5'. So from f^c fciBrfttg of (profeBBor n3?iffiam J^^^^ (Breen Q$cqueaf^b fig ^im to t^e &i6rari? of (Princeton ^^eofogtcaf ^etninarg ^ » 4 I A MEMOIR THE REV. W. A. B. JOHNSON, MISSIONARY OF TOE CHURCH MISSIONARY SOCIETY, IN REGENTS TOWN, SIERRA LEONE, AFRICA, by \r 'Rote.r-t Bev^-fco'v^ SeeUv^ WITH AN INTRODUCTORY NOTICE, STEPHEN H. TYNG, D. D NEW YORK: ROBERT CARTER & BROTHERS, 285 BROADWAY. 1853. CRAIGHEAD, PRINTER AKD 8TERE0TTPER, 53 Veeev street, JV\ l'. CONTENTS. CHAPTER L A.D. I'ZS'?— 1816. Page Early Life — Conversion — Entrance on the Missionary Work . 13 CHAPTER IT. A.D. 1816. Arrival at Sierra Leone — Appointed by Mr. Bickersteth to Regent's Town — Commencement of his Labours — Opening Pros- pects .26 «i CHAPTER m. A.D. 1817. Mr. Johnson's Ordination — His growing Labours aad Success . 52 CHAPTER IV. A.D. 1818. Continued Successes — Tibials and Difficulties — Sickness and Death of the Missionaries 74 IV CONTENTS. CHAPTER V. A.D. 1819. 9i Page Visit to the Interior — Illness of Mrs. Johnson — She is obliged to return to England — Mr. Johnson accompanies her . . . 12-t CHAPTER VI. Mr. Johnson's arrival in England — His visit to Hanover — His occupation while in England — And his return to Africa — Letters from converted negroes at Regent's Town . . . 1G4 CHAPTER VII. A.D. 1820. Arrival in Regent's Town — Letters from Home — State of things in the Mission — Restoration of its efficiency . . . .ITS CHAPTER VIII. A.D. 1820. Retrospect by one of the Missionaries — Progress of the Mission — Visit to the Banana Islands ....... 219 CHAPTER IX. A.D. 1821. Progress of tlie mission — Visit of Mr. Bacon, and of Mr. Single- ton to Regent's Town 246 CONTENTS. CHAPTER X. A.D. 1822. Page Increasing Prosperity and fresh Trials — Illness and Return of Mrs. Johnson — Mr. Johnson afflicted with Ophthalmia . . 2Y9 CHAPTER XI. A.D. 1823. Increasing Ophthalmia — Intended visit to England — His Em- barkation — and Death 341 CHAPTER XII. Progress in Regent's Town — Receipt of the Intelligence of Mr. Johnson's Death in England — And in Africa — Letters — Con- ^ elusion ............ 359 gntr^hutatg 'gatitt. The life of the Rev. W. A. B, Johnson may probably be unknown to many American readers. It will not be found unworthy of the earnest Christian study of any. It cannot but be a most precious example to all. I can never forget the impressions which the extracts from his journal, as published in the missionary papers of the day, used to make upon my youthful mind. I have long desired to see some faithful biography of him prepared for universal use. Why it has been so long neglected I know not. The desired book has at last, however, appeared, from the pen of a viilned layman in London, whose time and heart are habitually occupied in efforts to do good to men. It will be found one of the most striking and interesting biographies which the present age has brought out. Rarely, in the records of the Christian Church, will there be found such a course as William Johnson's — so effective, though so short, — so intelligent, with so little preparation — so elevated, though having so little of this world's greatness. It will appeal to young men to stir up the gift within them. It will show what great things the love of Christ may accomplish with very feeble outward means of influence. It will open to their minds a path of usefulness and happiness perfectly accessible and sure The exhibition of the Gospel in it is most beau- tiful and pure. The advantage of plain, practical intelligence is most remarkably displayed. The efficiency of real, living piety, a love for Christ, and for -the souls whom he has redeemed, is wonderfully ex- Vlll IXTRODCCTORY NOTICE. hibited. It would be a happy thing to place this volume in the hands of every youth in our land. And Christian parents and friends can hardly do more good, with any similar instrument, than by present- ing it to every son, to show them how much they may do for the Saviour of men, and how happy they may be in doing it. S. II. T. St. George's Rectory, JVVjo York^, Februari/ 22, 1853. MEMOIR OF ¥. A. B. JOHNSON. CHAPTER I. A.D. 1787— 181C. Early Life — Conversion — Entrance on tlie Missionary "Work. If it were possible for men, amidst the smoke and fogs of this lower world, to see things in the light in which they will one day appear, in how high an estimation would the office of a Christian Missionary be held ! Its elevation above all other posts or employments may, even now, be correctly discerned by a very brief consideration of many plain declarations of Scripture. Our Lord's own discourses repeatedly ascribe bless- edness, not to high rank in the Church, or to deep learning even in sacred things, or even to extensive usefulness and popu- larity. In His view, who could not err^ it was that peculiar descripti©n of duty and sacrifice Avhich falls to the lot of the Missionary, — which marked out beforehand, those who should hereafter " shine as the brightness of the firmament, and as the stars for ever and ever." It was to those who could say, " Lo, we have left all, and followed thee," — that our Lord promised, " Ye shall sit upon thrones, judging the tribes of Israel," and it was of those who should thus follow the apostles, that He added, " and every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or father, or mother, or wife, or children for my sake, shall re- ceive an hundred fold, and shall inherit everlasting life." Still later, after our Lord's departure, it was that great apostle who so followed his Master as to be able to say, '" In weariness and Q 14 , MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. painfulness, in Matchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cokl and nakedness," — " I have suffered the loss of all things," — it was he who was able to adtl, in the immediate prospect of death, " I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, — henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, ■which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me in that day." But, as the office is the noblest that can be named among men, so is it to be expected that many should be found " to come short of it." Few, indeed, in these luxurious days, take up the apostolic office in an apostolic spirit. There are, among Missionaries, as well as among disciples generally, those who " have no root, but in time of temptation fall away ;" — those who are " choked with the cares and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection." On this account, as well as in order to glorify God in the works wrought by his servant, it seems highly desirable, when a man of an ' excellent spirit ' has been raised up, and given to the Church, to put on record a faithful delineation of his labours and their reward, both for the reproof and correction of those who fall short, and for the encouragement of those who are pressing after. It has seemed to some, that, among all whom God has thus qualified and sent forth into his vineyard, there has scarcely been found one whose example is more likely to benefit the Church, than that of William Johnson. And in this belief, the present Memorial is attempted. There is something strikingly simple, and pregnant with meaning, in the first mention which appears among the records of the Church Missionary Society, of the offer of William John- son to enter upon the missionary work, and of the Committee's acceptance of it. It runs thus : [From Minutes of Committee of Correspondence, held at the Church Missionary House, Jan. 9, 1815.] ' The Secretary reported that a German of the name of John- son was desirous of engaging as a schoolmaster, and his wife as OFFERS HIMSELF TO THE MISSipNARY WdfeK. 15 a schoolmistress under the Society ; he had given the following account of himself: — *W. Augustine Bernard Johnson, age 28, wife 26, works with Mr. Martineau, sugar-refiner, Princes Place, Cable Street, St. George's in the East ; has worked there two years ; had been in Germany two years in a counting-house ; a Hanoverian ; known to Mr, SteinkopfF and to the Rev. Mr. Stodhart, Isling- ton ; lives at 14, Morgan Street, Commercial Road. 'Resolved : that enquiries be made respecting Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, and that they be desired to attend the next meeting of this Committee.' [From the Minutes of Committee, Jan. 23, 1815.] ' Conversation was had with Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, and ad- vice given them. They professed their utmost willingness to give themselves up to the work of God. Their characters and their views having been favourably reported of, it was ' Resolved : That it be recommended to the Committee to receive I\lr. and Mrs. Johnson under the care of the Society, and that they be prepared as schoolmaster and schoolmistress for Africa.' Thus his name was once mentioned to the Committee, and it was agreed that he should have an interview. That intei'- view took place a fortnight after, and without an hour's delay, or any postponement, for further inquiries, Mr. Johnson and his wife, — himself a workman at a sugar-refiner's in Whitechapel, — are at once engaged, and destined to go forth, as soon as a certain amount of instruction has been given, — as schoolmaster and schoolmistress in Western Africa. The men who thus, at once, and without hesitation, grasped at the offer of William Johnson almost as soon as it was made, — were not novices, or men of rash and heedless tempers. That Committee included, such names as Josiah Pratt, Basil Woodd, AVilliam Goode, and Daniel Wilson. The obvious inference, therefore, which we may safely draw from their immediate acceptance of William 16 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. Johnson's offer, is, that the sincerity and earnestness of his soul so fehevvef. cumstance, which may be, perhaps, as interesting. The doctor who attends the captured negroes, and resides at this place, a man of colour, educated in England, and known by the name of Macaulay Wilson, has lately attended Divine Service. I observed that he came almost every morning, and paid me a visit ; which he did not before, and seemed very much cast down. Last Friday I went to Sierra Leone, in order to attend the examinations of the schools, before his Excellency the Governor, when the doctor oftered his company to go with me. While passing through the mountains, he said that he wished to speak to me a few words. I desired that he would speak on ; and he said that one Sunday afternoon, I had spoken on these words, "The blood of Jesus Cbrist his Son cleanseth us from all sin." Since that time he could find no rest ; he had often come in the morning in order to acquaint me with it, but had been kept back — could I not give him some advice, for he had been notoriously wicked ? I replied, that I could give liim no other advice than to come to Jesus. " His blood cleanseth from all sin." He has since attended family prayer, and has found comfort through that passage. " Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord." Isa. i. 18. 'This circumstance may (who knows) prove a blessing to the Bullom nation, as he is the son of king George at i'on- gi-oo, and is expected to be king after the death of his father, and has great influence over the Bullom natives. ' May the Lord have all the glory, for he has done, and is doing, all things well. " Oh ! magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together." ' The weather is now very fine, but sometimes intolerably hot. Those that have suffered bj' sickness are recovering. The Chief Justice in Sierra Leone died last Sunday week, which is a great loss to the Colony. ' The total of the last return of the schools in the Colony, is 1,23Y pupils : viz. at Sierra Leone, Leicester Mountain, Regent's Town and Kissy Town. I remain. Rev. and dear Sir, ' Your humble servant, W. Johkson.' OPENING PROSPECTS. 51 At the close of this year Mr. Renner, the senior Missionary in West Africa, paid a visit to Regent's Town, which he thus describes, in a letter to Mr. Pratt, dated January 2, 1817 : — ' I spoke morning and evening in the church, to a people that seemed to be devout indeed. Regent's Town is fast ad- vancing in getting civilized and Christianized. Almost every night, as I am told, one or another is affected, and, on certain nights, the whole congregation seems impressed : but judging by appearance, these are they that take the kingdom of heaven by violence. The temporal and spiritual work of our brother is, no doubt, great and laborious among these people ; but to Johnson, all is easy and full of pleasure. It is surprising to what a degree of harmonious singing both sexes have attained, as if it were a congregation of ten years' standing.' CHAPTER m. A.D. 1817. Mr. Johnson's Ordination — Ilis growing Labours and Success. It now became evident, that Mr. Johnson, sent out originally as a schoolmaster, had grown involuntarily into a missionary of the most eminent order of usefulness. The Committee in London were not slow in appreciating his labours ; and in J^ro- moting him to a higher place. At the close of the year, Mr, Pratt and Mr. Bickersteth thus wrote : — ' Church Missionary House, ) 'London, Dec. 27, 1816. S ' Dear Johnson, * We wrote to you Nov. 2nd, and have since received yours October 8th. * We have been highly gratified with the account of your labours. The result of them gives us a prospect of a brighter day for Africa than we have yet enjoyed. ' We do truly rejoice that you seek to diffuse the savour of the Redeemer's name among the poor recaptured negroes, and that He appears to give testimony to His word. ' Yet it has appeared to us incorrect, that you should continue to do this without being ordained. We have therefore written to Mr. Garnon on this subject, and requested him to call a meeting of the Missionaries Butscher, Nylander, and Wenzel, to consider the expediency of your being ordained as a Lutheran minister. We trust that your own mind will be humbly and devotedly prepared for the work before you, as we have the best hope that God hath given you grace to preach the un- searchable riches of Christ to the Gentiles. With kind regards to Mrs. Johnson, we are affectionately yours, * J. P. ' E. B.' HIS ORDINATION PROPOSED. 53 Before this could reach Mr. Johnson, he had written home, as follows : — 'Regent's Town, Feb. 6, 1817. ' Rev. and dear Sir, ' With great pleasure I received yours of the 2nd of Nov., on the 28th of Dec. last, in which you acknowledge the receipt of my letters from June 18th, July 1st and 18th. ' I now sit down again with pleasure, and inform you of our success. In my last of November, I stated to you the conversion of several people tp whom the Lord has sent me. I mentioned the baptism of twenty-two adults, one boy and two infants, captured negroes ; likewise the celebration of the Sacrament for the first time in this desert — the communicants being twenty- seven in number, including ourselves. Several more came forward and gave striking evidences of grace, and I again with joy informed Mr. Butscher of it, who came over on Christmas day in the morning, and baptized nine adults, and one infant, captured negroes. Several more came forward to be baptized ; but having not sufficiently examined them, I advised them to stop until another opportunity. After the ordinance of baptism, we again celebrated the dying love of our blessed Jesus, thirty-one in number. 'I learn of the Rev. Mr. Garnon that you have likewise set apart Saturday evenings for prayer on our behalf. Glory be to the Lord Jesus, who has particularly blessed this hour here amongst us. 'I shall only mention one instance, which may assure us that our God is a prayer-hearing and a prayer-answering God. ' Saturday evening, the 4th of January, the work of God appeared anew amongst us, during prayer. Two young men began to cry out " Jesus, massa, have mercy !" • ^, 'f ' , Women \ ^*^'^«°^ No. present. Sick. Absent. Total. 155 10 7 16 10 1 172 87 i 88 10 1 99 ( 28 28 Total 341 33 12 386 The Journal proceeds as follows : — 'Several walked no more with us in June and July, 1817; a barrenness took place, but blessed be God, all have returned, though it was a heavy trial for nie, and I believe for all the communicants ; but we have now to confess at large, that this also has worked together for our good. ' A benefit society has been erected amongst the community, ■which has greatly increased love and harmony. ' I was speaking to my people, a few Sundays ago, of my being sent hither to preach to them about Jesus Christ ; and was telling them how good God was to send ministers to Africa, and to bring them to this place ; and that if God had not been so good, they would have perished in their sins. I had an object in view, which was to form among them a little society for the relief of their sick members, by subscriptions of a half- penny a week each. After service, one of them stood up, and said to the rest, " Dat be very good ting, broders. Suppose one be sick, all be sick : suppose one be well, all be well !" What a simple, but practical comment on those words, " Whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it : or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it ;" and indeed on the whole passage, 1 Cor. xii. 12 — 27. 4 62 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. ' One who had lately been reclaimed from the depths of sin, when asked, " Well, how is your heart now ?" replied, " Massa my heart no live here now. My heart live there" — pointing to the skies. ' Oh ! may the Spirit of all gi-ace be with ns. May lie receive all the praise and glory, for having made poor black sinners, yea, as black in their hearts as in their skins, willing in the day of his power to receive a crucified Jesus. ' I pray now that I may be enabled to keep up this diary, which I have, to my grief and soitow, neglected since I have been here. * Sattirdai/, Nov. 8. I have experienced a great darkness this past week ! Ilave not enjoyed privilege in prayer. But blessed be the Lord Jesus, all has been removed this night. ' In the prayer-meeting this evening, I read a few letters to my dear people, and then gave an exhortation in which I was led out more than usual. As every communicant has the liberty to speak in this meeting, William Davis arose, and gave a most affecting exhortation. I should much like to insert it here, but am afraid I should add or leave out something; after this William Vivah arose, and exhorted his brethren to cleave to Jesus, and behold what he had done for them. I concluded with prayer, and blessed be God, we experienced the presence of Jesus. ' Sunday, Nov. 9. During prayer meeting at 6 a.m. I felt very cold and dark. Two men were aftected ; one wept aloud. ' Half-past ten, Divine service — married two couple; spoke on Gal. iii. 24. I found not that liberty I could wish for. One man who has lately come here, and settled in the town, appear- ed much affected. He fell on his knees, and wept aloud. After service, I asked him why he wept ? He said, " God came into my heart ; and my heart bad too much — that made me cry." ' In the afternoon, I spoke on Song of Solomon v. 10. The same man was again affected — wept very loud. I experienced more liberty in explaining this precious passage. The people CONTINUED SUCCESS, 63 appeared very attentive. Oh ! may the Lord the Holy Spirit, bless the word, and give the increase. ' Before evening service, W. Davis and Joseph Canady, two communicants, brought a greegree, which they had found in Bassey Town, where W. Davis had spoken to the people. An old man, who had always opposed "W. Davis very much, had been very quiet. The greegree was put by W. Davis into the fire. ' In the evening, I spoke on James i. 5. " If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God." Whilst I said, " if any of you want to know Jesus Christ, let him ask of God the Spirit to point him out ;" the man above mentioned who wept in the morning and afternoon, and another, fell on their knees, and prayed aloud. They prayed earnestly to know the Lord Jesus Christ. Oh ! may God the Spirit take of the things of Jesus, and reveal them unto the hearts of poor sinners. ' Thursdmj, Nov. 13. Have been busy in the beginning of the week with writing letters to the Society, &c. Went to Freetown to-day, and carried letters. Wrote another letter to my mother in German3^ Nov. 15. This day has proved a very dark season to my soul — am afflicted with diarrhsea, and consequently very weak. The various duties of the Lord's day before me, which makes me very uneasy. Oh ! that the light of his countenance would shine upon me, and that he would prepare me for the Sabbath- day. ' In the evening I was much comforted, through several con- versations which took place, during the usual prayer-meeting at seven o'clock. John Sandy spoke much to the comfort of my soul. He complained much of darkness, saying, " Once me see light — but now me have no light — no peace ; my bad heart brings me into all these troubles. I don't know what I must do. I can't tell if I am on the way to Hell or Heaven." ' Sunday^ Nov. 16. Had a very uncomfortable night — slept but little ; felt very weak, am still afflicted with this complaint. 64 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON, Oh ! what a comfort it is that a rest remains for the cliikheu of God. ' At six o'clock A.M. prayer-meeting. Three communicants engaged in prayer, and I conchided. Several who appear to be under conviction, wept aloud. Three were carried out by the door-keepers. ' llalf-past ten, Divine service; felt still very weak. Spoke on Judges viii. 4. " Faint, yet pursuing." The same people wept and trembled again. Some were carried out, which was rather troublesome, as the place was so crowded, that there was no way to get out. After service, I felt much fatigued ; proposed therefore that the people should keep prayer-meeting among themselves, which they did. ' Seven o'clock p.m. I spoke on Romans ix. o. I felt more liberty than in the morning. Darkness fled away, and my heart did sing for joy. Several wept, the whole appeared afflicted, and I forgot my complaint. Oh ! may the Spirit bless the few imperfect remarks. "iVoi'. 17. Twelve o'clock, spoke to the girls. Asked if any could tell what they had heard yesterday. Hannah Cammel, a teacher, said, " Me hear you say that if any man, woman, boy or girl, died without Jesus Christ, they must go to Hell." " What do f/ou think, Hannah, are you with Jesus Christ, or are you without him ?" " I am without him. Sir." — " Did you ever pray to him ?" " Yes, Sir." — " Why or what for did you pray to him ?" "To save me from my sin, Sir." — " Are you then a sinner ?" " Yes, I am a great sinner. Sir." — " Do you know what Jesus Christ did for sinners ?" " He came into the world to save them. Sir." — " Well, then, if he came into the world to save sinners, and you say j'^ou are a sinner, He came to save you." She appeared afiected, and could speak no more. ^J)^ov. 20. Mr. and Mrs. Garnon, and Mr. Gates, paid us a visit to-day. The former intend to stay until to-morrow — tlie latter went this evening to Wilberforce. 'In the afternoon, Mr. and Mrs. Garnon and myself went to CONTINUED SUCCESS. 65 see some of the female communicants : in tlie evening Mr. Gar- non gave an exhortation, after evening school. Both day and evening schools practised singing. ' Sunday, Nov. 23. About nine o'clock, all the front seats in the Church were occupied. Divine Service began at half past ten. ' Captain Welsh, of the brig Pyrennees, came to visit us ; having been an old acquaintance in London. The Church was so full when the bell rang the first time, that we could not get in at the two side-doors. Some were sitting outside on boards. With difficulty we entered through the tower. I married two couple, having scarcely any room to stand. ' My text was John v. 6, " Wilt thou he made whole /" ' Captain Welsh was much delighted. He said, after ser- vice, " I have seen to-day what I never saw before. Oh," he con- tinued, " what would not our friends in London give for such a sight !" Turning to me, he said, " God has blessed your labours beyond description. I have heard of your success, but I could not have believed that it was so great." I answered, " May God have all the praise and glory." 'Afternoon, I spoke on Rom. viii. 28. Several were again much affected — one woman was carried out. About 6 p. m,, the Captain left me for Sierra Leone. 'In the evening, 7 o'clock, I spoke on John xvi. 31, " i)o ye now believe P All appeared very attentive, and some tremb- ling and weeping. I was enabled to speak with more freedom than in the morning and afternoon. Oh, may the Spirit of all grace bless the word which has been proclaimed by his un- worthy dust to-day. ' Nov. 24. Spoke to the school-girls. Several told me what they had .heard on Sunday, Dorothy Roah, Mary Wyng, and Elizabeth Bryda, spoke veiy satisfactorily. ' Nov. 25. Li the evening examined with six members, two candidates. One, a woman, was received, and the other dis- missed. Several more were to be examined, but being late, adjourned the meeting until Monday following. 66 MEMOIR OF JOIIKSOX. ^ Nov. 27. Went to Sierra Leone, and from tlience, with Messrs. Garnon, Nylander, and Gates, to the Bullora settlement. Visited in the afternoon, King George of Yongroo. Saw also Mr. Macaulay, who is still very weak. Observed many devils' and greegree houses. Mr. Garnon spoke to the boys in the evening. Mr. Gates felt rather unwell. ' Nov. 28. Mr. Gates being unwell caused us to get to Sierra Leone as soon as possible. Spoke to the boys in the morning on Luke v. 12, 13. Arrived about 2 p. m., at Freetown. Waited upon the Governor, with whom I had rather a dis- agreeable conversation, as his and my views are not alike, Wiiich caused us to differ, and I could not lielp speaking my mind, which made his Excellency angry. We, however, parted good friends. Returned home in the evening, when I was received by my dear people with joy. When I had entered the house, the piazza was soon filled, and I was obliged to stand in the door and give them all service to pacify them. ' Saturday/, Nov. 29. At the evening prayer-meeting, I read a letter to the people, which I had received from Mr. Pratt ; and from the Missionary Register far September, I read and explained to them the anecdote of the poor woman, related in the 407th page. When I had done, four of my communicants addressed the meeting in behalf of the Missionary cause, and requested me to set apart one evening in the following week to form a Missionary Society. ' During the last week, I have been much harassed in my mind with unbelief, but, glory be to God, all has been removed this night. I have indeed been much refreshed. ' Sundaij, Nov. 30. Spoke in the morning on John iii. 14, 15. Found not much freedom; all appeared cold and dark. Oh Lord ! let thy light shine upon us : " Kindle a flatno of sacred love, In these cold hearts of ours." 'Afternoon spoke on Isaiah Iv. 19 — 21, with much free- dom ; — the people appeared very attentive. CONTINUED SUCCESS. 6"? * Evening Zech. xiii. 19. *1. The manifold trials of God's dear people. * 2. Why God's people are a tried people. ' 3. The promises to a tried child of God. ' Many were much affected. Some wept. I was much dis- tressed before service, as I could not fix my mind on any pas- sage ; but whilst I gave out a hymn, this passage was forcibly applied to my mind. Praise be to God the Holy Spirit for his mercy towards me. Oh, why me, why me? Informed the people that next Wednesday evening, after prayer meeting, a Missionary Society would be formed, according to the desire of some communicants. '■Dec. 1. Went to Freetown in order to be at home on Wednesday, as that day is the appointed day for the monthly Missionary prayer-meeting, which is to be on Leicester Mount- ain that evening. All my people are desirous to go with me. ' Dec. 2. Met this evening in my house with the appointed six communicants, to consider the conduct of three communi- cants, who have given slight offences by their conduct. Two showing repentance, expressing their sorrow, being the first time, were reproved and exhorted. The other a woman, hav- ing been reproved twice before, and still given to carelessness, was excluded from being a member of the Church. ' Wednesday, Dec. 3, being the appointed evening to form a Missionary Society, the Church was full at 7 o'clock. Previous to the meeting we had one for prayer, as usual, being Wednes- day. ' After this meeting, I addressed the people ; explained to them the heathen misery, and referred to their former state — urged the necessity of sending out Missionaries, and of support- ing them — and concluded with encouraging their exertions by our Lord's acceptance of the poor widows' mites, Mark xii. 42-44. ' After this no less than seventeen communicants came for- ward, and addressed the meeting. Some spoke much to the purpose, though in broken English. It would have greatly animated our Christian friends in England. 68 MEMOIK OF JOHNSOiV, "» ' One of them AV. Tamba, exliortecl to prayer, tliat it might please God to send some of them to their country people, to carry the good news of a Saviour to them. He then came for- ward, and said, " I will give half-a-crown." I told him that what he might give was to be every month. He replied, " I know, Sir ! I will give it every month." Several followed his .example. A motion was then made, that those who desired to be members were to give not less than two-pence a month : 107 had their names put down as subscribers. After which, several of the school-boys and girls came forward, and gave their pence and halfpence. I asked one boy, who re<}uested me to take a penny, where he got money. He replied, " Me got three coppers (three halfpence) long time. Me beg you, Massa, take two, and me keep one." I told him he had better keep his coppers which he had kept so long ; but he refused, and urged me to take the two coppers. * Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. Oh what have I enjoyed this night — Oh what hath God wrought ! ' Thursdaj/, Dec. 4. At family prayer in the morning, I told the people that I intended to go to Leicester Mountain in the evening, where all the Missionaries purposed to meet to pray for the spread of the gospel ; and if any were desirous to go with me, I should be ready at 4 o'clock in the afternoon ; but none should go unless they were dressed and clean. 'Accordingly I went at 4 o'clock, p.m. on the hill, in the road to Leicester Mountain, when a large company followed, all cleanly dressed. I arranged them, the women and girls in front, and the men and boys behind, which formed a long line; and thus we marched to Leicester Mountain. Mr. Horton counted them, and told me that I had 321 people with me. ' About 7 o'clock we began divine Avorship by singing " Jesus shall reigu wheru'er the sun," A-c. ' I prayed — Mr. Garnon gave an exhortation — Messrs. Dur- ing and Horton concluded with prayer. CONTINUED SUCCESS. 69 ' It was a pleasing sight, indeed, to behold the Church — that large building, almost full : and more pleasing for me to expe- rience the presence of the Lord ; which I believe was the case with many of us, that day. 'After service, I arranged all ray people again, the men and boys in front, the women and gii'ls behind, and my wife behind them on horseback; and thus we marched through the mount- ains, the men and boys singing — "Come, ye sinners, poor and wretched," Ac. ' And the women and girls — " How beauteous are their feet, Who stand on Zion's Hill ; Who bring Salvation on tlieir tongues, And words of peaee reveal !" ^ Dec. 5. Mr. Gates came here to-day, who is recovering from the fever. ^ Dec. 11. Last Saturday at noon, I was afflicted with the fever, which continued until 5 o'clock. ' On Sunday morning, Mr. and Mrs. During joined us, being the first Sunday in the month. It was agreed on that Mr. Gates should read the prayers, Mr. During (as I was still weak from the fever on Stiturday) to perform the duty of preaching, and I to marry, baptize, and administer the Lord's Supper. Accordingly, I married four couple — Mr. Gates read prayers. I baptized five of Mr. During's people, and three of mine, after which Mr. During spoke on Acts iv. 12, and I concluded by administering to about eighty persons, the Lord's Supper. At 3 o'clock, Mr. Gates spoke on 1 Gor. xii. 2. When Mi-. Gates had gone through the subject about half, he was overtaken by the fever. He turned himself to me, and said, " I am unwell, be so good as finish this for me," and thus he went out of the Ghurch, and I finished the discourse ; when I also was taken by the fever, and the people were obliged to keep service by themselves in the evening, I and Mr. Gates being both down with the fever. On Monday morning Mr. Gates found liimself 4* (TO MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. a great deal better, and being very anxious to go to Wilberforce, he went there on horseback. After Mr. C. had left us, I was seized with violent vomiting, which was rather alarming; I be- came also delirious.:— no medical assistance being present. A boy was sent to His Excellency the Governor, who'sent imme- diately a medical gentleman on horseback. In the evening the fever abated. Had a relapse on Tuesday evening ; but thanks be to the Father of all mercies, I am gaining strength very vapidly. " Gracious is the Lord, and righteous, yea, our God is merciful. The Lord preserveth the simple. I was brought low, and he helped me." ' Dec. 14. Divine service, ten o'clock. Observed several strangers — enquired who they were — was told that they had heard in Sierra Leone of good being done in the mountains, and had come to see. Spoke on Zech. xiii. 1., " In that day there shall be a fountain opened," (kc. ' The church was crowded as usual. Full outside — did not experience that freedom I expected. Oh could I but lean upon that sufficiency which is of God ; but I am too fond of my own sufficiency. By this I experience more and more, that " it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God which sheweth mercy." I have learned by experience that when I have studied a passage, divided, and subdivided, and am thus well prepared by my own imaginations, I feel no power to explain it, but when I entirely lean upon God the Holy Spirit's influence, and thus begin, divisions and sub-divisions come flowing apace. O Lord, enable thine unworthy dust to lean more and more upon thine influence. May I be diligent in searching the Scriptures, and whenever thou perraittest me to stand up, in the name of my dear Jesus, enable me entirely to depend on that wisdom which cometh from above. May thy grace be always sufficient for me. 'In the afternoon spoke on Isaiah Ixii. 12. I showed as follows : — '1. The Election of God's peojile. "Holy people." '2. The Redemption. "Redeemed of tlie Lord." COKTINUKI) SUCCESS. 7l '3. Effectual calling. "Shall be sought out" ' 4. Final perseverance. " A city not forsaken." ' In tlie evening I spoke on 1 John iii. 1. Here I was more led out than usual. My own experience came to ray memory. Shewed the Father's everlasting love (1) before conversion, and (2) after conversion, in a peculiar manner. Several Avept and were much affected. " Praise the Lord." '•Dec. 15. I heard that William Davis had taken up his Testament, and gone towards Cockle Bay, where many of his country people reside. I su2^pose that he is gone to speak to them of Jesus. '■Bee. 17. William Davis returned this evening. Told me that he had been to his country people; that he had felt a great desire to go to them for a long time ; had collected them together in several places, as they live dispei-sed in their respect- ive farms. Asked them why they did not go to hear Mr. Gates at Wilberforce ; told them of their danger, &c. Some replied that they could not understand English, and could therefore not pray to God. He repliei^ that God knew their hearts, their thoughts and tlieir language ; that he heard their prayers in their own language- They said that Ihey never had heard that before : they thought they must pray in English to God. They promised that they would pray to God, and that they would go to Will^rforce on Sunday ; also confessed that what he said was veiy true. Dec. 21, Sunday. Half-past ten — spoke on John vi. 44. The church was crowded as usual ; more outside than before — if the addition had been finished it would have been full. In the afternoon I spoke on 2 Tim. ii. 19. ' In the evening spoke on Isaiah Iv, 7, 8. I feel much. fatigued ; may the Lord increase my strength both spiritual and temporal. We have been much disturbed by cries and loud prayers this day. Holy Spirit, it appears that there are many who enquire the way to Zion ; guide them by thy counsel, and lead them the right way to a city of habitation. ' Christmas day. I had informed the people before of this 72 MEMOIR OF JOnNSO>'. day, and explained what the word Christmas signified. It is a custona which has no doubt been introduced by the Europeans, that every one intoxicates himself on this day, and makes as much noise as possible. The practice of drumming, dancing, firing guns, &c., is carried to a great pitch in Sierra Leone. I had, however, the happiness to observe, that not a single person at this place was intoxicated ; nor was drumming nor firing of guns heard. All attended Divine Service at half-past ten o'clock ; and, on the w hole, we were as quiet as on Sundays. I explained to them Isaiah vii. 14, " Behold a virgin shall con- ceive, and bear a Son, and shall call his name hnmanueV ' In the afternoon we went to Leicester Mountain, to attend the monthly missionary prayer-meeting. About 400, men, •women, boys and girls, went with me. Mr. During having brought some of his people, these with ours and the children of Leicester Mountain formed a large congregation. ' Mr. Garnon opened worship with prayer : I spoke on Isaiah ix. 6. Mr. Gates and Mr. During concluded with prayer. * Sunday, Dec. 28. Divine Service as usual. Spoke on Mark vi. 35. In the afternoon on Matt, xxvii. 35. Evening, 3 John V. 4. Enjoyed much of the prebcnce of the Lord this evening. Praise the Lord Jesus for his mercy. ' Dec. 29. Mr. and Mrs. Garnon came to pay us a visit — moved into the new house.' At the close of this year, Mr. Johnson could thus rejoicingly contemplate the rapid improvement which had taken place. ' Our place is become a most romantic spot. It is surrounded by high mountains, one raising its head above another, and all covered with trees and bushes continually green. Streams descend, in different directions, from the various cliffs, with im- mense rapidity ; and form, when united, a 'large brook, which runs through the middle of the town. On the banks is a meadow for the cattle belonging to our people, which is always green. ' Our liouse, the church, and the school-houses for the l)oys CONTINUED SUCCESS. IS :inJ girls, stauJ together, in a large enclosure, on one bill. The remainder of the hill contains about twelve acres ; and has been brought, with the help of the children, into a state of cultiva- tion. I think we shall have nearly enough provision from this farm, next year, to supply the schools. We have now planted it full, with cocoa, cassadas, plantains, bananas, and coffee. ' In front of our house, on another hill, is a part of the town, which extends also on our right and left. Behind us, on a higher hill than ours, the Governor has erected a cottage, ' From every part of my house I can see the whole town. Around the town are the people's farms. From these farms no less than eight mountains rear their heads, and form a chain around us.' But his own overwhelming engagements forced from him the following comj^laints : — ' The work of mercy is still proceeding, but not without difficulty. I am again without any assistance. I have hitherto kept from making complaints ; but am now constrained to do so. My spiritual labours increase for which I, unworthy, can- not be enough thankful. The people with whom I have to do, are as babes in Christ, who stand in need of being nourished with the sincere milk of the word, that they may grow thereby ; but I cannot do this as I desire, since I have so many temporal affairs to look after. I should go to their respective habitations, at least twice a week, and speak to them individually. I should watch continually over them. But this I cannot do. Some- times I have not an hour to myself from Monday to Saturday, as I have to attend to brickmakers, masons, carpenters, store- keeping, cultivation, land-surveying, &c. &c. beside our schools, which contain 409 scholars.' CHAPTER IV. A.D. 1818. Conlinued Successes — Triuls and Difficulties — Sickness and Death of several of the Missionaries. 'January 3, 1818. Nothincj remarkable has occurred during the past week. Mr. Garnon is still with us, and intends to stay until Monday. This evening at the iisiial prayer-meeting, 1 was delivered from a heavy burden — Blessed be God. ' Jan. 4. Divine service, half-past ten o'clock. Married four couple. Mr. During had joined us to-day, also Mrs. During and Mrs. Garnon being here, and Mr. Horton came at church- time. Mr. During read the prayers. After the second lesson, I baptized one man, one woman, and one infant of ]\Ir. During's people, and two women of mine. I spoke on Isaiah xli. 13. ' 1. To whom the promises belong. ' 2. The evidences — " Am I one of those to whom God has said these words ?" ' 3. The promise—" I will help thee." *' 4. The many tribulations out of which God will deliver his people. ' 5. An address to the ungodly. ' The Lord was with us. After service, I administered the Lord's Supper as usual. ' In the afternoon we kept prayer-meeting, as it was late, and feeling myself much fotigued from the various services in the morning. ' In the evening I spoke on 2 Cor. xii. 9. Felt much fa- tigued, and very barren. Oh Lord, teach thine unworthy crea- ture. Open his polluted lips, that his mouth may shew forth thy praise. ^ Jan. Q. This day is my birthday. I am now thirty-one CONTINUED SUCCKSS. 15 years of age. Oh ! how short appears my past life — how un- equal have my days been ! Who knows but this year will be my last ? Lord, thy will be done ; only prepare me, and en- able me to be always ready — May I be faithful imto death. Should not this day be to me a day of praise and of thanks- giving ? but alas, alas ! how cold, how indifferent about spirit- ual things ; nothing can more meet my experience than that of the Apostle Paul, which he expresses in Eom. vii. " When I would do good, evil is present with me." Oh ! wretched man that I am. ' I went this morning to Leicester Mountain, to witness the examination of the children before His Excellency the Gover- nor ; after which I went to Sierra Leone to Mr. Gates, who waited for me there. . From thence, T went with Mr. Gates in a boat up the river Sierra Leone, to Bence Island. We entered the boat about 3 p. m., and passed Bence Island about sunset, and arrived at Captain Welsh's vessel just before dark, who is taking in timber near Tumbo Island, twenty-two miles from Sierra Leone. We were very cordially received by Captain Welsh, with whom we stayed all night. ' Wednesday, Jan. V. Visited Tumbo Island, and Bence Island, and returned to Freetown in the afternoon ; where we met Mrs. Johnson, who had come down to spend a short period with Mrs. Garnon, also on account of having been afflicted with a bad foot, which she intends to get cured during her stay in Freetown. ' Jan. 8. Arrived home this evening. ^ Jan. 11, Sunday. Divine service, half-past ten. Crowded as usual ; spoke on Matt. viii. 20. Felt very dark, and found no liberty to explain the heads which I had taken from the text. Observed several people from Leopold's town, about two miles from here. ' Afternoon, spoke on Rom. viii. 6 — 8. ' Evening, Rev. ii. 4. Have been very cold and dark this day. Some appeared much affected, but for my part, I have experienced a very dark season. Vn MEMOIIl OF .JOHNSON. '■Jan. 13. Attended the Annual Bible Society Meeting in Freetown, which was very thinly attended, to the disgrace of the inhabitants. I could not help giving them a lesson on that head. ''Jan. 15. Last night, or rather this morning, I heard a man praying at some distance. I got up, and went into the piazza; but could only understand a few words. After he had concluded, I heard several join in singing, " To Father, Son, and Iluly Ghost," &c., and then a boy, as I judged by the voice, began to pray, whom I could understand very distinctly. His words were very bless- ' ed — " Lord Jesus ! my heart bad too iimch. Me want to love you — me want to serve you — but my bad heart will not let me. O Lord Jesus ! me can't make me good. Take away this bad heart ! O Lord Jesus, give me a new heart ! O Lord Jesus ! me sin every day — pardon my sin ! Lord Jesus, let me sin no more !" Thus he continued, for ten or twelve minutes. After him, another boy prayed, whom I could not understand : only I heard him make mention of the name of Jesus. Another verse was sung, and then a man concluded. The night was delightful. The moon shone very bright. I cannot express what I felt. I went to bed again, but could not sleep ; starting every now and then, thinking I hoard the same prayer again. 'This morning, I incpiired of some of the communicants, who lived that way in the woods, but I could not find who they were. Oh ! may the Lord carry on the work of grace, which I believe He has begun, among both young and old ! '■Jan. 18. Divine service, half-past ten o'clock. Married six couple. Spoke on Matt. vi. 1. While I read the prayers, several appeared very drowsy. I took the opportunity, and. asked the congregation (when I pointed out the spiritual prayer, which only is acceptable in the sight of God) how many there had been asleep, while the rest were engaged in prayer. Several immediately began to cry out aloud, and I had to give CONTINUED SUCCESS. 77 out a liynm, while tlie door-keepers carried them out, -wlio trembled, crj-ing aloud, and could neither stand nor -walk. ' In the afternoon, I spoke on Matt. xiii. 45, 4G. Experienced not the same liberty as in the morning. ' In the evening. Rev. iii. 19. The Lord was with us— many appeared affected. '■Jan. 19. Went to Freetown to-day. When I returned, Avas told by my people, that Mr. Kelly the school-master had kept no school, and had been with two soldiers (Europeans) of the African corps, the greater part of the day, drinking rum. I went down to the brick-field (where the soldiers reside, who are brickmakers, and instruct our people), and met Mr. Kelly coming home with one of the soldiers intoxicated. I told him tbat 1 wanted his assistance no longer, and that he might pro- ceed to Freetown in the morning. ' Jan. 20. After family prayer, wrote an oflicial discharge, and sent it to Mr. Kelly ; and wrote also to His Excellency, the Governor, who answered my letter as follows : — "The conduct of Mr. Kelly having been so very disgraceful, his longer stay at Regent's Town would only injure the cause, and I am glad you adopted efiectual measures to send him back to town. lie shall no longer be employed by me in any capacity." ' Jan. 22. Went with the people this evening again to Leicester Mountain, to the Missionary prayer-meeting. Mr. Garnon was absent, on account of Mr.s. Garnon's being unwell. The Church was full again : Mr. During prayed. I spoke on Matt. X. 8. ]\Ir. Horton concluded with prayer. In coming home, the boys and girls made the woods and mountains echo Avitb singing hymns. ' Jan. 25, Sunday. Divine service in the morning ; spoke on Song of Solomon i. 3. In the afternoon, went to Leopold's Town. Spoke on 1 Cor. ii. 2. Evening, preached at home on Matt. ix. 1.3. ' Jan. 26. Went early this morning to Freetown to welcome Ml', and Mrs. Collier, and ]\fr. and Mrs. Decker, who had arrived on Saturday evening. In the evening, I went with Mr. 78 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. Gates to Wilberforce. Did not like to stay in town, on account of a. great dinner which was given by His Excellency. Was invited, but sent an excuse. Spoke in the evening at Wilber- force, from Matt. v. 20. I intended this day to proceed with my people to the Sherbro country, but hearing yesterday that our friends had arrived from Englar.d, I postponed it, and intend to go next week. ' Jan. 27. Returned early in the morning to Freetown. After breakfast, which I had at Garnon's, I was again attacked by the fever, which continued until two o'clock. About five, returned to Regent's Town, accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. Decker. The people (when we arrived) had just began ftimily worship. Mr. and Mrs. Decker were much delighted with the singing. ^Jan. 28. Went this morning after breakfast with Mr. Decker to Leopold's Town, to introduce him ; as he is to be stationed there. When I returned, I was again attacked by the fever, more severely than yesterday. Was a little better in the evening. Mr. Decker kept prayer-meeting with the people in the evening. ' Jan. 29. Had a very uncomfortable night — slept very little. The fever increased in the morning, and became very alarming — continual vomiting and delirium. About 10 a.m. the fever abated. ' February 2. The fever became very alarming on Friday, and continued until Saturday morning. Had no relapse since ; and am, blessed be God, gaining strength again. On account of my illness, Mr. Garnon came on Saturday evening, to perform Divine service on Sunday. Had this evening, the monthly Missionary prayer-meeting, which was not so well attended as I expected. ' Sunday^ Feb. 3. Received to-day a letter from the Society — also one from Miss Bouffler. ' Feb. 4. A woman came to me again, who has several times before applied for baptism. She said, " My lieart follow me alwaj's. Me can't do good. Me heart so bad, will not let me. CONTINUED SUCCESS. 79 Me want to serve the Lord Jesus Christ ; but me no sahby [know] liow to serve him. Me fraid too much, [very much.] Suppose me die, me go to fire : me been do bad too much." I asked her what she meant by her heart following her always. She replied, " Me no want do bad, but me heart always want do bad, and so follow me always." I pointed her, with her bad heart, to the Saviour of sinners. ' Feb. 1. Was much refreshed at the usual j^rayer-meeting, having been very low all the week. Found that many of the people complained over the same — were very cold and indiffer- ent about spiritual things, over which they complained very much. ' Sundai/, Fth. 8. Spoke in the morning on John iii. 15. The Church was very full — many in the addition, which will soon be finished. After service, spoke with Hannah Cam m el, usher in the girls' school, who appears much distressed on account of her sins. She desired to join the Church — doubted much her interest in the blood of Christ — feared that she should go to hell after all, &c. I told her that she should be con- sidered as a candidate. 'Afternoon, spoke on Matt. iv. 21, 22. The Church was full again. I was in my own mind much refreshed, the people appeared attentive. May God the Holy Spirit give the increase, and may he have all the glory. I fear very much that I do not give praise to the Spirit of all grace, for what are exhortations and sermons without the aid of God the Spirit ? Oh Lord, thou mighty teacher, humble me thine unworthy creature more and more, and enable me to give thee all the praise. Give unto me more wisdom, and reveal unto me more and more the mysteries of grace. 'Evening, spoke on John xxi. 19. Felt much fatigued — the Church was very full again — the people appeared very attentive. May the Lord Jesus have all the praise and glory, for having enabled me once more, after a severe illness, to stand up in his name. Oh may every dispensation of Providence be sanctified. ^ Feb. 14. Mr. Collier came this morning to spend a short 80 MEMOllt OF JOIIXSOX. time with us. At the evening prayer-meeting, several fomahi communicants spoke very afFectingly — complained much over unbelief. *■ Sunday, Feb. \b. Divine service half-past ten. Spoke on John XV. 12. The partition wall was pulled down last week, which made the Church as large again, and T saw it almost filled with great pleasure. Afternoon, spoke on Isaiah Ixiii. 25, 26. 'After service, Hannah Cammel stood by the door of my room, desirous to speak to me. She said, " I have no rest, day or night. My sins are too many [very many]. I am the greatest sinner in the world. I don't know what to do. My sins are more than any other person's." I tried to persuade her, that Christ came into the woi'ld to save the chief of siimers. May the Holy Spirit make known unto her the ability of Jesus to save, and give her guilty conscience peace ! 'Evening service, Rom. viii. 14. '■Monday, Feb. 16. Went to-day to Freetown to be present at a meeting held by the Missionaries, concerning the settle- ment in the Rio Pongas, which is to be given um. It was resolved that Mr. Renner should return to the Rio Pongas im- mediately, and bring all the effects of the settlement to the colony. In the evening returned to Regent's Town with Mr. Collier. '■Feb. lY. Several women came to me, and spoke concern- ino- the state of their souls, and desired to be baptized. Some spoke much to the purpose, and gave me reason to believe that the grace of God influences their hearts. '■Feb. 18. A communicant came to me this evening, and said, " I often ask myself, if I love the Lord Jesus Christ ; and I cannot answer that question. You said, ' Do you love the Lord Jesus Christ ? — examine yourselves.' This makes me fraid too much. — I think I no love him yet. — I fraid too much." Feb. 19. Went this evening to the Leicester Mountain with the people to the Missionary prayer-meeting. Mr. Wenzel being absent, Mr. Garnon gave an address. DIFFICULTIES. 81 Feb. 21. Mr. Gates, who havinij been here since the Mis- sionary prayer-ineeting, went to Wilberforce this morning-. A special meeting took place yesterday morning at Leicester Mountain, concerning Mr. Horton, who is desirous to leave the settlement, but having no sufficient reason to leave, the meet- ing agreed that they would give him no permission. ' Having been much tired this week, I found myself strength- ened this evening, in meeting with my people. I was fully convinced that the work of grace was cai-ried on in their hearts. What a mercy is it that love and. unity reign among these children of God, though they are of so many different nations ! ' Feb. 22, Sunday. I addressed this morning the largest congregation which ever met at this place. The addition to the Church is finished ; and, blessed be God, I saw it full. It is now as large again as it was; and no sooner finished, than tilled with hearers. ' I know not when I have found more pleasure and liberty in speaking, than on this day. In the morning, when reading prayers, I felt a great backwardness of spirit. Certainly, I could have done anything rather than preach ; but, blessed be God, who protected me in that temptation, and opened my mouth to speak of the unsearchable riches of Christ to poor black sinners, who appeared, I think, more eager after spiritual food, than I ever saw them before. ^ Feb. 23. I am now called again to -walk through deep waters. One of the communicants, a flaming professor, took it into his head to marry a young girl who is, to my knowledge, in an unconverted state. I advised him last Sunday to make it a matter of prayer, and not be in a hurry to be unequally yoked together with an unbeliever ; but it appears that it has been in vain ; to-day he came to me quite in a passion, desir- ing me to marry him to the girl, which I of course refused. He went home showing much dissatisfaction, and afterwards sent another man to tell me that I might cross out his name in the Church-book, and that he would have nothing to do with us any longer. Some of the communicants have been to him 82 MEMOIK OF JOHNSON". since, but all in vain. I am afraid that he will prove a disgrace to the cause of Christ, and do much .mischief. I have been much tempted since, thinking that it is my fault ; had I mar- ried him perhaps all this would not have come to pass, but the more I think of it, the more the following passage is applied to my mind — " Be not unequally yoked together with unbelievers." I feel therefore bound not to marry a believer to an unbeliever, if all are offended because of me. ' This evening I liad a meeting in my house to consider and examine four candidates. Three were received, having given satisfaction, that grace has been begun in their hearts. 'The young woman, mentioned on the 15th, told me — "The second time when you came to the school, and asked us what we had heard on Sunday in the sermon, I was so struck, that I have since found no rest in my heart, my sins are so many. All which I do before, come to my mind ; and I think nothing but hell can be left for me. I am afraid to go to bed. I know that Jesus Christ did come into the world to save sin- ners; but I cannot believe that He has any thing to do with me ; for I am the greatest sinner in the world. Nobody can be worse than I am." 'I mention this circumstance, because I had been led to think tlaat my speaking to the school-girls was of no use ; and had neglected, for some weeks, to go and speak to them, '^ Feb. 24. I visited some of the female communicants, who had given way to idleness ; and had gone to others' houses, talking and l^usy-bodying, speaking things which they ought not. I found that this had arisen through an evil-minded woman. Such persons the Great Enemy is ever ready to stir up, that they may make mischief. ' William Tamba came and told me that he had been to his falling brother, and had talked to him concerning his delu- sion, but to no purpose : he seemed quite hardened ; said that he would go to the Governor, and get married in town. Tam- ba begged him not to forsake the means of grace, and to come to church. He answered that he would come if he felt in- TRIALS AND DIFFICULTIES. 83 clined ; accordingly be came during family prayer this evening, but he appeared so dreadful in his countenance, that many afterwards expressed their surprise. It appears to me that the enemy of Christ is now making a sharp attack on us. I hear indeed of nothing but bad news. Another man has quarrelled with his wife ; and it came at last to blows. This also has arisen from evil people, who falsely told the man that his wife always walked about from house to house, when he was at work. How distressing are these things ! ' " Oh that my head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and night, because they have forsaken the laio tohich the Lord sets before them .^" May it please my God to hold me up under this trial, and those who appear much distressed on this account. O Lord, turn this evil into good ! O how great is the distress to see a flaming professor become an apostate. One who was beloved by all, who exhorted others to flee from the wrath to come, appears now to set his face against all that is called holy, O how is religion dishonoured, how is the Saviour crucified afresh ! How do the enemies of Christ triumph, and what fresh occasion is given for their insult. ^ Feb. 25. Went to Wilberforce to spend a night with Mr. Cates. ' Feb, 26. Went from Wilberforce to FreetoAvn, and re- turned in the evening to Regent's ToAvn ; am still much dis- tressed on account of those who have left God. Had but little sleep last night, and the night before last. O what can be more grievous than to see flaming professors going back, as it were, into the world. May not I myself go also one day or other ? Who knows whether I shall not bring a disgrace upon the cause of Christ ? Should not I bring a disgrace upon reli- gion indeed, if all those were to go back whom I have reported to be converted ? O Lord, I pray thee hold me up in this trying hour and I shall be safe. '■Feb. 28. I am still much distressed in mind. I am some- times afraid that I have to do with none but hypocrites ; and, 81 MEMOIR OF JOHNSOX. moreover, am afraid that I am one myself. All my past feel- irjf's appear to me, at times, as if tbey had been only my own ima'^'-inations, and like a dream. Oh that I were as in months jKist as in the days when Ood preserved 7ne ; when his candle shincd upon iny head ; and ivhen, by his light, I walked throufjh ddrhiess ! O God ! restore unto me the light of thy countenance. ^ March \, Sunday. My subject was John vi. 37. " Ji// that the Father giveth me, shall cdme to me ; and him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast outr ' I baptized one child, and administered the Lord's Supper to about eighty communicants. ' In the evening I addressed the people on Matt. xiv. 12. '■'■And toent and told Jesus." I found this evening a little more peace of mind. Happy are the moments, when we can go, like the disciples of John, and toll Jesus our distress ; and pour out our hearts into his bosom, who is well acquainted with our trials, and is "a friend that stickelh closer than a brother." ' I am informed that Mr. and Mrs. H. are about to leave the Society, and go down to Sierra Leone. Oh, what an awful step ! Lord, sanctify this dispensation to all thy remaining servants. ' March 2. Mrs. Collier, Mrs. During, and my wife, went . with our and Mrs. Diiring's school-girls to the falls, about two miles from here, to give the girls a treat, who were highly de- lighted. Mrs. Horton, hearing of the circumstance, went also with her girls; she had had the fever the day previous, and consequently was, through her imprudence, again overtaken with the fever, and obliged to stay at Leopold's Town, and returned in the evening in my wife's palanquin. Mr. Collier and myself followed after, and joined our wives Avith nearly 200 girls, at the falls. A grand sight : the water descends from a high rock, shaded on both sides by tall trees. ' March 8, Sunday. The church was full, the addition and original part, by half-past ten. Afternoon and evening nearly full. May the Lord bless his word. KXPERlENCl: OF DIFFICULTIES. 