V. '• ' 
 
 \ 
 
 
 ' ** Ci^i/f*ta > rc^^’ 
 
 SERMON, 
 
 /Af/. 
 
 DELIVERED BEFORE THE 
 
 MASSACHUSETTS MISSIONAllV SOCIETY, 
 
 AT THEIR ANNUAL aiEETING MAV 25, 180?. 
 
 BY SAMUEL SPRING, A. M. 
 
 PASTOR OF THE NORTH CHURCH IN NEWBVRYPORT. 
 
 THE .ANNUAL REPORT ALSO OF THE TRUSTEES, 
 AXDSErERAL INTERESTING THINGS RELATIVE TO MISSIONS. 
 
 XElVBUJiYPORT: 
 
 Printed by E. M. Blunty No. 8, State-Street. 
 
 1802 . 
 
 t 
 
At a Meeting of the Massachusetts Missionary 
 Society, May 26', 1802, 
 
 Resolved, 
 
 THAT the thanks of the Society be pre- 
 sented to the Rev. Samuel Spring for his Ser- 
 mon preached before them last evenings and that 
 he be requested to furnish a copy for publica- 
 tion. 
 
 SAMUEL AUSTIN, Sec. 
 
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SERMON. 
 
 Homans xi. 25. 
 
 Blindness in part is happened to Israel until 
 
 the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. 
 
 At the time the apostle addressed the Ro- 
 mans, it is evident, from the connexion, that some 
 of the Jews and Gentiles embraced Christ, Avlille 
 tlie generality of both rejected him. It is farther 
 evident, that as the partial revolt of the Jews had 
 been the occasion of the partial calling of the Gen- 
 tiles, so God intended to efiect the ample return 
 of the Hebrews, in consequence of the ample re- 
 formation of the Gentile world. 
 
 This sovereign order of events unfolds the mvs- 
 tery of Providence to which the Apostle refers in 
 the context. Hence the doctrine. 
 
 It is God's purpose^ in reclaiming the 'world, to 
 make the Conversion of the Gentiles the occasion of 
 the Restoration of the Jexvs. 
 
 To elucidate the doctrine, point out that course 
 of providence which effects the gracious design ; 
 and improve the whole by several appropriate in- 
 ferences and reflections, shall comprise the method 
 of discourse. 
 
( 6 ) 
 
 First. Let us attend to the doctrine. Tliat God- 
 will reclaim tlie world at some future period is too 
 manifestly supported by the general style of pro- 
 phecy to require any particular explanation. It 
 is the received opinion of informed Christians, with 
 which the best writers on prophecy promptly con- 
 cur, that the peculiar fruits of the cross will be 
 displayed by the reformation of the world. Though 
 great things were effected for Zion’s prosperity di- 
 rectly upon Christ’s ascension, and during the suc- 
 cessful times of the Apostles, and the subsequent 
 days of reformation ; though millions have been' 
 savingly enlightened since the Christian lera, and 
 Christ has seen of the travail of his soul, in every 
 period of the churcli, to make up our mind on the 
 ample ground of prophecy, he is not yet satisfied, 
 and contemplates the latter day glory as the answer- 
 able reward of his death. For, on the fulfilment 
 of prophecy, in the harmonious church of Gentiles 
 and Jews, comprising the inhabitants of the earth, 
 the veracity of God is pledged and the glory of 
 inspiration depends. In a word, since the prospe- 
 rity of Zion has never yet equalled the extent of 
 God’s covenant, we devoutly pray, confidently ex- 
 pect and patiently wait for better times. The Lord 
 has promised, that his church shall embrace the 
 nations ; and while we suppress all unwarrantable 
 confidence respecting the universal triumph of 
 grace, the Prophets impel us to hail the approach- 
 ing day when the temple of Christ will be com- 
 mensurate with the habitable globe. 
 
( 7 ) 
 
 Tlic other proposition contained in the doctrine, 
 ■which considers the conversion of the Gentiles tlic 
 occasion of tlie reformation of tlic Jew's, requires 
 direct proof and elucidation. But, in reference td 
 this point, it is at once obvious to every informed 
 mind, that our advantages are circumscribed. For, 
 the great restoration of the Jews in consecjucncc of 
 the ample reformation of the Gentiles, like some 
 other interesting subjects of inspiration, is not of- 
 ten repeated, and confessedly has not many direct 
 passages of revelation to support it. We yet be- 
 lieve it is clothed with light, and supported by 
 sufficient authority. A few select scriptures seem 
 to be appropriated to the subject without reserve. 
 For, aside from this manifest import, we are una- 
 ble to ascertain the object for which they w’ere in- 
 spired. 
 
 The following passages, to say the least, we con- 
 sider by no means impertinent. Thus says the 
 LordJesusChrist, whilepointing outthe impending 
 destruction of theJewish nation, which took place 
 soon after his ascension. “ And they shall fall by 
 the edge of the sw’ord and shall be carried away, 
 captive into all nations, and Jerusalem shall be 
 trodden under foot of the Gentiles, until the 
 times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.” 
 
 The times of the Gentiles are undoubtedly the 
 protracted period of their superiority and oppres- 
 siv'e influence. Though we dare not mark the ter- 
 mination of Jewish degradation, and affliction, 
 yet w'e have some reason from the tenour of pre- 
 
( 8 ) 
 
 diction to conclude, that they \rill continue till 
 the fail of Antichrist, and the river Euphrates be 
 dried up, to prepare the way for the kings of the 
 East. When the Gentile nations commence the 
 friends of God, they will also commence the friends 
 of the despised Jews, whom they have signally op- 
 pressed nearly two thousand years ; and the seed of 
 Abraham, by divine influence, will also become de- 
 A'outly jealous and emulate the lovely example. 
 I'kis as the Apostle expresses it will be life from 
 the dead ; like the resurrection itself. 
 
 To the same purpose James remarks, Avhile at- 
 tending to the conversion of the Gentiles ; “And 
 to this agree the words of the prophets, as it is 
 written, after this I will return and will build a- 
 gain the tabernacle of David Avhich is fallen down, 
 and will build again the ruins thereof, and will set 
 it up, that the residue of men might seek after the 
 Lord” — ^The import of the passage is obvious. 
 For after the course of God’s gracious operations 
 among the Gentiles he will remember his ancient 
 covenant with Abraham, and restore his revolted 
 posterity. 
 
 The inspired order of Simeon’s devout expres- 
 sions Avhile embracing the infant Saviour, reflects 
 light on the subject : For Avhen celebrating his 
 long expected advent, he styles him the light of 
 the Gentiles and the glory of Israel. As Provi- 
 dence therefore has begun to expound and accom- 
 plish the prediction according to this arrangement, 
 shall we not consider the Sun of righteousness as 
 
( p ) 
 
 rising only in the conversion of the Gentiles, but 
 in his meridian splendor while restoring the Jews ? 
 The light of the morning, and the blaze of noon, 
 happily illustrate the. divine order and glory of 
 these great events. 
 
 But \raving texts and passages of this colncij 
 dent construction, which are considered as a mere 
 preface to the sequel, we will adduce others on 
 which we confidently put the issue of the doctrine. 
 We refer to the xi, chapter of Paul’s epistle to the 
 Romans, which he wrote about the year dO, not 
 long before he terminated his successful ministry, 
 and sealed the testimony with his own blood. As 
 the prediction, therefore, in the text was delivered 
 after the most remarkable conversion of the Jews 
 during the ministry of the Apostles, we conclude, 
 on the ground of plain fact, that the ample resto- 
 ration of the Jews, referred to in the text, and 
 styled their fulness in the context, is yet future. 
 For, instead of the salvation of all Israel either in- 
 deed before the Apostle wrote or since that period ) 
 the Jews in general, from generation to generation, 
 have blindly and obstinately rejected Christ and 
 the gospel of his grace. And what period since 
 has discovered the general reformation of the Gen- 
 tile nations ? The prophecies relative to the signal 
 reformation of both Jews and Gentiles are yet to 
 be accomplished ; and the Gentile must lead the 
 Jew up to the gospel temple. But, O Lord, how 
 long, how long shall the poor Jews wait for Gen- 
 
 B 
 
( 10 ) 
 
 tile guides, in ^vllom they may safely confide ! 
 For the Gentiles as well as the. Tews are vet s;ener- 
 ally blind and desperately wicked. 
 
 But, let us examine the connexion. The apostle, 
 while surveying the Avretched and deplorable state 
 of the JeAvs, puts this question : “ Hath God cast 
 away his people Avhom he forckneAvr” Are the 
 JcAvs all rejected? “ God forbid. For I am an 
 Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of 
 Benjamin,” After alluding to the gross mistake 
 of Elijah, Avho considered himself the solitary friend 
 of religion in those dark times, he observes ; “ Even 
 so then, at this present time also, tliere is a rem- 
 nant aecording to the election of grace.” To' si- 
 lence the rising pride of the Gentiles Avho early 
 began to slight theJeAvs, he reasons in the folloAA’- 
 ing manner : “ Have they "stumbled that they 
 should fall?” Is it the design of heaven that the 
 seed of Abraliam shall be finally erased from the 
 book of promise ? Can the covenant fail ? By no 
 means. “ But rather through thelrfall salvation is 
 come to the Gentiles to-proA’oke them to jeal- 
 ousy.” One gracious motive of the Lord in 
 calling the Gentiles is to rouse up the Jcavs and 
 provoke them to repent and believe. In this pe- 
 culiar connexion, the Apostle unfolds the design 
 of the passage Avhioh considers the conversion of 
 the Gentiles jueparatory to the restoration of the 
 •IcAvs, and most deA Outly pleads : “ Noav, if the 
 fall of the JeAVS be the riches of the Avorld, and if 
 the diminishing of them be the riches of the Gen- 
 
( 11 ) 
 
 tiles, liow mucli more their fulness !” If tlieir de- 
 parture from God lias been the occasion of good 
 to others ; vhat inestimable blessedness will ac- 
 company their return ? Behold the resurrection of 
 dry bones in the extensive valley ! Awake and 
 sing, O ye prostrate seed of Abraham, who dwell 
 in dust ; for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and 
 the earth shall cast out the dead. 
 
 But the Apostle, while considering the Jews as 
 branches of the covenant tree, subjoins : “ And if 
 the branches be broken oil’ and thou, being a wild 
 olive tree, were grafted in among them, boast not 
 a<rainst the branches.” Tor if the natural branches 
 are separated in consequence of bearing no fmit, 
 what will be the condition of barren and fruitless 
 grafts ? Having thus shewn the Gentile converts 
 that nothing short of unremitting obedience could 
 prevent their rejection, he opens and leads us into 
 the most extensive 'field of duty and admiration. 
 
 The great design of the connexion is too man- 
 ifest to be misapprehended. He teaches the Gen- 
 tiles, not only to contemplate the restoration of the 
 Jews, but the sovereign method by which it will 
 be accomplished. “ For if thou wert cut out of the 
 olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert grafted 
 contrary to nature into a good olive tree ; how 
 much more shall these, which be the natural branch- 
 es, be grafted into their own olive tree ?” ft is 
 God’s design to reinsert the natural branches. 
 “For, I would not, brethren, that ye should be ig- 
 norant of this mystery, lest yc be wise in your 
 
( 12 ) 
 
 own conceits, that blindness in part is happen- 
 ed to Israel until the fulness of the Gentiles be 
 come in, and so all Israel shall be saved ; as it is 
 written there shall come out of Zion the Deliverei; 
 and shall turn away ungodliness from J acob. For, 
 as ye in times past have not believed God, yet 
 have now obtained mercy through their unbelief ; 
 even so have these also now not believed, that 
 through yourmercy they also may obtain mercy.” 
 How mysterious the operations of providence ! 
 God's thoughts are very deep ! 
 
