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Travels of J.H. Wilbur : journal written from September 27, 1846 to Jan. 25, 1848

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dc.contributor.authorWilbur, James Harvey, 1811-1887
dc.date.accessioned2023-10-22T18:37:39Z
dc.date.available2023-10-22T18:37:39Z
dc.date.issued1846/1848
dc.descriptionEdited from the manuscript belonging to Willamette University Library, Salem, Or.; v, 159 pages : illustrations ; 23 cm; Includes bibliographical references (pages 156-159).; Salem, Or. : Published by Willamette University Friends of the Library, 1975
dc.description.abstractFrom the manuscript belonging to Willamette University Libraries.
dc.formatrare books
dc.format.extent5.5" x 8.5"
dc.identifier.otherhttps://doi.org/10.31096/ocm3849788
dc.identifier.urihttps://hdl.handle.net/10177/40113
dc.language.isoENG English
dc.relation.ispartofWillamette University Archives
dc.rightsSee http://library.willamette.edu/external/commons/conditions_of_use/ for more information.
dc.rights.urihttp://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC-EDU/1.0/
dc.titleTravels of J.H. Wilbur : journal written from September 27, 1846 to Jan. 25, 1848
dc.typeText
dc.typebooks http://vocab.getty.edu/page/aat/300028051
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local.transcriptionJames Harvey Wilbur Copyright © 197 5 by Willamette University All rights reserved. First published in the United States of America by Your Town Press Inc., Salem, Oregon A limited edition of Eight Hundred Copies of this book were printed. This is Copy Number_ ..../ _____ ---"-_ ~ay the selfless dedication of Father Wilbur live on in the life at Willamette University, first seat of his labors in the Pacific Northwest. " ... 0 that the Lord would give me more than ever to realize that _ I am in his immediate presence and every moment transacting business for Eternity." -J. H. Wilbur CONTENTS Page Editor's Preface ............................................ i-v Travels of J. H. Wilbur .................................... 1-99 Explanatory Notes ......................................... 100 Biographical Sketch of James H Wilbur .................... 104-155 Bibliography .......................................... 156-159 ILLUSTRATIONS Portrait of James H. Wilbur ......................... Frontispiece Map of the Voyage of the Bark Whiton ......................... 5 Reproductions of pages from the Journal: Sailing up the Columbia River .............................. 81 First View of the Willamette Valley-Journey by Horseback from Salem to Oregon City ..................... 89 Oregon Institute ........................................... 87 Parsonage, First Home of the Wilbur Family at the Oregon Institute ......................................... 94 J. H. Wilbur with Oregon Conference Ministers J. L. Parrish, A. F. Waller, David Leslie and Gustavus Hines ..................... ..................... 130 Document signed by President Abraham Lincoln, June 9, 1864, Appointing James H. Wilbur as Agent for the "Yakima Indians" ................................ 140 Monument Marking the Graves of James and Lucretia Wilbur in the Jason Lee Mission Cemetery, Salem, Oregon ................................................ 155 EDITOR'S PREFACE The original handwritten journal of James H. Wilbur was given to Willamette University, Salem, Oregon, under terms of his will, áand is now held in the archives of Willamette University Library. It is reproduced as he wrote it with variances in spelling and omission of much punctuation. This brings the reader into a contemporary position with his times, and his unstudied comments are expressed in a free outpouring of his thoughts. He wrote his journal from September 27, 1846, to January 25, 1848, during his long sea voyage from New York around Cape Horn to the commencement of his work in the Methodist Mission in the Willamette Valley, Oregon Territory. However, the journal is more than a description of his physical voyage. It is a documentary of his voyage in faith. Between the lines emerges the greatness that Wilbur became. He went on to forty years of strenuous self-sacrifice to become known as "Father Wilbur", building churches and academies, and even serving as Indian Agent to the Yakimas under appointment by Abraham Lincoln. When the Bark Whiton on which Wilbur sailed neared the Oregon Territory, a sailor on the mast announced the sighting ofland, "Land Ho! Land Ho!" For as Ketturah Belknap wrote in her chronicle, "Their ware Jiants in the Oregon Conference in Those days, at least they wer men _who dared great things and possessed the ability to do them.'' And one of those giants was James H. Wilbur. The journal he wrote is a little volume measuring about 81/2" x 51/2" with 240 pages. The leather-covered spine and cc:mices of the worn cover show signs of much handling probably from frequent inserting and removing from a case. It was safely carried in the little sailing ship buffeted by storms at sea and becalmed at the Equator. It was kept dry when "The wind was blowing a perfect gale, the waves were breaking over the quarter deck and roling in to the cabin in torrents". Entries were made in the brightness of cloudless days on shipboard, and by ship's lantern when "The night is a dark boisterous night. Wind whist.ling through the rigging, the sea roaring, ship reeling ... Not easy to stand up without holding on to something. Dishes turning summersetts. The stools & settees are upside down, & the chests & trunks are cutting some angles about the cabin." Yet the handwriting in pen and ink moves on legibly in the closely written pages. Most of the journal is in a fine script , its ink now brown with age. "The waves rise mountainous high, and it would seem for a moment when we are sinking into a trough that we are going down for the last time, but she rises and mounts triumphant over the foaming billows." The little volume was carried on the arduous journey by flat boat up the rapid current of the Willamette River. Here half the day Wilbur was wading in water from his knees to his hips as he helped to move his household goods up stream to Salem. Six days passed from the time he left Oregon City before he reached the Oregon Institute, the rain falling on him and his crew as they camped at night on the .river bank, and the night sounds of an unsettled wilderness closing in upon them. Yet fresh entries were made each day. Finally, the journal was carried over the muddy roads as he forded swollen streams in a wagon drawn by 4 mules, another time in an ox wagon, or by horseback, or on foot as he traveled his circuit and held camp meetings. In these active days filled with work from sunrise to sunset and often into the night, his hasty entries are brief, his careful script changing to a hurried . scrawl. It is a wonder that this journal is preserved intact today. When Wall er Hall burned on Sept. 16, 1891, the library was destroyed. At that time Waller Hall was the building where all university instruction and administration for Willamette University were housed. How did this little volume given to Willamette escape the fire? It is very probable that it was not in the library in Waller Hall at the time of the fire, but instead, a minister may have had the volume out for study. Marginal headings appear throughout the journal in a different handwriting in red ink, as well as red page numbering. Someone has studied over the journal in detail, and marked on the end paper a brief index of the marginal headings with corresponding page numbers. In the Pacific Christian Advocate for Sept. 23, 1891, an account of the fire reports: "Not simply the money loss, but memento volumes from Father Wilbur, Dr. Roberts and others of the Fathers, and many other rare volumes which cannot be replaced, make this loss irreparable." From this comment, one can wonder if there may have been another volume of