigrations, 
 — and this increase of capital in the island, it flourished 
 beyond all example, and soon reached a zenith of prosperity, 
 at which even the inhabitants themselves were astonished. 
 The original stipulation, by which the Earl of Carlisle was 
 to receive an annual stipend of forty pounds of cotton wool, 
 from every person holding lands under his grant, had been 
 neglected, and apparently forgotten. — The freedom of trade 
 was unembarrassed by any restrictions ; and, being left to its 
 own efforts without any control, the island enjoyed for a 
 short season all the advantages of independence, without 
 experiencing any of its inconveniences. 
 
 But the prosperity of this flourishing colony could not 
 
 VOL. II. N 
 
98 HISTORY. OF THE 
 
 be long concealed. The reports of its wealth soon reached 
 the ears of the Earl of Carlisle, tiie heir of the original pa- 
 tentee, and induced him to attempt a revival of those rights 
 which he had derived from his father by legal and natural 
 inheritance. But the accomplishment of this point was 
 attended with considerable difficulty. This obliged him to 
 have recourse to artifice and intrigue. He entered into a 
 private negociation with Lord Willoughby, surrendering to 
 that nobleman all his rights for twenty-one years, on condi- 
 tion of receiving, during the whole period, one-half of the 
 profits which might arise from the island. At the same 
 time, while this transaction remained a profound secret, it 
 •was privately concerted between them, that an application 
 sliould be made to the throne, to obtain from thence a com- 
 mission for his Lordship to be sent out as Chief Governor 
 of the colony. 
 
 But here a new difficulty occurred. The King was, at 
 this time, in the hands of the parliamentary faction, and 
 was, therefore, incompetent to give validity to the commis- 
 sion, even if he had been accessible. It was therefore 
 agreed, by his Majesty's private approbation, that the com 
 mission should be sent to Holland, to obtain the signature 
 of the Prince of Wales, then a resident in that republic. 
 These measures were concerted and accomplished ; and 
 Willoughby departed for Bai'badoes, under the immediate 
 sanction of regal authority, so early as 1646. 
 
 Lord Willoughby, thus commissioned and thus appointed, 
 was received in his new government with that ardor and 
 approbation, which the inhabitants were ever forA\'ard to 
 manifest to the partizans of the royal cause. On his arrival, 
 well knowing the dispositions which prevailed, though vested 
 with supreme authority, he adopted such measures as should 
 tend best to secure his popularity. He, therefore, artfully 
 concealed the private negociation which subsisted between 
 him and Carlisle. His measures, indeed, had a secret ten- 
 dency towards this point, but no avowal was made of his 
 real designs. It has been asserted, that he contrived to 
 obtain from the \\ ealthy inhabitants a private promise, that 
 some acknowledgment should be made to the ancient pro- 
 prietor, but nothing was done in an official manner. To 
 carry his plans into execution was the work of time. But 
 this was an age tliat teemed with revolutions ; so that, before 
 any thing could be effected, monarchy was abolished, the 
 commonwealth was established ; and Barbadoes, reduced 
 to a submission to the republican government, defeated all 
 
WEST INDIES. 99 
 
 his schemes. His political principles were too well known 
 to obtain the confidence of Cromwell ; he was therefore 
 recalled, and succeeded by one whose principles were more 
 congenial to those of the reigning faction. 
 
 Though firmly attached to the cause of the unfortunate 
 Charles, even their condition under the republic confirmed 
 the inhabitants in their opinions, that to the Carlisle family 
 they were discharged from every obligation. When these 
 storms had somewhat subsided, and Charles II. had ascend- 
 ed the throne, Lord Willoughby, who had several years of 
 his private contract unexpired, made an application to that 
 monarch for a renewal of his authority to return to the 
 government of the island. Of his former appointment the 
 King could not be ignorant ; he, therefore, concurred with 
 the utmost readiness, and Willoughby found himself once 
 more the legal Governor of Barbadoes. 
 
 Unfortunately, however, for his designs, a knowledge of 
 the private contract between him and the Earl had by this 
 time transpired, and reached the island. The inhabitants, 
 therefore, saw with astonishment and regret, that they were 
 still viewed as under the dominion of the patent, which they 
 considered as void in law. To Lord Willoughby, as a 
 representative of the crown, they had no objection ; but, to 
 admit him as Governor in any other capacity, they felt the 
 utmost repugnance. In opposition, therefore, to such power, 
 they implored the royal interference and protection. For 
 they were fully convinced, that if this could not be obtained, 
 they could produce no titles to their plantations, which they 
 had raised from the most dreary wastes ; but that they should 
 be obliged, either to purchase them at such exorbitant prices 
 as the descendants of Lord Carlisle should think proper to 
 impose, or be compelled to quit for ever an island, which 
 they had found a desert, but which, through their industry, 
 they should, as it were, leave an Eden. 
 
 " They pleaded," says Lord Clarendon, " that they were 
 " the King's subjects ; that they had repaired to Barbadoes 
 " as to a desolate place, and had by their industry obtained 
 *' a livelihood there, when with a good conscience they could 
 " not stay in England ; that if they should now be left to 
 " those Lords, to ransom themselves and compound for their 
 " estates, they must leave the country, and the plantations 
 " be destroyed, w Inch yielded his IVIajesty so good a revenue." 
 In rescuing these unprofitable wastes from the wild condition 
 in which they found them, the Earl, they contended, ^ had 
 not sustained the smallest expense, and therefore could 
 
100 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 prefer no claim on tlie ground of loss. Of the original 
 charter they did not deny the existence ; but against its 
 legality they most solemnly protested, founding their obser- 
 vations on those changes which had taken place during the 
 commotions that had embroiled the parent state. And to 
 terminate those differences of opinion, v^hich subsisted be- 
 tween themselves and the government at home, they solicited 
 his Majesty to give them leave to commence a process in 
 the court of exchequer, at their own expense, but in his 
 name, that the point in debate might be brought to a legal 
 issue. Or, in case that this demand should be thought too 
 great, they humbly petitioned him to withdraw his royal 
 interference, and to permit them to contest the affair with 
 the Carlisle family in the courts of law, promising cheerfully 
 to abide by their ultimate decision. 
 
 But to neither of these propositions, however reasonable 
 they may appear in themselves, did the King ihink proper 
 to accede. On the contrary, with what designs it is impos- 
 sible with accuracy now to say, he instituted an inquiry into 
 the opposite claims of the contending parties ; reserving for 
 himself a right of decision on a cause which he hesitated to 
 submit to a legal issue. The object of those ^^ho inherited 
 the Carlisle estate, was, to recover their original right in the 
 island ; while that of the inhabitants, for reasons which have 
 been already stated, was, to defeat their purposes, and to 
 place the island under the dominion of the crown. It so 
 happened, in the course of this inquiry, while the inhabitants 
 were urging their plea, that one of the planters, in the warmth 
 of that zeal which he expressed on the occasion, voluntarily 
 offered in the name of the inhabitants at large, " that, rf 
 his Mnjesty would be graciously pleased to take the island 
 immediately into his hands, extending tozcards it his royal 
 protection and care, the produce of all the estates should 
 from henceforth he subject to an impost to be levied on its 
 real value, at a ce> tain per centum ; ichich, aft^r supporting 
 a Governor, whom his Majesty should nominate and estab- 
 lish, should be at his Majesty's disposal." 
 
 An offer, at once so generous and advantageous, contained 
 within it some arguments which were thought to be weighty 
 and convincing ! It was a subject of too much importance 
 to be treated with indifference, or to be permitted to languish 
 in the shade. This proposition opened a new lield for ne- 
 gociation, and brought m ith it a light, which, finally, con- 
 ducted the committee of the Privy Council to the termination 
 of the .business. 
 
WEST TNDIES. 101 
 
 The offer thus made, Avas instantly laid before his Majestv, 
 who was pleased to accept of it as an ontline of settlement. 
 Some time, however, became necessary for the committee 
 to form some crude calculations on the probable advantages 
 that "would arise from this compromise ; and this could only 
 be known from an estimate of the general produce. The 
 planters, in the mean while, apprehensive that the individual 
 Avho had made the proposition, had involved the interests of 
 the island, and proposed a tax -which would hang upon 
 themselves and their posterity for ever, felt much reluctance 
 in giving their sanction to the measure. They contended, 
 that Mr. Kendall, who had made the offer, had gone beyond 
 the boundaries of his delegated authority; and they absolutely 
 refused, in their otficial capacity, to ratify what he had so 
 indiscreetly proposed. The committee, however, were in- 
 exorable, and refused, on their part, to relinquish a propo- 
 sition, which opened a new source of revenue, and promised 
 such incalculable wealth. Here, then, both parties were 
 entirely at issue. Each saw and felt the importance of the 
 object, and seemed resolved to adhere to the purposes which 
 suited the interest for which each contended. The crown, 
 however, finally so far prevailed on the whole body of nego- 
 ciatjng planters, as to obtain from them a promise, that on 
 their return to Barbadoes they would use their influence witli 
 their constituents, to accede to a measure which should 
 settle upon the crown such an impost as the condition of tbe 
 island would allow, subject to the determination of the 
 colonial assembly. 
 
 While these affairs between the king and the colony were 
 thus negociating, in a manner which promised in some shape 
 or other a speedy termination, the friends, creditors, and 
 inheritors, of the Carlisle interest took the alarm. These 
 successively put in their respective claims, to prevent, if 
 possible, the closing of a negociation, which should deprive 
 them of their interest in the island, and their hopes for ever. 
 
 The original patentee, it was stated, had left his affairs in 
 a state of great embarrassment ; his debts were of a con- 
 siderable amount ; and his possessions in this, and in other 
 islands in the West Indies, were the only bases of security 
 on which his creditors rested their hopes. The annuity, 
 also, of three hundred pounds, which the patentee had stipu- 
 lated to pay Lui clLey for withdrawing his patent, it appeared, 
 was considerably in arrear. The creditors were alarmed for 
 the security of their property, and therefore felt an interest in 
 opposing the compact that was about to be made. In the 
 
102 HISTORY OF THE | 
 
 meanwhile, exclusively of these claims upon the actual pro- 
 perty in the island, Lord Willoughby demanded, by virtue 
 of an agreement between him and the proprietor, as we 
 have already noticed, one-half of those profits which might 
 arise from the produce of the island, till the period of his 
 private contract should expire ; while the Earl of Kimioul, 
 to whom the late Earl of Carlisle had bequeathed his pro- 
 perty in the West Indies, demanded the other half till the 
 expiration of the private agreement to which we have alluded, 
 and the whole amount after, that period. 
 
 To satisfy all parties, and reconcile such jarring interests, 
 was absolutely impossible ; some must, therefore, inevitably 
 sustain either real or imaginary wrongs. To enforce the 
 impost on the produce of the island, which should be, hence- 
 forward, at the disposal of the crown, seems to have been 
 M iih the committee a fundamental principle ; from w hich it 
 was evident, from the measures adopting, it was their deter- 
 mination never to recede. It must, however, be acknow- 
 ledged, under existing circumstances, that the distribution 
 of the profits was such, as to leave no very unfavorable idea 
 of that justice with which they were administered. 
 
 From that information which the committee had been 
 able to obtain, on the annual profits of the island, through 
 those mediums of intelligence which were placed M'ithin 
 their reach, the impost that was about to be levied was 
 irrevocably fixed at Jour and a half per centum. This 
 amount, it was resolved, should be paid in specie, on all 
 such commodities as the island should hereafter produce ; to 
 be estimated, prior to their being sJiipped for any of those 
 markets which the inhabitants had hitherto supplied, or 
 which any future discoveries might lead them hereafter to 
 explore. Such was the substance of that law, which was 
 about to begin its operation ; and w hich, in its general 
 principle, they were resolved should be subject to no alter- « 
 ation. I 
 
 The appropriation of this sum, the amount of which was 
 at present uncertain, it was also resolved, should be made to 
 the different claimants, in the following manner : The Earl 
 of Kinnoul, holding the Carlisle patent, to the validity of 
 which he still professed to be proselyted, stipulated Avith 
 the crown, that this questionable right should be immediately 
 surrendered into his Majesty's hands, upon condition, that an 
 immediate and honorable provision should be made for him ; 
 and so far effectually secured, as to leave no room for litiga- 
 tion or fraud. This, therefore, became a primary consi- 
 
WEST INDIES. 103 
 
 deration ; and to this point it was determined that the first 
 profits resulting from the impost should be applied. 
 
 In the second place, it was resolved, that since the annuity 
 of Lord Ley was in arrear, the next object should be a dis- 
 charge of such claims, as, arising from that ancient compact, 
 might be satisfactorily proved to be just and right. 
 
 In the third place, it was determined, diat, as many 
 creditors of the original patentee remained yet impaid; and, 
 as it appeared that Lord Willoughby, by virtue of a former 
 lease, had a claim of one-half of Carlisle's profits arising 
 from the produce of the island, and that several years of 
 this lease remained yet unexpired ; the surplus, after the 
 previous provisions mentioned, should be equally divided. 
 But since the period of Willoughby 's lease, in a few years, 
 would naturally expire, and in all probability long before 
 the creditors of the original patentee could be satisfied, it 
 was, furthennorc, appointed, that, after this period, deducting 
 the annual sum of one thousand two hundred pounds for 
 the Governor for the time being, the whole should be pro- 
 portionably divided among these creditors, until their claims 
 were cancelled and discharged. 
 
 And, finally, it was appointed, that after the liquidation 
 of the above debts, — the discharge of the above obligations, 
 — and the removal of the above incumbrances, the whole 
 revenue of the island, after deducting one thousand two 
 hundred pounds per annum, for the Governor, should be at 
 his Majesty's disposal, Avithout any restriction whatsoever. 
 
 As a compensation to the inhabitants, from whose industi-y 
 all these sums were to be exacted, they were given to under- 
 stand, That they were now fully placed imder that royal 
 protection, which they had sought w ith so much earnestness 
 and solicitude — That they were henceforward freed from all 
 individual claims, through any patent which had been pre- 
 viously granted ; and, that they were to be fully confirmed in 
 their possession of their respective estates, without having 
 their titles called in question, or without being exposed to 
 those local inconveniences which had, occasionally, damped 
 their ardor, and awakened their apprehensions of danger. 
 
 Such was the manner in which these affairs were settled 
 in England ; and such, also, were the commencement and 
 the termination of the proprietary government of Barbadoes! 
 But, though these plans w ere thus established in the mother 
 country, an afl'air of some difficulty still remained. The 
 inhabitants of the island, considered as a body, had not been 
 consulted ; and though that royal protection w hich they had 
 
J04 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 SO long solicited, was extended towards them, to the ixttet 
 abolition of the Carlisle power, yet these benefits were ob- 
 tained by them upon conditions, which, it was natural to 
 conclude, they would not much approve. To carry them,( 
 therefore, into execution, Willoughby, who felt interested 
 in the issue, repaired once more to Barbadoes in l663, to 
 take upon him the management of those affairs Avhich had 
 been preconcerted at home, and to rivet on those shackles 
 upon the inhabitants which had been already forged. 
 
 On his Lordship's arrival, he was received with evident 
 marks of indifference, if not with those of detestation. He 
 was viewed in the light of an oppressor ; and many of the 
 inhabitants, knowing him to be interested in his own transac- 
 tions, considered him as the author of their wrongs. Against 
 the conduct of Great Britain they grew clamorous and dis- 
 contented, and uttered such invectives as indicatejd a reluctant 
 submission, if not a formidable opposition. These, however, 
 were but weak displays of ineffectual disapprobation. It 
 was in vain tliat they pleaded their former attachment to the 
 royal cause, and pointed out the hardships they had sustained 
 in consequence of their acting in conformity to that attach- 
 ment. It was to no purpose that they adverted to those 
 favors which had been bestowed upon others, who had been 
 less deserving, and who were in a certain measure rewarded 
 with the spoils of Barbadoes. It was in vain that they 
 insisted, tliat the impost which they were destined to suffer, 
 operated as a tax upon labor, and tended to lay an embargo 
 upon that spirit of industry, which, unshackled and free, 
 had rescued the soil from its solitary and desert condition. 
 
 These and other topics of complaint were alike ineffectually 
 urged. 7he resolution had been previously determined 
 at home ; and force, as a necessary precaution, had been 
 iiitroduced into the island, to compel a compliance, in case 
 intrigue and artilice should fail. Atl^irs were fast approach- 
 ing to the important crisis which was to determine the fate 
 of the island. The assembly was called upon to pass an 
 act to levy four and a half per cent.; — an act, upon the 
 existence or non-existence of which, was suspended the 
 freedom or servitude of the inhabitants and their posterity. 
 
 The opposition to the measure, as might naturally be 
 expected, was formidable and active ; but neither numlier 
 nor vigor was of any avail. Those who exerted themselves 
 with energy, to protect their country from what they thought 
 an innovation, only singled themselves out as objects of 
 political vengeance, who were doomed to expiate their 
 
WEST INDIES. 105 
 
 offences, by undergoing such punishment as would, in future, 
 incapacitate them for a repetition of their crimes. 
 . Of this truth, the case of Colonel Farmer furnishes us 
 with a memorable instance. This gentleman, feeling indig- 
 nant at the methods about to be adopted, exerted himself to 
 prevent, if possible, the passing of an act, which, he well 
 knew, future generations would deplore. Actuated by these 
 patriotic principles, he became the soul of that party which 
 opposed the measures of VVilloughby. This rendered him 
 odious to the servants of the crow n ; and the immediate 
 consequence was, that he was arrested under a pretence of 
 mutiny and treason ; — was dispatched from the island ; — was 
 sent a prisoner to England ; — was kept in a close and severe 
 coniinement; — and was not finally liberated^ till his opposi- 
 tion could no longer be of any avail.* 
 
 Intimidated by this example of injustice and oppression, 
 the inhabitants grew dispirited, and abandoned a cause which 
 they could no longer defend with any probability of success. 
 They found themselves as vassals at the feet of an ungrate- 
 ful monarch ; and were obliged, with sullen reluctance, to 
 comply with a measure which it was not in their power to 
 avoid. * 
 
 Thus was established, through the joint co-operation of 
 intrigue and power, the famous impost of four and a half 
 per cent, upon all dead commodities, the produce of the 
 island, though exported to any part of the habitable globe. 
 Thus was the island, from the ^enith of commercial and 
 agricultural prosperity, reduced to a state of abject depen- 
 dence, and even of servitude. From this state it has retraced, 
 in a retrograde manner, those steps tliat led it to exaltation ; 
 and through which, it became an object on which ambition 
 
 * On the arrival of Colonel Fanner in England, he was brouj;ht before 
 the King asd Council ; and, from the reports which had been transmitted' 
 from Barbadoes, charged with mutiny, sedition, rebellion, and treason. , 
 But as these were crimes of which he was not guilty, the accusations' 
 could easily be repelled. He was called upon for his defence ; which he, 
 delivered with such a degree of energy and freedom, as he had been ac-. 
 customed to exercise in his favorite island. But this was a liberty which' 
 the court could not bear; so that his crime received the additional cliarge' 
 of insolence and contumely; insomuch, that Lord Clarendon declared him 
 deserving of imprisonment. Farmer, however, urged his rights as aa 
 Englishman, and contended, that his language was perfectly constitutional,, 
 and could not be justly construed into disloyalty. Unfortunately, how- 
 ever, his apology, or explanation, became an aggravalion of his guilt; and- 
 Le was ordered into immediate confinement, through the influence of Lord 
 Clarendon, who felt himself opposed by the freedom with which Fanner 
 rpoke. 
 
 VOL. II. O 
 
106 HISTORY OF Tlir, 
 
 fixed its eagle eyes, and avarice its ii on talons. The effects . 
 of this impost are severely felt to the present hour ; m\d 
 generations yet iniborn will, in all probability, look back 
 with sorrow on the l'2th of September, 1663, the day on 
 which the act bears date. 
 
 Having thus taken a survey of the discovery and first 
 peopling of Barbadoes, and noticed also the commencement, 
 continuance, and termination of the proprietary government, 
 it will be necessary to carry back our views, to mark the 
 prominent features of those internal transactions of the 
 island, which occurred during those changes that we have 
 been pursuing. By thus bringing forward these double 
 streams of history till both unite in one, under the surrender 
 of the Carlisle patent to the crown ; we shall be able to 
 trace those incidents which the peculiarity of circumstances 
 called into being, and which, from their combination, led 
 to that prosperity which the island experienced in the early 
 periods of its settlement. 
 
 We have already noticed, that Philip Bell was appointed 
 Lieutenant-Governor of Barbadoes in the year 1641 ; and, 
 that under his administration, the colony acquired a degree 
 of permanency and consistency, to w hich it had been before 
 a stranger. It has also been observed, that the calamities 
 which afflicted England during the commonwealth brought 
 a number of respectable inliabitants to the island. Many 
 of those were gentlemen from Kent, Suffolk, Essex, Here- 
 ford, Devonshire, and Cornwall, who repaired hither to 
 enjoy that peace, which they Could not obtain in their native 
 land. 
 
 The inhabitants, pouring in from the mother-country, to 
 an asylum which at once offered and afforded them protec- 
 tion, rendered many internal regulations highly necessary. 
 Mr. Bell, by the advice and concurrence of a council which 
 he had appointed, formed an assembly to represent the 
 people. These, co-operating together, agreed to divide the 
 island into eleven pari-shes, which parishes were compre- 
 hended in four circuits or districts. They were organized, 
 with their peculiar functions, and directed their energies 
 towards the movement of the grand machine. " While the 
 " other colonies," says Raynal, " were rather ravaged than 
 " cultivated, by those vagabonds who had been driven from 
 " home by poverty or licentiousness, Barbadoes daily re- 
 " ceived new inhabitants, who brought along with them, 
 " not only their stock of money, but a taste for labor, 
 
VEST INDIES. 107 
 
 " courage, activity, ambition, those vices and virtues which 
 " are the fruits of civil war." 
 
 This great intliix of white inhabitants, and of wealth, soon 
 rendered an increase of blacks necessary to cultivate the 
 laud. Africa, and the continental shores of America, were 
 ransacked in pursuit of slaves, and thousands were imported 
 from these distant regions of the globe. In Africa, they 
 were purchased as articles of common traffic ; but m Ame- 
 rica, theft was employed to procure the unlawful prey. 
 
 It was in one of these diabolical excursions, that an event 
 took place, which stands unrivalled in the annals of ingra- 
 titude ; and which has been deservedly held forth as an 
 instance of human baseness, to excite the abhorrence and 
 detestation of mankind. 
 
 Some of our countrymen, habituated to depredation, had 
 repaired from the island to the neighbouring continent, to 
 obtain, eltiier by fraud or force, some of the Charaibee 
 Indians, to cany them to slavery and Barbadoes. The 
 Indians, knowing that the white people frequently hovered 
 along their coasts, were at this time prepared for their 
 reception. They were fully conscious, that it was to no 
 purpose to parley with the invaders ; they, therefore, col- 
 lected their forces, fell upon them, killed the greatei' part, 
 and put the rest to flight. Among the fugitives was a young 
 man, w hose name w as Inkle ; who, retiring into the woods, 
 suffered inconceivable hardships, and wandered for some 
 considerable time without any hope of being rescued, — a 
 victim of despair. In this forlorn condition, he was acci- 
 dentally discovered by a beautiful young Charaibee woman, 
 whose bosom felt the emotions of pity and compassion for 
 the unfortunate stranger ; and forgetting the enemy of her 
 coinitry in the object of distress, she instantly formed to 
 herself a resolution to support him in a clandestine manner, 
 till an opportunity might be afforded for his escape. Faithful 
 to her engagement, she secreted him without betraying her 
 trust; she fed him, and relieved by her company, on all 
 possible occasions, the horrors of his solitude. At length, 
 the favorable moment arrived, when she saw an English 
 boat or vessel hovering upon the shore. She instantly made 
 him acquainted with the joyful tidings, and, becoming his 
 guide, conducted Lim in safety to the coast. 
 
 The friendship, hi)v»ever, which she had conceived for 
 
 'him in his distress, hud, during their interviews, softened 
 
 into affection ; so that \\ hen they came to part, instead of 
 
 bidding him adieu for ever, Ya/ico, for that was her name, 
 
108 - HISTORY OF THE 
 
 Jbegged to accompany him to the land of strangers. Inkle 
 complied. Yarico got on board the vessel ; and both 
 set sail together, and reached Barbadoes in safety. But, J 
 horrible to relate, scarcely had they landed, before the i 
 'monster, bursting through every tie of humanity, affection, 
 and gratitude, sold his deliverer and the preserver of his life, 
 and consigned her over to perpetual slavery ! 
 
 On this detestable scene Mr. Edwards remarks, with an 
 apathy peculiar on such occasions to his pages, " that such 
 " of his readers as have sympathized with the unfortunate,; 
 *' Yarico, will not be sorry to hear, that she bore her mis- 
 " fortunes with greater philosophy than they have, hitherto, 
 *' fancied. The story," he adds, " was first related by 
 " Ligon, who, after praising poor Yarico's excellent com- 
 " plexion, which, he says, was ' a bright bay,' and her 
 *' small breasts with nipples of po7'phyrie, observes, that 
 " she chanced afterzeards to be with child by a christian 
 " servant ; and being very great, walked dozen to a wood, 
 " in which roas a pond of zoater, and there by the side of 
 " the pond brought herself a-bed ; and in three hours came 
 " home with the child in her arms, a lusty boy, froHcke 
 " and lively. " 
 
 " The crime of Inkle, the merchant, however," he 
 sagely adds, " admits of no palliation." This is the only 
 expression of disapprobation which he uses on the occasion. 
 But he seems much displeased with Raynal for giving to 
 this shocking anecdote some of its native shades ; and does 
 hot seem pleased with Addison, for recording it in the 
 Spectator for the detestation of mankind. 
 
 But it was from the continent of Africa that Barbadoes 
 chiefly derived its slaves. These were imported in consi- 
 derable numbers, capable at once of populating, cultivating, 
 and endangering the welfare of the island. The white in- 
 habitants, it has been confidently asserted, amounted, in 
 1650, to tzoenty thousand souls; at which time, they could 
 muster ten thousand foot and one thousand horse, for the 
 defence of the colony. This, however, did not deter the 
 negroes, who were still more numerous, from attempting to 
 throw off the yoke. Estimating their power by their num- 
 bers, they meditated a revolt, and conducted their conspiracy 
 with so much secrecy, that they had even fixed the day for^ 
 an universal rising. But one of the leaders of the plot in* 
 formed his master of it. The name of this gentleman, toJ 
 whom a discovery of the plot was made, was HotherfallA 
 who, the instant he received the information, dispatched] 
 
WEST INDIES. 109 
 
 intelligence to every part, and apprized the planters of their 
 danger. The island was instantly in alarm. The negroes 
 were seized in their huts. Justice proceeded with expedi- 
 tion ; the ringleaders and contrivers of the plot were found 
 guilty, and executed by break of day. This damped the 
 ardor of the insurgents. A discovery of the plot prevented 
 its execution ; and tranquillity was again restored. 
 
 On the arrival of Lord Wil lough by, the island was found 
 in a most flourishing condition. It was inhabited chiefly by 
 those who Avere attached to the royal cause ; and they were 
 confirmed in their attachments by the congenial sentiments 
 of the new Governor. Soon after his arrival, an act was 
 passed, expressive of their loyalty and their fidelity to the 
 unfortunate Charles, at that time a prisoner to the par- 
 liamentary forces ; and their allegiance appeared to acquire 
 vigor, in proportion as the affairs of that monarch became 
 more desperate. 
 
 Not content with testifying their own loyalty, the Gover- 
 nor and inhabitants concerted plans for rendering assistance 
 to the royal cause. Many ships were fitted out by them ; 
 and many men were raised, to act as circumstances might 
 direct, in the reduction of those islands which had acknow- 
 ledged the Commonwealth. How great or small the 
 assistance might be, which their exertions rendered to the 
 Stuarts, is not the question ; it is evident, that by these 
 means, they manifested an invincible attachment to the 
 cause which they had espoused, and rendered themselves 
 odious to that party which they had opposed. From the 
 former, they were entitled, on the Restoration, to gratitude ; 
 but this was withholden ; while, from the latter, they pro- 
 cured vengeance ; and this was paid. 
 
 Cromwell, and his adherents, finding the inhabitants of 
 Barbadoes such strenuous supporters of that cause which 
 was completely ruined, determined upon the reduction of 
 the island ; and collected forces, and concerted their mea- 
 sures accordingly. What expedited their designs was, a 
 report which prevailed in England, that Prince Rupert, who 
 commanded the royal fleet, was about to sail to Barbadoes, 
 to act in concert with the inhabitants, and to attempt tiie 
 securing of ail the sister islands for the exiled monarch. 
 There was also another incentive to action, which arose 
 from a misunderstanding then prevailing between the repub- 
 lic of Holland and the British powers. 
 
 From the commencement of those commotions which 
 agitated England, the inhabitants of Barbadoes had found 
 
HO HISTORY OF THE 
 
 much difficulty in transporting the produce of their planta- 
 tions to Europe. This had induced them to employ the 
 ships of Holland in a traffic, that was for the mutual advan- 
 tage of both parties. If, therefore, a reduction of Barba- 
 does could be effected by the forces of Cromwell, two 
 objects would be at once accomplished ; the wealth of tiiis 
 flourishing island would be immediately turned into a channel 
 that Avould flow into the mother-country ; and the Dutch 
 would be deprived of an advantageous commerce, which 
 instructed her sailors, and added to her riches. In addition 
 to this, Cromwell had reason to believe, that an attack 
 upon the island by a sudden onset, would secure to hiui 
 many valuable ships, and more valuable cargoes, which 
 were to be found in the several harbors. And the confiscation 
 of this property would not only indemnify the country for 
 the expense of the expedition, but leave a surplus, which, 
 flowing into the treasury, would lay the foundation of some 
 future expedition either by sea or land. 
 
 From these and similar motives, a powerful squadron was 
 fitted out, in the year 16.51, under the command of Sir 
 George A scue; at which time, Lord Willoughby was Go- 
 vernor of Barbadoes. The primary object of this expedition 
 was, to reduce the island to obedience to the Commonwealth. 
 It was on the l6th of October, l651, that Ascue and his 
 fleet appeared for the first time off Bridge-town ; when they 
 instantly seized on a few ships that were in Carlisle Bay. 
 The capture of these ships was effected without much 
 trouble ; but the reduction of the island was found, both 
 from its natural and artificial fortifications, a work of no 
 inconsiderable difficulty. 
 
 The inhabitants, at this time, \vere numerous, and trained 
 to arms. They knew the advantages of their situation, both 
 for commerce and for war ; and, with Willoughby at their 
 head, determined to defend the island to the last extremity. 
 In the meanwhile, Ascue, surveying his forces and the na- 
 ture of the enterprize which lay before him, found, that the 
 forts in Carlisle Bay were so adequate to the defence of the 
 harbor (while the shores were rendered formidable, by the 
 s^varms that had assembled under arms to receive him), that, 
 although he had no less than ttco thousand troops on board, 
 he did not effect a landino-. 
 
 From the period of his arrival, till some time in December, 
 he did little more than hover round the coasts ; wavering in 
 suspense with respect to his intention, but keeping the iuha- 
 bitants in constant alarm. Perceiving, however, the inade- 
 
WEST INDIES. ill 
 
 (fuacy of his forces to subdue this citadel of loyalty and 
 prosperity, he at length postponed his enterprize, till the 
 arrival of a Heet of nierciiant ships from Virghiia, on board 
 of \vhich \\ ere about eight hundred and fifty soldiers. To 
 avail himself of this reinforcement, he cast anchor in 
 Speight's Bay. On their arrival, he united their forces 
 with his own; and, finally, effecting a landing, gained, 
 though with considerable loss, the little fort that commanded 
 Speight's Bay, which, at that time, mounted four pieces of 
 cannon. 
 
 The fate of empires sometimes appears to depend upon 
 tritles ; and, consequently, the fate of islands, though always 
 under the direction of an unerring providence, 'i his little 
 advantage inspired Ascue and his troops with new vigour, 
 and dispirited the inhabitants in proportion to their own 
 exultation. Tiie gaining of this little fort was, in reality, 
 no great acquisition to Ascue ; neither was iis loss of any 
 considerable importance to the colonists ; but this wss not 
 the barometer by which their judgments were at that moment 
 measui ed. ^vlany of them grew languid and iuditferent ; 
 and Ascue, availing himself of the paroxysm of the moment, 
 pushed his conquests under the favorable breeze. 
 
 Willoughby, in the meanwhile, kept the field with the 
 main force of the island ; and though he could expect no 
 succoiu- from any quarter, he continued to maintain his 
 ground ; w hich he did so eltectually, that Ascue could make 
 no impression upon his troops. The republican commander, 
 finding his situation rather critical than hazardous, turned 
 his attention to the inhabitants at large, and offered them 
 terms of peace, that were both honorable and advantageous, 
 to these they listened with much satisfaction ; and, though 
 not greatly wearied with the fatigues of w ar, they felt much 
 distress in beholding the destruction of their plantations, to 
 the cultivation and care of which they had paid such unre- 
 mitting attention. The charms of peace outweighed every 
 other consideration ; the subject was investigated with all 
 that maturity w hich time would allow ; and the principal 
 inhabitants w ere found averse to further hostilities. 
 
 '1 bus circumstanced, a negociation was set on foot ; and 
 Lord Willoughby, acquainted with the dispositions of the 
 people, soon agreed to a cessation of arms. Commissioners 
 were appointed by each party, and their affairs were soon 
 adjusted; so that, on the 17th of .January, iGoC, articles of 
 peace and capitulation were ratified, without any further 
 effusion of human blood. By these articles, both parties 
 
112 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 that were on the island were secured in their freedom and 
 their property. This extended even to Lord Willoughby, 
 who was particularly disagreeable to the ruling power ; but 
 his ready acquiescence in the terms of negociation, while a 
 formidable force under his command might have changed 
 the face of things, did, in all probability, include him in 
 the general security. He was, however, obliged to abandon 
 his station, and immediately to embark for Europe ; but his 
 property in the island was rendered still safe. He was suc- 
 ceeded in his office by a Mr. Searle, who continued Governor 
 of Barbadoes till the death of Cromwell ; after which, the 
 government of the island Avas given to Colonel Modiford. 
 
 But Barbadoes, though subdued, was still considered in 
 England in an unfavorable light ; and, to clip her wings, 
 parliament resolved to alter her whole system of commerce. 
 To accomplish this the more completely, a law was enacted, 
 which prohibited all foreign ships from holding any inter- 
 course with the British plantations. And the more effectually 
 to promote the welfare and navigation of the country, no 
 merchandize was to be imported, either into England or any 
 of its dependencies, except in English vessels, unless the 
 merchandize imported should be of a foreign nation ; but, in 
 this case, it could only be imported in ships of that country 
 of which these articles were the genuine production. 
 
 To these restrictions, though severe in themselves, the 
 inhabitants of Barbadoes submitted without much reluctance. 
 They considered themselves in the light of a conquered 
 people ; they, therefore, viewed these partial evils which 
 they were destined to sustain, as, comparatively, few in 
 number, when brought in competition with those benefits 
 which they still retained, or with those greater evils which 
 an adverse faction might, with ease, have inflicted. W hat 
 still served to render their condition tolerable was, that they 
 viewed these evils as of a temporary nature only; and, waiting 
 the arrival of some changes in government, which they were 
 led to anticipate, as the means of delivering them from the 
 present scourge, their hopes were more than a counter- 
 balance for their present losses and fears. 
 
 But these hopes, alas ! were even worse than delusive. 
 The restoration of Charles was not to them a restoration of 
 those privileges which they had sacrificed in his cause, but 
 a confirmation of those evils which they had endured on his 
 account. It was with an astonishment that could only be 
 equalled by their indignation, that lliey beheld Charles II. 
 tread in the same steps with his republican predecessors ; ' 
 
WEST INDIES. 113 
 
 and confirm the provisions of an act which they flattered 
 themselves would be abolished for ever, with some addi- 
 tional clauses, which obliged the master, and three-fourths 
 of the seamen, of every ship employed in the British trade, 
 to be subjects of Britain. 
 
 It was thus, from, apparently, trivial causes and incidental 
 circumstances, that the famous Navigation Jet took its rise. 
 This act, which in its operation has tended so much to en- 
 rich the country at large, could boast, at first, no better 
 motives than those we have already noticed ; and it may be 
 considered as one of those causes, which have united their 
 influence to reduce the colony from its highest pitch of 
 glory to its subsequent and present state. 
 
 The conduct of the mother-country, in both stages of 
 her revolutions, not only filled the inhabitants of Barbadoes 
 widi disgust, but encircled what had been the habitation of 
 industry with an impenetrable gloom. Consultations and 
 complaints succeeded to enterprize and activity ; many turned 
 their attention to other abodes, while some languished in 
 discontented indolence ; and all united, both by their actions 
 and their words, to predict the ruin, in a great measure, of 
 one of the most flourishing colonies on which the sun had 
 ever darted his enlivening beams. 
 
 It was nearly about the time that the Navigation Act was 
 fiist passed, that an expedition, under the command of Penn 
 and Venables, was fitted out against Hispaniola. It, how- 
 ever, proved unsuccessful ; and Jamaica was captured from 
 the Spaniards in consequence of this failure. Barbadoes, 
 at this period, had furnished three thousand five hundred 
 soldiers towards the expedition, the success of which con- 
 tributed to efl'ect their own degradation. Jamaica, on its 
 capture, became a large field for speculative men. Multi- 
 tudes turned their attention towards it ; and events have 
 justified the expectations which they had previously formed. 
 But, in proportion as Jamaica advanced in wealth, mha- 
 bitants, and respectability, Barbadoes fell. A combmation 
 of causes united against her successes ; even her own troops 
 were employed to subdue an island, which was to become a 
 formidable rival ; and which has since actually obtained 
 many of those advantages which Barbadoes once engrossed. 
 
 The island, however, was not dismantled of her glory on 
 a sudden, though a stagnation in almost every department of 
 her commerce was visible at once. xVbout the year 1670, 
 which, probably, was nearly the period of its greatest popu- 
 lation, it was computed to contain about Jifti/ thousand 
 
 VOL. II. P 
 
114 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 Tvhite, and one hundred thousand black inhabitants. These 
 conducted a trade which gave constant employment to four 
 hundred ships, of one hundred and fifty tons each, which 
 conveyed the rich productions of the island to the mother- 
 country, and to foreign ports; in short, to any country 
 where they could find a market. *' Never," says Raynal, 
 " had the earth beheld such a number of planters collected 
 " in so small a compass, or so many rich productions raised 
 " in so short a time." 
 
 Lord Willoughby, on the restoration of Charles II. was 
 sent back to Barbadoes, in 1663, as before observed, to 
 enforce those regulations and laws which had been previously 
 concerted, and even established, at home. The following 
 year, his attention, as well as that of the colonists, w'as di- 
 rected to an object of as sei ious a nature, as that which had 
 occurred prior to his departure for England, about eleven 
 years before. Willoughby, who, in 1651, was called upon 
 to collect the forces of the island against Sir George Ascue, 
 was now compelled to oppose De Ruyter, the Dutch Ad- 
 miral, w ho, with a formidable force appeared off its shores 
 with an evident design to attempt its subjugation. Like 
 Ascue, he began in Carlisle Bay ; but the fort which had 
 been erected to protect that entrance, saluted him so warmly, 
 that he could turn his onset to no favorable account. The 
 island, being at this time thickly peopled, could muster a 
 formidable militia. These were instantly drawn out, and 
 exposed upon the beach ; in which situation, their appear- 
 ance assumed such a connnanding aspect, that De Ruyter 
 gave over his design, and retired from the coast. 
 
 ' About two years aftenvard, as an act of retaliation for 
 this attempt of De Ruyter, Willoughby equipped a squadron, 
 and sailed from Barbadoes, to attack some of the Dutch 
 settlements on the continental coasts. During his absence,, 
 he appointed Henry Hawley and Heni-y Willoughby to fill 
 his office conjointly, constituting them Deputy-Governors, 
 and authorizmg them to transact the affairs of the island 
 until his return. His expedition proved extremely unsuc- 
 cessful. Instead of accomplishing the object at which he 
 aimed, his ship was wrecked on a distant coast, and he 
 perished in the fatal catastrophe. 
 
 Some time had elapsed from his embarkation, before his 
 death was known m England; so that the Deputy-Governors 
 whom he appointed continued in office much longer than 
 was at first mlcnded.' T.'hese men, during their power, 
 passed an act, with the concurrence of the Assembly, for 
 
WEST INDIES. 115 
 
 the appointment of commissioners to revise, amend, and 
 embody certain laws, which were then in existence ; some of 
 w hich, having since received the royal approbation, continue 
 in force to the present hour. 
 
 The death of Lord AVilloughby being ascertained in the 
 jnother-country, his Majesty appointed his brother, William 
 Lord Willoughby, to succeed him in the government of 
 Barbadoes, instead of those who then exercised the office by 
 deputation. Iliis nobleman continued in this office till 
 1674; when, on his death, Sir John Atkins was ap- 
 pointed to supply his place. Under his direction the island 
 continued till 1680, when he was recalled to his native 
 country. Nothing of any particular moment occurred 
 during their administration. Some private laws were 
 passed, relative to the internal police of the island, and 
 many regulations were made respecting the courts of jus- 
 tice and law. 
 
 Among these acts of internal regulation and police, some 
 were beneficial, and others were oppressive. Of the latter, 
 was an act which serves to place the ruling powers in no very 
 favorable light. Some pious quakers, it appears, from mo- 
 tives of compassion to their fellow-creatures, had endeavored 
 to direct the negroes to flee from the wrath to come. Their 
 principles of non-resistance rendered them obnoxions both 
 to censure and punishment, and were made the pretence for 
 introducing an act, which prohibited all negroes from 
 attending any meeting-houses Avhatever. The same act 
 contained a clause, which even forbade dissenters to instruct 
 their pupils, or even to keep schools, upon the island. Hence 
 then it is evident, that though the non-resisting principles 
 of the quakers were made the pretext for the prohibition, 
 the aim was of another nature ; because, the clauses of the 
 act involved those, to whom these principles of non-resistance 
 could have no application. Dissenters, so denominated, do 
 not inculcate these principles ; yet, the prohibition extended 
 also to them, and actually forbade them to keep schools for 
 the instruction of youth. Necessity, we admit, w as pleaded 
 in extenuation of this \iolation of the most sacred of all 
 principles, — liberty of conscience; but, unfortunately for 
 such apologists, this very necessity which has been urged, 
 proves the necessity of ijitroducing the gospel. There may 
 be, and there undoubtedly are, many cases in which labor is 
 of more utility than learning ; but the condition of that 
 island must be deplorable indeed, when an exclusion of 
 
Il6 HISTORY or THE 
 
 piety, and of the moral virtues, becomes necessary for its 
 preservation* 
 
 'ITie island, which, from its exalted prosperity, had ex- 
 perienced a considerable depression, both in its commerce 
 and the number of its mhabitants, began to revive a little, 
 just before the arrival of Atkins, in 1674. The total sum 
 of its population, at this tune, amounted to one hundred 
 and twenty thousand ; which, though superior to what it 
 had been on a preceding year, was thirty thousand less than 
 the colony could produce in the year J 670. This casual 
 prosperity was not only diminutive in itself, but transient in 
 its duration. A dreadful hurricane, which happened in the 
 month of August 1675, spread desolation through the 
 island, and almost in an instant changed the whole face of 
 things. And what still tended to render the calamity more 
 severe was, that those supplies of timber and provisions, 
 which they had been accustomed to receive from the northern 
 continent of America, were partially suspended, through an 
 inability to comply with the accustomed demand. 
 
 Iteduced to an extremity, to which they had been hitherto 
 strangers, through the calamities which they experienced in 
 the destruction of their crops, they petitioned the mother- 
 country to relieve them from the four and a half per cent. 
 This they stated as actually necessary to preserve the island 
 from destruction. But this petition was made in vain. 
 Solicitations and remonstrances were alike ineffectual. They 
 were permitted to complain, but were, finally, compelled 
 
 * On tlie pernicious effects of this law, Scwell, in his history of tlie 
 people called Quakers, makes the followinj; observation : 
 
 " In the Island of Barbadoes, those called quakers suffered also much 
 
 by the people, instigated not a little by the priests, Samuel Graves, 
 
 Matthew Gray, Thomas Blanivaring, and Francis Smith; for these being 
 
 often drunk, gave occasion thereby to be reproved. And one Thoinas 
 
 Clark, comzng once into the place of public worship, and exhorting the 
 
 auditors to desist from lewdness, and to fear God, was so grievously 
 
 beaten with sticks, that he fell into a swoon ; and Graves, who preached 
 
 ' then, went to the house of the said Clark, pulled his wife out of doors, 
 
 ' and tore her clothes fiom her back. And Municaring; who had threat- 
 
 ' ened Clai-k, that lie would procure a law to be made, by which his ears 
 
 ' should be cutoff", once wrote to him thus: I am sorry that your zeal 
 
 ' surpuiseth your moderation, and that a club must beat you out of tchat the 
 
 ' Devil hath in-pirtd. And tliis was because Clark had told him, that his 
 
 conversation was not becoming a minister of the gospel. Otjier rough 
 
 treatment Clark met with, I pass by, though once he was set in the 
 
 stocks, and imprisoned." 
 
 (Sewell's Hist, of the Quakers.) 
 
WEST INDIES. 117 
 
 to bear their own calamities, and to redress those grievances 
 which it was not in their power speedily to remove. 
 
 In 1685, when Richard Dutton, Esq. was Governor, 
 the inhabitants found, to their utter astonishment, an addi- 
 tional duty laid upon sugar. This was a burden which 
 considerably reduced the value of their estates. In this case, 
 also, they represented their grievances to the government at 
 home, and endeavored to point out the injustice of the mea- 
 sure ; but these remonstrances and representations, like 
 those Mhich they had made before, were unavailable. Dut- 
 ton encouraged every motion to distress the planters, and 
 Dutton was always heard. Attached to the interests of the 
 royal African company, he seized every opportunity to pro- 
 mote their cause, and actually appointed, on a voyage which 
 he took to England, one Edwin Stede, who was an agent to 
 the African company, and had been his secretary, to be 
 his Deputy-Governor in the island. 
 
 Hitherto the Governors of Barbadoes had received their 
 salaries from England alone ; but Stede had the address, 
 during the absence of Dutton, to prevail upon the Assembly 
 to make him a present of one thousand pounds. This sug- 
 gestion they incautiously adopted; and by adopting it, 
 established a precedent, which has continued to the present 
 hour. Every new Governor now views this present, as a 
 debt or obligation, which he has a right to demand ; and 
 the custom has been too Ions; established to be revoked. 
 
 in the year 1694, the Honorable Francis Russell came to 
 the government ; and the Council and Assembly, to out-do 
 the former precedent, voted him two thousand pounds ; and 
 in the following year, voted him two thousand more. This 
 conduct was much reprobated by the inhabitants at large. 
 Tiiey considered it as a lavish profusion of the public money, 
 and as the establishment of a grievance, to which there could 
 hardly be any bounds. The injurious consequences which 
 must always result from such a procedure, it is not difficult 
 to foresee ; though it is extremely perplexing to calculate 
 upon all its branches. They lead men to forget the rights 
 of others ; and induce them to claim, as a branch of their 
 prerogative, what only flows from the bounty of the inha- 
 bitants. In lG98, the same sum of two thousand pounds 
 was again voted to Mr. Grey, together with live hundred 
 pounds for the rent of a house, the government-house being 
 much out of repair. This, however, met with but little 
 reprehension from the public, because his government was 
 extremely popular, and promised fair to repay them for their 
 
lis HISTORY OF THE 
 
 generosity. His bad state of health, hovvever, disappointed 
 their hopes; and in 1701, he was obliged to take leave of 
 the island. 
 
 From this period, a succession of Governors, whose ad- 
 ministration contains nothing remarkable, continued, pro- 
 miscuously, to benefit or afflict the inhabitants, in proportion 
 as justice or iniquity marked their deeds. On these, as their 
 actions afford nothing interesting to the reader, it is needless 
 to expatiate. The arrival of Lord Viscount Howe, in the 
 year 1733, forms, however, an epoch in the annals of the 
 island, and must not be passed over in silence. The general 
 good character which this nobleman had borne in England 
 raised the expectations of the people to a most exalted pitch, 
 and disappointment did not mock their hopes. 
 
 Satisfied with that excellent character which he imported 
 with him from his native land, immediately on his arrival 
 they settled upon his Lordship four thousand pounds, aiwl 
 cheerfully gave him credit for the equity of his future ad- 
 ministration. From the embarrassed circumstances of the 
 island, this was, indeed, a large sum ; but his conduct de- 
 monstrated that it was not injudiciously bestowed. With a 
 generosity unknown to his predecessors, it was thrown into 
 circulation in the colony, and returned through those secret 
 channels which commerce opens, to those sources from 
 whence it sprang. 
 
 With an eye steadily fixed on the constitution of the 
 island, and with a soul lifted above the contentions of 
 faction, he administered justice with an impartial hand. 
 The spirit of party, which some of his predecessors had 
 fomented by their secret engagements, vanished into silence 
 before him ; general tranquillity prevailed ; and the appro- 
 bation of his own heart, acting in unison with the affections 
 of the inhabitants, rewarded his integrity with the blessings 
 of domestic peace. Between himself, the Council, and the 
 Assembly, a good understanding uniformly prevailed; the 
 mother-country and the colony Avere mutually benefited; 
 prosperity, which had so long languished in darkness, began 
 again to revive, and promised advantages, VAhich, by an 
 equal distribution, should recompense the exertions of all. — 
 By the inhabitants, the weight of their imposts was com- 
 paratively forgotten, and their grievances were no longer 
 subiects of declamation. 
 
 I'rom the situation of Baibadoes under the government 
 of this nobleman, it has been even demonstrated, that the 
 welfare of our sugar colonies is very much dependent uj>oh 
 
WEST INDIES. 119 
 
 the conduct of the Governor ; and nothing can more impe- 
 riously enforce tliis lesson — that the selection of a proper 
 character to fill that station, is an act of the last import- 
 ance. 
 
 But, alas ! his Lordship's peaceable administration was 
 of short duration. In the month of March 1735, he was 
 called upon to pay his tribute of mortality, and to consign 
 over Baibadocs once more to those vicissitudes which have 
 in part occasioned her distress. Tlie Council and Assembly, 
 on his demise, as a tribute of gratitude to his memory, 
 presented to Lady Howe, amid the applauses of their 
 countrymen, the sum of two thousand five hundred pounds. 
 Such was the character of Lord Howe, the illustrious father 
 of the noble Earl, who has immortalized his name by the 
 glorious victory which he obtained over the French fleet on 
 the memorable Jst of June 179-t. 
 
 From the flourishing condition in which the island was 
 left at the death of Lord Howe, it fell into a gradual decline, 
 and sustained calamities which are not yet fully retrieved. 
 Tliough various causes contributed to the commercial humi- 
 liation of Barbadoes, among the primary, we must reckon 
 two dreadful fires which took place in 1766, the depreda- 
 tions of which were almost incalculable. Bridge-town, tlie 
 capital of the island, at that time containing fifteen hundred 
 dwelling-houses and stores, chiefly built of brick and stone, 
 and laid out upon a plan that rendered them as convenient as 
 they were spacious, was reduced to ashes, and its inhabitants 
 to the utmost distress. 
 
 Industry and perseverance, however, in process of time, 
 in a great measure, surmounted tliese difiiculties ; so that 
 a new town was raised with a degree of elegance which sur- 
 passed the old. But, unfortunately, it was again demolished, 
 on the 10th of October 1780, by one of those tremendous 
 hurricanes which, occasionally, desolate these abodes. — To 
 these awful visitations, Barbadoes, with all its advantages, 
 has been particularly exposed ; and it cannot be doubted, 
 that these afflictions have tended considerably to reduce its 
 commercial prosperity. 
 
 The dreadful tornado of 1780 extended to the inhabitants, 
 as well as to their property ; and in its awful ruins, no less 
 than four thousand three hundred and twenty-six white and 
 black inhabitants miserably perished. The island, by this 
 unexampled calamity, was shaken from its circumference 
 to its centre ; so that almost every thing valuable to man 
 seemed destined to suffer in the general w reck. To estimate, 
 
120 mSTORY OF THE 
 
 with accuracy, the damage which the colony received in all 
 its departments, would be an impossible task. The calcu- 
 lation which was made soon after the mournful occasion, 
 estimated the loss at little less than owe million and a half 
 sterling. And what still tended to heighten the calamity, 
 was, the reduced state of many of the sufferers, which for- 
 bade them to eiect again those works which had been de- 
 molished, or to replant canes where the former ones had 
 been destroyed. 
 
 It has, indeed, been stated, from the best authorities, that 
 the annual growth of the sugar-cane, the principal and most 
 advantageous commodity of the island, has, through a com- 
 bination of causes, been reduced nearly one-half ; and that 
 those articles which are dependent upon it, have decreased 
 in a like proportion. The inhabitants, it is true, have found 
 some little relief in the cultivation of cotton and ginger; but 
 these commodities are incapable of restoring the colony to 
 its former splendor. A re-establishment of the important 
 article of sugar in its former extent, must be the labor of an 
 age ; and while the heavy impost of four and a half per 
 cent, continues, but little reason to expect it remains. 
 
 It appears, however, by the most recent account, that, 
 the lands have of late years been cultivated with some 
 considerable success ; — that the growth of sugar has, in 
 consequence, increased ; — and, that the colony is, at present, 
 in a more flourishing condition than it was in the years 1 784, 
 1785, and I78fj. These years, in conjunction with those 
 which more immediately succeeded the devastations of the 
 hurricane of 1780, may be considered as the period of its 
 greatest commercial adversity ; a period in which this staple 
 commodity was at its lowest ebb. The increase of sugar 
 has, however, but slowly taken place in the island. 'I'he 
 same civil causes that first created that languor which we 
 have noticed, are still in being, and, under existing circum- 
 stances, can scarcely fail to produce the same effect. Ihe 
 natural causes also of those calamities, over which more 
 than the present generation of men will find occasion to 
 mourn m Barbadoes, are still at work, and frequently por- 
 tend a repetition of their former distressing visitations. 
 Bereft of the advantages which might enable them to meet 
 those incidents that are in themselves uncertain, but 
 almost inevitable, the inhabitants feel much reluctance in 
 risking the necessary preparations for a perilous adventure. 
 This, unavoidably, produces languor and indecision ; and 
 the consetjuence is, what must be expected while obstacles 
 
 i 
 
WEST INDIES. 121 
 
 to industry and exertion are permitted to operate; — a neglect 
 of those resources of nature, which have been already ap- 
 preciated in their value, and felt in their effects, and which 
 are still waiting to conduct the enterprizing to wealth. 
 
 The constitution of Barbadoes may be considered as the 
 bapis of the civil and military governments which have been 
 established in the other British settlements in the West 
 Indies, of a later date. But as we have been so very par- 
 ticular in our account of the constitution of Jamaica, in all 
 its branches, and the constitutions of the other British 
 islands in the West Indies deviate so little from that of 
 Jamaica, we shall refer our readers to our history of that 
 island, for all necessary information on the present subject. 
 
 Barbadoes is provided with a complete, arsenal, including 
 a formidable train of artillery. Its military establishment 
 consists of six regiments of militia, four squadrons of cavalry, 
 and a troop called the horse-guards, from their attendance 
 upon the Governor. In times of established peace, these 
 forces are more formidable in name than in reality. In 
 times of disturbance, however, they put on a different aspect. 
 Prepared for assaults from every quarter, they are then kept 
 constantly embodied; and, in a state of regular discipline, 
 are generally prepared for the various events of war. The 
 natural strength of the island has, without doubt, added 
 considerably to its defence and protection. Fortified by 
 nature, it has but few assailable parts ; and in these, the 
 inhabitants concentrate their forces, and almost bid defiance 
 to attack. An expedition against it, to ensure success, 
 must be both formidable and expensive ; more so than the 
 enemies of our country would, probably, risk in this quarter, 
 upon tiie hazardous issues of enterprize. This also has 
 contributed to its protection. The commotions of the civil 
 world have not yet caused this island to change its masters ; 
 so that, what sunshine soever may have brightened, or clouds 
 may have obscured, the horizon of the political world, Bar- 
 badoes has continued our own. 
 
 Of the population of this island, it is, perhaps, difficult 
 to speak with any precision. Different authors, forming 
 their estimates at different periods, naturally vary consider- 
 aljly in their accounts. Prosperity and adversity, to which 
 the colony has been subject, have occasioned a fluctuation in 
 proportion to their respective reigns. In 1670, it has been, 
 confidently asserted, the iuliabitants of all complexions 
 and conditions, amounted to no less than one hundred and 
 fifty thousand. Kaynal states the number, in 1676, at one 
 
 ' VOL. II. Q 
 
122 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 hundred thousand. The author of a short history of Bar- 
 badoes, published by Dodsley, in 1768, says, that so early 
 as 1650, the island could muster twenty thousand white 
 inhabitants; and, that in 1674, after it had sunk consider- 
 ably from the summit of its highest glory, it contained no 
 less than one hundred and twenty thousand souls. Guthrie's 
 last edition of his geographical, historical, and commercial 
 grammar, estimates the number of the inhabitants, in 1786, 
 in the following manner : whites, sixteen thousand one hun- 
 dred and sixty-seven ; free people of color, eight hundred 
 and thirty-three ; negro slaves, sixty-two thousand one hun- 
 dred and fifteen. In 1724, Mr. Edwards says, the white 
 inhabitants amounted to eighteen thousand two hundred and 
 ninety-five ; and, that in 1 753, the negroes were sixty-nine 
 thousand eight hundred and seventy. In 17&6, his account 
 exactly concurs with that of Guthrie, as above stated; at 
 "which period, according to him, the whole number of souls, 
 of every condition and color, could have been no more than 
 seventy-nine thousand one hundred and twenty. In the year 
 1792, the negro slaves were reckoned, by Mr. Edwards, at 
 sixty-five thousand and seventy-four. Of the number, how- 
 ever, of white inhabitants, and people of color, at this 
 latter date, no accurate accounts are given. But, when the 
 author visited Barbadoes in 1788, Mr. Parry, who was then 
 Governor of the island, informed him, that the whites 
 amounted to twenty-fire thousand ; and, that the blacks, and 
 people of color, were not, he believed, more than seventy- 
 five thousand. But, how diversified soever the accounts of 
 the population of Barbadoes may be, an unanimity of 
 opinion prevails, respecting the heavy burdens to which this 
 eldest of our West India colonies has been long subjected. 
 The various imposts to which the inhabitants have long since 
 been obliged to submit, have operated as strong impediments 
 to that prosperity which it once displayed; and which might 
 be still expected, from the fertility of its soil, the industry 
 of the inhabitants, and the demand for its commodities both 
 in Great Britain and America. 
 
 In addition to the permanent impost of four and a half 
 per cent, the property in Barbadoes is subjected to a variety 
 of heavy burdens. On every negro a capitation tax is levied. 
 Carriages, sugar-mills, and dwelling-houses, are compelled 
 to pay a weighty sum. The articles m hich are imported, 
 must submit to the same drawbacks ; and every pioprietor 
 of land must contribute, in proportion to the number of acres 
 which he holds. This tax amounts to two shillings per acre, 
 
WEST INDIES. 123 
 
 ftn all the landed property in the island ; which sum is collected 
 by assessments made on the respective parishes, in proportion 
 to their extent. The public roads are repaired by the labors 
 of the uihabitants, to which tliey are compelled to contribute 
 by an act of the Assembly, subject to the duection of men 
 ■\\ ho are armed with authority to see it duly executed. While 
 these obstacles continue to operate in all their force, Barba- 
 does may look in vain for a return of those days w hich once 
 raised her to the highest pitch of commercial glory. 
 
 Notwithstanding the natural calamities to which this island 
 has been exposed, it has derived no pecuniary assistance 
 from the mother-country. " To this island," says the au- 
 thor of the history published by Dodsley, " belongs a merit 
 *' peculiar to itself. It has not for threescore years past cost 
 " one shilling of expense to Great Britain, except a few 
 " pieces of cannon that were granted upon application many 
 " years ago. What salaries are paid by the crown to its officers, 
 " are all provided by the four and a half per cent, duty." 
 Its annual consumption of British manufactures, under these 
 circumstances, cannot but prove highly advantageous to the 
 mother-country ; and it is evident, that an increase of its 
 advantages must tend to increase its population. Industry 
 is the source of wealth. And that country \vhich promotes 
 it in its dependencies, must feel its benefits in its capital and 
 centre. A removal of some of those heavy imposts to which 
 industry is liable, would add to the wealth of the colonists, 
 and, finally, lead them to such an increase of cultivation, as 
 would amply repay, by the quantities of their productions, 
 the partial sacrifices which might be made. 
 
 Barbadoes is the most windward of the Charaibee Islands, 
 and, at present, the most considerable and important of the 
 British possessions in that part of the Archipelago. It is 
 situated in latitude 13" 20' north ; and between oS and 59 
 of western longitude from London. It is about twenty-one 
 miles in length ; and fifteen in breadth, when measured in 
 its broadest parts. In some places it is extremely narrow ; 
 its shape being vastly irregular, bearing some distant re- 
 semblance to a pear. It is computed to contain one hun- 
 dred and six thousand four hundred and seventy acres of land, 
 the greater part of w hich is still under some degree of culti- 
 vation. 
 
 Tlie island is strongly protected by shoals against the in- 
 vasion of a foreign enemy ; being, for the most part, inac- 
 cessible to ships of war, from a want of water. And as no 
 vesjiels exceeding the burden of fifty tons can approach 
 
124 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 these parts, the force that such vessels could possibly 
 bring, would, probably, be insufficient to produce those 
 effects and consequences which ambition estimates among 
 the spoils of war. It likewise derives an additional protec- 
 tion from an extensive reef of rocks, which runs from the 
 south point eastwardly in a formidable direction. The more 
 assailable parts of the coast, on which nature has not bestowed 
 these dreadful advantages, the inhabitants, at a vast expense, 
 have supplied with the contrivances of art. Both " nature 
 " and art," says Raynal, " conspire to fortify this island. 
 *' Tv/o-thirds of its circumference are rendered inaccessible 
 " by dangerous rocks ; and on the open sides, the inhabi- 
 " tants have drawn lines, which are defended at proper dis- 
 " tances by forts, provided with a formidable artillery. Sa 
 " that, Barbadoes is still in a condition to command respect 
 " in times of war, and to be courted by her neighbours in 
 " times of peace." Thus secured, though it stands on the 
 frontier of the Windward Islands, to encounter storms, if 
 has hitherto escaped the calamities and horrors of war, 
 which most of the other British settlements in these parts 
 have suffered, from the many bloody contests that have 
 taken place between Great Britain and France. 
 
 It has been already observed, in a former ^art of this ac- 
 count, that Barbadoes, when it was first discovered, was 
 completely covered with trees. These, as the island became 
 peopled, were occasionally cut down ; and, finally, as the 
 lands were brought into a stale of cultivation, were almost 
 totally destroyed. The destiuction of the trees has consi- 
 derably decreased the quantity of rains which formerly fell \ 
 but this decrease in moisture too frequently proves detri- 
 mental to the crops, and injurious to the planters. One 
 advantage, however, has hereby been produced ; the lands 
 have been laid open, and the breezes circulate without 
 obstruction ; hence, the stagnant vapours have been dispersed 
 and prevented from collecting ; and by these means the air 
 is no longer so pernicious to the health of the Europeans. 
 
 The soil, in itself naturally fertile, has been much reduced 
 by injurious treatment, and exhausted by frequent culture. 
 This, added to the uncertainty of the rains, and the weight 
 of taxes, has reduced the value of lands much below the 
 original standard. But, though the soil may be considered, 
 in general, as exceedingly fertile, it varies considerably in 
 different parts of the island, and not uufrequently on the 
 same estate. Some spots present the planter with a mould 
 that io nearly black ; and other parts, with that of a lightish 
 
WEST INDIES. 125 
 
 red. Some parts afford nothing but a heavy unpromising 
 clay ; and tliis is, again, contrasted with a light and yielding 
 sand. Tlie low lands, in general, are wet and swampy, 
 while thos6 on the hills are gravelly and dry. 
 
 Of these different soils, the black is esteemed the most 
 prolific. All of them will, however, with proper manage- 
 ment, support the sugar-cane ; but to produce any consider- 
 able crop, rich manure must, at present, be applied to all. 
 The different species of soil require different kind^ of manure; 
 and in a happy selection and appropriation, the skill of the 
 planter is displayed to the utmost advantage. J^arec/i, a sea 
 weed, M'hich the waves throw upon the shore, is a manure 
 that seems adapted to the various soils. This weed is 
 collected by the slaves ; and, when properly spread, forms a 
 bed, in which the sugar-canes are planted ; insomuch, that, 
 to use tlie hyperbolical language of Raynal, " the earth has 
 ** little more to do with the growing of them, than the tubs 
 *' in which we plant orange trees in Europe," have to do 
 with the nourishment of these trees. 
 
 Tlie staple commodities of Barbadoes for exportation to 
 Europe are, sugar, rum, cotton, and ginger. Of the three 
 former articles an account will be given in our history of 
 some of the other islands ; and, therefore, a detail in this 
 place is wholly unnecessary. But of ginger, a short de- 
 scription cannot be uninteresting. Of the various spices 
 which these islands produce, this has been justly esteemed 
 as the most wholesome ; and as it is frequently used in 
 medicine, as well as for culinary purposes, it constitutes a 
 valuable article of commerce. 
 
 As this plant will not thrive naturally in a cold climate, 
 we are indebted to the tropical regions for the perfection 
 ^^hich it has attained. When growing, it bears a strong 
 resemblance to the rose bush, both in its leaves and tlie 
 appearance of the stalk ; but it seldom grows higher than 
 t\\ o feet. A\ hile young, the leaves are of a lively green 
 color, but they acquire a yellowish hue as the plant ripens, 
 and become quite dry when the root has attained its proper 
 state of maturity. 1'he roots are tlat, and of an irregular 
 shape, being somewhat like the feet of a goose ; hence, they 
 are more frequently called by the inhabitants, ginger feet, 
 than ginger roots. Growing near the surface of the earth, 
 tney are easily taken up ; and no other process but to cleanse, 
 prune, and dry them, is necessary to render them tit for use. 
 In size, these roots are very irregular, being sometimes small, 
 and sometimes as large as the palm of tlie human hand, and 
 
125 
 
 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 not less than an inch in thickness. But these extraordinary rodtst^ 
 are not of a superior quality. To rear this plant to perfec- 
 tion, a ricii soil is necessary. This it finds in Barbadoes, — in 
 that part of the island which lies in the vicinity of the great 
 river Babesterre, where it thrives in a surprizing manner. 
 In this prolific spot, it is usually planted towards the end of 
 the rainy season ; namely, in October and November. The 
 ground, thus moistened, must be well hoed; when small 
 slips of the last year's growth are planted in holes, at equal 
 distances, of about one foot, and at the depth of about three 
 inches. In the course of seven or eight days the buds begin 
 to appear ; and in a few days more, the tender leaves begin 
 to uiilxtid themselves to the sun. By the expansion of these 
 leaves, the ground is shaded beneath, through which the 
 infant root begins to spread ; and by that mean, the moisture 
 which the late rains had deposited in the earth, and which is 
 so necessary to ripen the ginger to perfection, is prevented 
 from exhaling. In the mean while, the ground must be kept 
 free from weeds, that nothing may share the nutrition. The 
 state of the leaves discovers the state of the plant, and points 
 out the period when it is fit to be gathered. Though not 
 equal in value to the sugar-cane, a good crop is far from 
 being unproductive of profit. Much, however, depends 
 upon the season and the soil. ^Vlien these are favorable, 
 success is sure to reward exertion. But, as this spice is 
 so well known in every family in England, a more minute 
 description seems wholly unnecessary. 
 
 In the island of Barbadoes there are four towns ; namely, 
 Sridge-tozcn, the capital, Ostin-tozcn, St. James's, and 
 Speights. Bridge-town, since its almost unexampled ca- 
 lamities, has been again rebuilt, and promises to regain 
 much of its ancient splendor, unless a repetition of its 
 former calamities should once more reduce it to ashes or a 
 heap of rubbish. In the parish of St. John, about twelve 
 miles from the metropolis of the island, is a college endowed 
 with a very large estate, of the annual value of three thou- 
 sand pounds sterling. This was the gift of Mr, Codrington, 
 whose anil in establishing this noble institution was, to pro- 
 vide for the education of youth. A proper application of 
 the bounteous donation of tliis " man of Ross," might be 
 rendered of essential service to those generations which suc- 
 ceed each other, and might diffuse a blessing through the 
 island at large. 
 
 Of extensive rivers, the island has not much occasion ta 
 boast 5 but then it must be remembered, that of a want of 
 
•WEST INDIES. 127 
 
 Mater it has not any occasion to complain. Two streams, 
 Mhich are denominated rivers, regularly flow in the island, 
 one in the south-west, and the other in the east. ^* In the 
 " centre," says the account published by Dodsley, " are 
 *' several bituminous springs, some of which furnish the 
 " green tar, of great use in many distempers ; it also, often 
 " supplies the want of pitch and lamp oil.' In addition to 
 those rivers which flow tlirough certam districts, Barbadoes 
 may be said to abound with v^ater of a most excellent quality ; 
 but to obtain it, the earth must be penetrated beneath its 
 surface. In various parts, the wells, which are sunk at a 
 moderate depth, afford an inexhaustible supply. To these, 
 the inhabitants have added several capacious reservoirs, in 
 v\ hich they collect and preserve the rain that descends from 
 the clouds : this they find admirably adapted to domestic 
 purposes. 
 
 Of the staple commodities which constitute the exports of 
 Barbadoes, we have already spoken ; but among those ar- 
 ticles which are imported from the mother-country, the 
 author of the account last quoted enumerates no less than 
 eighty-six, which he distinctly mentions. Among these are, 
 linen and woollen articles, Manchester goods, silk, iron, 
 brass, shoes, and various leather manufactures ; glass, earthen- 
 ware, plate, watches, pulse, gunpowder, cordage, toys, sta- 
 tionery, cutlery, carriages, and household furniture. 
 
 Barbadoes, being the most windward island of the West 
 Indies, and having been settled at an early period, became 
 a place of general resort to those African traders, " who 
 " buy the muscles and the hones of man J' Ihis, therefore, 
 became a considerable article of traffic, and a particular 
 source of wealth. " All, or almost all, the ships," says 
 Raynal, " laden with slaves, from the coast of Africa, land 
 " there. If they cannot get a good price for their negroes, 
 ** they go, sometimes, elsewhere ; but it seldom happens 
 ** that they do not dispose of them at Barbadoes. The usual 
 *' price of a slave is about thirty-seven pounds, on an average, 
 " according to the nation or tribe to which he belongs, in 
 " this bargain, no distinction is ever made of age or sex ; but 
 " they all sell together at so much per head. The payments 
 " aie made in bills of exchange, upon London, at ninety davs 
 " siobt.* 
 
 * After the period above alluded to, the whole system of traffic under- 
 went considerable changes ; and many regulations were made in favor of 
 
12S HISTORY OF THE 
 
 " These negroes, v horn the merchants have bought by 
 *' wholesale, are retailed on this very island, or in some other 
 " of the English islands. . The refuse is smuggled into the 
 " Spanish or French colonies. By this traffic, about two hun- 
 " dred and forty thousand five hundred pounds, on an average, 
 " were formerly circulated in Barbadoes. The specie that is 
 " still to be found there, is all foreign ; it is looked upon as 
 " a commodity, and is only taken by the weight." (Vol. V. 
 page 16.) 
 
 In the room of those almost impenetrable forests which 
 once covered the island, districts, covered with cane and 
 cotton plantations, and other useful vegetables, have been 
 taught to smile. Verdure and beauty, by these means, en- 
 liven every part; so that the blended delights of spring, 
 summer, and autumn, never forsake the island. The ele- 
 gancies and conveuiencies of life, raised by the joint co- 
 operations of bountiful nature and industrious art, under 
 the providence and blessing of God, give to existence a 
 cheerful aspect in many regions ; but Barbadoes will 
 admit of very few competitors, in these respects, to share 
 its honors. 
 
 So happy is the climate of this island, that its fruits, 
 which are both plentiful and various, are never out of 
 season. The disappeara),ice of one species, is happily com- 
 pensated by the succession of another; which, instead of 
 introducing any inconveniency, exhibits a pleasing and 
 grateful interchange of variety and plenty. This, in all 
 probability, contributes to that health for which the island 
 is so remarkable ; and leads, in part, to that longevity in 
 hiunan life, of which few other European possessions in 
 these regions can furnish any similar examples. 
 
 With cattle, game, and fish, the markets of Barbadoes 
 nre abundantly supplied, so as to reach the demands of the 
 inhabitants. The prices vary, as local circumstances dictate, 
 either the necessity or the opportimity ; but, in general, they 
 are by no means unreasonable. 
 
 The warmth of the climate is agreeably counteracted by 
 the cooling sea breeze, which introduces a happy medium. 
 The thermometer seldom rises higher than 88", and is rarely 
 
 the unfortunate slave. The price also of the slaves was very consider- 
 ab!v raised. But, above all, the abolition of the slave-trade, by the 
 gloiioris friends of genuine liberty in the mother-country, will gradually 
 ameliorate tlie condition of the negroes ; so that every planter, we trust, 
 ■will see it his interest to treat tliem with mercy. 
 
WEST INDIES. -^9 
 
 lower than 7^*; and, notwithstanding the heat which such 
 a state must occasion, epidemical diseases but seldom 
 commit any considerable ravages in the island. To the 
 dreadful effects of hurricanes, we have already observed, 
 that Barbadoes is particularly exposed ; but to counterba- 
 lance these calamities, it has providentially been exempted 
 from that fatal disease, the yellow fever, with which Gre- 
 nada, Jamaica, and some of the other islands, have been so 
 severely afflicted. 
 
 But what advantages soever the island may afford as 
 conducive to health, regularity and temperance are essen- 
 tially necessary to its full preservation. Without these, the 
 human constitution becomes debilitated, and unable to 
 withstand the shocks to which it must otherwise be inevitably 
 exposed. Intemperance, in every region, is the bane of 
 health. Indiscretion and excess conduct their victims to 
 languor and disease ; and these are but the harbingers of 
 approaching death. 
 
 With those necessary precautions, which the value of 
 life, and the importance of health, direct us to exercise, the 
 climate of Barbadoes, instead of being uncongenial to the 
 human constitution, has been known, in many cases, to 
 have renewed in health and vigor those which had been 
 decayed. There have been instances, in which some, who, 
 from a want of health, had been forbidden to remain in 
 England, have found relief, and a perfect restoration, in this 
 salubrious climate. 
 
 " There were living," says the author of the account 
 published by Dodsley, *' a. few years ago, in this island, 
 " within six miles of each other, five men, whose ages 
 ** together exceeded four hundred years. And there lately 
 " died on this island, at the advanced age of one hundred 
 " and ten years, a Mrs. Vaughan, a gentlewoman who had 
 " always resided upon the island. She had eight brothers 
 " and one sister, who all lived to see the youngest upwards 
 " of sixty years old ; — the longevity of its inhabitants proves 
 ** the healthfulness of a country." 
 
 Unhappily, however, too many European strangers, first 
 coming into these regions, forget those precautions, of 
 which they all admit the propriety. In these cases, their 
 theory and practice are at variance with each other; so 
 that they proceed to ruin, even against the dictates of their 
 better judgments. Entering into a region that incites to 
 voluptuousness,—" a garden, tempting with forbidden 
 
 VOL. II, R 
 
130 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 " fruit," the appearance of that perennial beauty with 
 which they feel themselves encircled intoxicates with a 
 strange enchantment. The senses become too powerfitl 
 for the understanding, and usurp that dominion which con- 
 ducts to the grave. The resolution which had been pre- 
 viously formed melts before the rays of a tropical sun, and 
 insensibly gives place to that dissipation which seduces 
 under the visor of disguise. 
 
WEST INDIES. 13i 
 
 CHAP. XIX. 
 
 HISTORY OF BABBADOES. 
 
 (Concluded). 
 
 Hegidar History of the Mission. — Promising beginning.'—' 
 Violent Persecution in 178y. — More favorable appear^ 
 ance in 1790. — Persecution revives. — Missionaries obtain 
 Redress.— Indiferent Success in 1791, 1792, and 1793. 
 — Death of Mr. Pearce, a Missionary. — Society reduced. 
 — An Increase in 1795. — Contempt poured on the Gospel 
 in 1796. — Coiigregations decrease in 1797. — Island left 
 without a Missionary in 1798. — Societies nearly dispersed 
 in 1799- — In a deplorable State in 1800. — Prospect 
 brightens in 1801. — State of Relis^ion in 1802. — Partial 
 revival in 1803. — Work further revives in 1805. — 
 Pleasing Prospect in I806. — State of the Societies, and 
 of Religion, in the Islajid in 1807. 
 
 HILE the natural propensities of the human heart, 
 which, we have surveyed in the preceding chapter, act in 
 concert with the temptations of the world, what can be 
 expected, but a ready submission to their dictates ? Some 
 power, which, by nature, resides not in man, becomes ne- 
 cessary to establish a barrier, and to presence him from 
 falling an easy prey to those desires, which ask for indulgence, 
 amidst the means of gratification. This power, the Author 
 of our being has wisely provided for our assistance ; and 
 oifers it to us, through that gospel, which is at once both 
 neglected and despised. To diffuse its sacred light through 
 the benighted corners of the world, is at once the privilege 
 and the duty of those who love and fear God. Through 
 the medium of various instruments, he has caused his light 
 to shine in these regions, and in a particular manner has 
 given repeated invitations to the inhabitants of Barbadoes. 
 
 In this island, the Moravian brethren have a mission ; of 
 ■which, we shall give a short account from their own journals 
 and letters. 
 
 " By letters," the publishers say, " from that island, 
 *' dated May 31, 1790, we learn, that the Missionaries 
 
1^. HISTORY OF THE 
 
 " were well and active ; and they express good hopes con- 
 *' cerning their mission ; though it has not, hitherto, been 
 " so flourishing as in other parts. The negro congregation 
 " consists of forty persons baptized. 
 
 " On Sundays they have always a numerous auditory of 
 " white and black people, which will soon oblige them to 
 *' enlarge their church. On Good Friday, and Easter, they 
 " had about one hundred and fifty attentive hearers, most 
 ** of whom stood without, for want of room. Brother Fritz 
 ** arrived there on the 20th of February, from North Ame- 
 " rica, to supply the vacancy occasioned by brother Mont- 
 *' gomery's call to Tobago." 
 
 The opinion of Mr. Montgomery, relative to this mission, 
 ^t the time of his departure to Tobago, is stated in the fol- 
 lowing words : 
 
 " Before I conclude, I will just mention a word or two, 
 " concerning the mission of Barbadoes. I firmly believe, 
 '' that our Lord will yet see of the travail of bis soul in that 
 *^ isl^pd. This was the first impression I had, when I en- 
 " tered upon the labor there ; and amidst all my trials it 
 " never forsook me. The letters received from Europe 
 " comforted me greatly, as they expressed the same confi- 
 ** dent hopes concerning the mission. I wondered fre- 
 *' quently at your patience, in supporting so expensive a 
 ** mission, without much visible fruit arising from our labors. 
 " Now the time of visitation appears to me to be at hand, 
 " and I think I have lived to see the beginning. Ever since 
 " Christmas we could no more preach within doors, the 
 ** number of our constant hearers having so increased. 
 " Several of our baptized negroes have begun to tell others 
 " what the Lord had done for their souls. Several of these 
 " have brought their relations and friends to the meeting ; 
 *' and two of those, who Mere thus in a manner com- 
 *' pelled to come, have been baptized ; and one of them 
 ^' was admitted to the Lord's Supper before we left the 
 " island." 
 
 On the state of religion in 1791, their resident minister, 
 or Missionary, speaks in the following manner : 
 
 " As to the work of God, in this island, its progress is 
 *' but slow at present ; yet we find cause to thank him, for 
 ** the blessed effects of the preaching of the gospel in the 
 ** hearts of some. The power of darkness is, indeed, in 
 ** general, great ; but we live and labor in hopes, and in 
 " reliance on our Almighty Saviour. The number of bap- 
 •* tized negroes under our care consists at present of forty- 
 
WEST INDIES. 135 
 
 " four adults, and three children ; and we recommend our- 
 *' selves to your prayers and continued remembrance before 
 « the Lord." 
 
 In 1792, they make the following observations on the 
 progress and state of their mission in this island : 
 
 *' Their chapel," they say, " was well filled with negroes 
 ** every Sunday. Thirteen adults had been baptized, and 
 *' ten had been added to the number of their communicants 
 ** in the preceding year." Such are their observations ; and 
 with this concise statement, their memorial, for that period, 
 closes. 
 
 In their next account, their reports are much of a similar 
 nature. They state, that the progress of religion was not so 
 evident in Barbadoes, as in some other islands, though the 
 causes they presume not to develope. But, though ready 
 to inquire, " Who hath believed our report, and to whom is 
 the arm of the Lord revealed ?" they acknowledge, that they 
 had cause to praise him, for what he had already done in 
 that island likewise, during the year that was past. " Seven- 
 ** teen adults and four children," they remark, " were added 
 ** to their number;" so that on the whole, as they have 
 given no statement of any diminution, either by apostasy or 
 death, we are directed to conclude, that a gradual though 
 but a small increase had taken place. 
 
 The great Head of the church, having all power at his 
 command, can send by whomsoever he pleases, and make 
 what instruments soever he sees meet, subservient to his 
 compassionate purposes. When souls are converted to God, 
 the great end of missionary establishments is fully answered, 
 what mediums soever he selects to promote his divine will. 
 All these instruments, without doubt, unite, through his 
 wisdom, in one harmonious design. The effects which 
 result from their joint endeavors, will add to the universal 
 congregation of the faithful, and, finally, swell that immense 
 multitude which no man can number. 
 
 But what are those few, to whom the labors of the 
 Moravian Missionaries have been blessed, when compared 
 with the many thousands of negroes in Barbadoes ? The 
 general mass were ignorant of God, and seeking death in 
 the error of their ways. Their state of spiritual darkness 
 was such, as to leave no room for two opinions on their 
 condition. It was this that became an inducement to our 
 Missionary Society, to use their endeavors to promote the 
 Conversion of these heathens ; to exercise the means which 
 lay in their power, and to leave the event to God. 
 
134 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 It Avas towards the close of October, 1788, that the 
 writer of these papers, in company with Mr. Pearce, Mr. 
 Gamble, and Mr. Lumb, three Missionaries, sailed from 
 Great Britain, on a third visit to the West Indies, on board 
 of the ship Hankey, commanded by Captain Sundius. A 
 common voyage across the Atlantic can contain nothing re- 
 markable ; and the novelty of winds and waves, and fishes 
 and birds, has long since ceased to charm. It will be suffi- 
 cient to observe on this occasion, that the voyage was 
 favorable ; and, that after a passage of five weeks and four 
 days, they landed safely in Barbadoes on the 4th of De- 
 cember. 
 
 It is, nevertheless, a tribute of respect which is due to 
 Captain Simdins, to observe, that the accommodations 
 were, in every respect, excellent ; and, that he left nothing 
 unprovided, which he thought would be either necessary or 
 commodious for his Missionary friends. His behavior was^ 
 a counter-part of his previous conduct ; affection and gene- 
 rosity never forsook his character during the voyage. The 
 author records his politeness from a sensibility of obligation, 
 and feels pleasure in expressing gratitude for his kindness.' 
 He i^iiall now give to his readers the substance of his journals, 
 in respect to the present voyage, and visit to Barbadoes. 
 
 Captain Sundius, being a man who sincerely feared God, 
 felt no hesitation in permitting us to sing and pray, as often 
 as we thought proper; and omitted no opportunity of joining 
 us in our devotions, whenever the care of the ship would grant 
 him permission. To preach the words of eternal life to the 
 sailors we felt as an indispensable dut}', whenever we found 
 a favorable occasion. The first time I preached in this ship^ 
 on those words of our Lord — Verily, verily, I say untQ 
 you, except a man be born again, he cannot see the king- 
 dom of God, Me had the happiness to observe, that the 
 whole ship's company seemed to be deeply affected. Their 
 impressions continued beyond the impulse of the moment ; 
 and we hope, that our subsequent labors among them 
 deepened the work which we had reason to believe was 
 begun. Finding them inclined to read, we distributed 
 among them several pamphlets, which they perused with 
 peculiar eagerness ; and we had the happiness to observe, 
 that, instead of singing those licentious compositions which 
 sounded from their lips at the commencement of the voyage, 
 they delighted in associating together to peruse our books. ; 
 On our arrival at Barbadoes, when we were about to take 
 our leave, the sileat tear trickled down the cheeks of many. 
 
WEST INDIES. J35 
 
 while they pressed our hands with marks of affectionate re- 
 gret ; and, finally, when our boat dropped astern, they bade 
 us farewell, with three as hearty cheers, as probably were 
 ever given by a company of sailors. 
 
 On reaching the shore, we found ourselves in a region 
 inhabited by strangers ; for none of our company imagined 
 that he knew one soul upon the island. We immediately 
 repaired to an inn, in which we took some refreshment, and 
 easily learned, from the nature of the charges, that our ex- 
 penses, arising from this mode of life, would be really enor- 
 mous. I, therefore, seized a favorable moment which then 
 offered, of sending Messrs. Lumb and Gamble to our friends 
 in St. Vincenfs, on board of a merchant-ship, which sailed 
 that same evening. In that island I purposed to meet them 
 again, as soon as the business of Barbadoes should be dis- 
 patched. 
 
 It was just at this instant, that Mr. Pearce, who now 
 remained with me, observed, that he understood that a com- 
 pany of soldiers was then in the island, who had sometime 
 before been quartered at Kingsale, in Ireland ; among these, 
 he had heard, were several serious people. Elated with 
 this recollection, at my request he went in search of them, 
 and in the space of about two liours returned with one of 
 the privates. Soon afterwards we were joined by a sergeant, 
 who, on seeing Mr. Pearce, recollected him in an instant, 
 and, transported with the thought of meeting him in this 
 distant region, without ceremony, clasped him in his arms 
 in the most affectionate manner. 
 
 From these pious men we learned, that since they had 
 been stationed in Barbadoes, the love of Christ had so con- 
 strained them, that they had borne a public testimony for 
 God. This, as it was natural to expect, had excited much 
 curiosity. Many had come to hear, among whom was a 
 Mr. Button, a merchant, of Bridge-town ; who was so 
 far pleased with their conduct, that he had provided for 
 them a large room, which had formerly been used as a 
 warehouse. In this room, they afterwards regularly met ; 
 and exhorted those who heard, to flee from the wrath to 
 come. 
 
 Delighted with this pleasing information, w^e inmiediately 
 determined to seek this gentleman, and pay him a visit, the 
 following morning. In this design we were, however, an- 
 ticipated by his kindness. He had been informed of our 
 iurival by some of the soldiers, and, instantly, sent us au 
 
136 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 mvitation to breakfast with him. On entering his house, to 
 my utter astonishment I found, that to Mr. Button I was 
 personally known, though of his name and features I had 
 not the most distant recollection. In the course of our con- 
 versation, I learned that he had, frequently, heard me 
 preach at Baltimore, in Maryland ; and, that when he re- 
 sided on the continent, four of his black servants had been 
 baptized by me. Among these servants, one was a woman, 
 who was still with him ; she had experienced the power c4 
 converting grace, and was still alive to God. He would no 
 longer permit us to take up our residence at the inn ; his lady, 
 who was a native of the island, accompanied her husband 
 in his solicitation. His heart, his all, seemed to be at our 
 service ; and, indeed, during the whole of our abode, we 
 found an asylum with this benevolent friend. 
 
 Soon after breakfast, I waited, in company with Mr. 
 Pearce, upon the Governor, to whom we paid our joint 
 respects. We found him quite accessible, and were received 
 by him with great politeness. In the evening I preached at 
 Mr. Button's, in the room which he had appropriated to 
 the purposes of divine M^orship, to a large congregation. 
 About three hundred were enabled to hear with attention ; 
 but nearly twice that number were obliged to retire for want 
 of room. On the ensuing evening, the congregation was 
 equally numerous ; a deep attention was manifested by all 
 those who heard, while I attempted to explain, how the 
 Comforter convinces of sin, of righteousness, and of judg- 
 ment. 
 
 Early the next morning, I rode into the country, to visit 
 a gentleman, (Henry Trotman, Esq.) to whom my kind 
 friend, Mr. Dornford, of London, had procured me a letter 
 of recommendation, in order to open a way for Mr. Pearce 
 into the country. Providentially, there were tMO gentlemen 
 of the same christian and surname in the island, and I was 
 directed to the house of the gentleman for M'hom the letter 
 was not intended. This strange mistake naturally led to a 
 developement of our designs. He received me with the 
 utmost politeness ; and after I had breakfasted and dined 
 with him, and laid before him our plan of Missionary ope- 
 rations, he informed me, that his house should be always 
 open to my friend, Mr. Pearce ; and his slaves, who were 
 about two hundred in number, ^ould be always assembled, 
 at all proper hours, to receive instructions. I'his little ex- 
 cursion took place on Saturday ; in the evening of which. 
 
%EST INblES. I'SV 
 
 I returned agdin to Bridge-town, highly satisfied, notwith- 
 standing the mistake, with having found an unexpected 
 friend. 
 
 On the Sunday morning, Mr. Pearce preached in Mr. 
 Button's warehouse, at seven o'clock ; after which, we 
 breakfasted, by invitation, with the worthy curate of the 
 parish, who received us with politeness, and treated us with 
 civility. Confident that the room in which we had hitherto 
 preached, would not contain the numbers who wished to 
 attend, we were ruminating on the embarrassment, without 
 being able to apply any remedy, when one unexpectedly 
 offered. In the afternoon I received a note from the master 
 of a free school that had been established in the island ; ia 
 M'hich, he voluntarily offered the use of his school-room for 
 the duties of the evening. We accepted the generous offer ; 
 and, as it was commodious^ a large and attentive congrega- 
 tion assembled. 
 
 In the evening, after our service was concluded, we were 
 visited by a Mr. Errington, one of the magistrates and post- 
 master-general of the island, who continued with us for 
 some time, and supped with us. Between thirty and forty 
 years ago, he had frequently heard Mr. Wesley, and his 
 brother, preach in the Methodist chapel in Newcastle-upon- 
 Tyne. And, though so many years had elapsed since that 
 period, to which our preaching recalled his thoughts, he 
 expressed the greatest satisfaction and approbation of our 
 designs. In addition to this, he warmly invited Mr. Pearce 
 to visit him frequently ; observing at the same time, that 
 he should be happy to yield us any service that lay in his 
 power. 
 
 On the Monday morning following, I visited the other 
 ^Ir. Trotman, whom I had sought in vain on the preceding 
 Saturday. To him I now delivered my letter of recommen- 
 dation, apologizing, at the same time, for the involuntary 
 mistake, which had procured me the happiness of an intro- 
 duction to a gentleman of the same name, who had given his 
 sanction to our projected labors. Mr. Trotman I found 
 to be a plain country gentleman, living somewhat retired 
 from the tumults of commerce, and devoid of those gross 
 prejudices which but too frequently enslave mankind. He 
 had, at that time, about two hundred and fiftv alaves on his 
 plantations, who stood much in need of that instruction 
 which we intended to impart. In the course of our conver- 
 sation after dinner, he informed me, that he wculd take the 
 earliest opportunity of waiting upon Mr. Pearce; and that 
 
 I VOL. 11. S 
 
138 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 he should be happy in having his slaves instructed by him irt 
 the principles of Christianity. 
 
 Having thus finished the business which had called us to 
 this island, I took a passage in a vessel bound for St. Vin- 
 cent's, in which I expected to sail the same evening. In 
 consequence of this intended departure, I desired Mr. 
 Pearce to preach ; as the violent heat and perspiration into 
 which preaching throws all in this warm climate, would have 
 rendered it hazardous for me to have afterwards gone on the 
 water. Mr. Pearce now began to enter upon his ministerial 
 labors ; and I had the pleasure to hear that he gave universal 
 satisfaction to a large and attentive congregation. 
 
 I must not omit another little circumstance which tended 
 also to promote our general design. At the house of Mr. 
 Sutton, there were three ladies on a visit. These had a 
 plantation in the country, and many negroes on it. During 
 their stay at Bridge-tozcn, they attended our preaching, and 
 gave us reason to hope that they had received some divine 
 impressions. Their house was also to be opened to Mr, 
 Pearce, whenever he could find an opportunity to visit their 
 plantation ; so that, on the whole, a sufficiency of employ- 
 ment seemed in an instant provided for him. In the pious 
 soldiers, he found the promises of all that assistance which 
 they were able to render ; they were willing to place them- 
 selves immediately under his direction ; and they engaged to 
 hold prayer-meetings, in different parts of the town, three or 
 four times a week. 
 
 Thus, by a series of remarkable providences, a wide door 
 appeared to be opened for us in Barbadoes ; an island which 
 is most favorably circumstanced for the preaching of the 
 word. In length and breadth it is not very extensive ; 
 but it is thickly peopled with human beings, thousands 
 of whom are still ignorant of God. Many of these, 
 however, were well disposed towards that gospel which we 
 came to preach. They seemed willing to be brought to a 
 due sense of their sinful condition by nature, and to a full 
 conviction of the only means of salvation, by exercising a 
 lively faith on the merits of their blessed Redeemer. 1'he 
 island being divided into many small farms or plantations, 
 which had no immediate connexion with one another, cir- 
 cumscribed the views of their proprietors. By these means 
 there were thousands, even among the white inhabitants, 
 whose mcomes were small ; and many among them were 
 very poor. Tl^ese, therefore, could not indulge themselves 
 in all those extremes of sensuality which, unfortunately, mark 
 
•WEST INDIES. 139 
 
 t.^ic conduct of too many in these luxuriant regions of the 
 globe. Thus even comparative poverty, contributed to give 
 a fairer prospect of a plentiful harvest to the preachers of 
 the gospel of Jesus, than could have been expected among 
 men who place their hopes of happiness on those riches 
 which make themselves wings and tiee away. 
 
 It was towards the close of the year 1790, that I sailed 
 from Falmouth, in company with Mr. Lyons and Mr. Wer- 
 rill, two Missionaries ; and after a voyage of five weeks and 
 two days, landed on the 22d of November, a second time on 
 the Island of I5arbadoes. The pleasing prospect which 
 Bridge-town and the plantations around itallbrded, together 
 with the ships, the harbor, and the activity of the inhabi- 
 tants, exhibited one of the most beautiful scenes of the kind 
 that any part of the West Indies can boast. The whole 
 was felt by us on our arrival in all its force ; and on the 
 minds of my associates, who were strangers to such views, 
 left a most astonishing effect. 
 
 In tliis place, though our prospects of being serviceable 
 to the iniuibitants were not blasted, they were evidently 
 shaded with an unpleasant gloom. Our friends, it is true, 
 still remained sincere, nor had their numbers, in reality, di- 
 minished ; but we found many enemies who were before 
 unknown. Mr. Pearce, our Missionary in the island, had 
 undergone much persecution during the two preceding years, 
 and was for a considerable time without redress. At length, 
 however, it pleased God to inclme the heart of one of the 
 magistrates to do him justice. This gentleman espoused his 
 cause, defended him with spirit, and soon reduced all 
 to peace. It is remarkable, that on the Methodists in this 
 island, the inhabitants had fixed the extraordinary name of 
 " Hallelujah.'" Even the little negroes had learned the ap- 
 pellation, and would call them by that name as they passed 
 through the streets. 
 
 On the morning after our arrival, I waited upon Governor 
 Parry, who received me with great courtesy, and appeared 
 from his amiable manner to have been far from countenanc- 
 ing that disturbance which Mr. Pearce had sustained. While 
 in this island, I preached three times in Bridge-town, but 
 met with no interruption. On the contrary, the congre- 
 gations were attentive, and on the last evening particularly 
 large. The preaching-house, which had been erected not- 
 withstanding the persecution, I found airy and in every re- 
 spect commodious, and capable of containing about seven 
 Jiundred persons. Indeed, the foundation of a considerable 
 
140 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 work, I was persuaded, had been begun, though the number 
 in society was but small. I had no time to visit the country ; 
 but, taking leave of our affectionate friends, sailed from the 
 island on the 23d. 
 
 It was not till early in the year 1793, that I had another 
 opportunity of visiting Barbadoes. To what extent the 
 word that had been sow n during the intermediate years, had 
 been blessed to the inhabitants at large, it is impossible to 
 say ; but very few had joined our society. At our Con- 
 ference, held in the beginning of February in Antigua, it 
 appeared, that only iifty-one had given us their names as an 
 acknowledgment that they were members. Of this number 
 thirty-four were whites, seven were colored people, and 
 the rest Avere blacks. 
 
 It was on the 26th of February, in company with Mr, 
 Graham, and Mr. Pearce and his family, that I landed a 
 third time at Bridge-town in Barbadoes. We immediately 
 repaired to the house of our old friend Mr. Button, who 
 received us with the warmth of friendship and the freedom of 
 hospitality. I did not remain long in the town on my 
 arrival ; but after waiting upon the Governor, and preaching 
 twice, sat off to visit our friends in the country. 
 
 I had received intelligence on my arrival, that a Mr. 
 Henry, a gentleman of much respectability, residing in the 
 country, had, during my absence, made frequent inquiries 
 after me, particularly concerning my person, the spelling 
 of my name, with a variety of other minutiae ; adding on 
 the information he received, " He certainly is my old friend 
 " Coke, with whom I zcas so intimate at Oifoid." To this 
 gentleman, I made one of my first visits. As soon as we 
 came in sight of each other, a mutual recognition immediately 
 took place ; and we embraced with that warmth of affection 
 which juvenile friendships, suddenly revived, can, in general, 
 alone inspire. In his company I spent a considerable part 
 of two days, recounting old adventures, and reviving half- 
 forgotten facts, with which I endeavored to interweave some 
 useful observations. To his house and plantation the Mission- 
 aries had already had access ; they wanted, therefore, no in- 
 troduction. A revival, however, of an acquaintance with one 
 who had loved him long and well, might rivet that attach- 
 ment which he felt towards those Missionaries who labored 
 to convert his slaves. 
 
 From the house of Jlfr. Henry, I proceeded to that of a 
 Mr. Harding, who had an estate of his own, and acted 
 also as the manager of another large plantation. This gentle- 
 
WEST INDIES. 141 
 
 man, our Missionaries had long found to be our friend in- 
 deed. Both he and his family were truly actuated by the 
 fear of God ; and we had reason to believe, that some good 
 had been done among his negroes by the preaching of Mr. 
 Lumb, our Missionary, who had lately resided in the island. 
 Perhaps the Island of Barbadoes could produce but few 
 families equal, in point of excellency, to this of Mr. Harding. 
 But it was no' to his family alone that the benefits of Mr. 
 Lumb's preaching were exclusively conlined. Another white 
 family, about a mile from the house of Mr. Harding, had 
 received much profit by his ministry, and evidenced by their 
 conduct, that some divine impressions had been made upon 
 their minds. To several other gentlemen I also paid some 
 transient visits ; and, after preaching on several estates in 
 different parts of the island, and noting those places which 
 appeared to have the greatest claim upon our attention, re- 
 turned to Bridge-town. 
 
 The little society in this town, however small, appeared 
 more devoted to God, in proportion to its numbers, than 
 any other in any of the Windward Islands. For this, under 
 the influence of divine grace, much was due to the pious 
 labors of Mr. Pearce. Indeed, the same tribute of ac- 
 knowledgment is due to the exertions of Mr. Lumb and his 
 colleague. Both were indefatigable in their labors ; and 
 they w^ere blessed with a degree of piety in their spiritual 
 children, which in some measure compensated for that defi- 
 ciency in numbers, which the ardency of our souls exceed- 
 ingly lamented. 
 
 The negroes of Barbadoes, for reasons which are con- 
 cealed, appeared, in general, less prepared for the reception 
 of genuine religion, than those of any other island in the 
 West Indies. But prayer and perseverance have surmounted 
 obstacles which baffled all human calculation ; and this cir- 
 cumstance becomes a ground-work on which we rest our 
 future faith. Even then we felt a confidence that the day 
 would soon arrive, when God would give us access to their 
 hearts and understandings, that we might not adopt the 
 prophetic lamentation, and say, a/l day long have zee 
 stretched forth our hands to a disobedient and gainsaying 
 people. 
 
 In this island, notwithstanding the society w'as compara- 
 tively small, it had pleased God to raise up two local preachers. 
 ( )f these, one, who was engaged in the fishery, was brother- 
 in-law to Mr. Pearce ; the other belonged to the artillery, 
 'ihe former was eminent for piety, and stands among the 
 
142 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 first of those with Avhom I have had any acquaintance. His 
 abilities were such as to entitle him to respect ; and I had 
 reason to hope that he would soon consider it as his duty 
 to give himself wholly to the ministry. 
 
 In external aspect Barbadoes bears the strongest resem- 
 blance to England, of any island that I remember to have 
 seen. The inland part has much of the appearance of tiie 
 finest lands in the West Riding of Yorkshire. The numer- 
 ous houses which are scattered about in an irregular man- 
 ner, are mostly white-washed ; which, together with the hills 
 tliat rise at a distance, present to the spectator a diversified 
 scene, picturesque and pleasing, though destitute of roman- 
 tic grandeur. Among those few who truly fear God, there 
 is a trait of character to be perceived, which, as well as 
 the appearance of the country, tends to mark the similarity 
 between Barbadoes and our native land. The same spirit 
 of unaifected piety is equally visible, and, therefore, equally 
 an object of admiration. Of this description I found a 
 Mrs. Shoreland, an aged widow-lady, and her son, at whose 
 house I preached in my tour through the island. They 
 seemed to breathe the spirit of the English Methodists ; 
 tliey were kind without ostentation, and made me feel per- 
 fectly at home. 
 
