1865 - Davis, R. A Memoir of the Rev. Richard Davis - CHAPTER X. MISSIONARY OPERATIONS...1852...1863

[Image of page 364]

CHAPTER X.

MISSIONARY OPERATIONS--FROM TRINITY SUNDAY 1852, WHEN HE WAS ORDAINED PRIEST, TO 28TH MAY 1863, WHEN HE ENTERED INTO HIS REST.

"KAIKOHE, BAY OF ISLANDS,
22d December 1852.

"MY VERY DEAR SIR,--I had about fifty candidates for confirmation. I had previously examined them with the greatest care. But the bishop spent a whole day in examining them himself, and in teaching them the nature of the ordinance before he confirmed them. More sound or more practical doctrine could not have been taught. He preaches and teaches strongly the necessity of the influence of the Spirit of God in the heart. He is very fervent and earnest, as well as clear in giving instruction. HE IS A FIRM BELIEVER IN THE DOCTRINE OF ELECTION. I

[Image of page 365]

both love and respect the bishop. A more earnest indefatigable man cannot be found as a bishop. He lays out himself with all his heart to do good.

"The breaking-up of my school has been a severe blow. But I have some satisfaction in knowing, that the most promising children are in my daughter Jane's school at Waimate. During the whole of my affliction the natives behaved most affectionately. Several came and prayed with me. At Kaikohe we had ninety communicants at the last sacrament, and at Mangakahia, a fortnight ago, I had seventy-four communicants. But the enemy is very active, and seems to have much power, so that I hold my ground with difficulty. But the battle is the Lord's, He is omnipotent, and in Him we trust.

"15th January 1853.--At Mangakahia, while the newly-formed congregation was under a strong religious influence, and apparently seeking God with all their hearts, they were visited with an epidemical fever, whereby, out of a community of 120, twenty died, some of whom were very promising characters. From one of the congregation, a decidedly pious and experienced Christian, I learned with much thankfulness and satisfaction that the baptized died in the faith. He himself lost two brothers and one sister, with whose state he was intimately acquainted. The eldest brother, who left a wife and family behind him, had been from the first a decided, yet tempted believer in Christ, and had more than held his ground. In death his faith in Christ was strong, his prospects bright, and he entered with joy into the presence of his Lord. The sister, a fine young woman, was the wife of a great chief, a son of

[Image of page 366]

Kawiti, who is also a believer. They lived very happily together, and had four children. She had received the truth in love more recently, and during the enjoyment of her first love she twice told her husband, that although she still loved him and their children, yet that her heart had been removed from them and fixed upon Christ. A fortnight after she was taken ill, and died happy in the Lord. The afternoon before her death, she requested to be led into the potatoe field, and observed, as they were taking up their crop, 'That hillock has few potatoes in it; its produce is small. It resembles the believer who prays little, and is content with little faith. This hillock is full of fruit, and resembles the believer who prays much, and desires much, and receives accordingly.' On her return she called her husband and friends around her, and solemnly took leave of them. Her husband placed the youngest child in her arms, but she desired the child to be taken away, saying, 'I am going to Christ. I leave my children with Him,' and then fell asleep in Jesus. The other brother was a single man, twenty-two years of age. His summons was brief, but he was ready. "When medicine was offered him, he said: 'Give me nothing to detain me. It is good to die and go to Jesus. Let me go to Christ.' He soon entered into the joy of his Lord. These gracious dealings of God with these poor believing natives refreshed my soul. Christ did indeed reveal Himself to them as He does not to the world. They were reading and praying people. They were regular in the use of the means of grace. They sought salvation through Christ in life, and they found consolation through Him in death. Most who

[Image of page 367]

died had been baptized. Nearly all died in the same blessed hope. They are gone. They are safe. They have rested from their labours. We may soon follow. Blessed state! Blessed Jesus! Glorious salvation!

"On Christmas day I baptized our old chief. He had long been desirous of baptism, but I was fearful that he was resting too much on the outward visible sign. As he was apparently near his end, after morning service I went with some members of the congregation. He received baptism with the greatest earnestness. Never did I administer baptism with greater pleasure. I was in a solitude. I had no Christmas fare. But I felt I possessed that which was better. The next day the poor man died, and I trust he found mercy. His death brought us many visitors, as he was a great chief. His remains were buried by his friends in the woods. This was done from fear that his enemies might mutilate his body on account of his former excess of wickedness.

"25th February.--This letter may be my last. Last month I visited one of my outposts, and got wet on my journey thither. Never did I feel stronger to labour, or better able to discharge my duties. I went out strong, but returned weak. I had remained in my wet clothes, and they dried upon me. The influenza, which has been general, gradually came on, until I became senseless. I am now better, and able to visit some of my people near at hand, but my strength does not increase, and my appetite fails. Thank you, my oldest, my dearest, my best friend, for your very many kindnesses to me and mine. May the Lord Jesus be your exceeding great reward! I have been

[Image of page 368]

an unprofitable servant in the vineyard of Christ. A retrospective view of my missionary life sometimes pains me. My sins of omission are very many. Yet I feel more than supported, so graciously does the Lord deal with so vile a sinner. To be delivered from sin and the miseries of this sinful world would be a blessing indeed. But I wish to have no desire apart from that of my Lord. My desire is, when I am no longer able to work, that if it be the will of God, I may both cease to work and to live. I hope this is not wrong. God knows that it is my wish to have no will but His. Please continue the Record to me, until you hear I am no more. With our best Christian love and remembrance to dear Mrs. Coleman and yourself, --I remain, very sincerely and affectionately yours,

"RICHARD DAVIS."

"KAIKOHE, 8th September 1853.

"MY DEAR CHILDREN,--Look from the world to the Lord, for your redemption draweth nigh. The day of Christ is near, even at the doors. According to the conjoint opinion of the most eminent students of prophecy, the year 1866 will usher in the great tribulation, the final earthquake, the tripartition of the Roman earth, the termination of the times of the Gentiles, and the restoration of the Jews by Great Britain to the land of promise, foretold by Isaiah in his 18th chapter--which events are the predicted harbingers and immediate precursors of the Second Advent of the Lord from heaven. O happy time! O glorious approach of our dear triumphant Saviour! Be on your watch-tower, that He shall find you FAITHFULLY doing

[Image of page 369]

His work, with your loins girt. Let us devote ourselves anew to His service. Forget not your responsibilities as missionaries. Hitherto I have thought little of dates in connexion with the Second Advent. But now the day has so far dawned, that the near approach of the rising Sun of Righteousness cannot be mistaken. Should my life unexpectedly be spared until Christ's Epiphany, I expect to be found of Him, perhaps at poor despised Kaikohe, ready, through grace, with many of my people, to go forth to meet the Bridegroom with exceeding joy, and with Him to enter into the marriage. 'Blessed are they which are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb.' Love to all, in which my wife joins.--I remain, your ever affectionate father,

RICHARD DAVIS.
"To his Children at Kaitaia."

"15th May 1853.--Administered the Lord's Supper to 129 of my people. This is the largest number of communicants we have had."

"12th October 1853.--I visited Silas and his wife. They are both much reduced, and the wife thinks she shall die. I said to Elizabeth, 'How is your body?' She replied, 'My thoughts are above. My heart is open to heaven, to Christ.' 'But what,' I added, 'about the sins you have committed all your life?' She said, 'My sins are forgiven. They have been washed away by the blood of Christ.' I asked, 'What is Christ?' She said, 'A Saviour. He was crucified. Therefore I have no fear.' I asked her, 'Why?' She answered, 'Because the road is straight and open to the New Jerusalem.' 'Who made it open and

[Image of page 370]

straight?' She answered, 'God.' 'Who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life?' 'Christ.' 'Where does the Spirit of God dwell?' She said, 'In the heart.' 'If the Spirit of God dwell in the heart, will not the heart be enlightened?' 'Certainly.' 'But are you not afraid to die?' 'No.' 'Why?' 'Because of heaven, which is better than earth.' 'On whom do you rely for acceptance?' 'On Christ. My heart, my all, relies only upon Him.' Here are two old native slaves apparently in possession of life eternal. How enviable their state! how enviable their prospects! The fever had been subdued in both for some time, but they gain no strength. Elizabeth joined the redeemed company 24th October. O happy soul! A brand plucked from the burning by the Saviour's free grace."--
Journal.

"KAIKOHE, 10th May 1854.

"MY VERY DEAR CHILDREN,--I write to you conjointly. My subject is mournful. My dear wife is gone, and I am again left a lonely wanderer. May I be able to bow with humble submission to the will of the Lord! I feel very thankful that she was so long spared to me, a poor unworthy sinner, and that I was enabled to attend to and nurse her during her protracted illness. Her faith in Christ was simple. Her peace with God just before the last death-struggle I shall never forget. For upwards of fifteen and a half years the Lord gave her to me. A more attached wife few men have ever had. When I found her a solitary widow, I was myself a VERY lonely widower. None beyond my own family seemed to care for me. In her I had

[Image of page 371]

a true help-meet. Time and age strengthened our attachment. She was an attached wife, a faithful friend, and a pleasant and valuable companion. Satisfied with each other, we required no third person to add to our happiness. To all human appearance, she was removed when she was most wanted.

"How many trifle away their precious time in reading works of fiction, siren-fabrications of falsehood, the bane of the present age, to please their fancy! This is a great, very great evil. The books may be religious, and sound in sentiment, but the motive for reading them is only to kill precious time. May we be awakened to a due sense of our duty, and the value of time! Of the value of time we shall never be truly sensible until we feel the value of our precious souls. If the time and talents of Christians are assuredly not their own, but are given to them to be used for the glory of God, what ought we to think of the time and talents of missionaries? How awful to see, a missionary following the devices and desires of his own heart, even when such devices are not in themselves sinful, but simply detain him from ESSENTIAL missionary work! How much of this evil have I witnessed in New Zealand! Missionaries work lively on preliminaries, and expend much time on them, but how little time do they devote to their essential work! That missionaries should thus trifle away their time, or do God's work deceitfully and hireling-like, is most awful. Does not the missionary who trifles away or misspends his time, sin more than the profane swearer, the whoremonger, or adulterer, IN THIS RESPECT, that they sin away only their own souls, whereas

[Image of page 372]

he sins away the souls of others?--alas! who can tell how many?

"O for humility and patience! My trials have hitherto increased with my age, but I trust they will all be carried away in the river of death. May the Lord make me patient in tribulation! With best love to all the dear children,--I remain, your ever affectionate father,

"RICHARD DAVIS.
"To his Children at Kaitaia."