a journal succeeding this one. This journal leaves off with no concluding finality, but in the midst of Wilbur's active endeavors. Having become so accustomed to recording his thoughts in a journal which he carried with him, it is conceivable that Wilbur continued to write in another volume. Conspicuous for most entries during the ocean voyage are the ship's latitude and longitude, indicating Wilbur's concentration on the progress of the ship in reaching his longed-for destination. His daily accounts depict life at sea in the mid-nineteenth century, not only on shipboard, but describe the birds of the air and the animal life of the sea that were encountered, from the albatross to penguins and whales. Of historic significance are his descriptions of San Francisco, Monterey, the Mission at Carmel, Fort Astoria, the Indian lodges and their burying grounds along the Columbia River, and his first impressions of the virgin Willamette Valley. Writing in his journal became a release for Wilbur, a form of self-examination, a pouring out of his deep feelings of inadequacy, his fears and always his faith and hopes. Being a large man, 6'4" in height, he found the cramped quarters of the little ship a severe confinement for the seven-month sea voyage before reaching Oregon. " ... This ceaseless motion, this close confinement, this state of imprisonment, and it seems to me I could not endure it ... "In fact, the description of places seen and events transpiring are almost incidental in the record of the journal. The overriding functiop in his writing is to give expression to the wrestling of his spirit and form to his aspirations. When Wilbur left the New York harbor, his ship didn't turn south but headed out eastward into the midst of the Atlantic storms whose severity even the seasoned sailors admitted were extreme. This violent weather continued for many December days as they crossed the Atlantic before they reached the southbound trade routes going just west of the coastline of Africa. Even these days of wretched seasickness Wilbur accepted as a trial in faith. "The greatest trials, however, are those we have with ourselves," he wrote. "We find fallen nature the same on the sea that it is on the land." It is this inner world which is his dominating concern. On shipboard he must live in daily contact with "enemies to the Cross of Christ''. Time and again he is deeply hurt by abuse from these passengers, and misses the sustaining warmth of his old friends and association of believers in the Black River Conference. "Here we have to stand separate and alone, and sometimes it seems like keeping alive a .single spark of fire amid the surrounding billows. I fear sometimes that I shall lose all the religion I ever had, and when I arrive at the field of my labour I may find like Sampson I am shorn of strength." However, the power of his God-fearing personality is not without effect. What a concession from the seafaring crew when not a single sailor utters an oath within his earshot the entire voyage! And when they hold afternoon Bible Class, "All on board take part save one who cannot read." He goes regularly to the forecastle to instruct the sailors and give comfort and counsel to the cook "who has been most severely tempted". He feels personally responsible for each one. In contrast to the hardened immunity of today 's crowded world to the concerns of others, this attitude of Wilbur leaves the reader with a marked impression. He cared so deeply for each soul. Finally before the ship reached Portland, Wilbur's last sermon on shipboard did not take a text of thanksgiving upon arrival, but rather became a last effort to convert the ones not yet reached before they parted. "I wept and trembled for their future as well as present salvation." They were not many days at sea before Wilbur arranged a closet for secret prayer. Here he could bare his soul and confess in humility, "I am ashamed that my faith is so weak. That I have so little courage." It was out of these months of self-searching examination and rededication of purposes that emerged the kind of strength that Father Wilbur later exemplified-perfect fearlessness. Always, time pressed upon his impatient spirit, impatient with a passionate sense of life passing by. Each day, each hour must count. "I have not answered my own mind at all since I embarked, it is so far near to time thrown away ... Much of my time has run to waste, & I have failed to answer the end of my being-to know, enjoy & glorify God." Little wonder he could go on to such prodigious feats within a short time span: After about two years as principal of the Oregon Institute and circuit preaching , he built the first Methodist church in Portland, clearing the land and working with the laborers in the yet unincorporated settlement. Two years later he solicited land and built the Portland Academy. He became a charter member of the Board of Trustees of Willamette University, and helped establish the Pacific Christian Advocate newspaper. Then came his work in the Umpqua Mission from the Callapooia Mountains to the California line, where no Rogue River Indian ever harmed him, and where he won such esteem from the people that he was soon called Father Wilbur. Here he built the Umpqua Academy. During a following interim when he was located near Willamette University, he filled in as acting president for a short period and regularly taught classes. Then came his change of career at the age of 50 when he personally sought out an Indian Agency appointment from President Abraham Lincoln in order to minister to the Yakima Indians who had been exploited at Ft. Simcoe. He did not end this career of service until just before his 71st birthday. It is in recognition of Father Wilbur that the Friends of the Library, Willamette University, publish his journal in keeping with his wish, "O that I may leave an influence that will instrumentally bless the world. " Special thanks are gratefully extended to these kind friends for their personal gifts expressly made toward this publication: Anonymous Virginia Mason Dr. and Mrs. John C. Brougher Dr. George Allen Odgers Fay Thomas Coulter Dr. and Mrs. J. Orin Oliphant Grace H. and Francis L. Col. and Mrs. William Pross Olsen DeHarpport Dr. Helen Pearce Everett A. Faber Mr. and Mrs. Richard Petrie Estelle S. Gatke Blance Proctor Mr. and Mrs. Charles Johnson Mr. and Mrs. A. N. Sather Carolyn Wilson Keck Linda Ruth Sharpe Vilia L. La Raut Mrs. Ruth Stoller Chester and Helen Luther Vernon and Georgia Taylor Anne and Ken McCormick Dr. and Mrs. Paul G Trueblood Esther G. Manning Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Wright The critical reading contributed by Dr. J. Orin Oliphant, Katherine Wilford and Ralph Wright is acknowledged with thanks. -Gertrude W. Johnson, Willamette University Library June 1975 7 L ~ -. ,,-;/f/~£k__~ Journal from Sept 27. 1846 of the Travels of J H Wilbur. 27 This day I recd a letter from Bishop Heading announcing that I had been appointed to the Oregon Mission and was requested to be at New York on the 20 of Oct at which time a Vessel was expected to sail for Calaforna & Oregon. Never before did I see the time when I needed so much wisdom as now. Thank the Lord for the promice if any man lack wisdom if he ask of God he will give him liberally 29 To day I answered Bishop Headings letters, said I would go. Commenced to make a sale of my things: found a ready market Saw the hand of God leading me in all my arrangements. Concluded my arrangements and started for New York on the 12th How much we are indebted to the good people on Brasher Circuit for their kindness manifested to us in leaving them. May the Lord reward them and give them prosperity and finally eternal life. First night staid at Potsdam with Br Hunt Met some of the Preachers Sure found it verry hard to breakaway from them never before did I have my Spirit so much stirred within me as when I said Farewell to my P.E. (1) and some of my associate Preachers: with them I had been blessed, with them I had hoped to live and to die. {1) See Explanatory Notes, page 100. 