1990 - Brown, A. N. The Journals of A.N. Brown, C.M.S. Missionary Tauranga... 1840 to 1842 - 1840, p 1-21

       
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  1990 - Brown, A. N. The Journals of A.N. Brown, C.M.S. Missionary Tauranga... 1840 to 1842 - 1840, p 1-21
 
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1840

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1840

January 2nd.--Meeting second class baptismal candidates, writing etc.

5th. Sunday.-- Held service at Maunga tapu. Returned to take the evening duties at the Station, when I baptized 5 Native children & administered the sacrament.

6th.-- The "Martha" brig arrived, bringing back my colleague Mr Stack & his family from the Bay, and having on board also the Revd. W. Williams & family. Mr W. is on his way to occupy a most important field of labor at Turanga, Poverty Bay.

9th.--Revd. H. Williams arrived from Rotorua.

10th & 11th.-- Members from different places being providentially met together at Tauranga, we resolved ourselves into a Special Committee, in order at this important crisis to recommend certain measures for adoption by the Northern & Southern District Committees.

12th. Sunday.--Baptized 9 adults, being the remainder of the first class candidates. In the evening administered the Sacrament.

13th.--Tupaia came over from Otumoetai to receive a message brought by Revd. H. Williams from the Rotorua Chiefs. Tupaia was civil, but refused in very positive terms to make peace with Rotorua. Mr W. afterwards sailed for the Bay of Islands.

14th.--Revd. W. Williams & family left for Poverty Bay.

17th.--Received information from Rotorua that the Natives of that place are preparing to attack Tauranga. Meeting the second class baptismal candidates, consisting of 18 adults. These will now be constituted the first class. Letter from the Christian teachers at Matamata urging me to go over on a visit.

18th.--Mr Stack, who left yesterday for the Thames, was obliged to return, his Natives fearing an attack on the road. The Rotorua fight reported to have been seen in the neighbourhood of Otumoetai Pa. Met the Native teachers, 12 in number. Considered the former part of 14c. John. Much confined during the past week with another opthalmic attack.

19th. Sunday.--Home services. Preached in English from 14c. John.

23rd.--The inflammation of my eyes being less severe, I left home to visit the Matamata Natives and baptize the classes who were at Tauranga some time since under instruction. Met a canoe on our way to Te Puna with Pea & other Chiefs in it. He sent a message by my party to the Chiefs at Matamata that he was willing to give up a piece of land at that place

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as a payment for the property taken by his people four years ago at Waiharakeke.

24th.--On reaching Matamata, visited the sick and administered medicine. One of the invalids was my old lad Taukawe, who after the death of his wife Tawiu, lapsed into sin, but who I trust has been made by his present chastisement sensible of his iniquity. May his now apparently sincere repentance last beyond the period that he may be kept in the furnace of affliction.

At prayers in the evening addressed a party of nearly 300 Natives. The loss they have sustained in the destruction of their chapel, ten houses & a large quantity of the pa fencing is very severe, and in order to encourage them to commence building another chapel, I promised them part of a cask of tobacco when they should have completed their work. There is much dissatisfaction expressed by the Natives on the subject of purchases of land by the Europeans, large tracts being included in the deed without the consent of the owners, and without their even being consulted on the subject.

25th.--The land which Pea offered to give up, belongs not to himself only, but to others who had nothing to do with the stripping party or their booty, and although several of the Chiefs consented to Pea's proposition, others as was natural to expect, opposed it, nor do I think it well to urge the matter. Should any recompense be made to the Society in addition to the pigs etc already given up, and which I think will ultimately be the case, it should be a free will offering.

A tract of land has been offered to me for sale which it seems desirable to secure by purchase on behalf of the Christian Natives who will soon be without land on which to raise provision for their sustenance. The Christian Natives are already a large body, and will become increasingly so, the causes which have principally tended to the decrease of population in these islands, (war, polygamy etc), being as far as they are concerned, removed.

Occupied throughout the morning in examining the first class baptismal candidates. Well satisfied with the clearness of their views on the subjects of the fall of man, the satisfaction offered by our Redeemer, the necessity of the influences of the Holy Spirit to renew our nature and meeten us for the inheritance of the saints in light. The afternoon I devoted to the second class to whom the preceding observation is equally applicable except in the case of three, whose baptism I consider it better to defer until they have received some further instruction. The parties themselves fully acquiesced in the arrangement, remarking that they did not wish to be baptized in ignorance, as many of the Wesleyan converts are. It seems indeed a fixed rule with the Wesleyan missionaries to baptize and then to teach, thus reversing the order of the commandment given on the subject by our Lord & Master. Addressed the Natives in the evening; 300 assembled. At night examining a party in my tent on scriptural subjects. Made an arrangement with Paul & a party of 12 other

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Christian Natives to visit Taupo, Wanganui & Cook's Straits, to distribute books and preach the Gospel. Supplied them with 7 Testaments & 100 Prayer Books, primers etc. The trip will probably occupy them about three months.

26th. Sunday.--Addressed the Natives this morning from 3rd Epistle of St John 4v. "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth". Baptized 13 adults who have been on probation for the last twelve months and whose general conduct is well reported of by the Christian Natives. More than 500 Natives were present at service, which we held on the site of their former chapel. The spot was most tastefully fitted up, for in order to protect us from the rays of the burning Sun, they had fixed a quantity of young trees in the ground about 10 feet apart; poles were then placed in a horizontal position, to which the tops were bound and the whole roof was then strewed over with small branches, while on the ground we had a carpet of green fern. Immediately after service the infant school assembled, numbering 50 children. Throughout the afternoon I attended the men's school and girls'. At the former 141 were present - at the latter 120. The boys' school was divided into 5 classes - the girls' into 2. In the men's school 67 could read the New Testament fluently, & 13 others more slowly. Of the women, however, only 4 were able to read the Testament. The indifference of the Native Females to Spiritual matters, I have often mourned over. The position they occupy, in common with the women of all savage nations is so low that it seems difficult to induce them to believe that they have an equal interest with ourselves in the glowing subject of salvation. Yet these dry bones shall live. A shaking amongst them has already commenced. Four of them came forward yesterday to enquire if they might be admitted on the list of baptismal candidates. At our evening service baptized 5 children belonging to some of the parties received in the morning. Our pretty tabernacle was much withered by the scorching Sun, and I took occasion from the circumstance to remind them that had the blighted branches before us remained on their parent stocks, they would still have been green & flourishing, and that we also unless we abide in Christ, would at last be cast forth as withered branches.