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS, NEW ZEALAND,
7th April 1855.

"MY VERY DEAR FRIEND,--I ought to have acknowledged your kind letters six or seven weeks ago, but for the last four months my ministerial duties have called me from home. The whole of the sacramental duties have devolved on me. To-morrow these duties will close for a season, which will be my seventeenth administration of the Lord's Supper since my recovery in December last. Your kind letters were a cordial to my sorrowful spirits.

"The 7th April 1854 was the last day I spent with my dear attached wife. Just before midnight she left me for a better world. As her illness increased, so did my labour and care. For a long time I had no assistance in my nightly duties, which became heavy as her paralysis and helplessness increased. She became at length utterly helpless, and continued so for many weeks. Her end was peaceful. I trust she sleeps in Jesus, and that I shall again meet her before the throne of God. She was a well-educated woman, had moved in good society, and possessed a good stock of common sense, which her education had

[Image of page 373]

taught her to use with advantage. She was a thoroughly attached wife, was a great support to me in my afflictions, and rendered me valuable assistance in relieving the wants of the natives. She was loved by the natives in life and in death, and they have mourned her loss. They never left her remains night or day until they were deposited in the silent tomb. The whole of Kaikohe was present the morning of the funeral, and there was scarcely a dry eye among them. About one hundred accompanied the remains to Waimate. They wished to have the sole management of the removal, and did it well. Archdeacon W. Williams, who respected her very much, read the funeral service. It was a day never to be forgotten.

At the funeral I first observed the measles among the natives. The epidemic spread rapidly, and was soon accompanied by hooping-cough. This called for new exertion among the sick, the dying, and the dead, when I was worn down in body and mind. Under these duties I staggered on in the midst of scenes of distress, sorrow, and death. One morning I was sent for to bury the last two children of a fine family. The father died first, next his children. My appetite had rather failed, and I had eaten little, when I set off to this scene of sorrow. I read the service over the sacred remains of the dear departed little ones, who had followed their father to be with Christ. From thence I went farther into the woods to visit a poor old couple. During my walk dark clouds passed over my eyes, and I was ready to fall from exhaustion. At length I succeeded in getting to the house, and lay down for some time, ate a few sweet

[Image of page 374]

potatoes, went to the place where I had left my horse, and rode home. In the evening I went to bed as usual, hoping to be able to undertake my Sunday duties. I awoke in the night, found everything in apparent motion, and was laid low by a severe bilious attack. I had three attacks in a few days, but persevered in doing what I could, until mind and body sunk together. The middle of November we removed to Waimate, and found myself better in the society of my children, but have never entirely recovered. The sacramental duties of the Northern District devolved on me, and about November last year I began to visit all the congregations and the northern station, Kaitaia. January 1855 I returned from the north, and completed my visitation, greatly exhausted. My medical advisers recommended me to spend a little time with my children and friends in Auckland. At Auckland I received much attention from lay and clerical friends. I preached twice at St. Paul's, and once at St. Barnabas' to large congregations. In my missionary duties I find peace, and sometimes in preaching more enlargement and earnestness than formerly. O what a great, glorious, finished salvation we have the happy privilege to make known to men, and, above all, to partake of freely ourselves!

"My medical advisers consider that I ought not to return to Kaikohe to live in solitude, and as I have long had the duty of both places, my brethren have now appointed me to Waimate, subject to the approval of the bishop. To-morrow the Lord's Supper is to be administered to the Europeans, and eight adults are to be baptized

[Image of page 375]

in the native service. Native service at nine AM., European at eleven, native service again at three P.M.

We have to mourn over much declension among the natives generally. They have much facilities in getting money, as produce is very dear, and many are become peddling traders. This has drawn away the minds of many professors from better things. Ardent spirits are also now sought for and much used by many natives. This has thinned our ranks greatly, and will bring many to a premature death. At every place I have visited, I have found a diminution in the number of communicants. Last Sunday the number here was 118, and three months ago 138. At Kaitaia 216, at the previous sacrament 280. Another evil has led to this diminution. No communicants came from one of the tribes, who were meditating a war, which has since broken out.

I wish you had seen our much esteemed friend, Archdeacon W. Williams and his valuable wife when in England. In him you would have found the devoted missionary and gentleman combined. Here he is beloved and respected by all. The Church in New Zealand profited by his visit. He carried through the press a revised edition of the New Testament in Maori, and a new edition of the Prayer-Book. The Society's best men stick closest to their work. To him New Zealand is chiefly indebted for the Maori version of the Scriptures. I am also sorry you have not seen our bishop. He was indeed a friend to me in adversity. With my best Christian love to Mrs. Coleman,--I remain, my dear friend, yours faithfully and affectionately,

RICHARD DAVIS."

[Image of page 376]

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS,
November 7, 1855.

"MY VERY DEAR FRIEND,--After consultation with my friends on the important subject, and according to the wishes of my children, I married Miss Jane Holloway King six weeks ago to-day. In her I possess a peculiar treasure. She has entered with me into my labours. And as my duties have called me in various directions, which allowed of her accompanying me, we have not lived at home hardly a fortnight since our marriage.

"My family, through mercy, is tolerably well. Some of my children are widely scattered. My youngest daughter, Sophia, was married to Mr. James Kemp, 25th October 1854. Mr. Kemp was a wholesale merchant in Auckland. He is now looking out for land, on which to commence farming. He is a pious young man. The religion of Jesus is, I fear, at a very low ebb in this country. I believe the principal fault is in the ministry. The colonists are a church-going people. The congregations at St. Paul's are large, regular, and attentive. But there is a want of vital energy in the pulpit ministrations. On the Monday after my first sermon in that church, I met a gentleman, a member of Council, who told me that he thought the congregation of St. Paul's heard more gospel from that one sermon, than they had heard in six months before. Among the natives there is much declension. Ardent spirits have been introduced, and some drink a great deal. This makes our labours heavy and heartless; but we must persevere. The enemy has come in like a flood, and if we are vigilant, we hope the Lord will lift

[Image of page 377]

up a banner against him. At Waimate, the congregation in the morning is 150, and there were 100 communicants at the last administration. At Kaikohe, in fine weather, congregation 150. There were eighty-five communicants at the last communion. At Mangakahia there has been a falling away: communicants only fifty-five; at Otava, thirty; at Tepuna, six; at Matauri, thirty-four last Sunday. Matauri is on the coast, some distance from Waimate. God has a people there, and there is much to encourage, although very much to mourn over. At Kaikohe there is life, and in every little congregation there are some who desire to follow Christ in sincerity.

"My labours at this time lie very wide, and when so much divided, the most I can do in each place is little. The ever-blessed God has blessed me of late with clearer views of the blessed Gospel, and, I hope, increased my energy in preaching. But my capability of locomotion must ere long decrease; yet I hope to push on as long as I can. My heavy afflictions have been made a rich blessing to my soul. There seems a general want of vital godliness amongst us. We are content with living in what we consider a state of salvation, and therefore do not progress onward to the stature of the fulness of Christ. NEITHER THE ASSURANCE OF FAITH, NOR THE ASSURANCE OF HOPE, IS SOUGHT FOR AS ASSURANCE OUGHT TO BE. I fear there is little delight in communion with God amongst us. Too many of us seek our own, and not the things of Jesus Christ. After all the falling off among the natives, there is perhaps as much (if not more) vital godliness among them, in proportion to their numbers, as among our

[Image of page 378]

colonists, by whom they are generally despised. On Sunday evening, at Matanui, two men asked me: 'Do you know anything of an internal warfare and temptation?' I told them, that I was never free from it, and on that very day, whilst administering the Lord's Supper, the conflict was carried on. They looked at each other with satisfaction, and remarked: 'Where there was no conflict, there could be no Christianity.' I told them that was my opinion; that the adversary allowed those who were following their own ways to live in peace, and that the conflict was only carried on in the hearts of God's children, who were seeking the truth.

"Your sentiments with regard to the signs of the times fully coincide with my own. May we be ready to do or suffer all His blessed will! How necessary is it that we should live with our lamps trimmed, and our loins girt! How essential is the duty incumbent on us to live exclusively to the glory of God! May the Lord bless you, my much respected and ever beloved friends, with much of His presence! May the Spirit of the Lord think in your thoughts, speak in your words, and manifest Himself in all your actions! The time of our re-union now draws near.

"My dear wife unites with me in best Christian affection to dear Mrs. Coleman and yourself,--and believe me to remain, my very dear friend, yours respectfully and affectionately,

RICHARD Davis."

[Image of page 379]

"TEPUNA, NEW ZEALAND,
10th March 1856.

"MY VERY DEAR FRIEND,--I sincerely, thank you and dear Mrs. Coleman for the case of books, which reached me safely on the 11th ult. We have had as yet no time to examine them. On that day I returned from visiting my old district, Kaikohe, and from administering the Holy Communion at different places. 17th February I administered the Holy Communion at Waimate; on the 21st we came to this place, and I went to Matanui on the 22d, and administered the Lord's Supper on the 24th. As the steamer, which runs between the Bay and Auckland, was proceeding to Mongonui, a port twenty-four miles from Kaitaia, we gladly embraced the opportunity, and on the 26th went on board the steamer, and arrived at Mongonui in the evening, where we were hospitably entertained by Mr. Butler, a principal merchant in that place. Next day, after dinner, I was laid low by a serious bilious attack. After consulting our friends, it was deemed advisable to postpone the journey to Kaitaia, and to return by the steamer to the Bay, where I could obtain medical advice. As the steamer's time was three A.M., Mr. Butler and the captain of the steamer took me by the arms, ill as I was, and led me to the boat. I could not stand. Twice I became unconscious as they led me on, and I knew not but the next step might be my last. The cool evening air on the deck of the steamer refreshed me. The day following we reached Tepuna, and I was able to take the duty two Sundays at this place. Yesterday, besides a baptism and two services, I administered the

[Image of page 380]

Holy Communion once in Maori and once in English. The afternoon duties I performed with difficulty. I am far from well. My spirits were depressed the whole of my journey, arising partly from indigestion and partly from the unsatisfactory state of the congregations. For weeks I enjoyed no quiet rest, and arrived here in a worn-out state the day before I embarked in the steamer.

