# Life and Journals of Kah-ke-wa-quo-nā-by/Chapter VIII

* CHAPTER VIII.
STARTED for St. Clair this morning. Called a few minutes at Kettle Point, so called from a number of rocks or stones projecting from the precipice overhanging the waters, resembling iron pots of various sizes. In the afternoon we passed a new settlement of white people eight or ten miles west of the mouth of the lake. This settlement was formed by a Mr. Jones, who tried to carry out what is called the Owen System, of having all things common; but I was informed that the thing did not work well here, as the colonists, one after another, left their leader. Our men being much exhausted from hard toiling with the paddle, and having no food to eat, we were obliged to land and tent on the beach for the night, a few miles from the commencement of the River St. Clair. We now had only a bare bone left in the provision line, so we boiled it in a large kettle of water, and drank the broth for our supper. We, however, felt that the Lord was with us, and so we were enabled to praise Him, which was good for our souls. Saturday, August 1st.
Sunday 2nd. — We again boiled the bare bone, and drank the broth for our breakfast, thanking God that we even had this to satisfy in some measure the cravings of hunger. We were now within four miles of the Indian encampment, so we concluded to go on, and, if possible, have service with them. We passed Fort Gratiot on the American side, which is situated at the outlet of the lake. A little way below the Fort we saw several Indian camps on the American side. We went to them, but found the Indians all intoxicated. We enquired for ​the residence of Chief Wawanosh, and they pointed to a house on the Canada side of the river. The Chief was not at home, so, after waiting two hours, during which time we procured some food, the Chief Wawanosh and three other Ojebway Chiefs came, and we were invited into the Chief's house, which was made of round logs. We seated ourselves on mats spread for us on the floor. The Chiefs also came in and sat down and smoked their pipes, and said they were prepared to hear what we had to communicate to them. I then made known to them the object of our visit, and gave them a short account of the work of God amongst the Indians at the River Credit, Grand River, Bay of Quinte, Lake Simcoe, Rice Lake, &e. They listened with attention, and said they could not give us an answer whether they would become christians or not, until the matter was brought before their head Chief, who resided on the Walpole Island. In the afternoon we held a class meeting amongst ourselves in the woods, and we had a precious season. Towards the close of our meeting Wawanosh with others came to see how we worship the Great Spirit. After dismissing the present meeting we informed the Chief that we would again meet for worship a 5, p. m., and invited him and his people to come and hear for themselves. At the hour appointed we met. The Chief and several Canadian French came. I spoke first to the Indians present, and then to the French, and exhorted them to forsake all their evil ways. Wawanosh said that if the others would become Christians he would also do the same. During the day we saw a great number of the Indians (men and women) so drunk as to be unable to stand, who were lying on the ground, and their poor children almost naked and hungry, and no one to care for them.
Monday 3rd. — We arrived at the Walpole Island before night; we here found the Indians drunk. We landed a few minutes at one of the camps. On our landing one Indian, ​somewhat in liquor, came to us and invited us to his wigwam. Another drunken Indian came, who laid hold of my arm and said that he hated me from his very heart. I told him I could not help what he thought of me. He then went to some of the brothers, and spoke very rudely to them. The rest of the Indians told us not to mind what he said, as he was a very bad man. From this place we were shown the residence of the head Chief; we went to the house and found the old Chief perfectly sober. We sat down on mats, and informed the Chief that we had come a great way to speak to him and his people, and that if he wished to hear what we had to say he might appoint a time to hear us. The old Chief replied that on to-morrow morning he would send for all his people and they would then listen to us. We built a fire on the shore and slept: we were much disturbed by mosquitoes. At the door of every wigwam that we have seen on this river was erected a magic pole with something tied to it; to one of them we observed a dog fastened near the top of the pole; to some was tied tobacco, to others the skins and feathers of fowls, &c. These poles are the signs or standards of the power of powwows; and they imagine that so long as they keep up the traditions of their fathers, they will receive the blessings of the imaginary god that they worship.
Tuesday 4th. — In the morning the old Chief, whose name was Pazhekezhikquashkum, came and entered into a friendly conversation with us about temporal things. He remarked that the articles of merchandize in the dominions of our father the King were very dear, but said that the goods of our stepfather of the United States were not so high. This is the first time I have heard our Canadian Indians call the President of the United States step-father. About noon all the principal men of the Indians in this vicinity came together to the number of about thirty. The Indian women fixed a ​large shade on the green grass, with coarse linen cloth, for the purpose of holding the council, as they called it, with us. The men seated themselves in a ring under the shade, with their principal Chief at the head: we sat down in the centre of them. I then asked the Chief if they were all present, to which he answered in the affirmative. I informed him that our oldest man in company would address them first. Bro. Thos. Smith then rose up and spoke. After Bro. Smith had concluded his speech I spoke to my Indian brethren; the substance of my remarks to them were these. In the first place I expressed our gratitude to God for permitting us to meet together, and to shake hands with each other. In the second place I gave them a short account of the conversion of the Indians in the east; the happiness they enjoyed in their hearts while worshipping in the new way, and the hope that they have of obtaining eternal life, and happiness after death, in the kingdom of heaven, and assured them that the promises of God were to them and to their children, and to all them that should believe on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, &c. After a short pause the head Chief, Pezbekezhikquashkum made the following reply: “Brothers and friends, I arise to shake hands with you, not only with my hands, but with my heart also do I shake hands with you. Brothers and friends, the Great Spirit who made the earth, the waters, and everything that exists has brought us together to shake hands with each other. Brothers and friends, I have listened to your words that you have spoken to us this day. I will now tell you what is in my heart. Brothers and friends, the Great Spirit made us all; he made the white man, and he made the Indian. When the Great Spirit made the white man he