and spent the evening in talking on Tonga affairs. I then learned that Mr. Thomas had been at Tongatabu, and had visited the heathen fortresses, and succeeded in obtaining a promise that hostilities should cease; but as no interview had taken place between the rebel Chief and the King, all the parties were living in their fortresses, and durst not go to cultivate their lands, lest an invading foe should come upon them. They also told me that Mr. and Mrs. Tucker were at Nukualofa, and that they had experienced a blessed revival of religion there. We immediately directed our course for Tongatabu.

23d. The wind being unfavourable, we attempted in vain to reach Tongatabu; but, a small canoe coming off with a native pilot, and as I found they could take me within four miles of Mr. Tucker's, I got into the canoe, and reached the land in safety. Accompanied by the afore-named

Local

Preachers, I succeeded (though bathed with perspiration, and almost exhausted) in reaching "home," as the cordial welcome of my excellent friends, the Rev. Mr. Tucker and Mrs. Tucker, gave me at once to feel that I had a home in a strange land. My pleasure in seeing them was, however, much abated, by learning their infirm state of health. Mr. Tucker had been "in labours more abundant," which, with great mental anxiety, had brought him very low; and the tropical heats had so far prostrated the strength of Mrs. Tucker, that, in the opinion of a medical man, nothing would benefit her but a return to her native country.

24th. Mr. Tucker took me to see King George and his Queen. He was sitting with the skeleton of a sermon in his hand, preparing for his Sabbathduties. I was greatly delighted at seeing this Christian King. He is a tall, fine-looking, well-made man, with a remarkably penetrating eye, and dignified carriage, Christian benignity beaming from his countenance. His words were few, but well-chosen. He does not think aloud, but deliberates, and then speaks. I gazed upon this miracle of mercy with wonder and delight.

At three o'clock I preached to a thousand people. Mr. Tucker interpreted. The King and all the people were remarkably attentive; and, on the King's return home, he took a Local Preacher with him to assist in writing down the sermon they had heard.

25th. I had the schools assembled in the chapel. About a thousand were present; and I was much pleased to

find them not only well acquainted with the Catechism and Christian doctrines, but also conversant with the outlines of geography and astronomy, and able to answer with accuracy the various questions proposed. Mrs. Tucker has taken great pains in instructing them in these elementary principles, which, I was exceedingly gratified to find, have given much enlargement to their views. They also showed me some maps they had drawn under Mrs. Tucker's guidance. Those who have learned a little geography, read Scripture history with double interest.

In the afternoon I preached in the second chapel. A Local Preacher prayed, and thanked God that these were the very truths which they had been accustomed to hear, and, what was better, had experienced. In the evening King Josiah Tubou sent me a large turtle and some fowls, as a present.

The

26th. I visited Hihifo, a large fortress, occupied by the Christians. old King accompanied us in his canoe. We went twelve miles by water, and three by land, up a lovely walk, shaded by trees, and admitting of about three abreast. On entering the fortress, we found the watch in arms, as though it were a besieged city. There is a spacious square in the middle, with a few very fine large trees, (toa, or iron-wood,) on the boughs of which the vampyre bats were hanging by the claws in immense clusters. The noise and squealing of so many thousands were intolerable. The head is shaped like that of the fox; the nose is sharp and black; the ears are naked and pointed; the hair is short and smooth, of a mouse-colour, inclining to red; the wings are similar in colour to the common bat, but on the joint of each wing is a sharp, crooked claw. At sun-set they take their flight in swarms, and remind one of the English crows on their return to roost. At day-break they come back to their former retreat, hanging in clusters, and are noisy beyond endurance. The smell proceeding from them is exceedingly disagreeable. They live mainly on fruit, and are eaten by the natives. Two or three were shot for me, the skins of which I preserved. During the reign of heathenism, they were held sacred, and regarded by many as gods: so that, to have shot at one at that time would have been an unpardonable offence. The sight to me was very interesting, I having seen many on the wing after sun-set, while passing the numerous islands of Feejee, in June, 1840.

28th, Sunday.At Nukualofa I heard

King George preach at eight o'clock A. M., to a large and deeply-interested congregation. He looked remarkably well in his snow-white cravat and black coat. There are several English Ministers whose skin is much darker than his. He has not much action, but is deliberate and impressive, combining in his appearance the dignity of a King, the simplicity of a Christian, and the benignity of one called to preach the Gospel of the blessed God. At my request, Mr. Tucker took down in pencil the sermon as he delivered it, and translated it into English, which gave me a fine opportunity of judging for myself of a discourse, with the delivery of which I had been so much pleased; nor was the pleasure in the least diminished by reading it.

