1974 - Williams, W. The Turanga Journals - 1846 Letters and Journals, p 370-410

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1846

WILLIAM WILLIAMS JOURNAL TO THE C.M.S.

January 1. A party of christian natives 44 in number from Patutahi whom I catechized upon the subject of confirmation. Eleven candidates also for baptism were present.

January 5. A large body of christian natives principally from the tribe of Ngatimaru 116 in number whom I catechized in three classes. Many are attending in diligence and seize every opportunity for instruction.

January 6. A very small attendance from the tribe Ngaitawhiri being 20 in number instead of 80. Four candidates for baptism from Taruheru.

January 9. Catechized 61 christian natives and thirteen candidates for baptism. Proceeded thence to Taureka and catechized 96 natives in three classes. These are far better prepared than any other natives in Turanga and are much credit to their teacher who keeps up the sabbath with much regularity. Held evening prayers in a house which was intensely crowded and endeavoured to heed the minds of the people to the important event which is before them, [confirmation!

January 10. Catechized 16 candidates for baptism and proceeded to Toanga where I had again a class of 38 christian natives and 12 candidates for baptism. Rode to Taruheru to see the chief Kahutia who is sick and whose mind is much warped by heathenish superstition though he occasionally attends christian worship.

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January 11. Sunday. Held 2 native and one English service. The native children who are the germ of our future infant school now muster to the number of about 50 and proceed in order to church.

January 12. Catechized 64 natives in two classes principally from Ngaiteaweawe and Ngaitawera. Some have at length come forward who have long neglected instruction hoping to be received for confirmation.

January 14.....I walked towards Parakiwai hoping to meet the Bishop but returned without success. At nine in the evening his Lordship arrived having travelled the whole distance from Nuhaka. We remained up till a late hour having many matters of interest to speak of.

January 15. Returned to Turanga with the Bishop. In the evening went to service when the Bishop read prayers.

January 18. Morning service at half past nine; about 600 natives were present. The Bishop preached. At i past 11 his Lordship catechized my 4 eldest children. At one the school was assembled at which the Bishop catechized the infant children in number about 80. At 2 English service with sermon from the Bishop. His Lordship baptized a child and confirmed my four eldest children and at 4 oclock the evening service during which 282 natives were confirmed. 1

January 19. Accompanied the Bishop to Toanga where the tribes Teitangamahaki and Te Whanau a kai were assembled. 120 natives were examined in 4 classes and we returned in the evening.

January 20. Went again to Toanga. The Bishop completed the examinations in 2 classes and in the afternoon held service and confirmed 180 natives making in all 462. In the evening conversed with the Bishop about our projected native infant school and received some hints about the building which will be required.

January 21. Left Turanga at 11 with the Bishop and got to Whangara at dusk. The Bishop addressed the natives at prayers.

January 22. The Bishop examined the reading class and I heard the rest their catechism. We then proceeded to Uawa which we reached a little before evening.

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January 23. The Bishop examined 4 classes which engaged him till evening. The natives generally have paid more attention than those at Turanga. 2

January 25. Sunday. At morning service the chapel was densely crowded there being about 400 natives present. In the afternoon the Bishop confirmed 264 and three of Mr. Bakers children. His Lordship preached to the natives in the morning and to a small English congregation at noon. I baptized 21 children before the confirmation.

January 26. The Bishop left with Mr. Baker for Tokomaru. Left Uawa about two hours after the Bishop on my return home and got to Whangara about dusk. Held prayers with the natives and addressed them and then catechized a little class of 27.

January 27. Attended morning school respecting which the natives here are very relaxed. Catechized 9 candidates for baptism and then returned to Turanga.

JANE WILLIAMS TO CATHERINE HEATHCOTE

Turanga 26 December 1845

[Date of extract January-February 1846]

We have just had a visit from our good Bishop who has been holding confirmations all along this coast. I am sorry to see that Sydney seems to have imbibed quite an erroneous impression respecting him, partly perhaps from his connexion with the Propagation Society 3 and partly from some Wesleyan production which has fallen into his hands of which it is only necessary to say that it was written by a Mr. Turton 4 whose Wesleyan brethren here in N.Z. were all vexed and angry with him about it, and the Bishop himself did not think it worth while to take the slightest notice of such an uncalled for attack. His Lordship's ideas on some points are not quite so clear as we could wish them to be, but his labours are carried on so unweariedly, with a single eye to the glory of God that I firmly believe he will not be suffered to remain in

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error. He spent six days with us and we greatly enjoyed his visit, tho' we had one alloy in the illness of dear little Kate who was attacked by fever the night before he arrived and caused us a good deal of anxiety the first four days of his sojourn with us. She is now I am thankful to say quite recovered. During his stay, it was settled that (D.V.) we shall all accompany William to Auckland next August. The meeting of the Syndicate is fixed for September 1st, and our nephew Samuel will be ordained on the 20th of the same month, and after that important event has taken place arrangements are to be made for his union with our daughter Mary. So it is likely to be an eventful year to our family. We are very sorry to find that Samuel has not been received by the C.M.S., 5 the reason they allege is that they do not wish to present any more candidates for orders to the Bishop, 6 but we feel not a little surprised as they have expressed their regret at none of the missionaries' sons manifesting a disposition to follow in their fathers' track. With respect to Samuel we have no idea that this refusal will be any impediment to his becoming a useful labourer in the vineyard, for the Bishop is quite alive to his good qualifications and seems fully able to appreciate his Christian consistency of conduct, but it will be rather curious if he should be employed by the Propagation Society after all. He is now in charge of the native boys' school in connection with St John's College, and the Bishop seems to place unlimited confidence in him.

February 12. We have had Leonard and Sydney at home for the last three months: they are now on the eve of returning to Bishop's-Auckland. The latter is now 15 and consequently "off the books", but William means to keep him at school another year after which, if he is spared, and the Bishop is able to bring his designs into execution, we hope he will obtain employment in connection with the college for some time to come--a plan we shall prefer for him at present to setting him to farm by himself and on his own account at so early an age, particularly as he will be under surveillance and within reach of the means of grace, besides which he will be near to Mary and Leonard, and I have a great dread of family ties being broken through and thought nothing of. Our children are much attached to each other as well as to their parents, and it is a feeling we wish to cherish as much as possible. Leonard is to continue at College and it is our hope and prayer that he may be led to devote himself to our Master's service. He is conscientious, and well-disposed with a very fair portion of talent, but at present we see nothing decided in him in a religious point of view .... Of Mary and Jane I can only say that they continue to be a great comfort to us. It will be a trial to part with Mary but it is a great satisfaction that her affections are bestowed upon one of whom we have

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so much reason to approve. The younger ones are all progressing . . . and are likely to have an addition to their party before the present month expires, 7 rather to my own surprise for I had quite made up my mind that Marianne would remain the youngest. She is now 2 a sharp little thing and quite the pet & plaything of the family.

THE WILLIAMS FAMILY MS (AUCKLAND INSTITUTE)

WILLIAM WILLIAMS JOURNAL TO THE C.M.S.

February 15. Sunday. A crowded and attentive congregation at morning service. Administered the Lords Supper to 233. There is apparently a better feeling among many which has shewn itself in an increase of attention. During the afternoon service baptized 22 children. Our children in the school today were 99.

February 20. Mrs. Williams gave birth to a daughter at 3 a.m. 8 Writing.

February 22. Sunday. The natives present from Toanga and Patutahi of whom 135 partook of the Lords Supper making a total with those of last Sunday of 368. Held English service at noon and native in the afternoon during which I baptized 18 children.

February 23. Read with the natives of the tribe Ngatimaru and Te Whanau a Kai to the number of 148 and catechized 20 candidates for baptism. Received a letter from Mr. Stack in the evening announcing the very serious illness of Mr. Kissling. God has been very merciful to my family in carrying my dear wife through her severe trial and in giving a prospect of her speedy recovery so that it is concluded that I set out for Waiapu in the morning.

February 24. Left home at 8 oclock and made arrangements at Turanganui with Mr. Yule 9 about the passage for my two sons to Auckland.

February 28. [Arrived at Hicks Bay] and was thankful to find Mr. Kissling so far recovered that he was able to appear out of doors. 10

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Spent a pleasant evening in conversing about affairs of interest in the mission.

March 1. Sunday. Conducted the morning and the evening native services and an English service. At the latter none of the neighbouring Englishmen made their appearance. Their attention I suppose, was taken up in watching the movements of the vessels which came in sight in the morning.

March 2. Went to the pa to attend a meeting called in consequence of a native having burnt the house of a white man because his dog had been worried by the white mans dog. I had recommended the aggrieved party to apply to the leading chief who settled the business with much satisfaction. After a relation of the proceeding, the chief gave his opinion that the house had been burnt without cause and that the offender must build a new one and that some trifling matters consumed in the house must be paid for with potatoes. The native promised to fulfil the award and the matter ended. Mr. Kissling was not so well this morning but on my return he was better and we conversed on matters of business through the day.