85 * March 9. Last week my time has been much taken up with measuring- out lots both for this and Leopold's Town. At the latter place it appears that the lots and houses have not been laid out regularly, which causes great confusion. If it is to be regular, it will be necessary to break down all the houses which the people have built. I did not altogether like to in- terfere, as Mr. Decker is superintendent at that place, lest I should make him uncomfortable. It being, however, the de- sire of his Excellency the Governor, I could not well refuse. Went again with one of my young men to Leopold's Town to measure out more lots. Mrs. Decker appears very unwell. ^ March 15, Sunday. The church was full, as usual. I bless God for giving me somewhat more peace than I have lately had. I cannot express what I have gone through — no rest by day or night — whole nights without sleep. In the evening, I felt very much fatigued ; and was glad to think, that I should soon be in bed, and rest my weary body ; which brought to my mind that eternal rest which remaineth for the people of God. On this subject I preached, and was much refreshed. My strength seemed to be renewed, like that of a weary traveller, whose eyes behold his home. ' " There shall I bathe my weary soul, In seas of heavenly rest ; And not a wave of trouble roll Across my peaceful breast." ' March 16. Went again to Leopold and Charlotte Towns, agreeably to the Governor's desire. Directed the masons at Charlotte Town how to proceed with the house for the super- intendent, and also gave them four of my mason-boys, that they might, if possible, finish the house before the rains set in. Returned to Leopold's Town and measured out some lots, and from thence returned much fatigued. Found it good in the evening when I spoke on Isaiah xii. 1, 2. The church was nearly full. '■March lY. At noon I met the school-girls. The young woman mentioned February 15, and 22, who is now a commu- 4 86 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. nicant, repeated a good deal of the discourse delivered on Sunday afternoon — which was on the coming of Jesus in the flesh, and on his sufierings in this world — and another girl, much of the morning sermon. All appeared very attentive. Twelve women attended. After dinner I gave to the girls about an acre of land, for their gardens ; which they received with loud acclamations. Spoke in the evening again to as many people as in the morning. ^ March 21. A bullock and a goat, belonging to William Tamba, died to-day ; being the greatest part of his property. I said to him, " Taraba, you have had a great loss to-day." He replied, " He that gave them, took them away !" He appeared not at all sorrowful, but cheerful ; even more than at other times, which very much struck me. ' This evening I was in some measure a little refreshed, but am in great darkness. I went again yesterday with a large number of people to Leicester Mountain to the Missionary Prayer Meeting. Mr. Gates opened worship by prayer. I spoke on John xix. 30. " It is finished." Mr. During con- cluded with prayer. * Sunday, March 22. In the morning the church was quite full. Spoke on 1 Cor. xv. 20, to, I suppose, about a thousand hearers. Notwithstanding my speaking against loud cries and trembling, it still continues, but not so much as before ; groan- ing during the prayer has also ceased. Afternoon and evening, the church was very nearly full again. The Lord is with us, and will be with us, though many trials and difficulties arise ; we are brought low, yet he gives tokens from time to time that he will carry on his work in spite of all opposition. Oh may the Lord more and more prepare his unworthy servant to show forth his praise from day to day. ' March 2*7. I visited several of the female communicants. I will mention in their own simple language, some of the ex- pressions which I noted down : — ' E. H. " Me heart trouble me too much, sometimes me heart so hard that it will not let me pray. I hope the Lord EXPERlEifCE OP SOME CONVERTS. 8T Jesus Christ will teach me more and more to love him, and to serve him ; I, poor guilty sinner, thank God for send Jesus Christ to save poor sinners." * M. A. " Me heart remember this time all them bad things me do before, me bad too much. Me heart trouble me too much. Me pray Jesus Christ have mercy upon me poor sin- ner ! make me to love Him more, more, more 1" I asked, " Do you understand this time when I talk God palaver ?" (that is, respecting religion.) She said, " Yes, me understand this time, first time me hear when you talk, massa, sometimes me fraid too much, me fraid me no love Jesus Christ." ' M. M. " Wicked things trouble me too much, me want to do good but me wicked heart can't let me. Me heart run awa all this week," (run all about.) " What do you mean Mary, when you say your heart run all about ?" " Suppose me pray, my heart run to my country, to Sierra Leone, all about ; some- times them things me no want to remember come into my heart, and then me can't say any more, but Jesus Christ have mercy upon me, poor thing. I no sabby what me must do, I hope Jesus_ Christ Avill save me ; suppose he no save me, me sabby lost for ever. Sometimes you preach, massa, me tink you only talk to me, me say in my heart, ' That me ! me been do that thing.' Me fraid me no love Jesus Christ, yet me want to love and serve him too much, but me bad heart ; me tink sometimes me have two hearts, one want do good, that other always want do bad. Jesus ! have mercy upon me i^oor smner 1" ' S. A. " My husband trouble me too much, massa, he no jiray, he no serve God ; suppose me talk to him about God palaver, he take whip and flog me, me have trouble too much, trouble too much ! but the Lord Jesus Christ help me to take all trouble. But, massa, sometimes me fraid he no love me, and me no love hira. Oh may he teach me for good ! Sup- pose, massa, you no come in this country, we sabba go fire, we be sabba nothing (that is, we now know that we should have perished, we know nothing of ourselves.) We thieve, we lie, 88 MEMOIR OS" JOHKSON. we do all that is bad. I thank God for send you here, for teach us poor sinners !" * M. C. " My heart too wicked, me can't love Jeaus Christ, me want to love him, but my wicked heart won't let me. When I pray, my heart tell me, ' What you pray for ? Jesus Christ no have your prayers, you too bad ? Me no love my brethren in the Lord, me do not know what to do to love them. Sometimes my husband tell me something, me heart no like it, it rise up. May Jesus Christ give me a better heart, for my heart bad past all hearts." ' S. T. " Me been sick, massa, me think me die, me fraid too much ; me think me no belong to Jesus Christ. Me want to love and to serve him too much, because he die for me, poor sinner. Me heart love this world too much, me pray that Jesus Christ may teach me more and more to love and to serve him." ' These women are amongst the communicants last received, and are all, one excepted, of the Ebo nation, which is the most savage of the tribes that arrive in the slave-vessels, ' Being dinner-time, I went home intending, after dinner, to go and see those who live in Christian street, where the most communicants reside. About 4 o'clock, when I was about to go, the man who waits on the sick in the hospital, came and told me that a young man who had come to the hospital yesterday, had suddenly died. I went *to the hospital, where I met a number of people who had heard the news. I thought it my duty to speak to them ; and every eye was fixed upon me. On the whole those present seemed to be much affected and alarmed. When I had done speaking, several of the patients in the hospital told me that the deceased had continued to pray whilst he had been in the hospital, Mr. Macaulay, who has returned from BuUom, said, that he had asked the deceased, a few hours before his departure, how he felt concerning his soul ? He replied, that he was a great sinner, that he was very bad, but he trusted in Christ. W. Davis visited him in the morning, and said that he appeared quite reconciled. TRIALS AND DIFFICULTIES. 89 W. Tamba went to see him a little before he died. He appeared to be in earnest prayer. Tamba did not like to dis- turb him. At length the deceased lifted up his hands and said, " Thank Grod — thank God !" He then began to vomit, and expired. This poor young man was known to be very wicked, but there seems hope that the Lord had mercy upon him in the last hour. I mentioned the circumstance in the evening, at family prayer, and proposed to speak of the death of the de- ceased the following Sunday. ' March 28. Went to see some communicants in the after- noon ; found them much impressed concerning the deceased. At the prayer-meeting, W. Davis complained much over the hardness of the country people. He intends going again to-morrow morning, after prayer. Also Tamba intends going to his country people, and speak to them. ' Sunday, March 29. The Chief Justice, Captain Appleton, two American Missionaries, and several oflScers of the African corps, and other gentlemen of Freetown came this morning to Divine service. The Church was quite full, it was supposed that there were present about 1000 or 1100. I spoke on Acts iv. 12. ' 1. The necessity of being saved by Jesus Christ. ' 2. Ability and willingness of Christ to save. ' Found not the same comfort as when I preach merely to my own people. The Missionaries were delighted, seeing so many black faces eager after the word of God. One said that nothing less than a miracle had been wrought at this place. ' In the afternoon, spoke on the death of the young man who died on Friday, from Matt. xxv. 42. ' Spoke in the evening on Hosea, xiv. 4. ^ March 31. Spoke to the girls at 12 o'clock. Asked whether they had kept anything they had heard on Sunday ? Almost all could tell me something of the discourse in the afternoon. Some spoke with much affection. ' Aj^ril 2. Went to Freetown to settle with the supporters 90 MEMOIR OF JOHXSOK. of cnptured negroes since last quarter. When coming home, I spoke to the children at Leicester on Isaiah xii. ' A])ril 4. At the usual prayer-meeting, I was much delighted. Some spoke very experimentally, especially W. Davis, W. Vydah, and Betty Bridy, and several others. May the Spirit of all grace have the praise. ' Sunday, April 5. Spoke again to a large congregation this morning, on Luke ix. 62, and administered the sacrament to 76 communicants, several being absent, sick. ' In the afternoon, while explaining Luke xv. 2, all appeared very attentive, which is usually the case when the unspeakable love and mercy of Christ towards sinners is the theme. In the evening the subject was Romans v. 20. ' April 6. In the evening we had the monthly prayer- meeting for the success of Missions, being the first Monday in the month. It was well attended, the Church being nearly full. After service the subscriptions came in better than on any month before. New subscribers came forward. ' April 13. Having informed the people that I had received some cards, and would open school again to-day, this evening, after prayers, I was so overwhelmed with scholars, that I did not know what to do with them. By the assistance of the Usher, David Noah, and some of the Testament scholars, I formed them again into classes. More men and women have come to learn. I thought that I should have lost some of my older scholars, as I was obliged to stop after Christmas, having no school-books ; but thanks be to God, that he still increases the desire among the people to learn to read His Holy Word. ' April 22. Last Wednesday, I met with an accident. One girl, the largest but one in the school, and the most tiresome and obstinate, refused to obey the first usher, (Nancy White,) and did more, she caught hold of her and beat her. Ann M'Miller, the assistant school-mistress, interfered, and brought them both to me. I saw that they were both in a passion, and told them to come to me after breakfast, and I would settle the palaver. I was well aware at the same time that the girl TRIALS AND DIFFICULTIES. 91 was wrong, as she had beaten the usher. As soon as they had left my house, the big girl began to fight Nancy "White again, and the school-mistress had enough to do to part them. It was then high time for me to interfere, and I took the whip from the hand of the school-mistress, and gave the girl a few strokes over her back. The second or third stroke I gave her happened to strike against something, I don't know what, and the end of the whip caught my left eye, so that I was immedi- ately blind with it. I did not feel much pain at the moment and did not think it was hurt much, but the girls began to cry " Oh Massa, your eye, your eye !" which alarmed me, and I went to a glass and beheld the apple of the eye covered with blood. I received immediately some medicine from Mr. Macau- lay, who also sent for Dr. Hormonth, of Freetown, who recom- mended the same medicines. I was in a few minutes seized with most violent pain, so that it brought on fainting and sick- ness, and the other eye became so weak that I scarcely could see anything. In this state I continued till Saturday, when I saw a little again with the left eye, which received the blow. The same day Mr. Gates came here to keep service on Sunday, he had scarcely however arrived, when he was seized with the fever, which continued until Sunday morning. He spoke in the morning and afternoon, and I in the evening, and we were thus enabled to keep service. Mr. Gates left us again on Mon- day morning. I am now again, blessed be God, enabled to perform my duty ; the eye Avhich suffered is still very weak, but I can see as well with it as can be expected. I am more- over constrained to say that it is good for me to be afflicted. The many visits which my people paid me, made the bed of affliction a bed of roses. Many sweet conversations have I had with them. Some, who before appeared to me doubtful, have shewn through their affection that I was mistaken. All things work together for good to them that love God. ' William Davis and David Noah, the ushers in the boys' and men's school, came to me this morning, and wished for an explanation of the sin against the Holy Ghost. I 92 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. answered as the Spirit gave nie utterance. They went home in peace. ' April 23. WiUiam Davis came to me after evening prayer in great distress, fearing that what he knew he knew not by heart-felt experience ; saying that he thought he had learned all by hearing, and not by the Iloly Ghost, and that he had heard me tell them last Sunday evening, to beware of vain repetitions in prayer ; that since then he had enjoyed no peace and comfort in prayer, he was always afraid that he should use vain words ; also that when he prayed to the Father, he was afraid he neglected the Son, and when to the Sou, he was afraid he neglected the Holy Ghost. I gave him explanations accordingly. May the Almighty Teacher teach him. '^ May 10. I bless the Lord for having once more enabled me to go to his house, after a severe illness. The people seemed to be glad, when they saw me again among them. My subject was 2 Kings iv. 26. " It is loellP All appeared attentive ; and I believe the presence of God was felt among us. '■May 11. After the Missionary prayer meeting, the sub- scribers paid cheerfully their contributions. Many school-boys and girls brought their mites. The Missionary spirit appears to increase. May the Spirit of all grace prepare some of these people to go forth, and make known to their African brethren a crucified Saviour ! ' A school-girl about sixteen years of age, gave a most inte- resting account of the state and conflicts of her mind. She said — " About three months past, you talk to the school-girls. When you done talk, plenty girls go and tell you what they been hear on Sunday. You pass me, and ask me what the matter that me no hear something. Me no answer : but me shame too much. You tell me that you think and be fraid, that me never pray to Jesus Christ ; but be careless and 2>rayer- less, and going down to hell. When you say this, me no like it at all. You done. Me go home. Me begin to fear too much, Me try to pray ; but my heart came like stone, Me TRIALS AND DIFFICULTIES. 93 consider all them bad things me do before. Me fear more, more. Me no sleep, me fear me die and go to hell Since that time me no feel rest ; me think nobody be bad past me : me worst, past all. But me tliiiik now that Jesus Christ be strong enough to save me. But me sorry too much that my bad heart is always against me : it will not let me serve the Lord Jesus Christ. Me no sabby what to do with my bad heart." '■May 13. His Excellency the Governor came here to-day. He led the conversation while we were in the garden, to baptism. He wished I would baptize more people. I told him that I could not, unless God first baptized their hearts. He said that the reason so many were baptized on the day of Pentecost, was, that the Apostles despised none. I replied that they were pricked in the heart, and that I was willing to baptize all that were thus pricked in the heart. He thought baptism an act of civilization, and that it was our duty to make them all Christians. He spake in great warmth about these things, and I endeavoured to show him thi-ough Scripture passages, the contrary. He gave it up at last ; calling me and the Society a set of fanatics. ' May 14. Mr. Mills, one of the American Missionaries, came yesterday, with the Governor. Mr. Mills staid all night with us. I found it good to be in his company. He spoke a h\v words to the people ia the evening, in a simple manner, but with an enlarged mind. '■May. 30. ,Once more I am able to lay hold of the pen, blessed be God for his great mercy. Last week I thought my- self well enough to go to Freetown. I went but had only been there a few hours when I was attacked by the fever ; conse- quently I was obliged to stay there that night. On Friday I found myself better, and came home on horseback. As soon as" I arrived, I was again attacked, and then became very low. But the Lord in mercy has helped me so far, and will help me farther. My wife is now ill again : having caught cold as she waited upon me, which brought on a relapse. Nevertheless 4* 94 MEMOIR OF JOIIKSON. may all our trials and afflictions only turn out to tlie further- ance of the gospel and our salvation. All will be well at the end, ' Sunda//, Moi/ 31. Blessed be the Lord who once more enables me to stand up in his name. I still feel very weak, but he who said, " as thy day, so shall thy strength be," revived my soul and body. The prayer-meeting in the morning was numerously attended. The church at half-past ten was full. I spoke on Gen. viii. 9. In the afternoon Mr. During came and spoke on 1 Tim. i. 15. In the evening I spoke on Matt, viii. IG. The Lord was with us. May God the Spirit bless the word, and bring poor, heart-sick sinners to the Lord Jesus to cure them from their manifold diseases. ^ June 1, 1818. Being the first Monday in the month, we had the Missionary prayer-meeting ; and the church was full. After the meeting, the subscribers paid their contributions with cheerfulness ; and more had their names put down as subscrib- ers. It has pleased God Avonderfully to work on the minds of the people, in this way. It is not yet two yeare since the gospel first came to their ears, and yet a Missionary Society is formed ! The thought causes a feeling in my bosom which I cannot well express. '^ Jane 2. Mr, Gates came here this morning, with the inten- tion of staying for a day or two, and then proceeding to Wilberforce, to get his things ready for moving, as he is to be settled at Leicester Mountain. In the afternoon Mr. Gates spoke to the school-girls on Isaiah xxv. 4, after which several came forward and told what they had heard on Sunday. Some spoke much concerning their evil hearts. ' June 3. Went with Mr. Gates to see Mr. Decker who is very ill, and in very low spirits. '■June G. Mr. Gates who went to Wilberforce on Thursday, returned to-day, in order to spend the Sabbath with us. In the evening, I hope all that were present at the usual meeting were refreshed, for I found it good, though I was very dark and in- difi'erent; yet at the conclusion, I was constrained to bless the Lord for the hour spent. SICKNESSES. 9S ' Sunday^ Jiine *l. Notwitlistancling tlae unfavourable state of the weAtlier, the church was full at half-past ten o'cloc]j:. Married three couple, and Mr. Gates read the prayers, and I spoke on Lam. iii. 21 ; after which we celebrated the dying \ovQ of Jesus. ' In the afternoon we kept prayer-meeting on account of being late — the church was nearly full. ' In the evening, I spoke again to a large congregation on Rom. viii. 16. 'Bless the Lord, my soul, for enabling me from time to time to feed his lambs and his sheep in this place. May the Spirit of all grace teach me to comfort his dear j^eople, for some stand in need of it very much. '■June 11. Business called me to Freetown yesterday. Hav- ing not finished, was obliged to stay there all night. Early this morning I received a note from Mr. Macaulay Wilson, that my wife was dangerously ill. Left Freetown about 10 a.m. and arrived about 1 p.m. at Regent's Town, when I found Mrs. Johnson a little better. May the Lord bless the means which are used, and may we in ever}?^ circumstance which may befal us, say, " Good is the will of the Lord," and may we in every trouble fly to Jesus for support. His love is unchangeable; it continues the same whether in trouble or not. " Midst changiDg scenes and dying friends, Be Thou my all in all." ^ June 12. After evening service last night, I was attacked by the fever, Avhich continued until this morning. I feel quite well at present. Yesterday, when I came home, Mr. and Mi*s. Decker had just arrived from Leopold's Town. I had directed thirty men to go there early this morning, and bring them and all tlieir things to this place, as I thought it my duty to inter- fere ; this being the nearest place, and had they remained much longer at Leopold's Town, they must have fallen victims to the climate, as they appeared entirely in a forlorn state; they are at present both ill ; they will remain here until they are better ; 96 MKMOIR OF JOHNSON. and then proceed to Wilberforce. Mr. Gates c&ine to-day, in order to fetoh the remainder of his things to Leicester Mouni ain. '■June 13. Mr. and Mrs. Decker are both better. Mi-s. Johnson still remains ver}^ low, which, as Mr. Macaulay says., arises from great weakness. I have had no return of fever. I am almost afraid to go to Freetown, as I frequently bring the fever home. ' Sunday, June 14. Last night, I was again attacked by the fever, which continued almost until this morning. Felt very weak and exhausted. Told the people to keep Divine service at half-past ten o'clock, by reading the prayers, as I thought it imprudent to keep service, on account of my great weakness. When the bell rang the church was crowded, which caused me to break my determination ; though weak, yet I could not see a hungry flock going away without being fed. I went, I hope, in the strength of tlie Lord, and preached. When I had fin- ished, I felt so strong, that 1 was constrained to tell the people that I would preach again in the evening, which I did, and found myself much refreshed and not fatigued. Thus the Lord makes his strengtii j>erfect in our weakness, both temporal and spiritual. ^Jimc 22. Mrs. Decker was again attacked by the fever last week — became again very low on Friday ; appeared at first very distressed in mind — said that she thought the Lord Jesus had forsaken her, she enjoyed no comfort. All appeared dark. I endeavoured to point out to her His unchangeable love, referred to her former experience, and quoted several passages to her "which came into ray mind, suitable to her state. A little after, she expressed joy and comfort through Jesus. On Saturday, she became speechless and senseless. On Sunday morning, she was delivered of a still-born child, of which she had no knowledge, being still in a senseless state, and about the same time this morning, she breathed her last. The dis- tress of her bereaved partner was great, yet he was enabled to bear the stroke better than I expected. This aft^^rnoon, at four SICKNESS OF THE MISSIONARIES. 97 o'clock, lier remains were interred in tLe burial-place of Regent's Town. Messrs. Collier, Renner, During, Gates and myself, all the school boys and girls, and a number of the inhabitants of Regent's Town, followed the corpse. ' July 6. Having been very much engaged in temporal con- cerns last week, caused me to delay writing my journyl. On quarter-day, distributed clothing for boys, girls, &c. It appears to me that the enemy stirred up all his followers to tempt me ; when I thought I had conquered a mighty one, a much stronger appeared, but blessed be the Lord Jesus who causes me always to triumph, and gives me the victory every day. Yesterday we commemorated the dying love of our Jesus. Mr. Gates and Mr. Decker were present. I hope we all found it good to draw nigh to the Lord's table. One woman fell upon her face and wept bitterly, which caused much disturbance. ' Or Sunday I preached iVom Psalm cxvi. 12, 13. I married James Bell, a mason, to Hannah Cammel, usher in the girls' and women's scliools — both communicants, and the finest black couple that I have yet married. Their dress was like that of Europeans. 'In the afternoon, Mr. Decker spoke on John iv. 6. As it rained very heavily Ave had fewer hearers. ' In the evening, I spoke on Rom. v. 1. Two men wept very loud. This evening, we had tlie Missionary prayer-meeting, being the first Monday in the mont\i. Not many people pre- sent, as it had rained all day. Those who were present paitl their contributions after service. Spoke on Rom. xv. 12. ^ July 7. This morning at family prayer those who had been prevented being present last night, on account of the heavv rains, which had swollen the brook so high that it went over the banks, came, and paid their contributions. The gover- nor's house having a flat roof, suffered much ; and the water descended in torrents most of the night. One wing at length fell down, also a part of one of the Building Society's houses fell down. Oh how dismal are such days, and what an efi'ect they have upon the mind. This evening it rained less severely. 98 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. and we had a considerable congregation at family praj'er. The evening school was also well attended. It is remarkable what an effect such weather has upon these people. On the school list twenty-two men and boys were sick, who were well before. * July 8. Went this afternoon to visit Mary Madee, who is very ill. She has been ill more than a week, All that was said on the Sunday before has been on her mind ever since. She thought she was one who said Lord, Lord, but had not done the things he commanded — she was afraid she would be sent to hell-lire, but still she trusted that Jesus would have rnercy upon her ; but her heart troubled her much. ' July 9. Went to Freetown this morning to see Afr. Collier, who has the fever. Was obliged to walk, as my horse has a sore back. I think I am (blessed be God) as strong as before. I felt a little fatigued after traversing the mountains. Found Mr. Collier a great deal better; had some comfortable conver- sation with liim in the evening. ' Mr. Macaulay Wilson told me, that one of the commu- nicants had quai'i-elled with his wife in the market. He had sent for him twice, but the offender had not made his appear- ance. He had, however, spoken to him, and he seemed much grieved for what he had done : but as his was an open oft'ence, he thought proper to acquaint me with the circumstance. I spoke in the evening, after family prayer, with the offender, who appeared very sorrowful, not answering a word. ' July 11. This vnoxmwg I sent for one of the communicants, who had neglected family prayer for some time, and appeared careless to his fellow-communicants. I reproved him. He ex- pressed his sorrow with deep sighs and a few tears. ' In the evening all the communicants met as usual. The half-yearly accounts and the Report of the Benefit Society, established last year, were read. This Society, which consists only of communicants, has been the means of promoting love and harmony. Each member pays one half-penny per week ; and from this fund those members are supported, who are either SICKNESS OF THE MISSIONARIES. 99 sick ov distressed. The contributions, from January to June, amount to £6 14s. Id. and the expenditure £6 14s. 5d. ^ July 12, Sunday. The rains came down, the most part of the day in torrents ; and we, consequently, expected but few hearers. Before, however, I had read the exhortation, we had the great pleasure of seeing the church full. I could not help feeling for the females, who were all neatly dressed, but wet through. In the afternoon and evening, we had the church nearly full again. All praise to that Redeemer, who indeed continues to do great things for us. May Africa soon stretch forth her hands to God, in every town and village ! Blessed be His holy name, the promise is already fulfilling. What a happy period is that in which we live ! What do not our ears hear and our eyes see ! Have not many prophets and righteous men desired to see the things we see, and have not seen them, and to hear those things we hear, and have not heard them ! '■Jicly 13. Spoke with several communicants; they seem all to have the old disorder ; — complaining and mourning over the depravity of their hearts. Well may the Christian exclaim — " Oh wretched mau that 1 am !" &c. ' July 14. Mr. Decker had the fever again to-day, which prevented our going to Wilberforce, which is to be liis station. My wife also was taken with severe pain during the night : being acquainted with the disease I gave her twenty drops of laudanum, which relieved her instantly. Heard from ]\Ir. Garnon that Mr. Wenzel is dangerously ill. '■July 16. Went this morning on foot to town ; found Mr. Collier very ill, but very comfortable in his mind. Walked in the evening over Leicester Mountain, where I stayed a few hours conversing with Mr. Wilhelm. Came home at ten o'clock at night. '■July 18. I received a note from Mrs. Garnon and Mrs. Collier, in which I was informed that both Messrs. Garnon and Collier had the fever. I also hear that Mr. During is unwell, and Mr, Wenzel dangerously ill. This is certainly a great trial. 100 MEMOIR OF JOUKSON. as their wives expect every day to be confined. Mrs. Johnson would fain go immediately to their assistance ; but, being very un- well herself, she is not able to go, as it almost contiimally rains. May the Lord, in mercy, deliver them ! May weeping endure but for a night, and joy return in the morning ! I related the cir- cumstances to the communicants in the evening, and requested them to lift up their hearts to the God of all grace, for the afflicted ; which I am sure will be done. May it please God to hear our petitions, and send down gracious answers of mercy ! '■ Juhj 19. The church was almost full. At the prayer- meeting, at six o'clock in the morning, William Davis and William Tamba engaged in prayer, after which I gave a short exhortation on the Lord's day, and concluded in prayer. Not- withstanding the heavy rains, the church was crowded. I spoke on Acts xvi. 30, 31. Married one couple. Mr. Decker spoke in the afternoon on John ii. 25. In the evening I spoke on Ezekiel xxxiv. 11. ' July 20. Went this morning to Leopold's Town to see Mr. and Mis. Renner. Met two boys who told me that Mr. Ilenner had met with an accident, and that they were sent for Mr. M. Wilson. 'My. Wilson followed me immediately. We went over Dathurst Town ; the superintendent who went there last week was confined with the fever. I went on, and found Mr. Renner suftering under violent pain, having fallen down with a ladder, and thus hurt one foot. Mr. M. Wilson follow- ed me, after having administered medicine, to Bathurst. lie thinks that the bone of Mr. Renner's heel is broken. When I came home, I was caught in a heavy shower of rain. Received three notes from Mr. During, Mr. Garnon and Mr. Collier, in which I was informed that Mr. During had the fever, and Mr. Garnon and Collier very ill with the same disease. I intended to go in the afternoon through Gloucester to Freetown, but the rains prevented me, and having got wet already, thought it ]>rudcnt to stay at home. I shall endeavour, if possible, to go to-morrow. ' July 23. I went vesterdav morning to Freetown ; and SICKNESS OF THE MISSIONARIES. 101 found Mr. Garnon, and Mr. and Mrs. Collier, very ill. It was a scene to me of much grief, yet of mucli comfort, as I found them all composed and happy in their Lord and Saviour. I also went to see Mr. Wenzel, Avho is, I think, not likely to recover. May the Lord prepare him for that solemn change, which he is, most likely, soon to imdergo ! ' I stayed up all night with Mr. Garnon, and Mr. Wilhelm with Mr. Collier. Came home this morning. Spoke this even- ing to a considerable congregation — pointed out to them the unspeakable mercies we enjoy at this place, — how the Lord has been with us, not a service has been neglected since I have been here. If I have been prevented by illness, the people themselves, or some other, have kept service. Oh what a mercy, — " what shall we render unto the Lord for all his bene- fits towards us !" ' Sunday^ July 26. Service as usual. Spoke on Col. iii. 10. I did not finish the explanation of several heads which I had taken, and consequently spoke again in the evening on the same text, and with more freedom and pleasure than in the morning. ' Mr. Decker preached in the afternoon. I received a note from Mr. Gates, in which we were informed that Mrs. Collier was unwell, and that she begged much the assistance of Mrs. Johnson. Ordered eight men to take Mrs. J. in her palankeen to Freetown. '■July 21. I received a note from Mr. Gates, saying that Mrs. Gates was a little better, but that Mr. Garnon continued very ill. Mr. Collier also has the fever still. ' July 29. Yesterday morning, I received a note from Mr. Gates, in which I was informed of the death of Mrs. Collier ; and was requested to come down and read the funeral service over the remains. I went immediately ; and called first at Mr. Garnon's. I perceived something in his countenance, which j^ersuaded me that death was not far oflf. He appeared to be sensible at that moment, and asked me whether all were well in the mountains. I went then to see Mr. Collier, who had 102 MEMOIR OF JOnNSON. the fever ; but bore tlie great loss of his partner with much fortitude. 'After a while, Mr, Gates and myself went to see Mr. Wenzel ; who is very ill, and not collected in mind. ' About five o'clock in the evening, just before we proceeded to bury the remains of Mrs. Collier, a sudden change took place in Mr. Garnon. Mr, Gates went immediately for medi- cal assistance ; when all means possible were used to rouse him. ' I left them, and proceeded with the funeral. When I returned, I found Mrs. Garnon in the greatest distress. Mr. Gates staid with Mr. Garnon, and I went to Mrs. Garnon, and endeavoured to prepare her mind for the stroke. Several more being present, we prayed with her, and she was soon com- posed, beyond my expectation. I cannot indeed express with what fortitude this amiable and pious woman met this very sore affliction. About nine o'clock, the groans of Mr. Garnon became very loud, so that Mrs. Garnon could hear them, and we thought it best to remove her. Mr. Macaulay Wilson, who came with me in the morning, offered his house. We then got Mrs, Garnon into the palankeen, and carried her thence. ' Mr. During and myself staid up with Mr. Garnon. About three o'clock in the morning, he appeared to be breathing his last. I called Mr. Gates out of the adjoining room ; and Mr. During, Mr, Gates, and myself, beheld him departing a few minutes after. 'About six o'clock, I went to inform Mrs. Garnon of the awful event. When I entered the house, she asked, quite composedly, how it was, I answered, " It is as you expected." She asked also when he died, which I stated to her, and she was wonderfully supported. I went also to his Excellency the Governor, and informed him of the circumstance ; who desired that Mrs, Garnon might come for a short time to his house. Before I had conveyed the Governor's wishes to Mrs, Garnon, he had sent for her, 'This afternoon we committed the remains of Mr. Garnon to the ground. A number of people from Regent's, Glouces- SICKNESS OF THE MISSIONARIES. 103 ter, and Leopold Towns, and Leicester Mountain, were present. Little did I think, when I came down yesterday to bury Mrs. Collier, that to-day I should have to bury Mr. Garnon. 'But what shall we say? — Ood is still our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore loill we not fear, though the earth he moved. ^ Juhj 31. Went several times to see Mr. Wenzel, who is apparently in a dying state ; and still senseless. I felt very desirous to go home to see my people, but was prevented by continual rains. Some have been inquiring after me already ; if I do not go soon, they will come and fetch me. ' August 1. I went this morning, with the Governor, to Regent's Town. His Excellency desired me to hold Divine service in Freetown, to-morrow. When my people heard that I was going again to Freetown, the place was in an uproar. I told them that I would return in the afternoon, and administer the Lord's Supper, and also preach to them. This would not satisfy them. They said, that, as Mr. Garnon was dead, they were afraid that I would stay in Freetown, and leave them. I assured them that I would not leave them. They answered, that if I stayed at Freetown, they would follow me. The Governor came down from his house ; several went to meet him, to tell him that I should not go. I received also a note from one, in which was written — " Mr. Johnson, if you go, we all follow you." I told the Governor, who persuaded and as- sured them, that I should come back. They said that if I did not come to-morrow, they would come and fetch me on Monday. 'The Governor went on to Bathurst and Leopold. I left Regent's Town about ten o'clock for Freetown ; when I met a messenger with two notes, one from the Governor, and the other from Mr. Gates, in which I was informed of the death of Mr. Wenzel, and requested to attend the funeral at four o'clock that evening. What mysterious Providence ! Good is the will of the Lord. Be thou always ready ! -Warn sinners daily to flee from the wrath to come. Point them to Jesus I 104 MEMOIU OF JOHNSON. Forget not the words of thy Saviour, which he spoke in Geth- semane ! Watch and pray. '■Aug. 2, Sunday. Began service a little before 10 a.m. at Freetown. The Governor, some officers, and soldiers, and some inhabitants were jiresent. Spoke on Acts xix. 2. I think my discourse was not much liked. I saw the officers laughing, and I believe they would have left the place. One Avent out. Mr. Gates thought they would not ask me again, or if they did, I must have a new congregation. I found it hard work to speak to a people who seemed to be blind and deaf. The black soldiers appeared a little attentive. ' A little after twelve o'clock, I proceeded to Regent's Town, and I felt as if I had come into another world. Several of the people met me on the hill, and when I came down to Mr. Mac- aulay Wilson's house, I saw it crowded, and heard them sing- ing a hymn. Mr. During joined us with six people, and we celebrated the dying love of our Jesus. All the communicants, except a few, were present. I spoke to tbe church-full of hearers on Matt. xi. 28. ' In the evening, I spoke on the death of our friends, from Heb. ix. 27. The church was full. The whole congregation appeared to draw, as it were, every word from my lips. What a blessing it is to have attentive hearers. I believe more now than ever I did, that God has much people among the liberated negroes. ^ Aug. 3. This evening we had tlie Missionary prayer- meeting. Contributions, as usual, paid in with cheerfulness. I spoke on Isaiah xxvii. 12. '■Aug. 5. This morning, at family-prayer, I pleaded the cause of a poor woman who had lost her husband, is left destitute of every thing ; and expects every day to be confined. I called on my hearers to give a Httle, if only a halfpenny. Those who had money with them, gave it ; and others went home and brought it ; and I was very happy to have soon after 1/ 6*. 5d. in my possession, for this poor woman. ^ Aug. 30, Sunday. Notwithstanding the heavy rains, the CONTINUANCE OP SUCCESS. 105 church was full at all the services. In the evening, I addressed the people on Luke vi. 37. Forgive, and ye shall be forgiven. A dispute had taken place among some of the communicants. I trust the discourse had the desired effect ; for, after service, the parties expressed their sorrow, forgave each other, and peace was restored. '■Aug. 31. Among sixteen candidates for baptism, are nine schoolgirls. The simple but striking evidences which they give, of the influence of Divine grace on their minds, I cannot describe. My heart was so full sometimes, that I was scarcely able to restrain myself. ' I will remark that a little girl which my wife took into oUr house two years ago, is amongst the school-girls. Mrs. John- son gave her the name of Hagar Johnson ; I was much against her being received, as she is only eleven years old. However, I could not bring anything against her conduct, and she gave so clear evidence of grace being begun in her heart, that all the members were astonished, and she was received. I still opposed, but was, after a long consultation, obliged to submit. I have found her often on her knees praying and weeping; she will go like an aged Christian to visit the sick and she shews great attention towards me and my wife. ^ Sejot. 1. This evening, we met again in my house. Eight persons more were added, which makes in all twenty-four. Several who were not received, showed evidently that the work of grace had been begun ; but as their knowledge and views of Jesus were not clear, we advised them to wait a little long- er, to attend on the means of grace, and pray God the Holy Ghost to teach them. It was twelve o'clock before we had come to a conclusion. ' Sept. 2. I went to Freetown, and had a farewell meeting with Mrs. Garnon, who sailed for England at six o'clock. I found it hard to part with one, whose Christian affection and sympathy in trials past, have been as oil of consolation to my soul. May the God of Jacob be with her ! — Never will she be 100 MKMOIR OF JOHNSON. forgotten by me, nor by my j^eople, who made it a rule to play for her regularly. ' Sept. 3. Uaving once more an opportunity to go on board, I went again to see Mrs. Garnon. Was soon after seized with vomiting, so that my visit became very disagreeable. The fever coming on, I was obliged with great reluctance to leave the ship. When I came on shore, I was so ill that I could scarcely see the streets and houses. I thought 1 should have fallen down every moment; however, I got to Mrs. Garnon's house, where my wife received me, and assisted me to get to bed. About 2 p.m. the fever went oft', and I thought it advisa- ble to go to Regent's Town. Accordingly, about half-past four I went on horseback, and arrived about half-past six p.M. Some of my people received me with joy, and said that they had heard I was sick too much, and were glad to see me ; they begged that I would not go to Freetown again, as I always got sick when I went. ' Sept. 5. This evening all the communicants and candi- dates met in the church at the usual time. After singing a hymn and prayer, William Davis rose and addressed the meet- ing; his ideas were plain and simple, but very ■ instructive and pointed. When he had concluded, I spoke a few words to the candidates. Several of the candidates desired to speak, but as it was late we concluded by singing and prayer. ' Sept. 6, Sunday. Divine service at half-past ten o'clock. The first seats were filled at half-past nine. Being a fine day, we were completely crowded, as on fine days we have generally strangers from other towns. The vestry, the stairs of the gallery, the tower and the windows were all full. Some of the seats which were filled in the passages broke down, being over- burdened. When I entered the church and saw the multi- tudes, I could hardly refrain myself, for my heart was full. ' I married one couple ; read the Church service ; spoke on 1 Cor. ii. 2 — 6. I administered the Lord's Supper to seventy persons. The candidates sat behind and looked on. In the afternoon, I spoke on 1 Peter ii. V. All were attentive. Groan- CONTINUANCE OF SUCCESS. 107 ings and loud prayers have at length ceased to be heard among us. It is now a rare case. ' After service, I saw a considerable number of boys and girls going into a field. I went to the top of my house to watch their motions. I saw the boys go to the right, and the girls to the left, and at length beheld them all behind different bushes upon their knees. Others went out of the school-house and prayed behind the Cascade-bushes. May God the Holy- Spirit teach them how to pray. There appears to be a great stir among them. ' In the evening I spoke on Heb. xiii. V — 9. After service, I was told that the school-boys, wished to speak to me, one boy stepped forward and said that they- had been in the field to pray, and that they did not know how ; but they had heard that Jesus prayed for them, and they wished to know if it really was so. I spoke to them on the office of our High Priest ; they went away with joy into the field again. ' Being a moonlight night and very still, the mountains echoed with the songs of hymns. The girls were in one part of the field, praying and singing alternately. The boys had got upon a high rock with a light ; one gave out some hymns, and at the conclusion, one engaged in prayer. I could not well hear their expressions. Many of the people got up and joined these infant congregations. ' Sept. 1. This morning, when I awoke, I heard the girls singing and praying behind the school-house. Mrs. Johnson got up and advised them to go to bed, which they did. About 4 o'clock the boys began to sing in their houses ; after they had sung several hymns, I sent one of my servants to advise them to be silent, as all the people were asleep, which was done immediately. ' When the bell rang for family prayer this morning, it rained very hard, and the wind blowing like a tornado, I did not expect many people. When I looked out of the window, I saw the streets and roads covered with people ; and when I went into the church, I beheld it as full as on Sundays. After l08 Memoir of johnsok. family prayer, W. Davis and W. Tamba told me tliat they had been up with the boys until 2 o'clock, that they never could have imagined that boys had such gifts to pray — they never had seen it so before. ' All the people seemed to nie to be diflerent this morning ; their common conversations are all about religion. I rejoice with trembling — I am afraid the Devil Avill roar very loud hereafter. ' A carpenter from Leopold's Town came to me after family prayer, he said he had attended Divine service several times here, and that he had heard what he never had heard before. He could never be happy at Leopold's Town, as his heart was always here, he begged me ask the Governor for him to settle here. I advised him to attend Mr. 's preaching. lie said it was no use, for Mr. kept no prayer every morning and evening, and on Sundays what he said was of no use to him. He felt very much distressed about his sins. I continued to advise him to make himself content at Leopold's Town, but he continued to say that he must come and live here. * Sept. 8. Last hight, we had the Missionary prayer-meeting — contributions were paid with cheerfulness. We have now about £28. Just before I went to bed, the girls came and asked if they might go into the Church to sing and pray. I told them they might go and sing two hymns, and no more, as the people were in bed, and ought not to be disturbed. They went and began to sing, and I was told by Tamba, that all the people got up and joined them — that when he came, Mary Wynah (my servant) was praying. I said that was wrong. He said that when she began, no man or boy was present. The next who engaged was a tailor-boy, the third a school-boy, teacher of the second class, both about the same age. The fourth, J. Braida, a communicant; the fifth, J. Canady. The last was Tamba, who concluded about 6 o'clock. All went to bed quietly. ' Sept. 9. Last evening, after school, the boys and girls went to the Church. When they had begun to sing, Mrs. CONTINUANCE OF SUCCESS. 109 Johnson and myself went and stood behind the window. George, the tailor-boy, was the first who engaged in prayer. His principal petition was for a spirit of prayer. He repeated several times the following words : — " Oh heavenly Father, for Jesus' sake, forgive us our sins, and for his sake send down thy Holy Spirit to teach us how to pray. We don't know how to pray — our hearts wicked too much — we do bad too much — we want to serve thee. Oh ! for Jesus' sake have mercy on us." A school-boy then gave out the hymn — ' Come ye sinners, poor and wretched,'' After which, he engaged in prayer. He spoke rather low, and as the wind blew much, Ave could not well hear it. Another boy gave out — " Blessings for ever on the Lamb," After which, a little boy about ten prayed very sweetly, which brought tears into my eyes. His whole soul seemed to be engaged. He spoke very loud and distinct. One part of his prayer came with power to my heart. " Oh Lord, we been so long on the way to hell, and we no been saved, we been hear your good word so long, and we no been consider. Oh learn us how to follow you now. We live nigh hell — Oh Lord Jesus, save us ; take us away from hell fire. We want you to do it now — now we want you to save us. Oh Lord Jesus ! hear us now — this night ! Our sins too much — oh save us— save us." I could stay no longer, but went home : my heart was full ; I gave free course to the fulness of it. I was drowned in tears. Oh my God and Saviour, what hast thou done ? What shall I render unto thee ? ' Sept. 10. Yesterday, when the shingle-makers went to work, they met a man from Cookie Bay, who offered gregrees for sale. They brought the man to me, and appeared very much against the poor fellow. I told them that they had themselves been in the same state, and that they had reason to pity the man more than to despise him, and that our Saviour 5 110 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. had not taught us to enforce religion with the sword. I told the man that it would be better for him not to come to Regent's Town again to sell gregrees, as he would always make a very bad market. About an hour after, a whole box-full of gregrees was brought in, some of which were very curious, such as I never saw before. The girls and boys committed them to the flames, Avith great joy and acclamations. ' Sept. 12. This evening we met, as usual, in the Church, for prayer. A few of the candidates expressed much joy ; viewing what gre%t things the Lord had done for them iu bringing them away from their own country : had they never been sold as slaves, they never would have heard of a salvation. They praised God for having been sold as slaves. ' Sept. 13, Sunday, This day has been the most unfavour- able which we have had this rainy season. It blew very hard, and the water descended in torrents all the day. In the after- noon, during service, the brook had risen so high, that the water flowed over the bridge, and the people had to wade through for a considerable distance. In some places it reached nearly to their arms. 'In the evening, I felt better. I spoke to the girls and boys, as only a few people were present, the brook having risen so high that it was dangerous to pass it. I spoke on John iii. 7, 8. The children were very attentive. After service, they kept prayer-meeting as usual. Three boys engaged in prayer. ' Sept. 16. The prayer-meeting of the school-boys and girls is still carried on with eagerness. I went last night and sat under a staircase where I was not perceived, and overheard with great delight the simple and sweet expressions the boys made use of in prayer. Nothing but Divine grace could teach them thus to pray. The last who prayed fell into a flood of tears, so that he could scarcely utter a word. The whole assembly repeated the Lord's Prayer in a most solemn manner, while he wept aloud. * Sept. 17. This morning one of the elder carpenter-boys came to me in great distress of mind. I encouraged him to CONTINUED SUCCESSES. Ill go, with all his sins, to the Saviour of sinners. He went home, I trust, in peace. This young man had been my greatest enemy. He had opposed in every way the word of God ; fill- ing up the measure of sin with greediness ! * Sejjt. 18. More manifest a desire to be baptized. This desire becomes now so general, that I am afraid the enemy is about to sow tares among the wheat. I am at a loss how to act. I can scarcely believe, at present, that all is real ; the number is so great : and yet when I come to "examine them individually, I must keep silence ; for their language and con- duct are wholly changed. May the Holy Spirit direct me aright ! May such be added unto us as shall be saved ! ' Sunday, Sei^t. 20. Another very wet Sundaj^, but notwith- standing, the church was almost full. In the evening we had less jDresent, as the water descended in torrents, and the wind blew hard. Spoke in the morning on Rom. viii. 26 ; in the after- noon on John v. 16, and in the evening on Rev. xxi. 4. After evening-service, the boys and girls had prayer-meeting as usual. ' SeiJt. 21. The carpenter from Leopold's Town came to me again, saying that he had been here on Saturday evening, and had attended service here yesterday. He again expressed a strong desire to settle in this town ; or if it could not be so, to be permitted to be a member of the Church in this place. I advised him again to stay where he was ; but he said that he could open his mind to no one in Leopold's Town, and he would give anything if he could only talk with a Christian. ' Sept. 23. After family prayers, I perceived several women and children sitting by the church-door, complaining, and tell- ing one another their troubles. When they saw me, silence was observed. One complained to me that her husband never prayed, when she begged him to go to prayer with her, the an- swer was — " Don't bother me ; I won't pray with you. If I want to pray, I will do it myself." Moreover, she said that since he had learned to read the Bible, she thought he was worse. Some- times he would read in the Bible aloud, and when she wept because of the words she heard him read, he would laugh and 112 MEMOIR OF JOHNSOS'. mock. She was troubled much in his behalf, and begged ui€f to speak to him, and tell him of his danger, I told her that I did speak to him almost every evening in the school, and as he attended to hear the word of God, there was good reason to believe that be would one day or other be called by Divine grace, and that she should continue to pray for him. She said that she did pray for him, but that the more she prayed, the worse he got. When she came to the Lord's Table last month, she saw so many women with their husbands there, and she was afraid it would never be the case with her. I spoke on the sufferings of Jesus and persuaded her to take up the cross and follow him. She wept much. ' Another woman began to tell me that she was also in great trouble. She had taken no food for two days, and could do nothing but weep. Her husband appeared to dislike her. lie bad behaved very rough to her since Monday. At this I was rather surprised, for both are communicants, and have lived, to my knowledge, very comfortably together. ' I went to the man, who was in school at the same time, and asked him what was the matter between him and his wife. lie said he had reproved her because she had not got the dinner ready when he came home with two men who work with him ; and since that, she had not spoken to him. If he asked her anything she would not reply. I enquired further into this matter, and found that he required his wife to beat rice and cook it, which certainly was too mucb for a woman wlio has an infant to take care of. I reproved him. He expressed "great sorrow immediately. I went again to his wife, and told her that I had spoken to her husband, and found that they botli were wrong. She acknowledged that she was wrong, and would do so no more. She always spoke when her husband spoke to her. I then called the man, and sent them both home, and told them to go to prayer as soon as they arrived, which they promised to do. Both appeared exceeding glad and happy — thanked me over and over again for bringing them together in peace. CONTINUED SUCCESSES, 113 ' The next woman spoke in a different manner. She said that she was glad too much, because she and her husband lived in peace together. He did now pray with h'er, and his whole conduct was changed, and he expressed a great desire to join the Church. He wished to come every day and speak to me, but was afraid. He had attempted to come, but fear had kept him back. She concluded saying, " Oh master, I am glad too much !" ' Se2')t. 24. Went to Freetown to-day, but felt less com- fortable than I have done formerly. Mr. and Mrs. Garnon were gone. The town appeared different to me. ' Sept. 27, Sunday. We had another very wet Sunday ; but blessed be God, who always fills his house of prayer here : whether it rains or whether it is fair, we are always crowded. ' Sept. 28. The church was crowded at family prayer, morn- ing and evening. The eagerness to hear the word of God seems still to increase, ' Several people have come to me for admission to baptism ; seventeen more were received, to be baptized next Christmas day. I feel convinced that all care has been taken in the ex- amination. ' Oct. 5. I have been all this morning engaged in speaking to people who came to me on the state of their minds. All the particulars would fill many sheets. I took down the names of nine who will be examined the last Monday of this month. I am still full of doubts and fears concerning the number who make a profession of Christianity, it is so great, ' Oct. 6, Last night we had the Missionary prayer-meeting as usual. After service contributions were paid. This morn- ing at family prayer, some paid for next month. I asked one why he paid for next month now. He replied, " I may be sick next month, and not able to pay ; so I pay now to make sure of it." Many women came and paid a penny or a halfpenny for their infants, besides their own contributions. 'When I came hither in 1816, five, six, or seven persons died in one day ; and six only were born during the first year. 114 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. In these last six months, seven persons only have died, and forty-two have been born. Is not this improvement one fruit of the gospel ? ' Oct. 0. I went to-day to survey the mountains between Leicester Mountain and Wilberforce, to find, if possible, a way for a nearer road to Freetown. Randle the carpenter, accom- panied me. "We went, by the compass, to the left of Leicester Mountain, where we expected to meet with some people, who had withdrawn themselves from Regent's Town, and had built houses in the woods. We came upon them, as we expected ; and they were not a little surprised. They are all Bassa peo- ple — very superstitious — much given to depend on greegrees, and happy when they can live without society. One of them, who is the leader, speaks English. I sent for him ; when he seemed ashamed to come nigh me. I asked him why he had gone from Regent's Town? He replied, "Because bad sick catch me there." I pointed out his errors, and spoke to him a considerable time : be was entirely confounded ; but said, at last, " All what you say, massa, that be true, because William Davis, my countryman, told me the same. I beg your pardon, massa ; soon, when rain done, I will come, with all the people, and take lots, and sit down, and serve God." He then offered himself to be our guide, which we accepted. We ascended and descended many high cliffs, without finding a place for a road nearer than the old one. ' While standing on a high rock, I could see the greatest part of Regent's Town. I saw the gardens and surrounding fields covered with rice, cassadas, yams, coco, plantains, and bananas. "Ah," thought I, "is not the promise fulfilled? — Isaiah xii. 18 — 29. Two years ago, this was a desert, overgrown with bush, and inhabited by wild men and beasts; and now, in both a spiritual and a temporal sense, it is a fruitful field !" May the Holy One of Israel, whose hand hath done this, have all the praise and glory ! Oct. 7. In the evening, after family prayers, a woman, who is a communicant, desired to speak with me. As I have set CONTINUED SUCCESSES. 115 apart Mondays for religious conference, I told her to come next Monday. She said she could not Avait till Monday, but must speak to me now. This woman became thoughtful about November last. She lives in a farm, three-quarters of a mile distant ; and since that time she has constantly attended Divine service on Sundays, and family-prayers morning and evening, even in the heaviest rains. She is the only one, among about fifty of her country-people that reside at the same place, who attend Divine worship. She was baptized in February ; and from that time, was very much persecuted by her country-peo- ple. However she constantly and boldly declared to them the Name of Jesus Christ. Her husband threatened to beat her, and actually did so, when she began to talk about religion ; but, notwithstanding, she steadfastly persevered, under the greatest trials and diflBculties. This evening, she tells me that her husband has began to attend Divine service, and that he uses her with kindness, and wishes to have a lot in the town in order to live near the church, that he may hear the word of God. She had brought four of her country-women, who were below, and de- sired to speak with me. I spoke to them separately, and found that Divine grace had begun to operate in their hearts. Of this, she has apparently been the instrument. Well might this poor woman be impatient to wait till Monday, for her joy was too great to be restrained till that day. May this be a les- son to us all. May we constantly persevere in striving to bring sinners to Christ ! ' I have to deliver £38 Ys. Id. to Mr. Collier, being the mites of my people, which they have contributed this year to the Church Missionary Society. On the first Monday in December we shall have our anniversary. ' Oct. 13. The poor widow mentioned August oth, who was pregnant at the death of her husband, died last night in child- birth. She was visited yesterday by some communicants, when she said she should not revive. She continued in prayer the greatest part of the day. About seven o'clock last night, when we were singing at family-prayer in the church, she asked what 116 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. that singing was ; and when she was told that it was in the church, she also began to sing and to pray, until a little before eight o'clock, when she could speak no more. One who stood by, asked if she prayed ; she lifted up her eyes and hands, to signify that she did pray, and then expired. * Oct, 18. Sunday. Married nine couple. Spoke to a crowd- ed congregation on 1 Cor. xv. 22 ; spoke on the death of Sarah Ahutchee. Afternoon, on 1 John iv. 9. In the evening, on 1 Pet. i. 5. The boys and girls continue their prayer-meeting every night. ' Oct. 20. Was engaged all this morning again to talk to people who came to ask me about " God palaver." Took seve- ral names who will be examined next Monday. Reproved one female communicant for a slight offence. She wept bit- terly. ' Oct. 25. Married two couple. Spoke on Isaiah xliii. 21. Afternoon, Mat. vi. 24. Evening, Jonah ii. 4. The day was spent as usual. ' ' Oct. 26. This evening we had another meeting to receive those who have come forward to be received as members of the Church of Christ. Eight were received and four not, wdio will be examined next month. ' Oct. 27. Several people came again about God palaver. Wrote their names down to be examined next month. The boys and girls still continue to keep prayer-meeting. 