gave him his worship, written in a book, and prepared a place for his soul in heaven above. He also gave him his mode of preparing and administering medicine to the sick different from that of the Indians. Brothers and friends, when ​the Great Spirit made the Indian he gave him his mode of worship, and the manner of administering and using medicine to the sick. The Great Spirit gave the Indian to know the virtue of roots and plants to preserve life; and by attending to these things our lives are preserved. Brothers and friends, I will tell you what happened to some of our forefathers that once became christians. I have been informed that when the white people first came to this country, our fathers said to one another, Come brothers, let us worship like our white brothers. They did so, and threw away all that their fathers had told them to do, and forsook the path that their fathers had pointed out to them to walk in. When they had thrown away the religion of their fathers, sickness came among them, and most every one of them died, and but a few escaped death. Again, since my own recollection, there was one man who came among the Indians at the River Miamme, who told them the Great Spirit was angry with them on account of their witchcraft and living in the way of their forefathers. They listened to this babbler, and threw away all their medicines, all their pouches, and all their medicine bags, and every thing they used in their arts into the river. They had no sooner done this than great sickness came among them also, and but few escaped death of them that had taken heed to the words of this babbler. Now, brothers and friends, if I should follow the example of those that once worshipped like the white man I should expect to incur the anger of the Great Spirit, and share the same fate of them that perished. I will therefore remain as I am, and sit down alone and worship in that way that the Munedoo Spirit appointed our forefathers to do and to observe. Brothers and friends, how can I, who have grown old in sins and in drunkenness, break off from these things, when the white people are as bad and wicked as the Indians! Yesterday two white men, christians, got drunk, ​quarrelled and fought with one another, and one of them is now on the Island with a black eye. Brothers and friends, what you have said concerning the evil effects of the fire-waters is very true. Strong drink has made us poor and destroyed our lives. Brothers and friends, I am poor and hardly able to buy enough cloth for a pair of leggings, and wherewith would I be able to buy cloth enough for a pair of pantaloons to dress me like the white man, if I should become a christian or live like the white man? Brothers and friends, I am glad to see you as native brethren, but will not become a Christian. This is all I have to say.” When he got through I made some remarks on the old Chief's reply to our address to them. After this we left the Island; by this time the Indians whom we had been addressing this day were quite intoxicated: however, they were still peaceable and friendly to us. The Indians who live on the borders of the St. Clair probably number about 300 souls. They have several fine reserves, one at the St. Clair rapids of four miles square, another near the mouth of the River Sauble, besides the Walpole Islands at Belldoon. These people are complete pagans and strongly attached to their heathen rites and ceremonies, and, consequently, it will take time, labour, and exertion to get the gospel introduced among them. In the afternoon we went down the river to Bro. Johnson's neighbourhood, where we stopped for the night. I was informed that the Chief Pazhekezhikguashkum is a great powwow, and that it was by his witchcraft he maintained his authority.
Wednesday 5th. — In the forenoon our men were busy washing their blankets, shirts, &c. One of the Indian Chiefs that attended the meeting yesterday, by the name of Yellowbird, and several others, came to our Indian brothers, and entered into a friendly conversation with them about Christianity, asking them questions concerning reports that they had heard ​about the Christian Indians. My brothers took this opportunity to preach Christ unto them, and to endeavour to do away their prejudices against the Christian religion. In the afternoon we left Belldoon, and went up the Bear Creek, and slept on the bank of the creek for the night.
Thursday, 6th. — Started early this morning on our journey; took breakfast at Brother Lindsey's, where we left our canoe, and pursued our route by land on foot. At sun-down we arrived at the Moravian town, where we stopped. Arrived at the Muncey town about noon on the 7th, where we took some refreshment. We learned that most of the Chippeways had gone down the river, and on to Amherstburgh for their presents from Government, and that before they left this place many of them had attended meetings, and were anxious to be instructed, and that the school was very large, and the children very anxious to learn to read, &c. This was good news to us, indeed, and we thanked the Lord our God for the intimation of good among this people.
Tuesday, August 11th. — About noon the Muncey Chiefs and Otahmekoo collected together for worship. Brother Half-moon, a Muncey, exhorted for some time in a feeling and powerful manner. Many wept while he was speaking. Bro. Westbrook, a Muncey Chief, closed the present exercises by prayer, after which all shook hands in friendship: appointed another meeting on next Thursday noon.
Thursday 13th. — Near noon the Munceys began to collect to the number of about twenty. I endeavoured to expound to them the Decalogue, and explained to them the particular circumstances that occurred when the law was given to Moses.
Sunday 16th. — About noon the Munceys assembled at the school house. There were about two dozen present, to whom I endeavoured to expound the first 16 verses of the 5th Chap. ​of St Matthew's gospel, interpreted part of the time by Rufus Turkey, and the other part by John Otahmekoo. After this Brother Harris gave an exhortation, and several of the brethren spoke.
Monday 17th. — I was employed part of this day with my vocabulary. About 2 o'clock in the afternoon, our Indian brethren went to the Quarterly meeting in Westminster, accompanied by Brother Joseph Sawyer, from the Biver Credit. Shortly after Brother W. Case and others made their appearance. My heart rejoiced to meet with my father in the Gospel of Christ. After shaking hands, we had a short prayer meeting.
Tuesday 18th. — About 10 o'clock, a. m., the Indians began to assemble at the school house. While they were collecting together, Brother Case and others went and viewed the ground where the village is intended to be built. About noon meeting commenced; after singing and prayer, Brother Case addressed the congregation on the subject of Christianity; interpreted by Rufus Turkey. After a short intermission, the baptisms were attended too. There were five adults, and four children baptized, seven of whom were Munceys, and the rest Chippeways. While the baptismal service was performing, a deep solemnity rested on the assembly; when the baptisms were gone through with, the holy Communion was administered to nine Munceys, and to a number of Chippeways.