27th.--Held a meeting at daybreak with the Matamata Chiefs. After a noisy committee in which frequently three or four of the party were all making their speeches together, they agreed to give up the portion of land mentioned by Pea, but as he was absent at Tauranga the final arrangement of the business was agreed to be deferred until I again visit Matamata. Rapa, the man who planned the robbery at Waiharakeke and was one of the most active agents in it, spoke well. He has of late joined himself to the professing party, and I would fain hope he is sincere. Certainly I am not a prejudiced witness in his favor. Journeying towards Tauranga. Slept in the woods.

28th.-- Arrived at home. The Ro-

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torua fight have not yet made their assault, but are daily expected to do so. Mr Wilson has returned from Opotiki via Maketu, having made two purchases of land, one on behalf of the Society, the other for his children and those of Mr Stack & myself. The two tracts will cost about £300 each.

At Maketu the Natives were very violent in their language, and Mr Wilson's lads were in great jeopardy. One Chief Huka (the man who committed the murder which led to the present protracted war) wished to get possession of W. Marsh Ngakuku, who was coasting in our boat. His plan, which was afterwards mentioned, was to invite Marsh into the pa and murder him in the night. Providentially however, the wind blew so strongly off shore that the boat could not effect a landing, and thus the murderous design was frustrated.

We held a committee with the enquiring Natives around us, deeming it prudent after the language held by Rotorua to Mr Wilson, that they should leave the Station and go to the pas for safety. They were much opposed to such a movement, and it does seem a hard case that after having separated from their unbelieving countrymen, they should now be compelled to go back to them for protection, and probably be exposed to ridicule & contempt for having left them. May they be "kept" in this new scene of temptation.

29th.--Serving out rations etc.

30th.--It is reported that the R. C. Bishop is about to place several priests in this neighbourhood. The poor deluded Natives seem much delighted at the idea.

February 1st.--A part of the Rotorua fight sallied from their ambush to-day, near Maunga tapu, and murdered a woman belonging to that pa. 6 men & 15 women who were with her made their escape. The murderers took away with them the scalp & lower extremeties of the poor creature leaving the rest of her mutilated remains behind.

2nd. Sunday.--At Otumoetai Pa 300 assembled at the chapel end of the pa, and 90 at Tupaia's compound. As soon as we commenced prayers a bell was rung at another part of the pa, where a party assembled to read the prayers which the R. C. Bishop had forwarded to them by a little vessel which arrived here on Wednesday. After service I had some conversation with the party, who are expecting the R. C. priests amongst them. They very much extolled the liberality of the R. C. Bishop, who has forwarded presents of gowns, handkerchiefs etc. This mode of propagating Popery, and which I suppose is adopted because they dare not use the sword, cannot succeed. While the bribes continue to pour in, professed converts from amongst the unprincipled will of course abound. Their sincerity, or its opposite, will be manifested when they are no longer perverted with gifts. Some of the Europeans are throwing off their disguise. Two of them, having taken offence at some remarks I lately made at public service on the subject of Papacy, have expressed their determination not

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to attend again, and a poor ignorant Heathen in the service of one of them, opposed a Native teacher to-day who was addressing a party of his countrymen, and defended Popery with all the blind zeal of an infatuated, low, Irish Papist. The battle which Wickliffe fought in England, may yet have to be refought in this country. May it be in Wickcliffe's spirit! Our weapons are not carnal, and though the conflict may be severe, the Victory is certain.

6th.--Smoke seen during the night issuing from a valley where it is supposed the Rotorua fight, or a part of them, are lying in ambuscade.

7th.--Our boat returned from Maketu. The fight are talking of returning home, but I fear it is but a feint to put these people off their guard, for a crop of sweet potatoes was taken away a few nights since from a plantation close to Maunga tapu Pa.

8th.--The enquiring Natives around us, instead of leaving for the pas, have been busily engaged throughout the week by day & night in entrenching themselves in a small fortification close to our settlement, which will prove in all probability a safeguard for them against the threatened hostile movement of the Rotorua tribes.

9th. Sunday.--Morning, at Maunga tapu; 90 at service. The congregation is smaller than it used to be in consequence of the removal of many of them to the Papa Pa. Long conversation with Nuka. He opposes the Gospel with much vehemence. I told him that I thought of leaving him to himself for a season, for in his present diabolical spirit it seems like casting pearls before swine to speak to him of redemption by the spotless sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Held Native service in the evening on the Station. About 100 present.

10th.--Engaged with a party of Natives who came over from Motuhoa to be examined in the Scriptural subjects.

11th.-- Occupied with a class of 24 enquiring Natives, 13 of them being women.

12th.-- Letters from the Bay by Columbine. The Lieut-Governor, (Captain Hobson) has arrived in New Zealand and issued a proclamation declaring all purchases of land from the Natives after the 30th ult to be null & void, and all purchases of antecedent date are to be proved before a Commission which is to be appointed by the Governor & Council of New South Wales. Good will doubtless arise from these measures, but there is a tone in the proclamation which sounds very much like the sovereign rights of New Zealand being vested in Queen Victoria. I know not how far the two purchases at Opotiki may be affected by this proclamation, but we are now too far pledged to the Natives to withhold the remaining instalments of the purchase money.