"The state of the natives is not promising. Many are become drunkards. Sensuality has increased. Many have resorted to their old customs. Deceptions are multiplying. When at Otava in January, the teacher showed me a rude drawing of a flying dragon, a look at which would preserve people from the fatal disease with which the world was to be visited. During the week our servant-girl one day was missing. My wife told me she had been sent for by her mother to attend a meeting that day to be held near their place. The girl on her return told us, that a man, who professes to be both a doctor and a priest, had called them together to inform them that a deadly malady was coming on the earth, and that he wished to provide them with a remedy against it. One hundred people were present. Medicine was given, and the rude drawing of a dragon was exhibited. Every house was ordered to have a picture of the dragon, which, if they looked upon it, would prove a preservative. The Sunday following I preached on the subject.

"While sitting with the people of Mangakahia, a picture of the dragon was produced, with a paper having a direct reference to the brazen serpent in the wilderness. As the author had affixed his name to this paper, I inquired his general character. They said that he held communication

[Image of page 381]

with spirits; that he was a great doctor, had performed many cures, and was directed to remedies by the spirit; that when he wanted a remedy, he ascended a mountain, from whence the spirit directed his eye to the spot where it was to be found; that once his eye was directed to the ocean; that he swam to the spot, dived, and found an effectual remedy for the malady. They told me that the papers sent out by this man were in the hands of all the neighbouring tribes, and were greatly valued. On another occasion, when I was uplifting Christ as the only Saviour, present or future, an old native produced his red dragon. He gave it to me, and I have just sent it to Salisbury Square. They said that the original drawing was obtained from a steamer which had visited their port. Intercourse with spirits, in Scripture language necromancy, is now much practised among the natives.

"About three months ago we lost a young chief of great promise as regards European manners and industry. He was in connexion with Government, and had begun to benefit the country by making roads, etc. He had a team of oxen, a dray, a cart, and two ploughs, and he and his people had well fenced in several paddocks, and grew and disposed of much produce. His example appeared to stir up others to imitate him. Many natives joined him, and a strong party gathered around the industrious chief, so that he was looked up to as a person likely to maintain the peace of the country. Benjamin Taui was once a professor of Christianity, and previous to Heke's war was at the head of his tribe as a professor. In this war he took a prominent part. He felt, however, that in joining Heke

[Image of page 382]

he had placed himself in a false position. But the war divested him of his religion, and he became a worldly, calculating man. Three years ago he took a second wife, in order to have children, as he had none by his first wife. This summer he took a third wife. She told him his taking her to wife would be his death. He took her, and soon became ill. The native priests and doctor tried their skill in vain. He sent to Waimate. I found him in extreme pain from active inflammation of the bowels. For three days I did my best, but could not relieve him. On the fourth day I found him a corpse. I was very poorly myself. I fear there was little hope in his death. His pains were too violent to allow of much being said to him, or of his attending to the little said. Seeing his case to be hopeless, I spoke strongly to him on the last day. The effect of this none but the Searcher of hearts can know.

"Here we have peace, but there is war between the natives in the Bay of Plenty and those at the Wairoa on the western coast. Some of our people here have joined the latter. The war has originated about their land claims --a fruitful source of evil.

"The result of my present illness is known only to Him, at the foot of whose throne I wish to lie passive, clothed with deep humility. There is much nervous excitement in the system. At present I can do but little. This week I hope to examine and instruct daily three elderly candidates, whom I hope to baptize next Sunday. My spirits are depressed, but the Lord deals very graciously with me. How much I need the comfort of an experienced Christian brother! O for faith to believe that the Lord Jesus will

[Image of page 383]

be everything to me! O HOW NECESSARY IS AN ASSURANCE OF FAITH! I have often urged it in my preaching to natives and Europeans. If again restored, I shall enforce it yet more strongly. Pray for me, and write to me as soon as you receive this. I shall write again, when I see how it is likely to go with me. My devoted wife joins with me in best Christian love to Mrs. Coleman and yourself.--I remain, as ever, my dear sir, yours faithfully and affectionately,

RICHARD DAVIS."

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS,
Oct. 17, 1856.

"MY VERY DEAR FRIEND,--Tractarianism does not press upon its votaries that holy observance of the Sabbath which the spirit of the Gospel does. Of this we some years ago had a development. Blessed be God, that holy observance of the Lord's day does not in God's children arise from a spirit of bondage! Alas, what will become of England should the continental Sabbath be finally introduced! Should England be thus overcome, let the Queen look to her crown. Alas for England, should her governors cast God's Sabbath behind them, and cease to recognise Him as THEIR Governor!

"October 20th.--I began this letter the day after my return from visiting two of our old stations, Keri Keri and Tepuna. My dear wife accompanied me. We left on the 3d instant. On the 4th I met the people. Sixteen candidates for the Holy Communion presented themselves, and one adult for baptism. On the Sunday the Sacraments were administered in the morning in Maori; communi-

[Image of page 384]

cants in all, native and European, twenty-three. In the evening I read prayers and preached in English. On the Monday Mr. King came for us in his boat, and after meeting the natives we accompanied him to Tepuna. On the 7th our meetings commenced with the natives, and continued daily until the Sabbath. On the Sabbath three adults and a child were baptized, and the Holy Sacrament administered to seventeen natives and six Europeans. In the afternoon I read prayers and preached in English. On the Monday some of the people came to take leave of us, and on the Tuesday, the 14th, we left for Keri Keri, and were five hours on the water pulling against a head wind. This I should not have attempted but for a previous engagement to marry at Keri Keri a European couple. When we arrived, to our mortification we found they had not come. We however stayed with Sophia for the night, and the next morning the bridal party arrived. The ceremony was performed, and we returned home. But I had caught cold in the boat and returned home very unwell. The day following was set apart for writing English letters, but from being poorly, and from numerous interruptions I was obliged to desist. Our visit to these stations was a pleasant, and, I humbly hope, a profitable one to the poor natives. Since our last visit in that direction, a few of the people seemed to possess clearer and more simple views of salvation by faith in Christ. These views have stimulated them to do what good they can among their neighbours. The late Mr. King was a spiritually-minded man, and his simple and spiritual mode of teaching is not forgotten. At Waimate we have a congregation

[Image of page 385]

of upwards of 200. Half of them are communicants, and many of them appear to possess a simple, saving faith in Jesus. But they do not advance in the divine life as we wish them to do. About three months ago I preached a missionary sermon to them, wherein was given an outline of the commencement and advance of the Church Missionary Society. This was done on the Sunday previous to the Sacrament, and notice given that the offertory collection would be given over to the Society. £13 were collected, and £2 given from their church fund, making together the sum of £15. At Kaikohe the same steps were taken, £14 were collected, and £10 given from their church fund, making in all the sum of £24. In both cases the natives subscribed according to their ability, and some of them beyond their ability.

"The congregation of Kaikohe has increased in number during the last year. The late Heke's people now attend public service, and three of them partook of the Holy Communion last time. At Otaua, about ten miles south-west of Kaikohe, the congregation has diminished, some of the people having been induced by a heathen chief to join him in his depredations, which led to a war. About twenty of them, communicants however, continued to hold on. This congregation has been reduced to about forty. At Mangakahia several have fallen away and become dead and careless. Last Communion we had only between fifty and sixty communicants. Worldly-mindedness has much increased among the natives for some time, and those who hold on in their profession have lost much of that simplicity of mind which they formerly possessed.

[Image of page 386]

"At Matauri, on the coast, about half way between the Bay and Wangaroa, we have a congregation of about eighty natives. The communicants are about thirty. This place I have usually visited in connexion with Tepuna. But for the last two months they have quarrelled among themselves, and some have fallen in battle. As soon as they shall have settled down into quiet, I hope to be able to visit them again. My nerves would scarcely allow me to visit them during their hostilities.

"Never did I value missionary work as much as now. I. trust the Lord will yet enable me to preach His blessed Gospel to the poor natives. O what a privilege, to be allowed to live to the glory of God on earth! Every opportunity given to show forth His praise gives pleasure.

"I never expect to be as well again as I have been, but my medical adviser tells me that I may look forward to some years of usefulness. The ever blessed God knows what is best for me. My dear devoted wife joins with me in our best love to Mrs. Coleman and yourself.--I remain, yours faithfully and affectionately in the Gospel,

"RICHARD DAVIS."

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS,
Jan. 8, 1857.

"MY DEAR, EVER RESPECTED, AND BELOVED FRIEND,--The copy of your farewell address to the parishioners of Ventnor I received this morning. Most deeply and sincerely do I sympathize with you on your separation from your people. How short the time now appears since you first visited me at Woodrow Farm. For that visit may the Lord ever

[Image of page 387]

make me thankful! That visit was one of my greatest blessings. But alas, how unthankful and unholy my life has been! It is now nearly thirty-two years since I landed in this country; but O how unprofitable, how very little I have done for the Lord Jesus! Alas, how little I have lived to the glory of His name! And yet the Lord has not, I trust, withdrawn His lovingkindness from me. What a monument of forbearing mercy!

"I am even better than when I last wrote; nevertheless a change may not be far distant; we may very soon meet at the feet of Him who redeemed us with His own blood. My nerves are bad, and every little thing produces an unpleasant, and sometimes a painful, excitement.

"In happy England you have a host of tried Christian friends with whom to hold communion. There you have the privilege of building each other up in the faith of Christ--of bearing each other's burdens, and comforting each other in affliction. Here, at Waimate, such friends and associates are not to be found, nor in the neighbourhood. The standard of Christianity is very low in this country, both among the Europeans and among the natives. If the standard were higher among us, it might be higher among the natives. The Society is urging a native ministry upon us. I have little hope under that head. I never met with natives more advanced in Christianity than some of the people of Kaikohe, and although I doubt not their sterling piety, and their being in a state of salvation, yet there is a want of stability in the time of trial.

"At this place I cannot perceive any advance towards the good, but this Christmas we have had much retrograde

[Image of page 388]

towards the evil. Last Sunday we had but seventy communicants at the native Communion, whereas we should have had at least a hundred. At Kaikohe, a fortnight previously, we had, if I remember right, 107. The state of the natives of this place gives my weak mind much pain. Waimate has suffered much from changes. O for more earnestness! O for an outpouring of the Spirit from on high! In one part of Waimate there has been much drunkenness this Christmas. They were a fallen party. Since I have been here, many of them appeared to be coming round, and became pretty regular in their attendance at church. They have now sunk lower than ever. They had suffered a trading European to hang himself upon them, and much ardent spirits have been introduced among them. It is reported that a hogshead of spirits was brought in in one cask. Alas, how much evil such a man is capable of doing!

"God has given me a great blessing in my present wife. Nevertheless it is the desire of my heart to live on the very threshold of eternity. Mrs. Matthews and four of her children are with us. She unites with my dear wife and myself in Christian love to yourself and Mrs. Coleman.--I remain, yours faithfully and affectionately,

"RICHARD DAVIS."

