1842
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1842
January 2nd, Sunday.--Took the Native & English services at the settlement and afterwards went to Maunga tapu, where I again held Divine service with 150 Natives.
4th.--Engaged with the carpenter the last two days exploring a wood towards Katikati, the right of cutting firewood in which has been offered to us for a cow.
8th.--A party came over from Maunga tapu for instruction and to enquire as to the course they should adopt towards two of the baptized natives against whom a charge of immoral conduct had been preferred.
9th. Sunday.--Home Services.
10th.--Occupied examining a baptismal class of 20 Natives from Maunga tapu. They have been so long scattered in the woods at their plantations that they are not so far advanced in knowledge as they were six months since, though they maintain the same anxious wish for baptism. Administering medicine etc.
11th.--Examining the Papa baptismal class consisting of 20 candidates. They, like the Maunga tapu class, do not seem so clear in their views of Christian doctrine as formerly. Compounding medicine. Addressed the Natives at chapel.
13th.--The R. C. priests have been very busy of late in trying to engage in controversy with some of our Native teachers. Happily for the Natives they make the Scriptures the sole umpire, and while this is done, Popery cannot advance.
16th. Sunday.--Engaged with the Station duties. Mr. Colenso, who is on his way to the Bay, visited the two principal pas, assembling 200 Natives at Otumoetai and 260 at Maunga tapu.
17th.--The baptismal class from Maunga tapu were accompanied by 30 of their friends & relatives, who appeared much interested in their examination.
18th.--Administering medicine. Conversing with different Natives from the pas & other places on religious subjects. Amongst the number was Tare a principal Chief who has lately joined the professing party.
20th.--The Columbine arrived with a large shipment of stores.
21st & 22nd.-- Clearing store; landing property from the vessel.
23rd. Sunday.--In the morning took the Native & English services at the settlement. In the afternoon held service with 120 Natives at Maunga tapu.
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24th.--Chiefly occupied to-day compounding & administering medicines to sick Natives from the pas.
25th.--One of our Christian Natives mentioned an interview he had had on Sunday last with an R. C. priest who, to entrap our teacher, asked whether the Apostles had any children. "I do not know" answered Philip, "But I read that Peter had a wife and that Philip the deacon had 7 daughters". "Yes" rejoined the priest. "Peter in his unconverted state had a wife, but when he embraced the Gospel he left her, and hence when he said to Jesus Christ -- We have left all and followed thee -- our Saviour replied -- Every one that hath forsaken wife etc. for my name's sake, shall inherit eternal life". And this is the way the Scriptures are distorted by a Church which professes from a principle of charity to withhold the word of God from mankind, lest they should wrest them to their own destruction. Addressed the Natives at evening service.
26th & 27th.--Preparing & administering medicines etc.
28th.--Examining a class of 6 enquiring Natives from Matakana.
29th.--Met the Christian teachers and considered with them some of the leading errors of the Church of Rome.
30th. Sunday.--Held service at the Heahaenga with a few Natives, and afterwards conversed with a small party who have professedly joined the R. C. Church. I then went to the boat in order to visit the Natives at Pukewanaki, when we perceived another boat pulling swiftly towards us containing 3 R. C. priests & 3 other Frenchmen. They were it seems, in pursuit of me, so that I had to land again, and much against my inclination a discussion was forced upon me. I stated how inconsistent with the holy duties of the Sabbath these discussions were, but I was only met by the reply that the Sabbath was a ra tapu, and that our conversation related to Holy things, to which the priest stationed at Otumoetai had the meanness to add, (addressing himself to the Natives), that I was afraid to speak because our Church had no foundation to rest upon. Under these circumstances and for the sake of the Natives, I felt that it would not be politic to leave. The charge against me was that I had told some of their disciples that there was no foundation in Scripture for praying to the Virgin Mary, and no reason for believing that the Saints could hear the prayers which were addressed to them. Of course I could only plead guilty to the charge and reiterate it, challenging him to produce any scriptural authority for their vain practice, but throughout our lengthened discussion he only dared to appeal to two passages of Scripture -- Gabriel's salutation "Hail Mary"! and the parable of the rich man & Lazarus! Perceiving that he could not make much of his charge against me he, Jesuit like, tried to divert the subject by asking me to tell the Natives who the head of our Church was. I saw the net and replied
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that Jesus Christ was. Finding that he could not drive me from this position, he wrote on a piece of paper, (for they came supplied with writing materials), the name of the Pope as being head of his Church, and then turning to the Natives said that if I refused to write down the name of the head of our Church upon earth, they would know that it was because our Church had no foundation. On this I told the Natives that the priest had confessed before them that the head of their Church was the Pope, while I contended that the head of our Church was Jesus Christ, and asked which Church they thought most stable -- that built on a man, or that founded on God. The priest tried hard to persuade the Natives that the Church of England was but of yesterday, having Luther for its beginning, and was perfectly indignant at being told that we had Bishops in England a thousand years before the birth of Luther, and that some historians alleged that St. Paul himself had preached in Britain; indeed he so far forgot himself on one occasion as to call me a Minister of Satan, and added that one of my Brethren was a dish washer & the other a sailor. On leaving, he offered to shake hands with me, but I told him that I could not do so since he had descended to use language inconsistent with his professed character of a Gentleman & a Minister of Christ. These discussions are exceedingly painful, but the cause seems to require that we should not shrink when they are forced upon us; and some of the Natives have, I trust, been this day convinced that the Bible contains little respecting the Church of Rome beyond denunciations of her proud assumptions & abominable idolatries. I afterwards held service at Pukewanaki, where about 90 Natives assembled. The principal Chief of the Haehaenga and two others, accompanied me in the boat.
31st.--Some Natives from the R. C. party came over to beg books, and one to purchase a Testament, which I regret I was unable to supply him with. Administering medicine etc.
February 1st.--Messengers from Otawao. My Brethren inform me that 5 pas of the Waikato Heathen Natives have nominally adopted the R. C. worship. Addressed the Natives this evening at chapel.
2nd.--Matthew, (one of our Native teachers), related a conversation he had been holding with the R. C. priest. Matthew complained of the disgraceful manner in which the Native disciples of the priest profaned the Sabbath, by fishing. The priest replied that that was a small sin, for our Saviour plucked corn on the Sabbath day, and defended it. Matthew's sensible reply was, "Our Saviour & his company were a tira haere (a travelling party), and were hungry on their journey, whereas the Roman Catholic Natives left their homes on the Sabbath for the express purpose of fishing". It matters little to an R. C. priest, whence he gathers arguments, or what bad principles he instils, if he can carry his point -- his object being not truth but victory. It was only a few days since that one of the priests in order to prove to one
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of our Natives the sinfulness of ministers marrying, enquired whether our blessed Saviour was ever married. Our teacher mildly rebuked the scoffer, by replying, "Jesus Christ was God as well as man. Can this be said of Roman Catholic priests?"
3rd.--A party of Natives from a distant part came to beg medicine for their tribe this morning. In the afternoon I was occupied with a baptismal class, and in the evening held service & addressed the Natives.
4th.--Examining two baptismal classes from Motuhoa & Matakana. Administering medicines etc.
5th.--A large meeting to-day of our Native teachers. We continued the subject of the errors of Popery, commenced last Saturday.
6th.--At Otumoetai. 200 Natives at service. Amongst them were Tupaia, the principal Chief, his wife and several others of his tribe who have never hitherto joined us and who since the arrival of the Roman Catholics have nominally belonged to that party. Had a long conversation afterwards with the Natives still professing Roman Catholicism. I cannot but think that Popery is losing ground at Tauranga. Scarcely any attend the R. C. services, and one principal pa, (Maunga tapu), is seldom visited by the priest from his inability to collect a congregation there.
7th.--A party of the Heathen Natives from Otumoetai came to procure slates & prayer books. Afterwards engaged with a party of 18 enquirers from Maunga tapu, and in the evening held Native service.
8th.--Administering medicine etc. At night addressed the Natives at chapel.
9th.--Engaged conversing with the Christian Natives on the subject of the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. 30 attended.
10th.--Occupied as yesterday with other candidates for the Lord's Supper. Landing timber from Columbine, well digging etc.
11th.--A large number of enquirers to-day from Matakana & Motuhoa. I trust they are sincere. Purchasing potatoes for the settlement, administering medicine etc. Messrs Stack & Wilson returned from the Eastward.
