EXTRACTS FROM THE JOURNAL KEPT AT (Continued from p. 287.) March 10, 1821. Father Hoyt received a letter from New Orleans, requesting him to meet Dr. Worcester at Mayhew, in the Choctaw nation, between the 20th and 25th of this month. 12. Resolved that Mr. Vail accompany father Hoyt to drive and take charge of the horses; and sister Anna Hoyt, to assist and pay all neces sary attention to him, on account of his ill health. Father Hoyt, Mr. Vail, and Anna Hoyt left us for Mayhew. Mrs. Potter goes with them to Creek Path. 22. Darius Hoyt, who has been dangerously ill a considerable time, we hope is some better. 29. Mr. Potter left us for Creek Path. The weather continues cold During 3 or 4 days the ice has remained about the saw mill. Great rising of Tennessee River. 30. By an unusual rain the Tennessee has risen much higher than it was in December last. Several hundred bush els of our corn in the warehouse, and in April 4. Mrs. Hoyt was taken very sick, and thought by some to be dying. The family was called in: but she appears better this morning. Her sickness is doubtless occasioned, in a great measure,by her fatigue and care with Darius. Darius is mending very slowly. Mr. Butrick is confined to his room and mostly to his bed. We have now but two brothers and two sisters, able to take any part either in nursing the sick, or providing for this numerous family. Thus far the Lord helps us, and we have great cause to adore his holy name. We cannot be sufficiently thankful that a physician is provided against this time. Examination of the School. 16. This being the day appointed for the examination of the schools, most of the parents of the children were present, and several others. We dressed the children decently, and first examined the girls' school; then walked in procession to the boys' school-house, and examined their school. We thought the children appeared well. their improvement. After examination All present seemed highly pleased with most of the children left us to spend the vacation at their respective homes. 19. Father Hoyt, Anna, and Mr. Vail returned from Mayhew. We were surprised to see them without Dr. Worcester. They left him at Mayhew on the 3d inst. in a very feeble state of a crib, have been some time under water. This corn we thought secure; as no flood had, to our knowledge, ever May 17. The persons have been covered the ground where it was stored. detected who broke open the trunk But, to our great grief and disappoint-last winter, and the captain of the light ment, we find most of it spoiled. We horse wishes to know what articles are led anxiously to inquire, why this were missing.* destruction of mission property? Why should an infinitely wise and holy God tear from the funds of this mission, and destroy at once, so much obtained by the prayers and labors of his own children? Have we been prodigal of that precious article of provision? Have we abused the indulgence, and wearied the patience of our Heavenly Father? and obliged him thus to chastise and afflict us? O, that he would amend whatever is amiss, and turn even this dispensation to the furtherance of the Gospel. VOL. XVII. * See our last number, p. 286, in a note. By the light horse, among the Cherokees, are intended a select number of men, six or eight in each district, designated in a general council to apprehend all malefactors, and keep the peace. When a theft is committed, complaint is made to some captain of the lighthorse, who exerts himself to detect the of fender. 39 health. They made a short stay at Creek Path. Brother and sister Potter were in good health. The people in that neighborhood were assembled, and listened attentively to a discourse on the subject of religion, and the importance of education. All appeared pleased with their teacher, the school, and the great concerns of the mission. The church members appeared to be walking in love, and in the fellowship of the Spirit. One of the principal chiefs assured the brethren, that he would always do every thing in his power to promote the welfare of the school, and the comfort of the teachers. Arrival of Dr. Worcester. 25. Dr. Worcester arrived this day. He left Mayhew on the 7th inst.; was detained three days at Russellville, a small village in Alabama, about 118 miles from Mayhew, partly on account of the sickness of Dr. Pride, his attendant, who was attacked with the intermittent fever. Dr. P. being unable to proceed, a man was hired to take his place; and Dr. Worcester, notwithstanding his extreme debility, travelled without farther intermission, till he reached Brainerd, a distance of full 200 miles. It appears to him, and to us, almost a miracle, that he has been sustained to perform such a journey; being at the time of his arrival unable to support himself on his feet, or even to stand by leaning on another. He was brought in the arms of two brethren from his carriage to the house. For a few moments, he was supported in a chair, but was soon obliged to take a bed. It was observed to him, "that he had got almost through the wilderness." He replied, "This may be true in more respects than one. God is very gracious. He has sustained me, as it were by miracle thus far, and granted one great desire of my soul in bringing me to Brainerd; and if it be agreeable to his holy purposes, that I should