 In fine ; is it not as manifest from the connexion 
 that the signal restoration of the Jews will yet be 
 effected by the ample reformation of the Gentiles, 
 as it is that the partial calling of the Gentiles had 
 been occasioned by the partial apostacy of the 
 Jews ? If so, the doctrine is supported : For it 
 only pleads that in reclaiming the world God makes 
 the conversion of the Gentiles preparatory to the 
 restoration of the Jews. 
 
 Secondly. Let us attend to the course of providence 
 in reclaiming the world. To ascertain all the 
 means and instruments which God will use in the 
 course of his administrations to effect his great 
 design, is manifestly impossible. For a minute 
 state of facts the world must wait and consult the 
 opening volume of futurity. But as no miracles 
 are expected, and as God is uniform in his oper- 
 ations where the scripture is silent, we shall care- 
 fully recur to the analogy of providence. 
 
 L Then, we observe, that preaching the gos- 
 
( 13 ) 
 
 pel is one of the principal means which God uses 
 to reclaim the world. No method is more fre- 
 quently inculcated nor more highly estimated- 
 “Go,” saith the Lord to his first missionaries ; “Go 
 into all the v/orld and preach the gospel to e^'el y 
 creature.” At a different time, Mhile illustrating 
 the fulness of the gospel preparation for all des- 
 criptions of men: “ (jo,”says lie “into tlie high- 
 ways and hedges and compel tliem to come in, 
 that my house may be filled.” The apostolic mis- 
 sionaries, fired with zeal to promote the salvation 
 of souls, readily obeyed the injunction. The con- 
 sequence was glorious. For under the direction 
 of the heavenly leader they resolutely attacked 
 the strong holds of the enemy, and in the course 
 of a few years carried the victorious standard of 
 salvation through a great part of the eastern con- 
 tinent. Let us ever thank and praise the faithful 
 spirit of inspiration for the finished commentaries 
 of those soldiers of Jesus Christ. The writings of 
 the apostles are full of the precious trophies of 
 grace. But what says the great apostle of the 
 Gentiles while directly attending to the subject 
 under consideration ? From his inspired lips, 
 these words drop like the rain. “ For the scrip- 
 ture saith, whosoever calleth on the name of the 
 Lord shall be saved.” In the next words the uni- 
 form, constituted method of salvation is presented. 
 
 “ How then shall they call on him in whom they 
 have not believed ? And how shall they believe 
 in him of whom they have not heard ? And how ‘ 
 
( I-t ) 
 
 shall they hear without a preacher ? And how 
 i’liail they preach except they be sent ?” Tlie gold- 
 en links of this chain are distinctly marked. Sal- 
 vation is connected with praying, and praying 
 with believing, and believing with liearing, and 
 liearing with preaching : and preaching, let us, 
 my Fathers and Brethren, remember, is connected 
 with being sent by the Holy Spirit. The Apostle 
 concludes this constituted connexion by alluding 
 to the early, primitive position of public speakers, 
 and says; “How beautiful upon the mountains 
 are the feet of them that preach the gospel of 
 peace and bring glad tidings of good things 1”^ 
 Ztlay we not add, how very desirable the elevated 
 position of gospel ^Missionaries while surrounded 
 by thousands of listening: heathens ! O that the far 
 distant mountains v/erc covered with the feet ofgos- 
 X pel preachers 1 But not to anticipate reflections. 
 
 12. As general peace among the nations was neces- 
 sary to the success of the first gospel preachers, 
 so the noise and distress of war must cease previ- 
 ously to the extensive influence of the gospel at 
 the present day. The M’capons of a carnal and 
 spiritual 'warfare are very diverse. Swords must 
 be beaten into ploughshares and spears into pruning 
 liooks, the ambitious and bloody Cicsars of the 
 world must quit the field of battle, and bow to the 
 Brince of Peace, before the various nations can em- 
 brace the gospel and rest under the banner of sal- 
 \ alion. The present cessation of war, amid the 
 potent nations of the earth, w ho have lately waded 
 
( 15 ) 
 
 tluougli rivers of blood, wc consider as a token of 
 good to the church. For when peace prevails, the 
 friendly intercourse between nations and kingdoms 
 opens the way for the heralds of grace to visit the 
 remote habitations of pagan ignorance, and to en- 
 lighten thousands u'ho are perishing for lack of 
 vision. Let the children of Zion then pray that 
 peace may extend like a river, and righteousness 
 like an overflowing stream. For the flames of war 
 are destructive to the interest and prosperity of 
 the church. But 
 
 3. As the salvation of souls in primitive times 
 dcj)cndcd not merely on the preaching of the gospel, 
 but on the united exertion and pious example of 
 Christians indiscriminately ; so, at all times the pros- 
 pect of Zion's enlargement depends on the same 
 instruments. The interest of souls is a common 
 interest ; and when ministers and all other Chris- 
 tians arc devoutly and harmoniously united to pro- 
 mote it, the prospect is bright and glorious. It 
 was manifestly the heavenly spirit of primitive 
 brothers and sisters, -whose names are carefully 
 transmitted by the faithful spirit of inspiration, 
 which extended the limits of Christ's kingdom. 
 Characters of this description, both in public and 
 private life, were the chosen instruments whom 
 God delighted to honour. For not satisfied with 
 general and common endeavours to diffuse the 
 knowledge of the eross, they conjointly exerted 
 their abilities in all eligible directions with a fixed 
 determination to cooperate with Christ, and were 
 
( 15 ) 
 
 confident that he would crown their labours with 
 success. And what lukewarm soul shall deent 
 them enthusiasts? God we readily acknowledge is 
 the author of all spiritual good : but in the wisdom 
 of his providence he uses his friends, and they faith- 
 fully exert their own respective abilities in con- 
 currence. Under the guidance of heaven reforma- 
 tions have generally been effected by the efforts 
 of God’s people. The primitive Christians realized 
 and practised the truths and precepts of the gospel. 
 Instead of imitating timid officers, who at the time 
 of danger choose a rear post, and order their men 
 to advance ; like brave leaders in the front of bat- 
 tle, they pressed forwai\d with unwavering faith 
 and resolution. Be ye follow'ers of me as I also 
 am of Christ Jesus, was the spirit of those glorious 
 times. Ministers and private Christians, brothers 
 and sisters, were full of pious emulation, and de- 
 voutly excited eacli other to exhibit tire brightest 
 examples : and until the light of the church shall 
 shine vdth becoming lustre, as in the morning of 
 Christianity, the darkness of the world will not be 
 dispelled. Gentile Christians must recommend re- 
 ligion to Gentile sinners, and vast multitudes must 
 be reclaimed Irefore the constituted road will even 
 be marked out for the return of the miserable J ews. 
 Alas ! Alas ! The seed of Abraham ! Where are 
 they ? Where are the hllnd^ deluded Jews ? They 
 are now dispersed among the Gentile nations and 
 are most shamefully trodden under foot. They 
 do not believe that Jesus is the Christ : and when 
 
( 17 ) 
 
 >’fll they commence Christians ? Not till the Gcn-» 
 tiles act according to the spirit of the gospel. Then 
 will they be excited ; then the Jews Avill be provok- 
 ed to that pious jealousy which the apostle with so 
 much desire anticipated. Tlie Jews are destitute 
 of honor and authority among the Gentiles, and 
 hate and despise Christians on account of the 
 hard and rigorous treatment which they receive 
 from their hands. They despise Christians on 
 account of their belief as really as Christians 
 despise them on account of their unbelief. And 
 how or when is the quarrel respecting Christ 
 to be settled and adjusted between the con- 
 tending parties ? The cd4inexion we have exam- 
 ined affords ample information ; “ For blindness 
 in part is happened to the Jcavs until the ful- 
 ness of the Gentiles be come in.” The Gentiles 
 Avill first be reclaimed. When the saving influence 
 of the gospel shall have had its course among other 
 nations ; when the millions of Gentiles come to 
 Christ, and no longer retard and oppress the JeAvs, 
 then and not till then A\dll the seed of Abraham 
 attend to their rejection and danger. Then, agree- 
 ably to the spirit of prophecy, God Avill change 
 the heart of the JeAvish nation and take aAvay the 
 A ail of unbelief and make a neAV covenant Avith 
 them, Avhich shall be perpetual. But In order to 
 this glorious event all Gentile Christians must u- 
 nite their influence to extend the savour of grace 
 among the hosts of Gentile sinners ; and then the 
 c 
 
 0 
 
( 18 ) 
 
 ftiincss of the Gentiles, or the miited nations 6f 
 the earth, must recommend Christ to the Jews. 
 For the inflexible Jews M-ill not believe that Jesus 
 is the Christ until they disco^’er a harmony be- 
 tween the theory and practice of Christians. 
 
 But, w hether I liave projrerly pointed out tliat 
 course of operation which God will adopt in mak- 
 ing the conversion of the Gentiles the occasion of 
 the restoration of tire Jews, is submitted to those 
 ■w lio are best aceprainted with the Iristory of prov- 
 idence and the volume of inspiration. 
 
 IMPROVEMENT 
 
 First. WE infer from the subject the peculiar 
 display of divine sovereignty in reference to man- 
 kind. It was natural for the angels of light to 
 expect that the destruction of man would direct- 
 ly succeed his apostacy. Foi' no reason presented to 
 authoriza'a peculiar difference between the cir- 
 cumstances of fallen man and fallen angels. The 
 'reason of this discrimmation is not yet ascertained 
 on earth, and perhaps not even among the inhab- 
 itants of heaven. At some distant point of dura- 
 tion the mystery may be unfolded to swell the 
 Song of the redeemed. But, aside from this gen- 
 eral di.sp!ay of sovereign grace towards man, in dis- 
 tinction fmm fallen spirits, though a saviour was 
 offered to the whole human race, yet God rvho 
 worketh all things according to the counsel of his 
 'own will, while preparing some to embrace Clirist 
 and be saved, leaves others to reject him ami be 
 
( 19 ) 
 
 lost. Ainkl the numerous inhabitants of the for- 
 mer world there v. erc a few ehosen vessels whose 
 names are registered in heaven. Suhsefiuently to 
 the deluge, whieh <lestroyed the most ofmankind, 
 the sovereignty of God distinctly marked his op- 
 erations i-elativc to sinners. Abraham by the spe- 
 cial grace of God was called, not only from the 
 world at large, but from his idolatrous connexions, 
 and constituted the rather of the Faithful. In his 
 family the church u-as established, and by his seed 
 it M’as supportctl in a discriminating manner IVoiTi 
 generation to generation several thousand years 
 to the advent of Christ. In the lineage of tlic 
 ratriarch we follow the church from Canaan to 
 Egypt, from Egypt to Canaan again ; from thence 
 to Babylon and from tbcnce once more to the 
 land of promise. I low sovereign the dispensation ! 
 For during this long period of three thousand 
 years, while the peculiar blessings of religion u'cre 
 restricted to the family of the Jews, the other na- 
 tions of the earth Acere left in heathenish blindness. 
 While Zion flourished among the Jcavs, idolatry 
 reigned triumphantly among the Gentiles. But 
 God, Avho marie all things for himself, and guides 
 the spheres and has the hearts of kings and sub- 
 jects in his hand, as clay in the hand of the potter, 
 in the course of time, left the Jcavs at large to re- 
 ject his Son, and made ample room for the cliurch 
 among the Gentiles. 'Wlnle the Jcavs Avere re- 
 jected for rejecting Christ, the Gentiles Averc gra- 
 ciously called to embrace him, their Lord and 
 
( 20 ) 
 
 Saviour. Ilcncc say the Apostles : “ It was ne- 
 cessary that the Morcl of God should have been 
 first preached to you ; but seeing ye put it far 
 from you and judge yourselves unworthy of eter- 
 nal life, lo we turn to the Gentiles. For so hath 
 the Lord commanded us. When the Gentiles 
 heard this they were glad and glorified the word 
 of God, and as many as were ordained unto eternal 
 life believed.” 
 
