Van Cooten Voices

1819

Friday Jany 1

At 12 o'clock to day Wm Van Der Haas was buried. The funeral was attended by about 20 white gentlemen, who followed the corpse in great disorder. On our arrival at the grave, which was about 6 feet northward of Mr Posts, & about 4 feet deep, the corpse was placed upon 2 chairs, while I delivered a short address from Matt.24.44. which was heard with great attention. The Lord grant it may be made useful to those who heard it.

Preached in eveng from Jer. 7.23.

Sunday 3

The one thing needful appearing to me a proper subject for the first Sabbath in the new year. I earnestly recommended it to the congregation from Luke 10.42. O, Lord, preach thou to the heart, what I preach to the ear.

Monday 4

Missy Prayer Meeting. Read an extract from Chron. for Septr. Not many people present. A very wet gloomy eveng.

Wednes. 6

Letters Sent

Sent 2 letters (i.e. 1 to T.Davies, & 1 to Mr Godden) to the post office by Otoo. Both dated Jany 6 outside.

Friday 8

Preached from 1 Sam.12.15.

Sunday 10

Discipline

A fine morng. Our prayer meeting was well attended. At noon I preached from Matt.7.21. Though in my preaching to day I felt no want of words to express myself, yet I felt a want of interest in my subject. O. Lord, pardon my spiritual deadness. Blessed be thy name, the success of thy word does not depend upon the instrument that dispenses it. After sermon administered the Lord's supper. Here I was greatly distressed in mind by seeing 7 of our members sitting in a remote part of the chapel, & not suffered to approach the Table. They were placed there by my request, in order to impress upon their minds a greater reverence for that holy ordinance. They had been absent several Sundays, & it appeared from their own account, that they had been working in their own ground. May the Lord make them sensible of the sacredness of the Sabbath. They are exposed to great temptation.

Monday 11

Rode down to town. The road was almost impassible. Slept at Mr Elliots. Recd a letter from the Directors.

Tues. 12

After settling nearly all my accounts, I returned home; & preached to a pretty numerous congregation from 1 Peter 1.24.

Wed. 13

Went over to Mr V Cooten's to converse with him concerning the removal, or repairing our chapel.

Friday 15

Preached in the eveng from Rom.3.23 & 6.23. All have sinned. The wages of sin is death. A goodly number of hearers.

Sunday 17

A fine day. Prayer meeting was well attended, & was a comfortable season to me. Quamina, our most active deacon, expressed great delight at seeing a certain driver at chapel this morning stating that he had never been here before, but was much opposed to religion, & was a persecutor of the Christians. At noon, I preached from Col.3.11. Chance of Lusignan came to request me to marry him, but on questioning the woman that he brought, I found she was not willing!!

1819 Monday Morng Jany 25

Sunday

Nothing particularly worthy of remark has occurred since last Monday. On Tuesday eveng, I preached from 1 Peter 2.1-3. and on Friday eveng from 1 John 3.4 to a good number of people. Yesterday our chapel was well attended. Text Mark 9.43-48. May the Lord make such awful subjects useful to the conversion of sinners, & to the growth of Believers in holiness of heart & life. O God, if thy love fails to allure, may thy terrors alarm.

Tues. 26

Preached in the eveng from 1 Peter.2.4.5.

Thurs. 28

Rode down to Town & was informed that the Governor had expressed himself much displeased at my informing the Directors of the Missy Socy. that the planters made their slaves work on the Sundays last year. If I were not in a W.I. Colony, I should be surprised to hear such vile & false accusations as are alleged against Mr Elliot.

Friday 29

Mr E. wrote a letter to the Governor in order to vindicate his conduct, but Mr Davies & I advised him not to send it.

In the eveng we had a prayer meeting in the School Room, as it was too late when I arrived to preach, it being near 1/2 past 7 the time for our service to begin.

Sunday 31

Fiscal

This morning about 7 I received a letter from the Fiscal calling upon me to prove against some one individual planter, that he made his slaves work on Sundays. This I could easily do if my object were to prosecute or have them prosecuted for it, but as my object is merely to account for the fluctuation of the congregation, I do not feel myself obliged to identify any individual. However I hope it will have its proper effect upon the magistrates of the colony, in using their endeavours to prevent such shameful abuses of the Sabbath.

Our congregation was large today. I preached from Hebrews 12.1.2.

Monday Feby 1st.

Our Miss. prayer meeting was well attended. I read from No.8 of the quarterly Chronicle. P.246,249 and 254 as much and no more than is marked. Before service commenced a negro (Quamina) came into the house, while the picture of Pomare's Gods were laying upon the table. I told him what they were. He enquired whether the Makers of them worshipped them? Saying surely nobody that saw them made could be so foolish. He therefore concluded they must be made in secret.

Tuesd. 2

Almost the first thing I saw this morng was, a negro flogged. He received 29 lashes. The manager & overseer were standing by. Mrs S. & I went down to Town.

Wed. 3

1819 Feby.

Called upon His Hon the Fiscal. The substance of what he said to me, was, That he knew the slaves were worked on Sundays, but that he wished me to prove it substantially, that he might prosecute the planters. The ruling men here, are vexed that such a notorious fact should be made so publick. It seems a strange thing to require me to come forward & prove what nobody in the Colony denies, & what has been so far proved before as to cause the Fiscal to fine Mr Benney, twice for this same thing. See Memorandum.

Thur. 4

This eveng I preached for Mr E. from 1 John 1.7. I & Mr Elliot were to have gone down the West Coast to look at the place where his chapel is about to be built, but the rain prevented.

Friday 5

Returned home & preached in the eveng to a large congn from Isa. 55.6.7.

Sunday 7

We had a large congregation today. Text Exod.32.26. Who is on the Lord's side. The people come very late, not till past 12. We cannot begin our service until 1/2 past 12.

Tues. 9

This morng while we were at breakfast, Mr H Van Cooten, being on the plantation, called to ask me what was the Real business which the Fiscal had with me, as he had heard so many contradictory reports, that he knew not which to believe. After stating the case to him, he said he knew the slaves were worked on Sundays, on many Estates, but argued that it was necessary, and that the masters paid them for it. He also observed; that he had heard several persons complain of Mr Benny's conduct to his negroes, in this respect.

In the eveng I preached to a large congn from 1 Pet 2.7.8.

Thur. 11

Recd a letter from Mr Cumming complaining of my conduct in reference to the marriage of the slaves. The only ground of his complaint is, that by marrying them, I teach them the pernicious principle, that their owners have no right to separate them. See the Letter.

Friday 12

Works of Necessity done on Sundays

1819

Works unnecessary

This eveng I preached from Acts 13.38. Not many people present, owing, I suppose, to the eveng being wet & dark. Discoursing to Mr Kelly upon the subject of the slaves working on Sundays, he observed that it was frequently necessary for them to work on Sundays. Mr Milne also (who was present) observed that it was necessary. These necessary works are these, & such as these, i.e. on Sugar plantations, the boiling house, & boilers must be cleaned on Sundays. This will take several negroes 4 or 5 hours. The sugar, which was boiled on Saturday, must be packed (i.e. put into hogsheads) on Sundays. This occupies the carpenter & coopers, several hours. When they are shipping sugar, rum &c that must frequently be done on Sundays because the ship must sail on such a day. Sometimes they happen to have as many canes cut as will employ the mill until a very late hour on Saturday night, in that case the liquor must be boiled on Sundays because it will turn sour. &c, &c, &c.