March 1st.-Finding there was a mere cessation of hostilities on the part of the Heathen, without peace being ratified, I determined to visit, in company with Mr. Tacker, the Mua, one of the largest heathen fortresses in this land. We went about twelve miles by water. Fatu, the principal Chief, a very stout and highly-interesting man, treated me with the greatest politeness, and showed the utmost readiness to listen to my advice. I begged him and a few of his Chiefs to accompany me to King Josiah Tubou, and ask forgiveness. He put his arm around me, saying, "You are now my son. I want peace; but I am ashamed and afraid to go to Tubou. But if he will visit me with you, I will humble myself." After a lengthened conversation, we returned to the Mission-house, passing on our way several large turtles sleeping on the surface of the water.

2d. Mr. Tucker and I went to acquaint King George with what Fatu had said; who observed that it was very good, if Fatu was sincere, and if Tubou would go; but he was afraid he would not. We went to the old King, and rehearsed the matter of our visit to Fatu from the beginning. He seemed for a while very reserved; at length, however, he consented to send for King George and some of the principal Chiefs, that their opinion might be taken in this matter. They decided that it was best for them to go with us. The old man said, "They will kill me; but if they do not, I shall never come back again." On our reaching the sea-side, the scene was quite affecting. The Queen threw her arms around the old King's neck, and held him, weeping bitterly, while a vast crowd caught the feeling, and we doubted whether it was possible to get

him into our boat, he having refused to go any other way. At last we succeeded, and rowed off. Immediately two canoes followed, that they might report to King George, in the event of any hostility being shown. On our sighting the Mua, the King was evidently much affected; and when we had landed, he sat down on a little grass, with Mr. Tucker on one side, and myself on the other. The company from one of the canoes surrounded us, while the other kept at sea to carry tidings. After a short interval, Fatu caine, and for some minutes sat weeping by the side of the King. Tubou then turned his face, and, agreeably to the Tonguese mode of kissing, touched noses. Then all rose up, and we went into the fort to the large house in which the Chiefs assemble. Here we were left by Fatu, and for some time not one of his people came near us. At length, however, I heard a rushing, and saw a number of natives running in every direction. This I found was to get their mats, to put over their ordinary dress, none being allowed to appear in the presence of Chiefs without them. After this the Chiefs came in a body, each having a string of green leaves around his neck. They sat outside at a distance from the King. The leaves (from the ifi tree) were a token of submission and humiliation. Fatu sat at the greatest distance, while an old heathen Priest interceded for them in the name of their gods. Josiah, as a pledge of forgiveness, commanded their leaves to be thrown aside, and desired them to come nearer to him. The King then made a short speech, expressing that his displeasure was now turned away. Several Chiefs came and kissed his feet; after which the company dispersed, and Mr. Tucker and I left the King, and went to Fatu's house, who expressed much pleasure at what we had done. He also introduced me to a great Chief from Rotumah, who declared his earnest wish that a Missionary might go to that important island, which has many more inhabitants than Vavau. After this we returned to the old King.

At sun-rise, about two hundred Chiefs and people came again, and drank kava with the King; after which, thankful for the success which had attended our efforts, we returned home, where we were heartily welcomed. Some anxiety for our safety had been felt, in consequence of a report being in circulation on the preceding night, affecting our security.

5th. As we intended sailing to-day, I

asked King George to dine with us on board. He accepted the invitation, and, as soon as thanks were returned, he retired; and we weighed anchor about halfpast one, and directed our course for Habai. We reached the Mission-house at Lifuka, about noon, and were kindly welcomed by Mr. and Mrs. Peter Turner.

10th. The "Triton" sailed to Vavau for Mr. Thomas and the brethren, while I stayed to visit the societies in this Circuit. In the afternoon I preached to a large congregation. Mr. Tucker interpreted, and many expressed themselves as being much profited. I spent the remaining part of the day in obtaining all possible information about the people.

14th. I preached in the morning to a large native congregation. Many had come from the islands to hear me. The Rev. P. Turner preached in the afternoon, and in the evening I preached to the Mission families.