Wednesday 19th. — In the forenoon, the Munceys and Chippeways got together. The Chiefs having something to communicate to Brother Case, a Council of the Muncecy and Chippeway Chiefs with the principal men was called. The Council was introduced by singing and prayer, after which we told the Chiefs that if they had any thing to say to us, they were now at liberty to speak. They consulted among themselves a short ​time, and then Captain Snake, the Muncey Speaker, rose up and made the following speech through an Interpreter: —
“My compliments to you all, Brothers. The compliments of all the Chiefs to you all, Brothers. The compliments of my warriors. The compliments of my young men. The compliments of my women and children. We all meet in the sight of the Great Spirit. It is the will of God that we meet in the light of the sun. We are all Brothers; we love one another. You have already heard the will of the Chiefs respecting the presents and payments from Government. Brother, we have heard you speak of the Governor. It is to him we look; when we hear of him our hearts are glad. I truly rejoice to hear of the good will of the Governor. Brothers, I am happy to see you worship in the way you do. It makes my heart glad. I worship God too. We will hold fast the blessing the Great Spirit has given the Indians. We will worship Pahtahmahwahsing, (our Creator). Both ways of worship are good. We will worship your way and our way. We fear if we forsake our old way of worship, the Great Spirit will be displeased with us. If we knew he would send no evil among us, we would worship with you altogether. Brothers, I have told you our whole mind. This is all. If I should see General Darling, I would tell him the same, and a great deal more.”
After the talk we made a few remarks to them, and told them in what way we could help them. We also informed them that we had nothing to do with their lands, nor with their presents and payments, only to give them good advice, and by their request, to lay before our father, the Governor, their wishes. The Munceys at this place number about 135 souls. Before parting, we had a word of exhortation and prayer, after which we bade them farewell, and departed for the Grand River.
Wednesday 26th. — Started in the morning for the Conference, which is to be held at Bowman's meeting house in Ancaster, to commence this day. I arrived at the Conference ​about 6 o'clock, p. m., and found the Preachers engaged in their business. Brother Case in the chair, forming committees for the transaction of business, and commencing the examination of the characters of the travelling Preachers. Took up my lodgings at Brother Gages.
Thursday 27th. — This day was taken up with the examination of candidates for full membership in the travelling connexion, and for Deacon's orders. There were nine candidates, myself among the rest.
Friday 28th. — This day was set apart by the Conference as a day of fasting and prayer, for the revival of religion in the Conference and throughout the country. The Conference was engaged during the day in the examination of the characters of the Preachers. This is done by calling over the name of each Preacher in order. A Camp meeting which is held about a mile and a half from the Conference, commenced this day. In the afternoon I attended the Camp ground, and was not a little animated to see the white people, the Mohawks, and the Messissaugas, assemble upon the very spot, where I first made the resolution to seek the salvation of my soul six years ago last June. The Camp meeting was then held about 100 yards from where it is now; but during the anguish of my soul, burdened with sin and sorrow, I retired to this sacred spot to form the resolution of becoming a Christian: little did I then think that I should see such a day as this! Little did I think that I should ever see such a company of praying Indians upon this ground. O the peculiar and wonderful dispensations of God to the children of men! Surely his own arm hath brought salvation and deliverance to his chosen people, and himself hath gotten him the victory. The following is the number of Native Christians belonging to the Methodist Society in Upper Canada; also the number of schools and scholars this year: — ​
| | members. | schools. | scholars. |
| Salt Springs | 150 | 2 | 48 |
| Upper Mohawks | 25 | 2 | 15 |
| River Credit | 140 | 2 | 55 |
| Grape Island | 120 | 2 | 56 |
| Rice and Schoogog Lakes | 175 | 2 | 75 |
| Lake Simcoe & Matechdash | 350 | 3 | 100 |
| Munceytown, Chippeways and Muunceys | 35 | 1 | 15 |
| Amherstburgh | 23 | 1 | 20 |
| Total | 1038 | 15 | 401 |
The number who have received Christian baptism since the commencement of the work of the Lord among the Indians, is about 1520.
Sunday 30th. — There was a very large assemblage of people collected, to whom several interesting discourses were given by the ministers. I also gave a word of exhortation. In the afternoon a shower of rain came on, which washed away all the ribbons, bows, and feathers. In the evening a sermon was preached, after which the mourners were called forward to the altar to be prayed for: a great number came and cried for mercy. I endeavoured to labour the whole night for mourners. During the night, to the joy of my soul, three of my sisters from the Grand River experienced the pardoning love of God to their souls. The prayer meeting continued the whole night. A number of the seekers were made to rejoice in the God of their salvation.
Monday 31. — In the morning an address was given by Elder Case, after which the holy Communion was administered; about forty preachers communed, and a great number of whites and Indians. The Camp meeting broke up about noon with the ​usual procession. In the afternoon the Preachers again commenced business in the Conference.
Tuesday, September 1st. — Attended the Conference in the forenoon. By the request of Brother Case, I left the Conference to attend a Camp meeting at Yellowhead's Island in Lake Simcoe. Most all the Matchedash Indians have come to this place with Brother Currie and D. Sawyer. Brother John Sunday had returned to this place from his northern Missionary tour, and brought with him to this meeting a dozen Roman Catholic Indians, who are lately from Drummond's Island. They have come for information, that they might know which way of worship is the best. There were about 300 persons present to attend the meetings. Towards evening we assembled in the two houses for prayer meeting. The Lord was pleased to pour out his Spirit upon us, and there was a shout in the Camp; the slain of the Lord lay all over the floor, some shouting, others weeping, and crying for full redemption through the blood of the covenant.