On Cotton Estates there is not quite so much Sunday work though they have many necessary works; such as drying, & cleaning cotton, and when shipping, some consider it necessary to gin it.

On Coffee Estates it is considered necessary to dry, & frequently pulp, the coffee on Sundays and as far as I can learn, both from observation & information, the greater part of the colonists, merchants & planters, consider shipping produce necessary on Sunday; that is to say, when they happen to be engaged in shipping, & cannot finish it before Sunday. Again the plantn Boats frequently arrive from Town on the Saturday eveng, or late at night with various cargos, i.e. of lumber, lime, slaves &c &c. It is considered necessary to discharge these said cargoes on Sunday, because it would hinder the work to do it on Monday, or the boat may be wanted to return on Monday for another cargo. When new buildings are being put up, which is the case at this time on both sides of us, this is particularly practiced. In a word, it appears to me that almost anything is thought necessary or unnecessary, just as the interest of some men (tho' it is not so with all) may decide. Some Estates, which I could name, in this neighbourhood, have lately removed their negroes homes about a mile and a half further from the sea. On these occasions it was considered unnecessary to do anything more than erect a building large enough to accommodate 8 or 10 families all under the same roof, without putting up a single partition to separate one family from another. The consequence of this is, that every one must do the inside work to his own house, & that on a Sunday. Again, some months ago, several Estates near us were without plantains. The slaves had to go to Pt. North Brook, a distance of 7 or 8 miles. It was thought unnecessary to send them on Saturday, for their week's allowance, because fetching their own food was not working for the master, but for themselves, therefore every man and woman that was able had to walk about 7 or 8 miles, to wait until they could be served, then to walk the same distance back, & carry their allowance which was generally 2 bunches of plantains, weighing, I suppose, upon an average, not less than 56 pounds!! This, with one, or two exceptions, was the regular Sunday work for many weeks!! This I have frequently seen on the Sundays when I have been on the road, going to, or coming from, Mahiaca.

Kindness to slaves

As to paying the slaves for working on Sundays, I never heard of its being done in any other case, than when they did a regular days work in the field. Mr Graham told me, that he thought it doing a great service for his negroes to make them work on the Sunday & then to pay them for it, as it put money into their pockets, which at the same time it kept them from idleness. And yet, when some of his slaves got drunk with the money, which they earned on Sundays, & run away because he threatened to flog them for it, he said they were ungrateful, & should work on Sundays without being paid for it.

Sunday Feby 14

Blessed be God for this day. Felt much Divine assistance in the services of his house. After preaching from John 17.24 to a large congregation, I administered the Lord's Supper. There were only two persons came to worship in the eveng. As we cannot build a new chapel, it was agreed to by the members, to repair the old one.

1819

Feby 16

This evening, not more than 10 or 12 persons came to chapel. We performed worship in the School Room. The rain fell in torrents almost all day, without intermission. The bell was not rung to call the people together, for I thought they were not in a fit condition to come to chapel, after being all day at work in the field exposed to such deluging rain.

Friday 19

Preached in the eveng to a small congregation from Gal.4.4.5. Gd sent forth his son – to redeem them that were under the law. A very rainy day.

Sunday 21

Amusement of the Lord's Day

A fine morng. The prayer meeting was well attended. I found it a profitable season. At noon preached to a numerous congn from Acts 11.26. In my discourse I recommended to the people (blacks, for I have no hope of the whites) to form an Auxiliary Missionary Society; urging from the consideration, that it is the character of true Xtns, to be zealous for the spread of the Gospel.

The people please me by their application to the catechisms. This evening the manager & his Sunday visitors annoyed me not a little. About 6 o'clock they passed by our house, letting off crackers opposite the door! From 7 to 8 they spent in displaying fire works, & firing guns at every report of which the negro children gave a most barbarous shout. No doubt but they were encouraged, or they dare not have done it. We were told by Hankey, that the reason of all this was, first, Because Mr Sanderson was married this morning. He was married it seems by the Dutch Domine, in the Managers House. Secondly. Because it was his son's birthday. The reflection, that those slaves, whose salvn lay so near the heart of Mr Post, have now such an example set before them, which they are so prone to follow, is painful. O Lord, forbid that iniquity should so prevail.

Tues. 23

Our congn was large this eveng. Preached from 1 Pet.2.9.10. Felt much Divine assistance in speaking the word of God.

Friday 26

This eveng the Lord enabled me from Matt.5.17-20 to speak the word, I trust, with faithfulness. Being a fine moonlight eveng our congn was very numerous.

Sunday 28

I felt much pleased by observing In one of our members a considerable improvement in the gift of prayer. The prayer meeting becomes truly edifying.

As Mrs S had given the Baptised females to understand that unless they came earlier she could not continue the present plan of catechising them, and that those who came late must be taught by somebody else, they came betimes today. Those who came after the part of the chapel alloted to females was full, were obliged to seek a place where they could, and be taught by a negro, which caused some visible displeasure amongst them.

Preached from Daniel 3.14-18. The people were unusually attentive. In the course of my sermon, I exhorted the slaves, from the zeal of Nebuchadnezzer, to exert themselves in the service of God.

About a hundred of the slaves came to have their names set down as subscribers to the Missy Society. This is our first beginning in this good work. A free coloured man wrote down their names.

In the evening ......... told me with much concern that Mr C.....had been bitterly inveighing against me for marrying one of his female slaves. It afterwards was told to me by the same person, in company with several others, that this woman was complainants mistress, but that now she kept close to her husband.

1819

Monday, Mar 1

Our Missionary prayer meeting was not so numerously attended as usual. My address was founded upon Psa. 22. Ver.27.28 after which I read Anunds account of the people who had assembled near Delhi for the purpose of reading the Scriptures. See Missionary Register for Jany 1818.

Tuesday March 2

Went down to Town with a view of going over the River to look at the ground which Mr Elliot has procured for the erection of his chapel. Mr Elliot, Mr Mercer & myself went to the place which is about 6 or 7 miles westward of the mouth of the Demerary River. I think the situation is a very good one; & if the chapel should be built it will require the whole of Mr E's attention.

After we returned from the west coast, Mrs Elliot accompanied me to Le Resouvenir.

Wed. Mar. 3

Mr Elliot came up to spend the day with us. I fell into a deep water as I was crossing a plank.

Friday 5

Mr Elliot preached for me from Psa. 67.

Saturday 6

Letters recd

Mr & Mrs Elliot returned home, & about 8 o'clock in the evening Mr & Mrs Mercer came up. Mr M brought me a letter from my mother dated Decr 9th 1818 & one from Mr Godden dated Jany 13 1819.

Sunday 7

Though the morning was gloomy our prayer meeting was well attended. Our people, knowing that Mr Mercer was about to return to Trinidad, put up very many earnest prayers for him. Mr Mercer preached from Jude 2.