12th.--A class of 30 Christian Natives. Read with them the institution of the Lord's Supper, as many of them are about to partake of that Ordinance to-morrow. It gave me another opportunity of exposing a leading error of the Roman Catholics.
13th. Sunday.--120 at the Native morning service, when I administered the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper to 18 of the Christian Natives, who I trust, received in faith this memorial of our
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Saviour's love towards them. I afterwards held English service, and in the evening, the Native one.
14th.--Accompanied by Mr. Wilson, I went in Columbine to Tuhua, (Mayor Island), the tribe residing there having, as it was reported, embraced Popery. On our arrival I held service with a party of 40 Natives.
15th.--Held service again with the Natives. We afterwards proceeded to the compound occupied by the little party professing Roman Catholicism, and were soon after joined by the R. C. priest who arrived during the night. When he entered, one of my Christian Natives (Edward) was addressing his countrymen on the idolatry of the Church of Rome, quoting with happy effect 10 Acts 25, 26 & 19 Revs. 10v, to shew that prayers whether offered to men or angels, were unlawful. He then remarked, (pointing to the priest), "That man teaches you to worship Mary as God, though she was but a poor sinful woman. He approves of Native dances, though they are filled with obscenity.
He does not object to your retaining your bad Native customs, if you only profess his ritenga along with them. It was through the preaching of the Gospel by the Missionaries", (he continued), "that our wars are now at an end and the sea calm, whereas if in former years they had turned to Popery, the same murderous scenes would be now enacted which were then carried on".
Edward was here interrupted, for he was telling too much truth. The priest then rose, and after denying that they worshipped Mary as God, or approved of any bad customs, added that he had not come there to discuss these subjects with the Natives, but with the Missionaries. I proposed our speaking for a limited period each, but to this he would not consent. Our discursive discussion then commenced and lasted for about 5 hours, in which he certainly out-generalled us by appropriating more than 3 hours to himself. It was impossible to keep him to the scriptures. Councils, Fathers, History, Tradition, everything in short but the simple word of God, were the subject which he expected the Natives to listen to in his address, one hour of which he spent in discoursing of the wickedness of Henry VIIIth, Elizabeth & Edward Vlth of the virtues of IInd Mary! -- the infamous lives of Luther & Calvin -- the antiquity of his Church and the newness of ours. He produced a book professing to be a short history of the Protestant Religion by Protestants themselves, which however I told him we could not receive as any authority, it being printed by Coyne of Dublin -- himself a Roman Catholic and the printer of the Douay Bible & Dens Theology. The Natives were exceedingly impatient at his lengthened address, and frequently called out, "What have we to do with the quarrels of your forefathers -- shew us from the Testament who are in the right". This however was an appeal which it would not answer his purpose to respond to. On one occasion when I got an opportunity of speaking, I shewed the
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Natives from the R. C. Catechism that the names of our Saviour were ascribed to the Virgin Mary, and that while in the Litany to our Saviour He was addressed as the "Master of the Apostles", she in another Litany was called the "Queen of Heaven". I then asked the priest to tell me who was the Gate of Heaven? He knew the language of the "Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary" and therefore unblushingly replied that Mary was. This produced an exclamation from Philip, who immediately turning to his Testament read aloud 10 John 9v, "I am the door etc." "And who" said I, again addressing the priest, "is the Morning Star?" Still adhering to the Litany which I held in my hand, he replied "Mary". I then appealed to Philip for an answer to the question, who, quoting 22 Revs 16v. replied, "I am the root etc., the offspring of David and the bright & morning Star". A signal was now hoisted from the vessel for our departure, and turning to the Natives I said, "The priest has been trying hard, as you have seen, to prevent Mr. Wilson & myself addressing you, but I must give you one word more before we leave. Whatever this man may tell you to the contrary, there is but one Saviour -- Jesus Christ; but one way to heaven -- Jesus Christ; but one Mediator there -- Jesus Christ". (Here the priest interrupted me, stating that I was inconsistent with the Scriptures in stating that there was but one Mediator, for Saint Paul asked the prayers of his fellow creatures. I determined however, not to renew the discussion, and continued 'There is but one foundation on which we can build for Eternity -- Jesus Christ. He is the Rock, not Peter. Whoever builds on the Rock, Christ Jesus, will be safe, whatever tempests may assail, while he who builds on the sands of the Roman Catholic Church will be buried beneath the ruins of his superstructure." The priest was very angry at my calling the R. C. Church "sand", and wanted to reopen a discussion of which the Natives had already become so weary that many of them had left. The weather however still continuing to look bad, the Captain came on shore to fetch us. Popery has not gained that ground on the Island which was reported. The R. C. party is but a small one, and very ignorant. We distributed a few Testaments & other books and then left for Tauranga. It would be impossible to give even a correct outline of our discursive conversation, but I will add a few lines to shew the little use it is arguing with a Jesuit. When I reminded him of the seven Bishops whom Augustine found in England on his arrival there, he said there could be no doubt that they were R. C. Bishops! Enquiring how it was then that they dared to oppose him, as Dr. Lingard himself acknowledges they did, he replied -- "Because they were ignorant". He contended that none of the Apostles were married except Peter who put away his wife when he became an Apostle. "If so", I said, "how came Paul to claim for himself the power, if he chose to exercise it, of leading about a Sister -- a Wife -- as well as Peter?" This expression he contended was a Sister -- a woman -- thus arriving at the absurd conclusion that Peter put away his wife, and then
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carried about with him in his journeys a woman to whom he was not married. How much more reasonable to suppose that the wife of Peter, as well as the wives of other Apostles were "sisters" in the Lord, fellow labourers together in His vineyard, as well as fellow heirs together of the Grace of Life. When the priest was contending that the Church of Christ was built on Peter, I mentioned to him the simple but to my mind conclusive argument that according to the original, the Church was not to be built on petros, but on petra. The priest had a very short method of getting over this difficulty by denying that St. Matthew ever wrote his Gospel in Greek, being very loud in his protestations that the ritenga of the Roman Catholic Church was the same now as in the days of the Apostles. I pointed to the Crucifix suspended round his neck and said "You know you had no ritenga for that until A. D. 787 -- the 2nd Council of Nice, at which Council you were also directed to worship the bones, the ashes, the rags, the blood and the tombs of the Martyrs. Ossa, cineres, pannos, sanguinem, sepulchra denique martyrum adoramus. 4th session". The priest, never at a loss, hobbled through these two difficulties by assuring me in the first place that some relics had lately been dug up affording a clear assurance that crosses were used in the first century, and secondly that adoro did not mean to worship.'
18th.--Engaged with the baptismal classes from Matakana & Motuhoa.
19th.--Ten of the Native teachers were in our class today.
23rd.--Left home for Maunga tautari & Matamata. Slept in the woods at the back of Tauranga at a place called Pawakahorohoro, but only found 9 Natives. There is a larger party in the woods who have outwardly joined the R. C. Church, and another small tribe belonging to us at Purakautahi, but as they are dispersed I regret that I shall not be able to see them.
24th.--After addressing the Natives at morning prayers, I proceeded on our journey through an overgrown wood to Hanga, which we reached in the evening. Here we found our Native teacher Nicodemus Hoi & a small party of about 20 Natives with whom I held service.
25th.--Examining 4 Natives whom I hope to baptize 6 weeks hence at Matamata. Visited a small party of Natives in the woods. I found with them a travelling party consisting of about 30 persons, a rude, impudent band. From their garments & medals I found that they had joined the R. C. party, although at first they denied it. In the course of conversation I asked what authority they had for bowing down to images. They used the stale objection taught them by their priest that we knelt down to the Earth when engaging in prayer, and that they no more prayed to the images than we did to the Earth!
Prayers to Mary, they urged, were correct, she being the Mother of God. I enquired how they were to be saved. One
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of them replied, in bravado, "By eating potatoes". To the Chief of the party, who appeared more sensible than the rest, I said "Now tell me truly. Have you in joining the R. C. Church forsaken any of your Native ritenga -- your foolish tapus -- or your wicked dances -- or any other of your abominations?" "No", he replied, "but we have joined the R. C. religion on to ours"! And this is literally true with all that I know of R. C. converts. They have no sacrifices to make & nothing to renounce. They worship Mary & the Saints, and then turn to pray to the Evil Spirit. They bear a cross around their necks, but they neither follow Christ nor crucify the old man with his affections & lusts.