'iVbw. 15. Nothing remarkable has occurred during the last week. The people have all been employed to make and repair the highways. I spoke on Rom. viii. 4. this morning. The God of Jacob was with us. In the afternoon on Gal. iii. 13. In the evening on Psalm Iv. 22. The boys and girls keep prayer-meeting as usual. ' Nov. 20. I have been in a very low state the whole week. I see continually my backwardness in promoting the gospel of Jesus Christ. It appears to me that all the Missionaries are in an indifferent way concerning the souls which they have re- ceived to watch over. Ah ! and how far are our thoujrhts from CONTINUED SUCCESSES. Il7 tliose beyond tlie colony, just as if there were no other heathen in Africa ! Oh my God, revive the spirit of Missionary zeal among us. For my part, I feel just like a bird in a cage. Oh that the Lord of the harvest would open more ettectual ways for the conveyance of the glorious gospel into the interior of Africa ! I have reason to be thankful, as the Lord has through my weakness established a Church in this place. I have indeed reason to rejoice that my labours have not been in vain in the Lord. Yet I feel uncomfortable ; my mind is wandering into the interior of Africa. Is this mere imagination ? Why do these thoughts continually follow me, and why are many hours in the night spent without rest ? Lord, ha&t thou designed me to proceed from hence into other parts of Africa ? Here I am, send me. As yet I see no way open ; but with thee what is impossible ? ' This evening, I rejoiced over many sweet conversations I liad with my people at the prayer-meeting. A young woman, who was sent here last year to assist Mrs. Johnson, by the Governor, died to-day. She appeared to continue in darkness, though all means were used to instruct her in Divine things. She was a mulatto, and educated in Freetown. She was filled with pride, which led her into misconduct, for which, three weeks ago, I was obliged to discharge her, having forgiven her often for faults of considerable extent. She married a shingle- maker about twelve months ago, and was delivered of a lifeless child, which was the cause of her death. She was ill a few days previous — I went to visit her, but to no purpose. Seve- ral of the communicants did so too, and exhorted her to flee from the wrath to come ; but it appears that she took no notice of what was said to her, and it is to be feared that in this state she died. '■Nov. 22, Sunday. Divine service as usual in the morning ; I observed a good many strangers. Some appear to come every Sunday. Spoke on Isaiah Ixiii. 11. Li the afternoon, on Isaiah xxxii. 2. In the evening, on Job xxix. 2. I found it good to dwell at large on the precious truths contained in the 5* 118 MKMOm OF JOIIKSOX. above passag^os. May God the Holy Ghost impress them upon the hearts of all who were present. ^jYov. 23. A woman of the Eboe tribe came to me this morning. She appeared much depressed in mind ; she could scarcely speak. As some of these people are much agitated Avhen they come to me, but are more open to their fellow Africans, I sent her to W. Tamba. However, she express- ed a wish to be baptized ; and said " Me pray to God the Holy Ghost to take me to Jesus Christ — to take me to the Father;'' this expression astonished me, I asked her a few more ques- tions, but her heart seemed so full that she could not speak; and then I advised her to go to W. Tamba (of whom all seem to be very fond,) and tell him her heart, who would tell me again. ^ Dec. 5. All the communicants and candidates except the sick, met in the church this evening for conference. Mr. Gates and Mr. During were present. I trust that we were all re- freslied, by the way, through the simjjle and sincere conversa- tion we had together. Many expressed great fear and sorrow on account of their own depravity. Some related what they had heard during the week, while' they Avere at Divine worship, and what effect it had on them. Some were comforted, while others were alarmed, and convinced of sin. ' I informed the candidates that I should wish to see them at 2 p. M. to-morrow at my house, in order to instruct them in the ordinances of baptism and tlie Lord's Supper. I see more and more clearly the work of God the Holy Ghost carried on in the hearts of individuals. Surely the Lord of Hosts has been w ith us, for our labour has not been in vain in the Lord. Oh ! that he may have all the praise and glory. ' Sickness prevented me last Sunday from keeping service, and also during the week. However, I believe that it has been good for me and my people. It has created more hunger after the bread of life. ' Mrs. Johnson is slowly recovering from a severe illness. We all expected that she would have died last Sundav ; t-he DISCUSSIONS ON BAPTISM. 119 hei-self expected to depart and be with Christ. I was called in the night by Mr. Macaulay Wilson, (I was very ill myself and slept in another room) who told me that he thought Mrs. Johnson was likely to die. I was very weak, but went to see her. She asked me if I thought her end was come ? I told her I thought it was ; and asked her if she was ready to depart ; she replied, " Yes, but only through my Lord Jesus Christ." We prayed, in which Mr. Macaulay Wilson and several school-girls joined. While praying, I was seized with vomiting, and obliged to leave off. She then told me how things should be arranged after her death, and that she was sure to meet me again in Heaven. I was taken very ill, and was obliged to retire. We took leave of each other for a time, and I confess we were most wonderfully supported. I was con- strained to say, " Oh ! death, where is thy sting ? Oh ! grave, where is thy victory ? " It is remarkable that she continued to be sensible, which is seldom the case with the fever. Her pulse beat no less than 140 times in a minute. ' The Lord has been pleased to show us that strength shall be according to our day. I have frequently feared that this would be a trial which I should not be able to bear. But the Lord is faithful. He is a present help in trouble. Clear views of an interest in his blood and righteousness, and of his joj'-s beyond the grave, make death a messenger of good tidings. ' Dec. 6. I trust we spent a comfortable Sunday. Mrs. J. is better. The Church was three times full. I spoke in the morning on Luke xii. 22. " Fear not, little flock," &c. Oh ! blessed be my gracious Jesus for this precious portion of Scripture. May the Holy Ghost cause me to drink deeper and deeper into it. At 2 p. m. I instructed the candidates in my house. When we had concluded, we joined the congregation in the church, who had begun Divine worship. Mr. Cates spoke on the death of Stephen. In the evening, I spoke on Isaiah liv. 7. Directed my thoughts to the spread of the gos- pel, and informed the people of our firet anniversary, and beg- ged them all to attend. 120 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. '■Dec. 1. A school-girl came to me this morning much dis- tressed, on account of what she had heard yesterday morning. I spoke comfortably to her. ' We had the first anniversary of our Auxiliary Missionary Society this evening. Messrs. Collier, Decker, During and Gates, were present ; also a few of Mr. During's people. The church was completely crowded. Two hours before service, the people assembled from every quarter of Regent's Town. 'It is to be regretted that our other brethren were not present, I think they would have been a little enlivened. Mr. Gates has taken the outlines of the proceedings; £o 10s. 8d. were collected. Oh ! blessed Jesus, receive all the praise. Amen. ^ Dec. 19. Have been so engaged as to find no time for retiring. The superintendent of captured negroes (Mr. Ruftell) came here on Monday, to take the names of all the people in Regent's Town, and its vicinity, wliicli engaged us all the week- •The Governor came here on Wednesday, and said a good deal about baptizing all the people, wliicli I refused. He said much about its necessity, but I kept to the word of God. He said that the Apostles, on Pentecost day, baptized 3000 at once. I replied that they Avere i)ricked in the heart, and os mamj as believed were baptized ; and that I do so too, for I was about to baptize several on Christmas day, who I believe were pricked in the heart. He could not answer to this, but said that he would write to the Archbishop of Canterbury concerning the matter, and that it was our duty to make Christians. I said that God alone could make Christians, and I could only baptize such as were wrought upon by him ; and if such liad children, I bapized them, for it is written, " the promise is unto you and your children^ I had learned to obey God rather than man. He replied, that Mr. had also refused to baptize two boys, which he could not understand. He would certainly make these things known to the Archbishop of Canterbury, and would send those refused to Mr. , the Wesleyan minister, to be baptized ; for he thought Mr. '» baptism as good as DISCUSSIONS ON BAPTISM. 121 ours. I said that I kejit by the word of God, and could not depart. He said he would get Missionaries from the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, for the Church Missionary Society had long promised things they had not performed, and that he could no longer wait. I replied, that it was supposed that several school-masters were now on their way here. He concluded saying tlie Society had never done anything for Africa. Whilst we were speaking, several school-girls came before the door, wishing to speak to me. I went out, and was told that three white men had come into their school, and would not let them be, pulling them about in a disorderly man- ner. I went in again and told his Excellency, that three gen- tlemen who had accompanied him, were in the girl's school behaving in a disorderly manner. At this he seemed much hurt — went into the school and spoke to them, and they went oflf on horseback to Freetown, without entering my house again. ' The Governor, however, took leave in a friendly manner. It appears that he was hurt, because I refused to sing with the people, " God Save the King." He asked me why I would not sing it. I replied, that it was sung over a beer-pot^ and that I could not sing it in Divine service. He said that we ought to serve the king next to God. I told him we did so, and Christians in my opinion were the best subjects of King George. He has said nothing to me about it since. However, I am sorry to say it is practised in other towns. The Governor seems determined to impose it ; many copies have been printed, and sent to other towns, except to Leicester and here. And since then, it has been more against my mind^I never can submit to it. May my God and Saviour guide me and my j^eople aright ; may we all show forth the praise of our God, by our conduct and con- versation. We met this evening in the church for conference. ' Dec. 20, Sunday. Spoke in the morning on Rev. iv. 5. The church was full as usual, and the people very attentive. I instructed the candidates at 2 p.m. In the afternoon, I spoke on Ezekiel xxiv. 10. In the evening, on Acts ii. 41. May God 122 MEMOIR OF JOHXSOX. be praised for Lis mercies, which are so great towards me. The boys and girls kept prayer-meeting after service. '■Dec. 21. Went to Freetown to-day. ' Dec. 22. Went to visit the sick. Edward Green, a com- municant, said that his body was sick, but his soul was well. He thought it a great mercy God had made him sick. W. Tamba, who is recovering, was afraid that he should forget himself when well again. He prayed that God would keep him at Jesus's feet — his heart was j^rone too much to go from God. ' Dorothy Noah, (who has been ill three months) said that she had feared to die, but that now all fear was gone. She knew that she was interested in- the righteousness of Jesus, — she was the greatest sijiner in the world ; but Jesus had come to save such, and so she found comfort. She frequently was refreshed when asleep. She thought she was in heaven, and often sorrowed when she awoke, that she was in the world. ' One Eboe woman came, and said a good deal about her bad heart ; she said, " Massa, mo feel more than me savah talk — me heart trouble mo too much. Suppose me talk English good, me tell you too much." I told her to keep company with such of her country-people as were candidates, and pray to God to teach her. * Christmas Day. The church was crowded — many outside who could find no room. Spoke on Matt. i. 21. Baptized forty-six adults and one infant. May God make my pooii imperfect discourse, and the circumstances attending it, to abide in the hearers' hearts. In the afternoon we had prayer- meeting — the church full again. In the afternoon, I spoke on Luke ii. 24. I heard that in Freetown the people behave in a most wretched manner. It is expected that the two parties (Maroons and Settlers) will fight every moment. Guns were fired all night — two houses were burnt through firing. Num- bers were drunk. One man broke his leg, and others were burnt with the house. ' Blessed be God who has made his gospel effectual at this ARRIVALS, 123 place. Not one gun was fired — not one person intoxicated — all came to church very cleanly dressed. The females, espe- cially those who were baptized, were dressed in white. ' Dec. 2G. The mechanics having saved their meat, and also some of the other people, who have a pound per week allowed, I gave them some, and also gave them cocoa, cassada and yams out of the field, of which they prepared a dinner. The carpenters made tables and benches, and the rest cooked. All the people were invited, and about 800 sat down to dinner before my house. I was afraid there would not be enough, when I saw so many. David Noah asked a blessing, which the whole repeated. Thanks were returned in the same man- ner. I asked if they had had enough. They said, " Yes, we liave had plenty." W. Tamba gathered up the fragments, and there were eight pots full. All went home quiet, and in the evening, we met for conference in the church. Firing of guns still continues in Freetown. We can hear it even here. ' Sunday^ Dec. 2Y. Divine service as usual. Spoke in the morning on Rev. xvi. 15. Afternoon on Rev. xx. 11 — 15. Evening on Psalm cxix. 88. ' Dec. 28. Gave all the boys and girls leave to go with Noah to the waterfalls ; and some mechanics. The girls chose to go with me to Leicester Mountain. ' Dec. 30. Received a note this morning from Mr. Gates, by which I was informed of the arrival of the " Echo," last night, bringing five friends ; which was joyful news to me. I told the people at family-prayer, that a vessel had arrived with new Missionaries, which brought a smile upon their countenances. Went then to Freetown to welcome our new friends, and was much delighted with their appearance. CHAPTER V. A.D. 1819. Visit to the Intorior — Illness of ]\Irs. Johnson — She ia obliged to return to England — Mr. Johnson acdimpanies her. "\Ve liave now witnessed the first assault of Mr. Johnson on the kingdom of darkness in Africa, and the extraordinary success with which it pleased God to bless his earnest, humble-minded, and self-denying labours. But a pause now takes place. The serious illness of Mrs. Johnson, first appearing in 1818, and returning with increased violence in the following year, made her return to Europe necessary, if her life was to be preserved. This resolution being taken, it was natural that Mr. Johnson should be perplexed between a desire to accompany her, and the claims of his attached people. In the end, the way seem- ed to be made clear, for his return, for a season, to England. Meanwhile, we may dwell for a few moments, on the vast change which the short space of two years had efiected in the wilderness formerly known as Hogbrook. The .year 1819 is thus opened : — '■Jan. 1, 1819. Mr. and Mrs. Taylor came here to-day to pay us a visit. In the evening the boys and girls had a ])rayer-ineeting. Mr. and Mrs. Taylor stood in the vestry, and were much delighted with the simple but sincere prayers of the boys. ' Jan. 2. Met this evening for conference. Those who spoke, comforted us very much. ' Sunday, Jan. 3. Spoke on Rom. ix. 16. After service, I administered the sacrament to about 120 communicants. Mr. Gates and Mr. and Mrs. Taylor were present, and I trust we all were enabled to look to the great sacrifice oftered up for sin EXAMINATIONS OF THE SCHOOLS. 125 and uncleanness on Mount Calvary. Prayer-meeting in the afternoon. Mr. Gates gave an exhortation on Psalm xc. 2. I spoke in the evening on 2 Tim. ii. 19. '•Jan. 4. The Governor came and examined the school. The girls were prevented going through their examination, in consequence of Mrs. Johnson's having been sick so long. His Excellency was delighted, and said it was beyond his expecta- tion, and were he to tell the people in England, he doubted whether they would believe him. In a letter, Mr. Johnson adds some further particulars : — ' On the 4th of January, an examination of the schools took place, before the Governor, and many of the pi-incipal persons of the Colony. His Excellency addressed them with his accustomed benevolence, and expressed the highest gratifi- cation at their progress ; urging the adults, in particular, to assist, with zeal and alacrity, in teaching those of their coun- trymen who had not had such opportunities as themselves. The men, women, and children present owed to Great Britain, under the blessing of God, every thing that could dignify man : they were emancipated from slavery ; and, above all other benefits, they were educated in the principles of Christianity. " Henceforth, then," said his Excellency, " worship God, as Christians ; and serve, as Britons, the country and the king.' " In a report sent home to the British government, by the authorities at Sierra Leone, the improvements effected at Re- gent's Town are thus described : — " At Regent's Town, formerly called Hog-brook, from the multitude of wild hogs frequenting the beautiful stream that flows through it, the young men settled there have furnished an example which will long be admired, and not easily be sur- passed. They have brought a road, by a new line, avoiding the most steep descents and declivities of the hills, without much extending the course, as far as Leicester Mountain, 126 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. whence it is to be continued toward Freetown. This road is two rods wide throughout, and solid and level to a degree not easily attainable in a country like this. Several vast rocks, which impeded its course, were split and broken by means of fire, aided by the aftusion of cold water when in the ardent state ; the adjacent forest furnishing abundance of wood for these operations." " We understand that this successful method of blowing up the rocks, was suggested to Mr. Johnson by the effect of a violent tornado, which one day extinguished a large fire that had been kindled on the rock, and left the rock so split in many places that the workmen found its removal greatly facili- tated." Of the rapidity with which this work was executed, it is said — " The combination of Mr. Johnson's skill and ability with the bodily strength and hearty zeal of his people, produced such rapidity of execution, that the task was completed in considerably less than one month, although the extent is full two miles." ' The following honourable testimony, is added in the same Report : — "Let it be considered, that not more than three or four years have passed, since the greater number of Mr. Johnson's population were taken out of the holds of slave-ships : and who can compare their present condition with that from which they were rescued, without seeing manifest cause to exclaim — ' The hand of heaven is in this !' Who can contrast the sim- ple and sincere Christian worship which precedes and follows their daily labours, with the grovelling and malignant supersti- tions of their original state, their greegrees, their red-water, their witchcraft, and their devils' houses — without feeling and acknowledging a miracle of good, which the immediate inter- position of the Almighty alone could have wrought? And TESTIMONY TO THE STATE OP REGENt's TOWN. 127 what greater blessing could man or nation desire or enjoy, than to have been made the instruments of conferring such sublime benefits on the most abject of the human race ? "If any other circumstance could be required to prove the immediate interposition of the Almighty, we have only to look at the pljtin men and simple means employed in bringing about the miraculous conversion that we have recorded. Does it not recal to mind the first diffusion of the gospel by the Apostles themselves ? These thoughts will occur to strangers, at remote distance, when they hear these things ; and must they not recur much more forcibly to us who have these things constantly before our eyes ?" Mr. Johnson's journal thus j^roceeds : — ' Jan. 5. "Went to-day to the Bible anniversary. I rejoiced to see many of the inhabitants of Freetown present. "When his Excellency concluded the meeting in an address, the people got up and threw their money on the table with great acclama- tions, so that his Excellency could not continue his speech. '■Jan. 12. Mr. Gates came to-day to Regent's Town, as di- rected by the Society, to assist me. We intend to proceed immediately to the Sherbro country ; as the dry season is far advanced, we must lose no time. Long has a desire existed in my heart to go and see this country. May the God of all grace go within us ; may effectual ways of usefulness be opened. W. Tamba, who speaks the languages along the coast, intends to go with us, to preach in the native tongues, the unsearchable riches of Christ.' Our readers will have observed, in the diary of the previous November, how strongly Mr. Johnson's mind was impressed with a desire to overpass the narrow limits of the colony, and to search out new scenes of labour in the homes of the various tribes which were here brought under his notice. Some might be inclined to censure this desire, as betokening a restless and 128 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. romantic disposition ; but it so nearly resembles St. Paul's wish, " to preach the gospel in the regions beyond you ; and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand," — that we dare not whisper one word of blame. The first result of this desire, was seen in an excursion made by Mr. Johnson, in company with Mr. Gates, William Tamba, and others, at the period to which we are now brought. His jour- nal of that excursion will here be given at large. ^Jan. 12, 1819. Tuesday. We left Regent's Town about four in the afternoon, and walked to Wilberforce, which is situated on the N. W. side of the colony. ' At our departure from Regent's Town, many of the inhabi- tants surrounded us, shaking hands with their minister, and bidding him farewell with many tears. A report had been circulated thafhe did not intend to return ; and it was with the greatest difficulty, and not till after repeated assurances to the contrary, that the people could be prevailed on to leave us. ' On our arrival at Wilberforce, the people of the town as- sembled at Mr. Decker's house. William Tamba addressed them in the Cosso language from Matt, xvi, 14 — 16. In a plain and serious manner he explained the important truths contained in these verses. The Cosso people seemed quite astonished to hear the words of eternal life in their own tojigue. One little girl, in particular, appeared scarcely to believe her ears. When Tamba began to speak, she turned alternately to him and to her parents, staring at each, as if desirous to know whether others heard as she did. ' After speat:ing in Cosso, Tamba repeated the same in Eng- lish, for the benefit of such as did not understand Cosso ; and the service concluded with prayer. ' The reflection, that the gospel of our Saviour was now, per- haps for the first time, declared in that tongue, afforded us peculiar pleasure. '■Jan.lZ. Wednesday. Having passed the night at Wilber- VISIT TO THE INTERIOR. 129 force, v/e this morning proceeded on our journey. Passing Bassa Town, we arrived at a creek, across which two of our company swam, and brought over a canoe, in which the re- mainder of us were soon paddled over. The sand beach and majestic ocean were now before us. On this beach we walked about three miles and a half; crossed ahother creek; and arrived at a place of some size, called Tongier. A considerable number of people assembled ; and as the headman understood English, Mr. Johnson explained to him, that the object of our visit was to enquire whether they knew and served the living God. He confessed that they did not. The awful consequence of dying in ignorance being pointed out to him, he said that it was all true, and that he should be glad to learn. Tambawas then introduced, as a man who could tell him and his people, in their own tongue, the things which would make for their peace. Tamba addressed them in the Sherbro' language. They listened tvith attention, and shewed by their significant gestures atid answers, that they understood him. ' Thus was a second uncultivated language made the means of conveying to the understandings of perishing sinners, tidings of the most stupendous mercy that ever gladdened the heart of the miserable ! But their eyes were so blinded, that they seemed to view with indifference that which the angels in heaven desire to look into ! ' The town abounded with those marks of superstition which are common in this part of Africa. There was scarcely a house which had not its wooden post and broken bowl, for its defence ! The folly of depending on such things being pointed out, the headman acknowledged that they could do them no good ; and said that he only kept them because it was the fashion of his country, but did not trust to them. Being asked if he would call his people together on a Sunday, if any one came to instruct them, he said. No ! what they had heard to- day was enough ! Having faithfully warned him of the prob- able consequences of his refusal, we left him to consider of it, and resumed our walk along the sand-beach. 130 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. ' In about four miles, south-east, we arrived at the first of several small villages, bearing the general name of Ajaltopant. Here we rested : and, having procured son)e fish and fowl, made our dinner. Fingers served us for forks ; and a mat, spread on the earth, for table and chair. ' As the tide was running in, we were obliged to resume our journey on the sand-beach with as much expedition as possible ; having a creek to pass, which was every moment getting deeper. We could not, however, refrain from spending a few minutes in observing the motions of two large sharks, which were sporting in the water within a few yards of the land. ' Having reached the creek, we found it fordable ; and, strip- ping off our clothes, we soon waded through. ' Passing the Turtle Rocks, we arrived at Boombah, a small village, containing nine or ten houses ; distant about seven miles south-east from Ajaltopant. The men were all absent ; but the women accommodated us with the best house in the place, and sold us plantains, cassadas, and turtles' eggs, on which and some fish we made our supper. While this was preparing, some of us took a walk round the place. It is situ- ated on a small projecting point of land, nearly surrounded with the sea. The rocks adjoining it are quite barren ; but the con- volvulus and other running flowers spread themselves over their hardy faces, and kindly lent them the appearance of vegetation on the one side, while the other is exposed to all the fury of the waves. A few miles to the east, the mountains of Sierra Leone appeared in view ; and, to the west, the setting sun dropped into the bosom of the ocean. ' When the shades of night display the wonders of creation in a multitude of worlds around us, we are lost in astonishment at the immensity of the Creator — how much more should we be lost in love and adoration, when we consider that to bestow salvation on the rebellious men of one poor world, the great Cre- ator of the whole thought it not too much to shed His precious blood upon a cross, beneath the insulting hands of His own creatures ! VISIT TO THE INTERIOR. 131 ' Returning from our Avalk, and having refreshed ourselves with a wholesome meal, we collected as many people as we could, and told them why we visited their town. As Tamba spoke to them in their own language, they listened to what he said. A hymn was then sung, and the service was concluded by prayer in English. The women shewed much surprise ; but attempted to join in the hymn, while they laughed and made a great noise during the prayer. May mercy be bestowed upon them ! ' "We passed the night atBoombah ; some sleeping on a rude sort of bedstead, with a mat and blanket ; and others on the floor. ' Jan. 14. Thursday. Having committed ourselves by prayer to His guidance and blessing who alone could keep us, we resumed our walk this morning, on the sand beach, till we were stopped by a creek, which was too deep for us to pass, the tide being full. After spending an hour or two on its bank, we ventured in. Those who could swim had little difficulty in getting to the opposite side. They discovered a place where it was possible to walk through ; and thus we all got safely over. Proceeding along the sand-beach, we passed several islands ; and arrived at a small village, where w^e took some refresh- ment, and afterward passed several other villages, but found it impracticable to stop at them all. ' "VVe next arrived at an open bay, which, as the tide had gone down, was nearly free from water. Having gained the opposite side, our road lay, for some distance, through the bushes ; till we again reached the sand-beach, where we passed several small towns, but had not time to stop, till we arrived at Cape Shilling, a settlement recently formed, about forty miles distant from Wilberforce, and forty-three from Freetown. ' Mr. Kearney, the Superintendent, was not at home ; but his servants provided a lodging for us, to which, after par- taking of an excellent supper of their providing, we gladly retired. ^Jan. 15. Friday. The man who conducted us from 132 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. Regent's Town, returned, carrying intelligence to our friends of our welfare. ' After taking a walk tbrougli the place, and breakfosting, we resumed our journey with a new guide ; and arrived at Maryar, about a mile and a half south-east. ' In four miles further, we got to Tumbo, which is a large village containing about fifty houses and many inhabitants. They possess a considerable quantity of cleared and cultivated land, on which there were plenty of casadas growing ; and, as there were several large canoes on the beach, the appearance of the place was beyond that of the generality of African towns. ' The high mountains to our left continued visible : and our guide informed us, that, by going round them, we might regain the colony by a much nearer way than that by which we came. ' Passing through Barbarboo, we arrived at Margenna, a small village, two miles from Tumbo. We had gone nearly a mile beyond it, when we were hailed by two men, who enquir- ed whither we were going. On being informed, they told us that we could not cross the water which was just before us without a canoe, and that at the place to which we were going we could not get one. Our guide assenting to the probability of the thing, we returned to Margenna. Here they informed us that they had a canoe to let, which we engaged ; but, from the exorbitant charge which they wished to make for taking us across the bay, we were disposed to think that there might be as much self-interest as friendship in their calling us back. After they had received the quantity of fish-hooks and tobacco agreed upon, they made many trifling excuses and delayed us for a long time. Our patience being exhausted, Mr. Johnson demanded either our articles back again, or the canoe to be immediately got ready. They chose to fulfil the agreement : but, though we were destitute of provisions, and had the pros- pect of being on the water till night, they would not sell us any thing to eat. VISIT TO THE INTERIOR. 133 ' Our course, at first was south-east by east ; but gradually changed to east. Though we went about eight miles across the bay, the water, for the greater part of tlie way, was very shallow and filthy, the oars frequently bringing up mud from the bottom. It abounds in oysters and wild fowl. A bank of several miles in length is almost covered with these helpless fish ; which seem to wait the hand of man, to make at least one change in their motionless and almost inanimate life. The wild fowl were in great variety ; and so tame as to allow a very near view of them. One species exceeds, in size, the Eng- lish goose, and nearly resembles it in colour : its beak is very large, and of singular construction ; when open, the skin forms the appearance of a bag, hanging between it and the neck : the first time that the bird opened its beak in our view, one of our boys exclaimed, with surprise, " Ah ! he have pocket !" Birds and oysters are not the only inhabitants of the bay ; for we saw evident traces of alligators on the mud, but were mer- cifully preserved from the devouring jaws of these animals. ' Having crossed the bay, we entered the river at its extrem- ity, and went several miles up it. Its stream is deep, but very muddy, running nearly east. The mangroves on each side form a complete forest, and quite shut out the country from view. ' We entered a small creek, which, in some places, would but just allow the canoe to pass. At the end of it, where we left the canoe, we had to be carried a considerable way through the mud, on a man's back, before we could land. ' The town to which we were going being situated near our landing-place, the people soon caught sight of us. The men armed themselves, and came out to meet us ; but, as our appearance, like our message, was quite peaceful, they did. not interrupt us. We, therefore, entered the town, which is about the size of Tumbo ; but has not so many inhabitants. ' It was now nearly dark ; and, as we had been all day without eating, we were glad to purchase plantains, bananas, casadas, rice, and oysters. 6 134 MEMOIR OF .JOHNSON. * Xot having an opportunity of collecting the people that evening, we only informed the headman of the object of our visit, and requested him to tell the people that we would speak to them in the morning. ^ Jan. 16. Saturday. The first thing, tliis morning, was to get the people together. Having accomplished this, Tamba addressed them in Sherbro', according to the directions of Mr. Johnson. They were all seated around him ; some on stools, and some on country chairs ; forming a motley group. They were generally attentive while he spoke. AVhen he had done, they talked a little time together ; after which one of them told Tamba, that they could not say what he had spoken was bad : but that the fashions which they kept, were the same as the old men before them had done, and they knew no othei-s ; but if any one came to tell them, they would hear.^ Tamba then informed them, that it was our wish to send some person that way, who could occasionally come to visit them, and tell them the things that make for their peace. They seemed very well pleased with this intelligence. ' We had not been long in the town, before we were warned not to go into one particular house, as it would assuredly kill us. To confirm this, we were shown a dead horned-owl, which was hanging near it ; and which, M'e were told, had presumed to fly over this wonderful house, and therefore liad dropped down dead. ' After breakfast, we took leave of the people ; and, having entered another canoe, we were once more afloat on the muddy stream, which the natives call the Ta. We ascended this river about seven miles ; at first, north-west by north, and afterwards west. We then left the main stream, which took a southerly direction, and entered a smaller, running north-west by north ; and proceeded about half a mile, to a place where we landed, and walked another half mile to Mema, a small town. ' In our way to Robiss from this place, we walked about seven miles, through a country more fertile than we had yet seen. Casadas and rice grow in great plenty. VISIT TO THE INTKRIOK. 135 ' At the end of this seven miles we again reached the Ta ; but the stream was too much diminished to carry a canoe. We proceeded, therefore, by land, seven miles further, to Tom's Place, the road lying through thick bushes all the way. This brought us to the side of the Quer, a branch of the Bunch River ; and we should have gladly got into a canoe to take us to Robiss, but not one could be procured. We were obliged, therefore, to set off again on foot, with a boy for our guide, intending to pass the night at the next town, as we found we could not reach Robiss. We had to walk through mangroves, by the river side, where the mud was deep ; and had, after this, to pass a part of the stream about four feet deep. Our way continued through the mangroves ; and, frequently, for half a mile together, we were obliged to pull off shoes and stockings, and walk through the mud. This continued four miles, till we readied the expected town ; wet, hungry, and tired. ' We were calculating on getting here rest and food for our bodies, and imparting food to the souls of the people ; but, when we entered, to our great mortification, there was no one in the town but an old woman and a few children, who neither wanted any thing from us, nor would give any thing to us. ' About a mile farther, we came to a hut, in a farm, where ■we found a woman and two girls. Beyond this place our guide would not go a step. ' Our situation was not very pleasant. We had either to remain where we were, without a place to sleep in, or sufficient food ; or to go into the w^oods, with night fast approaching, without a guide, and withont knowing a step of the way. Hoping we might find another town, we set off; and went through several farms, till the road entered the wood. Here we soon lost all traces of it, and were obliged to go back to one of the farms, where there was an empty shed ; resolving to take up our abode there for the night. Tamba then went to the woman, at the farm where we first stopped, to try to get something to eat ; but she either could not or would not let us have any thing, nor lend us a pot to cook the little food whicli 13G MEMOIR OF JOIINSOX. we liad. Wc were obliged, therefore, once more, to try if we could not discover a road through the wood ; but our endeavours proved fruitless. • It was now dark, and we could not see the road, even wliere there was one. As soon as we had j-eached another farm, wheie there was a shed, we again stopped ; and here we found a fire and an iron pot, though no inhabitant ; and were glad to spread our blankets on the earth. The animals in the adjoining wood soon howled us asleep. About two o'clock in the morning, we awoke; and, finding ourselves cold, and a heavy dew falling on us, we heated, some water, and mixed with it the last port-wine which we had, and drank it out of an old broken wooden bowl. We then lay down again ; and slept in safety till day began to break. ' We had travelled nearly thirty miles ; the greatest part of the way on foot, without any thing to eat. We lay down in an open field in a country which is the habitation of elephants and leopards, under the falling of a heavy dew, and arose without having received the slightest injury. Surely good- ness and mercy were with us ! ' Jan. 17. Sunday. The morning of Sunday found us in this situation ; without any food, and without knowing our way. ' We set ofl' as soon as it was light, in quest of a town. Following the most beaten path, we had not walked more than two miles, before we had the pleasure of hearing human voices ; and soon met a woman and some children. They told us that we were in the right road to a town ; Avhich we reached in another mile. It was a very small place, called Corry. Here we breakfasted ; and, as the people informed us that their town was not far from Kobiss, we determined to proceed thither ; hoping to be able to reach it in time to assemble the people for worship, in the earlier part of the day. Wc came to a town, called Monshon, or Komonshon. The people bei'ig Timmanees, Tamba could not talk to them, nor did they seem willing to receive us. We v/ere obliged, therefore, to proceed ; and followed a man who was going to Eobiss, which they assured us APPOINTMENT OF NATIVE TEACHERS.. 13Y was not far distant, tbougli it proved still about eiglit miles. In the way, we crossed several small streams, one of which is the water which comes from Regent's Town. ' At Robiss, our first object was to collect the people to- gether, and inform them the cause of our visit. Mr. Johnson spoke to them through an interpreter. The headman acknow- ledged what he heard was good, and said he should be glad to hear more of it. In the evening, he attended again ; and, as Mr. Johnson preached, he made frequent replies, saying, " Good ! " " True ! " " Right ! " &c. ' The town is large and populous ; but the people are wholly given to idolatry and superstition. We could not render thera much service, none of our company speaking Timmanee ;'and though the headman understood English, many of the people did not know a word. After evening service, we were glad to retire to rest. ' e/are. 18. Monday. Early this morning, we returned, by Leicester Mountain, to Regent's Town, where our arrival occa- sioned great joy. The people so thronged round Mr. Johnson, that, before we reached the house, they amounted to a crowd. 'Thus, in seven days, we walked upwards of 120 miles; taking a complete circuit round the colony ; and we thus made known the glad tidings of salvation, in several places, and in several tongues, in which, perhaps, it was never heard before. ' May some portion of the seed, thus scattered, be so blessed, that it may bring glory to God and salvation to lost souls ! ' One important result of this journey must not be overlooked. Mr. Johnson and his colleague felt so satisfied with the manner in which William Tamba had addressed the natives, on various occasions during this tour, that both he and William Davis were taken into the service of the Society, with a view to their being employed in bearing the message of salvation into native districts. At a meeting of the missionaries, held in Freetown, on the 25th of January 1819, Mr. Johnson stated that these young men had given most satisfactory proofs of their conversion to 138 MKMOIII OF JOHNSUX. Christianity, and that they had long cherished a desire to visit their respective countries, in order to communicate to their friends, what great things the Lord had done for them, and to make known to them the glad tidings by which their own hearts had been won. Both of them, Mr. Johnson said, pos- sessed abilities for the work, as he had proved at least, in the case of William Tamba, during the excursion which he had recently taken round the colony. William Tamba and William Davis were thep called in and examined. The examination of the former proceeded as follows : " Do you wish to go among your country people ?" " Yes." —"What for?" "To talk about God palaver."— Are you able to do that ?" "Not by myself, but if God help me, I can." — Do you think He will help you ?" " If I pray to Him He will." — " Do you not think your present situation is better for you ? Many good men have been ill-treated by an evil world. Perhaps you may be caught and sold for a slave, or you may be killed." " I know not what may come to pass ; — if they kill me, they kill me, I know what I go for." — " Do you think it is God's will that you should go ?" " I cannot prove that, I am full of fear." — " W^hat do you fear ?" "I have a great desire to go and tell them what God has done for me, but I some- times fear that it may arise from my own deceitful heart, and that I should do no good." Of W^illiam Davis, an examination equally satisfactory ensued : " Do you wish to go to your country people ?" " Yes, I wish to talk to them about Jesus Christ. AVhen I remember the state in which they are, and in which I was, I feel sorry, and wish to go and talk to them, but am full of doubt." " When did you feel that desire first ?" " When Jesus first began to work upon my heart, two Christmas past." " Dare you go to your country people alone ?" " No, I cannot go in my own strength." " Do you think they would catch you, and make you a slave ?" " Perhaps they would, but if God be with me, I APPOINTMENT OF NATIVE TEACHERSi 139 don't care." " Should you get trouble, or contempt and ridi- cule, would you bear it for Christ's sake ?" " Yes, I don't mind that; my countrymen here have laughed at me ; if God be with me, I can bear it." " Many young men from Africa have been to England and were educated there ; but when they went back to their own countries, they soon turned heathens again. Do you think you could resist this ?" " If God be with me I can ; but by myself, I can do nothing." On the subject of sending native teachers among their coun- trymen, the committee, to whom the accession of Tamba and Davis to the ranks of the Society was submitted for their appro- val, expressed themselves to their missionaries with becoming caution, while confirming their appointment. They desired that the natives received into the Society's service should be habi- tuated, on a well-digested plan, to visit the country-people either in or out of the colony. They felt, they said, " that it would not be advisable to send native Christians alone to reside in their respective countries, until they should have gained some general knowledge of men and things, and be tolerably well grounded in enlarged views of Christianity, and have given decisive evidence of its enlightening and steady influence on their own minds. A competent acquaintance," they conti- nued, " with the system of mutual instruction, is of prime neces- sity to such men : if not previously grounded therein, the com- mittee wish them to attend some of the schools until they become familiar with its details ; after taking charge of a school themselves, for a sufficient time, under the eye of the Society's friends in the colony ; if they acquit themselves well in that ser- vice, they may be sent forth with good hope of success, by the blessing of God, among their countrymen." But while Mr. Johnson's desires thus led him to overpass the bounds of the colony ; and would doubtless have cai'ried him to larger and more permanent operations in Western Africa, it pleased God to suddenly arrest his course. First, a long pause occurs ; and then the journal resumes : — 140 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. ' March 9. Great are, and have been, my trials, which have been the cause of my neglecting to write my journal. But should I not have written down my trials every day, as I pass- ed through the valley of darkness? — might it not have refreshed my soul hereafter, when in similar circumstances ? But ah I how can they be forgotten by me while they are engraven on my very heart ? ' Mrs. Johnson was taken so ill that the doctor advised her to return to England as soon as possible. It was agreed upon at a special meeting of Missionaries so to do. Before that time I went with Mr. Gates and Tamba to the Sherbro country ; we completed a tour round the colony at the same time, and I can say with success. Mr. Gates has since started again with Tamba and Davis to their respective countries, the distance of 400 miles. May our God, Jehovah, be with them and bless their labours with abundant success. ' Mrs. Johnson became worse, and I was strongly advised to accompany her to England, as it was necessary that particular care should be taken of her. This brought me into great distress. * To leave my people seemed insupportable, and to leave my afflicted wife seemed equally so. Tears and restless nights were my portion. I saw my duty as a husband, on the one hand, to accompany my dear wife in her affliction ; and, on the other, I feared to become a careless shepherd : and, as trials of this kind seldom come by themselves, doubts and fears of my own state began to prevail, and I scarcely knew whether I was a Ghristian. ' My dear wife is still in Freetown, waiting for a vessel, and I am still uncertain whether I shall go or not. To leave my people seems impossible, although I believe that it would be for the good of the cause at large. Many things stand in need of being represented to the society, which I trust I should be enabled to do faithfully. 'Heavy, however, as my trials have been, they have been blessed abundantly. The discourses which I addressed to my LETTERS FROM ENGLAND. 141 people, while under these conflicts of mind, had been made. the means of great good. No fewer than fifty-two negroes have been added, this last month, to the Church of Christ, and many- more are candidates for baptism. O my God, it has been good for me that I have been afflicted ! ' I pray thee, for Jesus' sake, pardon the sins I have com- mitted. Ah ! unbelief, unbelief and hellish thoughts and deeds are still upon my mind. Oh my God, thou knowest the depravity of my heart. I thank thee that thou hast found a Eansom. '■March 17. Many are still my trials, and many are the mercies I daily receive from God's bountiful hands. We have met almost every night to examine candidates ; it is indeed wonderful to hear the dealings of the Lord with these people. Mr. Morgan was present one night, and was so delighted, that he was lost in admiration. A man was sent here about two years ago, who had been on board of a man-of-war for a long time ; he has been indeed a trial to me, and to all my people — he protested against religion, and lived in sin with greediness. Some time ago, one Sunday afternoon, he was at church. I felt no liberty that time, and could not get on with my dis- course ; my own life recurred to my mind, and I was constrain- ed to introduce my own tale. This proved to be the time of that man's conversion. The lion was turned into a lamb. He was examined last week, and received as a candidate for bap- tism ; he was in England a long while, but was never baptized. Only the sovereign grace of God could do this. ' I am almost constrained to speak God palaver while I write this. A woman kept talking about her bad heart, and was to be examined. She appears to be disturbed on accoant of sin.' The following letters will be fittingly introduced in this place. 6* 142 MEMOIR OF JOHXSO?f. The Secretaries to the Rev. W. A. B. Johnson. 'Church Missionary Hous 'London, April 8, 1819 \ * Deau Brother Johnson, 'We liave been greatly refreshed and encouraged by yours, dated January 26, 1810, and including the account of the Missionary meeting, and of your journey round the colony. "We rejoice in these beginnings of more extensive labours. We find, indeed, that the Governor does not quite approve of any exertions out of the colony, but we have endeavoured in our answer to his letter, to satisfy his mind that it is desirable, and our duty to make such exertions. ' We rejoice in the continued increase of your church, and bless God for it. 'The Committee have been disposed to think, from the Governor's representations, that you may have been rather too slow to baptize, making all due allowance for his not having our views and feelings. We must remember that bap' tism itself is a means of grace, and may be a turning-point in a man's decision of heart for Christ. ' We are also decidedly of opinion that, in cases of 'baptized persons dying, you may with a safe conscience use the Burial Service, whatever their previous character was ; otherwise we take on ourselves a judgment of condemnation, which alone belongs to God ; besides, by a needless scrupulosity we lose great things when we need not. ' We do not say this to lead you to act against your con- science, but to assist you to form a correct judgment by giving you our opinions. 'It was very gratifying to us to find that three of your con- gregation, Randle, Davis, and Tamba, were judged fit to be teachers to the natives. It is the very thing that the Commit- tee have been longing to see; and they pray God that liis abundant blessing may rest upon their labours. They will PROPOSED VISIT TO ENGLAND, 143 gladly support them, and sucli others as may be found, after examination, qualified for such a work. ' We have, however, some fears, lest your hands may be so weakened, by losing these three, and Mr. Gates also, from Re- gent's Town, that the work there may be too much for you. * The Committee trust that they have in good measure sup- plied the wants of the colony. They are, however, happy to say, that an excellent second chaplain, the Rev. Thomas Garn- sey (a young man with Mr. Garnon's spirit) recommended by the Society, will come to the colony, (D. V.) at the beginning of the dry season. ' We gi'ieve to hear about your dear wife, and shall be glad to show her all the attention in our power, when she arrives. ' You could not expect to have so many spiritual blessings in your congregation, without deep trials also. The Lord generally balances his dealings, lest we be puffed up. 'The account of your journey was very interesting. Con- tinue to furnish us with such full accounts of all that takes place. * We are, &c., ' JosiAH Pratt, ' Edward Bickersteth.' Rev. W. Johnson to the Secretaries. 'Regent's Town, Feb. 24, 1819. ' Rev. and dear Sirs, ' I wrote to you in November by the Pyrennees, and enclosed my journal up to that period. I also wrote to you in January, and enclosed the minutes of the first anniversary of our Mis- sionary Society, with the journal of our late excursion round the colony. *My present trials are great on behalf of Mrs. Johnson, whose state of health is indeed precarious. It was agreed upon at a special meeting of Missionaries, that she should go to England by the first conveyance, but as her illness has not 144 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. the least abated, it is to be feared — and is the opinion of the doctors — that she will not be able to undergo the voyage, un- less particular care be taken of her while crossing the sea. ' I proposed to them her staying here, but they gave me no answer. I asked Mr. Macaulay Wilson (who is a man of ex- perience, having been under Mr. Winterbottom, and having practised for many years in this colony), and he told me, that if Mrs. Johnson stayed here, she would not recover, but if she went home she might recover; providing particular care was taken of her on the passage ; and he did not consider a girl suflBcient to accompany her, and would advise me to go with her myself. To this I could in no wise agree. You know well, dear Sirs, how I am situated. To leave my flock would be a great trial to me. Speaking to several Christian friends on the subject, they all advised me to go with Mrs. Johnson, which has caused great distress to my soul. To leave my peo- ple is a mountain insurmountable to reason, and to leave my wife is another. I have stated my distressing case in a letter to Mr. Collier, who makes many objections to my going with Mrs. Johnson, though in the end, he advises me to .go, provi- ded a confidential person could be found to take charge of my people during my absence. I have also stated my case to the Governor, who advises me to go ; and said that he would give me leave of absence with pleasure, if a trusty person could take charge of my people ; " for," said he, " I should be dis- tressed to think that a person was at Regent's Town who would do more harm than good." He moreover advised me to wait until Captain Rowe sailed, which would be in about six weeks, and during that time the expected schoolmasters would most likely arrive, when one (a married man) might go with me for two or three weeks to Regent's Town, and during that time be sufficiently instructed to take care of ray people during my absence. To this, however, Mr. Collier objects, and. says that none but a minister can take my situation. He pro- poses Mr. Wilhelm, to which I cannot agree. Mr. Wilhelm is a good man, but not at all suitable for my situation. He PKOPOSED VISIT TO ENGLAND. 145 might come here occasionally to do the ministerial part, and a schoolmaster the other business, but to take the whole would not be advisable. Mr. and Mrs. Morgan are the persons whom I should like to leave with my people. But I cannot at pre- sent make up my mind what to do. I stated my case to my people, who were drowned in tears, but said I must go and come back quick. Oh that the will of the Lord may be done ; may all turn out to the furtherance of- his gospel. ' I must confess that I have many things to tell you, which I cannot express with the pen. Should I see my way clear, and return with Mrs. Johnson to England, I think it will have its proper end. Oh, may God guide me aright. I have now so many babes in Christ under my care, oh for faith to give them into the hands of him who is able to keep them from falling. I know that it is against the regulations of the Society, for any Missionary to return home without having obtained permission of the Committee ; however, I trust that they will, if I return, pity my case. ' I hear that Mrs. Johnson is getting Avorse, and that the doctors advise her to go as soon as possible. ' Mr. Gates, W. Davis, and W. Tamba left us on the first of this month. I received a letter from Mr, Gates dated the 10th, on Friday last, from York Island. They have been at Jenkins' Town. Two days previous, Tamba preached in the native tongues wherever an opportunity offered itself. The Sherbro king wishes to see them again on their return. May the Lord be with them, and open many effectual ways for the gospel, through their instrumentality. Prayers are offered up for them by the people here without ceasing. ' A considerable number of candidates have been received since Christmas, and these I intend to baptize on Easter Sun- day. Numbers are under conviction of sin, and are daily inquiring what they must do to be saved. Oh may our Saviour have all the glory for his work of grace. Surely the day is come when Ethiopia shall stretch out her hands unto God. 146 MKMOIR OF J0HK80N. 'Finally, dear Sirs, I would solicit an interest in your prayers. Oh pray for me, — pray for one really distressed in mind. ' W. Johnson.' ' Hev. W, Johnson to the Secretaries, ' Regent's Town, March 23, 1819. * Rev. and dear Siks, 'I wrote to you, at the latter end of last month, a doleful letter, and am almost sorry that I sent it ; but it is gone. I feel at present quite dift'erent, and am sure that it is good for me to have been afflicted. The discourses I preached while passing through the valley, have been abundantly blessed to ray people. I see the fruit of them every day. While telling my own tale, the vilest were pricked at heart ; the number of communicants and candidates amount now to 200 and upwards, whose conduct and conversation is such as becomes Christians. The candidates will be baptized on Easter Sunday, if it pleases our God. The school-girls are, in general, piously inclined ; the elder have be'en received as candidates : it would do you good to hear them declare what the Lord has done for their souls. ' Many of the boys have also become serious, but it is not so general amongst the girls, they are younger, which may in some measure be the reason. On the whole, all the people seem to be hungering after the righteousness of Jesus, their conduct is changed, though there are some who still would rather hold fast their country fashions, but they see the pros- perity of the righteous, which stops their mouths, and persuades them there is something real and sound in Christianity. ' Our boys' school-house was burned down a few days ago, which prevents our going on with the day-school ; but I hope we shall finish another next week. I was at a loss to conceive how to build another house ; but the boys being willing to build again, and the girls offering their service to assist the boys, we commenced the following day, and have nearly finished rnoPOSED VISIT to England. H7 it. The girls' house suffered much, as it also caught fire, and my house was in great danger, but the Lord heard our prayers in the moment of trouble. The wind being very boisterous at the commencement of the fire, a complete calm followed, so that the flames ascended perpendicularly, and all the people beheld with astonishment the hand of the Lord. Nearly 100 boys were asleep in the roof, who all came down small ladders, so that not one Was hurt. ' The foundation of a permanent school-house for the girls having been dug, 70 by 23 feet, was immediately begun by the masons, which they have finished in four weeks ; the carpenters are now putting the roof on. ' We yesterday began a boys' house the same size. When these two houses are finished, we shall pull down the temporary ones, as they are very dangerous in the dry season, since the least spark will set them on fire. ' Mrs. Johnson is somewhat better. Last Saturday week, she liad a severe attack, so that I feared it would have ended fatally ; but she revived soon after, and has ever since continued better, and I hope will be able, by the time Captain Rowe sails, to endure the voyage. 'It is still the wish of several of our friends that I should go to England, especially the schoolmasters, as they labour under great disappointments ; their ideas were, when they came out, that they should be permitted to engage in public services occasionally, especially out of Freetown, which is prevented as much as possible by Mr. -. The fact is, that the school- masters will be of no use, if they are prevented from exercising their gifts. Mr. During and myself were not prevented when Mr. Garnon was here, and I cannot conceive why men who (as I am told) are preparing for the ministry, should not have the same privilege, and whilst they see men running down to destruction, not stop them if possible, through divine assistance, in their mad career. ' Mr. Randle, at Cape Shilling, received instruction to do nothing of the kind from Mr. — — . A few days since, he was 148 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. in Freetown, and he told me that when he kept school, another European (a trader) who resides close by his house, induced the people to commit all manner of lewdness ; and that he had told Mr. , who advised him by no means to interfere. I was struck with such advice, and told him to rebuke such mad- ness of the people, with boldness, and that though he was only a schoolmaster, it was his duty, as a Christian, to rescue sin- ners from everlasting misery. I have received a letter from him since, in which he says : " Blessed be God, I feel some- what more enabled to declare the truth with boldness after my conversation with you. On Sunday evening, I addressed the people from Ex. xx. 8 — 11, which I thought the more proper, as Mr. K. 's people had been all the day at work, many of whom were present." ' I might fill many sheets with circumstances like the above ; and were I to propose before the next quarterly meeting, that I wished to go to England, it would be carried by a major- ity, but I trust I have left it entirely in the hands of the Lord. Is it his will that I should go, or is it his will that I should stay ? May his will be done. There is a division amongst us and this will be the case as long as there are ungodlj' men amongst us. ' Mrs. Johnson is with Mr. and Mrs. Morgan in Freetown, where she is treated with Christian love and kindness. I sup- pose you will hear from Mr. Morgan by this vessel, who feels himself much disappointed, and who, I think, will be a useful man if his tongue is not kept tied. 'Brother During, I trust, is becoming useful among the people ; there appears fruit. Of other places I cannot say any thing favourable. Mr. is baptizing ungodly people. ' I have received a letter from Mr. Gates, and as Mr. seems now against the steps taken to send forth Mr. Gates with Tamba and Davis, I shall insert a few particulars from his letters, which will remove all uneasiness from your mind, in case anything should be said on the subject by Mr. . Mr. Gates wrote on the 2 2d of February as follows : — " We have PROPOSED VISIT TO ENGLAND. 