I was not a little displeased to hear that some of our members went to Market today. We spent the eveng in singing the praises of God & exhorting one another, &c. The rain fell in torrents nearly all the eveng.

Monday 8

Mrs Smith accompanied Mrs Mercer to town. Mr M. followed after on a Spanish Horse. He was twice thrown off a gray mare. He would not mount her a third time.

In the evening I recd a note from Mr M stating that the Schooner would sail on Wednesday morng at 8 o'clock. The negroes brought 20 fowls & about 10 dozn eggs for Mr Mercer's sea stock. They shewed great for Mr M.

Tuesday 9

I went to Town with a view of seeing Mr & Mrs Mercer off. In the evening, we had a very comfortable prayer meeting the object of which was to commend Mr & Mrs M to the care & protection of God.

Wednesday 10

Having learned that the vessel would not sail before 5 in the eveng, we did not go on board until that time. When we got to the vessel the captain told us he did not intend to sail until 8 tomorrow morng. We all returned to Mr Davies' where Mr Mercer preached a farewell sermon.

Thursday 11

At 8 o'clock we went on board. At 9 the vessel sailed. When we were about getting into the Boat our feelings were keenly & mutually touched at parting. After taking some refreshments at Mr Davies' we came home.

1819 Fridy 12

Our congregation was large this eveng. Text 1 Pet.3.18. The negroes answered the questions, which I put to them during my discourse, with more judgment & propriety than usual.

Sunday March 14

Our chapel has been well attended each time of worship to day. My text was Luke 7.48. After sermon the Lord's Supper was administered. Four of our members (those who went to Market last Sunday) were separated from the Communicants & made to sit in a remote part of the chapel. This discipline is exceeding painful to me; but it is indispensible. In such a country as this where the sacredness of the Sabbath is so little regarded, it requires no common share of Divine Grace & self denial, to enable professors of religion to resist the temptation of visiting the market. O Lord, teach me what to do in such cases.

Tuesday 16

I went to the chapel rather earlier than usual in order that we might conclude the service by 1/2 past 8. There were not more than 20 people assembled. However I commenced. During the singing, reading, & prayer, a large congregation collected. Preached from 1 Pet.2.11. After service I enquired why they did not come earlier, especially as I had spoken to them so much upon the subject. They all assured me that they could not, as they had but just thrown grass, & that many of them had come without having any thing to eat after coming from the field. So that I again find it impossible to commence the service until near 8.

Friday 19

This eveng I enquired of Bristol, the reason why Racheal, his wife, did not come to chapel with him? He said she could not alleging that she had an infant to attend to (i.e. feed, suckle, nurse &c) & that her task of work was not diminished on that account, consequently she was obliged the whole of her dinner hour & till a late hour (in the Logie) to complete her task. He observed further, that about a fortnight ago, when she was at work in the field, she complained the child was sick, the manager said it was not sick, but that nevertheless she might leave the child with the granny (an old woman appointed to take care of the children). Racheal preferred taking the child with, & tying it to her back went to her work in the field. The manager afterwards observing the child was really sick, abused the mother for taking it into the field, & ordered the driver to lay her down & give her 50 lashes for disobedience, which was speedily & punctually obeyed.

Preached from Heb.9.24 to a good number of people.

Sunday 21

This morng at 7, I felt the House of God a Bethel to my soul.------came to inform me that the negroes at------- Mr VC's were at work in the field weeding grass near the public road. Mr-------has the character of a humane master. He does not in general punish his people with the whip for not accomplishing their task in the week, but makes them finish it on Sundays.

I wish the negroes would say nothing to me concerning their troubles which arise from the severe usage of the managers &c, as it is not my business to interfere in such concerns, & only obliges me to treat such conduct with apparent indifference, & behave with coolness to those who relate it. I observe in the slaves a spirit of forever murmuring & dissatisfaction; nor should I wonder if it were to break out into open rebellion. However I hope it may not.

The people were catechised as usual. Sermon from 2 Tim.3.15 in which I strongly urged the people to learn to read the Scriptures.

Eveng after explaining part the 7 Chap. of John, Quamina concluded the services of the day with prayer.

v1819 Mar. 22

While writing this my very heart flutters at hearing the almost incessant cracking of the whip. Having just finished reading Mr Walkers Letters on the W. Indies I have thought much of the treatment of the negroes, & likewise the State of their minds. It appears to me very probable that ere long they will resent the injuries done to them. I should think it my duty to state my opinion respecting this to some of the Rulers of the Colony, but am fearful, from conduct of the Fiscal in this late affair of the negroes being worked on Sundays, that they would be more solicitous to silence me by requiring me to criminate some Individual, than to redress the wrongs done to the slaves by diligently watching the conduct of the planters themselves, & bringing them to justice (without the intervention of Missionaries) when they detect such abuses of the law as so frequently take place.

Tues. 23

Preached this eveng from 1 Pet.2.12. Not many hearers. Perhaps about 100.

Friday 26

Our congregation was small owing I suppose to the rain. On a dark, wet eveng it is hardly to be expected that we should have many hearers. Texts Rom.7.18. & Phil.2.13.

Sunday 28

Auxiliary Missy Socy

The heavy rains this morng hindered many of the people from coming to chapel, so that our prayer meeting was not well attended. The rains did not abate until near one o'clock at which time our service commenced. I preached to about 250 people from Psa.119.136. As this was the day appointed for the subscribers to the auxiliary Missy Society to make their first payment, I applied the subject to the occasion. I felt much in the pulpit, & could express but little.

In consequence of the unfavourableness of the Day, we did not receive more than half the subscriptions! The Box in which the money is to be deposited is a present to the Society by Mars. It is neatly made of fine wood. Mr W. Chisholm is our Secretary.

Sunday Apl 4

Nothing particularly worthy of remark occurred all last week. The rains were very heavy & fell almost incessantly so that we had but few hearers on Tuesday or Friday. Tuesday I preached from 1 Peter 2.17. having passed over verses 13,14,15,16. Friday I preached from Matt.25.31 &c.

This morning the rains fell so heavy that I thought nobody would come, however about 20 assembled & I trust not in vain. I was surprised at not finding one person from Success. At 11 the slaves &c came to be catechised, when Peggy (who is free) Quamina's wife, told us the Success negroes were detained on the estate by order of Mr Cort, the attorney who was coming to serve out to the people their allowances of clothes. I preached to the people from Ps.119.32.

At the church meeting to day we admitted 5 members who had been long since proposed. In one of them, Barton, I have the satisfaction to know that my preaching was blessed to his soul. The others have been gradually drawn to God. To all of them the preaching & catechising have been greatly blessed. The Lord increases us a 1000 fold.

1819

Mond Apl 5

This morng to my great joy I received 3 letters from my Friends. In the eveng we held our Missy Prayer Meeting which was lively & Interesting. The negroes prayed with unusual fervour for the spread of the gospel. I made a few remarks on part of Rom.10 and read part of the Chronicle for July 1818. Mr Gordons Letter. Quamina came in to state the reason of his not coming to chapel yesterday, saying that he waited for his clothes, & Mr Cort did not come till late in the day to serve them out.