leave my poor remains here, his will be done." He said further, "I had rather leave my poor remains here, than at any other place." We hope, however, that, after a little rest from the fatigues of such a journey, with such medicines and cordials as will be found here, his strength may be recruited, and, in due time, his health restored. tures in various parts give him much pain; and he is unable to rise from his bed without help. Sabbath 27. At the request of Dr. Worcester, the members of the church, and some of the congregation, were introduced to him; and being raised in his bed he addressed them in few words. His address, though short, was peculiarly feeling and interesting. As the people left the room, he overheard one saying to the children, "he is very feeble, you cannot see him now: you shall see him another time," and immediately said: "Oh, they want to see me, let them come in." One said, "You are very feeble, it may be injurious." He replied with tears, "I want to see all my dear children, and take them by the hand." The children were then called in. He took each by the hand, as they passed the bed. Having all passed round in procession, they stood and sung a hymn. He was affected to tears, most of the time. After the hymn, he addressed them in a most affectionate manner, which in turn melted them to tears. [As Dr. Worcester's complaints increased in number and violence, the best medicines, and the warm bath were applied. It was proposed to send to Tennessee for medical advice; but Dr. W. objected, and committed himself, under the direction of Heaven, into the hands of his friends. Our readers will observe that Dr. Butler is attached to this mission. He doubtless did all in his power to relieve and restore his venerated friend and patron. There is no probability, that any medical skill could have been of permanent benefit.] Last Days and Death of Dr. Worcester. 29. Our dear friend is rather more quiet; we can hardly say better. 30. Dr. Worcester was desirous to ride out, thinking it might be beneficial. His debility was such, that a moment's consideration prevented. At his request he was removed into the piazza, and was refreshed with a mild breeze. This was the first time he left his room, after his arrival. 31. In the morning we were somewhat alarmed, fearing he had but a few moments to stay. He however soon revived considerably; but was evidently on the decline. June 1. He requested Mr. Chamberlain to look over his bills of expense from Natchez to this place, and put them in order in his memorandum book; Stric-that his accounts might be left intelligi 26. Dr. Worcester's complaints appear more complicated and difficult than we at first apprehended. ble to his friends. He was able to direct their entry: and, having kept no account for the last 60 miles, was able to give particulars from memory. This is the only business he has been able to attend to, since his arrival, except to settle with the man, who accompanied him from Russellville. 2. This morning he requested Father Hoyt to write to Mrs. Worcester. Being asked if he would direct what should be written, he mentioned the time of his departure from Mayhew, and some occurrences by the way till the time of his arrival here, and added; "for the rest, write as you think proper.' Towards evening two chiefs arrived, and informed us, that by appointment, the chiefs from the different parts of the nation were soon to meet here, and welcome their friend. He was too feeble to see them to day. Sabbath 3. This day we were again permitted to meet around the table of our Lord. After meeting, the chiefs, who called on us yesterday, were introduced to Dr. W. He spoke a few words, which were interpreted to them. 5. Our dear friend is evidently fast In the going to the eternal world. morning, we gave up all hopes of his recovery. For short intervals during the day, he has been in a state of mental derangement. But even in this state, his mind was employed on the great subject of building churches, and extending the Redeemer's kingdom. 6. During the day he has been insensible to pain, and to appearance spent much of the time in prayer. He said, if he were to choose, he had rather go and be with Jesus, than dwell in the flesh. He did not regret engaging in the missionary cause, but rejoiced that he had been enabled to do something towards this great object. We learn, that the chiefs generally delayed their appointed visit to Dr. Worcester, on account of information that he was unable to converse. 7. With reluctance we enter upon the events of this day. Our pen stops. Involuntary tears darken our eyes. We seek where to weep. We enter into our closets and weep there. resume We the task. Our weakened hands refuse to perform their office. We look at each other and say, who shall communicate the melancholy tidings? A solemn silence casts a still darker shade over the gloomy scene. O, ye daughters of Israel, weep for the heathen. Let the friends of missions hang their harps upon the willows; and for a moment suspend their songs. But will not some Elisha be found to seize the mantle of this departed Elijah; and, with a double portion of his spirit, revive the hopes of the heathen world? Is not our Immanuel still head over all things to the church? And will He not heralds of salvation accompany the even to the end of the world? Why may we not, then, leaning on the bosom of Jesus, announce the death of that champion of the cross, that friend of God and man, whose mortal remains now lie before us. This morning, about 7 o'clock he cast his eyes towards heaven; and, smiling, resigned his spirit to God. Without the least apparent pain or struggle, he fell asleep in the arms of Jesus. The funeral exercises are to be attended the day after to-morrow, at 10 o'clock. 