149 met with some opposition in our work from the disciples of Mahomet — Avho abound in the places we have passed — but our God enabled me to stop the mouth of one of his priests, in a public argument before one of the country kings, and about thirty or forty head-men. Not being able to defend what he asserted, he was at last obliged to pack up his Koran, and run from the assembly, which occasioned a hearty laugh at his expense. Tamba has found many of his old acquaintances, who, when they heard him reason of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come, are constrained to exclaim, ' What has God wrought !' Unto the Lord I would commit myself, he has already frustrated an attempt to plunder us, and, I trust, will protect us all our journey through — should it, however, be His Avill that we should perish in His service, we cannot fall under a better master. I now feel increasingly the want of the prayers I solicited before my departure, and trust they will not cease to be offered up for us." ' I have told Mr. of the letter I received from you, concerning rtative teachers, which he does not seem to notice. A few days ago he wished that I would send some of my boys to the colonial school, to be prepared for schoolmasters. To this plan I objected — 1st, because we have a school here on the same system, and are able to teach as much as they do in Freetown. 2ndly, They would be deprived of Christian com- munion, which does not exist in Freetown ; and would be exposed to all vices, and would not be comfortable under Mr. 's care. And 3rdly, They are more useful here than they would be in Freetown, having the privilege here of con- versing with their fellow-communicants, engaging in prayer at the boys' and girls' prayer-meetings, and at different houses where prayer is wont to be made. On the whole, I cannot consent to pressing boys to become teachers or schoolmasters. Let them go on and learn as much as possible. If God then is pleased to send them, and give them a desire to become teachers, then let us send them. ' Mr. also seems to be against receiving adults as luO MEMOIR OF JOllNSOX. teachers, wliich plan I shall however adopt as much as possi- ble ; and why ? because adults speak their native tongues far better than boys, who left their native country when young, and have forgotten their countries and languages altogether. ' Excuse me if I say too much ; I assure you that it is not my intention to make divisions, but if possible to unite all in Christ Jesus, and to promote the blessed gospel of our God, amongst the poor, perishing, and long-neglected Africans. ' Mr. is also against sending out more European schoolmasters. /, however, am constrained to say, " Send as many as you possibly can ;" only let them have liberty, and let them be men of Christian experience ; and as natives are pre- paring and desirous to make known to their country-people, the riches which are in Christ Jesus, let a European go with each two or three of them, and I am sure that Africa will soon blossom as the rose. ' Should it please God that I should accompany Mrs. John- son for a few months to England, I hope and pray we may come to an understanding, ' I beg once more, my dear Sirs, that you will excuse my freedom, and pardon my infirmities. The above is not intended to be official, but as just the thoughts of — ' Yours, &c. ' W. JOUNSON.' Report of Regent'' s Town, for the quarter ending April 6, 1819. ' Our God and Saviour is still doing great things at Regent's Town. The number of communicants and candidates has increased to 226. The candidates will be baptized next Sun- day, being Easter; and at the same time, they will, if it pleases God, attend the Loid's Table. I trust I am not deceived, when I say there is sufficient evidence to prove that the}'^ are not built up by man's strength, but by the grace of God. 'The boys' school-house was burnt down a icyf weeks since, but has been rebuilt by the boys, and I hope we shall be able VISIT OF MK8. JESTV TO REGENt's TOWN. 151 to keep school again next week. The girls' and evening- schools are going on as before. Divine service is also attended with great eagerness as usual. The permanent school-houses for boys and girls are in a state of forwardness. The people here are clearing more ground this year than any previous one, which is a favourable prospect for the prosperity of Regent's Town. ' May Jesus who was, is, and is to come, have all the praise and glory, is the prayer of his unworthy servant, ' W. Johnson.' At this period, when the first stage of Mr. Johnson's mission was about closing, a remarkable testimony was given to the deep and extensive nature of the work he had been the instru- ment of effecting. Mr. and Mrs. Jesty had just arrived from England, as a reinforcement to the missionary corps at Sierra Leone. It was natural that they should soon pay a visit to the most favoured spot in the Colony. And, shortly after, Mrs. Jesty writes to her sister, from Regent's Town, under date of April 5, 1819 as follows : — ' The power of the gospel, and the efficacy of the love of Christ, have excited such joy within me, that I cannot resist giving you some information respecting it. As it is not yet determined where my husband and myself shall be stationed, we accepted the invitation to visit some of our friends, before we enter on our important work. This is our first visit at Br. Johnson's. I wish that I could find language sufficiently descrip- tive of the interesting scenes which we have witnessed here. In • deed they must be seen before the facts will be credited. Had I heard the circumstances from the best authority, I could not have conceived it possible that so glorious a progress could have been made in the work of our God, as we have beheld since we have been staying at Regent's Town. ' On Thursday, the 1st of April, Mr, Johnson sent five of his people to Freetown, to take me to his house in a palankeen. 152 MEMOIK OF JOHNSON. While Ibey waited, we heard singing; and, on going to the door, found that these five men had seated themselves under the piazza, and with united voices were singing a hymn to the praise and glory of the Redeemer. We did not disturb them, but returned to our room ; and, as you may imagine, with feel- ings of peculiar pleasure, that the Songs of Zion should be sung by the inhabitants of a heathen land. ' In the course of an hour, I set off in the palankeen, borne by these liberated negroes. When we got to the top of Lei- cester Mountain, over which we had to pass in our way to Regent's Town, I requested my bearers to stop and rest them- selves ; and then took an opportunity of introducing religious conversation. I think I may say, that the few minutes, during which we rested on the mountain, were the happiest that I had then ever experienced ; because I had never before had an opportunity of seeing the glorious effects wrought by the gospel of Jesus on the hearts of our dear black brethren. I was much astonished to hear one of the men (called the headman) address the other four in language truly scriptural, and of godly sim- plicity ; using the words of exhortation, and strongly urging the necessity of the blood of Jesus Christ to cleanse thern from their sins. He spoke much of their depravity by nature, and of their weakness and insufficiency without Christ — while his little audience listened, with an attentive anxiety, to hear the truths of the gospel from one of their countrymen, I was much affected at what he said ; and was ready to exclaim, " Oh, how powerful is the word of God !" ' Tlie power of Divine grace, in humanizing and elevating the mind, liad indeed been eminently displayed in these Christian men : for Mr. Johnson stated, that most of this very party, who were of the wild Eboe nation, had, about two years before, in carrying Mrs. Johnson to Freetown, set down the palankeen in the woods, in spite of all her remonstrances, while they settled their quarrels by a fierce battle. Of thei* entrance into Regent's Town, Mr. Jesty says — VISIT OF MRS. JESTY TO REGENt's TOWN. 153 ' Just as we liad reached the summit of the last mountain between Freetown and Regent's Town, the latter place present- ed itself to our view. As I walked down the mountain, pleased Avith the enchanting scene, I was in an instant lost in "wonder, love, and praise." Music of the sweetest kind, and possessing charms which I had never before experienced, burst upon my ears. It was moonlight; and all the houses being lighted up, I inquired of Brother Johnson from whence this sound pro- ceeded. He jiointed to the Church, which is situated at the side of a mountain, then opposite to us, on the other side of a brook that runs from the mountains betw^een the Church and the principal part of the town, over which Br. Johnson has caused his people to erect a strong, handsome, stone bridge. The Church is a fine stone building. It was now lighted up, and the people were assembled in it, for evening prayer. The chain of mountains that surrounds the town, resounded with the eclio of the praises of the Saviour. ' I hastened, with all possible speed, down the mountain and up the other, to enter the Church, where I found upward of 500 black faces prostrate at the throne of grace. I entered with Br. Johnson ; and, soon after, Mrs. Jesty arrived. After the service was over, above 200 of the congregation surround- ed us. They came in such crowds to shake hands with us, that we were obliged to give both hands at once. So rejoiced were they to see more labourers from " white-man's country," that, after we left the Church, and had entered Mr. Johnson's house, many, who from the pressure in the Church were not able to speak to and shake hands with us, entered the parlour, and would not leave until they had manifested their love to us by their affectionate looks and humble salutations.' Of a Sunday spent at Regent's Town, Mr. Jesty, after speak- ing of an early meeting in the Church, at six o'clock in the morning, thus writes : — ' At ten o'clock, I saw a sight which at once astonished and delighted me. The bell at the Church rung for Divine service ; '-y ''a 154 MEMOIR OK JOIINSOX. on uliicli Mr. Jolinson's well-regulated schools of bo3s and girls walked, two and two, to the church — the girls extremely clean, and dressed entirely in white ; in striking contrast with which wore their black arms and laces — the boys, equally clean, were dressed in white trowsers and scarlet jackets. The clothing of both boys and girls is supplied by government. 'The eagerness of the inhabitants to hear the word will ap- pear from their early atten and I think none have felt it more than his people in Regent's Town ; and Oh ! that it may have good effect in increasing their love and strengthening their faith, and enabling them to rejoice in him who doeth all things well." ' But I will say no more about this. I must confess that I pity Mr. . I heartily forgive him, and pray that if he goes out again elsewhere, he will be possessed of a more humble spirit. I suppose he will have arrived before this in England. ' We had a meeting last night, and you will see by the minutes that ail things are so far agreeable. I believe there never was a more comfortable meeting than that was. All seemed to agree to the instructions, as they were so much to the purpose. 'Yesterday (Sunday) was a day of comfort to my soul. The church was three times full. In the morning I married Mr. Kandle to Rebecca Price — preached on Matt. xi. 28 ; adminis- tered the Lord's supper to about 250 blacks, and twelve whites. It was indeed a day of rejoicing. ' The Missionary Society at this place, was also, in the dis- tressed time, given up. I have invited and exhorted the people to come forward again, which they with joy receive. Tliis evening I shall preach a sermon for the purpose, and perhaps noxt week we .shall hold our second anniver.'^ary, when I oxpi-ct all the mi>>.ioiiaii''s will attend. Notwithstanding tlio many STATK OF REGENTS TOWN. 181 trials my dear people had to go through, I find that £31 have been collected last year for the benefit of the Church Missionary Society. When I asked them why the Missionary Society was given up, they said, because nobody had told them anything about it these four or five months — that no sermon was preached, nor contributions collected. The Benefit Society was kept in order by themselves. It was reported that his Excel- lency intended to send some of the people away, and I have some reason to believe it was the case, though I would not assert it as a fact. Tamba says, " When we heard this, we prayed and wept whole nights — the Lord Jesus has delivered us ; had you stopped one week longer, we should have been gone." The Governor intended to see all the people the day after my arrival, but when I came he sent me immediately to Mr. Wilhelra, and informed him that he should not come. I believe that Mr. Wilhelm has done as much as laid in his power to restore things to their former channel, and I wish that he and Mrs. Wilhelra had been here all the time. ' Mr. Bull is moving to this place. I have bought the farm and houses (of which I told Mr. Bickersteth on the adjoining bill) for £6. Be so kind as to give more positive directions concerning the building. I do not think that the Governor will do anything further than to allow us to employ some of the captured negroes. ' Tamba, Davis, and Noah, will write to you by the next op- portunity. They have kept a journal which shall be forwarded by the next. 'Now, my dear Sirs, farewell. Pray for us that the great Jehovah may keep and preserve us, although we have lost the favour of men and have almost become a by-word. I can assure you that I was never more happy in my life than I am at present; and I am sure you will rejoice with me when you hear that the infant church at Regent's Town has stood the furnace. And you will moreover rejoice, when I tell you, that three communicants have, during my absence, gone to glory ; of which I shall give you a more particular account in my next. 182 MEMOIR OF JOHNSOJT. ' The church consists now of 259 communicants. Several of the school-girls have been married during my absence. One, (Mary Collier) a communicant, one of the youngest which were admitted to the Jjord's table, has married. ' My wife and sister join with me in Christian love towards Mrs. P., and B., and family. Mrs. Johnson is quite restored to health, a wonder to all the colonists. ' May Father, Son, and Holy Ghost have all the praise. Amen. ' I am, &c. ' W. Johnson.' W. Tamba to the Home Secretaries. ' Regent's Town, Feb. 11, 1820. 'Dear Sirs, * When Mr. Morgan was sick, Mr. came here and said, " Who are the faithful in this place ; not one man is able to take Morgan's part, but every one is bad. In this Regent's Town, they have killed Mr. Gates, and Morgan is sick. If he should be removed, I shall not come back here any more." ' And if I or Davis went to see Mr. Morgan, Mr. inter- fered and would not let us go to see him ; he said, " Morgan does not want any body to see him ;" but all the school-boys and girls went to see hira, only I and W. Davis he would not let go. * After that Mr. Morgan w^as removed to Leicester Mountain, and W. Davis asked Mr. Morgan — " Have we done anything against you ?" He said, " No." I said, " What reason is there then when you sick, Mr. cannot let us go to see you. Why did you tell him you did not want to see us ?" ' After that Mr. Morgan went away ; Mr. never came to Regent's Town, except when Mr. Johnson send letter ; then he came to Regent's Town to read the letter to us, and when he had done reading, he always said — " Johnson cannot come back again, because he hears too much bad words from this place of you all ;" and, when I hear this, I fear ; and when I STATE OF REGENTS TOWN. 183 remember the Church of Corinthians, I do not know what to do ; but I said in my mind, " Oh that I could but only read the Bible, and I shall be glad ;" but if I read the sixteenth chapter of Mark, 15th and 16th verses, I have a little comfort. But, O Lord, Thou knowest that I can do nothing of myself; but to Thee I look, and Thou canst do what Thou wilt with us. 'And again, not one of them could tell us, do so and so; no, not one, except Mr. Wilhelm and Mr. D ; those two only tell us to pray and what to do. Sometimes we go to Mr. "Wilhelm to tell him if we done anything bad to be so good and tell us, or to cast us out from the Society. He said, " If you done anything bad, nobody can cast you or Davis out, except Mr. Johnson come back, or send a letter." ' From that time bad news went all about the other towns. When we went to Freetown, we heard Regent's Town people bad. We know that the Lord has put it into your heart, to send teachers unto us, and we are glad to hear the word of our Lord Jesus Christ. ' The fifth chapter of Matthew, 9th verse, where God says, Blessed are the peace-makers, comfort us. ' I tell you, Mr. Pratt and Bickersteth, some are glad to teach us, but not all. Oh, that the Lord may give them the same desire. '•January 31, 1820. Governor send a letter to Regent's Town, to Mr. Wilhelm, that all the people should stop home to- morrow ; as he would come to see the people, and send some away. All the day my heart was troubled ; and I said, " The Lord hath forsaken this town ;" but I went into my house to consider. I bowed down to pray ; and said, '' O Lord, hast Thou not said, " Call upon me in the day of trouble : I will de- liver thee, and thou shall glorify me ?" When I went to even- ing prayer, and was full of trouble, one man came into the church, and said, " All hear ! Mr. Johnson come !" That night some of the people went down to Freetown. How joyful ! how glad was the night ! And in the morning, Feb. 1st, we, and some of the boys, went to Freetown to see Mr. Johnson ; 184 MEMOIR OF JOHNSOK. and about nine o'clock, Mr. Johnson came in the night to Regent's Town. Some of the women kept watch for him : when they see hira coming on the horse, they said, " Master ! how you do ! how you do !" '^ Feb. 2, 1820. In the morning, church was full, and Mr. Johnson said, after prayer, "All the people come to-night; I have something to tell them :" and in the night, the church was full, as much as it can hold. He read unto us the fourth chapter of the Second of Kings, 26th verse. — Run now, I pray thee, to meet her, and say unto her, Is it u'ell ivith thee ? My lieart was ready to say. " It is well with me ; not for my good deed, nor for any good desires, but by the will of Him in whom I trust." Oh, that I might be enabled to keep the command- ments of the Lord ! Oh ! may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with us all ! Amen. ' Again, when I remember my poor countrymen, I am sorry for them. I cry unto the Lord, and say, " O Lord, teach me to read Thy word, and enable me to understand what I read ; that I may tell thein that they may look to God, that He may save them from their sins, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen." * When I read the forty-fifth chapter of Genesis, the latter part of the 1st verse — Joseph made himself known unto his brethren — when I read this word, I say in my heart, " Oh, that the Lord may enable me to go to my country-people, to carry the good tidings to them ! Oh, may the Holy Spirit be with us all. Amen.'' ' Mr. Pratt, Mr. Bickersteth, how do you do ? I hope that you are well, and remember me to all my brethren and sisters. I hope they are well in the Lord. I know that the Lord hears your prayers, and our prayers. Oh, may the grace of God be with us all. Amen. ' William Tamba.' * P. S. The above was written in haste, as the boy was ready to take the letters to Freetown. ' W. Johnson.' STATE OF regent's TOWN. 185 Rev. W. Johnson to the Secretaries. ' Regent's Town, Feb. 12, 1820. ' My dear Sirs, 'W. Tamba and David Noah have brought me a part of their journal, and Davis is writing novF. I told them to write only an abstract, as the whole would have filled many sheets, and would not have been very suitable. I hesitated for awhile whether to send that which I forward now. As, however, I have received it, I think it my duty to forward the same, in order that you may be acquainted in some measure with the state of their minds. ' I shall endeavour to restore peace as much as lays in my power. I believe that nothing but jealousy has been the cause of all the differences. ' Oh ! that missionaries would but have a single eye to the glory of God, and rejoice when their brethren are useful, and not envy the success of each other. I am grieved to the utmost on this behalf. ' I had another proof of this yesterday. Mr. During was so kind as to send me a note, which he had received from Mr. Nylander, in which it was stated that D. Noah had been guilty of selling thirty buahels of lime belonging to Government. I called Noah, who declared with an open countenance, his inno- cence. I sent him to Mr. Nylander — He has returned this morning with a note from Mr. Nylander, in which the mistake is declared. Had Mr. During kept the note yesterday, the suspicion would have remained on D. Noah. Be not afraid, my dear Sirs, that I shall ever cause unpleasantness to exist among the brethren. No ; I will rather bear all, and endea- vour to make peace. I shall only vindicate (when necessary) the character of my people, which I think is my duty. ' Mr. Bull has settled here with his boys. He has only brought fourteen. The rest, which were unfit for the institu- tion, he has sent away. I have given him eleven of my elder boys, ten of which are communicants, and are very willing of 186 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. becoming teachers to their country-people. I have evident proof of their piety, and oh ! that they may kindle the fire amongst the rest of the boys. Some of tliem were mechanics. ' W. Tamba, and W. Davis, are employed as itinerants; they will attend Mr. Bull's school in the day-time, and in the evenings and on Sundays, will visit the neighbouring hamlets. One goes every night to Leicester Mountain, and keeps prayer with the people there, who are very much attached to them. On the whole they are very useful. D. Noah assists me as usual, and I don't know what I should do without him. I would not change him for an European sclioolmaster. *I have spoken with his Excellency concerning the building to be executed for the Institution here. He thinks that a building of bricks would be the cheapest and strongest. Mr. Randle will be here next week, who is a good artificer, whom I shall consult on the business. I am still full of employment, and therefore not able to write so correctly and fully as I would wish. Pray for me, that in a particular manner at this difii- cult season, the wisdom of the serpent and the harmlessness of the dove, may be granted to me. ' I remain, &c., ' "W. Johnson.' The Home Secretaries to Rev. W. Johnson. ' Church Missionary House, '^ 'April 6, 1820. ) * Dear Brother Johnson, 'Your lettej*s of Feb. 7, and 12, together with communica- tions from W. Tamba, W. Davis, D. Noah, and P. Hughes, reached us on the 1st instant. ' We " bless the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ" for your favourable passage, and the degree of health to which he has been pleased to restore Mrs. Johnson. ' The details which you give of the state in which you found things at Regent's Town, and the proceedings of Mr. in your absence, are truly afflicting. These occurrences LETTERS FROM HOME. 187 painfully force upon our notice, how essential prudence, tem- per, and deep humility are, to a right discharge of the arduous duties of a Missionary. We cannot but remark, however, the gracious Providence of God in your seasonable arrival at the colony, and trust that you will be enabled speedily to restore things to a better state. It is scarcely necessary for us to add, that such a line of conduct in accoraplishiug this, as will best promote peace and harmony among all connected with the Mission, will at once illustrate your own spirit and principles, and most powerfully tend to the attainment of the Society's great object in Africa. ' Whatever buildings should be erected for the Seminary, should be well built and substantial, but none should be entered upon until the nature and extent of them has been considered, and decided on, at a meeting of the Chaplains and Missionaries. ' Mr. Bull is to consider himself at present as the master of the Seminary, and his duties are the education of the youths who may be placed in it. To this object he is to devote and confine himself, under your direction. The superintendence of the town, the seminary, and every thing connected with the station, is to rest exclusively with you. • You have done quite right in sending to us the letters and journals of Tamba, &c. Such documents give us more insight into the character of the persons, and the working of their minds, than can possibly be done by the representations of others, however faithfully made. ' The Committee particularly wish that Tamba, &c., and all such as may be designed for teachers among their countrymen, should be kept close to study, for the information and enlarge- ment of their minds, by the acquisition of such useful know- ledge as bears most directly upon their future labours among their countrymen, without trenching on such studies as may tend to their own spiritual improvement. ' Praying, dear brother, that you may abundantly receive every gift and grace, which is needful for your personal walk and ministerial usefulness, in circumstances of no little difficulty 188 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. and perplexity, and desiring our best Christian regards to Mrs. Johnson, &c. ' We remain, &c., ' JosiAH Pratt, ' Edward Bickersteth.' The Secretaries to W. Tamba, W. Davis, D. Noah, and P. Hughes. ' London, Church Missionary House, ) 'April 7, 1820. ' y 'Dear Friends, 'We have received your journals and letters, giving us an account of Mr. Johnson's arrival, and what took place during his absence from you. ' There are some things in them which give us joy, and some things that we are sorry for. ' It gave us great joy to hear of the arrival of Mr. Johnson among you, and to know how happy his return had made you ; and again, it gave us joy to find that you were still in the way of the Lord, and had been kept by the power of God, through faith, under mnny trials. ' But we were grieved to hear of some of the trials you have gone tlirough. You have been taught that we must, through tribulation, enter the kingdom of heaven. We must •wholly depend on our Lord Jesus Christ. He alone never leaves us, never forsakes or fails us; trust, therefore, entirely in him. 'And then, dear friends, pray to God to make you very meek, and humble, and teachable, and to make you submissive to your superiors. This is the Christian spirit, for it is like our Saviour, who washed even the feet of his disciples. 'May God bless you all, and make you a blessing to all your countrymen. May he ever help you to speak to them ■with power, faithfulness, and love, and make you perfect in every work to do his will. RESTORATION. 189 * But we must not forget to tell you another thing to whicli the Committee wish you should all attend. They are not only desirous that you should know the word of God, but that your minds should be opened, and your views enlarged, by a know- ledge of the world in which we live, and a history of the dif- ferent nations of the earth, and of their present state. Mr. Johnson has got a large supply of books for this purpose, and the Committee expect that you will all give some hours every day to reading and studying those books which he puts into your hands. You should all also thoroughly understand the National system of education. ' This is all we have to say ; may grace and peace be multi- plied unto you. "We are, dear friends, &c. ' JosiAH Pratt, 'Edvtard Bickersteth.' We now resume the journals of Mr. Johnson, for the months of February and March, 1820. ' Feb. 21, 1820. Yesterday morning we bad prayer-meeting as usual. D. Noah, P. Hughes and I. Sandy engaged in prayer, and myself concluded. Mr. Bull kept prayer-meeting with his boys separately. Mr. B. was much pleased with the boys who engaged in prayer, especially John Attarra, one of our communicants, who has, with eleven more boys, joined the institution from our school. ' At half-past ten divine service. The church was full. Mr. Bull read the Church Service, after which I preached on Luke xxiii. 42, 43. ' After service, several of the communicants expressed great joy. One, an old man, by the name of Leopold Susah, said, ' Massa, my heart sing, me glad too much.' I asked, ' What made your heart sing, Susah ?' ' Ah, you see that poor thief, you talk about, he no good at all ; he be bad when they hang him on the cross — God teach — he show him bad heart — he m?ke him pray to Jesus Christ : — * Lord ! remember me.' Jesus 8* 190 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. no say, ' Me no want you — you too bad — you be thief too much.' No, he no say so, but take him and tell him, * To-day thou shalt be with me in heaven.' I see Christ take poor sin- ner ; that make me glad too much. Ah, my heart sing. True, me bad, very bad ; me sin too much ; but Jesus Christ can make me good. He take poor thief — he take me — me the same. Thank God, thank God ! ' In the afternoon Mr. Bull exhorted the people from Matt. x. 32, 33. In the evening I spoke on John xvi. 31. *' Do ye now believe ?" The Lord was with us — the people were so atten- tive, that I could have spoken to them all night. ' After service, the Institution boys, and the rest of the school- boys, kept prayer-meeting together in the church, under the direction of Willian Vivah, a communicant. The girls kept prayer-meeting in their school-room, under the direction of a communicant. Our hearts did sing for joy while we heard singing and praying on every side. Blessed be the Lord of Hosts, who still carries on the work of grace amongst us ! May the Lord have all the praise. *W. Tamba went on Saturday afternoon to the first Sherbro town, called Tongeh Place, in order to keep service there yes- terday. W. Davis went to Leicester Mountain, where he kept service three times yesterday, and also this morning. He has now returned, and is pursuing his studies in the seminary. D. Noah kept service twice with the sick people in the hospital. The school-girls and boys were catechised between divine service. 'I have just been to the school. Mr. Bull had put the first class of my boys with his, and I was much delighted to see some of my little red-jackets standing at the top of the class. In the whole, there is now a great eagerness amongst old and young to learn to read. I have never witnessed it so before. ' I have had many sweet conversations with the people last week. I have noted down a few which I will insert here. ' One man said, " Massa, before you go from this place, you preach and you say, ' Suppose somebody beat rice, when he RESTORATION. 191 done beat, he talces the fan and fan it, and then all the chaff fly away, and the rice get clean. So God do him people, he fan the chaff away. Now Massa, we been in that fashion since you been gone to England. God fan us that time for true." ' This man went with another the following day, to clear a place for a farm ; he was cutting one tree, and his companion another, whose tree fell first and fell upon the man. How- ever, he was miraculously pi'eserved. His face was cut, but his life was spared. He is fast recovering, and praising God for his peculiar mercy. ' On Friday night, a house caught fire and was burned down. The alarm-bell was struck, and all the people came to the fire. One of the communicants was much distressed on Saturday. He said, " Last night that house burn — the bell ring — all peo- ple get up, and go to the fire ; but I no hear it. I sleep all night until this morning, then the people tell me ; this make me fraid too much Jesus Christ shall come in the same fashion, and me fraid he find me sleep." He was indeed much dis- tressed. May the Lord bless the words which were spoken to him ! 'J. n., a communicant, said, "I thank the Lord Jesus Christ for what he done for me. I sorrow because I cannot keep the commandments. I want to do them too much, but I cannot do them myself. The Lord bring me into this country : He do it with his own mighty hand. He no come to save good people, but sinners. Oh, I pray that God the Father may give me peace through Jesus Christ. No man can save another, but only the Lord Jesus Christ. Sometimes me feel glad too much." Ques, "What makes j^ou feel glad?" Ans. "The Lord Jesus Christ. He save poor sinners. He die for them ; that makes me glad. Sometimes me no have peace at all." Q. " What is it that disturbs your peace ?" A. " Because me no keep the commandments." Q. " When you no feel peace, what do you do then ?" A. " I go to the Lord Jesus Christ- he give me peace." ' J. Collv, an Ebo man, one of those savages that were sent 192 MEMOIR OF J0^^'60N, here from the African corps ; not a communicant — " Massa, I come to you to t.tlk about God palaver. My heart trouble me too much — me want to pray, but me uo sabba how to pray." Q. " "What do you want to pray for ?" A. " Me want to pray to God to save me — me too bad." Q. " What makes you bad ?'' A. " Me remember the thief — me lie — me curse — me do bad thing too much, and me no remember me do good." He appeared to be convinced of sin. I questioned him on the Saviour's ability to save him, but found him not clear on that head — gave him such instructions as will relieve him, if blessed by the Holy Ghost. ' Sam, not a communicant. " I want to come to Jesus Christ to save me. Me trouble too much ; many bad things I do, and them trouble me too much. I believe that Jesus Christ die for me, and I believe that He be God." Q. " How many Gods are there ?" A. " God the Father — God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost, that be one God." Spoke to him as the Spirit gave utterance, and told him to keep company with Josiah Yamsey, a communicant, who is his countryman, and can speak to him in his own tono-ue. ' Peter Green, who had been excommunicated for bad con- duct, said, " Mr. Johnson, since you go from this place, I have no peace, I have trouble too much. I don't think I belong to God, and that trouble me too much. I have done bad since you go away ; I have quarrelled with ray wife, and my wife reported me to the Governor, and he put me in jail, and then they turn me out of the church. I am very sorry for what I have done. I have no peace." Q. " Do you live peaceable ■with your wife now ?" A. " Yes, sir." I exhorted him to prayer and watchfulness, &c., and told him that if his conduct agreed with what he said, I would re-admit him. ^ Ann Shaw, not a communicant. "Massa, I can't get rest at all ; my wicked heart trouble me. None can do me good except the Lord Jesus Christ. He only can do me good." I said, " If you are persuaded of that, go then to him ; he says, * None coming unto me will I cast out.' A. " I cannot go to RESTORATION. 193 Him by my own strength, Massa." Q. " Did you ever pray to hira ?" A. " Yes, I pray, but I can't tell if God hear my prayer. Sometimes when I pray I feel glad, but sometimes when I pray, my heart run all about, and then I feel no peace." Q. " What makes you feel glad sometimes ?" A. " Because Jesus Christ been hang on the cross for poor sinners. He shed his blood to save sinners." Fanny Leigh, a school-girl, not a communicant, appeared much distressed : she said, " Once, Massa, you say in the church, ' Every one who dies without believing in Jesus Christ would go to hell.' These words, Massa, live always before my ear, make me afraid too much ; and again, me do bad very much. Every day my heart plague me — me get bad more and more, me don't know what to do." She wept bitterly. Q. "How long is it you feel so ?" A. " Before you go to England, and since that time, my heart trouble me ; no good thing live in my heart. I hope the Lord Jesus Christ will have mercy upon me. Suppose he no save me, I must go to hell. I want to pray to him, and sometimes me pray, but me think he no hear me. I have no strength, but I trust the Lord will help me." ' Josiah Yamsey, a communicant. " One morning last week, when we had morning prayer, you read the first Psalm. When you came to the last verse, you said, ' The ungodly shall perish — hear this now — you hear what God says — the ungodly shall perish !' Oh massa, them words go through my heart, them make me 'fraid too much. But on Sunday you preach to me — you preach on the words, ' Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.' That word comfort me very much. I was troubled too much, but the Lord Jesus delivered me through them words. I thank God for his mercy." 'Feb. 22, 1820. Slept very little during the night. The spiritual state of the people is upon my mind very much. Oh, who is sufficient for these things ? May God the Holy Ghost help me, and enable me to build up the people of God in this 194 MEMOIR OF JOriNSOX. place in their most boly faith The following promise comforted my soul : "Fear not, I will help thee." ' W. Taniba came home yesterday. He spoke on Sunday morning to the Sherbro people, at Tongeh Place, and then Avent to a small place where a number of negroes live, called Passantah Place : where only two women and one man would hear what he had to say. lie then returned to Wilberforce, where he arrived in time to keep service in the afternoon and evening, Mr. Decker having the fever. Our evening-school increases very much. We had last night 140 men and boys, and about 80 women. ' Feh. 23. S. Collins, a communicant, came to me and said, " Massa, me know for true this time that God never leave nor forsake him people. That time you go, too much trouble come in this place, and then we hear that you no come back again, and we hear that the Governor want to break up this town. Me say to J. Bell, ' Come, let us go to another place, where people no trouble us,' but my brother say, ' No,' •we no must run away from trouble. God send it, and God will take it away. I no believe that Mr. Johnson no come back.' Well, I stop a little longer ; and, by and bye, some of my brethren do bad ; when trouble come they no bear it. That hurt me too much ; then I want to go away again, but God stop me. By and bye news come that the Governor want to break this town up. Me think, ' Now God forsake the people at Regent Town.' Me go to the Church at night. Mr. Wilhelm say all people must be ready ; the Governor comes to-morrow. Ah ! massa, my heart feel sorry for true, but just when me in that way, a man came into church and say, ' Mr. Johnson come !' Oh, massa, I can't tell you what my heart feel then. God no forsake his people. He know all liim people. Oh, thank God, thank God !" ' John Attana, a communicant, and now in the seminary. " Me sorry for myself, and for my country people. I think I no shall do good to them. Oh, that God may teach me, that I may teach my poor country people again. Me cannot do NATIVE COMMUNICANTS. 195 anything by myself. I am too bad — my heart very wicked. I pray that the Lord Jesus Christ may have mercy upon me. Ftb. 25. — ' In the afternoon, the second anniversary of the Regent's Town Church Missionary Society, was held. The church was full on the occasion. The Rev. Messrs. During, Decker, and Johnson, and Messrs. Taylor, Fox, Tamba, Davis, Noah, Sandy, and Hughes, addressed the meeting ; after which a collection was made, which amounted to £4 8s. 6d.' Of the addresses of the native communicants at this meeting, Mr. Pratt has preserved the following record : — One of the Christian negroes spake thus : — ' My dear brothers and sisters — I stand here before the con- gregation, not by my will, but by the will of God. I thank the Lord Jesus Christ for His mercy, in bringing me to this country to hear the gospel. When I first went to the meeting, I did not know what I went for. One evening when I live in my house Mr. Johnson came to me, and he talk to me about my soul ; and what he told me that night I no forget till this time. I thank the Lord Jesus Christ that he has shewn me my sinful state. That time I live in my country, I think I very good ; but I see now, suppose I been die that time, I go down to everlasting condemnation. When I live in my country, fight come ; they catch me ; and when I live in ship, I sick too much. But God know what was good for me. I see plenty people jump into the water, and I want to do the same ; but God would not let me : He prevented me, and brought me here. If the Lord had not brought me here, I could not come. White man no come for nothing here : he tell us about Jesus, and Jesus know every sinner. He willing to save them ; but no one can come to him. God must draw him ! ! I thank the Lord Jesus Christ for what he done for me. Christ says, Let your light shine before men. Consider — does your light shine ? Again he says. Let not your heart be troubled : ye believe ir^ God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are 196 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. many mansions — Those mansions are for the people of God. I thank the Lord that he has brought Mr. Johnson back. I know Mr. Johnson can't save me ; but that word he tell me can. You pray for missionary, that very good thing. He come to you : he leave his brother, mother, and father, to come to tell you that Jesus Christ came to save sinners. You must give your coppei-s too. Suppose you have one copper, or one shilling ; no say you no got plenty : ■what little you have, give that.' A second native thus addressed the meeting : — ' I once more stand among you, in the house of the Lord. Last year I no been know if I shall live this time ; but God enable me. I know not my father and mother, but God is my Father and Mother. Some white man take me and sell me. I came here, my eyes blind, my heart hard. No word of man can open my eyes and ears. The Lord Jesus open my eyes and ears, and I received his word. As long as I live I desire to talk to my country-people, but they no hear what I say. I pray that they rnay hear and be saved. They go in the bush, and take bug-a-bug nest, and make god : and they take sticks and make fire to cook rice ; and part they burn to their god. I go to see my country-people at their farms, but they talk about their good works : they no want to hear about the Lord Jesus Christ. You should all give to the Missionary Society ; and may God grant that my heart may give also !' A young man followed : — * My dear brethren, I am not worthy to speak any thing before you ; for I am not worthy to mention the name of God. I see, and you know, when Mr. Johnson first come, he preach — I go and come back the same as I go : I no understand what he preach. He then preach again — the word he speak hurt me too much. I feel heart sick. He say, " No man can enter into the kingdom of God, except he be born again — no thief. NATIVE COMMUNICANTS. 19*7 no bad man go there." Then me hear again, that Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners. When I hear this it made me very glad. I was the same like a man who carry a bag full of stones on his head : I went into the bush and pray, and I get peace and my heart glad. That time I see the light of God shine in my heart. When I go to church, I have joy — when I go home, I have joy — when I in bed, I have joy — when I get up, T have joy. But this time, I no feel so glad. I feel myself guilty : my heart is as hard as a rock. If God cast me into hell, he do good. I deserve it. But I thank him for his salvation bought with blood. He save me freely. I see the difference now. When I was a little boy, no done suck, fight come into my country. My mammy ran away ; and, when she run, she throw me away, and a man come and pick me up, and I no see my mammy again. By and bye, they sell me for a bundle of tobacco.' After relating the circumstances of his being brought to Sierra Leone, he added — 'Missionary come here, and preach to us, and we pay no- thing, England make us free, and bring us to this country. God, my brothers, has done great things for us ; but I have denied him like Peter. I can say I am guilty before him ; but he will have mercy upon whom he will have mercy. Oh may he liave mercy upon me ! I am not able to do any thing. I pray God to make us help God's word to cover the earth, as the waters cover the sea. I believe that that word will come true. If any one got a penny let him give it, and pray God to bless our Society.' The missionaries who gave these minutes of what was said, regret that they were unable to give a moie full account of this young native's address. It was so impressive that it brought tears from their ej^es. A fourth communicant said — 198 MEMOIR OF JOIIXSON. " I was a little boy when I come into this country. I bear about the Lord Jesus Christ, but I no understand. The Governor send me here. Mr. Hirst lived here. He preach — I go — I hear — but I no hear. I was blind. I no see it neces- sary. Mr. Johnson came, and the first Sacrament-day I go. Monday I go to work. A man tell me, " You received your own damnation." That make me afraid too much. I heard afterwards that God's people must have trouble ; but I did not believe it ; but now I see the difference. I know now that the road to heaven is a rough one. Ikit I remember that Christ prays for us ; and that he came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. When I was blind, the Lord preserved me out of many troubles : but I did not know then ; but now I see. Once I was blind, but now I see. I am sorry for my country-people, they are blind, they are in darkness. Oh that they may feel and know what I feel and know ! We must lift our hearts for them to the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank him that he has put it into the hearts of white people to do poor black people good. I will give what I can that they may know the word of God. I was in my country-fashion, but by the grace of God I am what T am. Let us pray for our country- people ; but don't let us forget ourselves. Oh that the Lord may give us strength !' A fifth communicant last addressed his countrymen. 'If I had stopped in my own country, I should have gone to liell. I was not long a slave in my own country. My father sent me with my big brother to the Headman of the country. AVhether he sold me to him, I cannot tell. The Headman sent me to another country. AVe walked about two weeks. Then they send me to the sand-beach, and white man take me ; and ho liide us ; and I and another boy we ran away about two miles ; but they catch us again. I did not know any thing about God at that time ; but still I said, " If God will, they shall catch us." I was so afraid when I got into the vessel, I cried very much, NATIVE COMMUNICANTS. 199 especially when I think about my father, brother, and sister. But, by God's Providence, I am come to this country. I went to meeting to hear Mr. Hirst ; but I play and laugh when I was there. Then Mr. Johnson came. I always come to church because other people go. I hear, but I did not under- stand, till I got sick with the small-pox : then I thought I should die. I begin to fear. Then I remember the word which I had heard in the church. But God spared me. I got better. It was then that I found the Lord Jesus ; and I desire to know the Lord Jesus more and more, and that my country- people may hear of him. When I consider what the Lord has suffered for sinners, I am sorry too much ; especially when I read the 53rd chapter of Isaiah. That chapter make me sorry too much. He was wounded for our transgressions, and bruised for our iniquiiies. I trust that through the precious blood of Jesus, I shall be justified, and shall reign with him in heaven. My country-people lie in darkness. They worship their own gods. "What Mr. Taylor say just now about the day of judgment — that we should meet our country-people, and that, perhaps, through the coppers which we give, make me glad too much. Friends ; consider your former state, and consider the state of your country-people now. I dare say some people say, " Some white people bring me to this coun- try." But they are only instruments : it is God that brought xis here, to hear of Jesus the Saviour of sinners. Suppose they say, the Lord Jesus no came into the world to save sinners, but the righteous, I must go to hell. Oh pray, continually pray, for ourselves and for our country-people. Suppose we meet in the day of judgment, and they stand on the left hand, and they say, " you been see me go to hell, and have not told me about it." Try to do the best : pray, and give money. I thank the Lord Jesus, who save me, who bled for me, who was once nailed on the cross. Oh we must pray that the Lord may save us, and receive us into the kingdom of glory. Suppose Christ leave us to-day — we fall into hell.' 200 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. The journal now continues, as follows : — 26. — ' Several communicants spoke at the usual conference- meeting. Josiah Yamsey related part of his life — how many times he was sold, and what the Lord had done for liim when in darkness and ignorance. When he had stated his experience, he said, "My dear country-people, look back and see what great things God has done for us." I was so struck with Avhat he said, that I intend to spend a day with him, in order to collect his life, which I think will be very interesting. Others spoke much on the same head. 27. — ISunday. ' Divine service, half past ten o'clock. The church is as full as usual. I spoke on the words, " What hath God wrought?" In the afternoon I spoke on 1 John v. 20 ; and in the evening on Rev. xxii. Y. Oh, may God bless his word ! In the evening we had the best time. The Lord Jesus was in the midst of lis. After evening service, the boys had prayer meeting in the church. 28. — ' T. B , a communicant, came to me; he has been much afflicted of late, with illness. He said, " Massa, you say yesterday in church, some people come to prayer every morning and evening, and on Sunday, four times. They have been baptized and now call themselves Christians : and think, because they come to church, and say. Lord, Lord ! they are going to heaven, while they have no heart-religion, and do not worship God in spirit and in truth. They know not true religion, but only put Jesus Christ in their mouths, and no do the things which he command them, and are still going down to hell. Oh, massa, them word hurt me too much — me think me that man — me do that. Oh, massa, me no sleep all night — me have no peace — me fraid too much." He wept bitterly ; tears of grief rolled over his black cheeks. I spoke to him, as the Holy Ghost enabled me. May the great comforter of souls comfort him. ^Josiah Yamsey came and told me, with a sorrowful counte- nance, that two of his countrymen went yesterday into the bush. JOURNAL. 201 to cut sticks. He said, " You see, massa, wliat them people do on Sunday. By and bye they will bring trouble again in this place, for do work on Sunday. Me always tell them, but their heart so hard, they will not mind what I tell them. I wish God may teach them. Me 'fraid God punish the place for the sake of the people." Feb. 2'9 — '■W. Gamon, a communicant, now in the seminary, came and complained much. He said, " Since you spoke in the church about hypocrites, I had no peace. You said that many people only know the Lord Jesus Christ by their head ; they only say. Lord, Lord ! They come to church morning and evening, and on Sundays, and they don't know Jesus Christ by the heart — the Holy Ghost no lead them to Jesus ; they think they have peace with God, because they do good ; they have no peace with God, through Jesus Christ. Massa, then:i words live in my heart. I have no rest. I think I one of the people that say. Lord, Lord ! And again, another thing trou- ble me, that is, for my learning. I can't learn good. And another thing, sometimes I talk to those boys who come from Leicester Mountain, about God, and they say, Uon't talk to me, you can't teach me ; and that boy Maxwell, who been to Eng- land, he bad more than all, he curse : and suppose I tell him, he say, me no care. He very bad boy." '■March 4. Several people spoke this evening, so that I felt what I cannot express. One woman who had been in my school, and is now married, said, " When I very young, my mother die. Soon after bad sickness come in my country — people look quite well, and all at once they fall down and die. So much people die that they could not bury them. Some- times six or seven people stand at one place, and all at once three or four fall down and die. My father take me, and run to another country, because he fraid of that bad sick. My father got sick, but he no die. Me get sick too. One day my father send me to get some cassada. Two men meet me in the road, catch me and carry me to the headman. The headman say they must sell me. Just when they wanted to carry me 202 MEMOIR OF JOHN'SOX. away, my father came. He very sick : he look me, and they say rae thief, and they go and sell me. My father begin to beg them, but they no hear. My father stand and cry ; and oh, massa, since you talk that palaver about missionary, and about our fathers and mothers, me have no rest. Here she burst into tears, and said, " My father always stand before my eyes. Oh, poor man, he no sabby any thing about Jesus Christ." She wept very loudly, and after a little continued her sad tale. "After they carried me two days, they sold me. I do not know what they got for me. I stop there a little, and then people carry me to another place and sell me again with plenty more people. Me very sick that time ; oh me very poor and nothing but bone. After the man that buy me took me, he say, ' This girl no good, she go to die. I will kill her — she no good to sell.' A woman live there (I think it one of him wife) she beg the man not to kill me. Oh massa, God send that woman to save my life. Suppose that woman no come and beg for me, what place I live now." She wept again, and could not proceed with her tale. * Most of those who are influenced by Divine grace, begin to see now the hand of God in all their former lives. I believe that we all were so affected, that many tears were shed in silence. Ah, who would not be a missionary to Africa ? Had I ten thousand lives, I think I would willingly offer them up for the sake of one poor negro. Our friends in England do not know half the sorrows and miseries that reign in Africa. " Oh that the salvation of Israel were come out of Zion." ' A girl said, " Massa, you say last Sunday that God's people have no business to keep company with the wicked. On Mon- day morning I go with one bad girl down to the Brook, and I have no business to go with her. When I go with her, a stick cut my toe, I think about them words you talk in church, my heart strike me, I come home and cry ; but massa, I no cry about my toe, but I cry about my sins.' " LETTERS. 203 'March 7, 1820. * My dear Sirs, ' I could write you many more aflecting tales, but as I have written the most part of this day, and it is now late, I must conclude. I have to attend the proclamation of king George the Fourth to-morrow morning in Freetown, when I intend to take this with me, as a vessel is about to sail. You will see in the above, that the work of the Lord is still carried on. It pleased God to call me to Europe last year ; and although I could not see it at first, yet blessed be God, I see now that it has been good both for me and my people. I trust it has been the means of uniting me more in affection to you ; for I must confess, that I felt not so much attached to you before as I do now ; and I would entreat you continually to give me advice and admonition, on whatever you think in me is out of the way. I beg you would reprove me. I can assure you you have not to deal with a more feeble missionary than myself. In fact, I cannot express my feelings on this head. Oh, con- tinue to pray for me that I may be kept humble. I am a poor sinful creature. It often grieves me when I consider what ex- pense my journey to England and Germany has been ; but I trust it has been altogether for good. Saturday night is always considered by me as a peculiar season. Blessed be God that I have ever been permitted to attend the Saturday evening Prayer-meetings in the Missionary House. Give my Christian love to all friends who attend on that occasion. ' I shall give you, as soon as I can, some full tales of my people, which are more interesting than ever I expected. My wife and sister join in Christian love to you, &c. ' W. Johnson.' 'March 25, 1820. ' It is now my wish to give you all the information concern- ing things which have come to my knowledge since my return. ' The Governor has in a great measure behaved more kind to me than formerly ; but he is notwithstanding, " Old M'Carthy" 204 MEMOIR OF JOHXSOX. Still. I believe he has studied to be more prudent. He now seldom visits us, and so gives us less trouble. If he comes into the mountains, he generally spends the greater part of his time at Bathurst and Leopold, where (as he con- fesses) he meets with more pleasure and hospitality. Some- times he stays so long at these places that he has not time to call here, but passes by. He has not been here these three weeks, and formerly he would come twice a week, but I can assure you that we are quite comfortable on that account. ' The natives who resided on the East and South sides of the Peninsula, (now called the Colony,) have almost abandoned their villages on account of the new settlements which have been established near or among them, and I believe that even the people down the Sherbro, stand in fear of losing their land. 'The improvement in the Colony (i. e. making more towns and taking lands which did not belong to the Colony,) will more and more prejudice the minds of the natives against the spread of the gospel of our God. Thus all openings appear to be shut again, which causes not a little uneasiness to my mind ; but " the Lord, He is God," He will open effectual means and ways in His own time, A passage has often com- forted me, and which every day is new to me, " I will bring the blind by a way which they know not.'' ' The Europeans of Freetown have now commenced a new method of showing their ungodliness. They frequently break the Sabbath by going on horseback round the villages. They generally go through Gloucester and Bathurst to Leopold, where they arrive when Divine Service is nearly over, which they profess to attend. Afterwards they proceed to the water- falls, get almost intoxicated, and then return through Regent's Town about 3 o'clock, and annoy us with a great many com- pliments when we are about to go into church. Some came a few Sundays since during morning service, and walked all abouc the place — no people being at home except the sick in the hos- pital. I have given the churchwarden orders to tell them, when they come again, that all the people in Regent's Town LETTERS. 205 serve God on Sundaj , and that he is sorry to see a white man who knows book, break the Sabbath. 'I am exceeding glad to hear of the arrival of Mr. Garnsey. I hope he will meet with more success than his predecessor. ' I am sorry to say the Bible Society is entirely neglected. The anniversary should have been held in January. We will endeavour to have a meeting as soon as possible. ' I am happy to say I firtnly believe Mr. Taylor is made very useful. I am quite delighted with the improvement in Char- lotte Town. We were there last week, and formed a Mission- ary Society. The people begin to inquire about the best things, and by the collection which was made at the doors, you will see that there is a desire of doing something towards the spread of the gospel. Leopold's Town appears to be asleep as usual. Charlotte is only half a mile from Leopold, but not a single individual attended the meeting from that place. ' We had a Missionary prayer-meeting this week here, (not the monthly one which is public, but a meeting only for Mis- sionaries, and such as are asked to attend or wish to come,) Messrs. During, Decker, Taylor, and myself, only were present of the Missionaries. I trust Ave found it good. I am sorry to say that our church is in a bad state, I am afraid that it will not stand. We are repairing it now, and intend to finish it as well as we can. I asked his Excellency to build another, and use the present one for other purposes when another is finished. He gave me no decided answer. ' The schools are going on well. The evening school espe- cially, makes good progress. I am indeed, delighted to attend for no weariness is perceived ; all is pleasure, which makes it to me a delightful season. Scholars assist continually ; Mr. Bull assists and takes an active part. 'A vessel has arrived from America with settlers. They intend to settle on the Sherbro. Three clergymen are the agents. I saw two of them, who appeared very respectable and pious men. May God accompany them with his blessing. ' Now, my dear Sirs, farewell. Bear always upon your mind 9 206 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. at a throne of grace, the man that writes this, who is sometimes encouraged, and then again discouraged ; sometimes upon the mount, sometimes very low in tlie valley. Oh ! pray that he might be kept by the Almighty power of God, and led into all truth by the Holy Spirit, and may give all the glory to Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. ' My sister is recovering from a severe fever. I think she is now prepared to meet the rains. Mrs. Johnson, who enjoys good health, joins me in Christian affection to Mr. and Mrs. Pratt, and Mr. and Mrs. Bickersteth. ' Your ever faithful servant, ' W. Johnson.' JRev. W. Johnson to the Secretaries. ♦Regent's Town, May 5th, 1820. ' Rev. and dear Sirs, ' I wrote to you last in the latter end of March, I now enclose my journal up to the first of May. The rainy and unhealthy season is now fast approaching. We have had one or two tor- nados almost every night, and with them much sickness, and more so at this place than any other town, for which I cannot account. Mr. Bull has recovered, but is very weak and languid. My sister had a very severe attack, but through the mercy of God, is free from fever now. Mrs. Johnson is better than could be expected: I myself am very low spirited, I do not recollect that I have ever been in such a low state before. But all must be well. I know we are all " immortal till our work is done," I therefore leave all in the hands of my dear Saviour. ' You will see by the journal that the great work which our Jehovah has begun is still proceeding. There are now nine- teen candidates for baptism, whom I instruct once or twice a week for that ordinance and the Lord's Supper. I trust they are partakers of grace ; I have been as careful in examining them as I am able. There are about as many more, whom I have not examined yet. Amongst those nineteen candidates I LETTERS. 207 am glad to sa}', are two of the institution boys, who have come from Leicester Mountain. I think there is in general, a great change for the better amongst the boys in the Seminary. The boy Henry Card, (the only one admitted from our school who was not a communicant) is also among the candidates. The late Mr. Gates sent him a dying message, which was the means of the boy's conversion. ' John Johnson (who wrote to me -when in London) took refuge at Cape Shilling during my absence, but when I returned, wrote me several letters, begging very earnestly to be admitted as a scholar in the Seminary. As he was bound apprentice to Government, I applied to his Excellency, who granted the re- quest, but not quite w^illingly. However, John is now pursuing his studies in the Seminary. ' We have been more free, of late, from the Europeans coming on Sundays to disturb us. Once they came and made many compliments, after they had walked about the place. I told them I was glad to see them at any time, but was exceedingly sorry to see them break the Lord's day. They did not answer anything, but one complained much of my young horse, which came out of the meadow and kicked his horse. Mr. Bull being present, said, the horse was very religious, and did not like to see gentlemen break the Sabbath. They made a good many excuses, and went away, and have not come since. 