 Thus God in the most incomprehensible manner 
 has displayed his sovereign grace. The inspired 
 apostle, therefore, while contemplating the sove- 
 reign grace of God relative to the human race in 
 general, the Jews and Gentiles in particular, the 
 salvation of some and the rejection of others, 
 with his mind and heart full of admiration 
 and submission, expresses himself in this sublime 
 manner : “ For the gifts and calling of God arc 
 without repentance. O the depth of the riches 
 both of the wisdom and knowledge of God ! How 
 unsearchable are his judgments and Ids ways past 
 fmdingout! For who hath known the mind of 
 the Lord ? Or who hath been his counsellor ? Or 
 who hath first given to him, and it shall be recom- 
 pcnccd to him again ! For of him and through 
 him and to him are all things, to whom be glory, 
 forever, Amen.” The inexpressible divinity and 
 sublimity of the passage preclude any exposition. 
 For many of the human race are saved, while all 
 deserve destruction. The Jews and Gentiles al- 
 ternately help each otlier. 
 
( 21 ) 
 
 Sccotidh/. Wit is God’s gracious design to reclaim tlie 
 M'orld in the manner described, we infer the pecu- 
 liar obligations of those M'ho enjoy gospel light, to 
 assist the ignorant and destitute. The path of 
 duty is plain. Tor as it is the duty of parentsand 
 instructors to open and enrich the minds of their 
 cliildren and pupils ; as men of science are umler 
 obligations to display the principles of know- 
 ledge ; so all the subjects of gospel illumination 
 are bound to communicate light to the ignorant 
 and destitute class of men. No miraculous influ- 
 ence is now expected. The day of miracles is past. 
 The light of the gospel must be extended by those 
 who now enjoy it. Except by the instrumentality 
 of tliose who have the bible in possession, it is 
 probable that no gospel light will shine upon the 
 rude and barbarous natives of the wilderness. 
 How immensely great then our obligations? Tlic 
 object magnifies as we approach it. For how many 
 millions of poor ignorant creatures are now de- 
 pendent on the subjects of gospel information for 
 the rudiments of religious education ? While 
 we enjoy the zenith of gospel day, the greater 
 part of the globe is shrouded with midnight dark- 
 ness. Shall the children of light then fold their 
 arms and indolently sit under their vines and fig- 
 trees, while legions of pagans are dying in their 
 sins ? Shall we shut the door of salvation ? God 
 forbid. Let us then act like Christians, and sea- 
 sonably and ingorously adopt correspondent meas- 
 ures. For according to the fixed course of prov’- 
 
( 22 ) 
 
 idencc they -will not move from tlie doleful habi- 
 tations of ignorance, before thy receive a fi ieiully 
 visit from gospel missionaries. How full of in- 
 struction then are these words of Christ to his dis- 
 ciples ; “ Ye are the salt of the earth ; and 
 the light of the world.” Whose heart does 
 not beat with laudable emulation to be one of the 
 iii-st missionaries ? What subject of the least spark 
 of grace is not willing to forsake father and mother 
 and all the endearing connexions of life, aiyl pro- 
 claim the glad tidings of salvation to the long 
 neglected tribes of the wilderness ? For how shall 
 they hear without a preacher ? And how shall they 
 believe in Christ, of whom they are ignorant ? Go, 
 my Christian friends, and count the sands : go, 
 V eigh the mountains : and then attempt an esti- 
 iiiUte of your obligations to enlighten the ignorant ! 
 Only let us recall the barbarous state of our parent 
 Britain, and both continents, not. two thousand 
 years past, when Christ dispatchetl his firet mission- 
 aries, and remember by what means and instru- 
 ments the world has been partially enlightened, 
 and we can be at no loss respecting our obligations 
 to extend the field of gospel knowledge by every 
 possible effort. If we decline the object, much 
 guilt will necessarily be contracted. Clouds of 
 swift witnesses will rise up from the perishing 
 world against us, and we, alas, trembling and 
 speechless, must stand charged with their blood ! 
 ^\'ho can endure the dreadful scene ^ A vigorous 
 and faithful compliance then with our obligations 
 
( 23 ) 
 
 to spread tlic light of the gospel is the only alter- 
 native. As in a former case, not very dissimilar, 
 if at such a time as this Ave hold our peace and 
 incur the divine displeasure, \i hilc the reformation 
 of the Avorld shall be dfected by other instru- 
 ments, will not the consequence be insupportable 
 13ut, let us hope better things, and things Avhich 
 accompany salvation. For who knows but even 
 n eon this narroAV strip of the continent are brought 
 upon the stage at this revolutionary period to co- 
 o])cratc with Christ in apcculiar manner to enlight- 
 en Gentiles and restore the Jews ? While others 
 refuse to advance in consecpience of an imaginary 
 lion in the way, or because the time to favor Zion is 
 yet distant, let us like Joshua resolve to comply 
 AV'ith duty and leave the event. In imitation of 
 Judah’s reforming Prince let our liearts be lifted 
 up in the ways of the Lord. There is nothing to 
 fear respecting the object, which engages the di- 
 A'ine perfections, but criminal inattention. The 
 Lord will support his cause and reAvaid his faitli- 
 'ful servants. But, 
 
 . Thirdly. If the restoration of the J cavs in the course 
 of providence depends on the general reformation 
 of the Gentiles, hoAV dismal the present prospeet 
 respecting that rejected people ! INIust the Gentiles 
 be previously reclaimed.^ Must the civilized Gen- 
 tiles really embrace the Lord Jesus, and must the 
 millions of pagan Avretches, Avdio inhabit the four 
 quarters of the globe, and those, Avho cover the 
 distant islands of the sea; must the Gentile Avorld 
 
( 24 ) 
 
 at large be gospclizcd before the blinded Jews can 
 be restored ? IIow lamentable their condition ! 
 Surely the Father of the faithful needs a large stock 
 of patience. For Christian Gentiles move slowly, 
 and he has long waited for the fulfilment of that 
 covenant, whose signature was and not 
 
 Abram, constituting him the father of many nations. 
 But blessed saint ! for he, who believed the altar 
 of sacrifice could not long detain his dearson, can 
 easily believe any thing God has promised and pa* 
 tiently Avait for the fulness of the Gentiles to pre- 
 pare the way for the final return of his scattered 
 posterity. Let us, however, in the mean time, re- 
 mark that neither the divine constitution, nor the 
 Patriarch’s faith relative to the recovery of the 
 Jews, dispels the darkness, which now hangs over 
 the nation, and which will probably continue sev- 
 eral generations. The Jews, by thousands in con- 
 sequence of unbelief, are descending into tlie abyss 
 of ruin and this judicial course will continue till 
 Roman idolatry and Turkish imposition shall cease 
 in consequence of the signal reformation of the 
 Gentiles. What tongue or pen can describe, yea 
 Avhat imagination can, paint their deplorable con- 
 dition ? Shall Ave then like the JeAvs, Avho crucified 
 Christ, incur the guilt of anterior generations Avho 
 have fonnany centuries been regardless of the re- 
 formation of the Avorld ? The Aveight of guilt is 
 infinite ! And nothing short of speedy application 
 to the blood of Christ and suitable attention to the 
 
 magnitude of the object before us will bear the 
 
( 25 ) 
 
 light of the great day. It is supposed there are 
 nine hundred millions of souls now on the globe ; 
 and who can believe that five or six hundred mil- 
 lions of these are hastening to destruction in con- 
 sequence of the inattention of enlightened Gentiles, 
 and not tremble ? Shall any of us then style our- 
 selves the friends of God, and the children of A- 
 braham, while inattention to his perishing posterity 
 loudly proclaims the contrary? It is a gospel max- 
 im, that faith and works are inseparably connec- 
 ted, and, except we harmonize with Christ in ex- 
 tending the grace of the gospel among the desti- 
 tute, our faith is vain and we are yet in our sins. 
 Neither riches nor honours, nor any other worldly 
 consideration may prevent our gospel exertions. 
 For the opening, extensive, fields are white for the 
 harvest. Laborers are now called to the work, 
 and what warrant have those men to denominate 
 themselves Christians, who prefer the honour, opu- 
 lence or pleasure, of the world, before the honour 
 that cometh from God only ? If any man love the 
 world the love of the Father is not in him. But, 
 Fourthly. We infer from the preceding dis- 
 course the peculiar responsibility of the pastoral 
 office. Both numerous and various are the means 
 and instruments which God uses to accomplish his 
 sovereign purpose. Sometimes one method is 
 adopted and sometimes another. Though never 
 restricted to any particular measure, yet he gene- 
 rally uses the instrumentality of gospel preachers. 
 
 D 
 
( 26 ) 
 
 By the foolishness of preaching it pleases God to 
 effect the salvation of souls. “ Go, preach the 
 gospel to every creature ; and lo I am with you to 
 the end of the world,” was the prime direction and 
 encouragement which influenced the first gospel 
 ministers. Hence the apostle faithfully magnified 
 his office and with the greatest care inculcated the 
 high demands of the pastoral office on all his suc- 
 cessors. Wo is me if I preach not the gospel is 
 the language of every qualified minister : for much 
 depends on pastoral exertion ; and who is sufficient 
 for these things } 
 
 In every period of the church, God has made, 
 in the course of providence, provisions for the sup- 
 port of his ministers, that tliey might give them- 
 selves wholly to the great duties of their office : 
 For these are his instruments to destroy the pow- 
 ers of darkness. What memorable exploits were 
 effected by Samuel and the prophets, by the Apos- 
 tles and primitive ministers, by those excellent re- 
 formers, M hose names will survive every vestige of 
 antichristian influence ? And what glorious things 
 have been accomj)lished from the fifteenth centu- 
 ry to the present time by ministers of congenial 
 souls ? By instruments of this description the truth 
 lias ever been supported, and to. the same class of 
 men under the agency of the spirit the church still 
 looks for direction. In allusion to the field of ac- 
 tion and danger the ministers of Christ are styled 
 leaders in gospel armour, and no legions ever need- 
 ed accomjilislicd Generals more than the church in 
 
( 27 ) 
 
 every pcrioil needs licr able and experienced 
 teachers and phstors. Though the treasures ot 
 grace arc committed to earthen vessels, that the 
 excellency of the power may he of Go^l, yet 
 but little is effected in diffusing- the light (\l the 
 gospel aside from the faithful and well direct- 
 ed exertions of Christ’s ministers. They must go 
 from house to house, from tribe to tribe and from 
 one nation to another. Neither perils by sea and 
 land may cool their zeal, nor terminate their pro- 
 gress ; but when duty calls or souls invite, they 
 like the famous Vanderkemp must penetrate the 
 howling wilderness and cross the raging ocean^ 
 from continent to continent for the sake ot pro- 
 claiming the glad tidings of salvation and spread- 
 ing the triumphs of the cross. How great the 
 obligations ! How arduous the work 1 How en- 
 couraging the prospect but O how glorious the re- 
 ward ! For Christ will use his faithful ministers in 
 a peculiar manner to convert the Gentiles and re- 
 store the Jews. Let ministers then be clothed 
 M'ith humility and confidently put on the whole , 
 annour of God, and exert their abilities. For 
 Christ will crush the powers of darkness and en- 
 lighten the world with his glory. 
 