March 3. Spent the greater part of the day in examining 65 candidates for baptism who are on Mr. Kisslings list and gave him my opinion upon each respectively.

March 4. Visited the native school in the pa which is conducted with regularity. It consisted entirely of adults and numbers about 90 of both sexes. The children are assembled at a later hour. Took leave of Mr. Kissling at 11 oclock and reached Waiapu at 6.

March 5. Engaged with Mr. Stack and in the evening conducted native service.

March 6. Examined 95 candidates for baptism belonging to this neighbourhood most of whom are very ill informed. The native teachers have been careless in attending to their duties and the people are consequently backward in visiting Mr. Stack.

March 7. Catechized 37 more candidates and offered Mr. Stack some suggestions respecting them. In the morning attended the native school. There were 92 adults and 33 children. Here too an alteration is needed. There is a regularity of attendance but not a sufficiency of system to ensure improvement. The Bishops plan of a central school in each district, which may serve as a model for the rest, will be likely to effect much good.

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March 8. Sunday. Held native service morning and evening. English service at noon and school in the afternoon.

March 9. Waited till 8 oclock in order to marry a couple and then set out homewards accompanied by Mr. Stack. Since my last visit to Waiapu there is evidently a change for the better; a more friendly and kindly feeling towards Mr. Stack with a stronger disposition to receive instruction. We travelled on to Reporua where a party was waiting for us and I catechized 28 candidates for baptism. Thence we went a few miles further to Tuparoa where there was a large gathering together. A good teacher has lately been appointed to the place who is recovering the people from the disorder into which they had fallen. 11 Had prayers with the natives and addressed them from the evening lesson after which I catechized two classes respectively of 26 and 29.

March 10. Mr. Stack had morning prayers and I again had three classes of 26, 30 & 30 making in all at this place 141 candidates for baptism. A good roomy chapel is in the course of erection, this being the place of assembly for three or four adjoining villages. Left at 11 for Whareponga a large village four miles further on. The teacher here is ignorant and inactive and the people consequently follow his example. Mr. Stack now brings with him another of greater promise whom the people seem glad to receive and they have marked out a spot for him to erect a home upon. Catechized 2 classes of 32 and 37. Continued our journey to Akuaku where I buried a child at sunset and requested the natives to go on with me to Waipiro the next village. Waipiro has been in an unsatisfactory state but it is reviving again under a new teacher. Held evening service and catechized a class of 33 from Akuaku.

March 11. Mr. Stack held morning prayers and then I had another class of 39 from Akuaku. Rain set in which continued through the day so that we were unable to move as proposed. In the afternoon I catechized 59 of the natives of Waipiro.

March 12. The day fine. Left Mr. Stack to revisit the natives among whom we had spent the last three days and passed on to Tokomaru where I met Mr. Baker about noon who had previously been examining the natives for the Lords Supper. A little before sunset all were assembled for service when I administered the Lords Supper to 57 communicants. After service I catechized 44 candidates for baptism.

March 15. Sunday. Administered the Lords Supper to 128 natives in the morning and held English service and native evening service.

March 16. Left Uawa at three in the morning . . . Reached home at 6 in the evening.

[Station duties remainder of March.]

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WILLIAM WILLIAMS TO GEORGE CLARKE (SEN.)

Turanga 2 February 1846

From the latest official accounts down to the time the Governor left the Bay of Islands it does not seem that things are in a very satisfactory state. The circumstance of our troops having driven the natives from their pa, but allowing them to escape is no point gained. It only increases the difficulty by driving the natives to a part of the country less accessible. I cannot understand how it was that with the large force we had before the pa, and after an entrance had been effected, measures were not taken to prevent the escape of the natives. It is not as though they had fled under cover of the night. Unless it be true, as reported, that Heke and Kawiti now sue for peace, I fear there will be yet much to do .... I cannot, therefore, understand the circumstances but wish that the opposing power had been effectually crushed at Ruapekapeka. 12

The Governor I find has been cautioned against receiving information from Paihia and that at the time of leaving the Bay he acted with prudent caution in this respect, and behaved with much distance. He might perhaps have received more valuable ideas in that quarter than he obtained elsewhere. I hope he has not acted upon the foolish idea broached by Colonel Despard after entering the pa at Ohaeawae supposing that because the Pa is taken the natives are subdued.

With respect to yourself I recommend you to act according to circumstances. You became protector of Aborigines, not for the sake of obtaining a situation but from a desire to benefit the natives. If it becomes apparent that you cannot any longer benefit them, I think it will be right for you to tender your resignation but not otherwise. 13

I am thankful to hear that Mrs. Clarke has been mercifully preserved through the birth of her fifteenth child. May an abundant measure of grace be poured out upon all your children, that they may be themselves the children of God, and be made useful in their day and generation in promoting the well being of their fellow creatures ....

P.S. Extraordinary February 23. Mrs. Williams was confined on the 20th with her sixth daughter.

HOCKEN LIBRARY MS 53/142.
COPY IN THE WILLIAMS FAMILY MS (AUCKLAND INSTITUTE)

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WILLIAM WILLIAMS TO EDWARD MARSH

Turanga 4 February 1846

[The Bishop] feels much satisfaction generally in the agents of the C.M.S. in this country, and he could not possibly have given stronger proof of confidence than he has done in some of his appointments. He told me that it had been his intention to have appointed Mr. Hadfield archdeacon of Wellington, had his health been spared, thus placing him over one of his own chaplains. 14 He is now in some difficulty about provision for that quarter. He has placed for the present, a Mr Govett a gentleman lately ordained, at Waikanae, which was Mr. Hadfields principal place of abode, and he has requested me to pay an annual visit round that district, except in the years in which he makes his own visitation.

I have just now seen the Bishop again. He left Wellington in the middle of December and came up the coast holding confirmations at all the chief places, and in the middle of last month he got to this place. The confirmations have been numerous. There will have been about 1500 by the time the Bishop leaves the East Cape, being about half the baptized population. This proportion is satisfactory, because it indicates that there is at least that number of persons who keep on steadily in the use of the means of grace. Still it is not to be concluded that half of the christian professors have relapsed. There were many who were not presented for confirmation from various causes, a large number because they had not learnt the catechism.

Among other subjects of conversation we had an interchange of ideas about regeneration. 15 When I was staying at Waimate the Bishop preached a sermon .... in which for about half way he made his statements satisfactorily. Then as if he found his ideas carrying him upon forbidden ground, he turned suddenly round and retreated within the precincts of baptismal regeneration. On the Sunday evening he came to me into the study and began to talk upon the subject, wishing me to express my ideas fully. I could have told him how much I was disappointed with his sermon, but I was reserved, and only gave him certain general ideas which he did not dissent from. The fact is that the Bishop has been brought up a high churchman, and being a very clearheaded man he had all his opinions on this subject arranged to suit a particular line of argument .... The Bishop is a man of deep piety, and if he came to the country with any bias which he might

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have received from Tractarian friends, of whom he has very many, I think that the practical nature of his employment, being at one time in a mixed congregation at Auckland, at another in the members of his college, sometimes with a few quiet families of settlers, at others with a congregation of English soldiers, or with a body of dissolute men at a whaling station, but more generally in a congregation of native christians, will have a tendency to shew that high church doctrines are not of a character to benefit mankind. I have heard the Bishop on some of these occasions, when he has preached just according to the character of his congregation and I never heard sermons which more plainly set forth the truth. In the late confirmations the Bishop always examined the candidates, & I frequently heard the following questions: What is the object of laying on of hands? The native having in mind the account in Acts 2 would probably answer; It is in order that we may receive the Holy Spirit. Upon which the Bishop asked; Can my hand give you the Spirit, a hand of sinful flesh & blood? How is the Spirit to be obtained? By prayer. Yes said the Bishop you must all pray for it or you will not have it. He then added that the laying on of hands was only a sign of that grace which was to be obtained in answer to prayer. This doctrine would not, I imagine, suit his Lordship of Exeter. 16 The Bishops plans for his college and school at Auckland I much approve. One principle is to obtain the greatest amount of advantage at the least possible expense. Therefore the living is cheap & all superfluities are dispensed with, 17 which is a habit most desirable for those who may have to live in straightened circumstances hereafter. Another principle is that a portion of labour shall be contributed towards the 'public benefit, and thus the work of cultivation, fencing etc. etc. will be carried on without any outlay. 18 In the school there is the daily

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practice of catechizing upon the second lesson, but in the general routine of studies there wants some alteration. I spoke to the Bishop lately about it, and he told me that it is his object during the coming year to give up nearly all his time to these matters, and on his return to Auckland he gives up a comfortable house in which Mrs Selwyn now lives 19 and goes to reside in part of a building which has just been erected at the college. I therefore look for some important changes, & I hope the result will be an institution of great value to the country. The Bishop lately gave to my son Leonard one of two scholarships attached to the college, which will furnish the chief means of his support, and perhaps may cover every expense. 20 Leonard is a favourite, and I hope he will continue to conduct himself to the Bishops satisfaction. Samuel is still more so. His abilities are moderate but his great perseverance and stability of character are duly appreciated by the Bishop who seems to look upon him as an important appendage to the College. The Society it appears do not receive Samuels offer of service, so that Samuel will probably be placed on the books of the Propagation Society. Rather an amusing circumstance.