'I am sorry to say that the Americans, who have lately set; tied at the Sherbro, are in a wretched condition. They have scarcely any houses to live in, and are most of them ill. A great number have already died, amongst whom is Rev. W. Bacon, whom I saw at Freetown. I believe that the settlers have lost their father. ' Thus, my dear sirs, I have stated to you some particulars which have entered into my mind. May the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and Jacob, be with you, and prosper you in all your undertakings. We continue to remember you and the whole Society, at the throne of grace, as I am fully persuaded you continue to do in our behalf. By the time you receive this, we 208 MEMOIR OF JOIIXSOX. shall be in the midst of rains, and in the midst of jeopardy, — perhaps, no more in the flesh. But come what will, we are in the Lord's hands. " The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want." Oh, that I may but be useful while here below ! May our Lord Jesus Christ but be glorified ; then, whether we live or die, all is well. ' I remain, &c. * W. Johnson.' May 6. — 'I am very unwell with the fever; Mrs. Johnson also.' Hev. W. Johnson to the Secretaries. ' Regent, May 20, 1820. ' Rev. akd dear Sirs, ' When I closed my last parcel, I had the fever : and I be- lieve I mentioned it at the end of the letter. I must confess that I expected a severe attack, having been to Europe ; I thought the first fever would be severe. However, I am glad to say, I had only three hours of the fever. It was on a Satur- day, but I was enabled, by the mercy of God, to preach twice on the Lord's day following, and administer the Lord's Supper to all the communicants, except the sick. I have been since far better than before. My wife was again attacked the same day, a,x\^ has had a narrow escape. She is now slowly recovering. My sister has the fever yet, but is somewhat better to-day. Mr. Bull has been ill, and is now for a change at Gloucester. Mr. During writes this morning, that he is much better. Thus you see, Africa does not improve in respect to health ; but let us still wait, for we shall see the salvation of the Lord. He will perform all his pleasure. He is the Lord, let him do what seemeth him good. ' I fear T shall be deprived of Mr. Bull's assistance : should he have many more attacks, I think he will return home. He is much reduced, and therefore much depressed in spirits. Yet I know that while one is taken on the right, and another on LETTERS. 209 tbe left, Ethiopia shall yet stretch forth her hands unto God. Pray for us. If ever a mission was afflicted, I think it is this. ' I am happy to say that we are much attached to each other, (I mean the Missionaries,) more so than has ever been the case in Africa ; and I hope, whenever others come to join us, that they will be peace-makers, and not filled with self, and so envy the success of their fellow-labourers. The monthly prayer-meeting joins our hearts. We had the last at Mr. Flood's house. Mr. Nylander, I believe, would be present, but his infirmities are great. His spirit is willing, but the flesh weak. ' The work of the Lord is proceeding as usual. I have di- vided the candidates into two classes. The first class I instruct every Friday evening, and the second, every Wednesday even- ing. The number is twenty- three. I should have baptized them to-morrow, as it is Whit-Sunday, but I wish to examine them before the whole congregation, for which they are not quite ready. ' The last report which I gave to his Excellency, of our schools, is as follows : — 'Boys, 65. — Girls, 64. — Men, 189. — Women, 83.— Students in Seminary, 25. — Domestics in Seminary, 5. Total, 431. ' D. Noah is still increasing in usefulness. He is indeed a valuable assistant to me. Tamba and Davis, I trust, have been made useful ta some of the people at Leicester Mountain. One man from that place attended the Lord's Supper here last ordinance Sunday. ' An awful circumstance occurred last Wednesday. Mr. Le- fevre, the Commissary General, went to shoot deer. A Kroo- man who did not please him, was struck by him with the butt end of his gun, when it went oft', and the contents lodged in Mr. Lefevre's left breast, and killed him. An awful warning ! ' Excuse me writing so much, but allovv me to say, that it aflfords me much pleasure and comfort. When I sit by myself, (having no one to converse with, and being sick,) and can 210 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. write to you, I feel as if I was in your company, the remeni- braDce of which is refreshing. ' I am, &c., ' W. JoiINSOX.' The journal above alluded to, shall here be given: — ^ March 11, 1820. At the usual meeting a carpenter boy stood up and said, " When I in my country, the king die, then the headman got plenty slaves to kill them, because that be the fashion of lliat country, when the king die they kill plenty slaves. Me be slave, but I no belong to the king. I belong to another man. Then my master take me and carry me to that place where they went to kill the people, he say. That boy no good. I will change him for one of them Avomen that they going to kill. He go and take me, and I come to the place. I see two houses full of slaves which they going to kill, and my master change me for one woman, and they put me amongst them people which they want to kill for that king who die. Well, I stand — I tremble — I don't know what to do. By and by a headman come and look at all them people. When they come amongst us, I look them sharp — they no take notice of me, I stand close by the door, I jump out and run into the bush, I live there three days. I eat grass. I hear when they kill them people, I fear too much — they cry — they scream — oh too much ! I ran out of the bush, and ran to another country, (town.) The people in that country catch me — they tie my hand, and send me to the headman of ray country, and tell him they catch one of him slaves. The headman send two people to fetch me back, but that man who catch me say, he no let me go, they must bring some cloth and pay him. Well, then, two men go back — they say they come in three days and fetch me. The day came, and I ex- pect they come and fetch me, but I try to run away again, and go to another country. The people in that country caught me again, and carry me out, and sell me, and I got on board the ship; English ship come one day and carry us here. Now JOURNAL. .' 211 first time, I think I do all this by my own strength, but this time I see that the Lord Jesus Christ has done it. He has brought me here by his power." '■March 12, Sunday. In the morning, Mr. Bull read the church service, and I preached on John iii. 7. In the after- noon, Mr. Bull kept service, and I went to Leopold and kept service there, Mr. Renner being in Freetown. I preached on Matt. vii. 21. There were fewer people present than I expected. In the evening, I preached at Regent's Town from Acts xix. 2. ' W. Tamba kept service at Leicester, and Mr. Davis in the hospital, between services. The boys had prayer-meeting after evening service. ^ March 15. Went with some of the people to Charlotte, to establish a Missionary Society. Was much delighted with some of our African brethren who addressed the meeting. W. Davis addressed his country-people in their native language, which pleased us much. March 19, Sunday. Mr. Bull performed service at Leopold morning and afternoon. I preached three times here. In the morning from Job x. 1. "My soul is weary of my life." Not- withstanding the heaviness and weariness of soul and body which I felt, it pleased God to set my heart at liberty. I think I never saw the people more attentive. Oh, may the Holy Ghost bless the word which was spoken in very great weakness ! In the afternoon, I spoke on Jonah ii. 4 ; and the evening on Isa. Ixii. 12. The Lord, I trust, was with us this day. In the morning, before service, I was ready to despair, but in the evening, I was full of joy and gladness. May the Lord Jehovah have all the praise and glory. '■Easter Sunday. I administered the Lord's Supper to all the communicants except the sick. Mr. and Mrs. Taylor and Miss Bouffler, besides our family, were present. In the even- ing I preached a funeral sermon on the death of George Paul, from Heb. ix. 27. The church was very much crowded, and all were remarkably attentive. May God give the increase.' 212 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. Of this youth Mr. Johnson sent home the following account : * George Paul arrived in Regent's Town from the hold of a slave-vessel in 1815. Having staid there a little while, he went, about the time of my arrival, to live \vith a settler in Freetown. He came hack again, in the beginning of 1817; and earnestly begged me to take him into the school. Being almost naked, I clothed and admitted him. Soon after, a tailor was sent to Regent's Town, by his Excellency the Gover- nor; and Paul was put as apprentice to him. Being a boy who had very little connection with his country-people, I took him, with several more, to sleep in my house, having no other place to lodge them in. 'In 1818, I found that George Paul, and two more of the boys that slept in my house, became full of serious thoughts. One of them soon after died, and I believe is »ow with George, to whom he was much attached, in unchanging happiness and glory. George and the surviving boy were examined by me several times ; and, having no doubt but that the grace of God had begun a good work in their hearts, I baptized them on Christmas Day, 1818. ' From this time, George walked steadfastly with his God and Saviour. He was never known to give way to the least indif- ference : but, wherever he went, or when at work, would always speak to those about him on the things concerning their peace ; and would exhort them, especially those of his own age, to turn from their wicked ways. This youth was thus made instrumental to the conversion of several others, who are now communicants, and walk worthy of their high calling. ' A little before he Avas admitted as a communicant, he stirred up his companions to prayer : in this he saceeeded, in September or early in October, 1818. Standing myself in a place where I could not be perceived, I overheard his prayer : it was short, hut very impressive : he prayed much for the grace of the Holy Spirit, and for forgiveness of sins tluougli the blood of Christ. GEORGE PAUL. 213 'During the rains of 1819, he caught a severe cold, which brought him to the grave. His lungs were so much affected, that all medical assistance proved in vain. He tore his afflic- tion with great patience and resignation ; and expected to die from the first of his illness, ' When I returned to Regent's Town, in the beginning of February, 1820, I missed him among those who welcomed me. I inquired the cause, and was told that he was ill. On going to see him, I found him much reduced ; but he appeared, in every respect, resigned to the will of his Heavenly Father, hav- ing his hope fixed on the Rock of Ages. I suggested to Mr. Bull, who was present, that if he were placed under his care in the Seminary, he might, perhaps, recover, and be instructed for a teacher of his countrymen. Mr. Bull readily agreed ; and George seemed to get quite alive, when he heard the proposal. He was then removed : his strength appeared to return ; and, in a few days, he was able to walk about again. But our thoughts are not God's thoughts, nor our ways His ways : we wished to make George a teacher, perceiving an excellent spirit to be in him ; but God had otherwise designed. Soon after, he became ill again ; and closed the time of his pilgrimage ou Sunday morning, the 2'7th of March, 1820, being about sixteen years of age. ' George was visited, during his illness, by many of the com- municants. I will quote some of the accounts which they have given me of what passed on these occasions. ' The friend who kept him in his house during his illness, before he was removed to the seminary, said that George was indeed a lad who hved, by prayer, upon Jesus Christ. He would always beg this friend to pray with and for him ; and when he was asked how he felt concerning the state of his sou], he would answer, "Nothing but the blood of Jesus can do me good ;" and when asked if he liked to die, he would say, " He is God ! let him do as He likes !" *A student in the seminary, Avho was George's intimate friend and companion (both were admitted together as commu- 9* 214 MEMOIR OK JOIIKSON*. nicants, and as students in the seminary) said, that he had been benefited much by George Paul. When in distress of mind, he had often been relieved by an hour's conversation with George. One day, after they had entered the seminary, Mr. Bull being at Freetown, the boys made an unusual noise : George was then very ill ; but, notwithstanding, he got up and staggered to the door ; and said, " boys ! you fear master more than God. When master is at home you are quiet ; but now master is not at home, you think nobody see you. ! remember God see you !" This reproof had a great effect on the minds of the boys, which they have not forgotten to this day. ' To a friend who went to visit him a few days before he died, George said — " I think my time is now come. I feel afraid at this time to die : before, I was not afraid. I hope the Lord will give me faith to believe in Him ; for nobody can save me but the Lord Jesus Christ." ' Soon after two others saw him, when he said — " I am happy that I am sick, and going to die : Jesus Christ has saved my soul." The)'' prayed with him ; and lie begged one of them to help him on his knees to pray. He was told that he could pray lying down, as well as on his knees ; but he begged again, saying, — " I want to pray on my knees." Tamba held him in his arms, on his knees, while they prayed. ' Another friend, who visited him every day, saw him just before he died, and prayed with him. Heconld not speak, but appeared quite happy. This friend confessed, that he had many times been comforted by George Paul. The last words which George spoke were — " I am liappy." ' A similar testimony to his dying faith, and patience was borne by various other communicants, who constantly visited him. When one asked him, the day before he died, how he did, he replied — " I thank the Lord Jesus Christ, he hold me fast !" To another he said — " I beg you, when you go on your knees, pray for me." When asked, by another, on what he depended, being now about to depart, he answered — " On nothing but the blood and righteousness of Jesus Christ." JOURNAL. 215 *Mr. Bull gave me the following account. ' " George Paul was placed under my charge about February 11th, 1820. He came to the seminary in a rapid decline: there were, however, some hopes that he would overcome it, or that it was not a confirmed disease. I ever noticed him, since my acquaintance with Regent's Town, as a serious and steady lad. He possessed all the solidity of a man of riper years. His attendance on public ordinances, I ever found very punc- tual ; and observed him always the foremost to promote the real good of those of his own age. While he was residing at the seminary, he bore his afSiction like one who had received grace to exercise patience. When he began to alter for the worse, I conversed with him, one evening, nearly three quar- ters of an hour. He had the most scriptural views of himself and of the Gospel. I have lost a valuable scholar, and the Church an exemplary and useful member." ' At five o'clock in the evening of the same day that he died, his remains were interred. He was respected by every one: we calculated that about 600 people followed the corpse to the burying-ground. On Easter Sunday evening I preached his funeral sermon, to a crowded congregation, from Heb. ix. 27. 'Thus another African is gone to glory, who was once a slave, both in spiritual and temporal bondage. What hath God wrought ! ' Our joy is great, when we behold sinners bend beneath the cross ; but still greater, when we behold them enter into ever- lasting glory, through the blessed Saviour. ' Receive Thou, O great Jehovah ! all the praise and glory. Amen.' '■April 10. Divine service as usual yesterday. Mr. Bull went to Wilberforce to see how Mr. Decker got on. ' This morning a communicant came to me, who has been ill for a considerable time, and does not get better. He appears to be in a consumption, and expects to die soon. He said h© 216 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. had read the parable of the Ten Virgins, which distressed his mind much. He wept greatly, and said, — " I am afraid I shall stand like the five foolish women. Oh, if I was sure that the Lord Jesus keep me in the time when I die." I spoke to him as God enabled me. ^ April 11. AVe had the monthly prayer-meeting at Char- lotte Town, Messrs. Garnsey, Flood, Renner, During, Bull, Taylor and myself were present, — also Tamba and Noah. I trust we all experienced the presence of the Lord. ' In the evening I examined until a late hour, a number of people, who had several times applied for baptism. I suppose there were fifty in the house, but only sixteen received, whom I instruct twice a week. They all gave clear evidence of grace. * April 14. Instructed the candidates for baptism this even- ing in my room. Questioned them on the fall of man, redemp- tion by Jesus Christ, the Trinity, Baptism and Lord's Supper. Their answers were very satisfactory. * April 16. Divine service as usual. Had the bell rung half an hour sooner, as the church was full long before. One of the Churchwardens came to me, saying, " The church full, massa, and plenty of people outside who can't come in. What must I do with them ?" I spoke to Mr. Bull about it, who went and put some into the gallery where the Institution boys sit; others were obliged to keep on the shady side of the church. Mr. Bull read the service, and I preached on John x. 9. Afternoon Psalm xxii. 30. Evening Matt. xiv. 12. The boys held prayer meeting in the church and were joined by the Institution boys. ' April 23, Sunday. Divine service as usual. Preached in the morning from Ex. xxxii. 26 ; afternoon 2 Peter iii. 18, and evening Luke xii. .32. ' Several people came to me after the morning and afternoon services who were much alarmed on account of what they had heard in the morning ; and while I endeavoured to comfort them, the text on which I spoke in the evening was nuu-h im- pressed upon my mind, and I trust that both speaker and hear- ers were comforted. May the blessed Saviour have all the JOURNAL. 217 praise, for the unspeakable mercies he has conferred upon us to-day. ' Mr. Bull went on Saturday with W. Tamba, and W. Vivah, to Tongeh, about eight miles from here, inhabited by the Sher- bro people to spend the Lord's day there. They, however, returned (having performed Divine service there in the morn- ing,) to Wilberforce, addressing on their way there, such as they found scattered in the farms. In the evening W. Tamba addressed the people at Wilberforce, in the English and Cosso languages, much to the satisfaction of Messrs. Decker and Bull. W. Davis kept Divine service at Leicester three times. D. Noah addressed the boys between services, and P. Hughes had prayer in the hospital. ' After evening service the school-boys had prayer, under the direction of D. Noah, and were joined by the Institution boys. Thus the Sabbath was spent in prayer and praise. Oh, may the Holy Ghost more and more impress the poor Ethiopians with the best things. ' A2}ril 30, Sunday. The Tornado which we had last night, has made us all unwell. Mr. Bull complains much of the head- ache. My sister has the fever — my wife is just free from it. Two of my servants have the fever, and a number of the inhabit- ants. In some houses both man and wife have either the bowel-complaint, or the fever. Moreover, the wind had an effect upon the wood. ' I felt so languid, that I thought I should not be able to perform service ; but the Lord strengthened me. In the morn- ing I preached on Jer. xvii. 9 ; afternoon, Psalm cxvi. 12 ; and evening, John vii. 46. ' Before I went to the church in the evening, I felt great symptoms of fever : but while preaching to a full church, I got into a perspiration, which relieved me much ; yea, I can say, I was strengthened both in body and soul. Oh ! what shall I render unto the Lord, for all his benefits to me ? ^ May 1. Mr. Bull has the fever, and my sister has it very severely. My wife has had no relapse. I went on horseback 218 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. to-day, to see the sick, wliicli arc not few. I was not able to •walk. I was happy to find the sick, in general, much resigned to the will of God. One man said, " I trust I am one of his people, and as I am his, he can flog me, because, when a man have a child, and that child do bad, he flog that child : so God flog me, because me do bad. Before, when some people sick a little, I think them no sick : but I do wrong in that. Now I am sick, God show me this, that I was wrong, and he show me how bad me be this time. But I trust in Jesus Christ, he help me." One complained much of unbelief, saying, "I am afraid I shall die, and Jesus Christ has not washed my sins away, my heart tell me so. Oh, massa, me 'fraid too much, because my heart full of sin." Wept much. 'In the afternoon, a woman, a communicant, died suddenly in cliild-bearing. I trust she is gone to glory. ' In the evening, we had the monthly Missionary prayer-meet- ing. The church was full. Preached on Isaiah xl. 5. After Service, the people paid their contributions, which amounted to £3 15s. 2d. ; — more than ever we had in one month before. ' W. Johnson.' CHAPTER VIIL A. D. 1820. Retrospect by one of the Missionaries — Progress of the Mission — Visit to the Banana Islands, It will have been observed by the reader, that during Mr. Johnson's visit to England, the state of Regent's Town had retrograded. At this distance of time, it must be difficult accurately to point out the causes of this falling off; but it is clear that some want of temper, discretion, and administrative skill, must be attributed to those who inadequately filled Mr. Johnson's place in his absence. With the most prominent of these, Mr. Johnson naturally felt dissatisfied, and he was with- drawn from that post of duty. But, among the records of the period, at the Church Missionary House, there is found a re- port made by this missionary, to the Committee, on his return home, which evidently possesses this great value, that it cannot be supposed to have been dictated by any feelings of personal attachment to Mr. Johnson, but rather emanates from one whom circumstances had in some degree alienated from him. It will be seen, accordingly, that no allusion is made to Mr. Johnson himself. But the testimony borne to the reality of his work and its results, is of the most valuable kind. Mr. T. Morgan to the Secretary. ' I had in England read, heard, and thought much on the African character, or rather given into some prejudices against the mental endowments of the negroes, and leaning rather still to the side of uncharitableness. On my arrival, I resolved to study as much as possible, a particular acquaintance with 220 MEMOIR OF JOHXSO.V. their private tlioughts : and I now find, from summing up the various occurrences wiiicb I have myself witnessed, you have reason to adore God, for suflering you to open a door, tlirough which the light of the sun of righteousness is now spreading its influence over the whole country of Ethiopia. ' No blame can attach itself to any missionary or superin- tendent, for not becoming acquainted with every occurrence which happens among the negroes entrusted to their care. Their labours, were they to do nothing more than absolute duty, and what the world, indifi'erent to the people's eternal interests, would expect, are truly great, difficult, and arduous ; and if with your departed servant,* I visited the members of each family separately, it was to gratify my own inclination, and to try the ground of those faults so often assigned to pro- fessing Christian negroes. Faults and crimes were found, and many were great, but none surpassed ; nor did they equal the state of the towns of the same size, and which, for centuries, have heard and read the gospel in England. This is a proof that African towns, (I speak especially of Rt'gent's Town,) are superior to the towns of England, in moral and religious con- duct ; and if we take into view the short period since civiliza- tion began here, we may say, it is a light to the people of Britain. They who in Africa have sat in darkness, have seen a great light, and it hath shined into their hearts. ' I have mentioned in former letters the ultimate success which attended my exertions in Freetown schools. I have seen there Dr. Bell's remark verified. A child of any ability may, with facility, proceed from reading the alphabet, to the reading of the Bible, in four months." This leads me to offer a remark on the ability of the negroes. If I can recollect my own at an early period of life, their's is as far superior as one child need wish to be to another. A strong barrier this, for those to conquer, who think them only fit to labour for the gratification of their owners. I wish every heart which under- • Mr. Gates. TESTIMONY OF ONE OF THE MISSIONARIES. 221 values the character of these poor heathen, could have visited them with me, have seen their hibours of love, and imitated their zeal for religion. ' Soon after my arrival at Regent's Town, Mrs. Morgan and myself wei-e both seized with the fever, in which we were ten- derly and unceasingly watched by the children around us. As I often suffered much in my head, and, I believed, frequently manifested it by contortion of countenance, a boy, who had attached himself to me, from his first entering the colony, and whom I kept constantly about me, sat for several hours in the night, holding my head, and bathing it with vinegar; and "when I dropped asleep, covering it from cold, or wiping away the drops of perspiration. No affection, I think, in a Christian land, would surpass this. 'One morning in the month of June, and during Mrs. Mor- gan's indisposition, brother Gates and myself being engaged as -was our custom at breakfast, in reading Milner's Church History, we were alarmed by feeble cries of " Massa, massa, fire live here!" I went immediately to the adjoining room, and found the fianjes issuing through the crevices of the floor. Brother Cates followed, and with his usual self-possession and calmness, said, "We will remove this child," (who was lying sick in the room,) " and Mrs. Morgan ; — and God will assist us to get the fire under." This we accordingly did, and by the application of wet blankets, soon confined, and at last extin- guished the fire. ' We were much struck with the integrity of the people. In their anxiety to save as much as possible, almost every arti- cle was removed. In the confusion, many things were scat- tered about the yard ; not one article, however, even the most trifling, was lost ; but all were brought again to the house, and fixed in their proper places. A boy, who had got possession of the box which contained the money for paying the mecha- nics and labourers, was found in the garden, parading with the box under his arm, and guarding it, though unnecessarily, with a drawn cutlass in liis hand. 222 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. ' I was struck, during a fire which broke out in our house, with the sudden disappearance of the women, who, at the commencement, almost filled the house. On inquir}^ I found that they had retired to the church, to offer up their prayers unto God. What but a Divine influence could draw them to God in this trial, to ask His blessing on the exertions of those employed ? ' While we were replacing the books which had been scat- tered on this occasion, two of the girls came to us. I asked what was wanted : " Nothing, massa," was the reply ; " but we come tell you, God hear every time somebody go talk him." "How, ray child," said I, "do you know that God hears His people when they pray ?" She said, " Massa ! when fire come this morning, I sabby your house no burn too much. Every morning I hear you and Mr. Gates, and you pray God keep this house, and all them girls and boys what live here ; and when fire come, I say to Sarah, ' Ah ! God plenty good : He heard what massa say to Him this morning : He no let this house burn too much.' " What a reproof did 1 feel this ! I knew how often my heart was indifferent while I asked for these mercies ; and I trust it made me more anxious to urge the duty of family prayer on others more earnestly. Soon after, the same girls mentioned their desire for one of the elder girls to pray with the scliool-children, before they went to bed, and when they rose in the morning. ' Scarcely an event occurs but what they notice as springing from the over-ruling providence of God. Taught of God, they mark the painful events of His providence, as children would mark the dealings of a fiither. After the death of Mr. Gates, I have frequently heard their expressions of sorrow for sin, and acknowledgments of God's justice in punishing them. They have used such language as this: — "We have done something very bad — God is very angry : He is removing all our teachers — by and bye nobody will be left to tell us good. We must pray, dear brothers and sisters : we must look into our own hearts — some bad live there." Similar occurrences in England TESTIMONY OF ONE OF THE MISSIONARIES. 223 would have passed, perhaps, unheeded by the greater part of professing Cliristians. ' How many candlesticks spreading around them the light of truth, and reflecting the rays of Him who fed their lustre by His own incomprehensible glory, are removed from the con- gregation where Jesus had planted them, without giving rise to the thought, " God is angry with us for sin." What has not our God permitted your Society to do already ? What a call to go forward and increase in the work ! ' No day passed, when I was capable of taking exercise, without my entering some of the huts around us. Visiting unexpectedly, as I often did, the families of all classes of the communicants, I could not be deceived as to their actual con- dition. ^ 'I have found many commendably employed in agriculture. I believe the Society are apt to conceive that a cultivated farm or garden in Africa must resemble the same thing in England, which it does not. I have often myself drawn too strong a line of comparison between the two. Agriculture is, among many, especially those on whose hearts we trust the dew of God's grace is continually descending, flourishing. ' Many of the gardens are kept in very neat order, though most of the owners have but little leisure to devote to this employment. I have frequently known the whole of the time allowed for dinner, spent, by both husband and wife, in fencing, digging, or planting the little spot of ground attached to each dwelling. ' Decency and cleanliness manifest the diligence of those who live under the power of religion. Their time is, indeed, so well occupied, that, in cases where they can read, they may be frequently seen, at leisure moments, with some friends around them, searching the word of life : and these little respites from labour are often made a blessing to the whole town ; as the .sick, the careless, the backsliding, and the profane, are not seldom visited, instructed, warned, comforted, and relieved, at these seasons, by their zealous brethren. 224 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. 'The Christian negroes shew a strong attachment to the simplest views of religion*. I began some explanation, as plain as possible, in successive evenings, of the Lord's Pra3'er. It pleased God graciously to bless these words to the people. They made the most practical use of them. A display of an unholy temper would receive a reproof — "If God your Father, that be no like his child." Some said that they needed, indeed, such a father — others, such daily bread. Some thought God could not be their Father, because they did not feel sufficient desires that his kingdom should come among their country- people ; and others felt that they were rebellious children, for not doing his will on earth more, as it was done in heaven. Some wept, to think how he delivered them from temptation and evil : and all, I believe, burned with love, to ascribe to him the kingdom of his love, the power of his Spirit, and the glory of their salvation.. ' I was obliged, by the pressing requests of the people, to repeat these explanations four or five times; and resolved in future to know nothing and to speak of nothing among the negroes, but the plainest words of the Redeemer. How much better calculated his language is than any other, to reach the heart, maybe judged of by this instance, out of many. ' How much may be gained by the simplicity, or rather sublimity of the gospel, I never knew before. The work in which the missionary engages, must be the work of Jesus, for he suits and opens every capacity to receive heavenly manna. ' But there was another reason which tended to render this subject useful. I had it frequently read before I spoke on it ; which proves how rapidly, under God's blessing, the knowledge of the Gospel must increase, if the soil Avherein the grain is cast were more cultivated and manured by acquaintance with the Bible. Difficulties, I know are great, and the man who goes as a school-master to labour among the heathen, must expect many trials on earth. However the comprehension of the minds of the Africans may be ridiculed, I have found them, though needing cultivation, far from barren. The finer feelings TESTIMOKY OF ONE OF THE MISSIONARIES. 225 of the soul in the attachment of these people to their instructors, families and friends, are equal to the sons and daughters of the princes of Europe. ' How eminently the Gospel shines in the conduct of the people, and how strikingly its influence is manifested, no one can possibly conjecture but those who have been eye-witnesses. I have frequently experienced myself, and seen experienced by different superintendents, the most docile and tractable disposi- tions. ' On the disbanding of the West India regiments sent to the colony for that purpose, a natural degree of affectionate feeling was excited in the breasts of the negroes to see them. These regiments had been, several years before, formed of liberated negroes ; and many of the people were expecting to find parents, brothers and friends among them. The feelings of glowing hope were strongly delineated in almost every coun- tenance. When, in the evening, intelligence arrived that on the following morning the troops would be permitted to land, after evening prayer, it became a matter of general conversa- tion. Some were looking forward with hope ; while their joy cast a cloud over the faces of others, whose friends had been murdered in different skirmishes when they themselves were enslaved. In the morning, at prayer, the church was particu- larly full ; and a few words were spoken on the danger to which a Christian was exposed when running into temptation, and some desire intimated that none would visit Freetown that day. I gave this intimation against my own feelings ; for I thought their wishes laudable, though I feared the consequen- ces which might arise from gratifying them. In the course of an hour after, an old and faithful Christian came to tell me that his brother was come among the soldiers. " Well," said I, " and do you wish to see him ?" " Yes, Massa ! I want to look him, but I no want to go to-day." " Well," I replied, " I want ■ to send to Freetown : if you can find another communicant, who wishes to go and see the soldiers, I wnll send you down." After a search of near two hours, he returned with, " Well 226 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. massa, me no find one that want to go : all tbem people what be](yijg to ehurcli think 'tis no good for them to run wliere God pay temptation live." Two days elapsed before this poor fellow, whose heart was full of aftection to his brother, went to Freetown to see him. I singled him out as a fit object of reward ; and having mentioned the subject to the Governor, that father of the liberated negroes, anticipating my request, promised, and kept his promise, that the brothers should liave the privilege of living together. ' I know of many similar instances, but this one struck me much. I thought it an example worthy of imitation ; and was fully convinced, that while I had known the Gospel longer, I had obeyed it less. ' You must think that more than according to the labours of the Society God has blessed. The church has much reason to take up David's exclamation, and say, " Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits." There are, as must be expected, many errors in large towns, but the good which has been done in Africa, neither we nor the generations to come will be able to fathom. Perhaps never one of your servants ever noticed the field of your labours with more impartial views than did my dear brother Gates and myself, and it was not till I had left that field that I suff"ered my mind to form a senti- ment on the subject. * * * * * * ' I am, ' Your obedient servant, 'Thomas Morgan.' We now resume Mr. Johnson's own journals, for the autumn of 1820:— ^Jidy 27. It has pleased our God to give us of late much peace at this place, and the Gospel of our blessed God makes its progress as usual. Last Sunday, I trust, was a day when the unworthy minister and his flock were much refreshed. JOURNAL. 227 ' On the Saturday and Sunday mornings, some conversation had taken place between me and them, and I found that many laboured under great fears and other spiritual afflictions, which brought to my mind the passage in Isaiah on which I spoke in the morning, " Oh, Israel, fear not, for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name, thou art mine." In the after- noon I expounded and asked questions on Rora. iii. 8, 22. In the evening spoke on Eph. ii. 8. ' It came to my mind that there are people who attend divine worship six times every Sunday in this place : — at six a.m., prayer meeting in the church — half-past ten. Divine service — from two to three p. m., prayer-meeting at one of the largest houses by turn — at three, Divine service — and at half-past six, and from a quarter-past eight till past nine, the boys' prayer-meeting. It is actually the case that not a few attend all these means. ' His Excellency Governor M'Carthy sailed on Wednesday last. I went with Mr. During to bid him good-bye. He was very ill when he embarked. ' July 29. At the usual meeting many spoke much of the plague of their hearts ; while others stated their afflictions as illness, &c., but confessed that sin was the cause of all. ' One man said — " I have felt very glad since last Sunday morning. When you preach, you talk to me all the time : what you said was what I felt, which make me glad too much. But when you at last talk to the wicked, I wanted to cry — my heart turn in me for my poor wife ; she come always to church, but she no believe — she still careless. I do not know what to do with her ; sometimes when I look at her, I could cry — I cannot keep water out of rny eyes — I grieved very much for my wife. Oh, I wish God may teach her !" ' Another woman said — " First time when I begin to pray, and when I see all bad things, I go plenty times to pray to the Lord Jesus Christ to pardon all my sins, and then I feel glad too much because he come into the world to save sinners. When I go out, I pray — in the road, I pray — in the farm, I pray — when I get in the market amongst plenty people, I pray. 228 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. I always pray — that time my heart live on the Lord Jesus Christ too much. When I get up I pray, when I lie down I pray ; Avhen I see God's people, I glad too much ; I talk to them, and tell them what the Lord do for me. But this time I don't know how I stand. Suppose I pray — my heart run away from me, and when I get up from my knee I don't know what I been say. Oh my heart ! bad, past everything. I don't think I live in the right way. I don't know what to do with myself. Oh, massa ! I curse, I lie, I thieve, I do everything that is bad. (Q. Do you really live in these things?) A. Me do all with my bad heart. Suppose the Lord no help me, I should do them all with my hands, ray mouth and my feet. But all bad things live in my heart and that trouble me too much." Here she began to weep, and thus the conversation ended, but not without some advice. ^July 30, Sundcoj. The prayer meeting in the church at six o'clock in the morning, was numerously attended. I gave an exhortation on the Lord's day, shewing the imperfections and interruptions with which we have to struggle, while we meet in this world to worship God ; and how great the differ- ence will be, when we shall keep the eternal sabbath, when, — " No more fatigut', no more distress. Nor sin, nor death, shall reach that place ; No sighs shall mingle with the songs Tliat warble from immortal tongues," * Divine .service at half-past ten. I read the prayers as usual, and David Noah responded with the whole congregation : I must confess, when I read some of those beautiful and spiritual prayers, I could have wept. There appeared a holy awe throughout the congregation. I saw one woman, while she repeated the prayers, especially that part. — " Lord, have mercy upon us ! Christ have mercy upon us !" — weeping bitterly. After the prayers were read, I preached on Rev. iii. 19. — As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten : be zealous, therefore, and repent. JOURNAL. 229 ' In the afternoon, I expounded, and asked questions on 1 John hi. 3 — 10. * In the evening, I preached on Is. Lxiii. 26. ' May the Holy Spirit bless his word which has been spoken I and all the praise and glory shall be to Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. ' W. Tamba performed service at Leicester, and W. Davis in the afternoon at Bathurst, where about 200 of his country- people reside, who cannot speak or understand English. He addressed them in their own language. As Mr. Hector seems to have no objection, Davis will probably go there every Sun- day afternoon. I understand that the people were very much pleased, and begged Davis to come again and tell them about the true God. July 31. — 'Awhile going along the street, some women called after me, and said a man was sick in the house which I then passed. I turned in, and found the man lying on a mat and blanket. When he perceived me, he lifted himself up, though very weak. (He and his wife are communicants.) He told me that he was taken ill last week, on the same day when he buried his only child. He said — " Massa ! God punish me this time : but suppose I no belong to him, he would not do so. Last week he took my little boy, and the same day me get sick too. Suppose, massa, me have child, and me love that child, and that child do bad, I whip that child ; why ? because I love it. So God do with me. I do too much sin, and now God punish me." He wept. " Oh that the Lord Jesus Christ may pardon my sin !" I then interrupted him, and brought forth such passages as came to ray mind, and v/hich I thought would comfort him in his distress. ' In calling at one of the houses, I found two women (both communicants) at needle-work. The house was neat and clean. A clean bench was immediately put down, and I was entreated to sit. One of the women had been lately married to a decent and serious 3'oung man. I asked how she got on now. She said — " I think not so well as before. Beforetime I go to 10 230 MEMOIR OF jonxsox. prayer, nobody liinder me — I live by myself in this house — I have no trouble : when I go to church, I was glad — nobody hinder me ; and the word which I hear was sweet too much. Sometimes people ask me, " Why you no get married ?" I no answer, but I know I liave peace too much : my heart live upon the Lord Jesus Christ. But, soon after people begin to talk bad of me, and me be afraid that, by and bye, people would say I do bad ; and I was sorry too much. That same time my husband send one man, and he ask me, if I willing to marry. I don't know what to say ; but I think I must say Yes. Well, I say Yes ; and, soon after, we got married. Me got plenty trouble this time. My husband he is a good man, but me have trouble about him. Every time me think about the Lord Jesus Christ, my husband come in my mind ; and so I stand, when I live in the church. Sometimes I think it would be better for me if I was not married : then I should only think about my sins, and about the Lord Jesus Christ. Sometimes I don't know what to do. I hear 3'ou preach, but I can't feel it : only Sunday before last, when you preach in the morning, it was just as if you talk all the time to me — me hold my face down, and cry too much. Oh them words make me glad too much." — The text was, Isaiah xliii. 1. ' The next woman then spake, after some advice had been given to the former, and said — '• Massa ! me been very sick ; and that time when you come and see me, I think I cannot live much longer. But you see, massa, the Lord has spared me ; and now I can thank him for his mercy. Beforetime I was always 'fraid, wlien I got a little sick — T was 'fraid to die : but, this time, I was glad too much. Suppose I been die, I live in heaven now with the Lord Jesus Christ. Them words you talk yesterday in the church, about God punish him people because he love them, them words true — them just fit me — that true word. God make me sick, because me great sinner ; and because me 'fraid to die. He take away my fear, because he love me." 'Being dinner-time, I went home sorry that I had visited so JOURNAL. 231 few ; but it is impossible to visit mauy at a time, as they have so much to relate of the Lord's dealings with them, and thus the time gets too short. ' In the evening I had visits paid me, and the conversations which occurred were not written down, except the last, who came after evening school, for I was so much interrupted, as not to put anything on paper. * A communicant thus opened his heart to me — " I no sabby how I stand, this time. I fear too much. I think I no live in the right way. I no sabby what to do. My heart plague me too much. My heart stand the same like two persons — one do bad, the other do good — one like to pray, the other no like to pray. Sometimes me so sorry for myself, I don't know what to do : and sometimes when you preach me get comfort, but sometimes me get sorrow too much for myself I don't know if Christians stand that fashion. I want to talk to you plenty time ; but just when I go, something tell me — ' No use for you to go and tell massa.' " Here I interfered, and told him, that he in some measure was right, as I could not help him : T might give him advice, which was all I could do ; and I would now advise him to go with all his troubles to the Lord Jesus Christ, who only was able, and, at the same time, wiUing to deliver him. He said — " Me think, this time, me have nothing to do with the Lord Jesus Christ." I spoke to him as the Lord enabled me ; and may the Holy Spirit, the blessed Com- forter, comfort him ! A?iff. 5. — ' Went this afternoon to see a sick communicant. When he saw me, he appeared much cast down. Tears ran down his black cheeks, and he remained silent. I requested him, that if he had anything on his mind, to tell me. He answered, "Them words you talk last Sunday live in my head. (The text was, Rev. iii. 19.) I went to Freetown some time ago, and met with some of my country-people who live there. They make me come to their house. T eat Avith them, and they talk foolish, and I did not tell them they do bad. I stand like one of them. My heart t^ll me tlie same time, but I no 232 MEMOIR OF JOIIN'SOK. mind that. Then them people do very bad ; they curso, and drink. They tell me to stop all night. I no like it ; but by and bye I stop ; and Oh ! massa, what plague me too much, I laugh when they talk bad. Next day I go home, and Oh ! how my heart strike me \Yhen I go in the road ; and when I go home I get sick. God punish me for that ; and since that time I been sick. My belly always hurt me, and sometimes me get fever. Sometimes I only strong enough to go to church : but I get' no peace in my heart, wheu I hear the word of God. All is against me." Here he began to weep again, and I perceived that his illness was caused by grief. I tried to point out to him the tenderness of the father, after having pun- ished his child, and that our Heavenly Father in like manner, mercifully, through the Saviour's merits, receives his children, and forgives their backslidings freely. ' After returning home, I was continually engaged in speak- ing with some of the communicants. When one was gone, another came ; and thus I was engaged till nearly 10 o'clock. ' How various are the dealings of God with his people ! Some were distressed on account of indwelling sin — othi. rs under great darkness and temptations — while some rejoiced, and gave praises to Him who worketh all in all. 'At the usual meeting, I addressed the communicants on the Lord's Supper — pointed out how necessary self-examination was — proposed some questions — and requested they would put them to themselves when they retired. Some spoke in a very pleasing manner concerning the great things which the Lord had done for them ; and how they had been refreshed by hearing the word of God in the church and by reading it at home. ' After service, one day, some young womt-n, who are stili in the school, followed me into the piazza, and desired to speak to me. One said — "Massa! what you now say about having peace with one another, troubles mc very much." She bognn to weep and could say no more. Another then said — " Massa! we have too much trouble in the school-house. Them girls JOURNAL. ■ 233 that no serve God trouble us too much : we have no peace with them. We beg you, massa, to tell us what we must do. "We want to sit down by ourselves, to read and pray sometimes; but we cannot — them other girls make too much noise ; and some of them would do us bad, but they fear you. And now so much rain live there, we cannot go into the bush : and that make us feel sorry. Last Sunday, you say you fear people neg- lect prayer, and now them feel cold in them heart. Massa ! for my part, I stand that fashion. Sometimes I kneel down to pray, and then my heart so cold, and then somebody come and disturb me." Another then began to speak in length, much the same way. I gave them some advice, and they left me weeping. ^Aug. 6. — Prayer-meeting as usual in the morning. Mr. Lisk and two black men engaged in prayer, and myself con- cluded. 'The church was full as usual. Spoke on Col. iii. 11. After service I administered the Lord's Supper. There were 270 communicants. I was much fatigued at the conclusion, having spoken from 10 till 2 o'clock. ' In the evening I spoke on Prov. xiv. 32. Last Sunday I went to Leopold's Town and Charlotte, and was told by Mr. Renner, that an European soldier had sold everything for rum, and had been drunk several days. In the morning he went out to work, and at breakfast time went home, and died instant- ly. The same man formerly worked at this place, and was well known by our people, as a notorious drunkard, which was the reason I preached on the above-mentioned text. Oh ! that every dispensation of Providence may be sanctified. ' August 8.— The Missionary prayer-meeting was held here. Messrs. During, Tayler, and Lisk were present, with Tamba, Davis, and Noah. ' In the evening I preached the monthly Missionary Sermon to our people from Rom. x. 14, 15. I trust this day we were refreshed. At least I found it so. ' August 13, Sunday. — I felt very unwell this morning, but 234 MEMOIR OF JOHNSOX. could not stay away from churcli ; which was completely crowded, it being a very fine day. Those wlio have sufiered from illness, have all got better of late. The weather is so favourable, that we scarcely know that we are in the middle of the rainy season. Many strangei*s were also observed. It was, indeed, a scene which prophets and kings desired to see, but saw it not. What my soul felt when I beheld, I may say a multitude of people, I cannot express ; and all appearing eager to hear the word of God. I preached on 2 Cor. iv. 17. While I was preaching the fever came on ; but though my body felt weak, yet my soul was strengthened when speaking of the end and result of our present afflictions, which are but light and for a moment ; and while we endure them, we are held up by our covenant Jehovah, and thus they work out for us afar more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, ' In the afternoon I was very unwell, and could not go to church. About four o'clock the fever left me and I felt quite well again. In the evening, I preached on 1 John ii. 29. The boys concluded this holy day with prayer-meeting. ' W. Tamba kept service at Leicester Mountain, and W. Davis at Bathurst Town. ' I have had visits paid me, every day, almost from morning to night. Were I to write down all the conversations that have taken place between the people and myself, they would fill a volume. ' One man said — " Massa ! I am like a dog who runs away from his master, and runs all about ; but finds no house, no place to live : he gets hungry, and then comes back again to his master ; because nobody will take him into the house, and give him something to eat. I do the same. I run away from the Lord Jesus Christ ; but I find no peace — trouble meet me everywhere, and then I must come back to the Lord Jesus Christ, for He only gives me rest." ' Another said — " Massa ! God do keep me, for true. I have now been past three years in the church " — meaning as a com- municant. " Sometimes I have run from the Lord Jesus Christ, JOURNAL. 235 but He no run uway tVoui me : He hold me fast. When I run, He send trouble after me. As He bring back Jonah, so He bring me back many times. I no run like Jonah, but heart run more like Jonah. One time I get so much trouble, and my sins so much plague me, that I want to hang myself ; but, blessed be the Lord ! He no let me do so. I wish, that time, that I no hear the word of God at all — it plague me so. Ah, massa ! first time when you talk to us about trouble, I hear it; but I don't think that trouble can come so much. I cannot tell you how much trouble I been have — sometimes I no sleep at all. Them words which you preach last night comfort me much. I see now that all them trouble I bring on myself. The Lord wanted me, but I did not want Him. When I con- sider, I wonder that God has kept me so long. Oh, what mercy ! I see he will not leave me. When I look back, I have comfort." ' Another said — " Yesterday morning when you preach, you show me that the law be our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ. You talk about the Ten Commandments. You begin at the first, and me say to myself, "me guilty ;" the second, "me guilty;" the third, " me guilty ;" the fourth, " me guilty ;" so with the fifth. Then you say the sixth, " Thou shalt not kill." Me say, "Ah, me no guilty, me never kill." You say, "I suppose plenty people live in your country whom you hate. Did you never hate such person ? did you never wish that such a man or such a woman was dead?" Massa, you talk plainly about that, and what I feel I can't tell you. I talk in my heart, and my heart begin to beat. Me want to cry, my heart have so much, me don't know what to do. Massa, me think me kill ten people before breakfast. I never think I so bad. After- wards you talk to me about the Lord Jesus Christ, how he take all our sin. I think I stand like a person that have a big stone on his head, and can't walk — want to fall down. Oh, massa, I have trouble too much, I no sleep all night, (he wept much) I hope the Lord Jesus Christ will take my sins from me. Suppose he no save me, I go to hell for ever I" ♦ 286 MEMOIK OF JOHNSON. '■Aug. 20, Sunday. — I preached this morning on Gal. iii. 4. The people were very attentive : and as the weather has been very fine of late, all the people that had been ill have recovered and were present. After service, one of the churchwardens came to me, and said, " When you explained the law, some people wept ; and two men ran away — they could not stand it." Several expressed joy that the Lord Jesus Christ had delivered them from the curse of the law. 'In the afternoon, I explained, and asked questions on Rom, X. 1-11. The church was crowded as in the morning. In the evening, I preached on Phil. i. 6. May the Lord bless his word ! My own soul has been refreshed once more. Oh, what mercy toward one so vile and so wretched ! May the Lord's name be praised ! ' Aug. 25. — Went on Wednesday to Kissey Town in com- pany with Mr. During. Mr. Nylander was not at home. Ex- pected to see him, but was disappointed. In the evening I spoke to the children and a few of the inhabitants. The place of worship is very small. ' On Thursday we proceeded to Freetown, and to-day we returned. It rained very much, but we could not wait longer. Freetown not being our home, we do not feel that comfort which we enjoy amongst our simjDle people. ' Sept. 3, Sunday. — It rained very much to-day, yet we had the church full. Divine Service commenced at 10, being the first Sunday in the month. I first married two couple — two carpentei-s to two school-girls — all communicants. When the girls came to take leave of me, they wept much, conscious of the important step which they were about to take. The whole congregation seemed to feel affected when the ceremony was performed, and responded to the service in a very solemn man- ner. The brides were dressed in white gowns and black bea- ver hats ; the men in blue coats, and light waistcoats and trow- sers. They made a very respectable appearance. What a contrast! — when we consider, that, not long since, they were naked, and disfigured by slave-dealers' chains and greegrees ! iOURKAL, 237 'I then proceeded with the Morning Prayers ; after which I preached on John i. 29 — '■'■Behold the Lamb of Ood which toketh away the sin of the world /" — and then baptized twenty- three adults and three infants. Before the administration of the Ordinance, I questioned the candidates, who stood in a Une before the reading-desk, on Regeneration, Baptism, the Lord's Supper, the Holy Trinity, and the Fall and Recovery of Man. I then explained to them the questions and answers in the Prayer-Book, and baptized them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. ' Being the first Sunday in the month, 1 administered the Lord's Supper to nearly 300 communicants. ' I was so much fatigued, that I could not keep service in the afternoon. 'In the evening, I preached on 2 Tim. ii. 19. The church was full again, notwithstanding heavy rains ; and blessed be God for His mercy I For ray part, I found it good to be there, and I believe the people did the same. A school-girl, who had hitherto been very careless, was much affected : she wept during the whole service, and afterwards desired to speak to rae, with several other people. ' Thus another blessed Sabbatli has been spent. Oh, that every Sabbath, yea, every day and hour, may be spent to the praise and glory of our Redeemer ! ' After prayer, one morning, at which the church was nearly filled, I was followed by a woman, who is a communicant, into my house. She there gave freo course to the fulness of her heart. After she had wept bitterly for some time, she said, "The Lord has loved me so much, and that makes me cry. My father was killed in war, and my mother die ; and then the people dragged me about from one j^lace to another, and sold me like a beast in the markets. Sometimes they could not sell me, because I was so small ; and then they wanted to kill me, but the Lord helped me." Wept again. " I feel all them words in my heart which you talk last night. You show us how them people stand that have grace in the heart, and every word you 10* 238 MEMOIR Of JOHKSON. talk make rae feel ; and me want to cry ; me see what great things the Lord Jesus has done for me ; and what hurt me and make rae sorry is, because I love him so little." Wept again very much, " Yesterday, when I go to the Lord's Table, I feel so cold, that I am sorry too much." I endeavoured to comfort her, but she went away weeping bitterly. ' One of the school-girls said to me— =•" Since yesterday morn- ing, all the sins which I done come before me. I am bad too much. I am afraid I shall die soon and go to hell. I did not sleep all night. I do not know what to do." She wept bit- terly, and said — " 1 poor me ! poor me !" I pointed her to the ^^Lamb of God, which taketh aioay the sin of the worlds Many more came, but it was iinpossible to write all down. ' In the evening we had the monthly Missionary Prayer Meeting. I spoke on John x. 16. The church was full, and the effect the words of the text had upon many minds was great. Many paid double their contributions, so that I got £6 Is. 4d. instead of £3. Praise and glory be unto him who worketh all in all. * Oct, 4. — Thirty-six persons have since the above been re- ceived as candidates for baptism, who are now under a course of instruction. ' The work of mercy is proceeding, for which I am constrain- ed to say, "Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever." Amen. ' W, JOUNSON.' In October of this year, Mr. Johnson took another of those missionary excursions, the importance of which dwelt so strong- ly on his mind. ' Oct. 17, 1820. — Left Regent's Town, this morning, accom- panied by William Tamba ; and by John Johnson, W. Gar- non, David Johnson, John Attarra, John Hopkins, and Henry Martyn, all youths of the Society's Seminary — to embark in a JOURNAL OF A VISIT TO THE BANANA ISLANDS. 