1 Took the Stage to Ogdensburgh Stayed all night with Br Lamb Had a verry refreshing Season of prayer felt the Lord of Hosts was with us, and the God of Jacob was our God , all glory to his name. 14 Took the Steam bote for Sacketts Harbour, where we arrived in the evening about 10 0 Clock Here we took the Stage at the wharf , and immediately started for Lowville where we arrived on the morning of the 15th. From the 15 to the 20 we spent with our Kindred in L. Here we had every attention and kindness shown us that mortals could ask or expect. Never shall I forget the time when the Father & Mother , Brothers & Sisters were gathered around the table as we then thought for the last time. All was silent. Then it was that Memory seemed to be strung up with immortal recollection. The mind ran back-to the days of Child hood, and then to the time when the angel should put one foot on the Sea, and the other on dry land , and swear by him that sitteth upon the throne that time should be no longer. A few moments only were afforded us to make all things right that might be wrong. We nelt with the friends and and commended them and ourselves to God, and God manifested himself a God now at hand. The Lord bless our Kindred and reward them for all their kindness and bring them to heaven. 20 On the morning of the 20 we took the Stage at Lowville for Utica. (Before leaving I had an interview with Br J. A. Northrop wh made me a present of a Large Trunk and promised a donation of Fifty Dollars each year while I remained in Oregon, the first one to be made on the first of Jan 1848. This mans heart the Lord has opened; and he lives to do good. May he long live, Happy die, & Gloriously reign in heaven. I shall always remember his Kindness and I trust , always rember him in my prayers, before the Eternal throne.) where we arrived on the morning after we Left L. This was a tedious night. The stage was crowded full, the road bad, and the night dark and rainy , the driver part of the way swearing. We were thankful when we arrived at Utica about three OClock in the morning. We walked for a mile or more in the City, felt much fatigued with the privations of the night. 21 Took the Cars at 11. OClock and arrived at Albany about 3 in the after noon. at 5 took the Steamboat Empire, and arrived at New York on the morning of the 22d -3 ock Here we found that the ship we expected to sail in, would not leave New York before the 16th of Nov. When we arrived here we found ourselves clear worn down. I had a hard cold and cough. Put up three days with Br Leonard Homerson. 25 Lewis St Store 66 Pearst St. here we enjoyed some old fashioned family prayer meetings. God was with us of a truth; all seemed to be well. 26 We mooved our lodgings to Brother Lane's, 12 Crosby. Here we found Chrstians of the first Order. Never did I know a man who was more examplary, than the Rev G. Lane of New York. His life was a constant comment upon the Christian Religion. Here we remained until the 27. th. Sister Lane showed us a -great deal of kindness while there. The family is a family of order. God resides in that dwelling. Here I became convicted for a deeper work of grace. All around me was new and novel. Here I did not enjoy my mind as well as before I was all engaged in making preperations for the Voyage. I expended about Four hundred Dollars in the Outfit. Hae<l an opportunity of getting acquainted with Sister Johnson a Missionary from Africa, She boarded at Br Lanes several days. Sister Brash was appointed while we wer there, we became some acquainted with her. While in New York, did not have my usual liberty in preaching. I had to live by Faith. Attended 8 Missionary meetings in New Jersey, here I had some blessed seasons. We raised about 1,000 Dollars for the missionary cause. Nov 27 We left New York on board Bark Whiton towed out by a Steamboat. Many of the friends went out with us as far as the Steamboat wertt. When we parted with the Boat , and took our leave of the friends of New York and took our last look at the land of our nativity. Who but those that have passed through the like scene can tell how much one's spirit is stirred. 28 Saturday All on boaro are verry sick, excpt one Passenger. At about dusk we retired on Friday Evening, and were not able to get out of our beds until Saturday night, this was the most dreary time I ever saw in my life as far as earthly prospects were concerned The wind was blowing a perfect gale, the waves were breaking over the Bulwarks and every now and then the waves were breaking over the quarter deck and roling in to the Cabin in torents. the oldest of the Sailors say they seldom see the Sea roughfer than it was the 3 first days. I can say but little about these days; for whether in the boddy or out of the body I can hardly tell by reason of Sea Sickness -The passengers on board th Bark were C. L Ross, E. F. Folger, Wardell & T. McCall and a Brother Andrew. Mos of these persons are going to California for trading purposes. Ross & Andrew profess Religion the rest are Enemies to the Cross of Christ and Strangers to the Commonwealth of Israel as we fear. God does not seem to be in all their thoughts Some of them can bear any conversation better than that which relates to the Souls best good. 0 that the Lord would bring them in a way they have not known. In reckoning to day we find we have made about 260 miles the last twenty four hours. How fast we are being born away from the Land of our Child Hood. So we are going to launch forth soon upon the Ocean of Eternity. 0 how important that we are fully ready for that Voyage. I find myself so prostrated with the sickness that it is hard to mak one single entry in my Journal. Sabbath 29. We could have no preaching to day on the account of Sickness, from Friday Morning until Sabbath Evening we did not take any food. The thoughts of eating, would make me Vomit. Mrs W & Ann (2) were equally as bad. We take it as on omen of good; we hope to be made healthy, that we may be increasingly useful. 0 how important, that a man, a minister, a missionary, should be right: be ') \ PLACE NAMES 1 New York 6 Juan Fernandez ls. 2 Cape Verde ls . 7 San Francisco 3 Falkland Is. 8 Monterey 4 Staten Land 9 Fort Astoria (Cape San Juan) 5 Tierra del Fuego 10 Portland Map of the Voyage of the Bark Whiton a living Epistle. I see I have not Religion enough with the prospects before me. Earthly prospects have faded, and why should they not be gone? friends are left behin, all former associations are broken up and we are here alone on the Ocean with a few Spirits who care but little about God and heaven though here we have some times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. We have family prayer morning and evening consisting of reading the Bible singing and prayer. On Saturday evening we have a prayer meeting and God has already manifested him self Gloriously present, one of the hardest Sailors arose in the meeting, and requested we should pray for him. 0 that the Lord would glorify his Son Jesus in the Conversion of Souls on Board this Ship. Lord revive me fill me with faith and the Holy Ghost. 0 for that fulness that that the gospel profers to those that hunger and thirst after Righteousness. Since I left Brothers I have not Enjoyed my mind as well as before 30 Monday On an examination I find we Came from Lat 40.28. Long. 74.05 to Lat. 37.38 & Long. 64.19 from our Starting point to this time having averaged about 265 miles each day. I find I have no heart for reading or meditatiop. The mind as the body seems to be prostrated. I cannot describe what a tax it is for me to go in to the Lower Cabin. (Our State room is off the Cabin below) There is such a Smell no language can tell. My mouth tastes as bad as it ever did when I was recovering from fever. I feel I am suffering this for Jesus Sake. Glory to God that I may Suffer for the master. Dec 31st T. To day we are in Lat 36.45 Long. 60.27 Nothing new: The heavens above us , and the Ocean beneath us, and God all around. 