THE WILLIAMS FAMILY MS (AUCKLAND INSTITUTE)

WILLIAM WILLIAMS TO EDWARD MARSH Turanga 11 February 1846

[Accounts for the circumstances which led the Bishop to leave the Waimate.] It was therefore a chain of circumstances, and not Mr. Coates's single letter which induced the Bishop to take this step. It was soon afterwards that Capt. Fitzroy wrote to propose a Corresponding Committee to consist of the Governor, the Bishop, three Archdeacons and two laymen. I fear this proposal has not been approved of, and that we shall yet be without the power of acting with unity of purpose. Not that we require many committees now because the Bishop settles many points now which committees tried in vain to settle formerly, but still it would be an advantage to have a general meeting once a year which cannot I think be brought about in any other way. A case has just occurred in which such a Committee would be of essential service. Mr. Taylor our missionary at Wanganui is a very excellent man, but is fond of doing things upon his own responsibility. There was a brother of Mr. Matthews of Kaitaia, who came subsequently from England, not direct from the Society, but Mr. Coates wrote to say he was to be received. He is a very odd being, headstrong & perverse, & being sent to Wanganui to assist Mr. Mason, he chose to quarrel & to withdraw from the Society. The missionaries then took care that he should be taken at his word, being all of one mind & would not listen to any

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subsequent application to be received back, 21 and thus matters have continued for two years. But now Mr. Taylor upon his own responsibility has sent for this Richard Matthews to be employed I know not how, but of course at the cost of the Society. 22 Now for this we have no remedy but a general Committee.

The Bishop is now engaged in his visitation of this part of the Island, which will occupy more than four months. It is proposed that in the month of August I take up my family to Auckland. Myself to attend the syndicate, my daughter Mary to be married to her cousin Samuel--a matter in which the Bishop seems to take a livery interest--and the rest of the family for their benefit in various ways.

THE WILLIAMS FAMILY MS (AUCKLAND INSTITUTE)

WILLIAM WILLIAMS TO C.M.S. Turanga 11 February 1846

The present circumstances of the New Zealand mission may well draw forth your feelings of anxious solicitude. An important mission which from its commencement has been regarded with peculiar interest, and which it has pleased God to bless largely in the conversion of the heathen, is brought by circumstances which could not be controlled, into extreme peril; and not only so, but accusations are made against some of your missionaries, which if true would involve the most serious consequences. If these charges were thoroughly sifted it would be found. that they have their origin in that opposition, which from its commencement, the New Zealand Company has met with from the Church Missionary Society. The principles of the two bodies are diametrically opposed, 23 notwithstanding the desire which the Company has ever endeavoured to shew, to promote the welfare of the natives and the maintenance of a religious character. The Newspapers published under the influence of the Company have never lost an opportunity of writing

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against the Church Missionary Society and its agents in this country. This feeling has met with much sympathy from many persons in Auckland also, and particularly from the editor of the Auckland Times 24 .... Unhappily these observations have not been confined to the editors of Newspapers, but on occasion of the beginning of the outbreak at Kororareka, when the result of the conflict was the destruction of that place by the natives, there was an attempt to throw the blame of the failure of our force upon my brother ....

In your letter of July 14/45 you express regret that the Missionaries have not furnished you with more full information relative to the purchase of land for their children to enable you to meet more fully the aspersions which have been thrown out. I think, however, that as much has been said by Mr. Coates upon this matter as the case will admit of. He has done I think more than we had a right to expect, and what remains of obloquy we must be content to bear.

Another subject is the extension or diminution of the Societys operations in New Zealand .... In the neighbourhood of our English towns and of the districts which are largely settled, I think there will be little for the missionary to do after a lapse of a few years. The unhappy natives are exposed to temptations which they shew little power to resist. I will give you as an instance what I lately observed near Wellington at the river Hutt. Spending the Sabbath there, I had a native congregation of 180, as orderly and as well conducted as I have witnessed anywhere. Of this number there were only 40 females, but the proportion of young men between the ages of 20 & 30 was large. It was evident to me that the deficiency arose from the connexion of native females with the settlers. In such situations therefore, I feel assured that the native population will rapidly decay. Still the reason becomes the more urgent why strong exertions should be made in behalf of those natives, while they remain. This remark does not apply at present to Waikanae and Otaki, because there are no settlers located on that side, and the natives live in a distinct body as they have done heretofore. But if the Companys measures are carried out, and the district of Manawatu is occupied, the case will be altered. In the meantime it is strictly a missionary field, and one moreover in which there is much encouragement. Whanganui I have not yet seen, but the population is large and from what I learn of the character of the country, there is only a limited district at the mouth of the river which is likely to be settled; therefore the natives will live as a distinct people. Taranaki, where we have no station, is an open agricultural district, and the natives, I fear, will not stand their ground. It is possible that Ahuriri may be settled but the whole country to the north of it as far as Waiapu and round the Bay of Plenty to Tauranga, with all parts of the interior will remain, I believe, as a stronghold for the natives, where they will be allowed to continue in undisturbed possession of their country, and where mission-

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ary operations will be carried out with success. Of the northern part of the island, I will only remark, that while the Bay of Islands will always be an important harbour, yet there is little encouragement to the settler except in very limited positions, so that I do not anticipate any material change among the natives unless they become wasted by war.

The question to be determined is, whether in the present state of the country, the Society will be warranted in relinquishing any of those Stations which it at present holds. I think not. The idea which has been put forth in some letters seems to proceed upon the supposition that there are places in which a well ordered christian community is to be found, advanced in civilization, with increased means at their command, and a disposition withal to contribute from their substance to the support of a christian ministry. But this state of things is not to be found. The poor natives, if they were ever so well disposed, have not the means. It is with difficulty that any, except those who live near a town, can purchase for themselves the plainest English clothing. The first effort to be expected on the part of the natives, and one to which they will be most willing to contribute, is the erection of places of worship, but even in this work they are slow to exert themselves. 25 Then as to the real wants of the natives, they are as much in need of religious instruction now as they were ten years ago. A large proportion of the population has professed Christianity and many have been baptized into the church, but their Christianity is of a low character, such as that of the multitude was found to be in the early days of the christian church, and such as it has continued to be ever since. We have found on this coast that wherever young converts have been left to the care of native teachers, they have generally gone back rapidly in the course of two or three years. If therefore any missionary were to be withdrawn from a position where he has a sufficient sphere of usefulness, and no provision is made for those people in another way, I should expect to see those christians relapse ....

The claims indeed of India, Africa and China do press heavily upon the Committee, and in comparison with the millions of those countries, the few thousands of New Zealanders are as nothing. But yet the case of New Zealand is peculiar. If the population of these islands was concentrated, two or three missionaries might attend to the whole as well as thirty do now; but scattered as they live, if they are to be attended to, our present force is required. The claims too of the New Zealanders become strengthened from the fact that a course of policy is now in progress which must inevitably result in the ruin of the people, unless the efforts of the mission are persevered in ... .

Now there has been nothing done as yet in the way of an institution for education worthy of the name until one was formed at Waimate by the Bishop. There have been schools attached to all the stations of the

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Society, attended almost exclusively by adults, of whom the most apt to learn having acquired a knowledge of reading have generally ceased, after a time, to attend. But if you will look through the accounts of the mission you will see that there has been no charge incurred, except for books and slates, and a very small amount for native teachers, who have been the catechists also of their respective villages. The proposal which was recently made by the Bishop, was to remedy the serious evil of a rising population of native christians, baptized in infancy, growing up in ignorance and sin. The proposal made by his Lordship is not an extensive one. It was only this: that there should be one central school in each archdeaconry for children, upon which, supposing that the funds are limited, all available means should be expended--that these schools should be model schools for the district into which should be received children from other stations of that archdeaconry, so that the benefit to be communicated might be diffused--and that such schools as can be kept at other stations, should be continued as day schools, without any material expense. The Bishop further proposes that, as the Archdeacons are required in the exercise of their duties to be absent more from home than other missionaries, they should have the assistance of a clergyman at the station whose special duty should be the charge of this central school .... At the rate at which food is purchased here, I can obtain the supply for 100 children at the rate of £90 a year, and clothing from England, consisting of Calico, Blue Cotton & Print, with 50 Blankets yearly and various small supplies, will come to about £90 more. A much larger expense than this was incurred at Waimate, but the supplies were obtained on the spot and were therefore expensive. If then the Society is willing to allow £200 each for four central schools, this important object can be carried out, and a means of permanent benefit to the natives will be secured.