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13th.--Getting goods on shore from the Columbine.

14th.--Engaged with my Brethren visiting the Rotorua Natives who arrived during the night from Maketu. They had been so long in ambush that the Tauranga Natives had abated their caution, and in consequence a party of 2 men & 2 women who left this place last night in a canoe for Mayor Island, were pursued by the fight and murdered. The poor creatures jumped into the sea, but were recovered from the watery grave only to be butchered & eaten on shore. The fight treated us with much more civility, and promised not to molest any Natives who might remain on the Station. They seemed very anxious to make peace, and sent a neutral Native in our boat to Otumoetai Pa on the embassy. Our journey however proved unsuccessful. The principal Chief (Tupaia) refused to make his appearance even to hear the message, and the rest of the Natives seemed so enraged by the murder of last night that they refused to make peace, and urged the Rotorua party to come over and attack them. After returning to the fight to mention the result of our interview, we went back to the settlement.

15th.--The Rotorua Natives pulled in their canoes to Maunga tapu, where they kept up a brisk fire for a length of time, but without injuring anyone in the pa. On their return, a party from Otumoetai fired from our Station at the canoes. This is very irritating to the fight and very base on the part of the Tauranga Natives, as our settlement has hitherto been held neutral by all parties.

16th. Sunday.--Took the home services. There were 100 Natives present morning & evening. Baptized 4 children making a total number of baptisms at Tauranga & Matamata during the past year 67, being 44 adults & 23 children.

17th & 18th.--Assisting Mr Stack in the store.

19th.--The fight have been engaged during the last three days in stripping the Tauranga plantations, and they have succeeded in making peace with a small party at Motuhoa. Mr Stack & myself went off in our boat to meet them on their return this morning. The party, who were in 36 well filled war canoes, consisted of about 600 men, besides women & children. At the request of the Chiefs we went to hold another interview with Tupaia on the subject of making peace. He would not however listen to any terms, and seems determined to continue the war at all hazards. Though personally civil to us, he appeared like a bear robbed of her cubs when speaking of Rotorua. The fight landed within sight of Otumoetai Pa and quietly awaited our return. On hearing Tupaia's determination they went off in their canoes to their old encampment opposite our Station, after having made a few speeches relative to their future intentions, and going through some superstitious ceremony which was intended to kill the Natives in the pa. In

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the afternoon we again visited the camp, and at the wish of the Rotorua party went on to Maunga tapu Pa with offers of peace, which however were not acceded to by Nuka. He alleged as a reason for holding out, that they should be attacked by their present allies (Waikato) if peace were concluded with Rotorua. One of the Maunga tapu Natives was wounded in the foot just before our arrival, by a bullet fired by the Rotorua Natives, who at low water approach occasionally near enough to the pa to hold conversation with their enemies.

20th.--The Matamata Natives arrived to support Tauranga, and immediately came over to fire across the water as a challenge to the Rotorua party. Some Natives from Maunga tapu had previously been firing at them from our Station. The Rotorua Natives consequently came over to the sandy flat near our houses, and from thence kept up a running fire at the Matamata & Tauranga Natives who were assembled on the opposite side of the small river which runs by the settlement. Although both parties were within half musket shot of each other, no one received injury from the many hundred balls which were expended. While one party of the Rotorua Natives were firing, others of them were busily engaged with incantations intended either to preserve their companions from harm or to cause death amongst their enemies.

21st & 22nd.--Heavy gale. The fight must be in a wretched condition at Maunganui. Without shelter, wet, cold & hungry. They have several times applied to us for food, but maintaining our neutral ground we have from conscientious motives refused their requests, and the refusal has been borne with patience. This would not be the case in more civilized warfare. They would help themselves. Who can doubt that the restraining hand of God has been stretched forth in this instance on our behalf.

23rd. Sunday.--Continuance of the gale. Took English service. All the children on the Station ill, we fear with hooping cough.

24th.--Made another visit to Otumoetai Pa in hopes of getting peace concluded. Many amongst the Chiefs are anxious for it, but the dogged obstinacy of the few will, I fear frustrate the object.

25th.--Engaged assisting Mr Stack with the stores.

26th.-- The fight made another assault to-day on Maunga tapu. Three men on each side were wounded in the skirmish.

27th.--The gale renewed with increased violence.

28th.--It was expected that the Rotorua Natives would again attack the pa at Maunga tapu this morning but they suddenly returned home in a heavy sea. One of the men wounded yesterday at the pa died in the night and another is lying very ill.

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March 1st.--A hurricane during the night. Our fences blown down, trees uprooted etc. We had many fears as to the safety of Columbine, but at daybreak discovered her riding safely at anchor. The Mitea, a large schooner anchored off the settlement was a perfect wreck. The Captain had cut away the masts during the night, and to the bowsprit a shirt was hoisted as a signal of distress. Although the sea still rolled heavily, Mr Wilson with a Native crew put off in our large boat and brought away the Captain & crew. They were in a wretched state, the sea having made a complete breach over them throughout the night.

3rd.--Information was brought us during the night that the Otumoetai Natives intended to strip the stranded vessel. When they commenced their work of plunder we put off in two boats well manned by the settlement Natives and succeeded in stopping the thieves.

4th.--Our Natives engaged in emptying the Mitea. Their conduct throughout has been highly praiseworthy, both in preserving the property and preventing its being pilfered by the ill disposed Natives.

7th.--Dr Pompallier, R. C. Bishop, accompanied by a priest, arrived to-day in a small schooner. Much excitement amongst the Natives.