 Fifthly. The magnitude of objects under cau- 
 sideiation compels us all to exert our influence to 
 promote the best interest of literature and useful 
 science. For how can the ignorant, thoughtless, 
 world be reclaimed without light and know-ledge ? 
 As the meaning star precedes the rising sun, so, in 
 
( ) 
 
 the course of providence, general information pre- 
 cedes the light of the gospel. The night of bar- 
 barous ignorance must be dispelled to prepare the 
 •way for the Sun of Righteousness to diffuse his 
 cheering and restoring beams. We therefore rank 
 our University, Colleges and Academies among 
 the choicest blessings conferred on the federal states. 
 These make our intellectual day. The loss of these 
 precious luminaries of science Avould be like the 
 loss of sun, moon and stars. For -we should soon 
 be involved in midnight darkness and ignorance. 
 Let us then give honour to -whom honour is due, 
 and most frankly present our tribute of thanks to 
 the patrons of science who have liberally supportr 
 edherinstitutions. Let us, also, gratefully account' 
 our learned Presidents, Professors and Preceptors 
 ■worthy of double honour, "who faithfully devote 
 their days in cultivating the minds of our sons and 
 directing them into the channel of public useful- 
 ness. ]May these celebrated characters long enjoy 
 the fruit of their labours, by seeing their qualilied 
 pupils adorn the lirst offices of church and state. 
 May these precious fountains of science be salted 
 with grace and bless the union and the world itself 
 with the most delightful streams, l\Iay the patrons 
 of literature and religion increase in opulence and 
 improve in liberality; and may the righteous gov- 
 ernment of the state remain firm like a conspicu- 
 ous rock in the ocean, which is fixed bv the im- 
 mutalile and eternal laws of nature. For, if Col- 
 leges and public administrations become corrupt 
 
( 29 ) 
 
 and vicious, Zion must spread forth licr hands and 
 mourn the iucunihrance of op(*rcsiiive measures, talse 
 teachers and erroneous guides. But, 
 
 Sirthltf. \\’hile, in the view of our sul)jcct, we 
 are l^d to lanu’ut the past inattention of centuries 
 to gospel missions, have wc n<;t abuutlunt reason 
 to adore Clod for the late missionary spirit which 
 has expanded so rapiflly, and already obtained 
 such extensive intlueucc ? I'or, excepting the Ro- 
 mans and Moravians, whohave zealously supported 
 their missions, the Christian world has coin[)ara- 
 tively for several centuries beeu jusleep. But to 
 the sovereign grace of God be it ascril)eal, tlic sal- 
 vation of heathens is now the object. On both 
 sides the ocean ^Missionary Societies are establish- 
 ed. These charitable institutions among Euro- 
 pean Christians are both multiplied and richly en- 
 dowed. This new world also begins to emulate 
 the noble example. The lamj) of gospel mission 
 is lighted and widely extcjuls its benignant in- 
 fluence. It illuminates many of the long 
 neglected parts of Europe. It also shines on 
 the remote regions of Asia, and even upon that 
 WRETCHED Africa. The newly discovered Islands 
 of the South Sea are favoured with gospel mission- 
 aries : and some of the distant tribes of this 
 continent have lately been invited to forsake their 
 idols and rcjjair to the banner of salvation. 
 
 At these regions far distant from us and each 
 other there are faithful missionaries, w'ho amply 
 compensate their employers by the pleasing ac- 
 
( 30 ) 
 
 counts they transmit of their success among the 
 rude inhabitants. But, our Evangelical Magazines 
 in daily use supercede particulars of this nature. 
 
 How lovely and encouraging the prospect ! God, 
 angels and Christians are engaged in the glorious 
 interest. The issue of this increasing attention 
 we cannot describe. But, as we know it is God’s 
 gracious design to enlighten the world, which has 
 long been involved in thick darkness, and as the 
 morning light begins to rise, have we not reason 
 according to the analogy of j)rovidence soon to 
 expect the day ? Whether the times, time and half 
 a time, of Zion’s captivity are nearly terminated, 
 we dare not confidently affirm. But, it is manifest 
 that providence smiles on the missionary object. 
 "W hen Zion travails God will help her. Some great 
 event respecting the church is probably at the 
 door. The numero\is wheels of providence, by 
 their manifest concurrence, proclaim the near ap- 
 proach of Zion’s God and King, Let us rather 
 M'ait the event than hazard any conjectures : For 
 the book is yet sealed. But, may we not hope 
 that even the African and South Sea Missionaries 
 will shortly present us the cordial salutations of 
 their respective churches ? In the meantime let us 
 pray for the conversion of the heathens, and be 
 yeady to give them the right hand of fellowship. But, 
 
 Seventhly. We infer the peculiar obligations of 
 this JNIissionary Society to make the most faithful 
 use of the advantages which present. Though en- 
 couraged and even pressed by devout, praying, 
 
( 31 ) 
 
 characters to form a Missionary Society several 
 years before it instituted, yet we trembled and 
 hesitated and paused and postponed the object re- 
 peatedly lest our number and iniluence might prove 
 inadequate to the honourable execution of the de- 
 sign. But, in consequence of the example of oth- 
 ers and the opening field of usefulness, with con- 
 lidence in the divine promise and support, we fonn- 
 ed the Society, and marked out our missionary 
 ground. To the destitute District of Maine, and 
 the extensive territory near the Western Lakes, we 
 have for several years sent our diligent Mission- 
 aries. The success with which the enterprise has 
 been crowned exceeds our highest expectations. 
 We have met the smiles of providence both athome 
 and abroad. While extensive settlements, destitute 
 of stated instmetion, have gladly received our 
 missions, we have been generously furnished with 
 proper means to support them with honour. Who 
 shall despise the day of small things ? Those who 
 are for us aie more than those who are against us. 
 The mighty God, while building up Zion in re- 
 forming the Gentiles and restoring the Jews, is 
 the great patron of missionary institutions. We 
 have nothing to fear but ourselves. For those who 
 trust in the Lord shall be as Mount Zion which 
 cannot be moved. Let us then stand impartially 
 and firmly upon the elevated ground we have con- 
 stitutionally described. Both in the choice of Di- 
 rectors and Missionaries, and in the adoption of 
 ail our measures, let us copy the example of Christ, 
 
( 32 ) 
 
 and calculate for the etenial Avorld. To prex'ent 
 Gentiles and Jews from testifying agiiihst us at the 
 tribunal of God let us merit and if possible secure 
 their Christian love and esteem. My Missionary 
 Friends and Brethren, may the good wrH’ of him, 
 who dwelt in the bush and conducted- his people 
 safely through the wilderness, direct and bless you, 
 and make- you the happy instruments of saving 
 thousands, Avho are now standing on the verge of 
 destruetion. 
 
 t 
 
 By faithfully following Christ let irs excite oth- 
 ers to copy the heavenly example. It is practical 
 Christianity only which will induce the residents 
 of the wilderness to accredit our missions. The 
 sagacious savages will not believe preachers who 
 practically disregard the doctrines and duties which 
 they inculcate, nor will they receive a Saviour 
 from those who manifestly reject him. Let us 
 then live like Christ while we preach him, and 
 suitably recommend the Cross to others ; for a dif- 
 ferent course of conduct will rather prevent than 
 promote their salvation. 
 
 To conclude ; we infer the duty of all, and especi- 
 ally the subjects of atlluence, to open their hearts 
 and coffers and by e>*ery usefid measure to concur 
 with heaven in reforming the M'orld. The object be- 
 fore us is infinitely great and precious. As previ- 
 ously remarked, it engages the divine perfections, 
 'i he salvation of man is the glory of God. The 
 same invaluable object charms and captivates the 
 angels of light, and all the children of vdsdom. 
 
( 35 ) 
 
 Wliom then shall we imitate ? The men of the 
 world, who have their portion in this life, or Christ, 
 who died for sinners, and says it is more blessed to 
 give than to receive ? Can we halt a moment be- 
 tween the alternatives ? As it is, therefore, mani-? 
 fest that qualified missionaries cannot leave their 
 domestic and parochial connexions at personal ex- 
 pence, shall we not readily contributeto their sup- 
 port ? As the silver and the gold are God’s prop- 
 erty, to be improved by his stewards in the best 
 manner, it is natural to ask whether some unap- 
 propriated monies ought not now to be returned. 
 The most liberal donation, and the least tribute of 
 benevolence also, are acceptable, and will be an- 
 swerably rewarded. For the Redeemer and Judge 
 of the world will presently say : “ Inasmuch as ye 
 have done it unto one of the least of these ye have 
 done it unto me.” Before this tribunal the real 
 value of property may be easily and accurately 
 ascertained. Let us only realize the doctrine that 
 the salvation of Gentiles and Jews by divine con- 
 stitution depends on present exertions to diffuse 
 light, and the hand of charity will be extended. 
 
 In a word, if our dear relatives, brothers, sisters 
 and children, were now willingly roving about 
 with the deluded natives of the wilderness and at- 
 tached to their pagan customs and rights, should 
 we not cheerfully employ faithful men to present 
 the message of grace ? If unable either to recall 
 or visit them, should we calculate the expence pf 
 £ 
 
( 34 ) 
 
 a gospel mission ? Pause a moment ! Are not the 
 souls of millions equally precious ? But, I can pro- 
 ceed no farther : for the liberal man deviseth lib- 
 eral things and is impatient to be a doer of the 
 word. Amen. 
 
THE ANNUAL REPORT 
 
 OF THE 
 
 TRUSTEES, 
 
 X' HE Society, on being informed that we have before us more 
 than three hundred of the Journal Manuscripts of last year 
 from our diligent Missionaries, will expect but a summary in the 
 subsequent report. 
 
 In the course of the year past we have supported two summer 
 and two winter missions near the western Lakes : and also two 
 summer missions and one during the winter in the District of Maine, 
 The Rev. Mr. Avery, the Rev. Mr. Cram and the Rev. Mr. Alex- 
 ander, have laboured in the Western Territory ; and the Rev. Mr. 
 Wines and the Rev. Mr. Sewall, in the Eastern Territory. Their 
 respective journals, which describe the extensive field of their ser- 
 vice, and mention the places where they preached, and the manner 
 in which they employed their time, mud be considered as ample 
 testimonials of their missionary qualifications. They appear to 
 have been faithfully attentive to the interesting object of their 
 mission ; and in some instances their wisely directed and distribu. 
 ted labours, have been crowned with desirable success. The des- 
 titute Inhabitants of the wilderness have not only eagerly embraced 
 their mission, but have discovered a peculiar readiness to avail 
 themselves of their assistance to form churches that they might en. 
 joy the special privileges of the gospel. 
 
 The open fields for faithful enterprising Missionaries are vastly 
 extensive. In the western territory, near the Lakes, the missionary 
 ground is computed to be as extensive as the State of Massachusetts 
 exclusive of the Maine. The eastern circle from the river Kennc- 
 beck to St. Croix is also very extensive. For the vast district of 
 
( 35 ) 
 
 Maine is favoured comparatively with but few ministers of thegos. 
 pel. Hence the necessity of continuing our missions ani employ- 
 ing men of the most approved qualifications to check the influence 
 of error and support the truth in the most able manner. The most 
 ignorant and destitute need the best teachers and the most faithful 
 guides. Babes are not qualified to teach babes. Our missionaries, 
 whose journals are pleasing testimonies of their abilities as well as 
 of their modesty, are united in urging the high importance of em- 
 ploying the most able characters. The Inhabitants of the wil- 
 derness, like thriving nurseries, need an improved hand to give 
 the first direction. The old tree is inflexible, but the young one 
 is flexible and pliant. But we shall add nothing farther of this 
 nature. For, where is the faithful and able minister who does not 
 impatiently wait for his missionary turn ? 
 