 I continued in Barbadoes, during this visit, from the 26th 
 of February until the 4th of March, on which day T set sail 
 on board the Cumberland packet for Jamaica ; and have had 
 no opportunity of revisiting this island from that period to 
 the present hour. For our further information, we must 
 apply to those accounts with which the Missionaries have 
 supplied us, of the spread of the gospel, the progress of 
 vital Christianity, and the conversion of souls to Jesus Christ. 
 
 The adoption of this method becomes necessary, in order 
 to recount those various occurrences which took place during 
 the intervals of the author's absence. And he has chosen 
 tliis plan, that the regular narrative might not be interrupted 
 by those personal observations which he had an opportunity 
 of making while on the island, and which have been stated 
 in the pieceding paragraphs. Our accounts are, therefore, 
 now carried backward to the commencement of the mission, 
 and traced in a series of regular detail, through the various 
 vicissitudes which have taken place from that time to the 
 present period. 
 
 It frequently happens, in the mazes of the present world, 
 that the most alluring prospects prove deceitful ; they glitter 
 for a moment to excite our attention, and then evaporate U% 
 
WEST INDIES. 143 
 
 mock our hopes. It is thus they instruct us, by painful 
 experience, that no stability is to be found beneath the 
 throne of God. Domestic life affords us but too many in- 
 stances of this truth ; and an enlarged acquaintance with the 
 world, is sufficient to convince us, that disappointment is 
 the growth of every clime. Iliis theory we shall find illus- 
 trated by an appeal to fact, in tracing the Missionary history 
 of Barbadoes. 
 
 Mr. Pearce, who accompanied the author to this island 
 in his first voyage thither, in the year 1788, the reader Mill 
 recollect, was left behind to pursue those openings which 
 Providence seemed to have made; and to endeavor, by 
 speaking the truth as it is in Jesus, to recal sinners from 
 seeking death in the error of their ways. He, accordingly, 
 began, by foiniing a class of nine members in Bridge-town, 
 who had manifested a sincere desire to fiee from the wrath 
 to come. I'Vom preaching in the town, he proceeded to 
 the country ; and so far found access to the people on the 
 plantations, that four nights out of seven were fully engrossed 
 among them ; while the other three were employed in the 
 town, in cherishing the infant society that had been already 
 formed, and in soliciting others to forsake their sins. During 
 two months that were thus employed, he continued to exer- 
 cise unwearied diligence. T-'he congregations increased, 
 both in toM n and country ; but so much so in the former, 
 that the house in which he preached, became insufficient to 
 contain the people who attended. To provide for their ac- 
 commodation, Mr. Pearce was induced to seek for one 
 more extensive ; but this could not, by any means, be pro- 
 cured. Induced, therefore, by the flattering prospect on 
 the one hand, and urged by necessity on the other, he set on 
 foot a subscription ; procured a piece of land, and began to 
 build a preaching-house, without any other resources besides 
 those which Providence should supply. 
 
 At this time, a considerable degree of poverty prevailed 
 throughout the island, in consequence of the failure of the 
 crop. This gave to the subscription no small degree of 
 languor. Several tradesmen, however, who could not con- 
 veniently part with money, promised to contribute labor ; so 
 that, on the whole, notwithstanding the prevailmg poverty, 
 and more prevailing wickedness, the prospect of a favorable 
 issue to this arduous undertaking, urged them to proceed 
 with all the confidence of hope. In the mean while, the 
 enemies of righteousness exerted themselves to oppose the 
 progress of the work, by vilifying the character of Mr, 
 
144 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 Pearce. They threatened, through the medium of the news- 
 papers, to wreak theh' vengeance on the " impudent mad' 
 " mem" unless he desisted from building a chapel, which 
 was now become a perfect nuisance in their unholy sight. In 
 the midst of these threatenings and abuses, the congregations 
 rather increased than diminished. More Mere added to the 
 society ; the members of which appeared to grow in grace, 
 and to live in harmony, in proportion to the augmentation 
 of those dangers to which they found themselves exposed. 
 ** The congregations," observes Mr. Pearce, " are larger 
 *' than ever ; and such crowds fill the room, and flock about 
 " the door where I preach, as I never had before. It is 
 " truly glorious. Many of the first people in the town 
 " coine to hear, and seem to listen with much attention. 
 *' Judging from appearances, we have reason to believe, that 
 " a thousand hearers would attend on a Sunday evening, if 
 " the room in which we preach were sufficiently large to 
 *' afford them accommodations." 
 
 But while the word of God seemed thus to prevail among 
 all ranks of people, the opposition, which had hitherto 
 been confined to distant invectives, took a nearer stand, and 
 broke out in violent interruptions. Some of the leaders of 
 the mob were brought to justice ; they were feelingly con- 
 vinced of their error, and, for a short season, peace ensued. 
 In the month of March 1789, the society in the town con- 
 sisted of fifty members ; of these, sixteen were whites, and 
 the rest people of color. Two classes were at this time 
 also formed in the country ; one consisted of eighteen mem- 
 bers, and the other of fifteen : so that, on the whole, in the 
 short space of three months, upwards of fourscore persons- 
 were inquiring the way to Zion, with their faces thitherward. 
 From what motive others were solicitous to join the society, 
 it is hard to say ; but Mr. Pearce observes, that " he was 
 " obliged to be very careful in admitting members ; other- 
 " wise, he should soon have hundreds of improper persons.'* 
 Among those who were admitted, the greatest part were 
 ornaments to their profession ; and expressed themselves 
 clearly in their knowledge of divine things, and in their ad- 
 vances in the christian life. 
 
 To prevent, if possible, the completion of the chapel, 
 much opposition was made to its progress. Some of those 
 who had attended the preaching, and seemed in earnest for 
 the salvation of then- souls, suffered themselves to be in- 
 fluenced by the prejudices of others, and soon grew indif- 
 ferent ; and others were prevailed upon to withhold their 
 
WEST INDIES. 145 
 
 subscriptions. With some, the faihire of their crops was 
 assigned as the cause of their dereliction ; and in several 
 instances, their observations were founded on fact. The 
 building, nevertheless, went on ; and before the month of 
 July it was covered in. Its dimensions were sufficiently 
 Jaige to contain six or seven hundred persons ; but the causes 
 which have been mentioned occasioned a debt, that after- 
 wards created some embarrassments. It was opened on the 
 Kith of August ; a large congregation attended; and every 
 thing seemed to bid fair for the permanency of the gospel in 
 Barbadocs. ; 
 
 But, in proportion as the work of God appeared to gain 
 stability, persecution reared its head, and put on a most 
 formidable aspect. " My enemies," says Mr. Pearce, " are 
 many, and some of them men of power ; so that a very 
 large party is formed against me, both in the town and in 
 the country." Some of these had breathed out bloody 
 threatcnings against his person, and expressed their designs 
 to demolish the chapel. Occasionally, they came to the 
 preaching, with intentions to use personal violence ; but 
 were restrained by that power, which " watches every num- 
 " bered hair, and all our steps attends." To prevent the 
 slaves from receiving instruction, a report was industriously 
 circulated, injurious to our reputation, as though, under the 
 sanction of religion, our intentions were, to inculcate notions 
 inimical to their conditions, and the interests of their masters. 
 Surmises of this nature could not but inflame those, who, 
 destitute of the power of grace, had before viewed our pro- 
 gress with indifference, or even with partial approbation. 
 Many, therefore, of the slaves, who had been in the society, 
 were compelled, by their masters, to abandon us, and enter 
 once more into the practice of those vices, from which they 
 had but lately escaped. — It will be needless to expatiate on 
 the morals of these men, who could so far invert the order 
 of things, as to represent vice as less criminal than religion. 
 
 Nor were they satisfied with forbidding the slaves, whom 
 they claimed as their property, from attending. An asso- 
 ciated mob united their powers, to interrupt those on whom 
 they had no claim ; as though it were an act of virtue to 
 banish religion from the island. As a specimen of their 
 proceedings, we select the following passage from one of 
 Mr. Pearce's letters. " On the evening of Sunday the 
 COth of September, I began divine service at six o'clock ; 
 but soon discovered, that a large mob had assembled 
 among the congregation, with an apparent determination to 
 
 VOL. II. T 
 
145 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 prevent my preaching. I, nevertheless, contmued for some 
 tune, till the noise m hich they made became so intolerable, 
 that I was compelled to desist. All was confusion and dis- 
 order. With much difficulty we got them out of the chapel. 
 They then formed themselves into a large mob near the 
 door, v.'hich they pelted with stones, uttering, at the same 
 time, the most horrid imprecations ; neither did they disperse, 
 imtil they were driven from the spot by the same weapons, 
 from some unknown hand. 
 
 " On Wednesday, the 23d, I began preaching again, at 
 half past six o'clock ; and, notwithstanding the uproar 
 which had taken place on the preceding Sunday, the con- 
 gregation was- the largest I had seen, since I began to preach 
 in Barbadoes. Scarcely had I begun, before 1 discovered 
 about a hundred of the same gang that had so disturbed us 
 on the Sunday evening. To avoid all occasion of offence, 
 I carefully omitted dropping any expression which might 
 furnish them with a pretence for giving us any annoyance. 
 ITiey behaved, during the^ time of preaching, with more 
 moderation than their appearance gave us reason to expect. 
 Scarcely, however, had I finished, before they appeared in 
 their proper colors. Their language seemed to outrival that 
 of the infernal regions. They stamped, they whistled, they 
 roared, more like liends than human beings. From the 
 inside of the chapel they repaired to the outside of th& 
 door, at which place they took their stand, and assailed it 
 in a most violent manner. Here they shouted, threatened, 
 swore, and discharged such vollies of stones, as made us 
 apprehensive that they wovUd break open the door. Accom- 
 panied by some friends, I ventured out among them, de- 
 irigning to note some whom we might be able to recognize, 
 in order to bring them to justice. After having finished 
 their ineffectual vengeance against the door and house, they 
 retired amidst the noise of their own imprecations. In 
 consequence of these interruptions, I applied to a magistrate 
 for redress. He heard the statement with much apparent 
 indignation against the rioters, issued warrants against severalf 
 and promised to do us justice. When the day of hearing 
 arrived, I appeared against them with several respectable 
 evidences, sufficient to substantjate the charge. The charges 
 were proved with the most unquestionable certainty. But, 
 alas ! riil the redress we could obtain v/as the following : — 
 " The qi/ence 'was committed against Almighty God; it, 
 " thersfore, does fiot belong to me io pumJi F' 
 
 That the triumphs of tliese men were equal to those wbicb 
 
WEST INDIES, 147 
 
 %ou](l liave followed an honorable acquittal, it is needless 
 to mention, I'hey felt themselves sanctioned by those, who 
 should have suppressed their iniquitous proceedings, and 
 considered it as a license for their renewal of depredations. 
 Mr. Pearce was left with all his expenses to pay, — a prey 
 to a lawless mob, " at once the scorn and pity of his foes." 
 
 In consequence of this singular display of justice, the 
 number of opposers increased, and persecution assumed 
 new forms. To oppose the progress of the gospel, became 
 a novel exertion of fashionable policy. Every door in the 
 country, which had, hitherto, been open, they endeavored 
 to shut ; and it is with sorrow we add, that they were but 
 too successful in their attempts. To preach by candle-light 
 after this affair, m as utterly impracticable : even an attempt 
 of the society to sing a hymn, was almost a call to arms. 
 The mob, ever ready for mischief on such occasions, in- 
 stantly surrounded the house; and, assailing it with stones, 
 compelled the few who assembled instantly to withdraw, 
 For Mr. Pearce to venture without doors after night, was to 
 tMidanger his life. And even w ithin, he was obliged to pro- 
 vide himself with arms, to repel those midnight attacks 
 w Inch he much apprehended would terminate in his murder. 
 
 But in the midst of these commotions, preaching by day- 
 light still continued ; this, however, was but badly adapted 
 to the conveniences of those who were disposed to hear. 
 The congregations began visibly to decline ; and the numbers 
 in society suffered a considerable diminution, through the 
 commands of those imperious masters, who forbade their 
 slaves to attend any more. In the country, the state of 
 religion could scarcely be known with precision. The up-, 
 roar which had taken place in the town had ])revented Mr. 
 Pearce from leaving it ; lest, on his return, he should find 
 the newly-erected chapel a pile of rubbish, or a heap of 
 jishes. 
 
 But these varied oppositions could not prevent the grace 
 of God from operating in the hearts of those who clave to 
 liim. The society, in November, consisted of about forty 
 members. These met regularly, and manifested by their 
 lives and conversation, that they had obtained something of 
 the power of godliness, as well as its form ; and many of 
 those who had been compelled to quit the connexion ha^ 
 conducted themselves with so much integrity and rectitude, 
 as to reflect an honor on that cause which they were forbid- 
 den to espouse. Towards the close of the year, a few 
 more dared to bid defiance to the t^empest of persecution. 
 
14S HISTORY OF THE 
 
 which still conthiued to beat upon the little society, by 
 adding their names to those who had already (leclared for 
 God. These, however, were all whites ; prejudice and 
 compulsion had so far entered into a league with respect to 
 the people of color, that few would hear ; and of these, 
 fewer still came with a design to worship God. Such as 
 had already joined the society, seemed to have counted the 
 cost, so that they were not easily moved from the profession 
 of their faith. The circumstances under which they had 
 entered, sufficiently vouched for the purity of their motives ; 
 and, regardless of the prevailing wickedness, they continued 
 to unite together in love, and to manifest that they were 
 gro^^ing in grace. The whole society, at this time, con- 
 sisted of forty-four members ; of whom forty, as Mr. Pearce 
 expresses himself, " appeared in a fair way for glory." 
 Several of these had a clear evidence of their adoption ; and 
 all the others were earnestly seeking the divine favor, while 
 their conduct afforded a sufficient proof that they were not 
 deceived. 
 
 With the commencement of the year 1790, the noise of 
 the rabble somewhat abated, and the congregations increased. 
 Not, indeed, that tliey bore any proportion, in their numbers, 
 to those who had filled the chapel when it was first opened ; 
 but they were much more numerous than they had been 
 about a month before. And what was of infinitely more 
 importance than numbers, their habitual seriousness prevent- 
 ed them from disgracing the place of worship by their pre- 
 sence. In the month of February, so far was peace 
 restored, that JSlr. Pearce ventured to preach by candle- 
 light ; in consequence of which, the congregations instantly 
 augmented to what their original numbers had been, before 
 the- persecution had compelled them to desist from attending. 
 Occasionally they were interrupted by some of their old 
 disturbers ; but a wonderful change had taken place in the 
 people who regularly attended, which was evidently for the 
 better. In general, they were remarkably serious, and ap- 
 peared to be influenced by those motives which should 
 invariably urge us to worship God. In addition to this, the 
 society grew more lively ; several were added to their num- 
 ber, and a spirit of prayer seemed to prevail. The lips of 
 three or four were opened to proclaim publicly for God, 
 and to solicit his favors ; through which means, they were 
 enabled to carry on prayer-meetings in public ; while Mr. 
 Peiirce was engaged in other branches of the service of his 
 Master. 
 
WEST INDIES. I4D 
 
 ' The number in society, towards the end of Februarv, 
 amounted to sixty-seven ; of tliese, forty-two \veje in l>ridj:,e- 
 town, and tlie others in the country. But among them all, 
 very few blacks were to be found. Forbidden by their 
 masters, on pain of corporal punishment, even tliose who 
 w ere desirous of hearing were prevented from attending ; 
 otherwise, Mr. Pearce gave it as his opinion, live or six 
 hundred would have been inquiring the way to Zion. 
 
 As national prosperity but too frequently provokes Mar ; 
 so the success of the gospel tended to irritate its enemies iu 
 Barbadoes. 'I'he tranquillity which we have desciiijed ex- 
 cited envy M'here it should have produced emulation, and 
 the work of God w as once more to undergo a storm of per- 
 secution. It was on the 21st of March, that Mr. Pearce 
 began divine service as usual. Tlie congregation was laige, 
 and the generality seemed disposed to hear with a becoming 
 seriousness. While singing a hymn, several young men 
 entered the chapel with hostile appearances ; and tlieir sub- 
 sequent conduct plainly proved, that they only waited a 
 favoiable opportunity to begin a distiubance. During the 
 first half hour, Mr. Pearce bore their interruption without 
 stopping to notice their conduct ; at length, their noise be- 
 came so intolerable, as to overpower his voice. He then 
 endeavored to silence them by expostulation ; but after 
 making foin* or five ineffectual attempts, he w as obliged to 
 dismiss the congregation. On retiring from the chapel, 
 those impudent disturbers were joined by others, w ho were 
 together about a hundred, and formed a regular mob 
 Their first efforts were to break open the door with stones ; 
 but finding it too strong to yield to their impressions, they 
 ran against it w ith the utmost personal violence. On find- 
 ing the door invulnerable, they turned their attention to a 
 w indow that was over it, which they instantly demolished 
 with stones. Mr. Pearce then ventured out among thein, 
 to induce them to desist, and to mark such as were njost 
 forward in thus violating the peace. \Vhile thus among 
 them, several attempted to strike him ; but though encircled 
 with danger, he escaped unhurt. They, however, desisted 
 from throwing stones; but instead of dispersing, surrounded 
 his dwelling-house, and manifested a determination to lea\e 
 behind them some signal memorial of their exploits. Nevei- 
 theless, they at length retired, after wearying themselvcis 
 with menacing parades, without doing any particular mis^ 
 chief. 
 
 On reviewing these flagrant insults, Mr. Pearce deter- 
 
150 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 mined once more to appeal to the justice of the island. He 
 accordingly waited upon an attorney, and consulted two 
 counsellors, who directed him to apply to two magistrates, 
 wlio, with tlie utmost readiness, issued their warrants against 
 the offenders. The affair was brought to a hearing in the 
 town-hall, and five of the rioters pleaded guilty. Conscious 
 of their guilt, these culprits had previously applied to Mr. 
 Pearce, to have the matter accommodated without a hearing ; 
 but the magistrates forbade any compromise from taking 
 place. On their pleading guilty, they received a severe 
 reprimand from the bench, and were dismissed, on condition 
 of their paying all the expenses of the day, and five out of 
 the ten pounds which Mr. Pearce had given to tlie counsel- 
 lors and attorney. This they performed ; acknowledging 
 their offence, declaring themselves sorry for it, and pro- 
 mising neither to interrupt him nor disturb the congregafiou 
 any more. 
 
 A decision so different from the former could not but 
 make a sensible impression upon all, and considerably dis- 
 sipate that spell of prejudice, which, with other causes, 
 had hitherto shut the door through the country. An invita- 
 tion was soon given to Mr. Pearce, to visit a planter in a 
 distant part of the island. He went accordingly ; was re- 
 ceived with the utmost politeness ; and preached three ser- 
 mons ; which, in no small degree, tended to dispel those 
 unfounded calumnies, which false report had so industriously 
 spread. But some of the rioters, availing themselves of his 
 absence, assaulted the house in which his wife resided ; and, 
 assailing it with stones, struck Mrs. Pearce with such vio- 
 lence, that she was most severely hurt. The delinquents 
 being unknown, it was utterly impossible to bring them to 
 justice ; nothing, therefore, remained, but to bear the injury 
 with patience, and watch witli vigilance the return of these 
 depredators. In the midst of these unpleasant circumstances, 
 the members of society, though they did not increase, con- 
 tinued without wavering. They amounted to sixty-six ; and 
 the rectitude of their behavior was such, as not only to afford, 
 a striking contrast to the conduct of the mob ; but, in the 
 eyes of the most considerate, to counteract the mischiefs 
 which had resulted from their disturbances. 
 
 In the year 1791, Mr. Pearce was succeeded in his mis- 
 sionary labors by Mr. Lumb, who found on his arrival, that, 
 notwithstanding the wickedness and opposition which pre- 
 vailed, he had more places than he could possibly supply 
 ■vvith preaching. The white inhabitants of the town, h^ 
 
^^EST INDIES. 151 
 
 describes as opinlonative, and as entertaining an utter con- 
 tempt for vital religion ; and on this account, they prevented 
 their slaves from receiving any instruction, '^llie planters in 
 the country, he represents as being far more accessible ; so 
 that, by luiwearied application, he found means to remove 
 prejudice from the minds of a great number. Seventeen 
 estates he had the liberty constantly to attend ; but on the 
 fruits of his labor, at this period, little or nothing can be 
 said. The number in society amounted to sixty-six ; so 
 tlnit no diminution or increase had taken place amidst all 
 the vicissitudes to \\ hich they had been exposed. In respect 
 to temporal circumstances, they were, in general, poor; 
 but the heavenly riches which they possessed, enabled them 
 to ornament their profession ; and many of them he found 
 strong in faith, giving glory to God. Among the soldiers 
 of the artillery, m ho were stationed on the island, a spirit of 
 seriousness was visible ; but he could not obtain liberty to 
 preach among them. As to himself, he describes his situa- 
 tion as peculiarly dangerous ; being, at once, exposed to 
 the ridicule and laughter of thousands who were professed 
 enemies, and to the allurements of others who Mere pro- 
 fessed friends. Such was the appearance of Barbadoes in 
 the year 1791. 
 
 Nor was the picture much enlivened in 1792. The field 
 of action, it is true, was considerably enlarged ; for no less 
 than twenty-six estates were opened to the Missionary ; which 
 he regularly visited once every fortnight. But, unhappily, 
 his visits were attended with little or no success. " 1 he 
 word of God," he observes, " seems like a stone thrown 
 against a wall. The negroes, in general, are as much 
 ashamed of religion as the whites ; and such a place for 
 holding divine things in contempt, I never sav'/ before." 
 The removal of the artillery-men from the island, had taken 
 off many members from the society, which, with other 
 causes, had reduced their number from sixty-six to fifty-one. 
 L nhappily, it was not in numbers only that they were re- 
 duced ; the removal of the soldiers had lessened the general 
 stock of piety and zeal ; and the ridicule which came from 
 almost every quarter, made a deeper impression than had 
 hitherto been perceived. Not, indeed, that any of the so- 
 ciety were induced to fall into outward sin, or to neglect the 
 means of grace ; but that ardor, which had so conspicuously 
 marked their conduct, was, visibly, on the decline with 
 jnany, — a combination of causes had conspired to rob them 
 of their strength. Still, however, vital religion had not 
 
152 iitsTonv dr THE 
 
 departed from them. A few were truly alive to God ; and 
 hope, the companion of faith and charity, induced Mr. 
 Liinib to think, that the remaining spark would become a 
 flame, and overpowering opposition take a general spread. 
 
 The year 179;>, however, afforded a melancholy j.-roof of 
 the fallacy of human hopes, and the mutability of our most 
 sanguine expectations. On the 30th of Jvdy, Mr. Graham, 
 %\ho had been appointed to labor as a Missionary, was 
 seized with a putrid fever, and died after the short illness of 
 six days. Prior to his illness and death, he waited on several 
 planters in the country, but was refused admittance to the 
 slaves, on account of its being crop time, or harvest. He 
 was, however, only rejected with a " go thy way for this 
 " time ; when I have a more convenient season 1 will call 
 " for thee." But the convenient season never arrived. 
 During two months, his labors were confmed chiefly to 
 Bridge-town, together with some occasional visits among 
 those who were disengaged from the labors of the harvest. 
 In the town, his exertions were blessed with success ; and 
 several souls were awakened, and tilled with resolutions to 
 flee from the wrath to come. 
 
 In the beginning of the year 1 79-i, a considerable degree 
 of tranquillity prevailed. But returning tranquillity did not 
 revive the prospects ^hich had formerly appeared. In the 
 coimtry, very few openings were foimd. A small degree of 
 renewed attention to the word, seemed to be awakened 
 in the town ; but, few were added to the society, to supply 
 the ravages which death continued to make. 
 
 'I^o add to the gloom which these scenes occasioned, Mr. 
 Pearce departed this life on the 1st of May, in his passage 
 from Grenada to this island. Of the melancholy event, his 
 widow transmitted the following account : " In great afflic- 
 tion of mind, I write to you these few lines, to acquaint you 
 with the death of my dear husband. He left Barbadoes on 
 the yth of February, for Grenada ; but would not consent 
 that I should accompany him, on account of the war. Fro?.Ti 
 that island he wrote me word that he would come for me; 
 and meeting with an opportunity from thence to Martinico, 
 and from thence to Barbadoes, he embraced it, that he 
 might have seen how matters stood in this place. The vessel 
 in which he sailed, touched at Martinico ; \^hich place they 
 left on Saturday, the 26th of April. He was taken ill on 
 the Monday, and left this Morld on the Thursday following. 
 My loss is great indeed ; but, I trust, far greater is his gain. 
 The greatest desire of his soul w as, to labor in the vineyard 
 
WEST INDIES. 1-53 
 
 of his Lord. However, God, who does all things well, 
 has called him to his reward. Those M'ho were ai^out him 
 say, he died truly happy in the Lord, and exhorted th.em to 
 prepare for their latter end, that death might hnd th.em as it 
 then found him. Oh ! may I live as he lived, that 1 may 
 die as he died ; so that we may meet at God's right hand, 
 where griefs will be all done away, and parting be no 
 more ! " 
 
 Though Mr. Pearce, at the time of his death, was not 
 stationed in Barbadoes, the intelligence of his departure 
 from time to eternity greatly afflicted all who felt an interest 
 iu that \Aork m hich he had been made chietly instrumental 
 in raising. The parties, who had previously been formed, 
 united their testimony in favor of his integrity and rectitude, 
 now that he was no more ; and even his enemies, who h;;d 
 persecuted him in his life, revered his memory, and honored 
 him in death. In sliort, by the sorrow which liiey expressed 
 for his death, and by the acknowledgments which they made 
 of their belief in his piety, they condemned their own pre- 
 vious conduct, and bore testimony to the inconsistency which 
 formed their characters. 
 
 The year 1 79o presents us with new members added to 
 the society, without giving to it, on the Mhole, any increase. 
 About twenty were united, in the space of a few months, to 
 tliose who remained ; Ijut this number was insuliicient to 
 augment the society to its former amount, "^i he whole, 
 indeed, taken collectively, were very poor ; and on this 
 account, the sacred cause which they espoused, became 
 rather the more contemptible in the eyes of those who knew 
 not God. Even the negroes themselves (which was a most 
 extraordinary case ! ) \\ ere here prejudiced against us. Many 
 of them were forward in pourhig contempt upon religion, 
 and in despising those who professed to be its friends. On 
 these points, our Missionary in the island writes as follows : 
 " ThiC people are very poor in our society in this place. 
 The work of God begins to prosper a little ; and I have 
 some hope, that religion Nviil, liaaily, prevail in Barbadoes. 
 ^\ ilh regard to the poor negroes in this island, I have very 
 little to hope at present. I believe some of the white people 
 . have prejudiced their minds against what is good. On this 
 account, I preach to the white people chiefly. Among 
 tliem, a few new places are open in the country ; many at- 
 tend in tliese places, and some meet in class. I think I 
 have joined between tvrenty and thirty since I came to this 
 place 1 liave one opening, at \\hich we are all astonished ; 
 
 \oi.. II. L' 
 
154 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 and that is in the court-house, where I preach every Mon- 
 day evening to the prisoners. Many attend; and prejudice 
 seems to be on the decline." 
 
 Gloomy as the preceding prospects may appear, they are 
 not enlivened by the memorials of 1796. In the chapel at 
 Bridge-town, but few, in comparison with former years, 
 attended the preaching of the word ; and even among these, 
 a want of reverence could not have been more conspicuous, 
 had the chapel been a theatre, and the gospel nothing but a 
 farce. Piety, indeed, had not forsaken the society ; but 
 their numbers, both in town and country, did not exceed 
 fifty. In addition to this, though a few doors remained 
 open in the country, by far the greater number were com- 
 pletely shut. As to the town, the persecutions which had 
 raged so violently in former years, were now nearly unknown ; 
 but they had given place to a more powerful weapon — a 
 settled contempt for all sacred things. The chief appearance j 
 of seriousness that remained, was visible in the country. 
 But even this was only transient. While the word was 
 delivering, it seemed to make an impression ; but, alas ! 
 like the morning cloud and the early dew, it vanished away, 
 so that no traces were to be found. Yet, even in the midst 
 of these unpromising appearances, the suggestions of hope 
 excited to perseverance. And, although it was against hope, 
 the Missionaries believed in hope ; and a persuasion, that 
 the bread which had been cast upon the waters would be 
 found after many days, detained them, even when reason 
 directed them to depart. The few souls who had chosen 
 God for their portion, were precious in his sight ; these, if 
 abandoned, must have been exposed to dangers, from which, 
 as ministers, it was our duty to shelter them ; and hence 
 arose our inducement to wait with patience the arrival of 
 better days. 
 
 In the year 1797, the spirit of hearing, which had 
 hitherto been subject to many vicissitudes, was visibly on 
 the decline. In the town, rarely mOre than forty persons 
 were to be found in the regular congregations. These were 
 chiefly whites ; and of them, thirty were members of the 
 society. In the country places, the congregations seldom 
 amounted to more than ten or twelve ; and through the . 
 whole island, exclusively of Bridge-town, the members of 
 society did not exceed twenty-one. This gloomy aspect 
 begat within us some serious thoughts of quitting the island 
 altogether. The same motives, however, which had thus 
 far urged us to perseverance, induced us to continue our 
 
WEST INDIES. 155 
 
 exertions, from a hope, rather than an expectation, that the 
 work would still take a more favorable turn, and that ere 
 long we should behold a harvest of many souls. 
 
 In the year 1798, a few Mulattoes joined the society, 
 and genuine piety seemed to revive. But, notwithstanding 
 this addition, the original number could not be kept up. 
 Ihe removal of Mr. James Alexander, the Missionary, Mho 
 had been stationed in the island, placed those who were truly 
 pious, in a distressing situation ; — w ithout any public preach- 
 ing, and without any one either to advise them in their dif- 
 ficulties, or to console them amidst the trials to ^^hich they 
 were exposed. " We now (says a pious member)- hold 
 prayer-meetings, on such nights as the classes do not meet. 
 You may now judge what our situation must be. ^\ e have 
 not a man to come forth to hold up the hands of the weak, 
 as those in society live many miles distant from Bridge-town ; 
 and others, to w hom we looked for assistance, have turned 
 their backs upon us. I hope you will take into consideration 
 our present distress, and send us one to our relief. 1 he 
 Lord has reseived to himself, in this barren soil, a few who 
 are devoted to him ; and I trust that the bread which has 
 been cast upon the waters will be gathered at the last. 
 There are several who seem to be inquiring the road to Zion, 
 who, 1 trust, when the shame of the cross is a little over- 
 come, w ill embrace the truth." 1 he letter from which the 
 above extract is taken, is dated the IQth of April. At this 
 time, the whole society in the town consisted of no more 
 than thirty-six ; of these, thirty were white w omen, the 
 other six were men of color. Of those who w ere scattered 
 through the plantations, no just estimate could be given. 
 
 In the month of February 1799, some Missionaries, on 
 their passage to other islands, touched at Barbadoes, which 
 had now been deprived of preaching for nearly one year. 
 On making inquiries, they were conducted to some pious 
 persons, who had held fast their integrity. '1 hough their 
 visit was exceedingly transient, one of them delivered a ser- 
 mon to a tew precious souls, who were hungering and 
 thirsting after righteousness. These forsaken sheep had 
 contrived to keep up prayer-meetings in a regular manner, 
 and God had acknowledged and blessed their endeavors. 
 Christian affection, and brotherly love, had cemented them 
 together by the most indissoluble ties ; and God, m the 
 midst of their solitude, had consoled them w ilh manifestations 
 of his love. 
 
 But these remarks w ill not apply to all who once ran 
 
156 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 well. Through the abounding of miquity, the love of inany 
 had waxed cold. Even some, ^ho \\ere once pillars in the 
 house of God, had again shaken hands m ilh the w orld, and 
 joined those whose chief delight was to traduce his people. 
 In the country, all had forsaken the assembling of themselves 
 together, either for public or private prayers ; the necessary 
 consequence of Avhich negligence was, that they visibly 
 declnied from the life and po\\er of godliness. Such are 
 tlie fatal effects V( hich result from a famine of the word. 
 
 In the year 1800, the people of Barbadoes v\ere again 
 favored with the sound of the gospel ; but to the general 
 mass, even of those who heard, the m ord delivered sounded 
 like idle tales. They were, therefore, again forsaken towards 
 the close of the year, and had no more preaching for three 
 months. 
 
 In the month of March ISOl, Mr. Hawkshaw, and some 
 other Missionaries, touched at Barbadoes on their passage 
 to some other island. Ivir. H. gives the following account 
 of the state of religion. " On the 6th of March, our ship 
 came to anchor before Bridge-town. In tlie afiernoon, bro- 
 ther B. and I went on shore, expecting to spend a few 
 hours with the Missionary o)i the island ; but, to our great 
 surprize, we fouiid. that the place v. as wholly without a 
 preacher ; as he had locked up the chapel, sent the key into 
 the coujitry, and had retired about tlnee months since, either 
 to Antigua or St. Kitt's. Several of the dear people Avho 
 felt the famine of the v.ord, requested one of us to stay. 
 Confident of acting in the line of duty, I acceded to their 
 proposal, and got my things on shore accordingly. From 
 that time to the present (March 24ih) I have been laboring 
 to obtain a knowledge of the real stale of the society. In 
 Bridge-town, there are about twenty-five vho have kept 
 themselves together, and m ho, I beheve, are truly sincere. 
 In the country, I conceive, there are not more than five or 
 six ; and they are so dispersed, that I know not ^^ here to 
 find them. Only three places are open to us in the country. 
 As to the town, we are threatened with persecution ; on 
 which account, I do not think we shall be aljle to have 
 preaching in the evening in the chapel ; but, perhaps, we 
 may in some private house." 
 
 As the year advanced, Mr. Hawkshaw, through indefatir 
 gable labor, collected together several of those who had 
 wandered from the fold ; and with them some others were 
 induced to seek the favor of God. But these dawnirgs of 
 Lrighter days awakened the spirit of persecution; which had 
 
WEST INDIES. 157 
 
 been anticipated. He was much disturbed for three or four 
 Avecks; till being able to detect some of the ringlead(?rs, tliey 
 were brought before the magistrates. '^1 lie decisive steps 
 which V\ ere thus taken, soon procured peace ; this gave a 
 new countenance to the congregation ; so tliat a revival of 
 the work seemed once more to correspond \\ ith those hopes 
 which had begun to languish even hi the most sanguine. lu 
 the course of this year, Lord Seaforth arrived at Barbadoes, 
 as (jovcrnor of the island. Mr. Hawkshaw waited on him, 
 was received with the utmost politeness, and assured of his 
 ])rotection. lie added at the same time, " I shall be happy 
 *' to hear of your success." But, though the proSjjtcts 
 began thus to flatter, several unfavorable circumstauces 
 tended to coimteract their efficacy. "^Ihe chapel in Bridge- 
 town, through use, through disuse, and violent treatment, 
 was nuich out of repair ; and in addition to this, it m as 
 found lar too large for the accommodation of the congrega- 
 tions that had attended for several preceding years. 1 his 
 suggested the necessity of disposing of it, and purchasing 
 with the money one that should be more suitable, and 
 erected in a place less exposed to public annoyance. Cal- 
 culations were made accordingly ; and another trial was to 
 be given to the inhabitants of Barbadoes. 
 
 Mr. Hawkshaw continued in Barbadoes during the year 
 1802, and God was pleased to bless his labors in an abun- 
 dant manner to many souls. A new chapel, however, was 
 not built ; but the old one was repaired, and rendered much 
 moie commodious, in every respect, during his stay. 'Ihc 
 society also increased in number, and, above all, in grace. 
 About forty regularly attended to receive the sacrament, all 
 of whom, except four, were members of the society. In 
 addition to tliis, Methodism became more reputable in the 
 eyes of the public ; and but few things happened to disturb 
 their peace. 
 
 Mr. Hawkshaw, through the delay of Mr. Bradnock, who 
 had been appointed to succeed him, continued in the island 
 till the conclusion of the year 1803, before he pioceeded to 
 Crenada, the place of his destination. It was m the begin- 
 ning of the year 1803, that he wrote the preceding account, 
 respecting the condition of the society, and the state of the 
 work at large, as it appeared to him in the year ISOC. An 
 unw illingness to leave the infant society exposed, w ithout a 
 preacher, w as the inducement w ith hiui to wait, if possible, 
 the arrival of liis successor ; and his presence contributed 
 liot a little to establish the work which had been beiiuii- 
 
15S HISTORY OF THE 
 
 During this year, the society, though far from being so large 
 as could be wished, was more respectable, all circumstances 
 considered, than could have been expected. Their numbers 
 were much the same as those stated in the preceding year ; 
 but with this addition, that an advance in experimental reli- 
 gion, and the practice of piety, was visible in all. 
 
 Through a combination of circumstances which retarded 
 his embarkation, Mr. Bradnock did not leave England till 
 late in the autumn of 1803, and did not reach Barbadoes 
 till the 21st of March 1804. Prior to this, Mr. Hawkshaw 
 had departed for Grenada, and the sad effects of his removal 
 were severely felt at the time that Mr. Bradnock arrived. 
 Of this the following letter, dated April 30, 1804, will give 
 us the best account. 
 
 '* Here," Mr. B. observes, " I found a large island,, 
 with more than one hundred and twenty thousand souls ; 
 but only twenty-four in our society, with about forty hearers, 
 and a debt of thirty pounds for some repairs lately made. 
 But many are the hindrances with which the work of God 
 in Barbadoes has had long to contend. We have not a 
 convenient chapel, nor a burying-ground ; and have no house 
 for the preacher. For that which was formerly occupied 
 by the preachers, adjoining to the chapel, is now possessed 
 by others, A\ho have it in their power (on account of our 
 windows opening into their yard), to prevent our private, 
 and annoy our public, means of grace. Brother Hawkshaw 
 hath, for three years past, lived at one of our black friend's 
 houses, paying forty pounds per year for his board, whidi 
 is reckoned a small sum in this country. You are not unac- 
 quainted with the West Indies ; in particular, with regard to 
 the enmity of some men against the faithful ministers of 
 Christ, and the very great attention paid to the dead in these 
 islands. It has been said, not only in Barbadoes, but also 
 in other islands, " If you go to the Methodist chapel, you 
 " shall not be interred in the church-yard." And the fear 
 of this prevents many from hearing the word. This, un- 
 doubtedly, would be removed, had we a buiymg-place of our 
 own. 1 he want of this prevents our having many to hear. 
 
 " On the 18th of April, I visited the Honorable President, 
 and presented to him my credentials and certificate with the 
 city seal. He acted the part of a worthy magistrate, pro- 
 mising me the enjoyment of every privilege due to my office, 
 and every encouragement in his power to give. As I had 
 called upon one of the peace-ofHcers the Sabbath before, 
 with a view to prevent dancing and drum-beating, 1 informed 
 
WEST INDIES. 159 
 
 his Excellency of the same ; he said, " By all means they 
 " should be prevented." He then gave me an order, in 
 -writing, to command all constables to discharge their duty, 
 in preventing stores from being opened, as well as dancing, 
 on the Lord's day. He asked me whether I intended to 
 baptize any of the people of color ? I uiformed him I did, 
 as soon as I could procure a burying-ground. He wished 
 me very much success in my undertaking ; observing, " he 
 *' Mas sorry to say, there were so many thousands in Barba- 
 " does, who were little regarded in that respect." I then 
 took my leave, and went to deliver my orders to the con- 
 stables, thankful to God and to our king for our good con- 
 stitution. I have accompanied the constables these two 
 Sundays, in order to stimulate them to their duty. We 
 have had good success, and no opposition as yet. I had a 
 very large congregation on the last Sabbath-day, and have 
 begun to build pews in our inconvenient chapel, if, by any 
 means, I may induce some more to attend to hear the word 
 "which is able to save their souls. I have also visited the 
 country once, and have had a very kind reception at the 
 house of a friend, where I preached in the evening to a large 
 and well-behaved congregation. There is a prospect of an 
 opening in many places in the country ; but I have no 
 horse, and camiot go, except where 1 have one sent for 
 me." 
 
 Such was the scene, and such were the prospects, which 
 presented themselves to Mr. Bradnock soon after his arrival 
 m Barbadoes. Nor did these prospects flatter .to delude, 
 like some others Mhich had appeared to his predecessors. 
 In the month of November, some of the members of the 
 society in Bridge-town favored us with the following ac- 
 count : 
 
 " God has been pleased to bless the work under our 
 present pastor, Mr. Bradnock, in a remarkable manner. 
 Divisions which unhappily existed in our little church, 
 have, through his unwearied exertions, been healed ; back- 
 -sliders have been reclaimed, and the number in society 
 increased. The Almighty hath so blessed his labors, that 
 doors are now opening in the country to receive the gospel ; 
 and a brother, out of love to the cause, has freely offered 
 a piece of land, for the purpose of erecting a chapel thereon, 
 and also for a burying-ground. Mr. Bradnock seems par- 
 ticularly suited to do good in this country. He is even 
 much encouraged, as well as protected, by the civil power — 
 a privilege not so fully enjoyed by his predecessors. All 
 
i60 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 things are going on well ; for ^^ hich blessing, v. hile we ale 
 grateful to him as the instrument, we desire to give glory 
 to God." 
 
 Liberal as the offer of the land was, Mr. Bradnock found 
 himself under the pahiful necessity of declining to accept it, 
 through the poverty and pecuniary embarrassments of the 
 society : — it was useless to begin a chapel without having 
 the means to iinisli it. 
 
 Through the persecutions which had prevailed, night- 
 preaching had been given up for many years prior to the 
 arrival of Mr. Bradnock ; but the flattering prospects with 
 Avhich he found himself encircled, induced him, towards the 
 close of the year, to attempt its re-establishment. In his 
 first endeavors he was very much annoyed ; and two offenders 
 were taken before the magistrates. These gentlemen, to 
 their honor be it spoken. Mere much inclined to do justice ; 
 but on a promise of good behavior in future, from the offen- 
 ders, proceedings Mere dropped, and they were forgiven. 
 This lenity, however, only served to excite others to renew'" 
 the disturbances ; so that it was found expedient to resort 
 to more rigorous measures. Three were accordingly bound 
 over to the Great Sessions, to answer the charges brought 
 against them. The methods Mhich Mere taken by Mr. 
 J3radnock and his friends, soon convinced the rioters that : 
 they Mere in earnest. This brought them to submission, 
 and to sue for mercy. The prosecution was accordingly 
 dropped, in consequence of their making a public acknow- 
 ledgment in the papers, and paying the expenses, M'hich, 
 taken in the aggregate, fell but little short of one hundred 
 and fifty pounds. This decisive step termi2;iate{l their career 
 of interruptions ; and the pious society, Mhich consisted of 
 forty-nine members, closed the year in peace. 
 
 Mr. liichard Pattisson succeeded ISlr. Bradnock in the 
 year 1805. He found the society nearly in the same state 
 in M'hich his predecessors had left it. The congregation M'as 
 rather large than respectable ; since many attended for no 
 other purpose but to create disturbances, and shelter them- 
 selves from detection under the cover of darkness. The 
 night-preaching, which had been revived, Mr. Pattisson, 
 nevertheless, endeavored to continue ; but such noise and 
 confusion, he declares, he had never witnessed before. " The 
 magistrates," he observes, " are kind, and would certainly 
 punish any one we could recognize ; but it is hard to say 
 M ho are the disturbers ; as most of the cqngregation seem 
 iniiuenced hj one spirit, and are deter mmed to oppose. 
 
WEST INDIES. 161 
 
 But the Lord is able to still the ragings of the people. It 
 seems, the only probable way of doing good, is to contuiue 
 the night-preaching." With respect to ihe country, his 
 views were, by no means, so sanguine as those of his pre- 
 decessor ; and, indeed, the instability which had been so 
 often found, afforded but too much room for a diversity of 
 opinions. On the whole, the members of society through 
 the island, who amounted to nearly lifty, were orderly, pious, 
 and steadfast : the mob were always ready to create dis- 
 turbances ; the congregations were unstable ; and the people, 
 in general, utterly averse to the gospel. 
 
 The year 1806 afforded little or no probability of en- 
 larging the sphere of action. " People of all descriptions," 
 says Mr. Pattisson, " seem utterly averse to preaching, and 
 oppose the gospel. We have sometimes a number of white 
 people who attend ; but it is astonishing to see with what 
 indiflerence they sit under the word, and what contempt 
 they manifest." The society, this year, consisted of twenty 
 whites and twenty-one persons of color ; so that, on the 
 whole, the number rather declined. Among these might be 
 found, two or three who halted between two opinions ; but 
 all besides seemed quite in earnest for the salvation of tlieir 
 souls. 
 
 The bad success which had attended the preaching of the 
 word in this island, afforded but indifferent encouragement 
 for us to persevere, with any hope of success, in this unfruit- 
 ful part of our work. But the few pious souls who had 
 borne up under a tempest of persecution, which, in various 
 forms, had assailed them for years, forbade us to abandon 
 them to the dangers with which they were surrounded. !Mr. 
 Pattisson, being about to return to Europe, \vas succeeded 
 bv Mr. Robinson, who providentially reached the island a 
 little before his departure from it. This administered no 
 small degree of joy to the few pious worshippers, who evea 
 trembled at their approaching separation from the preaching 
 of the M ord. A gleam of hope was excited, by the prospect 
 of a new opening in the country, as a !Mr. Harduig, who 
 had long been our sincere friend, had purchased an estate, 
 on which were about one hundred and forty negroes. To 
 tiiese negroes the Missionaries could have free access : and 
 we flattered ourselves, that if God should be pleased to 
 bless his word among them, the proprietors of other estates, 
 beholding the reformation ^hich had been wrought, might 
 be induced, from motives of interest, to invite the Mission- 
 
 VOL. II. X 
 
162 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 aries to enter a door, which better principles could not per- 
 suade them to open. 
 
 Encouraged by these prospects, and animated by these 
 hopes, Mr. Robinson enterecl upon his labors, in expecta- 
 tion of obtaining the divine blessing on his exertions. The 
 society and congregations, both in town and countiy, were 
 in nearly the same state as that which has been already 
 described. The former did not amount to fifty members, 
 but these were pious ; the numbers of the latter were con- 
 tinually varying, many of whom had reached a maturity in 
 wickedness, and were possessed of stability in opposing the 
 things of God. 
 
 Unhappily, the appearances of 1807 did not answer the 
 expectations of the preceding year. The labors of Mr. 
 Robinson, during the former part of the year, were not 
 crowned with any remarkable successes. Though indefati- 
 gable in his exertions, the society rather declmed in numbers ; 
 so that, the last returns stated them to amount to no more 
 than thirty-six ; of whom, twenty-three were whites, and 
 thirteen colored people and blacks. 
 
 To heighten die afflictions of this remnant of the society, 
 and apparently to withdraw the sound of the gospel from 
 the island, it pleased God, in his inscrutable judgments, to 
 call Mr, Robinson to his eternal reward. This melancholy 
 event took place on the 17th of July 1807, of which Mr. 
 Harding has favored us with the following account : " On 
 Thursday, the 2d instant, Mr. Robinson rode to brother 
 Chapman's, about seven miles from Bridge-tow n ; and in 
 the evening preached. He exerted himself much during the 
 discourse, which was observed to be more solemn and ener- 
 getic than usual ; and after singing several hymns with the 
 family, retired to rest in good spirits, and, apparently, in 
 good health. When he arose next morning, he complained 
 of severe indisposition, and was prevailed upon to return 
 again to bed. On medical aid being called in, he was found 
 to be in a bilious fever. Every mean w^as made use of for 
 his recovery, but without eifect ; the disease was irresistible, 
 and raged with increased violence ; but he bore his suffering 
 Avith great firmness, and true Christian fortitude. One 
 night during his illness, he observed to one who sat by his 
 bed-side, that it was strongly impressed on his mind, if the 
 Lord should spare him, to speak from Acts xxvii. 23, 24 ; 
 on which passage he made some remarks. On another 
 occasion, at the near approach of death, he observed, (allud- 
 
WEST INDIES. l63 
 
 ing to his agony) " It is a hard thing to die, but I shall be 
 " more than conqueror." His last request was, " Praise 
 " God on my account, for I have not a doubt of my accept- 
 " ance." In the article of death, he represented a glorious 
 scene to those around hnu : suddenly rising upon his knees 
 in the bed, he stretched forth his hands, and lifting his eyes 
 towards heaven, exclaimed aloud — " I am more than con- 
 " queror, I am more than conqueror," and mstantly gave 
 up the ghost. May I die like huti, and may my last end be 
 like his. 
 
 "WILLIAM HARDING." 
 
 Such are the mysterious dispensations of the Almighty. 
 In this vale of tears, we are called to walk by faith, and not 
 bv sight, — to behold effects abstracted from their causes, — 
 and to survey detached facts, without beuig able to trace 
 their connexion with the moral go\ernment of the world. 
 In the kingdom of nature, the way of God is in the whirl- 
 M'ind; and in the kingdom of grace, his judgments and 
 forbearance are past finding out. The inhabitants of 
 Barbadoes have long heard the invitations which have 
 been given them to repentance ; and both judgments and 
 mercies have been displayed towards them in a most sin- 
 gular manner ; yet have they not returned to me, saith 
 the Lord. 
 
 Inundations, drought, and hurricanes, have more than 
 once visited their shores ; and death has so repeatedly 
 knocked at their doors, that the sound is become too fa- 
 miliar to permit them to perceive tlie warnings which are 
 given. The pestilence may, perhaps, be soon commissioned 
 to ravage an ungrateful territory, to sweep away the in- 
 habitants, and desolate the land. These judgments may 
 induce the survivors to regret their neglect of that gospel, 
 which they have so long despised, and urge them to call 
 for mercy, when God may refuse to give them an answer. 
 'ITie death of Mr. Robinson left them without a preacher ; 
 and the little pious tlock without a shepherd, in the midst 
 of a M'ilderness, exposed to dangers from which nothing 
 but divine grace can preserve them. But he, in whom 
 they have learned to trust, well knows how to succour them 
 in the midst of temptation ; and if they cleave to him, he 
 will work a way for their escape. May God give the in- 
 habitants at large to know, in the day of then- visitation, 
 the things that belong to their peace, before they are for 
 ever hidden from their eyes ! 
 
164 HISTOKY OF THE 
 
 The Methodist Conference, however, is still determined 
 to retain its hold of this populous, but unfruitful island ; 
 and, therefore, we continue in hope, that its exertions 
 will, at last, be abundantly blessed by our long-suffering 
 and gracious God and Saviour. Some further, but very 
 brief account, of the work in Barbadoes, will be laid before 
 our readers in the Appendix. 
 
 i 
 
WEST INDIES. \6j 
 
 CHAP. XX. 
 
 HISTORY OF TOBAGO. 
 
 El tent. — Situation. — Appearance. — Primaiy inhabitants. 
 — Original settlements. — P icissitudes. — Captures. — Cli- 
 mate. — Fertility. — Productions. — Present inhahitanis. — 
 ^4itempts of the Moravians to establish a Mission on the 
 island. 
 
 JL HIS little island, the utmost length of Mhich does not 
 I'xceed thirtv-two miles, nor its breadth nine miles, is situated 
 in 1 r' 10' north latitude, and in 60° 30' west longitude. 
 It lies more to the east than any of tlie other islands, except 
 Barbadoes, and is at an equal distance, of about one hun- 
 dred and twenty miles, from that island and from the 
 vSpanish main. The climate is more temperate, considering 
 its proximity to the equator, than that of some other islands 
 at a greater distance from it. And besides this exemption 
 from suffocating heats, it has likewise the advantage of not 
 being so subject to those dreadful hurricanes, which some- 
 times lay waste entire plantations, demolish houses, and 
 destroy the shipping, in other parts of the West Indies. The 
 fertility of the soil ; the beauty of the country, variegated by 
 hills and valleys, and abundantly \\atered by rivers and 
 springs ; and the safe position of its bays and creeks, both 
 for navigation and shelter, render it at once convenient and 
 agreeable both for residence and commercial pursuits. By 
 whom this island was first discovered, it is now both useless 
 to inquire, and impossible to know. It is highly probable 
 that it was once inhabited by the savage tribes ; but that 
 these Mere ever very numerous, admits of considerable doubt. 
 If traditions, which have been brought from the contiguous 
 contment, may be thought deserving of credit, we shall 
 learn from them tliat the island was originally peopled by a 
 warlike race, m ho were perpetually engaged in conflicts with 
 the inhabitants of the neighboring shores ; and that, after 
 innumerable contests, the numbers of the latter prevailed 
 over the valor of the former, and compelled them to abandon 
 a spot \\ hich they had defended from generation to genera- 
 
166 HISTORY OF THli 
 
 tion, and to seek in the adjacent islands an asylum which 
 this was destined to yield them no more. 
 
 The period in which it was abandoned, is as uncertain as 
 the occasion which we have mentioned. This much however 
 is clear, that the victors, satisfied with having expelled the 
 vanquished, abandoned the territory from which they had 
 compelled them to retire, without attempting to turn it to 
 any advantage, or even to take it into their possession. It 
 was in the year 1632, while the nations of Europe were 
 ranging the American seas in pursuit of dominion and wealth, 
 that some natives of Flessingen fixed their eyes upon Tobago. 
 These adventurers were about two hundred in number. At 
 this period it seemed to be abandoned and neglected by all, 
 and lay without either inhabitant or claimant. This circum- 
 stance gave encouragement to the Dutch in founding their 
 infant colony, and induced them to believe that they should 
 be permitted to settle, without meeting with any to obstruct 
 their intentions, or dispute their rights. But in these con- 
 jectures they were miserably mistaken. 
 
 The Spaniards who inhabited Trinidad no sooner obtained 
 intelligence of this intended settlement, than they grew jea- 
 lous of their enterprizing neighbors; and from an appre- 
 hension that they would penetrate their secrets in exploring 
 the banks of the Oronooko, which at this time Mere thought 
 to contain beds of gold, they fixed a resolution to attack 
 and destroy them. The savages who inhabited the neigh- 
 boring parts of the continent had already suffered so much 
 from the Spaniards, as to view with the utmost detestation 
 every stranger who bore the name of European. These 
 were easily prevailed upon to assist in the destruction of 
 their new invaders ; not because they loved the Spaniards, 
 but because the death of every stranger rendered the num- 
 ber of their common enemies smaller. The savages of 
 1 rinidad, and the cannibals of the continent, soon embarked 
 on their murderous expedition. They assailed the new 
 settlers in a moment when they had no expectation of hos- 
 tility, and were but too successful in their undertaking. 
 Whoever was so unfortunate as to fall within the reach of 
 either was sure to suffer death. The colonists, unable to 
 make any effectual resistance, soon became the victims of 
 their merciless assassins ; the greater number bled beneath 
 their sabres ; and the few who escaped the general carnage, 
 to preserve the mournful memorials of their sufferings, betook 
 themselves to the forests, there to wait a favorable oppor- 
 
WEST INDIES, 167 
 
 tunlty to abandon an island which had promised riches, but 
 lured them to destruction. 
 
 The island, thus robbed of its inhabitants, was instantly 
 abandoned by its conquerors, and once more consigned over 
 to solitude. In this situation it remained upwards of twenty 
 years, till the circumstances of the calamity Mere nearly 
 forgotten. In 16j4 the Dutch made a second attempt ; 
 but their successes were neither more permanent nor more 
 advantageous. In I666 they were attacked by us, and once 
 more dispossessed of the island. But the conquerors were not 
 permitted to reap the fruits of their victory ; they were at- 
 tacked in their turn by the arms of France, and compelled 
 to resign their possessions into the hands of their new invu,- 
 ders. Lewis XIV. having at this time more territory than 
 he could either people or defend, permitted, on this occasion, • 
 liis ambition to give way to his avarice. He restored the 
 island to its ancient possessors the Dutch, who sent thither 
 one thousand two hundred inhabitants to clear and cultivate 
 the lands. These colonists, placing in the French monarch 
 more confidence than his conduct deserved, immediately 
 began to cultivate tobacco, indigo, and cotton ; to which 
 they added a few sugar plantations, and tiattered themselves 
 with the prospect of a productive harvest, to reward them 
 for the sufferings of their countrymen and their own personal 
 toils. 
 
 But these prospects, like the former, only flattered to 
 delude, lire ambition of the French monarch, which had 
 been at variance with his avarice, and had given the island 
 to the Dutch when it was wrested from us, now cons.pired 
 to rob them of the territory which his specious generosity 
 had previously bestowed. In the year 1677 the French 
 equipped a formidable fleet, the command of which was 
 given to D' Estrees, and sent it into these seas to capture 
 Tobago. Tlie Dutch, prior to its sailing, had been appiized 
 of their intention, and dispatched a naval force to protect 
 the colonists, and oppose the assailants. It was in the 
 month of February that these fleets fell in with each other, 
 when a most desperate engagement ensued. In this conflict 
 every ship was dismasted, twelve vessels were burned, and 
 many others sunk. Those which escaped were reduced to 
 mere wrecks ; and scarcely a sufficient number of seamen 
 was left alive to conduct any of them into their respective 
 ports. The French, after meeting with such a severe repulse, 
 were by no means in a condition to pinsue the object of 
 their voyage. It was relinquished accordingly ; and 1 obago 
 
168 HISTORY OF tHE 
 
 escaped for the present the subjugation with which it was 
 threatened. !j 
 
 The pride of Lewis, irritated at this disappointment and ■ 
 disgrace, determined to make another effort to Avipe off the 
 dishonor which he thought had tarnished the lustre of his j 
 arms in the eyes of Europe. In the month of December, ! 
 in the same year, another expedition M'as fitted out under ' 
 tlie direction of the same commander. This reached the 
 destined spot without meeting with any impediment to arrest 
 its progress, or counteract its design. The troops landed 
 without much opposition ; but they found that every prepa- 
 ration was made to give them a warm reception. Both 
 parties began an engagement which they supported with the 
 utmost bravery ; well knowing that the fate of the island, 
 « under Providence, depended on its issue. Victory for a 
 considerable time hovered in suspense, till a shell, thrown 
 from the camp of the assailants into that of the defenders, 
 blew up their powder magazine, and decided the business. 
 
 The colonists, having the means of defence no longer in 
 their power, were compelled to submit to the mercy of their 
 invaders. Unhappily, they found but a small portion of 
 this ingredient. The conquerors, provoked at their resist- 
 ance, and determined to revenge their former defeat, treated 
 them with a degree of rigour which was unexpected, if not 
 unexampled. The fortifications were dismantled ; the plan- 
 tations and houses w ere consumed with fire ; the ships in 
 the harbor, with their respective cargoes, were seized ; and 
 the inhabitants were carried off the island. Finding nothing 
 more which seemed capable of destruction, the victors aban- 
 doned the prize for which they had been so eagerly contend- 
 ingf and Tobago was once more consigned over to that 
 solitude in which it was first discovered. In the peace which 
 followed, France was confirmed in this useless possession ; 
 imd more than half a century passed by before a single 
 person was sent to inhabit it. 
 
 To justify this indolence, which merited more contempt 
 than the defeat which the French had sustained in their first 
 endeavors to take it, they spread a report, that \\hat they 
 had captured by their arms, and secured by the treaty of 
 peace, was little better than a barren rock, unworthy their 
 regard, and but ill calculated to realize their expectations. 
 Our government, however, were not to be deluded with 
 such reports, which they well knew were founded on false- 
 hoods. The time during which they had had it in their posses- 
 sion was indeed but short, but it was sufiicient to enable 
 
WEST 'INDIES. 1(59 
 
 them to ascertain the fact. They knew its ittiportance, and 
 only waited a favorable moment to convince the world in 
 what lit;ht it was viewed by them. The war \Vhich almost 
 immediately succeeded, furnished them with this oppor- 
 tunity ; and they once more took possession of Tobago, not 
 so much by way of conquest, as to assert the former rights 
 on which they founded their pretensions to possession. The 
 peace which took place in 1763, guaranteed this much-dis- 
 puted claim, and laid the foundation of the first permanent 
 colony that, through a train of disastrous circumstances, had 
 ever been permitted to flourish within its shores. 
 
 We must not, however, imagine, because the French 
 sent out no colonists to settle on this island while it was in 
 their possession, that it was entirely destitute of inhabitants 
 when our government asserted its almost forgotten claims. 
 Through the long period of fifty years, a great number of 
 solitary individuals had removed thither from different places, 
 through a variety of causes. These had begun plantations 
 in many parts; but none pretended to have any other claim 
 upon the lands which they held, than that which arose from 
 undisputed possession. The island, it was admitted by all, 
 belonged at that time to France ; and as such, they acknow- 
 ledged themselves to be French subjects. They lived in a 
 kind of peaceable anarchy; they derived no protection from 
 the mother-country, and they paid no tribute to it ; their 
 ambition led them no farther, than to procure for themselves 
 a scanty sustenance ; and they were chiefly indebted for their 
 safety to their poverty. 
 
 On the arrival of our countrymen the face of things 
 assumed another aspect. They did not attempt to drive the 
 former settlers from their plantations ; but, by incorporating 
 them among themselves, placed them on a more permanent 
 footing, and broke off^ their dependance upon France. Un- 
 fortunately, our countrymen, on their arrival, began their 
 settlements on the leeward side of the island; and thus 
 exposed both themselves and their slaves to those pernicious 
 effects which the noxious vapours blown over an extensive 
 tract of land, rarely fail to produce in that country. The 
 consequences of this imprudent step immediately followed. 
 A dreadful mortality prevailed, and the whole colony was 
 brought into a desponding state. Convinced by experience 
 of an error which their prudence should have foreseen, they 
 J emoved to the windward, and found the air more salubriouSi 
 Here they began their plantations, and laid the foundation 
 
 VOL. II. Y 
 
170 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 of that prosperity which the island has since attained ; or, 
 rather, continues to the present hour to anticipate. 
 
 To expedite the cultivation of the soil, the proprietors, 
 soon after Tobago came into our possession, exposed the 
 lands to sale. They were put up in lots of five hundred 
 acres each ; and, to prevent monopoly, no purchaser was 
 permitted to engl-oss more than a single portion. Unhap- 
 pily, the formalities attending these sales rather retarded 
 than promoted the settlement in its early periods ; for, 
 though the title was known to be unquestionable, and the 
 quality of the lands excellent, not more than forty thousand 
 acres could find purchasers during the first three years after 
 we"were confirmed in our possession by the peace of 1763. 
 The price was inconsiderable ; not amounting to much more 
 than twenty shillings per acre ; and the money was to be 
 paid by instalments at different periods, when it was pre- 
 sumed the proprietor would be able to make some returns 
 from the productions of the soil. 
 
 It was in consequence of these tempting offers, joined to 
 the natural advantages of the island, that several rich mer- 
 chants of Bristol and London were induced to advance 
 considerable sums of money to their countrymen emigrating 
 from England, and from the well-inhabited West India 
 Islands, to settle at Tobago. The same inducements operated 
 upon the minds of the emigrants, and led them to borrow 
 the sums which were offered at a most exorbitant interest. 
 
 From this union of industry and wealth, a considerable 
 portion of the island was, in the space of twenty years, 
 rendered productive of many valuable commodities, such as 
 were perfectly unknown in the former periods of its history. 
 It was fast approaching towards perfection, when unhappily 
 the vicissitudes of war once more threw it into the hands of 
 the French in 1 78 1 ; and their rights of conquest were con- 
 firmed by the definitive treaty of 1783^ 
 
 In the succeeding war, it was, however, again retaken by 
 Admiral Sir John Laforey, and by the land forces under the 
 command of ISIajor-General Cuyler, on the 13th of April, 
 1793. At this time it was an easy conquest; for little 
 resistance was made by the inhabitants, some of the principal 
 planters being Englishmen, who, in virtue of a stipulation 
 in their favor in the treaty of 1783, had been allowed to 
 remain on the island, and to keep their property under the 
 old government of France, 
 
 But the astonishing revolution in the French empirej 
 
WEST INDIES. 171 
 
 which all Europe has beheld with amazement, naturally 
 tended to render all property questionable and insecure ; and 
 this insecurity increased in these distant possessions, in pro- 
 portion to the rapidity of those changes which succeeded each 
 other in the parent state. The confiscations which were 
 constantly taking place at home, naturally suggested the idea 
 of confiscations abroad. The old government from which 
 those grants had originated by virtue of which the British 
 settlers held their property, had been abolished ; and, with 
 that abolition, the only security on which they stood dis- 
 appeared. 
 
 Nor were the French inhabitants placed in a more per- 
 manent situation. They held their possessions by the same 
 grants ; they felt with the same painful emotions the con- 
 vulsions which threatened to destroy them ; and, in con- 
 junction with the British, anxiously waited some favorable 
 event through which they might avert the impending storm. 
 In short, the dread of danger became the parent of dis- 
 alFection ; and even the French, as well as the English, 
 without much reluctance, surrendered the island into the 
 hands of Sir John Laforey. Even in the eyes of the French 
 Republic, it was rather given up by the inhabitants, than 
 conquered by its invaders ; and as such, it was reclaimed and 
 restored by the 3d article of the definitive treaty of peace in 
 1802. 
 
 It was not, however, destined to continue long under the 
 French government. War was renewed between Great 
 Britain and France in May 1803; and on the 1st of July, 
 in the same year, Tobago again surrendered, by capitulation, 
 to the British forces commanded by Lieutenant-General 
 Grinfield and Commodore Hood ; and under British do- 
 minion, it is to be hoped, the island will long remain. 
 
 Tobago, before the accessible land was cleared of its 
 thick forests by the assiduity of our settlers, after the peace 
 of 1783, was orie of the most unhealthy spots in the West 
 Indies. This was owing in a great measure to large tracts 
 of marshy land, which rendered the air extremely unwhole- 
 some. These bogs they contrived to drain, though at an 
 enormous expense, and with considerable labor. Of the 
 sums which they had borrowed from the London and Bristol 
 merchants, at the exorbitant interest of eleven per cent, a 
 considerable portion was expended in the accomplishment 
 of this necessary work ; but the soil, which was thus rescued 
 from the stagnant waters, promised to repay them with aii 
 ample compensation. 
 
172 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 For the last tiventy years, the effects of those improve- 
 ments have been perceptible in the advantageous change of 
 the atmosphere. In consequence, the country has been 
 highly cultivated, and the prosperity and health of the inha- 
 bitants have been rapidly increasing ; so that, with a few 
 exceptions, this island may now be considered as very 
 healthy. The situation of Scarborough, its capital, is re- 
 markably dry and declivous ; the houses are mostly separated, 
 or, if joining, they are well disposed and ventilated ; and as 
 the environs are neither much wooded, nor any where in- 
 cumbered with wet or marshy ground, it cannot be consi- 
 dered as unhealthy, in any other respect than that of its 
 being to leeward of the unwholesome air of the bay of Ba- 
 colet. 
 
 This island is not, like most of the other Antilles, en- 
 cumbered with stupendous inaccessible mountains. The 
 highest grounds rise only into agreeable and moderate hills, 
 from which you descend into fertile vallies and extensive 
 plains, shaded with a variety of lofty trees, which seem as if 
 planted by nature to protect the inhabitants, who walktmder . 
 the spreading branches, from the scorching heat of the sun. 
 The cedar and palm trees are particularly distinguished for 
 their extraordinary height and circumference, far exceeding 
 those of the other islands. It is also remarkable for the 
 great variety and abundance of its fruit-trees, the beauty 
 and fragrance of its shrubs and flowers, and the plenty of 
 culmary vegetables supplying a wholesome cooling diet 
 essentially necessary in this hot climate. 
 
 Some kinds of animals, of which only one or two are to . 
 be found m the other islands, abound in this ; particularly 
 a distinct species of wild boars ; and hogs having shorter ears 
 than those of Europe, and also a vent, by some called the 
 navel, on their backs : their grunting noise is likewise more 
 frightful. Armadilloes, agoutes, musk rats, and wild cats, 
 whose skins are mottled with various colors, are also occa- 
 sionally found in this island. The birds are almost innu- 
 merable. Amongst others, turtle doves, parroquets, and 
 tiirushes, fly about in such large flocks, that they sometimes 
 seem to darken the sky. There is likewise a peculiar species 
 of pheasants, which the inhabitants call Kaquereka, because, 
 at break of day, they repeat distinctly, and almost incessantly, 
 a shrill cry resembling the sound of that word, which is very 
 disagreeable to the ears of persons not accustomed to it ; but 
 the flesh of this bird is delicious food. 
 
 The sea which washes the coast of this island abounds 
 
WEST INDIES. 173 
 
 Avllh all sorts of excellent fish, especially large turtles, 
 which, during the calm and silence of the night, come on 
 shore in troops to conceal their eggs in the moist sands ; — 
 an instinct which they receive from the God of nature, as 
 the only way of preserving thejr species. But they are 
 often defeated in this design by the lords of the creation, 
 M ho not only deprive them of their eggs, but, by turning 
 them on their backs, easily catch them alive, the weight of 
 their shells preventing them from recovering their natural 
 posture. The use that is made of their flesh us a delicious 
 food, and of their shells in ornamental works, is too well 
 known to require any description. 
 
 With respect to reptiles, Tobago, as well as some of the 
 other West India Islands, is exempt from any of the veno- 
 mous kind; though serpents or snakes, of the enormous 
 length of from twelve to fifteen feet, are sometimes found 
 in the most unfrequented woods. These, however, retire 
 on the approach of man, and are only killed by the negroes, 
 who eat their flesh, and sell their skins to the curious ; by 
 whom they are held in estimation for the beauty of their 
 scales. 
 
 i\n intermixture of English and French, with some 
 Flemish settlers, occasioned by the island's so often changing 
 masters through the incidents of war, has produced a general 
 toleration in religious concerns ; so that christians of diiFe- 
 rent persuasions live together in society in perfect peace and 
 harmony, subject to the spiritual jurisdiction and discipline 
 of their respective ministers. This is particularly the case 
 with the Dutch emigrants from Zealand, who, early in the 
 seventeenth century, laid the foundation of a new colony 
 ,in this island, Avhere many of their descendants still remain. 
 
 In this island the Moravian brethren have made some 
 attempts, but hitherto without any considerable success ; a 
 variety of causes havmg conspired to frustrate their inten- 
 tions. Exertion and prosperity are two distinct ideas; \ve 
 may use the former, but the latter we cannot command. 
 The intervention of secret causes sometimes defeats our best 
 endeavors ; piety and sincerity are alike exposed to opposi- 
 tion ; nor is it in the power of man to calculate with cer- 
 tainty upon the issues of his plans. 
 
 A gentleman, whose name was Hamilton, had resided 
 for some time in the island of Tobago ; and, from the 
 favorable reports which he had heard of the Moraviaij 
 brethren, he repeatedly requested them by letter to visit his 
 abode. Mr. Hamilton was a gentleman of considerable 
 
174 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 property and mfiiience ; and his indefatigable zeal to promote 
 the welfare of his negroes caused him to propose a mission 
 among them, that they might be made acquainted with the 
 gospel of Jesus, and the way to everlasting life. 
 
 tlis repeated applications, however, though not disre- 
 garded, were for a considerable time apparently made in 
 vain. Various causes united to forbid a compliance; but 
 one reason of considerable weight was, that as the island 
 was at that time in the hands of the French, and the eccle- 
 siastical government Roman Catholic, it remained a matter 
 of considerable doubt, m hether a mission could be estab- 
 lished with any probability of continuance. 
 
 At this time Mr. John Montgomery, a Moravian mis- 
 sionary, resided in Barbadoes, who, at the solicitations of 
 Mr. Hamilton, went over to Tobago. By Mr. Hamilton 
 he was introduced to the Governor, Count Dillon ; who 
 not only treated him with kindness and respect, but promised 
 him both protection and support. The report of this visit 
 was accompanied with a renewed application on the part of 
 Mr. Hamilton; and toward the close of the year 1789 it 
 was determined, that Mr. Montgomery should leave Bar- 
 badoes, and take up his residence in Tobago. He accord- 
 ingly left the former island on the 22d of April 1790, and 
 reached the latter on the 27th. 
 
 On his arrival, the Governor issued immediate orders for 
 bringing him on shore, and appointed a soldier to conduct 
 biin in safety to his house ; assuring him, on his approachj^ 
 that he was greatly rejoiced at the intended settlement, and 
 that he vvoiild gladly render all the assistance in his power, 
 Mr. Hamilton procured a convenient lodging, and did every 
 thing he could to promote the great object of the mission, 
 and to make his situation as comfortable as the state or 
 things would allow. 
 
 Scarcely, however, had Mr. Montgomery settled in his 
 new island, before a general alarm spread through eveiy 
 part. This M'as occasioned by a mutiny that had broken out 
 among the soldiers. In the tirst place, they proceeded to 
 attack their officers ; and so far succeeded, that they beat 
 them most unmercifully. Then forming themselves into 
 separate parties, some formed garrisons without any officers ; 
 and others, from perhaps an apprehension of an impending 
 storm, departed to the neighboring islands. About tw( 
 days afterwards, the town was set on fire, about two o'clock 
 in the morning, while the peaceable inhabitants were fast 
 asleep. The houses being built chie% of wood, the drynes^ 
 
WEST INDIES. 175 
 
 «f the season and a high wind favored the abominable 
 design. The contiagration spread in every direction, and 
 did not stop until it readied the sea. Some few magazines, 
 which stood to the windward of the fire, were happily pre- 
 served ; but, exclusively of these, the whole town was 
 reduced to a heap of ruins. The inhabitants of the country 
 indeed, upon hearing the alarm, proceeded with their negroes 
 towards the fire, in hopes of being able to stop the progiess 
 of the flames ; but, on their arrival, they were forbidden 
 entrance by the soldiers, who had shut up every avenue, 
 and would not suffer one negro to enter, until all should be 
 over, or until their assistance could be of no service. 
 
 After some time, when the tumult had subsided, and 
 tranquillity was again restored, Mr. Montgomery removed 
 to a new habitation which had been fitted up for his recep- 
 tion. " The day after (he observes) I ^vent to church, and 
 conversed with some negroes, who promised to tell their 
 companions, that, at four o'clock in the afternoon, I should 
 be glad to see them at my house, to speak to them of their 
 Creator and Redeemer. They all promised to come, but 
 not one came. During the following week I went frequently 
 to the to^^ n, to make myself known ; and on the Sunday 
 following addressed them again, and invited them to meet 
 at my house. They again promised to come, but not one 
 appeared at the appointed time. On the following Sunday, 
 July the 14th, I waited a whole hour for hearers ; at length 
 three came. To these I spoke of the great love of God to 
 them and the whole fallen human race. In about an hour's 
 time nearly thirty had assembled, to whom I delivered a 
 discourse on these words, God is love. They behaved well ; 
 and some promised to come again. A negro woman said, 
 " We know very well how to go to church ; and therefore 
 " we came to hear the new preacher, and we like him very 
 " well." 
 
 " The Sunday after this, fourteen w ere at the meeting ; 
 but on the two Sundays following not one appeared. Be- 
 tween our house and the town is a plain upon the sea-coast, 
 on which all kinds of diversions are practised upon Sunday 
 afternoons. All the negroes, who would come to us from 
 the town, must pass close by this place ; and thus it seems 
 38 if Satan had pitched his camp opposite to us, and would 
 not suffer any one to pass by to hear the gospel. What can 
 I say more ? Gladly would I say something more encourag- 
 ing, but I cannot at present ; nor can I describe, in words, 
 
176 HISTORY or THE 
 
 the sensations of my heart in meditating upon these subjects. 
 Remember and pray for your poor distressed brother, 
 
 JOHN MONTGOMERY." 
 
 The insurrection and fire, which we have already noticed, 
 were succeeded, in August 1 790, by a most tremendous 
 hurricane. About twenty vessels were driven on shore, and 
 completely lost, in different parts of the island. In the 
 country the devastation was no less sudden and terrible. 
 Mr. Hamilton's sugar-works, being about seventy feet long, 
 were totally destroyed, together with all the stores which 
 they contained. His elegant new mansion, which had been 
 built upon pillars, was lifted up by the tempest, and re- 
 moved to some distance ; but, being well made, it did not 
 go to pieces. Mrs. Hamilton fainted away, fell down, and 
 hurt her face in the fall ; but two ladies and five children, 
 who were in the house, suffered little or no harm. Mr. 
 Hamilton, being absent from home, knew nothing of what 
 had happened to his habitation ; but returning in the night, 
 which was excessively dark, and groping for his door, fell 
 over some rubbish which was left on the spot, and so far 
 hurt himself that he was confined for a week. 
 
 At this time Mrs. Montgomery was ill of a fever, which 
 on the 23d of October terminated in her death. Close by 
 their house stood an old uninhabited building : this, through 
 the violence of the hurricane, was lifted from the ground, 
 and thrown upon their habitation ; so that they expected 
 every moment to be buried in the ruins of both. " I ran," 
 says Mr. Montgomery, " out of the house to look about me, 
 but could see nothing for rain and lightning. Rafters and 
 shingles were flying about in the air, and the storm soon 
 forced me back into our dwelling. In a few minutes the 
 rain had as thoroughly penetrated my clothes as if I had 
 fallen into the sea. I now carried my poor sick wife into 
 a small chamber adjoining the dwelling ; but, though it was 
 firmly built, the rain beat in at all corners ; so that there 
 was but one small spot where she could sit dry ; and in this 
 situation we remained till the storm abated. 
 
 " As to the mission, I have not hitherto been able to 
 gain the attention of the town negroes. Many of them have 
 been baptized by the Roman Catholic priests and others, 
 though none of them attend any public worship. I shall 
 therefore direct myself, in future, more to the plantation 
 negroes ; and Mr. Hamilton has kindly promised to procure 
 a horse for this purpose. 
 
WEST INDIES. 177 
 
 " Though many gentlemen promised their assistance in 
 supporting the mission, yet i plainly perceive that the bur- 
 then will fall chiefly upon Mr. Hamilton. Some of those 
 who subscribed the paper sent to the synod have left the 
 island, and others are dead. Some think that the revolution 
 in France has put an end to all hopes of success, and discon- 
 tinue their subscriptions ; while others are cast down by the 
 great misfortunes that have lately befallen them. Some, 
 Avho formerly gave me pressing invitations to preach on their 
 estates, never mention a word about it now ; but our greatest 
 grief is, that we have not yet found one single soul that 
 seeks a Saviour." 
 
 Early in March 1791, Mr. Montgomery, having lost his 
 wife, seeing no fruit of his labors, and being ill of a dysen- 
 tery, took his leave of Tobago, and returned to Barbadoes. 
 In this island his complaint increased, so as to baflSe the 
 efforts of those who endeavored to restore his health ; and 
 on the 27th of June, he exchanged the troubles of time for 
 the rewards of eternity. Thus began and thus ended with 
 Mr. Montgomery the Moravian mission in Tobago. 
 
 In 1792, Mr. Hamilton again renewed his application for 
 a successor to Mr. Alontgomery, and in this request he was 
 joined by other planters ; but the brethren were not prepared 
 to comply with it. They, nevertheless, directed, that Mr. 
 Fritz, their Missionary in Barbadoes, should occasionally 
 visit Tobago, till a more favorable period should arrive for 
 them to make another effort. 
 
 VOL. II. 
 
178 HISTORY OF THS 
 
 CHAP. XXI. 
 
 HISTORY OF ST. VINCENT's. 
 
 St. Vincent's. — Situation, and acknowledged Neutrality. — 
 Original Inhabitants. — Origin of the black Charaibees. 
 — Their domestic Contentions, and Wars with the red 
 Charaibees. — The French gain a Footing through these 
 Discords, and, finally, form a Compromise with the pre- 
 vailing Faction. — Conquest of the Island by the English. 
 — Ceded to them in perpetuity by the Treaty of 17()3. — 
 Encroachments upon the Lands of the Charaibees. — This 
 succeeded by a War. — Articles of Pacification. — Vicissi- 
 tudes. — Violation of the above Articles through French 
 Intrigue. — Captured by the French in 1779 ; and, finally, 
 restored to England in 1783. 
 
 XT is situated in the 13th degree of north latitude, and 
 the 6 1st west longitude from London, and is nearly at an 
 equal distance from the two British colonies of Grenada and 
 Barbadoes. 
 
 This island, being either overlooked or neglected by 
 European navigators and adventurers, many years after they 
 had seized and colonized most of the other West India 
 islands, became the asylum of the native Indians, who had 
 fled from the cruelties of the Spaniards, the first European 
 invaders of their ancient habitations. The prospect of un- 
 disturbed tranquillity, uniting with a variety of local circum- 
 stances, rendered it more congenial to their genius and mode 
 of living, than any other spot. Amongst other particulars, 
 its numerous rivers, and pleasant vallies ; the vast quantities 
 of fish to be caught around its shores ; and the conveniency 
 of procuring trees proper for making canoes, gratified their 
 desires, and gave this island, in their estimation, a decided 
 superiority. 
 
 Of the original inhabitants, there are various accounts 
 .extant, materially differing from each other ; which render 
 a circumstantial detail the less interesting, especially as they 
 all depend on uncerlahi tradition. 
 
 A difficulty in accounting for facts, which we cannot but 
 
WEST INDIES. 179 
 
 perceive, without fully comprehending them, rarely fails to 
 open tlie door to conjecture in almost all its forms. In these 
 cases, supposition usurps the place of historical certainty ; a 
 concurrence of opinion gives weight to the inventions of fan- 
 cy ; and time, which sometimes gives sanction to the grossest 
 absurdity, metamorphoses error into current truth. 
 
 The island of St. Vincent exhibited to the lirst settlers, 
 two distinct races of men. They were, evidently, of differ- 
 ent origins, and their appearances and manners plainly cor- 
 responded with those of different portions of the globe. 
 One of these tribes had, evidently, descended from the 
 Aborigines of the island ; those of the other tribe were, as 
 evidently, intruders ; and the great difficulty consists in 
 accounting fairly and fully for their introduction. To speak 
 with certainty on this point, which is admitted by all to be 
 dubious, is what no author pretends. Probability is the 
 highest species of evidence which has hitherto been attained ; 
 and on this foundation the origin of this people rests. 
 
 Upon a fair comparison, Raynal seems to have given the 
 most concise and satisfactory narrative of the early settlement 
 of the Europeans among the natives, and of other savage 
 tribes inhabiting the island, and claiming it as their undis- 
 puted property at that period. " When the English and 
 " French," says that author, " began to give some con- 
 " sistence to their settlements on the Windward Islands, in 
 " 1660, they agreed, that Dominica and St. Vincent's 
 " should be left to the Charaibees, as their property. Some 
 " of these savages, who till then had been dispersed, re- 
 " tired into the former ; but the greater part into the latter. 
 
 " The population of these children of nature was sud- 
 " denly increased by a race of Africans, whose origin was 
 " never ascertained. It is asserted, that a ship carrying out 
 " negroes from that country, for sale, foundered on the 
 " coast of St. Vincent ; and that the slaves who escaped 
 " from the wreck were received by the inhabitants as 
 " brethren. Others pretend, that these blacks were de- 
 " serters from the plantations of the neighbouring colonies. 
 " A third tradition says, that this foreign race came from 
 " the blacks, whom the Charaibees took from the Spaniards, 
 " in the tirst wars between those Europeans and the Indians. 
 *' If we may credit Du Tertre, the oldest historian who has 
 " written on the Leeward Islands, those terrible savages, 
 " who were so inveterate against their European masters, 
 " spared the captive slaves, took them into their houses, and 
 " restored them to liberty, that they might enjoy life, that 
 
18<J HISTORY OF THE ^ 
 
 " is to say, the common blessings of nature, wliich no man 
 " has a right to withhold from his fellow-creatures. But 
 " this was not all. The proprietors of the island gave their 
 " daughters in marriage to these strangers ; and the race 
 " which sprung from this mixture, were called Black 
 " Charaibs, having preserved more of the primitive color 
 '* of their fathers, than of the lighter hue of their mothers. 
 *' The red Charaibs, or Charaibees, as they are now most 
 *' generally called, are of a low stature ; the black Charaibs 
 *' are tall and stout ; and this doubly-savage race speak with 
 " a degree of vehemence which seems like anger. 
 
 " At length, however, some difference arose between 
 " the two classes of these savages ; of which, the French 
 " inhabitant's of Martinico resolved to avail themselves, and 
 " thereby to protit by the ruin of both parties.* They 
 
 * Whatever the origin (.f these people might have been, this mnch is 
 evident : they were fostered by the natives, and treated as brethren whom 
 they felt solicitous to lescue from distress. How long both parties con- 
 tinued in amity, appears rather uncertain. Time, however, which pro- 
 duces a forgetfnlnf'ss of past misfortunes, and an obliteriition of gratitude, 
 increased their numbers, their power, and their ambition. This change 
 in circumstances soon led to a change in their condition. They rose upon 
 tlieir original benefact rs and preservers, nd, taking possession of their 
 liabitations and lands, drove them back into the north-west part of the 
 island. This happened about tlie year 1700. 
 
 The reason which has been assigned for this flagrant departure from 
 that gratitude which is so peculiar to the Indian character, is this : The 
 red Charaibees finding their black associates increase faster than them- 
 selves, came to a resolution similar to that which had been adopted by 
 Pharaoh on a somewhat similar occasion ; namely, to put all their male 
 children to death. And the blacks, exasperated at this mode of cruelty, 
 which was an outrage upon savage barbarity, proceeded to aims, and, 
 finally, to conquest, as above described. 
 
 The red Charaibees, however, driven from their habitations and lands, 
 uniformly made this treatment a subject of complaint, both to the English 
 and French, who occasionally touched on their part of the island, to take 
 in wood and water. The French, anxious to promote their own interest 
 under the auspices of justice, consented, after some deUberation, to 
 espouse the cause of the injured party; and, accordingly, in 1719, fitted 
 out a considerable expedition from Martinico. 
 
 Acting in compliance with the solicitations of the red Charaibees, the 
 French naturally expected, on their arrival, to find them in readiness to 
 co-operate in the common design. And in confidence of that persuasion, 
 landing without much opposition, they proceeded immediately to set fire 
 to the huts and plantations of the black Charaibees, whom they fidly re- 
 solved either wholly to extirpate, or to reduce to slavery. The red Cha- 
 raibees, however, who had been so forward to complain of the injuries 
 they had sustained, and to invite the French to the attack, enjoyed the 
 storm like unconcerned spectators ; while the French, unacquainted with 
 that mode of warfare which they were necessitated to pursue, were, 
 finally, obliged to retire with considerable loss. 
 
 The black Charaibees, unable to withstand the force of European arms. 
 
WEST IKDTES. 131 
 
 " pretended, that the black Charaibees gave shelter to tlia 
 " slaves who deserted from the French islands. — Imposture 
 " is always productive of injustice. Those who were falsely 
 *' accused, were afterwards attacked without reason; but 
 " the smallness of the numbers sent out against them, the 
 " jealousy of those who were appointed to command the 
 *' expedition, the defection of the red Charaibs, who refused 
 " to supply such dangerous allies with any of the succours 
 ** they had promised them, to act against their rivals ; and 
 " the impossibility of coming up widi enemies who kept 
 *' themselves concealed in woods, — were all circumstances 
 " wliich combined to disconcert this rash and violent enter- 
 " prize. The invaders were forced to re-embark, after 
 " losing many valuable lives ; but the triumph of the black 
 " Charaibs did not prevent tlieir suing for peace. They 
 " even invited the French to come and live with them, 
 " swearing sincere friendship and inviolable concord. The 
 " proposal w as accepted ; aud in the year 1719, many 
 " of the French hihabitants of ^lartinico removed to St. 
 " Vincent's." 
 
 When the French planters came to settle at St. Vincent's, 
 they brought tlieir slaves from Martiiiico, and other French 
 islands, to clear and till the ground. The black Charaibs, 
 shocked at the idea of resembling men who were degraded 
 by slavery, and fearing that in process of time their own 
 color, w hich betrayed their origin, might be made a pretence 
 for enslaving them, took refuge in the thickest part of the 
 woods. In this situation, in order to create aud perpetuate 
 a visible distinction between their race and the slaves brought 
 into the island, they compressed so as to flatten the fore- 
 heads of all their new-boni infants ; and this was, tliereafter, 
 considered as a token of their independence. The next gene- 
 ration tlius became, as it were, a ne^v race.* Tlie flat- 
 
 retreated by day from tlie scene of action, and secreted themselves in 
 some inaccessible parts; while, sallying by niiiht from some unsuspected 
 ambushes, success so far attended them, that they usually retiied secretly 
 victorious. 
 
 The French tioops, thus harassed with incessant toils ; obliged to act 
 on the defensive by night, and unable to accomplish any thing of an offen- 
 sive nature by day ; — deserted by the tribe whom tiiey came to assist, and 
 engaged in an expedition which rendered their situation more perilous in 
 proportion as time advanced, had to retire to Martiuico with this reflec- 
 tion, that savage noesse and policy had completely triumphed over Euro- 
 pean arms. 
 
 * That this custom of flattening the head of all their infants prevailed 
 among the original Charaibees, has been uniformly admitted by all ; and 
 
182 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 headed Charaibees, nearly of an equal age, tall, stout, hardy, 
 and fierce, like their progenitors, quitting their retirement 
 in the forest, boldly came forth, and erected huts, and 
 formed little communities, on the sea-coast. By degrees 
 they claimed a portion of the territory possessed by the 
 red Charaibees ; and having learned the use of iire-arms, 
 they found means to procure these engines of destruction 
 from the French trading-ships ; but being refused a friendly 
 participation in the landed property, they established them- 
 selves as a separate tribe, elected a chief, and once more 
 commenced hostilities against the red Charaibees. The blacks 
 were superior in strength, in valor, and perseverance ; and 
 at length, by force of arms, brought their adversaries to 
 terms of accommodation : and they agreed to divide equally 
 the lands situated to the leeward. 
 
 At this period of adjustment, the terms of accommodation 
 appeared to be mutually advantageous. An eye to a com- 
 munication with the French, was the primary object with 
 both parties; and the most likely method that could be 
 adopted, was to place themselves in the most promising 
 situation. As the black Charaibees were superior in strength 
 and personal valor, these terms of accommodation were 
 chieliy of their own dictating ; so that, even the lines of 
 demarcation were drawn by themselves ; and in their own 
 estimation, without doubt, gave them the most preferable 
 parts. 
 
 But as the division which had taken place, was in itself a 
 mere adventure, founded upon a calculation of future inter- 
 course, both parties were under the necessity of courting 
 those invaders who were secretly plotting the inevitable 
 destruction of each. The progress of time convinced them 
 of this important truth, and discovered the folly of those, 
 
 it is from this custom, in all probability, that the progenitors of this new > 
 lace acx] (tired the practice. The manner in which it was performed, we. 
 have already described in the third chapter of this work. 
 
 How unnatural soever the practice may in itself appear, nothing could 
 be better adapted to the purpose for which it was designed,— as an indeli- 
 ble mark of independence, — as a resemblance to the red Charaibees, — and 
 as an insuperable distinction between themselves and their brother Afri- 
 cnus, who were then enslaved on nearly the same spot. Anxious to be 
 tiiought natives of the island, it was, probably, on the same ground, that 
 they abandoned most of their African customs, and adopted the manners 
 of (lie Chaiaibees. Their color and features, however, were not to be 
 effaced; these circumstances betrayed their origin; while the customs 
 and nsaijes which they had acquired by their insular residence, probably, 
 obtained for them the title of black Charaibeefi. 
 
WEST INDIES. 183 
 
 intestine wars, which wasted that strength which should have 
 been unitedly exerted in one common cause. 
 
 It, however, happened, after a division of the lands had 
 taken place, that the black Charaibees experienced a most 
 mortifying disappointment. For most of the new planters 
 from Europe, and from the French settlements in the West 
 Indies, lauded, and settled near the red Charaibees, where 
 the coast is most accessible. This decided preference oc- 
 casioned a new war, in which the red Charaibees were 
 always defeated, and at length obliged to retire to the wind- 
 M'ard part of the island. Several of tliem, however, fled in 
 their canoes to the continent of America, and others to the 
 island of Tobago. As for the few that remained, they lived 
 separately from the blacks, who then became sole masters 
 of all the lands on the leeward shore ; and in quality of con- 
 querors, obliged the European planters to re-purchase the 
 lands, for which they had already paid the red Charaibees. 
 A Frenchman, having produced to a black Charaibee chief a 
 deed of some land that he had purchased of a red Charaibee, 
 was told he did not knoio what the paper contained, but, 
 pointing to his own arrow, bade him read there in legible 
 characters, " that if he did not give him the sum he de- 
 *' mandedy he would set fire to and burn down his house that 
 " zery night." " In this manner," says Raynal, " did a 
 " people who had not learned to read, argue with those 
 " who had derived such consequence from knowing how to 
 " write. They made use of the right of force, with as much 
 " assurance, and as little remorse, as if they had been ac- 
 " quainted with political maxims of state, and the practice 
 " of some civilized nations." 
 
 But the period of their prosperity was of short duration. 
 The French, who had with complacency beheld the two 
 parties destroying each other, had now the satisfaction of 
 seeing one no longer able to resist the encroachments of the 
 other, and of beholding the victorious so far weakened, as 
 to be unable to make any formidable defence against those 
 attacks which were meditating for them. The power, how- 
 ever, which the victorious Charaibees had thus acquired by 
 the total overthrow of their ancient benefactors, was exercised 
 with rigour ; and the French settlers had no other alterna- 
 tive, but to re-purchase the lands which they had already 
 bought of the original possessors, or to quit the island. But 
 even a compliance with these severe demands, could afford 
 no real security. A third party, for aught they knew, 
 might succeed to this second, or swarm from it, and demand 
 
184 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 from tliem anotber purchase on the point of the arrow, as 
 this had done, and leave them perpetually a prey to savage 
 factions. 
 
 Notwithstanding these impediments, the French prevailed, 
 by means of continual reinforcements of men and money, 
 and superior skill in agriculture and commercial affairs. So 
 that, in less than twenty years, eight hundred whites and 
 three thousand black slaves were employed in the cultivation 
 of commodities for exportation to the European markets, 
 vluch yielded the annual sum of one million live hundred 
 tliousand French livres, equal to sixty-three thousand six 
 hundred aud twenty-live pounds sterhng. Such was the 
 state of the island when it was invaded and conquered by 
 us ; to whom it was ceded in perpetuity by the treaty of 
 peace between us and France in 1763. 
 
 This, and the other islands surrendered by that treaty to 
 the crown of Great Britain, then assumed in England the 
 title of the " Ceded Islands ;" and a commission w as sent 
 out with the new British Goveniors, authorizing them to 
 sell tlie ceded lands by public sale, to iudemnify our govern- 
 ment for the heavy expenses of the war. Under this com- 
 mission, the lands of French proprietors purchased of the 
 Charaibees originally, and those belonging to the Charaibees 
 tjiemselves, were too indiscriminately sold to British 
 planters, who came to settle in these islands from the con- 
 tinent of North America, and from the British islands oi 
 Barbadoes and Antigua. 
 
 The injustice, of which the French settlers had so much 
 reason to complain in their transactions widi the savages, 
 w ere now to be again repeated by the new masters which 
 the island had acquired. 
 
 There were instances in which some of the French settlers 
 had originally bought their lands of the red Charaibees : their 
 defeat and total overthrow had obliged tliem to re-purchase 
 the same lands of the blacks who succeeded in dominion ; 
 their dominion in its tiini submitted to that of Britain ; and 
 these unfortunate cultivators found thei selves once more 
 mider the necessity of redeeming, a third time, those fields 
 which their industry had brought from a state of wildness 
 into the highest pitch of cultivation. 
 
 To the seven tv of this law a general languor succeeded. 
 jSIany abandoned their plantations and the island together, 
 and sought an asylum m St. Martin's, m Martinico, and' 
 Guadaloupe. Several more lied to St. Lucia, where an'^ 
 oifer of lands was held out, upon the enticing condition of 
 
WEST INDIES. 185 
 
 an engagement to cultivate them. Many, however, still 
 remained. ITie resolutions which had been formed in the 
 first paroxysm of passion, in many instances, gave place to 
 the more deliberate dictates of reason. A refusal to submit 
 to the severe terms of their conquerors formed but one 
 branch of consideration ; they were still alive, and their 
 existence here below, must be supported in this island or in 
 another ; and it became a subject of momentous inquirv, 
 whether it would not still be more advantageous to purchase 
 tlieir own cultivated lands, than to retire into the deserts of 
 St. Lucia, and commence the toils of some years before 
 they could reap the rewards which they pursued. 
 
 Tliey well knew tbat the British government bad acquired 
 a stability in St. Vincent's, which that of St. Lucia could 
 not promise ; the island had been ceded to Great Britain by 
 the articles of peace, in peqDetual sovereignt\-; and, tlierefore, 
 they had lit tie to fear, in future, from those revolutions which 
 always render property both questional)le and insecure. To 
 their native countr}- they felt but little attachment. The 
 neglect v.hich that country had shewn towards them in these 
 distant regions, had obliterated their gratitude, and nearly 
 cancelled all obligations. Their kindred, from whom thev 
 had been separated for a series of years, had nearly lost all 
 place in their affections ; their attachments had branched 
 into new directions, and taken root in a land which was 
 now placed under the dominion of its latest conquerors. 
 
 Such were the lights in which they view ed their situation, 
 when the sallies of passion had given place to cool delibera- 
 tion ; and such were the modes of reasoning which, finally, 
 determined them to submit to apparent wrongs, which, by 
 attempting to shun, they could not wholly avoid. Tlie black 
 Charaibees, in the meanwhile, were in a similar or worse 
 predicament. They had, by their valor and perseverance, 
 obtained an entire dominion in the island, and were now 
 placed in nearly the same situation, to which they had 
 obliged both the red Charaibees and the French settlers to 
 submit; and were thus compelled to yield, in their turns, to 
 those conditions of severity, w liich they had so readily im- 
 posed upon others. 
 
 But while these observations lead, apparently, to re- 
 flections on our government, we must remark, that had the 
 royal instructions contained in the commission been strictly 
 observed, the lands belonging to the Charaibees would have 
 been held sacred and inviolable ; for tlie commissioners 
 
 VOL. Ti. A a 
 
186 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 appointed to sell the lands, properly belonging to the crown, 
 were strictly enjoined " not to molest them in their posses- 
 " sions, nor to attempt any survey of their country, without 
 " previous and express orders from home, sanctioning such 
 '' a measure." The publication of these instructions 
 throughout the island, by the Governor, was but badly 
 relished by the new settlers. They, in conjunction witli 
 their correspondents, the West India merchants, in London, 
 aimed at nothing less than the possession of the whole terri- 
 tor)' of the island ; on which prospect, likewise, considerable 
 sums of money had been borrowed in our wealthy metropolis, 
 at high interest, on speculation, under the idea of immense 
 profits, from its future cultivation. These circumstances 
 gave rise to repeated remonstrances from the new settlers to 
 our ministry, complaining of restrictions and limited bound- 
 aries, which prevented extensive cultivation, to the great 
 detriment of the commerce and prosperity of the island. 
 A tedious negociation was the result, as our government 
 justly suspected, that the avarice of the planters and the 
 merchants had nothing less in view, than a total extirpation 
 of the unfortunate Charaibees at some future period. 
 
 At length, impatient of restraint, and irritated by disap- 
 pointment, the planters, resident in the island, came to a 
 resolution, in the year 1771? to carry into execution their 
 lucrative plans. Hitherto, cultivation had not extended be- 
 yond the river Yambore ; and it appears, that they had now 
 obtained the sanction of government, in some shape or othei', 
 for grants of lands beyond that boundary. Attempts were 
 accordingly made to take possession of them, which were 
 most resolutely opposed by the Charaibees. This resistance 
 was construed into a declaration of war, or an act of rebel- 
 lion against the British govemment, and occasioned on our 
 part the commencement of hostilities. It was in the month 
 of April J 772, that orders were issued from home, to send 
 two regiments from North America, to join the troops that 
 could be spared from the neighbouring West India Islands. 
 These, in concurrence with his Majesty's ships on the sta- 
 tion, were to reduce the Charaibees to a due submission to 
 the British government in the island ; or, if that became 
 impracticable, through the obstinacy and incorrigibleness of 
 the Charaibees, they were to transport them to such place 
 as should be deemed by the Governor and Council most 
 convenient for their reception, and best calculated to secure 
 
WEST INDIES. 187 
 
 the colony from any future attempts on their part to disturb 
 the tranquillity of the European inhabitants.* 
 
 f This expedition was carried on under the direction of 
 Major- General Dalrymple, who distinguished himself con- 
 siderably on the occasion, uniting together valor with pru- 
 dence. Yet, with these essential requisites in a commander- 
 in-chief, he was not able before the month of February, 
 1773, to effect the humiliation of the Charaibees. — Indeed, 
 the wilderness state of the country, the inclemency of the 
 season, together with the wisdom of the Charaibees in 
 carefully avoiding an engagement, concurred to prolong the 
 issue of the war. 
 
 They stood chiefly on the defensive, continually skulking 
 in slender parties, suddenly rushing from the thicket on the 
 unwary passengers, and surprizing outposts on the smallest 
 probability of success. 
 
 In the mean time, an inquiry was set on foot in Parliament 
 by the opponents of Lord North's administration, respecting 
 the nature, justice, and propriety of the motives which 
 gave rise to this singular and extraordinary expedition. 
 
 This inquiry was, however, reluctantly submitted to by 
 the ministry. And after a tedious investigation, it was, 
 finally, resolved, that the measure was founded in injustice, 
 
 * The Charaibees, finding themselves attacked in their dearly-bought 
 possessions, remonstrated on their parts against that apparent injustice, 
 which had, according to their views, instituted robbery under the sanction 
 of law. They disowned the authority of all the potentates in Europe ; and 
 absolutely denied their riglit to demand that allegiance, which they at- 
 tempted to exact. They claimed the country by right of conquest, and 
 by holding it in actual possession for near a century. 
 