8th. Sunday.--At Otumoetai. As no bell was rung at the end of the pa where the Papists had taken up their abode, I considered that they had perhaps abandoned the idea of holding a public service, and after prayers at the chapel I went on to visit the different enclosures, but found all the houses emptied. When however I reached Tupaia's yard, I found a large assembly of Natives drawn together by curiosity to witness what must have been to them a novel exhibition. A small stage was erected, not unlike the puppet shows carried about in England. This was adorned with trumpery drapery of different colours. The priest was busily arranging a Crucifix, 3 lamps, prints of the Virgin Mary, a cup etc. I turned with disgust from this mockery of "pure and undefiled religion" and met the R. C. Bishop, who saluted me very graciously and enquired if I were a settler. "No" I replied "I am a protestant missionary". He said that it was by invitation of the Chiefs that he visited Tauranga. I remarked that we should feel it our duty to oppose him but it should be not with carnal weapons but with the word of God. "You mean the English translation of it" he added, and then proceeded to make some brief remarks on the oneness & unity & antiquity of the R. C. Church. He did not wait for any reply, but remarking that the Natives were waiting, he bowed and proceeded to celebrate Mass. I of course retired, but from the reports afterwards brought me, his exhibition appears to have made but little impression on the Natives, whose risible faculties were so much excited by the gesticulations, crossings, kissing of garments etc, that the R. C. Bishop was obliged to stop several times and request

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silence. The whole service was performed in "an unknown tongue" except a few sentences at the commencement in which the R. C. religion was described as being the "old" one and the "only true" one. He will however find that the Natives will require something more than his assertions to satisfy them on these points, and that with those who possess the Scriptures the dogmas of the Apostate Church will have "neither strength nor authority, unless it may be declared that they be taken out of Holy Scriptures". (21st Article). After service the R. C. Bishop sent for Tupaia & other leading Chiefs, to whom he distributed presents of clothes etc.

9th.--Dr Pompallier went on to Maunga tapu Pa. A Native observed to me that he now knew for the first time what the expression "Believing with the lips only" meant, for the Roman Catholics not having the Bible, had no other than "lip belief". One of our Christian teachers told the Bishop yesterday that his religion could not be the true one, for he bowed down to idols, which God had forbidden. The Bishop replied that they were not idols, but "remembrances". He did not however seem inclined to continue the conversation, and walked away.

10th.--The Natives who have hitherto attended our public services at Otumoetai, continue to hold fast their profession, but numbers of the heathen Natives, and especially the party that were so disgracefully employed in plundering the wrecked schooner, are decorated with Roman Catholic insignia. Their profession will not interfere with their avocations, and probably the next time they attack Maketu they will wear their medals and crucifixes.

11th.--An enquiring party from Maunga tapu came over for examination. Our meetings of late have been sadly interrupted. The papists have ordered a chapel to be erected at Maunga tapu, and have produced by their presents such a temporary excitement that a great many of the Natives have beads around their necks & medals or crucifixes in their ears. The R. C. Bishop has stated that he comes not among them like the protestant missionaries to get possession of their lands, but solely for their spiritual good, and amongst other mendacious speeches declared that our religion originated with a bad man (Martin Luther) who was turned out of their church for adultery! Besides the presents made by the R. C. Bishop, he has promised more if they continue to hold to his church until he returns. The cupidity of the Natives thus excited, an impression will be produced and probably will last until their blankets wear out, and then we may hope that the deluded Natives, seeing their folly, (as they are beginning to do at the Northward), will again become accessible to the voice of truth. An epidemic seems spreading amongst the Natives. I have administered upwards of 40 doses of medicine to-day.

12th.-- Addressed the Natives at chapel this evening.

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13th.--It is reported that the R. C. Bishop left for Matamata on the 11th. but I have no fear as to his doing much mischief there.

Engaged during the morning compounding & administering medicines. Occupied afterwards with a class of 24 candidates for baptism. Confined the examination principally to errors connected with Roman Catholicism.

14th.--Attacked with inflammation of the eyes.

15th. Sunday.--Prevented by Opthalmia from leaving home. Both my colleagues are absent at Opotiki, and the Papists dispensing their poisonous doctrines at Matamata. Well, the Good Shepherd can guard his flock without the help of his underlings.

16th.--Met second class baptismal candidates from Maunga tapu, 15. A Native arrived from Matamata to fetch medicine. He reports that the professing Natives had determined not to listen to the address of the R. C. Bishop. The priest left at Otumoetai has fixed his residence amongst the party who plundered the Mitea. If these are their kind of converts, Popery may make progress -- Christianity will not.

17th & 18th.--Eyes still bad.

19th.--One of our Christian Natives (Matthew) has been engaged to-day in a controversy with R. C. priest. The priest approaching him said, "There is one God -- The Father, the Son & the Holy Ghost". "That is truth" replied Matthew. The priest then, holding his cross in his hand, remarked "We do not worship this, but it is to make us remember Christ". "That" replied Matthew "is your speech, but what says the Book? Thou shalt not make to thyself any graven image. Your image is the work of man, and to make an image like that is breaking God's commandment". Matthew then read 14c Revs 9, 10, ll vs and asked the priest the meaning of the passage. The priest replied that he did not know enough of the native language to understand him, and was walking away. "Stop" said Matthew "You sought this conversation with me, and if you cannot understand what I say, your disciple Haki Tara can. I will tell him what these verses mean, and he can explain it to you". "Haki" continued Matthew, "This receiving the mark of the beast means, amongst other things, carrying those medals of the Virgin in your ears, and those crosses round your necks. And now Haki tell me what this expression means. If the blind lead the blind, both will fall into the ditch".