On leaving these Natives we kept on our journey until night, when arriving at a plantation where there was another small party of Natives, we pitched our tent.
26th.--Journeying to Maunga tautari, where we arrived at Noon. Engaged the remainder of the day examining our first classes of baptismal candidates. Chose 18 for baptism to-morrow.
27th. Sunday.--The three professing parties in this neighbourhood assembled together at the chapel of Wera a te Atua this morning, so that I had an interesting congregation of nearly 400 Natives at service. Baptized 10 men & 8 women. At the men's school in the afternoon 113 were present. Of this number 62 could read. At the girls' school there were 106, of whom 46 read. After school I administered the Sacrament to the 2 Native teachers, and at the evening service again addressed the Natives and baptized 14 children.
28th.--Consulting with the professing Natives as to the course to be adopted by them on the expected arrival of a party of their un-believing countrymen, to take away the bones of a Chief who was buried here some time since. Left for Wareturere, where during the afternoon I was occupied with a Scripture reading class.
Afterwards engaged in administering medicine to the sick, and at night held service in the Native chapel.
March 1st.--At school in the morning, 46 men and 35 women present, of whom 46 read portions of the Scriptures. Afterwards visited Ngoungou & his Heathen neighbours. The R. C. priest stationed at Matamata has been here lately, but the old Chief said, as in past days, that when he forsook the Native ritenga he should join the true Church of the Missionaries. I have more hope of his conversion to the truth as it is in Jesus, from his Native state than I should have if he had nominally joined the R. C. party. He begged a Testament, a Prayer Book and a bell, that when the priest came again to converse with him he might shew those proofs of his intention to join our Church.
On my return, engaged throughout the afternoon in reading with & examining a class of 50 Natives in the New Testament. I then administered some doses of medicine to the many sick at this
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place, and afterwards held Divine service at the chapel.
2nd.--Left for Matamata & slept on the road.
3rd.--Arrived at Matamata. Found the Natives busily occupied taking up potatoes in the woods. A small party however soon assembled for conversation, and at evening service in the chapel 200 were present. At night, engaged conversing with several of the teachers at my tent.
4th.--In the morning examined first class baptismal candidates, 11 in number, whom I propose baptizing on Sunday. The class is small, but it is most satisfactory to find them so well instructed. I afterwards visited & administered medicine to the sick Natives in the woods and then went to the pa where the R. C. priest is resident but found few Natives. Had a long conversation with one Chief, a leading man of the R. C. party. He is certainly not attached to their Church from principle, but if ignorance be the measure of devotion he will form a most worthy pillar in the Apostolic Church. At evening service addressed a party of 200 Natives.
5th.--Engaged in the morning with the sick Natives; then with a class of 4 candidates for the Lord's Supper. During the afternoon occupied by an interesting class of 17 Scripture readers, and at night held service at the chapel. The Chief alluded to yesterday was present, with whom I had another conversation on the errors of Popery. Most of the leading men called on me yesterday, from whose report I should collect that very few Natives attend the R. C. Service.
6th. Sunday.--500 Natives assembled at morning service. This however included about 50 of the Heathen & R. C. party, who abruptly rose after the baptism of 11 of their countrymen, and left the chapel. In their afternoon 149 attended the men's school, of whom 76 were reading the Scriptures. At the women's school there were 150, but only 30 of this number could read. I afterwards administered the Sacrament to 4 Native teachers, and in the evening again held service and baptized 13 infants. There were 300 Natives present. At night conversing with the Native teachers at my tent.
7th.--Left for home, having been privileged to admit on this journey 56 Natives within the pale of Christ's visible Church.
10th & 11th.--Preparing accounts for committee.
12th.--Engaged as usual reading with the Saturday class of Christian teachers.
13th. Sunday.--Held Divine service in the morning at Maunga tapu Pa, and in the afternoon at Otumoetai Pa.
14th.--Columbine arrived.
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15th to 16th.--Getting out stores for Mr. Stack.
20th. Sunday.-- Took the Native & English services at the settlement, and administered the Sacrament.
21st.--Writing to my Brethren as to the proposed General Meeting suggested by Revd. W. Williams.
22nd.--Examining a class of 10 baptismal candidates from Wanga, and assisting in the store.
23rd.--Again engaged with the Wanga class.
24th.--Annual examination of the different Tauranga schools. 800 Natives assembled, including the Heathen & R. C. Natives. Of our party, 466 were divided into 18 classes and examined in the Catechisms Scripture reading, writing etc. 135 read in the New Testament. Although many were absent from various causes, we had a considerable increase upon last year's examination both in the number of scholars & readers.
25th. Good Friday.--Native & English services at the Station. 106 attended the former, and 22 the latter.
26th.--Last examination of the Wanga class.
27th. Sunday.--Baptized 10 adults this morning at the Native service.
28th.--Getting out stores for Mr. Stack.
29th.--Columbine sailed for the East Cape, and I left home for Matamata, sleeping at Tepuna.
30th.--Reached Matamata and made arrangements for the examination tomorrow.
31st.--Annual examination of the Matamata & Maunga tautari schools. About 700 Natives present. 418 of this number, arranged in 16 classes, were examined in the catechisms, Scripture reading etc. There were 66 men & 31 women who could read in the Matamata classes: 57 men & 32 women in the Maunga tautari classes, and most of these Natives possess Testaments of their own. What a cause for thanksgiving, when an R. C. priest placed in their midst is endeavouring by preaching "another Gospel" to lead them from the wells of salvation to broken cisterns which can hold no water. At evening service addressed about 500 Natives at chapel.
April 1st.--Left for home.
3rd. Sunday.--Took the home services in the morning, and in the afternoon visited the Natives at Otumoetai Pa.
4th & 5th.--Gardening, attending to sick Natives, etc.
6th.--The increasing illness of Mrs Stack's little girl prevented my leaving to attend the Matamata committee, (Mr. Stack being absent at the East Cape). Sent
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off a messenger to apprise my Brethren of the circumstance.
7th.--One of the young men whom I baptized on the 27th ult. was brought to the Papa to be buried. He died on his way home. Surely in the midst of life we are in death. His end appears to have been peace -- a peace arising from the assurance that he was "justified by faith". Just before he expired, he said to a Native near him, "Do not forget my garment". "Your Native garment?" enquired his friend, "No" was the reply, "the righteousness of Jesus Christ".
10th. Sunday.--Engaged with the morning & evening services at the Settlement.
12th.--Addressed the Natives at chapel.
13th.--In the morning visited Otumoetai Pa and was pleased to find the Christian Natives busily employed adzing posts for a new chapel. Engaged in the afternoon examining a few Natives from Mayor Island & Otumoetai who are candidates for baptism.
14th.--Occupied with a class of 10 baptismal candidates. My Brethren arrived from Matamata to Committee.
15th & 16th.--Engaged with committee accounts, and examining some baptismal candidates brought by Mr. Preece from the Thames.
17th. Sunday.--At Otumoetai, where I baptized 23 Natives. 18 belonging to the Thames, 2 to Mayor Island & 1 to the Papa.
18th to 20th.--Engaged in Committee.
21st.--We were obliged to adjourn the committee today in consequence of having received a challenge from 3 R. C. priests stationed at Tauranga, Matamata & Maketu, to discuss the points at issue between the Protestant & Roman Catholic Churches. The place agreed upon for the meeting was on the sea beach half way between our Settlement and the residence of the R. C. priest at Otumoetai Pa. The priests were accompanied by very few Natives. The subjects for discussion were agreed upon, but in order that the priests might not engross the whole of the time to themselves, we determined not to commence unless they would agree to the fair proposition that each speaker should be allowed a fixed time for his address. To this the priests objected, and after wasting an hour or two in conversation, we returned. The Natives who accompanied us brought their Testaments with them for reference, and becoming weary they beguiled the morning by forming themselves into two large classes and reading aloud several chapters; a sight more novel than interesting to the priests.
22nd & 23rd.--Engaged in Committee.
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24th. Sunday.--Occupied with Native & English services at the Settlement, our Brethren visiting the pas. Baptized 2 infants.
25th to 28th.--In committee.
29th and 30th.--Examining several Natives who are to be admitted to baptism on Sunday.