WILLIAM WILLIAMS JOURNAL TO THE C.M.S.

[At the beginning of April an Eastern District Committee Meeting was held at Turanga attended by Williams, Baker, Hamlin and Stack. On April 20, Williams left for Ahuriri which he reached on May 2 and administered the Lord's Supper to 'about 127 communicants' assisted by Colenso; there were 93 communicants at Wairoa. He arrived back at Whakato on May 12.]

May 13. In the afternoon had a letter from Mr. Yule to say that some of the tribe Ngaitawhiri had been behaving in a violent manner at his store and had taken away two wheat mills by force leaving only a portion of the required payments. Went over immediately and had a long interview with the natives. They said that more payment had been demanded than had been required on a previous day but in the end they promised to make up the deficiency.

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May 14. Went to Turanganui to see Mr. Yule about the disturbance with the natives and hope that all will be settled quietly.

[Station duties for remainder of May.]

LEONARD WILLIAMS TO JANE WILLIAMS (SISTER)

Bishop's Auckland 20 April 1846

After a long passage of 17 days we reached Auckland on Easter Day, which was the third Sunday since we left Turanga. We had very poor accommodation on board the Swan, 26 at least much more so than I expected. There are three berths in the cabin, two of which Sydney and I occupied and the captain the other and Mr. Yule took up the floor. Then again we had no sugar which was a very great inconvenience as we had nothing but wretched coffee to drink which was horrid. We had no basin to wash in but we used a tin dish .... We did not get round the East Cape for nine days but were poking about first at one place and then at another till we were quite tired of it. On the Saturday just as we were round the East Cape it blew a very smart gale from the North East which I suppose you must have felt as they had it very bad here, and we more particularly remember it as we only had one meal that day and were obliged to lie in bed all day for we could not go on deck nor could they keep a fire alight for the rain.

When we got here we found the place much improved as they had got a little grass to spring up about the place and the garden in better order with cabbages and cauliflowers growing in it which altogether give it a more lively appearance ....

Mr Cotton highly approves of the strawberry jam and when I gave it to him and told him it was from Mother he said, "Oh, she is a delicious woman". The honey which I sent him was so good that he sent it to England. 27 I am going into town tomorrow and he has given me a commission to get some sugared almonds for the misses at Turanga as he finds that the Miss Williams at Paihia are very fond of them.

THE WILLIAMS FAMILY MS (AUCKLAND INSTITUTE)

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WILLIAM WILLIAMS JOURNAL TO THE C.M.S.

[Station duties throughout the month, many applications for medicine.]

June 19. Held morning prayers [at Taikawakawa] and addressed the natives. Instead of school I gave them a scolding about the miserable building they use as a chapel which led to a promise to set to work to build a new one. Read with a Bible Class of 38 natives and catechized 44 candidates for baptism. On my return to Wherowhero catechized 16 candidates.

June 23. At the teachers' class 16 attended after which I read with a Bible Class from the tribe Ngaitawhiri and Teitangamahaki of 71 and catechized 8 candidates for baptism. Went in the afternoon to see Ruitene Ngerengere a poor man who was almost at the last gasp from the want of proper food. A sick native when left to native care has very little prospect of recovery. 28 In this case the man had only eaten part of a potatoe in two days but devoured with relish a good portion of arrowroot.

June 24. Attended to sick natives and directed work about the premises.

June 25. Gave out several books to the tribe Ngaitahupo and went to visit Tamati Kaingakiore. Read with a Bible Class of 14 and catechized 18 candidates.

June 27. Catechized 16 candidates from the tribe Ngaitahupo and 30 communicants.

June 28. Sunday. Had a full congregation at morning service and administered the Lords Supper to 259 communicants, English service at one oclock and native service in the afternoon at which I baptized 10 children.

June 30. Met the teachers class of whom 14 attended. This meeting is much appreciated by some of the natives who I trust will derive advantage from it. This class was followed by one of christian natives from Toanga and another from Patutahi with whom I read in preparation for the Lords Supper and also by a class of 8 candidates for baptism. Went to visit a sick native and administered to many applications for medicine at home.

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JANE WILLIAMS (SISTER) TO LEONARD WILLIAMS

Turanga 26 June 1846

Mr. Yule sails for Auckland on Monday, we hope therefore to have a few lines ready .... I think the house will be quite completed by the time we go. We are now enjoying ourselves by the fire in the new sitting room which is a great comfort to us. We have occupied it now for some time as well as all the bedrooms. Father got his surgery completed and the medicine moved last week, but we have not quite forsaken the old house yet, being obliged to have our meals there till the back sitting room is done ....

We took some honey when Mr. Stack was here I think it was 115 lbs from five hives .... We hear that Mr Yule is coming back in the Dolphin. I hope you have got some shoes to send us.

WILLIAMS MS COLLECTION (GISBORNE)

JANE WILLIAMS TO CATHERINE HEATHCOTE Turanga 27 June 1846

I will not attempt to express the pleasure occasioned by the arrival of your letter conveyed to us thro' the medium of our friend Mr. Busby 29 but you must accept our thanks for it, and I hope you will not allow your pen to be so long idle again, I mean, as far as regards your Turanga correspondents ....

The account of your trip to Ireland is also replete with interest, but the rapidity of your movements is quite amazing to us barbarians at Poverty Bay and almost put me out of breath only to read of them, which perhaps will not surprise you when I tell you I have not been two miles from home for nearly four years. We are now however preparing for a very serious expedition ... In about six weeks we expect to take flight and we live in hopes that Henry & Marianne will greet us at the Metropolis. We have a strong attraction which I think will have some influence in drawing Marianne a little out of her usual course--the youngest of her flock who will have been with us nearly two years. 30 We have not heard from them for some time but we have reason to believe that peace prevails, tho' I am afraid they have many annoyances and hindrances in their work from the military stationed near them. Many of the settlers also are very encroaching and cannot enter into the motives which influence the proceedings of a missionary.

Here the calm has been almost uninterrupted, for the tribes along this part of the coast have not hitherto taken any interest in the disturbances either at the North or South. 31 We cannot but feel grieved

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at being obliged to leave them for so long a time, more especially as they have not long recovered from the effects of William's former long absence. The Bishop promises him a coadjutor as soon as ever he can provide him with one. Something was said about three clergymen being sent by the Society, but none of the Society's letters have mentioned them as yet. I hope you will have duly received the information of our little Caroline's arrival . . . She is a strong lively baby and never cries, a general favourite with all her brothers and sisters and natives also, who greatly admire her for her quietness. Leonard & Sydney left us in March to return to Bishop's Auckland. We have heard of their safe arrival and are also glad to find that the Bishop and Mrs Selwyn had also removed thither. The buildings were not completed but they were inhabiting Mr. Cotton's house. Mrs. S. is quite a stay to the establishment in his Lordship's absence, which makes me rejoice to find she is once more among them.

THE WILLIAMS FAMILY MS (AUCKLAND INSTITUTE)

[During July and August Williams was occupied with station duties at Turanga and in making preparations for the family trip to Auckland. On August 11 he had a long interview with Paratene Pototi about a visit the Turanga Maoris were to make to East Cape. On August 31 the Williams family embarked at noon on the Dolphin. The party consisted of William and Jane and their children--Mary, Jane, James, Maria, Kate, Marianne and the new baby Emma Caroline. Henry Williams' youngest son Joseph, was also with them. In their charge too were the three sons of James Hamlin, bound for St John's and at Uawa they picked up two Miss Bakers. Edward Wananga, the sick native teacher from Wherowhero was also on board; he was going to Auckland for treatment. The Dolphin was a schooner of 20 tons; in addition to the 16 named passengers, it carried a cargo of maize.]

WILLIAM WILLIAMS JOURNAL TO THE C.M.S. [Diary entries are in round brackets.]

September 1. Fresh breeze carried us off Uawa by 12 oclock & stood off and on till morning when the weather was very hazy & did not allow Mr. Baker a sight of our vessel till noon when Mr. W. Baker came off in a small canoe with a portion of luggage from Cooks Cove saying that his father would follow speedily if the boat could cross the

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bar to bring his two sisters who were to accompany us to Auckland. The wind increasing we were obliged to put to sea again.

September 2. Wind from N.E. all night which had we continued our course the night before last to East Cape would have carried us near to Auckland. This morning we are out at sea all dreadfully sick lying to.

September 3. Weather moderate. We find that we have drifted off Portland Island about 60 miles to the south. The sea going down our party became convalescent and towards evening we began to make our course again.

September 4. Fair wind during the night. Off Whangara at daylight and at noon anchored at Uawa. Took in two casks of water and the two Miss Bakers and made sail again with light wind from N.W.

September 5. Wind N.W. nearly the course we want to steer. Off Reporua.