2d w. Lat 35.30 Long. 56.26 Feel some better to day. Formed some good resolutions to study , Made the attempt and had to go to bed. Mrs W & Ann both sick to day. There was a storm in the Cabin this morning. The mate Called the Steward Several times to get up to no purpose and this aroused the Capt (3) & we had quite a gale from the South West. All is calm again the wind is favourable and while we are sick we are happy to know that we are rapidly mooving on toward our destined field. 3 d T. Lat 34.04 Long. 53.39 á Had some talk with the Sailors about their Souls. Found some had em braced the doctrine of unconditional Election and reprobation. Tried to show them the Saviour was not partial-Had some liberty in exhorting them to repentence and faith. 4. F Lat 33.25. Long 50.11 Still sick doing but little, have strong temptations to do as did Lots wife. Yet victory is mine through Jesus. 5 s. Lat 33.03. Long 46.53. We are making arrangements about Preaching to morrow Try to meditate find it hard to do any thing: fear I shall backslide while I am on the journey Lord Save for thy Cause Sake. We had a prayer meeting to night. God was with u~ of a truth I felt revived in the Spirit of my mind God is no respecter of persons & is not comfined to temples, but is equaly precious to the believing soul on the Ocean as on the land. 6 Sab. 33.24. Long 44.02 We are today where it is quite warm took down the Stove yesterday Thermometer at 60. doors of the Cabin all open. Preaching this morning by Br. Roberts (4) from Rev. 1.17 And when 'I I saw him etc. In the Evning I preached from. Luke 10.42 One thing is needful. I did not have my usual Liberty. 7th M. All the passengers seem to have got over their Sea Sickness. Lat 32.41. Long. 40.26 Mrs W. & Sister Roberts Sick. The apples are now gone. 8 Tue. Lat 32.31 Long. 38 31 I have to day read the life of John Newton Saw the power of the gospel in saving him and myself from hell. All glory to God for this great salvation. Happy if with my latest breath I may but gasp his name &. c. 9 Thurs. Lat. 32.12 Long 35.40. Saw a Whale at the stern of the ship. Could not tell his length Seemed to be about 100 feet Long. Nothing new. WIND, Water and Clouds, are about all we see from day to day. 10. F Lat 30.50 Long. 33.10 made some improvement in the cabin , put up some shelves for books. Gave the sailors each a Bible and Testament from a donation package of Bibles from the Bible house in New York. 11 Sat This is a preperation day as the Sabbath draws near. What can I preach and what can I do to beneft Souls. 0 that my heart was more entirely full of Love. 0 for the unction God is the author of all good Lat 30.42 Long 30.48 Spoke the Eliza Bell Eleven days out from Liverpool, we found by marked Longitude, that we agreed exactly. She was bound to the Indies. 12 Sab. Lat 30.'17. Long 28.'16 Tried to preach from Ezek. 33.11 Why will ye die Br Roberts preached in the after noon. There seems to be but little fruit of our labour: the reason is obvious: we do not have enough of God. 13M. Lat 29.57. Long 26 05 14 Tues. Still Sick Lat 29.30 Long 23.49 15 W 28.55. Lat. Long 23.50. We have been driven far to the east in consequence of a strong South Westerly Wind. 16 We are not doing what we have done in days gone bye. Lat 27.36. Long 24.30. The waves rise mountainous hig. and it would seem for a moment when we are sinking into a trough that we were going down for the last time, but She rises and mounts triumphat over the foaming billows. 17 Lat 24.34. Long 24.58 my whole time has been devoted to reading the Bible prayer and meditation. I find I am not what I must be to be useful. 18 Sat Another week is drawing to a Close, let me ask myself what better I am for having lived this last week. What is the State of the heart this hour? 0 what a proneness to live on past experence. It seems to me I never lived to so little purpose since I have been trying to follow the Lord. It seems sometimes that I have offered my last prayer and made my last effort for the Salvation of Souls. I went and talked with the men at the fore castle did not have any liberty. I am strongly tern pted to think I am out of the way of my duty. I think that it i-s a trial of my faith and trust it is working for my good I think of the words of Newton in answer to prayer. I hoped that in some favoured hour he would grant me my request. And by his lov's resistless power subdue my fears & give me rest. etc. Lat 18.10 Long 25.12 To day at 5 Oclock we made the Cape deverd Islands which are in Lat 17 .12. Long 19.25 at about 6 Oclock at Evening the Island was at the South of East about 12 miles distant. St. Antonio at this distance appears to me to be about 10 miles long and I should judge 1 mile hig. The inhabitants are said to be a poor sunken degraded race (the Sons of Ham) who are living on fish the Island is said to be verry barren. It was comforting to us to make the land as it proved that our position was just what we had made it by reckoning. Preaching to day by Br Roberts from the lost Sheep. in the Morning and in the after noon I preached from So run that ye may obtain. Nothing of great interest. 20th The thermometer stands at 70 in the Shade: the winds are pressing us on at the rate of about 8 miles the hour. Mrs. Wilbur has been verry Sick to day quite as Sick as at any time Since She left New York. She Vomited until she was quite prostrated. I had some fears that her Constitution would not hold out. Her mind is peaceful all is well. Nothing I think would prove such a trial to me as the loss of my wife. Lat 15.08 Long 25.42 21. The weather is constantly growing warmer as we approach the Equater -Thermometer Stands at 75 Lat 12.11 Long 24.27. Mrs Wilbur is much better today thank the Lord that He has not before this Separated us from each other by death. Lat 9.11. Long. 23.16 How good it is to read Gods word and meditate on the Character of the Saviour. I think the songs of Zion never sounded so sweetly as since we came out on the broad waters. We have a good deal of singing and some instrumental musick Some of this is of a light and trifling nature. 23d Never before did I witness such a day & night in Dec as this. Our Lat is 6.54 Long 22.19 Themometer at 82. We are sighing for a cool ct.rough of water The night is clear The moon is is mooving with its usual Velosity in the Cloudless heavens. The stars are shining with uncomon briliancy, Except the North Star, which is sinking down toward a watery grave, as she appears to us, and every thing above and around us goes to prove that we are in the Torrid Zone. The wind is verry light we are mooving at the rate of 4 miles the hour. The Capt is fearing a Calm. A good day to my Soul. Dec 24 The thermomenter Stood at 85 to day in the shad. I could no longer endure my flannels: laid them off until I get through the torrid zones. Our Lat to day is 5. 0 32 Long. 22. 0 05 The trade wind have left us: we are not mooving at all only as we are rocked in the Cradle of the deep. The sea appears like melted glass. We had green Pease for dinner to day. and had we lost the date, we should have believed we were scorching under the Sun as it is felt in the month of July or August in New York. We saw three Whales to day. Two of them were so far from us we Could not form much idea how large they were. One near the ship say ten. or 15 rods, appeared about 50 feet long, two humps on his back. we had a fair chance to see him. He blowed several times. A great fish swimiug in a great ocean. To night went over board and had a swim in the briny deep: was not quite saved from fear while swimming: I thought of some Shark stories I had heard Pelt much better for the baithing:: Wife quite well to day. No one stcl<on board. we are making some calculations upon Services should we live until to morrow as it is Christmas in the land of our nativity. Dec 26 I cannot hardly make my self believe this is the 25th of Dec. The Thermomiter Stood at 86 to day in the Shade. There has not been scarsely a breath of air since yesterday. On taking an observation we found our Lat To be the Same as yesterday 5. 