239 canoe at F'reetown. Sailed, about five o'clock ia the afternoon, and cleared Cape Sierra Leone before night. ' Oct. 18. — Having suffered much during the night and the whole of the day by contrary winds, we went on shore in the afternoon, at a place called Tongeh, only five miles from Re- gent's Town. We proceeded on foot along the sand-beach, till we came to a grove of trees, where we halted. Read a chapter, and prayed ; when, I trust, we all experienced the presence of our gracious Saviour. As we had been much an- noyed with bad language (which the canoe-men thought they had a right to make use of, saying, it was canoe-fashion), we found this spot of retirement peculiarly refreshing. ' We then proceeded further, determined rather to walk, than hear bad language : and reached, late, a place called Mama, the village where we lodged two years ago, when our beloved friend, Mr. Gates, was with us. The people appeared happy to see us again, and gave us the same house as we before occu- pied. ' After we had refreshed ourselves, we called the people to- gether ; when W. Tamba addressed them in the Sherbro tongue ; they were very attentive. Tamba, at the conclusion, told them, that we would now kneel down and pray for them. They all knelt down with us ; and, after prayer, went very quietly to their houses, which was very remarkable, as Africans generally make a great noise during those nights when the moon shines ; but not a word was heard. We thanked God^ who had brought us to this place, and favoured us with that opportunity which we could not have enjoyed had we remained in the canoe, ayid took courage. ' Oct. 19, 1820. After we had committed ourselves to the care and protection of our Lord and Saviour, and had paid our host, we resumed our march along the sand-beach, till we came to a large creek, through which we swam with some difficulty. After we had got safely across, we saw two sharks in pursuit of some fish. This brought serious reflections to our minds — When thou passest through the loaters, I ivill he with thee ; and through the rivers, they shall not overjiow thee. 240 MEMOIR OF J0HN60X. * We walked again along the sand-beach, and arrived at York, a new settlement of disbanded soldiers, about ten o'clock, A.M. ; but, as it was then low water, we thought it best not to hesitate, but to get across the AVliale Kiver, which we found quite passable. ' About four miles from Kent we arrived at another creek, which appeared quite shallow. We pulled off our shoes and stockings, and waded through. When I got near the other side, I sunk, on a sudden, as high as my arm-pits in a quick- sand. Tamba, who was on tlie other side, caught me by the hand and pulled me out. Having left my other clothing in the canoe, I was obliged to proceed in my wet and sandy clothes, which proved almost too much for me. I became, at last, so fatigued, that by the time I arrived at Kent, ray strength was exhausted ; but, througli tlie mercy of God, I received no injury. ' Oct. 20. Went, in the afternoon, to a few small hamlets in the neighbourhood of Kent. P'ound a man who had for- merly lived at Regent's Town ; being very superstitious, he had withdrawn to a place where he could live in the practice of his country-fashion. I took one of his greegrees, and cutting the leather open in which it was sewed, found that it was merely a piece of paper which had been wrapped round a cake of Wind- sor soap : the stamp of the manufacturer was on the paper, with the inscription " Genuine Windsor Soap." I exposed the strange charm to my companions, and a hearty laugh ensued. The poor fellow was quite confounded ; and when I explained to him his folly, he said, greegree was good, because he had bought it of a Mandingo-man for l5. Sd., and the man (a Ma- homedan) had told him that it was good very much. Seeing that we could not convince him of his error, one of our boys put it into the fire; which closed the dispute. ' We returned to Kent ; and in the evening, I addressed the people of that place on Matt. vii. 21 — 23. ' Oct. 21. Several people made application for baptism ; and others desired to be lawfully married. The acting Governor JOURNAL OF A VISIT TO THE BANANA ISLANCS. 241 being at tlie Bananas to-day, I took the opportunity, and ap- plied for a licence to marry such people of York and Kent as were properly qualified. The Governor granted my request, and sent a licence for that purpose. ' In the evening, after family prayer, I conversed with such as were desirous of being baptized. I found that some were totally ignorant, while a few gave evidence of a work of grace having been begun in their hearts, who are to be taken under the course of instruction : at a future period I intend to visit Kent again and then baptize them. ' Oct. 22, 1820, Sunday. Early tbis morning we held a prayer-meeting. The people present seemed somewhat sur- prised, when they heard two or three countrymen pray. At half-past ten o'clock, Divine Worship was held. There were about 200 people present. I married eleven couple ; and, after the Liturgy had been read, I preached on Rom. vii. 14. In the evening, I preached on Luke v. 12. The people appeared very attentive. ' Oct. 23. At family prayer, I married five couple more, who came yesterday from York, but were too late. I was in- formed that both Mr. George Caulker and Mr. Thomas Caulker were at the Bananas ; and sailed, immediately, to have an in- terview with them. ' The Governor came to an understanding, last week, with these chiefs. A party of soldiers took possession of the Islands on Saturday. A settlement is to be formed on them. 'We reached the Bananas about ten o'clock, A. m. Mr. George Caulker is a man of good understanding, which he mani- fested in every respect. I had some conversation about his translation of the Scriptures into the Sherbro tongue, which Mr. Nylander has already reported. He said that he had trans- lated the Book of Genesis, part of the Liturgy, and some hymns. He observed the rules which Mr. Nylander had laid down. There is a material difierence between the BuUom and Sherbro tongues. I introduced John Johnson as one who could read Bullom. Mr. G. Caulker said that he might soon 242 MEMOIR OF JOHNSOK. learn Sherbro, as it was formed on the same principles as the Bullom, and especially as he already understood a little Sher- bro. Mr. G, Caulker believed that the Bullom and Sherbro tongues had formerly been one ; but both are now so mixed with words of neighbouring tongues, that the difference is so great that not many of the BuUoms can speak or understand Sherbro. The Bvillom King only, and such as have frequently travelled that way, can understand it. ' I inquired whether he had printed any of his translations. He said that the printer in Freetown had printed a few hymns for him, but was not able to do any thing else. I then told him that, if he had anything ready for the press, I would take it upon myself to send it to England to the Society ; which, I was sure, would render him, in that respect, e\-ery assistance. He said he would get something ready and send it, ' I further asked whether he would allow us to send any of those youths, who were now in the Seminary, when they had finished their studies, to travel or settle in his territory, and preach, or teach his people, the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. As Mr. Thomas Caulker, the uncle of Mr. George Caulker, is the principal Chief, Mr, George Caulker spoke to him in the Sherbro tongue on the subject ; and then answered that they thought it a very good plan to prepare native teach- ers, and that any of them might go to their people, whenever we were pleased to send them ; and that they would always protect them. I introduced the other youths : both chiefs seemed much pleased ; and said that their people now kept Sunday, but as they had no persons to teach them, they had made it a palaver-day. ' AVilliara Tamba was next introduced, and was recognised by Mr. Thomas Caulker, who knew him when in the slave- trade on the plantains. I told the chiefs that Tamba had now become a christian, and Avas desirous of being employed to teach his countrymen, and that he was now under a course of instruc- tion. They seemed much pleased. I also told them that Tamba, perhaps, would visit them and their towns and villages, JOURNAL Oi" A VISIT 10 TttK BANANA ISLANDS. 243 during the present diy season. They wished that he might be sent. I promised that he should \'isit their country once, at least, this present dry season, and address the people in the Sherbro tongue ; and that he should go to every village and hamlet, and tell the people of the things whicli concern their peace ; to which the chiefs fully agreed. ' After we had refreshed ourselves, we re-entered the canoe, and felt thankful for the favourable interview which we had had with these two chiefs ; whose territory begins on the bor- ders of the colony, and is very extensive. ' We left the Bananas about one o'clock, p. m., and stood east by south, for a river called Ribbee, Avhich is about sixteen miles from the Bananas. We reached tbe mouth of this river about six o'clock ; and, after rowing till about nine, we came to a village called by the name of the river, Ribbee. It being dark when we landed, the people seemed rather alarmed ; but Tamba having addressed them in Sherbro, they came and shook hands witli us, and received us in a very friendly man- ner. They gave us a house to lodge in, and sold us some fowls and rice. Being late, we could not assemble the people, but had praj^er among ourselves, and retired to rest ; but the mosquitos hindered us from enjoying that blessing. ' Oct. 24, 1820. Rose early this morning, and, as soon as possible, collected the people. The headman was very old. He and the people listened with attention, and appeared to be mucb pleased with what Tamba told them. When he had done speaking, they proceeded, in their country-fashion, to talk palaver. I observed the old headman counting on his fingers, and explaining to his people something of importance. I asked Tamba what they were talking about ; who told me, that he had spoken to them, at the conclusion, about keeping- Sunday. We left them, and retired to our house — read the sixtieth chapter of Isaiah, and prayed : after which we took a walk round the place, and found it larger than we at first con- ceived. Greegrees and devils' houses were seen in every direc- tion. Oh, that the Lord may have mercy on these benighted 244 MEMOIR OF JOHNSO:*. people I May Uis glory rise upon them, and dispel the gross darkness that has covered them ! ' After breakfast, about nine o'clock, we re-entered our canoe : sailed down the river, and came to the mouth about twelve o'clock ; whence we steered south for the Plantains, about twenty-four miles distant. Saw the islands about three o'clock : the land being very low, we could not see them be- fore. About eight o'clock, we passed the Camaranca river ; being dark, we ran upon a sand-bank. ' Oct. 25. We got off the sand-bank abotit eleven o'clock last night : tlie moon rising about the same time, enabled us to proceed. Reached the Plantains about seven o'clock this morning. Mr. George Caulker, the chief, had not returned from the Bananas. ' This settlement has much the appearance of an European residence. There aj-e, I suppose, about 200 inhabitants on the island. Tamba, who has lived here, knew many of the people. The point on the main, opposite to the island, is called Tassa Point. There, all the chiefs of the family of the Caulkers are buried ; and, when any serious or family dispute arises, they assemble at that place, and talk the palaver over the graves of their ancestors. ' We were kindly received by the younger brother of Mr. George Caulker. After breakfsist we went in search of the lime-trees which were planted by the late Rev. John Newton, when he was wandering like a lost sheep over this island. We found that they had been cut down ; we saw the trunk of one from which new branches had shot forth, but there was no fruit. Mr. Thomas Caulker, the principal chief, resides in the Camaranca river, which we crossed last night. There are six other towns up that river, all under his authority. I found some very useful books in the library of Mr. G. Caulker, which had been well used; with a hymn-book, some translations from which I found in print : and as several of the hymns in that book were composed by the late Rev. John Newton, it ia probable that some of his hymns are now sung, in the Sherbro JOURNAL OF A VISIT TO THE BANANA ISLANDS. 245 tongue, on the very spot where he in ignorance wandered, and planted lime-trees for his amusement ! ' As it was my wish to be at Regent's Town on the follow- ing Sunday, we could not wait till the arrival of Mr. G. Caulker, but again entered the canoe about eleven o'clock, A. m., and steered for Kent. ' In the evening we held a prayer-meeting in the canoe, it being the time when the people at Regent's Town assemble for the same purpose. ' Oct. 26. Having toiled and rowed against the wind ^11 night, we at length reached Kent, at eight o'clock this morn- ing. Sailed again at eleven ; and got past False Cape about nine o'clock in the evening, when a most tremendous tornado came from the mountains, and continued about four hours. It blew with great violence, and the lightning and thunder were truly awful : the rain came down in torrents : and the whole created so much confusion in the canoe, that the men did not know what they were doing. One let the anchor go, but it did not reach the bottom ; and thus our prospect became very precarious, as we were not far from some rocks. Tamba begged me to give him the command of the canoe, as the cap- tain appeared quite at a loss. I granted his request ; he got the anchor up again, and went before the wind till it abated. The wind changed again ; and, about five o'clock on Friday morning, we landed at Tongeh, five miles from Regent's Town. Having been wet all night, I changed my clothing, and pro- ceeded to Regent's Town ; which place we reached about half- past seven o'clock. Much joy was manifested on both sides, when we beheld each other again in safety. May our Heaven- ly Father be praised for His mercy toward us, during this short journey, and bless our feeble endeavours, for Jesus' sake !' CHAPTER IX. A. u. 1821. Progress of the mission — Visit of ]^[r. Bacon, and of Mr. Singleton, to Regent's Town. The work of Mr. Johnson is now seen to be lipening and maturing fast. The fulness of success begins to be mingled with the perils and temptations of prosperity. The Enemy of the Chureb is also unremitting in his assaults, while the strength of the missionary himself is sorely tried. At the opening of the new year he thus writes to the Secretaries in London : — ' Regent's Town, Jan. 19, 1821. ' Rev, and dear Sirs. ' You will be so kind as to receive herewith, the reports and journals of the different settlements, also the journal of W. Tamba, who has been successflil in his visit to the Sherbro country, and is now getting ready to go again the second time. 'The anniversaiy of the Sierra Leone Church Missionary Society was held on December 26. Mr. Garnsey being busy in preparing for his departure, declined preaching the Anniversary Sermon, which became my lot. I preached on Mark xvi. 15 : " Go you into all the world," &c. Mr. Garnsey will give you a full account, both of the Anniversary and of the Quarterly Meeting. I can only say it was to me a day of joy ; never did I spend a more happy Christmas : all was love and unity. On the 26th we had nineteen, and the 2'7th twenty-one male and female missionaries to dinner — the greatest number that ever dined together in Western Africa. ' The boys in the seminary proceed as usual. I wish I could see a competent teacher. Be so kind as to send the following Latin books as soon as possible : Should no teacher come out, we must try, by the help of God, what we can do. PROGRESS OF THE MISSION. 247 ' Mr. During is recovering from a severe illness, and is not able to write by tlie present opportunity : he wishes me to say that he will do so by the next. Mrs. During has been safely delivered of a fine son. ' A Miss Mackenzie has been placed under my care. She was born at Goree, but educated in England, and is about six- teen years of age. As she can play the organ, I should very much like to have one for our church ; we have a good place for one in the west gallery. If you would be so kind as to procure us a cheap one, we should all be very much obliged to you. D. Noah begins to complain about his chest. I am fre- quently obliged to lead singing, and the congregation being so large, it hurts me more than preaching. ' The whole income of the Sierra Leone Church Missionary Society is £118: 8s. 2d., of which sum £50: 5s. 2d., have been contributed by my humble flock. ' About the heresies which have lately become prevalent in the colony, I will leave Mr. Garnsey to tell you. The devil is going about in two different shapes, like a Roaring Lion, and like an Angel of Light. Oh may our covenant Lord keep us from all heresies and false doctrines. Sometimes we are attack- ed with great fury, but blessed be our Saviour who holds us fast, and will not let us go. Some of the people in our town have become very wicked. The communicants suffer persecu- tion throughout. Some of those who are without, appear to be hardened ; they have lost the fear of man, which perhaps restrained them before, and openly oppose the children of God ; but this drives us together, and shows us more the difference between the seed of the woman and the seed of the serpent. Thirty men and women are under a course of instruction for baptism. The work of mercy, notwithstanding the opposition of the enemy, is going on. " All things work together for good to them who love God." ' I know you will be pleased with the reports of the settle- ments. Indeed it will draw forth gratitude from the hearts of God's people, when they consider how the light of the Gospel 248 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. is beaming forth in every direction. Praise and glory be to our heavenly Father, who has again revived our drooping hearts through the prospect before us ! May the God of all grace continue to prosper your undertakings. ' William Johnson.' Rev. W. Johnson to the Secretaries. 'Regent's Town, March 20, 1821. * Rev. and dear Sirs, ' I wrote to you concerning Mr. Randle, &c., in the begin- ning of February. ' It has pleased our heavenly Father to raise me again from a bed of sickness, which I thought would have proved ray last. About the time I wrote to you last, I caught a severe cold which settled upon my lungs, and my strength soon failed through violent coughing and spitting. I went for change to Charlotte's Town, which is not so much exposed to the wind, but received no benefit. I then proceeded to Freetown, and took my abode in the missionary house, where I have been closely attended three weeks by the doctor. I returned last Saturday, and am, through the mercy of God, so far restored that I can do duty again. My cough has not left me quite, and I am obliged to be very careful. My people were much alarmed, and earnestly prayed for my recovery : the Lord has been pleased to hear their prayers. They wish much that another should take the superintendence, for they say the work is too much for me. They wish that I should only preach the word of God to them. However, I told them to leave that in the hand of God ; if it was his will that I should be their temporal and spiritual guide, he would give me strength accordingly. ' Mr. and Mrs. During have been dangerously ill : !Mr. D. is recovered, and Mrs. D. is recovering. Mr. and Mrs. Norman are both ill with the fever. Mr. N. I trust is out of danger. Oh may the Lord spare them-! They are people to whom I VISIT OF THE AMERICAN MISSIONARIES. 249 am much attached ; and who will, if spared, prove useful among us. ' Oh, my dear sirs, pray for us — pray for us ! If ever a Mis- sion was afflicted, it is your Mission in Western Africa. Mere professors of religion have joined the profane, and have opened their mouths against us, saying, " Aha, aha ! our eyes have seen it ! — Ah ! so would we have it !" Oh, may the Lord hear our cries, and overcome evil with good I ' It is most remarkable that the work of grace proceeds ; but so it has been, and so it will be. " Through much tribulation ve shall enter into the kingdom." Next week the Quarterly meeting will be held. ' Another American vessel has arrived, with Missionaries for the settlement on the Sherbro coast. There are four agents. Two of them are clergymen of the Episcopal church. One of them (Mr. Andrus) showed me a letter from Mr. Pratt, and I was much pleased that that letter had proved effectual to the formation of a Church Missionary Society in America. They asked my advice as it respects the Sherbro. I advised them to go lower down the coast ; as, in the first place, their present situation is too close to this colony ; secondbj, vessels of 150 tons and upwards cannot approach the settlement within ten miles ; and thirdly, the shore is very low, surrounded with mangroves, and therefore very unhealthy. I also advised them to search for anotlier place before the rains, and stay during that season in Freetown, and immediately after to proceed to the place fixed upon, as they will then be able to build proper houses before the rains come on again. I have pointed out two places to them — Cape Mesurado and St. John's Kiver, Bassa Country. I believe that at both those places there is good anchorage for large vessels, and they are both about 400 miles from this colony, and thus remove all prejudice. •' They have taken my advice, and intend to sail in a schooner to-morrow for those places. I hope I have not done wrong in advising them, nor in giving W. Davis and Taraba as inter- preters. Both are acquainted with the coast and with the 250 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. chiefs, and will therefore be of great service to them. On their return, they have promised to put Tamba and Davis on the Plantains, from whence they will proceed and visit all the towns and villages belonging to the Caulkers. ' Mr. Andrus and Mr. Bacon were with us last Sunday, and were much gratified. Mr. Andrus said he had heard that the accounts of this place were much exaggerated ; but he was sorry that things were not known more : he never had seen a church in America filled with more attentive hearers, nor so large a number of communicants who had behaved with more piety at the Lord's table, than those here. * If these missionaries should settle at any of those places above mentioned, would you have any objection to Davis going to settle with them ? He would be of great service to them and to his country ; indeed a large field of usefulness would be before him. Be so kind as to let me know. W. Tamba ■would have gone before this to the Plantains, but he would not leave me while I was ill. ' The boys in the seminary have been now for several weeks without my or Mr. Norman's aid ; but as soon as I get a little stronger, I will resume my instruction. Be so kind as to urge forward the materials for the new building. I fully agree with the plan of sending out all the wood and iron materials from England ; they will come cheaper, and be better made. The 50 Bibles and 30 pocket Testaments for the youths in the sem- inary have proved a great blessing, especially the former. The marginal references have enabled the boys to compare Scripture with Scripture, and thus the Holy Book has become familiar to them. Will you be so kind as to make our grateful acknow- ledgments to the Bible Society, for the great blessings they have conferred upon the youths, in giving them these precious books ? ' I long to hear of the safe arrival of Mr. and Mrs. (rarnsey. ' I intended to send a journal by this conveyance, but my weak state of health has prevented me. Many interesting cir- cumstances hnvo occurred, which would glad^ my house, and ■„ -ain was much affected. He addressed us in a very Christian-like manner, saying that he was fully per- suaded there was no difference between the true people of God. After breakfast, we visited the market, which gratified Mr. S. much. We then went to see some of the peojile's farms, and he was still more delighted. At five he went to Freetown much gratified. ' One woman said, at the evening meeting, " When I think about the great things God has done for me, I don't know VISIT OF MR. SINGLETON. 255 what to do. When I was in ray own country, they catch us all, and then they take all ray brothers and sisters and kill them, me only one left, (she could scarcely speak,) and they put them in the pot and boil them and eat them." I inter- rupted her, and asked her if she was sure that had been the case, which she affirmed. She continued, with tears, " Me only one left — oh what great things the Lord had done for rne ! poor guilty sinner ! Me so bad. I hope the Lord Jesus Christ will have mercy on me. Oh, him one only can save me." *Aman spoke for a considerable time. He said, "Them words you talk last Sunday morning come to my heart with power. I am sure the Holy Ghost give you them words to talk. I just stand that fashion. I just like one who sleep ; just the same as if somebody been tell you. First time, me feel glad too much ; but this time me feel so cold — me no feel good at all ; me more worse every day. My heart so bad, trouble me too much. The thing I no want to remember, come in my heart. Sometimes me don't know what me must da." ' April 8, 1821. Spoke in the morning to a crowded con- gregation on Lara. iii. 20, 21. In the afternoon, read and explained 1 John v. 1 — 8, and in the evening preached on Matt, xxviii. 19. The church was full both afternoon and evening. The boys concluded the Lord's day, as usual, with a prayer-meeting. This meeting has now stood nearly three years, and I believe has proved a blessing to many of the young. It will ever be remembered that the late George Paul was the instrument who formed this prayer-meeting. Bless the Lord, O my soul, for this blessed day. " Oh give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever !" ' The evening sermon w-as a missionary sermon. I informed the people that the anniversary of the Regent's Town Church Missionary Association would be held next Tuesday, as on that day the monthly prayer-meeting will be held at this place, when all the missionaries will be here. 256 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON". * April 10. The prayer-meeting was held in my house at 11 o'clock. "Waited until that time for the brethren from Freetown, Kent, and Wilberforce, but none of them came. Oh, that the desire of being "present at these meetings was greater ! The following only were present — Mr. and Mrs. During, Mr. and Mrs. Taylor, Mr. and Mrs. Davey, and Mr. and Mrs. Norman, and my family. After the prayer-meetirig. we had the bell rung for the anniversary. The church was full ; and, I trust, it "proved a good opportunity for us all. Out friends dined with us, and left at seven o'clock. Praise be to Him who worketh all and in all.' Mr. Singleton, on his return, published a journal, anc a Re- port, in which he thus speaks of Regent's Town : — 'The population of Regent's Town is about 1350: of this number, 700 are able to provide for themselves and :arailies, by means of their farms. One man sold the produce of his little spot, last year, for £50, and the quantity of cassada sold then was 10,000 bushels. * A small market is held each day ; but the seventu day is the principal one. Five oxen are weekly consumed, besides pork. ' The people, with a few exceptions, are industrious ; as may be seen by the improved liouses which they build :br them- selves ; by their furniture, all of their own making ; and by the neatness and cleanliness of their habitations. In sevei-al houses are sofas, covered with clean print, or the country cloth ; tables and forms, or chairs ; and, especially, I noticed in eaeh house a corner-cupboard, with its appropriate crockery-ware. The beds and sleeping-rooms are remarkably neat and clean, A few of the inhabitants, more ingenious or richer than the rest, are building houses of board, with stores below and piazza in front, ' The Superintendent appears to have considerable influence with the people, and his advice is readily fullowcd. VISIT OF MR. SINGLETON. 25*7 * A woman, whose husband absconded about four years since, and has not been heard of during that time, asked the Super- intendent, some time after the man's departure, if she might not marry again : he informed her that the hiw of England required a period of seven years before that was allowed : she submitted, and, to the present, has lived alone, maintaining herself, and acting with exemplary propriety. ' As we were standing under the piazza this morning, (6th day,^ a young African came to ask permission to marry. W. Johnson gave good reasons for withholding his assent, which he had scarcely done when he was called away ; and I advised the hesitat'ng youth to acquiesce. He readily answered, " My massa good man. He say girl too young. We wait. I no pass de word of my massa." ' Returning from a walk over one or two of the farms, and coming near the market-place, we were met by an elderly Afri- can, with a basket on his head, covered with a cloth. He stopped, and placing the basket on the ground, drew out a glass-bottle, which he held up, that the Superintendent might see its contents, and uttered a few words which I could not understand. The bottle contained palm-wine ; and the man in his simplicity, produced it uncalled for, to assure the Super- intendent that it Avas not rum, the use of this liquor being pro- hitited. * Soon after breakfast. Captain Grant came in. We visited the schools together. The girls behaved with seriousness, and appeared under good care. There was an agreeable solidity in their countenances, which, I hope, indicated something good within. The boys were attentive, and the monitors active : as was the case too at Gloucester and Kissey. ' I visited, with satisfaction, the school at Freetown, and those at several of the villages in the mountains. At Regent's Town I remained two days, and left the family and villagers with re- gret. This is a favoured place, and, while there, I indulged in a wish, that if the Friends should be induced to commence a 268 MEMOIK OF JOHNSON. settlement on the Gambia, their success might equal lliat of the Superinteudeat of Regent's Town.' We now resume Mr. Johnson's journal : — '■April 11. Went and visited some people. One woman who was ill, said, " Sometimes I feel glad, sometimes I feel sorry ; and sometimes full of doubts and fears. Yesterday I sorry too much that I could not come to the missioaary-rueet- ing. I was hungry too much for to come, but I too sick. Sometimes me 'fraid too much ; I think I have sinned against the Holy Ghost : this trouble me too much. Me heart so hard as make me think me sin against the Holy Ghost. Sometimes me no sabby what to do. Me can't pray, me so cold. Oh me troubled about that too much, and now I am sick. I think God punish me, and still my heart so hard. Only thing that comfort me is that the Lord Jesus came to seek and save them people that lost : and that God punish him people. He punish me, me bad, and that make me think he love me. I hope he will pardon my sin — them too much upon me." ' Went to another house, where I heard another woman make the same complaint. She added : " One night last week, vou say that the devil always try to put bad people amongst God'a people, and suppose two, three, four bad people only, live amongst God's people — them can do harm to God's people :oo much. Massa, that time you talk so, water come out of 2iy eyes. I think I am the one, the only hypocrite. And you say, * Suppose people stand in that fashion, and die in that state, they stand worse than them people that never hear about ..he Lord Jesus Christ.' Them words, Massa, make me 'fraid -oo much. I don't know what to do : I hope the Lord Jesus vill have mercy upon me." ' Another said, " You see, Massa, me 'fraid too much, because that woman (H. E.) she always talk to me before-tircie, and tell me to pray. She the same as head-woman amongst JOCRNAI,. 259 us. She sabby talk God palaver too much — but you see that woman no good. All the time she do bad. Some peo- ple tell me, they say that woman hypocrite, but I no believe them. Josiah Yamsey, my countryman, tell me no to believe them people, because he think people want to give that woman bad name : she be christian, that make them talk bad of her. Now, Massa, you see' that true. You see that woman turn her back upon the Lord Jesus. Oh massa, ah that trouble me — me 'fraid that by and bye me stand in the same fashion." She ap- peared much distressed. I spoke (o her, and if God the Spirit does bless the same to her soul, she will be encouraged, and " press towards the mark of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." ^ April 14. In the afternoon,! Avent and visited some people. The conversations which occurred would swell my journal to a great degree, so much so that it would become tedious both to the writer and to the reader. However, I must make a few observations about a woman who lost her husband in 1817 with the small pox, and married again in the latter end of that year to a man who came from Freetown, where he had served his apprenticeship to a blacksmith. Soon after that she became serious, and her new husband also took up a profession of religion, and by that means gained the confidence of the people at this place. He then borrowed as much money as he could, and sold several pigs and other articles which his wife had when he married her : in short he stripped her of everything, and went to Freetown under the pretence of buying articles for the commencement of business, but alas, next day, news came that he had sailed with a French vessel to Senegal, and since that time he has not" been heard of. The poor unfortunate woman carried her grief to her God, who says, " Call upon me in the day of trouble; — I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glo- rify me," and it is most wonderful how she has been supported. Her trials have been amongst the " all things that woi-k together for good." I believe, if there are any who enjoy peace or comfort, she does, in the humble cottage, the cleanliness of whicli cannot be too much admired : as also her regular attend' 260 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. ance at divine worship, which she never neglects. I asked her how she got on now. She said, " I have plenty trouble, but the Lord Jesus Christ is my father and my husband." She avoids all company, in order that no evil report may be raised by those who are without. She lives near her country-people, who have, like her, found the pearl of great price. I cannot help observing that when the fence round the cottage wants repairing, her Christian country-people will join together, and do it gratis. This is another evidence of that sovereign grace which turns the lion into a lamb. These are all of the Ebo nation. May the God of sovereign grace have all praise and glory. ' April 16. Yesterday morning it rained very much, so that some people were prevented attending divine service in the morning, especially such of the women as have small children. The church however was well attended in the afternoon and evening. On the whole, the Sunday was spent as usual. The Lord was with us. 'This evening I examined those candidates that have been on trial since November, and whom I intend to baptize next Sunday (being Easter.) They are twenty-two in number. I examined twelve, who gave me satisfaction. * April IV. Went to Leopold's Town and Charlotte's Town. Returned at 5 p. m., after service. I examined the remaining candidates. One woman, who appeared doubtful, was told to wait till another opportunity. She seemed much disappointed, but I could not feel satisfied to receive her. * April 20. Good Friday. Divine service was held as on Sundays. The church was nearly full. In the morning I spoke on Rom. v. 8. In the afternoon, prayer-meeting. In the evening, spoke on John xix. 30. ' A2>ril 21. One man {J. Pratt) who had been told that he could not be permitted to attend the Lord's table, for a slight oflfence, came to me this morning, and said, " Massa, where must I go now ? I do so bad, that true, I deserve to be turned away from the Lord Jesus Christ and him people : but fov JOURNAL. 261 true, Massa, I cannot live without the Lord. What must I do ? What word Hve there again that can comfort my heart ? Suppose me run to my country far away, the word me hear live in my heart every where, and car^'t come out again. To what place can me go for peace ? I don't know what to do." The words of St Peter came to my mind, " Lord, to whom shall we go ? Thou hast the words of eternal life." And I could not send 'the man away, without telling him to come to the Lord's table to morrow. He was very thankful, and a great burden appeared to have fallen from his heart. Cases like this, I have had frequently. They are like Noah's dove, find- ing no rest but in the Ark of the covenant, — the blessed and precious Lord Jesus Christ. ' In the evening, at the usual meeting, I addressed the com- municants (who were all present except one who was sick,) on the Lord's Supper. I also called over the names of the candi- dates for baptism. This is a method which I now always observe. When I receive any candidates for instruction, I request on the following Saturday evening all the candidates to be present. I then read over all their names and places of abode, and request the communicants to watch over them ; and if they should observe any improper conduct, they are charged as Christians to inform me of the same, and the offender is dis- missed. The same is repeated, after they have been on trial about three months, and the last time just before they are bap- tized. As we have so many, who come forward from time to time, I find this a very useful way of getting acquainted with the conduct of those received on trial. ' Several women spoke this evening concerning the state of \heir souls. One said, who wept much, " My heart fill up with sin ; more I pray more sin I feel, and more worse I stand. My heart plague me too much. I think I cannot be saved, because I think nobody bad like me. Suppose somebody can look into my heart, he can say, ' That woman bad for true?' Oh iliy sin pass me. Hope the Lord Jesus Christ will have mercy upon me. Suppose he have no mercy, me must go to hell.' 11* 202 MEMOIR or JOIIKSON". Several more spoke to the same efiect. Some of us could not forbear dropping a tear of sympathy. "We sung — "Shew pity, Lord, oh Lord ! forgive : Lcl a repenting rebel live ; Are not thy mercies full and free. May not the sinner trust in thee ?" We concluded with prayer. ^ April 22. JSaster /Sunday. The prayer-meeting in the morning at six o'clock was numerously attended. About nine o'clock the streets and roads began to be in motion, all the people walking one way, i. e. to the church. At ten o'clock the bell rang, and the church was full. At a quarter past ten it rang again, and while I was going, the churchwardens met me, and said the church was full too much. I tried to got all the people into the church, but was obliged to leave some out- side — not a spot being left to accommodate another individual. Mr. Norman read prayers, after which I preached on Isa. xliii. 1. After the sermon I baptized 21 adults and 3 chiMren — 2 adults and 1 infant from Charlotte. As the communicants have now increased to a considerable number, I begged Mr. During to assist me in administering the Lord's Supper. Mr. D. came when I commenced preaching, having had service at his place an hour sooner. I think I shall in future administer the Lord's Sup- per on the last Sunday in the month, Mr. During will then be able to help me. All the communicants (except the sick) were present, and niiic luhitcs, myself included. I trust we all found it good to be there. ' Our attention was attracted by a little boy about three years old, who AVHS baptized with his mother. He appeared very devout. Having knelt down, he placed his little hand before his eyes, and appeared as if in earnest prayer, and so remained during the whole ceremony. When I poured water on his head, he remained still in his devout posture. ' Li the afternoon the people kept prayer-meeting under the direction of Mr. Norman — mvself beinsf too much fatigued to KEW5 FROM IHE BASSA COUNTRY. 263 attend. In the afternoon, I spoke on 1 Cor. xv. 45. The boys had prayer-meeting as usual. This is a day which will be known and long remonibered by those who have tasted that the Lord is gracious. O may the Lord the Spirit carry on the work of sovereign grace amongst us, for Jesus' sake. Amen. ^ April 23. Many people came to me after evening service to speak to me about the stale of their souls. Some were much distressed, while others rejoiced — having received much comfort through the ordinances of the past Lord's day. In the afternoon Mr. During came, and we made two cliureh-wardens for Regent, and two for Gloucester. P. Hughes and Mr. Vivah ivere chosen for Regent. ' Ajiril 28. I have been much engaged this week with peo- ple who continue to come and apply for baptism. Many gave very satisfactory iuiswers, which induced me to believe that a work of grace had been begun in their hearts. I asked one young man, why he wished to be baptized ; he said, " I have nothing to say for mi'self ; only one thing I say, I always feel, which is, I am a great sinner, and. the Lord Jesus Christ died for sinners. That is why I wish to be baptized, I cannot live xvithout him. I must give up ; my heart always plagues me, and the Lord only can save rae from that." I have also had very interesting conversations with many of the communicants, which would till many sheeti^. Their complaints are various, but all of one nature. ' Last night I was agreeably surprised at the sight of Mr. Bacon, who has been down the coast to the Bassa country. Mr. Davis, accompanied by the King's son, came also. The missionaries have succeeded in getting land ; they have a sufScient quan- tity to begin a colony in the Bassa country. It appears that the King of that country is in earnest, or else he would not have sent his son, which may be taken as a token of sincerity, as it respects the land, &c., promised. I cannot express what I felt when the news reached my ears, A heavy burden fell at once from my mind, which has been there ever since I heard of the death of Mr. Gates: for ho, humanly speakingr, died of the 264 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. fatigue which he endured in going to that country, and I was the cause of his undertaking it, for I first proposed it to him, and urged a special meeting to be held. But now I see that the Lord's ways are in the deep. " How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out !" Ilad Mr. Gates not gone there, the missionaries would not have received land. W. Davis produced the agreement whicli the King bad made with Mr. Gates, and which opened the way immediately. Thus that dear servant of the Lord has slain more at his death, than ever he did in his life-time. The people were in the evening school -when Davis and the Prince arrived. I took the latter to the school-bouse; and bad our friends in England seen the sight, they would have Avept for joy. His countrymen, who were standing in their respective classes, left them without ask- ing leave, surrounded the son of their King, shook hands with him in the most affectionate manner, and enquired after their relatives. Some leaped for joy when they beard that their parents were alive, and the prospect of the Gospel soon sound- ing in their ears, caused such sensations as cannot well be described. D. Noah beard that his father and brethren were all alive and well. W. Davis said he bad seen some of those who sold him as a slave, and who tried to bide themselves, be- ing ashamed to took at him. The mistress of bis late master, when she saw hijn, ran towards him, fell upon bis neck and wept. He beard that bis mother was alive, but too far in the interior to enable him to pay ber a visit this time. However, he sent ber a present, and word that be '^boped soon to see her, and to have ber in bis family. Some of the people were so struck when they saw Davis, that they scarcely would believe that be was the same ; as an instance of one returning who bad been sold, bad never occurred before. Is not this a Joseph's case. The missionaries have agreed to settle on the shores of the Bassa country in the middle of the dry season. ^ April 29. This holy day was spent as usual. The church was full three times. Spoke in the morning on Matthew ix. 12, JOURNAL. 265 Explained in the afternoon 1 Tliess. v. 1 — 13 ; and in tbe even- ing preached on Rev. xxi. 6. Was much fatigued in the even- ing, as the day was so remarkably hot, and the church so full, that I could scarcely breathe. My soul, raise an Ebenezer to the Covenant Jehovah, who has again wonderfully sustained thee. As thy days, so shall thy strength be. Oh Lord, what shall I, the most unworthy of thy servants, render unto thee for all thy benefits towards me ? Thou overwhelmest me with mercies, all of which I am unworthy of. Receive, O Lord, my unworthy tribute of praise and thanksgiving. '■May 1. Last night and to-night I examined some people who were desirous of being baptized. I received eighteen on trial, wKo were particularly recommended by their neighbours, who are communicants. ' May 4. More candidates for baptism have been received to-night, and the night before last. The whole number is now thirty-three, who will be on trial at least four or five months, and then instructed for the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's supper. Oh my God and Saviour, thy unworthy crea- ture desires to praise and bless thee for the power with which thou accompaniest thy holy word. Oh may thy poor servant be enabled, through the influence of the Spirit, to preach Christ crucified, which is indeed the power of God and the wisdom of God. ' May 5. This evening, one man said, " Massa, them words you talk last Sunday morning, sweet too much to my heart. That time me come to church me so much trouble. My heart full up with sin. Me stand like sick person. Oh me sorry for my sin. Me sit down, and by and bye, when you begin to talk them words in Matt. ix. 12, you say sick people want a doctor, but them people no sick no want doctor. Me say, ah, that is true. Suppose me sick, me can't go for doctor. By and bye you ask, " Who is sick in this congregation ?" and then you tell us who them sick people be the Lord talk about in the Bible, and then you begin to talk about them. Ah, Massa, same thing live in my Iioart, and me say them words God send 206 MEMOin OK JOHNSON'. to me to-day. I>y and bye you talk about the Lord Jesus Christ, him the doctor for heart-sick people. Oh, them words make me glad. You talk plenty about the medicine he give, and that he take no money ; he give it freely. Oh raassa, that make me so glad. That time me go home, me have comfort too much. Thank God, the Lord Jesus Christ take him own blood for medicine, and take all my sin away." ' Several more spoke, which gave me much comfort also. ' J/ay 6. Sunday. Divine service as usual. Spoke in the morning on Matt. v. 4 : in the afternoon, read and explained Titus ii. and in the evening, on Rom. viii. 15. " Abba, Father." ' Jfay 14, A whole week has elapsed, and the many circum- stances and conversations which have occurred would be pleas- ing to every child of God. Yot it is impossible to commit them all to paper or memory, Avhich all times in Africa is some- what weak. I shall therefore only notice the outlines of what Las come to pass, 'Last Monday, the anniversary of ihe Churcli l^Iissionary Association of Gloucester was held, and that of Charlotte on Tuesday : tlie latter was particularly interesting. On Saturday evening there occurred sweet conversation at this place. What occurred it will be impossible to say. I can only say that the God of sovereign grace carries on his work in a wonderful man- ner. Praise and glory be to his holy name. 'Divine service w'as held as usual yesterday : I spoke in the morning on Matt. ix. 24. In the afternoon, I went to Char^ lotte, as Mr. Taylor was ill, and spoke there on 1 John iii, 9, 10, There were but few present ; some appeared very atten* tive : two men wept much when I spoke on the evidences of a Christian. After service I returned to Regent's, and preached in the evening on Isa. xliv, 20, 21. May the Lord Jehovah be praised for giving his unworthy creature health and strength to speak in the name of the Lord Jesus. Sickness has commenced with the rainy season, Mr. and Mrs. Taylor, Mr. Davey, Mr. and Mrs. Norman, and my sister, arc all ill with the fever. ' In the evening, a yountf nian came to me and said, " Mas?a, JOURNAL. 267 them words you talk last niglit strike me too much. When you preach, you read the 14th and 15th verses of the 44th Isaiah, p.nd. explain them. You show how our country people stand. Me say, " Ah, who tell Massa all this ? He never been in my country." You say, " Do not your country-people live in that fashion ?" I say, "Yes, that true; God knows all things. He put them things in the Bible." Massa, I so sure that the Bible God's word, for man cannot put all things there, because he no see it. That time I live in my country, I live with a man that make gregree. He take mc into the bush and teach me to mate gregree too. He shew me one tree. He say, " That gregree tree." He take country axe and cut some of that tree. He make a god, and he take the leaves and that what was left, and give me to carry home. When we came liome, he make a fire, and. all the people come and sit round the fire. Then they cook and eat. When they done eat, the man take the leaves of the gregree-tree and burn them in the fire, and then all the people stand round the fire, and clap their hands and cry, " Aha, aha." Massa, when you read that verse, I can't tell you what I feel. You then begin to talk about the text, (20th verse,) " He feedeth on ashes ;" and I was struck again, for when they done cry, " Aha," they take the ashes and make medicine ; they give it to people when they be sick. You been see some gregree which looks like dirt ; that is the same ashes they carry that our poor countrymen feed on ashes. For true the Bible God's word. Again you talk about the twenty -first verse, and tell us to remember this, and look back and see how God pull us like brand out of the fire. Massa, I thank God for the word I hear last night ; it make my heart sorry for my country-people, but it make my heart glad when I see what God done for me. But me so wicked. God love me so much, and still my heart so cold. Massa, one thing trouble me too much, sometimes you talk about whoremongers and adulterers. I must say I not done that sin yet, but I am so 'fraid by-and- by I shall do that sin. Me done that sin plenty times with my heart, I hope the Lord Jesus will have mercv upon me and 268 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. keep me. Another thing trouble rae ; I don't know if you like to hear it, but I will tell you. My heart trouble nie too much about my country -people — me so much want to be a teacher to them. I wanted to tell you before, but me so ashamed ; but when you preach last night about our country-people, I think I must tell you." I gave him some advice, which I pray God the Spirit may bless to him. '■May 21. Last Tuesday evening I received a note from J. RefFell, Esq., Chief Superintendent of captured negroes, in -which I was informed that a slave vessel had been brought in with 238 unfortunate fellow-creatures, and that he and the Acting Governor had agreed to send them all to Regent's Town ; and begged me therefore to go to Freetown the following morning and receive them. ' On Wednesday morning I went with some people to receive them. Those who remained at home, prepared food for their poor unfortunate country-people. However, we were all disap- pointed, as the court of the Mixed Commission had not con- demned the vessel. Mr. RefFell, who disembarked the negroes, no doubt saved many lives, for which he was blamed by the stift' Court of Commissioners. The vessel was a small schooner, and many of the poor creatures are ill and reduced to skeletons. As the court only sat on Wednesday, I sent the people home again, and stayed in Freetown myself to hear the result of the court. ' I was informed on Thursday that the slaves and vessel were condemned by the court. The description was then taken, after whicb 217 were delivered tome, — the rest, being sick, were carried to Leicester Hospital. I was obliged to have them surrounded by our people, and marched so out of Freetown, as the soldiers of the Fort were on the look-out to get some of them for wives ! I am sorry to say, the soldiers are a nuisance to the colony. ' I cannot describe the scenes which occurred when we ar- rived at Regent's Town. I have seen many negroes landed, but never beheld such an affecting sight. As soon as we came i| AN EARTHQUAKE. 269 in sight, all the people came out of their houses to meet us, with loud acclamations. When they beheld the new people weak and faint, they carried and led them up towards my house. After they had lain on the ground, being quite exhaust- ed, many of our people recognized their friends and relatives, and there was a general cry, "Oh, massa, my sister!" "My brother !" " My sister !" " My countryman !" " My country- woman ?" &c. The poor creatures being faint — ^just taken out of the hold of a slave-vessel, and unconscious of what had be- fallen them — did not know whether they should laugh or cry when they beheld the countenances of those whom they had supposed long dead, but now saw clothed and clean, and per- haps with healthy children in their arms. ' The school-boys and girls brought the victuals they had prepared, and all the people following their example, ran to their houses, and brought what they had got ready, and in a short time their unfortunate country -people were overpowered with messes of every description ; and they made a good din- ner, such as they had not been accustomed to for a long while. Pine-apples, ground-nuts, and oranges were also brought in great abundance. 'I lodged for the night the men and boys in the boys' school, and the women and girls in the girls' school. 'Another remarkable circumstance occurred the same day; a rattling noise proceeded from the East to the West, and was immediately succeeded by an earthquake. All the buildings shook for a short time. My sister who had just recovered from the fever, and was up stairs, heard an unusual noise, when instantly every thing was in motion. The chairs, tables, glasses, &c., moved, and the doors opened and shut again repeatedly. She rose to get down stairs, but felt so giddy that she stag- gered as she went, and could get no further than the staircase, where she sat down. The girls ran down, crying, " The house want to fidl." Mrs. J. who was in the yard, felt also giddy. Mr. and Mrs. Norman heard the noise, and saw every thino- in their house in motion. The school-girls were beating rice, 270 ilKMOIK OF JOHNSON. whea they at once saw all the mortars in motion ; they threw away their pestles, and came to ray house. One girl was at the brook to get water. She saw the water in an unusual motion, and sat down to behold the scene, when the rock on wliich she sat was moved under her ! so she left her pot and ran off! One man ran out of his house, and calling his family, saying, " I have not kept family prayer this morning, and God wants to pull down my house." They assembled and had prayer during the earthquake. Some who were sick, finding their beds shake, gathered all the strength they had, and got out of their houses. All the people came to church in the evening, and I spoke on the circumstance. ' On Friday morning I distributed the new people. I picked out sixty-eight boys and sixty-o.ne girls for the schools ; the remainder (men and women) I distributed among the people. Several had the joy to take a brother or sister home. One boy in the seminary found a sister younger than himself among them, who remains in the girls' school. ' In the evening the church was crowded again. One school- girl put some of her own clothing on one of the new girls, in order to take her to church. AVhen the poor girl came before the church, and saw the quantity of people, she ran back cry- ing. She said, she had been sold too much, and did not want to be sold again. Poor creature ! she thought she was going to market, to be sold again. The girls had some trouble to persuade her otherwise. 'On Saturday evening much was said respecting the earth- quake. It appeai-s that the shock has been felt at Freetown and other parts of the colony, but nowhere so severely as here. This may be accounted for by our nearness to Sugar Loaf Mountain. 'When the bell rang yesterday, the church was instantly filled, and many had to remain outside, though I placed the people as close as possible. The church is now too small, and the number of hearers will increase on account of the new peo- ple. I have planned another addition, which we shall begin as \ JOURNAL. 271 soou as permission is granted. I intend to take the north side out, and throw the whole under a double roof, substituting pil- lars for the present north wall, and to place the pulpit on the south side, in the middle. It will then be 80 feet long by 64. Galleries may be placed all round, which will make it as large again. May the Lord bless all our feeble endeavours ! ^ May 26. Much has occurred recently, which would gratify every one who knows the truth as it is in Jesus. ' Last night, I spoke on the latter part of 1 Cor. xv. After -service a number of people followed me to my house, prin- cipally communicants. One woman said, " Massa, that word you talk to-night first much against me, but afterwards it make me glad. First when you explain the day of judgment, me 'fraid too much ; but then you talk again, and me think me the one that can say, Thanks be to God, who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ ! Suppose God no love me with an everlasting love, he cannot do all them things for me which he has done. Oh, Massa 1 I can't tell you all what I see this time, what God done for me. He bring me out from my country — me so many times sick, but he spare me — plenty of them people that come in same ship dead now. You know, Massa, me been plenty times sick, and last time me think me time come — me pray long time, and God hear my prayer. Suppose me no belong to the Lord Jesus Christ, he no hear my prayer. That hymn which me sing plenty times comfort me — Guide me, O thou great Jehovah, Pilgrim through this barren land, I am weak, but thou art mighty. Hold me with thy powerful hand. ' May 27. Sunday. At nine o'clock the people began to come from every quarter, and when the bell rung the first time the church was full. Spoke on Psalm xxxviii. 6. After ser- mon Mr. During joined us. It being the last Sunday in the month, he assisted me to administer the Lord's Supper. I be- lieve all but the sick were present. Prayer-meeting was held 272 MEMOIR OF JOHKSOK. in the afternoon. SpoTce in the evening on John vi, 36 — 39. Be thou praised, O Lord, for the manifestations of thy love, with which thou hast manifested thyself to thy people to-day. ' May 28. A woman said this evening, " Me the same like a goat ; yes, me worse like a goat. I see the goats walk to- gether, they eat a little here and. a little there, and they are satisfied. But me always troubled, and me no like this and that — me not satisfied, and my heart worse past every thing. You see me bad past goat : the wicked be called goats in the Bible, and me worse than the wicked." ' June 6. Time will not permit me to say more at present. W. Tamba has this moment arrived. ' Sir George Collier has brought more slaves in to-day. I suppose I shall get more people to-morrow. I hear that more have been captured, Avhich are on their way to Sierra Leone under the direction of a man-of-war.' Rev. W. Johnson to the Secretaries. 'Regent's Town, Oct. 10, 1821. ' Rev. and dear Sirs, 'I had anticipated that through the mercy of our God we should escape the rainy season without losing any from our field of labour, but our Lord has seen fit to visit us again. Perhaps you have already heard that Mr. and Mrs. Hughes of the Gam- bia are dead ; also Mr. Renner, your oldest Missionary, is no more. Mr. and Mrs. Hughes died of the fever. Mr. Renner, I understand, had the yellow jaundice. The Gambia and Free- town have lost many, especially of those who arrived before the rains set in. As far as I can learn, 25 out of 50 have died at Freetown. We have been wonderfully preserved here. Mr. and Mrs. Norman only have suftered severely, but they now enjoy good health. My sister has had the fever, but not severely. Mrs. J. and myself have had no fever at all. I be- lieve our place has become more healthy. Mr. Beckley is now at Kent wilh Mrs. Renner. TROUBLES. 2*73 ' Mr. Reffell has of late come ifeucli to our side. He fre- quently attends divine service here. I do not mean to say that he is a changed man, but he has of late become well disposed. He has offered me a conveyance for visiting all the settlements, which I have accepted. He has written to York, Kent, &c., and desired that such as wish to be married should be ready for the matrimonial ceremony on my arrival. He wishes that I should address the people. He intends to accompany me. We leave this place on Monday next. ' Our prospects of a mission in the Bassa country, which were some time ago so very bright, are entirely beclouded again. Mr. Andrus is dead, Mr. and Mrs. Bacon have returned to Amenca. I have now to add the death of Mr. and Mrs. Winn, and the Bassa King's son. The former died of the fever in a week, and the latter with the bowel-complaint. What shall we say to these things ? Is the time for the Bassas not come ? But we will leave this to our God, and wait patiently for Him to remove the gloom. His hand is not shortened that it can- not save, neither is his ear heavy that it cannot hear. It is enough that the Lord has said, " Ethiopia shall stretch out her hands unto God." ' One of the American agents survives — Mr. Wiltberger. I am sorry to say we have lost many of our new people ; the poor creatures were much reduced, having been so closely packed in the slave-vessel, that the rains were more than they could en- dure. We have lost nearly 50 out of 238, and I believe this mortality has been exceeded in other places. ' I am soiTy that the Anniversary of the Bible Society is not held this year ; it has been put off from month to month, till scarcely anything is said about it. I think we could get some subscriptions for our Society in Freetown, if a sermon was preached in its behalf; but as that is not done, nor the Society ever mentioned, we can expect nothing from that quarter. ' We go on as usual in spiritual things. The Lord is with us. We have many trials, but the Lord's work proceeds. I sometimes believe myself to be the happiest man in the world. 274 MEMOIR OF JOHSSOK. and would not change my situation for all the crowns on earth ; while at other tiines I exclaim with the prophet, " Oh that mine head wore waters, and mine eyes fountains of tears, that I might weep day and night for the slain of the daughter of my people." ' I cannot say how many communicants we have at present ; the number is great, I am afraid to number them. (2 Sam. xxiv.) ' We have again laboured under a scarcity ; the rice harvest having failed : this has been advantageous to our pe^^nle, as they have sold and continue to sell large quantities of cocoa and cassada. 'We now act on a plan, wliich, as it respects quarterly and monthly prayer-meetings, is the best which could have been formed. ' Your Mission in Africa, my dear Sirs, is I believe more troubled than any other. I can compare it to nothing better than a vessel in a heavy gale of wind on the ocean : the gale however, proves favourable, and pushes it forward. 'I hope that you will be enabled to send us more help, and that they who come will prove of the right sort, not inclined to " look back." ' I am, &c. ' W. Johnson.' Rev. W. Johnson to the Secretaries. 'Regent's Town Dec. 29, 1821. ' Rev. and dear Sirs, 'Your kind letter of August 29, 1821, has reached me. I row forward the enclosed papers. 