"I do not know" replied Haki. 'Then" continued Matthew, "I will tell you. That man", pointing to the priest, "is a leader of the blind, and those who listen to his karakia, and receive his doctrines and bow down to his images, are blind also, and the ditch means Hell, into which both parties, unless they repent, will at last fall". The priest would not remain any longer, but turned angrily away - -probably more firmly rooted than ever in the opinion that the Church of Rome

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is right in withholding from the common people that Word which God designed as a lamp to lead us into all truth.

21st.--Met as usual the class of Native teachers. We considered the passage "Flee idolatry", from which they will speak on the morrow (D. V.) at the pas & outposts.

22nd. Sunday.--Eyes too much inflamed to take any public duty.

23rd.--Met class of enquiring Natives.

24th.--The R. C. Bishop sailed after having visited all the tribes around us.

25th.--Left for Matamata. Slept in the woods. Suffered much from inflammation of the eyes.

26th.--The Natives at the Heathen Pa are professed Roman Catholics. They have turned however, (to use the striking expression of one of them), not to the religion of the Papists, but to their blankets. The R. C. Bishop walked through the Christian Pa during his visit without speaking to anyone or being spoken to, but at the Heathen Pa he spoke to the Natives on the sinfulness of my being married, on the bad character of Martin Luther, on the antiquity of his Church, the supremacy of St Peter etc. Ringing changes on these subjects appears to have been the daily employment of the Bishop during his short stay, but exhortations to repentance & faith and calling upon God for the influences of the Holy Spirit, he passed over. In the evening I addressed an attentive congregation of 300 Natives. Received a message from Area of Maunga Tautari, who has long been in an enquiring state. He is said to be dying, and wishes to see me. This will upset my arrangements, but it seems a call of duty and I must go.

27th.--Travelling to Maunga tautari. Found Area very ill but probably not so near death as his friends and himself expect. It was too late at night to hold much conversation with him, but that little was satisfactory as showing that he was trusting for salvation to the only "foundation" that has been or can be laid for a guilty sinner's acceptance with Cod.

28th.--Sent off messengers to the different parties about the mountain to assemble here tomorrow, being too unwell to visit them. Read and expounded 3c. John to Area, and then examined him for a considerable time as to his views in wishing for baptism. These I found to be scriptural. Met a party of enquiring Natives in the afternoon, several of whom I may probably baptize on my next visit. In the evening addressed a party of 50 Natives in the chapel. The average attendance of the school under the charge of Thomas Bamford & his wife at Te wera o te Atua, has been 45 during the last 6 months. Of this number about 30 can read the New Testament.

29th. Sunday.--200 Natives assembled at Divine service. Preached from 3c. John 5v. Baptized Area "Lazarus".

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Like Lazarus he lay (on a mat) covered with ulcerated sores, and like Lazarus he will soon, I doubt not, be resting in Abraham's bosom.

The boys' school was attended by 84 Natives, the girls' by 49. 42 of the joint number read the Scriptures. At night I baptized the child of Lazarus -- "Martha", and again addressed the Natives. The prevailing epidemic has reached this place. During yesterday & to-day administered upwards of 100 doses of medicine.

30th.--Journeying to Matamata. In conversation with William Thompson, I learned many particulars of the late visit made by the Papists to Matamata, and I feel persuaded that their attempt to introduce Popery was a failure. In order, I presume, to ingratiate himself with the Natives, the R. C. Bishop has been in the habit of encouraging the national dances amongst them. He did so at Matamata and was reproved for it by a Christian Native, (H. Williams), as being contrary to the Gospel. A Roman Catholic flax collector asked William Thompson if he had seen the Bishop. He replied No, but that he knew he was coming. "Where did you learn that?" enquired the settler. "From my Testament" replied Thompson, "where it is written, "I know this that after my departure shall grievous wolves enter in among you".

31st.--Travelling homewards. My eyes still much inflamed.

April 1st.--Arrived at home in safety. Received communications from His Excellency the Lieut-Governor wishing me to procure the signatures of any leading Chiefs in this neighbourhood to the treaty which had been signed at Waitangi. Confined to the house by an opthalmic attack.

9th.--Another murder has just been committed at Maketu under circumstances more treacherous perhaps than any that has taken place during the progress of the Southern war. A message was sent from some Rotorua Chiefs to the Natives of Maunga tapu stating their desire that peace should be concluded, and requesting some leading Chief should go to Maketu for that purpose. Ponui, a Chief of considerable importance, accepted the invitation. When he came in sight of Maketu, several of the Rotorua Chiefs went to meet him, and after having a "cry" with him, (a token amongst the Natives of love & goodwill), they murdered him and dragged his lifeless corpse into the pa that he was about to visit by invitation as an ambassador of peace.

10th.--My Brethren who are assembled at Tauranga to hold a committee, gave up the day to procuring signatures of the Natives to the Government treaty.

12th. Sunday.--Held English service & administered the Sacrament.

13th to 16th.--Engaged in Committee.

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17th.--Good Friday. Preached in English, our friends taking the Native services.

19th. Sunday.--Eyes too much inflamed to take any duty.

20th.--Finished Committee. The R. C. Bishop arrived from the Southward. He proposes, it is said, establishing a Missionary Station at Opotiki. I am thankful that the ground is likely to be preoccupied by our Society. A canoe was driven into Tauranga to-day by stress of weather. The principal Native in her was a young Chief, a near relative of one of the party who lately murdered Ponui at Maketu. The news soon spread to the pas, and we were in considerable alarm for the safety of the young Chief. He however seemed to feel that he should be safe while he remained on the Mission Station, and our own Natives expressed the same opinion.

21st.--Drawing Bills for our Brethren, who left to-day for their several homes. The R. C. Bishop again left Tauranga in order to visit the Thames.

22nd.--A party of Christian Natives whom I sent 3 months since to visit Taupo & Cook's Straits, have just returned in safety to Matamata. The leader of the party (Paul) sent me in journal shape an account of their journey. They appear to have had a gracious reception wherever they went. The fields are indeed rapidly whitening unto the harvest.