Sunday 11

Nothing remarkable has occurred this week past. On Friday eveng I preached from Matt.25.31 &c to a large congn. A fine light eveng. I should have suited my subject to the day (Good Friday) but as I had been preaching upon Xts coming to judgment these 2 Fridays past & left a 3rd head for the next opportunity, I thought best to finish it, lest it should be forgotten.

To day I preached from Luke 24.1-6. Contrary to custom our chapel was full. Ever since I have been here our congn has always been small on the Sunday preceeding the holyday, until today. I felt much divine assistance at the Lord's Table.

Easter Monday Apl 12

This day I preached to the largest & most interesting congregation I ever saw in Demerary; being chiefly composed of children. They were more attentive & orderly than last easter. I addressed them from Eccles.12.1 O Lord, let thy word sink deep into their hearts, and they shall grow up a seed to serve thee. In the course of my preaching I catechised some of them in order to relieve their attention. They answered my questions boldly & well in the midst of so large a congn.

After service, I rode as far as Mon Repos with J.K. who expressed himself much pleased with our Juvenile congn, but observed that he heard no dancing but at Le Resouvenir.

Tuesday 13

Rode to Town to settle some business. Recd a Letter from A. Dowby returned home in the evening. Mr Elliot told me that nearly all Mr Allen's negroes were at work last Sunday at the sugar buildings.

Wednes 14

Mr Davies came up.

Thursday 15

Mr Milne came with three men to do the repairs &c to the chapel. This is the first day of their working here.

As Mr Davies has been in the colony 10 years this day, we spent this evening in singing hymns of praise for preserving mercies, &c.

Fridy 16

Mr & Mrs Davies returned home. In the eveng I preached from Matt.25.41.

Sunday 18

I felt myself Divinely assisted this day. The chapel has been well attended, especially the prayer meeting at 7 this morng. Text Luke 14.21-23. O God, constrain many to come to thee at thy call. I examined several persons who desire to be baptised. They appear to have been well catechised except one old man, who said he had not had time to learn Dr Watts 1st catm. I enquired how long he had been endeavouring it; He answered about 2 years.

Monday 19

This morng Billy, another carpenter, came to assist the other 3, making altogether 4 men.

1819 Monday April 26

During the whole of last week our chapel was unfit for divine worship, consequently we had service on Tuesday & Friday in the School room. The carpenters greatly interrupt my studies. Yesterday our chapel was well filled. I preached at noon from Mark 10.17-22. O Lord, be pleased to own & bless thy word to the awakening, & conviction of many souls. I had prepared this discourse principally with a design of addressing several young persons, who, I was told, attended an entertainment, consisting of drinking & dancing, on easter Monday. But, to my grief, not more than 2 of them were present, tho' in general they are all very punctual in coming to the house of God. However I sow the divine seed in hope that it will be blessed to others, and convince them that all outward pretensions to religion will avail nothing unless they deny themselves, take up the cross, and follow Jesus.

As our annual meeting will be held next Sunday week, the day on which the Lord's Supper is administered among us, we held our church meeting to day (Sunday) with a view of commemorating the Death of Jesus on the next Lord's Day. At this meeting we admitted Primis and Lindor as members of the church. Primis is another who dates his conversion to my preaching. He was brought to the chapel by one of our people on my first arrival though it seems to have been some time before the word was made effectual to his salvation. Lord, what am I that thou hast conferred this honor upon me, to make me thus useful, & to make thy work appear to thy servant.

Monday May 3rd

Since the Carpenters have been at work at the chapel, I have not had time to write so frequently in this as I could wish. Last week we continued our services in the School Room. Yesterday the chapel was well attended, I preached from Luke 22.61. and afterwards administered the Lord's Supper.

This evening our Missionary prayer meeting was held in the School Room, and was well attended.

Tuesday May 11

Early this morning we returned from town where we went on Saturday in order to attend the annual meeting on Sunday & Monday.

The first service was at Mr Davies'. Mr Elliot preached from Matt.28.19.20. Immediately after the sermon a collection was made. The Lord's Supper was then administered to the members of Mr Davies' church & of ours, (Mr Elliot has no church) in the sight of the whole congn. The service was pleasant and I trust profitable.

In the eveng I preached at Mr Elliot's from Acts 18.9.10. A collection was made there also. The collection at both places amounted to f362.

Monday we met at Mr D's for business, although to my mortification nothing was done. Neither Mr E. nor Mr D. had made out any Report of their own proceedings, and the time was completely idled away in trifling conversation. In the evening Mr D. Preached from Rom. 11.13. His sermon abounded with fancies. We met again after service to do business; but Mr D is not a man for business. Little was done.

This evening I preached in the School Room from Exod. 34.6-9.

1819 Frid. May 14

Preached in the School Room from Ruth 1.1-5

Sunday 16

The services of this day were as usual. Text at noon Isa. 51.1. Congregation was large.

Monday 17

I went down to town to carry our people's subscription to the Missy Socy. It amounted to f320, which, considering that not more than 3 free people subscribe, is a very liberal sum for the first 3 months payment.

Tues.18

I preached in the School Room, from Ruth 1.6-15.

Frid. 21

Service in School Room, from Ruth 1.16-18. Place crowded.

Sunday 23

I suppose many people came to day to see the alterations of the chapel. The place was excessively crowded. I preached at noon from 1 Thess.2.13. Some of the negroes belonging to Le Resouvenir were dissatisfied about their seats, which was soon settled to their satisfaction.

Monday June 21

Parcel from Directors

Letters from London

The carpenters being at work here have taken up so much of my time, that I have been obliged to neglect this. Suffice it to say that none of the services have been omitted.

On Wednesday last I recd a parcel from the Directors containing catechisms, Bogues Sermons, Missy Register, &c, &c, and also 2 letters, one from Mr Burder & the other from Mr Godden.

July 1

Went to Town to purchase various articles.

Friday 2

Letter, & Hymn Books

Bill

Went to town again, in consequence of the cart breaking down on the road. To day I received a letter from Mr Jackson, which informed me that the Hymn Books were on board the Mary. The vessel being in the River, I soon got the Books ashore. Having no means of conveying the Box to Le Resouvenir I unpacked them at Mr Elliot's. Mrs Elliot came up the coast with me in the evening. We had a prayer meeting in the chapel. Drew a Bill on the Society dated July 1 1819 for 65 pounds, payable at sight to Mr Jackson.

Mon.5

Wrote to Mr Jackson. Dated the Letter July 2nd. Mr Elliot delivered the address at the Missy prayer meeting.

August Monday 30

I now resume my journal; & hope to be able to continue it, having nothing to call me from my studies, except my regular engagements. Nothing of a particular nature has occurred since I have neglected to write in this.

Tues. 31

Since the chapel has been repaired &c, our evening congregation has been larger than it had been for some time previous. This evening I preached from 1 Peter 4.7.

Septr Thur. 2

Attended the singing meeting in the Vestry, where it has been held since the alteration of the chapel. I find it exceedingly difficult to teach the people at tunes of peculiar measures.

Friday 3

Our congregation was unusually large this eveng, the body of the chapel being nearly full. Text 1 Pet.4.8.9.

