Volume 1

A narrative of missionary enterprises in the South Sea Islands : with remarks upon the natural history of the islands, origin, languages, traditions, and usages of the inhabitants / by John Williams ; illustrated with engravings on wood by G. Baxter.

  • John Williams
Date:
1837
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: A narrative of missionary enterprises in the South Sea Islands : with remarks upon the natural history of the islands, origin, languages, traditions, and usages of the inhabitants / by John Williams ; illustrated with engravings on wood by G. Baxter. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    perty; the bustle and fright of which was too much forme. I was removed to Makea’s new house, and confined there to my bed for some days. Mrs. Pitman then kindly left her own home, and came to live with us until after my confinement. Our heavenly Father was better than our fears, and compelled us to praise him for his goodness. Our dear little girl was baptized by Mr. Pitman about a fortnight after: her name is Sarah Ann. Not another fortnight had elapsed when I was seized with a violent internal inflammation ; and we again sent for our neighbours, who came immediately to our assistance. The attack was severe; I was twice bled; and, indeed, every method was used that our little skill suggested, and it pleased God to give his blessing. We had anticipated a separation; for our means were few, the symptoms very acute, and our stock of medicine long before exhausted; so that our hearts were much affected by the goodness of God, in appearing for our relief. I recovered gradually, though slowly. ~ You will know that we have been the subjects of privations, when I tell you that we have seen no one, since the vessel brought Makea back, until the arrival of Mr. Platt; but, what is still worse, our supplies are not now come. We are both wearing the last shoes we have; and as we have been formerly supplied by Mr. Pitman with shoes as well as medicine, I know not what we shall do. Should any goods arrive for us, do request Mr. Williams to forward them immediately. Iam much obliged to you for what you have sent, &c.: it is, indeed, very acceptable. We think the news of a visit from Mr. Williams is almost too good to be true. We are sorry to hear of the loss of your two children ;—but cease to grieve; it is their unspeakable gain. Yours, affectionately, S. V. Buzacorr. The next is.an extract from Mr. Pitman to the Author :— Ngatangiia, December 30th, 1829. My pear Brotuer, Your kind epistle came duly to hand. We were very much afraid that something had occurred to the vessel at the Marque-