Monday 7th. — At 9 o'clock, the Chiefs collected all the men together for a Council. About noon we assembled in the bush and had a meeting. Brother John Sunday addressed them. When Brother Sunday was set down, Brother Thomas Magee exhorted, after which I gave the congregation a short account of our journey to the west, on the shores of Lake Huron. When I told them of the words of Keketoonee, the brethren seemed to give thanks to God for his mercy to our native brethren. Before I got through speaking, a cold shower of rain came on, and we were obliged to dismiss the meeting for the present, and so meet again at 4 o'clock, p. m. At 4 o'clock we again assembled at the grove for worship. About dusk we assembled for prayer meeting. The meeting lasted about three hours, after that Brother C. and myself went to Yellowhead's house, where we lodged, and found sister Barnes ​rejoicing in the God of her salvation. She immediately began to speak of the sanctifying power of God to her soul. Her words were like a hammer to my soul that breaketh the flinty rock. We joined in prayer and praise, and it seemed as if the very gates of heaven were opened to our souls, and the spirit of God descending upon our hearts. Brother Yellowhead, the Chief, was as happy as he could contain, and said that on his way from the prayer meeting to his house, the path appeared like a blaze of fire, and his house was all light, and every thing was glorious and heavenly. The whole encampment manifested the presence of God.
Tuesday 8th. — About 1 o'clock we had a meeting in the bush. During this day I had a meeting with the class leaders and made enquiry of the state of their classes. They gave a pretty good account of the brethren, with the exception of a few individuals.
Thursday 10th. — In the morning I attended to the examining of candidates for baptism, and in taking down their names. There were 11 adults and 11 children to receive the ordinance of baptism. About 10 o'clock, we assembled at the bush for divine worship. The Chiefs expressed great satisfaction when Brother Case told them that a Missionary was appointed for this part of the country. At 2 o'clock we gathered at the Camp ground. After seating ourselves the, persons to be baptized were called forward to the altar to receive the ordinance, and to respond to the baptismal questions. They came forward with deep solemnity, and replied with aahe at the end of each sentence. After this they knelt down, and received the ordinance from the hands of Brother Case. When this ordinance was performed, the Holy Sacrament was then administered to 175 Indians and 6 whites. The power of the Lord appeared to be present, and several fell to the ground before leaving the altar. After singing and prayer, a ​collection was taken up among the Indians to the amount of five pounds three shillings and nine pence, cy. Part of this sum was composed of trinkets, such as ear bobs and brooches, which they took from their ears and clothes. They seemed much animated while casting in their mite for the support of the Gospel among our native brethren, and gave cheerfully unto the Lord.
Friday 11th. — In the morning Brother Case addressed the Indian brethren on temporal economy, and gave an exhortation to them to be faithful to the Lord, and to love one another much. After this prayer was made, and then Brother Case commended them to the care and protection of the Great Spirit, when we bade farewell to our native brethren. Bro. John Sunday gave me the particulars of his tour to the north, which is the following in his own language: — “After you left us at Matchjedash Bay, we came to five Indian Camps, a few miles north of Penetanguishene — here we stopped three days and talked to them about Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the poor Indians. Some of the young Indians listened to our words, but others mocked. Among this people we saw one old man who had attended the Camp meeting at Snake Island last year. This man told us that he had prayed ever since that Camp meeting; but, said he, “I have been compelled by my native brethren to drink the fire-water. I refused to take it for a long time, and when they would urge me to take the cup to drink, I would pour the bad stuff in my bosom until my shirt was wet with it. I deceived them in this way for some time, but when they saw that I did not get drunk, they mistrusted me and found me out, so I was obliged to drink with them. I am now sorry for the great evil that I have done.” Some of the young people said that they would like to be Christians and worship the Great Spirit; but their old people forbade them. These young people were very ​anxious to learn to read and sing. Thomas Biggs, my companion, tried to teach them the alphabet. When we would sing and pray they would join in with us, and knelt down by our sides; but the parents of the young people were very angry at their children for praying, and one woman came and snatched a blanket from her child that was kneeling down, and said, “I will let you know that you shall not become a Christian unless first bidden so to do by the old Indians.” After spending three days with these people, we went on to the north on the waters of Lake Huron, as far as Koopahoonahning; but we found no Indians at this place, they were all gone to receive their presents at the Island of St. Joseph's. We were gone two weeks, and having got out of bread and meat, we were obliged to gather moss, (called in the Indian Wahkoonun), from the rocks — this moss we boiled, which became very slimy, but which possessed some nourishing qualities; on this we lived for several days, together with now and then a fish that we caught in the lake. After returning to the Matchjedash Bay, we saw the same Indians that we spent the three days with at Penetanguishene. We talked to them about religion. They answered “that they were looking at the Christian Indians and thinking about their worship. When we are convinced that they do really worship the Good Spirit and not the bad spirit, then we shall worship with them and travel together.” At Penetanguishene we saw about thirty Indians from Koopahoonahning, where we went, and then returned from our visit to the north. We told these people the words of the Great Spirit, and they said “that they were glad to hear what the Great Spirit had said to his people. If we were to hear more about those things may be we would become Christians too, and worship with you.” We saw one old man at Matchjedash, with Brother John Asance's people, who has been much afraid of the Christian Indians, and has been fleeing from them as his ​greatest enemy, and kept himself hid so that no Christian Indian could talk with him. This man continued hiding and running from the praying Indians until he got lame in both of his hips, so that he could not run or walk, and was obliged to call to the Christian natives to help him. He now sees his folly — confesses his errors — prays to the Great Spirit to have mercy upon him, and has become tamed and in his right mind. We also visited the Roman Catholic Indians, who have lately come from Drummond's Island. We told them what the Great Spirit had done for us, and how happy we were in our hearts in worshipping the Great Spirit who had saved us from drunkenness and from all our sins. They said that they would like to see and hear for themselves how we worshipped the Lord. So they sent those that came with us to this meeting, that they might go and tell their brethren just how it was, as a great many bad things had been told to them about our way of worship by the French people among them. This is all I can tell you of our travels and labours among our native brethren in the woods.”