1819

Septr Sunday 5

Sabbath morning. Bless the Lord, O my soul, for this day of Spiritual rest. The prayer meeting was well attended, & was, I trust a comfortable season. I finished the reading the Epist. to the Hebrews. We had thunder & rain about 7 o'clock.

This morning I had another evidence of what indeed has been so common since I have been in Demerary, that I seldom note it down. I mean negroes working on a Sunday. About 10 o'clock, ten or eleven of Doctor McTurk's negroes passed the back of our house, hauling a punt laden with produce; in order to load the Boat. At least that is a half a day's work for them. I was aware they were working for the Doctor, (who by the way is a Burgher Captain) but to satisfy my own mind, I sent to enquire, which precludes the possibility of mistake.

The chapel was crowded, & at 12 I preached from Isa. 61.10. After service we held our church meeting, when several persons were proposed for admission.

Monday 6

Our Missionary prayer meeting was well attended, tho' I believe more would have come had not the evening been very dark & gloomy. I read an extract from the Missy Register for November 1818. See the paragraph marked with a pencil.

Friday 10

Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday afforded nothing worthy of remark except that on Thursday I finished copying the Lectures.

This evening I preached from 1 Peter 4.10.11. Congregation unusually large; the body of the chapel being nearly full.

Sunday 12

I cannot conceive how it is that lately I have felt myself so indisposed for Devotion. I trust I still love the Lord, & yet I cannot rise to him. Lord, forgive me, for my soul cleaveth to the dust.

At the prayer meeting, I read & expounded James Chap.1 and at 12 preached from Lam.1.12. with considerable liberty. The chapel was excessively full, & likewise the vestry. It is 11 years this day since the chapel was first opened. Had I thought of it in time I should have adapted my discourse to the occasion, but I informed the congregation that I intended to do so next Lord's Day.

After preaching I administered the Lord's Supper.

The people here have such a propensity to attend funerals, that Jack, a son of one of our Deacons, came to ask me if he might go from the chapel, before service, to attend a burial which was to take place about 5 in the evening. I pointed out the inconsistency of such a practice, & he was content not to go until the service was over.

Sunday 19

Nothing worthy of notice occurred last. We had more people at the prayer meeting this morng than I ever saw before. Some of the people were sitting at the chapel when I rose; a little before six. They had come about 4 miles. At 12 I preached from 1 Sam.12.24. The chapel was crowded to excess. Mr VanCooten was present.

This was a laborious day to me, having many people to examine, and 43 to Baptise and also some to marry. I felt a peculiar delight in the House of God to day. I have reason to bless God for prospering to such a degree the work of our hands.

1819 Septr 19 Sunday

Bill and Cuffy, two of the most sensible creole negroes that I am acquainted with, came from the neighbourhood of Mahaica to inform me that they knew of a house to be sold which would answer well for a place of worship. They used every argument in their power to persuade me to purchase it, or at all events to hire it if possible; assuring me that if I would go up & preach they would collect as much money as would pay the rent.

Tues. 21

I received a few lines from Mr Davies of George Town, and amongst other things he mentioned that this day completed his 35 year. In the evening our congregation was very large. Text 1 Pet.5.8.9.

Wed. 22

This day completes Mrs Smith's 24th year. May the Lord spare her have 24 more.

Friday 24

Mr Mercer

Mr and Mrs Mercer arrived in Demerary, early this morng. I heard of it at noon. Mr Elliot came with them. He has been to Tobago to sell his house, & the chapel. In the eveng I preached from 1 Peter.5.10.11

Lord's Day Sept 26

This morning after the prayer meeting I examined 9 candidates for Baptism. They answered the questions very well. But they are to stand over 3 or 4 weeks in order to give time to enquire into their private character.

The congregation was over flowing; I preached from Rom.6.3.4. with a view of improving the subject of Baptism to practical purposes. I received a letter from Mr Burder, & the Report for 1819.

Mon. 27

Letters sent

I & Mrs S. went to Town to see Mr & Mrs Mercer. Sent a letter to Mr Storek, dated Sept 27 & one to my mother same date. This was an unpleasant day to all of us. The Lord give all of us more of the Spirit of love. Brought Mrs Mercer to our house.

Tues. 28

Mr Mercer came up to Le Resouvenir. I preached from 1 Peter 5.10.10.

Wednesday Sept 29

I went town with Mr Mercer, in order to consult our Brethren Davies & Elliot concerning the most eligible situation for Mr M. to attempt to establish himself as a Missionary in Demerary. The meeting was by no means a pleasant one. However the result of it was that Mr Davies, & Mr Elliot were of opinion that Mr Mercer should endeavour to find an opening on the Arabian Coast, or on one of the Islands in the Essequibo River, or on the West Coast of Demerary, lower than where Mr E preaches.

Mr Davies introduced me to Mr Postlethwaite. In the eveng we returned to Le Resouvenir.

1819

Friday Oct 1

Introduced Mr Mercer to Mr VanCooten. Mr V.C. upon this occasion repeated what he has frequently said to me i.e. that he highly approves of the religious instruction of the negroes. I consider his testimony to the good effects of the labors of the Missionaries to be of great importance, as it is the result of much observation, & intimate knowledge of the subject.

In the evening Mr Mercer preached from Rom.15.32. I suppose there were about 300 hearers.

Lord's Day Octr 3

A fine morning. O my God, forgive my Spiritual deadness. Nothing particular occurred this morning except that Mr Mercer preached from John 9.35. At our church meeting we admitted 4 members into the church i.e. Jack, of Vigilence; Adam of Friendship; Cussido of Mon Repos;& Racheal of La Bon Intention. Liverpool of Friendship was to have been admitted, but he did not seem to have such just ideas of the nature and Importance of the Lord's Supper.

In the evening, Bill came down from Clonbrook to speak to Mr Mercer concerning his going to settle amongst the people in the neighbourhood. It was not till about 12 or 1 o'clock to day that he heard of Mr Mercer's being here.

Monday 4

Bill came again this morning when it was agreed that Romeo and Jason should go up and canvas the neighbourhood in order to ascertain how the people stand affected towards the gospel, and how far they will subscribe towards the erection of a chapel. The Lord grant them success. In the evening we held our Missionary prayer meeting at which Mr Mercer read & prayed, & I delivered an address from Acts 8.8. and read 2 letters from Mr Pinkerton. See Xn.Observ, 1818 P 852-3.

Tuesday 5

We all went up to Mon Repos. While there I went to the Hospital to see 5 men who were there confined as prisoners upon a suspicion of their being combined to destroy or to injure the Steam Engine. It was satisfactory to find that none of them frequented our chapel. I exhorted them to be sorry for their sins, to live in the fear & service of God as the best security against present evil, & to believe in and trust to J. Xt. for pardon & Salvatn. Three out of the 5 promised that when they got out of this trouble they will constantly attend the chapel. Mr Kelly says they are too fond of drinking & bad company.

We then proceeded to the other apartments where the sick were confined. Most of them were glad to see me, & thankfully heard what I said to them. I think there were about 50 sick & lame.

Wed.6

Went to Town with Mr Mercer and returned in the eveng.

Thur. 7

Mr Mercer went to Town in order that Mr Davies might go with him to Fort Island on Saturday.