 If, however, the argument founded upon conquest contained any 
 validity, it was evidently as good for the British as for them ; and, conse- 
 quently, the same principle upon which their claim was founded, was tliat 
 which deprived tliem of their possession. In short, the right of conquest, 
 when viewed in the abstract, can be considered as nothing more than a 
 softer name for the rights of injustice. It is a right which power claims 
 over weakness ; and is in itself nothing more than an artificial term, which 
 gives sanction to oppression, and establishes robbery by law. 
 
 But whether the claim be in itself good or bad, it was as valid in behalf 
 of the Charaibees as in behalf of the English ; and when to this we add, 
 that undisturbed possession which they had held of the island, it must be 
 admitted, that they had a better title than any nation of the world, except 
 the red Chambees, could produce. 
 
 t The following authentic and impartial narrative of the interesting 
 transactions of the civil war, between the British planters, and other white 
 inhabitants, and the Charaibees, was communicated to the author, by a 
 pious and indefatigable minister of the gospel, a Missionary from our 
 Society, who resided iu the island during the whole term of the dreadtUJ 
 eontest. 
 
188 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 and rejflected dishonor on the national character ; as being, 
 apparently, a violation of the natural rights of mankind, and 
 totally subversive of that liberty it gloried to defend. This 
 conclusion was productive of immediate orders to the prin- 
 cipal conductors of the expedition, to suspend hostilities 
 against the Charaibees, and to negociate a treaty with them 
 on reasonable terms. 
 
 These orders arrived opportunely for the Charaibees, who, 
 in all probability, must have surrendered at discretion, or 
 have been cut to pieces, in a very few days. Surrounded 
 by sea and land, their circle of action became every day 
 more contracted ; they were cut off from their great source 
 of subsistence, by fishing ; and their bodies, worn down by 
 continual watching and fatigue, demonstrated that war had 
 reduced them to the last extremity. 
 
 In obedience to his instructions. General Dalrymple made 
 overtures of peace, which were joyfully embraced by the 
 enemy. The following is the substance of the treaty, as 
 appears in the St. Vincent's Gazette, of February 27, 1773. 
 
 Art. I. All hostile proceedings are to cease, and a firm 
 and lasting peace and friendship to succeed. 
 
 Art. II. The Charaibees shall acknowledge his Majesty 
 to be the rightful Sovereign of the island and domain of St. 
 Vincent ; take an oath of fidelity to him as their King ; 
 promise absolute subiuissiua to his will ; and lay down their 
 arms. 
 
 Art. III. They shall/ submit themselves to the laws and 
 obedience of his Majesty's government ; and the Governor 
 shall have power to enact such further regulations for the 
 public advantage as shall be convenient. (This article only 
 respects their transactions with his Majesty's subjects, not 
 being Indians ; their intercourse and customs with each other 
 in the quarters allotted them, not being affected by it.) 
 And all new regulations are to receive the approbation of 
 his Majesty's GovernoTr before carried into execution. 
 
 Art. IV. A portion of lands, hereafter mentioned, 
 shall be allotted for the residence of the Charaibees, viz. 
 from the river Byera to Point JLspagnioI, on the one side, 
 and from the river Analibou to Espagniol on the other side, 
 according to lines to be drawn by his Majesty's surveyors, 
 from the sources of the rivers to the tops of the mountains. 
 The rest of the lands, formerly inhabited by the Charaibees, 
 for the future, to belong entirely to his Majesty. 
 
 Art. V. Those lands not to be alienated, either by sale, 
 
AVEST INDIES. 1S9 
 
 lease, or otherv.ise, but to persons properly aulliorized by 
 his Majesty to receive lliem. 
 
 Art. VI. Roads, ports, batteries, and communications 
 eliall be made, as his Majesty pleases. 
 
 Art. VII. No undue intercourse with the French islaodji 
 shall be allo%yed. 
 
 Art. VIII, Runaway slaves in the possession of the 
 Charaibecs, are to be delivered up ; and endeavors used to 
 discover and apprehend all others ; and an engagement shall 
 be entered into, not to encourage, receive, or harbor in 
 future, any slave whatever ; a forfeiture of lands shall be the 
 penalty for harboring them ; and carrying them off the island 
 shall be considered a capital crime. 
 
 Art. IX, Persons guilty of capital crimes agaii^.st the 
 English, are to be delivered up. 
 
 Art. X. In time of danger, the Charaibees are to be 
 aiding and assisting his JSIajesty's subjects against their ene- 
 mies. 
 
 Art. XL The three chains to belong and remain to liis 
 Majesty. 
 
 Art. XII. All conspiracies and plots against his IVIajesty, 
 or his government, are to be made known to his Governor, 
 or other civil magistrate. 
 
 i\rt. XIII. Leave, if required, to be given to the Cha- 
 raibees to depart this island, widi their fannlies and proper- 
 ties, with assistance in their transportation. 
 
 Art. XIV. Free access to die quarters allowed to the 
 Charaibees, to be given to persons properly empowered to 
 go in pursuit of runaway slaves ; and safe conduct afforded 
 them. 
 
 Art. XV. Deserters from his Majesty's service, if any, 
 and runaway slaves from the French, to be delivered up, in 
 order that they may be returned to their masters. 
 
 Art. XVI. Ihe chiefs of the different quarters are to 
 render an account of the names and numbers of the inhabi- 
 tants of their several districts. 
 
 Art. XVIL I'he chiefs, and other Charaibees, inhabi- 
 tants, are to attend the Governor, m hen required, for his 
 Alajesty's service. 
 
 Art. XV HI. All possible facility, consistent with the 
 laws of Great Britain, is to be afforded to the Charaibees in 
 the sale of their produce, and in their trade to the different 
 British islands. 
 
 Alt. XIX. Entire liberty of fishing, as well on the 
 
190 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 coast of St. Vincent, as at the neighbouring quays, to be 
 allowed them. 
 
 Art. XX. In all cases, M'hen the Charaibees conceive 
 themselves injured by his Majesty's subjects, or other per- 
 sons, and are desirous of having reference to the laws, or to 
 the civil magistrates, an agent, being one of his Majesty's 
 natural born subjects, may be employed by themselves, or, 
 if more agreeable, at his Majesty's cost. 
 
 Art. XXL No strangers, or white persons, are to be 
 permitted to settle among the Charaibees, without permission 
 obtained in writing from the Governor, 
 
 Art. XXII. These articles subscribed to and observed, 
 the Charaibees are to be pardoned, secured, and fixed iii 
 their property, according tp his Majesty's directions given, 
 and all past offences are to be forgotten. 
 
 Art. XXIII. After the signing of this treaty, should any 
 of the Charaibees refuse to observe the conditions of it, 
 they are to be considered and treated as enemies by both 
 parties ; and the most effectual means are to be used to re- 
 duce them. 
 
 Art. XXIV. The Charaibees shall take the following 
 oath, viz. We, A. B. do swear, in the name of the immortal 
 God and Christ Jesus, that we will bear true allegiance to 
 his Majesty, George III. of Great Britain, France, and 
 Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith ; and that we ^^ ill 
 pay due obedience to the laws of Great Britain, and the 
 island of St. Vincent ; and will well and truly observe every 
 article of the treaty concluded between his said Majesty and 
 the Charaibees ; and we do acknowledge, that his said Ma- 
 jesty is rightful Lord and Sovereign of all the island of St. 
 Vincent, and that the lands held by us, the Charaibees, are 
 granted through his Majesty's clemency. 
 
 On the part of his Majesty, | 
 
 W. DALRYMPLE. I 
 
 On the part of the Charaibees, t 
 
 JEAN BAPTISTE, DUFONT, &c. (28 in all.) 
 
 A slight degree of attention to the articles which compose 
 this treaty, will discover an indulgence in administration 
 toward the Charaibees, that demanded returns vei7 dif- 
 ferent from those which they afterwards manifested. How- 
 ever impure and mercenary the motives might have been 
 which gave rise to the war, they were superseded in the 
 couise of it, by principles more mild and equitable. It 
 
WEST INDIES. 191 
 
 entirely changed its object and its measures. It was no 
 longer a wasting and destructive engine in the hands of 
 sordid and avaricious planters, but terminated in a necessary 
 evil ; a momentary weapon of defence, made use of by a 
 generous nation, who have often been known to prefer 
 honor and justice, to the regards of interest, and the spoils 
 of oppression. 
 
 The most fertile and beautiful part of the countiy was 
 ceded to the Charaibees in perpetuity. Tliey were enrolled 
 among the subjects of Great Britain, and, consequently, 
 entitled to every immunity and privilege her constitution 
 could bestow. Every necessary precaution was taken to 
 secure their liberty and their happiness. In fine, every can- 
 did and unbiassed reader will acknowledge, that enough was 
 done to eradicate their prejudices and prepossessions against 
 us, and to attach them to our country, not only by policy 
 but affection. 
 
 The plantei's, on the defeat of their intentions respecting 
 the transportation of the Charaibees, considered a residence 
 among them unpleasant, if not dangerous, while any remains 
 of animosity subsisted. They, therefore, adopted a mode 
 of conduct towards them different from any they had observed 
 at any former period ; so tliat, instead of manifesting any 
 hostility, they endeavored, by a constant and uniform civility, 
 to make them friends, and to conciliate their esteem. 
 
 Tiie Charaibees, on the other hand, made professions of 
 perpetuating this infant amity, and regretted, with apparent 
 contrition, the existence of former feuds, wishing with much 
 .solicitude, that the cancelling hand of oblivion might pass 
 over them. 
 
 But with what little sincerity these appearances were put 
 on, the earliest opportunity demonstrated. This presented 
 itself in 1779, when the French possessed themselves of the 
 island, without the loss of an individual, or the discharge of 
 a single musket. At this period, high dissenticns subsisted 
 between Governor Morris and the inhabitants of the island. 
 The Assembly was dissolved by his orders, and the space of 
 time allotted for the continuance of the militia act had just 
 expired. To prevent any bad consequences attendant oa 
 this circumstance, the Governor issued a commission of 
 array. This was, unfortunately, little attended to ; for the 
 principal proprietors became so far the devotees of resent- 
 ment, as to give notice to those immediately in their employ, 
 that should they attend to any alarm during the present 
 posture of affairs, they should assuredly be dismissed from 
 
192 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 their service. In the ipean time, Lieutenant-Colonel Etlier- 
 ington, of the Royal Americans, arrived from, Europe with 
 a number of raw recruits^ for the protection of the colony. 
 But, instead of disciplining his troops, and attending to the 
 state of the fortifications, which had been hitherto shame- 
 fully neglected by his predecessors in authority, he kept his 
 men almost constantly employed (about eighteen miles from 
 Kingston) in felling timber, and clearing an estate he had 
 by some means or other obtained from Chatoyer, a Charaibee 
 chief. Here it is necessary to observe, that at this period, 
 notwithstanding frequent intelligence had reached Governor 
 Morris, of the hostile intentions of the enemy, — the capture 
 of Dominica, — and the arrival of a certain description of 
 persons at Grande Sable, concealed and protected by the 
 Charaibees, who, at the same time, were amply supplied 
 with arms and ammunition from St. Lucia and Martinico,— 
 yet, such was the infatuation which pervaded all ranks, and 
 so prevalent was the influence of party, that the general 
 good was totally neglected; and interest and liberty were 
 offered up on the altar of pique and resentment. 
 
 The Count D'Estaing and the Marquis De Bouille, then 
 at Martiuico, obtaining a know^ledge of these circumstances, 
 adopted such measures, as might derive from them the ad- 
 vantages for which they wished. A Monsieur Du Percin 
 La Roche was charged with a secret commission to the 
 Charaibees. He accomplished a private landing in their 
 country; and, to. his great satisfaction, found them ready to 
 co-operate with the French against the English. 
 
 At a moment's warning, which both encouraged and fa- 
 cilitated a descent upon the island, they declared themselves 
 ii) readiness to shake off the British yoke, and to abandon 
 altogether their union with that power to which, but six years 
 before, they had sworn allegiance and inviolable attachment* 
 Even the plan of operation appears to have been concerted ; 
 and they anticipated with pleasure the arrival of that mo- 
 ment, which should enable them to drop the mask, and give 
 full vent to that rancour which still gnawed in their hearts. 
 Immediately on the arrival of the French, it seems, they 
 were to commence hostilities in their own quarter, to make 
 an open avowal of their partiality for them, and proceed to 
 join them without delay. A defection so gieat, and an 
 avowal so astonishing, it was natural to expect, would throw 
 the English into the utmost consternation ; and, in the midst 
 of the confusion thus occasioned, cause victory to decide in 
 behalf of the invaders and insuroents. 
 
^VEST INDIES. 193 
 
 During the agitation of this business, a Monsieui- Gelfrier, 
 a respectable French gentleman, enamoured with our con- 
 stitution, gave information respecting the Charaibees har- 
 bouring of improper persons, and complotting with them. In 
 consequence of this suggestion, a party went out to discover 
 whether such a thing existed or not. On their arrival at 
 Grande Sable, they affected to insinuate that their visit was 
 solely the result of friendship ; and, under that character, 
 they entered such huts as were most suspected. But the 
 Charaibees were too wily to be detected by the deception, 
 and displayed great address in defeating the intention of their 
 visitants. They observed with great coldness and reserve, 
 that they were sorry they could not, without violating their 
 customs, make their visit agreeable ; that it was a particular 
 season among the w omen, and men were debarred the liberty 
 of their apartments. This pretext served as a screen to 
 cover the retreat of the emissaries from Martinico, who, in 
 the interim, escaped from those sacred chambers unnoticed, 
 until at too great a distance to be overtaken. 
 
 These secret emissaries, in the meanwhile, confident of 
 the alliance which they had formed with the rebellious sa-^ 
 vages, found means to escape to jNIartinico with the intelli- 
 gence of their success. Sensible, at the same time, that 
 some suspicions were entertained by our people of an 
 impending descent, it became necessary to hasten the expe- 
 dition, lest the favorable moment should pass by, neglected 
 and unimproved. 
 
 The fortifications in a ruinous condition, the troops 
 undisciplined, and civil dissensions prevailing ; the friend- 
 ship of the Charaibees obtained, and no preparations made 
 in tiie island for its defence, afforded such a combination of 
 inviting circumstances, as perfectly proliibited all delay. 
 Time, which both shuts and opens the avenues that lead 
 to empire, might, with them, be productive of the most 
 fatal mischiefs. The suspicions which were already enter- 
 tained of tlie fidelity of the Charaibees, might soon prevent 
 their co-operation, and, finally, disconcert all their measures. 
 And, therefore, that the alarm which this circumstance 
 would occasion, migh^ not have time to throw difiiculties in 
 the M ay, immediate preparations were made at ^Martinico 
 to invade the island. 
 
 On the morning of June 16, 1779, about nine o'clock, 
 three sloops of war appeared off Calliaqua, without shewing 
 any colors ; and came to an anchor in Young's Bay. ^lany 
 of the planters in that neighbourhood were so possessed with 
 
 VOL. II. B b 
 
194 HISTORY or THE 
 
 the idea of their being merchant-ships that M'ere expected 
 from Antigua to take in sugars, that they absolutely pre- 
 vented the gunner of Hyde's Point batteiy from firing an 
 alarm, though he repeatedly pronounced them enemies. 
 One of them even attempted to go on board, and did not 
 perceive his mistake until it was too late to retire. He was 
 then obliged to surrender himself a prisoner, and attend to 
 the mortifying information, " That they were well informed 
 " of the weakness of our situation, and of the dissensions 
 *' which subsisted among us — that they were in no wise ap- 
 " prehensive of a repulse, as they knew previously to their 
 " departure from Martinico, that the key belonging to the 
 " magazine at Wilkie's battery was lost ; consequently, that 
 " they incurred no danger in running down for the harbor ; 
 " and, furthermore, that we had no militia, and that the 
 " principal part of the soldiery were employed by the 
 " Colonel in the cultivation of his estate." 
 
 During the disembarkation of these troops, Laroche, who 
 . had preconcerted the whole of this affair with the Charaibees, 
 landed in their country with a few men, and communicated 
 without delay the watch-word of revolt. They immediately 
 repaired to his standard with alacrity, and began to exercise 
 on the English residing on their boundary the most flagrant 
 acts of insolence and cruelty. Plunder, violence, and 
 murder, marked the first transports of their career ; nor are 
 we led to suppose they would have moderated their conduct, 
 had they not been checked by their more moderate friends, 
 the French, who directed their operations. 
 
 While Laroche, at the head of these faithless and un- 
 principled revolters, awed and overrun the windward part 
 of the country, and obliged every Englishman to flee from 
 his abode, a Monsieur Rumaine, with the main body, 
 consisting of about three hundred troops, marched from 
 Young's Bay directly towards Kingston. What can be 
 urged in extenuation of Colonel Etherington's conduct on 
 this occasion ? 
 
 Governor Morris, with a few others, were of opinion, 
 that it was possible from Zion Hill, with one or two pieces 
 of ordnance, to keep the enemy at bay, until the arrival of 
 our troops from the leeward. We might then, with every 
 probability of success, risk an engagement ; as the enemy 
 were uncommonly ill appointed, extremely shabby in ap- 
 pearance, and their resources inadequate to a contest of 
 many days. Agreeably to these conclusions, hasty entrench- 
 ments were thrown up, some field pieces pointed, and such 
 
AVEST INDIES. 1^5 
 
 measures adopted as must in the execution have operated 
 to our advantage. But Colonel Etherington no sooner saw 
 the French were disposed to advance and attack him, than 
 he censured the resolution of the Governor and his party as 
 the result of inexperience and temerity ; ordered the position 
 to be evacuated instantaneously, and retreated to the fort. 
 There he ingloriously sued to the enemy for conditions, 
 ^^ hich his gallantry and conduct might have reversed ; while 
 personal address and bravery might have enabled him to 
 indict on them a severe punishment, if not a final defeat. 
 Thus did the French avail themselves of the defenceless 
 state of the island, and obtain submission without the trouble 
 of conquest. Thus did St. Vincent's, which had been ceded 
 to Great Britain in perpetuity, through the progress of 
 those revolutions in dominion which are attendant upon war, 
 become once more a colony of France. Thus^ also, did 
 these ungrateful allies and subjects, the Charaibees, con- 
 spire against the crown and dignity of their rightful Sove- 
 reign, to whose generosity they owed both their liberties and 
 their lives. It was the voice of his humanity that had reached 
 them across the Atlantic, and had recalled them from the 
 victorious sword, amidst the horrors of war, which had de- 
 voted them to destr'.iction. It was from that munificence 
 which bestowed upon them the immunities of Britons, that 
 tliey had derived the power which they now so perfidiously 
 prostituted, and against which they now lifted the arm of 
 rebellion. AVhat punishment did not such baseness and 
 perfidy deserve r 
 
 The mother-country, at this period, engaged in hostilities 
 with three of the most potent nations in Europe, and in 
 maintaining her sovereignty in America, did not feel herself 
 in a condition to retake the island, and to indulge those re- 
 sentments against the Charaibees, which she could not but 
 have pointedly felt. And when, on the cessation of hostilities, 
 these savages were again in her power, humanity triumphed 
 over vengeance, and permitted compassion to spare those 
 victims whom the sword of justice might have destroyed. 
 Such deeds confer national honor ; they are adorned with 
 laurels which shall continue to flourish, when those which 
 bloom only by being steeped in human blood, shall wither 
 over those deeds of inhumanity from which they derived 
 their being. During the four years in which the island was 
 under the influence of French politics and power, a variety 
 of excesses were committed against the English inhabitants 
 by these barbarians. Their behavior toward them, on all 
 
196 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 occasions, betrayed their deep-rooted enmity and aversion : 
 and had not the generous conquerors curbed their resent- 
 ment, and restrained, v;ith laudable attention, their san- 
 guinary dispositions, they would in all probability have grati- 
 fied their vengeance, by rendering the country a scene of 
 massacre and carnage. 
 
 The maxim, that where cruelty discovers itself, pusil- 
 lanimity lies concealed, and waits only for an occasion to be 
 detected, was never more fully and extensively verified than 
 by the Charaibees, in the year 1783 ; when, in consequence 
 of the definitive treaty between the courts of London and 
 Paris, <S^. Vincent's was restored, and the French garrisons 
 withdraM'n. 
 
 During the period of suspense, while attending on report, 
 their anxiety appeared to be extreme. But when their fears 
 became realized, and they had nothing farther to hope, they 
 precipitately retired to their country, greatly alarmed lest 
 the English, on the resumption of authority, should retribute 
 their disloyalty. Nor had they resolution for some months 
 to venture within their reach ; and even then, when time had 
 somewhat dissipated their fears, they behaved with the 
 greatest caution and reserve. At first, a few canoes timidly 
 touched at Calliaqua and Kingston, with their usual articles 
 of traffic ; and that every idea of hostility might remain in 
 oblivion, they appeared without any description of arms 
 whatever, bowing .in the most submissive manner, as they 
 passed through the streets, to any Englishman who seemed 
 to notice them. Thus, by degrees, they acquired confidence, 
 and regained their wonted habits of intimacy and intercourse. 
 
 I 
 
VEST INDJE?. J97 
 
 CHAP. XXII. 
 
 HISTORY OF ST. VINCENTS 
 
 (Contimied). 
 
 Occasion, Progress, and. Disasters of the late Charnib 
 War minutely detailed. — Farious Vicissitudes and Re- 
 verses of Fortune alternateli/ experienced by the contend- 
 ing Parties. 
 
 J? ROM the evacuation of the island by the French, to the 
 commencement of the revohition in France, the treacherous 
 Charaibees put on the smoothest political exterior, and, as 
 early as they could with a good grace, professed themselves 
 enraptured admirers, of the mild and benevolent constitution 
 of Great Britain ; and strange as it may appear, notwith- 
 standing past events, they were as successful m imposing on 
 the credulous inhabitants, as they had been in the former war. 
 What contributed to procure reception of apparent sincerity 
 for real hypocrisy and masquerade, was, that the planters, 
 with all the zeal peculiar to self-interest, wished to engage 
 their friendship by every possible means within their reach. 
 They permitted them to tish in their rivers and ponds, to 
 build huts on their estates, to raise stock, and cultivate 
 provision-grounds ; they interested themselves too, frequent- 
 ly, in indefensible causes, and shielded them from justice 
 when they deserved its penalties. In fine, their partiality 
 was so conspicuous, that the poorer and lower classes of 
 white inhabitants complained of it as a grievance, which 
 they wished to have removed. 
 
 Thus basking in the sunshine of general favor, and tasting 
 the sweets of that situation, they were not tempted to forfeit 
 it, before the doctrines of republicanism reached Martinico, 
 to the annihilation of all order and tranquillity among the 
 inhabitants. Being in the habits of trading thither, the 
 Charaibees imported thence those impoisoning principles, 
 whichhave since been productive of so much mischief in the 
 world. In this early stage of affairs, they discovered nothing 
 
198 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 farther than a gloominess of aspect, and reservedness of 
 behavior. But this, on the defeat of General Bruce's ex- 
 pedition, was changed into a haughty and imperious mien, 
 indicating an end to their former v.avering and uncertain 
 purposes, and the resoluteness of every future design. 
 However, the success of the succeeding campaign, under 
 the auspices of Sir Charles Grey, smothered in their infancy 
 any resolutions they might !iave in contemplation unfriendly 
 to tlie interests of the colony. Like the wary pilot, who, 
 on leaving the harbor, and discovering the gathering storm, 
 immediately returns again for protection from its rage ; 
 so the Charaibees, on seeing our arms every Vvhei-e victorious, 
 no longer affected to be shy or unsocial ; but, with all their 
 peculiar craft, availed themselves of every opportunity of 
 intercourse, and were most assiduous in enlarging their 
 circle' of acquaintance and familiarity. They always found 
 the mask convenient, when self-interest was concerned ; and 
 exceedingly disagreeable on a reverse of circumstances. 
 
 The reverse of circumstances which ensued on the arrival 
 of Victor Hugues at Point a Petre, in the island of Guada- 
 loupe, and the success of his arms, changed the complexion 
 of their conduct once more, and encouraged them to lay 
 aside, in a great measure, their borrowed countenances. 
 This infamous Robespierrian zealot, bloated with the in- 
 human and wide-wasting principles of the dem-ocratic 
 system, no sooner saw himself in a condition of not only 
 maintaining his new conquests, but also of extending them, 
 than he flattered his hopes with fruition, by embroiling every 
 colony in his neighbourhood, and rendering them the theatres 
 of internal war. To accomplish this truly Satanic project, 
 he employed a number of contidentiai emissaries, whom he 
 instructed to introduce themselves secretly into our islands, 
 to sow the seeds of insurrection and revolt. And when they 
 conceived themselves sufficiently entitled, they were to de- 
 mand a reinforcement, with which be would supply them, 
 and repeat it from time to time, as necessity might urge. 
 Those islands were first attempted, where French inhabitants 
 were known to reside. Such were St. Lucia, Gienada, 
 St. Fincenfs, and Dominica; in which places the scheme 
 was embraced by many with all the avidity of enthusiasm, 
 especially by the Charaibees, whose share in endeavoring 
 the extirpation of the English in St. Vincent's, I am more 
 immediately concerned to relate. The agents of Hugues 
 first opened their credentials among their countrymen, and 
 practised on them ; and, through their medium, on thig 
 
WEST INDIES. 199 
 
 Charaibees. It appears from certain and well authenticated 
 information, that they invited them in the name of the glo- 
 rious French republic, as friends and citizens, to accept of 
 liberty and equaUty I to rouse themselves from inglorious 
 sloth, and assert tlie natural prerogatives of men: said they, 
 " Behold your chains ! forged and imposed by the hands of 
 " the tyrannical English : bhish ! and break those ensigns 
 " of disgrace ! spurn them with becoming indignation ! rise 
 " in a moment ; and while we assist you from motives of 
 ** the purest philanthropy and zeal for the happiness of all 
 *' nations, fall on these despots ! extirpate them from the 
 " country! and restore yourselves, your wives, and children, 
 ** to the inheritance of your fathers, whose spirits from the 
 " grave will lead on your ranks, inspire you with fury, and 
 " help you to be revenged." 
 
 An address of this tendency was grateful to the prejudices 
 and passions of the Charaibees. They replied, — " They 
 " were flattered and obliged by those professions of friend- 
 " ship vouchsafed them from the French lepublic ; they 
 *' were sensible of their oppressions, and felt uneasy beneath 
 " them ; and delayed hostilities on no other account, but 
 *' because they wanted a suflficient quantity of military stores 
 " to support the first avowal of their intentions ; on the 
 " receipt of these, they would most cheerfully co-operate 
 " with' their friends and allies, the delegates of the republic, 
 " in promoting her influence, and the establishment of thieir 
 " own riglits." 
 
 It M ill be readily understood from a former hint, that the 
 French inhabitants, who had taken the oaths of allegiance to 
 his Britannic Majesty, were the agents, through whose 
 interference this business reached its present altitude. Tlie 
 first proposals of Hugues from Guadaloupe were instantly 
 adopted as their own ; and wliile in possession of every im- 
 munity the mild and benevolent government they were under 
 could bestow, and sharing the confidence and IViendship ol" 
 their neighbours, they were sinking a mine, pregnant with 
 destruction, to blow them up in an instant. 
 
 The outlines of the conspiracy will afford some resemblance 
 of die picture they are intended to pourtray. It was, 
 finally, agreed, that arms and ammunition should be sent 
 from Guadaloupe as early as possible — that on the night of 
 the 17th of March, 1794, the Charaibees of the leeward 
 parts of the island, under the direction of Chatoyer, and 
 those of the windward, under that of Devalle, should pro- 
 ceed to Kingston, and there unite their forces with Uieij- 
 
SOO HISTORY OF THE 
 
 confederates, the Freuch ; and that, \a ithout commiserating 
 either age or sex, they should, during the hour of tran- 
 quillity, massacre all the whites. They wexe then to pro- 
 ceed in all directions throughout the country, and extermi- 
 nate every individual composing that class devoted to the 
 sword. Mulattoes, and black domestics, suspected of 
 fidelity to their masters, were included in these instructions. 
 But God, M'ho overruleth the designs of impotent mortals, 
 and maintains his right in the administration of terrestrial 
 affairs, blasted their prospects, and brought to light their 
 hidden works of darkness before the time. Information 
 respecting the insurrection in Grenada arrived on the 5th 
 of March ; when his Excellency, Governor Seton, after 
 advising with his Council, ordered an alarm to be fired. 
 The militia were immediately under arms, and in the even- 
 ing appeared on the parade. They were there reviewed by 
 the Governor, and pathetically exhorted, in case of necessity, 
 to defend themselves with resolution, and render their cha- 
 racters worthy of distinction among their countrymen ; 
 assuring them, at the same time, that no exertions should be 
 wanting on his part, consistent with the dut}' of that station 
 Avhich he had the honor to fill. It was deemed expedient, that 
 a division of the militia should take place. One half were to 
 remain on their several plantations, to maintain order and 
 regularity, and promote the incumbent pursuits of industry ; 
 the other half were to do duty on Berkshire Hill, during a 
 certain number of days, when they were to be relieved by 
 the former, and so on in rotation. The Queen's company 
 to windward, and the Chateaubellair company to leeward, 
 were excepted in this arrangement. They were left to guard 
 their respective boundaries ; and to forward to head-quarters 
 any intimations respecting the Charaibees' motions, who, by 
 this time began to be suspected. On the following day, a 
 planter, with his family, arrived in town from Mariaqua, 
 who informed the Governor and Council, that he had been 
 strongly urged by a neighbouring Charaibee to withdrav^r 
 himself from the island without delay, as it was the unanimous 
 intention of his countrymen to proclaim war against the 
 English within three days, and that they purposed the exter- 
 mination of every individual. This intelligence induced the 
 Governor to dispatch one of his aids-de-camps to that quar- 
 ter, to obtain from the Charaibees w hat information he could 
 oti that subject, and by their channels to send an order to 
 the chiefs of Grande Sable^ to repair to Kingston on the 
 Tuesday follow ing. 
 
WEST INDIES. 201 
 
 The report of this gentleman on his return was, That the 
 Charaibees to whom he addressed himself, expressed the 
 Utmost surprize at the suspicions entertained against them — 
 ** They had," they said, *' been once already deceived by the 
 *' French ; and their misconduct during the last war we had 
 ■*' generously cancelled, and, since the peace, had displayed 
 " toward them the utmost kindness and humanity. No 
 " possible advantage could arise by their making war against 
 ** us, and no pardon could be expected should they attempt 
 " it. They could not answer for those who resided at Grande 
 *' Sable and Rabaccaw, not living in habits of intimacy 
 ** M'ith them ; but could not discover, in any wise, that they 
 ** intended to interrupt the tranquillity of the colony." They 
 seemed disinclined to convey any message whatever to the 
 windward chiefs,* urging, in apology, the misunderstanding 
 subsisting between them ; however, on a considerable reward 
 being promised, they consented. On the succeeding day, 
 two of those who held this conversation returned ; observing, 
 that " They had seriously revolved in their minds the con- 
 *' ference of yesterday, and were still of opniion, that the 
 *' Charaibees had no intention of breaking with the English. 
 *' But should the generality of them adopt a measure so 
 *' absurd, they implored protection for themselves, their 
 *' wives, and little ones, as they could not think of rendering 
 " themselves so detestable as to unite against us." Yet, 
 on the Tuesday following, these very men were foremost in 
 attacking, plundering, and demolishing the very plantations 
 where they had, with the greatest apparent smcejit> , made 
 these professions, and where they had resided m ease and 
 affluence for more than ten years. 
 
 On Sunday evening, in consequence of information that^ 
 the Charaibees in Mariaqua, in con^unclion wjth the French 
 in that neighbourhood, were committing some devastations 
 on the estate of a French lady, who, with her family, was 
 considered as well atfected to us, a detachment of the 
 militia, and a small party of volunteers, with some armed 
 negroes, were ordered out, under the command of Captain 
 Seton (the Governor's son), to apprehend, if possible, the 
 perpetrators. Late in the night, they fell m with some 
 Charaib and French huts, which were illuminated, and 
 
 * Chatoyer and Duvalle, two Charaib chiefs residing on the northero 
 extremity of the island, received a summons on the Sunday, to come to 
 town the Tuesday following. Their answer was, " It is too late : it ouj;ht 
 ** to have been sent sooner." 
 
 VOL. ii. Cc 
 
202 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 seemed to be the abodes of cabal and rebellion. Met 
 women, and children, were rioting on the ill-gotten spoils 
 the day. Before they conld be properly surrounded numbers 
 of them escaped. Only eighteen were made prisoners, many 
 of whom had in their hats and caps the French national 
 cockade ; and upon searching the houses, arms and ammu- 
 nition were found. Yet still, with respect to open and 
 avowed hostilities on the part of the Charaibees, the majority 
 of the community had taken no active part. 
 
 On Monday, the Captain of the windward militia sent 
 word, that he had received intelligence, that an attack was 
 meditated on that part of the country, by the whole body of 
 the Charaibees ; and requested immediate assistance. Lieu- 
 tenant M'Dowell Mas ordered to reinforce him with a de- 
 tachment of twenty-two militia men from town ; these were 
 joined by twelve volunteers, and set forward about seven 
 o'clock in the evening, well mounted, and in high spirits. 
 Some time in the night they reached Captain Morgan's, 
 where they halted until the morning ; when it was resolved, 
 that the troop should proceed to the boundary of the Cha- 
 raibees, and demand a declaration of their intentions. On 
 reaching the estate of Mr. Forbes, they were told that the 
 enemy had already set fire to the dwelling-house of Mr. 
 Gilchrist, Avith the adjoining cane-fields ; the truth of which 
 was soon confirmed by the ascending smoke and flames. The 
 troop advanced with all possible dispatch, in order to check 
 the progress of the destroyers ; but they were very warmly 
 fired upon out of the cane pieces. Being in a narrow range 
 of high canes, in a valley surrounded by hills on every side, 
 it was thought expedient to retreat, until a more advantageous 
 situation could be obtained ; but perceiving the number of 
 the enemy increase every moment, they returned to Captain 
 Morgan, and joined the detachment under his command. 
 Here it was deliberated what measures were necessary on 
 the occasion ; and a variety of circumstances determined 
 them to proceed to Kingston without delay. When they 
 had advanced as far as Massarica river, they saw posted 
 before them, on a ridge which commanded the road, a body 
 of Charaibees, who, on perceiving our detachments halt on 
 their march, took off their hats and waved them, bowing at 
 the same time with all the marks of sincere attachment. 
 These appearances imposed so far on some of the party, 
 that they pronounced them friends, and encouraged the rest 
 to go forward ; but as soon as the perfidious villains perceived 
 that they were completely exposed to their fire, they opened 
 
WEST INDIES. 205 
 
 upon them a most tremendous volley of musketry, which 
 they maintained with unabating ardor. It was proposed 
 by some of our party to advance and charge them ; which 
 '■ while they were preparing to do, they were attacked in their 
 rear by another body of the enemy. Nothing now remained 
 in this very critical and perilous situation, but to retreat in 
 tlie best manner possible ; accordingly, every man effected 
 it as he could, some on horseback, and some on foot. lu 
 this unsuccessful expedition, sixteen persons fell in battle, 
 the greatest part of them the most promising young men in 
 the colony. Those who were wounded, or made prisoners, 
 received no quarter, but were murdered with every circum- 
 stance of savage barbarity. Some had their legs and aims 
 cut off, w hiie the living trunks were left writhing in agonies 
 of pain ; others w ere mangled and cut up in a manner too 
 shocking to relate. 
 
 This fatal event produced a scene too tragical and melan- 
 choly for description to attempt delineating. Our defeated 
 and disheartened troop, in their precipitate and disorderly 
 flight to Kingston, communicated to all the inhabitants 
 of the w indward country, as they passed, terror and dismay. 
 The alarm v.as sudden and irresistible. In a moment, both 
 whites and blacks abandoned their abodes, leaving behind 
 them almost every thing they possessed, being no farther 
 solicitous than to iiasten from the present rapidly approach- 
 ing ruin. 
 
 The Charaibees, inflated with success, and encouraged 
 by the prevailing timidity of all descriptions of people, 
 seemed to invoke the demon of destruction to mark their 
 progress. No white man was permitted to survive his 
 discovery. Children at the breast were torn from their 
 mothers, and divided into quarters before their eyes. The 
 jich and fertile flelds of cane were as stubble before the 
 raging and wide wasting flames. The seats of opulence, 
 convenience, and beauty, together with the humble sheds 
 of servitude and penury, were indiscriminately devoted to 
 the unpitying element. Tuesday and Wednesday were em- 
 ployed in carrying these ravages as far as Calliaqua. Early 
 on Tliursday morning they reached Dorsetshire Hill ; and 
 after pulling down and trampling under foot the British 
 standard, they hoisted and displayed in its stead the tri- 
 colored flag of the French republic. 
 
 While these proceedings were taking place to windward, 
 under the rutiilcss and sanguinary direction of Duvalle, the 
 leeward conspirators under Chatoyer (who w as Commander- 
 
204 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 in-chief) were not less active ; though, probably, from an 
 expectation of acquiring the permanent possession of that 
 part of the country, they did not commit the same devasta- 
 tions that marked the rapid and unmeaning progress of the 
 former. 
 
 I'hey arrived at Chateaubellair on Tuesday morning, 
 where they were joined by all the French inhabitants of that 
 neighbourhood, who embarked in the cause with the utmost 
 eagerness and zeal. In a moment they resolved to cancel 
 every obligation they were under for a repeated series of 
 lavish acts of British generosity; they hec?imejackal/s to the 
 Charaibees ; they started the game for them to hunt and run 
 down to death. 
 
 On the morning of the commencement of rapine and 
 murder in this neighbourhood, they made prisoners of three 
 white young men, of amiable manners and genteel connex- 
 ions, whom they carried along with them in triumph to 
 Dorsetshire Hill. Here they kept them in suspense till the 
 Saturday following, when they were ordered out by Chatoyer, 
 and massacred in the most shocking manner. 
 
 Great were the exertions of the French and Charaibees, 
 while they maintained their position on Dorsetshire Hill. 
 Without procrastinating a moment, they availed themselves 
 of every possible measure of safety and success within their 
 reach. A supply of provisions and liquors Avas laid up,, 
 being a part of the produce of their recent spoils. With] 
 infinite labor and difficulty, they dragged from Stubb's Bay\ 
 battery, two pieces of ordnance, (one six and one four] 
 pounder) which they got completely mounted by Saturday! 
 night. 
 
 At the same time, it is but barely doing justice, to make] 
 honorable mention of Governor Seton's most satisfactory] 
 conduct, throughout this gloomy and tempestuous season of I 
 distress. On the earliest intimation of danger, he removed] 
 with the most valuable and important papers in his posses- 
 sion to the fort on Berkshire Hill, and proceeded to carry on ' 
 the necessary fortitications with the utmost assiduity and] 
 application. Provision was also made to secure the town;! 
 for the safety of which, the generality were under the most] 
 serious apprehensions. To prevent the enemy's too near; 
 approaches, orders were issued, that the surrounding canes ; 1 
 to a certain distance, should be immediately burned. A post : 
 was, likewise, established on Sion Hill, to block up every 
 accessible avenue in that direction. A very vigilant and well 
 attended guard of tlie militia was maintained in the town 
 
WEST INDIES. 205 
 
 itself; and, on the adjoining plantations, armed negroes 
 were stationed all around, to communicate an alarm on the 
 smallest dubious appearance of danger. 
 
 Too great precautions could not have been taken ; for the 
 Charaibees were frequently seen on the estates belonging to 
 Messrs. Kean and Sharpe ; and once, a small party proceeded 
 as far as the Government-liouse ; none of which situations 
 are at so great a distance as six furlongs from Kingston. 
 
 During these transactions, Captain Newton, of the artil- 
 lery, and Major Whytell, of the militia, who maintained the 
 position on Sion Hill, annoyed the enemy considerably, and 
 kept them greatly in awe, by scattering among them shot 
 and shell, which they played upon their camp night and day 
 successively. 
 
 The melancholy gloom which overshadowed our prospects, 
 was in some degree dissipated on Wednesday morning, by 
 the landing of Captain Campbell, with a company of the 
 forty-sixth regiment, from Martinico. On the following 
 day, the arrival of Captain Skinner, of the Zebra sloop of 
 war, still diminished the remaining shades ; but the anchor- 
 ing of Captain M'lver in the road, on Saturday, in his 
 Majesty's ship the Roebuck, revived our hopes. 
 
 These reinforcements came very opportunely ; as the 
 apparent superiority of the enemy began to shake the fidelity 
 of the negroes, and to tempt them to abandon our weak and 
 defenceless standard. Besides, having sot their guns in 
 readmess, the French and Charaibees waited only for the 
 morning to play upon our camp at Sion Hill, and on the 
 town ; from both of which places we must have instantly 
 fled. These circumstances, in connexion with others of a 
 similar tendency, rendered it expedient to attempt dislodging 
 them by storm, without any farther loss of time. Accord- 
 ingly, every precaution was taken and every disposition 
 made by the Governor that could possibly insure success. 
 At the solemn and solitary hour of midnight, at the house of 
 Mr. Hartley, on Sion Hill, the party formed. Captain 
 Skinner, of the Zebra, to whom the command was given, 
 led the van, with detachments of sailors and marines landed 
 from his own vessel, and from the Roebuck. Lieutenants 
 Hill and Groves followed, with what sailors could be con- 
 veniently collected from the different merchant-ships in the 
 road. The company of the forty-sixth, under Captain 
 Carry, came next ; and Major Whytell and Captain Camp- 
 bell brought up the rear with a number of the militia, and 
 with some armed negroes, in whom they could confide. 
 
20() HISTORY OF THE - 
 
 This brave and gallant little company, with the utmost 
 alacrit}' received orders to march ; and at a quarter of an 
 hour after midnight, in the_^ preceding order, they began to 
 ascend the winding and rugged path, and were enabled to 
 advance within eiglity yards of the main post without being 
 perceived. The vigilance of the enemy could no longer be 
 eluded ; they were almost at once discovered, challenged, 
 and fired upon. The effects of surprize were hardly per- 
 ceptible in their manner of receivmg us. They were imme- 
 diately under arms, raised a most tremendous and appalling 
 yell, and came out in vast numbers to sustain the assault ; 
 pouring among us, at the same time, a brisk and well con- 
 tinued shower of musketry. Nothing could exceed the 
 intrepidity displayed by our officers and men on this occa- 
 sion ; they received the enemy's fire without returning a 
 single shot, till they had approached within twenty yards of 
 them ; when Captain Skinner gave orders for every man to 
 discharge his piece, and make a charge. He iinmediately 
 set the example with his first Lieutenant, Mr. Hill, by 
 mounting the bank and rushing on. Captain Campbell of 
 the forty-sixth, and Major Whytell, did the same in another 
 situation. The men all followed, and commenced the 
 bloody, but, in this instance, the necessary business of the 
 bayonet. In about fifteen minutes the fate of the hill be- 
 came determined ; the enemy fled in all directions ; and 
 through the darkness of the night numbers of them effected 
 their escape ; many sheltered themselves in the buildings 
 still standing, whither they were pursued ; and all who 
 shewed any disposition to resist were put to the sword. 
 
 In this attack, considering how greatly superior the enemy 
 were in numbers ; the very eligible situation they occupied ; 
 their recent succession of victories ; their various and w ell 
 sustained discharges of musketry ; it is little less than mira- 
 culous that our loss was not greater. We had only five 
 men killed and four wounded ; among the latter was Lieu- 
 tenant Hill, of the Zebra, whose gallant conduct during 
 the whole of the action entitled him to a crown of laurels. 
 
 On the side of the enemy, several of the French and 
 Charaibees lay dead on the field. Among the latter was 
 the infamous Chatoyer, generalissimo of all the forces acting 
 against us. Cruelty, rather than courage, had always been 
 the leading principle of his conduct. He, therefore, fell 
 luiregretted, in single combat with the brave Major Leeih, 
 of the militia. There was found upon him a silver gorget, 
 presented to him by his Koyal Highness Prince William 
 
WEST INDIES. 207 
 
 Henry, on a visit he paid to St. Vincent's during the 
 Prince's residence on the V\ est India station. 
 
 This blow was not more unexpected than effectual. The 
 French were instantly panic-struck ; and, despairing of any 
 farther success, no longer united with the Charaibees. On 
 the contrary, they in general forsook them, and endeavored, 
 with the utmost possible secrecy and celerity, to reach Lyon, 
 From thence, it is supposed, they meditated an escape ; or 
 flattered themselves it was practicable to impose on the 
 credulous English once more, by affecting a neutrality. 
 However, they were unsuccessful in their retreat ; for the 
 negroes who still remained on the plantations through which 
 they were obliged to pass, being apprized of their defeat, 
 lay lurking for their prey, and intercepted great numbers ; 
 among whom was the secretary of the conspiracy, JMonsieur 
 Dumont. These distinguished champions of equality, a 
 few days after their apprehension, were most deservedly 
 hanged, and their bodies towed out beyond tlie harbor, and 
 committed to the flood. For the same cause, a similar 
 sentence was executed on about twenty others. The Cha- 
 raibees, in the mean time, were not less alarmed ; the fate 
 of Chatoyer was severely felt by every individual among 
 them, and their boldness and intrepidity ^evidently forsook 
 lliem. Confounded and dismayed, they retreated towards 
 their own country ; wishing, no doubt, that they had never 
 commenced the undertaking. Had there been troops suf- 
 ficient to have pursued this advantage, a rapidity of success 
 would, in all probability, have ensued, and the destruction 
 of the enemy have been accomplished without delay ; but 
 our resources were so inadequate, that the attempt was 
 wholly impracticable. 
 
 It was, however, conceived, that some good effects might 
 result from arming such negroes as might be depended on, 
 and sending them in pursuit of the fugitives, with orders to 
 kill, or make prisoners of, as many of them as possible. 
 In pursuance of this resolution, a requisition was immediately 
 made ; and more than two hundred volunteers attended at 
 the ordnance yard, where arms and ammunition were to be 
 issued. They received them accordingly, and set out about 
 ten o'clock in the forenoon, breathing nothing but vengeance, 
 and slaughter. The return of this expedition, wliich was in 
 the evening, exhibited a scene truly affecting. It consisted 
 of men pinioned, wounded, and bloody, goaded on by the 
 point of the bayonet, and of delicate females, with dishevelled 
 hair and naked bosoms, tlieir feet bare and unprotected ; 
 
20d HISTORY OF THE 
 
 some with lovely infants in their arms swooning into deatli* 
 Their victorious captors, at the same time, rending the air 
 with shouts and acclamations, indulged the most barbarous 
 and savage joy. Among these sons and daughters of misfor- 
 tune, not a Charaibee was to be seen, for they fled the 
 approach of the negroes Avherever they came. They con- 
 sisted of different descriptions of French people, inhabiting 
 Caliiarpia, and its vicinity ; whose houses were stripped and 
 plundered of every article. Indeed, plunder was the prin- 
 cipal object of the negroes in this pursuit; nor did they 
 hesitate at any cruelties to obtain it. So wholly" unprincipled 
 were they, and unconcerned with regard to the interest of 
 their masters, that they made no distinction between 
 French and English property; when an opportunity offered, 
 one was as little spared as the other. 
 
 The Governor and Council now discovered that expedi- 
 tions of this description did not tend to promote the general 
 good, or to restore tranquillity to the colony. They were 
 marked with cruelty, hurried on with disorder, and inspired 
 by rapacity; they, therefore, prohibited them in future, 
 unless carried on with greater uniformity, and so directed as 
 to facilitate the wished-for end. 
 
 By this time the Charaibees had, in some degree, re- 
 covered from their panic, and began to shew themselves 
 again in the neighbourhood of Calliaqua. They soon formed 
 three camps contiguously pitched, between it and the wood- 
 clad high grounds, about three miles distant from the British 
 encampment on Sion Hill. From these strong holds they 
 were seen to issue every day in small and various parties, 
 and to range the ruined and depopulated country ; sometimes 
 to forage, at other times to reconnoitre. Once they were 
 so daringly resolute, in defiance of our guns, as to advance to 
 the very base of Sion Hill, and set fire to the suoar-works 
 on Greathead's estate, which were totally consumed in a few 
 hours. 
 
 The fleet which had been so long and so anxiously ex- 
 pected was reported to have arrived on the 30th of March. 
 'The receipt of this news was diffusive of general joy. 
 Pleasure seemed to inspire every individual. All looked 
 forward to a period just approaching, for the consummation 
 of their wishes. But owing to some delay, no assistance 
 reached the island before the 5th of April, when two trans- 
 ports arrived from Martinico, under convoy of the Montague, 
 of seventy-four guns, with the forty-sixth regiment, which 
 
WEST INDIES. 209 
 
 i "Was landed next morning. The soldiers marched immedi- 
 ately to Berkshire Hill, their appointed quarters. 
 
 Ilie troops were landed under every possible advantage. 
 Tliree years' residence in Gibraltar had prepared them for 
 tlie rigors of the climate in which they had to act. Ihey 
 were, apparently, in possession of the highest health and 
 spirits ; and shouts and acclamations from all descriptions of 
 society, hailed them on their arrival. 
 
 They entertained the greatest contempt for the enemy, 
 and desired most ardently to be led against them. They 
 had only to perform a march of about four miles, and the 
 militia were ready to co-operate with them. Ihe sudden- 
 ness of their appearance, M'ith the uncertainty of their num- 
 bers, must have operated on the fears of the Charaibees, 
 and unavoidably confused them. Nor were the enemy, at 
 that time, in possession of any ordnance, to give a feature 
 of difficulty to the undertaking. Thus, a combination of 
 reasons seems to have urged and encouraged an immediate 
 attack. However, it was procrastinated till the lOth, when 
 it was resolved upon to storm the Charaib camp. In pur- 
 suance of this resolution, the necessary dispositions were 
 made. Captain Campbell, of the forty sixth, at the head 
 of the grenadiers, was to make the attack. In case of 
 success. Captain Hall, with the light infantry, was to inter- 
 cept the enemy's retreat toward Calliaqua, in one direction; 
 and Colonel Loman, of the militia, with his men, and with 
 a detachment of sailors from on board the Roebuck, was to 
 perform the same service in another. Agreeably to this 
 plan of operation, the different parties marched for their 
 respective destinations about ten o'clock at night, and 
 reached them about one in the morning. It is conjectured, 
 that the enemy had early and accurate information of what 
 was going forward. The extraordinary vigilance of their 
 centinels, "and their spirited reception of our troops, justify 
 the supposition. For hardiy had the light infantry stationed 
 themselves, before they were discovered, chalienvied, and 
 fired upon. The compliment was instantly returned with 
 uncommon warmth ; and a very smart engagement com- 
 menced. But from the superior number of the attacked, 
 and the damage sustained by the arms of our men 
 in marching through heavy and successive rams, we were 
 obliged for some moments to fall back, or at least hesitate 
 in the assault. During this interchange of hostilities, Colonel 
 Loman, with the militia and sailors, was withm a tew mo- 
 ments march of reaching their intended position, when tb» 
 
 VOL. II. D d 
 
210 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 word of retreat was given, unnecessarily and unexpectiedly/ 
 by some unknown person in the advanced files. A sudden 
 and invincible panic seems to have pervaded all the ranks ; 
 disorder and confusion succeeded ; the van fell back upon 
 the rear with such impetuosity, that many were thrown down 
 and trampled upon ; nor did they conceive themselves se- 
 cure, until they had regained Kingston, which they accom- 
 plished early the next morning. 
 
 The retreat of the light infantry was but of short duration ; 
 they were opportunely supported by Captain Campbell, 
 who that moment came up with the grenadiers of the 46th • 
 and by Lieutenant Farquharson, with twenty-two men of the 
 third battalion of the sixtieth. The whole charged the enemy 
 with such determined bravery, that nothing could with- 
 stand them : they fled on all sides with the utmost precipi-^ , 
 tation. 
 
 After the troops had taken some necessary refreshment, 
 and demolished the different encampments of the enemy, 
 they proceeded immediately to the barrack-ground above 
 Calliaqua, where they entrenched themselves, and in some 
 degree set limits to the depredations and excesses of the 
 savage and barbarous foe. 
 
 These successes inspired us with the hope of obtaining 
 more ; and conceiving that reinforcements were necessary l 
 to carry on our operations with energy, a temporary suspen- ^ 
 sion took piace. To procure these reinforcements, it was 
 determined to arm a quota of slaves on every plantation 2 
 throughout the island. Each negro, on receiving arms, was " 
 to be appraised ; and in case any mischance befel him 
 during the period of his military services, the colony became 
 amenable to his owner for the amount of the appraisements. 
 Five hundi-ed were immediately put in requisition, and 
 within a few days Mere produced on the parade. Their 
 officers were appointed out of the different regiments of 
 militia. The first in rank was to be a Colonel, and so down 
 to an Ensign. Provision was also made to discipline them. 
 To that end, a Seijeant belonging to the regulars was at- 
 tached to each corps ; and it is but justice to say, that they 
 evinced a susceptibility of instruction beyond what could be 
 expected. Within a few weeks they well nigh lost their 
 native awkwardness, and acquitted themselves in the dis- 
 charge of their duty rather beyond, than on this side of 
 mediocrity. 
 
 The seUSjement of Du Valle, the Charaibee chief, situated 
 on the northern extremity of the island, was considered as a 
 
WEST INDIES. 211 
 
 proper object of an expedition, as well to divide the force 
 of the enemy, as to annoy them. On Saturday, the 25th 
 of April, two armed schooners sailed from Kingston with 
 the following troops on board, under tlie command of 
 Lieutenant-Colonel Seton, who was to direct the operations 
 of the attack ; viz. one Serjeant and three privates of the 
 royal artillery. Lieutenant Groves, with thirty-three sailors 
 belonging to the Roebuck, and tw o Lieutenants, one Ensign, 
 five Serjeants, and sixty- four rank and file of the rangers, or 
 blacTc troops. These were reinforced at Chateaubellair w ith 
 a small detachment of the forty-sixth regiment, commanded 
 by Ensign Lee. Early on the morning of the 26th, they 
 sailed for the destined scene of action, and attempted a 
 landing in the rear of the houses, and of some batteries 
 which looked toward the sea ; but, owing to the ignorance 
 of the guides, it was found impracticable to ascend the 
 rugged acclivity in that direction, as they could not discover 
 any vestiges of a path. Lieutenant-Colonel Seton instantly 
 reconnoitred the situation, and saw it was impossible to make 
 the attack in any other place than in front of the houses and 
 batteries. Therefore, under cover of the armed vessels, 
 though exposed to an incessant fire of grape shot and small 
 arms from the enemy, they effected a landing ; and without 
 the loss of a moment formed themselves beneath the shelter 
 pf a cliff. Now, the storming of the batteries became the 
 general outcry ; and their gallant commander led them on 
 with uncommon ardor and intrepidity. The path by ^\ hich 
 they ascended was angular; consequently, having their 
 swivsls placed at certain angles, the assailants must have 
 . bfeij frequently liable to Hanking. In addition to this, num- 
 ^'.rs of huge and massy rocks were precipitated upon them 
 Tiom on high, very much to their annoyance; however, 
 from their brave perseverance, every opposition was sur- 
 njounted, and victory was obtained. The houses were 
 plundered and devoted to the flames ; vast quantities of pro- 
 visions w ere also destroyed ; but what must have rendered 
 tlie defeat doubly formidable, was the loss of sixteen canoes, 
 and four swivels, which were found on the batteries. The 
 enemy's loss in men could not easily be ascertained, as they 
 adopted the old custom of cariying off their dead and 
 Mounded. 
 
 Our loss on this occasion was less than might be expected, 
 considering the several difficulties attending the enterprize. 
 It consisted of three seamen killed, and ten wounded, thr^e 
 
213 HISTOKY OF THE 
 
 rank and file of the forty-sixth wounded, and six of the 
 rangers. 
 
 During these transactions, the Brigands, who had sur- 
 vived the stormuig of the three camps on the 10th of April, 
 together with the Mnriaqua and windward Charaibees, and 
 those English and French negroes who joined them, as- 
 sembled on the Vtgie, and commenced throwing up fortifi- 
 cations ; which, in a few weeks, appeared from Dorsetshire 
 Hill, (the distance, in a direct line, about four miles) regu- 
 larly designed, and otherwise respectable. About this time, 
 a report Nvas circulated, that a reinforcement was arrived 
 from Guadaloupe, to assist them in maintaining this position. 
 The authenticity of it was doubted by soiiC, while more 
 were inclined to be credulous. 
 
 On the 7th of May, about nine o'clock in the morning, 
 the appearance of the enemy in great numbers was rather 
 alarming. More than one thousand, as was supposed, ap- 
 peared descending the hills, in nine distinct columns, directing 
 their course toward our camp at Calliaqua, then maintainec 
 by the Honorable Captain Moles worth, of the forty-sixth, 
 with one hundred regulars, and nearly as many rangers. 
 On their advancing within range of the guns, a six-pounder 
 was discharged upon them, which occasioned their halting. 
 After reconnoitring the camp, and deliberating some small 
 space of time, they beat a parley, and sent in a flag of truce, 
 which was borne by a young French oflicer. He said, " he 
 " was instructed by the General commanding yonder na- 
 '' tional troops, to desire the i3ritish Commander to surrender 
 " himself and his men prisoners, for the time being. They 
 *' should, in consequence, be transported to any other 
 " English island where the flag of liberty was not unfurled ; 
 " but they could not be permitted, by any means, to remain 
 " in St. Vincent's : his according to this proposal would 
 " entitle him to indulgence ; his refusal, provoke an imme- 
 ^' diate assault, the consequences of w hich he could not be 
 " answerable for." These conditions of capitulation were 
 received by Captain Molesworth, as they deserved, with the 
 utmost contempt. He replied, " that he could depend upon 
 *' his men ; that he did not despair of defending himself, 
 " and would do so to the last extremity ; having, therefore, 
 '* taken this resolution, he would not listen to any proposals 
 *' derogatory to the character of a British officer." W ith 
 this answer the flag departed; but returned again in less 
 than an hour, and, exuitingly remarking on Captain Moles- 
 
WEST INDIES. 213 
 
 worth's temerity, " exhorted him not to provoke an attack, 
 " as he was too feeble to resist ; observing, that he came 
 *' to make the last overtures he was to expect ; viz. that he 
 ** was permitted to march unmolested to Kingston, provided 
 " he laid down his arms, and left the camp as it then was, 
 " with all the ammunition and military stores it contained." 
 This message was as ill fated as its predecessor; Captain 
 Molcsworth bravely refusing to comply. 
 
 In compassion to the frailty of human nature, I am almost 
 tempted to conceal the intention of the enemy, in proposing 
 to our people this last prehminary of capitulation. Yet, 
 how much soever she may blush for her degraded and per- 
 fidious offspring, truth requires the development of their 
 diabolical and sanguinary scheme. 
 
 In case our men had delivered up their arms and marched 
 from their encampment, the troops of the Republic would 
 have received them, and marched in. All this would have 
 been perfectly consistent m ith the terms proposed and ac- 
 cepted ; but in the mean tmie, their allies, the Charaibees, 
 had concealed themselves in the mill and negro-houses 
 belonging to Sir William Young, near to which they were 
 to pass in their way to Kingston ; where not one of them 
 would ever have arrived. Unarmed and unprotected, they 
 must have fallen victims to the savage cruelty of a concealed 
 foe. 
 
 The French projectors of this perfidious and sanguinary 
 plot, could have easily exculpated themselves from any 
 charge that might be brought against them, by disclaiming 
 all connexion with the Charaibees, and retorting upon their 
 enemies ; by calling upon the rest of mankind to judge 
 how ungenerous and illiberal it was, to represent them 
 as the perpetrators of a crime wholly chargeable on others. 
 
 But the steady and determined conduct of the British 
 Commander totally defeated their expectations, and pre- 
 vented those consequences, to which, through their inhuman 
 stratagems, both he and his little army would have been 
 inevitably exposed. 
 
 Providentially, while the above negociations were on 
 foot, the Alarm frigate appeared m sight. On the earliest 
 intimations of the enemy's descent from the Vigie, she got 
 under weigh m Kingston harbor, and stood for Calliaqua. 
 In less than an hour she came to an anchor contiguous to 
 the camp, and poured a whole broadside upon the I'.e, with 
 such well-directed aim, that it was said to have done con- 
 
214 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 siderable execution among them. On her repetition of 
 these discharges, and landing one hundred and thirty sailors, 
 they scampered away with the utmost expedition, seemingly 
 disposed to return to the Vigie. During this transaction, a 
 detachment of the regulars, and another of the militia, 
 commanded by Captain Hall, were ordered to take post on 
 Dorsetshire Hill, to secure more effectually the safety of 
 the town. About one o'clock the next morning, the out- 
 posts were attacked with an impetuosity superior to any 
 thing that had ever been experienced from the Charaibees. 
 The fact was, that not one of them was concerned ; the 
 onset owed its vigour to the united eiForts of the French 
 troops lately arrived, and the disaffected negroes and mu- 
 lattoes of the island. Nothing could exceed the bravery 
 wherewith they were opposed by our men ; but it soon 
 became expedient to retreat, and join the main body, a dis- 
 position having been made to cut them off. In effecting 
 this junction they w^ere very closely pursued, when an ex- 
 ceedingly warm engagement commenced, which lasted for 
 the space of half an hour. By this time our ammunition 
 was well nigh expended ; and the assailants, like a torrent, 
 came pouring in their numbers to the charge. To prolong 
 resistance would have been rashness and not courage ; the 
 hill was, therefore, immediately abandoned. What ren- 
 dered this circumstance the more alarming was, that a 
 six pounder, in the tumult and hurry, had been left be- 
 hind unspiked, which might have desolated the camp on 
 Sion Hill in the morning, and have driven every inhabitant 
 from the town. 
 
 During the attack, the regulars and rangers on Berkshire 
 Hill, with all the militia in town, were drawn up, and lay 
 on their arms, waiting in suspense the result of the conflict. 
 When that was clearly understood. Captain Forster, of the 
 forty-sixth, with a detachment from the battalion, the grena- 
 dier and light infantry companies of that regiment. Major 
 Seton, with a detachment of the rangers, and Major Whytell, 
 with the greatest part of the militia, were ordered to march 
 directly against the enemy, and obtain, if possible, a repos- 
 session of the hill. 
 
 About break of day, the whole force had gained the 
 summit of the hill without being perceived by the enemy. 
 At length we came, challenged, and fired upon them. 
 They were not tardy in returning the compliment ; but in- 
 stantly rushed forward, rending the air with their hostile 
 
WEST INDIES. 215 
 
 huzzas. However, after a sharp conflict of two hours, the 
 hill was repossessed by our troops. 
 
 So forcible were the ideas of danger entertained by the 
 enemy in the moment, that they fled with such incautious 
 haste, that numbers of them precipitated themselves head- 
 long from the tops of rocks and precipices, and were daslied 
 to pieces in the fall. Forty-eight lay dead on the spot, 
 nineteen of whom were whites. But the prisoners who 
 were taken amounted to no more than five. 
 
216 HISTOKY OF THE 
 
 CHAP. XXIII. 
 
 HISTORY OF ST. VINCENT's 
 
 (Continued.) 
 
 Progress of the late Charaib War, continued in minute 
 Detail. — Occasional Incidents, and Development of hu- 
 man Character. — Extraordinary Instance of Intrepidity 
 and Perseverance in a Slave. — The Arrival of Reinforce- 
 ments in a Moment of general Consternation andi 
 Danger^ 
 
 JL HE victory recorded at the close of the preceding 
 chapter contributed greatly to diminish the audacity of the 
 enemy, while it inspired our troops with additional ardor 
 and intrepidity : acclamations of triumph ran rapidly from 
 hill to hill ; and joy sat visibly enthroned in every coun- 
 tenance. The language made use of by the Psalmist, to 
 express the general felicity of the Jews, on the terminatioa 
 of their captivity in Babylon, and the restoration of their 
 liberties in their native country, is best calculated to describe 
 the sensations of every bosom on this occasion. " Wher 
 ** the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion, we were 
 " like them that dream ; then was our mouth filled with 
 " laughter, and our tongue with singing." Psalm, cxxviV 
 V. 1, &c. 
 
 On this moniing, so auspicious to the British arms, the 
 defeated enemy reached the Vigie, and began to fortify and 
 strengthen it still more, with the most unwearied diligence. 
 Each succeedmg day afforded new pioofs of their perse- 
 verance. In all probability, they calculated on a visit from 
 us, and, accordingly, were making provision for our recep- 
 tion. For the purposes of an encampment, nature had been 
 peculiarly friendly to the situation they had chosen. Ihc 
 hill itself was about one hundred yards m length, and twenty 
 in breadth, bounded ali.iost wholly by vallies, hardly pass- 
 able. Ihis was maintained as the citadel, or dernier resort, 
 ^d was barricaded all around, with sugar-hogsheads filled 
 
WEST INDIES. 217 
 
 with clay and sand ; these they collected from the different 
 dismantled plantations which had been subject to their ra- 
 vages. Within musket-shot, towards the north-west point, 
 rose to a considerable height another little conical hill, 
 which became their first redoubt, and promised to be very 
 seniceable, as it rendered difficult any approaches to the 
 main position, in the direction which was easiest of access. 
 About cannon-shot, nearly the same way, lay another hill, 
 which overlooked the road coming from Kingston, in the 
 most commanding manner. This was their advanced post, 
 or outward piquet guard. During these defensive proceed- 
 ings on their side, we were carrying on the necessary fortifi- 
 cations on Dorsetshire Hill, in order to secure its future 
 possession. Its importance became daily more conspicuous. 
 The town stood in such a relation to it, as to be unavoidably 
 involved with it, in the issue of things. 
 
 Such was the complexion of affairs on both sides, when 
 a circumstance occurred, Avhich will serve to add another 
 feature to the portrait we are necessitated to draw of Charaib 
 inhumanity. From the time that this xvorse than Vandal 
 race had been first repulsed, the leeward country remained 
 perfectly tranquil. Colonel Gordon, with the Chateaubellair 
 militia, strictly guarded the boundary, and carried on the 
 cultivation of the estates as usual. One day, while the 
 manager of Mr. Grant's plantation was employed with the 
 negroes in the distillation of rum, unsuspicious of any 
 danger, in a moment, the Charaibees, who lay concealed 
 in an adjoining M'ood, rushed from the thicket like beasts of 
 prey, cut off the retreat of tlie unhappy manager ; and, 
 massacring him, set fire to the buildings ; and, after com- 
 mitting a variety of other depredatory acts, returned to their 
 fastnesses in the mountains. 
 
 About this period, they seemed delighted with every 
 opportunity of slaughter and devastation. Hitherto they 
 had carried themselves towards the negroes in a very wily 
 and politic manner. They had offered them liberty, and 
 exhorted them to receive it ; but, happily for the inhabitants, 
 the proposal, however flattering, was rejected with dis- 
 dain. Comparatively, very few espoused their interests ; 
 M iiile a considerable number opposed them, well accoutred, 
 and either gallantly fell, or triumphed with their masters. 
 
 In consequence of this inflexibility of conduct in the ne- 
 groes, they became equally the objects of detestation with 
 their owners ; immediate death was inflicted on all who fell 
 into, the hands of the Charaibees. The great scarcit}' of 
 
 VOL. II. E e 
 
218 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 provisions, which prevailed among many hundreds of those 
 poor creatures pent up in town, impelled them to adventure 
 beyond our lines into the country in quest of fruits, Foots, 
 and vegetables, to alleviate the hardships of their situation 
 as much as possible. Those excursions of necessity proved 
 fatal to many ; as numbers were taken and destroyed. 
 
 About this period, a detachment of one hundred men, 
 belonging to Major Malcomb's corps of rangers, arrived 
 from Martinico ; and, also, on the ensuing day, the third 
 battalion of the sixtieth regiment, consisting of six hundred 
 men, well appointed, commanded by the very gallant 
 Lieutenant-Colonel Ritchie. 
 
 lliese men were, originally, destined for Demerara, with 
 an intention to secure that colony for the Prince of Orange ; 
 but, in consequence of the Governor representing the tran- 
 quillity and unanimity of the whole colony, and the proba- 
 bility of dissatisfaction arising in the minds of many, on the 
 disembarkation of foreign troops ; they proceeded to Mar- 
 tinico, from whence they were ordered to St. Vincent's, by 
 General Vaughan. 
 
 Every thing being now in readiness to carry into execution 
 the long meditated attack upon the Vigie, — on the night of 
 the 11th of June, the troops marched through the town; 
 and halted about ten o'clock at ^^ arawarow River, within 
 about four English miles of the theatre of destinatioh. 
 They were composed of detachments from the forty-sixth 
 and sixtieth regiments, Malcomb's, and the Island Rangers ; 
 almost all the southern and windward regiments of militia, 
 and the Royal Artillery ; the whole commanded by Lieu- 
 tenant-Colonel Leighton, of the forty-sixth. 
 ' The troops being divided into four distinct corps, and 
 each Commander having received his plan of operation, they 
 proceeded ; and marched in such directions as to have the 
 enemy completely invested by break of day. It was neces- 
 sary, in order to command the Vigie, to possess ourselves 
 of the two redoubts I have described in a former stage of 
 khis narrative ; and it was a circumstance peculiarly auspi- 
 cious to*our affairs this day, that both these places were 
 held by the Charaibees. The westernmost, which overlooks 
 the road coming from town, was first attacked, and carried 
 almost without opposition. The pusillanimous Charaibees, 
 who were entrusted with its defence, betaking themselves to 
 flight on the earliest intimation of an enemy. The British 
 troops, with an alacrity becoming their ancient character, 
 pursued this advantage with such promptitule, that ther 
 
 i 
 
WEST INDIES. 219 
 
 entered the other redoubt immediately after the fugitives, 
 and obtained it with as little difficulty as the former. Many 
 of the Charaibees, in this early stage of the action, ran off 
 directly, and effected their escape; those who could not, 
 took refuge in the Vigie. 
 
 The French were so sensible of the loss they sustained in 
 the reduction of those positions, that to regain their occu- 
 pancy, they sallied forth from the main camp in great seem- 
 ing ferocity, to charge our brave men, who, in all proba- 
 bility, must have severely felt the shock of such a determined 
 attack. But, perceiving they were liable to be flanked by 
 one of our corps just approaching, they relinquished their 
 design, and retreated within their works ; commencing a 
 heavy cannonade against us, accompanied with an uninter- 
 rupted discharge of musketry. Never did troops display 
 greater gallantry than did the British militia and rangers on 
 this occasion. The whole seemed as if actuated by one 
 soul. Two six pounders, from adjacent situations, were 
 directed against the batteries and works of the enemy, with 
 unabating perseverance. Early in the attack a mortar was 
 brought forward, which scattered its destructive materials 
 among them with considerable annoyance, while the smaller 
 arms kept up an uninterrupted discharge. 
 
 Thus was victory undecided for about the space of five 
 hours, when the shot, necessary to supply their great guns, 
 became expended ; and most of ihose who were acquainted 
 with their management, were either killed or wounded. In 
 consequence of this change of circumstances, their resistance 
 gradually diminished ; until, at length, they found it expe- 
 dient to beat the chamade, which occasioned a momentary 
 suspension of hostilities on our side ; when a shabby-looking 
 man, in the character of an officer, made his appearance, 
 and approached, intimating by his gesticulations, a wish to 
 obtain an audience. Lieutenant-Colonel Leighton immedi- 
 ately indulged him with an interview, through the medium 
 of Lieutenant Lee, who spoke the French language with 
 great facility. 
 
 He observed, " He was instructed by his General to 
 " propose to the English Commander, an immediate evacu- 
 " ation of the Vigie, with all its stores and furniture, pro- 
 " vided he might be permitted to bury his dead, and march 
 " with his troops, carrying their arms and wounded with 
 " them, to the Charaib country unmolested." Colonel 
 Leighton replied, " He would not admit of any conditions 
 " whatever ; That the French General must make a dis- 
 
220 HIStORY OP THE 
 
 *■' cretionary surrender, and rely on the British clemency ; or 
 ** withstand the storm he intended to attempt, the very 
 " moment he rejoined his friends." During this interval of 
 negociation, the enemy endeavored to steal away unper- 
 ceived. The object of it was to amuse us, and obtain 
 time ; but before they could accomplish the witty scheme, 
 the bugle-horn sounded for the charge ; which was per- 
 formed with uncommon alertness. Only two or three of 
 the national troops tarried to receive our mercy ; the rest, 
 stimulated by fear, obstinacy, or perhaps by hope, encoun- 
 tered every difficulty, and dashed through all manner of 
 danger, like men wholly influenced by despair. Numbers 
 perished in consequence of this temerity ; while others 
 escaped captivity, if not the ignominy of execution, which 
 was the justly-awarded punishment of every inhabitant car- 
 rying anus. 
 
 The scene which presented itself on entering the Vigie 
 could not easily be surveyed with a tearless eye, unless the 
 breast of the spectator was wholly inaccessible to sensibility. 
 Here lay a leg, and there an arm ! Now the foot strikes 
 against the shattered fragments of a head ! or, with difficulty, 
 disengages itself from adhering entrails ! Yonder is discerned 
 a breathless, disfigured form ; while the wounded and dying 
 pour, in evei'y direction, their languishing groans upon the 
 listening ear ! O war ! thou direful scourge of angry hea- 
 ven ! how disastrous is thy course ! thou threatening precur- 
 sor of plague, pestilence, and famine ! Guilty must be the 
 land which thou art commissioned to scourge ! Oh, that 
 the people were wise to observe the signs of the times ! To 
 hear the rod, and him who hath appointed it. When the 
 judgments of the Lord are abroad in the earth, the inhabi- 
 tants thereof should leam righteousness. 
 
 The prisoners made on this occasion were exceedingly 
 few. The principal among them were two gentlemen, 
 whose history (as far as information may be depended upon) 
 may not be unacceptable to the reader. 
 
 The name of the former was Monsieur Souhallet. It is 
 said, he was by birth a Burgundian. He was a private 
 soldier in the Republican army at the re-taking of Toulon ; and 
 boasted of having the honor of assisting at the capture of the 
 brave, but unfortunate. General O'Hara. He was one of those 
 democratic desperadoes, who accompanied the adventurous 
 Hugues to Guadaloupe, when he surprized the English at 
 Point a Peire, and, by a series of victories, restored to the 
 Convention the sovereignty of the whole island. During 
 
WEST INDIES. 221 
 
 those struggles, the subject of our present memoir distin- 
 guished himself in such a manner, as to attract the attention 
 of his General, and to exalt him in his estimation. On the 
 earliest probability of reaping an advantage from the insur- 
 rections in St. Vincent's, he was sent thither with a rein- 
 forcement, invested with the supreme command. Here he 
 commenced his military operations in the fortification of the 
 Vigie. His next object was the reduction of our camp at 
 Calliaqua, the particulars of which attempt have been 
 already given. Defeated in his expected success, by the 
 very seasonable appearance of the Alarm frigate, he imme- 
 diately directed his views toward Dorsetshire Hill ; which 
 he gained and lost the same night. In this enterprize he 
 received a wound in one of his legs ; to cure AA'hich, he 
 retired to Grande Sable, and only returned a few days pre- 
 vious to his capture. His misfortune was not owing to his 
 misconduct. The circumst-ances he had to encounter were 
 unpropitious, and he could not reverse them, 'i he courage 
 and activity he displayed in defending himsell, and main- 
 taining his situation, reflected considerable honor on his 
 character as a soldier. He was found lying in his tent, 
 severely wounded in several places ; and every attention his 
 condition called for was bestowed. After being brought to 
 town, he was conveyed on board his Majesty's ship, the 
 Roebuck ; and on his recovery was sent to Martinico, to 
 remain a prisoner of war, until a cartel should be established. 
 His bravery, iiowever, partook of too much ferocity to be 
 admired. His air was too sullen to be dignified, and too 
 imperious to command esteem. He was in possession of 
 qualities superior to his birth ; but, unsoftened by humanity, 
 they rendered him more capable of being the tyrant, than 
 the guardian of society. 
 
 1 he other, a doctor, was rather a young man. He was 
 a native of France, and in his appearance exceedingly pre- 
 possessing. He only reached the camp the day preceding 
 its attack ; and while rendering the General surgical assist- 
 iance in his tent, he received a mortal wound. Here he was 
 found in dreadful agonies. His sufferings becoming insup- 
 portable, he strongly pleaded to be dispatched, but it could 
 not be complied with. He was no longer beheld m the 
 light of an enemy, but commiserated as a child of misfor- 
 tune, whose case recommended him as a brother. 
 
 " No hand withheld the kind relief; 
 
 *' The tear of pity could not be repress'd." 
 
222 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 When the clouds of death hung heavily on his ej'e-lid.^-, 
 and the pulsations of life beat slowly through each vein, he 
 was withdrawn from this state of existence, exclaiming with 
 the Roman, — " O virtue, I have worshipped thee in vain." 
 
 There was found upon him a small manuscript, with 
 directions to address a certain number of prayers each day 
 to the holy and immaculate Mother of our Lord. The 
 performer was flattered thereby to consider himself invul- 
 nerable in battle, and secure against the perils of the sea. 
 
 Whether the doctor was so far the dupe of superstition, 
 as to confide in this charm or not, I must not pretend to 
 decide. But if he complied with its requisitions, in expec- 
 tation of obtaining its immunities, his untimely fall must 
 have convinced him, that the worship of the Virgin was as 
 vain and useless, as that worship of virtue which excluded 
 the sole merits and atonement of the blessed Jesus the 
 lledeemer of mankind ! 
 
 Our killed and wounded were found not to exceed thirty 
 in all ; a circumstance not a little surprizing, when we con- 
 sider the advantageous situation of the enemy, their great 
 numbers, and the duration of the engagement, which could 
 not be less than six hours. 
 
 After accomplishing the reduction of this position, Lieu- 
 tenant-Colonel Leighton deemed it necessary to maintain it, 
 as it greatly contributed to preserve his communication with 
 the town, and to confine tlie enemy, in that part of the 
 country, to the woods and mountains. The command was 
 given to Captain Cope, of the sixtieth regiment, with about 
 fifty men. This gentleman conceiving his complement 
 inadequate to the defence of a place so capacious, reduced 
 it considerably ; providing against the possibilities of xvar 
 with becoming zeal and application. 
 
 On the ensuing morning, the grand army moved with an 
 intention of advancing as expeditiously as possible, to Mount 
 Young — a situation extremely eligible, not only beuig cal- 
 culated to answer all the purposes of encamping, but of 
 opening the way immediately into Grande Sable, the long 
 unmolested asylum of the savage and sanguinary Charaibees, 
 It was conjectured, that the march would be disputed, and 
 that many lives would be lost in effecting it ; as the irregu- 
 larity of the country, and the security of the woods, presented 
 the enemy with a variety of opportunities of annoying tliQ 
 troops unperceived. But, owing to the judicious manner in 
 which it was conducted, and the pusillanimity of those who 
 should have opposed us, it was performed without the loss 
 
^VEST INDIES. 223 
 
 pt an iwdividual, excepting two or three of the privates, who, 
 overcome by fatigue, fell down and expired almost witliout 
 a groan. 
 
 Having thus been crowned with victory, through the 
 gracious providence of God, and having realized our most 
 ?anguine expectations, — while we entrenched ourselves on 
 Mount Young, the eastern extremity of the enemy's coun- 
 try, an expedition was undertaken against Ouia, an eligible 
 little promontory on the north-M'est coast, which commanded 
 ,»n easy landing-place, peculiarly adapted to serve their inter- 
 ssts, by affording an instantaneous reception to reinforce- 
 ments and supplies. It was conducted by Major Ecuyer, 
 \)i the third battalion of the sixtieth regiment. The troops 
 were put on board two droghas belonging to the island, and 
 miled from Kingston on the 14th, under convoy of the 
 fhorn sloop of war, commanded by Captain Otway. 
 Immediately on coming to an anchor, the enemy began to 
 lire upon the vessels with a four pounder and two wall 
 pieces, which did considerable mischief, one man being 
 tilled, and several others wounded. In the interim, one of 
 ;he boats effected a landing ; but met w ith so warm a re- 
 :eption, that she was obliged to put off again, and regain 
 ler vessel. Some time was then devoted to the distribution 
 jf grog, which it seems had not been issued at first ; to 
 rt'hich neglect some of the soldiers attributed their miscar- 
 iage. On the conclusion of this ceremony, a second land- 
 ng was attempted and obtained. The contest was but of 
 ihort duration. Our troops pushed forward with becoming 
 iravery and resolution, driving the Charaibees from their 
 nglorious shelter, and possessing themselves of the desired 
 iituation, without any greater loss than a very few killed 
 md wounded. None of the enemy fell into our hands ; but 
 Vom the quantity of blood which appeared in different 
 places, many must have been wounded, if not killed. These 
 ;hey had address enough to carry off with them, leaving us 
 :o conjecture on the loss they had sustained. 
 
 The possession of this landing-place gave us a decided 
 idvantage over the authors of our misfortunes. They could 
 lot calculate on any external resource, every harbor capable 
 ^f receiving a long-boat being 'in our possession. Their 
 nternal supplies could not hold out many weeks ; their own 
 consumption was considerable, and that of our troops at 
 Mount Young immense. Such being the appearance of 
 iffairs, we naturaliy expected each day the arrival of a flag 
 4 truce, accompanied with a confession of guilt, and 
 
224 HISTORY OF THE ' 
 
 deprecation of punishment. But the arrival of dispatches 
 at head-quarters from the camp at Chateaubellair advertised 
 us of an event no less surprizing than extraordinaiy ; namely, 
 That the Brigands had found means of avoiding the danger 
 which threatened them in the Charaib country, by effecting 
 a passage across the mountains into their neighbourhood, 
 where they had established a camp, and begun to forage 
 with impunity. 
 
 The resolution which gave existence to this measure, 
 though founded in necessity, cannot be too highly applauded. 
 It is one instance among many, which shews, that in the 
 eye of courage, prudence, and perseverance, there are but i 
 few insurmountable impediments. Hitherto, Grande Sable ii 
 had been deemed inaccessible, otherwise than by water, or i| 
 the windward and leeward roads ; in consequence of the i' 
 prodigious height of the mountains, and these so intersected ] 
 with gullies and ravines, and cloathed witlr forests and inter- 
 weaving underwoods, that the very idea of attempting them 
 might intimidate a mind unquestionably brave. 
 
 Somewhat similar to this transaction, was the evacuation 
 of St. Lucia by Brigadier-General Stuart, which opened an] 
 easy communication between that island and St. Vincent's ; 
 the distance not exceeding six leagvies. 
 
 The enemy took the earliest opportunity of sending across 
 the channel a Charaib canoe, communicating an exact state- 
 ment of existing circumstances, and imploring, at the same 
 time, an immediate reinforcement of men, with a supply of 
 military and other stores. The requisition was complied 
 with as expeditiously as possible ; and again they Avere 
 buoyed up with fresh hopes. Their affairs assumed a new 
 appearance ; and, conscious of llieir strength, they shifted 
 their position, and possessed themselves of the next hill to 
 our camp at Chateaubellair. This position was incomparably 
 superior to ours in point of situation, especially in elevation, 
 which might be at least in the proportion of four to two. 
 
 On the commencement of the rupture, when it became 
 necessary to establii-h a post in tliis neighbourhood, for the 
 preservation of the leeward country, various persons recom- 
 mended this hill as the most eligible ; but on advising with 
 the engineer, he combated the opinion professionally, and 
 pledged himself that no enemy Avould ever make choice of 
 it. The superiority of his judgement, and an unbounded 
 confidence in it, prevailed ; but a very little time served to 
 convince him, and those whom his arguments had biassed, 
 that if we leave advantages in the hands of our enemies, 
 
WEST INDIES. 225 
 
 they will employ them against us, when opportunity makes 
 it practicable. 
 
 Immediately on taking this post, the flag de la liberte 
 was unfurled, and a small fleld-piece began to play against 
 our camp, which was brought from St. Lucia by the last 
 reinforcement. It was capable of doing considerable mis- 
 chief among us ; but, happily for our safety, they conceived 
 the shot fell short ; so to avoid an unnecessaiy waste of 
 ammunition, they discontinued firing. 
 
 Colonel Gordon, who commanded at Chateaubellair, 
 feeling the aukwardness of his situation, made the earliest 
 representation of it to the Commander-in-chief, who, without 
 loss of time, reinforced him with a detachment from the 
 third battalion of the sixtieth regiment, and another from 
 the southern corps of militia, then on duty in town. The 
 popular Lieutenant-Colonel Provost was appointed to the 
 command. 
 
 This gentleman, on his arrival, after reconnoitering the 
 works and situation of the enemy, deliberated in council 
 what Avas necessary to be done. It was resolved, that an 
 attack was unavoidable ; as, in all probability, they aimed at 
 being beforehand with us in that measure. 
 
 This resolution once taken, it was necessary to carry it 
 into eft'ect. 
 
 Captain Otway, of the Thome sloop of war, offering his 
 services on the occasion, a detachment of sailors was accord- 
 ingly landed. To these was joined a detachment of the 
 forty-sixth, and another of the sixtieth, with a few of the 
 northern militia. They composed the storming party, and 
 were to be led on by Lieutenant Moore, of the former 
 regiment. Major Whytell, at the head of the Kingston or 
 southern militia, received orders to conceal himself and them 
 in t!ie rear of their position, to cut ofl^ the retreat of the 
 enemy, should they be routed. Toward two o'clock they 
 severally departed for their respective destinations. A little 
 after day-break, the assault was made agreeably to orders, 
 and succeeded ; until Lieutenant Moore a\ as wour.dsd, 
 when our troops halted for want of a leader. The enemy, 
 perceiving our disaster, availed themselves thereof with 
 uncommon address. With shouts of animation, they came 
 forward to every little eminence, and kept up an unremitting 
 discharge of small arms. Disorder soon pervaded our ranks ; 
 and a flight ensued ; wherein we sustained a more than ordi- 
 nary loss. Many were killed, and a great number wounded ; 
 among the former was Mr. Gregg, a gentleman of consider- 
 VOL. II. F f 
 
226 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 able property in the country ; but, what was far more estima- 
 ble, of an irreproachable character and amiable manners. 
 Among the latter, was Lieutenant Moore, a young gentle- 
 man of genteel connexions and independent fortune, of 
 great courage, and singularly esteemed by the soldiers, who 
 brought him off at the hazard of their lives. He was 
 carried on board the Thorne, where he suffered much for a 
 few days, and then died. 
 
 In the course of the day, a flag of truce was sent to the 
 enemy's camp, requesting the body of Mr. Gregg for inter- 
 ment ; but the messenger returned unsuccessful ; so imper- 
 vious were the hearts of those hardened barbarians. 
 
 To check their growing consequence in this quarter of 
 the island, the attentive Governor recalled Lieutenant-Colo- 
 nel Leighton from Mount Young, with the forty-sixth regi- 
 ment, and a detachment of rangers, and ordered him against 
 them. 
 
 This distinguished officer did not proceed immediately to 
 Colonel Gordon's camp, at Chateaubellair, but landed 
 with his men at Walliabou, four miles short of it ; and, un- 
 perceived by the enemy, ascended the heights, and sat down 
 in their rear with two pieces of ordnance. A battery was 
 expeditiously constructed, and every necessary preparation 
 made to open it upon their camp on the morning of the 
 next day ; but, aware of the consequence, they abandoned 
 it in the night, eluded our utmost vigilance, and left us to 
 adopt such future measures as we might deem most eligible. 
 
 Colonel Leighton pursued them so closely, that they were 
 obliged to leave behind them a small field-piece, which they 
 made surprizing efforts to carry off. After a march of forty- 
 eight hours (not less difficult for the time, than Hannibal's 
 across the Alps) they reached Morne Rhonde, their original 
 position, on coming across the mountains from Grande 
 Sable. Nature, under the direction of the Supreme, 
 seemed as if she intended it should one day be the theatre 
 on which war should act her bloody scenes, by bestowing 
 upon it, with a lavish hand, every essential of a strong hold. 
 It was only accessible m one direction, Avhich lay through 
 an almost impenetrable wood. Colonel Leighton came up 
 soon after, and encamped on an opposite ridge ; M"hen the 
 enemy, for the first time, coavinced us they were in posses- 
 sion of a mortar, by throwing several shells at us ; but, 
 happily, they did no mischief. Immediately on the arrival 
 of our ordnance, they were served in a similar manner ; an 
 
WEST INDIES. ^27 
 
 interchange of such distant hostilities continuing for some 
 days. 
 
 At length, an attack Avas concluded upon, and carried 
 into execution on the morning of the 4th of July. The 
 forty-sixtli regiment, with a detachment of the rangers, under 
 the command of Captain Douglas, of the royal engineers, 
 M as ordered on that service. Owing to some cause of delay, 
 the morning found our troops too backward in their march. 
 They were early discovered by the enemy's advanced piquet- 
 guard, who received them in ambush ; and, before they 
 could be dislodged, killed and wounded a few of our brave 
 men. In this stage of the action, a most tremendous lire of 
 musketry commenced, which, on the part of the enemy, 
 was silenced by the superior bravery of our troops, who 
 urged on their rapid and determined march, until they reached 
 an advanced redoubt, which was most obstinately disputed 
 for more than an hour. There being no probability of suc- 
 ceeding otherwise than by storm, it was determined to 
 attempt it. Orders were, accordingly, given for a charge ; 
 which was so etiectually performed, that the enemy scam- 
 pered off with the utmost precipitation, throwing away their 
 arms, and sheltering themselves in the woods. Their camp 
 contained one four-pounder, one mortar, twenty shells, 
 fifteen baiTels of powder, seven thousand cartridges, together 
 with a few casks of musket bullets. Sixteen dead bodies 
 Avere also found. Tlie Commandant, and Aid-de-camp, of 
 this redoubt were made prisoners, with some others of in- 
 ferior note. Our loss amounted to fourteen of the forty- 
 sixth, killed and thirty wounded ; two rangers killed, and a 
 considerable number \vounded. 
 
 This success compensated fully for recent disappointments, 
 and promised greatly to facilitate the annihilation of those 
 Avho had wronged us. Colonel Leighton thought proper 
 to maintain this newly-acquired post ; considering it, from 
 its strength and situation, of great importance. 
 
 Having accomplished this arduous branch of duty, he 
 returned again to Mount Young, and continued to destroy 
 the provisions of the Charaibees, as usual ; and daily pene ; 
 trated farther into their country. The aspect of affairs 
 appeared to us exceedingly propitious and encouraging ; 
 when, all at once, a change was introduced, and a succession 
 of misfortnnes ensued. 
 
 About this time, Brigadicr-Geneial Meyers arrived from 
 Martinico, and succeeded to the command. From this gentle- 
 man's character, great things were expected ; and it is said, 
 
228 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 that by him great things were promised. But, however 
 short-sighted man may build on probabilities, it is frequently 
 the will of Providence, that he should be humbled to the 
 dust. After our new Commander had obtained information 
 concerning the existing situation of affairs, and visited some of 
 the most important posts committed to his care, he seemed 
 resolved to make his lirst stroke bold and decisive. He ordered 
 Major Ecuyer, who commanded at Ouia, to move on a 
 certain day from that place, and direct his march towards 
 IVlount Young ; from whence he engaged to proceed v^ith 
 the main army, at the same time, towards Ouia. Conse- 
 quently, the enemy, lying between, would be obliged to 
 surrender at discretion, or be cut to pieces. All this was 
 plausible, and, for any thing which appears to the contrary, 
 was altogetlier as practicable. The woods stopping their 
 retreat on the one side, and the sea serving a similar purpose 
 on the other, seemed to place success beyond the reach of 
 doubt. Conformably to liis instructions. Major Ecuyer took 
 the field, and obliged the enemy to retire as he advanced. 
 Having gone as far as he thought he might, without exposing 
 himself to be cut off, he w aited three or four days in the 
 open air, under arms, for the promised junction of the 
 General. At length, vexed with disappointment, exhausted 
 with fatigue, and forced by the augmented number of the 
 enemy, he returned again to Ouia, and dispatched Captain 
 Law, of the forty-sixth, to head-quarters, to notify what 
 had been done, and to receive further orders. The night 
 succeeding his return to the camp, about one o'clock in the 
 morning, in the midst of a tremendous thunder-storm, he 
 received a complete surprize. Six hundred men attacked 
 him in different directions ; and, after about an hour's indis- 
 criminate slaughter, possessed themselves of the place. 
 Here the unfortunate Major fell ; as did most of the officers, 
 and numbers of the men. The camp was Avell supplied 
 with ammunition and provision ; two pieces of ordnance, 
 one six, and one four-povmder, were taken. Some of the 
 men effected their escape through the woods to jVIorne 
 Rhonde; and others were picked up around the shores of 
 that coast by the boats of the Experiment, which were sent 
 by Captain Barrett, on the first rumor of the misfortune, to 
 bring off any that might be found. 
 
 The loss of this post proved the loss of many. The very 
 moment the enemy conceived themselves in the tenable pos- 
 session of it, they dispatched a canoe with the intelligence 
 to St. Lucia, and solicited strongly for an immediate rem- 
 
WEST INDIES. 2Q9 
 
 forcement ; that, tUiiiiio" llie existence of the present con- 
 : sternation of affairs, tlicy laight reap the resulting advan- 
 tages. 
 
 The application ■\\ as honored with the most ready com- 
 pliance. A few niornin5:;s subsequent Uy the catastrophe, 
 the Captain connnanding General Mcyers's schooner, 
 stationed off Quia, arrived in town, with certain information, 
 that on the preceding day four vessels from St. Lucia had 
 anchored in tiie l^ay of that place, and landed a reinforce- 
 ment, which, he su})posed, might amount to about five 
 hundred men. In consequence of this intelligence, it was 
 deemed expedient by the Commander-in-ciuef to evacuate 
 the post of Mount \ oung ; and to this effect, orders were 
 transmitted to Lientenant-Colonel Leighton, who commanded 
 there. About nine o'clock on the night of" the 19th of 
 September 1795, the troops, after having dismantled the 
 works, and destroyed e^ery thing that could not be conveni- 
 ently brought off", leaving their huts illuminated, marched 
 away with the artillery. The next evening they reached 
 JBiabou, where a party of Charaibees also made their 
 appearance : these were spies upon the retreat, and waited 
 to avail themselves of any opportunity that might offer to 
 harass the rear. Having brought forward the troops v\'hich 
 were stationed there, our detachment reached Ziou Hill on 
 the 21st, and were distributed among the several posts 
 encircling the town. General Meyers thought it necessary 
 to maintain the occupancy of the Vigie ; but, in the mean 
 time, omitted the throwing-in of provisions, and other stores. 
 The garrison had only th.e means of ;jubsisting parsimoni- 
 ously for three days. 
 
 On the evening of the 22d, the enemy appeared in great 
 numbers in Maiiaqua Vallei/; and, early on the following 
 morning, were found posted on Fairbairi's Ridge, having • 
 completely cut oft" the communication between the V igie and 
 the town. The safety of the Vigie became now the object 
 of general concern. Its situation being such as ^^'Ould not 
 admit of delay, eighty mules were loaded with supplies, and 
 set forward, under convoy of Lieutenant-Colonel Ritchie, of 
 the sixtieth. Ihis detachment proceeded from Greathead's 
 house, near Zion Hill, about two o'clock in the afternoon 
 of the '24th, and continued in the high-way as far as Callia- 
 qua ; then turned up in such a direction as to get between 
 the enemy's situation and tlie object of relief. 'X'he design 
 ot this measure v> as, not to engage them, unless it became 
 unavoidable ; but to do what was needful to supply the 
 
230 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 necessities of our friends. But the enemy, as if aware of the 
 intention, seemed determiiied to defeat it. They ranged 
 themselves in the path, and took possession of a galba hedge, 
 which, in some measure, flanked our coming up. Here an 
 action commenced. The discharge of musketry was exceed- 
 ingly brisk on both sides for about the space of three minutes ; 
 when our troops gained the summit of the ridge, and obliged 
 the enemy to abandon the hedge and fall back. Captain 
 Foster, of the forty-sixth, who commanded in front, perceiv- 
 ing their declining state, gave orders for an immediate 
 charge : not an individual would obey him : from some un- 
 accountable cause, our men gave way, just in the moment 
 of victory, and fled in different directions, closely pursued 
 by the enemy. The greatest part of the provisions fell into 
 their hands : our loss was estimated at about sixty men 
 killed and taken prisoners. In all probability, the whole 
 detachment would have been cut off, had they not found 
 shelter beneath the guns on Sir William Young's Rock, 
 which were assiduously plied by Major Henry Sharp, to 
 whom great praise is due for his timely exertions on the 
 occasion. Colonel Ritchie, being entirely cut off in his re- 
 treat, collected a little band of officers and men, amounting 
 perhaps, in all, to twenty. These he conducted into the 
 mill belonging to Doctor Collins ; where they defended 
 themselves for several hours together, with distinguished 
 gallantry, against a very large body of the enemy, who at- 
 tempted several times to storm them ; but they were as 
 frequently repulsed with loss, and, at length, obliged to 
 retire. xvbout midnight, our small party abandoned the 
 mill, and reached Sir William Young's Rock next morning, 
 It is remarkable, that not one of these men, throughout the 
 dangerous and long-sustained assault, received the slightest 
 hurt, except their gallant officer, who was wounded m the 
 leg with a musket-ball, which some time afteiwards proved 
 fatal. He was much beloved, and died regretted. He was 
 buried in Kingston, with military honors. To his memory 
 the following ej^itapli was written : 
 
 Stop, casual visitant. This unassuming stone 
 " Proclaims the worlh of him who lies beneath ; 
 In whose short life, the virtues all were shown ; 
 " And, though untimely, honor crov.u'd his death. 
 Go thou, like him, and purchase Mell-earned fame, 
 •' Who, unreluctant, for his country fell ; 
 And know, before thou goest, to gam a name, 
 *' No means-succeed like that of h\!iig well." 
 
WEST INDIES. 231 
 
 Tlie consternation and dread, occasioned by the above 
 unhappy defeat, were excessive : an immediate attack on 
 our out-posts was apprehended, which were considerably 
 ' weakened by the absence of the detachment that was now 
 given over for lost, JJesides, as an additional circumstance 
 I of distress, tli€ situation of the Vigie was desperate ; the 
 want of provisions laid it under the unavoidable necessity 
 of surrendering at discretion, however improbable the ex- 
 pectation of mercy might be in so doing. 
 
 The emergency was truly critical ; the adoption of one 
 wrong measure might ruin all ; however, from the kind iii- 
 terference of Providence, and, under it, from the exertions 
 of ability, such plans were formed and carried into execu- 
 tion, as terminated in the general safety. 
 
 The Honorable Captain Molesworth, who connnanded 
 at Morne Rhonde, received orders for the evacuation of that 
 post, and, widiout a moment's procrastination, to repair to 
 town, and contribute toward the strengthening of the surround- 
 ing eminences. On the preceding unhappy evening, a large 
 detachment took post on Baker's estate, a situation within a 
 quarter of an hour's march of the enemy. Here they re- 
 mained until it became dark, when they returned to Dorset- 
 shire and Sion hills. This feint very happily produced tlm 
 end proposed ; which was, to divert the attention of the op- 
 posite party from the Vigie, and turn it wholly towards the 
 main body. At the same time, a reward of twenty-eight 
 Johannes was offered to any person, who would deliver a 
 letter to the officer commanding at the Vigie, with orders to 
 effect an undiscovered evacuation, if possible. Should he 
 be a slave, his liberty was promised. Two men, in the 
 latter predicament, offered themselves, and receiving the 
 necessary dispatches, set out in different directions. One 
 of these messengers succeeded in getting in on the morning 
 of the 26th. The other was obliged to return. 
 
 The successful emissary was Tamaun, a negro slave. 
 On receiving the letter from General Meyers, he beat thin 
 a piece of lead, in which he enclosed it, and then hung it 
 upon a string around his wrist. First of all, the lead case 
 preserved it from the rain ; and, in the next place, in case 
 of detection, its gravity would admit of a sling, and convey 
 the intelligence with it to some undiscovered spot, and render 
 the object of the adventure dubious. Under these precau- 
 tions, having furnished himself with a bottle of grog, and 
 a little bread and cheese, he proceeded up Kingston valley. 
 About four o'clock in the afternoon he penetrated into Bo'ac 
 
232 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 wood, and, during the night, crept along toward Mariaqua 
 valley. He narrowly escaped being taken ; and nothing but 
 uncommon presence of mmd could liuve prevented it. He 
 found liimself toward the morning surrounded, on all sides, 
 with huls ; on advancing slowly to the end of one of them, 
 and listening a little, he heard a conversation, which he well 
 knew proceeded from some Charaibees. Revolving in his 
 mind n hat was to be done, he lay down flat upon his face ; 
 when one of the speakers came out, stretched himself, and 
 fell to cutting some wood, which lay at the door, with 
 his cutlass. After some space of time, he returned, and 
 began to kindle up a fire. Our intrepid messenger, aware 
 of his situation, then stole off, unperceived, to the side of 
 a precipice, wliieh he descended, by means of the roots and 
 branches of the trees growing on its side. When the morn- 
 ing began to dawn, he climbed one of the tallest he found, 
 and took a survey of the country, and the coast; by which 
 expedient, he discovered the Vigie to be much nearer than 
 he imagined, and saw his nearest and least dangerous way. 
 About six o'clock the advanced guard received him, and 
 conducted him to the teat of the commanding otticer, to 
 whom he delivered his orders ; which were, as before ob- 
 served, to abandon his situation, and effect his retreat to 
 town, in the best manner possible. This Avas done the same 
 night, at the early hour of seven o'clock, under the cover of 
 a heavy shower of rain. Uninterrupted in their march, they 
 arrived at Calliaqiia, where boats were waiting to receive 
 and convey thenj to Sir W iiiiam Yoimg's Island and Rock, 
 from whence they were brought down to Kingston next 
 morning. The acquisition of these men, together with those 
 under Captain Molesworth, from Morne Rhonde, who 
 arrived the same day, contributed greatly towards the 
 strengthening of such posts as were conceived to be immedi- 
 ately in danger, and recalled hope to the bosoms of the in- 
 habitants. 
 