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS,
July 21, 1857.

"MY VERY DEAR FRIEND,--Since I wrote to you on the receipt of the copy of your farewell address to your congregation at Ventnor, this is my third attempt to write

[Image of page 389]

again. I felt a difficulty, not knowing but that you might have entered into rest. I hope now to be able to conclude a short letter.

"Next to my beloved parents you have been my best earthly friend, therefore it is natural that I should be desirous to know the state of your health, but I cannot derive that knowledge from any one but yourself.

"It is now many years ago that you first visited me at Woodrow, when you were made the instrument of directing my tottering and faltering steps to the paths of peace. From that period your friendship has been persevering, steady, and kind. And as at its beginning, so in its continuance, it has been a great assistance to me; especially it was an encouragement and stimulation to me and my dear family, in the various trials we had to contend with in the formation and the prosecution of this mission. Please do let me hear from you, or of you, on the receipt of this letter.

"Through the goodness of the ever blessed God I have been enabled to go through my duties better this year than the last. We were nearly seven weeks from home on an official visit to the district of Kaitaia, to administer the Lord's Supper at various places. On our return the same duties lay before me in my own district, and I was enabled to fulfil them. And after having travelled over the country and about the country from the North Cape, and south as far as Mangakahia, I returned home without any diminution of strength. My health is now better than it was a year ago, and seems to me to improve. Ere this, eighteen months ago, I expected to have left this wicked

[Image of page 390]

and turbulent world, but the Lord continues me in His glorious work. As my spiritual health and strength increase, so does my bodily; and I trust God has given me a sincere desire to devote all to His service, to be spent to His glory.

"From Kaitaia to the North Cape my journey was interesting, and I hope to be able, if duty requires, to visit those parts again next summer. O how wonderful that God should see fit to allow a poor sinner, so helpless and worthless, to be thus employed at my time of life. It is often my wish, and sometimes my prayer, should it be the will of the ever blessed God, that I may cease to work and live when His time shall come. It would be painful to me to be a useless burden to the Church of God. With our united best Christian love to Mrs. Coleman and yourself,--I remain, yours faithfully and affectionately,

"RICHARD DAVIS."

"12th February 1857.--O how thankful I ought to be for the goodness of the Lord! But, alas! never was a sinner more rebellious. O God, command my heart. My grandson Earnest was brought home this morning in an alarming state. On his way to the Awanui his horse took fright, and threw him. The wheel of the dray passed over his body, but through the wonderful providence of God without his receiving material injury. The dray had four tons on it!!!

"15th February.--Preached to a very large congregation. 214 natives partook of the Lord's Supper. Preached in the evening to a large congregation. Thus the Lord sup-

[Image of page 391]

ported his unworthy servant, and carried him through the duties he had so much feared. O Lord, unworthy as I am, Thou hast answered my prayer.

"16th February.--And now, O Lord, prepare me for my journey to the far north. In mercy direct and protect me therein. Grant that it may be the means of extending Thy kingdom and exalt the glory of Thy name.

"19th February.--Saw the mirage as we neared a solitary rock on the desolate coast called Arai (hindrance), because it hindered the passage there at high-water in a heavy sea. I had for some time observed what I believed to be the mirage. When we approached the rock, it was clearly seen by all the party, increased by several from Ahipara. A woman, on horseback, was about a mile before us. As she neared the rock, a mist arose from the sea, and the sun shone brightly. Between the woman and the sand-bank we saw a beautiful mirror of smooth water, in which the shadows of the bank and rock were distinctly visible. The sun was very hot and fiery. The fish on this coast are wonderfully abundant.

"Sunday, 22d February.--In the morning I administered the sacrament to fifty-eight natives, who paid great attention to the sermon. In the afternoon I read prayers, and baptized two children. In the evening the teachers who accompanied us took the duty. We afterwards spent an interesting interval with some young men in front of our tent. This has been a day of distinguished mercy, in which much religious instruction has been imparted. May the ever blessed God grant His blessing! O for a heart filled with gratitude and love!

[Image of page 392]

"18th March.--I arrived safely at Waimate. O for gratitude to the ever blessed God! "We went out and have come in without the slightest accident. It was a journey abounding in mercy and fraught with blessings. I pray for a thankful heart. All my wishes have been fulfilled.

"19th September.--I administered the Lord's Supper to twenty-four natives from Tepuna, eleven from the Ti, and six Europeans. The state of the natives is very gratifying. O that God may be glorified in them and by them!

"8th November.--Preached from Romans xii. 1, 2. May the Lord bless what has been said to the souls of the natives! O Lord, make me thankful for my blessed situation as a Christian teacher. I thank Thee, O God, for giving me these blessed duties. Enable me to fulfil them to the glory of Thy name."-- Journal.

"WAIMATE, BAY OR ISLANDS,
8th July 1858.

"MY VERY DEAR FRIEND,--My present field of labour is very extensive. My district comprehends five congregations besides the Waimate one, to all which I administer the Lord's Supper. They have been reduced to that number by bringing two congregations into one at two places. I hope to add two other congregations before the close of 1858. My European congregation have put up a good organ in the Waimate Church. This congregation is composed chiefly of our children and children's children, and of those who in some way or another have been connected with the mission. The number of the congregation is between fifty and sixty, and of communicants twenty-

[Image of page 393]

six. For this congregation I have to prepare an English sermon every week, which I find a blessing to my soul.

"In reply to your questions, Mrs. Matthews and Mrs. Puckey are stationed at Kaitaia, both, I trust, on the road to heaven. The Rev. Joseph Matthews is a pious, devoted missionary. His system is a good one, and works well. He meets his teachers every Saturday. They number from twelve to eighteen. If I ever experienced the power of a divine unction, it was once in that teacher's meeting. Serena and her husband, Mr. Butt, a nephew of the late Mrs. Sherwood, have lately been removed from Nelson, where they had resided from the commencement of that town. They had been very persevering in erecting a new church, a parsonage, and I believe a school-house. He is a sound evangelical preacher. They feel their removal most acutely. I have divided my land among my children, having allotted a portion to each. O Lord Jesus Christ, bless them all with Thy richest blessings. MAY NONE BE MISSING AT THY RIGHT HAND!

"The latest Record paper has reached Waimate within three months from the day of publication. This paper gives a general knowledge of things, which could not otherwise be obtained in this country. It gives no quarter where the Divine Word gives none. It sounds a note of alarm, which should be heard at the very ends of the earth. It is a most valuable publication.

"I wish for your opinion on the following question: Is not the Indian insurrection a continuation of the sixth vial, which for some time has been poured out upon the Moslem dynasties, and seems now transferred to the plains

[Image of page 394]

of India? The followers of Mahomet originated the revolt. May not the kings of the East be the powers and people of India? If so, this alarming catastrophe may lead to blessed results. The once godless Government of India may become Christianized. The national sins of England are very alarming. Will not a just God visit our highly privileged country for her national transgressions?

"The natives of this country are in a state of excitement, quarrelling among themselves about the boundaries of their lands. At Kaikohe there is some unpleasantness. Kaikohe is a district of rich land,--by far the richest land I have seen in New Zealand. It is now to be opened for sale to the Government. This unpleasantness will, I fear, be detrimental to the progress of the Gospel in Kaikohe. In Auckland there are many active Christians, but those most advanced in the divine life belong not to our Church.

"My constitutional health is good, and I never felt more real comfort in my labour than of late. But a saddened heart has done much to break down my nervous system. Every little excitement affects me more or less. But I find prayer and the promises united an effectual antidote. Thus graciously the ever blessed God deals with His unworthy servant. The war, the land question, and heavy family afflictions, have made me nervous, and since my illness two years ago, excitement affects the head. With our best Christian love to dear Mrs. Coleman and yourself,--I remain, my dear sir, yours faithfully and affectionately,

"RICHARD DAVIS."

"11th January 1858.--Much excitement in the expec-

[Image of page 395]

tation of, and preparation for, the Governor. A large cavalcade of one hundred horsemen, English and natives, went out to meet him. After the levee, the Governor heard what the natives had to say, and then delivered a short address, all to the point. The meeting was good, and satisfactory to all parties. At five P.M. a public dinner was given in the lecture-room. In returning thanks, the Governor spoke of the courage and perseverance of the first missionaries. This was one of the most pleasant days I have spent for some time.

"13th January.--Many natives called, all well pleased with the Governor.

"14th January.--The Governor and Mrs. Browne came to see the church and hear the organ.

"18th January.--O God, the last has been a year of sparing mercy! How justly mightest Thou have cut me down as a cumberer of the ground! How unworthy of Thy goodness! My sixty-eighth year on earth closes this day. O that I may live this year to Thy glory!

"3d June.--How much I have erred through life in not having sought seriously and perseveringly. for the attainment of THE FAITH OF ASSURANCE, a clear knowledge of Christ as my own Saviour, and a more full comprehension of the nature of His fulness! Lord, how ought I to be filled with shame and confusion of face! Permit me to lie low before Thee, clothed with deep humility. In mercy bless me with a sense of Thy presence.

" 31st December.--Thus we are now brought to the conclusion of another year. Alas! what have I done, or rather, what has the grace of God accomplished by my

[Image of page 396]

instrumentality? Personally it has been a very gracious year. O for overwhelming gratitude and love to God for His great and many mercies! Mercies of various kinds have compassed me about during this year. I do hope that His goodness has enabled me to grow in grace."--
Journal.

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS,
July 8, 1859.

"MY VERY DEAR, KIND FRIEND,--At our last Communion at this place we had seventy-four natives and twenty-six. Europeans. A war excitement reduced the number of our native communicants. At Kaikohe, the Sunday previous, I had ninety-eight communicants, although the weather was very rough and wet. At Matauri, the Sunday after the Waimate Communion, I had forty-nine communicants; and at Tepuna, the Sunday following, fifty-one. There is an outward movement among the natives generally. May the Lord accompany it with the inward and spiritual grace! On our return home I had to examine natives for confirmation, which took place on the 8th of June. We had a very pleasant season with the bishop. His lordship passed on from hence to Kaitaia.

"Our first synod, has been held this autumn at Wellington. During the Convention, Archdeacon W. Williams was consecrated to the See of Waiapa. This gives much satisfaction and pleasure to us all. I doubt not but a blessing will attend it. I have not yet seen the proceedings of the Convention in a tangible form. I believe the lay members rendered good service. I can only hope and

[Image of page 397]

pray that it may prove a sanctified means for the extension of the Church of God in this distant part of the world.