1819
Frid. Oct 8

In the evening I preached from 1 Peter 5.11. Our congn was as usual, large. With this text I concluded my remarks on this Epist. May the Lord direct me to something which he will bless to the good of the people.

Lord's Day Oct 10

After the prayer meeting, I examined several condidates for Baptism. When this was done Jason & Romeo came to inform me what success they had met with amongst the slaves. It seems they went to several plantations, and conversed with the negroes upon the subject of having a Missionary near them. The negroes universally rejoiced at the thought, and promised to contribute to the utmost of their ability towards building themselves a chapel. About 10 of them came down to converse with me upon the subject, & to assure me that we might depend upon their most zealous exertions to support the cause.

The catechising went on as usual, only with this difference, that Mrs S left the women to Mrs Mercer, and taught the girls herself. At 12 I preached from 2 Cor.13.14 to an overflowing congregation. Blessed be God I enjoyed much liberty of thought and expression, both in the pulpit and at the Lord's Table. A Mr Sackett from Golden Grove desired communion with us to day which was granted after proper enquiries. It appears he was a member of Mr Young's church at Margate. After the service in conversation he gave me to understand that he is much ridiculed for favoring religion. He told me that he had been informed, and had every reason for believing it, that Mr Hughes of Paradise, kept his slaves at work on Sundays on purpose to prevent their coming to our chapel.

Tues.12

In the evening I preached from Luke 19.10. The Son of Man came to seek & to save that which was lost. The congregation was as usual pretty large. Just as I came out of the chapel Mr Mercer arrived from his visit to Fort Island. His account of the Island in reference to its being a proper station for a Missionary, is this. That there are not more than 200 persons (at the outside) on the Island: that there is a gentleman, clerk to the Dutch Minister, who performs divine service on the Sabbath, and makes a point of reading a good gospel sermon to the congregation. There is also a free black man, Marcus, who exerts himself much to instruct the people in religion, & has lately built a house, in which he assembles the people for Divine worship. So that the Inhabitants are very well supplied with religious instruction.

Thur. 14

We did not meet for singing this evening being very rainy; and for thunder & lightning one of the most awful we have seen.

Fridy 15

Mr Mercer preached from John 19.37. O that many may look upon Jesus, as the Sacrifice for sin, & mourn for their iniquities.

Lord's Day Octr 17

Blessed be God for the enjoyment of his presence in his house. The prayer meeting was well attended. A great many people came from Clonbrook in order to see Mr Mercer, & to persuade him to go and settle in their neighbourhood. It is rumoured about that the small pox is on this plantation, and in consequence of it many of the slaves were forbidden by their masters to come to the chapel yet the place was full. I preached from 1 John 5.20. Immediately after service I catechised the children. There was 146 present.

When the children were dismissed Mr Mercer baptised 12 persons belonging to Lusignan. 10 adults & 2 children. In the evening I and Mr M. went to Success to see a poor woman, who seems to be near her end. I was happy to find her building her hopes for Salvation on J.Xt. Mr S. the manager accompanied us to her house. She has not been Baptised. But in this she was prevented by nothing her inability to attend the chapel.

Monday 18

Queen, the poor woman whom I visited yesterday, Died this afternoon. I hope she is gone to Him on whom she placed her hopes for Heaven. She is to be buried tomorrow evening.

Tuesday 19

This morning an old negro told me that before the gospel was preached here he had no Ideas whatever of God. He thought there was a God: or said he, "How came all things to be so suitable to our wants." When he first heard the gospel he was as it were "thunder struck". He enquired if the preacher were not more than a man.

Mr Mercer preached in the evening from Psa.51.11. One of the people (Susey) came in great trouble concerning her daughter Ginney a girl about 15 years old, who has been enticed & seduced by a Mr Jemmet, who lives up the River. The circumstance is this. Susey permitted Ginney to go to Town to buy some clothes and to stay a week; while the girl was in town Mr Jemmet saw her and persuaded her to go home with him; She went & staid a fortnight then returned to take leave of her Father & Mother to the great surprise & grief of her Mother, tho' the Father it seems has no objection against prostituting his own daughter!!!

Mr Mercer preached from Psa.51.11

Wednesday 20

In the evening a great many children (about 50) came to be catechised. It is very pleasing to find that nearly all of them can say a part of Dr Watts first catm & many of them the whole of it & part of the 2nd Sectn. It may not be amiss here to note that the children have attended the chapel in greater numbers lately.

Thur. 21

This day afforded nothing worthy of remark unless it be that in the evening we had about 50 children to catechise.

Friday 22

We had the children, about 60 in numbers to catechise, after which I preached to a numerous congregation. Luke 17.5

Lord's Day Octr 24

At the prayer meeting I read & expounded Psa 5. Mr Mercer preached at 12 from Eph.6.24. Grace be with all &c. As the members of the church are engaged in teaching others the first catechism before service I have thought it necessary them the 2nd catechism after service. I began this plan today.

I was told by Jack Ward, Boston & Azor, that Wailes was put into the Barracks last week, because, as the Manager alledges, he would not work on Sundays & taught others to refuse to work on Sundays also. I likewise understood that Mr Mackie, manager of Lusignan called the negroes together to tell them that Dr McTurk said the parson made the negroes give him money to pray for the sick, therefore he ordered that none of them should come to the chapel.

1819
Tues. Oct.26

This morning I and Mr Mercer went up as far as Pl Clonbrook about 16 miles eastward of Le Resouvenir, in order to ask Mr John Rogers if he would consent to the erection of a chapel on the company's path adjoining his plantation. He said he would make no objection; but referred us to Mr Grant, and Mr Hugh Rogers. On asking Hugh Rogers, he said he had no objection, but Mr Grant was the acting man. As we did not see this latter gentleman, we must go up to Pln Bachelors Adventure again.

The company's paths are the property of the Government. I believe there is one between every two plantations. They are, or at least ought to be, 60 feet broad; come down to the sea, & go as far into the interior as the plantations are cultivated, which is, from 2, to 5, or 6 miles.

In the evening Mr Mercer preached from Ps.51.11

Thur. 28

I and Mr Mercer went up to Pln Bachelors Adventure in order to see Mr Grant, but he was gone to town we were told. So had our journey for nothing. Our singing meeting was numerously attended.

Frid. 29

In the evening Bristol came into the House to tell me that he expected we should have but a small congregation; for Mr Van der Haas had written to the planters in the neighbourhood telling them the small pox is on the plantn, & advising them not to permit any of the slaves to come to chapel; and that in consequence of this most of the neighbouring Managers had strictly charged their negroes not to come. However we had a good congregation to which I preached from Mark 16.16.

Saturday 30

While Mrs S & Mr & Mrs M were catechising, Quamina, Litton and York, 3 of the best, & most sensible negroes, belonging to Success, came to tell me that their Manager, Mr Stewart, had given strict orders that not one of the slaves belonging to that plantation should come to the chapel for he had heard that the small pox was at Le Resouvenir. Quamina said he replied that most of the people had had the small pox, and all others had had the cow pock; therefore, if the small pox was at Le Resouvenir there could be no danger of people catching it. The manager replied he did not care for that none of them should come to the chapel.