 The services of Tamaun, on this emergency, ought not 
 to be forgotten. He deserved well of the community ! He 
 generously stepped forward, and undertook the execution of 
 a commission, very few would have either solicited, or 
 undertaken, at the time. His steady and unshaken perse- 
 verance throughout the whole, bespoke him a man of 
 probity, honor, and courage. 
 
 TLhe Vigie becoming once more the possession of the 
 enemy, we were continually harassed with the fear of an 
 attack; therefore, to avoid the effects of a surprize, the 
 
WEST INDIES. 23^' 
 
 gi'eatest vigilance was observed, and the extremes of duty 
 submitted to by each individual of society. Indeed, the 
 danger appeared so near and so considerable, that it was 
 impossible for the principle of self-preservation to slumber 
 in any breast. 
 
 Thus we continued the prey of anxiety, and the subjects 
 of fatigue, until the evening of the 29th, when his Majesty's 
 ship, the Scipio, appeared in sight, with five or six trans- 
 ports, having on board the fortieth, fifty-fourth, and fifty- 
 ninth regiments, under the command of Major-General 
 Irving, who was appointed by his Excellency, General 
 Leigh, to the command. Through the exertions of Captain 
 Barrett, of the Experiment, the greatest part of the rein- 
 forcement was landed before eleven o'clock that night. 
 Those who could not be set on shore, in consequence of a 
 prevailing calm, and a rapid current which set to leeward, 
 came in early the next morning, and were all in quarters 
 before noon. Nothing passed m town, of which the enemy 
 was not apprized. Obtaining certain intelligence of art 
 immediate attack being intended, they called in every out- 
 post, and made every possible provision to maintain the 
 occupancy of the Vigie. The necessary preparations being 
 made on our j^art, liieutenant-Colonel Strutt, and Colonel 
 Leith, of the Colony Rangers, with a detachment of seven 
 hundred and fifty men, marched on the night of the 1st of 
 October, about ten o'clock, round by Calliaqua, and pro- 
 ceeded to the heights of Calder, ^here they lay concealed 
 in a piece of standing canes, until the commencement of 
 hostilities, and the receipt of further orders. 
 
 Major-General Irving, and Brigadier-General Meyers, 
 with the main body, consisting of about one thousand men, 
 (including the artillery, under Major Duvemette) marched 
 about two o'clock from Greathead's house, and proceeded 
 up Warawaroa Valley. At Augur's Pasture, Captain Bo- 
 iand, of the fortieth regiment, was detached with three, 
 hundred and fifty men, still farther in that direction, with 
 orders to gain the heights to the westward of the enemy's 
 position, and wait his orders. This was as arduous a duty 
 its could well be performed. In his ascent he was attacked 
 by the enemy. The irregularity of the hill, deeply, clothed 
 with large and small wood, exposed him greatly to the gall- 
 ing discharges of their musketry, who made the most of their 
 advantage. However, after a stubborn struggle and consi- 
 derable loss, he obtained his object. 
 
 ■^ The two Generals, with the fifty-ninth regiment, gained 
 VOL. II. G g 
 
«ISTORY OF THE 
 
 Fairbairn's Ridge, about the dawning of the day ; from which 
 they drove off a small party of the enemy, .and continued to 
 ascend, with the artillery, in regular order. They proposed 
 to themselves a similar object with that of the preceding 
 corps ; which was, an establishment on the Vigie Ridge, to 
 enable them successfully to exercise the ordnance against 
 that fortification ; but the enemy, aware of their intention, 
 
 fossessed themselves of an exceedingly advantageous spot. 
 t was a little eminence on the summit, covered with a very 
 thick wood : here they threw up some works hastily ; and, 
 perfectly regardless of the superior numbers which threatened 
 them with instant annihilation, they opposed their ascent 
 with a warmth of musketry, which seemed prophetic of the 
 inflexibility of conduct maintained by them, vt'ith unremit- 
 ting perseverance, throughout the remainder of the day. 
 
 Almost the whole power of the enemy was stationed here ; 
 and toward the possession of this place all our exertions 
 were directed. But above two-thirds of the army carried 
 out, were no more than idle spectators. The seven hundred 
 and fifty men, under Colonel Strutt, never received any 
 orders whatever. Subsequent to the difficult and well per- 
 formed service of the morning, the detachment under Captain 
 Boland did nothing, though within musket-shot of the 
 enemy, and, in some sort, on an equality of situation with 
 them, having gained the summit of the ridge in their first 
 success. The fifty-ninth, with Major M'Cleod at their 
 head, were offered up alone on the altar of military indis- 
 cretion. They were kept from morning until night, without 
 the shadow of a diversion in their favor, climbing up an 
 almost inaccessible mountain's side, rendered still more 
 difficult by a succession of exceedingly heavy showers, and 
 exposed to the well-directed aim of a secure and sheltered 
 enemy. At length, darkness coming on, hostilities declined, 
 and totally subsided by seven o'clock ; when our Geneials, 
 with the loss in killed and wounded of a hundred men, with«- 
 out effecting any thing, ordered an instantaneous retreat, 
 and led back to quarters very nearly two thousand experienced 
 troops, ambitious of rendering services to their country, and 
 who, but a few hours before, were flushed with the expec- 
 tation of victory. 
 
 It appears from information well authenticated, that the 
 force which opposed us did not exceed seven hundred men ; 
 that, at the time our British Scipios retreated, their ammu- 
 nition was nearly expended ; and that they expected no 
 Jess than to be stormed as soon as the darkness became 
 
\VEST INDIES. 235 
 
 *iimcrcVit to faciliiate the measure. In consonance with this 
 apprehension of their danger, they acted accordingly. In 
 the same moment that our troops began to retreat, so did 
 they ; the position of the day, with the Vigie, were aban- 
 doned, and, it seems, so precipitately, that the guns of the 
 latter place were left unspiked ; and, in every respect, the 
 Vigie appeared as it was when we left it. 
 
 The cause which rendered this day so inauspicious to our 
 hopes, while it renders conjecture unnecessary, affords not 
 a little room for animadversion. That a few men, sur- 
 rounded by numbers, should avail themselves of the earliest 
 opportunity of extricating themselves, is not at all surpriz- 
 ing ; but, that numbers surrounding a few, should inglori- 
 ously retire, without the shadow of a pretext to silence 
 occasioned censure, is a novelty in war : 'tis strange ; 'tis 
 wonderful ! 'tis passing strange ! but this is altogether an 
 age of phenomena. 
 
 A true story, in this stage of the narrative, may not be 
 deemed improper. A very undistinguished character in the 
 island (save for inebriety), to indulge his curiosity, pro- 
 ceeded early in the morning of the engagement, to the scene 
 of action, and remained out of harm's way, near the staff, 
 until orders w ere given to retreat. He then joined a serjeant, 
 and nine or ten men, belonging to the fifth regiment ; who, 
 owing to whatever cause, missed their road ; and in wander- 
 ing up and down, accidentally fell in with a negro, who 
 undertook to conduct them to town. But the negro, being 
 in the interest of the enemy, betrayed them into the Vigie, 
 with an intention of delivering them up. Perceiving his 
 mistake, he suddenly withdrew, and made after his fugitive 
 brethren ; w hile our new commander, with his myrmidons, 
 took possession of the garrison, in the name of his Majesty 
 King George the third, and maintained it unmolested until 
 the morning ; when an account of its evacuation reached 
 General Irving, who ordered out a party of rangers, under 
 the direction of Lieutenant Kelley, to take possession of it. 
 On advancing toward the outworks, he w-as called upon to 
 approach no nearer at his peril. Here a short explanation 
 took place ; w hen it was agreed upon by the present occu- 
 pant in office, to admit him, on condition of signing a receipt 
 for the place ; v> hich proposal, it is said, was acceded to, 
 and the British Hag was displayed. 
 
 Here a delay of several days took place, while inactivity 
 and unsteadiness seemed to pervade every measure. It was 
 Mothing uncommon to hear the orders of vesterdav counter* 
 
236 
 
 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 acted by those of to-day. There was no end of adopting 
 and repudiating plans. During this reign of disgraceful 
 imbecility, the enemy had time to dispatch a canoe to St. 
 Lucia, and obtain a supply of ammunition, and other neces- 
 saries, which determined tliem to entrench themselves on 
 Mount Young and Mount William, and wait our coming on. 
 About the iGth, the army sat down opposite those positions 
 on Forbes's Ridge ; and having brought forward twelve 
 pieces of ordnance in that neighbourhood, established a very 
 formidable camp, and began to harass the enemy with both 
 shot and shell. Between this date, and the departure of 
 General Irving, which was on the 29th of November, no- 
 thing occurred besides a few inconsiderable skirmishes, the 
 natural result of the proximity of two hostile armies. 
 
 On his resignation of the command, it devolved upon 
 Brigadier-General Stuart. He uniformly adopted a similar 
 system of conduct with his predecessor, which, in the end, 
 produced his own defeat, and well nigh effected the ruin of 
 the colony. On the morning of the 8th of January 1796, 
 a more tragical catastrophe happened than any we had 
 hitherto experienced. About four o'clock, just after firing 
 the morning gun, tire enemy attacked our camp, and carried 
 it. It seems. General Stuart had injudiciously weakened 
 the main position he occupied, by multiplying, from time to 
 time, an unnecessary number of piquet guards. This cir- 
 cumstance, and some others unfriendly to our affairs, were 
 communicated to the Brigands, by certain deserters who 
 went over to them.. Their reports were listened to witli 
 avidity, and measures accordingly taken. Three hundred 
 men, in three divisions, were selected for the enterprize ; 
 the onset was ordered to be made in three different directions, 
 and, as nearly as possible, in the same moment of time. 
 
 Monsieur Chenou, a white man, at the head of one divi- 
 sion, having for his guide one of the deserters, risqued an 
 impression on the left of the encampment, where was our 
 most commanding battery. Influenced by that enthusiasm 
 which distinguished the proceedings of the partisans of. 
 anarchy, he entered it alone. Unhappily, the two artillery- 
 men, x^ho had charge of the gun, were found by him 
 sleeping across it. On ascertaining the reality of their 
 situation, he immediately withdrew ; and returned again 
 with his men, who dispatched those slumberers with the 
 utmost secrecy ; took possession of the gun ; and turned it 
 against us, loaded with grape-shot ; the discharge of which 
 gave us the first intimation of our being attacked. This gua 
 
WEST INDIES. 237 
 
 liaviug the command of the entire ridge occupied by the 
 artillery, the whole, in a few minutes, was entirely lost. 
 The misfortune became irreparable. Disorder circulated 
 throughout the whole camp. No exertions of the officers 
 could prevail on the troops to rally ; neither threats nor 
 entreaties could counteract the operations of the panic 
 wherewith they were seized. It is said, the General exhi- 
 bited the most consummate personal guUantiy on the occa- 
 sion ! but, alas ! he was unsuccessful ! Victory, in the 
 providence of God, deserted his standard, while rigorous 
 necessity obliged hiui to flee from a banditti, which, per- 
 haps, he \ixui but the day before despised ! The army, on 
 the loss of the ca«ip^ retreated to the block-house, at Biabou. 
 In the first stage ot the action, the Charaibees possessed 
 themselves of the ridges which overhung the road, with an 
 intention to intercept our people in their escape. This, 
 according to the present appearances, they could have 
 effected- with very little difficulty, having every advantage on 
 their aide, Happily, however, Lieutenant-Colonel Fuller, 
 of the fortieth regiment, with a detachment of about two 
 hundred men, liad been on his march from Dorsetshire 
 Hill to the camp ; and having arrived in the critical moment, 
 attacked the Charaibees, and routed them. Thus, by a very 
 providential circumstance, the carnage of our troops was 
 prevented, their communication with the town preserved, 
 and their rapid and disorderly flight turned into a regular 
 and well-conducted retreat. 
 
 This night, the enemy advanced in pursuit as far* as 
 Biabou, where our army had halted ; therefore, it became 
 necessary to abandon that situation the next morning, as 
 theie were no cannon to defend it. 
 
 The ensuing day, being the 10th, the troops reached the 
 neighbourhood of the Vigie, and occupied the eminences 
 between that place and the sea-coast, with an intention of 
 opposmg the progress of the enemy. To give energy to 
 this resolution, every piece of ordnance that could be com- 
 manded, was ordered thither. 
 
 In this unhappy affair our loss was considerable, espe- 
 cially in officers. Hardly any thuig could be a stronger 
 testimony of their gallant and spirited behavior, than the 
 severity of their sufferings. 
 
 To judge of the future from the past, nothing was expected 
 from General Stuart that could promise a reverse of circum- 
 stances. The community, looking back on the series of 
 misfortunes he had encountered, gave up all for lost, and 
 
258 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 seemed sinking beneath the apprehension. But in th« 
 anxious and desponding hour, the arrival of General Hunter^ 
 from Martinico, in the army-brig, in a great measure, con- 
 tributed to soothe their solicitude, and recal expectation to 
 their minds. That active officer, immediately on his landing, 
 acquainted himself with the position and state of the armyj 
 and took such measures as proved, in future, very salutary. 
 Except the strong post of the Vigie, he drew the whole of 
 the force to the heights encircling the town ; and rendered 
 every access to Berkshire Hill difficult, by strengthening the 
 passes. Thus, every necessary step was taken to maintain 
 the sovereignty of the country. 
 
 On the morning of the 14th the enemy appeared in great 
 numbers in Mariaqua Valley, and seemed determined to 
 attack the Vigie with all their force. But General Hunter, 
 aware of the design, and a combination of circumstances 
 rendering the place, at this time, entirely unimportant, 
 gave orders for its evacuation, which were complied with 
 by ten o'clock ; and the enemy instantly marched in. This 
 possession, so flattering to their views, was succeeded the 
 ensuing day, by an advance as far as Baker's Ridge, where 
 they erected a battery, and opened upon Dorsetshire Hill a 
 smart- cannonade ; several shells were also thrown, but so 
 injudiciously, that they did no execution whatever. At the- 
 same time, a considerable party of Charaibees crossed over 
 the hill above Millar's Ridge, and encamped themselves 
 about Bowe Wood, at the head of Kingstown Valley. 
 
 On the morning of the 20th, Lieutenant-Colonel Provost, 
 ©f the third battalion of the sixtieth regiment, with a con- 
 siderable detachment of men, was ordered to attack the 
 enemy's redoubt at Baker's Ridge, About five o'clock, he 
 fell in with thie advanced piquet guard, which he surprized 
 and cut to pieces ; but in approaching the redoubt, he was 
 very warmly received with a shower of musketry. In tliis 
 early stage of the action, the Colonel received two wounds ; 
 which, together with some omission of orders in the troops, 
 obliged him to retreat to Millar's Ridge, before he could 
 obtain his object. He was pursued with uncommon reso- 
 lution and ardor ; more than twenty times the enemy 
 attempted to gain the summit of the ridge, but were as 
 often repulsed. The action was supported, on both sides, 
 with scarcely the smallest diminution, until night brought 
 on a truce. The same morning the Charaibees, who had 
 encamped at the head of Kingstown Valley, on perceiving 
 three soldiers, of the forty-sixtii, endeavoring to kill some 
 
WEST INDIES. 239 
 
 cattle which were at pasture, came down upon them, and 
 pursued them home to our camp at Green Hill : this auda 
 city of theirs so provoked Major Jackson, of the rangers, 
 that he went out and attacked them. According to custom, 
 they declmed coming to close action, but concealed them- 
 selves among the bushes, and maintained a most dreadful 
 fire for some hours. Just then, Major Jackson was rein- 
 forced by Major Fraser ; who, on his coming up, endeavored 
 to flank them ; but^ when he was almost alx)ut effecting this, 
 they betook themselves to flight. In the mean time, they 
 set fire to Bowe Wood House, which was shortly consumed 
 to ashes, and served as a funeral pile for their friends who 
 had fallen. 
 
 In the height of the action, the ship Brunswick (one of 
 the transports under Admiral Christian) with three hundred 
 and thirty men, of the sixty-third regiment, commanded by 
 Lieutenant-Colonel Gower, came to anchor in the road. 
 TJh.e arrival of a reinforcement at this precarious crisis, 
 operated on the minds of many very forcibly. They could 
 not help recognising a Providence on the occasion. They 
 said " This is the third time we have been reduced to the 
 " last extremity, and as frequently resuscitated from despair : 
 " the Lord is good, and a strong-hold in the day of trouble." 
 Indeed, it well became them thus gratefully to ascribe their 
 deliverances to Him who succeeds and disappoints the designs 
 of mortals ; for had he not espoused their cause, when men 
 rose up against them, they had been swallowed up quick. 
 Tlien tlie waters had overwhelmed them, the stream had 
 hurried them away. Psalm, cxxiv. ver. 3, 3, 4. It is to 
 be feared, that when the salvation w as fully wrought, the 
 merciful agent was too much forgotten. Is it possible that 
 ye can thus requite the Lord, O foolish people and unwise ! 
 Deut, xxxii. ver. G. 
 
ptOf HISTORY OF THE 
 
 CHAP. XXIV. 
 
 HtsTojiY OF ST. Vincent's 
 (Continued.) 
 
 Progress- and Terminntion of the Charaib War. — Final 
 Removal of the surviving Charaibees off the Island.—^ 
 
 ^ €^ivil Government. — Topographical Divisions.— 'Fertili- 
 ty, Productions, and Extent of the Island. — Observations 
 on the Manners and Customs of the Black Charaibees.— r 
 Naval Engagement with the French off Cape St. Fin- 
 
 y c(^nfs. 
 
 ROM the 20th to the 24th very little occurred, besides 
 fte mutual exercise of great guns. On the morning of this 
 day, a long six-pounder field piece was dragged up to the 
 redoubt on Millar's Ridge, and immediately opened upon 
 th6 enemy's encampment, which it so effectually commanded, 
 that evident confusion existed among them. In a little time> 
 despairing of making an impression on our lines, and finding 
 their present position untenable, without unnecessarily risk- 
 ing the lives of many, they moved off to the Vigie as sooil 
 as it became dark, with their artillery, and began to render 
 that place still more impregnable. A pause in operation 
 took place from this date until about the 8th of June, when 
 his Excellency Sir Ralph Abercrombie arrived from StL 
 Lucia, from the reduction of that island, with the whole 
 force destined for the service of this. The preparations 
 necessary for an attack on the enemy, being in a state of 
 forwardness previously to the disembarkation of the troops, 
 they marched from Sion Hill, as early as the afternoon of the 
 9th, in six divisions, each taking a different direction :• 
 
 MEN. 
 
 1st. Brigadier-General Knox, to Mariaqua Valley, 
 
 with 936 
 
 ^dly. Major-General Hunter, to Calder Ridge, with 
 a brass four-pounder, and a five and a half 
 inch mortar, with 1045 
 
 Carried forward ... . I98I' 
 
\rEST INDIES. 241 
 
 MEN. 
 
 Broil fjlit forward, ... 1981 
 Sdly. Major-General Morshead, to Carapan Ridge, 
 
 with a brass twelve-pounder, and a five and 
 
 a half inch mortar, with 857 
 
 4thly. Lieutenant- Colonel Fuller, to Pioss Ridge, with 
 
 two long brass six-pounders, with , 573 
 
 5thly. Lieutenant-Colonel Dickens, to Warawaroa 
 
 Valley, with 317 
 
 €thly. A corps de reserve, under Lieutenant- Colonel 
 
 Spencer, to follow the line of inarch, with . . 232 
 
 Inall.. . . 3960 
 
 The attack commenced with Lieutenant- Col. Dickens's 
 division. A little before break of day he carried a redoubt, 
 with hardly any resistance; it was maintained principally by 
 Charaibees, who abandoned it immediately; here he planted 
 the colors of the thirty-fourth regiment. In attempting the 
 next post of importance in that direction, he was obliged to 
 retreat, after having sustained the loss of fifty-one men, in 
 killed and wounded. 
 
 The Generals Hunter and Morshead, by this time, 
 opsned a cannonade upon the Old Vigie, from their res- 
 pective stations; the former, distant about five hundred 
 yards, the latter, three hundred ; while an unremitting dis- 
 charge of musketry was kept up by the men from the ad- 
 joining canes, and other situations of safety. 
 
 Abeut two o'clock, the place became so battered, that 
 it was deemed practicable to advance and carry it by storm. 
 
 Orders to that effect were, consequently, issued, and 
 executed with a promptitude and celerity that reflects the 
 greatest honor on the troops. With Colonel Blair, of the 
 Buffs, and Major Stewart, of the forty-second regiment, 
 at their head, they instantly carried the post, the enemy 
 retreating with great precipitation to their other works. 
 This success was followed up with unabating ardor and 
 intrepidity; the impetuosity of the men was such, tiiat the 
 two succeeding works fell into our hands almost instan- 
 taneously. Tiie New Vigic became now the dernier resort 
 of the enemy in this neighbourhood, and the sole object of 
 our united efforts. About five o'clock in the evening the 
 artillery was brought forward ; and when just about to be 
 opened, and the troops selected for stor.ming, the enemy 
 sent out a flag to General Abercrombie, with an offer of 
 
 VOL. II. H h 
 
242 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 submission, which was accepted, on their delivering up the 
 other posts of Ouia, and Rabacaw, and Mount Young, 
 with their garrisons. Earlier than nine o'clock next morn- 
 ing, the preliminaries of capitulation were finally adjusted; 
 and about noon they marched out with the honors of war, 
 and laid down their arms, to the number of four hundred 
 and sixty men ; they were conducted to town the same even- 
 ing, and distributed among the vessels in the harbor. Our 
 loss amounted to about one hundred killed and wounded; 
 the loss of the enemy did not amount to half that number. 
 
 With respect to the French, this action became decisive, 
 as they agreed to deliver up all the other posts which they 
 possessed in the island, with their garrisons and stores. 
 
 The Charaibecs, reduced, at length, to their own re- 
 sources, seemed disposed to discontinue hostilities for the 
 future. Accordingly, as early as the 15th, they sent in a 
 flag of truce, and, with wonderful modesty, made overtures 
 of accommodation, on condition of retaining their lands and 
 prerogatives as formerly. They observed, " They had 
 " burned our houses and cane-fields, and we had burned 
 *' their canoes, and destroyed their provi.-ions; therefore, on 
 *' the principle of retaliation, we had no ju;-,t cause of com- 
 ** plaint, or any plausible pretext for prolonging an unne- 
 *' cessary war" 
 
 On being asked, " V/hcther they, or the English, were 
 *' chargeable with the first violation of that treaty of friend- 
 *' ship andgoodneighboui'hood which had subsisted between 
 *' them" — they replied, "They had first declared warj 
 *' but of what were they guilty in consequence ? Every body 
 *' was then at war.'' 
 
 Reader, what dost thou say to these things? Which shocks 
 thee most, the unparalleled audaciousness, or monstrous 
 absurdity of the application ? What, but absurdity in the 
 extreme, could excite them to draw a comparison between 
 a few canoes, plaintains, and cassada, and the loss of some 
 hundreds of valuable lives barbarously taken, and the deso- 
 lation of the greatest part of one of the most promising 
 colonies among all the Charaibees. 
 
 In reply to the proposals of those poor wretched mis- 
 guided men, they were given to understand, that there was 
 no room for negociation ; that nothing short of uncondi- 
 tional submission would be attended to; in which case, their 
 lives would be spared, and they would be treated with hu- 
 manity- Should they refuse this unmerited extension of 
 benignity, the whole force of the island would be employed 
 
WEST INDIES. 24S 
 
 against tliem, and their extirpation must be the conse- 
 quence. 
 
 They remonstrated strongly against such an apparently 
 cruel and arbitrary decision. They could not, they said, 
 recollect any thing in their behaviour, that could render them 
 obnoxious to our implacability. But since the rough tor- 
 rent of occasion required acquiescence on their part, they 
 requested until the 18th, to consult with the chiefs of fami- 
 lies, on which day they would return and give a definitive 
 answer. This space of time being afforded them, what 
 through the imbecility of our measures, and their usual 
 finesse, nothing further was done towards their subjugation 
 before the 15th of July; when orders arrived from Sir Ralph 
 Abercrombie (then at Martinico,) to General Hunter, to 
 remove the Charaibees to the island of Baliseau, one of the 
 Grenadines, and to supply them with necessaries, until fur- 
 ther orders from governmeat mi^ht be obtained, concerning 
 their future destination. 
 
 Pursuant to these instructions, General Hunter required 
 the immediate attendance of the Charaib chiefs. Several 
 were, accordingly, escorted into town by a party of troops, 
 and given to understand, that the island of Baliseau was 
 appointed for their temporary residence; in which situation, 
 they would be supplied with a sufficient quantity of provi- 
 sions and water for their support ; and, in their ultimate 
 removal, be furnished with every convenience and necessary 
 essential to their future existence. From Friday to Tuesday 
 were given to them to take their resolution ; at which time, 
 in case of non-compliance, hostilities were to commence 
 against them. 
 
 During thisinterval, many of ihe chiefs frequently resorted 
 to our camp, and gave the most specious promises of com- 
 plying with the orders which they had received from General 
 Hunter. 
 
 Numbers descended from the heights, on Saturday and 
 Sunday, and took their position between our situation and 
 the sea, at about half a mile distance. On Monday morn- 
 ing, one of their leaders, accompanied by various other 
 chiefs, approached our camp, and requested an audience of 
 Lieutenant-Colonel Haffey. On this being granted, he 
 addressed his compeers nearly in the following strain : 
 
 " Blush not at being vanquished I Such is the fortune of 
 " war; therefore, it is no disgrace to us to surrender to a 
 " great nation. France and England themselves havesub- 
 *« mitted, alternately, to each other, when necessity impelled 
 
f44 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 *' the measure. Resistance should never he prolonged be- 
 " yond the means of supporting it. Have we the means ? 
 *' No, we have not : we are conqucx'ed ! Then let us bow 
 *' to the decision of our conquerors. I myself will set you 
 *' the example, before this time to-morrow, by rendering 
 *' up myself and family to Colonel HafFey, to be disposed 
 *' of as the General may think proper : you may do as you 
 *' please." This oration seemed to have the effect he de- 
 sired it should have on his auditors; they acknowledged his 
 observations were just, and his resolution rendered laudable 
 by circumstances : — That they could not demonstrate their 
 approbation of it more effectually, than by imitation, which 
 they most solemnly promised they would ; and, from that 
 moment, abandon every idea of hostility. 
 
 These professions appeared, aftervi^ards, to have been pre- 
 concerted, and made wholly for the purpose of obtaining 
 time to divert the storm ready to break upon their heads. 
 No sooner did night favor their deception, than the greatest 
 part effected their escape to the fastnesses of the mountains 
 and woods ; among the rest was the orator himself, whose 
 promises were so flattering. 
 
 The morning affording Colonel HafFey occular demon- 
 stration of the imposition which had been practised upon 
 him, he endeavoured to make sure of the remaining numbers 
 of this faithless people, who were retreating with much ' 
 seeming solicitude. His dispositions proved remarkably suc- 
 cessful ; two hundred and eighty were rKade prisoners, who 
 were escorted, under a sufficient guard, to Caliiaqua, and 
 removed from thence immediately to Baliseau. 
 
 The same day. Lieutenant Laborde, of the Island Rangers, 
 was detached to Grande Sable, with a party of about thirty 
 men, to receive the proffered submission of the Charaibees 
 of that district, and conduct them to Mount Young. On 
 his arrival, he found their houses abandoned, and themselves 
 under arms, to the number of two hundred, in possession 
 of a convenient little eminence ; from whence, they called 
 to Lieutenant Laborde, and ordered him to withdraw in- 
 stantly ; declaring, at the same time, that they never would 
 submit to the English ; and, that they did not revolt to 
 much from the prospect of death, or from the idea of sub- 
 mission. The inferiority of his force rendered his retreat 
 both prudent and necessary. 
 
 Much about the same hour, a detachment of men, under 
 the command of Lieutenant- Col. Graham, having pursued 
 the line formed by the bed of Colonavie River, to a con* 
 
WEST INDIES. 245 
 
 siderable elevation, discovered a large party of the enemy 
 strongly fortified. They invited him to approach, with the 
 utmost seeming sincerity of friendship; which he did. at the 
 head of his men, displayin^r a white handkerchief in his 
 band, indicative ot his pacific disposition; Imt, when he had 
 got within a few yards of their works, a whole volley of 
 musketry was poured around him, which killed an officer of 
 Sateur's corps, and badly wounded the Colonel, and many 
 others: our troops carried off" the wounded and retreatecf. 
 From this period, various skirmishes ensued between our 
 several corps and ihe Charaibees, the natural consequence 
 of defending their property, which our troops every where 
 destroyed. More than a thousand houses were devoted to 
 the flames in a few days. Sundry canoes were also burned, 
 some of which were of dimensions unheard of before among 
 them. 
 
 Tlie calamities of the war, however, in which they had 
 engaged with so much ardor, had considerably lessened their 
 numbers, and had so weakened and dispirited the survivors, 
 Ithat they were unable to support hostilities with any proba- 
 bility of success. The whole force of the island was, there- 
 fore, directed against these fugitives ; and every day either 
 wasted their property, approached nearer to their retreats, 
 or lessened the circle of their excursions and territories. 
 Against such formidable forces as were employed against 
 them, not even their native vigilance was of any avail. 
 The dreaded conclusion which awaited them, gathered thick 
 and fast upon them ; and they were, finally, compelled, 
 though with the most evident reluctance, to yield to that 
 decision, which their conquerors dictated to them. They 
 were, accordingly, transported to -Ba/z5£?a7/, the little island 
 that had been allotted for their reception. 
 
 Theastonishingquan titles of provisionsthattheypossessed, 
 were almost incredible. It is reporied, they far exceeded 
 the consumption; and were capable of supporting, inde- 
 pendently of external resources, many hundreds of allies. 
 This can only be accounted for from the fertility of the soil, 
 which, for the unremitting war of two years, yielded almost 
 spontaneously every thing that was necessary. 
 
 The civil government of this island is the same as that of 
 the other British West India Colonies. It consists of a 
 Governor, or Commander-in-Chief, a Council of twelve, 
 and an Assembly of seventeen members; the number of the 
 latter being proportioned to the size of the island ; which, 
 though it contains about eighty- four thousand acres of land, 
 
24(5 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 can, hitherto, reckon only twenty-five thousand in a state 
 of cultivation. The mountains, a great part of which were 
 inh ibite i by the Charaibces, are left in their natural state; 
 and they cover a larger surface than the vallies, whose soil 
 alone, in general, seems capable of rewarding the labors of 
 the cultivator ; for it produces excellent cotton, the chief 
 article of its commerce ; a moderate quantity of sugar ; rum, 
 coffee, and cacao, or cocoa, dying woods, and hides for 
 leather. The p;rrticular amount of each of the articles falls 
 not within the province of this history ; but it may be found 
 in commercial works, whose details are best adapted to con- 
 vey useful mformation to the merchants and traders, whom 
 it more immediately concerns. 
 
 That part of the island, which is generally inhabited by 
 the British and French planters, is divided into four parishes. 
 Kingstown, written thus to distinguish it from Kingston, 
 Jamaica, is the only considerable town ; and being the seat 
 of government, is well built, and populous, but has nothing 
 extraordinary in its appearance. Calliaqua is the next place 
 worthy of notice ; it is a pretty little town, in which there 
 is a small body of negroes, to whom the author preached the 
 gospel in the year 1788, and then left them under the tuition 
 of Mr. Baxter, a diligent and zealous Missionary. Callia- 
 qua and Kingstown are both in the parish of St. George, 
 and have but one church. The other parishes are, St. 
 Andrew, St. Patrick, and St. David; but they cannot boast 
 of any regular town, nor have they any church. In fact, 
 they are only scattered hamlets; and christian worship is 
 performed among them solely in private houses, most fre- 
 quently by our Missionaries. 
 
 The most distinguished natural curiosity in this island, is 
 the botanical garden, the first of its kind that was planted 
 in the West Indies. The original design was the production 
 of the accomplished mind and elegant taste of Sir William 
 Young, Governor of this island and of Dominica, who re- 
 commended it to the legislature; when the institution ^'as 
 sanctioned by a law of the island, and, afterwards, ratified 
 by his Majesty in Council. By these means, the necessary 
 funds were raised for carrying it into execution. 
 
 The situation chosen by the founders was a delightful 
 ^ot, comprising upwards of thirty acres of excellent land, 
 on the north-west side of Kingstown Vale, about a mile from 
 the town ; commanding a beautiful prospect of the build- 
 ings, of the harbor, of Fort Charlotte, Bequia, and the 
 sea. It is laid out in an irregular manner, so as to add to 
 
WEST INDIES. 24-7 
 
 its stile or beauty. Its low fljrounds next the sea are wa- 
 tered and bounded by a charming littie rivulet, which sweetly 
 murmurs as it rolls along. Its hi^^ii grounds ascend a con- 
 siderable way up the side of the mountain, terminating 
 toward the north ; and lose themselves, at length, among 
 almost impenetrable woods. Part of Milton's description 
 of Eden is peculiarly applicable to this part of the garden: 
 
 " The champ^in head 
 " Of a steep wilderness, whose hairy sides 
 " With thicket over2:ro\vn, g;rolesque and wild, 
 " Access denied ; and overhead u};-jjrew 
 ♦• Insuperable height of loftiest shade." 
 
 The situation once chosen, a superintendant was imme- 
 diately appointed with a liberal salary, and a suitable house 
 was built for his residence. The first gentleman who held 
 this delightful office was Doctor Young, who attended to, 
 and considerably advanced the undertaking by his skill and 
 assitluity. But its present extraordinary state of perfection 
 iis the result of the genius and unremitted application of his 
 successor, Doctor Anderson, who enlarged upon his plan, 
 land devised new sources of improvement, by continual re- 
 searches throughout the neighbouring islands. Hy pene- 
 trating the woods and wilds of the southern continent, to a 
 considerable distance, he added both number and variety to 
 the original classes of plants, enriching it with the most 
 curious and valuable exotics. Through these means, this 
 l^xtensive and beautiful garden is amply furnished with vege- 
 tiiblesfor culinary use; with medicinal heibs, trees, shrubs, 
 ind roots; and with odoriferous plants, of almost every 
 ^enus, from the different climates of Asia, Africa, and 
 America. And that nothing might be wanting to complete 
 ,ts public utility, the colony had the satisfaction of receiving 
 Vom Captain Bligh, in the month of January, 1793, the 
 v'ahiable acquisition of three hundred bre;id-l"ruit trees, from 
 Dtaheite, in excellent condition, which the author had the 
 pleasure of seeing when he visited this botanic garden. 
 These bread-fruit trees were part of a cartjo destined for 
 famaica, and the other Britsh W^st India settlements; the 
 paptain having been sent to that delighifid island, in the 
 Bouth Seas, on purpose to procui'e this addition to the arti- 
 jiles of vegetable diet for the negroes. By this wise and 
 ;)enevolent measure, the dread of a scarcity of provisions for 
 I hem will, in future, be avoided, asfaras human })npc'nition 
 ,:an provide; this valuable tree thriving, in its new soil, be- 
 2 
 
248 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 yond all expectation. Thus the public garden of St. Vin- 
 cent's may vie with that of Jamaica, in every respect, ex- 
 cept extent of ground ; and its founders may justly claim 
 tlie praise of having set an example to the Assembly of 
 Jamaica, which has been productive of considerable ad- 
 vantage to the inhabitants of the island. 
 
 Before the introduction of the bread-fruit tree, plantains 
 and cassada, or cassave, made of the maniock root, bananas, 
 yams, and sweet potatoes, were the usual food of the negroes. 
 The cassada, in particular, called by the French, manioc, 
 or manioque, forming the basis of many of their culinary 
 mixtures, it may not be unacceptable to give a brief account 
 of this plant. It is a shrub, the roots of which being baked 
 and rasped, produce what thenatives of America denominate 
 fiour of maiiihock, or cassava, of which they make a kind of 
 bread, baking the composition a second time. They plant 
 cuttings of the shrub, generally, in new grounds designed 
 for cocoa- walks ; not only because, in many places, they are 
 absolutely necessary to a planter for the food of his negroes; 
 but also to prevent the growth of weeds, and to shade the 
 young cocoa plants as they spring up, whose tender shoots, 
 and even second leaves, would not otherwise be able to 
 stand the excessive heat of the sun. For this reason, they 
 delay planting the cocoa-nut, till the cassada- shrub is grown 
 to a sufficient height to screen the infant-plant. Cassada, 
 roasted plantains, and other vegetables, hashed up with 
 salted pork, or beef, or dried fish, and a considerable quan- 
 tity of cayenne-pepper, furnish a luxurious repast to the 
 poor Charaibees. At their feasts, they drink a fermented 
 liquor, prepared from cassada, pines, and other fruit, the 
 making of which is very disgusting to the sight of an Eu- 
 ropean ; the cassada being, sometimes, previously chewed 
 before infusion ; the saliva occasioning a quicker ferment- 
 ation of the liquor, which is soon fit for use. But since 
 their intimacy with the Europeans, they have learned other 
 means of intoxication. To the general account of the ori- 
 ginal natives of the West India Islands, in the Introduction, 
 we have now to add some curious particulars respecting 
 the manners and customs of the Charaibees of St. Vincent's, 
 kindly communicated by Dr. Davidson, who then resided on 
 the borders of the Charaib country. 
 
 Their marriages take place at an early age, and are gene- 
 rally made by the parents of both parties, without consulting 
 the inclinations of the female. A house is erected for them, 
 and the little furniture they require is provided. The 
 
WEST INDIES. 249 
 
 wife is soon made acquainted with the labors of the field ; 
 she plants the cassada, yams, potatoes, &c. ; and cooks 
 them for the indolent husband, whose sole occupation 
 is, either' shooting wild pigeons, Indian rabbits, and the 
 opossum, or fishing. When any man among them finds 
 himself in a situation to maintain more than one wife, he 
 obtains them from their parents ; and many of them have 
 four or five wives ; in which case, they build a separate 
 house for each of them, and pass their time with them in 
 turns. And so entirely submissive are the wives to their 
 husbands, that quarrels among the women are hardly ever 
 known. Adultery is punished with death; and in no part 
 of the world are the married females more chaste; owing, 
 probably, to the severity with which their incontinence is 
 punished. 
 
 When a husband leaves any of his wives, they are not at 
 liberty to marry again till his death, when they may have a 
 fresh choice. Np slavery can be conceived more wretched 
 than that of the women; the whole labor, without and within 
 doors, devolving upon them. Nor is this all ; whenever 
 frequent child-bearing, or any other cause, has made them 
 look old and unhandsome, the husband abandons them for 
 other wives ; for whom, and their children, they are like- 
 wise obliged to do all the most laborious and menial offices. 
 Their husbands, frequently, in scenes of drunkenness and de- 
 bauchery, wound and maim them with their cutlasses, and 
 even shoot them. In fact, there are no traces of policy, or 
 natural justice, in their conduct. The lex talionis is their 
 only rule, provided the party injured has the power to redress 
 himself. A short time since, a singular instance of cruel 
 retaliation occurred, shocking to humanity. Manuel^ a 
 Charaib, who lived on the estate of my friend, Dr. Davidson, 
 had a sister, admired for her beauty and handsome person 
 by her sable lovers, of whom she had not a few. She could, 
 however, be the lot of only one; and him, to whose lot 
 she fell, was the intimate friend of her brother Manuel. 
 Her husband and she lived, for some time, peaceably and 
 comfortably together, till a quarrel happened between his 
 sister and his wife. They proceeded to blows ; when the 
 husband interposed, and commanded peace. The wife not 
 immediately obeying, he made a thrust at her with his cut- 
 lass, and wounded her under the eye ; of which wound she 
 immediately expired. The only redress that Manuel required 
 for the loss of his sister was, that the husband should put 
 his own sister to death ; which he did, by carrying her down 
 
 VOL. II. I i 
 
250 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 to the river Colonone the next morning, and there murder- 
 ing her in the most barbarous manner. 
 
 Their mode of fishing is peculiar; their common practice 
 being to poison the rivers. For this purpose, all the men 
 in one district are collected together ; part of Ahom are em- 
 ployed in procuring the plants which are used for that pur- 
 pose, viz. the dogxi-ood-barky or erythrinalina, and the 
 Jigesbechia. Others divert the course of the river, if it be 
 too large, leaving no more water than they can conveniently 
 poison. But we should term all the rivers in that island, if 
 they were in England, only brooks or rivulets. The weeds 
 are then strongly beaten, and their juices expressed, and 
 thrown into the water; when their inebriating effects are 
 presently communicated to the finny inhabitants, who soon 
 rise, with their bellies upwards, to the surface i>f the water, 
 and are easily taken. It is remarkable, that though thou- 
 sands of the young fry are thus destroyed, no ill effects have 
 followed from eating the fish. But it is now high time to 
 proceed to the religious department. 
 
"VTEST INDIES. 251 
 
 CHAP. XXV. 
 
 HISTORY OF ST. VINCENT's 
 
 (Concluded.) 
 
 The Author' s Jirst Visit to the Island. — Introduction of the 
 Missionaries. — Openings, Friendships, Progress and Snc^ 
 cess of their Labors. — The Author's Visit to the Charai- 
 bees^ before the late War xvilh the English. — Romantic 
 Scenery^ uncommon Fertility, and picturesque Appearance 
 of their Count ri^. — Mission among the Charaibees unsuc- 
 cessful. — Progress of Religion suspended in the Island 
 through a persecuting Act of the Legislative Assembly. — 
 Repeal of that Laxv, and cojiscquent re-establishment of 
 the Missionaries, and of the Gospel. 
 
 F, 
 
 ROM the survey whieh we have taken, in the preceding 
 pages, of the bounties of nature, or rather of nature's God, 
 and of the barbarities of man, 've have but little reason to 
 expect those returns of gratitude which the kindness of 
 heaven s< justly demands. 
 
 The histories of nations, in general, are but little more 
 than histories of injustice and inhumanity; in which plunder 
 is dignified with the appellation of conquest; and in which 
 barbarity stands excused, under the sanction of that neces- 
 sity which urijetl the deed. Tiie great and benevolent 
 Author of every good and perfect gift, from whom even 
 those powers which are prostituted to robbery and assassi- 
 nation are derived, is but too frequently excluded from his 
 works; — from provid ntial interpositions, and from the 
 thoughts of men. The miseries of hmian life but too 
 commonlv give sanction to these conclusions : and. from a 
 full persua>it)n that d«vastions cannot come from God, 
 popular observation tlenies a Providence: while reflection, 
 builthng upon this false foundation, soon proceeds to a 
 disbelief of Revelation, and sometimes of tbe b^iug of » 
 God, 
 
252 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 A being that becomes questionable in point of existence, 
 must be unknown in point of homage. A relaxation in ex- 
 ternal worship, betrays an internal absence of Divine grace; 
 and this internal absence leaves an open door to the vices 
 which hold dominion over the human heart. In every cli- 
 mate and in every zone, human nature is much the same ; 
 and wherever external worship is either abandoned or neg- 
 lected, we have but little reason to hope that any commu- 
 nion is held with God. 
 
 Admitting these observations to be just, and the inferences 
 conclusive, the island of St. Vincent's, prior to the intro- 
 duction of the Methodist Missionaries, exhibited a deplo- 
 rable object. Both whites and blacks^ were in nearly the 
 same predicament ; all were continually receiving the favors 
 of an indulgent Providence ; but, in each case, ihey seemed 
 to be insensible of the obligations which these favors created, 
 and deficient in that acknowledgement which gratitude only 
 can express. 
 
 There were five parishes in this island when the author 
 paid it his first visit. For four of them no church had ever 
 been built. The only one which ever had been erected, 
 was (according to Mr. Edwards) destroyed by a hurricane 
 in 1780. The sole clergyman then in the island performed 
 divine service, at which the author attended, in the Court- 
 house in Kingstown. 
 
 Under these existing circumstances, in which we have 
 before us an island inhabited by upwards of twelve thousand 
 souls, it will be difficult to say, where we could find a 
 portion in all Christendom, which could present to the 
 ministers of the gospel, a more just and a more imperious 
 call. Especially when we consider, that even the inhabitants 
 who made a profession of Christianity were destitute of 
 temples, and, in general, of the means of public worship. 
 Such a call as this united invitation to urgency, and both 
 combined to promise success. 
 
 The first establishment of Methodism in the West Indies 
 was in the island of Antigua, through a train of Providences 
 which was indebted to no regular design. This took place 
 so early as the year 1760 ; and from that time to 1786, it 
 continued alternately to languish and increase. About the 
 latter jieriod it began to acquire stability ; and it has from 
 that time been moving onward towards that state of emi- 
 nence which it now has attained. But these circumstances 
 will best appear, when we come to consider the history of 
 
WEST INDIES. 25S 
 
 Antijjjua, and the progress which religion has made in that 
 sland. 
 
 It was towards the close of the year 17S6, that the author, 
 n company with some other Missionaries, paid a visit to the 
 sland of Antigua, through those-apparently adverse winds 
 )f heaven, which forbade us to reach our destined port. 
 in this island we held an infant conference, and received a 
 pressing invitation from some who had made themselves 
 icquaiuted with our doctrines and views, to pay a visit to 
 5t. Vincent's. The nature and earnestness of this request 
 •o-operating with our designs, left no room for deliberation. 
 The completion of our business permitted us to act with 
 "reedom ; we had no time to lose ; and as we saw no oc- 
 casion for delay, we prepared, the same evening, to sail for 
 hat island. With these resolutions, we got on board of 
 )ur schooner; and, after coasting Martinico and St. Lucia, 
 cached Kingstown in St. Vincent's, on Tuesday the 9th 
 )f January, 1787. 
 
 From Antigua to this island we were accompanied by 
 Mr. Baxter ; who, from a residence of seven years in the 
 brmer, was not wholly unknown in the latter. By him, 
 m our arrival, we were introduced to one Mr. Claxton. 
 Mr. Claxton had been awakened to a sense of his lostcon- 
 lition, by the minisLry o^ Mr. Gilbert, who visited Antigua 
 Q the year 1760, and was the first who attempted to preach 
 he gospel in that island to the negroes. He had, occa- 
 ionally, met in class in that island ; but, though some- 
 vhat acquainted with Mr. Baxter, had never heard him 
 )reach. The vicissitudes of life had called him from thence 
 St. Vincent's ; and both he and his wife, in the midst 
 if a crooked and perverse generation, had retained some- 
 , hing of the spirit of Christianity ; — a consciousness of their 
 alien state, and the fear of God. 
 
 Rejoicing at the prospectof having the gospel introduced 
 nto the island on which he resided, Mr. Claxton's house 
 vas open to us; and, on the evening of our arrival, I 
 ireached in it to a large congregation. 
 
 It sometimes happens, that novelty awakens inquiry: 
 ind, that from a momentary impulse, curiosity keeps alive 
 ittention. It is, therefore, difficult, from the observation 
 )f an audience on one single opportimity, to calculate upon 
 he issue of our efforts. But, so far as appearances, under 
 hese circumstances, may be permitted to justify decision, 
 he prospect seemed highly flattering, and indicated much 
 :uture success. 
 
 4 
 
254t HISTORY OF THE 
 
 The day followinoj we quitted Kingstown, and set off for 
 the plantation of Mr. Clapham, a gentleman of fortune, 
 who resided about ten miles distant. Mr. Clapham being 
 nearly related by law to Mrs. Baxter, had been previously 
 informed of our coming, and, with all that politeness and 
 hospitality peculiar to the West India planters, anticipated 
 our journey, and sent horses to meet us on the road. 
 
 With the design of our journey he was not altogether 
 unacquainted. A congregation was soon collected ; and on 
 the same evening, I preached in a large parlour in his 
 house. We fully opened to him the business of our visit; 
 and after informing him, that it was our design to endeavor 
 to spread the gospel among the negroes, we gave him 
 to understand, that Mr. John Clarke, one of the Missiona- 
 ries who then accompanied us, was to remain upon the 
 island for that purpose. 
 
 In consequence of this intelligence, he gave Mr. Clarke 
 an invitation, which was at once both general and pressing. 
 And from the manner in which it was delivered, we could 
 easily discern that it was not the effusion of a momentary 
 compliment, but the language of sound reason, that had 
 calculated upon some of those contingencies which are in- 
 cident to human life. It might sometimes so happen, he 
 observed, that the parlour in which we then preached, might 
 be engrossed by company, who would view a sermon as an 
 hitrusion, and feel themselves hurt at being disturbed ; on 
 which account he should feel some inconvenience in appro- 
 priating that room on all occasions to the purpose. He, 
 nevertheless, proposed, that in such cases, Mr. Clarke 
 should convene his negroes in a large boarded room, which 
 stood unconnected with his house, and which we found was 
 admirably adapted to answer the end proposed. In addition 
 to this he observed, that he would speak forthwith to a 
 Mr. Jackman, a neighbouring gentleman, who, he doubted 
 not, would most readily concur in the same design. 
 
 On my journey from Kingstown to the abode of Mr. 
 Clapham, I took the liberty of calling at the house of a 
 Mr. Morgan, a gentleman of considerable property ; but 
 he was not at home. Our business, however, was commu- 
 nicated to his lady, who informed us, that Mr. Clarke 
 should be always welcome to instruct their negroes, and 
 preach to them at all proper hours. 
 
 Such were the dawnings of the gospel, and such the 
 infant prospects which St. Vincent's afforded us, immedi- 
 ately on our arrival on its shores ! , 
 
WEST INDIES. 255 
 
 From the house of Mr. Claphara we again returned to 
 [Cingstown, highly pleased with the prospect which Divine 
 Providence had opened to us in the little excursion that 
 ve had made. On our arrival we found, that during our 
 ibsence Mr. Claxton had not been idle. He had actually 
 itted up a large warehouse for the purpose of preaching, 
 ind furnished it with seats. Two rooms were also appro- 
 )riated to the use of Mr. Clarke; one for his bed-cham- 
 )er, and the other for his study. These circumstances 
 trongly indicated that we were not considt-red in the light 
 >f transient visitors : it was the gospel which they wished 
 o hear ; and for this gospel, a permanent provision was 
 ilready begun to be made. 
 
 Finding affairs thus prosperous, even beyond our most 
 anguine expectation, immediately on our return we waited 
 m the President of the Council, who acted at this time as 
 jrovernor, the late Governor being dead. By him we were 
 eceived with the greatest courtesy ; and after satisfying 
 lim as to our doctrines, and the object which we had in 
 rlew, he not only wished us success in reforming the morals 
 )f the negroes, but apparently extended towards us all that 
 )rotection which his dignified station could give us any 
 •eason to expect. And as a proof of his decided approba- 
 ;ion of our designs, as soon as we informed him, that Mr. 
 Clarke was appointed by us to continue in the island, he 
 generously gave him permission to preach on Sundays in 
 ;he Court-house. 
 
 In the course of our continuance in this town, we were 
 nvited to dine with a Mr. Stewart, a gentleman of consi- 
 derable property, who kept a large warehouse in Kingstown, 
 rhis gentleman, as well as Mr. Claxton, appeared to be 
 rejoiced above measure at the visit which we had made, 
 and at the prospect of having the gospel established in the 
 island. Nor did his exultation and gratitude consist in 
 mere expression. As marks of approbation and respect, 
 he gave to each of us who were about to leave him, no 
 inconsiderable token of regard. To me he presented a 
 large cocoa-nut shell, most curiously engraved, and set in 
 silver. To Mr. Hammett, one of the Missionaries, h gave 
 a seal, which was, probably, worth three or four guineas: 
 and to Mr. Baxter he presented a pocket dressing-table for 
 shaving and other purposes, worth, 1 presume, full two 
 guineas. To Mr. Clarke, he said, he would then make 
 no present; for "as he is about to continue on the 
 " island, I shall have him near me when you are gone, and 
 
256 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 *« it shall by my care that he shall never want." This 
 gentleman, in lormer years, had been a member of Mr. 
 Wesley's society in London, and was then extremely poor; 
 but through those vicissitudes which are the companions of 
 human life, the scene had been reversed ; he had removed 
 to St. Vincent's, and had become a rich man. His early 
 impressions, however, had not forsaken him ; his attach^ 
 ment to the gospel still remained ; and the first effusions of 
 rekindling love discovered themselves in those marks of 
 gratitude and affection which we have just surveyed. 
 
 Among the soldiers stationed, at this time, in the island 
 for its delencc, six or seven were truly serious. Thes^ 
 finding no public means of grace, had united together, and 
 erected a hut within the precincts of the barracks. One of 
 them occasionally exhorted, when opportunity offered. 
 They associated together; and invariably met each day by 
 five o'clock in the morning, unless prevented by military 
 duty ; and in these cases they assembled at half past four. 
 
 From a persuasion that the commanding officer must 
 have been an observer of their superior conduct and un- 
 blameable lives, application was made to solicit permission 
 for Mr. Clarke to preach, occasionally, in the barracks 
 among the soldiers ; but this was a favor we could not ob- 
 tain. About six whites, however, besides these pious sol- 
 diers, were formed into a class ; their place of meeting was 
 at Mr. Claxton's; and Mr. Clarke proceeded immediately 
 to take them under his care. 
 
 On Friday the 10th of February, pursuant to an invi- 
 tation, we dined with a Mr. Otley, who lives about seven 
 miles from Kingstown. He was one of the principal per- 
 sons in the island, and a very agreeable man. His lady 
 possessed both seriousness and affability. As we never 
 missed a favorable opportunity of promoting the object for 
 which we visited the island, we communicated to him the 
 outlines of our design. And so far did our measures meet 
 with his concurrence, that, notwithstanding two thought- 
 less officers dined with us, he felt no hesitation in expres- 
 sing his approbation ; and gave Mr. Clarke a general invi- 
 tation to make his house his home. 
 
 Under these circumstances, his cordial acquiescence ap- 
 peared in a most conspicuous light ; 
 
 " For where the world prevails, and its loud laugh, 
 " Which scarce the firm Philosopher can scorn," 
 
 politeness and mere complaisance are insufficient to produce 
 
WEST INDIES. 257 
 
 SO open an avowal. A firm conviction of the ntility of the 
 gospel becomes necessary to produce approbation, and to 
 give support to those truths which mere men of the world 
 despise. 
 
 .Sir William Young, on whom I had waited in Antigua 
 previously to my present visit, has a large estate in this 
 island, not far from the residence of Mr. Otley. By Sir 
 William Young 1 was received with the greatest politeness ; 
 and if from a combination of circumstances any inference 
 may be drawn, it is not unwarrantable to conclude, that 
 when the happy effects of the gospel are felt and seen among 
 the slaves of Mr. Otley, the liberal mind of Sir William 
 will direct a door to be opened to the negroes on his plan- 
 tation, that they may be instructed in those things which 
 make for their everlasting peace. 
 
 In this stage of the business, a little circuit appeared 
 already opened, and a sufliciency of labor provided for Mr. 
 Clarke, whom we were soon to leave. It would have 
 created within me no surprize, from the prospects which 
 presented themselves, to have heard, that more applications 
 were made to him than he could possibly supply ; nor should 
 I have been astonished to learn, that in the space of a few 
 weeks, he had five hundred catechumens under his care. 
 
 There was a member of the Assembly to whom I had 
 strong letters of recommendation, on whom I had not time 
 to call. And there was another gentleman on another part 
 of the island, who was personally known to Mr. Baxter, 
 who had on his plantation six pious negroes, who were 
 brought from Antigua ; on him, also, we had not time to 
 wait. From these gentlemen we had every reason to hope 
 for an approbation of our designs ; and in such cases, even 
 that alone becomes support. 
 
 In the town where we chiefly resided, it was delightful to 
 observe, with what eyes of affection we were suiveyed by 
 the negroes. They considered themselves as the primary 
 objects of our visit, and on that account we were quite 
 exalted in their esteem. In fine, the fields appeared white 
 already unto harvest ; many among them evidently thirsted 
 for the word ; and one in particular was overheard informing 
 his companions, with simplicity and pleasure, — " These men 
 " zoere imported for us." 
 
 On the appointment of a Missionary in a region so flatter- 
 ing, appearances forbade the existence of two opinions. 
 The path appeared to have been evidently pointed out of 
 God ; we had only trodden in the way of duty, and left 
 
 VOL. II. K k 
 
258 HISTORY OF THiS 
 
 events to him. The success with which he has been pleased 
 to bless our sincere endeavors, and the multitudes who have, 
 through the instrumentality of the means adopted, been 
 brought from darkness to light, are unquestionable testimo- 
 nies of his sacred approbation. A recollection of what is 
 past must, in a certain degree, direct us in our future 
 actions. The path in which we have already trodden we 
 know by experience to have been owned of God ; and hence 
 we learn, that then ofily can we hope for those blessings 
 which we expect to crOwn our endeavors, when we renounce 
 all dependauce upon an arm of flesh, and place an unlimited 
 confidence in him. 
 
 On the 1 2th of January, Mr. Baxter, Mr. Hammett, and 
 myself, took our departure from St. Vincent's, leaving Mr. 
 Clarke, encircled with unexpected friends and flattering 
 prospects, upon the island. On the 15th we reached 
 Dominica, with the same intentions and views that had 
 conducted us to the former island ; and we had the satis- 
 faction to find, that the inhabitants, in general, were not 
 averse to that gospel which could alone instruct them in 
 the way of righteousness, and make them wise unto salva- 
 tion. 
 
 In the course of the ensuing year, nothing remarkable 
 happened, either to facilitate or retard the exertions of Mr. 
 Clarke. The effusions of approbation, which novelty might 
 have in part occasioned, gave place, in many instances, to 
 a stability of friendship, which time had rather improved 
 than impaired. And, on my second visit, I had the satis- 
 faction to learn, that our places of public worship had 
 acquired a permanency, from the sanction which regular 
 attendance had bestowed ; — that the congregations were 
 large ; and that l^.Ir. Clarke had not labored in vain. 
 
 The prospects which had appeared so inviting had not 
 afforded much deception ; many souls had been peculiarly 
 blessed, and, so far as either appearance or language could 
 be admitted as evidence, savingly converted to God. Many 
 new friends had opened their houses, and given Mr. Clarke 
 access to their slaves : multitudes of these earnestly attended 
 to instruction, and gave proof that they had not received 
 the grace of God in vain. 
 
 Mr. Baxter, whose place of residence had been on the 
 island of Antigua, had visited St. Vincent's in the course of 
 the year. A variety of local circumstances rendered his 
 presence particularly interesting ; and as his whole soul was 
 engaged ai the work, he missed no opportunity of laying 
 
WEST INDIES, 259 
 
 himself out for God. Through the instrumentality of Mr. 
 Baxter and Mr. Clarke, God had been pleased to cause the 
 day-spring from on high to visit the country : andthrough the 
 personal acquaintance of the former M'ith many of the 
 respectable inhabitants, the boundaries of his church became 
 enlarged ; so that, before the conclusion of the year, a suffi- 
 ciency of employment appeared for both. 
 
 i\n enlargement of their scenes of action necessarily pro- 
 duced an enlargement of acquaintance; and the mutual 
 co-operation of both had carried them to the extremities of 
 the 13ritish territories in the island, and even given them ai> 
 opportunity of forming a distant connexion with the Cha- 
 raibees. Anxious to diffuse the light of that gospel which 
 can make those who possess its graces wise unto eternal 
 salvation, they had calculated upon an intercourse which 
 should lead to its introduction among them. An interchange 
 of language had already commenced; many of them had 
 acquired a knowledge of English, and Mr. Baxter had made 
 no small proficiency in their tongue. In addition to these 
 favorable circumstances, a good understanding subsisted be- 
 tween them ; restricted, indeed, by those cautions to which 
 reciprocal jealousies had given birth between the two nations, 
 and which the progress of time had hardened into apprehen- 
 sive reserve. 
 
 In the month of December 1788, I reached Barbadoes, 
 in company with Mr. Lumb, Mr. Gamble, and Mr. Pearcey 
 three of our Missionaries, with a design to establish a mission 
 in that island. As we knew no one when we landed, we 
 took our habitation at an inn ; but finding our expenses 
 enormous, I seized the earliest opportunity of dispatching 
 Messrs. Lumb and Gamble to our friends in the island of 
 St. Vincent's, intending to follow them, as soon as a door 
 was opened in Barbadoes for Mr. Pearce. This was soon 
 accomplished ; and in the course of a few days I quitted the 
 island. 
 
 On the 1 1 th of December 1788, I landed in St. Vincent's ; 
 and, after making a few arrangements and inquiries into the 
 religious stale of the island, set off, with Mr. Baxter, for 
 the territories of the Charaibees. The day following we 
 were joined by Mr. Gamble and Mr. Clarke, and towards 
 evening reached the house of our new and hospitable friend. 
 Dr. Davison, a physician. Communicating to him our in- 
 tention, he so far approved of our measures, that he agreed 
 to join us in our intended journey. The company of Dr. 
 Davison was a valuable acquisition. His place of residence 
 
260 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 lay on the frontier of the English territory. This circum- 
 stance had introduced him to an acquaintance with the Cha- 
 raibees ; and through this means, he became a medium of 
 intercourse, M'hich quieted suspicions and banished fears. 
 With their savage customs, and peculiarities of manners, he 
 was not unacquainted ; so that, through his assistance, we 
 were enabled to add an exemption from involuntary errors 
 to the purity of our intentions, which alone, we trust, 
 actuated us in the undertaking, through the grace of God. 
 
 On the morning of the r2th, in company with our friend 
 and guide, we began our journey towards the Charaib coun- 
 try, and found ourselves encompassed with woods and wilds, 
 as savage and vmcultivated as the people whose habitations 
 we were about to visit. The luxuriance of nature had not 
 been corrected by the adjustments of art ; a scene of wild 
 fertility encircled us on every side, and presented to our 
 sight an extensive region, in which, " weeds and flowers 
 " promiscuous shoot," and wantonly wandered in magnihcent 
 exuberance. 
 
 The roads, or rather narrow paths, that lie over those 
 mountains A^hich form the boundaries between the English 
 and the Charaibees, were in perfect unison with the adjacent 
 scenery. Full of serpentine involutions, their formation is 
 as rude as their situation is tremendous; opposition and de- 
 fiance seemed to be presented both by rocks and bushes ; 
 and a complication of obstacles threatened to prohibit all 
 access. In short, it appeared to be both the residence and 
 empire of Danger; and our elevation served to shew us the 
 extent of her dominions. 
 
 Some time previous to our present journey, Mr. Baxter, 
 who had taken an excursion into these elevated regions, 
 was exposed to the most imminent danger, and had nearly 
 lost his life. 1 he horse on which he rode fell down a pre- 
 cipice, about tlnrty feet perpendicular ; and it was with the 
 vitmost difficulty, that, on the approach of danger, the rider 
 was able to disengage himself. Unconscious of any imme- 
 diate hazards, besides such as are common to all who pass 
 over these outlines of the world, the hinder legs of his horse 
 instantly sinking beneath him, warned him of approaching 
 destruction ; and he had but a moment to throw himself 
 upon the ground, before his beast was no more. 
 
 Savages, who inhabit the woods and deserts, uniformly 
 lead a wandering life. Stationary residence is an ingredient 
 of civilization ; and in \vhat region soever it exists, it implies. 
 
WEST INDIES. Ci6l 
 
 that the fierceness of savage ferocity has been, more or less, 
 subdued by the cultivating hand of art. 
 
 These almost pathless mountains were frequently traversed 
 by the Charaibees ; and in the progress of our journey, we 
 were met by straggling parties, who wandered through the 
 desert, either for pleasure, or in quest of prey. 
 
 In one place they very opportunely came to our assistance. 
 When riding became either dangerous or impracticable, we 
 got off and led our horses ; but, in one place, even this 
 expedient failed us. The branches of the trees had so inter- 
 sected each other, that they had completely barricaded the 
 path which we were pursuing ; and being too closely inter- 
 woven to be penetrated, and too strong to be bent, we were 
 obliged to borrow the cutlasses of some Charaibees who 
 were passing by, to cut open a passage through the thicket, 
 before we could proceed. Indeed, the ground itself had 
 given May, and formed a deep step, which our horses would 
 not have been able to descend, if the Charaibees had not 
 smoothed the ground with their cutlasses. On this occasion, 
 Mr. Baxter spoke to them in their own language ; on which, 
 one or two of them holding the blade of their cutlasses in 
 their hands, presented the hilt to me, paying me thereby the 
 highest mark of respect in their power ; as if they had said, 
 " We have that confidence in you, that we entrust our lives 
 " in your hands." After examhiing the cutlasses, and seem- 
 ing to admire them, I returned tliem back, with the most 
 pleasing looks, and inclinations of my body, that were in 
 my power. 
 
 Having surmounted these difficulties, we began to descend 
 on the opposite side with less trouble ; and our path soon 
 conducted us into a spacious plain, which afforded us an 
 ample recompense for all our toils. It was an extensive 
 area, about seven miles in length and three in breadth, 
 beautified by the exuberance of nature ; and seemed, thus 
 " unadorned, adorned the most.N It presented the figure 
 of a bow, the stiing of which was formed by that line which 
 was made by the union of the Atlantic ocean with the shore ; 
 while the circular part was surrounded by those lofty moim- 
 tains Avhich we had just descended. Here nature lavished 
 her beauties in profusion, and softened into delicacies that 
 masculine grandeur which had adorned the mountain's brow. 
 In short, each species of beauty was evidently heightened 
 by the contrast; so that even the rough acclivities which 
 we had ascended gave lustre to the graces A\hich smiled 
 upon the plain. 
 
S62 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 In this alcove of nature, which seemed to give instructions 
 to art, a large part of the Charaibees had taken up their 
 abode* As we passed by their habitations, they stood at 
 their doors in ranks ; and while many of them saluted us 
 with " Boil jo i(, Bou jou," (a corruption of JBow jowr, a 
 good day,) some in broken English cried " How dee, How 
 *' che." In both cases, however, sullenness and suspicion 
 entirely disappeared. 
 
 What tended to increase this confidence, in all probability, 
 ■was, that we had in company with us one of the sons of the 
 grand chief. This circumstance gave a sanction to our visit, 
 and procured respect, where we, otherwise, might have been 
 treated with indifference and contempt. '^Ihe name of this 
 young chieftain was John Dimniei/ ; he had been, for some 
 time, under the tuition of Mr. and Mrs. Baxter, to acquire 
 a general knowledge of the English language, and had 
 learned to speak it with some degree of fluency. He ap- 
 peared to be a young man of fine parts, and capable of much 
 improvement. He had a commanding aspect, and a princely 
 carriage. His father's name was Chateaway\ but at the 
 time we visited their villages in this delightful plain, he was 
 not at home. 
 
 The appearance of the young man had something in it 
 very prepossessing ; and so far had he gained upon my 
 esteem, that, had his father been at home, I should have 
 solicited, and, I flatter myself, have obtained his consent, 
 to take him with me to England. His manners were, evi- 
 dently, exalted above his condition ; and his sentiments had 
 acquired a refinement superior to the rudeness of a savage 
 .state. " Teach me your language," said Mr. Baxter to him 
 one day, " and I will give you my watch." " I will teach 
 *' you my language," replied the young chieftain, " but 1 
 " will not have your watch." 
 
 Sanctioned and introduced by young Dimmey, who had 
 walked by the side pf my horse for about tv.'enty-five miles, 
 from Kingstown to the Charaib country, we entered the 
 house of one of the chiefs, whose name was De Valley, and 
 were treated with the utmost politeness which the savage 
 state could have afforded. De Valley, who was also from 
 
 * This plain which we visited was called Grand Sable, or the Great 
 Sand ; but bejond this, we were informed, was another plain, still larger, 
 and very full of inhabitants, as was also that of Grand Sable. But int* 
 ttiis latter plain, no Europeans, I believe, were sufi^red to enter. 
 
WEST INDIES. Q^i 
 
 home, on a fishing-party with Chateazcai/, was, indeed, 
 possessor of a cotton plantation — the only phintation I saw 
 or heard of among the Charaibees. While we were in his 
 house, Mr. Dimmey whispered in the ear of Mr. Baxter, 
 that the family wonld not be satisfied, unless we accepted 
 of some refreshment. We, therefore, complied with the 
 intimation ; and almost instantly there were set before us, a 
 large dishful of eggs, some cassada bread, and a bowl of 
 punch. It was v/ith difficulty that we could prevail upou 
 Mr. Dimmey to join us in our repast ; none of the others 
 could be persuaded. In this house, a beautiful little boy, a 
 son of one of the chiefs, who had been under the instructions 
 of Mr. Baxter, and had already learned to spell, afforded 
 us high entertainment, by the convincing proofs which he 
 gave us of an infant genius ; — a genius, which promised in 
 maturity those natural embellishments and energies but 
 rarely found in savage life. 
 
 But in the midst of this hospitality and kindness the 
 shades of jealousy occasionally appeared in sight. In Mr. 
 Baxter they placed a considerable share of confidence ; but 
 of me they entertained some suspicions : these they occasion- 
 ally communicated to him ; and I could perceive, that 
 several times he was obliged to assure them, that I received 
 no pay whatever from the King. 
 
 i^s Mr. Baxter had already made a considerable profi- 
 ciency in their language, and appeared even to live in their 
 affections, I could hardly avoid entreating him to spend two 
 years among them, to give them a full trial. On this head 
 I communicated to him my wishes ; and, though he had fully 
 expected to retmn almost immediately to Antigua, the pros- 
 pect of being serviceable to the souls of the benighted Cha- 
 raibees induced him to relinquish his own ease and gratifica- 
 tion, and to yield a ready consent. 
 
 Nor should the conduct of Mrs. Baxter, on this occasion, 
 be overlooked. Though born of a considerable family in 
 Antigua, and brought up in all that ease and luxury which 
 is peculiar to affiuence in the West Indies, she had already 
 consented that her husband should abandon a lucrative 
 office under government, worth four hundred pounds per 
 annum, currency ; and she now cheerfully consented to 
 make a still greater sacrifice. She had acquiesced with the 
 former, that her husband might devote all his time to the 
 service and work of God ; and upon the same principle, that 
 he might be more extensively useful, she cheerfully sub- 
 mitted to be banished from her acquaintances and friends, to 
 
264, HISTORY OF THE 
 
 he exiled on the margin of civilization, to spend two year? 
 among hordes of savages, and to repose her safety in the 
 protecting hand of God. 
 
 What cannot divine grace accomplish ? And what but 
 divine grace could lead to sacrifices or make surrenders 
 like these ? Constrained by the love of Christ, both she 
 and her husband had abandoned present possession, and 
 expected no requital on this side the grave. After the sur- 
 render of wealth and ease, they were now about to quit 
 their intercourse \\'ith the world, in order to undertake the 
 arduous task of cultivating the savage mind ! 
 
 Previously to my arrival in the island in 1788, we had 
 erected a school-house, in a convenient place near the river 
 Byera, which separated the Charaib country from ours ; 
 and had placed several Charaib children under the tuition 
 of ISIr. and Mrs. Joice, whom we sent from London for 
 the purpose. The situation of this building being adapted 
 for the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Baxter induced me to 
 survey it, as soon as it was determined that they should 
 settle among the Charaibees, or, at least, settle in such a 
 situation, as would at no time debar them of access. On 
 inspecting this house, 1 found it much larger than I had been 
 taught to expect, and far too large for one family. In con- 
 sequence of this discover}', workmen were immediately 
 employed to divide it into nearly two equal parts ; one of 
 which was appropriated to the original intention of the 
 house, and the other to the use of Mr. and Mrs. Baxter. 
 
 On a superficial survey of the utility which had already 
 resulted from the establishment of the above school, under 
 the direction of IVIr. and Mrs. Joice, I had my doubts how 
 far the end for which it had been erected had been fully 
 answered. Doubt led to inquiry ; inquiry to explanation ; 
 and this brought with it a satisfactory solution of the doubts 
 which had occurred. The illness of Mrs. Joice, and the 
 difficulty of obtaining suitable materials for the building, 
 had been considerable obstacles ; but the removal of these 
 occasions of its comparative inutility gave promises, which 
 future months and years alone could realize. 
 
 The simplicity and cheerfulness which, in the midst of 
 cautious suspicions, were manifested by the Charaibees 
 towards us, soon grew into an attachment which totally 
 banished our fears. The unfavorable impressions which we 
 had received from a recital of their cruelties soon wore 
 away ; their artless address gained the ascendancy over pre- 
 vious report; and half taught us to believe that they had 
 
WEST INDIES. 265 
 
 been wronged by misrepresentation and prejudice. But 
 artless addresses sometimes proceed from excess of artifice 
 and fraud ; and the civil history of this island stands as a 
 convincing testimony, that no people ever practised dupli- 
 city with greater impunity than this people. The savages of 
 America, we learn from these circumstances, may be desti- 
 tute of the finesse of modern Europe, without being either 
 ignorant of deception, or always guided by virtue. 
 
 As a people, they are much handsomer than the negroes. 
 They appear more muscular and alert, and almost constantly 
 assume a martial air. Even their women put on a warlike 
 appearance, and seem familiarized with the weapons of de- 
 struction. Cutlasses, and other accoutrements, are frequently 
 in their hands ; and knives are suspended by their naked 
 sides. Even times of peace exhibit an armed neutrality ; 
 and both sexes display a state of preparation, either for offen- 
 sive or defensive war. 
 
 Having made the necessary arrangements for the intro- 
 duction of the gospel among them, and engaged Mr. Baxter 
 to take upon him the important charge, we proceeded to 
 quit their territory, and set out on our journey to Kingstown. 
 In different portions of the island preaching had been estab- 
 lished ; and in many of them, societies of serious persons 
 had been formed. In several of these places we preached, 
 in the course of our journey. As we passed along, we were 
 received with every appearance of gladness ; and the planters 
 treated us almost universally with hospitality, kindness, and 
 respect. Ardent wishes for our success, seemed to be ex- 
 pressed by all ranks of people ; and previously to our depar- 
 ture, they gave us many decided proofs of their sincere 
 attachment. 
 
 In the English department of the island, a sufficiency of 
 employment appeared for two Missionaries ; and to this 
 labor Messrs. Clarke and Gamble were appointed. Mr. 
 Baxter, about to take up his abode chiefly among the Cha- 
 raibees, embarked at present for Antigua, merely to settle 
 his affairs, to take leave of his friends, and to acquaint 
 them witli his destination. 
 
 From this period till the year 1 790, I had no opportunity 
 of visiting the island. The letters which were transmitted, 
 gave favorable accounts of the spreading of the gospel among 
 the negroes ; multitudes attended the preaching, and an 
 habitual seriousness seemed to pervade great numbers. 
 Many were savingly converted to God, and evidenced, by 
 
 VOL. II. LI 
 
^66 HISTORY or TUE 
 
 their liv^s ittid c6n'vcirsati<iirt, that they had been with Jesu* 
 Christ. 
 
 In KingstoAVn the congregations so increased, that the 
 houfee became insufficient to contain them. A more com- 
 modious room, formerlv occupied by the Roman Catholics^ 
 bttt now deserted, presented itself. This was purchased by 
 our friends, and ■fitted up according to that mode which we 
 have uniformly adopted in our places of public worship. It 
 was tolerably well adapted to our purposes ; it afforded 
 accommodafions for the hearers, and ^vofuld contain several 
 hundreds of persons. 
 
 On the different plantations in the country the work gra- 
 dually increased. Prosperity seemed to smile upon our 
 exertions, and success became our immediate reward. 
 Throngh different parts of the island, several hundreds had 
 joined themselves to our societies, and demonstrated by 
 their words and actions that they were joined also unto 
 God. 
 
 Among the Charaibees, on the contrary, Mr. Baxter saw 
 but little fruit of his labor. To the prospects of an hereafter, 
 they felt an unwillingness to expand their minds. A species 
 of roving indolence, interrupted only by hunting and the 
 (exploits of visionary war, filled up every avenue of their 
 uncultivated minds. 
 
 Mr. Baxter, ^ho had used every exertion among them, 
 inquiring with the prophet, Lord, who hath believed our 
 report, and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed, seemed 
 ready to conclude, that he had labored in vain, and spent 
 his strength for nought. He had, during his residence 
 ariiong them, occasionally visited his brethren, and the places 
 of worship to m hich they resorted ; and this partially softened 
 the rigors of his exile. But the prospects which lay before 
 him in the Charaib country presented, in a moral view, 
 tiothing but " a situation waste and wild," which could nei- 
 ther give encouragement to perseverance, nor expand the 
 "Wings of reasonable hope. 
 
 In savage, as well as in civilized life, the carnal mind is 
 enmity to God. Moral corruption, it is true, discovers 
 itself through different mediums ; and evil travels through 
 various paths ; but in each case, the sameness of feature is 
 so far visible, that sin may be traced to its genuine fountain, 
 4nd to the same common issue. In every region of the globe 
 that is inliabited by man, marks of degradation are awfully 
 Visible ; in soine places they are more conspicuous than iii 
 
 I 
 
WEST INDIES. 867 
 
 others ; but every nation bears the unage and superscription 
 9/ sin. 
 
 The disguise of language may, indeed, impose, in some 
 cases, a varnish upon deformity ; but deception cannot invert 
 die order of nature. Even disguises appear as evidences, to 
 prove the existence of those vices \vhich they were intended 
 to conceal, and are decisive marks of that depravity which 
 finds it inconvenient to bear tlie light. 1 he adoption of ar- 
 tifice, on such occasions, tells us why an appeal was made 
 to it ; so that the flimsy covering becomes a signal, to arrest 
 the notice of those who are accustomed to pierce the shade. 
 
 It was towards tlie close of the year 1790, that I had a 
 third opportunity of visiting this island, in company with 
 ]Mr. Werrill, a ISIissionary, from Ireland. We landed in 
 the evening, just before the time tliat our public worship 
 began. Ihe people had already assembled, and the house 
 Avas quite fidl. 'The prospect appeared as inviting as ever ; 
 both silence and attention rested on the congregation ; the 
 friendship and attachment of those who had shewn me such 
 kindnesses on my former visits remained miabated ; so that 
 Kingstown became to me almost a home. 
 
 ]Mr. Baxter, having no prospect of being serviceable to 
 the Charaibees,"'* had associated witli the Messrs. Clarke 
 and Gamble, and on my anival was in Kingstown. After 
 visiting a few friends, and inquirmg into the state of the 
 society, I proceeded the next day, accompanied by Mr. 
 Baxter and ?tlr. Werrill, to visit our societies on the wind- 
 ward side of die island. Many of these seemed alive to 
 God, and carried with them convincing marks that they had 
 received the grace of God, an4 experienced its blessed 
 eii'ects. 
 
 * A circumstance, at that time, happened, which hastened the depar- 
 ture of iMr. Baxter from the Cliaraib country. A trade was carried on 
 between the Charaibees and the French of Mjirtinico, in which, tobacco, 
 and nets made of silk-^rass, (as it is tliere called,) were exchanged for 
 muskets, sabres, and ammunition. On one of these trading visits, the 
 French priests of Martinico told a party of tiie Charaibees, that the 
 Missionaries were spies, sent by the King of England to explore their 
 land ; and, that as soon as they had finished tlieir discoveries, they would 
 withdiaw, and the Kini; would send an army to conquer their countrj'. 
 After their return, Mr. Baxter observed an universal gloom on the coun- 
 tenances of all; though, just before, they had esteemed him and treated 
 him as their father. Tliree days expired before he could draw forth the 
 secret : and every endeavor failin"T to convince them of their deception, 
 and their sullenucss still continuing, he tliought it high time to hasten with 
 Mrs. Baxter out of die country, witli all possible celerity. 
 
268 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 In this excursion, the appearance was somewhat varied 
 from that which was presented to our view, when, in 
 1788, \ve entered the country of the Charaibees. Full of 
 picturesque scenery, the prospects were rather romantic 
 than terrible, and were calculated to excite our astonish- 
 ment, without awakening our fears. The mountains, in- 
 deed, projected their aspiring peaks ; but the asperity of these 
 views was softened by the cocoa-trees and plantains, which 
 clothed the less elevated regions, and by the sugar-canes 
 which covered the more gentle declivities. Coffee and cot- 
 ton plantations both diversified and heightened the prospect, 
 and adorned the charms of nature with the embellishments of 
 art. At a distance, the Atlantic ocean spread her open 
 bosom to the sun ; and while, in some directions, a lazy 
 swell moved tardily towards the shore, in others, a milk- 
 white foam, between projecting promontories, covered the 
 expanse of waters, as with the native mantle of the deep. 
 These scenes, together M'ith the plaintive murmurs of the 
 dashing waves, and the sun exulting in his strength, and 
 imparting life to the vegetable world, M'hich projected a 
 strong and perpetual verdure, afforded a diversity of beauty, 
 of which persons unacquainted with the torrid zone can 
 form no adequate conception. The prospect which encir- 
 cled us in all its branches had such an effect upon Mr. 
 Werrill, who accompanied us, that his aversions softened 
 into approbation, and he confessed himself perfectly recon- 
 ciled to the West Indies. 
 
 In the course of this journey we rode towards the borders 
 of the Charaibees country, but did not enter their territories. 
 The efforts which had been made to introduce the gospel 
 among them had proved ineffectual ; and we had no other 
 object which could lead us either to preserve an intercourse 
 or to cultivate an acquaintance with them. Mrs. Baxter, on 
 taking her leave, wept at their rejection of the gospel, and 
 earnestly prayed that they might have another call, before 
 the things which made for their everlasting peace were for 
 ever hidden from their eyes. At the same time, she ear- 
 nestly besought God, that when another call should reach 
 them, they might not reject it, as they had hitherto slighted 
 the overtures of salvation which had been made. 
 
 When our Lord beheld Jerusalem, he wept over it; and 
 predicted its approaching calamities and impending doom, as 
 a consequence which resulted from that incorrigible obdu- 
 racy, which had marked their conduct, and now led them 
 to their destruction. To a spirit of prophecy we make no 
 
WEST INDIES. 269 
 
 pretensions ; but it is remarkable, that the rejection of the 
 gospel by the Charaibees Mas almost instantly followed by 
 that awful w ar which we have already described, through 
 which numbers of them were hurried into eternity. Had 
 they received the gospel, when they spurned it from them, 
 tlie influence which its sacred precepts must have extended 
 over their hearts would have so far tauglit them their duty, 
 both to God and man, that their attachment to our govern- 
 ment would have remained unshaken ; both duty and 
 interest would have happily co-operated, and would have 
 guaranteed that prosperous tranquillity which they had so. 
 long enjoyed. 
 
 L nhappily for them, those overtures of mercy which 
 1 could meliorate the heart, aw aken their gratitude, and make 
 I them w ise unto salvation, were utterly disregarded. The 
 ! turbulent and angry passions, on the contrary, were cherished 
 within them, as the natural consequence of their refusal to 
 learn righteousness ; these hurried them onward to those 
 deeds of conspiracy and w ar, w hich terminated in their final 
 overthrow, — in the death of multitudes, — and in the confis- 
 cation of their lands. 
 
 Exclusively of the Charaibees, the gospel found friends in 
 most parts of the island ; so that the word of God had free 
 <:ourse, and v\ as glorified. Many knew in whom they had 
 believed, and felt the power of the world to come. Grace 
 appeared to reign through righteousness in an abundance of 
 witnesses, who knew by experience, that Christ had power 
 on earth to forgive sins ; so that these adorned tlie doctrine 
 of God their Saviour, by a holy life and an miblameable 
 conversation. 
 
 That God is no more confined to the complexions of his 
 creatures, than he is to temples made with hands, the two 
 following circumstances will decide. The first occurred in 
 Kingstown, in a conversation w hich took place between one 
 of the leaders and a slave. The slave had been speaking of 
 the love of God towards his soul, and of that love which he 
 felt towards the source of all his mercies. " If your driver," 
 says the leader, " should lay you dozen and flog you, what 
 " would you then do r" * Me should love him still,' replied 
 the slave. " But if you could get no meat, what would 
 " you do then r " added the leader. ' Me eat,' replied he, 
 
 * me tank me Fader; me no eat, me tank me Fade?-; me 
 
 * live, me tank me Fader ; me die, me tank me Fader.' It 
 is observable, that almost all the converted negroes through 
 ihese islands uniformly speak of God under the appellation 
 
^70 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 of Father. What language can be more expressive of 
 genuine piety and grateful confidence in God than the above ? 
 The poor negro did, in effect, declare, like Job, though he 
 slay me, yet will I trust in him ; and, perhaps, the above 
 expressions contain within them all the religion that is to 
 be found in that celebrated conversation between D/'. Tauhr 
 and the Beggar. 
 
 The other instance occurred to us, in the course of our 
 journey through the island. In returning from the borders 
 of the Charaibees country, a poor negro woman ran up to 
 «s from a field in which she had been working, on purpose 
 to shake us by the hand. A salutation so unusual, as we 
 were perfect strangers, could not fail to excite our notice. 
 Her countenance bespoke the sincerity of her motives, and 
 appeared, at once, to be the genuine index of her heart, 
 " Do you love God?" said Mr. Werrill to her. * Yes; 
 replied she, * / c?o, otherwise I zcould not have come to 
 you; I have felt the Redeemer s life and death in my soulJ 
 
 Such were the unvarnished and genuine effusions of their 
 hearts! Numerous instances might be recorded of similar 
 simplicity and affection, in which they spoke without either 
 the decorations of refinement or the ambiguity of art. In 
 short, a general flame seemed to have been kindled through- 
 out the island ; insomuch, that the rewards of our labor 
 became promises of future prosperity, and bestowed upou 
 us both possession and hope. 
 
 Even many of the Roman Catholics, of whom there are 
 several families in llxe island, seemed to rejoice in our 
 prosperity and future hopes. And, though brought up ia 
 all the fooleries and superstitious ceremonies of the church 
 of Ifomc, they gave the decided preference to our INIission- 
 aries ; so that Mr. Baxter was even, sometimes, solicited 
 to baptize then- childien, when their own priests were over- 
 looked. We hence learn, from these appearances and 
 realities, that God can send by whom he will, and that 
 nothing is too hard for his power. Climates and complexions 
 are alike to him, mIio causeth his rain to descend upon the 
 evil and the good, and whose tender mercies are over all his 
 works. 
 
 It nuist not, however, be thought, from these favorable 
 accounts, that we were in a region where enmity to the 
 things of God had no existence. Opposition, more or less, 
 perhaps, invariably attends upon the preaching of the gospel j 
 just as a shadow 1o11o\a s a substance ; and becomes the more 
 
WEST INDIES. 271 
 
 tonspicuous, in proportion to the brilliancy with which the 
 beams of heuveu are dispensed. 
 
 Of this truth St. Vincent's has furnished some examples. 
 But it must be admitted, that, hitherto, instances of oppo- 
 sition were but few ; and those which were, originated with 
 only some lawless individuals that formed exceptions to the 
 general character. On these solitary instances it is needless 
 to expatiate ; life is chequered with good and evil, and the 
 brightest day admits sometimes of clouds. Such circum- 
 stances tend to remind us, that we are still in an enemy's 
 country, and that this earth is not our place of rest. They 
 awaken the mind to a sensibility of that danger with which 
 it is encircled; and convince it, that safety is only to be 
 found in a state of union with God. 
 
 The Great King of Eternity, and he only, is our never- 
 failing friend. Men are mutable and unstable ; their pro- 
 mises but flatter to destroy suspicions, and to seize security 
 when it is unarmed. Human nature, when unchanged by 
 divine grace, sometimes only ditluses its friendship for the 
 moment ; and while basking in the sunshine of prosperity, 
 we are too apt to forget this important truth, that the friend- 
 ship of the world is enmity against God. Of these truths 
 the island of St. Vincent's has furnished us with a memora- 
 ble example. 
 
 The changes which almost annually take place in the 
 stations of oUr preachers in England apply, with some 
 little variation, to the Missionaries abroad. By these 
 means, the Missionaries have an opportunity of visiting 
 almost all the islands ; and the difterent congregations may 
 enjoy the ministry of all. Hence it is, that in this history 
 of the West Indies we shall, sometimes, find the same man 
 in one island, and sometimes in another ; the progress of 
 time must always be productive of changes, upon the 
 itinerant plan. 
 
 It was early in the year 1793, after having taken a tour 
 through a great part of the United States of America, and 
 visited England and Ireland, that I returned again to the 
 West Indies. During the interim of my absence, both 
 ijunshine and clouds had visited St. Vincent's ; and 011 my 
 arrival, the latter hung heavily upon the island. 
 
 It was on Thursday, the 24th of January, that I landecl 
 at St. Christopher's, and was instantly informed by Mr. 
 Warrener, our Missionary on that island, that a dreadfid 
 aerseeution had arisen in St, Vincent's ; and that Mr. Lumb, 
 A ho had been stationed on the island, was, at that timcj. in 
 
272 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 the common prison, for preaching the gospel. Wounded 
 with liis afflictions, I set off in the afternoon of the same 
 day, in a passage-boat which sailed for the island, to ad- 
 minister consolation to my suffering brother, and to inquire 
 into the occasion of this unexpected and extraordinary event. 
 On the 6lh, after touching at Nevis and Dominica, I reached 
 St. Vincent's, and immediately hastened to the house of 
 coniinement, where I found my friend, in the common jail, 
 with a malefactor; and not long after my arrival, another 
 criminal was added to their number. 
 
 But, though persecuted, he was not forsaken. Our kind 
 friends, who had adhered to him in prosperity, did not 
 abandon him in adversity ; they supplied him with a suffi- 
 ciency of provisions, both for himself and his fellow-prisoners, 
 who had been confined for real offences. Nothing seemed 
 Avanting, to render his situation comfortable, which lay in 
 the power of his friends to bestow ; but he was deprived of 
 his usefulness, and confined witli two criminals. 
 
 On his first apprehension, he was placed in a room which 
 lay contiguous to the public street ; and through the iron 
 gratings of his window, he repeated the crime which brought 
 him to that condition. The serious negroes, affected with 
 his situation, continued to throng round the prison, to receive 
 his instructions, and weep over his calamities. In this 
 place he was guarded by soldiers ; and to prevent the con- 
 tinuation of those instructions which he had, since his 
 confinement, been accustomed to give from his cell, the 
 magistrates took the most effectual measures. He was 
 ordered to be closely confined; and the guards took care 
 that no colored person, of any description whatsoever, 
 should be permitted to speak to him, or be spoken to, 
 through the (rratins.s. 
 
 The white people, however, were allowed to visit him in 
 his cell, and none but these. The negroes were only per- 
 mitted to survey the prison which concealed him ; and while 
 in silence and sorrow they occasionally glanced towards him, 
 and then at each other, the anguish of their hearts found 
 some relief in an effusion of tears. 
 
 But why, it may be asked, was Mr. Lumb thus treated, 
 and thus confined r I answer, all this was done because he 
 continued to preach the gospel to the negroes, in our own 
 chapel, built zcith our omn money, and to which no other 
 person presumed to lay even the most distant claim ! 
 
 We have observed in a preceding page, that *' opposition, 
 *' either more or less, attends upon the preaching of the 
 
WEST INDIES. 273 
 
 " gospel_, just as a shadow follows its substance ; and be- 
 " comes the more conspicuous, in proportion to the bril- 
 " liancy M'ith which the beams of heaven are dispensed." 
 This truth Mas particularly verified in the island of St. 
 Vincent's, on the present occasion. 
 
 It was evident, that the Sun of Righteousness had arisen 
 on the island, and, with a peculiar lustre, had darted his 
 beams into many benighted hearts. The shadows followed. 
 The powers of darkness were exerted in behalf of a falling 
 empire, and acted through the medium of legislative inter- 
 ference. 
 
 There is an unaccountable inconsistency in the human 
 heart, which it is extremely difficult either to develop or 
 describe. Persecution is so odious in itself, that no man 
 was ever yet found base enough to avow himself its advocate. 
 Its supporters have invariably had recourse to, some act of 
 necessity, or political expediency, to give coloring to those 
 latent purposes which lie buried in the heart. Pretending 
 to calculate upon distant consequences, which their superior 
 acuteness has enabled them to discern, they conceal those 
 objects at which they really aim, under the mask of public 
 good ; and indulge, at once, their rancour and ambition ; 
 the forme)', by wreaking their vengeance on those whom 
 they hate ; and the latter, by being approved by those whom 
 they delude. By frauds like these, the enemies of all 
 righteousness are too frequently ranked among the benefac- 
 tors of mankind and obtain applause when, in reality, they 
 have merited nothing but detestation. 
 
 To toleration most men profess themselves friendly ; but, 
 unhappily, too many contradict in practice what they profess 
 to support in theory. They tolerate principles which they 
 secretly flatter tlieraselves will be attended with no success, 
 and, in these cases, obtain credit for a liberality which they 
 do not possess. But no sooner are they disappomted in 
 their calculations, than they drop the visor which they wore, 
 and discover that enmity and mtolerance which had been 
 concealed in masquerade. 
 
 The success which had attended the gospel among the 
 negroes in St. Vincent's, and the subsequent conduct of the 
 legislature of the island, afford comments of the most con- 
 spicuous nature upon the above reflections. They are cir- 
 cumstances that awaken the mind to a survey of melan- 
 choly truths which had been concealed ; or rather, which, 
 ^in their present- combinations, had no existence until the 
 present moment. 
 
 VOL. II. M m 
 
274 HISTOBY OF THE 
 
 To prevent the negroes of the island from being instructed, 
 and to hinder the progress of those conversions which had 
 taken place, a law was enacted which most effectually 
 answered all their purposes, by preventing the gospel from 
 being preached. By this law it was specitically declared, 
 that no person in the island should, infuiure, preach, with- 
 out first obtaining a licence. And to prevent all unneces- 
 sary applications, it was further declared, that no peison 
 should he eligible to a licence, but those who had actually 
 resided tzcelve months on the island. This they well knew 
 militated entirely against the itinerant plan, which had been . 
 pursued among the Missionaries who had been established 
 by us in the islands. 
 
 ]>Jeither could they be ignorant, from that activity and 
 exertion which our Missionaries had manifested, that they 
 never would consent to languish in idleness for one whole 
 year, that they might only become candidates for a licence^ 
 which should qualify them to preach in tlie island another 
 year. In short, though they had continued idle one year, 
 they could have no assurance that at its expiration a licence 
 could be obtained ; for, even then, the power of granting it 
 rested with those by whom the law had been enacted. So 
 tfeat, in fact, they were obliged to wait one whole year, to 
 obtain in the end (if the magistrates thought proper) a com- 
 plete refusal ! Thus, then, the act was evidently levelled 
 against our Missionaries, and was admirably adapted to 
 destroy their labors, and to shut them up in silence. 
 
 It is, nevertheless, but an act of justice which is due to 
 the people at large, to say, that we have good reason to 
 believe, that the majority were decidedly against it ; and 
 many of the most respectable inhabitants reprobated the 
 measure in the most unequivocal terms. 
 
 But, malignity, when conducted with caution, rarely 
 "wants either artifice or emissaries to perfect its plans and 
 carry them into execution. The act which we survey was 
 hurried through the Assembly at the close of the session ; 
 and, to complete the business, they tarried one day extraor- 
 dinary. Many of the members had retired before the law 
 had finally passed ; so that there remained only a very thin 
 house. Why this inauspicious moment was selected requires 
 not much ingenuity to develop. The thinness of the house 
 was a favorable circumstance that promised them a majority ; 
 but, thin as it was, they were by no means unanimous on the 
 occasion. 
 
 A law, passed under these chcumstances, it is natural to 
 
WEST INDIES. £75 
 
 conceive, was sufficiently guarded with penal sanctions. In 
 the case before us, this was realized by fact. The progress 
 of its operative penalties consisted of three stages, commenc- 
 ing with oppression, and ending in blood. For the first 
 offence, the punishment was a tine of ten Johannes (eighteen 
 pounds), or imprisonment, for not more than ninety days^ 
 nor less than thirty. For the second offence, such corporal 
 punishment as the court should think proper to infiict, and 
 banishment. And, lastly, on return from banishment, 
 DEATH! 
 
 That such a law might have passed in the days of Caligula, 
 or Domitian, few will be inclined to doubt ; but that it 
 should have had an existence in a Protestant country, so late 
 as the year 1793, may, perhaps, appear doubtful with pos- 
 terity. But the public records of the island must bear 
 testimony to the fact ; and prove, that in the island of St. 
 Vincent's religious persecution was established by law. 
 Like the edicts of the Roman Emperors, which, first, gently 
 pinched, and proceeded step by step, till they concluded in 
 death, this law, established upon the same principles, 
 ftioved with rapid strides, and, finally, terminated in the 
 same issue. 
 
 Against Mr. Lumb, even his merciless persecutors at- 
 tempted to bring no charge, except that he had broken the 
 law. In point of fact, the charge was true ; he preached the 
 gospel the Sunday following^ and on the ensuing Thursday 
 was committed to jail. Previously to that time no Mis- 
 sionary had ever been more respected. His moral conduct, 
 and principles of loyalty, were on all occasions unimpeached ; 
 but he had been found guilty of preaching, and the law had 
 annexed an artiticial criminality to the deed. 
 
 In this, and in a variety of other instances, " the ways of 
 *' heaven are dark and intricate ;" and we are taught thereby, 
 that we are called to walk by faith and not by sight. And, 
 from an impartial survey of that rapine and oppression which 
 disturb the tranquillity of the world, we rest ourselves as- 
 sured, that though the judge of the whole earth must do 
 right, it is not in the power of mortals to comprehend his 
 ways. 
 
 Before the above iniquitous law was enacted, no island 
 afibrded a more pleasing prospect of the prosperity of reli- 
 gion than that of St. Vincent's. About a thousand of the 
 poor slaves were already stretching forth their hands unto 
 God ; and multitudes more attended constantly the preaching 
 of the word. The negroes throughout the island appeared, 
 
276 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 in general, ripe for the gospel, but the door was shut against 
 it. Nothing could give us reason to hope for better days 
 while this obstacle continued ; and our only remedy lay in 
 an appeal to our most gracious Sovereign, through whose 
 interference alone we could hope to have the obstacle re- 
 moved. 
 
 A famine of the word, through this persecuting law, had 
 occasioned many, who once ran Avell, to wander on the 
 mountains of unbelief, and many more to turn back to the 
 beggarly elements of the world. A considerable number, 
 however, held fast whereunto they had attained ; and, though 
 forbidden to hear the word preached, they had not forsaken 
 the assembling of themselves together, whenever a conve- 
 nient opportunity offered. Their numbers, nevertheless, 
 from the time in which the law passed, till the Conference, 
 which began in February 1793, had been reduced from 
 nearly a thousand to four hundred and fifty-four. 
 
 In this deplorable state religion continued in the island 
 till nearly the close of the year. Persecution was inflexible, 
 and no Missionary durst attempt to speak. The release of 
 Mr. Lumb from his confinement was but a lelease to silence, 
 or voluntary departure ; he, of course, preferred the latter, 
 and quitted St. Vincent's, without a certainty that ever a 
 Missionary would be permitted to speak again in public upon 
 the island.* 
 
 About the middle of February I again touched at St. 
 Vincent's on my voyage to Barbadoes, but still found the 
 door completely shut. Many of the Avhite inhabitants, who 
 had no connexion with us,, murmured at the severity with 
 which we had been treated, and complained that the legis- 
 lature were banishing the gospel from the island. At this 
 time, the societies of Kingstozsn and Calliaqua, though 
 diminishing, had not dispersed, but continued to assemble 
 
 * Many gentlemen of the island, it must be ackno^vledged, felt much 
 for this highly honored prisoner. The very magistrates who committed 
 him offered to pay two thirds of the pecuniary penalty ; and his friend, 
 Mr. Stewart, would have paid the whole ; but Mr. Lumb would neither 
 do, nor suffer any thing to be done, which might, in the least degree, 
 imply a voluntary compliance with so unjust a law. At the close of his 
 imprisonment, he even refused to discharge the jail fees. But after 
 threatenings sent to him, that " he should remain and rot in the jail, if he 
 " did not comply," and a day's imprisonment extraordinary, he was or- 
 dered to leave the prison. 
 
 When the author was one day in prison with his friend, two gentlemen 
 of considerable respectability came to the jail to pay Mr. Lumb a visit. 
 On the autlior's making some remarks on their condescension, they an- 
 swered, " Sir, it is no dishonor to make this geatleman a visit in a jajl.' 
 
. WEST INDIES. 277 
 
 together in small companies, for tlie purposes of singing and 
 
 piuyer. I could only encourage the few to whom I spoke 
 
 to trust in God, and pray for a removal of that cloud which 
 
 ; then overwhelmed them ; and then committing them to the 
 
 i word of his grace, and to the blessed promises of his gospel, 
 
 once more bade tliem an afi'ectionate farewell. 
 
 ; On my return to England, I laid a memorial before his 
 
 Majesty in Council ; and applied, also, in particular, to some 
 
 • of the members of the executive government. Orders were 
 
 I given, that the colonial minister should send letters to all 
 
 i the West India Governors, to inquire concerning the conduct 
 
 of our Missionaries in general. The reports returned were, 
 
 : as I was informed, exceedingly favorable ; so did the Lord 
 
 incline the rulers of the islands to do us justice against our 
 
 enemies. 
 
 It was, I think, on the 31st of August, 1793, that I 
 .1 waited upon the Right Honorable Henry Dundas, then one 
 1 of his Majesty's principal Secretaries of State, v.ith iive or 
 >six of our preachers in London, and received from that 
 ! gentleman the pleasing and important information foUow- 
 i ing : 
 
 " That his Mojesfj/ in Council had been graciously pleased 
 ' " to disannul, the Act of the Assembly of St. f^incenfsy^ 
 which banished our Missionaries from the island. And Mr. 
 Dundas assured us, at the same time, that " his Majestifs 
 ' " pleasure zcould be notified by the first packet that sailed 
 " to the Weft Indies." Thus was liberty of conscience 
 again restored by the best of Monarchs to his loyal sub- 
 jects. Thus did religious liberty triumph over the private 
 endeavors of oppressive violence, through the goodness of 
 that King who sits enthroned in the hearts of his subjects, 
 and who by his acts of mildness, which guarantee liberty of 
 conscience through the extremities of his empire, binds, by 
 ties of gratitude, the affections of those whom his munifi- 
 cence has loaded with favors. 
 