0 32 Long 21¡,SO Shc,wing we had floted about 20 miles the last 24 hours to the East , The smallest days work we have done since we left New York. At 12 OClock to day ther were Two Ships and one Brig in sight. One of the ships showed us her flag which declared her to be an English ship We did not speak her. The other Ship was So far off that we could not tell who she was, or where she was bound. The Brig was near by and proved to be a Portugese Craft. We showed them our Flag they did not answer us. When nearer we asked what ship she was, and where bound and the master seemed lothe to give us any answer, after quite a delay he asked what we wanted. After trying sometime to converse with him, we squared our yards. and a little breeze soon parted us. We mad up our mind they were in their cups , and I, have no doubt much intoxicated. O! when will the Children of Men learn to abstain from this Heaven daring, & Soul damning Sin. I hate it more than ever. God be praised that I am not in the like condition this hour. Some of the Passengers have been Shooting from the gut Deck , at a Bottle hanging from one of the yards. About 3 oclock the wind began to Breezed up . and we began to moove about 5 miles the hour. The Vessel has the least motion this Evening that it has had since we left New York. We sometimes feel for a few moments, that we are on terry firma: but we soon find we are again rocked in the Cradle of the deep. I have finished a letter to Brother Curtis and one To Br Ethan Johnson. Felt this eveing at family prayer we must have Salvation for the Passengers & Crew, who seem to be growing stupid. Dec. 25. Before I was out of my room this morning I heard them Say on the quarter Deck. a Vessel in Sight: Sonn we found it an English Bark Bound To London from Calcutta: we came near to each other we got some Letters aboard 2 to Br Orrin 2 To Father Stevens , one to Ethan Johnson, & One To Br Curtis. It really gladened our hearts to find Kindred spirits in this place where nothing but the heaven above us and the wat~r beneath us are constantly in View. Took a Shower Bath and was greatly refreshed. Saw a Shark <;tbout15 feet from the Bow of the ship. I think he was about 10, or 12 feet long. Mooved verry Sluggish in the water. We saw three Water Spouts, 2 of them were so far from us, that we could not form any correct idea of thir size or grandeur. One came so near that we were able to see, and hear its fury, And we had some reason to fear at one time it would exert it madning rage upon our Vessel. It was not more than 100 yards from us. I cannot conceive of any thing that so much resembles it, as the Whirl Winds on land. with this difference, there the dust, fences, trees & dwellings. are the objects of its sport, here nothing but the water, & Ships which is carried to the Clouds. I judge the diameter of the whirling water. was about 40 feet. It presented a scene grand and verry terriffick. Meeting this evening. John requested Prayers. We found our Lat 4. 0 20 Long 21. 0 56. Dec 27th Sabbath We have had Services in the four and after noon. I preached trom What must I do to be Saved Felt the need of having more of the unction. How idle to Preach unless God be in the word. I fear I shall backslide while on my Voyage. I do not have as much libert in Preaching as I have had and . as a man of God ought to have. 0 When shall I learn to walk by Faith, naked, Simple, Faith, from moment to moment. Brother R Preached from Abraham intersession in behalf of Sod am. We have a growing interest among the Sailors. We pray and Venture to believe at times God is about to faviour us with a rivival 0 that Spiritual rain may fall upon us in teeming showers. Saw a Water Spout at a distance Could not speak of it definitely. Lat 4.11. Long 21. 0 50 Thermometer 82. 28 This has been a day of verry little interest. When I arose I felt quite unwell I do not know what I shall do for want of exercise. I go up the rope Ladders climb the ropes & pull the ropes, but all this does not give me the exercise I want. The weather is verry warm Thermomiter at 85 wind verry light and right ahead. We have made the Last twenty four hours 17 miles: I have looked foward to the months to come, say 3 or 4 months, and thought of this ceaseless motion, this close confinement, This State of imprisonment, and it seems to me I could not endure it but for Jesus Sake. It is manifestly a state of trial. The darkest side of the Picture is presented. I think áeach day I shall get more Religion but it seems I am getting less and less. Mrs W has been unwell to day. I think she has had a little of temptation.<S>Ann is well as usual. 0 how much need there is of one saying Courage my soul. Lat 4. Long 21 14. This has been a gladsom day: at Sunrise this morning there were Seven Sails in sight. We find it good to find around us any Crafs on which are to be found any living, thinking, immortal beings. We came near one, gave them our Signal She answered and we found her to be one of Contrymen. They Soon lowered away a Boat, and the Capt one passenger & several of the Crew came abord We found the Capts name to be Hall from Stonington Con. bound for the Pacifick. After a little conversation in reference to the Voyage and some other passing events We inquired of the Capt How it was with him in reference to the future, and were glad to learn He professed religion. We inquired how he was supplied with Bibles and, found through over sight he had launched forth upon the deep without a supply of these Charts, more nessary in guiding us over the ocean of life than a Compass in guiding us, through this tractless Ocean. We gave him for his men 15 Testoments 6 Bibles, and quite a quantity of Tracts which were thankfully recd, & for which we recd probably 200 Orranges Coco and some other good things. We felt las Evening that we could hardly make up our minds to be rocking here for three or four months: we went on board his Vessel, found him a Whaler and after returning we felt much as though we had been on land. Became acquainted with a Mr Bush & Mr Bowls who are going to the Sandwich Island. Sent L. Quite a fall of rain last night. To day all hands are engaged in Washing Mrs W & Ann, have Shown themselves friendly to neetness. Capt Hall took dinner with us, and on the whole the interview was a verry pleasant one for all. Lat 3.32 Long 21. 0 15 The Name of Ship was Betsy Williams. We are near the Equator and we look out for a Storm. This morning while at Breakfast some thing was said by one of the Passengers about Novel reading and an opinion was expressed that no person Could be a Christian and be a novel reader When anothe of the Passengers asked what he meant to say When he, again said no man could be a Christian and read novels. The passenger making the assersion was dared upon the quarter deck to say the Same thing. The Challenge was not axcepted had it been I do not know but there would have been a Duel fought at least there would have been some boxing!! How a man, that is a man, can give away to his passions to such an extent when he is sober I can not tell only by remembering that Man is totaly depraved. That he is all wrong from the Crown of the head to the Sole of the foot. This I call the equinacled Storm. I rejoyce that we have lost no men nor much time in the gale. Capt Halls Crew are the hardest looking men I ever saw together. 