Sunday Octr 31

Small pox at Le Resouvenir

Mrs Elliot sailed.

To day we had the smallest congregation that I have seen at our chapel on a fine Sunday since I have been here. The reason of which is that most of the managers prevented the slaves coming under the plausible excuse that the small pox is on this plantation. The fact is this. There are 3 persons who have the small pox; and those 3 are removed to a house more than 3 miles to Leeward of the chapel, quite at the back of the plantn. A Solitary place where nobody would go, if they could. So that there is no more danger of the negroes catching the small pox by coming to chapel, than there would be in going to Tonbridge Chapel if 3 people had the small pox in a Solitary house on Hampstead Hill. The fact is the planters are glad to lay hold of any thing to prevent the slaves attending to religion. I suppose there is not one in a hundred in the Colony, but has either had the small pox, or the cow pock.

Mr Mercer expounded Psalm 63 at the prayer meeting, at 12 I preached from Acts 3.26. Mr M. catechised the people before & after service.

Philip informed us that Mrs Elliot sailed for England on Tuesday last. It was Thursday she sailed.

1819
Monday Nov.1

We held our Missionary prayer Meeting this evening. Mr Mercer read an Extract from Mr Rhenins' Journal. See Missionary Register for March 1819. P.144. We had a good many people.

Tues.Nov.2

a Bill

Went to Town. Recd a parcel from the Directors containing Spectacles and publications. Sold a Bill to Mr Davies, for 35 pounds. Exchange 13.5

Wednesday 3

Wrote a letter of advice to Mr Hankey concerning the Bill drawn yesterday.

Friday 5

Mr Mercer preached this eveng. There was a pretty good congregation. Mr Kelly & Mr Grant were present.

Sat. 6

As usual many of the people & children came to be catechised.

Lord's Day 7

To day our congregation was rather larger than last Sunday, at noon I preached from Psa. 119.176. The church meeting was held after service, when Jack Ward & Hrine of Mon Repos were admitted; and Abraba, & Favouite were proposed for admission. Several interesting things occurred, but I have no inclination for writing, so pass them.

Monday 8

Went to Town in order to divide the Books which the Directors sent. I think they were fairly divided. Many of them were but of little value. When I returned I felt myself extremely faint having had nothing to eat save a small tart all day.

Tues. 9

Mr Mercer preached from ---

Wednes.10

Van der Haas discharged

Mr Mercer & his wife went to Town to look after a dwelling. Mr VanCooten came to give Mr Hamilton possession of the Estate as Manager, in the room of Mr Van der Haas. This circumstance occasioned no small joy amongst the negroes. Van der Haas was discharged for his cruelty to the negroes. I have been here nearly 2 years & 8 months, & Mr V D Haas has not attended public worship more than once during that time, tho' the chapel is not 200 yards from his House. Besides this I believe he was once in the chapel on a week day eveng.

Thursday 11

Singing meeting not so well attended as usual.

Friday 12

In the eveng I preached from Hosea 7.2 good congn.

Sunday 14

We had expected a Mr Hyde, a young man just from London here today; but I suppose the rain prevented him. When I awoke about 5 o'clock the rain fell in torrents nor did it entirely cease till 11. I preached to a very small congn (about 250) from Phil.3.17 & pt of the 20 verse; and afterwards dispensed the Lord's Supper.

Mon.15

Mr & Mrs Mercer & Mrs Smith went down to Town. Mrs S. went merely to accompany them. They will take up their abode with Mr Buttersworth, I believe; at least for the present.

Tuesd 16

Service in the eveng as usual.

Wed. 17

An unusual number of people to catechise this eveng. But

Thurs. 18

this eveng the singing was not well attended.

Frid. 19

Mr Van der Haas had a vendue to sell off his Furniture & Cattle. I never attended a Vendue before, nor do I wish to attend another. The obscenity & profanity was shocking. In the evening I preached from 2 Pet.3.9. The Lord is longsuffering to usward.

1819
Lord's Day Nov.21

Fiscal's order concerning the chapel

Inconsistency

Effect of pride & laziness

This morning I received from the Fiscal an Order to shut the chapel against all negroes not belonging to this plantn until the small pox disappears among the negroes. This measure will of course cramp my exertions. Many of the people were here when I received the Order. I immediately informed them of the circumstance, and they returned home without staying to attend the service; much grieved that they were not permitted to join in the worship of God. At 12, I preached from Acts 8.2. During service many from other Estates came in. After sermon I told them the orders I had received from the Fiscal, and desired they would not come to the chapel again until they heard from me that the small pox had ceased. I apprehend this order to be sent in consequence of Dr Mc Tk, whom I suppose persuaded the Fiscal that such a measure was necessary. Notwithstanding all this piece of work, I verily believe there is no danger of any of the negroes who come to the chapel, getting the small pox as those who are afflicted with that disease are so far off; but that as nearly all of the planters are averse to the negroes being instructed and seize every opportunity to prevent it, so this is a mere pretext for keeping the people away. It is well known that the small pox is prevalent in Town, and yet most of the planters give the negroes a written pass to the market on Sunday to sell or to buy, nor does the Governor, nor the Fiscal, forbid it.

This evening Mrs S. went to see Miss Polly, (Mr VanderHaas kept lady) who has been ill a long time. She found her much worse than she left her on Thursday evening. I mention this merely to introduce the following circumstance. Andrew Cuming, a son of Miss Polly, had been doing something amiss yesterday. I have not learned what he did. He then took up a gun, ran out of the House and declared he would shoot himself. This so alarmed his mother that tho' confined to the bed, she managed to get to the window and looking out and seeing her unnatural son, screamed out till she was quite exhausted. She then fell into a kind of swoon, from which she has not yet recovered. Several negroes succeeded in getting the gun from Andrew. He seems so entirely corrupted with pride and idleness for which his mother may thank herself, and he may thank her too. Now Mr VanderHaas is about leaving the plantn, Andrew expects he will have to work for his living, and that is nearly as bad as death to him, because it will humble him in the eyes of others. What a dreadful evil is pride!

Lord's Day Nov. 28

During last week nothing particular occurred. Tuesday eveng I preached from 2 Peter 3.11. and on friday eveng from Malachi 3.2. I expected that in consequence of the Fiscal's order, we should have had a very small congregation, but we had a goodly number, though none from other estates except Mr Kelly & 2 other gentlemen. I took the follow method to get the estate negroes to attend. I told them I would not have the bell rung, lest it should be said I called others to the chapel, but wished them to hold themselves in readiness, and to come when I sent for them. When the candles were lighted I sent for them, and I think about two thirds of the whole gang came. So that we got a good congn perhaps 260. But to day we had not so many; as some of them were gone to market. I preached to them from Titus 2.14. The children were very noisy. The forsaken appearance of the chapel made me feel quite miserable. The children &c have attended well all this week to be catechised.