May 1st.--Native service at the Papa --about 70 present. Went afterwards to Otumoetai, where I baptized 5 adults & 1 infant, and had an attentive congregation of 130 Natives. Not more than 30 attended the R. C. service. They were leaving the priest's chapel as I passed.
2nd.--Examining 2 Natives -- candidates for baptism from Witianga, (Mercury Bay). One of them is a leading Chief and an old man, but he can read and his answers were very satisfactory on the leading doctrines of Christianity.
3rd.--Again occupied with the 2 candidates who were here yesterday. They both passed respectably, but I was more particularly pleased with the old Chief. Another candidate presented himself, also from Mercury Bay -- Parekiawiuwiu, a noted murderer. He may be sincere, but at present he is very ignorant. I recommended him to the care & teaching of the old man who accompanied him.
4th.--Assisting Mr. Chapman making out schedule of lands purchased on behalf of the Society in the Southern District, for transmission to the Colonial Secretary.
5th.--Held service at Otumoetai Pa, baptizing 2 adults & 1 child from Mercury Bay.
6th.--Preparing and administering medicine etc.
7th.--Went to Pukewanaki to see the Natives raise the posts of their new chapel, size 48x 26. A party from Maunga tautari, 70 in number, are over to assist in the erection.
8th. Sunday.--Went to Maunga tapu. 100 at service, but a large party absent in the woods. I observed several present who have lately left the R. C party. The Natives told me that the priest was here on Friday to baptize a child, but could not succeed in assembling any Natives for service.
9th.--Examining & arranging public documents for transmission to Parent Committee. A party from Otumoetai for books. They belonged to a tribe that have hitherto kept much aloof from us, especially since the R. C. priest has been stationed there. Administering medicine etc.
10th.--Mr. Wilson & his family left us for Opotiki. Examining 13 Native candidates for baptism from Maunga tapu.
11th.--Columbine arrived during
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the night. Our Northern Brethren urge our going there to the proposed General Committee, but I fear it will be impracticable, nor does it seem expedient to leave the stations at a period when Popery is making such efforts to gain a hold on the Natives around us. Wrote however to Mr. Chapman on the subject.
13th.--Wrote to C. M. S. No. 34.
15th. Sunday.--Morning, Native & English services at the Papa. In the afternoon went to Otumoetai. 200 at service. Few besides in the pa.
16th.--Conversing with some fresh enquirers from Otumoetai. Administering medicine etc.
17th.--Mr. Stack arrived from the East Cape overland. A part of Tupaia's tribe came to the Settlement to converse. They have lately joined the professing party, and have set apart a new Native house for the purpose of holding daily prayers in. Gave them a bell at their urgent request.
18th.--An old man, the Chief of the little tribe at Haehaenga, was brought to the Settlement at his own request to obtain medicine & remain with us during his illness. He states the reason of this step to be that he might avoid the importunities of the R. C. priest, who since the old man was taken ill has been frequently urging him to join the R. C. Church.
19th.--Consulting with Mr. Chapman, (who arrived last night), as to the propriety of our going to the Bay of Islands to the proposed General Committee. We decided that it was our duty to remain at our posts.
20th.--Wrote to our Brethren at the Bay stating the reasons which influenced our determination of yesterday. 114 baskets of potatoes brought by the Natives from Maunga tapu in payment for Testaments supplied to them some months since.
21st.--Mr. Stack & his family left in Columbine for Turanga, his services having been transferred to the Eastern District. This step will much cramp the duties of Tauranga & its branch stations but I desired to labor on in faith until assistance can be rendered me.
22nd. Sunday.--Native service at the Papa; afterwards English. While at dinner the sad information was conveyed to me that a party of professing Natives living in a small pa at a remote part of Tauranga, had been surprised by a murdering party from the Thames, their pa destroyed, and most of the little band either killed on the spot or taken prisoners. Amongst the slain was an old Chief who joined the Christian Natives about 18 months since, and several other baptismal candidates. 8 are known to have been killed and 13 others are missing who have either shared the same fate or been carried away captive. 5 of those who made their escape have severe gunshot wounds, which I dressed as well as I was
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able, but the bullets remaining in two of them makes me fear the result.
From the long cessation of any active hostilities amongst the Natives, the professing party have been thrown off their guard, and leaving the large pa are scattered about in small detached parties at their various plantations.
23rd.--Engaged with a party of 30 Natives who came to consult as to the course they should adopt relative to the murder. They are much excited, and Satan is trying to persuade them that they would be justified in taking a "fight" to Taraia's party as an Utu. At the close of our conversation they seemed more quiet, and I trust they may still continue steadfast in that profession which teaches us not only to suffer injury, but to pray for our enemies. Still it seems to be a case calling for the interference of Government and I have urged the Natives to lay the subject before the Aboriginal Protector.
24th.--Went to Otumoetai & dressed the wounds of the Natives. Examining a class of baptismal candidates from Maunga tapu.
Three of the mutilated corpses brought to the Station for burial. The head of one of them has been taken by the fight; the heart of another. The wailing of the Natives during the time the graves were being dug was most mournful, but the deepest silence prevailed while I addressed them from the words "We must all stand before the judgement seat of Christ". I was glad that the professing Natives had succeeded in bringing over these bodies to be buried, as the Heathen party had strongly urged their taking possession of them in order to their being made sacred. It is reported that a body of the Heathen Natives have left to seek for a payment for their murdered relatives. Not one of the professing party however joined them, although they are much tried by the taunts of their unbelieving countrymen, who are constantly telling them that the Bibles & karakia of their relatives did not prevent their being shot by their enemies.
25th.--Went to Otumoetai to visit the wounded Natives. In order to save time and yet pay them more attention, I have proposed their being brought to the Station to-morrow. Two of the eight supposed to have been killed, returned to-day. They had made their escape to the woods.
26th.--Most of the day taken up in attending to the sick.
27th.--The invalid party, thinking the Station colder than the pa, left again to-day for the latter place. The "fight" have returned. It seems they had anticipated overtaking the murdering party before they reached the Thames, but were disappointed. They discovered on the road a place where the murderers had partaken of a cannibal feast. Part of the remains of three bodies lay beside the oven. These the Tauranga Natives buried at the spot and then giving up pursuit, returned home.
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28th.-- Visited the wounded party at Otumoetai. I much fear that one of the men will die. The Natives are in a very dark, sullen humour -- evidently brooding over their wrongs, yet restrained by a sense of religion from avenging them. May our Saviour pray for them that their faith fail not.
29th. Sunday.--Increased my cold so much by yesterday's trip that I was unable to leave the Station. Held English Service at home. A Native teacher whom I sent to Otumoetai, found the Heathen and R. C. Natives at working fencing the pa, as they are fearing an attack from Maketu. The Natives attached to us, much to their credit, have deferred commencing their portion of the fencing till tomorrow.
30th.--Visited William Marsh & Wakahoururu, who are both lying very ill.
June 1st.--Went to Otumoetai to visit the sick & dress their wounds. One of the men, who is evidently in a dying state, expressed a wish to be baptized. He has long been a candidate for baptism, and after an examination which was exceedingly satisfactory, I determined to admit him to that sacred ordinance. He was too weak to say much, and I framed my questions accordingly. I give several of the questions with his replies. "Are you a sinner?". "Yes". "Do you know what repentance is?". "Yes". "Do you repent of your sins?" "Yes". "Who is our Saviour?". "Jesus Christ". "Is there any other Saviour?". "None". "Do you believe in Him?". "Yes". "Do you love Him?". "Do you wish to see Him?" "Yes". "Can you see him without repentance & faith?". "No". "Can you go to Heaven without being born again?". "No". "What is it to be born again?". "To have the heart changed by the Holy Spirit". "Do you desire baptism?". "Yes". "Shall you be saved by the baptism of water only?". "No. I must be baptized with water & with the Holy Ghost". "Do you wish the Natives to rise and seek a payment for you when you are dead?". "No. I wish them to sit still; to remain quiet". We were here interrupted by a party of more than a hundred Natives who had arrived to have a "cry" at the house where the wounded man was lying, and which was formerly the residence of two of the murdered Chiefs. Their deep, loud wail for an hour & a half was exceedingly mournful, although in these Native cryings there is generally too much of that feeling "which mimics sorrow when the heart's not sad".