30 The last night night was a verry rainy night we cought near 2 hogsheds of water. Here on the Equator it rains right down. There is but little sprinkling of water from the clouds it generally powers right down. We have made but little ahead the last 24 hours how long we are to rock in the calm I can not tell. We are praying (and we mean to pray divested of selfishness) that we may have some prosperous breezes to waft us on to the desired haven. I have been examining my self this evening in regard to the spending of my time Since I came on bord this Bark. It seems I have done nothing for my master. I have frequently tried to talk with the salors about a treasure in heaven, but my sin is not so much that I do not talk with them, as that I lack a soul in my effort and my prayers. When, 0 when shall I answer the end of my being, to know, enjoy, & glorify God. I will try from this time to be a man of faith, a man of God more than ever. 0 how little can be done by a minister or a missionary without God. I have done nothing to day to my satisfaction. 31st Eve This is the last day of the year and it seems very proper for me to enter in to a review of the past~ that I may profit by the things I have suffered and be encouraged in well doing where I may find I have been doing right. I find much to lament, when taking a survey of the past. I have had but little Zeal for God or for the honour of his Cause. Sure I have mentained the forms of religion, but after all I feel I have to much rested in the externals I have not been as frequent. or as fervent in secret prayer as a man , a Christian a minister , a missionary aught to be. I am more than ever pursuaded of the necessity of Communion with God in the closet. Enter in to thy closet is the Command of our adorable Saviour and the promice is he will reward openly. How faint and feeble all my ministereal efforts have been. I have seen the work of the Lord revived this year and many Souls converted. 60 have been gathered in to the Church as the fruit of the revival on Brasher Circuit. I have enjoyed better health this year than before for some years. 0 how much to thank and praize the Lord My family have Enjoyed Comfortable health and a great many Seasons of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. 0 what a time of revival did I enjoy with the brethren at the Campmeeting at Brasher Falls The Lord name be praized that I was so highly favioured a season that never will be forgotten in time or eternity. What a time of refreshing we enjoyed with the pious few that came to our house to help us the last week we spent in Brasher. The Lord Bless those dear Souls. I call to mind the pious friends I know on the different Charges I have traveled. The Wilmurt Circuit Gardner Hinckley Sylvester Hauson & Wife Father Weaver and family. Louisville Circuit Father Miller & family John Mc Dowl & family. John Packard The Powers family and Father Mc Leoud. Chateaugay George Winchley, Elijah Hedding Br Dagget King , Merril & William Weed. Brasher. Gregory S Parkhurst & Wife. Joseph Estis & Wife John Derill & wife Br Richardson Samuel Butler M. Hillyard F Nevins, Mother Kinney Br Chamberlain & Ethan Johnson & Wife. We are not likely ever to see them more on the shores of time. The Lord keep them, and us, until the day when the world shall be congregated before the throne. 0 may they and we be found among the wise with oil in our vessels. Never can I forget the seasons enjoyed with these soldiers of the Cross. I wish I had been more like Jesus. I will be so the year to come, the Lord being my helper. I find the Latitude 2¡ 52 Longitude 21 ¡52. No wind. Three vessels in sight. Have had the sick headake today. One of the sailors caught a Dolfin today would weigh about 7 pounds. The best looking Fish I ever saw: a treat at supper. 0 how much there is to divert the mind. It seems sometimes I shall be drown in the stream. 0 my Heavenly Father keep me by the power of thy grace through faith unto final salvation. Mrs. W. is glad she is here Happy in the undertaking. Jan 1st 1847. I have lived to see this new year commence. 0 how kind the Lord is in prolonging my unprofitable life!! It may be said of me this year thou shalt die. I here give myself away anew unto the Lord. I am his. I never will remove my cause out of his hand. When I look at the dealings of the Lord with us, my heart melts within me. Why have we been spared while multitudes have been removed to eternity? Today Br Roberts preached to us a verry appropriate discourse. We felt ourselves highly favioured of the Lord. The Lat 1¡40. Long 22¡49. The the thermometer is not as high as it has been in days past. Stands as 82. Mrs. W some sick I have the sick headake. Ann is well No change in the passengers religiously. I fear the sailors will loose their conviction and when the voyage is over they will relaps again into their old sins. I have not heard a single oath from one of the sailors since we left New York. When I converse with them (as I often do) they manifest a great willingness to hear and seem to be thankful that any one feels interested for them. The Lord bless and save them for Jesus sake. Jan 2d Lat O0 04. Long 25 ¡20 We took the Southeast trades last evening about 8 oclock, after which our sailing became regular. We moove about 9 miles the hour. Our course is South West. We are about crossing the Equator, at 12 oclock at noon, and much is said by the sailors about the line, and about Nipton, &c. After dinner there was a cry he blows, (which signifies a whale is in sight) when all hands, all most ran to see the monster, when Nipton (properly so called) poured water upon those that were gazing. The blow was soon understood, not however until some were most thoroughly drenched with water. The first Mate had taken water aloft and poured it down from the highth of 30 feet. Have had the sick headake most of the day. I cannot do much: feel allmost discouraged in trying to read. I do it to verry little profit. This evening we had a meeting. the Lord comforted th hearts of the pious. Some seem quite hard, and nothing but Almighty power can convert them Sab Jan 3d Lat 2. South Long 27. Thirty seven days from New York Still surrounded with the Heavens above and the water beneath. Nothing new except flocks of Fly fish are seen on all hands. They are said to be chased in the water by the Dolphin and when driven from the water are taken by the Hawk. They seem to be verry wild. We have had services to day four noon and after noon. I preached from Matth 12.41 had more liberty in praying and preaching than I have had before for some time. 0 that the Lord would convert and fully convert the souls on board this Bark. 0 for united faith and union in effort: then I have no doubt there would be a movving among the dry bones, and bone would come to bone and a little army might be reared up on board this ship that would fight the Battles of the Lord. Mrs W. is quite as well as usual Ann has been sick to day. The wind has been blowing fresh all day We have been running about 9 miles the hour. All well to night. Jan 4. I have this day had unusual peace of mind. My heart has not been so full of the love of God since I left Brasher. All glory to the King of Israel. We have been making some better arrangements for secret Prayer, and find it good to enter into the closet and to be secluded from all but Him whom we address. Since we left New York, it has been difficult to find a place, but some one would be looking upon us. I think if I ever get to keeping house alone, when we can regulate family and secret prayers, it will be prized by us more than ever. Early this morning we saw over our weather Bow a Bark bound the same way with us. I should think 12 miles ahead. At 2 o Clock P.M. We were able to read on her stern Sea Nymph of Newcastle. We commpared Longitude and found we agreed to a mile. They were fifty eigh days out from London. We thirty eight and we had sailed almost twice their distance. We passed them and they sunk away in the distance. Jan 5th Lat 7¡17. Long 28¡38 Early this morning we discovered