1819
Nov. 29

Went to the back of the Plantation to see the negroes who have the small pox. There are five persons; two of them, Jupiter and his son, are perfectly recovered, and have been well more than a week; Lora is also quite recovered of the small pox, and has nothing the matter with her, but a locked jaw (which is bad enough). Sankey also is quite recovered: so that none except Shute have it at present, and he is so far recovered as to be able to walk about, to eat and drink well, and according to his own account to feel no pain. Sankey is the only one who seems to have it bad. They are in a most wretched hovel. I am not surprised at the woman having a locked jaw; I wonder they are not all dead. I could not get into the place. The entrance is not larger than the door of a large Dog Kennel, not room inside for them to stand up, & scarcely room for them to sit up. No light but what came in at the hole left for a door, and the rain droping upon them from the roof, and nothing but a litter of leaves for them to lay on. I never saw dogs put into a worse place. Add to all this that the Doctor has not been to see them at all, this the Manager told me, and the negroes say the same. I staid but a few minutes for the rain was falling.

Tues. 30

Preached in the eveng from Gen.5.24.

Friday Decr 3

This eveng I preached from Psa.34.10. It is pleasing to see the negroes of this Estate attend so well. It affords me some little encouragement, for it is a new thing, and I bless the Lord for it. I hope God will bless my feeble labors among the children. They bid fair to become intelligent. The Lord make them holy.

Lord's Day Decr 5

With great dulness I have dragged through the services of this day. O, my God, pardon my wandering and carnal thoughts, and quicken me in thy way. I felt no pleasure in discoursing from Luke 16.19-25 though the subject ought to have excited the most ardent affections for the salvation of the people.

Monday 6

Omitted the Missy Prayer Meeting. The negroes of this Plantation feel no interest in Missy proceedings, and of more than 400 people only one subscribes. Upwards of 50 came to be catechised.

Tues. 7

Preached this eveng from John 9.31.

Wed. 8

Small Pox ceased

This afternoon Dr McTurk went to the back of the plantn to see the negroes who had the small pox; as he found them all quite recovered, he sent them home to the buildings, and burnt their hut and clothes. Mr Van Berkle came to tell me he was going to Berbice tomorrow. I wrote a letter to Mr Wray, for him to take with him. I attended the singing meeting. I told the people if they did not come more regularly, I will certainly give it up. Not that I complain for want of numbers, but for want of voices. Those who are likely to learn, and have good voices so seldom attend. These who do come will never learn.

1819
Frid 10

Preached from Luke 15. 17-19

Sat. 11

But few came to be catechised, being such a dismal wet eveng.

Lord's Day Decr 12

An unusual number of the estate's people attended the prayer meeting. At 12 I preached from 2 Kings 5.13.14. I am weary of such small congregations, but hope to have the people come again very soon.

Tues. 14

I preached from Luke 19.14.

Thurs. 16

Our singing meeting was well attended. The Vestry was so full I could scarcely enter. The negroes of this estate require a great deal of stirring up.

Frid. 17

This evening I preached from John 4. 39-42. After service a negro came to make an apology for not coming on Monday & Wednesday to be catechised; he said he had found a poor sailor, a white man, whom he had taken home to his house, and that this man who could read well employed himself every evening to teach the negroes reading and catechism.

Sat. 18

Mr Hamilton came to tell me that Mr Benson, one of his overseers, was so ill, that he thought it doubtful whether he would recover; and that he wished me to go and see him in order to persuade him if possible to make his will! It is astonishing how careful men are for the things of this world, and how indifferent to the things of God. I went to see him, and exhorted him to consider his latter end, &c, &c.

NB. The children and others have attended the catechising well this week.

Lord's Day Dec.19

This morning the rains fell very heavy however we had a good number at the prayer meeting. I was glad to find some old faces at the chapel. At 12 I preached from Psa. 65.4. When I came home from the chapel, a boy brought me a letter from Mr Hamilton accompanied with a note from from Mr H requesting me to read the letter and send him an answer. I read the letter, and found it was from Dr McTurk, requesting Mr Hamilton to report to him whether any negroes from the neighbouring Estates had attended the chapel since he, Mr H took over the management of this Estate; and in particular whether any negroes except those belonging to this Plantation, attended sermon today. I told Mr H to report what he believed to be the truth. In the course of the afternoon Mr H made his report to the Dr; and sent his letter to me before he sent it in that I might see what he had written. This reply of Mr H to the Dr I copied, and read over my copy while Mrs S held the original in her hand, in order to see that it was correct. For this copy, see Letter book. It is surprising what a malignant enmity that man has to the cause of religion. If such a Burgher officer be not a disgrace and a curse to the Polity with which he is connected, I am much mistaken.

Monday Decr 20

Mr Hamilton sent to request me to go over, as he wished to speak to me. I went, and found it was to consult about the best means to detect some person who had been stealing coffee, and how it might be prevented in future.

To day Mr H shewed me another letter from Dr McTurk. The substance of it was a complaint that what Mr H wrote him yesterday was not satisfactory.

Tues. 21

Preached in the eveng from

Friday 24

I and Mrs S went down to town to see Mr Mercer. When we returned in the evening we found several negroes waiting to see me. They told me their Managers had given them orders not to come to the chapel any more; and that this order had been given to all the negroes in the neighbourhood. They said the order was from the Fiscal; and was carried from one plantation to another by a man in a red jacket. They were in a good deal of trouble. I told them to be easy that I did not believe the order was from the Fiscal; and that I would try to find out what it was, and to get it altered. I went over to Mr H. who told me that it was nothing but a request from Dr McTurk, that the Managers would keep their negroes from the chapel. The reason which McTurk assigned to me this evening for his conduct, is "that he don't know but the small pox may be latent on the Estate".

Saturday 25

This was certainly the most gloomy Xmas day that I have known since I have been from England. The weather was remarkably fine, but the gloom was of a moral kind. Not a negro from any other estate than this came to the chapel. However, these people attended well. Several came from other places after Service to enquire why they were forbidden to attend the worship of God. I preached from Matt.1.21.

Lord's Day Decr. 26

I felt my mind much distressed all this day, that the people were prevented coming to the house of God. The Lord gave me much liberty in prayer for them; nor did he forsake me in preaching the word, from Heb.11.24-26. Mr Kelly, &c were here. The conduct of Dr McT. is unaccountable; it is of mischievous tendency, for as well as being injurious to the negroes in a moral point of view, it is injurious in a political respect, by making them suppose their masters have combined to deprive them of their dearest privilege.

1819
Dec 27

Went over to Mr Van Cooten, and stated to him the proceedings of Dr McTurk. Mr V.C. seemed partly ignorant of what has taken place, and expressed surprise at the negroes being forbidden to come to chapel, as the small pox had ceased from the Plantation. He promised to go to Dr McT tomorrow morning and to enquire his reason for his conduct.

Mr Butterworth came up to see us.

Tues.28

In the evening I preached from Exod. 17.11. As the rain fell very heavy all this morng I suppose Mr V.C. did not go to Dr McT. I have heard nothing concerning it.

Wed. 29

Mr Butterworth returned to town.

Frid. 31

Mr Van Cooten called upon me. He had written to Dr McTurk on the subject mentioned above, and received a reply, which he shewed to me. The substance of what the Dr wrote him was that the Fiscal was sick at his own plantation up the River, and that as soon as his Hon. was well he should go to town to get the restriction removed. Being the last day of the year, I preached from 1 Cor.7.29, "The time is short".