September 6. Sunday. Little wind but a heavy sea off East Cape occasioned probably by the tide. At noon a strong breeze from the south which freshened up to a gale. Too much motion to allow of service and the sabbath passed very unprofitably but all is ordered by him who is with us and who knows our circumstances and our trials. Heavy rain in the evening which lasted till midnight when the wind again moderated.

September 7. Off Cape Runaway at daylight. Wind light and gradually died away. At noon we had a fair wind and passed Mayor Island at the distance of about 20 miles. Saw the smoke of the government steamer 32 on her way to Auckland.

September 9. Had a pleasant sail among the Mercury Islands and passed Cape Colville. Our party all in good spirits enjoying the beauties of the surrounding country. We met the cutter Hazard today on her way to East Cape.

September 10. Little wind in the night, crossed the frith and anchored in the harbour of Auckland a little before sunset. (Saw Captain Ruff 33 who kindly offered to take us on shore, but it was impracticable to reach our destination at the college. Near ten oclock Samuel arrived in the Bishops boat 34 and made arrangements for the morning.)

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September 11. At 8 oclock the Bishop arrived with two boats and took us and our baggage direct to Purewa. The creek which leads to it is studded with native houses, indeed it is the only locality which the natives occupy and hence the site of the college possesses the advantage of a population upon which the influence of the college may act with benefit. Purewa forms an interesting romantic little village close to the waters edge being the first point which was occupied. The native teachers school and native boys school 35 are carried on here together with the printing department 36 but all will be removed up the hill to the college as soon as buildings are prepared. At the college two substantial stone buildings are erected one of which contains the Bishops family and his visitors, four students and 35 school boys all packed in close order. 37 Mrs. Selwyn we were sorry to find seriously unwell. Mr. & Mrs. Kissling with my nieces Sarah and Lydia 38 made their appearance shortly after we arrived and I accompanied them on our return with three of our daughters to their house which is distant about three miles. 39 Mr. Kissling is better in health than when he arrived but the doctor does not sanction his return to his old station.

(September 12. Walked to Purewa & heard the school boys sing 40 & looked round the various things of interest. In the afternoon put away the contents of our packages.)

September 13. Sunday. Held service with the natives at Purewa the congregation being chiefly the two native schools amounting to about 70 persons. In the afternoon read prayers at Tamaki Church. 41

September 14. Mr. Maunsell came to breakfast and we proceeded at once to Purewa to speak to the Bishop and then returned to our work.

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The revision of the prayer book is not yet gone to England and there are several alterations made since we met at Waimate which we discussed and settled.

September 15. Spent the day in examining the revision of the prayer book and in the evening we referred some points to the Bishop and obtained his sanction to the alteration.

(September 16. Having made an arrangement to take Jane to Mrs. Kissling & from thence to proceed to Auckland, we were obliged to suspend our movement until eleven oclock from the uncertainty of the weather. We then walked down to Kohimarama and embarked almost immediately. Proceeded up to Mrs. Tucker and Mrs. W. settled all that was requisite about the Miss Bakers. 42 Mr. Kissling & I then left our cards at Govt. House 43 and thence to Dr. Davies and joined the ladies at Mrs. Hallimores shop. 44 We then hurried back on account of tide. Mr. & Mrs. Kissling walked home from Purewa after eight oclock.

September 17. At noon we heard that Henry & Marianne with their children Catherine, Caroline & Thomas had landed at Mr. Kisslings and arrangements were immediately made by the Bishop to fetch them to the college. 45 I walked over and escorted them to the Bishops, while the boat went round for the luggage.)

September 18. Began the revision of the Testament. (In the evening the Bishop talked about the Societys letter which maintains [that] which the Bishop does not like to receive & consequently a check is given to the ordination of the Societys Catechists. 46 He placed the letter in my hands to examine at leisure.

September 19. Left the college at 1/2 past six with as many of our party as could obtain passage in the boat and reached the Maunsells to breakfast. 47 . . .

September 20. Sunday. The Bishop with Samuel, Jane & Sarah, Leonard, Sydney, Joseph & James with several others came up in the boat by nine oclock. Went to church at eleven. Mr. Churton read prayers & the Bishop preached & Henry presented his son at the ordination. The

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Lords Supper was administered by the Bishop, Henry, Mr. Churton & Samuel, after the latter had been admitted to the office of deacon. The service I hope was profitable to many who may never have witnessed this solemnity before. In the evening I took the duty for Mr. Churton.

September 21. Wrote letters to Mr. Busby & to Mr. Puckey and called with Jane upon Mrs. Ludbrook and went from thence to dine with Mrs. Martin where we met Mr Swainson. 48 )

[From September 22-29 Williams was engaged with Maunsell in revising the translation of the New Testament. While William was so engaged, Marianne and Jane Williams and Sarah Selwyn were going ahead with preparations for the wedding. One subject of importance to the 'Mrs Archdeacons' was 'whether the flowers should be taken out of the bonnets of the Bride and Bridesmaids as unbecoming to missionaries daughters --Mrs W. Williams for their removal, Mrs. H. W. for retaining them.' (Cotton, Journal, 29 September 1846, Vol. 11, p. 77)]

(September 30. Great preparations on a most liberal scale had been made for the wedding of our daughter Mary, and at eleven oclock the party proceeded to Tamaki church where our daughter was united with Samuel by the Bishop. 49 Among the parties present was Mr. Swainson,

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Capt. & Mrs. Rough, Mr. & Mrs. Kempthorne, Dr. Davies, Mr. Dudley, Mr. & Mrs. Maunsell, Mr. & Mrs. Kissling. After the ceremony a sumptuous collation in the hall was awaiting us at which about 51 persons partook. The bride & bride groom soon after took their departure to Mr. Kisslings & the company dispersed. The hospitalities were continued until evening & there were parties successively of the schoolboys, servants, & workmen.)

WILLIAM WILLIAMS TO C.M.S Auckland 19 September 1846

The work upon which the Syndicate was last employed at Waimate, the Revision of the Translation of the Prayer Book is only now going to England to be printed. The Bishop encloses the manuscript to the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, who have undertaken to print for his Lordship the number of copies he requires ... I have consulted with the Revs. Messrs Maunsell & Dudley and with my brother respecting the probable wants of the mission, and we think that ten thousand copies will be required of the Prayer Book complete; ten thousand copies of psalters including Morning and Evening Service & the Psalms; and twenty thousand copies of, the Morning and Evening Services without the Psalms. 50 The few hymns we have in use, being only 40 in number will possibly not be ordered by the Bishop to be printed with the Prayer Book ... we trust you will have forty thousand copies struck off separately . . . We hope too that attention will be paid to the binding. That of the Books from the Christian Knowledge Society we believe is generally superior to what is issued by the Prayer Book & Homily Society.

WILLIAM WILLIAMS TO EDWARD MARSH

St John's College 30 September 1846

The college according to the Bishops plan will be an extensive range of buildings of which there is at present erected a stone building which is to be the school for boys, and also a stone kitchen. A third building is

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in progress of wood, which is to be a hospital. There are three commodious cottages also of wood, which are to accommodate the college servants. The native department is for the present about a mile and a half from us, but that is to be removed to college before next term. It consists of a native teachers school & a native boys school of which the Bishop is head master & Samuel the second master assisted by three of the students. As far as my observation enables me to judge, there is most satisfactory progress made, and the two schools will be a great blessing to the country, as the natives are gathered from all parts of the island. The building we occupy consists of sixteen rooms, and for the present gives accommodation to the family of the Bishop and to mine, to Mr. Cotton, his chaplain, to four students, and to 34 English boys. This latter number of boys is nominally under charge of Mr. Cotton, but really under Mr. Hutton. 51 This school has been badly conducted and I found it necessary to talk to the Bishop about it, and to urge that the character of it may be altered before the school disperses, lest an evil report should be taken to the parents of the boys and the numbers be seriously diminished. 52 My conversation has had a happy effect much to the benefit of the poor lads. A part of the system here is that of working during a part of the time not occupied by school. Hence there is a large quantity of ground already in cultivation with a good and commodious garden. The church of the district is distant about 3/4 of a mile which is well filled with settlers and the members of the college. 53 The site of the buildings is admirable--at the top of a gentle rise which is much diversified by little glens which in the course of a few years will be rendered highly picturesque by numerous plantations of trees ....