a Bark at our stern 10 miles distant I should think seemed bound the same way with us. Soon after she was seen it was believed by some of us she was gaining on us. Most on board were unwilling to acknowledge it was so. The Capt ordered the yards braced up, and ordered one of the stern sails sett but in spite of all we could do he came up with us and passed by with about as much velosity as we passed the Bark yesterday. We had thought previous to meeting this sailor we were as swift an anything on the waters but it was a fair beat. Not a word could be said to the contrary So what was gained yesterday on this score was lost today. To day I have felt quite cast down yet not forsaken. Severely tempted yet not over come the Lord is verry good and I feel to bless his holy name for His mercy manifested to us since we came upon the Deck Jan 6th This day is one áof the finest days we have had. The wind is mooving us along at the rate of 8 miles the hour, and yet the sea is so smoothe, that the ship makes but verry little motion. We can write and walk allmost as well as on the land. The wind for several days has been gently blowing from the South East, and we have been mooving to the South West. If it was trade Winds all the time, I do not know but we might fall in love with a sea faring life, but as it is, I think we shall not take any more of it, than is necessary, to carry out the purposes of him whose cause we have espoused, & for whose glory we live. It is easy suffering anything for Jesus sake or for the sake of souls for whom Christ died. I find myself happy on the ocean as on the land. I am glad in my heart that I have entered the warefare and feel that I am not sent at my own charges. God is with us. His love fills our hearts and his prayer our mouths. I often think of home, friends & kindred and the thought that we have them and that to pray for us affords us great pleasure. We have given them up for Jesus sake. I think this hour if I could be made the owner of the Teritory of Oregon by going there and living away from all our friends and kindred I think I should decline the offer. But at the bidding of the Church (which to me is the voice of God), I go as cheerfully as I would to the land of my childhood. When I for a moment consider what God has done for me: I drink into Isaiah's Spirit and say, here am I send me: and feel that it would be a privilege to go to any place as a servant of the most High. For a few days I have had uninterupted communion with God and have been able to pray without ceasing and in every thing give thanks. Mrs W is better she said to day than she has been since she left New York. Thanks to the Lord that we are not cast into the deep, & that we are not in the depth of hell. Lat 9¡ 52. I have been taking shower baths, and think I have recd some benefit from them. Since I came out to sea, I have not seen one hour when awak, but I have had the headake; and a good deal of the time, so that I could not read to profit. I am spending most of my time in reading the Bible, the Book of Books. Never until now, did I see the thirst for light and novel reading. Some of the passengers will spend the whole of the day in poring over those worthless pages. I want to evidence to those "thus engaged, that I have as great a thirs for Bible knowledge as they have for their ficticious works. 0 what a device of the Devil to lead souls straight down to hell. One professing religion thought a man might play Chequers, and swear occasionally and yet be a good Christian. Said the Parables of Christ are novels, & the Sabbath School Book O! What an exibition of the carnal heart! I am surprized at the ignorance of many upon the subject of Religion. They can tell you all about the news of the day. that is all. Their experience in things of Religion to say the least is not what it ought to be. 8th The three last days have been as fine as any I ever new. Cool enough for comfort The wind blowing constantly from the North East, so that we do not need to touch a rope from day to day We have sailed 600 miles without the least alteration. Some of the passengers at the Forecastle introduce playing with cards and the subject of gaming came up for debate in the cabin and I did not hold back from expressing my views. Some wer some spirited and thought I was full of superstition One argued in faviour of gaming who goes to the Communion table. This evening has been spent on the quarter deck singing. Warm enough without a coat. William has a swelling on his foot have been to the forecastle to doctor him I feel it a privilege to wait upon the sailors if thereby I may do them good Sabb 10th Today Br Roberts preached from God forbid that I should glory save in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. A good time. Had preaching in the -four noon on gut Deck. The weather has been remarkably fine for the last week we have mad more than 1200 miles. If all the sailing was like this I think we should fall in love with the sea. There is a Bark directly ahead ofus about 5 miles bound the same way We have probably g~ined on her the last 12 hours about 10 miles. We are always glad to see a sail at sea. We are about an equal distance from the Isle of Trinidad and the Coast of South America. I have been quite unwell to day so that I have not been able to Preach The rain is gently falling & the waves are quietly roling and the wind is gently blowing, all is gentle and quiet above, around & within. How sudden are the changes in human life. One 1/2 hour ago according to the entry, every thing was delightful, but now the scene is changed every thing is dreary. The wind is whisting through the rigging. the ship is contending with the angry waves. The darkened heavens, the falling water with the command of the Captain to down with the main Royal, & Reaf the main Topsail all declare the scene changed & dreary. 11 Monday The storm has passed, and we are again upon our course with all our previous delight. A large school of Porpas are playing under the bow, and around our ship. Some effort is made to take some of them. but no success. Breackfast is over. Now for the business of the day. I am reading Stewards journal to the Sandwich Islands. Mrs Wilbur & Roberts with Br Andrew are making the capt an India Rubber Coat. Folger & Ross are at their Spanish, Br Roberts is making a cover or case for his Tellisscope, and every one has his appropriate work: time is swiftly and I trust beginning to be profitably spent. 13th Lat 24 ¡ 55 Long 38¡ 17 This is a buisy day Every one is at their work Mrs W is still at the India Rubber Coat Br Roberts & myself are shoemaking. I have mended 4 shoes and find myself able to do something in that line. I am more than ever persuade there must be a separation of spirits in the world of spirits. Here there is a separation on board this vessel. The pious are together in some little group conversing about God, Holiness & heaven. The wicken about gaming &c. &.c. 14th 24.55. Long 38.17 14th 26 ¡so. 39¡2s. 15th 29¡20. 41. 11 16th 30. 41 ¡11. 17th 31¡2 5. 41 ¡ 57. To Br Bosworth 18th Lat 31 ¡56. Long 42¡49. Since I made the last entry ther has nothing special occured. We have variable winds pleasant society and quite good health. The days have been unusually fine. The Thermometer has ranged from 85 to 73. We are not without our trials here the greatest trials, however, are thos we have with ourselves. We find fallen nature the same on the sea that it. is on the land and expect each day to find trials, labours, im barrasments and disappointments so long as we live here below the sun. We are exceedingly tried with some of the passengers who are all mos wholly engaged in gaming, sometimes with chequers at others with cards. It is said that those that are going out with us to California and Oregon for trading purposes, have a great stock of cards. So, while we are going out to sow the good seed of the Kingdom. the Devil has hb agents on board, who, are going to sow tares. They find the soil well prepared. Nothing to do but to cast in the seed, and it springs up and brings forth an abundant harvest. We must toil to root out the briers, thorns, & thistles, before the seed can find an allodgment; and then for want of proper cultivation, how many of these . heavenly plants droop & die. It is not a small thing to . be a Christian. The whole man must be regenerated: there must be a new creation: a resurrection from the death of sin. to a life of holiness. The spirit and temper of heaven must be put within us, and we must breath it out from hour to hour. I have been much blessed to day in praying for the people of the different charges I have served. I feel the Lord to be verry good to my soul. My mind is unusually peaceful. All seems to be well. To God belongeth the glory. 