Monday 14th. — Started early this morning for Rice Lake and Grape Island.
Wednesday 16th. — In the morning employed in writing. At 9 o'clock I went to the village of Cobourg and found a letter in the post office from Mr. Clench, the Indian Agent. Before sunset on the l6th I arrived at Mr. Williams', on the south side of the Rice Lake. After borrowing a skiff I rowed across the lake to the Indian village on the north side of the lake, which is about three miles.
Thursday 17th. — In the morning visited the Indian camps, and found several sick. The Indian sisters were busily engaged in gathering the rice, which grows in great abundance in the lake. The manner of gathering and preparing it is: two go, with a birch canoe, into the thickest part of it, and with ​their paddles thrash it into the canoe. After this they take it to their camps, and dig a hole in the ground, put a deer-skin into it, then so pour the rice into it; boys are set to trampling the chaff out with their feet, after which they fan it, and it is then prepared for use. In the evening I had a meeting with my native brethren. I spoke to them from these words: “Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature.” Mark xvi. 15.
Sunday 20th. — Early in the morning I sounded the horn for meeting, and when the Indians had gathered together I read and expounded to them the 3rd chapter of Matthew in our own language. It was a profitable time to ourselves, and many expressed their gratitude to God for hearing the words of the Great Spirit, and said, “O Kezhamunedo, mequaichsah wawaneh weentahmakooyong mahmin keteketoomenun; wetookahweshenom sah cheahgeentenamong.” "O thou great good Spirit, we thank thee for hearing thy words; help us to hold them fast.”
Tuesday 22nd. — I assisted the Indian brethren in dividing their crop of corn which they raised in common stock. They had probably about 100 bushels, most of which has been touched with frost before it was ripe, but would make excellent sweet corn if they were to boil and dry it.
Thursday 24th. — In the morning visited the school. Brother Evans had 46 scholars this day in his school; a part of these are the Mud Lake children. Toward evening I visited the sick at the camps, and found some of them in the mending way.
Wednesday 30th. — Started early in the morning on my journey. Arrived at Grape Island by 3 o'clock in the afternoon. Both old and young seemed much pleased to see me once more. The Mission family, which consists of Brother and Sister Case, Brother Benhain, together with some ​workmen, were all well, as also the Indian friends in general. Since I was here last, the Indians, with the assistance of a carpenter, have raised and enclosed a work-house of 40 by 28 feet. They have also made some additions of huts to their village. The work-house is intended for a house of Industry, where the Indians may be employed in working at different trades.
Thursday, October 1st. —- The following is the population of Grape Island, viz: Belleville Indians, 25 families, 116 souls; Kingston Indians, 20 families, 92 souls; total, 45 families, 208 souls. There were a few Indians here on the Island from the Lake of Two Mountains, who were not included in the above number, as they are only a transient people. Visited all the houses inhabited on the Island. They have made considerable improvement in cleanliness; many of the houses were neat and clean, and the dishes washed and placed in order, like as the house and cupboard of a white squaw. The printing of the seven chapters of Matthew's Gospel in the Indian has excited great anxiety in some of the young people to read the Scriptures in their own native tongue.
Sunday 4th. — Early in the morning we assembled at the chapel for worship; I expounded to them the 2nd chapter of Matthew's Gospel, and concluded by a short prayer meeting. At 9 o'clock Sunday School commenced; there were 65 scholars present. They recited verses of hymns and short sentences of Scripture. Brother and Sister Case exercised them in singing, in which the children at this place excel those of the other stations. About noon we again assembled for public worship; after singing and prayer I expounded to them the 3rd chapter of St. Matthew. The spirit of the Lord seemed to be present. The exercises of this meeting made a kind of love feast. From the many striking remarks that they made, it is evident they have been and are advancing in the knowledge of the ​truths of the Gospel, and from the flowing tears, manifested that they felt the power of God's Spirit operating upon their hearts.
Monday 5th. — Attended a council with the Indian brothers respecting their temporal affairs with Government. Brother Case having in his possession a list of the amount of annual payments to the different bodies of Indians from Government for the surrender of their lands to the Crown, he kindly allowed me to copy it :—
| Kingston and Belleville....... | £580 0 0 | or $2320 |
| Mohawks, Bay Quinte........... | 450 0 0 | or 1800 |
| Rice Lake..................... | 710 0 0 | 2840 |
| Lake Simcoe................... | 1195 0 0 | 4780 |
| River Credit.................. | 472 10 0 | 1890 |
| River Thams................... | 600 0 0 | 4400 |
| St. Clair..................... | 1100 0 0 | 4400 |
| | £5107 10 0 | $20430 |
The above sums are paid annually from Government in goods, exclusive of the King's presents, which probably amount to nearly as much more.
Sunday 11th. — Before sun-rise we had a prayer meeting. At 9 o'clock we all assembled for love feast. After love feast a short intermission, and then public service commenced. Brother Case gave a lecture from Matt. v. 13-26. When he got through I endeavoured to explain the contents of the above discourse after this the holy communion. After dismissing the meeting the brethren gave me the parting hand of fellowship.
Monday 12th. — Started by day-light for Cobourg. Rode about fifty miles and stopped at Mr. Powell's, near the village of Cobourg, for the night.
Tuesday 13th. — Went, after breakfast, into Cobourg. Here ​I met the Rice Lake Indians who have been waiting for me. After singing and prayer I informed them of the appointment of Brother McMullen as their Missionary, exhorted them to listen to his instructions, and to love him very highly for his work's sake.