"At Waimate we have formed ourselves into a parish, and commenced a fund; but my parishioners object to its being nominated, at least for the present, an endowment fund. They are very fearful of the leaven of Tractarianism, and therefore prefer a private endowment. This, I learn, will be anti-conventional, as they allow of no private endowments. On this question we shall ultimately be guided by the opinion which may be formed of the conventional laws. During next summer we are to have a diocesan meeting in Auckland, when the nature of the laws will be discussed, brought out, and put in working order. I have written to the Church Missionary Society to inform them of what we have done, and that they may expect to be officially written to on the subject. We wish to ascertain from them whether they are willing to give over the church and glebe, and upon what terms. I am not very well, and I may not be long in this vale of death. The Heke war made a considerable pull upon me. Next came the distracting land question; then heavy family affliction; the death of my wife followed; immediately after the measles and hooping-cough broke out among the natives. For a long time I had, in my solitary situation, to do with the sick, the dying, and the dead, from day to day, until I sunk under it, and I had to remove from Kaikohe. I, however, was enabled soon to rally again, and to proceed as usual. But the malady, which appeared subdued, was not eradicated. During the last year it has again manifested itself. Giddiness in the head, produced

[Image of page 398]

first from indigestion, and now, my medical adviser tells me, from congestion. Cupping relieves, but the relief given is only temporary. This has been given up. The ever-blessed God deals very graciously with me. ALL IS WELL, ALL IS RIGHT, IN JESUS. Jesus and redemption are all I wish to think or speak about. O for a clearer knowledge of the infinite love of God as manifested in redemption! Strange to say, and contrary to the expectation of all parties, my dear devoted wife has given me a son. He is now a FINE boy, nearly eighteen months old. We called him John King, after the name of his humble, devoted grandfather, ft is with much pleasure that we learn from time to time what the ever-blessed God is doing for the extension of His kingdom in America, in Great Britain, and in various parts of the world. Surely the day of the Lord is at hand. At Waimate our young people have established a Mutual Improvement Association, to which we have now attached a weekly prayer-meeting, which is well attended, and I hope much from it. The association is formed of the missionaries' children--the Kings, the Williamses, the Davises, the Clarkes, and the Kemps. Mr. J. W. King gave the first lecture, 'Man before the Fall, and Man after the Fall.' My son James gave the next, 'Electricity.' Edward Williams, my son-in-law, followed --subject, 'Mutual Improvement.' James Kemp, another son-in-law, came next--subject, 'The Human Mind.' The last lecture was given by Mr. Henry Williams, third son of the archdeacon--subject, 'Geology.' They are getting up a library of books containing useful knowledge, as they can procure the means.

[Image of page 399]

"I have just had pleasing news from Kaikohe. Pray for us, my dear friends, that the Spirit of the Lord may be poured out upon us--upon both Europeans and natives. Since I began this letter, I have learned that the bishop has invited Mr. Matthews to Auckland for priest's orders. I suppose he saw, in his late visit, that both the archdeacon and myself were well worn, and therefore saw the necessity of relieving us from the northern journeys. When I have visited that district, and administered the Lord's Supper at Kaitaia and the Cape, we have had about three hundred communicants. When the sacrament can be administered at the respective villages, I expect the number of communicants will be doubled. Moreover, when five or six hundred people met together at Kaitaia, there was too much excitement among them, and the things of the world were too much spoken of by them, and not the things of Christ. My dear wife unites with me in best Christian love to Mrs. Coleman and yourself.--I remain, my dear sir, yours respectfully and affectionately,

"RICHARD DAVIS."

"18th January 1859.--This day I close my sixty-ninth year. I pray for grace to begin this year, which brings me to the age of man, in newness of life and renewed self-devotion to Thee. May this be a year specially dedicated to the service of the ever-blessed God. O Lord, draw all my soul unto Thee! 'Whom have I in heaven but Thee, and there is none upon earth I desire besides Thee. My heart and my flesh fail, but Thou art the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.' Enable me in Christ to live in

[Image of page 400]

humble, self-debasing love to Thee, love ever burning, ever increasing.

"9th February 1859.--The thermometer stood in the dining-room at 78, in the verandah at 90, and in the sun 128.

"10th June 1859.--O for sincere repentance and deep humiliation of soul before God continually. These seem necessary, not for my salvation, but to keep me in my proper place before the throne of the ever-blessed God. How unprofitable my life has been to what it might have been! I have not improved my talents as I might have done. Yet I have been spared, a miracle of the forbearance of the blessed God. I dare not doubt His forgiveness, but I cannot forgive myself.

"30th August 1859.--Last night the southern lights appeared in brightness like twilight, from south by east to south-west. At first the colour was pale pink. In the south-west a coruscation of a pink colour rose 45 degrees. It was very faint. A rough night. Barometer this morning 28.55.

"2d September 1859.--The southern lights awfully grand, extending nearly to south-west, and a point or two from south to east, and from the horizon nearly vertical over head. Colour a light fiery scarlet.

"27th December 1859.--Spent a pleasant day at Swarraton with all my children. Including sons-in-law and grandchildren we numbered fifty-two, three sons-in-law and sixteen grandchildren being absent. How wonderful the forbearing mercy of God to such a sinner! I felt my ingratitude, and mourned over the insensibility of my heart.

[Image of page 401]

May I meet them all in heaven! O my God, I thank Thee for this unexpected mercy in meeting all my dear children once more. O bless my dear children."--Journal.

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS,
1st November 1860.

"MY DEAREST MARY ANN,--We all need quickening grace, and this is freely bestowed upon ALL who seek for it with their WHOLE hearts. Jesus does not love, yea, cannot love, a divided heart, and our hearts are divided when Jesus does not reign supreme within, directing every thought and word. Three things are necessary to form the established Christian character: 1. THE FULL ASSURANCE OF UNDERSTANDING. This means a clear, comprehensive, and soul-establishing acquaintance with divine truth. This can only be obtained by READING, MEDITATION, and PRAYER. 2. THE FULL ASSURANCE OF FAITH. By this we understand a strong, settled, unwavering conviction of the truth of the Gospel. 3. THE FULL ASSURANCE OF HOPE. These three assurances are intimately connected with each other, and one rises out of the other. If we use the means diligently and with perseverance to obtain the first, the Holy Spirit will not fail to lead us on to the attainment of the other two. If you would be easy in your mind, you MUST set apart a portion of every day for reading the Scriptures, meditating on them, and prayer. The ever-blessed God cannot bless us unless we thus open our mouths to receive the blessing, and He has commanded us to open them WIDE that He might fill them. Set light books aside. They feed the

[Image of page 402]

mind, but not the soul. READ, and persevere to read the Bible, until you love it far above all other books. The Gospels are most profitable to read, because they bring before us the character of Jesus. View Him in His birth. View Him in His unbounded and unwearied labours of love. View Him eating the Passover with His disciples. View Him in the garden, before the Jewish rulers, before Pilate, on the cross, after His resurrection, and in His triumphant ascension to glory. View Him in the character He now sustains towards us. Contemplate the indissoluble bonds by which believers are eternally united to Him. This, my dear child, will warm your heart with love, lift your soul to heaven, and fix your affections on things above.

"My constitutional health is as good as it has been for the last five years. But I have a general weakness. My limbs are weak. And my head is frequently affected with giddiness. My time may not be long. I do not think it will. The Lord's time is best. His will be done. I have had little pleasure of life for the last eight years. My dear wife is most kind and attentive to me. She unites with me in kindest love and affection to you and to all.-- I remain, your ever affectionate father,

"RICHARD Davis.
"To MRS. MATTHEWS, Kaitaia."

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS,
February 14, 1861.

"MY VERY DEAR SIR,--The Governor's war with the natives is MUCH, VERY MUCH to be lamented. The Governor himself is, I believe, a kind-hearted, humane man. We

[Image of page 403]

hailed with pleasure such a person as Governor. But his advisers in the war question led him astray. Right is considered to be on the side of the Maoris by most right-minded men. The land in dispute was purchased by that root of evil called the New Zealand Company, and awarded to them by Commissioner Spain, but disputed by the natives. The question was raised in Governor Fitzroy's time, but he did not take it up, and it remained quiet. It was again raised in Governor Gray's time, but he saw the difficulties, and it again fell to the ground. With Governor Browne the agitators have been but too successful. Wm. King's right is considered a just one by all impartial people, who have taken the trouble to examine the question. When and how the question will end is very uncertain. I think the Maoris will not give up the point but with their lives. The extreme bravery of the natives appears to have drawn forth the sympathy of the officer in command. It is reported that Colonel Wynyard is to be our new Governor. This, I hope, may prove true. The natives of the north are at present quiet, but they condemn the proceedings of the Governor. They argue thus: 'There is a law-court to which the Governor directed us to bring our cases in order that they might be adjusted in quietness and equity. Why did not the Governor bring his case with W. King before the court before he resorted to war? If this had been done, and King proved to be in the wrong, and remained stubborn afterwards, then the war would have been a correct one.' This I consider sound reasoning. Many of our people attended the large meeting held in Auckland just after the commencement of the war, but they returned

[Image of page 404]

dissatisfied. They said they could not understand the Governor--that he should have called them together before he began the war. That meeting was an expensive one, but it proved a failure. A growing sympathy for King is to be pretty clearly seen, and if some steps to restore peace be not soon taken, England may have to furnish more troops. The colony is already ruined, and it will be a long time before it will be in the position it was before the war.

"The war was commenced by the Europeans in a harsh manner, and with a feeling of contempt towards their foe. This exasperated the natives, and led some of them to commit atrocities, which were, I believe, condemned by their own body. We have among us a deadly and growing evil, which is drunkenness. Within the last year it has much increased at Kaikohe, and made sad havoc among the professing Christians--this is in reality a worse evil than the war.

"In September last I had an attack of acute rheumatism, which confined me to my bed for a fortnight. I felt it to be a profitable season. Since my recovery I have felt better than usual, and, unworthy as I am, I have been enabled to go on with the blessed work. I am glad to learn that you are engaged in a revision of the Book of Psalms in the evening of your days, and hope you may be spared to see it completed.

"Our dear little boy, the child of my old age, has been recently brought down to the gates of death by the New Zealand fever, but I thank God he is now much better, but still weak. The fever is a bad one, and has been very prevalent, especially among the children.

[Image of page 405]

"We hear good accounts from the Bishop of Waiapu. A stir in the right direction has been made among his natives. I hope it will prove to be the work of the Holy Ghost. The bishop is a worthy character. With our united Christian love to Mrs. Coleman and yourself--I remain, my very dear sir, yours faithfully and affectionately,

RICHARD DAVIS."