'Sir C Macarthy has arrived, as you will see in the Gazette. I exhorted the people to receive him with all the honour and affection due to him, which they did in a Christian like man- ner, much to my satisfaction. Two lines, three and four deep, were formed from the bridge up to ray house. Men, women, and children were neatly dressed and decorated with flowers of RETURN OF THE GOVEKNOR, 275 the country. Twelve girls were dressed in white, with green ribbons, and decorated with roses, the eldest bearing a banner. If you A\^1I be so good as to peruse the Gazette of Dec. 8, 1821, you will see the particulars. Sir Charles seemed quite over- come, and the gentlemen who were with him stood and beheld the scene with astonishment. I hope he is convinced that our religion teaches a man to be loyal, and not disaffected. ' I have only time to give you outlines of our proceedings. I have been, and am now so busy, that it is impossible to send you my journal. ' The Lord is still doing great things for us. His work pros- pers in our hands. We held the Anniversary at Gloucester on Wednesday. A crowded congregation attended. Mr. Flood had been requested to preach, but was hindered through indis- position. Myself having preached last Christmas, it fell on Mr. During, who preached from John xxi. 17. "Feed my sheep." Mr. D. and myself waited upon Sir Charles last week, -and requested him to do us the honour to take the chair, to which his Excellency consented, apparently with much pleasure. He fulfilled our wishes. I cannot say too much of the meeting, I think it was the most interesting one I ever attended. ' The Europeans of Freetown have inspected the mountains, and have been so surprised at the order, industry and piety of our people, that their mouths are completely stopped. They acknowledge now that the Gospel is the only means to civilize the heathen. Several have requested me to call upon them for their contributions to our Society. I shall comply with their wishes next Monday. The Governor has also requested me to call upon him for the same purpose. My humble flock has contributed £72 8s. Id. this year, and it has not a little sur- prised the colonists. ' Jan. 2, 1822. I returned last night from Freetown, having had an interview with Sir Charles. His Excellency wished me to accompany Mr. Reff'ell to Wilberforce, to arrange matters for the present as well as circumstances would permit. Accordingly we went yesterday morning, and found the place in a deplorable 276 MEMOIR OF JOHXSOX. state. We have taken all the mechanics away, and placed them at Gloucester, so that thej may be employed on the Hos- pital at Leicester, which wants repairing. A few Dhilors we sent to Regent's Town. * His Excellency has been pleased to give me £10, as his con- tribution to the Society. Several other gentlemen have given me donations and subscriptions. Mr. K. Macaulay gave me £12 2s. I have now in all for the past year £177 18s. lOd! The gentlemen in Freetown are now so convinced of the suc- cess produced by the preaching of the Gospel, that they pub- licly confess that above all other institutions, ours has proved the most beneficial to the children of Africa. One of the editors has begged me to answer him several queries, which he intends to publish, but I feel very reluctant to comply with his request. I am much exposed to flattery at present, which does not benefit my proud heart. Oh, my dear Sirs, above all, pray for me, that the Lord may keep me humble ! I am really in dan- ger, because I prosper. May I be kept at the feet of Jesus, and aim at nothing but to promote his glory. ' Tamba, I am happy to say, conducts himself with great propriety. The people under his care at Bathurst do certainly improve, and the schools are in good order. I am sorry that he cannot now visit the Sherbro country. *As Christmas week is only just over, and every thing that happened is fresh in my memory, I shall endeavour to state how it was spent at Regent's Town. '■Dec. 25. At six o'clock, prayer-meeting as on Sunday mornings. At ten o'clock, divine service. I preached from Luke xi. 14. " Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, and good will to men." I baptized thirty-three adults and thirteen infants after the sermon, and then administered the Lord's Supper to the largest number that ever attended at Regent. I went through the whole service alone (Mr. During was obliged to be at Gloucester) which continued till nearly three o'clock p. m.; but notwithstanding the fatigue, my heart CHRISTMAS WEEK. 2V7 was so full of joy, I could scarcely speak. Oh God, what hast thou wrought ? Receive all the praise and glory. ' After three o'clock the people kept prayer-meeting under the direction of Mr. Norman, and in the evening, I preached on Isaiah ix. G. ' Dec. 26. About nine a. m., I proceeded to Gloucester, and as far as I could see before and behind, the road was covered with our people. I have before spoken on the happy meeting we enjoyed there. ' Dec. 27. About forty of our communicants had their sub- scription-dinner in our boys' school-house ; a few of Mr. During's communicants were invited. Their provision con- sisted of beef, pork, mutton, duck, and fowl, and then beverage of weak wine and water. They had prayer before and after dinner, with appropriate hymns. Before tea, they kneeled down again, and one prayed. After tea they all attended prayers at church, after which tlsey returned, and resumed their seats. Several speeches Avere now delivered, with many cheers, jnterraixed with hymns of praise. At eight o'clock all retired to their homes. You will be surprised to hear what a law they had made among themselves, viz, " That if any person did begin to quarrel, or did not behave as a Christian, he should be turned out, and pay the sum of £5 ; if not able to pay, be con- 6ned to the house of correction for two months !" There was no need to put this law into execution, for all behaved with great propriety.. D. Noah was Secretary, and P. Hughes the Steward. ' Dec. 28. After prayers in the church, some told me that they felt as if it were Sunday all the week. I reminded them of the eternal Sunday which is to come. ' Saturday was spent as usual, preparing for the Lord's day. The church was well attended, morning and evening, during the week. Thus our people were prevented from going to Freetown, where I am afraid thiRgs were not so quiet. The next Quarter-sessions will testify of that. ' A Dr. Ayres has arrived as agent from the United States, 12 278 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. for the Colonization Society. They have altered their minds as it respects the Bassa country, and intend now to settle at Cape Mesurado. ' I have commenced a long epistle to M. de Compagne, but am afraid I cannot finish it now. I must send it by the next vessel. 'The kind present, the organ, lias safely arrived. 1 might fill several sheets in describing the wonder which it occasioned. The new people, who have lately arrived, will not come near it ; they suppose it to be alive. It is rather too small for our place, for when the people sing it cannot be heard ; but we are at the same time thankful for it. ' I have agreeably to your request, named five children as follows, — Sophia Cunningham, Mason Neale, Flora Wyndham, Archibald Cunningham, and Mary Wawn. I hope my friends will give me many more similar duties. ' I could not visit the settlements in company with Mr. Reffell, as lie was taken ill the day before our proposed depar- ture. The Governor wished me to accompany him, but as he did not leave till within four days of Christmas, I could not go. Next week, however, if nothing prevent, Mr. li. and I intend to proceed. We shall, if possible visit the Banana and Plan • tain Islands. ' If you could make it convenient in future to send the Mis- sionaries here in the month of October, it Avould be preferable, as they would then have the whole of the dvf season. After Christmas it is too late. If they arrive in October, they are always more healthy in the next rains. ' William Joiiksox.' CHAPTER X. A. D. 1822. Increasing prosperity and fresh trials — Illness and return of Mrs, Johnson — Mr. Johnson afflicted with Opthalmia. Our history now draws to its close. The first Report sent by Mr. Johnson in the year 1822, is brief. We shall give it entire. ' Dear Brethren, ' Grace to you, and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. ' I thank my God that it has pleased him once more to bring us here together, and that he still enables me to state to you, that his word prospers ; yea, has free course and is glori- fied at Regent's Town, in the conversion of sinners and the edification of saints. Fourteen candidates are under instruction for the sacraments of Baptism and the Lord's Supper, and they will, (D. V.) be admitted to those ordinances on Easter day. ' Love and unity among the communicants continue to increase, and morality in general is more prevalent at Regent's Town. Disputes diminish very fast, and those which do occur are trifling. ' The attendance on divine worship is steady and regular — all attend, both small and great. On week-day evenings, when the word of God is explained, we have sometimes as many as on Sundays. ' Two female communicants have departed in the faith — their only dependance was on the merits of their Saviour. They did indeed depart this life with joy, having no desire to remain in the flesh. Those who stood by confessed they had never seen any person die in such a manner, I trust these events have proved beneficial to those who remain. 280 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. ' The schools are going on as usual. They are well attend- ed. The male day and evening schools are conducted by D. Noah, and the female by my sister. ' Part of the roof of the Church is put up, also that of the seminary. The old building of the latter is removed, and the boys have moved into the new one. ' There has been more ground cleared this year than any one preceding, which gives us hope of a plentiful harvest. The population of Regent's Town is this day, 1551, residing on 406 lots. None remain in the farm, but all reside in the place. ' Mr. and Mrs. Norman are still at times indisposed. The boys in the seminary have on that account suffered, and have not made that progress which might otherwise have been ex- pected. ' W. Tamba has continued until now at Bathurst. W. Davis at Wilberforce ; he complains much of the dark state of the people there, they will scarcely attend divine worship. J. Sandy has been every Sunday to Hastings, but as Mr. Coker has been sent there by his Excellency, he will be wanted no longer. ' May the Lord continue to assist us all in our poor endeav- ours, and receive all the praise and glory. ' W. Johnson.' Rev. W. Johnson to the Secretaries. ' Regent's Town, April 0, 1822. * Rev. and dear Sirs, 'I send you now by Mr. During, my journal. You will see particulars of our proceedings in it. Missionaries and .school- masters are wanted everywhere in the colony. Some of the settlements are supplied with superiutendeiits^who are not con- nected with the Society. 'Allow me to specify to the best of ray knowledge, the dif- ferent places where either a missionary or schoolmaster is wanted, viz. : — REPORTS AND JOURNALS. 281 Missionary. School master. Freetown 2 1 Independent of Cbaplain. Wilberforce 1 York 1 Kent 1 Mr. Beckley to go to Bananas. Cahnont 1 Hastings 1 Wellington 1 Batburst 1 For the. Colony. Plantains 2 With W. Tamba. Bullora 1 — J. Johnson. Bassa 2 — W. Davis. Gold Coast 6 6 Supplied from Seminary. ' The above settlements may be visited when formed, and supplied with great facility, by water. Sending missionaries to Freetown will be the only means of putting a stop to the many heresies which have sprung up there. The longer that place is left as it is, the more will the people's minds be prejudiced against the Church, and against the truth. Missionaries who will simply preach Christ crucified, will alone succeed. ' But how hard it is to get missionaries ! — yea, to get men who will really deny themselves, and take up their cross and come to Africa, not conferring with flesh and blood ! We want men who have the mind of St. Paul, when the Holy Ghost witnessed in every city, saying that " bonds and afflictions awaited him." Paul conferred not with flesh and blood, but said, " None of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy." When he was besought with tears not to go, he declared that he was " ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jeru- salem for the name of the Lord Jesus." ' Oh, may God the Spirit separate more Pauls from the Church for the work of the ministry among the Gentiles, specially for Africa, which has the greatest claim on the Chris- 282 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. tian world. None have been more injured than Africa, and none is more degraded. I cannot help wondering, that so few come over to help us — all are for India or New Zealand, and Africa is scarcely left alive with a few fishermen. I think it is also time to assume the character of the widow in the Gospel, " Avenge me of mine adversary !" I plead not my own cause, but the widowhood of Africa — for her will I cry with importu- nity, " Send Missionaries, send Missionaries ! Avenge Africa of her adversary 1" * As soon as Mr. During has left us, I shall visit all the set- tlements again. Mr. Reffell wishes to accompany me. ' Yesterday we had the Lord's Supper, and it was very gra- tifying for me to see my children come from every quarter to partake of that holy sacrament. ' One woman of Freetown, who is at Freetown, comes almost every Saturday, and returns to her husband on Monday. A man who lives at Leicester, in the hospital, comes also. Tamba from Gloucester, Davis and his wife from Bathurst, Sandy from Leopold, and J. Thomson from Wilberforce, all having kept divine service early at their respective places, came to join us at the Lord's Table. J. Thomson came after the sacrament was begun, having kept divine service at Wilberforce, and then walked through the bush, five miles, to join us at the Table. ' I have felt reluctance to number or count the communi- cants, but as some one has done it for me, I hesitate no longer to give you the real account of the Church of Christ at Regent's Town. Present at the Lord's Table, April 28, 1822. . . 310 Absent through sickness. ..... 30 Excluded for a short time on trial — they have been baptized, and are, strictly speaking, commu- nicants 38 378 REPORTS AND JOURNALS. 283 Excommunicated, but attend Church. . . .21 Left Regent's Town on their own account. . . 2 Communicants who liave died. .... 13 * I intend to administer the Lord's Supper, by the help of God, the last Sunday in the month at Regent's Town ; the second Sunday at Leopold or Charlotte ; and the first Sunday at Gloucester, and when practicable, to go to Kent to admin- ister the same there. ' Pray for me, that the Lord may give me health to accom- plish Hjs work, and "finish my course with joy." ' I am sorry to say tliat ^Irs. Johnson suffers much. I am at a loss to know what will be the result. May the Lord give her patience, and send deliverance from on high ! Her sufferings are beyond description, violent head-aches prevent her from enjoying rest, sometimes for three or four days and nights. ' M7 sister remains well and is useful. Past afflictions have humbled her much ; she is perfectly satisfied with her situation, and lives, I may say, a life of faith. She has about one hun- dred girls under her care, whom she manages with great pro- priety. * W. B. Johnson.' Journal of Rev. W. Johnson. 'March 8, 1822. Went this morning with Dr. Sibbald to visit the sick in Leicester Hospital. One of our communicants is dangerously ill ; the doctor thinks that she will not recover. Her husband waits upon her ; she received injury in childbear- ing. The doctor thought that by a strict course of medicine she might recover, and so she was conveyed to the hospital. All hopes of recovery appear however to be at an end. I went to her bed, and communicated to her the probable event, which she received with great composure of mind. She spoke of darkness and coldness, yet she turned to her Saviour with de- light. Under her pillow was the Bible, to which she pointed. 284 MEMOIR OF JOHNSOX. Both the woman and lier husband can read, which, they said, was a great blessing. Her husband is likewise a coni- municant. ' In the evening I had many visits paid me. One man was much distressed, he wept bitterly, and said, "Massa, all them words yon speak in the Church are against me. All the things which I do and which live in my heart, you talk of in the Church, I am afraid I shall be lost — my heart no stand good at all. The more I try to pray, the more cold I feel. I go on my knee, l)i>t cannot pray ; my heart like stone. I have no peace at all. I get sick plenty time and think I shall even die, and what then will become me, (he wept aloud) I sliall surely sink into hell. I am afraid, because my heart so hard, that I have sinned against the Holy Ghost. ' Another said, " Massa, them things God done for me, pass every thing. Who will die for another ? Oh ! the Lord Jesus die for sinner, yes, for them people who been sin against him. I sit down and consider this, and I don't know what to say. I never hear such thing before. Sometimes people say ' such man do me good too much.' ' But the Lord Jesus do pass every thing. He love till he die to save me. Oh ! I love him so little : that time I want to love him, my heart no willing, it always run about; that trouble me too much, but yet he love sinner. Ah ! true, that pass everything." ' March 10. Sunday. Divine service as usual, which was attended as usual. Spoke at half past ten on " Jesus saith, I am the way." Kead and explained 2 Tim. ii. 19. In the evening spoke on Song of Solomon vi. 3. " I am my be- loved's, and my beloved is mine." ' Oh Lord, my Shepherd, bless thy word, and pardon all infirmities. May thine imworthy creature be more and more filled with love which passeth understanding, and which "many waters cannot quench ;" that he may tell sinners of the electing, redeeming, and sanctifying love of God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, which has flowed from everlasting like a " pure VISIT TO YORK SETTLEMENT. 285 river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and the Lamb." ^ March 12. Went this morning to Freetown in company of my sister and Mrs. Norman, to attend the monthly prayer- meeting. ^ March 13, Attended the Quarter Sessions, a task which is very disagreeable, but being a Justice of the Peace, I am oblig- ed, to save a fine of £5. '■March 14. This morning, six o'clock, I left Freetown in Mr. Refiell's boat. Mr. R. being a Member of Council, was obliged to be in court, and thus could not accompany me in a tour round the colony. 'After sufiering much from the sun, we arrived at York after twelve p. m. Mr. Johnstone the superintendent, received me very kindly. He informed me that the people had looked out for me a long time ; that they had built a place of worship to which they had all subscribed. He had occasionally read the prayers, and one William Allen had endeavoured to keep divine service with them, but they were dissatisfied with him. Some, especially a corporal, had been to Freetown, and got some wild notions of religion, and thought himself now quali- fied to instruct his countrymen, although he could neither read nor write. I begged Mr. Johnstone to kindly inform the peo- ple that I had ari-ived, and that I should be very glad to speak the word of God in the evening about seven o'clock. I was conducted by Mr. Johnstone to the place of worship, which I found completely crowded inside and outside. I addressed them from Acts xvi. 31. " Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ," &c. While speaking on the depraved state of mankind, and explaining what God demanded of men as a just, holy, and righteous God, one woman fell trembling on the ground ; others also appeared to be much affected. Fearing lest a confusion should follow, I exhorted them to be quiet andres train their feel ings, in order that I might dwell on the promise of the text. The woman who conti'^ued to be much affected, I ordered to be taken out for a short lime. 12* 286 MEMOIR or JOHNSON. 'When I had concluded, all were anxious to shake hands with me, thanked me, and begged that I would speak to them the word of God again on the following morning, which I gladly promised to do. ' I went back with Mr. Johnstone to his hospitable habit- ation, much delighted with what had passed. Mr. J. is not a spiritual man, but he questioned me about the scriptures, and in some measure I spent the evening much to my satisfaction. ' I entered the place with much fear, but the following pas- sage comforted me much : "Fear not, for I am with thee; I will bring thy seed from the east, and gather thee from the west.'i Oh, gracious God, gather those thine elect through the preaching of the word. May it have free course and be glorified. '■March 15. The bell began to ring some time before day- light. I could not at first conceive the cause, but, on inquiry, was informed that the bell rung for divine service. A light was brought in, and I was obliged to dress myself as soon as possi- ble. It was just daylight when we entered the place again. The worship was well attended. I read and explained the 1st of Peter, and spoke on the happy state of believers and the miserable state of unbelievers. ' All were attentive, and when I had done I was introduced to the corporal who occasionally talks " God's palaver to them." I found him very ignorant. However I thought it best to be careful, and not to prejudice his mind, as it appeared he had great influence among the people. I took my Bible, and brouglit forth such passages as tended to convince him of his ignorance. This point was soon gained in the presence of his countrymen, and it became at once an universal desire that some one might be sent to read and explain the Scriptures to them. At last they made me promise to send some one to teach them of the way to heaven as soon as practicable, with Mr. Johnstone's consent. ' As I had a license from his Excellency for marriage, eight couples were married, and five infants baptized. VISIT TO KENT AND THE BANANAS. 287 'About 10 o'clock A. m. I left York, accompanied by Mr. Johnstone, but, before we entered tbe boat, I once more waited on the corporal. Several people followed me, and I addressed them and the corporal on the Scriptures at some length. They were all attentive. On leaving them they again requested me to send a man to teach them, and to come myself again soon. When I went to the boat, a woman who had been in the house, said to another, "Ah, thern words that white man talk go through my heart." Oh may, not my words, but the word of the Lord, which is quick and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword, pierce their hearts ! 'About 12 o'clock we arrived at Kent. This settlement has a fine appearance from the sea, which is much increased by a range of mountains behind some rocks in front of the principal building ; and a flag-staff on one of the summits, gives the place the aspect of a fortification. * We were kindly and liospitably received by Mr. Beckley and jNfrs. Kenner. 'Mr. Beckloy stated that he could not get all the people to attend divine worship on Sundays; he believed, however, that a good work had been begun in the hearts of some, and he wished me to converse with them to-morrow evening, and give my opinion. As to their conduct he could say that it was consistent. In tiie evening I addressed the people from Matt. V. 1 — 12 ; all present appeared attentive. ' During the evening I visited the grave of Mr. Eenner, and that of the American missionary. They are well finished, that of Mr. Renner is fenced with a black railing, and has a board containing his name, and the Society to which he belonged, and his age — fiftj'-two years. '•March 16. After family prayer, I went, accompanied by Messrs. Beckley and -luhnstone, to the Banana Islands. Mr. Cammel, who is superintendent there, honoured us by hoisting the British ensign, and, on landing, received us with great kindness. ' The soil of this place is the best I have seen in Africa. 288 MEMOIR OF JOHNSOS. Agriculture may be carried on to great advantage, and being •well situated as to commerce, I think tliis settlement may in future be of much importance to the colony. After we had partaken of a bountiful breakfast, we went to see the old settle- ment of Mr, T. Caulker, which appears almost deserted, ' Mr. Caramel told me of a dispute which had taken place about some people who had been carried away from the island by T. Caulker, which had created an alarm among the rest of T. Caulker's people, and some of them had come to Mr. Caramel, refusing to be subject to Mr. T. Caulker, ' There are about fifty people here, under care of Mr. Cara- mel, After we had gratified ourselves with a view of the settlement, which is regularly laid out in streets, we left for Kent. Both Mr, Caramel and Mr. Johnstone have become subscribers to the Church Missionary Society, Mr. Johnstone left us, and returned to York, ' In the evening, after prayer, the people Mr. Beckley had in- vited, came to speak to me, I examined them one by one, and the simple yet striking evidences of grace they gave, induced me to believe that our gracious Lord had begun the work of mercy in their hearts. I admitted ten as communicants. All had been baptized, as they consisted of discharged soldiers and their wives, * March 17, Sunday. Early in the morning we had iamily prayer in the church. At half-past ten, divine service, which was well attended. Read the Liturgy, and spoke on John iii. 5. When I spoke on the evidences of gi-ace in regeneration, I observed two female communicants weep much. After the sermon, I married three couple, baptized fourteen infants, and administered the Lord's Supper to the above-mentioned ten communicants, Mr. Beckley and Mrs, Rennet. It was in- deed a happy season, and especially so, as the holy sacrament had never before been administered there, '■March 18, After iamily prayer, I took leave of Mrs. Renner, and, accompanied by Mr. Beckley, proceeded in Mr. Johnstone's boat to Waterloo, Tide and wind being in our WATERLOO SETTLEMENT. 289 favour, we soon reached the creek which leads to Calmond, which we reached at haU-past two p. m. From that place we walked about three miles to Waterloo. Mr. and Mrs, Wilhelm received us very afi'ectionately. ' I confess I was surprised to see this settlement so forward as it really is. The situation being near a river which is navigable, and the soil much adapted for agriculture, makes it very promising. In the evening, Mr. Wilhelm requested me to address his people ; and, as the news spread that a stranger had come, a considerable number attended service. Spoke on Acts xix. 21. "Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed ?" The people were very attentive. ' March 19. Family prayers in the morning by Mr. Wilhelm. After breakfast we took a walk around the village. The streets are regularly laid out. The houses of the discharged soldiers in particular are well built. As it respects the spiritual state of the people, !Mr. Wilhelm complains, and I can say nothing on that head. 'Mr. Reftell having sent his boat to meet me at Waterloo, I proceeded in the same at half-past two p. m. I intended to visit Wellington aud Hastings, but hearing that Mr. S , the superintendent of the latter place, was about moving, who is not very partial to me, I thought it more advisable to proceed to Freetown, and postpone my visit to those two places till anotlier opportunitj'. ' It is remarkable, that notwithstanding the opposition of Mr. S., the discharged soldiers at Hastings have built a chapel, and have continued with eagerness to hear the word of God explained by Davis, Tamba, and Sandy. Tamba has given great offence to Mr. S , by saying that " both whites and blacks, dying in their sins, would be cast into hell." Mr. S. being the only white man present was enraged, and has ever since hated Tamba. The Governor has now placed an Amer- ican at Hastings, who was sent to Africa by the Colonization Society. * The American settlers have left the colony, and have gone 290 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. to Cape Mesurado. It is said tliat the natives would not let them land on the main land, but that they were oblifjed to abide in a small island, and that the Headman, who had made an agreement with them, was put in irons by the people. What the result will be cannot be ascertained. It is generally supposed that they will not succeed. Why they did not go to Grand Bassa, is a question I cannot answer. 'Left Waterloo at half-past two r. m. The boatmen liad received stiict orders to behave with propriety. This was com- municated to me in a letter from Mr. Reffell. They said no- thing, but rowed with great speed. ' Arrived at Freetown at seven p. m. Waited upon Messrs. Reffell, Flood, and Weston. Made my grateful acknowledg- ments to the former for lending me his boat. Mr. K. was much pleased with the account I gave him of the people at York. Wishes to go there with me in thi-ee weeks. ' Mr. AVeston kindly lent me liis horse, and I proceeded up to Regent's Town, turned in at Gloucester Town, and had a long and comfortable conversation with brother Diiring. Ar- rived at Regent's Town at eleven p. m. Oh Lord, thou hast helped me hitherto. Praise and glory be to thy holy name for ever. Amen. ' March 20. Was happy to hear that the people had be- haved very quietly, and attended divine worship as usual during my absence. John Sandy had been to Hastings, and had found the American there who had kept service morning and evening, and himself had kei)t the same in the afternoon. I asked Sandy how he liked the American's preaching. He said, "He talks plenty about duties, but too little about the Lord Jesus Christ. He told me to come back next Sunday and pitch the tunes for him. I said, I will tell Mr. Johnson, but I did not think lie would send me for that." 'One of the female communicants had departed this life during my absence. The following account I was happy to hear from James Thomson, who is an Israelite indeed. '"The tinae the woman want to die, thev call me. I ask JOUUNAL. 291 her how she now feel ? She say, she very glad to die ; in this world nothing but trouble ; she ready to go to be with the Lord. I ask her about her sins, and she said, ' the Lord Jesus Christ has spilt his blood for my sins ; nobody else can save me ; in him only I trust.' Then before she die, she tell her husband to call all the people that live close there, and when the people come, she tell one man to pray. They all kneel down, and she get up from the bed, and kneel down too. When they done pray, she saj', ' good bye ' to the people and her husband. She lay down again, her husband help her ; when she lay down, she say, ' I am going to my father, he call me,' then they think she go to sleep ; but when they look, they see she dead. Massa, me never see any person die in that fashion ; them words you talk in the church about two weeks ago, strike me the same time ; you say that God's people go to sleep Avhen they die. Stephen, when they stone him, fell asleep ; ah, I think about them words, and when I see that woman die so too, it make me glad too much." ' In the evening, the Church was exceedingly full ; and after service I had many of the people ; some were full of joy, not knowing how to contain themselves, while others were full of doubts and fears. 'March 22. Spoke to-night on 2 Tim. iv. 10. As I go regularly through the Bible, I have come thus far. The words " Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world," proved very al-arming to a few backsliders, who came to me after service much distressed. May the Holy Ghost guide them to the " Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world." ' March 23. This afternoon I went to Bathurst and exam- ined some candidates for the Lord's Supper. Admitted eight, who will join us on the next occasion at Regent's Town. There Avere several more whom I thought proper to keep a little longer on trial. I believe that our sable brother Tamba has been made useful to some of liis countrymen. ' March 24. Divine .service at half-past ten, a. m. — the '292 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. Cburcli was particularly full. Spoke on Heb. ix. 27. The peo- ple were all attentive. I spoke on tlie death of our departed sister. ^ March 25. Till ten o'clock, was engaged in advising with such as had come to speak respecting their hearts. TJiey all appeared to be much affected with what they had heard the night before. It is impossible to give an outline of what was related. One man said, " Massa, me never hear you speak so before ; all what live in my thoughts you speak, I was so sorry when you had done preach, I wish you had preach all night, I think sleep would not have catch me. Oh, I was so glad about them words. When I go home all live in my heart, and when I sleep, I think all night I hear you preach. Them words you talk, how God's people stand when they die, and how they stand before God without sin, through the Lord Jesus, and how glad they will be in the day of judgment, come to my heart and make me so glad, because long time I been 'fraid too much to die, but now I can say I glad," &c. One woman wanted to know whether I had not spoken particularly to her. She had been to one of her countrymen, atid asked if Massa had not pointed to her. She seemed confident that I had ; and said, " Massa, all that true that you spoke about me yesterday morn- ing: when you point to me, I stand just in that fashion ;" she wept much, and wanted to know what she must do to be saved from all them bad things which she had been doing. This woman has hitherto been a very bad character. She continued talking ; and I suppose would willingly have told me all the sins of which she had been guilty, if I had not prevented her. She was so distressed, that she at last wept aloud. All I could do, was to direct her to Him, whom her sins had pierced. May God the Spirit bless the word which was spoken to her ! An- other said, " Massa, when the week of the Lord's Supper comes round, I always get into trouble. I fear this week of the Lord's Supper. Suppose this to be the only once to me ! But me see this every time, something come and give me trouble, and the JOURNAL. 293 ■words you speak to-niglit make me 'fraid too much. I hope the Lord Jesus will keep me." ' Mmxh 30. On Tuesday we had the Quarterly Meeting. The woman who thought I had spoken particularly to her has been with me each day this week, she continues to be in great distress. ' Went to-day with Mr. Reifell and visited Bathurst, Leopold, Charlotte, and Gloucester. AVhen at Leopold, a school-girl came running to me to tell me of the death of Mary During, a communicant. She was taken ill eight days ago in church. I firmly believe that she has joined the church triumphant. She was about eighteen years of age, and was one of the oldest girls in the school : she has been a communicant three years, during which she faithfully followed her Saviour. She waited upon me in Church, and took particular delight in washing and scouring the pulpit, reading-desk and vestry, which she never was desired to do. Her behaviour was like that of an experi- enced woman ; she was scarcely ever seen to smile. She had much illness during her pilgrimage, and though she had many offers of marriage, being well made and of pleasing exterior, she always refused. Notwithstanding her devout conduct, she Avould frequently come to me and complain, weeping over the depravity of her heart. She had been nearly six years in our school. Her final illness, which was an affection of the lungs, was but short ; she bore every pain with great patience, and when she was informed of her dangerous situation, she appeared to be resigned to the will of her Saviour. She said she had done nothing but bad, but that the Lord Jesus Christ had done great things for her. He had shed his blood for her, and that was her comfort. She fell asleep in the arms of Hagar John- son without a struggle. As long as she had strength she would pray on her knees. Mr. Norman remarked that when he lived in the girl's school, he had frequently seen Mary During pray as early as three o'clock in the morning, and observed that she had the best gift in prayer. "Who does not rejoice at the 294 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. death of the righteous, and who does not wish to die like them ! '^ March 31. At three o'clock, p. m., we committed the re- mains of Mary During to the ground. As slie was mucli respected, ahnost all the inhabitants of Regent's Town followed the funeral. The attendance was the most numerous I ever witnessed. Twelve young men (communicants) carried the corpse. Eight girls (likewise communicants) were pall-bearers, all dressed iu white. Then followed the school-girls, the women, boys of the institution, and all the men. In the bury- ing-place, I addressed the party ; and in the evening, I spoke on the event from Isaiah xxi. 12. I believe every one who could walk, attended divine service. The Lord was, I trust, both with speaker and hearers. Oh, may the Lord of sovereign grace add his blessing, and receive the praise and gloi'y- April 1. Had many visits after evening service. One school-girl was impressed with that part of the text, "the night Cometh." One man who had been told to come, to have his name put down with that of his bride, in order to have the banns published, was asked why he had omitted to come. He replied, " Ah, Massa, that time Mary During die, my heart no stand good to get married : that is the reason I no come." April 2. Fresh visits to-day. Some asked what they must do to get saved. Aioril 5. Good Friday. The attendance at church was not so numerous as it is on Sundays. Spoke from Isaiah liii. " A man of sorrows and acquainted with grief." In the afternoon the people kept a prayer-meeting under Mr. Norman's superin- tendence, while I examined the candidates for baptism at my house. Spoke in the evening from the w^ords, " It is finished." ^ EaMer Sunday. Mr. Reftell, Captain Sabine, R. N., and two other gentlemen, came to divine service. Spoke from 1 Cor. XV. 45. " The last Adam was made a quickening spirit." I could have wished that only my people had been ])resent ; but the Lord stood by me and delivered me from the fear of JOURNAL. 295 man. Baptized eleven adults and eight infants. Went in the afternoon to Charlotte. Spoke on John xi. 25, 26. After ser- vice, baptized three adults and three children, then adminis- tered the Lord's Supper to Mr. and Mrs. Davey, Mr. and Mrs. Taylor, and twelve men and women. The Lord was with us. Returned to Regent's Town, and preached from Rev. i. 8. ' April 8. In the evening, I had my visitors as usual. One woman, who had been very ill, wept much. She was taken ill about the same time as Mary During, who was now dead, and herself recovei'ed. 'A little girl about niiie years of age surprised me much. She said, "Massa, that time you come back from England, one Sunday you talk about wicked people. You say how they stand, and I begin to think about all them bad things I been do, and I think you talk of me, and me 'fraid too much to go to hell. Then me want to tell you ; but I say, I too young. Since that time my heart always trouble me : plenty time me want to talk to you, but me 'fraid. Last Sunday week, when you talk about Mary During, you say, ' Perhaps you think you are too young to serve God — it may be one boy or girl think so. Remember that young people die as well as old people. Who knows but that one of the youngest boys or girls may be the next; and hoAv will you stand if you are not ready?' Them words, Massa, strike me too much, for me just in that state. I want to know what I must do. I fear I do not be- long to the Lord Jesus Christ, because I no believe." She spoke much more, and I was really delighted, for I had every reason to believe that grace was working upon her heart. I put several questions, which she answered very correctly. She said that she felt at times very comfortable in her mind. I inquired what made her feel so. She said, " Because I am a great sinner, and Jesus Christ a great Saviour," I said, "What did he do for sinners ?" " He bled and died for sinners. The word you talk on Good Friday make me glad too much." As her conduct is so far consistent, I shall have no objection to >J96 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON". admit her to baptism ; for " who can forbid water, that such should not be baptized ?" ' April 9. The monthly prayer-meeting was held at Kissey. Mr. and Mrs. Flood, Mr. and Mrs. During, Mr. Norman (Mrs. Norman was ill), !Mrs. Keiiner, Mr. Nylander, Mrs. Wenzel, Tamba, Davis, and myself, were present. My wife and sister were ill. Mr. II. came uninvited. The two Wesleyan mission- aries invited by Mr. Nylander were present. ' Stayed at Kissey, with the intention of going to Wellington the following morning with Messrs. Reffell and Nylander, and also to Hastings. Spoke at Kissey, in the evening, to a con- siderable number of people, from Gal. iii. 9 — 13. ^ April 10. On Mr. Reftell's joining us, we proceeded on horseback to Wellington. This place has, like many others situated near the water, many advantages. ' Mr. M'Foy, a mulatto, who is the superintendent, urged mucli the necessity of having an assistant, who was able to keep school and conduct Divine service. He said that he had un- dertaken to read prayers and a portion of Scripture, in order to keep the people from a man who came from Freetown, and who filled the people with erroneous ideas, though he could not read a word. Oh how loud does this and similar circumstan- ces cry to the Church Missionary Society, " Send missionaries ! Send missionaries !" Mr. M'Foy stated further, that the people were very anxious to know the truth, and if any person was sent to preach the word of God, the man from Freetown would soon lose his deluded hearers. I was glad to find " Scott's Commentary" in Mr. M'Foy's possession, and th . 233 Leopold . . . 1 n . 285 Charlotte . . . 8 »j . 255 Freetown . . , — » . . 478 Wilberforce . . . — « . . 20 603 3108 ' The Anniversary Meeting of the Sierra Leone Church Mis- sionary Society, was held on Jan. 8 last, at Kissey Town. The proceedings are now in the printing-office, and I will send you a copy by this conveyance, or at all events by the next. 'The meeting was well attended, but, alas! the speeches were too much seasoned with compliments. David Noah's was the best: he was the only native who spoke. Mr. Nor- man took the speeches down in short hand. ' It was very gratifying to receive, without their being called for, contributions from Hastings and Wellington, which are not supplied by our Society, and only visited occasionally. John Sandy has since been appointed for Wellington. The people built him a house, and I assisted him with boards. Sandy has been there since his appointment, every Sunday, and I hope the house will be ready in a week or two for him to remove thither. MR. curing's return. 343 * W. Tamba was taken ill as soon as Mr. During arrived, and nearly left tliis world for his eternal rest : lie had the pleurisy, and his life was despaired of for several days. He is now slowly recovering, but the Doctor thinks he will not be, for a considerable time, convalescent. Thus we are for the present deprived of his services. Davis, since the appointment of Mr. Schmidt to Bathurst, has returned, and will now attend in the school and seminary. ' I am thankful to hear that Mrs. Johnson is recovering : I hope she will soon be able to rejoin us. I miss her much now, my sister having left me. I hcrpe the Committee will be so kind as to allow her to return with me, after the rains, to this country. I wrote on the 22nd November last, concerning this matter, and expect soon an answer. I cannot express my gra- titude sufficiently for the kind care you have taken of Mrs. J. I pray God to reward you. ' The last attack of opthalraia has reduced the sight of my left eye much. A speck is growing near the sight, and one of my doctors advises me to undergo an operation ; but another advises me not : both are of opinion that I shall have frequent attacks, unless something is done, and at last lose the sight of my eye. The right eye is well, but, sympathizing with the other, has become very weak. ' Mr. During was most affectionately received by his people. As soon as I heard of his arrival I went down to Freetown. Some people went with me, and some had already gone. We rode up in the evening, accompanied by a great number of Gloucester people, who went before, singing and praising God for having brought their minister safely among them again. I am thankful that, through the mercy of God, they have been kept together, and that the number of believers has increased during his absence, namely to 98 communicants and 27 candi- dates. ' I am afraid that our expectations respecting G. Caulker at the Plantains will be frustrated. He is almost continually trading at the Gallinas, which is always full of slave-traders : 344 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON, and one vessel has been taken there, supposed to have slaves on board, formerly belonging to Mr. C. An investigation will most likely take place when the Goveinor returns from Cape Coast. 'There was no Journal kept from June 6, 1821, to Feb. 3, 1822, but I believe long letters as substitutes were sent. It is my wish to keep a constant Journal, but sometimes multiplicity of business and inability has prevented me. ' I need not say anything about the different appointments of our newly-arrived friends? as you will have particulars in the minutes of the special meetings. I think it my duty to make a remark or two respecting the qualifications of Missionaries and Schoolmasters for this country. They should be, in the first place, all acquainted with Husbandry ; 2nd. with Mechan- ics ; 3d. with Land Surveyinr/ ; 4th. Geography ; 5th. they should know how to rule their own house. " For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the Church of God ?" 6th. they should be well acquainted with Arithmetic. Several of these qualifications, I am sorry to sav, we find not in our German brethren. They have also pur- sued a course of study in theology, which will not suit for Africa. " Free Will " is a doctrine that does not agree with the experience of a Negro, who is by " Free Grace " delivered from temporal and spiritual slavery. They have studied lan- guages, and have forgotten that they have to teach ABC. Some know not the simple '• Rule of Three," and are totally ignorant of accounts ! What such will do, when they have to superintend a town or village, I do not know. Be so kind as to excuse these remarks. Perhaps you will be able to remedy some things in future, but I will leave this until another time, or, if it please God, till I see you. ' Mr. Metzger, is recovering from the fever ; also Mr. Bucka- ner. They have now, I trust, escaped all danger. Last Sun- dav I perceived something unusual in Mr. Buckaner, which led me to think he was about getting the fever. I instantly used the proper means, which surprised him, he thinking himself MISSIONARY QUALIFICATIONS. 84S well ; however, in the evening he found by painful experience, that I was right. I believe that this disease is very soon cured, and is not dangerous if discovered in time, and the proper course pursued. You will, humanly speaking, lose very few of your servants, if you send tbem in the beginning of the dry season, so that they may either have fever or become accustomed to the climate, before the rains set in. Let people say what they will, I believe the climate is not so unhealthy as it is represented. I am fully persuaded that many die of fear and neglect ; not taking the advice given them by those who have resided longer in the country. Also others die on ac- count of bad living, either through gluttony or laziness. Exer- cise is one of the best remedies against all sorts of diseases, and thus an active man or woman may enjoy tolerable health in Africa. ' "We have commenced a building at the seminary for the new comers, which I trust will meet with your approbation ; the expense will be little, as we have a good deal of timber on band. It will be covered in before the rains, and will contain three families. So when you send us more help, we shall have an opportunity of instructing them a little, and thus prepare tbem for their stations, &c. Our houses are only convenient for our present families, and unpleasantness must take place if we have no place to put them in. There is a house in Free- town which is but small, and if new comers are placed there, they see nothing, nor learn anything of the superintendence of a village &c. * I was on my way to Waterloo, but heard the " Lively " would sail this week, which was the cause of my return. The foundation-stone of a church will be laid there to-day ; I should much like to have been present, but not having written to you for a long time, I thought that more important. ' May the Lord our God still bless your labours, and make you instrumental in sending forth more faithful labourers, is the prayer of ' Your's, &c., - ' W. A. B. Johnson.' 346 MEMOIR OF JOHNSOK. Journal from Bee. 5, 1822, to Jan. 27, 1823. '^ Dec. 5, 1822. My various engagements have again pre- vented me from keeping to my intention, as it respects keeping journals. Last week I at length received a letter from Mr. During, and my mind was much relieved, being informed that Mrs. Johnson was still in the body, and that she was somewhat better. Keceived also a letter from the Society, and one from Mr. Billingsley. Many sheets might be filled with the various conversations I have had with the people here and at other places, particularly at Gloucester. ' Last Sunday I baptized 24 adults at Regent's Town, and administered the Lord's Supper to nearly 400 communicants. The church was full. I spoke on Mark xvi. 16: "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall be damned." ' When I had finished administering the Lord's Supper, I was really tired and faint. In the afternoon Mr. Norman kept prayer-meeting. In the evening I spoke on Matt. v. 3. Found it good to be there. Oh ! may God the Spirit grant his bless- ing, so that saints may be established in the faith, and sinners be converted. Our friends, viz. Mr. and Mrs. Metzger, Mr. and Mrs. Lisk, and Mr. and Mrs. Vaughan arrived in the " Lively " on Friday evening. I went to town early yesterday to wel- come them : came back the same evening accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. Metzger and Mr. and Mrs. Lisk. Received several letters, which comforted me much. '^ Monday, Dec. 2, 1822. Last Saturday evening we had our usual meeting; Mr. and Mrs. Metzger, Mr. and Mrs. Lisk, and Mr. and Mrs. Norman were present. The simple way in which our people expressed themselves, delighted us much ; one Avoman said, " Suppose two people quarrel, another per7 son can come and make peace between them ; and when we have no peace with God, the Lord Jesus Christ make peace between us and God ; but when a man is once in hell, who can JOURKAL. 341 make peace between him and the devil. I fear too much, be- cause my heart want so much for quarrel, I don't know what to do to love my brothers and sisters." Others stated their many providential escapes during their past lives, when in slavery, and dragged from market to market, like the common cattle. ' Yesterday, divine service was, as usual, numerous!}' attend- ed. I spoke on John vii. 46 : " Never man spake like this man." I was obliged to shorten the discourse, as I had caught a cold last week, and was very hoarse. In the afternoon I went to Gloucester — endeavoured to speak on 2 Cor. xii. 9 : " My grace is sufficient for thee ;" but was also obliged to con- clude early, as the hoarseness increased. ' Baptized twenty-five adults and several infants, and admit- ted in all thirty to the Lord's table, having been baptized by Mr. During, being named after benefactors. After baptism I administered, in company with Mr. Metzger, the Lord's Sup- per to ninety-five communicants. My heart rejoiced in God my Saviour, when I beheld such a goodly number at Glouces- ter. It is now a little more than six years, when I took the first people to this place, and with the assistance of a young man, built a shed for the accommodation of the people. The look of the place induced me to recommend it to Sir Charles MacCarthy, who agreed to my proposal, called it Gloucester, and appointed Mr. During superintendent. It was then a thick forest, now a neat village. The church, parsonage-house, and girl's school, present an interesting view ; but what is far more pleasing and gratifying is, the church full of attentive and cleanly-dressed people, who are advancing in Christian experience ; about a hundred having been made acquainted through the teaching of God the Spirit, with the Saviour of sinners, to whom they have fled for refuge. " "What has God wrought ?" Praise and glory be to him for his work ! Amen. ' I was grieved in the evening, that on account of my cold, I durst not speak to my people at Regent's Town. Mr. Lisk read and explained Psalm ciii. I rejoice to find that more are 848 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. enquiring, both at Regent's Town and Gloucester, what they must do to be saved, and are anxious to be admitted to the church. I shall take an early opportunity of examining them, and such as appear to be partakers of grace, receive on trial and for instruction, under the care of Sandy at Regent's Town, and W. Tamba at Gloucester. * Dec. 18. Through the mercy of God, I have been enabled to examine those who proposed themselves as candidates for baptism ; and oh ! what shall I, unworthy sinner, render unto the Lord for his unspeakable mercies, in owning and blessing his word, which is preached in so much weakness by his un- worthy servant. Thirty-three have been received as candidates at Regent's Town, and fourteen at Gloucester, (the number has since increased to fifty at Regent's Town, and twenty-seven at Gloucester.) Several have as yet not been examined, which will take place to-day. I am happy to say, that no less than seventeen young people who are named after benefactors, are among the number at Regent's Town. Their names are as follows — Melchior Renner, John Essex Bull, Thomas Jermyn, William Glover, James Charles Hoare, William Dealtry, Joha Calvin, Thomas Collier, William Goode, William Gurney, Rachael Biddulph, Jane Farish, Ann Guinness, Sarah Bicker- steth, Mary M. Sherwood, Sarah Mackenzie, and Mary Jane Howard. ' Sarah Bickersteth is, as far as I know, the first of her nation who has tasted that the Lord is gracious. She is of the Kroo country, and was brought to this colony by a Krooman about five years ago. Sir Charles M'Ctrthy saw her, took her from the man and sent her to me. She was then quite a little girl, but is now a well-grown young woman, and has become, through the grace of God, a new creature. She expresses great sorrow for her superstitious countrymen, and calls herself the worst girl in the school. She answered almost every question I put to her, and with tears said, " I only want to serve the Lord Jesus Christ in this world, for he came and died for sin- ners on the cross." ' Jane Farisli was a girl who grieved me much, by always quarrelling with the other girls ; but, blessed be God, who has by sovereign grace turned the lion into a lamb ! When she related to me the merciful dealing of her heavenly Father, she said, that before I fetched her out of the bush, which is about six years ago, she was very sick, and fainted ; and her country- people, thinking she was dead, tied her up iu a mat, and carried her to bury her : the grave was dug, and they let her down, when, as she expressed herself, " God woke me. I began to cr}^, and they pulled me out again ; a little bit more, and I should have been buried. I cannot thank God enough : for true he wanted to save my poor soul." ' Time fails me to give a further detail of the merciful deal- ings of our God with these children of Ham. Surely the day of the Lord for Africa is dawning. Ethiopia shall soon " stretch out her hands to God." ' Last night a gang of sawyers, who are independent of Government, and who are always in the forest to cut and saw timber, but attend divine service very regularly, came to me, and wanted to tell me what the Lord Jesus had done for their souls. As I had no good opinion of them, being very strong, rough, independent fellows, eight in number, I told them to come again this afternoon. When they were gone, I went to the evening school, and enquired of some of our good people concerning these men, who informed me that they had observ- ed them of late to be quite different, and had hopes that God's grace had touched their hearts. This was most surprising but pleasing news to me. " Hail, mighty Jesus, how divine, Is thy victorious sword! The stoutest rebel must resign. At tliy commanding word." ' Last Sunday I spoke on Isa. xl. 1. In the afternoon I went to Charlotte Town, but could not preach on account of hoarse- ness, with which I was seized during morning-service. The easterly Avinds prevail at present, and they affect my chest, and 15 350 MEMOIR or JOHNSON. much speaking increases the complaint. Mr. Davey read and explained John x, 2'7-2{} ; afterwards I administered the sacra- ment to nine people and Mr. and Mrs. Taylor and Mr. Davey. In the evening, I preached from Isa. Iv. 1, at Regent's Town. Mr. Norman kept divine service at Regent's Town in the after- noon. I am sorry to say the people cannot understand Mr. Metzger. John Sandy kept divine service for Mr. Davey, at Leopold, in the afternoon. ' One woman who has joined ns, came last night to me, and said, weeping, " Massa, do, I beg of yon, hear what I am going to say to you ; — trouble I got, pass me ; I can't bear it : all them people that live close to my honse, hate me since I came and join the Church, especially one woman, she say, she will make me palaver, palaver — till I do some bad, till I fight with her. Massa, let me move from that place ; do, I beg you, talk to my husband, that he try to take another house. For true, me want to serve the Lord Jesus, but that woman won't let me." I told her that if she wanted to be without trouble, she must go out of the world, for if she went to live in another street, I had no doubt trouble would meet her there also. Moreover, that our Saviour had said, that " whosoever would be his disciple, should take up his cross daily and follow him." She went home determined to follow the Saviour, and not to speak to the bad woman, but avoid all intercourse with her. ^Dec. 20. Have received five more candidates for baptism, •which increases the number to eighteen. Sandy said, that as there were more persons who were not yet examined, and his house was too small to contain all that would most likely be added, he begged to know where he must go next. I told him to assemble his flock every morning in the Governor's cottage on the hill, which will hold them all. I find Sandy very use- ful in preparing the candidates for Baptism and the Lord's Supper, which he does every morning from seven to eight o'clock, and then attends in the course of the day the school at the Seminary, and at night the evening school. He possesses particular talents, as it respects prayer and speaking to his JOURNAL. S5I countrymen, in which he exceeds all the native teachers. He is always called on to pray at our Monthly Missionary Prayer- meetings ; every one seems to enjoy his simple and scriptural mode of praying. '■Jan. 16, 1823. It has been out of my power to keep a re- gular journal ; my various engagements have so much increased, that no time could I afibrd for that purpose. ' On Christmas-day we had the largest congregation which I ever witnessed in Africa ; our Church was by far too small. The people from Batburst came by nine o'clock, and when William Davis found that most of the people had gone to Re- gent's Town, he came with the rest, saying, he wanted also to hear the word of God at Regent's Tovt'n, The Church was full before the bell rang, and after divine service had commenced, the communicants of Gloucester also joined us, who were how- ever obliged to remain outside. I preached on Isaiah ix. 6. After the sermon, Mr. Metzger assisted me in administering the Lord's Supper. The communicants of Gloucester having joined us, we had altogether 4V0 at the Lord's Table. God be praised for this goodly number. What I felt on the occasion can be better imagined than by me described. ' Through the addition of new people, our population has now increased to full 2,000, which number our Church com- fortably contains. Should we however get more, which is likely to be the case, our church will be too small again, and in that case we must build another gallery. ' We had the Lord's Supper again the first Sunday of this month, when about 370 partook of the same. The arrival of our friends in the "Esther" has so much involved me in busi- ness, that I am not able to attend to my dear people as I wish which makes me very uneasy. I am again afflicted with the ophthalmia, my left eye is weak and much inflamed, so that I cannot leave the house, which is a hard lesson for me. 'Jirm. 27. Am only able now to write a little. My eye be- came so much inflamed in the pulpit the Sunday before last, that I have been obliged to leave all my engagements ever 352 MEMOIR OF JOHNSO^f. since. Yesterday I was a hearei'. Mr. 13 preached in the morning on Isaiah v, 6, Y. Alas ! there was httle for a poor heavy-laden sinner in the sermon — nothing of the fulness of Christ — nothing of the Spirit. All self — no faith ; " from all false doctrine, heresy, and schism, good Lord, deliver us." The poor people looked at me, as if they would say, " This is self, against which you always preach." I cannot, nor dare I sub- mit to such doctrines, which tend to rob God of his glory. But I must not give way fully to my feelings. " If it is possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men." In the afternoon and evening, I requested Mr. Norman to explain the Scripture, as I could not allow self to be preached from my pulpit. ' W. Johnson. ' P.S. — Before sending the above, I have read it over, and must say, that what is written about Mr. B.'s sermon, has been partly the result of momentary warmth. ' W. J.' Report of Regent'' s Toiun,for March 1823. ' Dear brethren — "grace to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ." ' Again it has pleased the Lord our God to spare us to labour in His vineyard, and to prosper us in the work of love which He has given us to do. It is true, I have sufl'ered, and conti- nue to suffer much from ophtlialmia ; but I trust that even this is among the "all things" that "shall work together for good." ' As it respects Regent's Town, the work of the Lord is pro- ceeding as before. Divine service has been regularly attended by the communicants and the other inhabitants : the schools continue to improve. We have had several additions to our congregation and the schools, by the arrivals of slave-vessels ; and our population now amounts to upwards of 2,000 pereons. The people behave quietly and orderly, so that we have very few palavers, indeed less than ever before. REPORT. 353 'I stated, in my last, that we had fifty candidates under trial and instruction, for the holy ordinance of baptism : one of them, a woman, has since died in the faith ; and another, a man, has been excluded for improper conduct : the remaining forty-eight will, if it please our gracious God, be baptized on Easter-Sunday. The youths in the seminary continue to "walk worthy of their high vocation wherewith they are called." They have made considerable progress in their studies, and promise well for future usefulness ; indeed their conduct is such, that I think it my duty to notice it in my present report. ' The number of scholars is as follows : — Boys residing in the school-house Boys residing with their parents Girls residing in the school-house Girls residing with their parents Men's evening-school . Women's evening-school Christian Institution 195 56 f 180 60 -251 Total -230 551 20 27 1079 ' There are 710 persons who can read. 