After baptizing the man, I addressed the party on the subject of the "fight" which some of them were trying to raise in order to seek a payment for Wanaki & his relatives, pointing out their duty as professed Christians, and telling them of the wish expressed by the wounded man before them, that they would sit still. The party listened very patiently, but as soon as I had finshed an old Chief rose and in a very vehement strain said that I only came there to prevent their getting up a fight -- that the dead would not rise again -- that the bodies had been eaten,
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which would prevent their spirits rising. In replying to the old man, I mentioned the words of our Saviour, "Whosoever believeth in me, though he were dead yet shall he live." I told him also that Christians would not seek revenge upon their enemies, for it was written "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord". After this a Chief named Tare arose and made a very sensible speech, remarking that if all parties listened to the instructions of the Missionaries there would be no murderers in any of the tribes. He was followed by several other speakers: some urging the duty of seeking a payment for the murder, others arguing that it would be better to listen to my advice. They at length consented to come over to the Settlement on Friday next and hold another meeting on the subject.
2nd.--Went to Otumoetai to visit the sick. Found the man whom I baptized yesterday, still living. I do trust that he is looking simply for salvation to Him who alone can save him. His language certainly implies it.
A fight from Matamata passed through Tauranga last night, to carry some sacred stick belonging to the late Waharoa to the road leading to Maketu. A fresh sign that Satan is still very busy trying to renew the war.
3rd.--The Natives from Otumoetai came according to their promise.
After a long discussion they agreed to write a letter to the Aboriginal Protector and quietly await his answer. In their present excited state, I consider this to be a great point gained. Time may soften their present feelings. Their letter to the Government was a simple statement of the facts connected with the murder, their desire to rise and extirpate the murders, from which they had been withheld by me, and their wish that the Aboriginal Protector might be sent to make enquiries into the matter. I also wrote to Mr. Clarke, and trust that Government will interfere. Wrote to C. M. S. No. 34 with Journal Aug 1st to Dec. 1st 1841.
4th.--A woman related to this tribe arrived from the Thames and stated that the head of Paetuhi had been left behind in a potato store in Wanaki's pa, the fight being afraid to carry it away, even after they had decapitated it from the body, in consequence of the relationship subsisting between Paetuhi and some of the Thames tribes. Two Native teachers whom I had placed at Hanga, came to request permission to abandon the place and go to Pateere, where a more substantial pa is built, as they fear after the late murder that they also might be attacked by some evil disposed Natives. I could not but consent, although this movement will render it still more difficult for me to visit them at any time.
5th. Sunday.--Only 120 at service this morning at Otumoetai. The poor Native so severely wounded in the abdomen still lingers, but is much emaciated.
The Heathen party busily engaged fortifying their pa. They attempted to justify their conduct as a work of neces-
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sity, information having reached them of a party from the Southward contemplating an attack on Tauranga.
6th.--Wakahoururu left the Settlement convalescent. I hope he has derived benefit from his visit.
7th.--Went to the Station Pa to speak on the subject of the irregular attendance of the women at school. They plead that their hearts are so dark in consequence of the murder, that they can do nothing but sit & think about it. They seem much afraid too, of an attack from Tautari. This old Chief lost a nephew some time since by the upsetting of a boat, and a Chief of the Mayor Island (his enemy), sent him a message that his nephew's body had been washed up at Tauranga and eaten by this tribe, and in consequence of this falsehood it is reported that Tautari is raising a fight against this place.
In the afternoon went to Otumoetai. Poor Stephen Hui is still lingering on the borders of eternity, but is rapidly sinking from exhaustion. I could therefore have but little conversation with him. He said that he was "Holding fast to Christ -- that his heart was light -- but his pain from the wound so great that he wished to depart".
8th.--Stephen died after I left him yesterday. His departure was peaceful, and as there is reason to believe that he "died in the faith", I cannot but rejoice that he is released from sufferings which were becoming daily more severe.
Engaged in the afternoon with a class of 5 Natives from Maunga tapu whom with several others, I hope to baptize on Sunday.
9th.--Occupied by a party of Natives from Matamata who came to consult as to the measures they ought to take in reference to the murder. Some of them contended that it would be right for all the believing Natives in the various tribes to join together and take a fight against the murderers. Others, going to an opposite extreme, argued what it was unlawful under the Christian dispensation to take away the life of man even for murder.
The body of Stephen Hui was brought to the Papa for burial. We committed his remains to the grave in the sure & certain hope of his resurrection to eternal life. The head also of Paituhi, having been fetched from Katikati was placed with his body, which we interred on the 24th ult.
10th.--There is much illness amongst the Natives around us, which has occupied much of my time lately. Today I prepared 70 doses of medicine for the Maunga tautari Natives.
11th.--Final examination of the first class baptismal candidates from Maunga tapu. Two put back for a time, one of them possessing two wives, the other not being sufficiently acquainted with the way of salvation by Jesus Christ. Nine passed, whom with some infants, I propose baptizing to-morrow.
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12th. Sunday.--A violent gale which prevented my going, as proposed to Maunga tapu. English service at home.
13th.--Waharoa's son and some other Heathen Natives from Matamata passed through the Settlement on their way from Maunga tapu. It is supposed that the object of their visit has been to concert some warlike movement. Administering medicine, gardening etc.
16th.-- Engaged during the morning with a party of Natives from Otumoetai, examining into a charge of immorality brought against one of the baptized Natives. He has been guilty of indiscretion, but the matter had been grossly exaggerated. In the afternoon committeeing with another party of Natives from Maunga tapu.
Nuka, the principal Chief, had been exhuming the bones of several of his wives, and according to Native custom had been making a large feast of which the professing Natives, (with few exceptions), had partaken, in common with their Heathen countrymen. The question was whether it was lawful for them to do so. The food was cooked in 3 ovens. The first was made sacred for the priests engaging in the ceremony. The Native karakia had also been used over the food in the second oven, which was reserved for the Ariki. No ceremony appears to have been performed with the food in the third oven, of which all who were not sacred partook, including the women & children. It was the food from this that the professing Natives ate, as it was not connected with any religious ceremony. Of course no moral guilt was attached to the act, but I urged their abstaining from the appearance of evil. If lawful, it was certainly not expedient, as it gave occasion to such of their countrymen as had not embraced the Gospel, as well as to some of the believing party who were "weak", to think that there was no difference between Christianity & Heathenism. We read together 1 Ep. Cors. 8c.
More Natives are assembling on the Station Pa in consequence of the rumours of wars which are afloat. This will be the means of increasing the numbers attending school & chapel. There were 26 girls at school this afternoon.
17th.--A party of Natives have been fencing off about 50 acres of the land purchased for the C. M. S. Held a long conversation with them as to the impropriety of their conduct. I am in hopes they will remove the fence on payment of a few articles of trade. They state that they received no part of the things given as purchase money, having been cheated out of them by those who distributed the articles. The same claim is made by another party who continue to hold a few acres immediately in front of the Station, and which would prove of serious consequence to us were it sold or let to any European of improper character. Examining another party of baptismal candidates from Maunga tapu. 30 girls at school.
18th.-- William Marsden called to
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object to the baptism of a Native proposed to be admitted to-morrow, on the ground that he was once cursed by him. The offence however occurred long since, and the man having expressed his contrition, I saw no reason on this account to refuse admitting him within the pale of Christ's visible Church.
19th. Sunday.--In the morning at Maunga tapu, where at Native service I baptized 11 adults & 5 children. Afterwards went to converse with Nuka who seems still as hardened as the nether mill stone. Took service at the Settlement in the evening.
20th.--Engaged throughout the day with two parties from Maunga tautari & Otumoetai as to the late murder. It is a difficult task to pacify them, but I trust we shall shortly hear from the Government.
My eyes being less inflamed than usual, I determined to renew the Bible class by candlelight. 24 assembled (all readers) and we had a very interesting meeting.
22nd.--Boys' school 27. Heard of the arrival of the Lord Bishop of New Zealand at Auckland. His Lordship & the Aboriginal Protector are gone over the Frith to the residence of Taraia, the principal chief concerned in the murder at Katikati.
23rd.--Boys' school 29. Girls' school 24. Evening, addressed the Natives at chapel.
24th.--Boys' school 30. Girls' 22. 19 at Bible class this evening. The party requested me to hold the meeting by daylight for a season, as they are fearing attack from Rotorua, and wish to be inside the pa after sunset. Their fears are however partly the result of superstition, a Native priest having prophesied that our small pa would be surprised and the inhabitants murdered.