15th. I had intended visiting the offislands; but we found it impossible to get a suitable canoe.

16th. I went to Holobeka, and preached to the natives on the nature and importance of true religion.

18th. I visited the schools, but greatly regretted their want of efficient aid. A master, thoroughly acquainted with the best system of education, would be of essential service in training up native Teachers.

19th. I went with Mr. Turner to meet the Class-Leaders, for the purpose of conversing on Christian experience; and I felt much encouraged by their testimony of getting so much good under my ministry. There are among them some choice men, well qualified to teach others in the things of God.

21st, Sunday.—I preached at eight A. M. to the natives: the chapel was crowded. Mr. Turner interpreted, and the blessing of Him who comforteth his people was our portion. In the evening I preached again, by request, to the Mission-families.

22d. An old Chief, named Malubo, who is supposed to be the oldest man in these islands, had come ten miles on the Saturday to hear me preach on the Sabbath. He was brought to the chapel on a native mat, fastened to two poles, and borne by four men. This morning, Messrs. P. Turner and C. Tucker accompanied me in his canoe, with about fifty natives, to Uiha, his own land. On landing he was taken as before, and carried to their chapel, where I preached to a large and deeply-interested congregation, who had been called together by the beat

ing of the lali, "wooden drum." When I had concluded the service, we repaired to the house of a Teacher, where we had some yam and fowl, brought on leaves, and placed before me. We asked a blessing, and my host divided it with his fingers, and put it on my plate (a leaf). Our wants being supplied, we proceeded to the abi of the old Chief, who gave me the following account of Captain Cook's visit:"I was a little boy when Captain Cook and Captain Clark came. I went

We

on board ship, and took up a nail. Man called me teef" (thief): "me no teef. At first we went with our canoe, yams, and pigs, and seeing the fine figure-head on the vessel, thought that Cap-pa-tin Cook. We called to it a long time, and it would not speak or buy yams. continued crying, Will you buy yams, hogs,' &c.; but there was no answer. So we stood gazing and wondering, till at last the Captain appeared, and then we found out our mistake. They sent up sky-rockets, and we were greatly alarmed. They went to the sky and then burst. We all thought them gods, and were much afraid." In giving this narrative, the ardour of youth seemed to fire him, and every eye glistened with delight on witnessing the animating scene, especially when he alluded to the yet happier days when the Missionaries came, and the love he now felt to Jesus Christ.

23d. The Missionaries from Vavau reached Lifuka this morning. At five o'clock P. M. we commenced our DistrictMeeting, and arranged for its sittings by adjournment. The brethren are all well, and have given me a cordial welcome.

April 11th, Sunday.-I preached in the morning to the natives. King George and King Josiah had come down from Tonga. The congregation was unusually large, and the divine presence was felt. At the close of the sermon, they called on King George to pray; but his feelings soon overpowered him, and he wept in silence, while hundreds of eyes were suffused in tears. Mr. Thomas and several engaged in prayer: it was a time of refreshing from the presence of the Most High.

In the evening I preached again, by request, to the Missionaries and their families, on the great doctrines of Christianity; the manner in which they should be preached; the importance of a faithful and impartial exercise of discipline; and the essential advantage of unity among themselves and families, setting a godly example to their flock. At the close of the service, the sacrament of the Lord's supper was administered, and all proclaimed it "good to be there."

12th.-King George has been to Mrs. Tucker to beg a sketch of all the sermons which I have preached in his land, expressing, on the part of himself and his people, the profit they had derived from them. This has encouraged me to preach to the people wherever I go.

13th. We are now coming to the close of one of the most laborious DistrictMeetings I ever attended. So much information was needed on every subject, that my mental and physical powers have been kept on full stretch. Our hours of sitting were, (after breakfasting at day-dawn,) from seven to twelve; from half-past one to four; and from half-past four to eight or nine o'clock, daily, (Sundays excepted,) and that in the tropics. I was almost broiled, perspiration finding its way through every

pore.