23rd.--Heard that a "sacred fight" left Tauranga the day before yesterday to search for a "payment" for the murder of Ponui.

24th.--The fight returned, after firing off their muskets at Maketu.

25th.--The party mentioned on the 20th were permitted to leave in their canoe this morning for Maketu without any molestation on the part of the Tauranga Natives.

26th. Sunday.--Unable to take any other than a short English service.

27th to 30th.--Assisting Mr Stack with committee papers, gardening, glazing windows etc.

May 2nd.--Buried two more children to-day. The deaths of infants during the prevailing epidemic has been very fearful, and Satan is trying to turn it to his advantage, the Heathen Natives endeavouring to persuade the Christian ones that these deaths are the consequence of violation of Native Tapus & Ritengas. May they be kept from believing this "lie". Either writing or reading still causes severe pain in my eyes.

3rd. Sunday.--Took Native service at Otumoetai. Only 60 present, it being a wet day and a large party absent in the woods. Some Natives professing to have embraced Roman Catholicism were at work erecting a chapel, and two men who were waiting till the R. Catholic

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service commenced, were beguiling the time by a game of drafts.

5th to 8th.--Gardening, arranging accounts etc.

9th.--Left for the Thames. Pitched my tent at Matakana, where I was favourably received, considering the report that this tribe had turned R. Catholics. Only 30 however attended chapel in the evening.

10th. Sunday.--After holding service with 50 of the Matakana Natives & attending their school, where 40 met in classes, I rowed to Motuhoa and assembled 40 in the chapel, whom I addressed, and then returned to hold another service in the evening at Matakana. Afterwards examined a class at my tent door in the Scriptures.

11th.--Journeying towards the Thames.

12th.--Travelling throughout the day and arrived by Sunset at the landing place. Disappointed at finding neither boat nor canoe.

13th.--Sent a lad in search of a canoe along the banks of the Waihou River. He returned with one at midnight.

14th.--Started at 8 o'clock. The tide being against us as we approached the Frith, we landed at Kopu and walked to Mr Preece's house, which we reached at night.

16th.--Engaged most of the day & throughout the evening examining the candidates proposed for baptism tomorrow.

17th. Sunday.--Baptized Mr Preece's infant, and of Natives 18 adults & 3 children. Took the Native service in the morning & the English one in the afternoon.

18th.--Baptized another adult Native this morning.

19th.--Left for Matamata, but the boat containing our luggage stove in getting out of the river & filled. The whole day taken up drying our things.

20th.--Again left with Mr Preece to hold an examination of the Matamata schools. Kept on till after midnight.

21st & 22nd.--Still pulling up the river. Slept at Manga weinga, where we proposed leaving the boat and proceeding overland.

23rd.--Arrived at last at Matamata. Despatched messengers to assemble the Natives from Maunga tautari. The Natives of our pa busily engaged in pulling out timber for the erection of their new chapel. They have a noble ridge pole felled, 83 feet long.

24th. Sunday.--Held service at the Christian Pa. Mr Preece visiting the plain. Between four & five hundred present. Addressed them from 3 Revs closing

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verse. Conversation afterwards with 2 Natives who are very ill and who have expressed a wish for baptism. Their views of their own sinful nature, of the way of salvation by Christ, of the application of His blood by the Holy Spirit etc, were clear & scriptural, and I determined not to delay their baptism. Poor Ita, (W. Thompson's wife), died early this morning. Her views were I fear very dark. In the afternoon I attended the boys' school. There were 180 attended. Afterwards baptized the 2 men above mentioned -- Abraham & Noah. At evening service baptized W. Thompson's infant. W. Preece addressed the Natives. About 350 present.

25th.--Spent the day examining candidates for baptism. Received information in the evening from Tauranga of the arrival of a R. C. priest who is to be stationed at that place.

26th.--Continued the examination of baptismal candidates, and afterwards engaged with other enquiring Natives.

27th.--Buried poor Ita & her child. Visiting the sick. Conversation with the Natives on the subject of Popery.

28th.--An old Chief observed to me that he had become a Roman Catholic because of the similarity of that religion to the Native Ritenga. "We have dances" said he "and so have the Roman Catholics," (alluding to their bowings, crossings & gesticulations). "We have tapus and so have they. We carry stone ornaments in our ears and round our necks -- they carry medals and crosses. We pray to Wiro, Tu & other Native Gods -- they pray to Peter, Mary & other Gods". This parallel drawn by one of their own disciples might probably disgust the Papists, but there is much of simple truth in it. What has a Heathen to renounce, or what sacrifices has he to make, in becoming a nominal Roman Catholic? Literally none. Addressed the Natives this evening.

29th.--The weather proved unfavourable, but about 800 Natives assembled at the examination. Of this number 478 were arranged in 11 classes, and after repeating the catechisms, those who could read the New Testament, in number 124, were examined in several chapters. At the conclusion the whole party sat down to a sumptuous Native feast to which the R. C. (?) party contributed a large quantity of potatoes & pork.

30th.--We again assembled the schools for examination. They repeated from memory the miracles of our Saviour, the names and titles given to Jesus Christ, and the names and offices of the Holy Spirit, which they had searched out for themselves. They also read and were examined in different parts of the New Testament. The whole examination was satisfactory & cheering.

31st. Sunday.--Held service on the plain opposite our old settlement, about 600 present. Baptized 21 adults belonging to this place, (Matamata) & Maunga

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tautari. At evening service 500 Natives assembled, when I baptized 11 infants. It has been altogether a most gratifying day.

June 1st.--Left for Tauranga. A flood detained us at the River Waihou, so that we were unable to proceed further than the Wairere, where we pitched our tents a short distance from the place where William Marsh's (Ngakuku) child was murdered.