 The magnitude of the object will induce the best characters to 
 engage their service. If the apostles were present, we believe 
 they would be attached to the employment of missionaries as well 
 as to that of resident ministers ; for they were inspired and zealous 
 Missionaries. 
 
 Se’vercl things are ftcultarlj <xuorthy of notice Mr. Avery's 
 Journal relati<ve to the natlfes. 
 
 “ Z)ec. 20, 1 8oi. Sabbath. Preached at Brolherton to Indians; 
 Eph. ii. I, 2, 3 — And you hath he quickened, who were dead in 
 trespasses and sins, wherein, in time past, ye walked accord- 
 ing to the course of this world, according to the prince of 
 the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh In the chil- 
 dren of disobedience : among whom also w'e all had our con- 
 versation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the 
 desires of the flesh and of the mind ; and were by nature the chil- 
 dren of wrath, even as others. P. M. Eph. ii. 8 — For by grace 
 arc ye saved, through faith ; and that not of yourselves ; it is the 
 gift of God. About fifty hearers ; a few appeared to be disposed 
 to hear, but most of the audience appeared to be heedless. They 
 thanked the Massachusetts Missionary Society for their love. Re- 
 turned to Clinton and attended conference at Capt. Bristol’s. There 
 I had the joy to meet my dear brother, the Rev. Joseph Badger, 
 on his return from the Connecticut Reservation on Lake Erie, where 
 
( 37 ) 
 
 •he has been on t mission thirteen months. He is recovering of a 
 dangerous fit of sickness, which feized him near Lake Erie. 
 
 “ Dfc. 21. Monday. Good, it is to be hoped, is about to come 
 to the poor Indians. George Bluejacket, son of Bluejacket, chief 
 warrior of the Shawanese tribe, an elevated genius, 22 years of age, 
 was, a year ago last October, brought by the Rev. Thomas Hughs 
 to Littlebeaver, on the Ohio, in order to be educated in the English 
 language and English way of husbandry. He can now speak, read 
 and write English pretty well. He was hopefully brought to the 
 knowledge of Christ last summer ; in August he was baptized, and 
 gives comfortable evidence of his reconciliation to God, and that 
 he is in heart and life devoted to the interest of Christ. He is 
 now studying divinity with a view to preach to his nation. In 
 September last he went with the Rev. Messrs. Badger and Hughs, 
 as interpreter, on a special mission to the Shawanefe near Fort Wayne 
 on the Miami, west of Lake Erie, from Littlebeaver above four 
 hundred miles. He interpreted, prayed and exhorted, with great 
 feelings, and with great advantage. Mr. Badger mentions that 
 the Indians expressed a strong desire that Missionaries might be 
 sent to them next spring.” 
 
 Mr. AviR'i closes his jfournal. “ Mesj 2^. Monday. I have 
 been every where kindly received, and treated with many marks 
 of respect by the people. Donation books have been distributed 
 among the poor of Bern and Worcester. Letters of thanks are ad- 
 dressed to the Female Society in Bofton. I have received monies, 
 given to the Massachusetts Missionary Society, of 
 
 Freehold, February 1, . 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 28 
 
 Foot of Schuyler’s 
 
 Lake, 
 
 March 6. 
 
 t * • • 
 
 I 
 
 88 
 
 First Church in W 
 
 orcester, March 
 
 29 > 
 
 5 
 
 33 
 
 Second do. . . . 
 
 
 
 
 S 
 
 53 
 
 Third do. . . . 
 
 
 
 
 5 
 
 33 
 
 Coeymanspatent, 
 
 April 
 
 It, . . . 
 
 
 6 
 
 37 
 
 Freehold, . . . . 
 
 do. 
 
 22, . . . 
 
 
 2 
 
 56 
 
 Acra in do. . . . 
 
 do. 
 
 25, . . . 
 
 
 3 
 
 90 
 
 Bern, May lo, . 
 
 
 
 
 26 
 
 50 
 
 Dols. 59 4$ 
 
( 38 ) 
 
 The Rev. Mr. Wines, n»ho hat furn'iihed a minute yournal of 
 his labours in the Eastern District, among other interesting occurs 
 rences, presents the folloiutng narrative of a poor miserable man, 
 
 Ife publish it without attempting any comment or decision, hoping 
 that it may impress the minds of all who read it with a sense of 
 their entire dep>endance on the grace of God, and of the great im,- 
 portance of resisting the first temptations of the Adversary. 
 
 “This day,” says Mr, Wines, “after the exercises of the 
 Sanctuary I called to visit a man, who was the reputed subject of 
 despair. He is about 45 years of age. Many years since he attempt, 
 pd to tenni.oate his life in a very singular manner. He chose a 
 Saw-mill for the place of his wretched end. Having fixed the 
 iron dogs, which confine the log to the carriage, in such a manner 
 as to confine his neck before the saw, he hoisted the gate, and placed 
 his neck before the irresistable instrument. The consequence was 
 that his neck was at once exceedingly torn. As Providence or- 
 dered it, lie was thrown by the motion of the saw from his awM 
 position, and though the saw tore away two thirds of his neck to 
 the bone, yet the main arteries were preserved. In this situation 
 his brother found him covered with blood but not lifeless. By the 
 blessing of God the means used to restore and heal the poor crea- 
 ture were effectual. But he has repeatedly wished he had been 
 killed by the saw. To escape horror of mind was the design of 
 the miserable agent. 
 
 When I approached the house, he removed from the window, 
 ascended the stairs and went into his chamber. Upon entering the 
 house, after a short interval, I requested his brother to desire him 
 to come down. But he refused to leave (he chamber. I then went 
 upstairs into his chamber, and soon Introduced conversation on the 
 fulness of Christ’s atonement, and his willingness to save sinners. 
 He replied, “ / know it all. But there is no mercy for me. Fat 
 1 have committed the unpardonable sin.” 
 
 I then explained the nature of that sin : Observed that It con- 
 sisted in speaking blasphemy against the Holy Ghost, I asked 
 him if he had blasphemed the Holy Spirit. He replied, “ / bav» 
 harboured direct enmity against God.” I enquired again whether 
 be had expressed this enmity against the Holy Ghost by calling 
 
( 39 ) 
 
 liim an evil spirit, or any thing like it ? He repliedj “ Ha mnltef 
 nvbat I hanjt satd ; I have committed the unpardonable sin, and 
 that is enought There is no mercy for me, and I knov) it. IThat 
 does it avail for others to tell me there is, auhen I inou there is not.” 
 I then asked him how he knew. He replied, “ I inonsi the time 
 n.vhen / committed this sin ; it was in my youth, and the 
 Divine Spirit immediately left me. I have felt none of his Striv.. 
 ings since, hut have been ever since in snore or lest horror. *1 here 
 is no mercy for me, I certainly know it.” This he spake with a 
 peculiar tone of voice. But said J, would you not be glad to have 
 God change your heart and admit you into heaven ? “ Ho, said he, 
 hell is my placet I had much rather be annihilated than go to 
 heaven. To be annihilated is all I Want.” Do you wish to get 
 out of God’s hand ? said I. To this he replied^ “ / know I can- 
 not, No mortal knows what I endure i” He expressed himself in 
 the most vigorous manner expressive of his distress. To be burnt 
 to ashes and ground to powder were desira’ole objects compared 
 with his inexpressible horror. 
 
 After some farther conversation I asked him If he did not wish 
 me to pray with him. At hearing this he manifested resentment, 
 and said, “ By no means ; nothing makes me feel worse than to hear 
 people talk of such th ings, I wish they Would let me alone and not 
 torment me,” I farther asked whether he did not sometimes cry 
 for mercy : he replied, “ No : 1 do not want merry.” Do you not 
 sometimes read the bible ? “ The hible, said he ; 1 do not want to 
 concern myself with such things ; but to keep them out of mind. I 
 wish to labour and divert my thoughts from religious subjects. This 
 ts all I can expect. For I know I must go to hell. I must be 
 damned or God must suffer.” He spoke of feeling much enmity 
 against God, and of being under the power of the Devil. On be- 
 ing directed to strive against this enmity, “ Strive against it,” 
 replied he, “ I am full of blasphemy against God. I have no power 
 to strive against it nor do I want any.” I again introduced the 
 subject of prayer with great tenderness, which Immediately excited 
 his anger. I then told him since he refused to have me pray with 
 him, I should pray for him in secret. To which he answered with 
 horrid emphasis, ** John forbids you, and I forbid you, and charge 
 
( 40 ) 
 
 ybn not to ‘ God forbids you and will he <tngry with yott tf yo% 
 attempt it.” I then rose up to leave the room, and as I passed by 
 told him I should pray God if consistent with his will to shew him 
 mercy. At this his countenance changed, and vengeance sparkled 
 in his eyes while he sprung up to seek a weapon, saying, I swear I 
 will kill you. He snatched a wooUcard that lay in his wav, and 
 with great rage threw it at me. I dodged, the card missed me and 
 struck liis aged father and wounded his head. After I left the 
 room he told his brother if people did not refrain talking with him 
 about such things that he would certainly kill them. 
 
 Though this poor wretch w’ould not inform me what he had done 
 which he supposed was unpardonable, yet he has told others and 
 particularly his brother, that when young he felt direct enmi. 
 ty against God, which after being urged several days to express, 
 he at length expressed. His brother, a serious man, supjxiscd him 
 possessed with the Devil. Though averse from all religious books, 
 he yet used to amuse himself with the mathematics. 1 was struck 
 with astonishment at the conversation andappcarar.ee of this awful, 
 miserable, wretch. I have seen several persons who supposed they 
 had committed the unpardonable sin, but never did I see one who 
 seemed to approach so near the dreadful character. That 
 he certainly has I pretend not to say. God knows. This 
 however I must confess, that I never before felt such backwardness 
 to mention the case of any one at the throne of grace. 1 was afraid 
 to pray for him, except with peculiar submission to God’s fovereign 
 will, relating to the unpardonable sin. 
 
 It is an alarming instance, a solemn warning to all, and especially 
 to youth, not to continue in sin lest they seal their own damnation.’* 
 'i he preceding narrative is published because we find it in the 
 instructive and impressive page of Providence. 
 
 Mr. Wines informs us that he visited the Penobscot Indians, 
 The tribe contains about four hundred souls. They are extremely 
 poor and ignorant. They have been furnished with a Roman 
 Catholic priest by the General Court Mr. Wines queries w'hether 
 the Missionary Society ought not to send them a preacher ot the 
 gf )spel . 
 
 Mr. Wines terminates his journal by remarking : ** I have 
 
( 41 ) 
 
 preached, in the course of twenty two sabbaths, ninety scrmonJi 
 Twice have I administered the sacrament of the Lord’s supper, 
 baptized four children, admitted eight persons into the church, and 
 assisted in gathering two churches. 
 