 Tlie repeal of the above law, opened a new epoch in the 
 religious department of St. Vincent's ; the places of public 
 -worship, which had been legally shut, now became legally 
 open, and beckoned us once more to return. 
 
 In 1794, ISIr. Thomas Owens and Mr. James Alexander 
 were appointed to labor in that island, to seek particularly 
 after those who had wandered and had been dispersed 
 during the period in which we had been denied access. On 
 their arrival, as it was natural to suppose, they found the 
 societies in a very forlorn conditioo. Many, who once rau 
 
-S78 HISTORT OF THS 
 
 wdl, Satan had hindered, through those agents and rnedluitis 
 which promised him success, and which he had most effec- 
 tually rendered subservient to his purpose. In a general 
 view, they found them scattered as sheep without a shep- 
 herd. In some places, the form of godliness had been 
 abandoned ; and in many others, the power. In every place 
 the number was considerably diminished ; though, in some 
 few, they had not forgotten the assembling of themselves 
 together, nor had a sense of the divine goodness been ob- 
 literated from their hearts. 
 
 To collect the scattered remnants of Israel, to repair the 
 waste places, to seek after those who had gone astray, and 
 to re-establish public worship, were among the first objects 
 which, on their arrival, laid claim to their attention. Nor 
 were their applications made without success. Many re-* 
 turned again from their wanderings, and, through grace, 
 recovered that life and power which they had lost ; the con- 
 gregations began to increase, and promised, after the night 
 of atHiction which appeared to be past, the dawn and meri- 
 dian of better days. 
 
 But who can penetrate the inscrutable economy of heaven 
 or comprehend those motives of action which guide his 
 footsteps through the deep, or his conduct towards the 
 children of men ? Both nature and Providence conspire to 
 tell us, that his way is in the whirlwind, and his paths a great 
 deep ; that t\'e see but a part of his ways, and that the 
 thunder of his power we cannot understand. From every 
 quarter we learn, that his judgments are unsearchable, and 
 his ways past finding out ; and that incomprehensibility is 
 among the insignia of his w^ays, whether manifested towards 
 us in the regions of nature, of Providence, or grace. 
 
 The persecuting law had scarcely been repealed, and 
 missions established in the island, before the commencement 
 of the Charaib war took place. A work of divine grace had 
 become visible in many places, but it was still in an infant 
 state ; places of public worship had been re-established, but 
 they had hardly acquired permanency ; the hearts of many 
 were, evidently, turning to the Lord, but they wanted to be 
 confirmed. Such was the state of the island, when the 
 disastrous event which threatened universal destruction dif- 
 fused a general languor through every part. 
 
 The circumstances of this war have been alieady given in 
 detail ; and it needs hardly to be mentioned, that an island 
 which is made the theatre of hostilities, attacked, at once, 
 by a civilized nation and by savage hordes, must be an 
 
WEST INDIES. 279 
 
 unfriendly soil to the gospel of peace. In this unhappy 
 condition, St. Vincent's, at this time, must have been sur- 
 veyed ; for under these inauspicious realities both the gospel 
 and the inhabitants were placed. Both sword and tire united 
 to destroy tranquillity ; and the means of present safety 
 tended to engross the public mind, so as to leave but too 
 little room for the consideration of those joys and pains 
 which lie beyond the grave. 
 
 The mind, in such a situation, is alternately the sport of 
 every passion. Hopes and fears, by turns, succeed each 
 other, and scarcely leave an interval, either for anticipation 
 or remorse, in respect to the views which Christianity opens 
 to the mind. Temporal deliverance and danger appear ia 
 contention before the sight, and keep the spectator in sus- 
 pense ; he marks every change with an eager solicitude, and 
 waits with anxiety the speedy arrival of victory or death. 
 To a mind not established in the principles of religion, futu>- 
 rity appears at a greater distance, in proportion as the 
 exigency becomes pressing ; and sedate reflection can iind 
 no room to enter, becaus3 the present important moment 
 swallows all. 
 
 On the persecuting law we have already made remarks. 
 ' We have seen that it was enacted in a clandestine kind of 
 manner, and hurried into existence by a few intolerant in- 
 dividuals, whose deeds of darkness pourtrayed the gloomy 
 dispositions by which they were actuated. We have also 
 seen, that a repeal of that law by our most gracious Sove- 
 reign was almost immediately succeeded by the Charaibean 
 war. And, if popular opinion may be entitled to any credit, 
 it is worthy of remark, that the greatest part of our persecu- 
 tors fell victims in the bloody contest. I will not assert, 
 that the death of these men was inflicted by heaven, as a 
 particular judgment upon them for their persecution ; but 
 such facts afford an awful lesson to those who place them- 
 selves in direct opposition to the spreading of that gospel, 
 which is alone able to make us wise imto salvation. 
 
 The eighteen upon whom the tower of Siloam fell were 
 not sinners above all otliers in Galilee ; but national calami- 
 ties are judgments for national offences, and national crimes 
 are but the aggregate of individual iniquities. To oppose 
 the gospel, in the eye of revelation, is an offence of no 
 common magnitude ; and w hen the catalogue of human 
 enormities is swelled to a considerable size, it approaches to 
 a certain point, m here one deed may completely turn the 
 iBcale. Upon one action, in such a peculiarity of situation 
 
280 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 the "welfare or ruin of empires sometimes depends ; and its 
 performance, or omission, may procure vengeance, or avert 
 the impending stroke. 
 
 On the administration of divine justice in the present life 
 we are incompetent to decide ; but naked facts are placed 
 within our reach. In the case before us, the persecuting 
 law was followed by the Charaib war ; and though their in- 
 tention was completely frustrated, many of the promoters of 
 that edict fell. 
 . In the year 1 795, the removal of M)'. Alexander left 
 Mr. Orcens a solitary Missionary on the island. And at the 
 close of the internal conflict between our government and 
 the Charaibees, he found himself, with respect to the so- 
 cieties, in nearly the same situation that they were in when 
 that law was repealed which drove his predecessors from 
 the island ; in both cases, they had their work in many 
 places to begin again. 
 
 The subsiding, however, of these commotions, and the 
 establishment of liberty of conscience, once more dissipated 
 those clouds of darkness which had so long hovered over 
 the sufFeriiig land. The horizon again became clear, and 
 renewed those inviting prospects which had promised suc- 
 cess, and given accomplishment as well as hope. 
 
 The work, from this period, began to spread, and con- 
 tinued to increase in a gradual manner. No obstacles of 
 any particular moment occurred, exclusively of those indi- 
 vidual impediments which are the produce of every region 
 upon earth. A spirit of religious toleration seemed to 
 breathe through the island, and the earnest wishes of the 
 inhabitants concurred with our endeavors to diffuse the 
 blessings of the gospel of peace. 
 
 With these views before us, our prospects became en- 
 larged ; hinderances dwindled and disappeared ; insomuch,{ 
 that we had nothing of moment to encounter, but the pri- 
 vate prejudices and vices of those to \yhom we wished to 
 impart instruction. Nor did these prospects flatter us with 
 delusive hopes. The preaching of the word was much attend- 
 ed, and many gave evidence that they were not hearers only, 
 but doers also ; so that religion, from that period, began to 
 revive throughout the island, and to take a deep root in 
 many souls. 
 
 Mr. jPattison succeeded Mr. Owens in 1796, and cori^- 
 tinned in the island till 1798, when he was relieved by Mr. 
 Turner and Mr. Hallett. Nothing of any particular import 
 occurred during these years. The work, which began ta 
 
WEST INDIES. 28 J 
 
 revive immediately after the termination of the Charaib 
 war, continued gradually to increase ; and many were 
 added unto the church, and we hope to God. The numbers 
 in society, which on the repeal of the persecuting law 
 hardly amounted to Jive hundred^ were now more than 
 doubled ; a spirit of hearing increased with the progress 
 of time; and Ethiopia, in St. Vincent's, seemed stretching 
 forth her hands unto God. 
 
 In 1799, Mr.Isham succeeded Mr. Hallett ; but Mr. 
 Turner still continued. A sufficiency of employment was 
 now found for two Missionaries ; both town and country 
 solicited preaching; and whites, as well as blacks, were 
 willing to be taught of God. The utility of our Mission- 
 aries became visible to the eyes of the planters, in propor- 
 tion to the success which attended their ministerial labors; 
 and approbation became the natural result. In many 
 cases, interest supplied the place of better motives ; so tha^ 
 discordant principles united their influence, and the gene- 
 ral result was peace. 
 
 In 1800, Mr. Turner and Mr. Isham continuing in the 
 island, found that they had not been sent a warfare at their 
 own charges : God had given them souls for their hire, 
 and accompanied his word with power from on high. At 
 this period, the number in society, in different parts of the 
 island, amounted to about tisco thousand, who had aban- 
 doned outward sin, and were seeking salvation in the living 
 God. Many others had, apparently, received some good 
 impressions, and were under instructions ; reformation had 
 become visible in their conduct, and they evidenced that 
 they were turning from darkness to light. 
 ! In 1801, nearly the same views continued. Peace and 
 i tranquillity prevailed in all places, and souls were added to 
 the church. To the negroes, the Missionaries had free ac- 
 ' cess, and multitudes appeared extremely willing to be taught. 
 The little one became a thousand, and the fruit of their 
 labor became visible in every part. No clouds appeared 
 to interrupt the rays of the Sun of Righteousness ; their 
 healing beams, conspicuous in many parts, sufficiently re- 
 compensed them for those former toils, when threatening 
 and danger frowned from sword and fire, and the edicts of 
 legislative power. 
 
 On the 19th of May, 1802, Mr. Isham wrote as follows, 
 on the state of the societies, and of the prospects which lay 
 before him : 
 
 VOL. II. N n 
 
282 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 " In this island we have between two and three thousand 
 blacks in society ; and from the intercourse and conversa- 
 tion I have with them, I have reason to hope that many 
 experience a work of grace, and are going on to full salva- 
 tion. The convinced and converted negroes appear to pos- 
 sess a deep sense of their depravity and unworthiness, and 
 of the love and goodness of God in the gift of his Son ; and 
 they express the sincerest gratitude for being favored with 
 the light of the gospel. 
 
 " The congregation in Kingstown, on a Sunday mo7-nwg, 
 consists of about s/^ hundred souls. On Sundays we preach 
 at Prince-town and Layon, but the congregations are not 
 large in either place. Among the plantations where we 
 preach on week nights, the congregations, in general, con- 
 sist of about^yf/zf?/ or sixty in each place. But on the Sun- 
 day, when we preach on the plantations, several hundreds 
 of slaves assemble from different parts, to hear the glad 
 tidings of solvation, and devoutly join in prayer and praise. 
 
 " We have two love-feasts in Kingstown every quarter; 
 and the reason is, because the chapel is not large enough for 
 more than one half of the society to meet in at once. These 
 love-feasts are refreshing seasons ; tears of contrition, of 
 joy, and ofi gratitude, with supplications and praise, flow 
 from the eyes and lips of many precious souls. 
 
 " On the first Sunday in every month, we administer the 
 Lord's Supper to between one and two hundred communi- 
 cants; who, I trust, enjoy a measure of redeeming love, 
 and long to experience that the Blood of Christ cleanseth 
 from all sin. We enjoy peace in our Zion. The inhabi- 
 tants treat us with kindness and respect. That gratitude 
 and obedience may ever be rendered by us to the Prince of 
 Peace, for the civil and religious privileges which wc en- 
 joy, is the earnest prayer of, &c. 
 
 « THOMAS ISHAM." 
 
 That a body so large should have connected with it some 
 unworthy members, is neither surprising nor uncommon. 
 None, however, were countenanced or acknowledged, who 
 suffered reproof to be given to them in vain. Charity, in- 
 deed, suffereth long, and is kind ; but there are certain points 
 beyond which it must not pass. Reproof, mingled with 
 patience and affection, Christianity instructs us to exercise, 
 before we attempt to exclude those who may have been 
 overtaken with faults, unless they be very notorious. 
 
 2 
 
WEST INDIES. 28S 
 
 In many cases, through these means, restoration has 
 precluded excommunication, and wanderers have been 
 brought back again to the fold of Christ. But when obsti- 
 nacy bids defiance to admonition, and perseverance in 
 disobedience affords no reason to hope for an amendment, 
 excision becomes indispensably necessary, to preserve the 
 purity of the church, and to convince the world, that the 
 acquisition of numbers can hold out no inducement to us 
 to countenance offence. 
 
 How flattering soever the prospects might appear in St. 
 Vincent's, we shall find by our subsequent accounts, that 
 they afforded opportunities for these painful exercises. The 
 addition of new converts was not always an increase of so- 
 ciety ; they only came forward, in many instances, to sup- 
 ply vacancies which apostates had left, and discipline had 
 made. 
 
 In the year 1803, Mr. Taylor, one of the Missionaries, 
 arrived on the island, and the day following was taken ill 
 of a fever. But, though his symptoms were dangerous, 
 divine goodness appeared in his behalf, and restored him 
 to the necessitous church. 
 
 Soon after his recovery, he expressed himself highly sa- 
 tisfied with the people, and looked forward with pleasing 
 hope for a revival of the work of God. At the same time, 
 he complained much of the condition of the chapel and 
 dwelliitg-house, and urged the necessity of getting both 
 into complete repair. 
 
 " The wretched habitation," he adds, " in which we 
 dwell, is but fourteen feet by eleven : and the chamber is 
 not so large. And such is its condition in point of repair, 
 that neither the roof, the windows, nor the door, will keep 
 out rain." 
 
 Such were the domestic inconveniencies to which the 
 Missionaries were exposed, while publishing to the negroes 
 the unsearchable riches of Christ. But these were only 
 subordinate considerations. In the same letter, Mr. Taylor 
 writes, that he had "every encouragement to labor faith- 
 fully; and I trust," he adds, " that we shall labor in 
 unity and love, and shall see the pleasure of the Lord pros- 
 per in our hands." 
 
 Nothing of any particular moment occurred dui'ing the 
 remaining part of the year. Appearances continued to wear 
 a favorable aspect ; the converted negroes, in general, held 
 fast whereunto they had attained ; and the places of those 
 
284 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 that had been discarded for negligence and immorality, 
 were supplied by others who began to turn unto God. 
 
 The state of the island in 1804< may best be gathered 
 from the statement of Mr. Taylor, who being continued 
 there as a Missionary that year also, drew his information 
 from the spot. 
 
 From comparative estimates which had been made with 
 preceding periods, his observations are decidedly in favor 
 of the time in which he wrote. His letter is dated the 7th 
 of April, ISO*, and runs thus: 
 
 ** We have cause for much thankfulness, that the work 
 of God prospers in the island. Our congregations are 
 larger than they were ; our society increases in number ; 
 our classes are better attended ; and, I believe, there is 
 more harmony and concord among us than were heretofore. 
 
 *' We have added in all, since I have been stationed on 
 the island, nearly three hundred. But still our number is 
 not equal to that which was given in last year. We have, 
 at present, two thousand one hundred and sixty colored peo- 
 ple and blacks, and nine whites; and the reason why this 
 aggregate number falls short of that of last year is, that I 
 have been obliged to deny tickets to many, on account of 
 their lukewarmness and neglect of the means of grace. 
 Many of these, however, have since returned, and, with 
 promises of amendment, desired to be tried again. 
 
 <' The peculiar situation of the negroes is, on many oc- 
 counts, truly afflictive ; domestic necessities present many 
 real hinderances ; and, on this account, much allowance 
 must be made. Sunday is their chief day of respite from 
 laboring for their masters; and on this they are obliged, 
 on their own account, to cultivate their ground, to wash 
 their clothes, and to go to market. Indeed, the Lord's day 
 is, I believe, the professed market-day throughout all the 
 West India Islands. O that this abominable evil may be 
 soon removed! 
 
 *' Yet, notwithstanding these hinderances, God does 
 convince of sin, and savingly convert to himself, many of 
 these poor Africans ; and some of them die, not only with 
 a hope of heaven, but triumphing in full assurance. 
 
 " Very lately two slaves on one estate made a happy exit. 
 One of these, named Pender Sharpe, was about a hundred 
 years of age. I visited her a few days before her departure, 
 and found that she expressed the most lively hope of heaven, 
 
WEST INDIES. 285 
 
 asked her if she had any fear of death ? she answered, No;/ 
 nd added, that she thought about nothing but her Lord ; 
 nd observed, that His comforts delighted her soul, cspeci- 
 lly in the night, when her pain was so great as to prevent 
 er from sleeping, which was often the case. 
 " The name of the other, whom I visited at the same 
 me, was Sarah. When I went to her bed side, she seemed 
 ast departing. She was lifting her dying hnnds and eyes 
 awards heaven ; while tears of joy bedewed her face, from 
 n internal conviction that she was soon going to be with 
 er Lord for ever. She had been sick a great while, and 
 ras extremely poor, having, when I saw her, nothing but 
 rater. Yet, even in the midst of this complication of dis- 
 ress, I never heard her murmur. On the contrary, she 
 ms not only thankful, but rejoiced, and triumphed in hope 
 f the glory of God. Within a few hours after I saw her, 
 he departed happy in the Lord. 
 
 " On Sunday last it was my turn to go to what we call 
 he windward part of the island, where we had a love- feast. 
 3ere we have about a thousand in society ; and having only 
 I negro- house to meet in, crowds of people are obliged to 
 itand out of doors under the violent beams of a vertical sun. 
 rhe excess of heat, in such an exposed situation, to Euro- 
 )eans, is insupportable; the piercing violence oX the sun 
 )verpowei's nature, drinks up the spirits, and, homeiiines, 
 erminates in death. Many have thus died v^ith the exces- 
 ive heat of the sun. The negroes, however, feel no such 
 nconveniency; and many of them actually stood on that 
 lay, from first to last, about five hours. 
 
 *' To hear them tell their experience, was both delightful 
 md astonishing ; they knew that they were brought from 
 larkness to light; and signified, that until lately they knew 
 lot that they had even a God to serve. 
 
 " To reach this part of the island, we have to ride about 
 ixteen miles ; and the heat is often so excessive, that our 
 iaces are as red as raw flesh, and feel as if they were ready 
 o burst. And at this season of the year, we frequently 
 neet a burning wind, which, coming over the dry cane- 
 tubble, nearly suffocates us. Jn addition to this, oAr road 
 ies on the edges of precipices of a tremendous height, at 
 he foot of which, the sea is perpetually breaking with an 
 iwful roar. While, on the contrary, if we lift our eyes, a 
 owering clifFprojects above us, and threatens to bury us in 
 he impending ruin, or to push us from our narrow path 
 
966 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 upon the rocks and ocean that are waiting to receive us 
 below. 
 
 *' But what are these difficulties, if the Lord strengthen 
 us to go through them, and if hundreds of the poor Afri- 
 cans get safely to heaven ? In that blessed region we shall 
 find an ample recompence for all our toils. May the Lord 
 help us ; and to his name be all the glory !" 
 
 As a decisive evidence that the converted negroes conduct 
 themselves with propriety, and that a reformation, accom- 
 panied with integrity, becomes visible to their masters, it 
 will be only necessary to mention facts. It has been stated 
 upon the best authority, that when, on the plantations, an 
 office that implies trust and confidence, such as that of a 
 watchman, becomes vacant, it is an usual practice in several 
 of the islands, with the planters, or their managers, to en- 
 quire after a religious negro who may fill it. And in An- 
 tigua, Nevis, Tortola, and St. Vincent's, the owners of 
 estates, and other inhabitants, are so fully satisfied with the 
 conduct of the Missionaries, and so conscious of the poli- 
 tical as well as religious advantages resulting from their la- 
 bors, that they entirely support the work by voluntary con- 
 tributions and subscriptions. 
 
 Thus, then, we find, from the most insignificant begin- 
 nings, that the word of God has so run, and been so glorified, 
 that the little one is literally become a thousand. Hitherto 
 hath the Lord helped us. Through clouds and sunshine, 
 through evil and through good report, he has wrought a 
 way for our escape, and prospered the labors of our hands 
 in an almost unexampled manner, for these modern times. 
 
 In the autumn of the year 1804, the West India Islands 
 were visited by a most tremendous tempest, accompanied 
 with dreadful thunder and lightning, which appeared to 
 ravage both sea and land. The island of St. Vincent's was, 
 however, among those which suffered least on the occasion ; 
 but little damage being done on shore, and only two or 
 three vessels being injured in the harbor. 
 
 About a month after the storm, the Missionaries set apart 
 a day of solemn thanksgiving to God for those signal mercies 
 which they had experienced, while several of the neigh- 
 bouring islands had felt the calamity in all its rigor. 
 
 They began their praises with the beginning of day, and 
 had a large congregation. At ten they had morning service ; 
 and after reading psalms and lessons suitable for the occa- 
 
WEST INDIES. 287 
 
 sion, a sermon wes delivtred from Ezra, ix. 13, H, to a 
 lari;e and deeply attentive audience. In the evenin<r, another 
 sermon was delivered from l&aiah, xxxii. 2. Both were 
 found to be solemn seasons, and the inhabitants appeared to 
 be highly satisfied with setting apart the day. Their appro- 
 bation appeared visible from their subsequent conduct ; for 
 since that period, more of the white people have attended 
 preaching, and a little revival of religion has taken place. 
 On the 21st of October, they were alarmed more seriously 
 than on the former occasion. It was on a Sunday morning, 
 just about the time that the public service began, that, with- 
 out any harbinger of approaching calamity, one of the most 
 tremendous storms of thunder, lightning, wind, and rain, 
 came on, that was ever remembered by the oldest inhabi- 
 tant. The elements in an instant were in commotion; and 
 the earth trembled to that degree by the roaring of the thun- 
 der, that many thought there was an earthquake. And it 
 appeared, from a paragraph in the newspaper for the week 
 following, that the door of the magazine in Fort Charlotte 
 had geen wrenched open by the violence of the lightning, 
 but through the divine mercy it was suffered to go no further. 
 In this magazine were several hundred barrels of gunpow- 
 der ; and had it taken fire, it is more than probable, that 
 Kingstown would have been reduced to a heap of ruins, 
 •and all its inhabitants buried in one common grave. But 
 iin this instance also, Almighty goodness "turned aside the 
 jfatal hour, and lifted up their sinking heads." 
 ; " Since this happened," says Mr. Taylor, " more of 
 every color have attended the preaching; and so many are 
 isking for pews, that we cannot accommodate them. In 
 :his country we have had several new openings of late, and 
 we hope yet to see greater things than these." 
 
 The experience and conduct of former ages have taught 
 DS, that nothing is too great for God to bestow upon his 
 diurch, or to do for it, when we ask in faith, nothing doubt- 
 ing. The expectations which were expressed by Mr. 
 Taylor, in the preceding paragraph, seem to have been 
 realiaed in St. Vincent's, in 1805. The blessings which 
 Mr. Taylor beheld in anticipation, Mr. Sturgeon appears 
 :o have taken into actual possession ; as the following letter, 
 dated April 25th, 1805, plainly testifies : 
 
 " I think," says he, " the grace of God is making its way 
 to the hearts of many in this island. Our hearers increase 
 
288 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 every day ; and I trust and believe the religion of Jesus 
 Christ increases in the society. Formerly few white people 
 came to hear the word ; but now, so many come, that they 
 can hardly find room either to sit or stand. It is now no 
 rare thing to see fifty or sixty of the most respectable white 
 inhabitants at the preaching ; and they seem to hear with 
 much attention. O that the word of the Lord may reach 
 and change all their hearts ! 
 
 " On Easter Sunday there were about seven hundred at 
 the chapel by four o'clock in the morning ; and at ten, we 
 had the largest congregation that I ever saw. It is thought 
 that there wei'e fifteen hundred or tisoo thousand people of 
 different colors, who appeared to hear with much attention. 
 — The Lord is risen indeed I 
 
 " Such a vast concourse of people could by no means 
 find room in our chapel ; and to remedy the defect, we were 
 obliged to borrow sails from a vessel, and spread them 
 before the door for an awning ; yet, even this expedient 
 would not afford covering to one half. In the windward 
 parts of the island, the places were equally as much crowded, 
 in proportion to the number of inhabitants. The divine 
 blessing seems to accompany the word ; multitudes enjoy 
 tranquillity in life; and many, who have died, have de- 
 parted in peace." 
 
 Of the state of the societies through the island no accu- 
 rate accounts could be transmitted, owing to a temporary 
 embarrassment which most of the islands experienced in the 
 year. The arrival of the French fleet in the West India 
 seas spread terror and alarm among all ranks of people, 
 and caused martial law to be proclaimed. This, in a great 
 measure, prevented many from attending at their class- 
 meetings, and from renewing their quarterly tickets. 
 
 "Although," says Mr. Taylor, April 25th, 1805, "we 
 have double the number of whites to hear, and though some 
 of them have been occasional!}' much affected, yet not one has 
 joined the society since the last accounts were transmitted. 
 Of the slaves chiefly, and a few free people of color, up- 
 wards of three hundred have been added during the last 
 year ; but I cannot give in all these in addition to the num- 
 ber mentioned in the last year's accounts. Since the arrival 
 of the French fleet in these seas, martial law has been in 
 force till of late, and by this means the people have been 
 prevented from coming to town as usual. And though I do 
 
WEST INDIES. 289 
 
 not consider them as ont of onr societies, yet they surely 
 ought to be seen before their numbers are returned. 
 
 " Thanks be to God, we are, at length, delivered from 
 our fears. For a while the Frencii have left us ; the com- 
 motion is subsiding ; and I hope things will go on as well as 
 before. On Tuesday evening we had a watch-night. A\ e 
 began at half past eight, and continued until twelve. It 
 was a solemn time, and J believe many renewed tlieir covenant 
 with God. IVIay the Lord quicken us more and more for 
 his mercy's sake." 
 
 An extraordinary instance of unexampled affliction and 
 patience, occurred in this island in the course of the last 
 year, in the person of Robert Kcane, a negro. His em- 
 ployment had been that of a sugar-boiler ; and his afflic- 
 tions were dreadful for several years. His sufferings, it 
 is supposed, primarily arose from 'a drop of boiling sugar 
 fallhig upon his arm, when he was at work. U'he 
 place soon fretted to a sore ; and the wound so spread, 
 that, at length, his lingers actually fell off. The disor- 
 der then ascended to his head, v\hich became affected so 
 much, that his eyes dropped out ; and this was soon 
 followed by several pieces of his skull. His feet, also, 
 were attacked by the same irremediable complaint ; and 
 both came off. Yet he bore all this with remarkable 
 patience ; and, at times, rejoiced in hope of being received 
 into that place where neither sorrow, nor affliction, nor 
 death can enter. 
 
 " The last time," says Mr. Taylor, " I visited him, 
 I could not bear to look upon him ; but talked to, and 
 prayed with him at his chamber-door. When I asked 
 him how he did, he replied, that he was just Maiting the 
 Lord's time, when he should be pleased to call for him. 
 " Massa," said he, " tzco hands gone ; tzoo eyes gone ; 
 " tzco feet gone ; no more dis carcase here. O massa, 
 '' de pain sometimes too strong for me; I am obliged to 
 " cry ont, and pray to de Lord for assistance.'* When 
 lie came to close his life, he exhorted all about him to 
 be sure to live to God ; and especially his wife, who 
 had continued with him all the time of his affliction. 
 This is a rare circumstance among negroes. The common 
 practice is, for either men or women, when their part- 
 ners are afflicted, to consider all obligations cancelled, — 
 to leave them, and get other husbands or wives. But she 
 continued faithful ; and he died happy, exhorting her to 
 live to God. 
 
 VOL. II. O o 
 
290 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 Of happy deaths we might easily collect numerous in- 
 stances. They display the efficacy of divine grace in a 
 most powerful manner ; but as they are purely of an 
 obituary nature, they are not adapted to be incorporated 
 with this historical survey of the rise and progress of reli- 
 gion in the island. Extraordinary incidents deserve extra- 
 ordinary attention ; this we have noticed in the case of 
 Robert Keane, and with him we close our history of St. 
 Vincent's. 
 
VEST INDIES. §91 
 
 CHAP. XXVI. 
 
 HISTORY OF ST. LUCIA. 
 
 Discoveri/. — Original Inhabitants. — Possessed hy the Eng- 
 lish. — Ineffectual Attempts to establish a Settlement. — 
 Alternate Struggles of the English and French jor 
 Mastery. — Declared 'Neutrality of the Island at th« 
 Peace of Utrecht. — Marshal d' Estrees obtains a Grant 
 from the French Court, and is opposed by that of Lon- 
 don. — The Island returns again to its neutral Condition. 
 — England assumes the Sovereignty, and is opposed by 
 France. — A Compromise takes p)lace. — Finally submits 
 to France in 17^3. — State of the Island zchile in the 
 Hands of the French. — Captured by the English in 
 177y, and again restored in 1783. — Again captured in 
 1794, and again restored in 1802. — Recaptured by the 
 Englijh in 1803. — Situation and Appearance. — Climate^ 
 Advantages, and Disadvantages. — Religion, S^c. 
 
 T. 
 
 HE discovery of America, and its appendages, opened, 
 in an instant, such regions of territory, as were, evidently, 
 too vast to be presently comprehended, possessed, or peo- 
 pled, by the inhabitants of the old world. The nations of 
 Europe poured their ships and colonies upon the bosom of 
 the Atlantic, in pursuit of wealth. Territory and gold were^ 
 alike the objects of their adventures ; and each party seizecl 
 M'ith avidity upon those islands, to which they thought their 
 rivals could present no prior claim. 
 
 Lnhappily for the poor natives, and for the principles of 
 immutable justice, these confederates in conquest and rob- 
 bery proceeded in their expeditions upon a maxim, in 
 Mhich cruelty and injustice united their influence to excite 
 our detestation. They seem to have taken it as a funda- 
 mental principle, that the discovery of the new world gave 
 to the discoverers an undoubted right to possession ; — the 
 natives w ere considered in nearly the same light as the beasts 
 which inhabited the forests. In many cases, they were at 
 «jiice destroyed ; and in others, hunted from island to island, 
 
292 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 the instant that their invaders gained a footing upon their 
 shores. 
 
 In this strange delirium for dominion, it sometimes hap- 
 pened, that distinct nations hiid claim to the same island, 
 while others were either abandoned or forgotten by each 
 party. In the latter of these situations we find Barbadoes ; 
 in the former, St. Christopher's ; and in St. Lucia, both 
 appear to have been united. 
 
 The native Indians, having been driven from their original 
 possessions by the civilized adventurers who seized their 
 lands, found, for some time, a temporary asylum in St. 
 Vincent's, Dominica, Tobago, and St. Lucia. These islands, 
 it is true, had been previously claimed by the European 
 nations. Both England and France made pretensions on 
 the ground of right ; so that, on the score of expediency, 
 ratiier than on that of justice, both nations acceded to a 
 neutrality, of which neither secretly approved. 
 
 In what particular voyage of Columbus St. Lucia was 
 discovered does not precisely appear. It was, probably, 
 attended with no memorable circumstances ;■ and, on that 
 account, its original history is enveloped in shade. On the 
 persons, manners, customs, and modes of life of the Cha- 
 raibees, we have already spoken ; and but little more could 
 be expected from an intimate acquaintance with this island, 
 could we trace its history from year to year. 
 
 " The English," says Raynal, " took possession of this 
 " island, without opposition, in the beginning of the year 
 " 1639. They lived there peaceably about eighteen months : 
 " M'hen a ship of their own nation, which had been over- 
 '' taken by a calm off Dominica, carried off some Charaibees 
 " who were come in their canoes to bring them fruits." Thii 
 flagrant violation of justice exasperated the savages of St 
 Vincent's and Martinico, who made a common cause with 
 the injured party, and meditated indiscriminate revenge. In 
 -the month of August 1640, they united their forces, ant 
 wreaked their vengeance upon the infant colony. The 
 greater part fell victims to the merciless savages, and the 
 few that escaped the general massacre abandoned the set- 
 tlement and the island together. 
 
 In 1650, an attempt to form a settlement was made by 
 France ; and about forty inhabitants went over, under the 
 direction of Rousselan, a man at once brave, active, and 
 prudent, and admirably adapted for the station which he 
 was called to fill. Rousselan felt an attachment to the na- 
 tives, and by marrying one of their women, sufticiently 
 
WEST INDIES. 293 
 
 proYed that his attachment was shicere. Ilie conduct of 
 this leader soon gained both the confidence and the affection 
 of the Charaibees, and promised to lay the foundation of a 
 flourishing colony, upon principles founded in equity, and 
 aiming at the benefit of all. His continuance, however, 
 Mas but short. At the end of four years, death put an end 
 to all his schemes and exertions, and nearly to his people's 
 hopes. 
 
 He was succeeded in his situation by men of a very differ- 
 ent description, who not only neglected to promote the 
 M el fare of the colony, but alienated the aftcclions of those 
 w horn it was both their duty and interest to have conciliated 
 and seciu'ed. In the short space of ten years, three of these 
 Governors were murdered by the Cliaraibees. The com- 
 motions attendant upon such events disturbed the tranquillity 
 of the colony, and totally prevented that prosperity which 
 the prudent management of Rousselan promised to ensure. 
 
 In this state of convulsion and disorder, it was again at- 
 tacked and taken by the English in l6G-i;* who, from a 
 combination of causes, finding it an unprofitable acquisition, 
 evacuated it through choice in the year I666. 
 
 The English had scarcely departed from the island, before 
 the French again appeared, and proceeded to revive those 
 languid works from Avhich they had been driven about two 
 years before. About twenty years after this period, they 
 were again visited by their rivals, and the colony was once 
 more brought into subjection to our govermnent- On the 
 arrival of the British invaders, many of the French residents, 
 finding no security in their possessions, abandoned the 
 island ; while others, either unable or unwilling to adopt that 
 mode of safety, betook themselves to flight, and found a 
 temporary asylum in the mountainous and almost inac- 
 cessible parts. 
 
 The conduct of the English in 1684 and 1664 was much 
 the same. In both cases they were but transient visitors, 
 spreading terror and alarm, and then disappearing. On 
 their departure the inhabitants who had taken refuge in the 
 mountains, once more returned to their labors ; but the 
 spirit of enterprise and achievement was gone. Scciuiiy, 
 
 * St. Lucia was taken by an armament, mider the command of Lord 
 Willouiiliby, who, after the capture, collected the natives together to 
 the amount of about six hundr«d, and from them obtained au actual sur- 
 reader of the island. 
 
tO^ HISTORY OF THE 
 
 which can alone give vigor to action, and perpetuity to both, 
 could not be obtained ; they felt and saw their forlorn con- 
 dition, and considered themselves as the easy prey of any 
 foreign power, who, lured by the hope of plunder and the 
 confidence of success, might think proper to invade them. 
 To heighten the calamities of their future prospects, a war 
 about this time broke out between England and France. 
 Even against a privateer they were unable to make any re- 
 sistance ; so that they had no foundation on which to rest 
 their hopes ; when even prosperity became the harbinger of 
 their inevitable ruin, and promised to reward their invaders 
 with their spoils. 
 
 From these considerations they abandoned the island al- 
 together, and left it once more in possession of the Cha- 
 raibees ; who, having no property to lose, felt no anxiety 
 arising either from their hopes or fears. A temporary culti- 
 vation was, however, still carried on by the French, who 
 had found a more promising security in the stronger and 
 more fully inhabited and fortified islands. It was chiefly 
 visited by the colonists of Martinico ; but not so much for 
 the advantages of cultivation, as for the excellent timber 
 with which it was ahnost completely clothed. This natural 
 production they found of essential service ; insomuch, that, 
 besides supplying their deficiencies in other quarters, they . 
 came thither to build canoes, and actually erected consi- 
 derable docks on the island. 
 
 Nothing of consequence happened during the war. It 
 held out nothing to invite invasion, because it could afford 
 the adventurers no reward. The peace of Utrecht, in 1 7 1 S, 
 viewed it as a neutral island, and of course gave neither 
 England nor France any title to possession. The Charaibees 
 were considered as the real proprietors, ^^hom no nation 
 had a right to disturb ; and the pillage and desertion which 
 had occasionally taken place were, consequently, viewed in 
 no other light than as acts of depredation or choice, with 
 which the Charaibees only had a right to interfere. 
 
 No sooner was the peace concluded, which left St. Luci»^ 
 in possession of the Charaibees, than Marshal d' Estrees, 
 French nobleman, petitioned his government for a grant ol 
 the territory. The court of Versailles felt no scruple ir 
 granting his request, and in authorizing him to take posses-: 
 sion of an island, to which no nation in Europe had any just 
 rigfit. Such unwarrantable assumptions discover, in nianj 
 c^ses, the sources of power ; and though defeated in their 
 
WEST INDIES. 295 
 
 purposes, they serve as precedents, which give sanction t« 
 tuturc wrongs. 
 
 Marshal d' Estrees had no sooner obtained his grant, than 
 he sent over a Commandant, inhabitants, troops, and can- 
 non, with a design to erect fortifications, to secure the ishnid 
 against all future assailants. This happened in 17 i 8. On 
 their arrival at St. Lucia, they found it already inhabited by 
 soldiers and sailors, who had deserted from their regiments 
 and sliips in the preceding war, and taken up their abode in 
 this unmolested retreat. These men became an additional 
 acquisition, and tended to promote the infant colony M'hich 
 was now about to be established, under the patronage of 
 power and the guarantee of law. 
 
 Our court grew uneasy, and considered the grant which 
 had been given to d' F^strees as an indirect violation of 
 treaty, and as the arrogating of a possession, to which they 
 thought, from the early settlement of 1(J.'39, and the formal 
 surrender to Lord Willoughby in 16()4, they had a prior 
 right. 
 
 Here, then, our government and the French weve at 
 ■issue ; the former pleaded prior settlement and voluntary 
 surrender, and the latter pleaded an ahuost uninterrupted 
 possession. The remonstrances of England, however, 
 gained the ascendency. France recalled her letters patent, 
 and, finally, reduced the island to the condition in M'hich it 
 Ktood at the peace of Utrecht, in 1713. England, in the 
 mean while, encouraged by being thus far successful, pro- 
 ceeded, in her turn, to take possession of St. Lucia, from 
 which, by her remonstrances, she had but just driven the 
 iFrench. Li 1722, it was given to the Duke of Montague, 
 iwho, like Marshal d' Estrees, in 1718, sent out immediately 
 k small colony to take possession of his new dominion. This, 
 'tpn the contrary, produced remonstrances on the side of 
 i France; and much uneasiness ensued between the two 
 ;ourts. 
 
 ; Hie remonstrances of France were productive of nearly 
 jihe same effects as those of England in 1 7 1 8. A temporary 
 |,idjustment of disputes took place in 1731 ; and it was 
 I' greed between both parties, that till some future arrange- 
 : nent sljould be made, the island should be abandoned by 
 
 iioth nations in point of possession, while the wood and 
 i/ater ^^ith which it abounded should be free for all. 
 The succeeding war, which commenced in 1744, and 
 Inded in 1748, had no other effect upon this island, than, 
 fiina!!}, to ratify that temporary agreement which had been 
 
29<5 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 made in 1731. By this peace, St. Vincent' s\ Dominicm 
 Tobago, and St. Liiicia, were declared to be neutral islands 
 And after having been harassed by invasion, by insult, anc 
 by oppression, for a series of years, the miserable renmant! 
 of the original natives were declared the rightful possessors 
 and permitted to enjoy, for a short season, undisturbec 
 repose. 
 
 From this period, till the treaty of 1 763, St. Lucia coiv 
 tinned in this situation. The old French inhabitants re- 
 mained in their ancient possessions, and the island became 
 a convenient spot for expediting a contraband traffic, whicl 
 wars carried on among the islands occupied by both nations 
 St. Lucia was, exclusively, possessed by neither, but wai 
 frequented by traders of both, and became the rendezvou; 
 of all. But this state of domestic prosperity and peace was 
 of short duration; the treaty of 1763 decided its fate, anc 
 fixed it under the dominion of France. 
 
 England and France, having watched each other's move- 
 ments with unwearied jealousy for more than half a century, 
 began now to think seriously about dividing the spoils whicl: 
 had occasioned so much contention. And by the nintl" 
 article of the definitive treaty of peace, signed at Paris 
 Feb. 10, 1763, it was concluded, that the islands of Do- 
 minica, St. Vincent's, and Tobago, should become tlu 
 property of Great Britain ; and, that St. Lucia should Ix 
 assigned to France in perpetual sovereignty. Such are tlw 
 changes which take place in the progress of time, in national 
 justice, faith, and honour ! 
 
 It was only fifteen years before, that both England an<] 
 France declared these islands to belong to the Charaibees 
 their ancient possessors ; but, in the present treaty, ever 
 their names are not so much as mentioned ; but all theii 
 lands were seized with as much composed avidity, as if tlu 
 Charaibees had no sort of existence. Private depredations 
 it is true, had so far reduced them, that, at the signing o1 
 this treaty, not more than one hundred families of the rec 
 Charaibees were to be found ; and these, driven from theii 
 ancient and extensive dominions, had been obliged to retire 
 to an unappropriated tract in the island of St. Vincent's. 
 
 " The French ministry, in 1763," says Raynal, '* senl 
 *' over, at a great expense and with unnecessary parade, sever 
 " or eight hundred men, whose unhappy fate is morei 
 " matter of pity than surprise. Under the tropics, the bes, 
 " established colonies always destroy one-third of the sol^ 
 " dier- 'J; s! rise sent thither, though they are healthy stoiij 
 
WEST INDIES. 9ffl 
 
 " men, and find good accommodations. It is not surprising 
 '' then, that a set of miserable wretches, picked up from 
 " the duughUls of Europe, and exposed to all the hardships 
 " of indigence, and all the horrors of despair, should, most 
 " of them, perish in an uncidtivated and unwholesome 
 " island." Such, in reality, was the fate of the first colony 
 which emigrated from France to people St. -Lucia, as soon 
 as the peace of 1763 had placed it in their hands. 
 
 The domestic revolutions which too frequently acccmipany 
 both war and peace, drew, on the failure of this colony, 
 a number of inhabitants from the neighbouring islands. 
 Men inured to the climate were capable of bearing its fa- 
 tigues ; to tliem the prospect of an advantage became an 
 allurement, that at once stimulated exertion, and promised 
 success. Many who had inhabited the Grenades^ making 
 advantageous bargains with the English, to whom they sold 
 their possessions, repaired to St. Lucia, and brought a 
 considerable portion of their property with them. St. Vin- 
 cent's and Martinico also supplied their quotas : necessity 
 and choice united their influence ; some were allured ; others 
 were driven ; so that, St. Lucia, through the joint action of 
 keterogeneal causes, derived its iiaiiabitants from the islands 
 that were already peopled. 
 
 From this period, prosperity continued to accompany 
 every enterprise ; inhabitants poured in from eveiy quarter ; 
 and cultivation was conducted with spirit and success. In 
 1769, the population amounted to twelve thousand seven 
 kmidred and ninety-four, including slaves and men of free 
 condition; and in 1772, the aggregate amount, of all com- 
 plexions and conditions, was fifteen thousand four hundred 
 and seventy-six. In both of these periods, the cultivation 
 and produce of the island kept pace with the inhabitants, 
 and moved onward with rapidit) towards that perfection, 
 which other colonies had previously attained. 
 
 Islands detached from tlieir parent state frequently fall 
 victims to the ravages of war. Security is at best but pre- 
 carious ; and even prosperity too often tends to promote 
 that instability which the inhabitants chiefly dread. This 
 was particularly realized in St. Lucia. In the year 1779, 
 it was taken from the French, by a squadron under the 
 command of Admiral Christian, and a considerable land 
 force under General Abercrombie, after a fatiguing siege 
 of twenty-four days. In this siege we lost four brave officers 
 and sixty-two privates ; while fifty officers and three hundred 
 and twenty-nine privates were wounded. Tlie loss of the 
 
 VOL. 11. P p 
 
298 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 French, which was considerable, is not ascertained. At the 
 conckision of the war in 1783, St. Lucia went back to the 
 crown of France, and continued as an appendage of that 
 empire till the recommencement of hostilities. 
 
 In the course of the late war, St. Lucia once more changed 
 masters, and fell into our hands. It was captured by a fleet 
 under the command of Admiral Jervis, afterwards Earl of 
 St. Vincent, and the land forces under General Sir Charles 
 Grey, on April 4th, 1794, without attempting to strike a 
 blow. The commotions in France, having both weakened 
 the garrison and dissatisfied the inhabitants, had reduced it 
 to an almost defenceless state, insomuch that resistance 
 could be of no avail. Of the surrender of Martinico 
 and Guadaloupe to our victorious forces, the commanding 
 officer had received some intelligence ; and seeing, at the 
 same time, the British colors flying on the Morne Fortune, 
 where they had been hoisted by his Royal Highness Prince 
 Edward, now Duke of Kent, a few hours after the landing 
 of our troops, he requested to capitulate on the same terms 
 that the French General Rochambeau had obtained ; which 
 were instantly granted. 
 
 On the conclusion of the war, it, however, once more 
 reverted to France ; it was included in the second article of 
 the preliminary treaty of peace, in October 1801, and 
 finally ratified by the definitive treaty signed at Amiens, on 
 the 27th of March 1802, 
 
 That peace, however, or rather that cessation of hostilities, 
 was of very little more than a twelvemonth's duration ; and 
 one of the first consequences to France of a renewal of the 
 war was, the capture of this island on the 22d of June 1803, 
 by a British land force under the command of Lieutenant- 
 General Grinfield, aided by the ships and vessels commanded 
 by Commodore Hood. On the 21st, at day-break, our 
 armament was ofi^ the north end of St. Lucia ; in the course 
 of the day the greater part of the troops were disembarked 
 in Choque Bay ; about half past five, the outposts of the 
 enemy were driven in, the town of Castries was taken, and a 
 summons was sent to the Commander of the troops of the. 
 French Republic. In consequence of the refusal of Brigade- 
 General Nogues to accede to any terms, and the expectation 
 of approaching rains, it became necessary to get possession 
 of the Morne Fortune with as little delay as possible. It 
 was therefore determined, on the morning of the 22d, to 
 attack the fortress by assault ; which was done accordingly 
 at four o'clock ; and it was carried in about half an hour, 
 
WEST INDIES. 299 
 
 and with less loss, considering the resistance, than could 
 have been expected. " I cannot omit a circumstance," 
 says General Grinfield in his official dispatch, " which re- 
 flects so much credit, as well on the British nation, as on 
 the conduct of the soldiers actually employed, that notwith- 
 standing the severe and spirited resistance of the French 
 troops, yet no sooner were the works carried by assault, and 
 the opposition no longer existed, than every idea of animo- 
 sity appeared to cease, and not a French soldier was either 
 killed or wounded." The island was, in consequence, un- 
 conditionally restored to the British government. Such 
 have been the vicissitudes that have attended the civil 
 history of St. Lucia. 
 
 This island is situated in latitude 13° 25' north, and lon- 
 gitude 60" 58' west from London ; and lies about seventy 
 miles to the N. N, W. of Barbadoes. In France, it is most 
 generally known by the name of Sainte Jlousie; from a 
 tradition which prevails, that it was hrst discovered by some 
 French navigators, on the anniversary of a virgin martyr of 
 that name. On this island there are two remarkably high 
 . mountains, which retain unquestionable marks of decayed 
 volcanoes. These mountains are distinguishable at a con- 
 siderable distance, both by sea and land ; they are known 
 by the appellation of The Needles of Sainte Alousie, and in 
 many places are extremely difficult of ascent, being uncom- 
 monly steep and rugged. At the feet of these mountains 
 there are delightful plains and vallies, well watered by salu- 
 brious springs and rivulets. 
 
 " In one deep valley," says Raynal, " there are eight or 
 " ten ponds, the water of which boils up in a most dreadful 
 " manner, and retains some of its heat at the distance of 
 " six thousand fathoms from its reservoirs." These facts 
 are strong indications that the subterranean fires, though 
 confined and diminished, are not wholly extinguished ; and 
 they afford some presumptive evidence, that an eruption 
 may hereafter break out, and commit ravages, of which we 
 can form no adequate calculations. The country, compa- 
 ratively speaking, is still overrun with woods of different 
 species, more especially with trees of an enormous size, 
 which yield excellent timber, both for ship-building, and 
 for constructing the wooden houses of the inhabitants. 
 
 Some parts, however, of the vallies are cleared and 
 planted, and are found to be very productive in sugar. 
 " There are not, indeed," observes Kaynal, " many ex- 
 " tensive plains, but there are several small ones, wher« 
 
300 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 *' the growth of sugar may be carried to fifteen millions 
 " weight. The shape of the island, which is long and nar- 
 ** row, will make the carriage easy wherever the canes are 
 « planted." 
 
 In common with most other West India Islands, St. 
 Lucia partakes of the good and evil of its situation. It has 
 been said that the climate is unhealthy, and the soil unpro- 
 ductive ; and the prevalency of these opinions, most proba- 
 bly, not only retarded its early settlement, but actually 
 confirmed, by the inactivity which it produced, those very 
 evils on which the complaint was presumed to rest. Confi- 
 dent, from general report, that nature had withheld those 
 blessings which were essential to the welfare of a colony ;— 
 had bestowed upon it a sterility of soil, which would absorb 
 manure without producing any reward ; — and had breathed 
 upon it a pestilential atmosphere, which must prove destruc- 
 tive to all — no proper efforts w^ere made in early years to 
 detect these fallacies ; so that the noxious vapors and un- 
 wholesome air, which were dissipated in most of the other 
 islands by a free circulation, were here, through the over- 
 growth of wood, permitted to contmue without any dis- . 
 turbance. Experiment has, however, taught the settlers « 
 very different lesson. Like the inland parts of all the other 
 islands, they found that of St. Lucia, at first, exceedingly 
 insalubrious ; but in proportion as the woods were removed, 
 and a free circulation opened to the breezes, the stagnant 
 vapors gradually dispersed, and the country became more 
 healthy. 
 
 On one part of the leeward side, insalubrity appears 
 to arise from another cause. The waters which issue from 
 the sides of the mountains, have to pass over plains which 
 are devoid of declivity, before they can reach the shore, at 
 the extremities of which, without any commotion, they 
 mingle with the great deep. Flowing thus, with little or no 
 descent, the influx of the tides and waves sometimes chokes 
 up their mouths, and obliges them to corrupt and stagnate 
 in the «wamps and morasses which they occasion. Of this 
 evil the savages were well aware, and prudently removed to 
 those parts of the island which these noxious effluvia could 
 not reach. The French, however, too wise to be instructed 
 by savages, scorned to follow their example, and "actual- 
 ly fixed [upon this very spot. Here they erected their 
 dwellings, and spread their plantations ; " and sooner or 
 " later/* says Raynal, " they will be punished for their 
 
WEST INDIES. 301 
 
 *' blind rapaciousness, unless they erect dykes, or cut canals, 
 ** to drain oflF the waters." 
 
 On the Mhole, the climate of St. Lucia cannot, even in 
 its present improved condition, be considered in the most 
 favorable light. This the French have repeatedly experienced, 
 especially among their militar}', in different periods. During 
 the time that it remained in our hands, previously to the last 
 capture, our garrison also, as well as the adventurers who 
 went thither from the mother-country in the capacity of 
 planters with a design to settle, suffered severely. 
 
 In those swampy parts which the French had selected 
 for their habitations, the unhealthiness of the climate was 
 not the only evil with which they had to contend. In these 
 morasses the brownish grey snake has taken up his abode, 
 the bite of which infuses a poison of the most deadly nature, 
 and proves mortal if antidotes are not readily applied. 1'he 
 boldness of these noxious reptiles is as daring as their poison 
 is deleterious; and, as if conscious of the fatality \\hich . 
 attends their bite, instead of attempting to shun the approach 
 of danger, they seek for opportunities to communicate their 
 venom. They frequently take up their residence near the 
 inhabited houses ; and, concealing themselves both from 
 suspicion and sight, dart suddenly, unperceived, upon their 
 unhappy victims, who know nothing of their danger vmtil 
 the fatal wound is given. 
 
 In bays and harbors, St. Lucia boasts a superiority over 
 many other islands ; and even the advantages of all seem to 
 centre in one of them, known by the name of Careenage 
 Harbor. In every part this harbor has most excellent 
 soundings, and a firm bottom, and is sufficiently capacious 
 for thirty sail of the line to ride in with the utmost safety, 
 completely sheltered from those hurricanes which visit the 
 tropical regions. Hitherto, those worms which have proved 
 so injurious to the timbers of shipping in the harbors of 
 other islands, have been unknown in this. Those boats 
 which have been kept for domestic purposes, have escaped 
 the ravages of these injurious insects, though, in all proba- 
 bility, they will, in time, be imported from the other islands. 
 " Nature," says Raynal, [he should have said " God,"] 
 " has provided this harbor with three careening p/aces, wliich 
 " render wharfs unnecessary, and only require a capsteru 
 " to heave the ship down to the shore. The winds are 
 " always favorable for going out, and the largest squadron 
 " mght be cleared out in less than an hour." 
 
 Such are the principal advantages au'd disadvantages of 
 
302 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 the island of St. Lucia. The climate, M'ithout doubt, 
 might be rendered less insalubrious through the joint appli- 
 cation of industry and art ; while the soil would sufficiently 
 repay the hand of industrious cultivation. The natural 
 advantages which it presents, afford inducements that 
 counterbalance many temporary and local evils ; and, lured 
 by the prospect of wealth, men M'ill be found to embark in 
 the hazardous enterprise of clearing and draining the lands, 
 though they may perish in the attempt. Posterity may, 
 nevertheless, reap advantages from their industrious ances- 
 tors, through this medium, without having wealth imme- 
 diately bequeathed. Generation after generation may, how- 
 ever, pass away before these blessings can be realized in 
 their fullest extent; and in the meanwhile, many seriou* 
 evils may be experienced. But should peace be permitted 
 to take up her happy residence, and establish her lasting 
 empire, in this our disordered world, the mutual co-opera- 
 tion of nations in amity with each other may rescue from 
 the dominions of chaos, not only St. Lucia, but many other 
 fertile regions of the globe. Soon may that happy moment 
 arrive, when the nations of the earth shall learn war no 
 more ! 
 
 With respect to Religion, from its civil and natural history, 
 nothing very favorable can be expected from St. Lucia. 
 The wild and fantastic notions of the Charaibees w« have 
 already delineated at large in the third chapter of this work ; 
 on them, therefore, nothing now need be said. And as the 
 European settlers were chiefly French, M'e learn from their 
 early annals, as well as from their natural characteristic, 
 that they were Roman Catholics. 
 
 In those intervals of possession which preceded the revo- 
 lution in France, some few Missionaries of the order of the 
 Dominicans were sent over to instruct the slaves. These 
 were also accompanied by a few Jesuits, who, by occasion- 
 ally visiting and residing upon the island, took no small 
 pains to instil into the minds of the negroes the principles of 
 morality and virtue. But through that gloomy spirit of 
 intolerance which associates itself with that communion, no 
 Protestant worship was pennitted ; consequently, the pure 
 gospel, unalloyed with whimsical superstition and error, has 
 not yet made its appearance on the island. 
 
 The commotions which took place in France, it is well 
 known, shook morality to its centre. The evil was not 
 merely felt in the mother-country, but it extended to the 
 remote extremities and appendages of the empire. St. 
 
VEST INDIES. 303 
 
 Lucia felt the shock. The republican Governors and 
 officers paid little or no attention to religious concerns ; and 
 consequently, a looseness, both in principle and practice, 
 prevailed among all ranks. This was peculiarly the case 
 when the British troops took possession of the island in 1794. 
 At that period, licentiousness and immorality, in all their 
 branches, prevailed, accompanied with a t,otal disregard of 
 all religious ordinances. 
 
 But we now entertam hopes, that from the mtroduction 
 of a British garrison and British planters, a wide door will 
 soon be opened for the dissemination of pure divine truth in 
 St. Lucia, especially among the slaves ; nor shall we neglect, 
 under the grace and providence of God, to use all our 
 endeavors to accomplish so desirable an end. 
 
304 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 CHAP. XXVII. 
 
 rilSTORY OF MARTINICO. 
 
 Situation. — Original Settlement. — If^ar with the Natives^ 
 and their final Extermination. — Captures and Restora- 
 tions. — Ancient Mode of transactitig Business. — Tozcns, 
 Edifices, picturesque Scenery, Bays, and Harbors. — 
 Prosperity and Uisasters of the Colony. — Infested by 
 ^^nts. — Account of these ^nts. — Hurricanes. — Articles 
 exported. — Population. — Introduction and Description 
 of the Sugar Cane. — Cottoti, a Description of it. — 
 Coffee. — Indigo, Manner of manifacturing it. — French 
 Missionaries. — Father Labafs Embarkation, Voyage, and 
 Arrival tit Martinico. — Labors of these Missionaries ; 
 Perseverance, Self denial^ and Dangers to which they 
 were exposed. 
 
 I 
 
 HIS is the first of the windward islands in a direct 
 voyage from Europe to the West Indies. It lies between 
 the 14th and ]5th degrees of north latitude, and in 61 de- 
 grees of longitude, west from London ; at the distance of 
 forty leagues north-west of Barbadoes. Guthrie computes 
 its length to be about sixty English miles, and its breadth 
 thirty ; but better authorities state its length to be only forty- 
 four miles. Probably the difference arises from an inaccu- 
 racy in calculating the French measurement. 
 
 Martinico was one of the earliest and the principal settle- 
 ment of the French in the West Indies. It was the residence 
 of the Governor-General of all their other possessions in the 
 Antilles, and the rendezvous of their fleets and privateers in 
 times of war, whilst it continued in their possession. 
 
 The original founders of this French colony consisted of 
 a hiuidred men, selected for that purpose by Denambuc, 
 the Governor of the island of St. Christopher. They were 
 brave, active, inured to labor and fatigues, skilful in tilling 
 the ground, and in erecting habitations, and abundantly sup- 
 plied with various plants and seeds. They landed without 
 opposition in the year 1635, and proceeded in forming a 
 
^YEST INDIES. 3Q3 
 
 settlement. The natives, being either intimidated by their 
 fire-arms, or seduced by their promises, quietly gave up to 
 them the western and southern parts of the island, and re- 
 tired to the mountains and woods. But when they saw the 
 numbers of these enterprising strangers daily increasing by 
 fresh arrivals, they secretly resolved to extirpate them, and 
 engaged their brethren, the Charaibees of the neighbouring 
 islands, to come to their assistance. Thus strengthened, the 
 united corps of savages proceeded suddenly to attack a small 
 fort erected by the Frencii, where they met with such q 
 warm reception, that they thought proper to retreat, leaving 
 seven or eight hundred of their best warriors dead upon the 
 spot. After this severe repulse, they totally disappeared 
 for a considerable time ; and when they ventured to return, 
 it was with presents, accompanied by submissive speeches. 
 They were received in a friendly manner by Denambuc and 
 his people, and the reconciliation was completed with some 
 pots of brandy, which they eagerly accepted. 
 
 Before this event, the labors of the new colonists had 
 been carried on with great difficidty and delay. The fear of 
 surprise obliged the owners of three different habitations to 
 meet every night in the central dwelling, which was always 
 kept in a state of defence. There they all slept securely, 
 guarded by their dogs, and a centinel. In the day-time no 
 one ventured out without his gun, and a brace of pistols iu 
 his girdle. But after peace was re-established, these pre- 
 cautions were discontinued, and the settlement was com- 
 pleted. In the course of a few years, however, fresh 
 disputes arose, owing to the French daily extending their 
 possessions. When the Charaibees, whose wandering mode 
 of life required a great extent of land, found themselves 
 coniined within too narrow limits, they had recourse to a 
 stratagem to cut off the encroachers by degrees. Not daring 
 to attack them by open force, they formed themselves into 
 small separate parties, and way-laid the first who frequented 
 the woods in pursuit of game. As soon as the sportsman 
 had discharged his piece, they rushed upon him, without 
 giving him time to reload it, and murdered him. Several 
 men had been assassinated in this manner, before the cause 
 of their not returning to their habitations was discovered. 
 But when it was found out, the resentment of the colonists 
 was so violent, that a general massacre of the Charaibees 
 took place, extending even to their wives and children. 
 Their carbets, or huts, were set on fire, or razed to the 
 
 VOL. 11. Q q 
 
305 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 ground; and the few that escaped the carnage in their 
 canoes, never returned. 
 
 By this act of retaliation and indiscriminate revenge, the 
 French became complete masters of the island, and continued 
 to live upon those parts which they found best adapted to 
 their convenience and choice. They were formed of two 
 descriptions ; and, after the extermination of the unhappy 
 Charaibees, were divided into two distinct classes. Both, 
 indeed, had come from Europe ; but the former, having 
 paid their passage, were under no obligations, and were, 
 therefore, called inhabitants ; while the latter, having been 
 brought out at the expense of the former, were denominated 
 engages, or bondsmen. These, in Europe, had been con- 
 sidered in the light of disorderly persons, and for the 
 payment of their passage, they were under an engagement to 
 serve the inhabitants three years as the price of their 
 freedom. To the inhabitants the government had distributed 
 lands ; m hich, upon paying an annual tribute, became their 
 exclusive and absolute property. To the engages, after the 
 expiration of their servitude, the same privileges were 
 extended : they had, therefore, only to M'ait for the recovery 
 of their liberty, before they became the equals of those whom 
 they had been accustomed to serve. 
 
 They all confined themselves, at first, to the culture of 
 tobacco and cotton. The arnotto and indigo succeeded 
 soon after ; but the sugar plantations were not begun till 
 about the year 1650. The cocoa tree was next introduced 
 by De Costa, a Jew; but the plantation of it met with 
 little encouragement till 1 684, when the use of chocolate 
 prevailed in France ; it was then that the cocoa tree became 
 the chief dependance of those colonists who had not a suffi- 
 cient capital to undertake sugar plantations. But all the 
 cocoa trees were destroyed by a hurricane in 171 8, to the 
 great consternation of the inhabitants of jhe island. 
 
 To indemnify the colonists for these severe losses, the 
 French ministry procured a substitute. France had received, 
 as a present from the Dutch, two coffee trees, which had 
 been planted with success in the royal botanical garden at 
 Paris. From these trees two young shoots were taken, and 
 sent to Martinico, under the care of Desclieux, a botanist. 
 In the course of his voyage across the Atlantic, the ship in 
 which he sailed fell short of water. All were obliged to go 
 on short allowance ; but Desclieux, ^\ ilh a magnanimity 
 which deserves to be recorded, shared ^^ ith his young trees 
 
WEST INDIES. 307 
 
 the small portion of water which fell to his lot, and by this 
 generous sacrifice preserved them alive, and landed them 
 safely in ^lartinico. The soil proving congenial to their 
 natures, they flourished in a most astonishing manner ; and 
 opened to the inhabitants a new source both of industry and 
 wealth. Continuing productive, they have enriched by their 
 branches this important colony ; so that, even to the present 
 day, coffee is esteemed one of its most valuable and profit- 
 able commodities. 
 
 Its central situation and its vast importance have, in every 
 rupture between Great Britain and France, rendered its 
 acquisition by the former essentially necessary for the pro- 
 tection of her commerce. Hence the capture of this island 
 has always been considered a primary object. And this 
 political state of things accounts for the vicissitudes which 
 it has undergone. 
 
 The first capture of Martinico by our nation was in the 
 war of 1755, when the plan of attacking it was projected by 
 ^Ir. Pitt (the late Earl of Chatham), though he was not 
 in the administration when the conquest was effected. It 
 had been attempted in the year 1739; but the force em- 
 ployed at that period was not equal to the magnitude of the 
 enterprize. Three years after, when the late Earl of Bute 
 took the lead in the ministry, preparations adequate to the 
 design were gradually and secretly made in England and 
 in America, and the most effectual means were concerted 
 to enforce a successful issue. Eighteen regiments of infantry, 
 sent from Europe and North America, under the command 
 of General Monkton, and eighteen men of war of different 
 rates, but all of them line of battle ships, commanded by 
 Admiral Rodney, appeared off the island on the l6th of 
 January 1762, The troops were landed the next day with 
 little or no loss. But the eminences which were fortified 
 by strong batteries, and defended by the guns of Fort Royal, 
 were not easily gahied. Several severe skirmishes took 
 place during the siege, in which some of our veteran 
 soldiers lost their lives. The army, however, was bravely 
 and skilfully supported by the fleet, from which, bomb- 
 vessels were sent so closely to the land, that the town must 
 have been reduced to ashes, if it had not surrendered by 
 capitulation, which it did on the 13th of February. The 
 Abbe Raynal is of opinion, that intelligence received from 
 their countrymen, of the prosperity of Guadaloupe since it 
 had been under the British government, facilitated this early 
 surrender, which, he thinks, might and ought to have been 
 
308 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 delayed much longer. Be ihls as it niay> Grenada, and th6 
 other leeward islands, as well those belonging to France, as 
 those which were considered as neutral by former treaties of 
 jpeace, were so intimidated, that they sent out flags of truce 
 to the English Admiral, and to the Commander-in-chief of 
 the land forces, assuring them of a peaceful surrender with- 
 out any opposition, and a readmess to put themselves under 
 the protection of the King of Great Britain. And here we 
 must admit the justness of an observation made by the same 
 author, respecting those easy captures ; the surrender of this, 
 and other French islands, in the late and present war, con- 
 firming its truth by recent examples. 
 
 " A people, whose whole fortunes consist in arable lands 
 " and pastures, will, if influenced by a martial spirit, reso- 
 " lutely defend their possessions. The harvest of one year 
 " is the utmost they can lose ; and whatever reverse of 
 " fortune they may experience, it does not ruin them alto- 
 " gether. The case is very different with regard to the 
 " wealthy cultivators of the West India Islands. Whenever 
 " they take up arms, they run the risk of having the labors 
 " of their whole lives destroyed, their slaves carried ofi:, and 
 '^ all the hopes of their posterity lost, either by fire or 
 " plunder ; they, therefore, generally submit to a powerful 
 " enemy, on honorable terms ; by which, they preserve 
 " their property. The modem mode of terminating wars 
 *' by treaties of peace on the basis of statu quo, or, restor- 
 " ing possessions to the nation to which they belonged 
 *' before a war, must also have a considerable influence in 
 " producing only a lukewarm attachment to both parties." 
 
 In the expedition against this island, by our navy and aiiny, 
 under the command of Admiral Sir John Jervis, afterwards 
 Earl of St. Vincent, and Sir Charles Grey, Commander of 
 the land forces, the colony w as so gallantly defended by the 
 garrison, that the fort& and towns of St. Pierre and Fort 
 Royal were taken sword in hand. But as the inhabitants, 
 who were supposed to be discontented with the revolution, 
 and with the anarchy at that time prevailing in the mother- 
 country, did not make any extraordinary exertions during 
 the attack, they were mildly treated by the victors, and 
 their property was secured from plunder. De Rochambeau, 
 Commander-in-chief of the French West India Islands, 
 signed the capitulation on the 23d of March 1794, and the 
 British crown kept possession of this very important colony 
 upwards of eight years ; a longer term than any similar con- 
 quest had remained under our government in former periods.; 
 
WEST INDIES. 305 
 
 but it was again restored to France by the treaty of Amiens. 
 
 Divine Providence, however, has since given back to the 
 dominion of a British Sovereign, tlie valuable island now 
 the subject of our consideration. The conquest was eifected 
 in a most gallant manner, by the troops commanded by 
 Major-General Maitland (acting under the orders of Lieu- 
 tenaut-General Beckwith), on the '24th of February 1809; 
 the attack being aided by the indefatigable exertions ol 
 Kear-Admiral Sir Alexander Cochrane and his squadron. 
 It will not be necessary for us to enter on a detail of the 
 naval and military proceedings of this enterprise ; but we 
 cannot resist the impulse which we feel to do justice to the 
 modesty of the Commander of his Majesty's forces in the 
 leeward islands, by inserting the following extract from his 
 official dispatch to govennnent on the occasion : 
 
 " The command of such an army/' says General Beckwith, 
 " will constitute the pride of my future life. To these brave 
 troops, conducted by Generals of experience, and not to 
 me, their King and country owe the sovereignty of this 
 important colony : and I trust, that by a comparison of the 
 force which defended it, and the time in which it has 
 fallen, the present reduction of jNlartinico will not be deemed 
 eclipsed by any former expedition. 
 
 " After the embarkation of the French troops, I shall 
 have the honor to command the eagles taken from the 
 «nemy to be laid at the King's feet." 
 
 Martinico enjoys many natural advantages, which must 
 always give it a decided preference to all the settlements 
 that w ere lately in the possession of the French in the West 
 Indies, if not to all our own ancient colonies. Its harbors 
 afford a safe shelter for ships of war, as well as for merchant- 
 ships, from the hurricanes, which destroy so many vessels 
 in these latitudes. Its numerous rivers are navigable for 
 loaded canoes, from its coasts, almost to their different 
 sources ; and the fertility of the soil, in most parts, produces 
 abundant harvests and crops of the articles already mentioned. 
 The island is defended by four strong forts, viz. Fort Royal, 
 Fort St. Peter, Fort Trinity, and F"ort de Mouillage ; the 
 two principal of which are Fort Royal and Fort St. Pierre, 
 both of them having towns named after ihiin. The town 
 of Fort, or Port Royal, was the capital of the island in, the 
 infancy of the colony ; but as it increased in cultivation and 
 opulence, the merchants and planters found it more conve- 
 nient to make St. Pierre the centre of commerce ; by which 
 naeaas it aft^wards became the capital, and the residence 
 
310 HiSTORt OF THE 
 
 of the Governor and General. This toM'n, at first, wa» 
 little more than a village and a depository. It chiefly con- 
 sisted of storehouses for the comniodities of some districts, 
 situated along such dreary and tempestuous coasts, that no 
 ship could approach near enough to trade with them, which 
 obliged the inhabitants to remove to situations more con- 
 venient for disposing of their commodities. The agents for 
 tliese colonists, in those early times, were no other than the 
 masters of small vessels, who, having made themselves 
 known by continually sailing round the island, were induced 
 by a prospect of gain, to lix upon some certain place of 
 residence. St. Pierre was one. Honesty was the -sol6' 
 recommendation to their employers. Most of them could 
 not read ; and none of them kept any books or journals. 
 They had a trunk, in which they kept a separate bag for 
 each person whose business they transacted. Into this bag 
 they put the produce of their sales, and took out what money 
 they wanted for their purchases. When the bag was empty, 
 the commission was at an end. This confidence was 
 common so recently as the beginning of the late century, 
 however fabulous it may appear at present. 
 
 From such small beginnings the little town of St. Pierre 
 rose into consequence ; and though reduced to ashes by four 
 dreadful fires, it sprung up again, phoenix like, with con- 
 siderable improvements. It contains upwards of two 
 thousand liouses, several elegant public edifices, and some 
 spacious streets. It is situated on the western coast of the 
 island, in a bay, or inlet, nearly circular; and is divided 
 into two parts by a rivulet, or fordable river. 
 
 On an extensive quay, screened by a lofty and almost 
 perpendicular hill, a range of warehouses and some private 
 dwelling-houses make a pretty appearance from on board 
 of ships, which generally cast anchor in the bay opposite to 
 it ; being the safest, and having the greatest depth of water, 
 of any part of the coast. On this account, the quay and 
 buildings are called the anchorage. The convent of the 
 Jacobins faces the sea, is the central building, and is a 
 magnificent edifice built of stone, of which there is a great 
 plenty in the island. It contains, independently of the 
 chapel and the cells of the friars, a large hall, a spacious 
 refectory, and elegant apartments, which had been appro- 
 priated by the French government for particular officers, 
 sent on different occasions to inspect the state of its ma- 
 rine. 
 
 From the anchorage, or Mouillage, there is an excellent 
 
WEST INDIES. 311 
 
 Toad to the town, whidi renders its situation very convenient 
 for loading and unloading, and for conveying goods to and 
 iVom the ships. And another advantage of tiiis quay is, 
 that ships can come almost close in with it, and depart from 
 it at all times, and with all Minds. 
 
 In the district called the Corbet, from its having been 
 the residence of the Charaibees, who had formerly, in this 
 quarter, one of their largest villages, and a handsome edi- 
 fice for holding their assemblies, called a Carbet, the Jesuits 
 had a superb convent, anciently the Governor's palace. On 
 the seat of government Ijeing removed to St. Pierre, it 
 became the property of the members of that order, who 
 made considerable additions to the edifice. "^Ihey also sur- 
 rounded it with beautiful gardens, bordered with choice 
 fruit-trees, and embellished with the most curious exotic 
 and native plants and flowers. They had, likewise, another 
 noble building, at a small distance from the present goveni- 
 ment-house, in Fort St. Pierre, pleasantly situated on the 
 banks of a river, on that account called the Jesuits' river. 
 This edifice is built with bricks, and cased with free-stone, 
 and is so strong and so large, that it has served upon diffe- 
 rent occasions as a citadel. Most of the private houses, 
 however, are constructed entiiely of wood ; and the most 
 considerable are erected upon small round eminences, called 
 by the inhabitants Mornes. This situation not only renders 
 them more healthy than the habitations in the basse terre, or 
 plains, but likewise affords an agreeable perspective view 
 from the sea-coast and the harbor. 
 
 The fluctuations of Martinico, with respect to commer- 
 cial prosperity, have been very great ; so that no regular 
 account can be given of its increase or diminution. It has 
 been subject to dreadful natural calamities, besides that 
 unnatural scourge, the horrors of war. Its zenith of pros- 
 perity, in respect to m ealth, is supposed to have been a few 
 years prior to the war with us, which broke out in the year 
 1744, when the colonists carried on an illegal, but most 
 profitable, contraband trade with the Spanish coasts of 
 America and with Canada. By the former of these, more 
 especially, they were considerably enriched, being plentifully 
 supplied with silver coin in return for their native products. 
 By this intercourse, Spanish dollars became the current 
 specie in circulation througiiout all the West India Islands, 
 and remain so to this day. Their commerce wilh France 
 was, likewise, very extensive. But such was the avidity of 
 the planters and the merchants, ^ho expected to make still 
 
 I 
 
313 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 greater fortunes by a petty warfare, than by the cultivation 
 of their lands, that in the tirst six months of the war, no less 
 than forty laige privateers were fitted out at the Mouillage 
 of St. Pierre, independently of those that were sent out fronj 
 Port Royal. These Privateers spread themselves in si|ch 91. 
 mamier in all the latitudes of the Charaibean seas, that few 
 English merchant-ships escaped them, till a sufficient force 
 was sent from England to protect and convoy the Bi'itish 
 trade to the West Indies, and to scour the seas. Jn the 
 meantime, the French privateers were daily returning to 
 Martinico in triumph, laden with an immense booty. But, 
 the commercial navigation to the Spanish coasts, and to th^ 
 continent of North America, was neglected for this tran- 
 sitory success ; and in the coiu^se of a year or two, our naval 
 force on the West India station was so superior to that of 
 France, that their privateers and merchant-^hips were blocked 
 up in the ports, not only of Martinico, but of all the other 
 French islands. The few ships that arrived in safety from 
 France, in order to compensate for the great risks they ran, 
 sold their merchandise very dear, and bought the returns 
 very cheap. The produce of the island being thus under- 
 valued, the lands were but poorly cultivated, the sugar, 
 indigo, and other works were neglected, and the slaves 
 starved. Every thing was in a languid state, and falljug to 
 decay. The war, however, was but of short duration ; an4 
 the peace of 1748 raised the hopes of the inhabitants, that 
 they should recover the ancient prosperity of the colony. 
 
 But a fresh obstacle disappointed the expectations of the 
 merchants. The system of the Spanish government, with 
 respect to the mode of sending home their treasures from 
 Mexico, and their other possessions in America, underwent 
 a total change about the year J 750 ; when they appointed 
 the register ships, called galleons, instead of fleets, as for- 
 merly, to convey their bullion to Europe. Neither their 
 number, nor their time of sailing and arrival, were made 
 known. And this uncertainty caused such a variation in the 
 prices of the commodities usually purchased by the French 
 smugglers of Martinico, that they no longer found it advan- 
 tageous to run the hazard of being taken by the guarda 
 costas, or armed vessels, which were constantly stationed on 
 the coasts of the American territories of Spain, to watch this 
 illegal commerce. Ihus the trade was finally lost. 
 
 Anotlu;r misfortune was brought upon the inhabitants by 
 the mother-country. A corrupt administration at Versailles 
 clogged the reciprocal and necessary connexion between the 
 
WEST INDIES. 313 
 
 West India Islands and the continent of North America 
 with so many restrictions and formalities, that in the year 
 1755 Martinico sent but four small vessels, instead of 
 twenty, and sometimes thirty, of different burdens, to Ca- 
 nada. In addition to this, the management of the colonies, 
 by the venality of the ministers at home, fell into the hands 
 of extortionate (commis) clerks abroad ; by which their go- 
 vernments were degraded, sunk into contempt, and prostituted 
 to cupidity. 'The subsequent capture of the island by the 
 British, the cession of Canada to our crown by the peace 
 of 1 763, and the putting of a stop to the trade of the British 
 islands with the French, were fresh impediments to the re- 
 covery of the former flourishing state of Martinico. 
 
 To these inconveniences of a political nature was added 
 a terrible visitation by a species of ants, formerly unknown 
 in America. These insects were, undoubtedly, brought to 
 these islands with the ships that bring the negroes from 
 Africa, where they abound, and raise nyramidical nests in 
 hillocks of considerable heights. Some time before they 
 appeared in Martinico, they had ravaged Barbadoes to such 
 a degree, that it was deliberated, m liether that island, formerly 
 so flourishing, should not be deserted. This calamity was 
 flrst experienced at Martinico in the autumn of 1 763, and 
 was not entirely overcome till the year 1766. When it 
 raged with its greatest fury, it did inconceivable mischief. 
 All the culinary vegetables were destroyed ; the quadrupeds 
 were hardly able to subsist ; and the largest trees were 
 infested in such a manner with these insects, that the most 
 voracious birds would not light upon them. In short, the 
 greatest precaution was requisite to prevent their attacks 
 on men who were afflicted with sores, on women who Avere 
 confined in childbed, and on children that were unable to 
 4issist themselves. 
 
 Prior to tliese periods, various species of ants had long 
 been known in most of the West India Islands ; but from 
 their being, comparatively, harmless, they excited little or 
 no attention. For though their numbers were far from 
 being inconsiderable, their depredations were confined to 
 such articles as were of little value ; and the sugar-cane 
 entirely escaped their ravages. But with the insects of which 
 we now speak, the case stands exactly reversed. It was to 
 the sugar-plantations that they chiefly attached themselves ; 
 many of which they totally destroyed, both in this island and 
 Grenada ; and, iVom this circumstance, became distini^uished 
 by the appellation of sugar-ants. Of the devastations which 
 
 VOL. II. li r 
 
314 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 they committed in Martinico, as it then belonged to France, 
 our accounts are less distinct than those which were trans- 
 mitted from our own colonies. But as they were, evidently, 
 imported into the latter from the former, a description of 
 them merits attention, and becomes appropriate in this 
 place. 
 
 Not more than five years had elapsed, from the time in 
 which these sugar-ants had spread desolation in Martinico, 
 before they made their appearance a second time ; and, 
 from the immensity of their numbers, they spread terror 
 and devastation in almost every part. This was about the 
 year 1770. But whether they sprang from fresh colonies 
 which had been imported from Africa, or from some few i 
 ■which had remained unobserved from their late irruption, it ; 
 is difficult to determine. But, from what cause soever they 
 originated, they were soon discovered in Grenada ; into which 
 place, it was presumed, they were brought in the same year, 
 by some vessels employed in a contraband traffic carried on 
 between that island and Martinico. Here they multiplied 
 with such prodigious rapidity, as to excite the attention of 
 the legislature, and even to endanger the future prosperity 
 of the inhabitants. From a letter to which their depreda- ', 
 tions gave rise, we learn the following interesting particulars, > 
 It was written by John Castles, Esq. to General Melville, 
 who had formerly been Governor of G renada, and was read 
 before the Royal Society of liOndon, in the month of May 
 1790. • _ J 
 
 These insects are described, by this gentleman, to be of a 
 slender make, of a middling size, of a dark red color, re- 
 markable for the acidity of their taste when applied to the 
 tongue, and peculiarly active in all their motions. Their 
 numbers are represented as being so immense, as to have 
 covered the roads for many miles together ; so that the im- 
 pressions made by the feet of such horses as travelled over 
 them could be seen distinctly, in many places, for some 
 moments, till they were filled up Ijy the surrounding swarms. 
 Though easily distinguishable from the common ants, by 
 the peculiarities which have been mentioned, there was 
 another criterion M'hich was always infallible ; this was, the 
 strong sulphureous smell which they constantly emitted, 
 Vv'hen a quantity of them was rubbed together. And from 
 this vitriolic emission, many inferred their hostility to vege- 
 tation. 1 heir first appearance was on a sugar-plantation, 
 about five miles from tlie capital. And from this place 
 
WEST INDIES. 315 
 
 extending themselves in every direction, in the space of a 
 few years, they covered a tract twelve miles in length, de- 
 stroying the sugar-canes, blasting vegetation, and reducing 
 a spot which had been remarkable for its fertility to a state 
 of the most deplorable desolation. 
 
 The places which they selected for their nests were those 
 which promised them the greatest security against heavy 
 rains, which they seemed unable to withstand. On this 
 account, they instinctively chose to deposit their eggs beneath 
 the roots of the sugar-cane, as affording them the most per- 
 manent shelter ; and next to these, beneath those of the 
 lime, the lemon, and the orange trees. And hence it became, 
 necessary to destroy the plant, or tree, in order to reach the 
 habitation in which they propagated their species. But, 
 as this would have been productive of evils equally pernicious 
 with those which were designed to be remedied, the inhabi- 
 tants were obliged to resort to other expedients. 
 
 Among the various experiments which were attempted, in 
 order to destroy them, tliose which proved most successful 
 were poison and fire. To render the former efficacious, 
 arsenic and corrosive sublimate were mixed with such animal 
 substances as they had been observed most greedily to devour. 
 The effects produced by this method were astonishingly 
 great, but insufficient to reach the end which was designed. 
 ^Multitudes fell by the arsenic ; and myriads more were 
 destroyed by those that had tasted of the corrosive sublimate, 
 and were by that means rendered so outrageous, as to prey 
 on such as came within their reach. But this method of 
 destruction was found to be too tardy for the pressing exi- 
 gency. Multiplication kept pace with the operation of the 
 poison ; so that no end appeared to the application, and it 
 was found impossible to extend it over a hundred-thousandth 
 portion of the ground w hich they occupied. 
 
 A greater probability of success attended the application 
 of fire. It was found, that when wood had been reduced 
 to charcoal, and was laid in their way, they crowded 
 about the sinoking brand in such immense numbers as to 
 extinguish it entuely, while thousands upon tliousands 
 perished in the heap which was raised by their numerous 
 bodies. But these applications, though sufficient to prevent 
 the rapidity of their increase, could scarcely reduce their 
 numbers, much less exterminate their race. For this, no 
 specific was ever discovered by the exercise of art. But the 
 same Divine Power which brought this plague upon the 
 inhabitants, provided for their deliverance from it. The 
 
316 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 dreadful hurricane of 1780, which proved so calamitous t6 
 many of the islands, produced in Grenada the effect which 
 the legislature had offered twenty thousand pounds to have 
 accomplished. The sugar-ants disappeared in an instant 
 before the violence of this tornado, and the people were im- 
 mediately relieved from the painful apprehensions under 
 which they had so long labored. The same cause, most 
 probably, produced the same effect in Martinico. 
 
 The dreadful hurricane which happened in 1766, which 
 tore up the canes and cotton-trees, destroyed most of the 
 water and all the wind-mills, demolished several indigo and 
 sugar-works, and otherwise spread desolation throughout 
 this island, has given no small degree of sanction to this 
 opinion. The first appearance of the ants was in 1763, and 
 they were not entirely overcome till 1 766, the very year in 
 which the hurricane took place. Their total destruction has 
 not, indeed, been attributed either to this or any other cause ; 
 but if from what is known to have taken place in Grenada^ 
 we may presume to infer the operation of the same cause in 
 Martinico, we shall be no longer at a loss to account for 
 their sudden disappearance. Thus far the facts are similar, 
 and reason will justify the analogy. 
 
 Destructive as the hurricane of 1766 was, it may well be 
 questioned, whether the effects resulting from it have not 
 been productive of more benefits than evils, when considered 
 in all their circumstances. If the ants had been permitted 
 to continue their ravages, they would, in all probability, 
 have so far destroyed vegetation, as to render the island un- 
 worthy of cultivation, if they had not compelled the inhabi- 
 tants to abandon it altogether. The cause through which 
 they were destroyed was, without all doubt, both afilictive 
 and severe ; but dreadful as its effects were, they were com- 
 paratively limited in their extent, and of short duration. 
 The hurricane was soon blown over ; and the uncertainty of, 
 its returning again inspired the inhabitants with fresh vigor| 
 to rescue the fragments of their dwellings, and the ruins of| 
 their plantations, from the surrounding desolation. 
 
 Success vei7 shortly crowned their vigorous efforts. ForJ 
 in the year J 769, according to the statement given by thej 
 Abbe Raynal, France imported from Martinico, in one] 
 hundred and two trading vessels, 177,116 quintals of refined] 
 sugar, and 12,579 quintals of raw sugar; 68,518 quintals on 
 coffee ; 1 1,73 1 quintals of cocola ; 6,048 quintals of cotton ; , 
 2,518 quintals of cassia; 783 casks of rum; 307 casks ofj 
 «yrup; 150 pounds of indigo; 4,147 pounds of preserved^j 
 
WEST INDIES, 317 
 
 fniits ; 47 pounds of chocolate ; 282 pounds of rasped to- 
 bacco ; 494 pounds of rope-yarn ; 234 chests of liqueurs ; 
 234 barrels of Molasses ; 43 1 quintals of wood for dyeing ; 
 and 12,108 hides in the hair, in 1770, according to thq 
 account given by the same author, the state of population 
 stood as follows within the compass of 28 parishes : ■white 
 people, including men, women, and children, 12,450; free 
 blacks and mulattoes, 1,814; negro slaves, 70,553; and 
 443 fugitive negroes. At this period, the inhabitants might 
 be divided into four classes : the first, consisted of proprietors 
 of a hundred large sugar plantations, in which 12,000 negroes 
 were employed ; the second, of those possessed of one hun- 
 dred and fifty plantations, worked by 9,000 negroes; the 
 third, possessed of thirty-six, with 2,000 negroes ; the fourth 
 class, occupied in the culture of coffee, cotton, cocoa, 
 indigo, and cassava, might employ about 12,000 negroes. 
 The remaining slaves, of both sexes, were engaged in do- 
 mestic services, in fishing, or in navigation. 
 
 " The first class," he observes, " consists entirely of 
 " opulent persons. The second, which is that of planters 
 " in easy circumstances, have but half the hands that would 
 *' be necessary to get fortunes equal to those of the first. 
 " The third class, who are but one remove from indigence, 
 " cannot better their situation by any means that can be de- 
 " vised in the ordinary course of trade. It is as much as 
 " they can do to support themselves and families. The 
 *' beneficent hand of government can alone impart relief to 
 " them, and make them useful to the state, by lending them, 
 " without interest, the sums they may Avant to raise the pro- 
 " ductions of their plantations in the proper seasons. The 
 " fourth class, who cultivate articles of less risk and import- 
 *' ance than sugar-canes, do not stand in need of such large 
 *' capitals, to recover that ease and plenty, of which they 
 " have been deprived by w ars, hurricanes, and other disasters ; 
 " they keep but few negroes, and are not subject to heavy 
 " expenses." On the whole, we may perceive the import- 
 ance and value of this colony as annexed to the British 
 empire. 
 
 As the sugar-cane is productive of the largest and most 
 profitable branches of commerce which tiie ^^ est India 
 Islands hold with the nations of Eiu'ope, an account of this 
 valuable plant has a claim upon the attention of every writei- 
 and every reader of their history. ^larthiico has had the 
 honor of first cherishing the richest species of this important 
 article. From this place it was carried into otker parts of 
 
318 HISTOKY OF THE 
 
 this Archipelago, in which its cultivation has since been 
 brought to the highest state of perfection. This island may, 
 therefore, in this respect, be considered as the common 
 parent of all ; and to it belongs the brief description which 
 we shall give of its antiquity, introduction, and nature. 
 
 The origin and antiquity of the sugar-cane have been sub- 
 jects of much pedantic discussion. Herrera, the Spanish 
 historian of the West Indies, Lafitau and Labat, the French 
 writers on the same subject, and Peter Martyr, in his 
 decades of the second voyage of Columbus, have employed 
 many of their pages in endeavoring to trace with accuracy 
 these curious and interesting facts. To each of these writers, , 
 as well as to the Bible, to Dioscorides, and Lucan, Mr. } 
 Bryan Edwards has had recourse, and has deduced from the 
 whole a mass of materials, rather discordant than instructive, 
 calculated more to bewilder the judgment than to impart 
 light to the understanding. But since we have not under- 
 taken to write a commercial history of the West Indies, we 
 have no occasion to enter into an elaborate detail of circum- 
 stances, on which historians are divided in their opinions. 
 We will, therefore, only select from the collective authori- 
 ties of the above writers, such facts as appear most unques- 
 tionable. These may be comprized in the following parti- 
 culars. 
 
 The sugar-cane is admitted by all to be a native of the 
 East-Indies, and was cultivated both there and in Arabia, 
 with different degrees of attention, from periods too remote 
 to come within the reach of legitimate history. In the time 
 of the Croisades, its importance became known to those 
 romantic adventurers ; and it was soon afterwards propagated 
 in several islands of the Mediterranean ; but by whom, it is , 
 not easy to ascertain. The plant having flourished in these 
 regions upwards of three centuries before ColumbusJ 
 discovered America, its properties and value could not but| 
 be well known to him, long before the western worlc 
 appeared to crown with glory his adventurous toils. Onfl 
 surveying superficially the botanical productions of the islandsl 
 which he discovered, and not finding the sugar-cane, it is 
 natural to suppose, that he thought to enrich them withJ 
 what he imagined to be a valuable exotic, without once] 
 conceiving, that a more minute examination would have] 
 proved the plant to be indigenous. Both of these fact*] 
 appear to be clearly ascertained. It is asserted by Herrera, 
 that it was carried from the Canaries to Hispaniola in 1506* 
 But Peter Martyr assures us, that it was well known in that] 
 
WEST INDIES. 319 
 
 island so early as 1495. It Is no difficult matter to reconcile 
 these accounts. Columbus might have transplanted it ihilher, 
 as stated by Herrera, without knowing that it was a native 
 of the island ; or, he might have done it by way of experi- 
 ment, to prove the nature of the soil, and see how far it 
 was congenial to the productions of the eastern hemisphere. 
 
 The subsequent accounts, which various circumnavigators 
 have given, contirm the opinion which few, at first, were 
 ready to admit, — that it has been found spontaneously spring- 
 ing from the earth, between the tropics, in different portions 
 of the globe. It has been discovered on the banks of the 
 rivers Rio del Plata and Janeiro, — near the mouth of the 
 Mississippi, — in the islands of Guadaloupe and St. Vincent's 
 — and was, more recently, found by our illnstiious country- 
 man, Captain Cook, in various islands of the Pacific ocean. 
 No country, therefore, has a right to arrogate to itself the 
 exclusive honor of having given birth to this most valuable 
 production of the vegetable creation. The Author of nature 
 seems to have scattered his blessings with a diffusive hand, 
 and to have planted this rich display of his bounty in most 
 places which ^\ere adapted to its growth. 
 
 But in what countries soever the sugar-cane has been 
 discovered spontaneously growing, there is not one, not even 
 in the East Indies, in which it has been cultivated to such 
 perfection and extent, as to render it a principal article of 
 foreign commerce, except the islands of the West Indies. 
 The importance of the sugar-cane, which now surpasses the 
 mines of INIexico and Peru in value, was no sooner ascer- 
 tained, than it gave rise to experiments, Mhich have tended 
 to enhance its worth. Those species which have been found 
 most superior in quality, were nnported by the French into 
 Martinico from the island of Bourbon. Tlieir superlative 
 excellency soon became known to Sir John Laforey, an 
 English Admiral on the West India station ; who, anxious 
 to improve his ov\ n estate in Antigua, found means to pro- 
 cure some slips from the pjench planters. These he 
 propagated on his own plantation m ith considerable success. 
 From this estate they weve transplanted into others ; and 
 hence, from one British colony to another, till their culti- 
 vation became so general, as to be more than a sufficient 
 supply for the mother-country. 
 
 '^Fhe Martinico, or Malabar cane, is much larger than that 
 which is of the native growth of our islands. \\ hen prepared 
 for die grinding-mill, it weighs nearly one-third part more, 
 and, consequently, is more productive, and more profitable 
 
520 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 to the planler. In addition to this, it is much quicker in 
 its growth, and ripens with greater speed. 
 
 Sugar-canes, in general, resemble the common reeds that 
 are found growing spontaneously, in most countries of Eu- 
 rope, on the banks of rivers, and in marshy grounds ; but 
 the rind, or bark, of the reed is hard and dry, and the pulp 
 without juice. The coat of the sugar-cane, on the contrary, 
 is rather soft ; and the spungy substance inclosed within it is 
 full of juice, the abundance and sweetness of which is pro- 
 portioned to the richness of the soil in which it is planted ; — 
 to its exposure to the sun ; — to its age ; — and to the season 
 in which it is cut down. These four circumstances ascertain 
 the principles and causes of the varying height, thickness, 
 and quality of these plants, and of the greater or less diffi- 
 culty experienced in purifying and baking their juice to make 
 it into moist, dry, and loaf sugar. Hence, according to the 
 quality of the soil, the canes are large or slender, long or 
 short ; and the quantity of juice they contain depends on 
 their being more or less exposed to the solar rays. The 
 soil, therefore, which is the best adapted to a profitable 
 cultivation, is a light, reddish, deep mould, sufficiently 
 sloping to carry oiF the rain water, and to be exposed to the 
 sun from its rising to its setting. 
 
 The leaf of this plant is long and straight ; and it has but 
 one fibre, which divides it by passing through the middle 
 from one end to the other ; this fibre is easily broken when 
 the leaf is dry ; but when it is green, or only fading, it is 
 very strong. Both sides of the leaf have a sharp edge, 
 which is armed with small teeth, like a saw ; they are almost 
 imperceptible, but will cut through the skin, if the hand 
 passes over them against the grain. The leaves commonly 
 keep growing only at the head of the sugar-cane ; those which 
 shoot out from the knots or joints below, fall off as soon as 
 the cane grows above them. It is a sign of the bad quality 
 of a cane, or, at least, that it will be much longer than it 
 ought to be in ripening, if the joints are well furnished with 
 leaves. The best have only a cluster of seven or eight leaves 
 at their summit. There is no certain rule observed in the 
 distance of the knots or joints from each other (two inches 
 may be deemed an average) ; but the greater that the distance 
 is, the more abundant is the juice contained in the plain 
 length between them ; consequently, the canes that have the 
 most knots are of the worst quality. 
 
 Some canes grow to an extraordinary height, measuring, 
 according to Labat, no less than twenty-four feet ; but, 
 
WEST INDIES. 321 
 
 according to the accouat given by Mr. Edwards, few are 
 twelve feet in length, exchisively of the tuft of fohage which 
 decorates their tops. But this exuberance, it is admitted by 
 all, is by no means a token of the good quality of the juice 
 which they contain. On the contrary, it is rather a proof, 
 that the soil in which they grew was aquatic, clayey, and 
 unfriendly to their nature ; that they will yield a raw and 
 "watery sap, affording little sweetness, and will require the 
 consumption of much wood, and a considerable waste of 
 time, in conducting the necessary process of the manufac- 
 ture — and that they will only produce, at last, an inconsider- 
 able quantity of sugar, and diat, too, of an inferior quality. 
 On the contrary, when the canes are from four to seven feet 
 in height, and about an inch in diameter, they promise fair 
 to give a profitable crop. And when, in addition to their 
 size, their coats are observed to be smooth, dry, and brittle, 
 — when their appearance is yellow, and the pith which is 
 contained within them is of a grey color, somewhat tinged 
 with brown ; — when their juice is sweet, glutinous, and 
 apparently slightly baked, the symptoms are highly favorable. 
 Under these circumstances, they may be said to be in the 
 highest state of perfection ; and the proprietor may be as- 
 sured, that without much labor or expense they will produce 
 a large quantity of fine sugar. 
 
 We shall omit describing the various operations of manu- 
 facturing this article of general convenience, now become 
 secondaiy to the first necessaries of life in most parts of 
 Europe, as it forms no part of our plan to enter into com- 
 mercial details. But it is a tribute which is due in justice to 
 the description which Labat has given of the progressive 
 stages of the process, and which he has illustrated by correct 
 engravings of the sugar-mills, baking-houses, &c.* to ac- 
 knowledge the accuracy of his statements. These we have 
 found to be more ample and correct than those of our 
 countryman Edwards, whose justly esteemed work, where it 
 is most original, is professedly a commercial history of the 
 British colonies in the West Indies. This may appear 
 strange, when we reflect on the superior sources of informa- 
 tion which were placed within his reach, from his long- 
 residence in the country. But the fact is unquestionable, 
 notwithstanding his additional knowledge of the improvements 
 
 * See NoHv can Voyage aiix Isles de 1' Ameriqwe. du Pere Labat, tonif. 
 3,, page 17(5 to 443. edit. 17'J4. 
 
 VOL, 11, S S 
 
322 HISTORY OF THR 
 
 that have been made in every kind of manufacture or fabri- 
 cation depen(ient on mechanical machines, from the time of 
 Labat to 1 79<5, the date of the first edition of his work. 
 
 The cotton-shrub is the most valuable plant, next to th6 
 sugar-cane, of which the West Indies can boast. It is ren- 
 dered more especially important in our time, because the 
 manufactures of cotton, in their various branches, have been 
 lately brought to a degree of perfection in England, which 
 was formerly unknown. This article affords a considerable 
 annual revenue to government, by the duties which are paid 
 on its importation. The employment which it has given to 
 multitudes, and the wealth which numerous merchants have 
 derived from this source of traffic, have enriched several 
 manufacturing towns ; but more particularly Manchester, 
 whicli, of late years, has attained to a degree of unexampled 
 opulence and magnificence. On these accounts it has a 
 claim on our attention. We shall, therefore, in giving a 
 brief description of it, note what is most remarkable and 
 interesting in its growth and cultivation. 
 
 Of the plants and trees which produce cotton, there are 
 great varieties ; a description of which it is not our intention, 
 at present, to give. It will be sufficient for us to confine 
 our observations to the shrub which produces the wool that 
 is 6f the best quality ; for of this, in general, the manufac- 
 tures now in such common request are made. 
 
 This valuable production, which so conspicuously displays 
 the goodness of God, does not appear to have been trans- 
 ported from any one particular spot, but is a native of all 
 tiie tropical regions. Islands and continents have been found 
 alike congenial to its nature, both in the eastern and the 
 Avestern hemisphere. The plant of which we speak, is 
 seldom suffered to approach far towards a state of maturity 
 in its groM'tii, because the cultivators find an interest in 
 cutting it dovviv every two or three years within a few inches 
 of the ground. This is done, that from the old stock it may 
 sprout afresh, — bear a greater quantity of cotton, — produce 
 from its numerous branches wool of a superior quality, — 
 and be prevented from becoming a large, and comparatively 
 miprofitable tree, which, otherwise, would be the case. 
 This operation is performed in the rainy season, that the 
 roots, being properly moistened, may more readily put forth 
 new suckers ; these are commonly to the number of seven or 
 eight, which fiowcr in seven or eight months at the latest, 
 from the time they begin to shoot. 
 
 The bark of tliis plant is thin, and of a grey color ; the 
 
WEST INDIES. 323 
 
 wood is white, soft, and spungy. Its branches are pretty 
 straight, and loaded with leaves, which are divided by tilires 
 into three parts, resembling vine leaves, except in their 
 shape ; but they are smaller, thinner, and moie tender ; 
 they are of a lively green when the shrub is young, but 
 their color changes darker as it grows older. It Howers and 
 bears cotton twice a year. The flower is composed of live 
 copartments, which resemble an untimely tulip, '^fhc cup 
 is supported by as many hard pointed leaves. 1 he flower is 
 yellow, striped along the inside with threads of a piu-ple 
 color, and it changes into an oval bud, rad)er pointed, of 
 the size of a pigeon's egg, which opens and divides into three 
 parts when the cotton is ripe. This bud in the beginning is 
 green ; it afterwards turns brown ; then grows almost black, 
 and becomes, at last, dry and brittle. The cotton, in this 
 state, being warmed by the sun, and having attained lo per- 
 fect maturity, swells and bursts open the pod that contains 
 it, with a faint noise. It would then fall to the ground, and 
 be spoiled and lost, if it were not carefully attended to, and 
 gathered up. The negroes employed in this business do 
 not pick the pods from the plants till they see that they are 
 ready to open, or actually are opened, and on the point of 
 falling off. Each pod, or shell, contains from Ave to seven 
 seeds, which are somewhat less than common peas. "^Ihey 
 are rather flat, and inclined to roughness, on which account 
 the cotton sticks to them. There are two sorts of seeds, 
 and, consequently, two kinds of cotton. Some of diese 
 seeds are green, and others are black. It has been said, 
 that the black seed produces more cotton than the green, 
 and that the cotton is more easily picked, or separated from 
 the seeds which are found in the pods ; because these being 
 much smoother, it adheres less to them. J^ut on the other 
 hand, it is allowed by competent judges, that the cotton 
 which is produced from the green seeds is flner and longer ; 
 and that the difficulty in picknig it is amply rewarded by its 
 superior beauty. The two sorts are generally mixed toge- 
 ther ; and by this process, the one sets off tlie other, ior few 
 people are judges of the difference. Upon the whole^ it is 
 agreed by the dealers in this article, that the cotton of the 
 growth of the West India Islands surpasses that of the 
 Levant in whiteness, fineness, and length. 
 