Nothing can exceed the kindness of the Bishop and Mrs. Selwyn who look upon our children as their own, and have arranged that all the trouble of the wedding should be undertaken here rather than at Paihia out of their great regard for Samuel.... There are two superior young men among the students, but the Bishop has more than once expressed his regret that he is obliged to receive such candidates as he can get, and has afterwards to find out that they are unsuited to the work, and not, as in the C.M.S., have those who have been judiciously selected. While the Bishop freely acknowledges this, it is to be the more regretted that there should be a want of harmony between him and our Society. A declaration upon the subject of location which the Bp. requires all candidates for orders to sign, and which seems to interfere with the rights of the Society as lay patrons, is the great grievance. This the Bishop qualifies by saying that it is and always has been his wish that the Society should fix the station & that he would

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locate to that station unless there should be sufficient reason for giving his veto. The Bishop has moreover referred several cases, and has awaited their decision. In the meantime the question lies open. The Bp. will not give up the clause which is required from candidates, and the Society on the other hand contend for their rights, and as the question now stands, refuse to present any more of their catechists for ordination. 54

THE WILLIAMS FAMILY MS (AUCKLAND INSTITUTE)

[During October Williams continued with the New Testament revision. Henry and Marianne Williams returned to Paihia; unfortunately they left 'rather in a huff.' They had wanted Jane and Sarah to stay a few days with Samuel and Mary, but the Bishop had insisted that all visitors to St John's stay only at his invitation. Both Williams' families resented the Bishop's attitude; it was described as 'a plan for separating Saml. from the members of his own family'. Selwyn was hurt, Mrs Selwyn says she never knew him so hurt about anything before, particularly as St John's, for the wedding, had been put at the complete disposal of the Williams's. Cotton was employed as a go-between, and before their departure to the Bay of Islands, Marianne Williams went over to St John's and made it up with Mrs Selwyn. (Cotton, Journal, 10 October 1846. Vol. 11, pp. 94-96.)]

WILLIAM WILLIAMS TO EDWARD MARSH Auckland 16 October 1846

I have not given you as yet any account of matters in this neighbourhood. You are aware that besides a college for the education of students for holy orders, there is also a grammar school which is formed on the basis of the Society's school of Waimate. In this I feel a general interest for the welfare of the community, & a particular one because I have a young son & a nephew in it. 55 Since I gave up the school it has never done well, though perhaps I am not the proper person to say so. But when the Bishop came I hoped that much improvement would have been made upon Mr. Taylors plans. This I fear has not been the case. There is much outside shew, but little reality. I have therefore felt it necessary to talk to the Bishop about it, which I did first in December last year, and again during my present visit. The Bishop pleads the want of proper masters and the disappointment he has experienced in the non arrival of some persons expected from England. Mr. Cotton, a student of Christ Church is the nominal head, but is a man of unsettled habits, & while he remains I fear not much will be done. Still I hope that the remarks I have made will do some good. The college department is no better than the school. There are six students for holy orders besides my son Leonard & a youth of the same age &

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about the same rate of ability. 56 Now you would naturally expect that these students should be occupied daily in attending lectures on various subjects, but they read neither Latin or Greek, Mathematics or Logic, & have only occasionally Divinity Lectures with the Bishop. Leonard & his companion during the present year have been reading Latin five times a week & since I have spoken they have also read Greek with Mr. Cotton. The occupation of the elder students is as follows, two are masters in the English Boys School & four in the Native schools. This state of things might arise in part from the circumstance that the Bishop has not the support he requires from Mr. Cotton, but I attribute it in great measure to the Bishops peculiar views. He has told me that he considers a young man who will apply himself with diligence to the duties of schoolmaster to be a more desirable person as a clergyman than one whose mind may be well stored with Latin & Greek, but has no desire or willingness to undergo the drudgery of a schoolmaster. Hence study is laid aside and although the young men may have a prospect of obtaining ordination, they are not acquiring a variety of knowledge which in England is considered to be essential to the qualifications of a clergyman. You will I am sure be much surprized at this account, because I know your expectations of the Bishop were high. It is possible if the Bishop should hereafter obtain the assistance of a more efficient tutor, there may be a great change for the better, but I see no prospect. 57 Under these circumstances, I have determined to send Leonard to England. In about twelve months time Mr. Cotton returns & the opportunity will in many respects be desirable. It is my wish that Leonard, if it please God to spare him, should receive advantages which he is not likely to have here, and that he may be prepared for those sacred duties which he professes to desire. I have no doubt that I shall be able, by obtaining strict economy in expenditure, to devote to his use the sum of £100 annually as long as he may require it, and I must look to you to act for me in selecting the place which may be most desirable for his education. You will be alive to the error of the present day, and I am sure you will make choice as if for your own son. We hear much of the dangers of Oxford, but I imagine these same dangers are to be found everywhere, though they may differ much in degree, and will be much counteracted by the watchful care of those who feel the importance of guarding against them. There are colleges & halls I believe where the tutors are antitractarian & pious men, and if the advantage of good superintendence can be obtained, I shall be satisfied to leave the rest in the hands of God. Perhaps Kings College London may be a desirable place in some respects, though in point of expenses I do not imagine that any place can be cheaper than Oxford. If you will give me your views on this matter ...

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I shall have time to consider them before I take any steps. I must beg you to keep what I have said about the college here strictly private. Our good Bishop I most highly respect. His unwearied exertions as Bishop are a bright example to all his clergy; his kindness & liberality are unbounded and he is a blessing to the country which I pray that God may long continue to us, but the college for the present is not such as I hope to see it hereafter.

THE WILLIAMS FAMILY MS (AUCKLAND INSTITUTE)

WILLIAM WILLIAMS DIARY

[Williams remained at Auckland during November; most of his time was spent in New Testament revision.]

November 1. Sunday. Held morning service at Purewa & in the afternoon at Tamaki church. The Bp. held a confirmation at Auckland at which some of the elder boys of the school were confirmed.

November 4. Had another conversation with the Bishop about the elder boys of the school which was brought on by the report that Mr Bakers sons are to return home. Spent most of the day in packing & in the afternoon took the family to Purewa, but heard in the evening that the vessel is not ready. Mr. Hutton heard of the death of his father.

November 5. The native teacher Hori from Taranaki died this morning in the hospital. 58 Left the college early this morning with my family and took them on board the Maid of the Mill, 59 but there being a delay in sailing, we all went on shore to Mr. Maunsells & Mr. M. & I worked at revision for half a day. At nine in the evening took Jane & the children on board when the vessel immediately sailed with a fair wind.

November 11. Revision. Mr. Martin called at Purewa & staid some time. Met him again at the Bishops in the evening. Talked with the Bp. about the press & Mr. Kisslings school. 60

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November 16. Mr. Puckey having arrived yesterday joined us in our work. 61 Heard of the safe arrival of our party at Paihia.

November 17. Revision. Mr. Maunsell had another interview with the Bp. about school etc.

November 21. Went to see Edward in the hospital who had violent haemorrhage from the lungs. Left Purewa at eight in the boat for Auckland and went on with revision. Heard of the arrival of Mr. Stack in the Dolphin from Uawa. 62

November 22. Sunday. Held morning service at Pukapuka & walked on to Kohimarama. Found poor Mr. Stack in a very low state quite confirming the previous accounts. Returned to Pukapuka & held evening service & went back to Auckland.

November 26. Having completed the revision of St. Johns gospel, we read over today a portion of St Matthew. Went into town at noon to see after the goods at Coneys. 63

November 27. Read over St. Matthew until noon & then went by boat with Mr. Clarke & Mr. Dudley to Kohimarama. Mr. Stack in a very low state, much excited always in the evening having a constant apprehension of approaching dissolution. In other respects his ideas are in a sane state. The Dr. disapproves of voyage to England at present & Mr. Kissling proposes that Mr. S. shall remain with him, & to have a room erected as a bedroom for Mr. S's family. 64 Talked with

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Mr. Kissling about the press, the school, and a general Committee & in the evening walked up to the college. The Bp. has his hands very full just now while Samuel is away, having double duty to perform. Went in to see Edward whose symptoms are moderated, though no real improvement. Called upon Mrs. Purchas. 65 Talked with the Bishop from ten till one about Deacons, youths in the agricultural establishment, Bakers, Leonard, etc.

November 28. Went to see Edward. Called upon Hutton. Told the Bakers it was settled for them to go to Uawa. Got to Purewa at seven, breakfasted with Fisher & he then accompanied me nearly to Auckland. Had satisfactory conversation with him about future prospects, as he is likely himself to be ordained. 66 Continued our reading of Matthew till two oclock when we prepared to go to dinner at Mrs. Martins. Called upon Mrs. Leach. 67 Spent an agreeable afternoon at the judges & left at six to go into town. Took tea at Dr. Davies & made a collection of cuttings.

[Journal entry:]

November 28. Walked into the town of Auckland. It was after sunset and Saturday evening and I was glad to have an opportunity of seeing undisguised the wickedness of the place. The soldiers of the 68th 68 just arrived have three days licence and are consequently rolling about in a state of intoxication, the public houses in the greatest activity and many unhappy natives, male and female lounging about on the street on the high road to ruin. 69 These are the benefits of civilisation--to make this people tenfold more the children of Belial than they were before. I could not but think of the Eastern Coast with thankfulness where we are exempt from these evils and are likely to continue so.