 The Rev. Mr. Cram doic: bh lengthy jsurnaly containing many 
 uteful remarks, as folloavs 
 
 “ While I was travelling as a Missionary In the western parts 
 of the state of New- York and on the Susquehanna in Pennsylvania, 
 
 1 frequently had evidence of the good effects of missionary labours. 
 Those settlers, who were early visited after their first emigrating 
 from the old settlements, arc in a situation far preferable to those 
 who were neglected for many years. I’his is strikingly evident 
 from comparing the settlements in Pennsylvania with those in the 
 state of New-York. Those Missionaries have been most useful 
 who have insisted most on the distinguishing truths of the gospel, 
 who have laboured to meet every objection and who have been 
 strict in admitting persons to scaling ordinances. 
 
 The counties of Ontario and Stuben, comprising the lands called 
 the Boston Preemption, as these lands were sold by the state of Mas- 
 sachusetts, and many of the inhabitants of Ontario In particular 
 were from that state, would naturally look up to the Massa- 
 chusetts Missionary Societies for missionary aid. Though they have 
 a number of ministers on that tract of land, yet but little aid has 
 been afforded by them to vacant societies, and perhaps their cir- 
 cumstances will not allow of their affording much assistance. 
 
 The other places, which I have visited, and which appear to me 
 to call the loudest for missionary aid, arc the country north of the 
 Mohawk River and on the Black River, and counties inhabited by 
 the New-England emigrants in Pennsylvania. There Is a prosjsect 
 that the Missionary Society In Hampshire County will send to the 
 people north of the Mohawk, and that the Connecticut Missionary 
 Society will send to Pennsylvania, as it naturally belongs to them. 
 By Connecticut the New. England emigrants were first led to settle 
 in Pennsylvania ; and most of the emigrants are from Connecticut. 
 ‘These emigrants are in a very unhappy state of society, the uncer- 
 tainty of the title to their lands has had a pernicious influence on 
 their morals.” 
 
 F 
 
( 42 ) 
 
 The PvCV. Mr. Alexander lerinmates his particular journalf 
 containing too many instructive remarls to be inserted in this public 
 cation, in the follonving manner : 
 
 “ During my absence, I rode eleven hundred and thirty-three 
 miles, preached sixty-three sermons, baptized fifteen persons, at- 
 tended thirty-four conferences, gathered two churches and assisted 
 in gathering another. I received, in contributions for the use of the 
 
 Massachusetts Missionary Society, 21 dols. 78 cents, and was in 
 their employ sixteen ^abbatlis." Caleb Alexander, 
 
 While remarking that we arc highly pleased with the journal* 
 of our assiduous and faithful Missionaries, which exhibit evidence 
 of their having been peculiarly useful to the infant churches and nu- 
 merous inhabitants of the extensive regions where they have labour- 
 ed, we lament that Mr. Sewall and other missionary Brothers, 
 have not furnished particular abstracts or summaries for publication. 
 The journals, though entertaining and instructive, are too lengthy 
 for the press, and no persons but the authors are capable of making 
 proper abstracts. The Journalist is the best qualified to compress 
 his own materials. We, therefore, earnestly request all future 
 Missionaries to prepare a summary of their labours and all interest- 
 ing occurrences for the public. By this method we shall extend 
 the field of useful information, and probably encourage the friends 
 of missionary institutions who are waiting for success. 
 
 A bid Holmes, 7 
 Samuel Spi'ing. j 
 
 The Massachusetts Missionary Society for prop- 
 agating the gospel in acc't xcith J . Si -m pk i ns, C;\ 
 
 >801. Dais. Cts. 
 
 May 20 By balance due per adjustment 909 77 
 
 38 By cash rec'dof 130 persons for yearly tax . . 270 10 
 By contribution at Old South ........ 133 00 
 
 By Dr. Emmons, a donation 5 00 
 
 By Rev. J. Strong, . do 2 00 
 
 ByJ. Punchard, , . * do. from gentlemen . . 6 00 
 
 Committee. 
 
 Carried forward^ 
 
 ISIS 87 
 
( 41 ) 
 
 i8o2. Amount hro't fornjonrdy Dols. tjljf ^7 
 
 May zS By Rev. S. Niles, a donation i oo 
 
 By Rev. J. H. Church, do. from his society . . 17 2 > 
 
 By S. Stickney, . . . do 18 00 
 
 By Rev. S. Austin, . do. from his society . . 95 28 
 
 By Rev. S. Spring, . do. from his do 48 60 
 
 By Rev. P. Litchtield, do. from his do 13 02 
 
 By Rev. S. Worcester, do. from his do 21 75 
 
 By Rev. O. Thompson do. from his do 3 ° 5 ? 
 
 By Rev. r. Dickinson, do. from six females . . 6 00 
 
 By Capt. N. Johnson, do i 00 
 
 By Rev. J, Barker, do. from his society . . +12 
 
 By Rev. D. Hopkins, do. from his do 9 + 
 
 By Rev. E. Smith, do 7 7 ° 
 
 By Rev. J. P. Fisher, do. from his society . . 16 00 
 
 By Rev. P. Sanborn, do. from D. Smith ... • 7 > 
 
 By . . . do do. from J. Damon • . i§ 00 
 
 By j, Davis, .... do. from ist. par. in Rowley 38 08 
 By Rev. Mr. Austin, do. from Rev. Mr. Mattock 16 38 
 By Rev. Mr. Judson, do. from his society . . 16 14 
 
 By Rev. E. Parish, do. from his do 29 90 
 
 By Rev. S. Mead. do. from E. P 6 00 
 
 By . . . do do. from J. Tcrrey . . 2 00 
 
 By donations from sundry persons 5 00 
 
 By Dr. Morse, a donation from an unknown lady 20 00 
 By Rev. Mr. Williams, do. from his society . 3 25 
 
 July 22 By Rev. E. Gillet for his tax and sermons . . 6 50 
 
 28 By a donation from an unknown person .... too 00 
 
 29 By cash rec’dof C. Alexander 2 00 
 
 Aug. 13 By a donation from an unknown person .... 5 00 
 
 Sept. 28 By interest on 33 dols i co 
 
 Oct, 7 By a donation from Miss Kingsbury 20 00 
 
 By . . do. . from an unknown person .... 2 00 
 
 2 1 By cash of sundry persons for tax S 00 
 
 Nov. 17 By do. of C, Coffin, jr. for 2 years tax ... 4 00 
 
 Dec. I By do. of Rev. A. Wines for tax 2 00 
 
 5 By do, of D. Beal for do 2 00 
 
 6 By do. of T. Odiorne for do. 2 00 
 
 1S02. 14 By a donation from Widow Martha Poor ... 2 20 
 
 Jan, 1 6 By cash of Rev, J . Sawyer Sc S. Montgomery for tax 4 00 
 
 Mar. I By do. of Rev. L. Woods & W. Bartlet, jr. for do. 4 00 
 
 17 By do. of Rev. J. Spaulding for do 2 00 
 
 May 21 By do. of Rev, J. Baker for donation and tax . 5 00 
 
 By do. of Rev. W. Riddle for tax 2 00 
 
 Dols, 2020 17 
 
( ) 
 
 T//e Massachuseits Missionary Society for propt 
 Ggaiing the gospel in acct with J. Simpkins, Dr, 
 
 1801. Dols.Cis, 
 
 ]Vlay 28 To paid Dr, Emir-cns’ order to Rev. D. Avery 224 97 
 To do. , . . . . do. . . to Rev. J, Cram 264 6z 
 To paid postage letters to secretary ..... 36 
 
 June 22 To paid Dr. Emmons’ order to Rev. A. Wines 20 00 
 
 To paid Young Cf Minns’ bill, per rec’t . . i 00 
 
 July To paid porterage of books sent Eastward ... i 50 
 29 To paid Dr. Emmons’ order to Rev. C. Alexander 50 00 
 
 To paid postage letters to President 2 02 
 
 Octob. 7 To paid Dr. Emmons’ order to Rev. J. Sewall . 50 co 
 
 20 To paid Capt. Marshall’s bill for kccp’g trustees 15 92 
 
 22 To paid for keeping their horses 7 50 
 
 24 To paid Dr. Emmons’ order to Rev. D. Avery 50 00 
 
 To paid for carrying book to Salem 
 
 Dec. I To paid Dr. Emmons’ order to Rev. A. Wines 239 97 
 
 2 To paid . do. . . , to Rev. C. Alexander 94 co 
 
 Jan. 1 802 To paid postage of letters to the president . . 26 
 
 May 4 To paid Dr, Emipons’ order Rev. J. Sewall . 9^ 82 
 
 12 To paid B. Russell’s hill for advertizing . . i 00 
 
 To paid Adams Cf Rhodes’ do. ...... 1 00 
 
 Kov. 27 To paid W. Hilliard for' printing Sermon . . 50 00 
 
 1170 49 
 
 Balance due to the Society, 849 68 
 Doli. 2020 17 
 
 Of the .above balance there is due the Rev, Mr. Avery, the 
 Rev. Mr. Cram and the Rev. Mr. Sewall, about 700 dollars. 
 
 Boston, May 25, 1802. 
 
 WE the subscribers, being chosen a coiTimittfe by the Massachu- 
 setts Missionary Society, to examine the Treasurer’s accounts, 
 have attended that business, and find the accounts rightly cast an^ 
 well vouched, and there are due from the Treasurer to said societyj 
 Right hundred and forty-nine dollars and sixty-eight cents. 
 
 Samuel Niles, 
 
 John Punchard^ 
 
 John Pearson, 
 
( 45 ) 
 
 DONATIONS. 
 
 Received from Rev. Mr. Cram, from different so- 
 
 3S 
 
 Of Rev. JothamSewall, at Eastport, ..... 7 i» 
 
 Of Rev. Mr. Avery, from different societies, . . 59 4 * 
 
 Of Rev. Caleb Alexander, from several societies, . 21 78 
 
 DqIs. J2J 1>7 
 
 Officers for the Near 1802 . 
 
 Rev. Nathaniel Emmons, d. d. Prtfuitnt . 
 
 Rev. Samuel Austin, Secretarj. 
 
 Deacon John Simpkins, Treasurer. 
 
 I'ruslecs. 
 
 Rev. David Sanford— Rev. Daniel Hopkins— Rev. Ezra Weld 
 —Rev. Samuel Spring — Rev. Joseph Barker — Rcv.Samiid Niles 
 Riiv. Sarnuel Austin — Rev. Abiel Holmes — Rev. Jona. Strong. 
 
 As an appendage to the Report, after remarking 
 that the Jlissionai'j/ Societies 0 / Aezc-lork, Con- 
 nectient and Hampshire are successful/^ engaged 
 in diff using the injiuence oj the gospel even among 
 ignorant natives, ice also subjoin the following ab- 
 stract Jroni the report oJ the Directors oJ the Ton- 
 don Missionary Society, May, 1801 . 
 
 Mission at Otakeite. 
 
 “ Since the last annual meeting, letters have been received from 
 our brethren at that island : they bring intelligence to the 1 3th of 
 January, 1800, and are peculiarly cheering, after the melancholy 
 recital of the separation of their brethren, which had been previously 
 received, and the painful apprehensions for their safety, which m 
 consequence had been felt. If these preceding and seemingly calam- 
 itous circumstances are excepted, the mission to Otaheitc presents 
 views of an hopeful and encouraging nature. It has assumed con- 
 sistency and order ; it combines integrity of character, fortitude of 
 mind, and fixedness of resolution, with a continued progression of 
 effort, for the exalted purpose of presenting the doctrines of the 
 blessed gospel to t^ie acceptance of the perishing heathen, and of ex- 
 hibiting an uncorrupt example of their tendencies and effects, in 
 their own characters and conduct. 
 