 Hie soil which is best adapted to the growth of the cotton- 
 shrub is that which is dry and rocky, and which, on most 
 other occasions, would l)e deemed unlit for cultivation, 
 (ireat care, however, must be taken, that the ground has 
 
324 
 
 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 not been previously exhausted by any other tillage. At the 
 time when the branches are cut down, rain is essentially 
 necessary ; but on all other occasions, except immediately 
 after the cotton is gathered, the badness of the crop may 
 be estimated by the wetness of the season. The plants are 
 generally raised from the seeds, which are lodged in holes 
 about four feet apart. In each of these holes a great many 
 seeds are deposited, on purpose to make allowance for such 
 as may prove defective, and for an uncertain quantity which 
 the worms rarely fail to destroy. No manure is requisite ; 
 neither is any other preparation of the soil necessary, than 
 that of clearing it from weeds, and of such incumbrances as 
 might obstruct the growth of the seeds. 
 
 Coifee is another article of exportation to Europe, for 
 the growth of which Martinico is distinguished above all 
 the other islands. This appellation is given to the berry of 
 a shrub growing wild in Arabia Felix, and to the beverage 
 prepared from it ; but both the berry and its preparation for 
 common use are so well known, that it is unnecessary to 
 enlarge upon the subject. 
 
 It was wholly unknown to the ancient Greeks, and even 
 to the Arabian writers. Our earliest knowledge of it reaches 
 little more than three hundred and fifty years before the 
 present period ; and it has not been used in Europe a third 
 part of that time. The berry was known here long before 
 any description of the tree which produced it had been given. 
 We owe the perfect knowledge of it to the Dutch, who 
 procured some slips from the tree, which were sent to them 
 from Mocha, in Arabia Felix, and were planted in the 
 botanical garden at Amsterdam. Upon their thriving well 
 in this place, the Dutch government made a present of 
 some to Louis XIV. whose wise and indefatigable minister, 
 after they had been propagated in the royal garden at Paris, 
 ordered some slips to be transported, in open wooden cases 
 filled with fine mould, to Martinico. Here they were re- 
 planted, and now flourish in such perfection, that the 
 Martinico coifee holds the next rank in reputation to that 
 of Mocha. 
 
 Indigo is a natural product of this island. It is, likewise, 
 cultivated on the continent of America, in the East Indies, 
 and in several countries, ^here the plant is kno\A n under the 
 general name of anil. Inere are live different species of it, 
 described by Linnaus under the title of indigo-p/icra. But 
 it may be sufficient, in this place, briefly to make a few 
 observations on the plant itself, and its culture ; and on the 
 
WEST INDIES. 325 
 
 preparation of it as an article of commerce for the uses of 
 tlyeing woollen, cotton, and silk manufactures of a fnie blue 
 color. 
 
 The second species in the Linnaan catalogue is that 
 which is the most cultivated in the British and French West 
 India Islands. It has smooth arched pods, growing close 
 to the branches, with unequal winged leaves. It is distin- 
 guished from the other sorts by the denomination of Guati- 
 mala * indigo. There are ten stamina in the Hower, nine of 
 which are joined ; the other stands separately. These are 
 crowned by roundish summits. In the centre is situated a 
 cylindrical germen, supporting a short style, crowned with 
 an obtuse stigma. The germen, afterwards, becomes a 
 taper pod, filled with kidney-shaped beans. This plant 
 requires a good, rich, and level soil, not too dry ; and as it 
 greatly impoverishes the ground a^ here it grows, it must be 
 alone. There cannot be too much care taken to keep it 
 clean, and to hinder herbs, of any kind whatever, from 
 growing near it. The planters, sometimes, carry their 
 neatness so far, that they sweep the ground on which it is 
 sown, as they would a room in a house. 
 
 Tliough all seasons of the year are good for planting 
 indigo, great care must be taken not to put it into the 
 ground in a dry time. The slips, from which it is most 
 generally raised, must be put into pits or holes, to the depth 
 of three or four inches ; these must be distant about a foot 
 from each other, and placed as much as possible in a straight 
 line. AV hen indigo is raised from seeds, which is not un fre- 
 quently the case, twelve or thirteen must be lodged in a 
 space about the breadth of a hoe. These also must be 
 placed in pits, about the same depth, and nearly at the 
 same distance from one another, as those holes are from 
 which the plants are raised. 
 
 From die time of the plant's rising above ground to its 
 perfect maturity, is not much above two months, and then 
 it is fit to cut. After this first cutting, the new branches 
 and leaves which it produces may be cut every six or seven 
 M eeks, provided the season be rainy, and that care be taken 
 
 * For an account of the difi'eieut species of indigo to be found in Ja- 
 Uinica, the reader is ieferreil to t!io navmai liistory of that island, in a iiole 
 on cha})tcr the liintli. In that chapter, tiic subject of cotton is also intro- 
 duced, and briefly touched on, as an article of vast importance j aud from 
 Uicncc, the reader is referred to tlie history of this island. 
 
326 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 not to cut them in a time of drought, because then the pro* 
 prielor mouU iulallibly lose the pJant. But all things being 
 rightly managed, it VviJl last two years; after which it must 
 be pluck-T^d tip, arid a new plantation be made. 
 
 The principal hidigo-zcorks of iVJartinico are situated in 
 the parish of Macoubit, in which there is not a stream, or 
 river, without some of these erections on its banks. ThejT 
 cojisist of large lats, or backs, of stone-work, well cemented, 
 in which the plant that yields the dye is put to digest. There 
 are usually thiee of tliese vats, one above another, in the 
 manner of a cascade ; so that the second, which is lower 
 than tlje bottom of the first, may receive the liquor contained 
 in the first. Then the holes which are made in the bottom 
 of the second are unstopped; and the third, in its turn, receives 
 what was in the second. 
 
 Eighteen or twenty packets of plants, each about the 
 size of two bundles of hay, are sufficient to fill a large vat* 
 The top is covered with pieces of wood, to prevent the] 
 liquor, by the swelling of the plant, from rising above the*^ 
 surface. The fermentation is raised sooner or later, in pro- 
 portion to the heat and the ripeness of the plants ; sometimes 
 it takes place in six or eight hours, but it rarely exceeds 
 eighteen or twenty. The water then becomes thick, and of 
 a blue color, rather inclniing to the violet. 1"he whole mass 
 is now beaten with poles repeatedly, and afterwards left to 
 settle ; w hen the faces sink to the bottom of the vat, and 
 form a kind of mud. The water being drawn off, \\\efccces, 
 by opening the cocks, fall into the second, and from thence 
 into the liuid vat; where being still more drained from their 
 watery particles, they are put into linen bags, fifteen ot^ 
 eighteen inches long. 1 hese biigs are made with a point, 
 that the mass may purge itself thoroughly from any remain- 
 ing water. When this is done, they spread it in little boxes 
 three or four feet long, two feet broad, and about three 
 inches deep ; and expose it to the air in the shade to dry it 
 perfectly. It is then nuide into fiat cakes, about the size 
 of our i)enny-pieces, to be exported to Europe. The East . . 
 India indigo, on the contrary, is formed into roundish pieces^, M 
 about the size of a pigeon's egg. ' 
 
 Such are die staple commodities of Martinico. 
 
 The state of religion in this island has continued nearly 
 the same for a long series of years. Attached to the Roman 
 Catholic faith, the inliabitants have neither wished for, nor 
 given encouragement to, any reformation. Cut amidst this 
 
WEST INDIES. 327 
 
 intolerance, it is, however, a tribute wliicli is due in justice 
 to the imcient governiueut of France, and to the rchgious 
 orders that acted under its auspices, that we stale the con- 
 duct of each on the present occasion. The former was 
 forward to select, send out, and sup[)ort, such Missionaries 
 as were thought best ada[>led lor tl<e archious employment ; 
 \vhile the latter were found indefatigable in iheir zeal, iheir 
 labour, and patience, and full of perseverance in the dis- 
 charge of their duties. As it may prove gratifying to many 
 who are piously disposed, among the various denominations 
 of Christians, to know something of the conduct of the 
 early French Missionaries, we will brielly select, fro'm father 
 Labat, an outline of the account which he has transmitted 
 to posterity. It cannot but be pleasing to those wlio have 
 the interests of the gospel at heart, to retrace those exertions 
 which were made upwards of a century ago, to spread the 
 knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ among those who had 
 never heard the sound of his name. And in addition to the 
 pleasure which such retrospective views must afford us, it 
 may stir up some to engage in promoting the same glorious 
 cause, by assisting those Protestant Missionaries who are 
 now laboring in these islands of the sea. 
 
 Of the commencement of his mission Labat gives the 
 following account : " A contagious disease having carried 
 " off most of the Missionaries in the French American 
 " islands, the Superiors of the different religious orders 
 *' established in those islands wrote circular letters to their 
 " brethren in France, entreating them to send out others to 
 " their assistance. One of these letters, failing uito my 
 " hands, determined me to carry into execution a design I 
 " had long meditated, to devote myself to a missionary life, 
 " as an employment perfectly adapted to my profession. 
 ** I was then thirty years of age, eleven of which 1 had 
 " passed in the convent of Jacobins, in the street St. Ho- 
 " nore, at Paris, and had been received as a professed bro- 
 " iher ; and, at sundry times, I had been sent to some of 
 " the provinces of Fra»ice, where 1 preached, and taught 
 " philosophy and the mathematics. Having asked for, and 
 " readily obtained, the necessmy licences from my religious 
 " superiors, and the pro{)er passports liom government, to 
 " go to the French West india Islands, 1 took leave of 
 " Paris on die 5th of August ](j[)3, in order to embark at 
 " Roclielie. Two more had agreed to undertake the voy- 
 " age, but they were dissuaded from it liy tlieir Superior; 
 
 and 1 was obliged to set out with one servant, who had 
 
^2S HISTORY OF THE 
 
 " been engaced in the service of tlie mission for three 
 " years." 
 
 On their arrival at Rochelle, they were joined by eight 
 Missionaries, of ditferent religious orders, in consequence 
 of the letters that had been sent to their respective convents. 
 The number now consisted of ten persons, who, by an 
 order from the Gommissary-general of the missions at Paris, 
 were placed under the care of father Labat, who was to 
 provide them with the necessaries and accommodations 
 usually allowed to Missionaries on their embarkation. To 
 defray the expences of these necessaries, he received the 
 sum of 07ie hundred and fifty crowns granted to them by 
 the King, together with an order for a free passage, either 
 on board of the King's ships, or merchant vessels, at his 
 jMajesty's expense. The articles required to be provided 
 for them are worthy of notice, as they clearly evince that 
 these pious labourers did not covet the honors, the riches, 
 or the luxuries of this world. They consisted, for each 
 Missionaiy, of one mattiass, a bolster, a pair of sheets, a 
 blanket, a white coat, a cassock, or black cloak, six shirts, 
 as many pairs of drawers, twelve handkerchiefs, the same 
 number of night-caps, thread stockings, and socks ; a hat, 
 three pairs of shoes, a trunk between two, arid a case ojf 
 liquors for the voyage. And as some of them said they 
 were in want of books, fifty livres* were given to each of 
 them, to purchase such as they thought proper, and for 
 petty expenses while on shore. 
 
 Ihe merchant at Rochelle, \a ho furnished the necessaries,' 
 consulting his omu interest rather than decorum, attempted 
 to persuade them to carry out trading adventures ; against 
 which Labat strongly remonstrated, as derogatory to the 
 dignity of their holy vocation ; but he m as not sufficiently 
 master of his little society, to prevent two or three of them 
 from taking out parcels of buttons, pins, needles, and other 
 small wares, which were very saleable, but charged to thent 
 exorbitantly dear. After a passage of sixty-three days, 
 Labat and his companion arrived safely at ISlartinico, in the 
 month of January 1694. Some of the other Missionaries 
 had out-sailed them, and now came to meet them on their 
 landing. After returning thanks to God in the principal 
 church, they repaired to the convent of Jacobins, where 
 ihcy \\ ere welcomed and hospitably received by tlie Superior 
 
 A Ficiich Ihie amounts to teu-pence cf our moner. 
 
WEST NDIES. 329 
 
 of their order, and had proper apartments assigned them. 
 By the visits they afterwards made to the Jesuits, to the 
 order of Charity, and to other convents, it appears, that at 
 this early period, there were several long- established con- 
 vents of different orders at Martinico. It appears, also, 
 that many of the priests in each acted as Missionaries, for 
 the conversion of the native savages and the negro slaves, 
 not only on all parts of this island, but at Guadaloupe, Do- 
 minica (then in the possession of France), and other French 
 settlements. To these last-mentioned colonies they made 
 occasional voyages, and then returned to their usual resi- 
 dences in their respective convents at Martinico, or to the 
 parishes of Mhich they were curates in different parts of the 
 island. Thus we find father Labat himself making visitations 
 to St. Vincent's, Grenada, and St. Domingo, for the pur- 
 pose of inspecting the convents, and transacting missionary 
 business, though he was appointed curate of the parish of 
 Macouba, and in a short time chosen Precursor Syndic of 
 the mission of Martinico. 
 
 The Jacobins had the care of the parish of the Mouillage, 
 the church being the property of their community. They 
 likewise served six other parishes in the quarter of the 
 island known by the name of the Cabesterre. The Jesuits 
 served five parishes, including Fort St. Pierre, and its 
 vicinity : and the Capuchins had the care of the parish and 
 fortress of Fort Royal, and four smaller adjacent parishes. 
 By this distribution, the ecclesiastical benefices were en- 
 tirely occupied by the Friars of the three orders, to the 
 total exclusion of the secular priests who came from 
 France, at different periods, under the sanction of the 
 military Governor of the island, with a view to deprive 
 them of these advantages. But their attempts were made 
 in vain. For the zeal of these fathers of the different or- 
 ders — their indefatigable attention to the negro slaves in 
 particular, numbers of whom they purchased on their own 
 account, and employed in plantations belonging to their 
 respective communities ; — their humane treatment of them ; 
 —-their charities ; — and the examples of self-denial which 
 they exhibited in their simple mode of life, procured 
 them the esteem and support of tlie principal white inha- 
 bitants. 
 
 The epidemical fever, from which the early Missionaries 
 suffered so severely, was called the distemper of Sia)ii, by 
 the French writers, because it was first brought to Mar- 
 
 voL. n. T t 
 
350 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 tinico in a merchant-ship, from Siam, in the East Indies. 
 This has been clearly demonstrated, by the ingenious Dr. 
 Mosely, to be the same disease as the Febris Ardens, or 
 Causiis of Hippocrates, and is the yellow fever, which of 
 late years has proved so destructive on the continent of 
 ISorth America, and in many of the West India Islands. 
 This fatal disease, which may be considered as a species 
 of the plague, frequently raged with great violence in this 
 island ; but notwithstanding the mortality it occasioned 
 among religious orders, the Missionaries, with great affec- 
 tion and alacrity, continued their course, and often became 
 the victims of their pious assiduity. Neither was this fatal 
 disease the only danger to which they were exposed by 
 their profession. Their duty often led them into the in- 
 terior parts of the island, remote from populous towns, 
 to the villages and huts of the Indians ; and in the recesses 
 of woods, and from the caverns of mountains, they were 
 often attacked and mortally bitten by the poisonous snakes 
 that infest Martinico and St. Lucia ; for the antidotes 
 now generally known and administered, to prevent the 
 mortal effects of the poisonous bite of the Martinico snake, 
 were not then discovered. These reptiles have been un- 
 derstood to be a separate species from any of those serpents 
 which are found in the other West India Islands. 
 
 Of these remedies Dr. Chisholm gives a most satisfac- 
 tory account, and introduces a curious and novel case, of] 
 his own success in administering the diluted nitric acid,, 
 with the occasional addition of a tea-spoonful of camphor-? 
 ated tincture of opium.* 
 
 These early Missionaries were, unhappily, succeeded by 
 a race of men who inherited their power without possess- 
 ing their virtues. With these, the interests of the gospel 
 were made subservient to the machinations of political in- 
 trigue ; so that worldly emoluments and honors supplanted, 
 by slow but gradual steps, that zeal for the conversion of 
 souls, by which a Missionary should be always actuated. 
 To save appearances, it became necessary that professional 
 attachment should be kept alive. This, and the trappings 
 of ceremony, have been amplified, in proportion as real 
 
 * See the narrative of this extraordinary cure, in an Essay, by Dr. 
 Chisholm, on the malignant pestilential Fever of the West India Islands, 
 &c. Vol. ii. page 93. 
 
AVEST INDIES. 331 
 
 religion has declined ; and from the influence of all, Me 
 unhappily learn, that vital godliness is degenerated into 
 supercilious parade. Even these externals have, of late 
 years, lost no inconsiderable portion of their ancient au- 
 thority ; so that vice exerts its dominion with little or no 
 control, and bids defiance to those restraints which are too 
 feeble to oppose its progress. Such is, at present, the 
 melancholy moral picture of Martiuico. 
 
332 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 CHAP. XXVIII. 
 
 HISTORY OF DOMINICA. 
 
 Discovery and Name. — First settled hy the French, who 
 lived on Terms of Friendship with the Natives. — Increase 
 of the Colonists. — The Island declared neutral. — Cap- 
 tured by the English. — Subsequent Prosperity. — Recap- 
 tured by the French. — Particulars of that Re-capture, 
 and of the brutal Conduct of the Conquerors towards the 
 Inhabitants. — Restoration to the English by the Peace 
 of 1783. — Soil and Appearance of the Island. — Produc- 
 tions. — Turtles, a Description of them. — Their Manner 
 of Living, and the Mode of taking them. — Account of a 
 remarkable Insect, 
 
 JL HIS valuable colony is peculiarly advantageous to 
 Great Britain in a political point of view. This arises 
 from its situation, which is about midway between Marti- 
 nico and Guadaloupe. From this circumstance, in con- 
 junction with the superior naval force of the mother-country, 
 it has not only been enabled to intercept the trading vessels 
 of both islands, in times of war, when they were in the 
 possession of France ; but even to shut up all intercourse 
 between them, and to facilitate the conquest of either when 
 attacked by British forces. These facts, which we have 
 learned from experiment, its history will evince. 
 
 Dominica lies in latitude 15° 32' north, and in longitude 
 61" 23' west from Greenwich. It is somewhat larger than 
 St. Vincent's, being about twenty-nine miles in length, and 
 sixteen in breadth. It obtained its present name from 
 Columbus, by whom it was discovered, on the Sd of No- 
 vember 1493, in his second voyage to the new hemisphere. 
 This name was bestowed upon it by that great navigator, 
 from the incidental circumstance of its being discovered on 
 a Sunday, Dominica being a corruption of the Latin name 
 for that sacred day. 
 
WEST INDIES. 335 
 
 Of its original appellation among the natives, nothing is 
 now known. It was found inhabited by Charaibees, though 
 they were not very numerous ; and they were left, both by 
 Columbus, and his more immediate successors, in quiet and 
 undisturbed possession. 
 
 The vast group of islands which were discovered by that 
 daring genius, under the government of Spain, was too nu- 
 merous to be possessed by that nation. Discovery, how- 
 ever, according to the principles which prevailed, gave her 
 the right of choice ; in consequence of which, she made 
 selections, and abandoned nil the rest. Upon the island of 
 Dominica, it does not appear that the Spaniards ever at- 
 tempted to make any settlement ; so that, like many others 
 in the new world, it was but discovered to be neglected and 
 forgotten. They were, at this time, in possession of more 
 important acquisitions, which claimed their utinost attention 
 and vigilance ; so that, accident and necessity, rather than 
 humanity and justice, under a superintending Providence, 
 permitted the natives of this island to enjoy their primitive 
 abodes in peace. 
 
 From the time of its discovery till the commencement of 
 the seventeenth century, its civil history affords no variet}'. 
 No European nation attempted to fix a residence on it ; in 
 consequence of which, it stands exempted, during this 
 period, from those disastrous vicissitudes, Mhich the wars 
 of Europe diffuse through every quarter of the globe. 
 
 The neighbouring islands had been occasionally peopled 
 by the Europeans ; and in proportion as their numbers in- 
 creased, the primitive inhabitants were either destroyed, or 
 compelled to find some new abode. From some of these 
 islands, either led by choice or driven by necessity, some 
 Frenchmen came over to Dominica about tlie beginning of 
 the seventeenth century, and fixed their habitations on those 
 parts of the sea-coast, which, for reasons unknown to us, 
 the natives had abandoned. As residence, and not conquest, 
 was the sole object of these settlers, they contrived to esta- 
 blish a friendly intercourse with the Charaibees. This 
 object they effected. Both parties were disposed to friend- 
 ship ; they respected each other ; and, secluded from those 
 devastations which accompany the sword, they were satisfied 
 with their conditions, and lived in peace. 
 
 In the year 1632, the number of Charaibees amounted to 
 nine hundred and thirty-eight. These lived in thirty-two 
 huts, or carbets, according to those modes of society which 
 they had derived from their immediate progenitors and 
 
354 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 remotest ancestry. The French, from the period of their 
 original settlement to this time, had increased, through 
 natural population and occasional acquisitions, from a few 
 families to three hundred and forty-nine persons. To these 
 are to be added, twenty-three free mulattoes, and three 
 hundred and thirty-eight negro slaves, who had been im- 
 ported to assist them in the cultivation of those small por- 
 tions of land which they occupied. 
 
 At this period, the whole of their time was engaged in 
 breeding poultry, and in supplying Martinico Avith such 
 articles of provision as industrious poverty enabled them to 
 raise. They had also found means to obtain seventy-two 
 thousand two hundred cotton shrubs, which they cultivated 
 with the utmost care. The produce of these they bartered 
 at that island, for various necessaries and conveniences of 
 life, particularly tools for husbandry, and such materials for 
 building as the place of their residence did not produce. 
 To this inconsiderable traffic, in process of time, they added 
 a little coffee. Their endeavors in planting and cultivating 
 that article were also successful ; so that, from an insig- 
 nificant beginnmg, they acquired comparative affluence, and 
 awakened that envy in the contending nations of Europe 
 which blasted all their hopes. 
 
 In proportion as this colony increased in population and 
 commercial prosperity, it became an object of jealousy 
 between the rival powers of England, France, and Holland ; 
 when, to prevent, as it was hoped, all future contests, it 
 was agreed that Dominica should be considered as a neutral 
 island, to which all European traders might resort. In this 
 state it remained till the war between Great Britain and 
 France which broke out ui the year 1755 ; in the course of 
 which, it was captured by some of our forces. 
 
 It was not, however, solely on account of the commercial 
 benefits expected to accrue from its possession and establish- 
 ment as a British colony, but in order to secure an ascen- 
 dancy, and maintain a commanding situation over the French 
 windward and leeward islands, that an expedition was fitted 
 out against it by our government. This was done under the 
 administration of the great Mr. Pitt (afterwards Earl of 
 Chatham) in the memorable year ] 759- 
 
 From its defenceless condition it became an easy conquest. 
 But it was afterward deemed of so much importance, that 
 it occasioned warm discussions during the negociations for 
 settling the j>icliminanes of the peace of Paris, in 1763; 
 the French ministry remonstrating in strong terms against 
 
WEST INDIES. 335 
 
 the proposal of ceding it in perpetuity to the crown of 
 Great Britain. But these remonstrances were made in 
 vain ; for, to the honor of the British cabniet, at that time 
 supposed to be under the direction of the late Earl of Bute, 
 who called it his peace, it was one of the principal articles 
 of the definitive treaty. Every indulgence, however, was 
 granted to the French inhabitants, as well planters as private 
 individuals ; and they peaceably intermixed with the new 
 British settlers, under a form of government similar to that 
 of Jamaica. Ihe legislative authority of the island is vested 
 in the Commander-in-chief, who is the military and civil 
 Governor ; in a Council of twelve gentlemen ; and in a 
 House of Assembly, or Representatives of the Commons, 
 consisting of nineteen members. 
 
 The cultivation of the land had been too much neglected 
 by the French during their sole occupancv of Dominica. 
 This seems the more inexcusable, since the soil was knoNvn 
 by them to be capable of producing every commodity which 
 was raised in their other settlements in the W est Indies, 
 both for internal use and foreign commerce. But the 
 change which the capture of the island by our troops occa- 
 sioned, introduced surprising alterations in their agricultural 
 system. The free enjoyment and full security which were 
 given to private property, now placed under the mild and 
 equitable laws of the British government, introduced among 
 all ranks a spirit of enterprize w hich was before unknown. 
 
 The French, prior to the capture of the island, had laid 
 the foundation of a tow n on the south-west part, still known 
 by the name of Roseau. Its condition bore a strong resem- 
 blance to their agricultural achievements. It increased but 
 slowly both in wealth and extension, notw ithstanding the 
 local advantages which it had a right to command. Soon 
 after we took possession of it, it was made a free port. 
 This gave new life to the inhabitants, and fully established 
 its decided superiority as the capital of the island. 
 
 The lands, on the surrender of the colony to the British 
 arms, became the property of the crown by right of con- 
 quest ; but no advantage was taken of this prerogative. 
 The French inhabitants were established in their original 
 possessions under a few restrictions, which rather resulted 
 from prudence, than displayed severity. On their taking 
 the oaths of allegiance, leases were granted to some for 
 seven years, and to others for fourteen, as circumstances 
 directed. But each of these terms was renewable as it 
 respectively expired, on the easy condition of the proprietors' 
 
336^ HISTORY OF THE 
 
 paying to his Majesty, or his successors, the small quit-rent 
 of two shillings per acre, for all which they occupied. In 
 addition to tins, they were obliged to bind themselves not to 
 dispose of the lands which were thus obtained, either to 
 residents or strangers, on any pretence whatever, without 
 first procuring the approbation of the governor. His sanc- 
 tion became necessary to give legality to all such bargains 
 as were made. 
 
 The lands which were unappropriated were deemed the 
 property of the crown. These amounted to ninety-four 
 thousand three hundred and forty-six acres, and compre- 
 hended about one-half of the island. To inspect into their 
 value, commissioners were appointed on purpose ; who, 
 after having taken a survey, were authorized to dispose of 
 them to the best bidder, on such terms as might give the 
 purchaser such an interest in the issue, as would ensure their 
 cultivation. 
 
 The lands which were thus sold by auction, on the capture 
 of the island, were put up in small lots, of from fifty to one 
 hundred acre3 ; and no person was allowed to purchase, 
 either in his own name, or in the name of another, even in 
 trust for him, more than three hundred acres. Towards the 
 French inhabitants the same rules were observed. Though 
 secured in their possessions, and permitted to retain their 
 lands without a re-purchase, upon paying the annual sum 
 above-stated, this immunity extended no further than to the 
 amount of three hundred acres of land actually occupied by 
 each individual. All beyond became the property of the 
 crown, and submitted to those sales which yielded the siun 
 of of 3 12,092. 1 1 s. Id. in sterling money. 
 
 The rapid progress of the colony to a degree of prosperity, 
 unknown before it came into our possession, is acknow- 
 ledged by the French writers, though denied by Edwards, 
 ■who asserts, in perhaps a little partiality for Jamaica, " that 
 *' it does not appear, that the purchases made by British 
 *' subjects have answered the expectation of the buyers." 
 Indeed, it was very perceptible, in a few years, by its 
 exports to Great Britain, of coffee, cotton, and sugar, and 
 by its increased imports of British manufactures. 
 
 The tranquillity and flourishing state of Dominica was 
 suspended by the unnatural war betvieen Great Britain and 
 her North American colonies; in which France impoliticly 
 and unjustly interfered, and thereby laid the foundation of 
 the subversion of her ancient monarchy. The delusive hope 
 of depriving Great Britain of her long-established sove- 
 
■\TEST INDIES. 337 
 
 relgnty of die seas, by detaching from her navy forty thousand 
 American seamen, and of recovering those West India 
 Islands which France had ceded in 1763, with the addition 
 of conquering all the British settlements, Mas the grand 
 temptation. These baits the French ministry held out, to 
 induce their weak, credulous, and unhappy King to enter 
 into the war. In the pursuit of these ambitious projects, a 
 small French squadron, fitted out at Martinico, made a 
 sudden and unexpected attack on Dominica. This squadron 
 was commanded by the Marquis de Bouille, Governor of 
 tliAt island, and Commander-in-chief of all the French 
 windward islands, having on board two thousand regular 
 troops, and a great number of irregular volunteers. 
 
 The French Governor having received early information 
 that hostilities had commenced between the two crowns in 
 Europe, availed himself, by instructions from his court, of 
 the proximity of his station ; and, with that promptitude 
 which generally facilitates, and sometimes ensures success, 
 determined to act immediately, that no reinforcements miglit 
 arrive from England before the fatal blow was struck. Thi^ 
 plan was carried into execution early in September 1778. 
 
 At this period, the whole regular force of the island 
 amounted to no more than six officers, ninety-four privates, 
 and about one hundred and twenty militia. These, notwith- 
 standing their inconsiderable numbers, defended the forts 
 and passes with such bravery, as to render, for a considerable 
 time, the empire of the island doubtful ; and, finally, pro- 
 cured for themselves, when they were obliged to yield to 
 superior numbers, those honourable terms of capitulation, 
 which the brave, in general, obtain, and always deserve. 
 
 Many of the French troops, which amounted in all to 
 about three thousand five hundred, landed without difficulty 
 or opposition, and marched almost immediately to the attack 
 of Fort Cashacrou. This fort, upon which the safety of the 
 island chiefly depended, was erected upon an eminence, 
 which was at once commanding and almost inaccessible. 
 On three sides it was surrounded by the sea, above which it 
 was elevated about three hundred feet in perpendicular 
 height. In this fortress a detachment of regulars had been 
 stationed ; and their numbers, though small, were deemed 
 sufficient to withstand an attack which could only be made 
 in one direction. 
 
 Of the vast importance of this fort the French were 
 particularly sensible ; and to ensure its reduction, tliey 
 scrupled not to use either violence or fraud. The French 
 
 VOL. II. U u 
 
333 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 inhabitants who v/ere upon the island, it is more than pro- 
 bable, interested themselves in the issue of the invasion, and 
 secretly held a perfidious correspondence with the enemy, 
 who had now made good a landing upon their shores. To 
 promote the welfare of their open foes, but secret friends, 
 these inhabitants, a few days previous to the invasion, intro- 
 duced themselves into the fort among the unsuspicious 
 soldiers, who were there on duty ; and, after intoxicating 
 them with their professed bounty, found means secretly to 
 spike all the cannon, and retire. 
 
 The arrival and approaches of the French troops made ^ 
 them sensible of their irretrievable calamity. Ihe fort 
 was attacked ; but instead of being able to make any defence, 
 it was unable to fire even a single gun. The French, con- 
 fident of success, because apprized of the treachery, con- 
 tinued their march, and entered it without opposition ; and 
 the first intimation that the mass of the inhabitants obtained 
 of its surrender was received from the French colors, 
 which, to their utter astonishment, they beheld unfurled 
 upon the fortress. 
 
 JBoiiille, having secured possession of this commanding 
 post, flattered himself with the immediate conquest of the 
 island ; and, in the confidence of that persuasion, immediately 
 landed all his forces, and directed his march towards the 
 town. Several obstacles, however, presented themselves to 
 obstruct his progress. The inhabitants, in general, alarmed 
 for their personal safety, had collected themselves with 
 precipitation, though the French residents did not much 
 augment their numbers. Many of these, indeed, only made 
 their appearance as curious spectators ; and some of them, 
 retiring from the scene of action, were seen no more till the 
 French were in possession of the island. 
 
 Fort Loubiere, Fort Melville, and three batteries, by 
 which the town was more immediately defended, were in- 
 stantly manned, and most gallantly supported; but, alas, 
 their numbers were but small, the condition of the batteries 
 was bad, and the supplies of all were still worse. 
 
 The enemy immediately directed his march to Fort Lou- 
 biere, and after a dreadful conflict succeeded in carrying it. 
 In this combat, victory for some time remained doubtful, 
 and the loss of the assailants was considerable. Three 
 times they entered the fort, and three times they were re- 
 pulsed. Twice they planted their colors on its walls, and 
 twice were these colors shot away. Forty of their soldiers, 
 and the Comuiissaryrgeneral, were killed on the spot ; many 
 
 i 
 
AVEST TNDIES. 339 
 
 were wounded ; and Bouille, the Commander-in-chief, es- 
 caped with the utmost difficulty the fate of many of hi» 
 companions. 
 
 But this valor was unavailing. The superiority of num- 
 bers became too formidable for mere courage to subdue. 
 Tlie scale which suspended victory, that had been hanging 
 in equipoise, or vibrating with indecision, began to prepon- 
 derate, and in one moment decided the whole. About two 
 thousand of the invaders gained the heights of Roseau, from 
 whence they could not be dislodged ; and the inhabitants, 
 imable to make any further resistance w ith any probability 
 of success, oflfered to capitulate, and obtained the most 
 honorable terms. JVlilitary honors were their due ; and 
 with these their soldiers were permitted to march out. 
 Their arms, their civil government, their laws, customs, 
 and religious rites, they were permitted to retain. These 
 articles promised security of possessions and property to all, 
 both present and absent; and even to perpetuate the ad- 
 ministration of justice, in those persons with whom it was 
 lodged prior to the invasion and surrender of the island. 
 
 But these terms and conditions were, unhappily, little 
 more than nominal. The conduct of the subsequent Gover- 
 nor towards the inhabitants has sufficiently taught us, that 
 agreement and signature, when compared with hdelity and 
 honor, are words which convey very diiferent ideas. The 
 articles of capitulation were no sooner signed, and the affairs 
 of the conquered island adjusted, than Bouille returned to 
 Alartinico. The Marquis Duchilleau, on his departure, 
 took upon him, by previous appointment, the sole command, 
 and sufficiently demonstrated, by his whole deportment, that 
 the tyrant had succeeded to the man. Bouille was brave, 
 generous, honorable, and humane ; Duchilleau was mean, 
 dishonorable, vindictive, and suspicious. In the former 
 character, we find those dignified and manly actions which 
 designate a nobleness of soul ; but in the latter, those base 
 ingredients which constitute the despot, and display the 
 coward. 
 
 Scarcely had Bouille departed from the island, before 
 Duchilleau began, by violating the fundamental articles of 
 capitulation, to invert that order which had been established. 
 Fear, it has been said, is the inseparable companion of 
 guilt ; and, probably, few instances can furnish us w ith 
 more forcible examples, in proportion to the possession of 
 power, than the conduct of this man. 
 
 In direct violation of treaty, the English inhabitants were 
 
340 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 instantly disarmed, and their fugitive slaves were enlisted in 
 his party, to act in concert with him, as occasion rendered 
 their assistance necessary. By an express order which he 
 issued, the English were forbidden to associate together; 
 and the military under his command were directed to dis- 
 perse them, just as they saw occasion. No lights were 
 permitted in any houses after nine o'clock. No curfew, it 
 is true, was tolled, to sound " the knell of departing day." 
 It was despotism, without the signal of oppression ; and tha 
 imperiousness of mandate, without even the sanction of law. 
 No person, during the night, M'as permitted to walk the 
 street, however urgent his necessity, without a lighted torch, 
 which became the signal of his approach, and exposed him 
 to the caprice of arbitrary examination. No letters were 
 permitted to be sent without being first opened and in- 
 spected ; so that, the inhabitants were compelled to submit 
 to the most detestable oppression, without feeling the 
 nominal solace of uttering their complaints, or complaining 
 of their MTongs. 
 
 To complete their miseries and his own disgrace, spies 
 were appointed to perform a kind of clandestine patrole, 
 and to steal in the most unguarded hours to the doors and 
 windows of the inhabitants, to listen to their conversation, 
 and to report the result. To this indignant office he had 
 meanness enough personally to submit; and, habited in 
 disguise, he became, at once, the inspector of the inhabitants 
 and of his own spies. By these means, both domestic inter- 
 course and domestic conversation were alike forbidden ; his 
 villanies were only heard in smothered whispers, which, at 
 once, breathed both detestation and fear. 
 
 Nor were these precautions merely nominal. An English 
 Captain going on board his own vessel, then lying in the 
 harbor, after the interdicted hour, was shot in the attempt ; 
 and the centinel by whom he was assassinated, for having 
 so completely/ done his duty, was exalted to a higher station, 
 as a reward for his heroic deed. Wanton oppression seemed 
 to mark his footsteps; his felicity appealed to arise from 
 the miseries which his cruelties had occasioned ; tlie groan 
 of suffering became music in his ear, and his eye delighted 
 to revel in blood. 
 
 Conscious of the effects of cruelty, he dreaded a revolt 
 which his own actions invited, and threatened to consume 
 the town by fire, in case die island should ever be attacked 
 by British forces. To flee from his oppressions, and to 
 sustain ijhem, seemed alike impossible ; existence was but 
 
WEST INDIES. 541 
 
 tfie vehicle of misery ; and the brave inhabitants were under 
 the dreadful alternative of suffering deaih, or silently sub- 
 mitting to the evils whidi they were destined by this barba- 
 rian to endure. 
 
 An attack, however, by the English forces was not made ; 
 but tliis did not prevent the conflagration. A dreadful fire, 
 if not that which he had threatened, broke out on the even- 
 ing of Easter Sunday 1781; in which, between five and six 
 hundred houses were reduced to ashes, and their inhabitants 
 from affluence to the extreme of indigence. In these houses 
 the riches of the island were consumed, to the amount of 
 two hundred thousand pounds. 
 
 To charge boldly upon him this atrocious deed we have 
 not a suflBciency of direct evidence ; but, following a train 
 of circumstances, it is impossible that we can divest our- 
 selves of strong suspicions. On the aM'ful night he was 
 present to siuvey the flames, and estimate the effects of a 
 few dreadful hours ; and, if report may be permitted to 
 bear a genuine testimony, actually prevented the soldiers 
 from assisting the English inhabitants in rescuing their half- 
 burnt property from the flames. To the French inhabitants, 
 however, he appeared rather more indulgent. They were 
 reduced to nearly the same predicament in this calamity; 
 but these, and these only, the soldiers were permitted to 
 assist ; while tlie English, deprived of all aid, cut off from 
 internal resources, and debarred from all external supplies, 
 were compelled silently to mourn over the devastation, or 
 permitted, if they thought proper to attempt it, to quench 
 the conflagration with their tears. 
 
 In the meanwhile their trade with foreign nations was 
 nearly at an end. The island, though conquered by France, 
 was not visited by any sliips of that nation, during the period 
 of five years and three months that it continued in their pos- 
 session ; at least, not by any that came to promote tJieir 
 trade. With England they could hold no direct correspon- 
 dence, being, at this time, in subjection to France ; and 
 the circuitous course which their few articles of commerce 
 were obliged to take to reach a market, so far reduced them 
 in value, that their sale could hardly be considered as a 
 benefit. 
 
 Some of their articles were conveyed in neutral vessels to 
 the island of St. Eustatius, at that time belonging to the 
 Dutch; and from thence to England, But, even this ex- 
 pensive route Mas of short continuance. Li the progress of 
 the war the Dutch became involved ; and this island was 
 
342 HISTORY 'of the 
 
 captured by Sir George Bridges Rodney, afterwards Lord 
 Rodney ; and from that moment St. Eustatius ceased to be 
 a medium of traffic. Another part of the produce of Domi- 
 nica was sent in Dutch vessels to Rotterdam, and from 
 thence imported into Great Britain. But after the com- 
 mencement of the war Avith Holland, this passage, also, 
 became forbidden; and the only channel through ^\hich her 
 merchandise could travel, was to Ostend, under an imperial 
 flag. In this port it found a ruinous market ; sugar sold 
 from six to eight pounds per hogshead, and other articles in 
 nearly the same proportion. 
 
 In point of trade, the English and French inhabitants 
 were partners in calamity. No portion of the produce of 
 the island was sent to France ; so that, the same hand which 
 shut the door against the one, most completely debarred the 
 other. Under these circumstances, conquest seemed to 
 have been made without its advantages : our nation was 
 deprived of the possession of the island ; but France derived 
 from the acquisition no benefit, either in a political or a 
 commercial point of view. Retaining possession of the 
 colony, they, indeed, hindered us from engaging it on our 
 side in the war ; and thus far they prevented those impedi- 
 ments which Martinico and Guadaloupe might have ex- 
 perienced. Thus circumstanced, it maintained a kind of 
 armed neutrality ; and was destined to behold the contention 
 of two fierce nations ; — 'deserted by the one, and forbidden to 
 hold any correspondence with the other. 
 
 Oppressed and deserted, subdued by the sword, and 
 injured by fire, groaning under the iron yoke of unfeeling 
 despotism, and deprived of all internal and external resources, 
 the suffering inhabitants felt all the horrors of their situation. 
 The impenetrable gloom that hovered over them had re- 
 laxed the springs of industry ; their hopes w ere frozen, and 
 their expectations had almost formed an alliance with despair. 
 Many of the planters were absolutely ruined. Some had 
 abandoned a cultivation of all articles, from a certainty that 
 success would only be an aggravation of their misfortunes. 
 Thirty sugar plantations were thrown up ; and the works, 
 which had been erected at a vast expense, were permitted 
 to yield to the corrodings of time, and the injuries of the 
 elements. 
 
 The happy moment, however, which restored peace to 
 Europe, and Dominica to England, at length arrived, in 
 the month of January 1783. The gloom of melancholy 
 was dispersed in an instant ; joy sparkled in every counte- 
 
VEST INDIES. 343 
 
 nance ; and gratitude broke forth from those lips which 
 had almost forgotten how to smile. The night of affliction, 
 through which they had travelled between live and six years, 
 disappeared in an instant, before those prospects with which 
 the intelligence of their deliverance had tilled their minds, 
 and before those beams of future prosperity, at which they 
 lighted up their departing hopes. 
 
 To be restored once more to the dominion of his Majesty's 
 government, was of itself a deliverance from the hands of 
 despotic oppressors, and a promise of security against do- 
 mestic injustice. These were sources of grateful joy. Tlie 
 articles of 1783 included and recognised those of 1763, in 
 ■which Roseau, in Dominica, had been declared a free port. 
 Tliis freedom was renewed ; its administration of civil go- 
 vernment became independent, on a plan similar to that of 
 the other British Colonies in the West Indies, and opened 
 a door to that prosperity which had so long forsaken the 
 island. These circumstances operating as an incitement to 
 traders, and a stimulus to industry, became, in some degree, 
 a recompense for the evils of former years. On these 
 foundations the trade and cultivation of this island have agaia 
 been erected ; and since that eventful period which we have 
 been describing, nothing memorable in its history has oc- 
 curred to retard its gradual advances toward its present 
 prosperity. 
 
 A complete recovery, however, from the devastations of 
 war must be the work of much time. A few destructive 
 hours will sometimes obliterate the labors of an age, and 
 establish calamities which a succession of generations onljf 
 can overcome. Such have been the effects of that dreadful 
 tire which reduced Roseau to ashes. 
 
 Previously to that period, the town contained upwards of 
 one thousand houses, exclusively of the huts inhabited bj 
 the slaves. But, notwithstanding its restoration to the 
 British Crown, which has held out to the inhabitants those 
 immunities which we have just described, it does not, at 
 present, much exceed five hundred. 
 
 The whole island is divided into ten parishes, and contains 
 by estimation 186,436 acres of land. Roseau, which is 
 the principal town, lies in the parish of St. George. It is 
 about half a mile in length ; and being built without much 
 attention to order, it has an irregular appearance. The 
 island is inhabited by English, Trench, negroes, and Cha- 
 raibees ; but of the latter there are very few ; in numbers, 
 they do not exceed thirty families ; these are almost con- 
 
344 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 tinually lessening through death ; so that, in all probability, 
 the race will soon become extinct. Whether it be from 
 the peculiarity of their dispositions, or from a consciousness 
 of the inferiority of their numbers, that they are peaceable 
 and inoffensive, I take not upon me to say ; but such, 
 however, is the fact. They live retired from the European 
 settlers, speak a language of their own, intermixed with a 
 little French, and retain those modes of domestic life which 
 they have derived from their progenitors. Exclusive of tliB 
 Charaibees, the numbers in 1788, of all colors, conditions, 
 and complexions, amounted to about 1 6,700 ; but, since 
 that period, they have considerably increased. 
 
 On the natural history of this island it remains to make 
 some remarks, before we proceed to the religious depart 
 ment. In common wuth most other islands in these regions, 
 Dominica is not destitute of mountains, though they are not 
 numerous ; but a few of them are lofty. Several of these 
 contain volcanic fires, and frequently discharge, in large 
 quantities, streams of burning sulphur. From fissures 
 through which it cau find a passage, hot water issues almost 
 Gontinually ; and it has been said, that it possesses medicinal 
 ■virtues, peculiarly beneficial to those who are afflicted with 
 such diseases as are common in the tropical regions ; but 
 the truth of these reports will, probably, admit of somQ 
 considerable doubt. 
 
 The native soil is a black and rich earth, which seems 
 adapted to the produce of these regions. This soil is, 
 however, only found in vallies which lie near the sea-coast. 
 In the interior parts ^hich lie contiguous to the mountains, 
 its. appearance varies considerably, and assumes a lightish 
 brown color. This mould, so different from that of othei* 
 parts, induces a belief that, through some violent concus- 
 sion of nature, perhaps the general deluge, it has been 
 brought from its ancient bed, probably the sides of the 
 mountains, and deposited in the plains and vallies near their 
 base, where it is now found. 
 
 In most places the immoveable stratum is of a yellowish 
 color, and appears to be a species of brick-clay. If, there- 
 fore, the above conjecture be right, it is not difficult to 
 conceive, that the same torrents which stripped the moun- 
 tains of their light brown earth, which is now found near 
 their feet, carried off that rich black soil with which thes« 
 parts were then covered, and lodged it in those fertile vales 
 near the sea-shore, where it is now found in abundance, 
 extensive in surface and exceedingly deep. 
 
■WEST INDIES. 545 
 
 In general productions, it bears a strong resemblance to 
 other VV est India Islands ; but, on those articles which it 
 possesses in common with them, and of which we have 
 already spoken, it is superfluous here to make additional 
 remarks. Such products as are peculiar to one island, but 
 almost unknown in others, justly merit a description ; but, 
 in other cases, even an enumeration of articles is little more 
 than a needless repetition. Hence, then, the history of 
 Jamaica may be considered as a partial history of all the 
 other islands ; and from these circumstances, tlie reader 
 may discover why that was so long, while these are so short. 
 There are, nevertheless, a few tilings peculiar to Dominica, 
 which have not been described. 
 
 It is remarkable, that, this island has no bay of any con- 
 sequence, nor any regular harbor ; but the anchorage round 
 the coasts is both commodious and safe ; and in tempestuous 
 w eather, the shipping may be secmely sheltered under its 
 capes. The soil, in general, is capable, by proper culti- 
 vation, of great improvement, and of producing the same 
 articles as the other West India Islands yield. The coffee 
 of Domhiica is but little inferior to that of JSIartinico, and 
 the cultivation of this useful and salubrious vegetable is 
 more successful than that of cotton or sugar, which our 
 planters would \\illingly have preferred, as being more pro- 
 fitable. The whole island is plentifully watered ; for, 
 according to Atwood,"^ it possesses no less than thirty large 
 rivers, (he might have said large brooks,) which supply the 
 inhabitants with excellent fresh water, and with fish of 
 various kinds. Labat extols the eels, in particular, as the 
 largest and best he had found in any of the islands ; and he 
 adds, that " the rivers here swarm with them." 
 
 The woods, likewise, abound with wild bees, which 
 settle on lofty trees, and are provided with boxes of a 
 peculiar construction by those negroes whose business it is 
 to look after them. In these they make their honeycombs 
 and wax, in the same manner as in our hives. The quan- 
 tity of honey and wax produced by these bees is very 
 considerable ; and supplies not only the consumption of the 
 island, but a surplus to trade with to the adjacent colonies. 
 The face of the country presents more low lands and plains, 
 called savannas, than mountains ; yet it is skirted by some 
 
 * See his History of the Island of Domiuica. — Loudou, 1791. 
 VOL. n. X X 
 
S46 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 of considerable height; ^rarticularly one which contains a 
 productive mine of sulphur. Its foi-ests are well furnished 
 with various species of wood, proper for buildings, for fur- 
 niture, and for fuel. 
 
 '1 he turtles, which for many years past have been con- 
 sidered as a most delicious article of luxury for the table, 
 at all public feasts, and at great dinners in the private 
 families of opulent citizens in England, are found in great 
 abundance on the coasts of Dominica, as well as at Marti- 
 nico, and some other islands in the West Indies. It is, 
 therefore, become a subject of curiosity to be made ac- 
 quainted with the nature of these amphibious creatures, 
 which can neither be denominated land animals nor fish, 
 but are mixtures of both. 
 
 Three different species of turtles are described by Roche- 
 fort and Labat ; but as the flesh of none but that which we 
 call Green Turtle, and the French Tortue Frnnche, is proper 
 for food, it may suffice to confine our description, and 
 account of the manner of taking them, to that class alone. 
 The shape of the green turtle is oval. It is convex on its 
 back, which is covered with a hard shell ; but it is not so 
 hard as that of the small species, called by the French caret j 
 the shell of which is in such general request for combs, 
 snuffboxes, and other ornamental uses, and commonly 
 called tortoise-shell ; neither is it of any value. It has four 
 fins, which supply the place of feet when it is on shore ; a 
 small head, projecting about three or four inches from the 
 shell, in its make resembling that of a goose, independent 
 of the beak ; and a large " lack-lustre eye." The belly is 
 nearly flat, and of a cream color ; and as the fins are short, 
 and ill adapted for walking, they appear to crawl along, 
 rather than to tread the ground. The green turtles weigh 
 from one to two hundred pounds. The season for them to 
 land, in order to lay their eggs in the sands, begins about 
 the latter end of April, and lasts till September ; during 
 "which time, the fishermen are employed in taking them, 
 either at sea as they approach the coasts, in strong nets of 
 a peculiar construction ; or on shore, by the following 
 process : 
 
 A party of men in a boat watch the motions of the turtles 
 in the road, particularly in the dusk of the evening, when 
 they usually go on shore, either to reconnoitre the coast for 
 proper places to deposit their eggs, or to lay them directly. 
 As soon as the men perceive that a number of them are got 
 
WEST INDIES. 847 
 
 to a small distance from the sea, they land, and follow them 
 in profomid silence, till they observe that they are digging 
 holes in the sand, which they make about a foot and a half 
 deep. On perceiving this, they rush suddenly upon them ; 
 and taking tliem by a fore fin with one hand, and by the 
 side with the other, turn them gently over upon tlieir backs, 
 from which posture they camiot recover. For the small 
 convexity of their backs, and the great weight of their 
 bodies beariiig upon that part, effectually prevent their 
 rising, or turning again upon tlieir bellies. When caught 
 in this manner, they are instantly carried to the boats to be 
 put on board of ships, to be transported to Europe. But 
 when it is intended to take both the turtles and their eggs, 
 eighteen or twenty days, and sometimes a longer time, are 
 sutfered to elapse, between their first landing and the going 
 out to take them. It is remarkable, that when they are 
 turned upon their backs, and left till the next morning 
 before they are taken away, they are seen to shed tears, 
 and are heaid to sigh. One man in the course of three 
 hours will turn forty or fifty turtles. Their eggs are about 
 the size of a tennis-ball, and perfectly round ; the white and 
 yolk resemble those of common fowls, but the shell is not 
 firm ; on the contrary, it is as soft as wet parchment. 
 Some of the inhabitants make fricassees and omelets of the 
 eggs, which, however, are neither so gratifying to the taste, 
 nor so nourishing, as those that are made of pullets' eggs. 
 A turtle of a moderate size will lay from two hundred to 
 two hundred and fifty eggs, which, if suffered to remain in 
 tlie sands where it has deposited and lightly covered them, 
 will produce young ones, by the heat of the sun, in about 
 six weeks. These, by natural instinct, find their way to 
 the sea, to rejoin tiieir mothers. The sailors cut their tlesh 
 into pieces, and salt them. The fat melts into a yellow 
 oil, used by some, whilst it is fresh, to cook their victuals ; 
 and when stale, to burn in their lamps. Turtles may be 
 kept alive several days, when turned on their backs, only by 
 tluowing sea-water frequently over them, if it be not con- 
 venient to remove them instantly. They may likewise be 
 kept a considerable time in open tubs of fresh water, and 
 fed with green herbs and bread ; but the longer tliey are 
 kept, the more they waste; and thus, more or less, in pro- 
 portion, lose their best qualities, of being a wholesome 
 food, nourishing, and light of digestion. 
 
 From the numerous tribes of insects common to all the 
 
543 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 West India Islands, !Mr. Atwood selects one, as being 
 peculiar to Dominica, which is of so marvellous a nature, 
 that it merits insertion in this place. " An insect, called 
 " tlie vegetable jiy (in this island), has the appearance, and 
 *' is of the size of a small cockchafer, which buries itself in 
 *' the ground, where it dies ; and from its body springs up 
 *' a small plant, which resembles a young coffee-tree, only 
 " that its leaves are smaller. The plant is often overlooked, 
 " from the supposition people have of its being no other 
 '' than a coffee-plant; but on examining it properly, die 
 '' difference is easily distinguished ; the head, body, and 
 " feet of the insect appearing at the foot, as perfectly as 
 '^ when alive." 
 
 Whether this insect has a real or only an imaginary ex- 
 istence, I take not upon me to determine. The astonish- 
 ment which associates with the fact, if it be one, is of such 
 an extraordinary nature, as to lay an embargo upon the 
 credulity of tire human mind. Our slender acquaintance 
 with the connexion which subsists between the animal and 
 the vegetable world, will not direct us to pronounce it an 
 impossibility; and, indeed, the facts which we discover in 
 the natural productions of every year, are equally strange 
 and incomprehensible ; and the only reason why they excite 
 no amazement, is, because they are so common. 
 
 In the natural, the moral, and the intellectual world, we 
 behold a variety of phenomena, which raise the contempla- 
 tive mind to a tirst and intelligent cause. Design, associated 
 with utility, is visible in almost every part; and v.herein 
 soever we find a deficiency, it is only an evidence of our 
 want of comprehension, but no proof of any defect in the 
 vast economy which we survey. 
 
 In fact, there is not one subject, how acutely soever we 
 may imagine we have surveyed all its parts, but what re- 
 tires ultimately from our keenest researches, and leaves our, 
 intellects involved in shade. In the present state, we see 
 but in part, we know but in part ; but in tliose regions of 
 immortal blessedness which the righteous shall inherit for 
 ever, these partial views will disappear, and harmony and. 
 beauty diffuse a general smile on all. The wonders of time, 
 w ithout doubt, shall then be lost in those which will be 
 infinitely superior ; and the mind of man, though endowed 
 with capacities vastly more enlarged, shall expatiate in 
 varieties which will be as endless as they are astonishing. 
 Sin is tiie only ioipediment that can debar us from pos- 
 
WEST INDIES. 34I> 
 
 session; and though it is naturally interwoven with our 
 'whole frame, God has pointed out the means through 
 wliich it may be perfectly extracted from us. These^ 
 means we find in that gospel which we have been endea- 
 voring to spread through this department of the heathen 
 world; and tiie following chapter will contain some ac- 
 count of the success of our attempts in the island of Do^ 
 niiiiica. 
 
3pO H16TOEY OF THE 
 
 CHAP. XXIX. 
 
 HISTORY OF DOMINICA 
 
 (Continued.) 
 
 Ancient State of the Island, with respect to Religion.-^ 
 Authors first Visit and Reception in 1787. — Second 
 Visit in 1788 ,• prohahility of Success, and Establish- 
 ment of a Mission. — Death of Mr. M'Cornock, a Mis- 
 sionary, and consequent Distress of the Society. — Au- 
 thor's third Visit in 1793. — Missionaries agaiii appointed. 
 — Prospects and Views of these Missionaries. '-^Increase 
 of Society. — Reflections on the mysterious Dispensations 
 of Providence. — Distresses' of the Missionaries. — Sick- 
 7iess of Mr. Shepley, and Death of Mr, Richardson, — 
 Invasion of the Island by the French. — Consternation 
 occasioned thereby. — Destruction of Roseau, and Pillage 
 of the Inhabitants. — Short account of the original Set- 
 tlement. — Vicissitudes and Conquest of Demerara, a 
 Colony on the Continent. — Unsuccessfid Attempt to 
 establish the Gospel in that Colony made by Mr. Hazvk- 
 shazo, one of the Missionaries, who returns to Dominica, 
 sickens and dies. — Present State of Religion in the 
 Island. 
 
 J. HE revolutions to which this island has been exposed, 
 and which we have noticed in its civil history, M'ere very 
 unfriendly to the establishment of Christianity. The frowns 
 of war are hostile to the genial fruits of the gospel of peace. 
 Whilst Dominica remained in the hands of its native in- 
 habitants, whose opinions of their European invaders were 
 founded upon the indignity and injustice with which both 
 they and their countrymen had been treated in other islands, 
 it was morally impossible to attempt, with success, the in- 
 troduction of tlie gospel among them at an early period, if 
 any had been so disposed. The French inhabitants who 
 first obtained a settlement upon its shores imported widi 
 them an attachment to the rites of the Romish church ; and 
 
AVEST INDIES. 351 
 
 the fluctuating state of its civil government tended to con- 
 iirm them in their errors, by preventing the truth from 
 being circulated without adulteration. The indulgences 
 granted by the British government to the inhabitants, when 
 it fell into our hands, gave perpetuity to ceremonies which 
 had been previously established ; in consequence of which, 
 at its final cession to the British crown in 1 783, the Romish 
 church was completely predominant. But, from that 
 period, a partial establishment of the Protestant faith, 
 according to the rites of the church of England, took place. 
 This was connected with the British government, and gra- 
 dually obtained a footing, in proportion as a change of 
 manners was introduced by an influx of new inhabitants 
 from the mother-country. It was in consequence of this 
 permanent establishment, under a government which tole-. 
 rates every mode of religion, and leaves the conscience free, 
 that an attempt was made, under the direction of the late 
 Rev. Mr. Wesley, to introduce the gospel into Dominica, 
 among men of every color. Of the success of these endea- 
 vors during the life, and after the death of Mr. Wesley, we 
 now proceed to give some account. 
 
 The author of this history, accompanied by three brother 
 ministers, Messrs. Baxter, Hammett, and Clarke, sailed 
 from Antigua, on Friday, the .5th day of January 1787, 
 with a design, either to establish or prepare the way for a 
 mission, and arrived on the coast of Dominica on the even- 
 ing of the same day. With the inhabitants of this island 
 none but Mr. Baxter had any acquaintance. Even his was 
 of so imperfect a nature, that we had but little reason to 
 expect success, except from that confidence Mhich we felt 
 in God. 
 
 The Captain of the schooner with whom we sailed was 
 well acquainted with our intentions ; and we were informed 
 by him, previously to our arrival, that a Mr. Burn, with 
 whom he had some acquaintance,, would, in all probability, 
 receive us M'ith courtesy, and favor our undertaking. This 
 gentleman, in M'liose enlightened liberality he placed this 
 confidence, was a planter, and his place of residence not 
 more than half a mile from the sea. In such a situation, 
 and with views like ours, these were circumstances of a 
 favorable nature ; we, therefore, on our arrival, landed from 
 the vessel, and determined to profit by the information 
 which we had received. 
 
 Mr. Baxter and myself, therefore, immediately repaired 
 to his house, and were received by him witli all that courtesj 
 
5.52 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 wbicli the Captaiii had predicted, and which his favorable 
 account had taught us to expect. On the appointment of a 
 Missionary, he expressed much satisfaction, and assured us, 
 that he should gladly entertain on his own estate the minis- 
 ter that should be appointed, whenever he should visit him. 
 The number of negroes in that neighbourhood, he observed, 
 amounted to about four hundred ; and he had no doubt, that 
 the few planters, whose property they were, would concur 
 with him in sentiment, and give to our Missionary the same 
 encouragement that he had promised to afford. In the 
 course of tliis journey, M'e met with two old negro men, 
 who were not entirely strangers to the gospel. They had 
 evidently known something of the religion of Jesus Christ ; 
 and, we had reason to believe, had formerly been among 
 the Moravians in the island of Antigua. Be this, however, 
 as it may, they appeared friendly to the cause of our heavenly 
 Master, and rejoiced exceedingly at the though!, that they 
 were likely to hear the sound of the gospel again. 
 
 From the hospitable habitation of Mr. Burn we repaired 
 to Roseau, the capital of the island, which we reached on 
 Sunday the 7th. On our arrival, conducted by Mr. Baxter, 
 we entered the house of a Mrs. Wehley, a mulatto gentle- 
 woman, with whom he had formed some distant acquaint- 
 ance, in a former period, when she resided in Antigua. 
 Delighted with our visit, and with the object which we had 
 in view, she received us with grateful affection ; and, that 
 no time might be wasted in unnecessary delays, gave notice 
 that I should preach in her house at four o'clock in the 
 same afternoon. At the time appointed, a considerable 
 number attended ; — much more than the house could possi- 
 bly contam. Those who could find means to enter heard 
 with deep attention, wliile I endeavored to display before 
 them, the elect, precious, Corner-stone; together with the 
 way of being built upon him. Even those who could not 
 hear gave no interruption. They felt the inconvenience of 
 their situation, but they saw it to be an embarrassment for 
 which we could, at present, apply no remedy. We might, 
 indeed, liave taken our stand in the street, and then all 
 would liave been able to hear ; but such an action would, 
 at that time, have discovered more indiscretion than pru- 
 dence, as we had not had as yet an opportunity of waiting 
 upon the Governor, to acquaint him with the occasion for 
 which we had come to the island. 
 
 In this little excursion we visited the soldiers in the bar- 
 racks, among whom we found two^ who had been members 
 
WEST INDIES. 353 
 
 of otir society in Ireland. These, like the two old negroes 
 we had previously seen at the residence of Mr. Burn, ap- 
 peared highly delighted with the prospect of having an 
 opportunity of hearing the gospel in these distant regions, 
 and expressed very earnest desires that a mission might be 
 aoon estabhshed in the island. But the period was not yet 
 come. We saw many difficulties which we were not pre- 
 pared to encounter, and many obstacles which we could 
 scarcely surmount. These circumstances induced us to lay 
 aside our intentions for the present, and to wait the arrival 
 of a more favorable moment. In consequence of these 
 iresolutions we returned again to our schooner, which was 
 then preparing to sail, and which landed us in safety at 
 Kingstown, in St. Vincent's, on Tuesday, the 9th of 
 January. 
 
 JS early two years elapsed from the period which we have 
 just mentioned, before another opportunity ofifered itself to 
 us to visit this island. A second visit was, however, made 
 on the 19th of December 1788, by a few Missionaries, 
 whom the author accompanied thither ; and from this 
 period we may date the commencement of our society, 
 and the establishment of that work which we proceed to 
 describe. 
 
 At this time we landed at Roseau, and repaired imme- 
 diately to the house of our former kind friend Mrs. Webley, 
 whom we found now, as in the year 1787, highly please4 
 with our visit, and perfectly ready to receive us. She had 
 been acquainted w ith our intention previously to our arrival, 
 by a local preacher from St. Christopher's, who had lately 
 made a voyage to this island. And in consequence of this 
 intelligence, in conjunction with some other friends, she 
 had hired a large room, commodious for preaching, that w^ 
 might escape those inconveniences which we had experienced 
 on the former occasion. 
 
 On our arrival, I seized the earliest moment to wait upon 
 his Excellency, Governor Orde, to communicate to him 
 our intention of establishing a Missionary in the island, 
 whose labors would be chietiy directed towards the instruct- 
 ing of the slaves in the principles of Christianity. In jour- 
 neying through life, I have had many opportunities of being 
 introduced to men of distinguished characters ; but 1 have 
 no recollection of any one whose politeness exceeded that of 
 this gentleman. He manifested both affabihty and respect 
 towards us, and appeared friendly to those truilis which we 
 came to inculcate. 
 
 VOL. n. Y y 
 
S54 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 Sanctioned by his approbation, I preached in the evening 
 in the large room which ISIrs. M'ebley and her friends had 
 procured, and also on the Sunday following, to congrega- 
 tions \\hich gave us reason to hope, that our labor in 
 Dominica would not be altogether in vain. Continuing on 
 the island about four days, Mr. Baxter, who accompanied 
 us, had also an opportunity of preaching twice in Roseau, 
 while I went into the country to visit a Mr. Cherrurier, a 
 gentleman who had shewn Iiimself friendly towards that 
 cause which we were endeavoring to support. In this part 
 of the island, also, I found some who were not averse to 
 the gospel ; and as we wei e designing to establish a mission 
 at this time, I endeavored to open some doors through 
 which our IMissionary might have access to the slaves. 
 
 On the whole, we found, both in town and country, 
 probabilities of success that were sufficient to justify our 
 endeavors. The word we had delivered had, to all ap- 
 pearance, been attended with a blessing, and we felt it to 
 be our duty, from a train of circumstances, to make an 
 attempt. Of connexions and extensive promises Vve had 
 not much to boast ; but our views wei e known, and we had 
 a prospect of peace. Among those who had heard us, it 
 was easy to perceive, that many w ere much affected. Some 
 of these had, formerly, been members of our society in 
 Antigua, and were, therefore, not altogether unacquainted 
 with our discipline. These, with some others, amounting 
 in all to about twenty-four, who appeared to be desirous of 
 obtaining salvation, we formed into a little society. And 
 as we were about to retire, it was determined by us, that 
 3fr. M' Cot nock, one of our Missionaries, should take 
 them under his immediate care, and endeavor to spread 
 the truths of the gospel through the different parts of the 
 island. 
 
 Having thus adjusted the affairs of our little society, and 
 provided for the instruction and care of its members, by the 
 appointment of a Missionary, we once more took our leave, 
 and sailed to Antigua. Mr. M'Cornock, whom we had 
 left in Dominica, immediately began his labor, with a zeal 
 "which plainly evinced that he had the interest of souls at 
 heart. Multitudes flocked to lienr him, and many received 
 the word with joy. His preaching was blessed in a peculiar 
 manner, and owned of God in the awakening of many souls. 
 He was, indeed, instant ;: season and out of season, accord- 
 ing to the Apostle's command ; so that, within the space of 
 a few months^ through his instrumentality, not less tha» 
 
WEST INDIES. ' S5S( 
 
 one hundred and Jiff y were led to inquire what thei/ must 
 do to be saved. 'ILe vvork appeared in the highest state of 
 prosperity ; the word of God ran and was glorified ; so 
 that, the most sanguine hopes were entertained of a perma- 
 nent establishment of a church in this island, against which 
 the gates of hell should not prevail. 
 
 But who can comprehend the economy of Heaven, or 
 trace those judgments which we must admit to be unsearch- 
 able ? or, those ways which are past finding out ? In the 
 midst of his usefulness, Mr. M*'Cornock was called from 
 time into eternity ; and those pious and seeking souls, who 
 had been benefited by his ministry, were left on a sudden 
 in the wilderness, exposed to dangers, and without any 
 earthly pastor. His labors were too excessive for the 
 strength of his constitution ; he became exhausted with the 
 violence of his exercises, and thus fell a martyr to that love 
 which he bore to the cause of Jesus Christ, and to the souls 
 of his fellow-creatures. 
 
 The intelligence of his death was received v;ith much 
 regret ; and the deplorable situation of the island, in conse- 
 quence thereof, was fully known ; but it was not in our 
 power, at that time, to supply his place. Several years 
 elapsed from the period of his death, before a re-establish- 
 ment of this missioa took place ; many, notwithstanding, 
 retained their steadfastness, and were found as lights in a 
 benighted land, after an interval of many years. 
 
 On the 3d of January 1793, on a voyage to St. Vincent's, 
 our vessel touched at Dominica. I landed at Roseau, and 
 embraced the opportunity of spending about four hours on 
 shore, in order to inquire whether I could find out any 
 of the flock of my dear deceased friend, William M'Cornock. 
 On calling upon a man of color, the report of my arrival 
 soon circulated, and about twenty of the fruits of that holy 
 man's labors gathered round me. My time was limited, 
 beyond the bounds of which I durst not pass ; otherwise, a 
 congregration might have been soon collected to hear that 
 word delivered, of which they had been so long deprived. 
 We, nevertheless, sang and united in prayer together, and 
 the power and presence of God were assuredly in the midst 
 of our little assembly. Indeed the fields were white unto 
 harvest, but alas ! alas ! there were none to reap them. 
 
 The island of Dominica, though it had been deserted by 
 us for a season through unavoidable necessity, had not been 
 forgotten. We had anxiously waited the favorable concur- 
 rence of circumstances, but no opportunity presented itself 
 
556 ■" HISTORY OF THE 
 
 till the year 1 794, when Mr. Cook was appointed to collect 
 the wandering sheep, and to traverse anew that ground, 
 over which Mr. M'Cornock had so successively trodden 
 about six years before. Of his success nothing of conse- 
 quence can be said ; he labored with assiduity, and laid, in 
 a certain measure, that foundation, on which his successor* 
 have since erected a spiritual fabric. 
 
 In 1796, Mr. Cook was succeeded by another Mission- 
 ary, who was accompanied by Mr. Baxter. On the manner 
 of their proceedings, and the prospects which the island 
 then afforded, Mr. Baxter delivers his sentiments in the fol- 
 lowing letter : 
 
 *' jyominica, June 1, 1796. 
 
 ^' My colleague and I arrived in this island last Thursday, 
 We waited on Governor Hamilton, who received us very 
 politely, and said, that he would throw nothing in our way, 
 and expressed a wish, at the same time, that we might do 
 good. Mrs. Wehley, and our friends of color, received u4 
 very kindly. We find it impossible to preach by candle- 
 light, for the white inhabitants are determined to persecute 
 us, if we do ; so we preach in tlie morning and at noon on 
 week days, and at ten and four on Sundays. We have very 
 serious and well-behaved congregations. Of the coloied 
 people, my colleague has formed twenty into a class ; butf 
 we think it best not to be hasty in admitting persons into 
 society. Our prospect, at present, is pleasing ; but on 
 account of the war every thing is extravagantly dear." 
 
 On the 11th of October, in the same year, we received 
 a letter from one of the preachers, who speaks as follows 
 of the state of religion, and of the views which he then 
 formed, of tlie prosperity of the work of God in Dominica : 
 
 " Heaven be praised, I am well and happy. I am 
 blessed with blessings from all quarters, and am desirous to 
 be devoted to God, and to the work of the ministry. My 
 labors in this island have, I hope, been blessed in a good 
 measure to the people. We have now nearly eighty in, 
 class, many of whom are under awakenings. We have 
 lately had some such powerful meetings, as I have rarely 
 known in the West Indies. The congregations increase in 
 number and respectability, and I charitably hope, in all that 
 is good We have peace and prosperity in all oir borders.'* 
 
WEST INDIES. Sol 
 
 Flattering iw these prospects of peace and prosperity 
 appeared, they were soon found to be deUisive. The hack- 
 neyed notion, that the preaching of the gospel to the slaves 
 would introduce among them notions of equality, began to 
 spread among the planters. This awakened dieir jealousies, 
 and gave birth to a determined opposition. To prevent the 
 gospel from being propagated, they contrived to keep alive 
 the report which their own fears had called into existence; 
 and to communicate the tale to the President of the Assem- 
 bly, in that light in which they wished him to behold it. 
 These machinations were conducted with such secrecy, tliat 
 the Missionary then resident in the island was ignorant of 
 their existence, till the plot v hich had been concerted was 
 about to be carried into immediate execution. 
 
 The month of October, 1796, had not fully expired, 
 before the Missionary received a summons from the Colonel 
 of the St. George's regiment, to appear in the iield on the 
 ensuing Sunday, to learn the use of arms, Sui-prised at 
 such an unexpected call, without knowing the occasion, h^. 
 immediately waited on the Colonel, stated to him the official 
 duties which he had to perform on that day, and begged to 
 be excused, that he might attend on the various branches of 
 religious worsliip. The Colonel received him with much 
 politeness, but observed, that it was not in his power to 
 exempt him ; — that he only acted in conformity with the 
 orders he had received from the President, to whom he r^ 
 commended him for the favor he wished to enjoy. 
 
 On waiting upon the President, he had tire mortification 
 to meet widi a very different reception. He presented h'\$ 
 petition in humble and appropriate terms, desiring to be 
 exempted from military service, in order that he might 
 attend to those ministerial duties, for which he came into 
 the island. The petition was no sooner read, than it was 
 treated with contempt. The President then told him, that 
 he had been informed, that he was a very suspicious cha- 
 racter, who disseminated pernicious doctrines among the 
 slaves ; and, that instead of being exempted from military 
 duty, he would compel him to quit the island ; and gave 
 him an order accordingly. 
 
 With this imperious mandate he was obliged to comply, 
 or suffer imprisonment. He accordingly took his leave of 
 the people, who, in consequence of his removal, were once 
 more left in the wilderness. He departed towards the close 
 of the year, and spent his time in some of tiie other islands. 
 
358 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 as an auxiliary preacher, till directions from England pro- 
 vided for him a new appointment. 
 
 It was not till towards the end of the year 1798, that 
 another Missionary could be sent to the island, with any 
 probability of continuing on it. This was at length effected, 
 through the interposition of a nobleman in England, who 
 wrote a letter to the Governor on the occasion. Mr. 
 Dumbleton, who was appointed to this island, found, on 
 his arrival, that the prejudices of the planters, though 
 raging with less vehemence, were far from being removed. 
 Many among them, on being made acquainted with his 
 intentions, hesitated not to declare, that no Methodist 
 preacher should continue as such among them. The Go- 
 vernor, at this time, was at a distance from Roseau, and 
 the issue appeared extremely doubtful. On his return, 
 Mr. Dumbleton waited on him, stated his business, and 
 xvas received with great politeness. His Excellency, on ■ 
 hearing his request, observed, that he had received some 
 letters on the business from England ; and, that while he 
 conducted himself with propriety, he should experience his^ 
 full protection. 
 
 In consequence of the persecution which we have just 
 stated, and the effects which resulted from it, the society, 
 which before was in a flourishing condition, experienced a 
 considerable reduction. When Mr. Dumbleton arrived, 
 not more than twelve members met regularly together, and 
 the congregations at first were much diminished. But, as 
 soon as the people discovered that they were permitted to 
 assemble without interruption or molestation, they rapidly 
 increased. Many, also, of the former members of society 
 soon returned to their ancient union. In the mornings, 
 about sixty or seventy well disposed persons regularly- 
 attended preaching, and before the end of the year the 
 congregation was become truly respectable. At this time, 
 the members in society amounted to about thirty. 
 
 By the year ISOO, the prospects had so far brightened, 
 that another chapel was thought necessary. A piece of 
 land well adapted to this purpose was accordingly procured. 
 In the meanwhile, the prejudices of the people had so con- 
 siderably abated, that many, who had before entered their 
 protests against the residence of a Methodist Missionary in 
 the colony, were now as ready to contribute towards the 
 purchase of the new chapel, as they had been forward iu 
 their wishes to have the old one destroyed. 
 
VEST INDIES. 559 
 
 In the year 1S03, the society consisted of one hundred 
 and three members, nine only of whom wore whiles. In 
 die lives of many among these, the gospel had evidently 
 produced some happy effects, and several during the pre- 
 ceding months had departed in the full triumph of faith. 
 In the spring of this year, Mr. Taylor was appointed to 
 succeed Mr. J^umbleton ; but, through some of those dis- 
 appointments which chccquer human life, he did not follow 
 his appointment. Mr. Boocock, however, came to supply 
 his place ; and reached Dominica in the month of J une, 
 much debilitated with an unpleasant passage. He preached 
 but twice after his arrival. His complaint settled into a 
 putrid fever, which, after conlining him to his bed for 
 some days, terminated in his death. From the accounts 
 which were transmitted to the author, concerning this me- 
 lancholy event, it appears, that he bore his affliction with 
 holy resignation to the will of God ; that in the midst of his 
 sufferings, he found the grace of Christ to be sufficient for 
 him, and took leave of his friends in a sure and certain hop® 
 of a glorious resurrection to eternal life. 
 
 During the short period that the providence of God 
 permitted him to remain in this island, he seems to have 
 been particularly endeared to the people. No assistance 
 was wanting which was in their power to procure ; and 
 when the last gasp proved all their efforts to be unavailing, 
 his funeral was marked with peculiar memorials of their 
 affection. The suddenness of his death left the society and 
 congregation in a very distressing state. No preacher was 
 on the island to supply his place ; and many months neces- 
 sarily elapsed before intelligence could be transmitted to 
 England, and another sent to take the charge upon him. 
 This appointment, at length, fell on Mr, Shepley, to 
 whose letters we shall have recourse for our next stage of 
 information, respecting the state of the work in this place. 
 
 From Mr. Robert Shepley; dated April 20, 1802. 
 
 " I embrace the present opportunity of informing you 
 of my safe arrival in this island, in company with Mr. 
 Baxter. We landed on the 17th of February, and found 
 the society scattered all abroad, having had no pastor to 
 look up to as their centre of union for so long a time. I 
 believe the leaders did all in their power to keep them 
 together, but in vain. But, thanks be to God, since my 
 arrival the greatest part of them have returned ; and I have 
 
360 HISTORY OF THB 
 
 reason to believe, that several of them enjoy the comforts of 
 religion. Indeed, I have joined new members every week 
 since I came. There were about fifty that met in class 
 when I arrived, and we have now seven whites and ninety- 
 five blacks and colored people ; so that I trust the Lord will 
 carry on a glorious work in this island. 
 
 " I have had several invitations to visit the people on the 
 English estates; and the negroes on several plantations have 
 already built little wooden preaching-houses (or huts) by 
 the consent of their masters, for the people to meet in. 
 1 intend, as soon as possible, to join them into classes ; and 
 I have no doubt, by the blessing of God, if I keep my 
 health, that we shall have more members in the country 
 than we have in the town. As our society at present is very 
 small, the members cannot do much for the support of the 
 cause, though I believe they are wilnng to do all in their 
 power ; but such is my necessity at this time, that I have 
 been obliged to draw on you a bill for fifty pounds. Since 
 I came to Dominica, I have been very poorly, but I trust 
 that God will give me health for the sake of his church ; 
 and I yet hope to see his kingdom come with mighty 
 power, when Ethiopia shall stretch out her hands unto 
 God." 
 
 Our next account of the Mork of God in this island i» 
 from Mr. Thomas Richardson, and is dated Dominica, 
 February I, 1803. Though the former part of this letter 
 may be considered as exclusively applicable to Antigua, yet 
 as it contains the observations of a mere spectator, who only 
 paid the island a transient visit, it cannot be unacceptable to 
 the reader, especially as it contains some observations 
 ■« hich are not to be found in the history of that island. 
 
 ." I continued," he observes, " very comfortably with 
 my colleague, Mr. Thomson, among the kind friends at 
 Liverpool, until the 13th of November 1802, when we 
 sailed for the West Indies, and, after encountering many 
 difficulties, anchored in St. John's harbor in Antigua, 
 January i, 1803. Our arrival in this island M'as very pro- 
 A'idential. Mr. Burkenhead, one of our Missionaries, had 
 died of the yellow fever but a few weeks before; and Mrs. 
 Baxter, wife of Mr. John Baxter, had been carried off by 
 the same complaint. It had been so violent, that seven or 
 eight Europeans died daily ; but it had considerably abated 
 previous to our arrival. What a time for men to think ou 
 
WEST INDIES. 361 
 
 their M'ays and a future stale ! Mr. Thomson immediately 
 caught the fever, and was given over by the physicians; 
 but, thank God, he was so far recovered as to be able to 
 preach in less than a month. 
 
 " The society in Antigua consists of about four thousand 
 blacks and mulattoes, including a very small number of 
 whites. In the congregations in the towns, the proportion 
 of whites is not more than one to forty ; but in the country 
 congregations, it is very rare to see a white person. In St. 
 John's we have a commodious chapel, which is generally 
 crowded with hearers. In Purham, distant about eight 
 miles, we have another, which is well attended ; and also a 
 dwelling-house, with other conveniences, for the preacher. 
 At Willoughby, eight miles from Purham, and fifteen from 
 St. John's, they are going to build a chapel. Besides these 
 places of worship, the preachers get large congregations in 
 negro-houses, in all parts of the country ; but they are 
 obliged to board and lodge at their own expense. There 
 are in the island six or eight local preachers, besides several 
 colored women who are very useful, and possess considera- 
 ble abilities for prayer and exhortation. The women in St. 
 John's hold public meetings every week. I once got into 
 a corner where they could not see me, and was astonished 
 at their eloquence and unction. Their abilities far exceed 
 those of most of the women I have heard either speak or 
 pray in England ; and what is better still, they are patterns 
 of genuine piety. The people, in their bands and love-» 
 feasts, are very ready to declare what God has done for 
 their souls, and that with a simplicity which would astonish 
 
 " On the evening after our arrival, the society renewed 
 their covenant with God. The women were nearly all 
 dressed in white, and they sung the covenant hymn, ** Come 
 *' let us use the grace divine," &c. remarkably well. Their 
 devotion was very animated, and several were so affected 
 before the conclusion of the hymn, that they wept aloud. 
 During the reading of the form of the covenant, the assem- 
 bly was as solemn as death. It would have done you good 
 to have seen them. I think I was never more affected on 
 such an occasion. I bless the day that I ever came among 
 them, and praise the Lord with all my powers, that I was 
 not disobedient to the heavenly vocation. 
 
 " On the 31st of January, I left the kind people of St. 
 John's, embarked on board a small schooner, and arrived at 
 Roseau, in Dominica, after a passage of fifty hours. I saw 
 
 VOL. II. Z 2 
 
362 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 St. Bartholomew's, St. Christopher's, Nevis, Mountserrat, 
 and Guadaloupe, in the way. Mr. and Mrs. Shepley re- 
 ceived me very affectionately. The Captain did all in his 
 power to make me comfortable. Surely the goodness of 
 God is in all the earth ! 
 
 " In th« town of Roseau we have upwards of one hun- 
 dred in society. The chapel is rather small, but the dwell- 
 ing-house is very commodious. In the country we have 
 more than four hundred in society, and the negroes have 
 built little places of worship at their own expense. At 
 Prince Ruperfs we have a very fine opening, and are likely 
 to have a larger society there than in any other part of the 
 island. It is about ten leagues from Roseau by sea ; and 
 we always choose to go by water, the road being almost 
 impassable. We have been invited to preach on many 
 estates, and the proprietors have given orders for us to ba 
 entertained at their own expense. 
 
 " The islands; in general, are very mountainous ; and 
 none, peihaps, more so than Dominica. To describe the 
 hills, and rocks, and precipices, would require an abler 
 hand than mine. They really have a terrific appearance. 
 This island is only cultivated near the sea. Probably nine 
 parts out of ten remain in a state of rude nature, and are 
 chiefly covered with forests, trees, and brush-wood. The 
 houses here are chiefly built of wood ; and instead of glass, 
 they have lattices, which exclude the sun and admit the air. 
 Chimnies they have none, having no occasion for tire. All 
 their cookery is performed in out-houses ; and their washings 
 near the wells or streams of water. 
 
 " The slaves are in a better condition than the fre6 
 colored people, having a weekly allowance of salt provisions, 
 two suits of clothes in the year, and a sufficiency of land to 
 plant for their own use. But their morals are in a deplorable 
 state. The Lord's day is scandalously profaned. On this 
 solemn day, the stores are all open as on other days. On 
 this day, the negroes bring their provisions to market, and 
 afterwards spend their time in music and dancing, till called^ 
 to work next morning. Except on Sundays, the black men 
 go half naked ; but on the Sabbath, they dress like the 
 English, wiih the exception of shoes and stockings. The 
 black women generally wear a handkerchief round the head, 
 instead of a cap ; and a few have hats instead of bonnets. 
 Gowns, stays, stockings, and shoes, are not in use ; but they 
 look very well in their white muslin jackets and petticoats, 
 " in my excursions through the country, 1 have found 
 
WEST INDIES. 36s 
 
 the people ripe for the gospel, and much readier to receive 
 it than the poor in England. Some have told me, that they 
 walked thirty miles to get instructed in tFie christian religion, 
 and have continued to serve the Lord from the first time 
 they heard a sermon. In some places where they have no 
 preaching at all, they have erected commodious little houses 
 for prayer. Some of them have been severely punished for 
 attending these meetings ; but it has had no other effect than 
 to make them more vigorous in serving God. I have really 
 been astonished at the propriety and power with which they 
 have spoken of the Lord's dealings with their souls. Oh i 
 if the young men in England did but know how these poor 
 heathen pant after, and thirst for, the gospel of Christ, they 
 would not be so reluctant to leave their country, to help a 
 wretched people who are groaning for redemption. 
 
 " Were I at home, and in the most affluent circumstances, 
 I would, without hesitation or delay, leave all, and hasten 
 to this burning climate, in obedience to my heavenly Mas- 
 ter's call. And even now, though I might have a passage 
 gratis, and the best circuit in England on my return, I 
 would reject the offer for the sake of preaching to my dark 
 and tawny brethren in these islands. My constitution, I 
 thank God, is well calculated to bear the climate ; I never 
 enjoyed better health in any period of my life. O that I 
 may devote it entirely to the glory of God." 
 
 From the same; dated Dominica, April 26, 1803. 
 
 " I now take up my pen to give you a farther account of 
 the work of God in this island. The proprietors of estates, 
 and other gentlemen in this colony, have always, till very 
 lately, been strongly prejudiced against us. Hence, for the 
 most trifling reasons they banished one, if not more, of our 
 ministers. Two died soon after their arrival ; and he who 
 preceded Mr. Shepley was never further, I believe, than a 
 few miles from Roseau. So that, previously to the arrival 
 of my colleague, the gospel had but a slender footing here. 
 He found about fifty members regularly joined in society ; 
 and since that time, prejudice has been gradually wearing 
 off. The Governor, I hope, thinks favorably of the mis- 
 sion ; and several of the principal families espouse our 
 cause. 
 
 " We have now permission to preach on most of the 
 estates throughout the island, though the proprietors or 
 gccupiers of many had never before seen a Missionary ; 
 
364 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 nor had the poor slaves ever before heard a gospel sermoHi 
 Now, on the Lord's day, they come many miles from the 
 country to hear, and receive the word with tears of joy. 
 
 my dear Sir, I never conceived the willingness of these 
 people to receive the gospel, till I came among them ; but, 
 being persuaded the call was from God, 1 left my native 
 country. But had 1 known their disposition, I should have 
 wished for wings, that I might have lost no time in shewing 
 them the way to heaven. Blessed be the Lord, he hath 
 abundantly owned the labors of his two unworthy servants. 
 Our field is so enlarged, that we have divided the island into 
 two circuits. Our chief places of residence are about thirty 
 miles distant from each other. We change stations about 
 once a month, passing and re-passing by sea. The number 
 in society is now about seven hundred ; and the Lord is 
 adding to them " daily such as," I trust, are, and " shall 
 " be saved." Thus the word of the Lord has gloriously 
 prevailed over the powers of darkness, and that ia a short 
 time. 
 
 " As a specimen, I beg leave to give you a journal of 
 the work for the last ten days. On Sunday se'nnight, I 
 joined to the society ten slaves, who were seeking freedom 
 from the slavery of sin. Tuesday night, just after retiring, 
 
 1 was awakened by a negro, who had come many miles to 
 tell me, that God had pardoned all his sins ; that I might 
 rejoice and praise the Lord on his account. On Wednes- 
 day, three free mulatto young women came, and desired 
 admission into the society. On the Saturday, one of them 
 returned, and said, she had found her sins such a burden 
 that she could not sleep. I pointed her to the Lord Jesus ; 
 and while I prayed, she prostrated herself on the floor, and 
 seemed as in the agonies of death ; but the Lord soon spoke 
 peace to her soul, and she went home rejoicing. In the 
 evening, two other mulatto women, earnestly seeking the 
 Lord, came and desired to be received into union with our 
 people. On the Sunday, I joined to the society, on trial, 
 fifty-eight slaves and one white man. Great numbers wept 
 aloud during the morning and evening service ; and few, if 
 any, were unaffected. Presently after the meeting, one of 
 the women, who had attended also on the Wednesday, came 
 running and shouting for joy ; " O brother," said she, " I 
 " am happy, I am happy, I am happy. Praise the Lord 
 " on my account. I was never so happy in all my life." 
 Next morning I met the people a little after five o'clock, 
 that beiiig our utual hour ; when she related her conversiou 
 
WEST INDIES. 365 
 
 lo the congregation, \vho were all powerfully affected. 
 About an hour after this, another free young woman came 
 mourning, and desired to know what she must do to be 
 saved ? In another hour, the sister of her that had received 
 Divine consolation on Sunday came in the greatest distress; 
 and, falling upon her knees, begged we would pray for her. 
 Just after dinner, a third also came, exceedingly distressed 
 on account of her sins ; and God had mercy on her, as on 
 both the others ; glory be to his name. They all went home 
 rejoicing. During the evening-meetina::, four more free 
 people received a sense of the pardon of their sins, and re- 
 turned to their houses Mith joy. This morning, before I 
 reached the place of meeting, I heard the cries of the peo- 
 ple. One black woman found peace, who had been seeking 
 it for some time. One of the superintending slaves went 
 home, and related this conversation to his people ; and all 
 who were in the field began to cry for mercy. Surely the 
 visible change so speedily wrought in the countenances of 
 these people, is sufficient to convince any infidel of the 
 power and grace of God. 
 
 " By this short extract from my journal, you will see 
 how wonderfully the Lord is reviving his work in this island ; 
 and how happy I am that God has counted me worthy to 
 speak in his name ! Please to remember me to my relations 
 and all my religious friends." 
 
 That these letters, which we have just inserted, present 
 to the christian world a pleasing prospect of the work of 
 God in Dominica, it is as needless to assert as it is useless 
 to deny. But who can comprehend the mysterious economy 
 of Heaven r Our next accounts bring with them a mournful 
 gloom, and inform us, that the INlissionary whose letters 
 we have just transcribed was called from time into eternity, 
 in the midst of that usefulness which so evidently accom- 
 panied his labors in this part of the vineyard of our Lord. 
 
 The shadows which involve the dispensations of Providence 
 preclude us from the possibility of measuring infinite wisdom, 
 or of adjusting the Divine actions by those laws which regu- 
 late the morals of mankind. They fill the imnd with reflec- 
 tions of the most solemn nature, and act as warnings to teach 
 survivors to prepare to meet their God. They shew us the 
 instability of human life, even when devoted to that cause 
 which heaven itself has displayed miracles to promote ; and 
 awfully tell us, that there is no safe repose beneath the 
 
565 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 sun, except in Him who can both protect and bless us t« 
 all eternity. 
 
 They teach the various members of the church of Christ, 
 tfiat no glory is to be attributed to the instruments of tlieir 
 (Conversion, v\'hatever success may have attended their labors, 
 or how eminent soever they may have been for genuine piety 
 and devotedness to God. They are calculated to wean the 
 affections from all created good, and to draw the soul to that 
 infinite source of perfection and felicity which can neither 
 ^expire nor change. 
 
 And, finally, we may observe, that as those shadows 
 through Avhich we are obliged to pass in the present life are 
 sometimes perfectly impenetrable, we thereby may obtain 
 an assurance that there must be another and a better world. 
 Here, then, we find room for faith to exercise all its powers, 
 while we follow the conduct of our God to a land unknown. 
 In his moral attributes, and in his revealed will, our faith 
 finds firm footing. Here patience must have its perfect 
 work ; and we are taught, from the principles of human 
 existence, that a perfect knowledge of these incomprehen- 
 sibles can only be obtained in eternity ; and that death is a 
 necessary step towards that perfection of knowledge, which 
 we seek in vain on this side of the grave. 
 
 From Mr. Baxter; dated Antigua, June "7, 1803. 
 
 *' It is painful to me to be a messenger of grief, lamen- 
 tation, and woe ; but I am obliged to perform the disagree- 
 able task. I received a letter from brother Shepley, informing 
 me tliat he was very slowly recovering from a dangerous 
 fever, and that brother Richardson was given over by the 
 doctor at Prince Rupert's Bay^ where brother William 
 M'Cornock paid the debt of nature. I believe the Lord 
 has made these brethren very useful, and a good work is 
 now going on ; and if we do not strain every nerve in such 
 a case, we cannot be said to love as brethren. I have taken 
 a passage for Dominica, and shall carry the money to relieve 
 them ; and, if need be, shall bring or send brother Richard- 
 son to Antigua. I bless God he gives me health, and I 
 desire to use it to his glory. I thank him, also, that the 
 work is going on here steadily, and I hope is deepened as 
 well as extended. Mary Darby, who has been a member 
 of society thirty years, is now dying in the full triumph oi 
 faith, and is rejoicing in God." 
 
WEST INDIES. SGf 
 
 On the eighth of July 1803, which was only one month 
 after that on which the preceding letter was written, Mr. 
 Shepley, from Dominica, transmitted an account, Mhich in 
 some measure dissipated the apprehensions that Mr. Bax- 
 ter's letter had occasioned. But, unhappily, it was a 
 transient gleam of hope, which only glittered for a moment 
 to expire in that darkness which hovers round the tomb. 
 
 '^ '" I embrace the present opportunity of informing yon 
 of the recovery of both brother Richardson and myself 
 from our late indisposition of body. We are still very weak ; 
 yet, I trust, we are out of all danger from the fever, I was 
 sick about six weeks, and brother Richardson about seven. 
 But, blessed be the name of the Lord, we have now begun 
 to labor again a little ; and what is best of all, the Lord is 
 with us, both to wound tlie impenitent, and to heal the 
 broken-hearted. 
 
 " The last time I was at Prince Rupert's Bay, I joined 
 upwards of one hundred and thirty people in society, in the 
 course of eight or ten days. So mightily is the Lord work- 
 ing in that part of the island ! Many of these new members. 
 We trust, are not only joined in church-fellowship with one 
 another, but are joined to the Lord in one spirit. They 
 can give a very clear account of the pardoning love of God 
 shed abroarl in their hearts. Many otliers of them are truly 
 convinced of sin, and seeking redemption in the blood of 
 Jesus. To his name be all the glory. 
 
 " It is not yet quite twelve months since I first went 
 amongst them, and there are now about six hundred in 
 society. What hath the Lord wrought among these poor 
 heathens ! Glory be to his name for ever ! I trust that by 
 the end of the year, if the Almighty please to spare our 
 lives, and continue to give his blesshig to our labors, we 
 shall have nearly one thousand in societ)'. But, as I said 
 in my last, we are in very great want of a chapel there 
 (Prince Rupert's Bay) ; and it is not in the power of the 
 poor negroes to build one, without considerable help from 
 our friends in Europe. I shall be thankful to you for 
 directions in this matter. We do not increase in the town 
 so rapidly as in the country. This is owing chiefly, I think, 
 to the opposition we have from the white people, mIio will 
 jiot suffer us to have either public or private meetings by 
 candle-light. And as the generality of our hearers are 
 either slaves. Mho are obliged to^ attend to the business of 
 their owners by day, or poor people, who have to get their 
 
36s HISTORY OF THE 
 
 living by their labor, they cannot attend so well by day-light 
 as they could by candle-light. 
 
 " In February 1802, 1 found hwi fifty in society in the 
 whole island ; now we have nine hundred. Blessed be the 
 Lord for the work he has wrought. The work is his, and 
 to him will we ascribe the glory. I hope in my next I shall 
 be able to tell you of our success on the windward side of 
 the island ; as we are about to use every means in our power 
 to get permission from the owners of estates on that side, to 
 go and instruct their negroes." 
 
 In another letter, which in point of date somewhat pre- 
 cedes the foregoing, Mr. Shepley states the condition of 
 the society, and of the work at large, and also the prospects 
 which lay before them, during the illness of himself and his 
 family, in the following language : 
 
 " I sit down to write in a weak state of body. The Lord 
 has been trying us in Dominica in the fire of affliction. Both 
 brother Richardson and myself have been ill of a fever at 
 the same time. It is now nearly six weeks since I was first 
 taken sick ; but, blessed be God, I am so far recovered as to 
 begin to labor a little ; but poor brother Richardson is yet 
 very ill. Eight days ago the doctors gave up all hopes of 
 his recovery, and said they could do no more for him. But 
 since that time, he has altered a good deal for the better, and 
 the fever has begun to intermit. It only attacks him now 
 every other day. He is at piesent at Prince Rupert's Bay ; 
 but I mean, as soon as he is fit to be removed, to have him 
 brought to Roseau for the benefit of the air. It is more 
 healthy here than there. It was at that place I caught my 
 sickness, and there it was that our brother M'Cornock 
 died. 
 
 " We have joined nearly five hundred in that place, and 
 the people are crying out on every hand for mercy. Many 
 of them can already rejoice in God their Saviour ; and others 
 are so earnestly seeking the same salvation, that they will 
 not let us rest in our beds at night, but they come and beg 
 us to get up, and either help them to praise God, or else 
 to pray to him for mercy for them. I never before, wherever 
 I have be^n, saw so great a prospect of good. We change 
 with each other every fortnight, on account of the place 
 being so sickly. It is about thirty miles from Roseau. His 
 Excellency Governor Provost has given us a grant of an 
 acre of crown land there, to build a chapel on ; but we 
 
WEST INDIES. 569 
 
 want money to build with. Surely never was a chapel more 
 wanted any where, for there is not a place of zeorship of 
 any kind within twenty miles of it. And the only place 
 which we have for the people to meet in, is a small thatched 
 house, which will not contain a fourth part even of the 
 society ; much less is there room for tiie many others that 
 attend. My dear Sir, 1 hope you will help us ali you can. 
 I am sure, if our friends in England, who wish well to the 
 Redeemer's kingdom among these poor heathen, did but 
 know how frequently they stand weeping without in the 
 midst of torrents of rain, and crying to God, at the same 
 time, for mercy, they would not withhold their help, but 
 readily step forward to assist in building them a house, in 
 which they may M'orship God. My dear friends, into whose 
 hands this letter may come, let me assure you, this is a true 
 statement. And let me inquire, whether your bowels of 
 compassion do not yearn over these outcasts of men ? and, 
 whether you can withhold your help on such an occasion? 
 May the Lord assist you to shew your love to him, by help- 
 ing his poor members." 
 
 We have stated in a former extract, taken from a letter 
 transmitted by Mr. Baxter, that as soon as he had learned 
 the condition of Mr. Shepley and Mr. Richardson, in Do- 
 minica, he had drawn for money to relieve theiti in their 
 distresses, and that he had taken a passage in a vessel to 
 visit them on the spot. The following letter, written by 
 Mr. Baxter, contains his report on the issue of that voyage, 
 both as it applied to himself, and to the state of those Mis- 
 sionaries whom he purposely visited. His letter is dated 
 July 28, 1803, and was written from Antigua soon after 
 his return. 
 
 " Agreeably to what I wrote to you in my laft, I went 
 to Dominica, and found brother Richardson recovering 
 from his dangerous fever. But they had not a dollar in the 
 house, though they had pressing accounts to settle. Brother 
 Shepley had been obliged to part with all the money that 
 should have paid the quarterage of the preachers, so that 
 they were in great distress. I gave them the money I drew 
 on you for, and brother Shepley paid ninety-nine pounds 
 and some shillings to settle their accounts. 
 
 " There is a great work begun at Prince Rupert's. 
 Many are converted to God, and numbers in distress 
 
 VOL. II. 3 A 
 
370 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 seeking pardon. But it is an unhealthy place for Euro- 
 peans ; and I fear few preachers will be able to stand it. 
 
 " I continued a week at Dominica ; but, finding myself 
 unwell, I happily got a passage for Antigua, where I arrived 
 with the fever. I landed on Wednesday night, and sent for 
 the doctor immediately. No dangerous symptoms then ap- 
 peared. But on Friday I was dangerously ill, and all hope 
 of life was gone. I felt perfectly resigned, and had a full 
 assurance of my acceptance with my heavenly Father. I 
 thought I should die that night, or the next morning, and 
 that I should be buried by my wife on Sunday. I thought 
 the taking of medicine needless ; and when the nurse came 
 to bring me some on Saturday morning, I asked, Do you 
 not think I shall be dead by noon ? She replied " No." 
 I then took what she gave me ; and, to the surprise of the 
 physician that was called in, and of all that attended me, 
 I began to recover. I bless God, I am now as well as when 
 I arrived from England. How mysterious are the ways of 
 the Lord I" 
 
 From the same ; dated Antigua, October 9.5, 1803. 
 
 " I wrote to you about seven weeks ago, that brother 
 Shepley had arrived at Antigua very sick. He reached us 
 on Monday, just alive. He was ordered to leave Dominica, 
 as the only means of saving his life. He had been very 
 useful in that island, as brother Richardson informed you 
 at large. On his arrival, we had no other way of providing 
 for him but by drawing on you for fifty pounds, besides 
 one hundred and forty-nine pounds four shillings and eleven- 
 pence, for which he had drawn on you before. Since his 
 arrival he has had a relapse ; but, by the blessing of God, 
 is now in a fair way of doing well. 
 
 " I am now sorry to inform you, that I have received 
 letters by the packet, informing me of the death of brother 
 Richardson, who departed this life on Sunday the 9th of 
 October. By letters which he wrote to send to his father, 
 and a particular friend, it appears, that he thought himself 
 seasoned to Dominica, and rejoiced in the prospect of seeing 
 his labors crowned with great success. But on October the 
 4th, he was attacked with a fever, which in five days cut 
 him off. He was persuaded, that Dominica was the place 
 to which God had called him ; and hence he observed, in a 
 letter to his friend, " / would not wish to live in any placf 
 
"WEST INDIES. 371 
 
 " hut Dominica ;* adding at the same time, " that he had 
 *■ seen as many remarkable instances of conversion among 
 " the negroes, as he had ever seen or known in England." 
 That God should take him away in the midst of his useful- 
 ness, is to us very mysterious." 
 