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS,
22d May 1861.

"MY DEAR WILLIAM,--It is not enough for us to KNOW that we are saved by grace. If we would be happy in God we must REJOICE that it is by grace. We are sordid Christians. We are, as it were, sinners scarcely half awake to our real danger. We only HOPE to be saved. We do not REJOICE in our salvation. Why is it so with us? Because we do not LIVE the Gospel. We do not WALK according to the Gospel. We do not KNOW Christ. Therefore, we do not LOVE Him. If we loved Christ, we should not fail to keep His commandments. All the regenerate are called to be labourers in the Lord's vineyard. There can be no idlers there. Then, what of us who are actually receiving, in addition, our maintenance, in order that our WHOLE TIME AND TALENTS should be solely devoted to the extension of Christ's kingdom? There is a text in the Bible, which has alarmed me more than once: 'Cursed is he that doeth the work of the Lord deceitfully,' that is, unfaithfully. Who will be so miserable as the unfaithful missionary in the regions of despair? Alas! if there were not such gracious promises of mercy made to

[Image of page 406]

backsliders, what would become of us? I have lately had some gracious glimmerings of the salvation of God. To obtain a knowledge of the glories of redemption we must walk in the Spirit continually--read much--meditate much--and continue instant in prayer. Do not think this too much. It is according to Scripture, and fully manifest in the lives of the devoted children of God. They live the Gospel, and enjoy the Gospel.

"The day of the Lord may be very near to come. A great crisis is at hand. Let us see that our lamps burn bright, and that our vessels be well replenished with an inextinguishable store of oil.

"Drunkenness is rife at Kaikohe, and is doing its work. Alas, how far some of these natives have gone in the Divine life! How fair at one time was their appearance! What a call for self-examination! Well may we tremble and fear.--Your affectionate father,

RICHARD DAVIS.
"Mr. PUCKEY, Missionary at Kaitaia."

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS,
June 1861.

"MY DEAR JOSEPH,--In order to prepare wheat even of the best quality for use, it must be winnowed and purged from chaff and other evil qualities. The Christian needs a similar process to prepare him for the Master's use. 'The vessels of the Lord must be holy.' TEMPTATION, AFFLICTION, and PERSECUTION were considered by Luther the necessary ingredients to form the ministerial character. TEMPTATIONS are winnowing seasons to the Christian. Were it not for such seasons, we should be almost sure to

[Image of page 407]

mix chaff with what we do, or leave our work only half done. TEMPTATIONS alarm and rouse the soul to diligence I--diligence in searching the Scriptures--diligence in prayer--diligence in watchfulness. They bring the soul to its right place, the foot of the cross, lead the soul to see its own helplessness, and to look for protection and assistance where only it is to be found. In our privacy we must be qualified to resist temptation. Without prayer and prayerful reliance upon Christ we must fall. Private prayer is as essential to the sustentation of our souls, as food is to the nutrition of our bodies, and to make us efficient Christians must be as regularly resorted to. TEMPTATIONS are generally good omens. Satan would not endeavour to affright us from our duties, or to alarm us in them, if our duties endangered not his kingdom. Nor would the ever-blessed God permit us to be thus tempted if He did not see it necessary, in order to drive us from our own resources, and compel us to seek our all from Him. He has provided largely for us. He has provided for every emergency. And if we discern not His sovereign grace, He experimentally teaches us by humiliation, that all our supplies and all our succours come from Him SOLELY and EXCLUSIVELY.

"Should war commence with the Waikato, where and when will it end? Our settlers should be prepared for the consequences. However powerful, Government may not effect their object. The natives will not stand to be annihilated. They can exist where our troops will starve, and will go where the troops cannot follow them. We know the war at Taranaki was unjust, and rejoice that

[Image of page 408]

the natives have had friends to plead their cause. That war has closed, and all agitation on behalf of the natives should now cease. The Waikato tribe may have cause to complain, but, if weighed in the balances, would be found wanting. I believe nothing would bring the natives under a state of discipline so effectually as true Christianity. Let the Spirit be poured out from on high, the natives would soon become loyal subjects and peaceful neighbours. With those settlers I can have no sympathy, who wish the natives to be shot down, that they may obtain possession of their lands. But there is a class of settlers who deserve our sympathy, as well as the troops who have been brought here to subdue the natives. Our natives profess much loyalty. May they retain it. In some of them I have little confidence.

"Give our very best love to Mary Ann, and Matilda, and William, and all the dear children.--I remain, yours faithfully and affectionately,

RICHARD DAVIS.
"To REV. JOSEPH MATTHEWS."

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS,
13th August 1861.

"MY DEAR JOSEPH,--You and I have imbibed our religious knowledge too much from lateral sources. We have read sound divinity, and studied the experience of others, for our support in affliction, temptation, and spiritual difficulties. From the instruction and experience of others we have often found support. Nor have we, I trust, omitted persevering prayer and the study of the Divine Word. In this second-hand way we have had to pay dear

[Image of page 409]

for what free grace has enabled us to obtain in the use of such means. Whereas we ought first of all to have gone to the foot of the throne, and persevered in immediate prayer to God for that spiritual strength, relief, and deliverance, which we felt we needed. Had we done this, the object would have been obtained immediately from the hand of our heavenly Father, and relief thus obtained would have come with greater power into our souls, and would have made an impression never to be obliterated. We have sought after religious knowledge too much in reading the works of good men, and too little from the Word of God. We have followed Christ as He shone in the character of others, more than we have followed Him as seen in the Word and manifested by the Spirit. Therefore we are in a state likely to be bewildered by temptation. This, I believe, is the reason why the natives rise no higher in the scale of Christianity. They receive the knowledge thereof from us, and seek it too much from us, and too little from Christ. This is an evil which I hope by Divine aid to rectify in future. I find that persevering, devout, and unceasing prayer is necessary for me. The time in which we are living is one of deception, and the enemy has great power and influence over the unregenerate. Times still more fearful may not be long distant. O how necessary is it that we ministers should lift our voice as a trumpet! Kaikohe is sunk in drunkenness. With a father's best affection to Mary Ann,--I remain, yours faithfully and affectionately,

RICHARD DAVIS.
"To REV. JOSEPH MATTHEWS."

[Image of page 410]

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS,
6th December 1861.

"MY DEAREST MATILDA,--Your fifth letter came to hand to-day. How thankful I am for your letters at all times! ------ appears never to have thought seriously of religion until death stared her in the face. How sad to live in such a state! how extremely dangerous! This is not the only state of danger in which poor sinners live. None are in a more dangerous state, none are more nigh to a miserable eternity, than the almost Christian and the barren professor. There are also a GREAT NUMBER of professedly evangelical Christians, whose state is of a most uncertain character. Their lives are moral, their conversation correct, but they remain selfish. They are not prepared to forsake all their own wishes and desires for Christ's sake. The first thing to be forsaken for Christ's sake is SELF. This object once accomplished, our way to heaven will become smooth and even. Without this reality profession is vain. I am quite sure that a selfish Christian is not to be found in the true Church of God. The language of every Christian is, 'Not unto us,' etc. They esteem other better than themselves. They have the mind of Christ, because they are one with Him. Alas, what will become of innumerable professors around us! We missionaries are in a dangerous state from our awful responsibility. Alas, how have our time and talents been used! How much they have been misused! None require so much self-examination as we ourselves. I have often thought, when I have mourned over the apathy and ignorance of the natives, that the root of the evil may be in us. Our children know

[Image of page 411]

the nature of Christianity, but how many among them are like Christ, and reflect His image? Knowledge is vain, 'Those who have not the spirit or mind of Christ are none of His.'

"With our best love to yourself and the dear children, --I remain, your ever affectionate father,

"RICHARD DAVIS.
"To Mrs. PUCKEY, Kaitaia."

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS, Dec. 8, 1861.

"MY DEAR JOSEPH,--I have much to do, but I scarcely do anything to my own satisfaction. The fever adds to our labours, and to the weight of our responsibility. I am to visit all the fever patients around us, and to give them a word of advice in their season of affliction. But I am seldom satisfied with the manner in which that instruction is given, or in which it is received. I sometimes feel a little liberty in preaching to the natives. The native service is my best service. The European service I do not much enjoy. And I perceive little fruit of a satisfactory character from either. This state of things weighs upon my spirits. There is a sinful fault somewhere, or the fruits of the Spirit would be manifest. Is the fault in me or in my congregations? I fear my labours partake too much of an official character, and too little of that which is earnest and spiritual. I am not satisfied with the religious proficiency of myself, or of those around me. We appear religious before men, but I fear we fall far short in the eyes of a heart-searching God. The fruits of the Spirit do not manifest themselves as they ought. The Spirit of

[Image of page 412]

Christ is seldom seen, when it ought to be most conspicuous. Our religious profession, being barren, does not produce the fruits of love, meekness, and humility. It does not bring forth in us the mind of Christ, and we do little to promote; the glory of God. The little light we have does not shine with brightness, nor do our good works glorify our Father which is in heaven. May the Lord have mercy upon us!

"Nearly the whole male population have taken to drinking, and appear to see no evil in it. I was told the other day that they could preach more clearly from being under the influence of liquor. I replied, that herein the devil was transformed into an angel of light. Some of the professors of religion at Kaikohe are in a most awful state. At Waimate, things look somewhat brighter, but all is bad. I must cast in my lot with them, and in deep humility exclaim, 'God be merciful to us miserable sinners.' Had not Sir George Grey revised the present system, I know not to what it may have grown. The system carried on here has had a bad effect. One of the assessors told me the other day, wherever they went to hold a court, there, they found the spirit bottle!!! May the Lord send speedy deliverance to the natives!

"With our best love to Mary Ann, and to Mr. and Mrs. Puckey, and to the families, and to all the dear children, --I remain, yours faithfully and affectionately,

"RICHARD DAVIS.
"To REV. JOSEPH MATTHEWS."

"31st December 1861.--This has been a year of great mercy, faithfulness, and truth. How gracious has been

[Image of page 413]

the forbearance of the ever-blessed God to such a sinner, such a cumberer of the ground! O that, O my God, I could live wholly to Thy glory!

"1st January 1862.--Now, Lord, take my heart, and let it be for ever closed to all but Thee. O my soul, strive for a stronger faith, for a clearer view of Jesus, for all deliverance from self, and for persevering prayer. Strive for purity and holiness, for a spirit of meekness, humility, patience, and patient endurance. Strive for all in the name of Jesus.