9. Many of the Cherokees, some from considerable distances, came to perform the last act of kindness to their friend and benefactor. We walked in procession to the grave, and consigned to its last rest, till the great rising day, the body of the dear deceased. We then repaired to the school-house, where a letter from brother Hicks to the Cherokees present, concerning Dr. Worcester, was read, and an appropriate sermon preached by Father Hoyt from Ps. cxii, 6. The righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance. MISSION AMONG THE CHOCTAWS. EXTRACTS FROM THE JOURNAL KEPT AT (Continued from p. 290.) Wednesday, April 18, 1821. A sermon was preached at the school house. There was apparently much solemnity of mind in the assembly. Dr. Pride arrived at this place from the Pigeon Roost, leaving Dr. Worcester in the care of Mr. and Mrs. Kingsbury. Father Hoyt was also there. Solemnity in the School. 21. For a few days the brethren have observed, that the children were uncommonly solemn. Yesterday, brother Smith found a boy, named J. L. who appeared to be in great distress of mind, on account of his sins. He put many inquiries to the dear child, and learned by his answers, that before he came here he knew not that he was a sinner, or that there was a God. When brother Smith proposed to pray with him, he dropped on his knees in an instant. To-day, as one of the brethren entered May 6. Sabbath. Our exercises were as usual. In the evening, we had a prayer meeting for the scholars. Several of them attended. Among them was one, who was awakened during the brother Smith's room, he saw a boy sit-day. It was affecting to see five or six ting with a sad countenance. "This," said Mrs. Smith "is J. L. and here is a letter which he brought." The following is a copy. "I feel that I am a sinner, and every thing that I do is displeasing to God. I wish that the missionaries would pray for me; else I die, and go to hell, and be tormented forever." A few words were addressed to him, and tears stole down his cheeks. Who, at the sight of a child born in this wilderness, and thus coming to intreat our prayers, could himself refrain from tears? Several other boys are affected much in the same way. 22. Sabbath. In the morning a sermon was delivered, designed to be appropriate to those providences of God, by which our dear brother and sister Smith have been bereaved of their eldest and youngest sons, while on their way to join us in our labors and cares, our hopes, sorrows and joys. Several men arrived here last evening and this morning, from Ohio. Having come on foot from the Hills, they were weary and much exhausted. They were on board the flat boat, which in February left Marietta with a generous donation of provisions from the friends of the Redeemer's cause, for this mission. We had been long expecting their arrival. Two of them, Messrs. Charles Putnam, and Joshua Shipman, we were happy to embrace as brethren in Christ Jesus. There were with them four other men, who have come out to be employed as mechanics and laborers. Two of them are brick-makers; one of them is a blacksmith, and the other a shoe-maker, tanner, and currier. The 23. Several of the boys are quite serious. Five or six appear to be much affected with a sense of their sins. children appear to be quite ignorant. They may be deceived. They require much instruction, May the Lord carry forward a work of saving grace among them. While we hope for his presence, it is with trembling. [Under date of April 25th, a particular description is given of the fire, which was mentioned in our number for July, p. 210. Two log dwelling houses were consumed, with some bedding, and other furniture. The loss is estimated at above $400.] of these heathen children sitting around the room, anxious to know the way of salvation. Effect of Missionary Intelligence. Our hearts 7. Monthly concert. were very much refreshed by the Missionary Herald for April. We are rejoiced by the glad news from our brethren at Owhy hee, and in Asia Minor. May God ever be with these beloved brethren, and cause one to chase a thousand, and two to put ten thousand to flight. Our hopes were revived by the account of the liberal donations made to the Treasury of the Board, as stated in the April Herald. We feel as if the cause of Christ will triumph, and that we must not faint nor be discouraged. Although the Board for want of funds can send to this mission but little money this year; although they are obliged to withhold our usual supply of necessary articles; although we are already in debt to a large amount, and have corn to buy and laborers to pay; although some of our dwellings are consumed, and our numbers reduced by sickness; yet will we rejoice in the God of our salvation. While he draws nigh, and is pouring out his Spirit upon our dear children, we cannot distrust him. Applicant