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November 29. Sunday. Went with Mr. Maunsell to Epsom & read prayers for him & afterwards took a class at school. Called to see Mr. Powditch 70 who has had many difficulties to struggle with since he left Whangaroa but has shewn an exemplary degree of diligence. Went to St. Pauls in the evening & heard a very unintelligible sermon from Mr. Churton.

November 30. Samuel & Mary took us by surprise at breakfast having arrived in the night. Talked with them for a time & then packed up to go on board. 71 We then all went to town to complete some commissions & I took leave of Mary at Dr. Davies, 72 but found that the vessel could not sail till tomorrow & we returned together to Mr. Maunsells.

WILLIAM WILLIAMS DIARY

December 1. Set out again with the expectation of sailing at ten but there was no wind & I was able to have four hours quiet conversation with Samuel. At 4 we set sail with a light wind, having Mr. Clarke & Mr. Puckey for fellow passengers.

December 2. Off Te Kauau which is now become important as a most valuable copper mine. 73 Wind continued light all day and towards evening we came up with the Hen & Chickens.

December 3. Off Poor Knights in the morning & worked up to Cape Brett by one oclock when a fair wind carried us to Paihia about four. The Bay presents a mournful spectacle tho it is beginning to recover from the state of devastation to which it was brought last March twelve month. In the midst of all this Paihia has been preserved, & from the growth of the trees looks better than ever. Both our families are well with the exception of Maria & Caroline who have been much pulled down by the hooping cough but are now recovering.

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December 4. Talked much with Henry and then went to call upon Mr. Mair. He is one who has suffered much in the late disturbances, having been driven with many other settlers from Whangarei. 74 His losses in business also have been heavy so that he is now reduced to extreme difficulties which they bear with a christian spirit. One of their little children has long been afflicted with hooping cough, & is now in a most precarious state. My son Sydney & his cousins Thomas & John rode in from Pakaraka.

December 6. Packed up in order to be ready for our departure on Monday. This occupied me most of the day, spending the intervals in talking.

[Journal entry:]

December 6. Sunday. Held native service at Paihia with a congregation of about 80. Several Kawakawa natives came down the river but my brother tells me that the people are sadly broken up since they have had so much intercourse with the soldiers. The baneful influence has been felt more by the friendly natives than by those opposed to the government. Held English service at 11 and administered the Lords Supper. The congregation was about as large as it used to be before the government was established, being principally our own families. Went to Kororareka in the afternoon and had two services native & English. Saw several of the christian natives who did not attend service.

[Diary entry:]

December 7. Mr. & Mrs. King & two Miss Kings 75 & Samuel came to see us & remained all night. Finished our packing & then sat down to talk till nine oclock when we went on board and got under weigh. It was a mournful parting taking back with us only four children out of nine, 76 but it is for their good that they remain, and our comparatively solitary condition at Turanga will be moderated by the reflection. The weather was not promising and in two hours we anchored off Kororareka.

December 8. No wind. The Paihia boat came off with Henry & Leonard to fetch us to breakfast. Having now a few hours respite I

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talked seriously to Henry about his papers & all hands were set to work to prepare me a copy of all documents of moment. 77 At 4 oclock the vessel was again under weigh & we joined her off Tapeka.

[Journal to the C.M.S. continues. Diary entries in round brackets.]

December 15. Passed Uawa at midnight. This morning we were off Makarori and soon after anchored off Turanganui. Edward has been worse this two days and is evidently sinking but I am thankful to have brought him back to his friends. He is a truly christian native & rejoices in the sense of Gods presence. Took our family on shore and walked onwards to our home which was distant about 7 miles. A large portion of the population are away at East Cape being gone to pay a long talked of visit which will tend to keep up a friendly communication between the tribes. 78 Our arrival at home is most grateful to us and though the drought of late has been extreme everything around is luxuriant and vigorous but more I fear as regards natural vegetation than spiritual. William King the native teacher came to see me and gives upon the whole a satisfactory account of the natives. (Wrote to Mr. Hamlin.)

December 17. Gave medicine to a few applicants. In the evening held service in the chapel with a congregation of about 100. The people seemed very glad to see me & made my arm ache with shaking hands. I was glad too, to hear the proposal that I should assemble them on Monday in the Bible Class.

December 19. Went to Wherowhero to see Edward. He is sinking fast and his friends around him are watching with much anxiety. He feels now that he is going, but he speaks as he has always done during his illness, that his heart is full of light for that his trust is on Christ his Saviour. He seems to feel it a particular mercy that he has been permitted to reach home contrary to the opinion expressed by the

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medical man in Auckland. (On my return Mr. Baker & his son William arrived from Uawa to see me. Had much conversation with Mr. B. about Waiapu and about matters at the north.)

(December 26. Writing letters till late in the afternoon & then sent off to the Dolphin. Buried Edward. He was followed to the grave by a large number of his relatives. Smart shock of an earthquake at 5 in the afternoon.)

December 27. Sunday. A good native congregation at morning service & 9 settlers at English service. Then rode to Toanga and held school & service. Many were present from Taureka and Patutahi so that the congregation was numerous. After service went to Wairengahika to see sick natives. It was gratifying to overtake so large a number of natives who had come the distance of 3 and 4 miles to service. These natives too anxiously enquire when they may come to attend the classes and this also is a good sign.

(December 28. Catechized a class in the morning of 44 natives principally from Wherowhero who brought the corpse on Saturday. Spent the rest of the day in dispensing medicine & purchasing potatoes & firewood.)

December 31. Went to Wherowhero to investigate a case which has caused a division among the natives. A little quiet expostulation is likely to put all right. Held evening service at which the attendance continues to be good. Thus closes another year which has been one of much trial to our mission. In the district two of our numbers are withdrawn from sickness and another is seriously ill 79 without a prospect of any increase of labourers from without. And yet our work has not fallen to the ground but there is rather an indication of more stability among those natives who continue to make a christian profession. The mercies we have experienced in our own family have also been great and various. Our children now nine in number have been preserved in health. The eldest united in marriage with one who is zealously devoted to his Masters work, and a reasonable hope that our heavenly fathers mercies to the rest will not only be temporal but spiritual. Bless the Lord O My Soul and all that is within me Bless His Holy Name.

WILLIAM WILLIAMS TO C.M.S. Turanga 21 December 1846

[Disagrees with Rev. Kissling's criticism of mission schools which the latter sent in a letter to the Society.]

If that letter had not been already sent, 80 I should have suggested some important alterations in it, but as it has been long on its way to

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England, I feel obliged to notice some of the statements it contains in a way which it grieves me to do. When Mr. Kissling lived in Sierra Leone 81 he had to do with a people very different from the New Zealanders. They were living not on their native soil, but by God's providence they had been brought together, & placed in localities assigned to them, where for a time they were fed by the Government & then raised food for their own support upon such lands as they were appointed to work. They were living together in large communities where there were always the persons ... to be assembled for instruction. On Mr. Kisslings arrival in New Zealand he finds a different state of things & is evidently disappointed in making the comparison, but instead of duly considering the whole question, he throws the blame of that which he considers to be faulty or deficient upon the errors of the system which has been pursued by your missionaries in New Zealand.

He tells you, I believe, . . . that the whole system of school in this country is lamentably deficient & that now there are either no schools, or they are such as do not deserve the name. This state of things he considers to have arisen from a false principle the missionaries have acted on in being too expansive in their undertakings; instead of having together at least two persons in a station, & further to a licence having been permitted to the catechists of travelling on missionary tours instead of applying steadily to the care of schools . . . , 82

I have lived in this country more than 20 years, & while I may say that I have gone forth weeping bearing the precious seed, I have, thank God, had reason to rejoice bringing my sheaves with me. A stranger may pass by & say what a poor crop your ground yields you, but the labourer who broke up the ground with much toil & watched the growth of the crop through a season of difficulty, may be satisfied with even a moderate return.

In the early days of our mission ... we carried on our religious services & our schools, having few to listen to us except those natives who lived with the mission families. The schools, both male and female were attended with regularity .... And further the attempt made by the Roman Catholics to establish themselves has in great measure failed because the natives were in possession of the New Testament before

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their arrival .... There is reason to presume that although there may be many faults & imperfections, the course we have pursued is not altogether faulty for the result has been that more than 30,000 persons profess Christianity and that many thousands have been taught to read, while if our efforts had been confined to a limited portion of the island, the consequence would have been fatal to the welfare of the natives.

But it has yet to be explained why the attendance at the schools has much fallen off, & why in many places it may have been discontinued. The answer is a simple one. A multitude of New Zealanders who used to attend to school have been taught to read, they have acquired the chief thing we profess to teach, & therefore they leave off going to school, but still a large proportion of these persons attend reading classes which are held by the missionaries in the various districts. 83 There still remains a most important part of the community, the rising generation. There is not the same stimulus to influence their minds which brought their parents to attend for a time with regularity. Folly is bound up in the heart of a child, and unless there is a desire on the part of the parent to cooperate with the efforts of the missionaries, it is in vain to entreat the children to assemble from their scattered habitations to the place of instruction ... It is therefore an unfair remark because it is incorrect that the defects of the present school system are to be placed to the account of the catechists having been permitted to travel on missionary tours instead of applying steadily to the care of schools ....