 These awful providences placed the Missionary church in 
 Dominica in a very critical situation. The labors of two 
 were absolutely necessary ; but sickness and death had re- 
 moved both of those who had been stationed in the island ; 
 and we felt much embarrassment in getting the place of 
 either properly supplied, " Brother Patterson^' Mr. Baxter 
 continues, " having been only six weeks in Antigua, thought 
 it hard to remove so soon. I am unequal to the task. 
 Therefore, the matter being urgent, brother Richard Patti- 
 son, another Missionary, saw it his duty to go, though his 
 wife was but just brought to bed of another son. He, there- 
 fore, goes by himself first ; and if the island seems to agree 
 with him, he will fetch his wife. But no one preacher can 
 supply Dominica. Three years ago the inhabitants would 
 hardly permit a preacher to land in that island ; and now 
 there are more places to receive us than we can supply. If 
 brother Shepley recovers his health, he is willing to return 
 to Dominica. 
 
 " Brother Richardson died rejoicing in the Lord. The 
 Rev. Mr. Audain buried him, and preached his funeral 
 sermon ; and it appears by a letter which he wrote to me, 
 that his death is much regretted by all who knew him." 
 
 On the 8th of December, 1 803, Mr. Shepley, whom we 
 have just seen reduced to the margin of the grave, by that 
 disease which proved fatal to Mr. Richardson, and had been 
 removed to the less insalubrious atmosphere of Antigua, 
 forwarded a letter relative to the general disaster, from 
 which we will take some extracts to lay before the reader. 
 At the time that the letter was written, he had so far re- 
 covered from his severe indisposition, as to be able once 
 more to return to Dominica, to persevere in that line of 
 arduous duty, which had already been attended with such 
 imminent hazard ; and hence the letter to which we allude 
 is dated from Roseau. 
 
 " I doubt not, that before this time you have heard of 
 my sickness, and of brother Richardson's death. In April 
 last I was seized with an intermitting fever, and since that 
 time 1 have had it five times over. It had nearly brought 
 
372 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 me to the grave. The doctors advised me, as the only means 
 left of saving my life, to quit the island immediately. In 
 consequence of this information, I and my family went 
 on board the packet on the 3d of September, and arrived 
 at Antigua on the 5th of the same month. But I was so 
 weak in body, that, on getting on shore, I could scarcely 
 reach brother Baxter's house. I had only been there about 
 a month before I was again seized with the fever, and was 
 sick about five or six weeks. But, thanks be to God, he 
 hath restored me once more to my health. As soon as I 
 heard that I was appointed another year for Dominica, I 
 embraced the first opportunity of returning to this colony. 
 
 " Brother Richardson died on the Qth of October, of the 
 fever; he was happy in the Lord. The little time he 
 labored in the island, which was only a few months, the 
 Lord owned his labors much. He was beloved by the 
 people, and his death is greatly lamented. We have been 
 in the furnace of affliction in this colony ; may God grant 
 that we may be purified from the dross of sin ! The Lord 
 continues to carry on his work here. I believe we are 
 upwards of nine hundred in society : to his name be ascribed 
 all the glory. Pray for us, that God may hasten the day, 
 when Ethiopia shall more fully stretch out her hands unto 
 God. I remain, dear Sir, your's in the bonds of the 
 gospel." 
 
 The changes which are inseparable from our itinerant plan, 
 and are upon the whole exceedingly useful, brought Mr. 
 Dumbleton, in the year 1804, once more into the island of 
 Dominica. Of the state of religion towards the close of 
 that \ear, he speaks in general terms, without entering into 
 a minute discrimination of particular places, or marking 
 that singular success, which we have noted in those letters 
 that have been already inserted. But his view of the 
 work of God will best appear in his own words. 
 
 Dominica, December 10, 1804. 
 
 " I arrived here November 15, 1804, and found the 
 society attending their meetings tolerably well in Roseau. 
 But in the country they are in a scattered state, as sheep 
 without a shepherd. Brother Shepley obtained a grant for 
 an acre of land from the Governor, at Prince Rupert's 
 Bay, twenty-eight miles from town, and we are building a 
 
WEST INDIES. 373 
 
 chapel on it. God is with us. Some souls have been 
 lately brought to feel the saving power of grace." 
 
 By a further account from this island in 1 805, we have 
 again been taught, that nothing is safe beneath the throne of 
 God. Tlie world in which we live is agitated with natural 
 earthquakes and civil convulsions. Subterranean iires and 
 imprisoned air unite with avarice and ambition, and alter- 
 nately scorch mankind with flames, and deluge the plains 
 with human blood. Towards the establishment of this 
 truth, the following letter, written by Mr. Gilgrass, one of 
 our Missionaries in Dominica, will serve to add its mite to 
 thy grand mass of evidence which every age of the world 
 affords us. It is dated March 1 1, 1805. 
 
 " In February last, (by the permission of God,) our 
 -enemies made us an unwelcome visit. Early on Friday 
 morning there was an alarm tired. It was at first reported, 
 that the Demerara fleet was approaching ; but a little time 
 convinced us it was a French fleet, consisting of eight sail, 
 one of one hundred and twenty guns, four of seventy-four, 
 two privateers, and a brig. Instantly the whole town was 
 all in confusion, and the inhabitants began to remove their 
 most valuable property, and to leave their habitations. For 
 a short time the thirty-six pounders whizzed about our heads 
 in a most dreadful manner. 
 
 " Their ships were very well manned, baring on board 
 upw ards of five thousand musketeers. By their flat-bottomed 
 boats, each of which held eighty men, they soon landed 
 eleven or twelve hundred at the fort. Our number there 
 was not more than one hundred. For as they lainled at 
 different places, our force was divided ; and it was greatly 
 to our disadvantage that we had but few regulars. The 
 Governor, General Provost, is truly a man of courage, and 
 worthy of high esteem. He is also a friend to the cause of 
 God, and represses the spirit of persecution. \\ hen I pre- 
 sented myself before him, he advised me to take care of 
 myself, and said he should be happy to hear of my pros- 
 perity. 
 
 " The town now lies in a ruinous state indeed. A third 
 part is burnt down ; and the storehouses being consumed, 
 both food and raiment are destroyed. The enemy demanded 
 a large sum of money, and took with him all the vessels in 
 the harbor, excepting two, and these would not carry sail. 
 
S74 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 They also seized upon many negroes ; and, after plundering 
 the inhabitants, departed. 
 
 ** I bless God, that all I lost by them was a little sweat 
 in running through the woods, and climbing stupendous 
 mountains. Being, however, for some time without food 
 of any kind whatever, I was brought very low indeed. But 
 not having finished my work here below, the Lord, in 
 mercy to both soul and body, hath preserved me from the 
 calamities which many have suffered. Before the invasion, 
 we had a bright expectation of much good being done ; but 
 since that time, there has been a declension of the work. 
 I trust, however, through the exercise of faith and prayer, 
 that the people will again recover their spiritual strength." 
 
 The happy effects of faith and prayer, which seem to 
 have been anticipated towards the close of the preceding 
 letter, we find to have been, in a great measure, realized in 
 the autumn of the same year. God has always been mind- 
 ful of his church and people ; and, in the midst of accumu- 
 lated disasters, has either rescued them from distress, or 
 provided for their safety in the midst of embarrassments. 
 This was particularly the case in the island of Dominica. 
 Darkness, indeed, continued for a season, but light and joy 
 succeeded it almost immediately < The temporary disasters, 
 which brought both terror and devastation, were of short 
 continuance, in a religious point of view ; calculated rather 
 to disturb the tranquillity of the people, than to prevent the 
 progress of the cause of God. 
 
 But this truth will best appear from the following letter, 
 written by Mr. Dumbleton, Mr. Gilgrass's colleague, dated 
 Dominica, October 10, 1805, and addressed to the author : 
 
 " Notwithstanding the distress which the French and the 
 fire occasioned here, the cause of God prospers. The 
 society and congregation have increased in Roseau. Many 
 have been awakened and justified ; and the chapel is become 
 so much too small, that it will not contain more than half of 
 the hearers that attend on Sunday afternoons. We have, 
 therefore, begun to enlarge it. 
 
 Prince Rupert's Bai/ is very sickly ; which is, probably, 
 owing to a swamp that extends for many miles. The 
 government has sustained so great a loss in the garrison there, 
 that they have agreed to give a gentleman nineteen thousand 
 pounds to drain it near the garrison. He has been nearly 
 
>V'EST INDIES. ^75 
 
 two years at work upon it, with a number of negroes, and 
 is likely to succeed. I hope when this is accomplished, the 
 place will be more healthy. I have been live times there, 
 and am persuaded we should have a large society, if we 
 could but keep our health ; but I have caught the fever four 
 times out of the five. Brother Gilgrass has not gone thither 
 yet. Every preacher endangers his life every time he goes. 
 Our chapel there, which is fifty feet by thirty, is just 
 finished ; and a debt of thirty joe^ is incurred thereby, wliich 
 would soon be paid, if a preacher could but live there, 
 
 " I bless God for his many mercies bestowed on me, my 
 family, and his church in this island. Our meetings, iu 
 general, are very pleasing and profitable." 
 
 Our next account from Dominica records the death of 
 another M issionary ; namely, Mr. John Hawkshajf, who came 
 hither after making an unsuccessful effort to establish the 
 gospel on the continental shoi-es ; to which attempt it may 
 not, perhaps, be improper to advert. 
 
 It was not very early in those periods which we have had 
 occasion so frequently to notice (when America and the 
 West India Islands were peopled by die inhabitants of 
 Europe), that the Dutch established themselves at Surinam, 
 on the shores of the continent. This vast territory was, 
 indeed, first seized upon by the French, so early as 1640; 
 but these adventurers being too impatient to wait upon the 
 progress of nature, in ripening the various productions of the 
 soil, soon after abandoned it altogether, as a worthless ac- 
 quisition. The English, more industrious and persevering 
 than their Gallic neighbours, proceeded, immediately on 
 their departure, to cultivate the lands which the former 
 occupants had so much neglected. 
 
 Their habits of persevering industry were soon crowned 
 with considerable success ; in consequence of which, they 
 were unhappily compelled to know, " That wealth within 
 " was ruin at the door." In 1667, our countrymen were 
 attacked by the Dutch, who, on their landing, finding the 
 colonists scattered over a vast tract of territory, soon brought 
 them into subjection, and wrenched the whole district from 
 their hands. Within a few years from this period, the 
 English inhabitants were collected together, and, to the 
 number of about twelve hundred, transported to Jamaica. 
 Surinam then remained in the possession of the invaders, and 
 was ceded to the Republic of Holland in a formal manner. 
 
 The extraordinary success which attended this settlement 
 
375 HISTORY OF^ fHE 
 
 induced them to attempt another, in the year 1732, upon 
 the river Berbice, a stream which falls into the ocean about 
 sixty miles west of Surinam. The vast success which at- 
 tended these enterprizes emboldened new adventurers to 
 embark in new undertakings. These, forming themselves 
 into an association, directed their industrfous attention to- 
 wards the banks of the Demerary and Issequibo, which 
 discharge their waters within about twenty-five leagues of the 
 principal mouth of the river Oronooko. 
 
 The prosperity of these settlements awakened the ambition 
 of the lival nations, and held out a source of temptation, 
 which was to them irresistible, when war justified an attack, 
 and probability seemed to favor the attempt with a promise 
 of success. In 1781, both these settlements surrendered to 
 the valor of British arms, as Surinam had surrendered to 
 that of Holland in a former period. Immediately on their 
 conquest, reports were circulated highly in their favor ; in- 
 somuch that they were represented as of equal, if not of 
 more importance, than all our other acquisitions in the West 
 Indies. But, probably, these reports were more popular 
 than genuine, for certain it is, that they engrossed but a 
 small share of the attention of our government ; — an atten- 
 tion by no means equal to that importance which they de- 
 rived from public report. Their defenceless state was soon 
 known ; and France, actuated by the same principles that 
 England had before manifested towards the Dutch, seized 
 the most favorable moment to wrench them from our hands. 
 Accordingly they were soon afterward retaken by a single 
 frigate belonging to that nation, and the hopes of our coun- 
 try were once more blasted respecting these possessions. 
 
 The numerous wars which unliappily disgrace Europe, 
 and deluge many of her most fertile provinces with human 
 blood, are accompanied with changes which are felt in every 
 quarter of the globe. The late war once more brought 
 these distant provinces into our hands. They were surren- 
 dered to the British forces on the 21st of April, 1796; 
 since which period, they have been treated with that respect 
 which their present importance, and the success which they 
 promise to their possessors, so justly demand. 
 
 From the period that Demerara became a colony of the 
 British empire, it held out a temptation which invited the 
 enterprizing from various of the British islands. Many re- 
 sorted thither, carrying with them their slaves ; so that the 
 polony is so thickly peopled, that it is now computed to 
 ^ont^H^n no less than one hundred thousand negroes. Several 
 
 I 
 
"WEST INDIES. 377 
 
 of these, prior to their departure from the islands in which 
 they had been accustomed to reside, had attended the preach- 
 ing of the gospel, and had experienced its saving power ; 
 their removal, therefore, to the settlement of Demerara, 
 was as the removal of them into a land in which there was 
 no water, and in which their souls could tind no spiritual 
 food. 
 
 A conviction that many hundreds of these were thus wan- 
 dering as sheep without a shepherd, while so many thousands, 
 who knew not God, were thus perishing for lack of know- 
 ledge, inclined us to attempt the establishment of a mission 
 among them ; and Mr. John Hazckshaw was appointed to 
 make the first essay. The manner of his proceedings, his 
 reception, the failure of his endeavor, and his consequent 
 return to Barbadoes, he has detailed to us in the following 
 letter. It is dated, Barbadoes, October 18, 1805 ; and is 
 as follows : 
 
 " I now take the liberty to acquaint you with the issue of 
 my visit to Demerara. On the 23d of September, being 
 much better in health, and my leg (the state of which I 
 mentioned in my last) being nearly healed, I took my de- 
 parture on board the mail-boat, and on the 30th arrived 
 safely in Demerara river, near the town of Stabrook. On 
 the following day I w ent on shore, and found several friends 
 for w horn I had letters of recommendation ; particularly 
 Mrs. J. Clifton, with whom you had an interview during 
 her visit to Europe. 
 
 " Siie treated me with great respect, and was extremely 
 sorry when she found that the Governor would not suffer 
 me to stay. Several others for whom I had letters, as soon 
 as they knew my errand to Demerara, were exceedingly 
 glad, and hastened to see me, and to express their joy on 
 my arrival. But, alas ! I am sorry to say, that their joy was 
 of short duration. Their highly elated hopes of hearing the 
 gospel preached by a Methodist Missionary were suddenly 
 cast down. ^lany of these well-disposed persons had come 
 from the West India Islands, and knew something of the 
 true way of salvation. They shewed me much kindness, 
 and would have befriended me much, had I been suffered 
 to remain among them. 
 
 " On the 2d of October, being the second day after my 
 arrival, I waited on his Excellency, Governor Baujon, who 
 is, 1 believe, a native of Carassozc, or Carasso, to give in 
 my name as a passenger in the mail-boat, conformably to a 
 
 VOL. II. 3 B 
 
378 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 law of that place. After a short conversation, which con- 
 sisted chiefly of interrogations, I told him that I was a 
 Missionary in the Methodist connexion, and that my design 
 M'as to preach the gospel, and to instruct the negroes in the 
 principles of Christianity. Here he interrupted me, and 
 eaid, " If that be what you are come to do, you must go 
 back. I cannot let you stay here ; and, therefore, you 
 ** had best return in the mail-boat.'* 
 
 *' I then shewed him my credentials, lest he should doubt 
 my right to preach as a Missionary. When he had read the 
 oaths of allegiance, he asked me where I was born. I an- 
 swered, that I was bom in England, about twenty mile« 
 from the city of York. " But," said he, " you are not 
 " ordained." To this I replied. May it please your Ex- 
 cellency, I am ordained as a Protestant Dissenter. I then 
 shewed him my letters of orders, which he read, and then 
 returned, saying, " You cannot stay here ; you must go 
 " back in the mail-boat." I then observed to him, that the 
 Methodist Missionaries were tolerated to preach in all the 
 British West India Colonies, equally as in England ; and 
 that we had very respectable congregations at Antigua, 
 I^evis, St. Kitfs, Tor tola, &c, : to which he answered, 
 *' Yes ; but it cannot be so here." Thinking that he would 
 deliberate a little on the business, I said, " May it please 
 ** your Excellency, may I call upon you another time." 
 To this he answered, " No ; there will be no occasion, as 
 *' you cannot stay ; I suppose you will go back in the 
 " mail-boat." I then took my leave of him, and came 
 away, with a mind not a little grieved at his conduct. His 
 treatment towards me occasioned many tears; but I hope 
 that the Lord will soon open a way for the gospel in that 
 country, v/here there are so many who would be glad to 
 ■hear it. 
 
 " The mail-boat, after the above altercation, was detained 
 three days ; during which time, I frequently prayed and ex- 
 liorted among the friends with whom I resided. On the 8tK 
 of October, I sailed from Demerara ; and on the 12thj 
 •arrived at Barbadoes, among my old friends, who received 
 me with their usual kindness." 
 
 On the arrival of Mr. Hawkshaw at Barbadoes, he found 
 himself destitute of employment ; because, as he had been 
 appointed for Demerara, the islands had been supplied with* 
 other Missionaries, who were now in their respective stations. 
 The failure, therefore, of his intended mission, obliged him 
 
WEST INDIES. 3791 
 
 to weigh maturely which of the islands stood most in need 
 of his auxiliary aid. That on which he fixed was Dominica ; 
 and to this he repaired by the first opportunity, to assist Mr. 
 Duniblcton, who had been stationed hi this place. 
 
 He arrived at Roseau on the 8th of December, 1805, 
 where he stayed five days, and preached twice. He then 
 w ent to Prime Ruperfs Bay, the place which has myste- 
 riously furnished so many of our Missionaries with employ- 
 ment and a grave. 
 
 Ill this part of the island, the power of Almighty grace 
 liad attended the preaching of the word in a most remarkable 
 manner ; though, prior to the establishment of the Methodist 
 missions, no public worship was known. The Missionaries, 
 therefore, with the assistance of their friends, had erected a 
 convenient chapel, and prosperity waited upon every exertion 
 that they made. In the midst of this success, a violent hur- 
 ricane attacked their chapel, razed it to the ground, and laid 
 a temporary embargo on the progress of their labors, and 
 on their hopes. Unhappily, the members of society, being 
 chiefly slaves, were too poor to rebuild it. In consequence 
 of this disaster, for a considerable time they were totally 
 destitute of a place in which to worship God. The society, 
 tlierefore, suffered considerably from this calamity, and 
 many months elapsed before they were able to repair their 
 loss. Previously, however, to the arrival of Mr. Hawk- 
 shaw, notwithstanding the general poverty which prevailed, 
 and the excessively high price of materials, they had contrived, 
 through the further generosity of their friends, to rebuild the 
 chapel ; or rather, to erect another, better adapted to the 
 congregation that attended, because it was calculated to 
 accommodate a greater number of persons. It was suffi- 
 ciently large to contain a congregation of about a thousand 
 people ; and, at the time Mr. Hawkshaw visited this in- 
 salubrious spot, the society consisted of nearly six hundred. 
 After preaching in this place, with great success and much 
 personal satisfaction, about a month, he was seized in a very 
 severe manner, with the same fatal fever which had already 
 taken off Mr. M'Cornock and Mr. Richardson, and from 
 which Mr. Shepley and Mr. Dumbleton had with so much 
 difficulty escaped. 
 
 At this time Mr. Dumbleton was at Roseau, a distance 
 of about thirty miles from Prince Rupert's ; but Mr. Hawk- 
 shaw manifesting a sincere desire to see him, a boat was 
 sent off to fetch him, and bring him to Prince Rupert's. 
 This boat reached Roseau in the night, at a time when the 
 
380 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 inhabitants were under great alarm, in consequence of the 
 appearance of a fleet, supposed to be French, which then 
 hovered off that part of the island. This necessarily occa- 
 sioned some delay. The coast, however, being clear in the 
 morning, Mr. Dumbleton set off, and arrived at Prince 
 Rupert's about five o'clock in the afternoon of the same 
 day. 
 
 On reaching the lodgings of Mr. Hawkshaw, he found 
 him very low, he having for eight days been afflicted with a 
 constant thirst and vomiting. This had occasioned a con- 
 siderable soreness in his breast, and rendered it both difficult 
 and painful for him to speak. A blister had already been 
 applied, but the effects which were expected from it had 
 hitherto failed ; so that, from the train of usual remedies he 
 had been able to find no relief. 
 
 The sight of his friend, Mr. Dumbleton, afforded him a 
 momentary exhilaration of spirits ; but the disease had seized 
 upon his vitals, and life was almost reduced to its lowest 
 ebb. With a prospect of death before him, he expressed a 
 strong confidence in his God and Saviour, and a lively hope 
 of eternal life. 
 
 Being desirous to be removed, if possible, to Roseau, 
 and the doctor who had attended him being of opinion that 
 it might be done without imminent danger, a boat was pro- 
 cured, in which was spread a mattrass, beneath an awning, 
 ■which defended him from the 'sun. In this boat he was 
 placed with his friend, and they proceeded on their coasting 
 Voyage. When they had rowed about six miles, he said that 
 he felt himself better. But after they had been in the 
 boat about two hours and a half, and had reached that 
 time on which he had felt himself worse on the two preced- 
 ing days, they perceived him to grow much weaker, and, 
 therefore, took him on shore, and put him immediately 
 to bed. 
 
 From this time he spoke but little, and soon discovered 
 symptoms of being in a dying state. They, therefore, ;}oined 
 in prayer with him, and committed his soul into the hands 
 of his dear Redeemer. He caught hold of Mr. Dumbleton's 
 hand, and endeavored to speak, but his words could find no 
 utterance. Soon after this he fell asleep, without a groan or 
 struggle. His body was then carried to Roseau, and in- 
 terred the next evenmg in some ground belonging to the 
 chapel. A large coni,regation attended on the mournful 
 occasion; which Mr. Dumbleton endeavored to improve, by 
 
WEST INDIES. 381 
 
 delivering a discourse on Phil. i. 21. Foj' me, to live is 
 Christ, and to die is gaiii. 
 
 Thus strange and incomprehensible are the mysterious 
 ways of heaven ! They baffle all our calculations, and even 
 bid defiance to conjecture. To give them a solution which 
 can be reconciled with the moral attributes of God, without 
 having recourse to another life, is absolutely impossible. 
 And, perhaps, these gloomy dispensations of divine Provi- 
 dence, through which infidelity doubts the superintendance 
 of a moral Governor of the universe, afford us some of the 
 strongest and most unanswerable arguments in behalf of a 
 future state. 
 
 Called as we are to follow the great Head of the church, 
 not merely into an unknown land, but into a future world, 
 nothing but revelation can supply our faith with wings, and 
 lift us above those shadows, which, in themselves, rather 
 quench ardor than add energy to human hope. In cases like 
 tliese, what can the frigid disquisitions of philosophy accom- 
 plish t Tliey can freeze what nothing but revelation can 
 thaw ; and, perhaps, all that the light of philosophy can do 
 for us is to conduct us to the utmost verge of the horizon 
 of human knowledge, and then doom us to repose in silence, 
 wnder those clouds^ which never can be pierced. But reve- 
 lation, in an instant, dispels the shadows, and gives vigor t() 
 that faith, 
 
 *' Whose eagle eyes can pierce beyond the veil 
 " That wraps ia darkness all beyond the grave." 
 
 Of Mr. Hawkshaw's character, botli as a minister and a 
 christian, some account has been published in the minutes 
 of the Methodist Conference, for the year 1806. And it is 
 but a tribute of respect to his memory, which both justice 
 and friendship demand, to notice, in this place, at least those 
 features in his character which are of personal and official 
 application. 
 
 Prior to his embarkation for the West Indies, he travelled 
 in England two years, with an unblemished character ; after 
 which he repaired to those islands of the sea, in which he 
 laboured, in which he was useful, and in which he, finally, 
 found a grave. 
 
 Of his visit to Demerara, his return to Barbadoes, and 
 removal to Dominica, we have already spoken, and, there- 
 fore, to these particulars we need not again advert. In his 
 
382 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 dying hours, his expressions were, " my confidence in GdS 
 " is firm ; I know that I am born to greater joys ;" and, 
 with this conviction, in the full triumph of faith, he passed 
 into eternity, and into the joy of his Lord. 
 
 His abilities were eminently adapted for that station which 
 the providence of God had allotted him to fill ; and these 
 were strengthened with a degree of zeal and fortitude, which 
 rendered his perseverance both ardent and conspicuous. 
 Taken in the aggregate, his christian graces formed a con- 
 stellation, which shone with peculiar lustre in his laborious 
 exertions for the promotion of the cause of religion, and 
 the conversion of the heathen. By his death, the long- 
 ueglected Africans have lost a faithful minister, his brethren 
 an active and able coadjutor, and the Methodist societies iu 
 the West Indies a burning and shining light. 
 
 But, notwithstanding the various impediments and disasters 
 to which the church of Christ has been exposed, religion still 
 continues to flourish in Dominica. Of the whites, indeed, 
 but few have accepted of the offered mercy ; but the colored 
 people and blacks have attended to the things which have 
 been spoken ; and multitudes of these, we have every reason 
 to believe, have been made wise unto salvation. In the 
 progress of a few years, since the gospel has taken a spread 
 through the island, many pious souls have gone into the 
 world of spirits in the full triumph of faith ; while they have 
 invariably left behind them a greater number of living wit- - 
 nesses, who have been able to testify, that Jesus hath power 
 on earth to forgive sins. Even those vacancies which have 
 been so awfully made in his church, by the death of his 
 ministerial servants, he has, in general, filled up with others ; 
 insomuch, that his great design has still been carried on. 
 Persecution and temptation have been alike unavailable, in 
 attempting to frustrate the \vork at large. Hitherto, amid 
 storms and sunshine, his cause has continued to prosper ; the 
 deficiencies of one period have been more than compensated 
 by the extraordinary out-pouring of the Holy Spirit in an- 
 other ; so that, on the whole, a gradual increase of the work 
 has taken place. 
 
 Surely, we cannot better express our gratitude towards 
 the Author of all our mercies, than by acting in conformity 
 to his will ; by persevering in that path of duty which he 
 hath prescribed ; and by endeavoring to spread his glory 
 while we promote his cause. Nevertheless, all we can do 
 will make infinitely inadequate returns for those signal 
 
WEST INDIES. 383 
 
 blessings with which he hath favored us. These, however, 
 are the only returns which we can make in time, and we 
 must wait the arrival of eternity to express the rest. The 
 more complete renewal of our natures will, without doubt, 
 prepare and qualify us for the duties and privileges of that 
 immortal inheritance ; — ^^an inheritance in which privilege 
 and duty will be so far the same, that gratitude and ho- 
 mage will constitute the chief ingredients in the felicity of 
 heaven. 
 
584 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 CHAP. XXX. 
 
 HISTORY OF GUADALOLPE. 
 
 Name given hy Columbus, by whom it was discovered.— 
 Situation, £xtent, lopographt/, and Productions. — First 
 settled by the French in 1635. — Calamities experienced 
 hy tliem — They commence hostilities with the Natives.-— 
 deduced to the last Extremities. — Happily relieved. — 
 The Island begins to prosper, and is infested by Pirates. 
 — Internal Dissensions retard its Prosperity. — Invaded 
 by the English; suffers considerably, but compels them 
 to retire. — In a State of high Prosperity in 1755. — Cap- 
 tured by our Troops in 1759- — Survey of its diminutive 
 Dependencies. — Returns again to France. — Population 
 in 1767. — Captured again by the English in 1794,- and 
 recaptured hy the French. — Particulars of this recapture. 
 — Dreadful Sickness prevailing among the British 
 Troops. — Capitulation. — Proscription oj the Royalists. 
 — Unparalleled Cruelty of Fictor Hugues towards them, 
 and also tozvards some English Prisoners ; and his con- 
 temptible Brutality towards the dead Body of General 
 Dundas. — Final Capture by our Troops. — Roman Ca- 
 tholic Religion established in the Island. — Reflections on 
 the Origin and Nature of Superstition ; on the State of 
 Morals in Guadalovpe ; and on the universal Spread of 
 the Gospel. 
 
 vJrUADALOUPE was so named by Columbus, accord- 
 ing to his usual custom, from the resemblance of its 
 mountains to those of a town and district in the province of 
 Estramadura, in Old Spain. It is situated in 16" 30' north 
 latitude, and 62° of longitude west from London ; between 
 Antigua and Dominica, and about 30 leagues north of 
 Martinico. Its utmost extent is computed to be forty-iive 
 English miles ; its breadth thirty-eight, and its circumference 
 two hundred and fifty. It is divided into two parts by a 
 small arm of the sea, or rather by a narrow channel, through 
 which no ships can venture, though it is six miles in length.. 
 
WEST INDIES. 385 
 
 It is only navigable for boats and vessels not exceeding fifty 
 tons. It is called by the inhabitants la Riviere Sale, or Salt 
 River. By this strait, however, the sea on the north-west 
 coast of the island communicates with that on the south-east. 
 The north-west part is divided into Basseterre and Cabesterre. 
 The south-east, by way of pre-eminence, is called Grande- 
 terre. It does not, however, contain more land than the 
 former ; neither is the soil so fertile, nor the atmosphere so 
 healthy. The soil, in general, is equally prolific with that 
 of Martinico, producing sugar, cotton, coffee, indigo, gin- 
 ger, and a considerable number of hides of animals ; forming, 
 altogether, an almost incredible exportation to Europe. 
 From this concise topographical description, we shall now 
 proceed to a more ample narrative of its civil history, from 
 its first settlement. 
 
 This island, neglected by the Spanish navigators after its 
 first discovery, remained from that time in the possession of 
 its native Indians, for nearly one hundred and fifty years ; no 
 Europeans having attempted to settle upon it. At length, 
 between five and six hundred French, under the protection 
 and guidance of two gentlemen, named Loline and Duples- 
 sis, embarked at Dieppe in Normandy, in a merchant-ship, 
 and arrived safely at Guadaloupe on the SSth of June, 1635. 
 They had been very deficient in the preparations for such an 
 expedition. Their provisions were so ill chosen, that part 
 of them was spoiled in the course of the voyage ; and they 
 had shipped so small a quantity, that they were all exhausted 
 in the space of two months after they had landed. They 
 could not procure any supplies from France ; and the inha- 
 bitants of St. Christopher's, to whom they sent for relief, 
 either from scarcity or design, refused to succour them. 
 Thus no resource was left for these emigrants from their 
 mother-country ; and they had nothing to hope for, but what 
 they could obtain from the savages of the island. But the 
 superfluities of a people who cultivated but little, and had 
 never laid up any stores, could not be considerable. The 
 new comers, under these distressful circumstances, not 
 content with the supplies of provisions which the Indians 
 brought to them voluntarily, at length came to a resolution, 
 probably dictated by extreme necessity, to make use of 
 compulsive means ; and hostilities commenced in the month 
 of January, 1 636. 
 
 The poor Charaibees, not being in a condition openly to 
 resist an enemy who had the superior advantage of fire-arms, 
 destroyed their own provisions and plantations, and retired, 
 
 VOL. II. 3 C 
 
386 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 some of them to that part which since has been called 
 Grande-terre, and others to the neighbouring islands. The 
 most desperate and resolute, however, returned to the parts 
 inhabited by their invaders, and concealed themselves in the 
 mountains and woods, where they watched their opportu- 
 nities. In the day-time they sallied out, and shot with 
 poisoned arrows, or knocked down with their clubs, all the 
 Frenchmen M'hom they found dispersed and separated from 
 the main body of their countrymen, for the necessary pursuits 
 of hunting and fishing. In the night they burnt the houses, 
 and destroyed the produce of the husbandry on which their 
 invaders depended for subsistence. 
 
 A dreadful famine was the consequence of this cruel re- 
 taliation. The new colonists were obliged to graze in the 
 fields, to eat their own excrements, and to dig up dead 
 bodies for unnatural food. Many of these Frenchmen had 
 been slaves at Algiers, who how cursed those whom they 
 had formerly blessed for redeeming them from captivity ; and 
 all of them were weary of existence. Their calamitous 
 situation was at last communicated to the Governor of Mar- 
 tinico, who sent a military officer, of the name of Aubert, 
 with a detachment of regulars, and a supply of provisions 
 and other necessaries to the unhappy sufferers. The Cha- 
 raibees now submitted to this additional force brought against 
 them ; and Aubert had the satisfaction to effect, not only a 
 peace with the savages in 1640, but an alliance which 
 rendered it permanent, and became the basis of the French 
 establishment, and of the future prosperity of the colony. 
 From this period it was put under the protection of the 
 mother-country, and new adventurers from different parts of 
 France gradually increased its population. 
 
 In the mean time, the remembrance of past sufferings 
 proved a powerful incitement to the survivors of the first 
 party, to cultivate, with unremitted attention, all articles of 
 immediate necessity. These men were but few in number ; 
 however, they were soon joined by some discontented colo- 
 nists from St. Christopher's. To these were soon added, 
 some sailors, tired of a sea-faring life, and some masters of 
 trading vessels, who had saved sufficient sums of money to 
 enable them to retire, and improve their fortunes, by pur- 
 chasing and cultivating lands. But still the prosperity of 
 Guadaloupe was impeded by fresh obstacles arising from its 
 situation. Destitute of a sufficient military force for the 
 defence of the island, and without fortifications, bands of 
 ferocious pirates, from the neighbouring seas and islands, 
 
WEST INDIES. S87 
 
 committed sundry depredations on the inhabitants, attacking 
 them by surprise, and carrying off their cattle, their slaves, 
 and sometimes their standing crops. Intestine quarrels, 
 proceeding from jealousy of authority, and rivalry in traffic, 
 often disturbed the tranquillity of the planters. A cousider- 
 able number of adventurers, likewise, who went over to the 
 Windward Islands, abandoning lands which were better suited 
 to simple agriculture, than to the growth of the prime articles 
 of foreign commerce, removed with their property to Mar- 
 tinico, on account of its convenient harbors. The protection 
 given to all commercial enterprizes, legal ^nd illegal, but 
 more especially to the daring pirates in the Charaibean seas, 
 brought to that island, and to Jamaica, all the crafty agents 
 and traders, who expected, and who were enabled by their 
 monied property, to purchase at a low rate the spoils of these 
 universal plunderers at sea, and on the coasts. Many of 
 these rich traders settled at Martinico as planters. The 
 result was, a rapid increase of its population, and the intro- 
 duction of the civil and military government of France into 
 the Leeward Islands. From this period, the French ministry 
 at home suffered Martinico to monopolize all their care and 
 encouragement, to the neglect of the other colonies, not so 
 immediately under their observation and control. 
 
 To this partial preference given by the celebrated Colbert, 
 Prime Minister to Louis XIV. must be attributed the tardy 
 progress of Guadaloupe towards that flourishing state which 
 it afterwards attained, from a variety of concurrent causes, 
 and, among the rest, a more enlightened policy, and an im- 
 proved knowledge of the commercial interest of the mother- 
 country. The comparison made by the Abbe Raynal between 
 the state of the population of the island in the years 1700, 
 and 1735, exhibits an example of what may be effected in 
 a colony in the course of little more than half a century, by 
 a well-informed, active, and impartial administration at 
 home. At the former era, the whole population consisted 
 of no more than 3825 white people ; 325 savages, free 
 negroes, or mulattoes; and 6725 slaves, many of whom 
 were Charaibees. Her cultures were reduced to 60 small 
 plantations of sugar, 66 of indigo, a small quantity of cocoa, 
 and not a great deal of cotton. The cattle amounted to 
 1620 horses and mules, and 3699 head of horned beasts. 
 This was the fruit of sixty years labor, computing from the 
 date of the alliance formed by the first French settlers with 
 the natives, as before related, in l640. It must, however, 
 be remembered, that in the year 1703, the island suffered 
 
388 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 considerably by the invasion of an English armament, con- 
 sisting of a fleet of nine first and second-rate ships of war, 
 and forty-five sail of smaller vessels, with transports convey- 
 ing six thousand choice soldiers. These troops made a 
 descent, and carried on the siege of Basseterre and Grand- 
 terre during fifty-six days ; in which time, they burnt several 
 churches, together with tobacco, indigo, and cotton mills, 
 and destroyed the growing crops. But after the loss of 
 upwards of two thousand men, they were obliged to raise 
 the siege. Voyages de Labat, torn. VI. 
 
 But the subsequent advances to prosperity were as rapid 
 as the preceding had been slow. At the close of the year 
 1755, the colony was peopled by 9,643 whites, and 41,140 
 slaves, including men, women, and children. Her saleable 
 commodities were the produce of 334 sugar plantations ; 
 15 plots of indigo; 46,840 stems of cocoa; 11,700 of to- 
 bacco; 2,257,725 of coffee; and 12,748,447 of cotton. 
 For provisions, she had 29 squares of rice and maize ; and 
 1,219 of potatoes, or yams ; 21,028,520 banana trees ; and 
 32,577,950 trenches of cassava. The cattle consisted of, 
 4,924 horses; 2,924 mules; 125 asses; 13,716 head of 
 horned cattle; 11,162 sheep, or goats; and 2,444 hogs. 
 Such was likewise the state of Guadaloupe, with some ad- 
 ditional improvements, when it was conquered by our troops 
 in the memorable year 1759- Then the fleets and armies 
 of Britain, under the able administration of the first William 
 Pitt, were victorious in all quarters of the globe. 
 
 The government of France felt severely the loss of one 
 of its richest colonies in the West Indies. But the French 
 subjects, inhabitants of the island, would have suffered much 
 more by the retreat of the British forces, after a siege of 
 three months (during which, their plantations were de- 
 stroyed, and the buildings and machines for manufacturing 
 their sugar, indigo, and rum, burnt down), than they did 
 by the honorable capitulation which they obtained. By the 
 mild treatment they experienced from their conquerors, they 
 were enabled to set about repairing their losses, and were 
 plentifully supplied with provisions, which must, otherwise, 
 have failed them before the ensuing harvest ; for the island 
 surrendered in the month of April. 
 
 They likewise derived a considerable advantage, tending 
 to the speedy restoration of the prosperity of the island, 
 from another source. Whilst it remained in the possession 
 of the crown of Great Britain, a new commercial intercourse 
 was opened with the British settlements in the West Indies. 
 
WESt INDIES. S89 
 
 ^Tic conquered island was, through this channel, indepen- 
 dently of the merchant-ships fitted out from the great 
 trading sea-port towns of England, so abundantly supplied 
 with every species of English manufactures, that the market 
 was soon overstocked, and the price of European commo- 
 dities was considerably reduced. At the same time, a pros- 
 pect of peace, and of the consequent restoration of the 
 island to France, encouraged the French planters to lay in 
 large stores, purchased at very low prices, and on very long 
 credit. This stock served, after the restitution by the peace 
 of 1763, to accelerate a still more flourishing state than 
 that of any preceding period. The English mercantile 
 speculators had likewise purchased and imported into the 
 island, during the four years and three mouths that it 
 remained in our possession, 13,721 negro slaves from Africa, 
 to expedite the growth of its staple commodities, and to 
 increase the value of the plantations. In a proportional 
 degree, they had likewise improved the plantations in the 
 small islands dependent on Guadaloupe, and comprized 
 both in its surrender and restoration. 
 
 Deseada, which seems to have been detached from 
 Guadaloupe by the sea, as it is only separated from it by a 
 narrow canal, is one of those dependencies. It is little 
 more than a barren rock, at the foot of w hich is a poor soil, 
 of no great depth, fit only for the growth of cotton of an 
 inferior quality. Neither the time when, nor the persons 
 by whom this spot was first inhabited, is ascertained ; but 
 it is generally believed to be of modern date. 
 
 Les Saintes are three small islands, about three leagues 
 distant from Guadaloupe, but always subject to its jurisdic- 
 tion : they form together a triangle, and have a safe harbor 
 for ships of considerable burden. Thirty hardy Frenchmen 
 first undertook to n?ake a settlement on these islands in the 
 year 1 648 ; but they were obliged to abandon the undertak- 
 ing, on account of an excessive drought, which dried up their 
 only spring, before they had time to construct reservoirs. 
 A second attempt was made in 1652, which was more 
 successful; when some plantations Mere established, that 
 now produce fifty thousand pounds weight of coft'ee, ninety 
 thousand of cotton, a moderate quantity of tobacco, and 
 abundance of vegetables for food, particularly manioc, pota- 
 toes, and peas. There is likewise a variety of tame and 
 wild fowl on these islands ; and the inhabitants take care to 
 breed a great number of hogs. Parrots, turtle-doves, and 
 most of the tropical birds, are here met with ; and tlie 
 
390 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 fisheries on tlie coast afford excellent fish. Tlie atmosphere 
 is . pure, and constantly refreshed with sea breezes ; so that 
 the heat is never so oppressive as in Guadaloupe and Mar- 
 tinico. Upon the whole, these little islands offer an agree- 
 able residence to persons who wish to retire from the bustle 
 of large plantations ; and they are not of sufficient consequence 
 to be molested by foreign enemies. While they were under 
 the government of France, they were placed under the 
 direction of a Captain of the militia, deputed by the Gover- 
 nor of Guadaloupe ; and they follow the fate of that island^ 
 without resistance, in the events of war. 
 
 No other religion but the Roman Catholic was allowed 
 by the French. There were three monasteries supported 
 by charitable contributions before the French Revolution. 
 These islands are situated in 15" 57' north latitude, and 
 6l° 5'2' west lonscitude from London. 
 
 The flourishing state of Guadaloupe in 1767, when a new 
 survey was taken of it, clearly demonstrated that the planters 
 were more than indemnified for their losses during the war j 
 for the population had then increased to 85,376 persons, 
 comprehending men, women, and children, freemen and 
 slaves, whites and blacks. And in 1779 they had augmented 
 to 86,709 souls, of whom 1,382 persons only were whites. 
 In the next war, Great Britain was too deeply engaged in 
 the unhappy contest with her North American colonies, to 
 think of conquest in the West Indies. The French, therefore, 
 remained in quiet possession of this island, where their foreign 
 commerce increased annually; and it is remarkable, that 
 their crops, on an average, were more abundant here than 
 those of Martinico. The causes of this superiority, says the 
 Abbe Raynal, are obvious. Guadaloupe employs a greater 
 number of slaves upon its plantations than Martinico, which, 
 being both a planting and a trading island, employs more of 
 its negroes in the towns, and among the shipping. There 
 were fewer children in Guadaloupe, because the fresh negroes, 
 brought to newly-erected works, were almost all adults, or 
 at least able to work ; and the African women seldom breed 
 till the second year after their arrival in America. 
 
 Before the peace of 1763, the French had made Guada- 
 Ixipe, and all the Windward Islands, subordinate to the 
 government of Martinico ; but having observed that the 
 prosperity of the English colonies depended, in a great 
 degree, upon their separate administrations, a Governor and 
 an Intendant were appointed to preside over Guadaloupe as 
 an independent colony. These new administrations, instead 
 
WEST INDIES. S9l 
 
 of letting the commodities of this island suffer a circuitous 
 transportation to Europe, by way of Martinico, to the 
 detriment of the phmters, who were obliged to pay high 
 commission-money to the exporters from Martinico, strictly 
 prohibited all commercial intercourse between the two 
 islands ; the inhabitants of which became, by this new regu- 
 lation, almost as great strangers to each other, as if the two 
 colonies had belonged to rival powers. 
 
 France, however, was never able sufficiently to protect 
 her West India possessions, for want of a naval force equal 
 to that of Great Britain ; neither were the fortifications of 
 Guadaloupe, at any period, capable of long resistance against 
 a powerful attack ; though they have been considerably im- 
 proved within the last thirty years. It was not, therefore, 
 to be expected, that after the Revolution, when the majority 
 of the inhabitants detested the authors of it, they should 
 sacrifice their lives and property in the support of a revolu- 
 tionary government, the duration of which was highly im- 
 probable in the early stages of the last war. Accordingly, 
 tlie surrender of this island, after a short resistance, followed 
 closely upon the conquest of Martinico, by Earl St. Vincent 
 and Sir Charles Grey, in the month of March, 1794; but, 
 unfortunately, it did not long remain in the possession of 
 the gallant British forces which had obliged the French 
 Governor to surrender it. A diminution of the original 
 force destined for the expedition against Martinico, by 
 detachments stationed to garrison the islands already con- 
 quered by their valor, left Guadaloupe, which was the last 
 acquisition, too weakly guarded, and the want of reinforce- 
 ments from England, furnished an opportunity for the French 
 to recover the island. This they attempted with an armament 
 sent from Rochefort for this purpose, having on board 
 fifteen hundred regular troops, that were commanded by 
 Victor Hugues. In addition to this unforeseen event, the 
 yellow-fever had carried off a great number of the British 
 soldiers, and with them their commanding officer, Major- 
 General Dundas, the Governor of Guadaloupe. Thus 
 circumstanced, the inhabitants applied for succour to the 
 neighbouring British settlements; and Sir Charles Grey 
 arrived at Guadaloupe on the 7th of June. But this was 
 too late ; the enemy having secured their shipping in the 
 harbor, and landed their troops, who had taken Fort Fleur 
 d'Epee, and the town of Point a Petre. The French 
 Royalists, on this occasion, being intimidated, and thinking 
 they should not escape being put to death, if the Republican 
 
39^ HISTORY OF THE 
 
 forces conquered the British, and they were found in arms, 
 basely surrendered the posts they were entrusted to defend, 
 and deserted to the enemy in the town. 
 
 But, notwithstanding this partial defection, by means of 
 small reinforcements from St. Christopher's, the British 
 army maintained their ground, at an encampment which they 
 had formed on the height of Berville ; in which situation they 
 anxiously M'aited the arrival of powerful reinforcements from 
 England. The camp was fixed in an advantageous position ; 
 for in addition to the commanding ground on which it stood, 
 it was protected on one side by the sea, and on the other by 
 a morass which was totally impassable. It was, therefore, 
 only on one point that it could be approached. 
 
 But, notwithstanding the advantages of this position, the 
 situation proved injurious in the highest degree. The putrid 
 exhalations which arose from the neighbouring morass 
 tainted the atmosphere with noxious effluvia, and brought on 
 a dreadful pestilence, which, without a war, accomplished 
 almost all its horrors. In addition to this, the sickly season 
 of the year was fast approaching, which tended to aggravate 
 the mortality that so awfully prevailed. In the month of 
 August, the sick-list contained the majority of the camp, 
 and the prospect appeared still more gloomy than the evils 
 which the)' realized. 
 
 Situated in what, under existing circumstances, might 
 justly be called an enemy's country, the utmost vigilance 
 became necessary. The number of sick, of course, increased 
 the duty of the healthy, and this increase of exertion added 
 to the number of the sick. In the month of September, the 
 whole army was insufficient to supply the necessary guards ; 
 the forty-third regiment could not afford more than three 
 men to watch their frontiers, and several companies could 
 not yield a single man. 
 
 To conceal these calamities from the enemy, and to pre* 
 serve the appearance of a formidable front, tlie neighbouring 
 islands were drained of troops. But these, on their arrival, 
 had only to witness the scenes of disaster which their fellow 
 soldiers suffered, and in which they also were soon com- 
 pelled to participate. These were joined by a body of 
 French Loyalists, who assisted in bearing the fatigues of 
 duty in this insalubrious climate, and in partially peopling the 
 almost desolated camp. These, also, were compelled to 
 feel, in part, the ravages of disease, to mingle their groans 
 with those of th« dying, and to suffer at last a more inhuman 
 fate. 
 
WEST INDIES, 593 
 
 Nor were tliese afflictions confined merely to the British 
 troops, and their auxiharies. The same, or similar, ravages 
 prevailed among those of the enemy. Victor Hugues, whose 
 inhumanity will chiefly cause him to be remembered, sur- 
 veying the mortality that prevailed in his army, naturally 
 inferred the condition of tlie British camp, and prepared 
 to stalk to battle in the midst of death. But not knowing 
 with certainty the condition and strength of those whom he 
 M'as about to attack, he was compelled to resort to another 
 expedient to recruit his weakened forces, and to supply 
 those dreadful deficiencies which the prevailing pestilence 
 had already made. 
 
 In an island in which two hostile armies frown upon each 
 other we cannot expect to find much order. Its empire 
 depends upon, perhaps, the action of an hour, which will 
 either establish the inhabitants in afiluence, or consign them 
 to their fate. Much of this indecision prevailed, at this 
 time, in Guadaloupe ; insomuch, that the slaves and mulattoes 
 occasionally wandered in disorder, without direction and 
 without a guide. These men, from a long residence and a 
 peculiarity of constitution, had been inured to the climate, 
 and to these men Victor Hugues applied. It is needless in 
 cases like these to inquire, whether threatenings or promises 
 were the most successful ; both, without doubt, were used ; 
 he collected a vast number ; and, by application, introduced 
 some discipline among them, as well as arms. 
 
 Thus reinforced, and thus determined, on the 26th of 
 September he embarked a considerable body of his troops 
 on board some vessels which had been procured for that 
 purpose. These availed themselves of the darkness of the 
 night ; and, actually eluding the vigilance of our ships of war, 
 made good their landing in two parties, the one at GoyaxCf 
 and the other at Ma/mult, places which were admirably 
 calculated to facilitate the plan of operations which they 
 intended to pursue. Not far from Mahault some French 
 Loyalists had been stationed, at a place called Gabarre ; and 
 to this place the Republicans immediately directed their 
 march, with a design to surround them, and thereby cut off" 
 their retreat. The Loyalists were unable to withstand their . 
 force. There was, therefore, no time for delay. Hesita- 
 tion would have been fatal. The moment that apprized 
 them of their danger directed them to march ; and it was 
 with the utmost difficulty that they effected an escape to th^ 
 camp, or rather hospital, of Berville. 
 
 The Republican forces, by thus coasting along the shores, 
 VOL. II. 3 D 
 
594 HISTORY OF THfi 
 
 and landing In the rear of the British camp, had but one 
 object to fear, but several to gain. The only thing they 
 had to dread was a discovery by the British ships, and from 
 this they trusted to the protection which the darkness of the 
 night aflForded, and in this they were not deceived. But 
 having once escaped this danger, and made good their land- 
 ing, they well knew that they should attack the camp in its 
 most defenceless part, a part in M'hich it was by no mean* 
 prepared for an assault. In addition to this, by gaining 
 some heights which lay in a commanding position, they must 
 introduce themselves between the shipping and the camp, 
 and, by this means, cut off all communication. This pur- 
 pose effected, they well knew, that though the British troops 
 might still be sufficiently strong to resist an assault, they 
 must soon submit to calls of a more imperious nature, and 
 yield to a conquest either of hunger or the sword. 
 
 Thus doubly armed with stratagem and force, the two 
 detachments, which had landed at Goyave and Mahault, 
 began their march. And while that party proceeded from 
 the latter to Gaharre, designing to cut off the Royalists, 
 as we have already mentioned ; the other, which had landed 
 at the former, immediately pushed forward to Petit Bourg. 
 Their approaches in both places were, however, well known 
 in the camp. The retreating Royalists had given informa- 
 tion of the former ; and a Lieut. Col. Drummond, of the 
 forty-third regiment, with a party of half-recovering sick, and 
 some Royalists, advanced to meet those of the Republican 
 army who were on their march to Petit Sourg. The supe- 
 riority of the French forces in point of number, however, 
 forbade Col. Drummond to proceed; in consequence of 
 which, instead of returning to the camp, which was now be- 
 come almost a charnel-house, he took post at a small battery 
 that had been erected upon the shore. Unfortunately ^ 
 however, this asylum afforded them nothing more than a 
 momentary safety, for they were soon surrounded and made 
 prisoners of war. 
 
 The enemy, possessing themselves of this post, accom- 
 plished one great object which they had in view ; namely, to 
 cut off all communication between the shipping and the 
 camp. From this battery, they proceeded, agreeably to 
 their preconcerted plans, to ascend the heights, and form a 
 junction with the other party, which had only taken a differ- 
 ent route to accomplish the same purpose. This also both 
 parties easily effected ; so that the camp at Berville, cut off^ 
 from all external aid and communication, was completely 
 
WEST INDIES. 395 
 
 encircled, and waited the impending attack. At this period 
 its whole force, including both tlie healthy and tlie sick, con- 
 sisted only of 250 regular troops, and about 300 royalists, 
 who were destined to suffer indignities which human nature 
 shudders to relate. 
 
 It was on the 2t)th of September that the attack com- 
 menced on this little heroic band. They sustained the 
 conflict against an unequal foe with the most undaunted 
 resolution for three hours, and, finally, compelled tlie Re- 
 publicans to retreat with considerable loss. The day fol- 
 Jowing they again renewed tlie attack, and were again 
 repulsed. They rallied a tliird time to the charge, on the 
 4th of October, and were obliged a third time to retire. 
 But losses with them scarcely diminished their numbers. 
 The whole country was open to their depredations, and the 
 inhabitants were obliged to supply the wastes of war. 
 
 Circumstanced as die British and lioyalists were, their 
 final conquest appeared inevitable, and they had little to 
 hope from the clemency of Victor Hugues, if the camp 
 should be carried by storm. The troops which were collec- 
 iting in still greater numbers portended an awful onset. Ihis, 
 and the evident impossibility of opening any communication 
 with the ships, induced General Graham to dispatch a flag 
 of truce to the French Commissioner, offering to capitulate 
 for themselves and the Royalists. So far as the British 
 were concerned, the French were ready to meet them upon 
 honorable terms ; but in behalf of the Royalists they would 
 listen to nothing. These unfortunate men, reserved for future 
 vengeance, finding themselves proscribed, determined to 
 sell their lives as dearly as possible ; and for that purpose soli- 
 cited General Graham to give them leave to cut their way 
 through the French army, or to perish in the attempt. But 
 this request, though reasonable in itself, could not be granted. 
 The General would have become responsible for such an 
 action; and, as there was hardly a possibility of success, it 
 must have terminated in tlie inevitable destruction of all. 
 In addition to these circumstances, some glimmerings of 
 hope were entertained, that an unconditional surrender might 
 awaken compassion in the heart of the conqueror, for it w as 
 not at this time fully known that it was formed of steel. 
 The general principles of humanity gave encouragement to 
 hope; but the subsequent conduct ot' Victor Hugues defeated 
 all their calculations of mercy, and developed the savage 
 in a human form. 
 
 Among their diffierent articles of capitulation, the British 
 
396 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 were permitted to send off one covered boat. Its contents 
 were to be held sacred, and it was to pass without any 
 molestation. In this boat twenty-iive of the Royalist offi- 
 cers embarked, and, finally, reached the Boyne ship of war 
 in safety. As to the others, both officers and men, who 
 could not possibly avail themselves of this mode of escape, 
 they were consigned over to feel the vengeance of Republic 
 can ferocity. 
 
 The wolves and tigers, which prowl the deserts of creation 
 in quest of prey, are urged by their, appetites and impelled 
 by hunger to their deeds. They have no reason to restrain 
 their rage, and they know nothing of depravity and guilt. 
 The peculiarity of their constitution and condition may 
 therefore apologize for their cruelty, and lead us to assign 
 causes for their actions, while we shudder at the destruction 
 which they make. Deliberate revenge, however, seems to 
 have been reserved for the " Lord of the creation, and the 
 *■ shame" ; that, banished from the nature of brutes, it 
 might find a residence in the human breast, and form one 
 of those permanent ingredients which should perpetuate the 
 infamy of the human character. 
 
 Hugues and his myrmidons were no sooner in possession 
 of thf British camp, than they proceeded to that deliberate 
 butchery, which we reflect on with horror, and relate with 
 indignation. A guillotine was instantly erected on the spot, 
 and within the short space of one hour the blood of fifty 
 of the unfortunate Royalists reeked beneath the fatal axe. 
 But this sacrifice, instead of appeasing the anger of Hugues, 
 or of sufficiently glutting his sanguinary soul with blood, 
 gave a keener edge to his barbarous appetite, and kindled 
 anew his impatience for the fate of those who remained alive. 
 
 The covered boat which had carried off twenty-five, 
 and the guillotine which had beheaded fifty, had somewhat 
 reduced the whole number ; but between two and three hunr 
 dred still remained, and for these the barbarian provided a 
 more summary mode of execution. These unfortunate men 
 were drawn up in a line on the brink of those trenches which 
 they had defended by their valor, if not made by their in- 
 dustry, and in this situation were fettered to each other as 
 they stood. In front of these, the undisciplined negroes, that 
 had been enrolled in the service of Victor Hugues, were 
 drawn up in arms, and commanded to fire. An irregular 
 volley vi'as then discharged at the miserable victims, which, 
 while it killed some and wounded others, left many in all 
 probability perfectly uninjured. The dead and the dying 
 
WEST INDIES. 397 
 
 however prevailed, and, proving too strong for the resistance 
 of the living in their fettered condition, dragged them like si> 
 many links of a chain into the entrenchment on the brink of 
 which they had received the volley. In this awful condition, 
 the healthy, the sicklij, the zceak, the stroiig, the zcouuded, 
 the uninjured, the living, the di/ing, and the dead, found 
 one promiscuous grave. The soil was instantly thrown iu 
 upon them, the trenches were tilled in, and they were seeu 
 110 more. 
 
 But it was not merely to the Royalists that the inhuman- 
 ities of this commander were shewn. The British felt the 
 weight of his iron hands, which barbarity had extended both 
 to the hospital and the grave. At Petit Bourg, to wliicU 
 one of the Republican parties had marched soon after their 
 landing, lay many sick and wounded British prisoners, soma 
 of whom had been taken with Col. Drummond while defen- 
 ding the battery on the shoie. These men, in a state of 
 captivity, had suffered afflictions, while the camp at Ber- 
 ville held out, which they fondly tlattered themselves, on its 
 surrender, would be ameliorated. Full of these views and 
 expectations, they made a humble application to the barba- 
 rian for fresh provisions and medical assistance ; but instead 
 of obtaining those favors which they solicited, they found 
 that they had only petitioned for their death. Instead of 
 softening, at the petition of human nature in distress, their 
 request only served to make him more relentless and obdu- 
 rate. Many women and children, it has been asserted, ^vere 
 at this time in the hospital, but even these could obtain 
 from the ruffian no alleviation of their distress. On the 
 contrary, he commanded the whole to be indiscriminately 
 murdered by the bayonet ; and thus, with one stroke of un- 
 exampled inhumanity, he rid himself of their importunities, 
 and deprived men, women, and children, of their lives. 
 An action so atrocious is, perhaps, without a parallel in 
 the black catalogue of human enormities. It must cover 
 his name with infamy, and hand it down to the dctestatiou 
 of generations which are yet unborn. 
 
 The surrender of the camp of Berville into the hands of 
 this unfeeling despot placed the sole dominion of Guada- 
 ioupe once more in the hands of the Republicans, except 
 a single fortress which was yet unsubdued. This was Fort 
 Matilda, which was commanded by General Prescott. 
 Against this fortress Victor Hugues next directed his attention, 
 and commenced a siege which began on the 14th of October, 
 ^id continued until the 10th of December. General Prescott 
 
398 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 defended the fortress till it was no longer tenable, with a 
 degree of bravery of which language can communicate no 
 adequate idea ; and on the 10th of December, finding him- 
 self unable to make any further resistance with success, he 
 abandoned it by private evacuation, as the only means of pre- 
 serving his exhausted garrison from the sword. 
 
 We have already stated, that Major General Dundas had 
 fallen a victim to the pestilence, which had devolved the 
 command upon General Graham. General Dundas had 
 been interred within the walls of Fort Matilda, and a mo- 
 numental stone with a humble inscription had been placed 
 over his grave. The Republicans, on entering this fortress 
 after it had been abandoned by General Prescott, proceeded 
 by the express command of Victor Hugues to demolish this 
 nfemorial, that no traces of the name or deeds of this brave 
 commander might remain, to refresh the memory either of 
 friends or foes. 
 
 A generous enemy always respects the ashes of the brave, 
 and humanity always venerates the abodes of death ; but 
 neither humanity nor generosity had a sufficient influence 
 over the soul of Victor Hugues to induce him to act from 
 the impulse of either. From having demolished the stone, 
 he proceeded to demolish the body ; which, though become 
 putrid, was not actually corrupted. He gave orders to dig 
 it from its grave ; and, after having exposed the remains of 
 the departed hero to the gaze of successful brutality, com- 
 manded it to be plunged into the river Gallion to be con- 
 ducted to the sea. This action, of which even savage* 
 would have been ashamed, instead of procuring for him the 
 detestation it deserved, became a subject of unnatural and 
 ferocious triumph ; it was avowed in a public proclamation, 
 and recorded as a deed which entitled its author to renown. 
 It tended, indeed, to give support to the reign of terror 
 which was about to be established, and to enforce that 
 obedience which must have originated in detestation, and in 
 that fear which had supplanted love. Dread and apprehen- 
 sion must, under a government like this, fill up every vacant 
 avenue which detestation can leave unoccupied, and compel 
 alike the innocent and the guilty to tremble for their fate. 
 
 Nor was the conduct of this inexorable tyrant without 
 its severities towards the peaceable inhabitants. To oppose 
 his measures, was to be an object of private animosity ; this 
 was to be suspected of countei'-revolutionary principles, 
 and this was but a preparatory step to the guillotine. Friend 
 could scarcely speak to friend, and even busiiiess could not 
 
WEST INDIES. 399 
 
 be transacted, without fear. To apologize for the accused, 
 or to attempt to vindicate the suspected, was to be an 
 abettor of their offences ; and to be an accomplice 
 in criminality, was but a passage to their doom. Crimes 
 at this period scarcely admitted of any variation in de- 
 gree ; between innocence and guilt there could be no me- 
 dium, and the sanguinary laws knew of no steps between 
 acquittal and death. ^len disposed to hunt after offences 
 thus constituted, and thus to be punished, could never be in 
 want of prey. The foibles of human nature must be 
 pressed by a line which had been deprived of all its elasti- 
 city, and even infirmity must expose to vengeance. 
 
 The fate of but too many of the unfortunate inhabitants 
 afforded an awful comment on the above reflections. A 
 great number in all the various relations of life, and of dif- 
 ferent stations in the community, without any regard either 
 to age, sex, or condition, were daily carried to the guillotine, 
 and executed without any ceremony or remorse. Death 
 was the order of the day. Ingenuity was exercised in 
 desolating the country, in finding occasions to shed bloody 
 and in enriching with this precious fluid the surface of the 
 glebe. These executions were performed in view of the 
 British prisoners, who were thus constrained to feel an 
 aggravation of their misfortunes, in the common calamities 
 which others were destined to undergo. They might mourn 
 over the fate of the unhappy victims, but they were but 
 barely removed from the evils Mhich they deplored. The 
 caprice of the tyrant might order them to supply the defici- 
 ency on a vacant day, that the executioner might not be 
 deprived of work, whenever he should view them in the 
 light of an incumbrance. To the bayonet he had already 
 devoted some of their unhappy countrymen at Petit Boicrg; 
 and nothing now existed, to deter him from a repetition of 
 the deed, but the introduction of a substitute of vengeance, 
 which might be found in the guillotine. 
 
 Such were the cruelties practised by Victor Hugues, and 
 such were the steps by which Guadaloupe fell into the hands 
 of France. Assistance from England, it is true, had 
 reached the island before the fortress of Matilda had sur- 
 rendered, but it arrived too late. The enemy had gained 
 too firm a footing to be dislodged by the forces sent, especi- 
 ally as the camp had been broken up, and the troops made 
 prisoners of war. The negroes having nothing to lose, and 
 being in general devoid of principle, are always ready to 
 side with the strongest party. These had espoused the 
 
400 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 Republican interest, either througlihope or fear; and in addi* 
 tion to this, the Royalists had been buried, either alive or 
 dead, in those trenches which were now tilled up.* Nothing, 
 tlierefore, remained, but to begin an invasion of the island 
 anew, and to this the reinforcements were totally inadequate. 
 In consequence of tliese circumstances, the whole posses- 
 sion returned to France; under the dominion of which it 
 remained till 1810; on the 6th of February in which 
 year, it capitulated to the British forces, under the com- 
 mand of Lieut. Gen. Sir George Beckwith, K. B. and 
 Vice Admiral the Hon. A. Cochrane; the result of an 
 attack, in which the courage and coolness of British war- 
 riors were perhaps never more conspicuously displayed. 
 
 Mr. Edwards, in his history of the late war in the West 
 Indies, which is annexed to Vol. III. of his history of the 
 British colonies, seems to have taken great pains to exagger- 
 ate the merit of the Royalists who acted as auxiliaries to the 
 British troops in this island previous to its capture by the 
 French, in October 1794. But on this point opinions 
 considerably vary. Many of the British officers entertained 
 doubts of their sincerity ; and some have been heard to de- 
 clare, since tlieir return to England, that it was either to 
 their duplicity or timidity, that we may hold ourselves 
 indebted for the loss of the island. One false step frequent- 
 ly leads to another, in morals, politics, and war ; and error 
 produces evil as its necessary consequence. 
 
 Had these Royalists, in the early stage of the invasion, 
 boldly withstood the attack which was made on Fluer (T Epee, 
 
 * Victor Hnpiios's having rendered himself famous by his infamy,indiicesi 
 ws to enquire more particularly into his personal history. His parents, 
 wrapped in ohscurity and i)overty, were natives of France, and at the 
 accustomed age placed their son out as an apprentice to a hair dresser. In 
 this capacity, after his appi'enticeship had expired, he went to Guada- 
 Joupe. But this business not answering his expectation, he qiiitted it and 
 commenced innkeeper at Basse-Terre. Tired with this avocation, he 
 commenced master of a small trading vessel, which suited better with his 
 restless disposition. TJirough those vicissitudes of fortune which sometimes 
 degrade the wortliy and exalt the base, he became a lieutenant in tho. 
 navy of France. Revolutions, which sometimes give birth to genius, 
 qnd obscurity to worth, in that of France noticed Victor Hugues for his 
 violence and activity ; so that tinough the influence of Robespierre he 
 was recommended to the national assembly. To the conduct of that 
 tyrant he felt himself strongly attached, both, probably, from interest 
 «nd a congeniality of spirit. It was through his interest that, in 1794, 
 he obtained Jie appointment of Commissioner at Gnadaloupe, with pow- 
 er to direct the movements of the French army and navy. He proved 
 himself everv wav the friend of Robespierre. 
 
 (See Edwaida,Vol. III. p- 476.) 
 
WEST INDIES. 401 
 
 in all probability the enemy Mould not have been able to 
 cany the fort. Defeated in their first onset, they could not 
 have followed up their early successes against a superior 
 force ; nor could they have succeeded, so rapidly, in subduing 
 one strong post after another, till the British forces became 
 too much weakened to make any effectual resistance ; a 
 circumstance which, finally, threw the island into their 
 hands. A repulse in the first instance would have enabled 
 the British to maintain their chain of posts, and to keep up 
 a communication with the shore. The French, under these 
 circumstances, could have gained no ascendency in the island, 
 neither could they have drawn the slaves to join their party. 
 In this case, the enemy might, at least, have been held at bay, 
 till the arrival of reinforcements from England, which 
 would have prevented the Royalists from being sacrificed to 
 the vengeance of Republican despotism, and have preserved 
 the island. 
 
 But to the bad policy of intermixing those French pre- 
 tended Royalists with our regular troops on this occasion ; 
 and that of others, of a doubtful character, at a later period, 
 in tlie ill concerted expedition to Quiberon bay ; the eyes of 
 many are now open. Multitudes can perceive the folly of 
 harboring several thousands of French, Brabant, and Savo- 
 yard emigrants, in the metropolis of Great Britain, where 
 they had daily opportunities of corresponding with their 
 countrymen in France. To these, in a certain degree, may 
 be attributed the failure of our former endeavors, to reduce 
 the proud Lsnrper of the executive power of that nation 
 to the necessity of suing for peace ; instead of exposing the 
 imperial crown of Great Britain to the humiliating altema- 
 tive of soliciting a negociation for a degrading treaty, or of 
 continuing a ruinous uar. Every Frenchman, of whatever 
 rank or profession, fostered in Great Britain during the late 
 war, however he might detest the Republican government, 
 as a secret well-wisher to the cause of his native country, 
 preserved the natural animosity of all his countrymen to- 
 wards the English nation, and lamented over glorious victo- 
 ries and conquests. 
 
 Frenchmen, though banished from their native shores by 
 the prevalency of faction, may detest the usurpation which 
 they are compelled to behold; but it must be remembered 
 that they are Frenchmen still. If attached to our interest, 
 in an unhappy contest in which our country may be engaged 
 with theirs, it is not an attachment to our aggrandizement, 
 
 VOL. II. 3 E 
 
402 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 but to the welfare of that authority which they wish to 
 establish. Men thus exiled from their country, in times of 
 civil commotion, resemble those who have been expelled a 
 ship in times of mutiny ; they feel solicitous for the down- 
 fall of the usurping faction, but start with horror at a deed 
 that would destroy the vessel. 
 
 The general principles of human nature are the same in 
 every breast. A train of public, of local, and of domestic 
 ties, unites with that innate • affection which we feel for our 
 native spot ; so that we are riveted by those pleasing fetters, 
 which we have neither a wish nor the ability to break. Such 
 attachments, without doubt, are implanted within our bosoms 
 for wise and beneficent purposes some of which we are, at 
 present, unable to comprehend. But even thete may, ulti- 
 mately, subserve the glory of the church in the latter days, 
 and tend to introduce that righteousness, which, before the 
 consummation of all things, shall cover the earth. 
 
 The Roman catholic religion, prior to the revolution, w as 
 established in this island as an appendage to the state ; and 
 this was done on so extensive a scale, as to exclude all other 
 professions of Christianity. The churches were both nume- 
 rous and superb, and vied in magnificence and internal de- 
 corations, in the richness of their shrines, and the vestments 
 of their priests, with those of some of the first cities of 
 France. Towards the middle of the last century, Guada- 
 loupe maintained live monasteries of religious orders ; viz. 
 of Jacobin Friars, Jesuits, Carmelites, Capuchins, and 
 brethren of the order of Charity ; and missionaries from 
 these orders were continually sent out from the mother 
 country. 
 
 On the advantages resulting from those establishments, 
 which become visible, from the decorations, embellishments, 
 trappings, and silver shrines which they exhibit, it is need- 
 less to animadvert. Wherever the progress of vice conti- 
 nues to prevail, we may rest ourselves assured, that religion 
 has been attended with little or no success. In such cases, 
 the passions continue lawless and unsubdued ; and prove, 
 that if they have not defeated the purposes of political inten- 
 tion, they have evidently defeated the designs of heaven. 
 The external varnish of religion may, indeed, remain after 
 the essence is exhaled, or it may manifest its lustre, to con- 
 ceal the deformity which must not be seen. Perhaps it 
 may still go farther, and dazzle with an increasing brilliancy, 
 in proportion as it yields, to the enemies of all righteousness. 
 
VEST INDIES. 403 
 
 an opportunity to obtain credit for that reality which it does 
 not possess. 
 
 There is within the hiunan bosom an instinctive energy, 
 which invariably prompts to action ; but it wants a directing 
 and controling power. Homage to a superior being is 
 implanted in our nature ; so that religious worship is not 
 uncongenial to the mind ot" man. Impelled by energy to 
 act without direction, its movements are not so difficult to 
 excite as to regulate : if it cannot have true religion, it will 
 have false ; and even substitute an idol in the room of the 
 living God. Uniutluenced by divine grace, the mind moves 
 under habitual ignorance, and rests satisfied with those vest- 
 ments which are adapted both to sincerity and disguise, 
 without once suspecting the imposition, or attemptmg to 
 detect the fraud. That which strikes upon the senses always 
 makes the most lively impression. Imposture has availed 
 itself of this weakness of human nature, and taught super- 
 stition to " see Gods descend and fiends infernal rise." In 
 most cases of this kind, dogmas supply the place of argu- 
 ment, and an artificial sanctity encircles the awful residence 
 of the cheat. And while it acquires veneration from that 
 concealment which is necessary to keep alive the farce, it 
 watches the movements of its dupes with interested vigi- 
 lance, and carefully prohibits all enquiry. 
 
 Amid the tempests of a revolution, an advancement in 
 morals is hardly to be expected ; but when those principles 
 from whence they spring have taken up an abode in the 
 heart, though they may be shaken, they cannot easily be 
 erased. Without looking back prior to the revolution, the 
 present state of morals in Guadaloupe is such as might 
 naturally be expected ; vice moves in triumph, and becomes 
 the more conspicuous from being erected on the ruins of 
 demolished virtue. But if we look to the sudden influx of 
 iniquity which follow ed the political change, it sufllciently 
 proves, that, prior to this great event, the reign of moral 
 virtue was rather artificial than real, — constrained by coercive 
 laws, but not established in the heart. Force indeed may 
 impose a momentary restraint, and curb the sallies of the 
 ruling principles within ; but it will neither weaken their 
 energy, nor give them a new direction. Let it only relax in 
 its exertions, either through its own weakness, or through 
 external violence, the gates will immediately open, and vice 
 will instantly dekige the country with a terrible inundation. 
 
 Such was the case in the island of Guadaloupe, in point of 
 
404 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 fact; and from thence we may naturally infer the cause. 
 No previous principles of moral excellence had been instilled 
 into the minds of the inhabitants ; and, consequently, they had 
 no standard to which they could repair. The shocks that 
 accompanied the revolution, were felt in all their force, and 
 by suspending all restraint introduced that unbounded licen- 
 tiousness of manners which continues to prevail. 
 
 At present, while the mother country is at war with 
 Great Britain, we cannot be justified in indulging a hope 
 that a door will be opened for the introduction of the gospel. 
 For this we must wait the arrival of more fortunate circum- 
 stances, and more happy days ; when national hostilities shall 
 subside, and when the violence of animosity shall be suc- 
 ceeded by a peaceful calm. In this case, the proximity of 
 those islands into wliich the gospel has been introduced", 
 and in which it has been attended with such happy effects, 
 may force the inhabitants of Guadaloupe so far to be swayed 
 by interest, as to abandon those predjudices which novv 
 operate in their fullest extent. Interest, under these circum- 
 stances, may influence, where better principles can be of no 
 avail ; and may, eventually, lead to the introduction of the 
 gospel, and to the establishment of it in a state of purity. 
 But this, at present, is rather an object of our wishes than 
 our hopes. 
 
 *' Vice is a monster of such frightful mien, 
 ^' As to be hated, needs but to be seen." - 
 
 Whether, therefore, self interest, or a better motive, shall 
 be made the medium of illumination, if the happy effect 
 be but produced, the result wilL be the same. Between 
 unlikely means, and salutary ends, experience and observa- 
 tion have shewn that there is a secret connexion. Our 
 ability or inability to trace it, is not the question. We are 
 concerned with the event produced, and not with the man- 
 ner of its production, when the means are apparently incon- 
 sistent with the end, and are such as baffle all calculation. 
 There are adjustments in the movements of providence, 
 which we jearn from their issues, but which we want acute- 
 ness to comprehend, and which bring to pass events more 
 unlikely than those which we thus contemplate. They form, 
 it iS true, no particular basis for calculation ; but they afford 
 a restii g place for faith, and give animation to distant hope 
 
 To these intricate mediums, which we cannot trace, we 
 
WEST INDIES. 405 
 
 ,feel ourselves justified in annexinj^ those permanent promises, 
 which have been given us of God. By these we are assured, 
 that righteousness shall finally cover the earth, and that all 
 shall know God, from the least unto tiie greatest. These pro- 
 mises are permanent, though the means of their accom- 
 plishment are in many cases obscure, 'i'he ordmary means, 
 indeed, are, the preaching of the word in its purity, and tht? 
 illuminations of the Holy Spirit ; but the former can be 
 introduced through a diversity of ways, and the latter can 
 be applied through any medium that shall be approved by 
 God. 
 
 To these incomprehensible modes of accomplishment, and 
 communication, and permanency of promises, we may add, 
 that the power on which we rely is without all limits, and 
 therefore adequate to every purpose. Nothing can resist its 
 energy, or control its force ; subordinate powers are enclosed 
 within its extensive circle, and can only act by the divine 
 permission, Christianity, therefore, has nothing tp fear, un- 
 less God should cease to be its friend. To prevent this, his 
 immutability and promises stand engaged ; and if these fail, 
 
 " The pillar'd firmament is rottenness, 
 " And earth's hase built ou stubble." 
 
 If from these detached surveys we collect the parts, anci 
 connect the whole together, we shall soon obtain an assurance 
 that our expectations are not chimerical, and devoid of all 
 foundation. For since God has given to us his promises, 
 wliich connect our expectations with the future events ; and 
 since he who has promised is immutable, and therefore cannot 
 change ; the issue becomes as permanent as the foundations 
 of the earth. And when, in addition to this, we appeal 
 to those facts in which we have seen the Almighty work, 
 through means which we cannot comprehend, to accomplish 
 his purposes, and transfer what is past to what will be here- 
 after, we cannot be deceived. Hence then we look forward 
 to a period when present obstacles shall be removed, and 
 when life and immortality shall be so completely brought to 
 light, that the gospel shall shine in every longitude, and 
 illuminate the earth from pole to pole. 
 
 In the meanwhile, the only alternative which lies before us 
 is, either to persevere in the path of duty, or to act in diso- 
 bedience to the will of God. The present, and, perhaps, 
 the succeeding generation, may be swept aside before the 
 
406 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 object of our desires shall be accomplished; but the present 
 spreading of the gospel may be considered as an harbinger, 
 preparatory to that eventful period, when a nation shall be 
 bom in a day. Happy, unspeakable happy, must be that 
 ara, when the nations of the earth, now contending for em- 
 pire through seas of blood, shall unite in amity and peace, 
 and look back with astonishment on those deeds of darkness 
 which now disgrace and desolate the world. We have only 
 to add, at the conclusion of our observations and reflections 
 on thi^ important subject, — may God in infinite mercy hasten 
 the glorious period, when earth shall thus bear some resem- 
 blance to heaven ! 
 
B 
 
 WEST INDIES. 407 
 
 CHAP. XXXI. 
 
 Barbuda — AnguiUa—Montserrat. 
 
 OF BARBUDA. 
 
 EFORE we take leave of the British Leev/ard Island,*, 
 it is proper to give some account of the appendages to the 
 large and flourishing colonies. Barbuda is one of them, 
 situated about 20 miles north east of St. Christopher's. 
 Though its dimensions are considerable, being 20 miles in 
 length and 12 in breadth, it cultivates no one article for 
 foreign commerce ; notwithstanding the fertility of its soil, 
 and though it has a good road for shipping. The inhabi- 
 tants conline their industry to agriculture, and chiefly employ 
 themselves in growing corn, and breeding cattle, to supply 
 food for the neighboring islands, whose culture of provi- 
 sions yields to the more profitable growth of the staple 
 commodities for exportation to Great Britain. The territo- 
 rial property is said to belong to the descendants of General 
 Codrington, who first held it by patent from the crown. 
 The total number of whites, people of colour, and negroes, 
 is computed at 1500 persons. 
 
 OF ANGUILLA. 
 
 THIS is another small island belonging to British 
 subjects, and the most northerly of their Charaibean settle- 
 ments. It is a woody but fertile tract of land, about 30 
 miles in length, and 10 in breadth. The climate is nearly 
 the same as Jamaica ; but it is miich infested with dift'ereut 
 species of serpents, on which account it is commonly called 
 by its neighbours Snake Island. Its population is scanty; 
 and the small number of resident inhabitants employ them- 
 selves, like »hose of Barbuda, in raising corn and cattle for 
 the use of the planters in the commercial colonies, and in 
 fishing. It is situated in 18 north latitude, and 6-t" west 
 longitude from London ; at the distance of about 60 miles 
 north west of St. Christopher's. 
 
46^ HISTORY OF THE 
 
 OF MONTSERRAT. 
 
 THE discovery of this island bears the same date as that 
 of St. Christopher's, and is equally ascribed to Columbus, 
 "who gave it the name of Montserrat from the striking simi- 
 larity of its appearance to a mountain so called in Catalonia, 
 situated at the distance of about twenty miles north west of 
 Barcelona. The Catalonian Montserrat is celebrated by 
 travellers for the hospitality of the monks belonging to a 
 monastery nearly on its summit, who entertain all strangers 
 that visit the spot, either from curiosity, or to pay their 
 devotions to " our lady of the chapel," according to their 
 mode of expression. In either case, the visitors are allowed 
 to remain in the monastery three days free from all expense. 
 That mountain is reported, but not with accuracy, to be iive 
 miles high, and ten miles in circumference. The Montserrat 
 of the W est Indies is about nine miles in length, and nearly 
 the same in breadth, and has one mountain of superior 
 height to the rest ; but the whole island is little better 
 than a collection of hills covered with cedar, cypress, and 
 other forest trees ; and on the declivity many odoriferous 
 plants grow wild. A small part of the cultivated land pro- 
 duces sugar canes ; another portion is allotted to the planta- 
 tion of the cotton tree ; the remainder, in a state of culti- 
 vation, is distributed in pasturage and the growth of grain 
 and vegetables, for the use of the inhabitants. The three 
 commercial articles, therefore, are Sugar, Rum, and Cot- 
 ton ; but so small is the proportion of these staple commo- 
 dities, that the plantations producing them do not extend to 
 more than }0,0()0 acres, or about one third of the territory, ' 
 which is computed to consist of more than 30,000 acres. 
 So unimportant indeed has this little spot appeared to geo- 
 graphers and historians, that scarcely any authentic informa- 
 tion is to be found respecting its civil history. 
 
 A party of English or Irish adventurers landed on the island 
 about the year 1632, and, according to Raynal, " were not 
 " content with disturbing the peace of the many savages 
 " then inhabiting it, but very soon contrived to expel them. 
 " But not linding those advantages which they expected 
 " from settling on it, owing to the very uneven ground, and 
 " its being for tlie most part full of barren hills, it did not 
 
WEST INDIES. 409 
 
 " encourage them to invite more oi' tlieir countrymen to join 
 " them." Thus the population of the infant col')ny was 
 but slow, and little progress was made in its establishment 
 till towards the close of the century. About that period, 
 however, a more enterprising and industrious spirit animated 
 the white inhabitants ; and a regular government was formed 
 by the mother-country, subjecting the island to the super- 
 intendance and authority of the Governor General of the 
 Leeward Islands. But the principal planters being Roman 
 Catholics were strongly attaclied to the intolerant principles 
 of that persuasion ; so that in those days no encouragement 
 was held forth for Protestants to settle among them. From 
 the same cause, still existing, no opening at present is 
 offered for a mission from our society ; a considerable part 
 of the people, consisting of bigoted Irish Roman Catholics, 
 being disposed to revive the persecutions of former times. 
 However, a small company of about twelve persons, who 
 are under the influence of grace, are regularly met, in a pri- 
 vate manner, once a week by one of our pious brethren of 
 colour, capable of instructing them in the things of God. 
 
 The present government of the island consists of a Pre- 
 sident, a Council of six, and an Assembly of eight mem- 
 bers ; two for each of the four districts into which it is 
 divided. The number of white inhabitants is computed 
 not to exceed 1,300, nor that of the negroes 9,000, the 
 population having been on the decline of late years. 
 This has been owing to epidemic fevers, of which proper 
 notice will be taken in a separate department of this work ; 
 and to other misfortunes occasioned by war, or by the ele- 
 ments, that from time to time have checked the progress 
 and disappointed the hopes of the planters. Finally, There 
 is one great obstacle to the attainment of any considerable 
 increase of the commerce and prosperity of the inhabitants of 
 Montserrat ; which is, the difficulty of loading and unloading 
 ships on the shores of an island which has not one good 
 road ; and whose coasts are so dangerous, that the masters 
 of trading vessels are obliged to put out to sea, or to take 
 shelter in some of the neighboring harbors, the instant 
 they discover an approaching storm. Montserrat is situated 
 in 16> 54', north latitude, and 6V' 34', west longitude fioai 
 London, and at nearly equal distances between Guadaloupe 
 and Antigua; being about 30 miles S. W. of the latter, and 
 N. VV. of the former. 
 
 VOL. II. 3 F 
 
410 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 CHAP. XXXII. 
 
 HISTORY OF ANTIGUA. 
 
 Destitute of inhabitants on its discovery, and zcithout any 
 European Settler till 1629- — Neglected and abandoned, 
 because destitute of Rive/s, Springs, and Wells. — First 
 settled by the English in l632. — Pillaged by the French, 
 and reduced to wretchedness. — Colony again revived by 
 
 . Colonel Codrington. — Oppressed by the tyranny and in- 
 justice of Governor Park. — Character and fate of that 
 Despot. — Situation, Advantages, Disadvantages, and 
 extent of the Island. — Produce and Population. — To- 
 pographical Divisions. — Natural Curiosities — Observa- 
 tions on the Yellow Fever. — Civil Institutions, 4'c. 
 
 J HE first discovery of this islajid by Columbus afford- 
 ed little or no prospect of its becoming an advantageous 
 settlement for European adventurers ; for it was found to be 
 totally destitute of springs and rivers ; and the art of pre- 
 serving large quantities of rain water in cisterns was not 
 then known. This is the principal reason assigned by the 
 Spanish historian, for its remaining uninhabited for more than 
 a century after Columbus had discovered it, and given it the 
 name it still bears, in honor of St. Mary, of Antigua, to 
 whom a church in Seville was dedicated. 
 
 In the year 1 629, a small number of French planters, 
 being molested in the enjoyment of their property in the 
 island of St. Christopher, attempted an establishment in 
 Antigua. This place they found totally uninhabited, the 
 Charaibs having deserted it for want of water. On finding 
 the same inconveniences which the Charaibs had experienced, 
 arising from the .same cause, they were induced to return 
 again to St. Christopher's. This they did, as soon as the 
 commotions had subsided which drove them from the island ; 
 thus leaving Antigua in its original and abandoned state. 
 About the year 1632, some Englishmen, more enterprizing 
 tbaa either the Freuch or the savages, undertook a settle- 
 
WEST INDIES. 411 
 
 ment ; and, resorting to the expedient of preserving rain 
 Avatei' in cisterns, employed themselves in the cultivation of 
 tobacco. Their number in 1640 amounted to upwards of 
 thirty families. From this period, the population gradually 
 increased ; and the most sanguine hopes were entertained, 
 that in a few years it would become a flourishing British 
 colony. But, unfortunately, a war between England and 
 France encouraged the French government of Martinico, in 
 1 666, to lit out a considerable force to invade and pillage 
 this island. This they too successfully effected, by destroy- 
 ing the tobacco plantations, and carrying off" all the negroe 
 slaves employed in the cultivation of this only article of 
 commerce, on which the inhabitants depended for support. 
 The depredations committed by the enemy were carried to 
 such an excess, that all further improvement was neglected; 
 and for several years after this event, the island was reduced 
 nearly to its original desolated condition. At length the 
 genius and active exertions of a respectable inhabitant of 
 Barbadoes rescued it from oblivion, and laid the foundation 
 of its subsequent prosperity. 
 
 This patron of Antigua was Colonel Codrington. He 
 had cultivated the sugar cane with extraordinary success in 
 Barbadoes ; and having obtained certain intelligence that the 
 soil of Antigua was well adapted to its propagation, he 
 became one of its resident inhabitants. He then purchased 
 a considerable quantity of land ; — sent for his family from 
 Barbadoes, according to some authors, in the year 1674, 
 but according to others, in l676 ; and, in the course of time 
 rendered such signal services to his country, both as a plan- 
 ter and as a military officer, that his name will be long re- 
 membered in the West Indies. Soon after this, he was ap- 
 pointed Commander in Chief and Captain General of all 
 the British Leeward Charaibean Islands ; most of them hav- 
 ing been indebted for their flourishing condition to his pa- 
 triotic zeal, and great skill in agriculture and commerce. 
 
 Most of the lands which were adapted to the growth of 
 sugar were, under his direction, appropriated to its cultiva- 
 tion. The first attempts of the planters were rather un- 
 promising and unprofitable. The sugar which they raised 
 was of an inferior quality, being coarse in its nature, and 
 exceedingly dark in color. In Great Britain it could find 
 no market. Its proprietors were, therefore, compelled to 
 dispose of it in Holland and the Hans Towns, at a price 
 much below that for which they could affbrd to render it. 
 But the genius of Codrington soon supplied the deficiencies 
 
412 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 of nature from the resources of art, and raised crops which, 
 in proportion to their extent, rivalled the produce of the 
 more established colonies. This worthy Governor died in 
 the }ear 1698, and was succeeded by his son, under whose 
 prudent administration tlie settlement was raised to a state 
 of considerable prosperity. Its flourishing condition soon 
 attracted the notice of the British government, and it was 
 viewed in England as a most important and advantageous 
 establishment. Reports of its prosperity drew to its shores 
 commercial adventurers from other islands, and not many 
 had reason to complain that speculation had been deceived 
 by hope. Ihe industry of these new settlers was soon re- 
 warded in an ample manner ; and wealth, and an increase of 
 population, advanced in a due proportion. From these fa- 
 vorable circumstances the mother country found means to 
 derive considerable advantages. The articles which were 
 imported increased the revenue of the kingdom ; the neces- 
 saries which were required by the inhabitants for clothing, 
 and other purposes, promoted the manufactories at home ; 
 while the people contributed tlieir quota in military aid, 
 when expeditions became necessary to make reprisals on 
 our political enemies, and commercial competitors. 
 
 '1 he accession of Queen Anne to the British throne was 
 accompanied with a considerable change in the administra- 
 tion of public affairs. Political influence was felt across 
 the Atlantic ; and Codrington, in consequence of some dis- 
 agreement with the new administration, resigned his official 
 situation. With his resignation, a period was put for a 
 season to the growing prosperity of the island. He was 
 succeeded in ofiice by Sir Vv illiam Matthews, whose public 
 career was too short to enable him to promote, or to per- 
 mit him to counteract, those plans for the general good 
 which his predecessors had so wisely arranged and pursued. 
 He reached Antigua, and died soon after his arrival. 
 
 On his death, an injudicious appointment of a worthless 
 character to succeed him involved the colony in a series of 
 calamities. Through the interest of the ]}uke of Marl- 
 borough, Daniel Park, whose crimes have given to his 
 name an infamous immortality, found means to obtain the 
 government of these Leeward Islands. He bad served un- 
 der that renowned commander in Flanders, and had so far 
 ingratiated himself, through his recoinmendalion, into the 
 favour of his friends, that his vices were concealed from 
 their views, or overpowered by the blaze of that glory 
 which crowned his illustrious patron. '1 his man was a na- 
 
WEST INDIES. 413 
 
 tlve of Virginia, but had fled from his country to escape 
 justice, and taken refuge in England. 'Ihrough intrigue 
 and corruption he procured a seat in parliament, but being 
 convicted of bribery was expelled the house. The vices 
 which marked his private life soon compelled him to seek 
 an asylum on the continent. Here lie was introduced to 
 the Duke, who, being captivated with his address, made 
 him one of his aides de camp, in which capacity he served 
 at the memorable battle of Hochstet. When victory crown- 
 ed the British arms, he was sent home with the important 
 dispatches, and permitted to have an interview with her 
 Majesty. Asa mark of her attention, she rew arded him 
 with a thousand guineas, at her levee presented him w ith her 
 picture superbly ornamented with diamonds, and readily 
 concurred in his new appointment. 
 
 This miscreant arrived at Antigua in the summer of 1 706, 
 and was received by the council, the assembly of represen- 
 tatives, and the inhabitants, m ith every mark of distinction 
 and respect which was thought due to his exalted station. 
 The Assembly upon this occasion, well knowing the power- 
 ful interest by which he had been promoted, from motives of 
 policy, voted him an annual increase of revenue to the amount 
 of one thousand pounds, a sum which was afterwards made 
 perpetual to his more worthy successors. But all the ho- 
 nors and favors so liberally conferred on this unprincipled 
 monster made no impression on his callous heart. Lust 
 and rapine were his predominant vices ; injustice and cruelty 
 the means of gratifying them. " The abuse of authority," 
 says Raynal, ''so common in most nations, but so rare among 
 " the English, was the more severely felt in Antigua," as it 
 had enjoyed every human felicity under the mild and equi- 
 table administration of its former Governors. Park, in de- 
 fiance of the laws, and regardless of morality, justice, and 
 common decency, proceeded from one degree of brutal vio- 
 lence to another, and nearly tilled his catalogue of iniquity in 
 the short space of four years. And, although complaints 
 were frequently transmitted to the Queen's ministry of his 
 tyrannical conduct, it does not appear that any notice Mas 
 taken of his mal-administration until the year 1710. At 
 this time, the repeated remonstrances of the inhabitants pro- 
 duced an order from home, for him to resign his otTice to 
 the Lieutenant Governor, and to return to England without 
 loss of time. But, instead of obeying the royal mandate, 
 he continued to exercise his authority, and proceeded to 
 fresh outrages from motives of revenge. 'J he members of 
 
414 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 the Council, and of the Assembly of representatives of the 
 people, could bear his tyranny no longer. They were obliged 
 to associate in defence of their lives, and for the security of 
 their property ; and to take up arms in order to put an end 
 to excesses which they abhorred, and could no longer en- 
 dure. Accordingly, they summoned the colonists through- 
 out every district of the island, to repair to the town of 
 St. John, M'ell armed, on the morning of the 7th of De- 
 cember, to protect their representatives, to defend the public 
 property, and to oppose the further progress of usurped 
 authority. The government at this time, they contended, 
 was actually vested by indisputable right in the Lieutenant 
 Governor and the House of Assembly. They were, therefore, 
 compelled to have recourse to these violent measures to 
 resist the effects of a proclamation which Park had recently, 
 but illegally, issued for dissolving the Assembly. The 
 tyrant now began, too late, to find that he had roused the 
 vengeance of a deeply injured and justly incensed people. 
 And having fortified himself in Government house, in which 
 he had collected the few regular soldiers he could command, 
 as attached to his person, he began a huroiliating negoci- 
 atlon, which was terminated, on the part of the inhabitants, 
 by a general assault. In this onset, Park was overpowered 
 and deeply wounded ; but not till after he had shot Mr. 
 Piggot, Avho was one of the principal planters of the island, ^ 
 and a member of the Assembly. This catastrophe so high- 1 
 ly exasperated the insurgents, that Park was dragged forth 
 into the streets, ?.nd exposed to the ungovernable fury of 
 the negroes, who had suttered every hardship under his op- 
 pressive government. These, according to their usual savage 
 custom of destroying their vaiiquisbed enemies, tore hmi to 
 pieces whilst yet living, and dispersed his mutilated limbs 
 in different streets. But in this last act of merited barbarity 
 none of the white inhabitants were concerned. On the 
 contrary, notwithstanding the confused account given of this 
 tragedy by some writers, it is well attested, that the whole 
 body of the people, who had been called together for their 
 common defence, behaved upon this melancholy occasion 
 with the greatest decency and decorum. It is also well 
 known, that after the Governor fell to the ground, from the 
 wound he had received within the house, they retired from.j 
 the spot, repaired instantly to the residence of the Lieut. 
 Governor, laid down their arms, and peaceably submitted;] 
 to his administration. 
 
 " The mother country," says Abbe Raynal, " morel 
 
■WEST INDIES. 415 
 
 " moved by the sacred rights of nature than jealous of her 
 " own authority, overlooked a deed which her vigilance 
 *' ought to have prevented, but which she was too equitable 
 " to revenge. A general amnesty was transmitted to the island, 
 " with all possible expedition ; and two of the most active 
 " leaders of the revolt were appointed by the Queen mem- 
 " bcrs of the Council under the new Governor." The 
 same author concludes his brief relation oflhis extraordinary 
 transaction, with the following political rejections. " It is 
 ** only the part of a tyrant to excite rebellion, and then to 
 " quench it in the blood of the oppressed. Machiavelism, 
 " which teaches princes the art of making themselves feared 
 " and detested, directs them to stifle the victims whose 
 " cries become importunate. Humanity prescribes to 
 ** kings, justice in legislation, mildness in administration, 
 " lenity to prevent insurrections, and clemency to pardon 
 " them. Religion enjoins obedience to the people ; but 
 *^ God, above all things, requires equity in princes. The 
 " American islands have sometimes avenged the authority 
 *' of kings and the rights of the people upon iniquitous go- 
 *' vernors, who, by a double treachery, prostituted the 
 " king's name to oppress a whole nation. Antigua will re- 
 " mam celebrated in history for this terrible example of 
 " justice." 
 
 A succession of worthy governors, under the equitable 
 administration of the house of Hanover, restored the tran- 
 quillity, and consolidated the prosperity, of this now flourish- 
 ing British colony. 
 
 The central situation of the island, under the dominion 
 of Great Britain, renders it peculiarly advantageous to the 
 mother country, in a political point of view, independently 
 of its commercial benefits. Its position is in latitude 17'' 
 o north, and longitude Q'2,' 5' west from London. It is 
 distant about 60 miles from St. Christopher's ; and nearly 
 at an equal distance from each between the islands of 
 Guadaioupe and Domir.ica. It has a capacious harbor, 
 called English Harbor, which, for many years past, has 
 been a constant station for a squadron of British ships 
 of war in time of hostilities, and for lar^e fleets in time 
 of peace. It has generally had the command of Gua-. 
 daloupe, which has, more than once, surrendered with- 
 out much resistance to the crown of Great Britain, and 
 remained under its dominion till restored to France by 
 treaties of peace. 
 
 Aptigua is computed by the most accurate surveyor to be 
 
416 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 about twenty miles in length, and nearly as much in breadth. 
 The circumference is calculated to exceed iifty miles ; and 
 the whole to contain about 59,838 acres of land. Of these 
 nearly two- thirds are in a cultivated state ; the majority being 
 laid out in sugar plantations, and the remainder in pastur- 
 age. A small portion only is allotted to the cultivation of 
 tobacco plants and the cotton tree, and to the raising of the 
 necessary articles of vegetable provisions for the inhabitants. 
 With the latter, however, they are plentifully supplied, 
 ■when the island is not afflicted by great droughts, a calamity 
 to which it is too frequently subject. The whole island is 
 divided into eleven districts, containing six towns, viz. St. 
 John, Parham, Falmouth, Willoughby, Bridge Town, and 
 St. James. These towns and districts are included in the 
 six parishes of St. John, St. George, St. Peter, St. Paul, 
 St. Philip and St. Mary. The total amount of the white iu- 
 hal:»itants at present is estimated at 3000, and of the negi o 
 slaves about 37,000. The chief produce of their labor for 
 exportation to Europe is sugar, of which it is reckoned that 
 16,000 hogsheads are manufactured on an average annually, 
 making a moderate allowance for bad seasons. 
 
 The face of the country, to a stranger on his_lirst landing, 
 does not present any extraordinary beauty, being for the 
 most part too much covered with sterile hills, and surround- 
 ed on the coasts with rocks, which render its approach by 
 sea rather dangerous. But some districts of the interior 
 •evince the persevering industry and spirit of improvement 
 which distinguish the English planters, and other opulent 
 inhabitants, from their indolent neighbors the French. 
 
 The town of St. John is agreeably situated on the declivi- 
 ty of a hill, except on the north side, which has been raised 
 to a complete plain by indefatigable labour, in filling up 
 with earth an unhealthy marsh. The streets are generally 
 I'ery regular ; the houses spacious and w-ell ventilated ; and 
 few instances occur of those cabins being crowded on each 
 other, the asylum of filth and low dissipation, which dis- 
 grace most of the British West India towns. From St. 
 John's to Falmouth and English Harbor, Antigua is seen 
 to the greatest advantage ; this journey offering the greatest 
 contrast of mountains and valiies with the best state of 
 cultivation. In the neighborhood of Falmouth, the coun^ 
 try rises much. And from thence to English Harbor, and 
 to the ridge of a ceruginous rock, the scenery is very pictur- 
 esquely diversified by breaks and knolls. These are crown- 
 ed with woods ; — with huge masses of rock projecting iutQ 
 
"WEST INDIES. 417 
 
 the beautiful bay of Falmouth, and afford a pleasing view 
 of a romantic islet and ruins. From these eminences we 
 have a distant prospect of the shipping in English Harbor, 
 together with the various and grotesque buildings constitut- 
 ing the docic-yard. 
 
 This extensive and beautiful tract is highly cultivated, 
 and adorned with a considerable number of gardens judici- 
 ously disposed and elegantly decorated. The summit of 
 Monkshill is, beyond all doubt, one of the healthiest spots 
 in the W^est Indies ; and, together with the various heights 
 called the Ridge, about three miles further on, constitutes 
 a strong and most salubrious post for the defence and pro- 
 tection of the naval arsenal at English Harbor. The houses 
 in this tract are built of the green rock, and are prettily 
 diversified by the contrasts ^^hich the lists, or lines, of a red 
 mortar, separating the square stones, produce. 
 
 It is a striking singularity, that the a^ruginous rock and soil 
 are not confined to this tract ; they extend across the island 
 in a line nearly north and south, and in a continuous breadth 
 of five miles. They then pass under the sea, forming a reef 
 or bank of equal breadth, and re-appear on the opposite 
 sliore of Montserrat. The sea under which they pass 
 abounds with fish ; but those caught, if made use of as food, 
 impart a deadly poison to such as imprudently or ignorantly 
 eat them.* 
 
 In the vicinity of the Ridge, in a wild sterile spot, over- 
 grown with false Acacia, Cactus, and dwarfy Psidiu/n, in- 
 termixed with innumerable huge masses of spar, there is a 
 curious cavern, in which an immense quantity of beautiful 
 petrifactions are found, besides Stalactites ; and in many 
 other parts of the island they are met with, detached in 
 forms infinitely varied. 
 
 Besides the want of springs already noticed, Antigua 
 labors under another great disadvantage ; an uncommonly 
 dry atmosphere, notwithstanding the singular irregularity of 
 its temperature. The inhabitants, from these causes, are 
 not unfrequently in distress for water, which they are then 
 obliged to import from the neighboring islands at a very 
 great expense. The etFects of a deprivation of water have 
 
 * See an Essay on the malignant pestilential Fever introduced into 
 
 the West Indies, 6«:c. By Dr. Chisholm, 2 Vols. London, Printed for 
 Mawman, 1801. 
 