 "1 he kind providence and the tender mercies of God have been 
 r^.arkably experienced and warmly acknowledged by our brethren 
 
( 40 ) 
 
 2t Otahcitc. The gloomy prospects ar.J painful trials which they 
 anticipated, when the separation of the mission took place, of being 
 plur.deied and dispersed among the heathen, have been dissipated 
 and prevented ; and instead of these calamities, ‘“'they enjoy good 
 health of body, peaceable habitations, and unmolested means of 
 grace.” When th.csc circumstances are considered, it will appear, 
 that our reduced mission at that island (at the date of the last letters 
 which have been received) enjoyed as many advantages as can be 
 expcx'tcd in a heathen land ; and gave as great prosjsect of establish, 
 rticnt and success as from their temporary residence and imperfect 
 proficieiKV in the language and habits of the people can reascnably 
 K’ cherished. 
 
 TIw; mission, that sailed in tlic Royal Admiral, was prepared in 
 circumstances of comparative darkness and uncertainty. '1 he direct- 
 ors endeavoured to act with prudence and wisdom in its equipment 
 and dost in-ition ; and aUhougli some variation would doubtless have 
 been made, if the last dispatclics from Otaheite and Tongataboohad 
 bnen previously received, yet ilicy hope that neither the number, the 
 conditions nor the equipments of the missionaries will be found in- 
 convenient, embarrassing, or useless ; and that, under the contin- 
 ued auspices of the heavenly Protector, they have before this time, 
 joined their brethren at Otaheite, to promote with redoubled activ- 
 ity the work of C-od on that island, and to extend their exertions, 
 Jit a suitable opportunity, to otb.cr islands in its vicinity. 
 
 In February last, the directors received letters from the mission- 
 aries in the Royal Admiral, dated at Rio Janeiro, 27th August 
 i§oo. bo far they had proceeded on th.eir voyage ; and except 
 the death of Mr. Turner, surgeon of the ship, and the temporary 
 but severe illness of seme of the missionaries, in consequence of a 
 malignant fever that raged among the convicts, no circumstances of 
 moment or of sorrow had occurred to them. Their journal gives 
 a very satisfactory account of the commendable and profitable man. 
 ner in which they employ their time ; a great part of it appears to 
 be spent in such exercises of devotion and improvement, as especially 
 regard their intended missionary services. 
 
 Missian at 'ruugittahoo. 
 
 Since the last general meeting, three of the missionaries who 
 
( M ) 
 
 were left, at that island, have returned to this conntrj' j two f-arc 
 tarried at Port Jackson; one has chosen to remain at iongatalxjo 
 (but in such state of mind and conduct .as to afford no expectation of 
 any benefit being derived from his continuance there j) and the oth- 
 er three of our brethren have fallen \ Ictims to the intestine commo- 
 tions of the island, and the ferocious dispositions of some of its in- 
 habitants. rite directors have deeply and seriously examined tlic 
 brethren who hare returned home, on the subject oi their mission* 
 1 he result has been, that they have to b.ment its unproductiveness, 
 •s well as its fatal and sanguinary termination. i>till, however, 
 they tJiink. tliat impressions favourable to the characters and the 
 purposes of our brethren, have been made tipon many of the natives 
 of Tongataboo,wliich, in the event of another bcnctolent visit be- 
 ing made to that island, may be found to have produced some fruit, 
 though of an inferior nature and of inconsiderable growth, to his 
 praise and glory, who has often seemed to make the blood of his 
 beloved martyrs the seed of a future Church. 
 
 South Afx'uan Missicu. 
 
 Tlie state of this mission, when the preceding annual report wa* 
 made to this society, afforded the directors abundant matter for 
 gratitude, and admiration at the goodness of God, and at the zeal 
 and devotedness of the brethren who were then engaged in it. Since 
 that time the four brethren who sailed in May iSoo, have arrived 
 at the Cape, and have commenced their missionary labours in its 
 vicinity ; and three brethren from Holland wlio took their passage 
 in January last, have, it is hoped, reached the same destination. 
 The mission to that part of the heathen world has been thus contin- 
 ually increasing in its strength ; and the directors are happy to 
 add, that the last letters which have been received from thence, in- 
 clude acall for additional missionaries to labour in a field of increas- 
 ing extent, and of encouraging expectations. The spark of missi- 
 onary zeal, which was wafted from this country to theCape of Good 
 Hope, appears to have been kindled into a flame in the bosom of 
 our Christian friends at that station. Already it seems to have 
 taken hold on the outskirts of Satan’s kingdom ; and with the con- 
 ; tinned assistance of its Almighty insplrcr, it bids fair to spread its 
 
 ^ lioly energies into some of the recesses of the infernal empire. 
 
( 48 ) 
 
 TheMissIonarySoclety at theCape, in August i8oo, had no less 
 igoo heathen under their tuitiorf, and since that time the number his 
 considerably increased. Our venerable friend, Dr. Vanderkemp. was, 
 in December last, still among the Caffrees. His trials appear to be 
 great, his safety precarious, his situation lonely and cheerless, and 
 liis encourage.mcnt not so great as might be expected from his ex- 
 emplary diligence and zeal. Stillj however, this missionary cham- 
 pion strengthens himself in his God, and patiently waits for liberty 
 lo visit his friends at the Cape ; or for an opening in providence, 
 that some of the brethren may be sent to him. May deliverance 
 and success be afforded to this valuable and distinguished servant of 
 our Divine Master. 
 
 'I'he brethren Kicherer and Kramer, after having laboured with 
 acceptance and success in the country d' the Boschemen, have a- 
 greed to go eight days journey toward the Great River, agreeably 
 to an impressive and often repeated invitation which they 
 have received from near a thousand heathen of various tribes, 
 who reside together ; and who earnestly desire religious instruetion. 
 The brethren, Anderson and Edwards, are intended to reside among 
 the Boscliemen, toearry on the work which has been so propitiously 
 begun. Brothers Lingen and Read arc at present In Waggonmak'- 
 ers Valley, assisting the Rev. Mr. Van-Sulk, whose ministry is 
 attended by about 300 heathen, among whom there arc, it is said, 
 “many strong believers," and many others on whom the work of 
 God appears savingly to be begun. At a suitable time these breth- 
 ren are intended to assist Dr. Vanderkenap, in his labour among tire 
 Caffrees. Brother Tromp perseveres, with most commendable zeal, 
 to instruct both Heathens' and Christians. The efforts of our mis- 
 sionaries appear to be well supported by the kindness ar.d generosity 
 of the Christian friends at the Cape and its vicinity ; and the Dutch 
 ministers at several of the' settlements, arc labouring with diligence 
 and success among their countrymen, and in the instruction of the 
 surrounding slaves and Hottentots. With such encouraging pros- 
 pects, and in compliance with an earnest request from the society at 
 the Cape for additional missionaries, the directors have determined 
 to accept of three German brethren, who have offered themselves for 
 the work of God in Africa ; w ho are w ell rceommended by the Rev. 
 
( *9 ) 
 
 IWr. Strache, of Hatshausen in East Friesland, and who, at present, 
 are receiving appropriate instructions under the Rev. Mr. Jaenicke, 
 at Berlin. The directors were authorized by a resolution of the 
 \ast general meeting, to “ enlarge the missions in Africa, and to es. 
 tablish such new ones as circumstances shall render expedient.’* 
 They have acted in the spirit of this resolution, and trust, that the 
 provision of missionaries which they havemadewill not be thought to 
 exceed the extent and importanceof the work, which the Providence of 
 God appears to set before this society for its patronage andcxecution. 
 
 East-I/iJies, 
 
 A letter, dated 5th August, 1800, has lately been received from 
 Mr. Forsyth, the society’s missionary in India. At that time h« 
 was well in health ; had made considerable proficiency in the lan- 
 guage of the country, and was about to begin a school for the in- 
 struction of the children of the natives. Mr. Forsyth appears to 
 possess a true missionary spirit ; and he exhibits fidelity and disin- 
 terestedness of character and conduct. The directors have long 
 since been authorized to increase the mission to that part of the 
 world ; but circumstances have occurred to frustrate their desires 
 and intentionSk It is an object, however, which they think by far 
 too important to be forgotten or neglected ; they are, therefore, 
 continuing their enquiries and their correspondence for the purpose 
 of obtaining suitable persons to assist Mr* Forsyth, or to labour in 
 any preferable parts of India. 
 
 T'willtngate, in NenJcfn/nJland. 
 
 Since the last general meeting, two letters have been received 
 from the Rev. Mr. Hillyard, who is stationed at that place, under 
 the patronage of this society, Mr. Hillyard’s account is pleasing, 
 encouraging, and satisfactory. He appears to labour with diligence 
 in the work of his ministry, in the instruction of youth, and in cat- 
 echising children. Having visited some of the adjacent islands, 
 he has recommended to the directors that another Missionary be 
 lent from this society, to preach the gospel at Fogo, Bonavista, 
 and Green-Pond Island. This measure has been maturely consid- 
 ered ; and it has been resolved to comply with Mr. Hillyard’s re- 
 commendation, whenever a suitable person shall be accepted and 
 qualified for the proposed station. 
 
 G 
 
( so ) 
 
 The follo-M'ntg extract from a letter of the Rev, Joshua Marsh* 
 man. Missionary at Serarngore, near Calcutta, ( E. I,j is thonghl 
 moor thy of insertion, 
 
 “ When I wrote hast, the Lord had not actually appeared in a way 
 of conversion among the Hindoos, but wc now humbly hope that 
 he has in a small degree. Dec. 28, 1801, we baptized the first 
 Hindoo, a man named Crushno, and since that we have baptized 
 five others, one man and four women ; so that we have now fix Hin- 
 doo brethren and sisters in our little church. They have lost cast 
 ©f course, and have sustained the scorn, reproach and revilings un- 
 avoidably consequent thereon, with much of the Christian temper ; 
 and, making allowance for the extreme darkness and the depth of 
 wickedness in which they were before involved, they give us much 
 pleasure by their walk and conversation. The new testament wa*» 
 printed offin February last, and we arc nowprinting the old. Soma 
 thousands of copies also of evangelical tracts, hymns, &c. have been 
 printed and dispersed among the natives, and they discover a con- 
 siderable desire to read. The Brahmans however discover an im- 
 placable hatred to the gospel and the name of Christ, as knowing 
 that the ruin of their antient, horrible and widely destructive sys- 
 tem of priestcraft and idolatry is inevitably connected with the 
 spread of it. But, He must increase," 
 
 — 8-1 1 
 
 In fine — When rve attend to Missionary exertion 
 and influence ; xvhen xve remember that a considerable 
 number of the aboriginal natives of Asia, Africa 
 and America, arc norv at gospel schools for the pur- 
 pose of being qualified to publish the glad tidings of 
 salvation to their respective colours and tribes, is 
 there notreason to believe that the set time to favour 
 Zion is at hand ? O Lord, how tong shall the book 
 remain sealed ? Shall not Christ soon have the heath- 
 en for his inheritance and the uttermost parts of 
 the earth for his possession ? 
 
// c also insert the Appendix to the Rev. Sajiuel 
 M iLLEKS Alissionaiy Sermon, delivered April 6\ 
 1802 , j'or the sake of extending ustj'ul injormd- 
 tlon. 
 
 The Board of Directors judging that a Specimen of Indian Talks 
 would be gratifying to the Public, have selected the two fol- 
 lowing, 
 
 1 . 
 
 Father, attend ! 
 