I make these remarks with reference to day schools in which the children live with their parents. The question of boarding schools is distinct, & is to be dealt with according to our means. About five years ago at a time when the Society was pressed by financial difficulties, the Secretaries wrote to desire that economy should be studied in every department of expenditure, & that the practice of boarding native children in our settlements should be discontinued. Here then was a reason why the number of scholars in our settlement schools was diminished. The missionary stations have always been placed in the position which at the time was considered best for carrying out our objects, and formerly in time of war, or when war might be expected at any time, the population was concentrated & scholars could be

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gathered together, but now the natives are dispersed into small communities, and our difficulties are multiplied because we are obliged to leave to the care of native teachers in great measure a duty which was formerly attended to by ourselves. The teachers on the other hand complain that the people are backward now to attend school, and one principal reason, as I have stated above, that to the natives who can read, there is little which a native teacher can communicate.

I conclude these observations by endeavouring to shew what may be done to remedy the present evil and to provide some more effective instruction for a rising population whose condition otherwise will be worse than their parents, because they will be exposed to a new class of temptations arising out of the evils of colonization .... There is but little prospect of carrying out an improved system of education unless the children can be brought together in boarding schools. This being granted, the feasibility of any plan will depend upon the means placed at our disposal, and upon the number of scholars which a limited sum may be made to support. In the schools of this kind already in existence, the expense varies from £2 to £10 for each child. At Kaitaia there is a boarding school for 20 natives supported at the yearly sum of £40, whereas at the Bishops school, and at a girls school lately commenced by Mrs. Kissling, the estimated expense is £10 each. It is therefore clear that within the limits of £500 which is at present the sum divided between the different districts, there is no prospect of effecting good which may have an influence upon the country at large, unless by spending the sum allowed in places where the low price of provisions, and other facilities, will favor the maintenance of the largest possible number of scholars. If a limited sum is fairly apportioned to each district, it may safely be left to the District Committee to fix upon the best locality within that district ....

In concluding this letter I must again draw your attention to the destitute condition of your mission, but particularly of the Eastern District. Mr. Kissling is invalided, and although his health is sufficiently established to allow him to labor daily in his work, it is not thought advisable that he should live out of reach of medical assistance. Mr. Stack, as you will have heard, is wholly incapacitated. His complaint, which is seated in the liver, is too deeply seated to allow of much hope, & his mind has long been in too weak a state to make it desirable that he should live in such a place as Waiapu. Thus the interesting portion of N.Z. from Hicks Bay to Tokomaru is left without a missionary. Mr. Reay has promised to come immediately, but I have heard that Mrs. Reay has raised a difficulty. Mr. Hamlin is in a very weak state. He continues to work laboriously, but he lives almost without food & finds relief for his complaint only by the constant application of blisters. We are therefore reduced to great extremities, and unless we have help shortly, the natives are in danger of retrograding to a fearful extent.

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JANE WILLIAMS TO LEONARD WILLIAMS Turanga 26 December 1846

I have had so many unavoidable claims upon my time and attention since we got home that I have not been able to write a word till this morning, and I began to fear I should be obliged to neglect you all. In Mary's box there are some coloured shirts for you and Sydney which I hope you will like, we think them very pretty. The combs I wish you to take [care] of and give to James or Sydney as may be necessary. I forgot to think about a counterpane for James. If you can procure a blue one like yours and Sydney's, you can take the new one and let James have yours, but don't take anything into use without marking. I shall be glad if you will also mark some new socks I have sent to Mary to take care of for James. Some pocket handkfs, I will have hemmed ready to send you the next opportunity. We shall be glad to hear that you got safe back again and are going on comfortably and industriously: and tell us how James & Joseph get on, and whether Sydney does any more than he used to do in the way of lessons. Some day when you are in Auckland, I shall be glad if you will procure me a wooden bowl. If they are cheap, you may get two, one to go inside the other. You may also order a couple of the painted tin washing basins which I forgot. Don't let them be sent on board ship without being properly packed.

Poor Edward bore the voyage much better than was expected, but he only lived a week after we landed. They have brought his remains to be interred here and the bell is now tolling for his funeral. In him we have lost one of our best & most consistent christian natives whose place will not easily be supplied. A very large party of natives are now passing following him to his last resting place. When our time arrives may we be supported by a faith as simple and a hope as firm as his ... .

Our party is now so small that we feel quite mokemoke, and we scarcely ever visit the garden and orchard without wishing you were all here to partake of the luxuries they produce.

THE WILLIAMS FAMILY MS (AUCKLAND INSTITUTE)

WILLIAM WILLIAMS TO C.M.S. Turanga 26 December 1846

The leading subject of your letter [a private letter from the C.M.S. to William Williams] is the position of affairs between the Society and the Bishop respecting which you ask my opinion. 84

I have in former letters to the Society both before and since the arrival of the Bishop expressed my conviction that a change was needed in the course which had been previously adopted for the location of missionaries. The reason was that if the local committee proposed a change in the location of a missionary, and that change was not altogether agreeable to the person concerned, such a change was sure not

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to take place .... We wanted a power which could enforce such an arrangement as it might be presumed would be sanctioned by the Parent Committee.

On the first arrival of the Bishop he assumed this authority in his own person, in the case of Mr. Kissling's location in Hicks Bay in opposition to an appointment made by the Middle District Committee to Whakatane. I was surprized with this movement, in common with many others, but I could not tell what private understanding there might be between the Parent Committee and the Bishop. There was therefore no alternative but to yield and wait to see what notice would be taken by the Society. In the meantime other movements were made in which the Bishop always took the opinion of some of the older missionaries, as in the case of Rev. R. Taylor, and of the Rev. Messrs Hamlin and Colenso. My advice to Mr. Colenso to sign the "Declaration" was given in common with that of my brother Archdeacons H. Williams & A. N. Brown, who had both to present candidates at that ordination .... It appeared moreover at that time that if Mr. Colenso had not signed he would not have received ordination.

The Parent Committee has now expressed its determination in a decided though temperate manner, and I now proceed to give you some particulars of what has passed between the Bishop and some of your missionaries relative to that determination. On my arrival at Auckland in September, the Bishop shewed me your letter, upon which I wrote to his Lordship the following memorandum ....

A few days subsequently the Bishop requested an interview with my brother, who was then in Auckland, together with the Rev. Messrs Maunsell, Kissling, and myself ... At that meeting we endeavoured to induce the Bishop to modify the words of the "Declaration" so as to meet the views of the Society, but we could gain nothing that was

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satisfactory, only an explanation of the Bishop's views, which was good with this exception, that he said he would not alter the words of the declaration itself. We hoped however that he would write to the Society in such a way as to remove the difficulty.

Since my return to Turanga I have written to the Bishop upon the same subject. After speaking of the destitute condition of Waiapu and our weakness in other quarters from ill health, I have said:

You will see that I have urged the Bishop to change his course, but I do not advise the Society to alter theirs. The Bishop is a good man and I esteem him highly. He is laborious in the extreme and kind and courteous to his clergy. But when once he has taken up an opinion it is no easy matter to move him from it.

WILLIAM WILLIAMS TO ALFRED BROWN Turanga 31 December 1846

I think I have received from you one short note since I paid you, or rather since I paid Tauranga a visit after my return from Waimate ....

I suppose you will meet brother Maunsell about this time in Committee, and that he will give you a long budget of occurrences at the College. We know a little more of our good friend the Bishop than we did and shall be able to profit by our knowledge. You will hear of the interview with his Lordship about the differences between him and

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the Society. Since my return home I begin to feel more keenly the difficulties of our situation. In the part of the island with which I have to do, there are three stations vacant--Otaki, Waiapu & Wharekahika, 85 and it seems that the Society will not send out any more missionaries unless there is a change .... I have therefore written to the Bishop a letter which is rather strong, urging him to give up the "Declaration" which he requires to be signed by candidates ... I imagine his Lordship will not be pleased with my advice, but I have relieved my conscience. The Society cannot concede a point which has been yielded by all the Colonial Bishops except our own.

I saw none of our old friends at the Bay except Mr. King and my brother. I suppose the rest were too busy in their respective stations. I talked with my brother about the proposed general committee, and I wrote an official proposal to the N.D. Committee proposing that a meeting shall be held in the month of October next, either at Auckland or Tauranga ....

Our family is now sadly divided. Three sons & one daughter at the college, one daughter at Paihia & four at Turanga. Still I am thankful for the very abundant mercies we have experienced in respect to our children.

A. N. BROWN PAPERS MICRO MS (ATL)