26th. Sunday.--70 at Native service on the Station. Prevented visiting the pas by the heavy rains.
27th.--Boys' school 32. Girls' 17. Occupied most of the day in talking to various parties of Natives. One man had brought his wife 25 miles in order that I might lecture her on her quarrelsome disposition. Another party came for permission to take a missionary journey to a distant part of the Island. Some came for medicine, others to make enquiry whether the Government was going to send to redress their wrongs, etc.
In the evening 18 attended the Bible class meeting.
28th.--Inflammation of the eyes, the result probably of reading last night. Falkner came over, consenting at last to be married. This will give me an opportunity of baptizing his children, which I have hitherto refused to do on the ground of his not being married.
30th.--Visited the pa. Committeeing about various matters, amongst others a charge of pig stealing; parties acquitted.
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July 2nd.--Eyes still inflamed. Information brought me that a fight was getting up at Otumoetai to seek for a payment for Wanaki's death, as Government had taken no notice of their application. I am not surprised at this step, but I am much grieved, especially as it is reported that some of the professing Natives are joining the fight.
3rd. Sunday.--Went over to Otumoetai and found some of the canoes dressed out with feathers as for a war expedition. After service at the Native chapel I had some conversation with the two principal Chiefs connected with the proposed fight. They consented not to leave until we had another meeting at the Station.
4th.--The Natives to whom I spoke yesterday, came over. After a long conversation they agreed to wait a week longer the arrival of the Aboriginal Protector.
5th.--A vessel arrived from the Thames. No letter from Government. The Natives much exasperated.
8th.--The Natives on the Settlement talk of leaving for the large pa. They are in as great a state of excitement as they were during the hottest part of the war.
9th.--Engaged in trying to keep back the Natives from the contemplated fight.
10th. Sunday.--Held service at Otumoetai. 150 present. Conversation afterwards with the Heathen party. They seem in very ill humour at the long silence of Government.
11th.--Received at last a letter from the Aboriginal Protector, who is coming round to institute enquiries as to the murder. The Natives in consequence, more quiet.
14th.--The Government Brig arrived with Aboriginal Protector, Colonial Secretary & others.
16th.--Large assemblage of Natives to meet the Government Officers. The meeting concluded very unsatisfactorily, the Government declining to take any steps towards punishing Taraea. The Natives shrewdly remarked on the different degrees of justice awarded to Europeans & Natives. "If Taraea goes unpunished", (observed one of them), "for murdering Wanaki, then the Europeans were guilty of murder in executing the Chief Maketu for a similar crime committed against a white woman. It cannot be right to have one law for crimes against the Europeans, and a different one for the same crimes when the Natives are the sufferers".
17th. Sunday.--Home services.
18th.-- It was proposed to hold another meeting with the Natives to-day. Few however would attend. Those who did spoke civilly, and parted on friendly terms with the Government Officers, who
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left on the Brig. I observed one of the baptized Natives smeared with oil & red ochre -- a bad sign.
19th.--Various parties over from the pas to converse. It is indeed a sifting time with them.
20th.--Reported that several baptized Natives have thrown off their profession.
21st.--Went to Otumoetai and had an interview with W. Patene & 5 other baptized Natives who have forsaken "the assembling themselves together". May they be led back again to the fold. The Natives are altogether much dissatisfied with Government, and I cannot help feeling their situation to be one of great trial. They are forbidden to follow their Native ritenga, and yet nothing is given them in its place. Tare said that they had consented at my request to leave the matter in the hands of the Government, and as they had refused to interfere, the Natives must now take up the cause themselves and were preparing their canoes for that purpose.
23rd.--Some Natives came from Maunga tapu who felt themselves much aggrieved at some hasty expression which had been dropped by one of the Christian Natives. I trust they returned somewhat softened, but Satan is busy in his arts to scatter at this season those whom we believe to be sheep of the one true Shepherd.
24th. Sunday.--Went in the morning to Pukewanaki, where the Natives have erected a very neat chapel in which I had an attentive congregation of about 80 persons. I afterwards rowed to Otumoetai, and after conversing with the party who have thrown off their profession, I proceeded to the chapel where I addressed the Natives from 3c. Revs 20v.
25th.--A fight left Otumoetai last night. Many of the professing Natives have joined them, including 7 baptized Natives. Their course is kept a secret, or I would follow them.
27th.--W. Sharpe & Zebedee arrived from Maunga tautari. They met the fight in the direction of Matamata, and as a report reached here a few days since that Taraea was about to visit that place, it is probable that they expect to intercept him.
28th to 30th.--Assisting Mr. Chapman dividing stores.
31st. Sunday.--Took the home services.
August 1st to 3rd.--Assisting Mr. Chapman in the store. Went also to the Natives who have been fencing off a portion of the Society's land. They agreed to remove the fencing to the proper boundary.
4th.--Finished the store accounts with Mr. Chapman. Received letters from the Bay. The Bishop has appointed the
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Revd. W. Williams his Archdeacon -- a well merited reward in which all his Brethren will rejoice.
5th.--Visited Otumoetai. Conversed with different groups of Natives and particularly with Joshua Brown, one of the lapsed party. He said that he would return again to the Church but that he was ashamed of the remarks which he might hear from his believing brethren as well as of the taunts to which he should be exposed from the fight on their return.
7th. Sunday.--English service & 2 Native services at the Settlement.
12th.--The R. C. priest & his servant passed on their way to Rotorua where they are attempting to introduce "another Gospel".
13th.--Old Matthew called to see me. He has just arrived from the Thames, whither he had gone on a visit. We were getting anxious from his protracted stay, he being at the Thames at the time Taraea and his party came over and murdered Wanaki & others at Katikati. The old man referred to the baptized Natives who had forsaken their profession and joined the fight. "Let not your heart be dark on that account", said he, "do not think that the Church of Christ has fallen because eight boys have gone outside the fence".
The fight are back. They have been saved the guilt of imbruing their hands in blood, not having fallen in with any victim.
14th. Sunday.--At Otumoetai. Only 80 persons attended at the chapel, but 30 others who have been in the habit of attending, consented to my addressing them within their compound. Two of the baptized Natives, since their return with the fight, have commenced having their faces tattooed. I have now less hopes than ever of their return, but "The Lord knoweth them that are His" and if they are of the blessed number, they will yet return unto the Lord and He will have mercy upon them.
15th.--W. Sharpe, our Native teacher at Maunga tautari, brought his wife to the Station for medical treatment. She is however, I fear, in a rapid decline.
16th.--Nuka came to consult as to his tribe selling to Government a portion of land situated between here & Maketu. Should Government consent to the measure it might be overruled to putting an end to the war between Tauranga & Rotorua, as hostile tribes might be deterred from passing through an English settlement in order to carry on their savage warfare. Yet the grand instrument for inducing the New Zealanders to beat their spears into pruning hooks will be, not so much civilisation as evangelisation.
20th.--The number attending daily prayers at the Otumoetai chapel is again on the increase according to the report of the Native teacher at that place.
21st. Sunday.--Blowing too hard to
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visit the pas. Three services at the Settlement. Very few present. Endeavoured to think of our Saviour's interesting discourses to the few -- Nicodemus, the Woman of Samaria, the 12 Apostles etc.
22nd.--Visited Otumoetai Pa. Spent a considerable time in conversation with different groups of the Heathen Natives. They were civil, but I fear they are watching a favourable opportunity to renew former scenes of murder.
23rd.--Administering medicine to various patients from the two principal pas.
28th. Sunday.--In the morning went to Pukewanaki and baptized Samuel's child. Only 70 at service. This congregation used to consist of 100, but some who did not assist at the erection of the chapel, now keep away from a feeling of shame. The school however is attended with considerable regularity, averaging a daily attendance of 50, and although little is taught except reading, and writing on slates, yet as both these exercises are from Scripture, it may be considered an important education to a Native. I afterwards held service at Otumoetai Pa with 60 Natives. Here we used to have a congregation of 200, and although some are away planting in the woods, it is evident that there has been a considerable falling off in the number of worshippers since the murder of Wanaki. With two exceptions on the part of baptized Natives, the whole of Wanaki's little tribe, who were regular attendants at Divine service, have returned again to Native ritenga. Three canoes belonging to them have just left Otumoetai to see if they can pounce upon some person belonging to Taraea's tribe, as a payment for Wanaki, and the Satanic idea possesses them that as their relatives belonged to the believing party, they ought to murder some believers belonging to the tribe of Taraea as an Utu. I find it sad, uphill work just now, but as many as are ordained to Eternal Life will yet believe, and hold fast the beginning of their confidence steadfast unto the end, notwithstanding the fearful power still maintained in the World and in the heart by our great spiritual enemy.