Tuesday 20th. — Went to York in order to do business, and saw Mr. Clench.
Wednesday 21st. — Was busily engaged in getting several necessary articles for our own private use. Sister Barnes collected some things for the Credit mission. I met the Governor between the town and the Humber River. We had a short conversation together. He informed me that since he saw me last, he had visited the Grand River mission and the Indians at Amherstburgh. He thought that the Schools at the Grand River were doing well, and would eventually succeed in doing much good to the Indians. The Indians at the latter place, he said, were in a wretched condition, as he saw both men, women, and children drunk in the streets.
Thursday 22nd. — Was engaged part of the day in getting some of the Indian brothers to work at digging the cellar for the Mission House, that is now building in this village. In the evening we had a prayer meeting; a pretty good time to our souls. After the prayer meeting, the Chiefs married two couple in a Christian form.
Monday 26th. — I was engaged most of the day in writing letters, one to my father, and one to Brother W. Case. Our Indian sisters were busily engaged in learning to make prunell shoes. The work is superintended by Miss E. Rolph and Miss E. Barnes. Should they be able to accomplish the making fine mocassins and soling them with leather, it might be a profitable business for our women.
Tuesday 27th. — I was engaged part of the day in writing. My brother John received a letter to-day from Brother Peter ​Beaver, dated River Sauble, Oct. 15th, 1829. This letter stated that there were now sixty members in society, and twenty-four scholars taught by Nelson, a lad of about 12 years, who learned to spell and read at this place. He also stated that they had finished two houses, and four more were in course of erection; and that the Indian brethren at that place worked with their hands, praised God with their tongues, and soon will have a good village, and have received an invitation for myself and others to visit them quickly.
Wednesday 28th. — Assisted in raising the new Mission house.
Thursday 29th. — Attended to the concerns of the Mission house. Finished raising the building, or nearly so. Our prayer meeting this evening was powerful, and my soul was enabled to sink into the will of God, humbled to the dust; then streams of mercy flowed plentifully to my poor unworthy heart.
Wednesday, November 4th. — Employed part of the day in writing and in attending to the building of the Mission house.
Thursday 5th. — Went eight or ten miles and preached a funeral sermon in English, over an old woman near the sixteen mile Creek, from Romans viii. 28.
Saturday 14th. — In the forenoon I went out hunting deer. Saw one, but he could run faster than I, so he got off and I saw no more of him. I find that I have lost my art in gameing and hunting.
Wednesday 18th. — Rode down to York in the afternoon on business. In the evening I visited the new printing press, established by the Canada Methodist Episcopal Church. Brothers E. Ryerson and F. Metcalf, are the editors of the Conference paper called the “Christian Guardian,” Brother Ryerson wished to take two Indian boys as apprentices to the printing business. Stopped at Brother Stoyles for the night. ​Thursday 19th. — In the morning I called upon J. B Clench, Esq., who treated me with his usual politeness. Sir John Colborne appeared very glad to see me in order to make several enquiries about the Indians, and to communicate to me his plans of operation for civilizing the natives. He manifested much zeal for the prosperity of the poor Indians.
Friday 20th. — This day glided away without my doing any good, or being particularly engaged in any business. Oh my unprofitableness! My unprofitableness!
Monday 23rd. — In the afternoon, according to a previous notice, the Indian sisters assembled in the chapel, in order to form a Dorcas Society, the object of which was to raise a fund towards aiding in spreading the Gospel among our poor unconverted native brethren.
Wednesday 25th. — In the morning made preparations for a tour to the Grand River, &c., in order to visit a tribe of Chippeways, who are hunting in the rear of Waterloo township, at the Grand River. These Indians, we are informed, are the same we saw last July at the River Saugeen, on the south shores of Lake Huron, who from that time became a praying people, and have come thus far on purpose for us to visit them, and give them further instruction.
Thursday 26th. — Started in the morning on my journey. Met on the road three men, one woman and a girl, all of the Soux nation. They were trimmed off in their native costume. I had a short conversation with them in the Chippeway tongue.
Tuesday, December 8th.— From Hamilton I rode to the Credit. During my absence, old Jackson departed this life; we trust in the faith of the Gospel of Christ. Previous to his conversion to Christianity, he was noted for his savage and bloodthirsty disposition, but when he embraced the meek and pacific ​religion of Jesus, about three years ago, his savage heart was changed, and he became a sober and a praying man. In visiting him one day while on his death-bed, I asked him the state of his mind, and he replied, “I do think of the Great Spirit all the time, and he blesses me much. I have given him my body and soul; and therefore he can do as he thinks best. When the Great Spirit calls I shall go.” At this a flood of tears stopped his utterance. Father Jackson was the oldest man among us at this village.
Wednesday 9th. — Spent most of the day in seeing to the affairs of the Mission. The Mission house is pretty well on the way, the masons busy in lathing, &c.
Thursday 10th. — In the forenoon I was engaged in writing. In the afternoon I rode in to York on business. Stopped with Brother E. Ryerson for the night. Brother R. has got two of the Indian boys from the Credit, viz: William Wilson and John Sawyer, as apprentices to the printing business.
Friday 11th. — In the morning I visited Mr. Clench, after which I called upon Captain John Brant, Indian Agent, for the purpose of getting him to recommend to the New England Corporation Company, to appropriate the sum of £500 annually, to the Canada Methodist Missionary Society, towards aiding the civilization and education of the Indians in the Methodist connexion.
Saturday 12th. — All the forenoon was stormy, and all the streets were covered with mud. Before leaving town, I called upon the Rev. Mr. Stewart, and had a short conversation on the subject of the Indian Translations of the Scriptures. He promised that the Bible Society would bear the expense of the Translations, and requested me to go on in translating the New Testament. Rode home to the Credit this evening. ​Monday 14th. — Commenced translating the Scriptures, also my brother John, who, though quite unwell, thinks he can assist me in the work. The Indian sisters were engaged in making tine mocasins for sale, which they intend to dispose of for the Dorcas Society.