"18th January 1862.--This day I am seventy-two years of age. I thank Thee that I am still on praying ground. O Lord, destroy within me the power of sin. Perfect speedily all that concerns me. Prepare me to live to Thy glory. Lord, how graciously Thou hast dealt with me! My bodily health is so much better than it was this time last year. Lord, grant that my spiritual health may improve much this year! An inward intimation has been given me, that I may partake of Divine grace to any extent if I seek it diligently, and in the path of holiness. Lord, quicken my soul, and bless me with patient resignation. Above all, prepare me for Thy heavenly kingdom. I am an unworthy sinner, and shall never in myself be better."--Journal.

"WAIMATE, 7th January 1862.

"MY DEAR CHARLES,--The general state of New Zealand is not prosperous. There is a vast difference between the English Government and a colonial Government. Before the war, much dissatisfaction was expressed by the emi-

[Image of page 414]

grants. They had been allured by glowing accounts of the country, and of the great advantages of becoming landholders, etc., etc. On their arrival, they found the land not cleared for cultivation, and requiring a large outlay of capital to render it available. Very many returned in disgust, or migrated to the Australian colonies. When war broke out, hundreds of settlers abandoned the country. One thousand are reported in one month to have left Auckland. They who emigrate to New Zealand, little think to what labour and toil they expose themselves. Mechanics do well. Farming men and people of slender means encounter disappointment and vexation.

"Spirit-drinking is a growing evil, and a great hindrance to the cause of Christ. My district numbers about 400 communicants. Great deadness of spiritual feeling exists among them generally, from which a few are exempt. But I believe there is more genuine religion in our native converts, than is to be found in the same number of inhabitants of highly-privileged England. We require the quickening influences of the Divine Spirit. Until the Spirit shall be poured out from on high, the wilderness will not blossom. I trust prayer will continually be offered up for us, both for our people, and for ourselves. We all require Divine unction and quickening grace.

"At this station I have had to attend to what was formerly the duty of four missionaries. Alas! I have been able to do little over so large a stretch of country. Two years ago, I gave up one of the most interesting portions of my district. The journey was too heavy for me. My longest journey now is twenty-five miles. When the

[Image of page 415]

candle of the Lord shines upon me, I get on well. But we have much to damp and chill our spirits. Precious faith! How precious is the gift of faith!

"God is pouring out His Spirit in various parts of the earth, and many sinners have been made partakers of the water of life, which flows from the throne of God and the Lamb. Upon the Church the spirit of love and union has been poured out, and the various denominational sects of evangelical Christians meet together in love. These, my dear Charles, are gracious days. I hope Stourton Caundle partakes of this graciousness. The time of universal holiness, that blessedness for which we daily pray, 'Thy kingdom come,' draweth near. The nations of the earth are fast ripening for judgment, for that crisis, which will usher in this blessedness. May we be prepared! WE MUST BE WATCHFUL. Take heed to these two passages of Scripture: 'I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame' (Rev. xvi. 13-15). 'There shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect' (Matt. xxiv. 24). To prepare us for trials we need union and communion with Christ. All God's children have union with Christ. Yet, many go

[Image of page 416]

mourning all their days, and enjoy but little peace and joy in believing. To prepare for the coming crisis, communion with Christ is essential. We must know and recognise Christ as our individual Saviour. We must have intimate fellowship with Him. If we have not this fellowship, the fault is our own. To live in doubt of our acceptance with God, springs from defect of faith, and is productive of instability in the Christian walk and warfare. Who can estimate the blessings, or set a value on the riches, which the true believer possesses? He is one with Christ, and Christ one with him. He dwells in Christ, and Christ in Him. He is an heir of God, yea, a joint heir with Christ, of all the blessings he is capable of enjoying throughout an endless eternity. What a wonderful revelation of the love of the ever blessed God was the gift of His only-begotten Son! While on earth, it is our duty and high privilege to make ourselves acquainted, under the divine tuition of the Holy Ghost, with the unsearchable riches of the love of God, manifest in our redemption. The praying persevering Christian cannot ask too much, nor expect too confidently. 'Open thy mouth wide, and I will fill it' (Ps. lxxxi. 10). 'I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God' (Eph. iii. 14, 17-19). The promises of God are all yea and amen in Christ Jesus.

"The remembrance of Stourton Caundle Sunday-school

[Image of page 417]

will ever be dear to me. From your letter, I hope my feeble efforts have been blessed to some. Often have I thought of the dear children, and longed to know what had become of them. I thank God that the school is conducted on the same principles, and that one of my earliest scholars is now its principal teacher. May I not hope to meet some of these dear children in heaven? I am thankful to learn that so many attend the school. I trust your primary object is to lead them to Christ. You cannot fill a more important post than that of training the youthful mind, and storing it with Scriptural knowledge. Take care that the water with which you fill the pitchers be pure, and prayerfully trust to Jesus to turn the water into wine.

"Remember me most kindly to all my old neighbours. Tell them not to suffer themselves to be deluded by those who are promoting emigration to this country. Hundreds who are here would be glad to return, if they knew how. Let me know of their souls' welfare. Give my Christian love to them all. I shall always cherish an affectionate remembrance for them. As you have the means of grace in the parish, I trust many will savingly profit by that inestimable blessing, a faithfully preached Gospel, which to every one must be a savour of life unto life, or a savour of death unto death. How many of my old friends are walking with God? I hope none of them will go down into perdition.

"I am getting old, and cannot write so easily as formerly. But I hope my heart will grow warmer and warmer in the great work of God in New Zealand while it continues to beat. My Christian regards to yourself, your wife, and

[Image of page 418]

your children, who, I trust, are all monuments of the love of God in Christ. Take care that not an hoof he left behind.--I remain, my dear Charles, faithfully and sincerely yours,

RICHARD DAVIS.
"To Mr. CHARLES CROCKER,
Stourton Caundle."

"TEPUNA, February 25, 1862.

"MY DEAR SIR,--We came here last week. I met and examined the communicants, and on Sunday administered the Lord's Supper. We hope to return on the 27th.

"Since I last wrote Sir George Grey has arrived amongst us. He soon after visited the north. The Ngapuhi tribes gave him a flattering reception. The meeting was large at Waimate. He was received by the archdeacon and myself. I hope his policy will have the desired effect, but I am not sanguine. Mr. Clarke holds a high Government office as Civil Commissioner; his district embraces the whole of this end of the island. Under him a select party are to frame their own laws. This party is to be elected from among the various tribes. In addition there are district magistrates, and courts in which cases are to be decided by jury. And the pay of all the native officers will render it worth while that they should retain office. So far the system may work. But I fear the mass to be governed will be found refractory. Money has a controlling power over the native mind, but moral power will be only appreciated by a few, and those few will not be likely to require that power to be exercised upon them. The natives have been spoiled children from the beginning. The Governor's address to them at Waimate was of a

[Image of page 419]

manly character, and I hoped much. But he has found things to be more complicated than he expected, and it is reported that he has been profuse in his promises and concessions. If this be true, he will only stave off the evil day. Up to this time I have cherished great confidence in his wisdom. It is but just to the natives, that he should first use conciliatory measures in his endeavours to settle the country. Should these measures even fail, I think Sir George will not go to war without mature consideration as to its ultimate results. Although not at war (if the reports are to be relied on), the Taranaki people are still hostile towards the European settlers. The Waikato tribes still adhere to the King movement, and to their own laws. The Governor has sent a resident magistrate to Waikato. He merely holds the office without the power of executing it. He has been ordered off by an armed band, but refused to go. Explanations have been entered into, and some apology, it is reported, was made, and it is alleged that the party was not sent by Tamihana, the prime minister. But, I think, they would not have done what they did if they had not been acquainted with his mind on the subject. It is a well-known fact that the Waikatos are preparing for war, and also that they look with disdain on the British troops. Our troops are at this time road-making on the Government land in the Waikato district, BUT SHOULD THEY ATTEMPT TO PASS THE BOUNDARY LINE THEY WILL BE FIRED UPON. The troops are now well commanded, and are no doubt wishing for an opportunity to let the natives feel the force of their strength. This the natives will be too wise to do.

[Image of page 420]

"The country I conceive to be in a most unsettled and ungovernable state. Even here there are cases in which the natives are resuming their lands, which they had fairly sold to Europeans, and the titles to which had been examined and proved valid in the Commissioners' Court, and for which Crown grants have been issued. Of course they must be left to do as they like. The Government is not in a position to render protection. I am thankful that Governor Grey is here. I FEAR AFFAIRS ARE DRAWING NEAR TO A CRISIS. I have little confidence in any of the natives. Drunkenness is rife amongst them, and the love of many, who were once our crown of rejoicing, is waxed cold. May the Lord deliver us from drunken hostile natives! At Mangakahia war between the tribes is imminent, on account of their boundary lines of land. Efforts have been made to still the tumult, but without effect. One of the parties has been formed from my own people. They have been much oppressed by a tyrant chief, who has dispossessed them of much of their land by selling it to the Government. The present tract of country they are determined to hold by force of arms, and they have nearly the whole of the Ngapuhi tribes in their favour, so that we have much reason to fear that blood will be shed.

"We have just received two native deacons and a schoolmaster from the Auckland Institution. They all went from Kaitaia. One of the deacons will be stationed at Paihia, as an assistant to the archdeacon. The other will assist me for a time at Kaikohe, until his congregation at the north shall have provided for him. The schoolmaster is on trial. Should he prove diligent, he will also be ad-

[Image of page 421]

mitted to holy orders. They appear to be devoted men. May they he indeed taught by the Spirit, that without Christ they can do nothing, and that they can do all things through Christ, who strengtheneth them. I am thankful to have lived to see this. I have lately received a letter from Bishop Williams, in which he informs me, that he had already received upwards of a thousand pounds from the natives for the endowment of their churches. In that district the system works well, and is likely to do so at the north. Alas! the uneasy, turbulent Ngapuhi! Can any good come out of our Nazareth? The deacons visited the north, in company with a deacon who was taken from Mangakahia when a boy, and brought up in the bishop's school. The Kaitaia natives were much surprised at what they saw and heard, and requested that every day should be employed as the Sabbath while the deacons stayed in the settlement.

"We have been visited with the typhus fever. In our immediate neighbourhood we have had forty-eight cases, and eight deaths. On the coast, it has been almost universal, and many have died. At Kaitaia, scarcely any escaped. At the end of the year they counted eighty-nine deaths. Tepuna has hitherto escaped. We have hitherto escaped the contagion, although I have visited nearly every case within my reach. O that we were more thankful for such signal mercies!