 VOL. II. 3 G 
 
418 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 been frequently and fatally experienced ; these were more' 
 particularly felt in the year 1779, when the ponds in which 
 the cattle or stock of the plantations were watered, became 
 dry. The importation was altogether insufficient ; and every 
 part of the surface of the earth being parched up, the stock 
 and the slaves perished in the utmost agony ; and a most fa- 
 tal and malignant fever, at the same time, every where pre- 
 vailing, threatened total destruction to all. When these 
 destructive attacks of dry weather are suddenly succeeded 
 by a profusion of rain, which generally happens once in 
 three or five years, a very fatal epidemic remittent is the 
 consequence. But however insalubrious such changes are, 
 from aridity to moisture, the planters consider themselves as 
 amply compensated, by the immense fertility which the soil 
 acquires from the latter. The difference in the general pro- 
 duce of the island, occasioned by this diversity, is as 1 to 7. 
 And such is the wonderful fecundity of the earth in many 
 places, that if rain fall plentifully even in what is called the 
 crop season of the year, although the former part may have 
 been uniformly dry, still an increase of three-fold has been 
 observed to be the produce. 
 
 The temperature of the atmosphere in Antigua is ex- 
 tremely irregular. In the morning it has frequently happen- 
 ed in dry weather, that the mercury in the thermometer 
 has been stationary at 62° and 65°. In general it ranges 
 from 75° to 90° in the course of the year, and, consequently, 
 as 86° is most commonly the stationary point at noon, this 
 gives a medium of 84°. But rain, continued only for a 
 few hours, produces a chill, and a sensation of the coldness 
 of an European winter, seldom otherwise experienced in 
 the West Indies. A particular benefit, however, is derived 
 from this extraordinary variation in the temperature of the 
 atmosphere ; for even in the most arid years, the inhabitants 
 are supplied with a variety of vegetables and fruit. Yet 
 the prevalent dryness of the air is the principal cause of the 
 glandular disease, which in this island has gained a most 
 alarming ascendancy. Its dangerous symptoms are, violent 
 head achs, vertigo, palpitations, and oppression at the prze- 
 cordia ; and the surest remedy is a change of climate, if 
 the patient can remove in time to another colony. But even 
 this cure does not prevent a fresh attack on returning to 
 Antigua. 
 
 The situation of St. John, the capital, is by no means 
 calculated to render it the most healthy part of the island. 
 
WEST INDIES. 419 
 
 Yet as it is the seat of government, and the usual residence 
 of the Governor Gener;.l of all the Leeward Islands, it is, 
 consequently, resorted to, occasionally, by many of dieir 
 inhabitants. Hence it is vastly populous, though ex- 
 posed to the importation of diseases from them in ad- 
 dition to its native malady. This was the case with respect 
 to the fatal malignant fever that broke out first in the 
 shipping in this harbor in 1793, from whence it spread to 
 the town ; and all descriptions of persons, and all ages, were 
 subject to it. Dr. Chisholm has observed, that the circum- 
 stance of its occurring in all the West India Islands at 
 periods commencing a month or two after its importation 
 into, and general prevalence in, the port and town of St. 
 George, Grenada, left little doubt that the fever in Antigua 
 was in fact the pestilential fever of Grenada, commonly 
 called the Boiilam fever. And as this opinion is confirm- 
 ed by the following testimony, it is inserted in this place as 
 a caution to those Europeans who may have occasion to visit 
 the islands, to be careful in their inquiries into the state of 
 the ships on board of which they purpose to embark. 
 
 " Dr. Stephen Murray, a practitioner of considerable 
 " eminence at Falmouth, in the vicinity of English Harbor, 
 " and at the time Surgeon to the Ordnance on the island, 
 " informed me (says Dr. Chisholm), that the malignant pes- 
 *' tilential fever of the year 1793 was evidently imported 
 *' from the Experiment man of war, the crew of which 
 " received the infection at Grenada. She came into Eng- 
 *' lish Harbor in the greatest distress, in the month of 
 *' May, having lost almost all her men by it. An artificer 
 ** belonging to the ordnance, who had gone on board 
 " and stayed all night, lay in a blanket belonging to one 
 *' of the victims to the disease. He was immediately 
 *' seized with it, and died in a few hours. The infection, 
 *' by means of this blanket, which was carried on shore 
 *' to the ordnance quarters with the wearijig-apparel of 
 *' the deceased as part of his property, was communi- 
 " cated to the whole detachment of artillery, and from 
 " them to the 31st regiment of foot then on gairison duty. 
 *' A boat's crew of the Solebay frigate were sent on board 
 " the Experiment to assist in working her into the harbor ; 
 " unfortunately they caught the infection, and not one of 
 *' them survived. But the death of all did not happen till 
 ** some of them had returned on board their own ship, and 
 '' communicated the disease to tlie crew, of whom 20Q 
 
420 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 *' perished. The contagion, spreading, was carried to the 
 " town of St, John by means of the frequent intercourse 
 ^' by water between the inhabitants of that place and those 
 " of English Harbor. The most successful treatment, in 
 " the early stage of the disease, was bleeding and plentiful 
 ^^ alvine evacuation. Bark was of no efficacy ; on the 
 ^* contrary, it was extremely injurious ; and mercury could 
 ^' only be recurred to when the epidemic was on the 
 " decline." 
 
 The town of St. John upon the whole is well built, and 
 the parish church and the goveinment house are superb 
 edifices. Even the houses of the negroes are far superior 
 to those allotted them in some of the other islands ; but, in 
 general, these Africans are not so well fed as some others are. 
 They have but a scanty allowance of provisions from their 
 masters, especially in the dry seasons ; and the numerous 
 ponds of rain water around the town contribute by their 
 putrid exhalations to render the residence unhealthy. 
 
 The executive and legislative authorities of Antigua re- 
 semble those of the other British colonies. They are vested 
 in the governor, in a council consisting of twelve members, 
 and a house of Assembly composed of twenty-five persons, 
 vho represent the people. A certain landed property in 
 the island is necessary to confer a qualification. None but 
 freeholders can elect them to their office. 
 
 These legislators have honorably distinguished themselves, 
 by introducing some important amendments into the juris- 
 prudence of the island, which have, happily, tended to me- 
 liorate the condition of the slaves. Prior to these regula- 
 tions, the proceedings against this unfortunate race of men 
 were summary, and the punishments inflicted on them, being 
 arbitrary, bore but little proportion to the crimes of which 
 they stood accused. Such culprits as now appear among 
 them are entitled, by these changes, to a trial by jury ; and, 
 in case of capital conviction, are allowed a specific time be- 
 tween sentence and execution. Tlie salutary effects which 
 have resulted from these legislative institutions have been 
 sensibly felt both by proprietors and slaves. Of the latter, 
 the lives of thousands have been preserved from the violence 
 of barbarous passion ; against the sallies of which, interest 
 had been found to lift an ineffectual barrier. 
 
 Regulations of a similar nature w^ere afterward instituted 
 m many of the other colonies ; by which the severity of the 
 criminal law was softened, in behalf of the negro slaves. 
 
WEST INDIES. 421 
 
 The acts v/lilch were thus established have been shice rati- 
 fied by the British parliament, and royal authority ; by which 
 means permanence has been given to compassion and return- 
 ing justice. The struggle between humanity and unfeeling 
 oppression was, at first, unequal and severe ; but the pro- 
 gress of time bestowed upon the former that strength of 
 vhich it deprived the latter. We have lived to behold a 
 period which will be rendered conspicuous iu the annals of 
 posterity — a period in which, as it respects the Africans, the 
 triumphs of humanity have been complete. 
 
422. HISTORY OF THE 
 
 CHAP. XXXIII. 
 
 HISTORY OF ANTIGUA, 
 
 (Continued.) 
 
 Origin of the Moravians ; persecuted and exiled ; many 
 settle in England, and import with them a knozdedge of 
 several manufactures. — Spread into foreign parts. — Some 
 settle in Antigua. — Character of their Missionaries, and 
 of the Established Clergy in the island. — Success of the 
 Moravian mission, extracted from their own accounts.-^ 
 Origin of Methodism in the West Indies. — The gospel 
 preached by Nathaniel Gilbert, Esq. in 1760. — Mr. Gil- 
 bert succeeded by Mr. Baxter in 177S. — Success of their 
 preaching. — Mr. Baxter assisted by a Mrs. Gilbert. — 
 Providential occurrences instanced in the case of an old 
 Irish Emigrant and his family. — Author^ first visit in 
 1786. — Prospect of success induces a general establish- 
 ment of Missionaries. — Author's second visit. — Remarks 
 on the Climate, as affecting the health of the Inhabitants, 
 — Various successes of the Gospel, — Capture of Mr. 
 ikP Donald, a Missionary, by the French. — Carried into 
 Guadaloupe. — State of Morals in that Island. — Happy 
 effects of the Gospel on the morals of the Slaves in An- 
 tigua. — Distress arising from an excessive Drought.—' 
 Death and Character qjf' Mr. Baxter. — General Advafi- 
 tages of the Gospel. 
 
 I 
 
 N a civil and religious point of view, the general dispo- 
 sition of the proprietors and other settled inhabitants of this 
 island gives them a right to pre-eminence of character in 
 their public capacity, to which those of the other colonies 
 cannot lay an equal claim. That public spirit of religious 
 indulgence and toleration, which gave both encouragement 
 and protection to a body of German protestants so early as 
 1732, has entitled them to unfading honors. 
 
WEST INDIES. 4^ 
 
 These protestants emigrated from Moravia, and sought atir 
 asylum iu foreign lands. Scattered over Europe by the vio- 
 lence of cruel persecution, they obtained by their peaceable 
 behaviour, and truly christian conduct, that protection and 
 respect to which they liave been so justly entitled, but 
 •which they were forbidden to enjoy in the country which 
 gave them birth. Professing a particular system of religious 
 faith, which marked the extravagant follies of the church of 
 Rome with decided disapprobation, they aimed at the re- 
 formation of those to whom they imparted their doctrines. 
 They instructed their disciples and followers to be sober, 
 active, and industrious members of society ; to be patient 
 and resigned in their respective situations ; to be obedient to 
 their superiors ; and to adorn with humility, and unassuming 
 piety, the various relations of the Christian character. 
 
 In the diti'erent kingdoms of Europe they have, in general, 
 been recognised by the appellation of The United Brethren. 
 In England they have been kno%\Ti by the title of Mora- 
 vians, from the Marquisate of Moravia their native countrv'. 
 Moravia is a province of Germany, subject to the Emperor, 
 as sovereign of Bohemia. Olmutz is the capital ; which, hav- 
 ing an established Roman Catholic college, became at once 
 the fountain of superstition and of persecution. 
 
 Tlie first jjromuigation of the doctrines of the Unitas 
 Tratrum provoked the storm, and awakened the resentment 
 of those superstitious devotees, who began to tremble at the 
 approaching light. Oppressed and persecuted by that in- 
 tolerant communion, these inoffensive people emigrated in 
 great numbers ; and, like the Huguenots of France when 
 exiled from their native plains by the t}"rannical edicts of 
 Louis XIV., they carried with them a variety of ingenious 
 arts, which were either unknown, or but imperfectly prac- 
 tised, in those countries to which they were compelled to 
 flee for protection. Numbers came to England under the 
 patronage of his Royal Highness William Duke of Cum- 
 berland, when he commanded the British forces in Germany, 
 during the war of 1755, and brought with them an art 
 which we retain and exercise to the present day. 
 
 Immediately after the peace of 1763, tliey established a 
 considerable carpet manufactory in Chelsea ; but, on account 
 of the exceedingly high price of provisions in the vicinity of 
 London, they removed to Exeter, where they conducted 
 their trade with tlie greatest success. In this city it is still 
 continued ; and their successors have been taught to produce 
 
4^4 ' HKTORY OP THE 
 
 carpets which are not only in high estimation, but superior 
 in beauty to those of Russia and 7 urkey. 
 
 Many of these Moravian Brethren, melting in pity over 
 Ae benighted Heathens, went forth in the name of their 
 Heavenly Master to mstruct them in the things of God. la 
 every quarter of the globe they have extended their labors ; 
 and in many places God has blessed and owned their endea- 
 vours, by giving them an abundance of souls for their hire. 
 Their Missionaries were the first Protestant ministers of the 
 gospel who, with a holy and disinterested zeal, directed 
 their labors to the pious and benevolent purpose of con- 
 verting the negro slaves in the West Indies. With these 
 views they settled among them in different islands, and laid 
 the foundation of a Christian church in Antigua. The Ro- 
 mish clergy, it is true, established missionaries in an early 
 period ; but, unhappily, exerting themselves to convert the 
 slaves to form and ceremony, rather than to Jesus Christ, 
 their endeavors proved abortive, by, tinally, terminating^ 
 either in superstition or in blood. '1 he conduct of the Mo- 
 ravian Brethren may, probably, receive a lustre from the 
 contrast ; we may contemplate their actions in the same page; 
 but a comparison we cannot make. 
 
 To enter into a detailed analysis of their particular opinions 
 and injunctions, would be quite foreign to the design ot this 
 work ; "rfud to pass over their labors in perfect silence would 
 be both uncharitable and unjust. In the island of Antigua 
 the United Brethren live in perfect harmony and intimate 
 connexion, not only with the established clergy of the church 
 of England, but more especially with our Missionaries In 
 this and in the other islands of the West Indies, they cheer- 
 fully assisted in promoting the infant work of God among 
 the poor negroes. Ihe arrival of a Missionary they consi- 
 dered as an acquisition to the cause in which they were en- 
 gaged; they aiforded them a kind reception, and treated 
 them as fellow-laborers m the common vineyard of their 
 Lord. Ihe sliades of difference which subsisted in opinions 
 were lost in the nobler views, that they were evangelical 
 ministers of J esus Christ. 
 
 The success which has attended the exertions of the Mo- 
 ravian Brethren in the island of Antigua has been great 
 and uninterrupted. Iheir journals breathe a spirit oi gra- 
 titude, unmixed with the alloy of complaint. Indeed, from 
 the earliest establishment of their Missionaries in this island, 
 a spirit of hearing was excited in the negro slaves, which i^ 
 
WEST INDIES. 425 
 
 kept alive to the present moment. Their masters give coun- 
 tenance to their assemblies ; and they have to retlect with 
 pleasure that they feel no occasion to review their conduct 
 "With regret. 
 
 In 1787, the Moravians had under tbeir care in this island 
 five thousand tour hundred and si\t}-tive negro slaves,* 
 many of whom they had reason to believe were truly con- 
 verted to God. Since that period their journals wear a 
 pleasing aspect, ai d plainly prove that the protecting hand 
 of God has not forsaken them. iMom these accoiuits we 
 Mill make some short extracts and lay them before our 
 readers. 
 
 In one of their Reports, published in 1790, they have the 
 following article : " I'he latest accounts from Antigua 
 " mention, that the congregation of believing negroes there, 
 " increase not only in number but in the grace of God. In 
 ** St. John's, the number of adults and children baptized 
 " last year was five hundred and seven. In Gracelull, two 
 " hundred and seventeen were baptized from Easter 1788 
 *' to Easter I7Sy." In 1791, they say, that " the congre- 
 " gations of believers, both in St. John's and Gracehill, m- 
 *' creased in number and grace :" and their friends, to whom 
 their letters were addressed, observe — " God blesses and 
 *' prospers his work among the negroes in so evident a 
 " manner, that we join our Missionaries in rendering hum- 
 ** ble thanks and praises to him whenever we read their 
 *' letters." In their next account they relate, that " the 
 " work of God flourishes greatly, and the negro church in 
 " Gracehill is far too small for the constant hearers." 
 
 In 1792, their prospects and hopes were equally enliven- 
 ing to the pious mind : " In Antigua," they say, " the work 
 *' of God continues to flourish and increase ; and we have 
 " reason to pray that the Eord of tlie harvest would himself 
 " prepare and send forth more laborers into this great har- 
 " vest. At the dose of the year 1791, the two congrega- 
 " tions at Gracehill and St. John's consisted of upwards of 
 " seven thousand four hundred souls, besides a great num- 
 " ber of new people who constantly attend public worship. 
 " The number of Missionaries on the island was only five, 
 " Many of the negroes return thanks to God that he has 
 *' suffered them to be brought into outward affliction, iu 
 
 • I apprel<cnd that this number comprehends all those negroes wh* 
 regularly attended the preaching of the Gospel under their ministry. 
 VOL. IT. 3 H 
 
420 HISTORY OF THfi 
 
 " which they have been made acquainted with the gospel of 
 " Jesus Christ their Saviour, and experienced the power of 
 *' his precious blood to save them from the dominion of sin. 
 " 1 hese converted negroes give many striking proofs of the 
 ** operation of the Spirit of God upon their hearts." 
 
 In a subsequent Report, they speak thus : '^ The mission 
 " in Antigua continues to be blessed by the Lord with an 
 " increase in number ; and, what is still more encouraging 
 " and worthy of our thanks to him, they increase in grace, 
 *' and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus 
 " Christ, which becomes evident in the walk and conversa- 
 " tion of the believing negroes. From Easter 1791 to 
 " Easter 1792, six hundred and forty were baptized in St. 
 *' John's and Gracehill, A third settlement is much wished 
 *' for by the Missionaries." 
 
 Such, in brief, were the prospects, the views, and the suc- 
 cesses, which marked the Moravian Mission through a series 
 of years. Their congregations are still large in the island, 
 and their preaching of the word is still attended with much 
 fruit. Many, through their instrumentality, have been 
 brought from darkness to light ; many have retired into their 
 heavenly inheritance; and many remain as living v.ilnesses 
 that Christ hath still power on earth to forgive sins. 
 
 It must not, however, be supposed, that these Mission- 
 aries, though thus encircled by ihe triumphs of grace, were 
 exempted from those trials, which, in this probationary 
 state, are the common lot of all the people of God. 1 hough 
 countenanced by men in power, and blessed with success 
 even beyond their most sanguine expectations ; the vices 
 which prevailed, the lukewarmness which in many of their 
 converts they were obliged to witness, without being wholly 
 able to remove, were sources of many painful feelings, and 
 causes of humiliation before God. Nevertheless, the con- 
 solation arising from a suj^.ericr conviction, that the great 
 head of the church had owned and blessed their labors, 
 enabled them to believe that their light afflictions, which were 
 but for a moment, would work out for them a far more 
 exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Supported by the 
 promises of the gospel, they continue to this day ; their 
 enjoyments beget gratitude, and their prospects enliven their 
 hopes. Aiming at the glory of God and the salvation of 
 souls, instead of viewing their successes with envy, we 
 beseech God more abundantly to bless their labors, and to 
 make them instrumental in his hand for more good, while 
 we wish them success in the najne of the Lord. 
 
WEST INDIES. 427 
 
 Having thus taken a transient survey of the MoraviaH 
 Missions in this island, we proceed to state the establish- 
 ment and success of those Missionaries who have labored 
 here, under the direction of the society originally established 
 by the Reverend John Wesley. 
 
 The intercourse w hich, in the civilized parts of the world, 
 subsists among the different nations of the earth, becomes 
 frequently a medium through which virtue as well as vice 
 ^re propagated without design. It was through this inter- 
 course that the gospel was tirst introduced by the Methodists 
 into the West Indies; and through which a door became 
 open to the negroes, thousands of Mhom were sitting in 
 the valley of the shadow of death. 
 
 Antigua became the primary scene of action. In this 
 island the work began tirst to take root. From hence a 
 variety of branches spread themselves into other colonies ; 
 and the event has been, that thousands have been savingly 
 converted to God. As this island must be considered as the 
 parent church in this Archipelago, it behoves us, in this place, 
 to give a brief, but full, account of the manner in which 
 the gospel was iirst established, together with the instruments 
 through Avhich it was effected. By these means we may 
 trace the conduct of Almighty goodness, in those displays 
 of mercy which he has so abundantly manifested towards 
 multitudes of the swarthy inhabitants of the torrid zone. 
 
 It was sometime in the year 1760, that Nathaniel Gilbert 
 Esq. who had heard the gospel in England, and felt some- 
 thing of its saving power, found himself a resident of An- 
 tigua through those vicissitudes which are incident to human 
 life. Sensible of the deplorable condition of those with 
 v.hom he was encircled, he felt in his own soul an earnest 
 desire to warn them to flee from the wrath to come. His 
 first efforts were made in his own house to a few m ho assem- 
 bled on Sundays. These he exhorted ; to these he pointed 
 out their futuie danger ; and with these he prayed. The 
 success which crowned his exertions fully demonstrated that 
 ha was countenanced of God. 
 
 Animated with this conviction, he proceeded to enlarge 
 his sphere of action ; and, though no less a person than the 
 Speaker of the House of Assembly, he went forth boldly, 
 and preached the gospel to the negroes. A mode of conduct 
 so unprecedented, in such an exalted character, soon excited 
 surprise ; surprise was followed with disapprobation, and 
 disapprobation settled in reproach and (contempt. Regard- 
 less of the insults of those, whose applauses he had aot 
 
428 HISTORY OF THK 
 
 courted, he continued to persevere, and soon saw that he 
 had not labored in vain. From among the number who, oc- 
 casionally, attended on his ministry, about two hundred 
 were joined in society ; and these manifested, by their lives 
 and behavior, that they knew by experience in whom they 
 had believed, and that it was not in vain. 
 
 Thus Mr. Gilbert continued to labor, without feeling an 
 abatement of his success or ardor, till death terminated his 
 career, and he exchanged time for eternity, and exercise for 
 reward. To his spiritual office he left no immediate suc- 
 cessor. His flocks, left in the M'ilderness without a shep- 
 herd, were compelled either to walk without the assistance 
 of an earthly guide, or to wander into those devious paths 
 of error in which many thousands have been undone.^ Some 
 held fast the beginning of their confidence ; some grew 
 lukewarm; oJiersgrew weary m well-doing; but all severely 
 felt their loss. 
 
 In 1778, Mr. John Baxter, a shipwright in the Royal 
 Dock at Chatham, went to Antigua to work for his Majesty 
 in English Harbor, contrary to the advice of his friends. 
 Previously to this period he had been a member of Mr. 
 Wesley's society about twelve years ; and, in the character 
 of a leader and exhorter, had, occasionally, found something 
 to say for God. On his arrival in Antigua, being constrained 
 by the love of God, he openly preached the gospel, and by 
 that means collected the scattered remnants of Mr. Gilbert's 
 labors. 
 
 " On Thursday, April 2, 1778," says Mr. Baxter, "I 
 arrived at English Harbor. On Friday, the third, I went 
 to St. John's, and waited on Mr. H. who received me kindly. 
 The next day Mr. 11. went with me to see our friends. The 
 w^ork that God began by Mr. Gilbert is still remaining. 
 The black people have been kept together by two black 
 women, who have continued praying, and meeting with those 
 who attended, every night. I preached to about thirty on 
 Saturday night. On Sunday morning to about the same 
 number ; and in the afternoon of the same day to about four 
 or live hundred. The old standers," he observes to Mr. 
 Wesley, " desire that I would inform you that you have many 
 children in Antigua, whom you never saw. I hope we 
 shall have an interest in your prayers, and that all our 
 Christian friends will pray for us. 
 
 " Last Saturday I again visited St. John's, and preached 
 to a fashionable company of white women, while the back 
 
WEST INDIES. 4Q9 
 
 Toom was full of blacks, who are atbirst for the gospel. 
 On the following day 1 preached to a large concourse of 
 people that tilled both the house and the yard." 
 
 As Mr. Baxter was engaged in his Majesty's employ, his 
 whole time could not be devoted to the ministry. His usual 
 method, dictated both by necessity and choice, therefore, 
 was, to travel to the diiferent plantations in the evenings, 
 vhere the slaves were associated on purpose to meet hnn at 
 the time appointed, after the labor of the day had been dis- 
 patched. And after having exhorted them to Hee from the 
 wrath to come, and recommended them to the word of di- 
 vine grace which alone was able to build them up, he re- 
 turned again through those heavy dews which are so perni- 
 cious between the tropics, that he might be prepared for the 
 labors of the ensuing day. Sundays he entirely devoted to 
 the work of the ministry ; and, though like Mr. Gilbert, 
 his predecessor, whose scattered flock he had been endea- 
 voring to collect, he felt himself, occasionally, the subject of 
 reproach, a superior conviction that God both acknowledged 
 and blessed his labors, supported him under every trial, and 
 enabled him to lay himself out for God. 
 
 Mr. Baxter thus fully employed, and laboring both for 
 the bread which perishes, and for that which endures unto 
 everlasting life, after having resided in the island a little 
 more than one year, gives the following account, both of 
 his prospects in religion and of himself. 
 
 " We labor under great hardships in this island, as the 
 hand of God seems to be upon us. We have had no rain 
 for some months, therefore the ground is parched up. There 
 have been hardly any crops these three years, so that all the 
 proprietors of estates are nearly ruined. We have expected 
 rain every full and change of the moon, but still the windows 
 of heaven are shut against us. As to the poor negroes, they 
 have not even water to drink ; and having nothing allowed 
 them to eat but a pint of horse-beans a day, their case i^ 
 truly deplorable." 
 
 " But I hope their extremity is God's opportunity ; for 
 they seem ripe for the gospel. Six hundred oi them have 
 joined the society ; and if using the means of grace be any 
 proof, we may conclude they are in earnest. As an evidence 
 of their sincerity, some of them come three or four miles 
 after the labors 9f the day, that they may be preseut at eight 
 
430 HISTORY OF THS 
 
 o'clock at night to hear the word ; and on Sundays, many 
 come seven or ten miles bare-footed to meet their classes. 
 
 " The distresses of the island, we flattered ourselves, 
 would have constrained the legislature to appoint a day of 
 fastiiig and prayer ; but as they neglected it, we thought it 
 ovu' duty to do it among ourselves ; and we appointed Friday, 
 the 28th of May, for that purpose. It is remarkable, that 
 while we were assembled for prayer, the Lord granted our 
 request by sending rain in abundance. And at the same 
 time that he was pouring out floods upon the dry ground, 
 the times of refreshing came from his presence in such a 
 manner, that many were constrained to cry, my cup runs 
 over. Some strangers also joined us, who acknowledged the 
 power of God. 
 
 " In several parts of the island the Lord has opened 
 many doors for the preaching of the gospel. There are 
 four estates on which I have leave to preach; so that I shall 
 be obliged to alter my plan from once a week to once a 
 fortnight." 
 
 As to himself, he observed, that " he found himself in 
 an enemy's country, where lust and appetite held complete 
 dominion over the general mass." A laxity in religious 
 duties, is always either the harbinger or associate of a de- 
 pravation of morals. " As to the men," observes Mr. Bax- 
 ter, " it is the custom here to set no bounds to their passions. 
 To live ,in such a region is rather painful, since it is diflScult 
 to keep free from censure; as most men naturally judge 
 that all are enslaved to the same vices which they themselves 
 indulge. As there is no family with whom I can board, as 
 in England, I am under the necessity of keeping house ; and 
 I hire an old woman who has a husband, to look after it, to 
 avoid those reproaches which the malignant are ever ready 
 to bestow." Such were the observations of Mr. Baxter in 
 the year 1779. 
 
 From this period until the year 1782, Mr. Baxter conti- 
 nued to labor in the same manner, and with no inconsider- 
 able success. During the interim he married, and viewed 
 himself as an established resident on the island. The work 
 of God, which, in its infant state, had been subject to 
 fluctuations, now began to acquire under his fostering care 
 a degree of permanency, which has, uninterruptedly, conti- 
 nued to the present time ; and against which, the gates of 
 hell, we hope, will not be suffered to prevail. But thjg 
 
 J 
 
WEST INDIES. 431 
 
 state of religion at that period will, perhaps, be best ex- 
 pressed in Mr. Baxter's own worls, in a letter addressed to 
 Mr. Wesley, dated June 10, 1782, which runs as toiluws: 
 
 *' I take this opportunity, by a lady from Antigua, to in- 
 form you of the state of our society. Tiie critical situation 
 in which we have been for some months past was very ai arm- 
 ing, as we were expecting daily to fall into the hands of our 
 enemies ; but our God has been gracious, and has preserved 
 us from their hands. The fatal expedition which has been 
 but too successful against St. Kitt's, was intended for An- 
 tigua ; but the enemy were driven to leew ard. When that 
 island was captured, we expected to be soon in the same 
 situation ; and every Sunday, when we met, we considered 
 it as our last opportunity of assembling. But we are, at 
 present, free from all apprehensions from that quarter. 
 
 " ISIrs. Gilbert will write by the fleet. We have reason to 
 thank God for sending her among us, as it proves a peculiar 
 blessing. We are much in want of leaders. It is dangerous 
 to let too many meet with one ; for, being ignorant of the 
 word of God, they run into many superstitions. To pre- 
 vent these evils, Mrs. Gilbert and myself meet classes at 
 all opportunities. The work cannot be said to be deep in 
 any ; but it is visible in multitudes. There is a great out- 
 ward reformation among the negroes, and a desiie to be 
 thought religious. I bless God that some know in whom 
 they have believed, and adorn the gospel. There are at St. 
 John's churclj nearly thirty colored people who receive the 
 Lord's supper, and their number increases. 
 
 " I have been so much employed in the King's service of 
 late, that I have not had time to settle many matters as I 
 could wish. I consult Mrs. Gilbert on all occasions. The 
 house in which \\c at present meet is a life-estate of my 
 wife ; so that during her life we shall be in no distress ; but 
 I want to see a house of our ow n, that the w ork begun may 
 be established. We have even now a prospect of build- 
 ing, but materials are very dear. At present we have not 
 one white man in society besides myself; so that I am at a 
 loss how to tind Trustees for our house. I shall be glad of 
 your direction how to proceed. As soon as this work is 
 completed, and we can maintain a preacher, 1 hope some 
 of our bretliren w ill come to our assistance ; or, if you think 
 it expedient, 1 will come to Conference next year, if it be 
 peace. 1 still continue to travel into the country ; though I 
 find it hard to flesh and blood to w oris, all day, and then ride 
 
43^5 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 ten miles at night, to preach. I trust that God will spare 
 your useful lile, and permit me to see you once more in the 
 body ; or preserve me to be found at your feet at that day 
 when you shall enter mto the joy of your Lord." 
 
 The house, to which the above letter alludes, was com- 
 pleted in 1783, and Mr. Baxter preached in it, for the hrst 
 time, on the 8th of November m that year. Ihe care of 
 the whole society, which amounted to several hundreds, 
 rested wholly on him and Mrs. Gilbert, together with that 
 little assistance which they were enabled to derive from 
 soniC of those pious negroes \\ho had been converted to 
 God. 
 
 Mrs. Gilbert was a native of England, in which country 
 she had originally fixed her residence. T hrough some family 
 connexions she drew an annuity from an estate in Antigua ; 
 which, previously to her departure from her native land, 
 some intervening obstacles had prevented her from receivincr. 
 Ihis obliged her to cross the ocean, and take up her abode 
 in this island. '' Had the estate," she observed, " regularly 
 paid my annuity, I should have rested in my native clinie, 
 and quietly enjoyed those means ot grace which 1 so highly 
 prize; but God hath his way in the whirlwind- i did not 
 know that he had any thing for me to do in his vineyard nor 
 could suppose that he would use so mean an instrument. 
 But my work was provided. Immediately on my arrival, 
 I was called upon to supply those deticiencies which the 
 secular affairs of M r. Baxter rendered unavoidable. 
 
 " Meeting of classes forms but a part of the pastoral 
 care; the negroes require much further instruction. It is 
 not with them as with the natives of Britain's favored island. 
 1 hese have the bible in their hands, and can search the sa- 
 cred records for themselves ; but they can scarcely conceive 
 the hunger and thirst expressed by a poor negro, when he has 
 learned that the soul is immortal, and is under the operation 
 of awakening influences. My house is open lor all that will 
 attend at family prayers every day ; and 1 have one evening 
 in every week for the public reading of the scriptures. These 
 evenings I have large congregations both of w hiles and blacks. 
 1 he novelty of such an institution brought, at first, many 
 of the genteeler sort ; but 1 have reason to believe that they 
 are now impelled by a better motive." 
 
 That the stars in their courses have f ought against Sisera 
 is tie language of holy writ ; and that the most boisterous 
 
WEST INDIES. , 433 
 
 elements have been made subservient to divine providence 
 and grace, is the language of undeniable fact. 
 
 We have seen the introduction of Mr. Baxter and of Mrs. 
 Gilbert into the island of Antigua, through a train of cir- 
 cumstances, which, apparently, had no connexion with the 
 gospel of Jesus Christ. And we have seen that their intro- 
 duction was made instrumental in the awakening and bringing 
 of many souls to God, and in laying the foundation of that 
 work which has directed thousands to the kingdom of eter- 
 nal glory. 
 
 " It may be truly said," Mrs. Gilbert observes, " that 
 the harvest is plenteous, but the laborers few ;" and on this 
 ground bodi her prayers and those of Mr. Baxter uniformly 
 Mere, that some faithful laborers might be sent to assist 
 them in the great work which was so evidently going o«. 
 But, though application had been repeatedly made to Mr. 
 Wesley, the ditiiculties and obstacles were too powerful to 
 be overcome. His wishes and abilities not corresponding, 
 compelled him to relinquish what the ardor of his soul would 
 have prompted him to promote ; so that the work in Antigua 
 continued without any other assistance than what God had 
 been already pleased providentially to raise. 
 
 To supply these deficiencies, and to send forth more la- 
 borers into this part of God's vineyard, a most remarkable 
 circumstance occurred. Sceptical minds may, probably, 
 impute it to accident ; but by their assumption of this right, 
 they give the Christian, upon the same principle, an unques- 
 tionable right to impute it to divine providence. On 
 this point let the world decide ; the case itself stands as 
 follows : 
 
 A venerable old man, a member of the Methodist society 
 of Waterford in Ireland, who was too far advanced in life 
 to support himself by labor, was with his wife supported by 
 the industry of two of their sons, whom, with the rest of 
 their children, they had brought up in the fear of the Lord. 
 In this state of domestic poverty they had spent many years 
 in peace ; and they continued in the enjoyment of tran- 
 quillity, till the termination of the war with America, which 
 was finally concluded in 1783. Soon after this, some per- 
 sons persuafled the young men that if they went to America 
 they would infallibly make their fortunes. 
 
 From this period they became restless and dissatisfied 
 with their condition, and tormented themselves with the illu- 
 sions of visionary grandeur which awaited them in the West- 
 ern world. They earnestly solicited their parents to let 
 TOL. II. 3 1 
 
43i HISTOHY OF THE 
 
 them go, and their parents as earnestly entreated them to 
 tarry till their eyes were closed in death ;— -a period, which, 
 according to the course of nature, could not be remote. 
 
 A sense of filial duty obliged them to submit to the com- 
 mands of their parents ; and the thought of leaving them 
 destitute, a prey to poverty, infirmity, and age, was sub- 
 dued by their natural affection. Their inclinations were, 
 nevertheless, invincible ; and, to reconcile these incongrui- 
 ties, they hit upon an expedient which promised to harmonize 
 all, without opposing that imaginary wealth which tempted 
 them to cross the seas. They made the proposal to their 
 parents, and, finally, prevailed upon them to accompany 
 them to this unknown region of wealth and ease. 
 
 But here a new difiiculty arose. They had no money, 
 and no friend from whom they could draw a supply. To 
 overcome this embarrassment, the two young men entered 
 into an engagement with the captain of a schooner, then 
 bound to Virginia, and indented themselves to him for a 
 term of years. By virtue of this agreement, they empowered 
 tlie captain to sell them, on their arrival, for such a period 
 as would be sufficient to satisfy him for their passage, and 
 reimburse such expenses as he might have incurred on their 
 account. And as the same terms were to be agreed on for 
 their parents, who were unable to labor, these young men 
 indented themselves, to be sold, on their arrival, for a double 
 term of years, that the old people might go free. 
 
 The captain, instead of being an honest man, did by 
 many abominable falsehoods so far impose upon them, that 
 he led them into many snares, from which nothing but an 
 Almighty hand could rescue them, and make a way for their 
 escape. Just as they were about to embark, another of the 
 old man's sons came, with his wife, to take a last farewell 
 of his aged parents ; but being so afflicted with the thought 
 of seeing them no more, he felt unable to leave them ; and, 
 his wife consenting, l>e indented himself also, as his bro- 
 thers had done before him, and they all bid adieu to their 
 native land together. 
 
 No sooner were they at sea, than they were treated like 
 slaves, and obliged to submit to hardships unknown, perhaps, 
 to the poorest common sailor that ever plowed the ocean. 
 Their voyage was dreadful in almost every form, being both 
 long and stormy ; and this, in conjunction with the indignities 
 to which our adventurers were obliged to submit, rendered 
 their situation deplorable to the last extreme. After com-* 
 bating with winds and waves for many weeks, they, however^ 
 
WEST INDIES. 435 
 
 at last drew near to their destined port. But here a most 
 violent storm arose, which carried away their mast and rig- 
 ging, reduced them to almost a wreck, and drove them to 
 the VV^est Indies. Having sprung a leak, they attempted to 
 put into St. Kitt's ; but not being able to make that port, 
 they reached or drifted, a floating miracle, into the harbor 
 of Antigua, after having been the sport of seas and tempests 
 for no less than thirteen weeks. 
 
 " I did not read," says Mr. Gilbert, " the distressing cir- 
 cumstances of this vessel in the public papers, without the 
 feelings of humanity ; but did not know, at that time, that 
 there was any thing further in this providence. 
 
 " The vessel stayed some time for repairs, and the poor 
 passengers came ou shore ; and as 1 w as one day standing 
 in my shop, the old man, who w as then by himself, came 
 in. I saw that he was a stranger, who appeared decent 
 though poor. He informed me, that he was one of the 
 passengers, and that having received intelligence that there 
 were Methodists on the island, he wished to be directed to 
 their preaching-house. A religious friend, at that time, 
 coming in, we asked him many questions, and soon found 
 an union of spirit with him ; and, so far as we can pene- 
 trate, he seems to be an Israelite indeed, in whom is no 
 guile. Our opinion of him is corroborated by the cha- 
 racter given of him, and of the behavior of his family, dur- 
 ing their voyage, by a young gentleman who came passenger 
 in the same ship. Neither, indeed, can the captain say any 
 thiug evil of him, though his own conduct will by no means 
 bear the light. It pleased God, on their arrival, to open 
 many hearts towards the whole family ; so that they were 
 soon accommodated with lodgings and every thing necessary- 
 
 " Tlie old man spoke much to the glory of God in our 
 love-feast on Christmas day. And while relating the disas- 
 ters of their voyage, he observed, that when they were shut 
 down in the hatchway, so that through the violence of the 
 storm every one despaired of life, as he was silently waiting 
 upon God, it was said in his inmost soul, Fear not, I zcill 
 bring thee to Zoar ; and, indeed, such our little island has 
 proved to them all. 
 
 " A gentleman has joined with some ladies to pay their 
 passage. They aie now completely released from the cap- 
 tain, w ith whom, if they had proceeded, they would have 
 found nothing but poverty and slavery ; but they are now in 
 a fair wav of doing well. One of the single sons is already 
 
436 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 Stationed upon a gentleman's estate, with a salary of £&) 
 per annum ; the married son is upon another at j£70 per an- 
 num ; and the other son is going, through the interest of 
 Mr. Baxter, to, be employed in his Majesty's yard ; and a 
 lady of my acquaintance tells me, thai she will set up the 
 old couple in a shop. 
 
 " In the mean time, as the old man has gifts and zeal, he 
 will be, discretionaily, employed in instructing the negroes 
 under Mr. Baxter's care ; in exhorting, and in leading of 
 classes. \\ e look upon this as a mercy to us, as we are 
 many in number, and, therefore, cannot but heartily wel- 
 come a laborer in the vineyard of our Lord." 
 
 The circumstances of the above little narrative occurred 
 towards the close of the year 1 783 ; and the letter from 
 which the above extracts are taken, bears date in February 
 1784. At that period the society flourished ; so that a con- 
 siderable number were added to the church. The difficul- 
 ties which they had to encounter were only of a common 
 nature ; the labor exceeded the laborers ; the fields were white 
 already unto harvest, but there were but few to reap them. 
 
 Through the superintendance of Mr. Baxter, the assist- 
 ance of Mrs. Gilbert, and the subordinate instrumentality 
 of the old Irish emigrant, things went on prosperously ; so 
 that they had under their care upwards of one thousand 
 members, chiefly blacks, who. were earnestly stretching forth 
 their hands toward God. Nothing remarkable occurred 
 from this period till the year 1786, when the author of these 
 pages visited the island. During the interim the society 
 gradually increased in numbers, many new places were 
 opened, and requests were made for preaching with which 
 Mr. Baxter could not possibly comply. Prayer-meetings 
 and class-meetings were attended with singular benefit, and 
 the word preached was not preached in vain. Every month 
 brought with it an acquisition of numbers ; the losses which 
 the exclusion of members was sometimes obliged to occasion, 
 were soon repaired by the admission of others who orna- 
 mented their profession; so that both piety and numbers 
 conspired to give religion a degree of respectability, even in 
 the eyes of those who knew not God. 
 
 The happy deaths which, occasionally, took place de- 
 monstrated, that those who thus passed from time into eter- 
 nity had not followed a cunningly-devised fable. They 
 knew in whom they had believed ; and having the witness in 
 Uiemselves, they felt that Christ had power on earth to for- 
 
WEST INDIES. 437 
 
 give'^jins. And, in the triumph of faith, enabled to read 
 their title to mansions in the skies, they could rejoice in 
 hope of the glory of God, and look beyond the grave with 
 a hope full of immortality. 
 
 It was in the autumn of the year 1786, that the writer of 
 these sheets, in company with Mr. Warreuer, Mr. Hammet, 
 and Mr. Clarke, three Missionaries, sailed from Gravesend 
 with an intention to reach Nova Scotia. But Mr. War- 
 reuer was designed by Mr. Wesley, ultimately, to go to An- 
 tigua, to assist Mr. jiaxter. Of this voyage some account 
 has been already given in the history of other islands, which 
 it is needless in this place to repeat. It is suliicient to ob- 
 serve, that, " on stormy seas unnumbered toils we bore," 
 till, satisfied that we could not reach the port of our desti- 
 nation, we directed our course to the West Indies, and 
 reached Antigua on the 25th of December. 
 
 Scarcely had we landed, and were walking up the street, 
 in the town of St. John, before we met with Mr. Baxter, 
 then going to the chapel to perform divine service. The 
 joy which accompanied our meeting, I shall not attempt to 
 describe. The bosom that has been enlivened by friendship, 
 and warmed by religion, may have some susceptibility of our 
 mutual congratulations; and to those bosoms I now appeal. 
 After having taken a little refreshment, we all went to our 
 diapel together, in which I read prayers, preached, and 
 found myself surrounded by a deeply attentive audience. 
 After the congregation was dismissed, I administered the 
 holy sacrament to the communicants who had assembled. 
 Li the afternoon and evening I found the congregations 
 equally large, and composed of persons who had not only 
 previously heard the gospel, but who, in some measure, had 
 felt its sacred influence, occasionally, upon their hearts. 
 
 From taking a survey of the people that encircled me, I 
 could not help remarking, that on the whole it was as clean 
 an audience as ever I saw. The negro women were dressed 
 in white linen gowns, petticoats, handkerchiefs, and caps ; 
 which, from their unsullied whiteness, formed, when com- 
 pared with the jetty complexion of their wearers, a most 
 singular contrast. The negro men were all dressed nearly 
 as neatly ; and discovered a degree of taste and elegance 
 which could only be expected from men in a more exalted 
 sphere of life. 
 
 From the time of my arrival till the .5th of January 1 787, 
 I continued to preach in the town of St. John twice every 
 day. In the evenings the chapel was, in general, filled about 
 
4S8 HISTORY OP THE 
 
 an hour before the regular tmie of preaching ; M'hieh com- 
 pelled me to begm about half an hour sooner than was 
 usual, and sooner than we had previously purposed. In 
 general, the ladies and gentlemen so completely filled the 
 house, that the negroes, who contrived to build it with the 
 little savings of their hard-earned money, were nearly shut 
 out for want of room, except in the mornings. But, instead 
 of viewing this as a hardship and a cause of sorrow, they 
 bore it patiently, and rejoiced in the prosperity of the 
 gospel. 
 
 From the town we took an excursion into the country, so 
 that I had an opportunity of preaching, two or three times, 
 on those estates where a door had been previously opened. 
 The slaves seemed ripe for the gospel ; and their masters, ia 
 g'eneral, from reflecting on the benefits which had resulted 
 from preaching, instead of feeling an aversion to it, afforded 
 it both countenance and support. The numbers which, at 
 this time, M^ere in society in both town and country through-^ 
 out the island, amounted to nearly two thousand. These 
 had been raised up through the instrumentality of Mr. Bax- 
 ter, in conjunction with those subordinate means of which 
 we have taken notice, and which God had been pleased both 
 to provide and bless. 
 
 Our friends, who invited us to their houses, entertained us 
 with a degree of elegance and grandeur, which appeared 
 not only indulgent but even dangerous. There is sometimes 
 an excess in friendship, which becomes a snare. The sun- 
 shine of prosperity may be productive of evils which adver- 
 sity never knew ; just as the violence of heat may, occasion- 
 ally, melt what it was only designed to warm. Herein, 
 perhaps, lies part of our danger in this country. Every 
 thing is new, and pleasing to the senses. The charms of 
 novelty give embellishment to real beauty ; so that we have 
 to combat with the united influence of those things which 
 are capable of seducing the mind from God, and are under 
 the necessity of taking to ourselves the whole Christiau 
 armour. 
 
 Soon after our arrival, I received three cards of invitation 
 from the merchants of St. John's, to dine with Prince 
 William Henry, now Duke of Clarence, who then hap- 
 pened to be in the island as captain of a frigate. The civi- 
 lities we had received, together with the respect due to his 
 Royal Highness, as a branch of the illustrious house of 
 Hanover, dictated a compliance; and as a refusal might 
 iiave suggested au idea of disloyalty, which our souls ab- 
 
WEST INDIE*. 439 
 
 horred, I took with me Mr. Baxter and one of the Mis-' 
 
 sionaries to the feast, withdrawing in due time from th« 
 scene of festivity. * 
 
 In this island we held for the first time an infant Confer- 
 ence ; and saw before us a great probability that the work 
 would soon spread into other colonies. This island was, 
 however, at that period, our primary care ; and on this spot 
 it was fully determined that Mr. \\ arrener should remain. 
 Just at this time we received a most pressing invitation from 
 the island of St. Vincent's, to come and preach the gospel 
 there; and, as its missionary history evinces, neither the 
 invitation nor our compliance with it was made in vain. la 
 the island of St. Eustatius also, which belonged to the 
 Dutch, we were inclined to think, from various circumstances, 
 that an opening might easily have been made ; and that the 
 gospel might there be introduced. This also we resolved to 
 attempt through the medium of IVIr. Baxter, to whom two 
 warm letters of recommendation had been previously ad- 
 dressed. To Mr. Hammett, since our arrival, a letter had 
 been sent from St. Kitt's. Dominica also held out an in- 
 viting prospect ; the fields Mere not only white unto the 
 harvest, but it appeared as though God had directed the 
 waves to impel us to these shores. 
 
 May we not here pause for a moment, and contemplate 
 the conduct of the Almighty, in introducing the gospel into 
 these regions ? The methods which he adopted are calcu- 
 lated to awaken in our bosoms sentiments of the most lively 
 gratitude. The plan which he has pursued is a living com- 
 ment upon his promise, that he zcili bring the blind by a 
 nay that they hnezo not, and will had them in paths that 
 they have not known ; that he zcill make darkness light be- 
 fore them, and crooked things straight. The accomplish- 
 ment of this promise has been happily exemplified in the 
 cases which we have surveyed ; and we are taught, from what 
 
 * As a proof that the most respectable inhabitants of Antigua, even at 
 this period, were not enemies to the gospel, the following little circum- 
 stance will decide. While we were at dinner, a respectable gentleman 
 intimated to me, that if five hundred a year would detain me on the 
 island, I should not leave it. I thanked him for his generous intimation ; 
 but, God be praised, I believe that so many thousands per annum would 
 not have seduced me from what I was fully assured to be the line of duty 
 and my sphere of usefulness in the church of Christ. As it afforded no 
 temptation, there was no difficulty in resisting it. But it plainly demon- 
 strated, that even in the midst of a public festival, the impressions of 
 more serious moments were neither despised nor forgotten by some of 
 the principal inhabitants. 
 
440 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 he has done, to trust him where we cannot comprehend his 
 ways. 
 
 His first step was, to incline the heart of Mr. Gilbert to 
 hear and feel the saving influence of the gospel ; and then to 
 call him, though sustaining the dignified oliice of Speaker 
 of the t!ouse of Assembly, to impart those truths to others, 
 through which he had been made wise unto salvation. \ et 
 amidst those displays of his power, we behold a mystery 
 which we can neither penetrate nor deny. Mr. Gilbert's 
 stay on earth was short. He just saw the dawnings of the 
 fruit of his labors, and was then called to his reward. 
 
 The next instance of his providence was, to diiect Mr. 
 Baxter to this distant island, to take charge of those souls 
 whom Mr. Gilbert had been made instrumental m calling 
 to God, but who, on his death, were left as sheep without 
 a shepherd. 
 
 This increasing work of grace, which spread through the 
 colony, soon became of such a nature as was incompatible 
 With Mr. Baxter's temporal avocations ; and to supply his 
 lack of service the great Head of the church called Mrs. 
 Gilbert to Antigua. Under their fostering care the work so 
 flourished as to require more assistance ; and to supply this 
 deficierxy the winds and seas conducted the old Irish emi- 
 grants to the coast, though against their wills, and contrary 
 to their destination. 
 
 An additional increase of labor still rendered more aid 
 necessary ; and the writer, with his companions, though bound 
 to Nova Scotia, felt himself obliged, through i\ni Jiiendljf 
 adverse winds of heaven, to find an asylum m Antigua. 
 T his led to the establishment of a missionary; — to the intro- 
 duction of the gospel into other islands, — and to the per- 
 manent establishment of an extensive spiritual church in 
 tliat Archipelago, against which, we trust and believe, the 
 gates of hell shall not be suliered to prevail. 
 
 1 he influence of the gospel upon the lues of the negroes, 
 in general, through this island, was so conspicuous, even at 
 this early period, as to render military law, which had been 
 formerly enforced at Christmas, when several days ot recre- 
 ation were allowed the negroes, wholly unnecessary. The 
 members of society formed a part of those whose lives had, 
 evidently, been reformed ; they were, indeed, the little leaven 
 which was leavening the lump ; and the light that shone in 
 them not only formed a contrast with the darkness which 
 others manifested, but diffused a lustre through almost eve^-y 
 corner of the colony. 
 
•WEST INDIES. 441 
 
 On the 24th of February 1789, I had another oppor- 
 lunity, m conjunction with some of the Missionaries, of 
 visiting Antigua, — an island which seems to be the favorite 
 of heaven. It is supposed, that Antigua contains 3000 
 white inhabitants and 37,000 blacks ; and out of this num- 
 ber we found, at that time, that 2,800 were members of 
 our society, while the ^Moravian Brethren had not less 
 than 2000 members in theirs. So great a leaven is, per- 
 haps, not known in so small a country, throughout any 
 other part of the habitable globe. 
 
 From such a society it is natural to infer, that the con- 
 gregations were both large and well behaved, vhich in 
 reality was the case. Tliat of St. John's, and one in the 
 country which I had the pleasure of addressing, would not 
 have disgraced even those parts of England in which we 
 have met with the greatest success. Decency, solemnity, 
 and attention, were not only visible, but predominant fea- 
 tures in their general character. The life of genuine and 
 vital Christianity beamed in the countenances of many, 
 from that internal principle which had been planted in the 
 heart. 
 
 The particular usefulness of ISIr. Warrener, since he had 
 been established in this island, it would be ungrateful to 
 overlook. ^Ir. Baxter, it is true, had, under God, been 
 the father of this blessed work, and in a certain sense may be 
 said to have sown that seed which Mr. Warrener had been 
 called to reap ; but since the arrival of the latter, he had 
 added not less than a thousand to the society ; who, so far 
 as I was capable of judging, were w orthy members. 
 
 Our blessed Lord, before he quitted earth for heaven, 
 gave to his followers a new commandment, namely, that 
 they should love one another; and, perhaps, we can find 
 but few places in w hich this command has been more punc- 
 tually obeyed, than in the island of Antigua. In times of 
 sickness the members of our society visit each other in their 
 respective neighborhoods, with the most aflfectionate soli- 
 citude. x\nd even in those cases where medical assistance 
 is required by a patient who is unable to provide it, it is 
 instantly procured without any regard to the expense. It 
 may be said, that they love like brethren, that they are 
 pitiful and tender-hearted, and melt in sympathy at each 
 other's woe. 
 
 Tliose riots and robberies, which were viewed as preludes 
 to insurrection and revolt, have disappeared ; insomuch 
 that those precautions which in former periods were so ne- 
 
 yoL. II. 3 K 
 
44^ HISTORY OF THE 
 
 cessary for the preservation of order, were now become 
 nothmg more than empty and unmeaning parade. Manyj 
 who had been turbulent lions, M^ere now become peaceable 
 lambs ; and, from a conviction of duty, endeavored to pro- 
 mote the interest of their masters, whom in former days 
 they deemed it a virtue to injure. Such were some of 
 those changes which the introduction of the gospel had 
 wrought, through the instrumentality of two faithful men. 
 
 On the 5th of December 1790, the writer, after visiting 
 the continent of America, and Great Britain, once more 
 returned to Antigua, and found the work of God in a truly 
 flourishing condition. The increase of friends had given 
 stability to the kindness of that reception which he had for- 
 merly experienced ; insomuch that he spent there four com- 
 fortable days, and found himself, on all occasions, perfectly 
 at home. 
 
 The work of God, evidently, appeared to be deepening 
 throughout the island, and the converted negroes gave a 
 more scriptural account of their experience than they had 
 been accustomed to do. And, as a proof of the peaceable 
 demeanor which they had uniformly manifested, the conduct 
 of their masters must be an unexceptionable witness. For 
 so far satisfied were the planters and other respectable inha- 
 bitants, with the conduct of the Missionaries, and so con- 
 scious of the political as well as religious advantages result- 
 ing from their labors, that they supported the work by vo- 
 luntary contributions and subscriptions. 
 
 IS evertheless, the last evening I preached in this place, 
 three drunken gentlemen, if such they may be called with- 
 out offering an insult to common sense, attacked Mr. Bax- 
 ter in a most rude manner at the door of the chapel just as 
 I had concluded. He made some reply, on which they 
 instantly seized him; and one of them exclaimed, " I'll 
 murder thee, Baxter, I'll murder thee." Mrs. Baxter, 
 hearing such horrid expressions, was almost distracted; 
 while several of the negroes, running through the streets, 
 cried out, " Our own Mr. Baxter is murdered." Some 
 people who were in their houses, hearing a noise, and not 
 knowing distinctly what was the matter, imagined that it was 
 a fire ; so that the whole town was in an uproar. Two. 
 magistrates, however, with much spirit and discretion inter- 
 fered : they soon reduced every thing to order ; and sent 
 word to Mr. Baxter, that if he would lodge an information 
 against the offenders in the morning, they should be severely 
 punished. We returned our thanks, by letter, in the most 
 
WEST INDIES. 449 
 
 courteous and grateful maimer of which we were capable ; 
 but informed them, that we took greater pleasure in forgiving 
 than in prosecutmg ; and, begguig leave to drop our infor- 
 mation, here the whole atfair terminated, and we have smce 
 enjoyed perfect peace. 
 
 It was on the 8th of February 1 793, that the author for 
 the last time visited this island ; and in company with those 
 Missionaries which were established in different colonies, we 
 began our annual Conference for these parts. In this Con- 
 ference our debates were both free and full ; so that we left 
 nothing unconsidered, which we thought would be either 
 advantageous to the work at large, or beneficial to our ow n 
 souls. To accomplish these objects more fully, we examined 
 with carefulness all the minutes of our precedmg Confer- 
 ences, that we might either be guided in our decisions by 
 what had been previously adopted, or confirmed in the 
 necessity of those changes which are inseparable from the 
 movements of time. The business of this meeting occupied 
 no less than five days ; and we not only flattered ourselves, 
 at that time, that much benefit would result from the regu- 
 lations which we found it necessary to make ; but subsequent 
 years have confirmed us in our opinion, by fully assuring us, 
 that we did not spend our time in vain. 
 
 By the returns which were made at this Conference from 
 the different islands, we found that our total number of 
 members in society amounted to six thousand five hundred 
 and seventy souls ; and out of this number two thousand 
 four hundred and twenty resided in Antigua. Of this com- 
 pany in Antigua, thirty-six only were whites, one hundred 
 and five people of color, and the rest were blacks. The 
 blacks, indeed, through all the islands, almost uniformly 
 make the chief part of the converts that are to be found ; 
 they are the people who, in general, pay the greatest atteiv 
 tion to the word delivered ; and the Almighty has been gra- 
 ciously pleased to bless it to their souls. 
 
 These negroes, throughout the various islands, had eitlier 
 in a greater or less degree been brought out of heathenish 
 darkness to a knowledge of God. "^rheir outward sms, so 
 far as observation could reach, they had abandoned. Even 
 the practice of polygamy itself, their besetting evil, divine 
 grace had given them fortitude to resist ; and a considerable 
 part of them gave so clear and rational an account of their 
 conversion, and of the influence of religion upon their hearts 
 and lives, as was sufficient to prove it genume, and to ani- 
 
444 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 mate the Missionaries to still new exertions in behalf of 
 others. 
 
 Our Conference being ended, I rode to English Harbor, 
 where we had a small society ; but it was composed of mem- 
 bers who were no disgrace to their profession. I also 
 preached on the estate oi^ Sir George Thomas, in a large 
 hall, which was filled with serious praying people. The 
 societies, in most parts of the island, were in a flourishing 
 condition ; and, in many places, the souls of the members 
 were much alive to God. An increase of the work was, 
 evidently, to be expected ; since the negroes were willing to 
 hepr. their masters willing to have them instructed, and the 
 Missionaries zealous and full of solicitude for the salvation 
 of their souls. 
 
 Not long before our arrival on the island, it had been vi- 
 sited with an epidemical disorder, which had carried off about 
 fifty of the principal inhabitants, together with a great num^ 
 ber of negroes. Mr. Pearce, one of our Missionaries, who 
 had enjoyed a good share of health, was seized with the 
 reigning disorder, and brought to the point of death. He 
 had been given over by his physicians iia the evening ; but 
 to their utter astonishment they found him the next day en- 
 tirely out of danger. Mr. Baxter had also experienced 
 some attacks on his constitution, which, though apparently 
 of a transient nature, had evidently impaired his health. 
 But genuine religion makes an ample amends for all. Here 
 evangelical piety had raised up her head and flourished abun- 
 dantly, both amongst us and among our Moravian brethren ; 
 our light afflictions, therefore, %vhich are but for a moment, 
 will work out for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight 
 of glory. 
 
 It is, perhaps, not unworthy of remark, that the same 
 causes which, in this island, give vigor to the vegetable 
 world, prove, proportionably, injurious to man. So intri- 
 cate and incomprehensible are the ways of Providence, that 
 the life of man becomes a victim to those blessings which 
 seem given to reward his toil. Whenever the planters are 
 blessed with a large crop of sugar, they are obliged to pay 
 for it by a great mortality, both among themselves and their 
 slaves. The heavy and frequent rains, which are necessary 
 for the production of a large crop, create a dampness in the 
 air, which proves exceedingly pernicious to health, and ge- 
 nerates here those fevers which are most inimical to life. 
 Happy for us when we reach that blessed region, where 
 
WEST INDIES. 445 
 
 good shall be separated from the alloy of evil, and where 
 the inhabitants shall no more say they are sick ! 
 
 On February 15, we departed from this highly-favored 
 spot, and from this serious and affectionate people, whom, 
 most probably, I shall behold no more till we meet in the 
 heavenly Jerusalem above. All tiie subsequent accounts 
 are derived from tlie letters of the Missionaries, including 
 the lives and deaths of several who departed this life in the 
 triumph of faith. To recount, indeed, the lives, the ex- 
 perience, and happy deaths, of all those who made this 
 glorious exit, would be a task by no means compatible w ith 
 the nature of this history, even if the necessary materials 
 could be obtained. It would, nevertheless, be equally cen- 
 surable to pass over in total silence those deaths which are 
 said to be precious in the sight of God ; and, therefore, we 
 shall here introduce an account of two, from a letter written 
 by Mr. Baxter, May 24, 179-i, and give it nearly in liis 
 own words. 
 
 ** Among the happy deaths which have taken place in 
 Antigua since you left us, I send you an account of the 
 two following. The first is, that of John Cory, a mulatto 
 slave, who was by trade a tailor. He was convinced about 
 fifteen years ago ; and from that time he left off all outward 
 sin, and abandoned those vain amusements which are prac- 
 tised in this country. From that time he gave himself up 
 to pravei", and was instrumental of much good in turning 
 many from the error of their ways. ]3uring twelve years, 
 he was a leader and an exhorter, and his conduct was worthy 
 of the Christian character. ^^ ith his daily labor he main- 
 tained himself, and regularly paid his owner one dollar per 
 week. And when the business of the day was dispatched, 
 it was his usual practice either to meet a class, or to exhort 
 his fellow-slaves. He was a man of strict truth, was up- 
 right in his life, and deserving of that office which he so 
 long sustained. 
 
 " About eight months before his death, he caught a cold, 
 which brought on a consumption that terminated his life. 
 For two months he was confined to his room ; but during 
 his sickness he was both patient and resigned. He at length 
 departed, not only in peace, but in the full assurance of 
 faith, leaving behind him a wife and eight children, together 
 with a numerous train of acquaintances and spiritual friends, 
 to bew ail his loss. The respect which his usefulness excited 
 was sufficiently proved by the lamentations at his death. 
 
446 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 When I buried his corpse, all was as still as night ; but this 
 silence was immediately succeeded by a lamentation enough 
 to pierce the skies. His name is still reverenced by ail who 
 knew him. 
 
 " The name of the other is Christopher Nibbs, a mulatto, 
 who, when he died, was about thirty-six years ot age. He 
 was convinced of sin about six years ago. Before he Avas 
 brought to God, he lived in all the sinful c»4oms of the 
 country, particularly sabbath-breaking and revelling. Up- 
 wards of five years he walked unblameably, enjo^^ed the 
 light of God's countenance and was made remarkably useful 
 in bringing many to the good ways of God by pious exhor- 
 tations. He was an active and good class-leader ; and with- 
 out all doubt was made a blessing to many souls. 
 
 " About six months before his death, he was afflicted 
 with a stroke of the palsy, and was reduced from a strong 
 healthy man to a mere skeleton, losing, at the same time, 
 the use of his limbs. This called for the exercise of pa- 
 tience ; but in the midst of his distresses he felt resignation 
 to the will of God. The day before he died, while lying 
 on his bed, he begged to be turned upon his side; and in 
 that posture he gave out three hymns, and then exhorted 
 those around him to seek the Lord; declaring, at the same 
 time, that he was a witness of the love of God, and that,, 
 though his body was dying, he enjoyed unspeakable happi- 
 ness in his soul. He expired also in the full assurance of 
 faith. 1 interred his corpse on the estate to which he belonged, 
 and then preached to a large audience. All was solemnity. 
 Many were much affected, and, 1 trust, will not forget that 
 protiiable season. 
 
 " i cc»uld send you more accounts of this kind ; but we 
 cannot sec ail our people when ihej are near their end, 
 through the rapidity of the disorders which prevail in this 
 country." 
 
 [The following letter is from Mr. Warrener ; and is dated 
 Antigua, April 2, 1796.] 
 
 " Blessed be the name of the Lord, his work goes for- 
 ward in this island. Since 1 wrote to you last, we have 
 established preoching upon several estates ; and, 1 trust, the 
 work deepens in the hearts of some. We have a revival in 
 the country. On Easter Sunday we had a season which 
 melted many into tears. I found my own soul much re- 
 freshed, and the people seemed all alive. Our chapel could 
 
WEST INDIES. 447 
 
 not contain more than one fourth part of the people that 
 assembled, so great was the spirit of hearhig that prevailed. 
 Several persons, after public service, joined the society, and, 
 we charitably hope, from the best of motives. We have 
 again revived the children's meeting. They are the offspring 
 of both French and English parents ; but, though the for- 
 mer are professed Romanists, they do not attempt to deter 
 their children from coming. 
 
 [From Mr. Baxter ; dated Antigua, May 10, 1797.] 
 
 " To the President of the Leeds Conference. 
 
 " Brother Warrener, who is the bearer of this, will give 
 vou and the Conference an exact account of the work of 
 God in Antigua. I will therefore only observe, that it ap- 
 pears to be spreading through the island. We are endea- 
 voring to extricate ourselves from the debts under which we 
 have labored. These I hope will soon be paid off, and 
 then we shall be able to maintain three preachers. 
 
 " With regard to the visiting of new islands, I cannot 
 but think the present time very unfavourable. Some months 
 since, Brother Turner paid a visit to Anguilla ; but the 
 French landing on that island obliged him to take refuge in 
 St. Bartholomew's, * which is a neutral Colony ; and there 
 he has found a society." 
 
 [From the same, to Mr. Mather, at Leeds; dated Antigua, 
 Februarij 19, 1798.] 
 
 " At present I am in good health, and as well able to 
 travel as when I arrived here twenty years ago. Brother 
 McDonald, the young man sent by Dr. Coke to Antigua, 
 was taken by a French privateer, and carried into Guada- 
 loupe, in which place he was confined a month in prison. 
 Being liberated from this confinement through an exchange 
 of prisoners which took place, he was sent on board an English 
 ship of war, in which he was treated with the utmost civility 
 and respect ; but was obliged, after he quitted that station, to 
 pass through a variety of unpleasant vicissitudes before he 
 reached Antigua. While in the hands of the enemy, nothing 
 that he possessed escaped their ravages, excepting the clothes 
 
 * SL Bartholomew's is ao island in the West Lidies, belonging to the 
 Swedes. 
 
44S HISTORY OF THE 
 
 which he actually wore. Divine Providence, however, fa- 
 vored his escape, and he reached us in safety. 
 
 " A general council is shortly to assemble at St. Kitt's, 
 in order to take the case of the slaves into consideration, and 
 to establish such laws as shall render their condition less un- 
 comfortable. May the Almighty be their guide and director 
 ill this blessed work." 
 
 Of the capture, confinement, distresses, and deliverance 
 of Mr. M' Donald, alluded to above, he has given us an ac- 
 count, of which the following is the purport. 
 
 The vessel in which he took his passage sailed from 
 Liverpool, in the autumn of 1797 ; and the peculiarity of 
 their situation obliged them to spend the iirst sabbath on 
 board in making warlike preparations. A French privateer, 
 which occasionally pursued them for two days, kept them 
 in constant readiness for an engagement; she, however de- 
 clined coming to action, and was, finally, parted from them 
 in a violent gale. The next three weeks presented nothing 
 but an uninterrupted scene of storms and unfavorable wea- 
 ther; but after that time the elements became more propitious. 
 
 On the 6th of November, they found themselves within 
 about ten leagues of Antigua, M'hen they were attacked by 
 another French privateer. " We made," says, Mr. M' Do- 
 nald, " all the preparations in our power for receiving 
 her. I thought it my duty, on this occasion, not to remain 
 an idle spectator; and, therefore, commending myself to 
 tlie protection of the Almighty, took my station in a place, 
 which I judged would be most serviceable to the common 
 cause." The enemy did not discharge a gun until she was 
 almost within pistol shot, when she commenced an engage- 
 ment which continued about an hour. The English captain 
 being wounded in the thigh, by a four pound shot, was un- 
 able to preserve his station ; but he was instantly succeeded 
 in his command, and the action continued with unremitting 
 vigor. The force of the English amounted to twelve guns 
 and twenty-one men and boys, while that of the French was 
 ten guns and one hundred and thirty six men, fifty of whom 
 were marines. The French, finding themselves much superi- 
 or in numbers while they were inferior in guns, formed a re- 
 solution, and made preparations for boarding. This they 
 effected ; and this decided the doubtful victory in their favor. 
 
 In the engagement the French had thirty men killed and 
 wounded, and the English a few wounded, but no lives were 
 lost. 
 
WEST INDIES. 449 
 
 Mr. M'Donald's religious books, as soon as the vessel 
 Surrendered, were instantly torn to pieces through sportive 
 ■wickedness, and every thing that he possessed was taken 
 from him, except the clothes which he had on. He was 
 landed at Guadaloupe, and immediately cast into a loathsome 
 prison among a number of unhappy wretches of all kinds, 
 particularly some French negroes who lived worse than the 
 beasts. In this place, the naked dirty floor, on which they 
 stood, was the only bed he could obtain. From this horri- 
 ble dungeon he was, however, happily released within a few 
 days, by the kind intercession of a French nobleman, M'ho 
 was, at that time, himself a prisoner, but who was indulged 
 with a lodging in the jailor's house. For Mr. M'Donald 
 he procured the same situation, and resided with him till his 
 removal to Basseterre. In this place he was confined in an 
 old church, which the French had converted into a prison. 
 His companions were mostly Englishmen. These were 
 given up to drunkenness and swearing ; he, however, preached 
 to them, and after a Mhile found some who seemed attentive 
 to the word. He also found some ^Methodist negroes, to 
 whom he read the bible, and with whom he found means to 
 have some serious conversation. But no beds were allowed 
 them ; they slept upon flags or boards ; and their daily allow- 
 ance was one pound of coarse bread and five ounces of salt 
 fish. His health, nevertheless, was unimpaired ; the Al- 
 mighty, in a remarkable manner, verifying his promise, as thy 
 day is, so shall thy strength be. 
 
 After remaining in this place of confinement about three 
 weeks, he was exchanged, " with other prisoners, and put on 
 board an English ship of war. The captain, learning that 
 he was a ^Methodist preacher, treated him with the greatest 
 kindness, and desired him to continue with him as the chap- 
 lain of his ship. This, however, being incompatible with 
 his previous engagements, he was obliged to decline accept- 
 ing ; in consequence of which the captain put him on shore 
 on the island of Dominica, from whence he got to Port 
 Koyal in Martinico. Here he found himself in a most for- 
 lorn condition, being destitute of money, of food, and of 
 friends ; surrounded by perfect strangers, most of whom 
 were French, and without any probable method of procur- 
 ing a passage to Antigua. 
 
 Oppressed with these difficulties, and encircled with these 
 dangers, he walked through the streets, ruminating upon a 
 train of calamities to which he saw no end, except in death 
 and gloiy. But while lifting his heart to God for direction 
 
 VOL. II. 3 L 
 
450 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 in his critical condition, he was met by a gentleman, whom, 
 though a perfect stranger, he had the contidence to accost ; 
 and after acquainting him with the embarrassment under 
 which he labored, the gentleman, the Christian surely, 
 kindly advanced him ten pounds to pursue his voyage to 
 Antigua. 
 
 Alter taking a little refreslimerrt, he sailed in a boat to St. 
 Pierre's, a good trading town, from whence he hoped to be 
 able to obtain a passage to the place of his destmation. 
 Here also God raised him up another friend ; who, though 
 an entire stranger, took him to his house, and gave him 
 clean linen, an article of which he was in particular M'ant. 
 From St. Pierre's, he sailed in a sloop for Antigua, under 
 convoy of an English privateer of fourteen guns. The day 
 following they were becalmed close under Guaduloupe. '^1 lie 
 French, perceiving their situation, immediately dispatched 
 two privateers, one of sixteen, and the other of six guns, 
 both full of men, to take them and bring them in. Both 
 of these the English privateer engaged ; while the sloop, 
 without arms to join m the conflict, wind to sail, or oars to 
 effect her escape, looked on as an idle spectator. From the 
 disproportion of the forces engaged, Mr. McDonald fully 
 expected, almost every minute, to fall once more into the 
 hands of the enemy, and to be again lodged in the same jail 
 from which he had but just been liberated. In about an 
 hour, victory decided in favor of the English privateer ; the 
 French vessels were both obliged to retire from the combat, 
 and to make the best of their way to port in a very shattered 
 condition. On their arrival, more vessels were instantly 
 sent out ; but their approach was anticipated by a favorable 
 breeze, which sprung up, wafted the English vessels from 
 these hostile shores, and conducted them safely into the 
 harbor of St. John's, in Antigua, on the 9th of December. 
 
 Of Guadaloupe, Mr. M' Donald says, that the inhabi- 
 tants in general, who were governed by the worst principles 
 of French democracy, appeared to be given up to all man- 
 ner of wickedness ; — atheists in principle, and brutes in 
 practice ; — that they had, consequently, no fear of God before 
 their eyes ; nor any other regard for man, than that whiph 
 suited their private interest or beastly lusts. O that the 
 gospel may be brought among them ! For how striking and 
 awful was the contrast between this island arid Antigua, of 
 which he gives the following picture ! 
 
 " In Antigua I have met with an affectionate people, not 
 conformed to the world. Before they received the gospel, 
 
WEST INDIES. 451 
 
 they were totally ignorant of God, and addicted to riot, 
 murder, and uncleanness, in a high decree ; biii n<j\v these 
 cranes are rarely heard of among them. On the contrary, 
 on every Lord's day thousands assemble together to hear the 
 word and praise the name of God, with joy sparkling m their 
 eyes, and divine love inriueucing their hearts. Formerly 
 these negroes went almost naked, but now they dress all in 
 white, and form a spectacle which is indeed beaut. lul to be- 
 hold. At Christmas we renewed our covenant with God, 
 and found the Lord in his spiritual presence remarkably fa- 
 vorable to us Thanks be to his holy name, there is a revi- 
 val of true godliness, the work is spreading on every side. 
 The whites attend with much seriousness, and many blacks 
 and colored people have been added to :he society. 
 
 " At our Easter love-feast we had a special season of reviv- 
 ing grace. The poor blacks, who are coiisiiiered by many as 
 the outcasts of men and the refuse of human nature, \^ere 
 remarkably happy, and praised God with joyful lips. I was 
 struck with astonishment at hearing them relate tlieir experi- 
 ence in the knowledge and love of their heavenly rather and 
 Redeemer." 
 
 The opinion of Mr. McDonald on his own situation, 
 upon a dispassionate survey of those dangers through which 
 he had passed, and those calamities which he had been 
 obliged to undergo, breathes a spil'it of Christian intrepidity 
 and fortitude, and justly deserves to be recorded. 
 
 " Xotwithstanding," he observes, " the difficulties I met 
 with in ray voyage, 1 do not regret coming hither, because I 
 am amply repaid for all my toils by a sense of God's good- 
 ness, and by being a happy witness of the revival of his 
 work in Antigua. Voung preachers are deterred from visit- 
 ing these islands, and preaching die gospel to the poor blacks, 
 by a thousand frightful chimeras which have no existence but 
 in their own imigmations. The men of tlie world brave 
 every danger, and despise all hardships, in order to acquire 
 the riches that perish. And shall the servants of the living 
 God be less zealous m the glorious cause of truth? Nay, 
 be it far from them If we fall, let us fall fighti-ig for a 
 heavenly crow n. \ thank God for the good health I en oy ; our 
 labors are close enough ; but the Lord helps us thro igh a.l." 
 
 Such were the sentiments and feelings of Mr. M Donald 
 on Mav 3. 1798 ; which was the time when the lett i, from 
 which the above extracts have been taken, bears date. 
 
452 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 FroiTi the awful contrasts which he has marked between 
 Guadaloupe and Antigua, we may leai'nto form some estimate 
 of the gospel of Christ. In its influence upon the morals of 
 multitudes who were not members of our society, we behold 
 an effect which cannot with justice be attributed to any other 
 cause. And we observe with pleasure, without using any 
 hyperbolical language, that in the issand of Antigua, it both 
 fed the hungry and clothed the naked, by subduing those tur- 
 bulent passions, which ia every age and country are the pa- 
 rents of excess and misery. Thus godliness is profitable to 
 all things, having the promise of the life that now is, and of 
 that which is to come. 
 
 Nor were those happy prospects, which Mr. M'Donald 
 both anticipated and described in 1798, less pleasing either 
 in possession or perspective in 1802 ; as the following letter 
 from Mr. John Burkerihead, dated May the 9th of that 
 year, will fully evince. 
 
 " I bless God," he observes, " I have enjoyed a good state 
 of health since I came hither, and have been enabled to 
 travel through the island, though our labor is very hard. I 
 have to preach ten or eleven times a week, besides the meet- 
 ing of live classes. We want more help. Vv e have bought 
 land to build a new chapel at Param-tDvvn. Mr. Baxter 
 says, the work was never before in so good a state in Antigua. 
 We travel together in peace and harmony. Our congrega- 
 tions are so large, that hundreds are obliged to stand out of 
 doors. On Easter Sunday, the congregation was supposed 
 to be about four thousand. While I was preaching from 
 John, XX. 1.3. many experienced that the Lord was risen 
 indeed. The work in this island is rational and spiritual, 
 and the experience of the people is both sound and good, 
 like that of our friends in England. 
 
 " We have added, within these eighteen months, eight 
 hundred new members ; and more are joining every day. 
 We scarcely ever preach but some are convinced, and others 
 set at liberty. Sometimes the power of God descends upon 
 the congregation iu a wonderful manner. The people fall 
 down and lie as if they were dead, till the Lord bids them 
 arise ; and then they praise him with joyful lips. The white 
 people crowd our chapel, and many of them have joined 
 our society. Our prayer- meetings have been much blessed. 
 There is such a spirit of hearing as I never saw before. I 
 believe the Lord is about to do a great work in the earth. 
 May he hasten that happy period when ali tiesh shall see bis 
 isalvation." 
 
WEST INDIES. 453 
 
 In June 1803, Mr. Baxter repeats in miniature what the 
 preceding letter has detailed more at large. I bless God," 
 he says, " that he gives me health, and I desire as a token 
 of gratitude to use it to his glory. I thank him also, that 
 the work is going on here steadily, and I hope is deepened 
 as well as extended." In July of the same year, he agaia 
 repeats, " I bless God the work is not declining with us, 
 although we have lost many of our people by death. I 
 buried a woman, young of years, last night, who died in 
 childbed in the full assurance of faith." 
 
 That a hoJi/ of men and rcomen so large as that which 
 composed the Methodist societies in ^^ntigua, and other parts 
 of the West Indies, taken chiefly from a savage state, and a 
 state of slavery, should contain some unworthy members, is 
 at all times rather a matter of expectation than doubt. 
 Mere human nature is universally corrupt. Even civilization 
 has been found wholly insufficient to impose restraints upon 
 the sallies of our passions ; and the very institution of hu- 
 man laws demonstrates that prior necessity which called 
 them into existence. The milder beams of meicy, which 
 shine through the gospel, and thaw the ferocity of the heart, 
 are, while they meliorate the condition of the soul, far 
 from giving countenance to anarchy even in the mind of 
 man. The gospel has its precepts as well as charms. *' Or- 
 " der is Heaven's first law." So that discipline seems 
 incorporated \\'ith every branch of the ceconomy of God. 
 
 But if discipline and order are so necessary, even where 
 the light of science is diffiised, and where civilization has 
 attained its greatest perfection, how much more must their 
 necessity appear among the untutored Heathen? Instabi- 
 lity, both in profession and action, unhappily is too closely 
 allied to the human character; insomuch that from the 
 motley features which the picture presents, an unvarying 
 adherence to established measures becomes a necessary guar- 
 dian of virtue. 
 
 Impressed with these and similar truths, the Committee 
 in London, on whom, with the General Superintendant, the 
 care of the Missions devolved, published, on the 10th of 
 February 1804, a circular letter, which was immediately 
 forwarded to the different Missionaries in Wales, in Ireland, 
 and in the West Indies. The purport of this letter was, to 
 request each Missionary " to be particularly exact in his 
 *' statement of those various occurrences which might offer 
 ^' themselves to his notice ; and to keep a regular journal 
 
454 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 " of his proceedings, together with all the particulars of 
 " his Mission." In addition to this, it was recommended, 
 that " a record might be kept of all remarkable conversions, 
 *' extraordinary experiences, and happy deaths, of any mdi- 
 ** viduals in tlieir respective spheres of action." 
 
 in another branch they express ihemselves thus : " Upon 
 " tins occasion it may not be amiss to drop a hint to our 
 " Missionaries, upon the importance of an exact observ- 
 " ance of the Methodist discipline, Avhich seems to have 
 " been formed under the immediate direction of divine 
 " Providence, and is altogether suited to the state of Christ- 
 *' ian society. A due observance of the life and coversa- 
 " tion of private members, and a full determination to hold 
 *' no communion w)th those who walk disorderly, let their 
 *' situations or circumstances be what they may, will have a 
 " great tendency to promote vital godliness, and to render 
 " our societies a savor of life unto life." 
 
 Satisfied with the justness of the above remarks, and with 
 the reasonableness of d.e requests Avhich the circular letter 
 contained, Mr. Baxter proceeded to form a regular estimate 
 of the v/ork of God in Antigua; and in the mondi of June 
 in the same year addressed to Uie Committee the following 
 letter : 
 
 " Antigua, June 12, 1804. 
 
 " I shall give the Committee all the information I can 
 respecting the spirituai state of the mission in this island. 
 The number in society was large ; but we have been obliged 
 to exclude many, who ran well for years, for forming im- 
 proper connexions. With regaid to the rising generation, 
 aidiough we have a pleasing prospect concerning many who 
 bi'I fair for leading virtuous lives, 1 fear that not a few will 
 faii a prey to this vice, which is very prevalent in this 
 country. 
 
 '* But, notwithstanding many evils which remain, I can 
 say with truth, that a wonderful change for the better has 
 taken place wilhm these twenty-six years. We have, at pre- 
 sent, many young woiiien in our societies, M'ho are an orna- 
 ment to their profession, and who in their behavior manifest 
 great purity of maniiCrs. And many of the aged prove that 
 they have held fast the beginning of their contidence firmly 
 to the end. I believe we sholl now have a sifting time, as we 
 are determined to pay a strict regard to discipline. 
 
 " As we have not an opportunity of visiting all our peo- 
 pW when sick, because they are at a considerable distance 
 
WEST INDIES. 455 
 
 from us, except when we visit the estates in turn ; and as 
 we have no intelligent persons to give us just information 
 concerning them, we cannot present you with accounts of 
 their experience free from all defect. I shall, however, 
 endeavor to write what I think on this head will be worthy 
 of notice. " On Tuesday, April l6th, our sister Euphemze 
 Chapman was buried ; a young white woman, m ho had betn a 
 member of our society two years. She had been much 
 enlightened and greatly affected under the preaching of the 
 word, and gave up the vanities of the Morld in the prune of 
 life. She had many trials, but bore them all with invinci- 
 ble patience. Six months before her death she caught a 
 violent cold, and lost the use of her limbs. She bore her 
 afflictions with fortitude and resignation, and departed this 
 life in hope of a resurrection to a better. 
 
 " The day following, I rode to Athol's estate, to bury 
 the remains of John Quash Gilbert. He had been a mem- 
 ber of the first Alethodist society in Antigua, and was a seal 
 of Mr. Gilbert's ministry. He had been a member of our 
 society thirty-three years, and walked soberly and uprightly 
 as became the gospel. He was a faithful and trusty ser%ant, 
 a good husband, and a loving father. Having been deaf for 
 some years, he could not converse much, but he always 
 attended the means of grace ; and though ninety years old 
 -when he died, he labored for his master till within a fortnight 
 of his death. In his last illness, he observed to his wife, / 
 have not much to say ; but mt/ great Master is preparing a 
 place for me, and is goitig to take me unto himself. ^^ 
 left issue six children, forty-four grand-children, and four 
 great-ofrand-children. He had buried one son and thirteen 
 grand-children. He requested to be interred among his 
 children, with which request his acquaintances most Avillingly 
 complied, though they had seven miles to carry his corpse. 
 His body was followed by his family and many friends. I 
 preached a funeral sermon on the occasion, which, I hope, 
 was of some service to the living. 
 
 " You desire we would give you an account of our local 
 preachers. In order that you may form a proper judgment 
 of them, you must observe, that we have but few Avhite 
 men, not more than six, in the society, and only one of 
 these is a local preacher. And we have but one free man 
 of color, who is willing to be reproached for the sake of 
 Christ. We have, indeed, very few colored men that are 
 free in all our societies, though we have many free women. 
 Some of tliese colored women have good gifts in prayer, and 
 
456 HISTORY OF THB 
 
 hold prayer-meetings ; but the free men, in general, hav# 
 no relish for religion. We have a few men who are slaves, 
 that exhort and meet classes, but their gifts are very small ; 
 neither will the laws of the country permit them to be more 
 extensively useful. Our numbers are as follow : whites, 
 twenty-two, blacks and colored, three thousand five hundred 
 and sixteen. Many have died this year ; I believe^ not less 
 than three hundred. 
 
 " I bless God, that I and my colleagues labor together in 
 love. In point of health I am as well, at present, as when 
 I left England ; but I had two severe attacks of the fever 
 last year, and I feel the infirmities of old age advancing 
 upon me." 
 
 On the state of the island, considered in a natural light, 
 the same writer makes the following observations, about two 
 days after the preceding letter was written : 
 
 " We are likely to suffer great distress on account of the 
 dry weather. We have had scarcely any rain for five months, 
 and it is with difficulty we can get any water to drink. I 
 am obliged to ride three miles to get water for my liorse ; 
 and I fear in another month we shall have none either for 
 man or beast, excepting what may be brought to us from 
 other islands. 
 
 " We kept a day of prayer on the 6th of June, and the 
 Lord answered us in some degree. We had that night and 
 the next day, a few showers in St. John's and some other 
 parts of the island. But there is still great distress ; and if 
 God send us not a speedy relief, we shall be exposed to fa- 
 mine. But should even our request be granted, and should 
 the earth be watered with the dew of heaven, there is much 
 reason to apprehend that it will bring on fatal fevers and 
 bowel complaints, so that the island will be sown with hu- 
 man flesh. 
 
 " The poverty which dry weather brings with it upon the 
 negroes is very great and truly distressing ; for the produce 
 of their grounds is their chief support in many places. And 
 in addition to this, as the island, in such seasons, produces 
 no crop, their owners are less able to help them. 
 
 " In the year 1802, we built a chapel in a small town 
 seven miles from St. John's, which has involved us in debt ; 
 but it answers a valuable end, as by this means we can col- 
 lect the people thither for the space of four miles round, 
 and have an opportunity of knowing their conduct. A 
 
WEST INDIES. 457 
 
 preacher resides in that town ; but he travels with his bre- 
 thren the other preachers to different places on Sundays, ac- 
 cording to a regular plan. On week nights we visit the 
 estates. The preachers in the West Indies do not eat the 
 bread of idleness. Baptizing infants, visiting the sick, bury- 
 ing the dead, and preaching, keep us constantly employed." 
 
 In April 1805, another letter from Mr. Baxter states the 
 jsland to have been in a flourishing condition, so far as it 
 applied to the progress of religion, and the things of God. 
 The congregations continued large, and consisted chiefly 
 of attentive and serious hearers. No complaints were 
 made, that the members of the society were growing 
 weary in well doing, or turning back again to the beggarly 
 elements of the world. On the contrary, the ordinances 
 of God were found by multitudes to be spirit and life to 
 their souls. 
 
 " liast Sunday being Easter-day," says Mr. Baxter, " we 
 had large congregations, and many found it a refreshing 
 season at the Lord's supper. A fortnight since, I buried 
 Mary Arnold, who died in the full triumph of faith. I bless 
 God, I enjoy better health, at present, than when I left 
 England." 
 
 But though Mr. Baxter thus expressed himself w-ith re- 
 gard to his heaUh in the preceding passage, time had planted 
 his furrows upon his brow, and death was at that instant 
 entrenching himself to prepare his last assault. Unfortu- 
 nately for this part of the church of God (according to the 
 superficial judgments of mortals), the period of his valuable 
 life was drawing to a close ; his day of probation was nearly 
 completed ; and he was about to exchange the afflictions of 
 time for the rewards of eteniity. 
 
 It is, nevertheless, the duty of Christians not to sorrow as 
 men without hope, since the same Divine Power that has 
 hitherto supported his church, can provide such instruments 
 as he may deem expedient to accomplish any branches of his 
 work. The death of Stephen was succeeded by the conver- 
 sion of Saul of Tarsus ; so that the infant church found an 
 able advocate in that very man who had used every exertion 
 to accomplish its extirpation ; — to afflict and persecute its 
 members; — and to conduct the living to the dead. It was 
 thus also, that when the Almighty planted his infant church 
 in Antigua, through the instrumentality of Mr. Gilbert, the 
 
 VOL. II. " 3 M ' 
 
458 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 same hand that took him from the island conducted Mr. 
 Baxter across the Atlantic to supply his place. In all these 
 cases we see much reason to trust in that wisdom which is 
 incomprehensible because it is infinite, and which has a claim 
 upon our confidence because it cannot err. 
 
 It was on the 13th of November 1805, that the follow- 
 ing letter, giving an account of the melancholy event, wag 
 written by Mr. Thomas Pattison, then a Missionary in 
 Antigua. 
 
 To Dr. Coke. 
 " Rev. Sir, 
 
 " I take the earliest opportunity of informing you, that 
 our friend, Mr. John Baxter, departed this life of trouble for 
 a better on the 9th instant, to the great grief of his ac- 
 quaintance, and loss to the church of God. 
 
 " On the 7th of last month, he was a little indisposed, 
 but preached on the following evening. On the 10th, hear- 
 ing that he was poorly, I went to the town to see him, and 
 found on my arrival that he had been a little feverish through 
 the day, but that the fever had, apparently, left him, and 
 that he did not appear to be in much danger. On Sunday, 
 the 13th, he was very ill through the return of the fever, 
 which was accompanied with a difficulty of breathing. 
 From the 14th to the 17th I remained in town with him, 
 and he was so much better as to be able to ride out on 
 horseback. He then went into the country for the change 
 of air ; but the fever returned, and he grew worse every day» 
 T did not see him again until Nov. 6, when there was visibly 
 a great change in his appearance ; and from his speech I 
 concluded, that he could not be long for this world. He 
 expressed a desire to preach another sermon, but was per- 
 fectly resigned to the will of God ; the next day he proposed 
 returning home ; and brother Johnston procured a whiskey, 
 and brought him to town. 
 
 In the afternoon of the same day I paid him a visit, and 
 found that he thought himself better. This, however, was 
 only a delusion, incident to the disease. It seemed to me, 
 that the change of place, his coming to his own house, and 
 his associating with his ^d friends, were the causes of those 
 pleasing symptoms, which we found to be but too transient. 
 I now prayed with him, and, particularly requesting that he 
 might be resigned to the will of God if his sickness should 
 end in death, was answered with a hearty Amen. I do not, 
 however, think that he imagined his approaching dissolution 
 
WEST INDIES. 459 
 
 to be so near as it really M'as ; and from the same persuasion 
 I took a temporary leave. The next evening the doctor 
 pronounced him dying, and Mr. Baxter's friends wrote im- 
 mediately to inform me of it ; but the note did not come to 
 hand until next morning. I then hastened to town ; but on 
 my arrival I found that his spirit had just taken its flight to 
 the world above. They informed me, that he appeared to 
 be dying all night, though he remained sensible, but had . 
 lost his speech. He endeavored to say somethmg about Dr. 
 Coke, but it could not be distinctly understood. 
 
 " His remains Avere laid in the chapel, and the service of 
 the day (it being Sunday) was performed by brother John- 
 ston and myself. At one o'clock he was conveyed to the 
 church-yard, attended by a concourse of people from all 
 parts of the island. I purpose to write to you more parti- 
 cularly when I shall have a little more leisure. Brother 
 Johnston has been so nigh unto death, as to be given up by 
 the doctor; but the Lord has restored him, and he is now 
 laboring again, and unites with me in kind respects to your- 
 self and the Committee." 
 
 Such were the final days and hours of Mr. Baxt<2r, before 
 he took his departure from time, to inherit the felicities of a 
 world of spirits ! 'J'o delineate his character in its various 
 branches would lead us into a digression, for which not even 
 the advantages resulting from its perusal would be a suffi- 
 cient apology. And yet that respect which is ever due to 
 the memory of a departed friend, and to one who has been 
 so conspicuously nseiui in the church of Christ, as Mr. 
 Baxter was, demands a tribute of remembrance, which the 
 social feelings and the religious aiiections must approve, 
 though the frigid rules of criticism may both censure and 
 condemn its appearance. 
 
 In the minutes of the Methodist Conference for the year 
 1806, he has been justly pointed out as "a holy, zealous, and 
 ** useful man of God." And, perhaps, in the narrow limits 
 which on this article we prescribe to ourselves, we can 
 hardly depict his character in more appropriate language, 
 than that in which it is there expressed : 
 
 " When a leader of class in Chatham, he was very strongly, 
 " and. in all probability, divinely inclined to go over to An- 
 " tigua in the ^^'est Indies ; and in opposition to all the 
 " remonstrances of his friends actually sailed for that island. 
 " On his arrival he found a small society of negroes which 
 " had been raised by the late ISathaniel Gilbert, Esq. 
 
460 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 " Speaker of the House of Assembly of that island, whe 
 *' had been converted to God among the Methodists in 
 " England. This little society Mr. Baxter took under his 
 " care; and though his labors as a shipwright were very 
 ^' great, he sacrificed not only his sleep, but in many instances 
 " his health also, in promotmg this work. Under his pious 
 " exertions and fostering care, the society increased consi- 
 '"' derably ; and when Dr. Coke landed at Antigua, in 1786, 
 " he immediately united both his tlock and himself to the 
 " general work. And though, at this time, he was allowed 
 " o£'400 per annum currency, by the government, as under 
 " storekeeper at English Harbor, he voluntarily sacrificed 
 " the whole, and became from that time to the period of 
 " his death a West India Missionary; and actually resided 
 " in the islands during the whole time, except one year 
 " Avhich he spent in England. He was greatly beloved by 
 " the negroes, and loved them in an equal degree, and went 
 " to glory from among them in the full triumph of faith." 
 
 Of his indefatigable labors and extensive usefulness these 
 pages bear an ample testimony ; and the effects that have 
 resulted from that holy zeal which he manifested, will be 
 both felt and remembered in Antigua, when the present 
 generation of men shall be swept aside. Through his in- 
 strumentality, multitudes w ho are living have been taught to 
 rejoice in the mercies of God through Jesus Christ ; and 
 multitudes, without all doubt, have landed safely in Abra- 
 ham's bosom, who will praise God for ever for sending him 
 among them. And if spirits are capable of recognizing each 
 other before the resurrection takes place, (of the truth of 
 which I have not the shadow of a doubt,) inconceivably 
 joyful must be his meeting, on the heavenly shores, with 
 those spiritual children w hom God had been pleased to give 
 him. On the whole, we cannot but survey him as one of 
 those, who have turned many to righteousness, and ^ho 
 shall shine in the kingdom of our heavenly Father, as a star 
 of no inconsiderable magnitude for ever and ever. 
 
 By our last returns from Antigua, after the exercise of 
 strict discipline, through which many improper members 
 were excluded, v.'e tind the whole number inferior to the 
 statement which was given by Mr. Baxter on a former oc- 
 casion. This decrease may be attributed to a combination 
 of causes. The exercise of strict discipline, which we have 
 already stated, has occasioned a sifting among lukewarm 
 professors, which may be considered as one very productive 
 cause. Another is, that many have grown weary of well- 
 
WEST INDIES. 46l 
 
 doing, and have gone back to walk again in the ways of sin. 
 But in addition to this, the ravages of death have called 
 . many more to their final homes, and left a temporary va- 
 cancy in the church of God. Even the death of Mr. Baxter 
 may be considered as a remote cause of the declension of a 
 few ; while the temporary derangement w hich it occasioned 
 produced some partial evils, which lime only can remove 
 under the providence and grace of God. 
 
 But, nevertheless, after the joint action of these causes, 
 the number of members in this island is far from being con- 
 temptible. \Ve have, at this period, no less than two thou- 
 sand eight hundred and ninety, whom we are not ashamed 
 to call Methodists ; and who, we have reason to believe, fill 
 up their relative situations in a manner that does honor to 
 their profession. These have been called from the grossest 
 darkness into the glorious light of the gospel, and now bid 
 fair for the kingdom of God. And when, to these, we add 
 the numbers who have already departed this life in the full 
 assurance of failh, Me cannot avoid exclaiming with grati- 
 tude, — zchat has God wrought! 
 
 "^I'he expenses and troubles which have been connected 
 with this work, though great in themselves, are trifles of no 
 weight, when compared with those benefits which have re- 
 sulted to thousands even in this island alone. The compa- 
 rative estimate between the value of a single soul, and any 
 given portion of property which might be expended in pro- 
 curing it happiness that can never end, surpasses all human 
 comprehension. And if so, the felicity of thousands, which, 
 so far as human means have been used, has been procured 
 by the expenditure of only a comparatively small sum of 
 money, appears in a light which the awakened soul must 
 feel, but which the poverty of language forbids us to express. 
 
 Nor must the benefits which have resulted from the intro- 
 duction of- the gospel be wholly estimated by the numbers 
 whose names are enrolled as members of our society. Thou- 
 sands besides these have found their condition softened, and 
 have felt occasional impressions of divine grace upon their 
 hearts, 'llie seed which has been already sown may be 
 ripening to a fruitful harvest, which will be reaped in futme 
 years, when Ethiopia shall more fully stretch forth her hands 
 unto God ; for on such occasions is this saying remarkably 
 fulfilled, " one man soweth, and another reapelh." The 
 pious conduct of the faithful diffuses an influence which 
 baffles all calculation ; it is the salt of the earth, — it is a 
 light in a benighted land, — or a city set upon a hill which 
 
462 HISTORY OF THE 
 
 cannot be hidden ; through which even the profane may be 
 led to glorify the Father of every mercy, from whom every 
 good and perfect gift descends. 
 
 in a political view, without all doubt, the advantages have 
 been both great and many. The gospel frequently acts as 
 a preventive of mischief, wheie its positive agency is 
 scarcely perceptiMe; and in this, and other isiands, it may 
 have laid au embaigo on those rebellious spirits which were 
 ripe for insurrection and revolt. By directing ihe slave to 
 the future recompense of reward, the tumult of his passions 
 rapay have been quelled ; and he may have been led to sustain 
 his lot with fortitude, and to proceed with cheei fulness and 
 vigor to the faithful discharge of those duties which his sta- 
 tion imposed, but which he had heretofore been compelled 
 to prosecute with reluctance and disgust. These circum- 
 stances have given energy to their CAertions ; so that their 
 obedience has, ultimately, arisen from principle rather tha» 
 the whip. 
 
 JSor are the above considerations the mere conjectures of 
 a prolific fancy. Among the members of our society in 
 Antigua, in many instances, they have been demonstrated by 
 the most unquestionable facts. The affections of multi- 
 tudes have been detached from all earthly hopes, by the 
 brighter prospects of those glories which they hoped to 
 realize at the resurrection of the just. A life of integrity^ 
 they have been unifoniijy instructed to believe, was inse- 
 parable from that character which should attain to the bless- 
 ed inheritance. 1 his, therefore, from a sense of duty, and 
 a! dictate of interest, they have cordially adopted and prac- 
 tised, and expected their restitution beyond the grave. 
 
 And hence we obtain also no contemptible evidence that 
 religion is a divine reality. The passive virtues of cold 
 philosophy, even admitting that these men had attained them, 
 are insignificant and contemptible, when compared witb 
 Christian resignation. To these slaves the former \Aere un- 
 attainable ; and if they were possessed, they could not pos- 
 sibly produce those effects which in these colonies are too 
 evident to require proof. Their resignation and peaceable 
 submission are too conspicuous to be denied. In no case 
 could these be produced by philosophy ; and much less in a 
 state of absolute slavery. And hence, since these facts are 
 visible, and could not have started into existence without a 
 cause, we must conclude, that they are the produce of di- 
 vine grace reigning and ruling in the human heart. 
 
 Of tliese important truths the planters iu this island seem 
 
WEST INDIES. 463 
 
 to have been well aware. And hence, almost from its earli- 
 est settlement, they have given countenance to the gospel. 
 " It is to the honor of Antigua," says Mr. Edwards, whea 
 speaking of the Moravian Brethren, " that its iniialiitants 
 *' have encouraged, in a particular manner, the laudable 
 ** endeavors of certain pious men who have undertaken, 
 " from the purest and best of motives, to enlighten the minds 
 " of the negroes, and lead them into the knowledge of reli- 
 *' gious truth." And to this remark, we may justly add, that 
 since their adoption of this principle the inhabitants have 
 felt it for their interest also ; and they have found their 
 account in the faithfulness of their slaves, and in that do- 
 mestic tranquillity which has uniformly prevailed in the island. 
 
 Let it not be thought that the preceding remark is made 
 with any design to lessen tliat praise which is so justly their 
 due. This cannot be. Disinterestedness must, primarily, 
 have marked their conduct. The benefits which have since 
 resulted must be considered as a subsequent event, of which 
 they could originally have known nothing but through the 
 medium of those calculations, which, from the principles 
 and effects of the gospel, are placed within the reach of all. 
 Tlie favor, therefore, which the inhabitants of Antigua ma- 
 nifested towards the preaching of the gospel could not 
 have been sellish, though even in a political view they 
 have had their reward. 
 
 Upon tlie whole, we have reason to expect, that the 
 period will soon arrive when all shall know God, from the 
 least to the greatest, and when tlie isles shall wait for his law. 
 Then shall righteousness cover the earth as the waters the 
 great deep ; then shall men love lil^e bretliren, and the na- 
 tions of the earth shall learn war no more. May God grant 
 that the happy moment may soon airive for his name and 
 mercy's sake. 
 
 END OF THE SECOND VOLUME. 
 
 A. Paris, Printer, 
 Took's Court, Chancer>- Lane, Locdon.