Thursday 17th. — Engaged in translating. This employment I found to be a blessing to my own soul.
Friday 18th. — Engaged in translating the Scriptures. In the afternoon, Keketoonce, with a party of his people, arrived at this place. We provided an empty house for their accommodation, and the Indian sisters carried in provisions for them.
Tuesday 22nd. — Started early this morning for York, in order to interpret for the Lake Huron Indians, who wished to see and speak to the Governor. In walking with these Indians in the streets of York, we met a white man with a team having a worm for distilling whisky. On passing the waggon, the Indians eyed the white man's load very sharply, and one of them spoke to the other sarcastically.
Wednesday 23rd. — At the hour appointed, we went to the Government house and were admitted into the presence of His Excellency, Sir John Colborne. The Indians all shook hands with him. The Governor requested us to go to Mr. J. B. Clench for him to take down the wishes of this people. We then went to M. C., who wrote down the desires of these Indians, among which were the following: 1st. An enquiry into the lands at the River Saugeen, where they wished to be villaged. 2nd. A request to have their presents and payments delivered to them at the mouth of Red River. We returned this afternoon to the Credit village.
Thursday 24th. — In the morning we called the men together in order to consult on the propriety of collecting some ​articles of clothing for our visitors, as many of them were in much want.
Friday 25th. — Rose up this morning with joy and gratitude to God, for bringing me to see another Christmas day. This being our Quarterly meeting day, about 10 o'clock love feast commenced. Elder Wm. Ryerson and Elder Youman, superintended the meeting.
Monday 28th. — Employed in translating. Keketoonce and his people left the village this day to return home. Alexander Chief accompanies them as a leader of their meetings. They told me that they should plant the ensuing Spring at the River Saugeen.
Saturday, January 2nd. — Attended to the funeral of B. Soncgo's child. In the evening went with sisters Barnes and others to Mr. Marrigold's settlement. On our arrival there, we found the school house crowded. At 3 o'clock the men got together in the meeting house in order to select a suitable person to go on a mission to the west.
Wednesday 6th. — Went in the morning to assist in searching for a lost boy, and to my great grief and surprise, I found the men who had started early in the morning, engaged in cutting a hole in the ice, having found the boy in the bottom of the river.
Thursday 7th. — The Coroner came this day to hold an inquest over the body of William West. For the first time, the Indians acted as jurors.
Monday 11th. — Employed in the translations. Brother G. Ryerson moved into the new Mission house this day. Received letters from Brothers Case, Henry Jones, James Currie, and David Sawyer.
Friday 15th. — Went in the forenoon with John to the mouth of the Credit, in order to see the Government lot surveyed, and that no encroachments were made on the Indian Reserve. ​Sabbath 24th. — Had two appointments out among the white people this day, one at Streetsville, and another at Mr. Hemphill's school house.
Tuesday 26th. — Returned home to the Credit in the forenoon. Sister Barnes made preparations for starting to Rice Lake, Grape Island, &c.
Wednesday 27th. — Miss Barnes left us about 10 o'clock in the morning, having laboured at this Mission with the Indian females for about three months. The Dorcas Society has made about forty pair of fine mocasins, and a few pairs of gloves; and has sold twenty-one pairs of mocasins and two pairs of gloves for $40; the remainder of the mocasins sister Barnes took with her in order to sell for the Society.
Monday, February 1st. — Employed at the business of the translations. Received a letter from Brother J. Evans, a part of which was written in the Chippeway tongue, the first Indian letter written in the Indian language by a white man I have met with; there were but few errors to be found in this letter. Answered it by Joseph Soper.
Wednesday 3rd. — At writing, &c. The two brethren, T. Smith and W. Jackson, who went out on a mission to the River Thames, returned home this day, and brought some good news from the western wilderness.
Tuesday 9th. — My Brother John and myself rode down to York in order to attend a meeting of the “York Bible Society.” The meeting was held in Mr. Bradley's Hall; it opened about 7 o'clock, p. m. The Hon. Mr. Dunn took the chair. Much was said on the importance of having the Scriptures translated into the Indian tongue. An extract from Captain Anderson's letter was read, which stated that my translation of the first seven chapters of St. Matthew's Gospel, was as perfect as the Chippeway language would admit. ​Friday 12th. — In the forenoon, I went to the Government House and waited upon the Governor. He informed me that the despatches relative to the Indian Department had arrived by the last mail, in which he was now placed in full power at the head of the Indian affairs in Upper Canada. His Excellency said he could now go on in settling or locating the Indians on lands, and would do every thing in his power to promote the civilization of the Indians; but would leave their religious instruction to us Methodists.
Wednesday 17th. — Employed in translating. Bro. Evans has come up in order to assist in getting the Infant school into operation at this Mission.
Thursday 18th. — Rode down to York, and met with Bro. Case at Bro. Armstrong's; his health was rather poor. He gave a flattering accouut of the Missions in the east.
Friday 19th. — In the afternoon Brother Case and myself started for Lake Simcoe, and stopped for the night at Sister Playter's.
Wednesday 24th. — This morning Brother Atwood, W. Law, R. Erwin, and some of the Indians went over to view the land where this tribe intends to settle. Quarterly meeting began among this people at about 11 o'clock. All the Indian brethren came together at the school house, and, before taking their seats, as was their usual custom, they knelt down to implore the blessing of the Great Spirit on this day's meeting. Brother Case administered the Communion to 48 natives and 5 whites. The Indians of Snake Island came together at the sound of the horn. I endeavoured to preach to them from a part of the Lord's prayer. Brother Case gave a word of exhortation, and Brother Norris closed by prayer.