31st.--Addressed the Natives at chapel this evening. Much indifference manifested.
September 2nd.-- Conversing with Natives from Matakana. The fight called there and tried to prevail on the Natives to accompany them. The Heathen party did so, but the few who have made a profession of Christianity refused. May they in these sifting times be kept steadfast and unmoveable.
3rd.--The fight mentioned on the 28th ult. have again returned without being permitted to murder anyone.
4th. Sunday.--Took the home services. Baptized the child of R. Hill.
5th.--Raising the roof of our chapel. A Native teacher from the Kupenga called
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for conversation. This young man belongs to the tribe of the late Wanaki, and his absence from home has probably been the means of preventing him from joining his unhappy relatives who have left their first love.
6th.--I had fixed to visit Maunga tautari & Matamata this week, but the late heavy rains render it more than probable that the rivers are swollen.
9th.--Went to Otumoetai to see if I could induce the Natives to go on with their new chapel, the work of which has been forsaken since the time of Wanaki's murder. They say they will make another attempt, but they have no heart to work.
11th. Sunday.--Morning, Native & English services at the Papa. In the afternoon went to Maunga tapu.
12th.--Engaged with Natives from Maunga tapu. Administering medicine etc.
13th.--Occupied with a party of Natives from Ahirau, who I am in hopes are about to build a chapel to hold Divine service in. At present they are obliged to huddle together in a small hut.
15th.--Our Native teacher M. Hapi, died this afternoon. During the months she has been lying at the Papa she has been so deaf that it was impossible to hold any conversation with her. Her eyes also were too dim to allow her to read her testament. We believe, however, that it was not on her death bed that she had to learn the way of salvation. In health she manifested the reality of her faith in Jesus by devoting herself to His service. She was "Faithful in a few things". Just before her death she said to her husband, "My body is dead -- my heart is living. When I'm gone, leave my little child with Mother Brown to take care of".
16th.--Matthew & others came to converse. The old man is less grieved than many of his brethren as to the conduct of those who left us in consequence of the murder of Wanaki. "Let us not be cast down" he remarked, "We could not see the wheat from the chaff before, but now the wind of Satan has blown away the chaff, we can better discern the wheat -- the real believers".
17th.--Preparing accounts for committee, administering medicine, examining a class of baptismal candidates from Patetere, etc.
18th. Sunday.--Native & English services at the Station. In the afternoon held service at Otumoetai. 70 present. Afterwards visited the sick. Several of the baptized Natives who have forsaken their religion seem indeed led captive by Satan at his will. They were sitting in an open yard, plying drafts. As I considered it done out of bravado, I at first passed them without taking any notice, but feeling that it was my duty to remonstrate with them whether they would hear or whether they would forbear, I turned back again. It seemed however to
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be in vain. I could make no impression on them. They first tried to be very impudent, and then preserved a sullen silence while I spoke to them faithfully of their awful state.
19th.--Getting out slates, books etc. for the Natives from Patetere, and afterwards left home for Maunga tautari.
21st.--Reached Wera a te Atua. It is encouraging to find that the Natives whom I have baptized at various periods at this place, amounting to upwards of 30, hold fast the profession of their faith without wavering. Held service with 90 Natives. The rest away planting. Afterwards examined a class of baptismal candidates, and then conversed with the Christian natives on the subject of the Lord's Supper.
22nd.--44 men & 27 women at school this morning. They were employed in reading, writing, dictation and multiplication sums. About 40 read in the New Testament. I afterwards proceeded to Wareturere, where after an examination of the candidates, I baptized 7 men, 4 women & 3 children. Afterwards addressed the Christian Natives on the subject of the Lord's Supper and administered the Sacred Ordinance to 12 Natives. In the evening held Divine service in the chapel.
23rd.--30 men & 25 women at school. Of this number 44 were reading different parts of Scripture. My visit on the whole has been a very interesting one, alloyed however by hearing of one professor who had joined a fight to seek for an Utu for Wanaki's murder. Left for Matamata.
24th.--Reached Matamata. Examining baptismal candidates from Patetere and afterwards investigating some frivolous charges brought against one of the Native teachers. Satan taking advantage of the generally excited state of the Natives, has succeeded in producing a quarrel amongst the Native teachers at this place, which has been followed by a neglect of the schools and the giving up of the prayer meetings and baptismal candidates' class. Conversing till nearly midnight on these subjects with the professing Natives. They promise to renew at once the schools, classes & prayer meetings.
25th. Sunday.--350 Natives at Divine service. Baptized 9 adults. The school attended by 75 men & 120 women. In the afternoon went to the Heathen Pa to converse with the Natives, and returned to hold evening service at the Chapel. Baptized 5 infants.
Conversed with 3 sick Natives who desire baptism. Found them too ignorant to partake of that Holy Sacrament. As I was going to chapel this morning, an old priest called out to me to make my karakia very short, as he was going to attend service!
26th.--Travelling homewards.
27th & 28th.--Preparing accounts for committee.
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30th.--Engaged with 12 candidates for the Lord's Supper.
October 1st.--Occupied as yesterday with 20 other candidates for the Lord's Supper. Revd. G. A. Kissling & family arrived at Tauranga in Columbine.
2nd. Sunday.--At home. 150 at Native service. Administered the Sacrament to 32 Natives. Mr. Kissling preached in English.
6th.--Left for the committee at Matamata.
7th & 8th.--Engaged in committee.
9th. Sunday.--Two R. C. priests called on us. They are urging another public discussion, and were very angry because in a note we sent them yesterday we declined wasting the Sabbath Day in controversy. Baptized 3 adults.
10th.--Baptized 19 adults & 5 children.
11th.--Met the priests by appointment. About 500 Natives assembled. The discussion was almost confined to the Revd. R. Maunsell & the R. C. priest from Tauranga. The Papists will not, I think, reckon this discussion amongst their victories. Towards evening, the Natives held an open conference in our presence, whether they should not send away the priest from Matamata. One old Chief however, objected to this, though certainly not in a way to flatter the vanity of the priest -- "Why should he be sent away? He is a quiet man, he does no harm and nobody attends to his Karakia".
12th & 13th.--Finished committee & journeyed home.
14th & 15th.--Shipping stores for the Thames & Waikato.
20th.--Examining 3 baptismal candidates from Matakana.
22nd.--Columbine driven back from stress of weather, and got aground. Sent to the R. C. priest a relic found in the woods by one of our Natives. Wrote to him as to the "errors" contained in the motto stamped upon the small silver box containing the relic.
23rd. Sunday.--Home services. Baptized an infant.
24th.--W. Thompson & a party from Matamata. They wish to leave that place for a spot still more distant, but ultimately consented to remain at their present residence. Giving out books, slates etc. to the party. The Natives trying to move Columbine.
26th.--Engaged with a party of Natives on board Columbine, attempting to get her afloat. They succeeded in dragging her a short distance, and there is now every prospect of her floating by the night tide.
27th.--Found that our store had been robbed during the night.
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29th.--Columbine again left for the Thames.
30th. Sunday.--Went in the morning to Otumoetai Pa. 100 attended service. In the afternoon pulled to Maunga tapu chapel, where a like number assembled for Divine worship.
November 2nd.--Left for Rotorua accompanied by Revd. G. A. Kissling.
3rd.--Reached Mr. Chapman's at 9 o'clock this evening.
4th.--Engaged through the day examining candidates for baptism & the Lord's Supper. In the evening addressed the Natives at chapel.
5th.--Occupied as yesterday with various classes of candidates. Their examination on the whole so satisfactory that very few were rejected. One of the men in illustrating the right partaking of the Lord's Supper, remarked "Two men may be taking a long journey in the koraha, and being weary they determine to drink the juice of the Tupakihi berry. The one, being a wise man, is very careful lest any of the poisonous seeds should pass down his throat. The other, being an ignorant man, drinks the juice & seeds together. One man is refreshed -- the other dies. It is so with those who come to the Lord's supper. One man ignorantly partakes of it as a common feast. He has no repentance, no faith. He eats & drinks, his own damnation. Another man eats of the same Supper, but he discerns by Faith, the Lord's Body. He spiritually eats & drinks and being refreshed goes on his journey towards Heaven with increased strength".