2nd.--The gale which was threatening yesterday, broke upon us with great violence, lasting throughout the whole of last night and keeping us in our tents during the day.

3rd.--The flood quite terrific. Still a prisoner, and suffering much from inflamed eyes.

4th.--Journeying to Tauranga. Reached home late in the evening in safety.

7th. Sunday.--At Maunga tapu, where I held Native service.

9th.--An opportunity presenting itself of visiting the Bay of Islands, I felt it my duty to embrace it to obtain medical advice for my eyes.

10th.--Landed at Mayor Island and visited the Natives. Although we have been in the habit of supplying this isolated tribe with slates & books, I found them little disposed to listen to me, but soon discovered the reason. They were expecting a visit from the R. C. Bishop, an account of whose liberality in dispensing blankets and other presents they had heard of through a party of Thames Natives who had lately visited them.

14th. Sunday.--After a dangerous yet merciful passage we arrived in safety at the Bay of Islands. For two nights & a day we were tossing about in the cutter with the helm lashed down.

17th--Mr Ford being no longer in connection with the Mission, I was recommended to consult Dr Davies of Kororareka, and accordingly went over with the Revd. H. Williams. The doctor considers that there is a fungus growing in my eyelids, which can be removed by strong solutions of caustic, but he forbids all exercise of the eyes in reading or writing.

July 3rd.--Consulted at Dr Davies' request, the Surgeon of H. M. S. Herald. He, as well as Dr Johnson, the Government Surgeon, disagree with Dr Davies in his opinion that any fungus is growing in the eyelids. They consider it only the thickening of the membranes, the result of a former opthalmic attack, and recommend that the scapula scissors should not be resorted to. They all agree that it is only by sympathy that my sight is affected, which is a great cause for thankfulness.

19th. Sunday.--Mr Williams being absent from home, I ventured to take the

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English service, but my eyes were much inflamed afterwards.

August 9th. Sunday.--Took Native service.

14th.--Forwarded to Parent Committee copy of journal from July 11th to October 22, 1839, but unable to write with it.

16th. Sunday.--Preached in English.

23rd. Sunday.--Again enabled to take the English Service.

24th.--Went to Waimate, the first time of my leaving the Bay since my arrival from the Southward, being obliged every second day to attend Dr Davies.

25th.--Returned from Waimate.

September 1st.--Although my eyes are far from being in a healthy state, Dr Davies considers that he can prescribe for me now at Tauranga, and I again joyfully embarked for home.

3rd.--Obliged to anchor at Waiheke. Too rough to land at Mr Fairburn's.

5th.--The weather moderating, we at length landed at Maraetai.

6th. Sunday.--Took the English service at Mr Fairburn's and administered the Sacrament.

7th & 8th.--Landing stores from Columbine. At Mr Fairburn's request I went to look at Umupuia, the piece of land which he offered to the Society for a Mission Station in place of Maraetai, a circumstance which unfortunately for him appears altogether to have escaped the notice of the Parent Committee. Umupuia is decidedly preferable to Maraetai for a Missionary Settlement.

9th to 12th.--Bad weather & foul winds.

13th. Sunday.--Prevented by inflammation of the eyes from taking any public service.

14th.--Embarked for Tauranga.

15th.--Detained at anchor under Waiheke by contrary winds.

16th.--Landing stores for Mr Preece in Coromandel Harbour.

18th.--Reached home in safety. Our friends in health and the Natives quiet.

October 5th.-- Engaged with a class of 10 baptismal candidates from Maunga tapu. The Natives of that pa professing Roman Catholicism, do not even assemble for public worship on the Sabbath.

9th.--Again occupied with the baptismal candidates from Maunga tapu.

10th.--Eight Native teachers came over to recommence the Saturday Scrip-

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ture readings. We considered 6c. Galatians as their subject for to-morrow's address.

12th.--Messengers from Rotorua. Mrs Morgan seriously ill.

13th.--Mr Stack left for Rotorua in order to get Mrs Morgan to our house for a change of air.

14th to 17th.--Arranging at such intervals as my eyes would allow, the half yearly public accounts etc for Committee.

18th. Sunday.--Took the Native & English services, a Christian Native reading the Native lessons for me.

19th.--Engaged with a party of 24 enquiring Natives from Maunga tapu.

20th.--Sent off a party of 30 Natives to fetch Mrs Morgan & Family overland from Maketu. Occupied in examining the 8 Natives whom I purpose (D. V.) baptizing on Sunday next.

21st.--Engaged as yesterday with the baptismal candidates from Maunga tapu.

22nd.--Again occupied examining the candidates. One of our Native teachers who was giving a running commentary on 4c. 2nd Ep. Timy. to a party of his countrymen, observed on the 13th verse "I suppose it was Winter when St Paul went to Troas, and that he was so intent on preaching the Gospel that he came away and forgot his cloke". Mr Morgan arrived with his family.

23rd & 24th.--Occupied with the baptismal candidates. I propose deferring their baptism for another week to give them further instruction on one or two points.

25th. Sunday.--Took the settlement services, a Native reading the lessons for me.

26th to 30th.--Engaged daily in examining & instructing the Natives who are to be baptized on Sunday.

31st.--Meeting as usual the Christian teachers and examining them in the subject from which they are to speak on the morrow.

November 1st.--Held Native service at Maunga tapu, where I baptized 8 adults & 3 children. The R. C. priest has not visited this pa for 3 Sundays. He appears to be doing little among them except baptizing a few infants to whom he presents garments. The Natives mentioned to me an instance of his having baptized an infant on two different occasions, the child having been presented under fictitious names in order to obtain the garments.

2nd to 7th.--Helping Mr Stack divide stores.

8th. Sunday.--At Otumoetai pa. 140 at service, 75 at school.