for admission to the School. This morning a request was made to us, that we would take a boy into our school, The boy was present. We made inquiries respecting him; and found that he was about 12 or 14 years of age, and had come 150 miles to join our school. He appeared to be a bright youth. Our situation was trying. We had taken all the boys in our power, and another had come here resolved to stay at all events, eat at our table, and attend our school. Our means would not allow of our taking any more. Our number was complete. We are obliged to stop at some point; and that point is the end of our reSources. We were obliged to refuse the child the privilege of staying here. It pained us very much to send him 8 away, to go back to the haunts of igno- | a year and a half since, who offered to rance and sin. Arrival of Mr. Bardwell. 14. About noon, to our great surprise and joy, we saw brother Bardwell and his family, and Miss Frisselle draw near our dwelling. We received them with gladness They were weary, having rode on horseback from the Hills through a wilderness of 145 miles, sleeping on the ground at night. The Lord God of Jacob be praised, that we may now see these dear friends, and welcome them to a share in our labors, cares, and blessings; and hope to live with them, or near them, till one after another of our little number shall cease from labor and be laid in the tomb; where we may rest till the trump of the archangel sounds. Miss Frisselle's health is feeble. Soon after they arrived, we met together and sang the hymn, "Kindred in Christ, for his dear sake," &c. and then kneeled down, and thanked the God of all our mercies for bringing our dear friends to this place. In the evening, we had a sweet and refreshing season of social prayer. Brother Bardwell informed us of the state of our property at the Hills, and that the keel boat was on its way to this place. It is good both to hope, and quietly to wait for the salvation of the Lord. [Under date of May 15th, the journal mentions the fact, that a man, who had five children in the school, sent a sixth to be entered; but, because the mission family could not take the boy, the father was so enraged, that he immediately despatched a messenger for the other five. The missionaries were sorry for the children, thus snatched from the means. of instruction, but could not retain them. About three weeks afterwards, the relatives and friends of the children, the father being absent, sent a humble petition that they might be received again, which has probably since been done.] 16. In the morning the family and school assembled in the school house, where an address was delivered to the children, a prayer offered, and the 82nd hymn of Dr. Worcester's selection was sung. We gave the children, who were taken from the school, some Bibles; all of us went and took them by the hand and bade them farewell; and it was affecting to see the children weeping and sobbing aloud, as they parted with each other. It was trying to see these children go away. One of them is the girl spoken of in our former journal, about sell her cow to purchase clothes, that she might come here to school. 19. In the afternoon, the members of the mission met for prayer and religious conversation. It was an interesting meeting. Many of us had never before met, in a similar manner. 20. Sabbath. Brother Kingsbury preached in the morning. Brothers Smith, Bardwell, Howes, and Dyer, and sisters Bardwell, Frisselle, and Thacher, were received into our church; and then seventeen of the professed followers of the Lord Jesus were allowed to sit down together around his table, in this great wilderness. This is the largest number, that ever came at once to the table which eternal mercy has spread in this place. It was a refreshing season. After many of us had been long wandering from our native land, it was interesting and refreshing to our hearts, here to hold fellowship with kindred in Christ, and here to meet the Redeemer at his own table. In the afternoon brother Wright preached. 22. We have heard that our keel boat is about 150 miles below us; that some of the hands are sick; and that there are but four men at the oars. Without more aid the boat cannot be got up to our landing. We shall send four men to their assistance. This is one of the many instances of our expensive disappointments. The Yazoo passes through an entire wilderness, after leaving the neighborhood of the Hills, so that no aid can be obtained short of Elliot. 27. Sabbath. Our exercises were this day as usual. Several neighbors and several of the parents of our scholars attended our meeting. The parents came to visit the school. They had heard various reports respecting the school, some of which were injurious to its character. Since they have been here, they have repeatedly declared themselves to be well pleased with the school. One man, who came about 70 miles, and who attended our Sabbath school, said, after meeting, in his own language, which was interpreted to us, "I have heard many reports respecting the school, some for it, and some against it; I now have seen with my own eyes, and an rejoiced at the sight; if it please the Lord to take me away, I shall die in peace.' [Under date of May 30th, the journal mentions, with expressions of gratitude, the arrival |