19th Lat 33¡52 Long 45¡39. Thermometer at 71. A most delightful day for sailing. We have made about 180 miles the last twenty four hours. All hands are at work making arrangements for Cape Horn. The ship is being dressed in the strongest manner; the tackling & sails. The sailors , too, give fearful evidence that they expect a stormy time off this Cape. I have been reading Elijah the Tishbite a book of great value. Elijah was truly a man of faith, and yet a man of like passions. I am ashamed that my faith is so weak. That I have so little courage. He, with 400 hundred of the Prophets of Baal , could stand forth on Mount Carmel and pray for, and obtain, fire from heaven to consume the offering made as a test, to proove the Lord Jehovah the true God. I never saw more clearly, that without faith , and strong faith to. nothing could be done in demolishing the kingdom of darkness. 0 for faith that will laugh at impossibilities and say it shall be done. 20th Lat 35¡55. Long 48¡23 Thermometer 74. Verry fine sailing. Scarcely a rope handled for hours, and I might say for the last twenty four hours. The vessel is quite steady, and sometimes it seems for a moment that we are in a house on the land. We are a little south of the River Laplata. Br Roberts and I have been taking off the cabin doors fixing them for Cape Horn. We have not seen a sail for 5 days. Nothing new except the Boobies & Gonies. There has been a large school of Porpuses around the ship. They were discovered at Tea time & I think there was SOor 100 that would through themselves wholly out of the water quite their length. They will weigh about 150 or 200 pounds each. They are manifestly a sprightly fish. This evening the heavens are overspread with dark and dismal clouds, & there is a fair prospect of a gale of wind. The Capt on gut Deck at 8 clock giving orders to take in sails. All is activity. The wind blowing from the North East. Our course South West. This has been a good day to my soul. I am turning a deaf ear to all but will administer some good to my soul. 0 how full the world is of Vanity. Thursday 21st Lat 37¡55 Long 50¡30 Thermometer 75. We expected last evening a stormy time in that we were happily disappointed: the night was a pleasant one, and nothing contrary to peace, and prosperity. We have mad 160 miles departure. We are now 1350 miles from Cape Horn. We do not presume to look beyond the stormy Cape. There is a great deal of anxiety about our passage around the Cape, both by passengers and crew. The Forkland (Falkland) Islands are bearing South East, distant 759 miles. Here we expect to see land. We feel that it would be a privilege to fix our eyes, if not permited to put our feet, upon it. We think of the time when we shall have a foothold that will hold still for us to step. To day the subject of dress came up at breakfast time. I advocate a strict observance of the rules of Discipline. There was some question about the expediency of observing these Rules. I tried to stand on the side of truth. Friday 22d Early this morning we found ourselves surrounded with sea Birds. A fish Hook, bated with a piece of pork, was thrown over the Stern of the Vessel attached to a strong line, prevented from sinking by attaching a piece of wood to the line near the hook. The line was payed out from 20 to SOfeet when one swalloed the bate Hook & All. He was immediately drawn on board. I measured him from the middle of the boddy, to the end of the wing, he measured 55 inches measuring from one extreme of the wing to the other 110 inches or 9 feet 2 inches. His Bill is about 6 or 8 inches long hooked like the Hawk. When standing up erect he was about 3 feet high. Web foot about like the Goose only larger. The head and eye, neck & boddy much like the Goose except larger. I think he would weigh about 25 pounds. Called an Albatross. He was killed skined quilled and a part of the boddy cooked and presented at tea. Meat course not as good as goose: the quils are better for writing than the eagles. Their feathers make them appear very large. Their Bill is so constructed that I should think he might break a man's finger and possibly take it off. We have been surrounded with Porpus all most all day and yet not able to get one on board: two have been struck with the harpoon but escaped. At about 2 Oclock there was a cry from the quarter deck She Blows which signifies a Whale was in sight. All hans were soon gazing in the direction. Soon, one came up about an 8 of a mile from the Vessel. Son annother, and annother came until I think there were five about the above distance from us. Their Blowing sounds like the snorting of the Horse when playing or letting off of steam from the boiler when the Boat is at a distance. I feel much dissatisfied with myself. I am living to little purpose. But little divinity about me. My prayers seem uninspired: my Reading to but little profit. It is a wonder to me every day, how the Lord could, in infinite wisdom call me to preach the Gospel: & a greater wo~der how under the sanction of the Church, & as I verrily believe in in accordance with the will of heaven I am here as a Missionary. I am led to say with the Poet, God mooves in a mysterious way his wonders to perform &c. It is not for me to know the whies & wherefour. Lat 39.04 Long 51 ¡45 Thermometer 65 Wind South East. Mooving 8 miles the hour Sat 23d The day has been verry fine Thermometer at 74 Wind from the North East. Our course is South West Lat 40¡ Long 53¡25. There are great quantities of Birds about us from the largest, to the smallest. Some I think that would measure 10 feet from the tip of one wing to the other. Other birds that are not larger than a land Yellower Bird. These little webbed footed birds dare to dip in these . great Waters. How much wisdom is displayed in forming every thing for its station. We have had a meeting this evening as usual. One of the best we ,have had since we left New York. A general stillness prevailed. Prayer seemed to take hold upon the Eternal throne & Divine influence was shed down upon us. The great Southern Cross is distinctly seen. The Magellin Clouds appear three clouds. Two are quite bright one darker. They appear to be twenty five or thirty feet in diameter. They are no doubt stars that are studded in together so thick that they appear like clouds when the sun is setting. Sabb 24th. Early this morning, the wind began to blow a gale from the North East and increased until about 12 o clock during which time, we had to take in all the sails exct main sail, main Top Sail one reef, main forsail & fore top sail. The sea was all in commotion: quite as irregular in its motion as we have ever seen it. Amid all the confusion of the raging waves, there were hundreds upon hundreds of Birds called the Cape Pigeon. They are about as large as the Pigeons of New York. Seem to be making capital out of the commotion. The gale was severe, and many of the passengers have been sick to day: Mrs Wilbur is hardly able to keep up. Br Roberts has been down sick to day.

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