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Noticed several old Chiefs among the congregation who have but just commenced attending Divine worship.

10th.--Left with Mr Stack to attend committee at the Thames.

11th to 13th.--Travelling.

14th.--Arrived at Mr Preece's.

15th. Sunday.--Revd. R. Maunsell at Native service baptized a party who had been examined by him previously to my arrival.

16th to 19th.--Engaged in Committee.

20th.--Finished committee. Left in the afternoon and slept at Turua Pa.

21st.--Pulling up the river. Reached the landing place shortly before Sunset, and proceeded on to the little wood where Mr Knight & his Natives were formerly plundered by Potiki. Slept there.

22nd. Sunday.--Mr Stack visited a small party of Natives in the neighbourhood. I remained and held service with our own lads at the tent.

23rd.--Travelling.

24th.--Reached home at night. Columbine had arrived bringing despatches from Parent Committee, the "Further Statement" etc.

This will call for a Special Committee if it can be holden, but the difficulties of meeting in the Southern District are very great.

25th to 28th.--Assisting Mr Stack dividing stores for shipment to Rotorua. Meeting Natives for religious conversation. Examining & arranging committee papers for transmission to Parent Society. Writing to Brethren as to holding a Special Committee.

29th. Sunday.--At Maunga tapu. Only 40 persons attended service.

The Natives are much dispersed at this season, searching for food of which they are almost destitute.

30th.--Writing to C. M. S. No 31. making out schedule of claims of land on behalf of the Society, for transmission to Colonial Secretary.

December 3rd.--The Columbine sailed for the Thames, having on board Mr Morgan & family who are going to occupy the Waikato Branch Station at Otawao.

4th.--Meeting four classes containing upwards of 60 candidates for baptism from different parts of Tauranga. With the assistance of our friends, got 300 of the prayer books, Daniel & other tracts folded & covered. The demand for books is very urgent.

5th.--Engaged examining the candidates who are to be admitted tomorrow to the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper.

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6th Sunday.--Took the Native service & afterwards administered the Sacrament to 9 men & 2 women, who I would fain hope did spiritually eat the flesh of Christ & drink his blood. May they drink it new with their Saviour in his kingdom.

7th.--During the afternoon occupied with 74 candidates for baptism from Maunga tapu, Otumoetai & the Papa. There were 34 women among the number. 40 girls at Native school this afternoon.

9th.--Dividing stores.

10th.--Revd. W. Williams arrived from Rotorua on his way home to Poverty Bay. His account of the field of labour occupied by him is very cheering, but he much needs help.

11th.--Mr Williams met & examined a class of 38 candidates for baptism.

12th.--Engaged with the Native teachers, 14 present. One of them had been told by the R. C. priest at Otumoetai that the text "Flee idolatry" was a command to leave the Protestant Church and join the only true Church -- that of Rome. We therefore took the text as the subject for to-morrow's address by the teachers at the outposts.

13th. Sunday.--Revd. W. Williams took the Native & English services at the settlement. 97 present at the former. In the afternoon he went to Otumoetai where 200 assembled for worship.

14th.--68 candidates for baptism came to the settlement for examination from Maunga tapu.

15th.--Revd. W. Williams left. Engaged with a baptismal class of 30 Natives from Otumoetai. In the evening addressed the Natives at chapel.

16th.--Meeting the Motuhoa class of baptismal candidates, 32. There were several very old women amongst them. Ignorant -- yet apparently seeking with much earnestness the way of salvation.

18th.--Engaged with the Wairoa class of baptismal candidates consisting of 40 Natives of both sexes, their ages varying from 12 to 60.

19th.--A party of baptismal candidates arrived from Matamata. I have examined during the past week nearly 200. There is evidently a wide spreading spirit of enquiry amongst the Natives, which has much increased since the arrival of the Papists in this place, and I would look upon it with gratitude as a token for good -- a token that our Master will not give up these Natives to bow either the knee or the heart to the apostate Church of Rome.

Engaged during the afternoon reading Scripture with the Native teachers. A party of Natives left Tauranga with the professed object of planting potatoes at Motiti, an island off Maketu which is claimed both by the Rotorua & Tauranga tribes.

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20th. Sunday.--Held service at Maunga tapu. 80 present. Scarcely anyone attended the R. C. chapel. Some of the Natives were busily engaged preparing their canoes to join the party who have left for Motiti. This looks suspicious, and I much fear that their object is to attack Maketu should they find it in an unprotected state.

21st.--Engaged with Maunga tapu baptismal class, 36. Native prayers etc.

22nd.--Occupied with Otumoetai class, 42. Afterwards with the class of 12 who arrived on Saturday from Matamata. Evening, addressed the Natives at chapel.

23rd.--Examining Motuhoa class. 24.

24th.--Engaged with the baptismal candidates from Matamata. Letter from Revd. R. Maunsell that Popery had made its appearance in two large pas at Waikato, near Otawao. The occupation of that post by Mr Morgan is rendered doubly important by the movements of the Papists.

25th.--Christmas Day. 135 men & 105 women, besides children, assembled to service. We afterwards gave them a mess of boiled flour. Took English service.

26th.--Engaged with the Scripture reading class of Christian teachers. The R. C. priest is said to have baptized a man, two women & some children yesterday. The man we know to be grossly ignorant, and the two women are living with two white men in an unmarried state.

27th. Sunday.--Morning & evening Native services -- 70 present. English services. It is a long time since I was enabled to take three full services in one day on account of the state of my eyes, which still continue very weak & painful.

28th.--Purchasing potatoes & firewood. Engaged afterwards with the Maunga tapu & Papa classes of baptismal candidates, consisting of 34 men & women.

29th.--Occupied by the Otumoetai class.

30th.--Addressing Natives at the chapel.

31st.--Engaged with my Natives during the past week putting our burying ground in order.


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