21st. The wind being unfavourable for Tonga, but favourable for Vavau, I have resolved on taking the brethren thither, that they may enter upon their work at once; and as the greater part of Mr. Tucker's goods is at Vavau, it will give the invalids a little time to arrange for the voyage. About two P. M. we weighed anchor, and set sail with a favourable breeze. All the passengers became very sick, as we left the last island of the Habai group; but we were cheered with the prospect of reaching Vavau early in the morning. About half-past eleven at midnight, I heard the Captain, evidently in a tone of painful anxiety, exclaim, "Hard-up! reefs close a-head." Every man was at his post. We were not more than two ships' length from that which threatened immediate destruction to the vessel, and all on board. As we were on the windward side of the reef, it would have been impossible for any boat to have lived. I tried to quiet the minds of the females, though I had little hope of our escaping. The vessel, however, answered the helm, and her bows just passed the reef without striking. Thus, as by miracle, we were all saved from a watery grave. May that life be thine, most merciful Father!

22d. At ten o'clock A. M. we reached the Mission-station at Vavau, and united in praising our Deliverer.

25th, Sunday.-I was very feeble in body. I sometimes doubt whether I shall be able to get through the heavy work every where awaiting me. I could only attend native service once, as I had engaged to preach to the Mission families in the evening. At sunset I preached from 1 Peter v. 7. It was a word in season, for which they returned me

thanks. But I had an unaccountable depression of spirits, owing probably, in part, to my having so little sleep in consequence of the annoyance of musquitoes. The friends, however, are remarkably kind.

28th. I preached to the natives. Mr. Turner interpreted. A gracious feeling was experienced, indicative of better days. I spent the evening in examining several who had offered their services as Teachers for Rotumah. The best of them are yet very defective, though sincere and steady men. Unless special attention be paid to the training of native Teachers, very little permanent good will be done. An efficient native agency is of paramount importance.

29th. I examined more minutely the men selected for Rotumah. Under all circumstances, they are the best we can get; but every step I take in this business shows the absolute necessity of immediate measures being adopted to improve the native Teachers.

May 5th.-Last Sunday it was pub lished, that a love-feast would be held at Neiafu this day; and, although the weather was very unfavourable, the assembly was large. Mrs. Tucker gave me in English their statements as they proceeded, so that I had not only an opportunity of seeing and hearing them in their own tongue, but also of judging in each case. In general, they gave a very clear and distinct account of their conversion, which was thoroughly scriptural. Frequent reference was made to the period of Mr. Turner's former appointment as the time when they were led to repentance for sin, and found redemption through the blood of Christ. His love, they said, was still burning in their hearts. An interesting Feejeean spoke, saying, that he was from the land of barbarism, and testifying what God had done for him in a most satisfactory and pleasing manner. Several whom I had (through the Missionaries) selected as Teachers for Niua, Niua-fo-ou, and Rotumah, added to the statement of their experience that of the call of the church, to leave their own land and their kin dred, in order to preach the Gospel to those who "have not yet their Saviour known." They described, in a very interesting and impressive manner, their conviction, that this was the will of God. One said, that some of his friends wished him to stay till they were dead; but he applied that scripture: "Let the dead bury their dead; but go thou and preach the kingdom of God." When he had concluded, his venerable sire arose, and gave his account of the struggle of his

mind about parting with his son; but when he told him of God's call, he durst not say a word.

At the close of the day, I met the persons who were going as Teachers, to give sundry advices. I am much pleased with them, but greatly regret that they could not have the benefit of a traininginstitution. This I consider of more importance than any thing else in these lands. If they were well instructed in sound theology and useful knowledge, they would be most valuable auxiliaries in the church of Christ. Some of them have a great thirst for knowledge; and when they have acquired an acquaintance with the English language, the key of knowledge will be in their hands, and out of this treasury, by the blessing of God, they will enrich others.

On a general view of these stations, I

see much cause of gratitude to God on their behalf, and have been highly pleased with the Missionaries; but there is very much yet to be done. It is a painful fact, admitted by the Missionaries generally, that the civil state of this people, and their acquaintance with useful arts, have not been improved in proportion to the time during which they have professed the Christian religion. An attempt will be made to supply this defect.

20th. I took leave of our excellent friends. It was very dark when we left the shore; but we reached the "Triton" in safety. Mr. and Mrs. Tucker were invalids going to the colony; and five native Teachers, with their wives and families, were designed for the islands we might visit.

£. S. d.

10 0

2 2 0

2 2 0

5 0 0

90 0

0

45

36

15

5 5 0

Mrs. William M. Bunting.

5 5 0

Miss Harriett W. Bunting.

1 1 0

Miss Caroline B. Bunting

1 0

12 12 0

5

24443

5

5

25003

0

0

0