6th. Sunday.--Baptized 81 adults at Native service this morning, & in the afternoon 31 infants. At night administered the Lord's Supper to 35 Natives.
7th.--Conversing with a large party of Natives who are very urgent that Mr. Kissling should join Mr. Chapman in his widely extended field of labor.
8th.--Left for Tauranga.
9th.--Reached home. During my absence a small vessel put into this place in charge of 2 Europeans & 3 Natives belonging to Rotorua. Proceeding to Wanaki's Pa, which since his murder has been made sacred, they commenced conveying on board some of the potatoes which had been left in the stores, but being discovered by the Tauranga Natives, they took possession of the vessel and the Rotorua Natives made their escape towards the woods.
12th.--James Farrar called. He mentioned that his large boat had been taken possession of by 2 of the Rotorua Natives who had fled into the bush on the taking of their vessel, and that they had proceeded in it to Maketu, leaving behind them a boy after whom parties were searching in the woods.
13th. Sunday.--Morning & evening Native services at the Papa.
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14th.--Message from Tare, a Chief who up to the period of Wanaki's murder was in the habit of attending service at the Otumoetai chapel, but from that period had neglected doing so. He has just lost one of his children, and wishes me to inter the body in our burial ground. I was glad of an opportunity of shewing the poor man a kindness, for I am convinced he is not easy in the course he is pursuing, and it appears that from a feeling of shame he would not send to me for medicine during the illness of his child.
15th.--Tare came over with his child, which I buried. His only surviving child is very ill. He left it on the Station for medical care. He seems much subdued. Engaged with a class of 20 Natives reading the Psalms.
17th.--A fire on Maunganui. The Natives fearing that it was lighted by a fight from Rotorua seeking a payment for the missing child of Tohe, I went over and had an interview with the party. It proved to be Tohe & other of the Rotorua Natives. They threaten vengeance for the boy who is lost, and the war seems likely to be renewed again. In the afternoon visited Otumoetai Pa to put the Natives on their guard. I had some conversation with the relatives of the men who lately robbed our store. They gave up a pig, the property of one of the thieves who had taken away a spade. Evening service at the chapel.
18th.--Reading the Psalms with a class, administering medicine, buried Tare's last child.
19th.--Engaged reading the Scriptures with a party from Maungatapu. Mr. Chapman arrived in the evening bringing intelligence of a fresh scene of bloodshed. It appears that the party to whom I went over at Maunganui on the 17th, and with them (concealed by the Mount), James Farrar's large boat, in which they proceeded afterwards to Tuhua (Mayor Island), and by a consummate act of treachery succeeded in murdering 3 men, and carrying off 2 boy prisoners.
On nearing the island, they cast anchor and went below, leaving on deck but one Native, who was dressed in a suit of European clothing. A canoe at once put off and pulled alongside the boat before they disovered that the man whom they had supposed to be a European was a Native. The Rotorua Natives, who had concealed themselves, now rushed on deck and shot 3 of the Natives of Mayor Island in the sea, and after obtaining possession of the bodies, went off in triumph to Maketu and finished their diabolical act by a cannibal feast.
20th. Sunday.--Held Divine service at Maungatapu. 200 Natives present. The largest congregation that has assembled at this place since Wanaki's murder. In the afternoon preached at Otumoetai Pa to 150 Natives. The principal Chief of Mayor Island who was at Otumoetai on a visit, left to-day for home on hearing of the murder of his relatives.
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21st & 22nd.--Reading classes in the Psalms from Pukewanaki & other places.
23rd.--Tupaia came over. He seems more than ever determined to avenge himself on the Rotorua tribes when an opportunity may arise.
24th.--Committeeing with the Natives from the Settlement Pa. They are afraid to meet any longer in the Station chapel for service, lest they should be surprised by a fight from Rotorua. A "sacred fight" left Otumoetai in the direction of Maketu.
27th. Sunday.--Native & English services at the Papa.
30th.--Went to visit a sick youth at Otumoetai. He is evidently fast sinking, and ill prepared for the awful change.
December 1st.--The youth mentioned yesterday died during the night. Our Native Teacher (Matthew) came over, in consequence of W. Jowett, (one of the party who "went out from us" and joined a fight after the murder of Wanaki), having expressed a wish to be received again into communion.
2nd.--Visited Pukewanaki and 3 other Native residences. One little party who in consequence of the late excitement have neglected "the assembling themselves together", have promised to meet again for service if I supply them with Prayer Books.
3rd.--Received a letter from W. Patene, (another of the backsliders), stating his sorrow for having thrown away his profession. I should be very glad to receive him again, but such a step must not be hastily taken.
The Government Brig with the Acting Governor, his Lady and a body of officials, put into Tauranga. The Governor is on his way to Port Nicholson, but hearing of the late murders & piracy, he has determined not to proceed until he has gained possession of James Farrar's boat, as well as of the Chief who conducted the band of murderers to Mayor Island, -- a step which requires the exercise of much judgement & coolness, or the ulterior consequences may cause the death of some of the Europeans as a payment.
4th. Sunday.--On my way to Otumoetai, two of the Natives who left the Church joined me to converse, and expressed a wish to be received back again. The believing party, with much propriety, object to their hasty readmission amongst them.
5th.--Sent off messengers to fetch Mr. Chapman, whose presence at Maketu under present circumstances seems to be indispensable. The Governor despatched some of his officers overland to Maketu to demand Farrar's boat from the Natives.
6th.--The Governor's party returned. The Natives refuse to give up the boat, and His Excellency seems determined to take possession of it by force. Long conversation with him on the subject.
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7th.--The Brig despatched to fetch the 80th.
8th.--A fight from Maketu came towards Tauranga, fired off their guns and returned. This is a demonstration of war.
10th.--Accompanied the Governor to Otumoetai.
11th. Sunday.--Home services.
13th.--Accompanied Mr. Chapman to Maketu, with the view of endeavouring to prevail on the Natives to give up the boat before the arrival of the soldiers. After a long interview they consented to do so.
14th.--A messenger arrived from Maketu. There is now a demur as to restoring the boat, one Chief having declared that he had not given his consent! I fear the consequences of this obstinacy.
17th.--Went towards Maketu to meet the Bishop, the Chief Justice & Mr. Stack, who were on their way hither overland. His Lordship meets us in "troublous times" and his presence & counsel are most cheering.
18th. Sunday.--The Bishop preached in the Native language, and afterwards in English, at the Station Chapel. In the afternoon I accompanied his Lordship to Pukewanaki, where he again delivered a striking and affectionate address to the Natives from the words "Thy kingdom come".
The Victoria arrived with the 80th.
19th.--The Bishop granted me his license as Minister of the Tauranga district.
20th.--His Lordship & the Chief Justice left with Mr. Chapman for Rotorua. The influx of Government Officers on the Settlement, together with the unsettled state of the Natives, prevented my accompanying them.
22nd.--Consulted Dr. Gammie of the 80th relative to the affection in my eyes. He pronounces the disease to granulation of the eyelids, requiring removal by caustic.
24th.--The Attorney-General & Aboriginal Protector having protested against the use of coercive measures against the Maketu Natives, the Acting Governor left in the Brig for Auckland. He now proposes leaving the soliders at Tauranga to prevent any further hostilities between these tribes and those of Rotorua, and to send the Aboriginal Protector to endeavour to make peace between them.
Wrote to Major Bunbury respecting the holding Divine service on Sundays at the Camp. Received a favourable reply.
25th. Christmas Day.--Preached in English at the Settlement, Mr. Stack taking the Native service. Mr. Kissling at the Camp.
26th.--Messrs Kissling & Stack left
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in a small coaster for the Eastward. The Bishop having refused to license Mr. Kissling for Wakatane, (the place to which he had been appointed by the Southern District Committee), he has proceeded by his Lordship's direction, to visit Hick's Bay where it is intended he should be stationed.
28th.-- Dr. Gammie commenced the application of caustic to the granulations in my eyelids. Severe but necessary.
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