"The duties of my medical department have again become heavy. Dr. Day has been obliged to give up his appointment from ill health, so that the whole again devolves upon me. No other medical man can be induced

[Image of page 422]

to take it at present, as £100 a year, and ten shillings a day while travelling, is all that Government will allow.

"We are now passing through our summer, which upon the whole has been very warm and fruitful. During our last winter we were visited by a splendid comet, which APPEARED to disarrange our atmosphere. Winter cold was turned into summer heat. In our shortest days the thermometer ranged for some time between 60 and 70, and once even reached 72. And much rain fell while the comet was in our hemisphere.

"I feel the infirmities of old age to be drawing themselves more closely around me every succeeding year. Even home duties cannot be performed with the usual elasticity. Lift up your prayer for me, that I may be ready for the great change which awaits me. On our return, I hope to spend one Sabbath at Waimate, and then pass on to Kaikohe, to do what I can for the wreck of that once promising congregation. After my return from thence, if able, I must visit Matauri. I have been held back from holding a meeting there on account of the fever. Only one has escaped it. With our united regards to Mrs. Coleman and yourself,--I remain, my dear sir, yours very sincerely and affectionately,

RICHARD DAVIS."

"TEPUNA, 11th April 1802.

"MY DEAREST MATILDA,--On our arrival here I got rapidly worse, until I was confined to bed. But it has been the will of God that I should rally a little. Tuesday next they intend to take me home. But I remain weak

[Image of page 423]

and poorly, and my time here will not be long. I parted from you with the impression, that I had taken my final leave of you on earth. When we meet again, it will be to part no more. I am in a poor, weak state. Medicines produce no effect. So you may suppose that I have been not far from the grave. One night I suffered a conflict of a painful nature, but in the morning relief was sent, and I was enabled to view the river of death without fear, and to lie on its banks in a waiting state. It appeared to have been a gracious season. I feel very thankful to God for this affliction, nor am I careful as to how or when it will end. Be devoted, my dear child, in thought, word, and deed to Christ, that you may enjoy His presence.

"My time is much occupied. O that it could be more and better occupied for God! I do not expect that I shall remain much longer on earth. I tremble to think how little I have done as a missionary, and how badly that little has been done, and how very much I have left undone that I might have done, and which I ought to have done. I humbly hope and trust that the ever-blessed God, for Christ's sake, will pardon my manifold transgressions. BUT THE WEIGHT OF MISSIONARY RESPONSIBILITY IS CRUSHING. While we view death at a distance, we hope as missionaries to do more and to do better. The mind is ever sanguine, and looks to future labours as likely to be more satisfactory. Years ago my hopes for the natives of this place were much raised, and appeared to be based on a good foundation. But those who then gave me most pleasure now give me most pain. Drunkenness is the bane of Kaikohe. I have been for a long time fearful

[Image of page 424]

that very many of our communicants would not hold out in the day of trial, and my fears have been sadly realized. O that this falling away may be confined to Kaikohe! Nevertheless, God has His sincere ones even here. They think much of Piripi, and attend regularly on his ministry. May the Lord make him a blessing to them! He is now on a visit to his own people. They wrote to him to visit them, that he might marry and baptize.

"I think there is nothing now to hinder our full expectation of the coming Saviour. Almost all the prophecies to the time of His coming have passed, and are now passing rapidly into history. May we be all ready!

""With my affectionate love to William and all the dear children,--I remain, your affectionate father,

"RICHARD DAVIS.
"To Mrs. PUCKEY, Kaitaia."

"TEPUNA, 7th May 1862.

"MY DEAR WILLIAM,--The ordination of the natives has introduced a new era amongst us. Through their instrumentality we hope God will bless the Maoris. I tell them that I view myself as a mere pioneer to open the road in which they are to walk. The native deacons are well received. The natives tell me that their ministrations are full of life,--that they feel their preaching. May their labours be blessed a thousand fold! May God be glorified in the salvation of the people! Our labours have not been greatly blessed. We have been instrumental in making many professors. Some have died hopefully. A few are now living consistently with the knowledge they

[Image of page 425]

have acquired. But the mass adorn not the Gospel. They are ignorant of the love of God revealed therein. I am at a loss to whom this evil is to be attributed, to them or to us. Their ignorance lays them open to temptation. They possess not that love to God, which makes the feet of true Christians move in swift obedience.

"Piripi is just returned from visiting his people. He does not give a very promising account of the provision they propose to make for him, before he can be sent among them. The facility of raising the sum proposed would be great to a people who loved the Gospel for the Gospel's sake. They are at no loss to raise means for other objects, which tend to their present gratification. If the Gospel were a gratification and solace to their souls, they would soon find means to have ministers among them. I long to see the present ministers at their posts, and New Zealand studded with native teachers. Nothing would so surely pacify the country.

"With a father's affectionate love to Matilda and the children,--I remain, your affectionate father,

"RICHARD DAVIS.
"To Mr. PUCKEY, Kaitaia."

"27th December 1862.--I spent the day in preparing a sermon for 6th January 1863, which day has been set apart by the bishop, at the request of the Church, as a day of prayer for the outpouring of the Spirit on the nations of he earth. I trust this is a precursor of good. It seems to be holy ground. O Lord, grant us Thy blessing and direction.

[Image of page 426]

"31st December 1862.--We number one less than we did at its commencement. But, Lord, Thou doest all things well. It has been to us a year of mercies, some of which I trust are of a blessed and permanent character. In our missionary field there has appeared to be no advance. But God has continued the country in peace. Lord, enable us to devote ourselves to Thee. Lord, enable us to live for Thy glory. Lord, search my heart; Thou knowest that I love Thee.

"1st January 1863.--I have been permitted to see the commencement of the new year, but I may not see its close. Lord, prepare and direct me.

"18th January 1863.--This day my seventy-third year has closed; alas! how unprofitably. I performed all the services myself. This is according to the wish of my soul, for I value these services above anything in this life. I never seem to have closed my Sabbath duties with so much weakness of body and lowness of spirits. A voice seemed to tell me, that this was the last service on a birthday I should ever perform. This presentiment has for weeks been impressed on my mind. Lord, bless my dear wife, and my dear little boy. Bless all my children and children's children with eternal life, and quicken my soul.

"19th January 1863.--I stayed at home, and wrote a sermon, which perhaps I may never preach. O Lord, prepare me for death. Suffer me not to live unprofitably.

"29th January 1863.--Thermometer in the sun, before the sea breeze came in, stood at 142. I have never known it so high. My days appear to be near a close. Blessed Jesus, I look to Thee for the salvation of my soul,

[Image of page 427]

and for a blessing upon all I shall leave behind. Lord, bless all my beloved children, and prepare me for death.

"10th February 1863.--My dear little boy's birth-day. Mr. Clark's and James's children, and Mrs. Clark, took tea with us in the evening. This is probably the last of their birth-days that I shall witness.

"3d March 1863.--I left Waimate, and parted from dear Matilda and her husband at the Keri-Keri, probably to see them no more in the flesh. May God bless all my children. Arrived at Tepuna.

"8th April 1863.--I was brought home to Waimate in a very weak state. This was from the Lord, for the benefit of my soul, and I wish to record my thankfulness to Him for His merciful affliction. My soul required it. Some of the conflicts were sharp and strong. But the Lord supported me, and did not suffer me to be overcome. I seemed to have reached the land of Beulah. The river of death appeared narrow, and easy to step over. O God, how unbounded Thy love to such a sinner!

"14th May 1863.--My end may be very near, but the Lord deals very graciously with me, a poor, unworthy sinner. May the poor, dear natives find mercy!

"15th May 1863.--Six people from the Matira came for examination for the Sacrament, and three from Rangaunu."
[Last entry.]--Journal.

"WAIMATE, BAY OF ISLANDS,
2d May 1863.

"MY DEAREST MATILDA,--I am thankful for William's letter, in which he informed me that he was assisting in

[Image of page 428]

examining the natives for the Holy Communion. A deeply responsible work! We need much wisdom from above to enable us to fulfil this duty. I trust he will be enabled to retain his bodily health, and to progress much in spiritual health in a short time. We are all too selfish. We want self crushed and subdued within us, and the Saviour exalted to His proper place in our hearts. It is not very likely that I shall ever see any of you again in the flesh. I have no wish to live, when it shall please my Heavenly Father to call me.

"My dear wife unites in love and affection to yourself and William, and to Mary Ann and Joseph, and to all the children.--I remain, your ever affectionate father,

"RICHARD DAVIS.
"To Mrs. Puckey, Kaitaia."

[The last letter Mr. Davis ever wrote.]

The following detail of the last days of Mr. Davis is from the pen of his eldest son, James, who "watched him closely night and day, to smooth as much as possible his last moments:"--

"Through the blessing of our Heavenly Father on the means used, we were able in a fortnight to bring him to Waimate. For nearly six weeks after this he appeared to be hanging in the balance. It was very consoling to witness his unwavering faith in the merits of our crucified Redeemer. On the night of 22d May he became much worse, and from that time was confined to his bed, not being able to retain any nourishment whatever on his stomach, though enjoying long intervals of sleep. On the

[Image of page 429]

morning of Whitsunday, 24th May, his countenance brightened, and he exclaimed, 'Come, Lord Jesus! James, I shall soon be with that happy company before the throne, and like them shall be clothed in robes of spotless white.' On the afternoon of Whitsunday he was much worse, and unable to recognise his old Christian friends who called to see him. Wednesday, 27th May, all the members of the family within reach being collected around his bed, I said, 'The Spirit and the bride say, Come.' He answered I aloud, 'Lord, I come.' He had a long sleep, which greatly refreshed him. On awaking he exclaimed, 'CHARIOT WHEELS.' At nine p.m., noticing us all standing around his bed, he appeared to address himself to each. His lips: moved, but not a sound, not a whisper was perceptible. He then rested his eyes on me most affectionately. Afterwards, looking all round, my sister Sophia caught his dying accents: 'Meet me in heaven.' He now closed his eyes, and slept sweetly, his breathing becoming weaker and weaker, until about half-past two o'clock, Thursday morning, 28th May, his happy spirit took its departure, without a struggle or a sigh, just six months and six days after his dear grandson, our beloved first-born, Charles Augustus, aged twenty-one, whom the Lord took 22d November 1862. He was buried at Waimate by the side of my dear mother and my dear son Augustus, to await the resurrection morn, when he shall arise from the dust of death in the likeness of his glorified Redeemer, and shall meet Him in the air, and be ever with the Lord."