Friday 26th. — We rode from the vicinity of Newmarket down to York, and attended the Missionary Meeting held this evening in the Methodist chapel. ​Sunday 28th. — At 11 o'clock Brother Case preached to the whites of this town. At 3 o'clock a funeral sermon was delivered by W. Ryerson over the body of Mrs. N. Carroll to a large congregation.
Tuesday, March 2nd. — Assisted Bro. Case in writing out the travelling expenses on our journey to New York, &c, last spring. In the evening I went and heard the discussion in parliament on the subject of the Welland Canal. There was a sharp contest on the subject; so much so that some of the honourable members appeared to be neshkahtezeh. If the Indians in their councils were to speak so hard to each other, I think the tomahawk would soon be raised.
Friday 5th. — Wrote out a few suggestions to Captain Anderson, of Penetanguishene on the subject of civilizing the Indians under his agency.
Saturday 6th. — Returned home in company with Brother Case to the River Credit this afternoon.
Sunday 7th. — Brother Case preached to the Indian brethren from Genesis vii. 1. At the hour appointed the Indians assembled at the chapel for having an enquiry meeting.
Tuesday 9th. — Having some things to suggest to the Lieut. Governor respecting the improvement of the Indians; Brother Case and myself waited upon His Excellency.
Wednesday 10th. — Was busily engaged this day with Bro. Case in preparing for his Missionary Report. In the evening I received word by Brother Evans that my sister Margaret Wesley was at the point of death.
Sunday 14th. — At a quarter after 11 o'clock, a. m., Margaret Wesley fell asleep in the arms of Jesus without a struggle, and is gone to try the realities of eternity, aged about 15 years. Margaret was one of the first fruits of the Missionary efforts of our white brethren among our people in the year 1824. ​Thursday 25th. — Employed in writing out and preparing laws and regulations for the village.
Monday 29. — Employed at the translations of the Scriptures. Made a beginning on an Indian vocabulary. My Brother John is to assist in this work.
Tuesday, April 6th. — In the afternoon I rode down with Bro. Ryerson to York, in order to solicit donations for the public buildings at the Credit Mission.
Thursday 8th. — Visited Mr. Clench in the evening. He informed me that His Excellency Sir John Colborne was wishing to appoint me one of the Superintendents of Indian affairs. I told Mr, Clench that before I accepted any such offer I should wish to consider whether it would be consistent with my present situation in the Church to which I belong, and that I should wish to know whether there would be any infringement upon my ministerial labours.
Monday 26th. — In accordance with the request of Elder Case, Thomas McGee, Thos. Smith, and myself made ready for a tour to Munceytown and River St. Clair.
Wednesday, May 5th. — P. Beaver told us an instance of his persecutions by the pagan Indians. He said at one time while they were engaged in a prayer meeting, a member of the pagan or drunken Indians came around them, who was in liquor. A woman, he said, came to him with a tomahawk in her hands; she seized him by the hair of his head, and held up the cruel weapon over his head, and threatened to tomahawk him if he did not quit his praying. Peter said that he was not at all afraid, but prayed harder to the Lord, and took no notice of her. While the woman was wringing and twisting his head, he said he got happier and happier, so he did not fear to die. The woman at last let him go and left him.
Tuesday 11th. — Thomas Smith and Thomas Magee started ​again this morning from Muncey for the River St. Clair. They said that the devil drove them back once, but now they were determined to go in the strength of the Lord, and not be scared by Mahjemunedoo. Visited Brother Hurlburt's school. There were seventeen scholars present.
Wednesday 12th. — Visited old Otahmekoo in the morning. The poor man looks truly miserable, and will soon be in eternity. His Indians had got sober. In the afternoon several families of the Christian Indians arrived at this place from the river Aux Sauble. In the evening Brother Hurlburt had a prayer meeting with the children belonging to the school; and the Spirit of the Lord seemed to be poured out upon them. Took the number of those who have received Christian baptism. There are 74 of the Chippeways, and 17 of the Munceys, old and young, who have been baptized at different times during two or three years past.
Saturday 15th. — In the forenoon I assisted the Indian brethren in logging their lands for planting.
Thursday 20th. — Received an account of a visit of Henry Coppoway to the St. Clair Indians. The object of his visit was to tell his relatives about the Christian religion. Received a letter from Sister Barnes, dated at Philadelphia, May 3rd, 1830. She mentions in her letter she has met with success in collecting for the Canada Missions.
Tuesday 25th. — Was employed in writing. Wrote a letter to Mr. Mudge, the Governor's Secretary, giving a short account of the religious state of the Indians at Munceytown. In the evening we had a prayer meeting. Brother A. Hurlburt opened the meeting by a short exhortation. It was a pretty good time. Mr. Clench and Mr. Mount arrived towards evening. They have come to lay out the village and survey the river.
Thursday 27th. — Left Munceytown to visit the St. Clair ​Indians. Stopped in Moravian Town for the night. The missionary, Mr. Luckenbaugh, treated me with much respect.
Friday 28th. — After breakfast, I preached a short discourse to the Moravian Indians by permission of the Missionary. I started from Moravian Town about 10 o'clock. About noon I met with my two Brothers, Thos. Magee and Thos. Smith, on their return from the River St. Clair. I asked them what success they had met with. They said very poor. I said to them, Has the devil again frightened you back? They answered, No. They then went on to relate their journey and their labours among the St. Clair Indians. They said that they did not find it in such a state of prosperty as it was represented; that the Indians were universally opposed to Christianity, and that they would hardly enter into any conversation with them.
Saturday 29th. — Arrived at Belldoon at noon; left my horse at Mr. Johnston's, and walked on foot to the residence of the old Chief Pazhekezhequaishkum, where I expected to meet with Mr. Ironsides.