 W E, the Chiefs and Young Men of thcTuscarora Nation, wish 
 to speak a few words in your ears. We arc very happy that the 
 Great Spirit has protected you and us, so that we meet together 
 tfiis day at our fire-place. We also thank the Great Spirit that he 
 has put it into the hearts of the Directors of the Missionary Society 
 to pity us, and send you again to visit us. Wc also thank the 
 Great Spirit that he has preserved all our chiefs and warriors, so 
 that we are able to meet you again in council. 
 
 Fatifer, we all. Sachems, Chiefs, Warriors and Young Men, speak 
 with one heart. We are very happy to hear the talk of the Mis- 
 sionary Society. Now wc find that they arc true friends to our 
 poor nation ; that they wish to have us and our children taught, 
 that we may become a civil and happy people. 
 
 Father, we now thank you and the Missionary Society, that you 
 have brought a schoolmaster with you to teach our children to 
 read and write, and to learn our people to sing praises to the Great 
 Spirit. He is our brother, w'e receive him in love. We will all 
 be kind to him, and use him well, as long as he will be a good man ; 
 but if he should be a bad man, wc will let you know it, for we 
 thmk you do not want a bad man amongst us ; wc are bad enough 
 ourselves, w'e do not want any bad man to live among us. 
 
 Fathers and Brothers,* we are happy that the Missionary Society 
 have taken so much pains to seek the happiness of our poor nation, 
 for we are as it were lost ; they have undertaken to raise us from 
 the dust. 
 
 * By Ftthcri ami Brothers, they told Mr- Holmo they Bc«mhia and tic ministers and oihcn beler*iiig 
 ^e Miitionax) Society* 
 
( SS ) 
 
 Fathers and Brothers, we thank you for your instructions ; wft 
 have received your inslruclions. We used to think that there was 
 no difference in days ; but now we are convinced that we ought 
 to keep the sabbath as holy time, and we are determined hereafter 
 to rest on that day, and keep It as holy time,to serve theGreatSpirit In, 
 
 Fathers and Brothers, you know we are poor, we can do but 
 little ourselves ; we would be very happy if the Missionary Society 
 would assist us to have a house to worship in, and for a school-house. 
 
 Fathers and Brothers, we will npw let you know that our nation 
 is much scattered ; some are at Norlh-Carolina ; a few at Oneida, 
 and others at Grand River, in the British dominions. We wish to 
 have them all collected together in this place, that they might be 
 instructed in the good ways of Christians, and have the Gospel of 
 Jesus Christ preached to them. 
 
 Fathers and Brothers, we will now let you know that our desire 
 is that we may have constant instruction In the ways of the Great 
 Spirit, lest we grow weak ; and we wish that you would not be 
 discouraged, and not forsake us because of our wickedness. We 
 expect there is one above that will judge us if we do not forsake 
 all our evil ways. We hope and wish we shall be faithful to hearken 
 to your instructions, and try to do all the good we can to our na. 
 tion. If evil men among us should try to disturb us, and hinder us 
 from doing^ood, we will try to shut our ears, and not listen to them, 
 but try to keep on In the straight, good path. 
 
 Father, wp now let you know that we will leave it to the young 
 warrior to speak last, and deliver this belt of Wampum to you, to 
 tend to the Missionary Society as a token of our love and friend- 
 ship with them. 
 
 Then the young warrior took the belt, and spoke as follows, and 
 delivered it to Mr, Holmes. 
 
 Fathers and Brothers, 
 
 We deliver this belt, according to the custom of our fore-fathers, 
 as a token of peace and friendship, which we wish may continue as 
 long as the sun shines, and trees grow ; .Tnd that our nation may 
 have the Gospel preached to them as long as the world shall continue, 
 
 SigueJ In the Sachem and ten Warr 'iort of the Tuscarertz N<^tio^t^ 
 f\tagafa, August 2(J ^ 31, 1801, 
 
iS INCE you, as a Missionary, first visited us, wchavcbccn slow 
 to give you an answer. The reason has been that, as there were 
 three nations to consult, it took up much time ; but now we are 
 ready to give you an answer. In the situation that we are in we 
 are exposed to the white people ; but we believe the Missionary 
 Society of New. York to be our friends. You are our instructor j 
 if you take advantage of us, you take advantage of the ignorant. 
 
 Father, now attend to the custom of our forefathers. Since you 
 returned from visiting our brethren at the River La Trench, you 
 have received the heavy tidings of the death of your daughter. 
 Now we suppose that you have more understanding about the de. 
 parture of a soul into the other world, by the word of Jesus, than 
 we have. 
 
 Father, now we are ready to receive you and remove your grief, 
 and wipe away your tears, and clear your throat ; that as you have 
 the knowledge of the Gospel, you may see clearly and speak freely 
 to your children. We hope your daughter is gone to happiness, 
 to Jesus, for we hear that Jesus came to save sinners. Now we 
 deliver you this wampum* to wipe aw'ay your tears, and clear your 
 throat, that you may see and speak freely to your children, and al- 
 so as a token of our friendship according to a custom of your fore- 
 fathers in cases of grief like yours, before we proceed to public 
 business. We suppose that all mankind, though of different col- 
 ours, when they die, go to one place, according as they have done 
 good or evil. 
 
 Father, your mission is a great thing. We suppose you are sent 
 to take care of the souls of men. 
 
 Father, now attend ! As you are sent to us from the New-York 
 Missionary Society, we hope you will be kind enough to excuse 
 our delay in giving you a full answer respecting the objects of 
 your mission. We have taken time to deliberate. We have been 
 embarrassed with doubts. We thought not proper to proceed hast- 
 ily, lest, not having thoroughly weighed the objects, we Ihould do 
 
 * Two striogi of black Wuupua* 
 
C )j 
 
 wrong, and hare reason hereafter to repent it, therefore we have 
 been slow since you have been here. 
 
 Father, we now accept the offer of the Missionary Society. 
 
 Father, our forefathers were happy in the enjoyment of this whole 
 island, which was well stocked with game and trees, which was 
 given them by the Great Spirit : although they did not enjoy the 
 things and the means to get a livelihood that the white people had, 
 yet they were contented. 
 
 Father, our brothers, the Missionary Society, are taking great 
 pains to instruct us. If our forefathers had accepted such an offer, 
 we should not have been so deceived and cheated by the white 
 people. We do not suppose that we that are grown up can receive 
 much benefit ; but we hope that our children will be instructed, so 
 that tlicy may not be so deceived and imposed upon by white people, 
 as our forefathers and we have been. 
 
 Father, we have heard from our forefathers that they had a 
 P.lissionary sent them from Boston some years ago to preach to 
 them the name of Jesus ; but they did not receive him ; and now we 
 arc sorry they did not receive him. Wc suppose that our fore- 
 fathers thought it was not necessary to have preaching among the 
 red jieoplc, being strictly attached to their old customs, and not to 
 those of the whites. Wc have learned, however, that the white 
 people have a name given them, by which they may be saved ; but 
 we suppose our forefathers did not understand that name, and there- 
 fore rejected the preaching of the Missionary. 
 
 Father, we present you this Wampum as a testimony of our 
 minds. 
 
 Fathers, we let you know jthat this is the Wampum which we 
 received from our father, the great man of the United States, Aw- 
 nontlagolnlus,* as a chain of friendship between the United States 
 and the Six Nations. When we transacted business with the United 
 States, their intention, doubtless, was good, intending the welfare 
 of Indians ; which consideration encourages and begets in us a de- 
 sire to brighten the chain of friendship, and adopt the customs and 
 modes of living practised by the white people, as our mode cf liv- 
 ing by hunting will sown become difficult, because the game wil/ 
 be destroyed, by reason of the white people increasing, and settling 
 
 * Ccstto^cr uf (wwm 
 
( Si > 
 
 •ur game country ; and wc have already seen It come to pass rlaf 
 our lands arc in the possession of the white people. 
 
 Father, from the Commissioners of the United States holding 
 treaties with us wc have heard talk about the Great Spirit, btkI 
 that it was the wish of the white people that for o.ir own good wc 
 should become better acquainted with the Great Spirit. 
 
 Father, we are always glad to hear from you ; yon hare given 
 Bs some instruction about tlte Gospel of jesns, which he has com- 
 manded to be preached to all people. We think it a great thing 
 to receive the Gospel, therefore wc thought it proper long to de- 
 liberate- Now we, the Seneca Nation, hare concluded to receive 
 the Gospel of Jesus : now we hope that we shall have success atid 
 not fail, and that it will be continued to be preached to as, for we 
 has e great trials. 
 
 Father, as the Missionary Society have sent to ns, ofFcrlng us 
 assistance in the education of our children, wc receive it kindly, 
 and return them our thanks ; but we have some difficulty in our 
 minds about the School-house. The white people at Buffaloc were 
 to provide a house, whkh not being done we cannot send our chil- 
 dren at present. 
 
 Father, we wish you to know that we accept the favour offered 
 to us by the Missionary Society for the schooling of our children j 
 but It Is our desire that a house may be provided in our village for 
 worship, and schooling our children, and that assistance may be 
 given us by the Missionary Society to build such house, that it 
 may be handy for our children. 
 
 Father and Brother, we pray you be not offended at the difficulty 
 we shall now mention. The white people seem to despise us for 
 our poverty and nakedness. Our children being ragged, and partly 
 naked, will probably be disagreeable to the schoolmaster ; we there- 
 fore pray the Missionary Society to grant us some assistance in 
 clothing our children that they may be comfortable and decent to 
 go to school. 
 
 Father, we are glad that the Missionary Society have had pity on 
 us, and that they wish to communicate to us the knowledge of the 
 Gospel ; and, as we have just began our friendship, we wish to talk 
 often together, and that you would visit us as often as you can £nd 
 
( 56 ) 
 
 it convenient that we may have a better understanding of the 
 Gospel. 
 
 Father, as we expect the Missionary Society will act towards us 
 as fathers towards children, we expect they will enlighten us for 
 our good. We know that the white people have cheated us out of 
 our interest. We feel ourselves ignorant and unacquainted, which 
 was the cause of our being cheated. 
 
 Father, now we let you know that we have eight children which 
 we mean to send to school as soon as the house at Buffaloe is finish- 
 ed, and we wish the Missionary Society to provide meal for them, 
 while they are at Buffaloe, but when the school is on our land we 
 will provide for them ourselves. 
 
 Father, now we will mention this — it may be that our own way 
 of worshipping the Great Spirit may appear barbarous to you, but 
 we desire our elderly people may be indulged in their former mode 
 of worship ; not that we will despise your instruction, we rather 
 desire more of it, that we and our children may be wise and happy. 
 
 Father, we have now opened our minds to you ; we have said 
 what we have to say, and, as a testimony of our friendship, we de- 
 liver you this belt of Wampum, to be communicated to the Mis. 
 slonary Society. 
 
 This may certify all whom it may concern, that at Buffaloe, on 
 the 19th of Nof ember, 1801, the foregoing speech was delivered In 
 my presence, to the Rev. Elkanah Holmes, Missionary from the 
 New. York Missionary Society, in Council with the Chiefs of the 
 Seneca Nation by Red Jacket, Second Sachem, in behalf of faid 
 nation ; and that the mode of expression by the orator, and the 
 words used to communicate their ideas, are carefully preserved in 
 the above ; to which Mr, Holmes pertinently and particularly re- 
 plied. JOSEPH BADGER, 
 
 Missionary from the Connecticut Missionary Society 
 to the Connecticut Western Reserve. 
 
 I served to minute down from the mouth of the Interpreter the 
 aforesaid Speech, delivered by Red Jacket to the Rev. Elkanah 
 Holmes, and do fully agree with what the Rev. Joseph Badger 
 has asserted, as above. SYLVANUS PALMER.'*