'The number of communicants, with the addition of the forty-eight candidates mentioned above, will be about 450. ' Our last anniversary of the Regent's Town Branch Mis- sionary Association was very interesting. The collection after the meeting amounted to £10 6s. Ojd. The new people receive half rice and half cocoa or cassada ; since October last, 7470 bushels of cassada and 1421 bushels of cocoa have been issued ; and there is now enough on the people's farms to sup- ply them with half rations throughout the year. ' The new road to the sea is nearly completed. Some of the people have begun to trade in the country ; one canoe has been purchased, and another hired for that purpose : one man has already delivered two tons and sixteen bushels of rice. 354 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. The fishery has commenced, and promises to become a perma- nent benefit to the town. May the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, the Triune and our covenant Jehovah, be praised for His continual mercies toward us, in carrying on this glori- ous work. And may He be pleased to keep us humble at the foot of the cross.' Journal, March 19, 1823. '^ March 19. In my distress, I cried unto the Lord, and he heard me. Blessed be thy name, oh, my Father ! reconciled through the blood of Jesus, for having once more restored my sight. Thou art indeed a prayer-hearing and a prayer-answer- ing God, for Thou hast heard the prayers of Thy people ! ' My eyes have been very much afiected with ophthalmia, so that I almost despaired of ever recovering my sight again. However, through the infinite mercy of God, my right eye is restored. Last Sunday morning, I was just able to read the text, " For through Him, we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father." Eph. ii. 18. In the evening, I could not see the text ; had no light in the pulpit, not being able to bear it, but spoke on Rom. ix. 14. " What shall we say, then ? Is there unrighteousnes's with God? God forbid." I found it good to speak on these words, but rather difficult, as I could not refer to the Scriptures as usual. ' On Monday evening the inflammation in my right eye began to abate, and yesterday morning it was nearly restored. "O what shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits towards me !" ' I felt thankful that though I could not read, the Lord had not shut my mouth. Two officers of the navy attended divine worship last Sunday, and several on the Sunday before. A man from Freetown sent me a pig on Monday morning, with the following words : " P. R., from Freetown, sends you this pig, because the words he heard in Regent Church went through his heart." HIS LAST LETTER HOME. 355 *The Lord is still pleased to own and bless the feeble endea- vours of bis poor sinful creature. Lord, my God, be pleased to receive all the praise and glory. ' W. J.' Rev, W. Johnson to the Secretaries. ' Regent's Town, March 10, 1823- 'Rev. and dkak Sirs, ' The " Lively," which was to sail about a month ago, having lost several men by fever, my letters, journal, &c., which I sent by it, are also detained. I have since been twice to Kent and York, and once to the Plantains, Bananas, and Caramania River. I should feel happy to communicate to you all par- ticulars, but am prevented by another attack of ophthalmia. I am sorry to say the sight of my left eye is getting less, as the speck is growing across the sight ; and my right eye, which has hitherto remained well, is much inflamed. The doctor told me yesterday that a change of atmosphere would be necessary, if the inflammation continued. I cannot see a letter with my left eye, but write this with my inflamed right eye. The ophthalmia is still among our people. ' I'hope Mr. During will communicate to you the particulars of our journey, as he accomjianied me. The work of grace is going on, for which I desire to praise and bless my glorious Jehovah. May He be pleased to spare me my sight ; but His holy will be done ! Excuse, on account of my eyes, this short scrawl. ' W. Johnson.' About this time, Mr. Johnson received the following letter from the Seci*etaries, sanctioning his return to England for a period. 'Church Missionary House, London, ) 'January 16th, 1823. J ' Dear Brother Johnson, * We were beginning to be very anxious about you all in Africa, and were much relieved and comforted by your letter 356 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. just received : and first we give all praise and glory to our Heavenly Father through Christ, for the way in which He lias spared you all, and carried you on successfully in that blessed work to which He has called you. 'We have received your letters, dated October 18th, and November 14th and 22nd, 1822; the Reports of Regent's Town, Kissey, Waterloo, Kent, Leopold, Charlotte, and Free- town ; the Students' Examinations, Quarterly Accounts, and your Journal. - ' Your request for a visit again to England was just in time for our last Committee ; and we are happy to inform you, that taking into consideration the situation of your wife, and con- vinced you would not think of leaving your people unless you were satisfied they could be safely left, the Committee agreed to your coming to this country. I need not say that we shall all be very happy to see you again. ' Respecting David Noah, the Committee came to a difierent conclusion. We have seen so much evil arise, with hardly an instance to put into the opposite scale, from Africans coming to this country, that though the Committee felt a strong dispo- sition to meet every wish that you express, still it appeared to them that if you and David Noah knew all the temptations and snares to .which he would be exposed, and the spiritual injury he might receive, you yourselves would not think of his coming ; and therefore they at present decline to authorize his coming with you. We have written to him to soften the disappointment to him. ' We are happy to inform you that Mrs. Johnson is tolerably well : she was at the Society's house to-day, and Mr. Bicker- steth saw her. She was much refreshed at hearing good accounts of you, and at the thoughts of seeing you again. If you can manage without a visit to Hanover, you may spend the time more profitably for us in visiting our Associations, and we know you will be the last to let love to relatives stand in the way of service to Christ. ' Mr. 's conduct, as you describe it, much grieves and LEAVES AFRICA. 357 distresses us ; you will find Mr. Palmer a man of quite another spirit. -He and his wife are truly devoted to the Lord. Be not distressed at such things ; they are needful to keep you humble at the foot of the cross, amid the great things the Lord has done by you. You must have a thorn in the flesh, lest you should be exalted, but all will be in love and for the best good. ' We have not seen Mr. D yet. The Committee will send him to Germany, and make the best arrangements in its power for his future support. They are much obliged to Mr. RefFell for his kind attention to this subject. ' The accounts of the students and native teachers give us great joy. Blessed be the God and F^her of mercies, who hears and answers our prayers : we long to see Africa abun- dantly supplied with native teachers. 'We are, ever aflfectionately yours, ' JosiAH Pratt, ' Edward Bickersteth.' It was about six weeks after the date of his last short note, when Mr. Johnson, having received the above permission, and having made the best arrangements in his power for supplying his place during a brief absence, — embarked on board the "Betsy and Anne," — which vessel had, a short time previous, brought Mr. During back to Sierra Leone. The infant daugh- ter of Mr. and Mrs. During was committed to his care, their only surviving child, they having lost their son, a fine child, between two and three years old, a few days before. A young native woman, one of Johnson's communicants, accompanied them to take care of the child : a circumstance providentially ordered, as will presently appear. Mr. Johnson embarked in apparently the soundest health, but on the third day of sailing, the seeds of the fatal disease^ which he must have carried with him on board, began to ex- hibit their eftects. The day after which, Wednesday, the fever increased so that he began to anticipate the worst. On Thurs- day a blister was applied to his chest without any favourable 15* 858 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. result. On Friday the disease had made such progress that he could not turn in the bed : — the cough now came on, and he suffered much from the black vomit. "I think I cannot live," he observed to his weeping attendant. Just after his embarkation, he had addressed a letter to his coloured people, exhorting them to continue in the grace of God ; so anxiously did he at all times regard the work which the Lord had given him to do ; and in his dying moments, he did not forget the many claimants on his paternal affection, whom he was about to leave behind him. On Saturday, May 3d, he had intervals of delirium, during which he called on David Noah, his faithful native assistant at Regent's Town, and on his faithful friend During, saying that he wished to tell them all that he had to say before he died. When composed, he expressed an earnest wish, to see his wife, and spoke encouragingly to his poor convert, who waited on him with the tenderest solicitude, striving to calm her fears, and directing her how to proceed on her arrival in London. He asked her to read to him the twenty-third Psalm ; " and when," said she, afterwards relating these melancholy particulars, " I had read it, he said to me, ' I am going to die — pray for me.' I prayed the Lord Jesus," she added, " to take him the right way." He afterwards charged her to take good care of Mr. During's little girl, and to desire the Society to send a good minister to Regent's Town, as quickly as possible, or the people would be left in darkness. " If," said he, " I am not able to go back, you must tell David Noah to do his duty ; for if Noah say, ' Because massa dead, I can do nothing,' he must pray, and God will help him, and so we shall meet in heaven." His last intelligible words Avere, " I cannot live, God calls me, and this night I shall be with Him." CHAPTER XII. Progress iu Regent's Town — Receipt of the intelligence of Mr. Johnson's death in England, — And in Africa — Letters — Conclusion. • We return, for a few moments, to Sierra Leone, and gather up some few remains, shewing the state of Mr. Johnson's church, during his absence, and before the news of his death had burst upon the colony. The first letter despatched from the mission after Mr. John- sons's departure, was the following, from Mr. Norman, who was left in charge at Regent's Town. Mr. J. Norman to the Secretaries. ' Regent's Town, April 21, 1823. ' Rev. and dear Sirs, ' You have been informed of my visit to Kent Town ; I have derived great benefit by it, and I thank God I am now in as good health as at any time since my arrival in Africa. May God grant that I may use this blessing to his glory. 'On Sunday, March 16th, death deprived us of our little daughter. This was a most severe trial of our faith ; but blessed be God, he graciously supported both Mrs. Norman and myself, so that we could say, " Good is the will of the Lord." She was just eight years old. ' In consequence of brother Johnson's return to Europe, the superintendence of this town devolves upon me. I have under- taken this important charge with fear and trembling. I feel my own insufiiciency, and the awful responsibility attached to my situation, but I find strength and support in the many great and precious promises of my God. As I have now a peculiar trust committed to me, may I beg a peculiar interest in your prayers, that God the Holy Ghost may be with me, and enable me faithfully to discharge the duties of my important station. 360 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. ' You will be much encouraged by brother Johnson's last quarterly Report. I feel it my duty to add my testimony to it, for I am certain after more than two years' close observation and constant intercourse with the people of this town, that much more than he has written might be said with truth. Yes, the word of the Lord, through his instrumentality, has been miglitv through grace in pulling down the strongholds of sin and Satan, and building up the kingdom of Christ in the hearts of the once wretched, but now happy, sons of Africa. ' I am sorry to say that our dear brother Bunyer is now no more. He departed this life in the hope of a glorious resur- rection, yesterday morning. I saw him before he died : he was comfortable in his mind, and quite resigned to the will of God. We have experienced a most awful season— death has made great ravages, particularly among the Europeans. 'The boys under my care continue their good conduct. They are in want of several things, which brother Johnson will inform you of. 'Mrs. Norman desires to be dutifully remembered to you, and joins me in humble prayer that God may be with you both, and direct you and prosper you in all your doings, that all may tend to the hastening of the time when " the kingdoms of this world shall become the kingdoms of our God and of his Christ." ' James Norman.' Some of the best of the native converts in Regent's Town, naturally felt desirous of holding communication with their pastor while in England. We meet with the following letters of this description : — Williani Davis to Rev. W. Johnson. 'Regent's Town, April 29, 1823. ' Rev. and dear Sir : 'I have sent these few lines to you, for I have not much words to write at this time, and therefore I only write about myself and the people. LETTERS FROM REGENT's TOWN. ~'361 ' My wish is to serve the Lord Jesus Christ, and to follow him ; but my own heart is so deceitful in all things, and desperately wicked, that I sometimes cry out with St. Paul, " Oh wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from the body of this death ?" and when I consider that beyond the grave comes the judgment, I am afraid ; but I pray and hope that the Lord who has helped me, will still help me, for he is faithful to his pro- mises. My wife is very sorry that she did not shake hands with you before you went, and she begs you will forgive her, and give her love to Mrs. Johnson. ' Since you have been gone, the people seem as if they will obey him you have left here. They are very quiet and steady, and plenty come to church and are attentive : the candidates, too, go on well. I hope the Lord will keep you, and bring you and Mrs. Johnson back again. Give my love to Mrs. Johnson and all the good people in England. ' William Davis.' Anthony Morgan to Rev. W. Johnson. 'April 28, 1823 'Rev. and dear Sir, 'I am indeed sorry for your going away from us ; bnt, how- ever, if we do not see one another in this world, I hope it may please God that we may not be separated in spirit. May we all go from strength to strength till we all appear before God in Zion. I hope that you will not forget to pray for us ignorant creatures ; I hope you do not forget us, we never will forget you. I hope you will not forget to pray for our country people, that God may send the light of his countenance upon them, for they are in darkness and the shadow of death. I hope you will beg all our dear friends in England that they will not forget to pray to God that he may send his Holy Spirit to give us more understanding, that the work in which we are engaged may be blessed, for all of us know that without the Holy Spirit's assistance, we can do nothing, for it is 362 MEMOIR OF JOHNSOK. written, " Paul may plant and Apollos water, but God giv- eth the increase," for it is him that " worketh in us both to will and to do of his good pleasure." ' Give my respects to Mrs. Johnson, hoping that she is well and does not forget to pray for us, for we will never forget her ; may those afflictions which God has been pleased to lay upon her, work for her good, for it is written " that all things shall work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose :" but I should be glad indeed to see her, for she has been gone away a long time from us. I hope it may please God to send her back again in health and strength. I hope the prayers we make in hor behalf may be answered, for God is a prayer-hearing and prayer-answering God. He hath declared that he will hear our prayers, and God is not a man that he should lie unto his people ; he hath said, that before his people call, he will answer, and that while they yet speak, he will hear. When I call to mind his holy promises which are in the Scriptures, I indeed hope and trust and believe that what he hath said he will perform, for he hath said, " Call upon me in the day of trouble, I will de- liver thee, and thou shalt glorify me." Oh, I intreat you once more to beg all your dear friends in England that they may look up to the Lord Jesus Christ, that he may send his Holy Spirit to teach and guide us in the way of truth, for he hath said, he will be our guide even unto death. ' Anthony Morgan.' Mr. During writes as follows : 'Gloucester, June 17, 1823. 'Dear Brother, ' Since the date of my last to you, I have been severely ill. An obstruction was followed by an inflammation, which I thought would put an end to my earthly existence, but through the upholding hand of our covenant Jehovah, I am still spared in the land of the living. I am still on the doctor's list, but LETTERS FROM REGENt's TOWN. 3ft8 am in some measure enabled to attend to my duties as much as my greatly reduced state will admit, and for the first time since May 11th, when I administered the Lord's Supper at Regent's Town, I kept service here twice last Sunday with the assistance of W. Tamba, who has been here every Sunday during my illness. ' You, no doubt, must feel anxious how matters go on at Re- gent's Town. I shall endeavour to give you conscientiously the whole, as briefly as I can ; and first, I begin with the head, Mr. Norman, who has hitherto dealt with the people to my entire satisfaction. He does not use the least hard measure, but gets one as well as another to do any thing he tells them by gentleness. In this he has completely succeeded, and I find to my great comfort the people are pleased with him, and look up to, and respect him. He is remarkably careful, for in the least difiiculty he sees himself placed in, I am sure to have a long letter from him, asking advice, which I always give him. ' One thing, however, has caused me much anxiety, which is, ihat two men whose names I do not know yet, have begun to sell rum secretly. T. R., whose activity in finding out things is almost unparalleled, was the first who had suspicion of it, but could not succeed in finding it out. Last Friday evening, W , C , M , and, I am exceedingly sorry to say, J. T. had somehow or other fallen in with them, and were found drunk and disturbing the whole town. It was found ne- cessary to confine them. This confirmed T. R. that the liquor was sold i'n the town, as none of them had been out of town all day. As soon as I heard of this, I sent word to Mr. Nor- man to send all the constables to search the town for the per- nicious liquor. Three men were consequently taken, in the house of one of whom was found about a gallon, the other pleaded guilty, and the third, I do not know if he is guilty or not. If the weather permits, I purpose to go there to-mor- row and settle the palaver, and speak to the people. It was my plan, shortly after your leaving, to spend a day and an 364 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. evening every week at Regent's Town, and I mean to put it into execution now, though I must be very careful, as my health is not in a state to bear much. Poor Joe ! — I am truly grieved on his account; but, dear brother, what good can we do with all our grieving and distressing ourselves ? These things must needs be, to show us more every day, that the best of men only stand as long as they are upheld by sovereign grace, and no longer. I don't know how his mind is affected as yet, but I shall have no rest till I have seen and spoken to him before any other. ' This is all the palaver I know about at present, and I am sure that if there were any more, I should know ; and there- fore I say with confidence that all things, with the exception of the last mentioned, go on as well as can be expected. Be not therefore troubled — to prevent men from falling into sin, no man can ; but to see that outward things go on quietly, I will engage for, until you return, which I hope may be soon, as the whole management of the Society's business rests upon poor me and brother Nylander. ' I am just come from Regent's Town, Avhither I went yester- day afternoon, it being a little fine then ; and am happy to say that I found every thing quiet and every body satisfied. I spoke to the people in the evening ; the church was well filled, and I enjoyed the service, and I believe the people did too, for they were very attentive.' John Davis to the Rev. W. Johnson. 'Regent's Town, June 20, 1823. * Rev. akd deak Sir, * I am sorry that you are absent from us for a season ; but I pray that the Lord may be with you in all your journey, and that He will bring you back among us once more, to preach unto us the unsearchable riches of Christ. I feel my- self very happy in seeing that the people are in good order, LETTERS FROM MR. BICKERSTETH. 366 and I pray that the Lord may assist Mr. Norman to rule the people in the fear of God, and to feed his flock ; and my wish is that my countrymen may receive the gospel as well as my- self: but L know that without the help of God the Holy Ghost nothing good can be done. If I don't see you now, I hope we may meet in everlasting glory : this is my desire. I praise God for His love unspeakable towards me. May the Lord be pleased to send out his light and truth over all the world, as he hath said that His word shall go over the whole earth, as the waters cover the channels of the sea. I pray God " that all may know Him from the least unto the greatest." ' My wife gives her love to you ; she hopes God will return you back to us ; and she gives her compliments to Mrs. John- son. 'John Davis.' The month of July, at last, brought to the Church Mission- ary House the heaviest intelligence that had ever reached that dwelling. The joy which every previous account from Africa, for three or four years, had given, was suddenly turned into the deepest sorrow. Mr. Bickersteth's full heart found vent in the following letter. To the Rev. H. During. 'London, July 15, 1823. ' Dear Brother Dxtring, 'We received your letter of April 21, 1823, and that to Mr. Johnson, dated May 14, 1823. ' We have, alas ! to add to the distressing tidings from you, the heavy loss of our beloved brother Johnson, and that of Mr. Flood, both of whom died at sea. Never before did we in one week receive such accumulated tidings of painful bereavements. The will of the Lord be done ! God forbid that we should murmur against his holy will. Only may his great name be glorified and magnified. ' Sarah Allen Bickersteth gives us a few particulars deeply interesting to us, of his last days. His negroes at Regent's 866 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. Town were uppermost in his mind ; he charged her with a message to us, to do all we could to send a faithful minister to his people. He wished her to tell D. Noah to go on steadily with his duty : " For suppose he say, because massa die I can do nothing — he must not say so — but pray to God, and God would help him, and then they would meet in heaven." These were some of his last words. His last intelligent words were, " I cannot live, for God calls me, and this night I shall be with him." He died on Sunday, the 4th of May, about a week after sailing. ' We wish you now to collect all the materials in your power, to assist us in giving a view of his life and labours. Any letters that he wrote to you or to his people — any journals, facts, accounts of his method of proceeding. Mr. Norman will, doubtless, assist in this. ' You will, doubtless, take the first opportunity of improving this subject among his people. I preached at Wheler Chapel on the subject, from 2 Cor. i. 8 — 11. It has caused much sympathy and deep interest among our friends. ' The Committee have not met to consider the future arrange- ment respecting Regent's Town. Till you hear further from us, you will continue to superintend them.. " Tell all our friends, especially the widows, we deeply sym- pathize with them, and would write particularly, did time permit. * I am, &c. 'Edward Bickeksteth.' The secretaries also wrote to the native teachers at Regent's Town, the following affectionate letter. ' Church Missionary House, London, Aug. 28, 1823. 'Dear David Noah, and the other brethren at Regent's Town. ' You will have heard, long ere you receive this, of the loss of your beloved pastor and father, Mr. Johnson. Your and LETTERS FROM THE SECRETARIES. 367 our loss is his unspeakable gain, and let us all say, " The will of the Lord be done." ' He was justly dear to you. The Lord gave him grace to love your souls, and to be wiUing to lay down his life for you, and his days were shortened by labouring in a climate unhealthy to white men, for your salvation. ' But sorrow not for him : think rather of that exceeding and eternal weight of glory which God our Saviour has now bestowed upon him, and will bestow upon all who love his appearing : think rather what a blessing the Lord bestowed upon you in giving and preserving to you so long so faithful a minister. ' And why has he now taken him away ? He has taken him away that you may " cease from man ;" that is, that you may see that your confidence should not be placed in any human being ; that you may see, as your beloved minister always taught you, that they are only instruments in the Lord's hands for blessing you. ' He has taken him away that you may learn to trust in the Lord only. You might naturally, having been blessed under our dear departed brother's ministry, be tempted to look up too much to him, and forget who made him a blessing to you. Now may you all be led simply to look to the Lord. He will maintain his work among you. He will uphold you by his right arm, and you shall be safe. The enemy shall not prevail against you. He has said, " I will never leave thee nor for- sake thee." ' God has taken him away to humble you and to prove you. Many will now be saying, " Oh that I had minded more what he said, and walked more closely with God ; but because I did not rightly value and use the instructions of so good a man, therefore God has taken him from me." Well, perhaps it was so with some ; but be not too much discouraged, the Lord intends your spiritual good, and that you may only meet him with more joy in the kingdom of our Saviour's glory. Now, Jesus the Lord, who never leaves us, is looking upon you, and 368 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. seeing whether you can trust His love even in this severe trial, and say, " Of very faithfulness thou hast atflicted me." ' God has taken hira, we hope, for the conversion of others. There are some who refused to hear Christ while his minister lived. Oh ! may they hear hira now, when he speaks by tak- ing their minister away ! Oh ! that the unconverted negroes of Regent's Town may now turn to the Lord without delay ! Oh I let it never be said of them, " The righteous perisheth, and no man layeth it to heart, and the merciful men are taken away, none considering that the righteous are taken away from the evil to come." The Lord grant that Mr. J.'s death may be the appointed means for the spiritual life of many at Regent's Town. ' " Fear not, little flock ; it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." Now is the time to glorify His name, to show that you can indeed trust your Saviour, and that His grace is suflScient for you. He would address you with all affectionate earnestness, and say, " Therefore, my brethren, dearly beloved, and longed for, my joy and crown of rejoicing, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved." We hope all will be of one mind, and that Satan will not prevail to divide you. We hope that David Noah will attend to Mr. Johnson's dying request. ' We will endeavour, as soon as God shall enable us, to sup- ply Mr. J.'s place ; and you must pray much to God to raise you up a faithful pastor. ' Let every man look not on his own things, but on the things of the Lord Jesus. We hope yet that the Gospel will spi'ead from among you and by you, far and wide among your countrymen. Oh ! think of their perishing condition, and may the Lord give you grace to long and labour for their salvation. We are pursuaded you will do more than we say. ' And then look at your beloved minister's life, and God give you all grace to follow him as he followed Christ. Remem- ber how he laboured among you — how kind and loving he was to every man — how he bore with your infirmities — how he NEWS RECEIVED AT REGENt's TOWN. 369 rejoiced to tell you of Christ — how grieved he was at the un- godly — how much he prayed for you. Oh ! think of these things ! ' We close all in the words of the Apostle, " Remember them which have (had) the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of life ; whose faith follow ; remembering the end of their conversation, Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, to-day, and for ever." ' The Lord be with you all, pray your affectionate friends, ' JosiAH Pratt, ' Edward Bickersteth.' The tidings of the removal of this eminently useful man were received far and near, with deepest sorrow. It reached Sierra Leone in the early part of September. Mr. Norman, who, as we have just seen, had charge of Regent's Town, thus describes the arrival of the intelligence. ' On the 8th of September I received information by letters from the Society, of the death, on the 4th of May, of our dear brother Johnson. When the letters arrived, I was engaged in reading Milner's Church History with the native teachers, and the elder boys of the Christian Institution. When I had read the letters, I informed them that their minister was dead. They were all greatly affected, and especially David Noah. The information soon spread over the town, and in a few minutes our house was crowded with weeping inquirers. ' I endeavoured to comfort them by telling them that he was certainly taken away for his and for their good — that he had finished his work, and had gone to receive his everlasting re- ward — that God would not even now forsake them, but would still be gracious to them — that they ought to be very thankful that God had spared him so long, while many missionaries had been cut off in a short time after they had commenced their work — and that the only way in which they could testify their gratitude to God, was by bearing the trial with Christian patience and meekness, and their love to their late minister by 370 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. attending to the instructions which he had for seven years given them. I then told them to go home and beg of God grace to bear the trial as became them, and promised to read the letters to them in the Church at evening service. They then begged that I would not leave them. I told them I would not while I was able to stand up to teach them, unless they were pro- vided with another teacher. ' In the evening the church was crowded. Before I began ^the service I spoke to them, and begged them not to make any noise, as I knew it was an African custom to cry aloud when they had lost a friend. I told them that the Christian manner of bearing a trial was with patience and silent submission to God, who had a right to do as he pleased. ' The congregation then sang the following hymn : — " Dear refuge of my wearj" soul ! On Thee when sorrows rise. On Thee when waves of trouble roll, My fainting hope relies. " To Thee I tell each rising grief, For thou alone canst heal ; Thy word can bring me sure relief For every pain I feel. " Hast thou not bid me seek thy face, And shall I seek in vainV And can the ear of sovereign grace Be deaf when I complain ? " No, still the ear of sovereign grace Attends the mourner's prayer, Oh ! may I ever find access To breathe my sorrows there. "Thy mercy-seat is open still, Here let my soul retreat ; With humble hope attend Thy will And wait beneath thy feet." ' The passage of scripture which came in course for our con- sideration this evening was, John viii. 12 — 19. I dwelt more particularly on the twelfth verse. Afterwards I read the letters NEWS RECEIVED AT REGENT's TOWN. 371 which had been received. All were remarkably attentive and quiet. ' We then sang the following hymn, well known and much used among the people there ; attention having been frequently called to it by their deceased minister. " In every trouble sharp and strong My soul to Jesus flies ; My anchor-hold is firm in Him When swelling billows rise. " His comforts bear my spirits up I trust a faithful God ; ^ The sure foundation of my hope Is in my Saviour's blood. " Loud Hallelujahs I will sing To my Redeemer's name ; * In joy and sorrow, life and death, His love is still the same." ' Knowing the strength of African feeling, I was much astonished at the behaviour of the people. Not a word or sob was heard in the church after service, but all was silent grief. ' The Saturday evening after, many persons attended the weekly meeting — six of them spoke, and in a most feeling manner adverted to the death of their late pastor. I give the substance of one of these addresses : — ' With respect to the death of our dear minister Mr. Johnson, I can say this is a great trial, because I loved him. It was through his instrumentality that I was brought from darkness to light : but God had a right to take him away when he pleased. We thought too much of Mr. Johnson, though he was a good man, and God will not suffer us to put confidence in any but the Lord Jesus Christ. My dear brethren, I think God took him away because we looked more to Mr. Johnson than we did to the Lord Jesus. I hope, my dear brethren, this trial will make us all to trust more to the Loi*d Jesus, for He alone can save us — He alone is the light of the world. Let us go to Him and beg him to sanctify this trial to us, and let us shew 372 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. that we do indeed love our dear minister by doing what he told us.' The Governor of the Colony, Sir Charles MacCarthy, wrote to the Secretaries of the Society as follows : — 'Sierra Leone, September 13, 1823. ' The arrival of the "Ark" on the 8th inst. with the melan- choly news of the death of the Rev. Messrs. Flood and Johnson, has given every individual who feels for the welfare of Africa the deepest affliction. With regard for the latter, Mr. Johnson, I was totally unprepared for it, as I understood that he had gone home on private affairs, and with ophthalmia in one eye. It is a severe dispensation of Providence upon us : his exertions have been great, and may perhaps be equalled, but, I fear, never surpassed. He was esteemed by the whole community ; his people feel as they ought, having lost a father and a friend in him. Some of the principal among them have been with me, and expressed very great respect and affection for the worthy man under whose charge they were left, Mr. Norman, yet they are anxious to have a clergyman.' * * * Similar letters were received, as might have been expected, from the surviving missionaries, from the native teachers, and others connected with the colony. The friends of the Society throughout England joined in the lament ; and even from Ger- many the voice of sorrow was heard. Poor Regent's Town long mourned its loss. The eftbrts of the Committee were earnest and persevering, to supply Mr. Johnson's place. But for a long period of time their faith was tried by repeated disappointments. In the Januai-y following Mr. Johnson's death, Mr. and Mrs. Norman were obliged to re- turn to England. Not until February 1825 was a resident missionary given to Regent's Town, in the person of the Rev. IT. Brooks. He found that, from the want of a responsible person, to take charge of affairs, the public works had been stopped, the population had diminished to 1300 persons, many having CONCLUSION. 373 removed to other villages ; while, of those who remained, many had to seek employment in Free Town, and were little at home. Still, on tha first administration of the Lord's Supper by Mr. B. about 272 persons attended ; and while he mourns over the decline which was perceptible, he adds, that " a better dressed or better behaved congregation than that of Regent's Town, I challenge any village in England to shew." And this, be it re- membered, was after two years' destitution of proper spiritual superintendence. A few weeks, however, removed Mr. Brooks himself by death, and left Regent's Town again without a minister. Almost a year elapsed, before the vacancy was supplied by the arrival of the Rev. W. K. Betts, who writes, on his arrival at Sierra Leone, "I hear that the population of Regent's Town still amounts to 1000 or 1200. If Mr. Norman could furnish me with the names of the communicants in his time, I would see what has become of them." But Mr. Betts himself, like his predecessors, was obliged by illness to leave his post in less than a year, — embarking on the 26th of April, 1827. Through, the whole of the rest of that year, and of 1828, the place remained without any resident minister, — Mr. Davey, who had charge of several villages, having officiated there only four or five times in each quarter. For upwards of a dozen years Regent's Town experienced these calamities. The Committee at home never lost sight of its condition, but a long succession of disappointments reduced it to the lowest point. At last, about 1835, it began to recover. Mr. Weeks, Mr. Schon, and after him, Mr. Denton, laboured with earnest diligence, and with commensurate success. In 1841 Mr. Weeks writes, "In Regent's Town, 112 persons ap- plied for religious instruction, upwards of seventy were candi- dates for baptism, and five for the Lord's Supper." And in May 1845 we find the Rev. N. Denton administering baptism to eleven men and twelve women. On this occasion, the sermon was preached by Mr. Graf, who thus alludes to the event in his journal. 18 374 MEMOIR OF JOHNSOX. ' Havino; never had an opportunity of witnessing tlie state ' and behaviour of these congregations on the Lord's day, I Avas glad to assist Mr. Denton in his duties, which were rather heavier than usual, owing to the baptism of twenty-three adults. The Charch was quite filled — indeed some were out- side — with an intelligent and lively congregation ; the singing and the responses being loud and general, and the attention during the sermon intense and uninterrupted. I could not help thinking of the first batches of wild, naked, liberated slaves, collected at this place thirty years ago, by the iate Rev. W. B. Johnson, when the station was first taken np by the Society. What a great and good change has Regent's Town undergone, whea compared with that first beginning !' The existence of such a church and congregation,, remaining after the lapse of more than twenty years, in spite of many and long-continued discouragements, is tlie best proof that could possibly be aflbrded of the reality and solidity of Mr. Johnson'* work. And now we bring our narrative to a close. Tlie lessons ift teaches are many ; but two or three thoughts more immediately present themselves. The first is, The sovereignty and power which maTk certain of the divine operations. It was remarked, a iaw years since, by an aged and thought- ful minister : — " We do the best we can, to raise up a succes- sion of faithful ministers of the gospel. We look out for young men of promise, men whose hearts God seems to have touched ; we put them under instruction ; we make them theo- logians, and preachers : and thus whatever is in our power, we do : and in so doing we act rightly : No other course i» open to us. To a certain degree we succeed ; though we often have to mourn over grievous disappointments. But now and then it pleases God to take the work into his own hands. He raises up a man, and makes him a preacher of the gospel by his own especial teaching : and then we behold a very different CONCLUSION. 875 sort of minister from any that human efforts or human skill can produced' The truth of this remark, which was uttered long before either of these remarkable men had been given to the Christian church, has since been made strikingly evident in the histories of Williams, aad of Johnson. No two individuals, in modern times, have been so honored of God, in the missionaiy work, as were these two men ; and none could be more evidently pre- pared by Himself for the work. It was in the year 1816, a year which will be ever-memor- able in the angelic annals, that the mission of these two men was commanded. An eminent prelate of our Church once compared Mr. Williams''s narratives with the Acts of the Apostles and under such sanction we cannot hesitate to say, that, as in A.D. 45, (Acts xii. 2,) so in a.d. 1816, "the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Johnson and Williams, for the work whereunto I have called them." And what was that work ? It was one as absolutely beyond all human power, as was the subjection of the Eomaa empii-e to the sway of Him who was crucified on Calvary. Two regions ©f the earth were pre-eminently reigned over by the Evil One. In Africa, amoug the degraded race of Ham, the slave-trade had done its work ; in crushing, brutalizing, ex- terminating ; while their religion was, avowedl}'', Devil-worship. In Polynesia, some of the most lovely spots on the earth were becoming depopulated by vice and unnatural cruel- ty. Mothers slept calmly on beds beneath which they had_ buried many of their own murdered infants ? Over these two regions Satan ruled supreme, and his kingdom of Hell was al- most visibly established. To overthrow that dominion, it pleased God to send forth two young men. Not a phalanx of learned theologians, or well-taught divines, or clever and as- tute philosophers ; but two men of no learning, possessing only a scanty measure of the most ordinary instruction. There can- not be a doubt that this was ordered as in the apostle's day : "After that the world by wisdom knew not Qod, it pleased 370 -■' MEMOIU OF JOHNSOX. God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that be- lieve. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weatness of God is stronger than men." (1 Cor. i. 21.) Had the event proved otherwise, the Directors of the London Missionary Society would have been deemed by many to have laid themselves open to censure. John Williams had not ar- rived at the age of manhood when he was sent forth, and his previous instruction had occupied but a few short months ! As to William Johnson, he had been a mechanic; had been placed in the National Society's Training-School for a single twelvemonth, and was sent forth, by the Church Missionary Society, to labour in West Africa as a schoolmaster. It is quite certain that neither of these Societies had an idea, when they sent forth these young men, with far less than the ordi- nary preparation, — what important instruments, in the hand of the Holy Ghost, they were then dismissing to their labours. But though called to the work at about the same period, and sent forth in the same year, and resembling each other greatly in their previous histories, there was a wide difterence in the two spheres of labour for which they were destined, and there was a similar difterence in the character of their minds. He who "knew what was in man," and who "fashioneth the clay like a potter," gave to Polynesia the conqueror and civilizer, Williams, and to oppressed Africa the sympathizing consoler and preacher, Johnson. The same gospel dwelt in the hearts and on the lips of each, but the outward circum- stances of their respective missions were very different. Mr. Williams's lot was cast in a land " Where every prospect pleases. And only 7nan i3 vile." Luxury, indolence, and luxurious vice, were the foes with which he had to wrestle. What a picture of the native opulence of those regions is given by the single fact, that the people of one of those islands, few in number, were able, when really awakened to their duty, to send home to the parent Society, in CONCLUSION. 377 one year, a contribution of the value of eigheeen hundred •pounds ! It is no detraction from the merits of Mr, Williams, to re- mark, tli#t Mr. Johnson, placed in more painful and difficult circumstances, shines, under these circumstances, with a still brighter light. Ease and luxury, sunny climes and- softening atmospheres, are not those which are most favourable to Christian heroism. Multitudes of predecessors in the mission- ary work, had sunk under these temptations, and had failed in the same undertaking in which Mr. Williams so remarkably succeeded. The difficulties which surrounded Mr. Johnson were of a different class. The climate, it is true, was in each case unfavourable to vigorous effort. But while surround- ing circumstances, in Polynesia, almost resembled those of Bunyan's "Enchanted ground," the case of a missionary in Western Africa was widely different. Despondency might co- operate with a relaxing climate, and so produce a despairing inertness ; but assuredly every thing around was replete with painful sights and dread-inspiring a,larnas. Poverty, degrada- tion, physical and moral wretchedness among the people ; — conspired with frequent sickness and death among the labour- ers, to throw the missionary upon hi« God, as his only re- fuge and strength, " a very present help in time of trouble." And wTien this result was produced, the effect was naturally most salutary. It recalled Cowper's lines : " For lie who knew what human hearts would prore, — How slow to learn the dictates of his love ; That, hard hy nature and of stubborn will, A life of ease would make them harder still, — In pity to the souls His grace designed To rescue from the ruins of mankind, Called for a cloud to darken all their years, And said, ' Go, spend them in the vale of tears.' " The general effect, then, of these differing circumstances, was, that while both these eminent men preached the same gospel, and with the same simplicity and faithfulness. — the results were modified by external influences; — in Mr. Williams's case, we 378 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. find large and rapid successes ; — in Mr. Johnson's, more limited but perhaps more deeply spiritual conversions. We i"emark the diti'erence, not in depreciation of Mr. Williams's labours : had he been placed in Mr. Johnson's circumstances, he would probab- ly have been what Mr. Johnson was ; while Mr. Johnson, in Po- lynesia, would have proved himself another Williams. " But all these things worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit; di- viding to every man severally as he will." (1 Cor. xii. 11.) Nor must the reader forget, in comparing these two eminently successful missionaries, that Mr. Williams's course was prolonged to more than two and twenty years, while Mr. Johnson's ended in less than seven. A second remark which naturally suggests itself, is this : That when God speaks to any man directly, as he spoke to William Johnson, the speech of that man to his fellow-sinners will often be found to be similarly direct and effective, Johnson was awakened and called "out of darkness into marvellous light" without human instrumentality. By the Holy Ghost, working with conspiring circumstances, his heart was penetrated. The preacher's part, which followed, was only to administer comfort, and to point to Christ. And when so built upon the only sure foundation, and made desirous of spreading the knowledge of salvation, it is most worthy of re- mark, that he could scarcely open his mouth without some one's being stricken to the heart. The proofs of the directness and eftective character of his preaching, pervade his whole history; but we may point especially to pages 29, 44, 50, 55, 161, 193, 198, 201, 227, 235, 255, 267, 285, &c. The "live coal from the altar" evidently had "touched his lips," and his speech was " with demonstration of the Spirit, and with power." One more observation must be made, though with fear and trembling. In the short but eminently successful career of Mr. Johnson, we see how practicable it is, to unite a burning zeal with a sound judgment ; and how excellently the two combine to form the able minister of the gospel. In the present day, prudence, and caution, and decorum, are CONCLUSION. 379 more common than fervency and earnest zeal ; and hence it follows, that any overflowing of earnestness is almost sure to be checked and reproved, as " bordering on enthusiasm." It was so, in Mr. Johnson's case. His very first step, in his public duty, (page 23,) exposed him to such a check. But a review of his whole course presents him in the light of one, "who merely felt and acted in the spirit of St. Paul. He was wiUing to be "made all things to all men, that he might by all means save some." He was "instant, in season, out of season^ re- proving, rebuking, exhorting, with all long-sufiering and doc- trine." But he was ever watchful, humble, desirous to receive the counsel of his elders, and prompt in obeying it. He kept an even course, between the urgency of the Governor, on the one hand, desirous of a general admission into the church, and the apprehensions, on the other, of " that fearful Tamba, dread- ing that the church would be filled with hypocrites." The soundness of his judgment, and the wisdom of his course, is seen in the rapid disappearance of disorder, and the perpetual increase of his influence over his people. Not by mere priestly pretensions, but by the legitimate sway of mind over mind, and heart over heart, he won his way, till, towards the close of his course, the control exercised by him seemed all that a pastor could desire. It is not, indeed, to be doubted, that, as in the apostolic churches, so in Regent's Town, the enemy was sedu- lously employed in sowing tares among the wheat. We have already seen, (p. 363,) that within a few weeks after his de- parture, the temptation of ardent spirits crept in. If we had pursued the story still later, we might have met with the sad story of a quarrel, ending with the appearance of some of the Regent's Town communicants, as criminals, before a magistrate. But the counterpart of all this had been written before, in St. Paul's and St. Peter's epistles, (2 Cor. xii. 21. 2 Pet. ii. 18- 22.) And the best criterion of Mr. Johnson's having followed Paul, as Paul followed his Master, is, that his whole narrative bears the closest resemblance to the apostle's own experience, as we find it depicted in his various epistles. 380 MEMOIR OF JOHNSON. Such is the work of God, carried on by a few of his people, for "accomplishing the number of his elect, and hastening his kingdom." Let us compare it, for a few moments, with some of the works of man. And the contrast which first and most naturally presents itself, is that of such a mission as Regent's Town, with the mis- sions of Rome. All the missions of which Rome boasts, have been enterprizes begun and carried on within the last three centuries. And, whatever the Roman church might have been in earlier times, we believe that from the Reformation downward at least, it has been apostate, and its works, therefore, the works of fallen man, and not of God. Let us compare those works with a Protest- ant mission, such as that of Regent's Town. We have here the narrative of a plain and simple mechanic, educated but scantily for a schoolmaster of poor liberated ne- groes ; but who, in the course of his labours, speaking of Christ to them, becomes the means of building up an extensive Chris- tian church. Very soon we find him assembling 1500 people together, Sunday by Sunday, admitting 400 of them to the Lord's table, and educating 1000 in schools. The reality of the work is shewn by its endurance. After much adversity, and many discouragements, long continued. Regent's Town, at this moment, rejoices in the Christian church which was founded by William Johnson. From that church, many redeemed souls have joined the blessed company in Paradise. Now a parallel to all this may be found in other Christian missions — such as those of Mr. Williams, already alluded to, — the churches ga- thered by the Moravians in difierent countries, and the churches now multiplying in Tinnevelly. But is the like to be found in the history of the Papal Church ? There are indeed large re- cofds of their successes, and we believe that, at various periods, the missionaries of Rome, in divers countries, have succeeded in baptizing great numbers. To baptize myriads of ignorant and unconverted heathens, however, if this be all, is a mere delu- sion, lias there been, among the annals of Romish missions, CONCLUSION. 381 a single instance resembling that of Regent's Town, in its real- ity? A single instance, we mean, of a Christian congregation, not only baptized, but brought into the habits, feelings, and tempers, of the Christian life ? We have met with no such his- tory ; and we doubt if such an one exists. But we may pass from the counterfeit Christianity of apos- tate Rome, to the other religions of mankind. Do we find among them, anything resembling a genuine Christian mission, either in its self-.-aciifice, or in its wondrous results ? "Look at the spirit of aggression which characterizes this religion, its undeniable power to prompt those who hold it to render it victorious — a spirit which has not been least active in our own time. We do not see anything like this in other reli- gions. We do not see Mollahs from Ispahan, Brahmins from Benares, Bonzes from China, preaching their systems of religion in London, Paris, and Berlin ; supported year after year by an enormous expenditure on the part of their zealous compatriots, and the nations who support them taking the liveliest interest in their success or failure : " * In fact, it is Christianity alone which professes to have received a Divine Command, to " go and teach all nations," — and it is only Christianity which acts upon such an injunction. Isolate, for a moment, the case of Regent's Town, and let it be regarded with close attention. Here is a single man, but just escaped from a London workshop, employed in organizing, civilizing, and humanizing a large body of rescued slaves, of a different race, and of various other tongues. In a wonderfully short space of time, he so gains the affections of these poor savages, that a large Christian village arises, almost as if by magic. Streets and gardens, a church and schools, fields and farm-yards are occupied, and cultivated by hundreds of willing hearts and hands. At once, without any delay, a congregation of redeemed and saved men and women is seen. The chtirch is fill- ed to overflowing; the schools are crowded with eager learners; * The Eclipse of Faitk, p. 218. 16* 3S2 MKMOIR OF JOHNSON. hundreds press forward to beg for the benefit of the Christian sacraments; — meanwhile, industry and its fruits abound on every side, and purity of morals, such as no English village knows, universally prevails. Such are the results of even three or four years' labour ; — may we not reasonably ask, — When did the religion of Rome, or of the East, — or when did the philan- thropy of rationalistic philosophers, produce such a wondrous transformalion as this ? It is well that men should thoroughly understand that Chris- tianity is alone in the world, as a religion. There is no other faith which even pretends to be made for mankind ; and there is no other, the adherents to which make any attempt to dif- fuse it among mankind. The reason is easily discernible. The various forms of heathenism have all one original, and one pat- ron. They constitute different provinces of the one kingdom of " the God of this world." They do not make war upon each other, for "if Satan be divided against Satan, how shall his kingdom stand?" But with the religion of Christ the case is wholly different. Five hundred years before it was distinctly manifested, a prophet was inspired to foretel, that after the Assyrian, Persian, Macedonian, and Roman empires, a totally different power should arise, — " a stone, cut out without hands, which should become a great mountain, and should fill the whole earth." And Christ himself, when departing from the earth for a season, said to his disciples, "All power is given to me, in heaven and in earth ; — Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations." This command was given eighteen hundred years ago, in the land of Palestine, and it was addressed to a few poor fisher- men and artisans. And in this nineteenth century, lamentably as the injunction has been neglected, we still see several hundreds of men, traversing, like Johnson and Williams, differ- ent regions of the earth, braving the pestilence here, and the club of the savage there, and even rejoicing to lay down their lives in such a cause. The prediction, the command, and the fact which is at this CONCLUSION. 383 moment before our eyes, should all be taken in connection ; and if this be done, the sincere seeker after truth will find that which admits of but one reasonable solution. But let us for a moment, take a still larger view, and com- pare the narrative we have just closed, with the works and ways of men in general, — taking for the stronger argument, men in their most civilized and humanized condition. What are the thoughts and pursuits of men in society, — even if we look chiefly to the most refined and humanized of the species ; — nay, even to men associated together in Christian churches ? Are they not bent, for the most part, either on the acquisition of money, or on the piirsuit of what is called pleasure ? Taking even the more respectable and moral classes, apart from the rest, do we not find that either the pursuit of wealth, or the enjoyment of the things procured by wealth, is the one predominant idea ? What a contrast is furnished by the memoir we are closing ! A most active and energetic mind, engaged for seven years in one engrossing pursuit, and that pursuit so far above the sordid aims of men in general, that his letters, journals, and reports, for a long series of years, may be searched, and not a thought connected with self, selfish gains, or selfish enjoyments, will be found. As, in Paradise of old, and in the Paradise yet to be revealed, all thoughts of such things would seem absurd, re- volting, and out of place, — so, in the higher atmosphere to which Johnson had attained, he seems to have left such thoughts behind. He had his " food and raiment " provided for him, and he had his work to do. That done, there only remain- ed the blessed termination ; " God calls me, and this night I shall be with Him." It is true, that some few cases, of less selfish and sordid views and feelings, do now and then occur, in the world at large. One higher and nobler aspect of human labours and human ambition has been presented in the most emphatic way, while these closing pages were passing through the press. All that human nature, in its noblest and best condition could oflfer, has 384 MEMOIR or JOHNSON. just passed before us, in the person of the ^eatest warrior of Europe, now on his way to his last eartlily resting-place. Let us honor, — as David honored Abner, — the memory of one of the powerful of the earth, who acknowledged Heaven's law, subjection : and knew it to be his safest and wisest course, to follow only the dictates of dutt/. But while we rejoice in -such an example, — let us rightly appreciate the sphere and character of his labours. The noblest of his kind, — still, that kind was not the highest. The warrior has to do with earth only, — the preacher of the gospel has to do with Heaven. So long as our present condition lasts, which will be but a few years longer, Waterloo will be one of earth's most thrilling names. It decided the fate of empires, — it gave Europe " rest for forty years." But when the transitory things of the present world shall have vanished, and the real and eternal shall rise in their proper form and consistency, then Waterloo, and Agincourt, and Marathon will be remembered only with wonder and with pity, — while such names as Bethelsdorp, Raiateia, and Regent's Town will be " had in everlasting re- membrance." AVhat is the brightest hope held out in God's word, to the truest and most faithful of his servants ? We know, in- deed, that salvation is the common hope of all ; — that to be admitted " within the gates of the city " is the humble trust of every believer. But our Lord has said, " In my Father's house are many mansions," His apostle adds, that " one star differeth from another star in glory." The meaning of the gospel parable is not dubious, which relates that the King re- warded his servants with authority over two cities, over five, or over ten, according to their previous success in his service. Now the most glorious promise of future bliss that is to be found in Holy Scripture, is that which declares, that "they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament, and theij that turn many to righteousness, as the stars for ever and ever." Behold, then, a poor mechanic, labouring in Whitechapel, CONCLUSION. 385 " almost naked, and in want of food." God suddenly, without any human aid, " speaks to his heart."* At once does he respond to the call : at once does he spring " out of darkness into marvellous light." Soon after, he hears of the wretched state of the heathen, and he steps forward, with " Here am I, send me!" He is sent, and for seven years, each month's labour is a visible inroad on the kingdom of Satan. All that he does, whether in teaching, or exhorting, or withstanding error, is done with the whole heart. His success is almost without a precedent. Doubtless a whole company of redeemed souls went before him to Paradise, The church built up by him, in six short years, although long afflicted and left destitute, en- dured, and is a living and thriving church at this day. Its candlestick remains, a light to all Western Africa. And what of its founder ? Gone, to " shine as the stars for ever and. ever !" — few, when seated in " heavenly places," far above my- riads of the learned, the wealthy, the honoured, and the power- ful, of the Christian Church, — few, very few will cry louder than he, "0/i the depths^ both of the wisdom, and knowledge of God ! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his tvays 2Mst finding out /" * Hosea ii. 14. margin. THE END. ♦ # J^ J^ OECEMBEB, 1852. CAETERS' NEW PUBLICATIONS. AND OTHER POEMS. BY THOMAS GRAY. Illustrated by Gilbert. Small 8vo. Cloth, |1 ; full gilt, $1 50 ; Turkey morocco, |'2 50. "To praise Gr.iy's poems, and especially the EIeg:y in the Country Church Yard, would be little less than an insult to the intelligence of our readers. But there are some things about the book which we may afiiirU to speak of, as they are not altogether a matter of course. The critical observations at the commencement, are a fitting introduction to the work, as they tell us wlio the poet was, as well as what he did. The illustrations are just about as Ueautiful as art ciin make them. The typography and the paper are both ^;^quisite ; and the copy which we have at least, has tasked the skill of the bookbinder to tho utmost. It is every way a beautiful book." — Puritan Recorder. II. aHS £ a 3) js B Hua]&« BY MBS. SIGOURNEY. 16mo. 15 cents ; gilt edges, $1 00. III. By the author of the " Faithful Counsellor,"